In this episode, Sarah shares her journey of growing up with a narcissistic mother who relied on guilt, blame, and shame to control and manipulate. As the scapegoat in her family, Sarah endured both physical and mental abuse, leaving her with high-functioning anxiety and a deep desire to protect her own children from the cycle of trauma.  

Now in therapy, Sarah is working through the impacts of constant vigilance and people-pleasing, shaped by years of unpredictability at home. She opens up about her decision to go no contact, her journey to give her children the stable and loving childhood she dreamed of, and the breakthroughs she’s making to reclaim her life. This is a story of courage, resilience, and breaking free.

In this episode, Lisa opens up about her childhood with a neglectful and narcissistic mother who failed to meet her emotional needs and took no accountability for the harm caused. Now, as Lisa prepares to welcome her own baby, she reflects on the fears of repeating the past and the determination driving her to break the cycle. From therapy to connecting with others who share similar experiences, Lisa shares the breakthroughs that have helped her heal and step into motherhood with strength and intention. This is a story of resilience, accountability, and rewriting the narrative.

Growing up surrounded by chaos, abuse, and dangerous relationships, Ashleigh's childhood was anything but stable. In this episode, she shares her journey of navigating trauma, the challenges of being a people pleaser, and how cutting ties with her mother became the turning point in her healing. Ashleigh speaks openly about the struggles, the lessons, and how she’s managed to rebuild her life with resilience and strength. This is a story of breaking free, setting boundaries, and choosing peace.

In this episode, we sit down with Pollyanna, a beacon of hope and healing. Pollyanna opens up about her journey through trauma and how she found strength and purpose in even the darkest moments. She shares her experience of dealing with a parent struggling with alcohol abuse, offering insights into setting boundaries, protecting your mental health, and finding ways to heal from the pain caused by addiction. This conversation is a powerful reminder that growth and light are possible, no matter your circumstances. 

If you want to find out more about Pollyanna's story you can find her on Tiktok at @just__pollyanna

In this empowering episode, we welcome Emily. Emily shares her journey of overcoming adversity, reclaiming her voice, and finding strength through vulnerability. She also shares stories that encourage a thought-provoking discussion about the potential dangers of step-parents in unhealthy dynamics. 

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Maggie Maher, a compassionate advocate for healing and community. Maggie shares her personal story of overcoming childhood trauma and the transformative power of building meaningful connections. Tune in for a moving conversation filled with hope, wisdom, and practical tools for your healing journey. To find out more about Maggie and the therapy she offers, you can find her at @attachment.therapy on Tiktok

Welcome to Season 2 of Unburdened!

I am so deeply appreciative and grateful to bring YOU on to the podcast for season 2, to share you stories and experiences and ultimately break this narrative and stigma that society still holds about family. 

I apologise for the sound quality on this episode, please be patient as I navigate recording online, but I am delighted to kick off Season 2 with Sonam Dave. 

In this episode, we explore her journey of healing, resilience, and breaking free from the cycles of trauma. You can find out more about Sonam's story at sonams_story on TikTok.

In my favourite episode of Unburdened yet, I am joined by special guest Harriet Shearsmith to tackle the heavy and complex topic of guilt—especially when it comes to setting boundaries or going no-contact with family. Harriet shares her deeply personal journey of breaking free from guilt after choosing no contact with her parents, offering raw insights into the emotional challenges and triumphs along the way.

You can buy Unfollowing Mum here:https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1785045172?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzzoeshe09-21&creativeASIN=1785045172&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.1DSJLYE3NMJU3&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ons_mixed_d_asin

For many, Christmas can feel far from magical—filled with tension, unrealistic expectations, and tricky family dynamics. In this episode of Unburdened, we dive into the realities of a holiday that isn’t always picture-perfect. From managing over-the-top parents and handling feelings of jealousy to setting boundaries and surviving the isolation some of us feel during this season, we’re breaking down the traditional narrative of Christmas.

Join Zoe as she explores how to cope with the pressures of the holidays, reframe your expectations, and create a celebration that feels right for you. Whether you’re looking for tips to protect your peace or ideas to embrace a new kind of festive joy, this episode is your guide to navigating the season with grace and self-compassion.

🎁 Let’s unwrap a Christmas that truly works for you!

https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/iamzoelouise/list/8DTOK1H2AW4K?ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_m


1. Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself - Dr Joe Dispense 
2. The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck - Mark Manson
3. A New Earth - Eckhart Tolls 
4. Psycho-Cybernetics - Maxwell Maltz 
5. Many Lives, Many Masters - Brian Weiss 
6. You Can Heal Your Life - Louise Hay
7. The Big Leap - Gay Hendricks 
8. Unlimited Power/ Awaken the Giant Within - Tony Robbins 
9. Solve for Happy - Mo Gawdat
10. The Untethered Soul - Michael Singer