***Disclaimer this week, there is swearing and talk of trauma and squalor*** This week we chat to the formidable Sandra Pankhurst! You may have read Sandra's biography by the brilliant Sarah Krasnostein, The Trauma Cleaner, which so lovingly depicts Sandra's incredible life story. Today we focused in on Sandra's work as a cleaner for people who live in squalor and cleaning trauma scenes in houses. She is so fascinating and exemplifies her motto that 'excellence is no accident'. In this episode we; ● Hear Sandra's heart of gold for her clients; ● Glean from her wisdom in dealing gently and kindly with her clients; ● Learn how she started her business and how she niched into trauma cleaning; ● And so so so so much more... We hope from this conversation we all learn something and puts a smile on your face!
Things mentioned in this episode and other helpful links: ● Hoarding Disorder episode ● STC Services - Sandra's business ● Other interviews with Sandra - Australian True Crime with Meshel Laurie & Emily Webb, Criminal ● Clutter Rating Scale images ● #halfcut fundraiser Thank you Sandra for giving us your time to be on our podcast!
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Thank you to our sound engineer, Jarred from Four4ty Studio Productions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Trauma Cleaner

Kirsty Farrugia is a Declutter Coach and along with her friends will be chatting about how they keep their homes organised and decluttered and how they help their clients to achieve the same. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In my curiosity over the summer break, I was able to slow down enough and listen to my heart. In this quietness, I realised that running this business doesn’t feel like freedom anymore for me or my family. 
From that revelation, I announce that Curious Freedom is closing its doors and ceasing operations in its current iteration.
While this decision has been heartbreaking in many ways, it has also brought a feeling of peace. Therefore, I know it is the right and timely decision.
I am going to be taking a period of time to rest and process what has been a massive few years for my family and me. In this time, I am hoping that dreams will start developing for what is next for myself and Curious Freedom. I believe my season of working in the decluttering and organising industry is finished, however there is still so much growth in myself and others that I want to champion. I am hopeful that Curious Freedom and the podcast will be reborn, but I am holding all of it loosely as I lay down this chapter and rest.
So what does this mean? 
Curious Freedom as a decluttering and support service will cease trading as of 29th February 2024. If you wish to access decluttering services and support, please get in touch before then to express your interest and we will connect you with individual team members who are continuing to offer these services. Our wonderful existing clients have already been notified of this change and their options moving forward.If you wish to be informed of any future rebirthing of Curious Freedom and the Curious Freedom podcast, then stay subscribed to emails and the podcast. Curious Freedom’s social media accounts will be deactivated, allowing me to reactivate them in the future.The Curious Freedom website will retain the podcast page so you can continue to access past episodes via the website.
 The words thank you simply don’t do justice to my gratitude for every single one of you. 
Some of you have been with me on my business journey since I first started as Feels Like Home Professional Organising eleven and a half years ago, and some of you have only recently joined. What a wild and wonderful journey it has been, and what a privilege it has been to have you along for the ride. 
For everyone who has a connection to Curious Freedom - the clients who have trusted us and invited us into their homes, the people who have listened to our podcast episodes, those of you who have followed along on social media and opened emails when they’ve landed in your inbox, and those who’ve reached out to share how much the work we put out into the world has impacted your life - my most wholehearted thank you. 
To all of my team, past and present, thank you for caring and supporting our clients and for doing the same for each other and me. My life is all the more beautiful because of your friendship.
I could say many more words, but for now, it is time for me to honour myself and my family and rest.
Here’s to staying curious about finding freedom in all areas of our lives.
With love and gratitude, Kirsty - Founder and Director of Curious Freedom

 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This next season

In this episode, we explore riding the tracks of joy, love, pain, and challenges simultaneously. 

Season 2 Farewell

In this episode of the Curious Freedom podcast, host Kirsty Farrugia interviews Kate Johnson about burnout and self-advocacy. They discuss the signs of burnout, its impact on our bodies and relationships, and strategies for recognising and managing burnout. Kate also shares her three-step approach to self-advocacy: reflect, regulate, and respond. They explore the importance of prioritising our needs, challenging our mindsets, and modelling self-advocacy for others. 
Key Takeaways:Burnout can manifest as physical and emotional exhaustion, difficulty sleeping, heightened sensitivity, and strained relationships.The three-step approach to self-advocacy: reflect on the situation, regulate your body and emotions, and respond thoughtfully and intentionally.Slowing down, recognising our needs, and prioritising self-care is essential for preventing burnout and maintaining well-being.It is important to challenge societal expectations and mindsets that prioritise productivity over self-care and to treat ourselves with kindness and compassion.Modeling self-advocacy and empowering others to recognise and communicate their needs can lead to healthier relationships and a more balanced life.
 Kate Johnson is a counsellor, project manager, and advocate for neurodiverse individuals and their families. She co-hosts the Average Advocate Podcast, sharing stories and amplifying voices to empower women and families.
The resources mentioned in this episode are: ● Average Advocate Podcast
Join our community  ● Follow us on Instagram & Facebook ● Join our Facebook group ● Leave a review on Apple Podcast Thanks to our incredible sound engineer, Kris Wright from Mumble & Pop. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Curious about Burnout with Kate Johnson

This week on the Curious Freedom Podcast, it's just me, Kirsty Farrugia, and I'm diving into a fantastic topic suggested by Sarah in our Facebook group: "Tips and Tricks to Keep Your Family Organised Throughout the Week."
Here's a sneak peek at what I cover: 1️⃣ Weekly Planning Sessions: Join me in sharing my favourite tip for a well-organised week—sitting down as a family to plan out the upcoming week's activities. It's a game-changer, trust me! 

Curious about Keeping Your Family Organised

Join me, Kirsty Farrugia, in this latest episode, where I chat about the upcoming festive season, navigating the chaos with curiosity and freedom. As we approach Christmas and the end of the school year in Australia, I share some thoughtful ideas on how to embrace the spirit of the season without the overwhelm.  Special shoutout to Lauren from our Facebook community for the fantastic suggestion that sparked this episode! Discover ways to reduce holiday spending, like exploring your gift stash for treasures that can be re-gifted. Let's declutter, reevaluate, and find joy in meaningful gestures. I also tackle the challenge of balancing social commitments during this busy period. How can you honour your needs, whether craving connection or seeking solitude? Dive into self-reflection and embrace the freedom to say 'no' when needed. I also reflect on preparing for the whirlwind of family events, celebrations, and end-of-year activities. How can you find joy, create whitespace, and be intentional in this season of giving? Shoutout to Sazzadazza for the wonderful review! Your words warm my heart, and I'm thrilled to be a part of your journey to a more organised life.
Join our community  ● Follow us on Instagram & Facebook ● Join our Facebook group ● Leave a review on Apple Podcast Thanks to our incredible sound engineer, Kris Wright from Mumble & Pop. 
 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Trauma Cleaner

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