In this episode, Cyndi sits down with Mandy Richardson, early parenting specialist, founder of Raise Toddlers, and a mum of three, to explore the critical early years of child development (birth to six years). With a master’s in child and Family Studies and ongoing PhD research in respectful parenting approaches, Mandy combines academic expertise with real-world experience to guide parents and educators toward more connected, reflective, and effective parenting.

They discuss:

Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or early childhood professional, this conversation offers actionable insights to help the children in your life grow into confident, capable, and emotionally resilient individuals.

About Mandy

As a mother of three, Mandy brings a personal perspective to her work, having navigated toddlerhood firsthand. Through Raise Toddlers, she provides resources such as the Raise Toddlers Membership, which offers short, digestible videos and a supportive community to help parents address common toddler challenges while maintaining their own well-being.

Mandy’s approach emphasizes a natural, slow-paced, and peaceful childhood, focusing on fostering positive parent-child relationships and promoting respectful parenting practices. She is also a frequent guest on parenting podcasts, where she shares insights on topics like screen time, toddler behavior, and new perspectives to parenting in the early years.

Where to find Mandy

Cyndi O’Meara Links

In this episode, Kim and Cyndi welcome Kathryn Gale, a psychologist specialising in nutritional and metabolic psychology, to explore how nutrition, lifestyle, and mindset are transforming approaches to mental health.

Kathryn shares insights from her 20+ years in psychology and how her perspective evolved after studying functional nutrition and the gut microbiome. She reveals why addressing physical stress and stress hormones is crucial before tackling mental wellbeing, and how the gut-brain connection plays a vital role in mood regulation.

The conversation dives into:

From discussing teen mental health challenges to practical tips for habit change and self-reflection, this episode is filled with tools and perspectives for anyone passionate about integrating nutrition and psychology.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, health professional, or someone curious about how food and lifestyle influence mental wellbeing, Kathryn’s expertise will inspire you to rethink how we care for the mind and body.

About Kathryn Gale

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Where to find Kathryn

Cyndi O’Meara Links

Kim Morrison Links

In this uplifting and nature-filled episode, Cyndi and Kim chat with Anna Deacon, photographer, author, and passionate advocate for wild swimming, about her upcoming solo book, The Wild Fix: Scotland. Anna shares how connecting with nature can transform our mental and physical health, from the soothing power of birdsong to the invigorating challenge of cold-water immersion.

The conversation flows from Anna’s personal journey, transitioning from a career in the music industry to writing and photographing stories of wild swimmers, to her deep connection with Scotland’s landscapes. She also reveals fascinating research for her book, including the science of negative ions, the gut health benefits of soil-based probiotics, and the ancient sauna culture of the Shetland Islands.

Alongside personal stories of joy, grief, and resilience, Anna, Cyndi, and Kim explore how nature offers “glimmers”—small moments of beauty and positivity that help us feel grounded, inspired, and alive.

Topics Covered

About Anna Deacon:

Anna Deacon is an Edinburgh-based photographer, writer, and nature advocate whose work celebrates the healing power of the outdoors. She has co-authored several books, including Taking the Plunge and For the Love of Trees, and her upcoming solo project The Wild Fix: Scotland explores the intersection of nature, well-being, and the four elements—air, fire, water, and earth.

Her photography and writing have been featured in major media outlets, and her projects have inspired a growing movement of wild swimmers and nature lovers across the UK and beyond.

Quotes

Where to find Anna

Cyndi O’Meara Links

Kim Morrison Links

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Cyndi and Kim sit down with Sarah Rusbatch, a health and wellness coach and author, to unpack the growing conversation around grey area drinking—a space where many women find themselves, struggling with their relationship to alcohol but not fitting the traditional mold of addiction.

Sarah shares her own journey from social drinking to sobriety, and how becoming alcohol-free in 2019 transformed her health, mindset, and purpose. The discussion explores how alcohol affects women’s hormones, particularly during perimenopause and menopause, and why even moderate drinking can have serious consequences on health and well-being.

This episode is filled with inspiration, science, and practical tips for any woman questioning her relationship with alcohol or seeking a healthier, more empowered lifestyle.

What You’ll Learn:

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About Sarah Rusbatch:

Where to Find Sarah

Cyndi O’Meara Links

Kim Morrison Links

In this deeply thought-provoking episode, Cyndi and Kim are joined by farmer, educator, and founder of the Bionutrient Food Association, Dan Kittredge, to explore the powerful relationship between soil health, nutrient density, and human consciousness. Together, they dive into the systemic need for food and farming practices that align with the principles of nature, not control.

From discussions on holistic agriculture, biodiversity, and regenerative practices to the spiritual and emotional transformation that comes from reconnecting with the land, Dan offers wisdom cultivated over decades of experience. He speaks passionately about empowering consumers and farmers alike through open-source tools, education, and a shift in cultural values toward love, simplicity, and collective well-being

Topics Covered

About Dan Kittredge:

Dan is the founder and executive director of the Bionutrient Food Association and a lifelong organic farmer. Through his work, he advocates for soil and crop practices that naturally lead to higher quality, more nutrient-rich food. His focus extends beyond farming, delving into consciousness, autonomy, and living in harmony with nature.

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Bionutrient Food Association – bionutrient.org

Cyndi O’Meara Links

Kim Morrison Links

In this episode, plant biologist Greg Clark joins Cyndi and Kim to explore the fascinating world of plants, soil health, and microbiomes. Greg explains how plants respond to stress, communicate through microbial networks, and maintain symbiotic relationships that mirror the human gut microbiome.

The conversation touches on the history of the Gondwana landmass, the role of regenerative agriculture, and the importance of individual action in healing the environment. Greg also explains the difference between gene editing and genetic modification, and shares insights into the health benefits of blackcurrants, including their impact on blood flow, energy, and recovery.

This episode is a blend of science, sustainability, and inspiration, reminding us how deeply connected we are to the natural world, and how small actions can lead to meaningful change.

Key Topics Covered

Quotes

Where to find Dr Greg Clark

Cyndi O’Meara Links

Kim Morrison Links

In this adventure-filled episode, Cyndi and Kim sit down with Daniel, a 36-year-old travel enthusiast and content creator, to unpack his extraordinary 4.5-month hike of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), a 4,260km journey from Mexico to Canada. Daniel shares the highs and lows of the trail, the physical and mental resilience it required, and the personal epiphanies it inspired.

They explore the deeper motivations behind long-distance hiking, Daniel’s passion for storytelling and content creation, and the emotional impact of solitude and nature. The trio also discusses trail safety, hiking gear, wildlife encounters, and how to stay present while facing discomfort and uncertainty.

From practical advice to philosophical reflections, this conversation is a reminder of the power of action, adventure, and personal growth.

Key Topics Covered

Resources & Mentions

Quotable Moments

Cyndi O’Meara Links

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In this deeply heart-opening and educational episode, we’re joined by the incredible Pauline Ryeland, affectionately known as the Intimacy Whisperer. With certifications in Somatic Sexological Body Work, Tantra, NLP, Hypnotherapy, and trauma release, Pauline brings a powerful mix of science, soul, and lived experience to the often-taboo topic of sexuality.

Together, we dive into Pauline’s journey from “prude” to pleasure, the pivotal role of conscious sexuality in relationships, and the vital need for education that addresses not just the physical but emotional and energetic aspects of intimacy. Whether you’re single, in a relationship, navigating menopause or post-prostate recovery, this conversation offers something for everyone

Key Topics Covered

About Pauline Ryeland

Pauline Ryeland, widely known as the Intimacy Whisperer, is a highly qualified Intimacy, Sex, and Libido Coach and Educator. Her work is grounded in a broad range of modalities, including Somatic Sexological Bodywork, Tantra, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Advanced Subconscious Reprogramming, Eriksonian Hypnotherapy, Havening Techniques™ for trauma, and Results Coaching.

As a certified Tantra Teacher and Master NLP Practitioner, Pauline blends mind, body, and spirit practices to support individuals and couples in transforming their relationships, intimacy, and sexual well-being. She specialises in helping clients align with their sexual and emotional desires while clearing trauma, limiting beliefs, and emotional blockages.

Pauline is also the author of Empowered Conscious Sexuality – From Prude to Pleasure, which became a #1 Amazon bestseller across five categories. In the book, she shares her personal journey to becoming a sex therapist, insights into the healing modalities she uses, the challenges her clients face, and powerful practices readers can try on their own or with a partner. Topics include sacred sexuality, conscious relationships, boundaries, and consent.

As a Transformational Coach, Pauline works with both women and men to overcome a range of challenges:

She is also trained in scar remediation techniques that help restore sensation and address genital numbness and discomfort due to trauma, surgeries (including vasectomies and circumcision), and nerve damage.

Pauline uses Havening Techniques™ to help clients release trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and particularly sexual abuse or emotional trauma. This gentle, neuroscience-based approach helps deactivate the fight-or-flight response from the amygdala, allowing the individual to recall the experience without emotional distress.

A passionate advocate for sexual empowerment and the sustainability of relationships, Pauline helps couples rediscover intimacy and deepen connection.

Pauline is a sought-after speaker and presenter, having appeared at events such as Sexpo, MindBodySpirit Festival, and Woodford Folk Festival. She’s also been featured in publications including Cleo, Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health, Holistic Bliss, and major news outlets in Australia and New Zealand. Her radio appearances include ABC Radio and Noosa Community Radio.

Quotes

Where to find Pauline

Cyndi O’Meara Links

Kim Morrison Links

In this insightful and passionate conversation, Cyndi O’Meara and Kim Morrison sit down with PhD-qualified clinical nutritionist Dr. Brad Leech to explore the profound connection between gut health, chronic illness, and emotional wellbeing. Dr. Leech dives deep into the world of the microbiome, explaining how our gut bacteria influence everything from autoimmune conditions and eating disorders to depression, immunity, and even relationships.

He highlights the impact of diet diversity, antibiotic use, heavy metal toxicity, and medications like PPIs and NSAIDs on gut function. Brad also unpacks fecal microbiota transplants (FMTs), the importance of prebiotics and microbiome testing, and the resilience of our gut when properly nurtured.

The trio also navigates hot topics like the carnivore diet, UTIs, the rise in allergies and eating disorders, and the implications of birth methods on the baby’s microbiome. This episode is loaded with takeaways for anyone wanting to optimise their gut, understand the science behind mental and physical health connections, and prepare for a healthier future,starting in the gut.

About Brad

Dr Brad Leech is a PhD Clinical Nutritionist and Herbalist renowned for his expertise in addressing chronic autoimmune conditions and complex gastrointestinal disorders. He provides complete and personalised care to his patients using functional nutrition, integrative medicine and holistic wellness.

After entering the profession in 2008, Brad has contributed significantly to academia, shaping curricula at universities and delving into research areas such as intestinal permeability, autoimmune disease management, and the therapeutic potential of food-based probiotics. Brad is currently an Adjunct Fellow at the National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, where he continues to advance natural health sciences.

In addition to patient care, Brad is passionate about empowering practitioners with the knowledge to enhance their clinical practice. Over the years, he has mentored thousands of practitioners, providing them with the tools to navigate the complexities of gut health. His program, Brad’s Brainiacs: Microbiome Mentoring, is a six-month online mentorship designed to bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and real-world application. This mentor program equips recent graduates and practitioners with the skills to interpret microbiome reports, uncover actionable insights, and transform patient outcomes.

Top Takeaways:

Quotes

Where to find Dr Brad

Cyndi O’Meara Links

Kim Morrison Links

In this soul-stirring episode of Up for a Chat, Cyndi O’Meara and Kim Morrison reunite with longtime friend and longevity expert Marcus Pearce, author, coach, speaker, and host of the 100 Not Out podcast. Together, they unpack the deeper meaning behind living a long and exceptional life, inspired by Marcus’s recent trips to the Blue Zones of Sardinia and Ikaria.

Highlights:

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Connect with Marcus Pearce:

Cyndi O’Meara Links

Kim Morrison Links