Welcome to Season 2, Episode 4 of “what I don’t want you to know…” 

In this soul-stirring conversation, we sit down with Katie Maiolo — nurse, world traveler, and courageous truth-teller — as she shares the deeply personal journey of navigating life, illness and identity after a shocking cancer diagnosis.

From childhood dreams of nursing to adult panic attacks and the unraveling of control, Katie brings raw honesty to what it means to face not just a health crisis, but an identity reckoning. Together, we explore the messy in-between: life after treatment, the illusion of safety, and the unexpected fears that arise when the storm appears to have passed.

With humour, heart and unyielding grace, Katie speaks candidly about body image, menopause, anxiety, and the emotional weight of recovery — while also celebrating the joy of presence, the beauty of being “here,” and the power of naming your truth.

🧠 What You’ll Hear:

• How childhood dreams collided with adult realities
• The quiet trauma of living with anxiety while caring for others
• A cancer diagnosis that forced Katie to break old patterns
• Fear of recurrence, identity shifts and the pain no one prepares you for
• The invisible weight of post-treatment life
• Finding humour, gratitude and healing in unexpected places
• Why feeling everything (even all at once) is a kind of freedom
• The gift of being seen — and seeing yourself — with compassion

🌱 Katie’s Truths:

• "You can be really sick and still feel joy."
• "Kids are brutally honest — and sometimes, that’s the mirror we need." (Quote: “Mum, you look way better with hair.”) 
• "There’s no glass ceiling if you’re okay with feeling uncomfortable."
• “I think I’m fucking cooked mate”
• “Maybe I’m not my eyelashes”

📔 For the Listener:

This episode is for anyone who's ever struggled to feel "enough" in their own skin, who’s faced life’s curveballs and wondered, “Who am I now?” Katie reminds us that even in the darkest chapters, there’s light to be found — and that healing is not about going back, but moving forward with truth and a massive side order of self-compassion, love and laughter.

Thank you Katie for teaching us how to “stick the landing”… we couldn’t be more in awe if we tried. 

As always, go so gently… 

Em & Tan xx

🔖 Keywords:

mental health, cancer recovery, anxiety, personal growth, nursing, identity, vulnerability, resilience, women’s health, emotions, self-compassion, fear of recurrence, menopause, healing, authenticity

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

Welcome to Season 2, Episode 3 of “what I don’t want you to know…” 

There’s so much to say about this episode, our brave guest and the layers this conversation reveals… 

Firstly, our guest = Elise, a beautiful Mumma and passionate social worker who bravely advocates in the mental health sector… (our kind of hero in the world). 

Together we engage in honest and real chat about the vulnerability of parenting under scrutiny in today’s judgment heavy society, the impact of parent, body (and any other) shaming on mental health, body image, well-being and confidence… 

Elise shares her journey as a social worker with lived experience of disordered eating, highlighting the complexities of mental health and the stigma surrounding it. Her insights shed light on the intertwined nature of body image, societal expectations, control and pervasive shame that fuel insecurity, addiction and illness. 

Importantly, this conversation includes personal reflections and celebration of recovery from life hindering and life threatening addictions (of which we tick a number of boxes). 

Our message: curiosity, compassion, empathy and understanding = key to breaking stigma and supporting anyone affected by “ED”, addiction and mental-ill health. 

As always, go so gently… 

Em & Tan xx

Connect with Elise: 

Email: [email protected]

Supports (Australia based): 

Butterfly Foundation - butterfly.org.au 

Eating Disorders Queensland - eatingdisordersqueensland.org.au 

Headspace - headspace.org.au 

Takeaways

• Parenting often involves navigating guilt and societal expectations - it's important to embrace the grey areas in parenting decisions.
• Mental health discussions are crucial in reducing stigma and stereotypes - more curiosity and less judgement PLEASE. 
• Eating disorders manifest in various ways and are often really misunderstood - it’s not as simple as you think. Body image may NOT be the central focus of someone’s eating disorder.
• Minimising one's struggles can prevent seeking necessary help - understanding the cycle of eating disorders is key to recovery. 
• Shame hinders recovery - compassion, curiosity, kindness + empathy = path to healing.
• Recovery is a continuous journey that requires self-reflection and understanding.
• Sharing personal experiences can foster connection and reduce feelings of isolation. 
• It's important to recognise that everyone has their own struggles, regardless of appearance.

Keywords

parenting, mental health, eating disorders, societal judgment, guilt, personal stories, disordered eating, self-acceptance, recovery, eating disorders, recovery, body image, addiction, stigma, mental health, control, shame, vulnerability, support

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

Welcome to Season 2, Episode 2 of “what I don’t want you to know…” 

Our incredible guest Sarah Watson takes us on such a journey - from 26th birthday celebrations to being a fitness industry leader, a successful social media creator + influencer, to a girl who truly loves and honours the joy of good food… Sarah treats us to life behind the scenes, daring to share her less known truths. 

Sarah highlights the complexities of maintaining an online presence while staying true to oneself - (a balancing act that Sarah navigates with courage, tenacity and grace btw). We love love love love that Sarah is brave enough to share all the shades of her experience, reinforcing that it is so important to address mental and emotional health through inner work. 

Given our inexperience (and somewhat rebellious resistance) to social media creation and influence, we are genuinely interested in all that the digital age triggers - positive and negative… we couldn’t be more grateful for Sarah’s insights regarding themes of vulnerability and authenticity, as well as how she has navigated feedback, criticism and social pressures surrounding online self-expression. 

And whilst anyone who follows Sarah is treated to inspired fashion, food adventures that rival a food critic and an insider’s view of “a day in the life” of a pilates intstructor (#earlymornings), what has become a critical storyline is Sarah’s journey of inner work, revealing the importance and value of embracing softness and slowing down in a fast-paced (inner) and outer world. As you’ll hear, not an easy thing to do… 

We invite you to listen in to what you “don’t know” about our incredible, strong, beautiful guest… as always, going a layer deeper just made us love her even more! 

Go gently… 

Em & Tan xx 

Connect with Sarah: 

Instagram: @sarah_watson_

@bysarah_pilates

Takeaways

• Social media can create pressure to maintain an image of life that is not real life. 
• “Feedback” on social media can be overwhelming & damaging to mental health & emotional wellbeing - it's critical to cultivate inner safety & supports.
• Navigating online fame requires resilience & self-awareness.
• Running from problems can manifest in seemingly healthy habits - it’s important to differentiate between healthy living & unhealthy coping mechanisms.
• Inner work is essential for personal growth, self-discovery & self-improvement.
• Vulnerability is a strength that fosters deeper connections & authenticity in self-expression leads to greater self-acceptance. 
• Self-worth is not contingent on external validation.
• Embracing softness = strong. 
• Awakening to inner peace is possible… 💙

Keywords

personal stories, growth, food, relationships, rehab, life lessons, emotional journey, Pilates, self-improvement, food preferences, social media, vulnerability, online presence, inner work, self-discovery, criticism, personal growth, health, wellness, fitness, vulnerability, authenticity, inner work, self-discovery, social media, intentionality, mindfulness, self-care

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

First things first, Happy Belated 2025!!! 

After such an extended hiatus from “What I don’t want you to know…” we are truly excited to return and have a truly powerful episode to launch this second season. 

Our courageous guest Lisa doesn’t hold back, choosing to share a tender, complicated and painful relationship experience that challenged her heart, her ability to trust and her sanity. 

Being brave seems to be as natural as breathing for Lisa - but as you’ll hear in this conversation, she has developed her courage and vulnerability muscle in the face of life’s adversities. And not only has she demonstratively overcome her own inner battles with mental health, she has dedicated her professional life to helping others. 

We don’t need any convincing of the power that “lived experience” brings to supporting the reduction of stigma and stereotypes, but if any of you are questioning the value of “lived expertise”, prepare to be converted by Lisa!!! 

Through our conversation, Lisa emphasises the importance of authenticity in communication + relationships… she shares her deeply personal experience of “what she doesn’t want people to know” regarding her journey through a tumultuous relationship marked by confusion, love bombing and gas lighting. 

Lisa’s story is one of shocking betrayal AND one of inspired healing - and whilst this is a story that we don’t wish for anyone, we do wish that more people like Lisa existed in the world who remind us that it is possible to recover, heal and love after pain. 

Episode takeaways: 

• Lived experience in mental health provides unique insights and support.
• Stigma and shame are significant barriers in mental health discussions.
• Personal growth often involves confronting past relationships. Relationships can be complex and require self-awareness.
• Understanding emotional manipulation is vital for self-protection.
• Walking away from a relationship can be an act of courage.
• Betrayal can come as a shock, especially after deep emotional investment.
• Healing from past relationships requires time and self-compassion.
• Victim blaming often leads to shame and self-doubt.
• Embracing imperfection in relationships fosters deeper connections.
• It's important to acknowledge that relationships require ongoing work and commitment.

Go so gently… 

Em & Tan xx

Connect with Lisa: 

- Website www.youvegottthis.com.au

- Instagram @youvegottthis @bluelotuswarrior

Keywords

authenticity, mental health, lived experience, relationships, stigma, shame, love bombing, personal growth, recovery, emotional manipulation, relationships, love bombing, gaslighting, mental health, healing, betrayal, shame, self-discovery, personal growth, emotional abuse, self-perception, victim blaming, relationships, vulnerability, personal growth, mental health, emotional healing, sharing stories, overcoming shame, connection

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

Welcome to our final episode of Season 1 of “What I don’t want you to know…” (Lucky number 13 published on Friday the 13th - IYKYK).

In this episode we dive deep into the transformative journey of self-discovery with our ridiculously talented, qualified, funny and beautiful, Ceri Ford.

Ceri is many things to many people… she has collected and wears many hats in life - she is an Inner Work Coach and Nutritionist and has more qualifications and a work history longer than 10 people put together. Over the last couple of years she has added a husband, pregnancy and the birth of her son into the mix of life… and whilst she makes it look easy, as you will hear, it’s Ceri’s commitment to doing work on herself that allows her to have the life of her own creation be what it is today. 

Episode Highlights:

Living a Thousand Lives

Ceri reflects on her diverse life experiences, including the "indiscretions" of her twenties, and how they've shaped her unique perspective and approach to life, mothering and coaching.

ADHD and Life Choices

We explore how ADHD has influenced Ceri's life decisions and her path to becoming a such a compassionate coach.

The Vulnerability Equation

Ceri introduces her powerful formula: "Vulnerability plus authenticity equals connection."

Emotional Regulation in Parenting

We discuss the critical importance of emotional regulation, especially for parents, and its potential to create positive generational change.

Creating Safe Spaces

Ceri emphasises the need for safe environments that allow for emotional expression and vulnerability.

And whilst Ceri pledges that she is making up for the indiscretions of her twenties, we believe that it’s the indiscretions of her twenties that qualify her as the extraordinary human she is today. 

You can thank us later for leading you to this human morsel!! 

Go gently… 

Em & Tan xx 

Connect with Ceri:

• Instagram: @ceri_ford
• Website: healthypartygirl.com
• Substack: lifeincrescendo.substack.com
• Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3000056096971504

Coming soon from Ceri: 

• Life in Crescendo podcast
• Contemplation cards
• Inner work journal
• Ceri's book… (yup - another "hat" for Ceri: author) 

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

"So in 2015, I read an article that talked about the fact that there were 48,000 women in Australia who didn't have somewhere safe to call home. And while I'd imagined what that was like for people to not to be experiencing homelessness or not have somewhere safe, what I read next changed me forever and that they were using people were using socks and newspaper and wadded up toilet paper to do with their period. And I thought, my god, how does that even happen here in Australia?" 

Welcome to 12 of “What I Don’t Want You to Know…” 

In this powerful episode, we dive into the inspiring story of Rochelle Courtenay, lovingly known as the “Pad Lady”, and her journey founding “Share the Dignity”. If you’re unaware of this extraordinary charity, listen up to hear about how Rochelle and her team of “Sheroes” have made and continue to make significant strides in providing menstrual products to girls and women in need. 

Rochelle's journey from a concerned individual to the founder of a nationwide organisation showcases the power of personal conviction and action - we still have goosebumps from hearing the reality of period poverty in Australia and how this sparked Rochelle’s mission to make a difference. 

The goosebumps continue throughout our conversation with super brave confessions shared… confessions that Rochelle has never shared publicly before. 

This episode dares to turn and face and talk about deeply complex truths, including family violence, mental ill health, suicide, ambiguous grief, addictions, trauma and shame. 

Importantly, this conversation also reveals the transformative path of healing that Rochelle has been on… and whilst unpacking and healing from her past was seriously uncomfortable, the life she lives so passionately today is evidence that recovery is possible, and that a life of purpose, love and belly laughter is available too. 

Words are deficient to describe how privileged we felt (and feel), for being trusted to hear such courageous vulnerability… 

Equally, we remain profoundly inspired by the powerful reminder of how one person’s determination can lead to meaningful societal change. 

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE get involved with @sharethedignityaustralia - campaign “It’s in the Bag” collection points are open now at Bunnings stores nationwide (closing Dec 1st 2024). 

Go gently… 

Em & Tan xx

Links & Resources: 

Share the Dignity

sharethedignity.org.au 

instagram: @sharethedignityaustralia 

Listen to “Another Bloody Podcast” - which drops once a month on the 28th. Rochelle explores the stories and individuals who make up Share the Dignity.  

1800RESPECT - National Domestic Family and Sexual Violence Counselling Service

1800respect.org.au

13YARN - Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders crisis support 13 92 76 

13yarn.org.au 

Ask Izzy - homelessness resource

askizzy.org.au 

Lifeline

lifeline.org.au 131114

If life in danger, call Triple Zero 000

Keywords

Rochelle Courtenay, Share the Dignity, shame, suicide, family violence, recovery, personal growth, community impact, overcoming trauma

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

Welcome to Episode 11 of "What I Don't Want You to Know..."!

We are going global!!!! 

For this episode, we are together in sunny Cairns, whilst our beautiful guest Jess Simpson is waking up in Glasgow, Scotland!!!! 

Together, we embark on a literal journey in a camper-van while diving deep into an internal exploration of shame—yes, it sounds a bit woo-woo, but stick with us; it all makes sense when you listen!

Importantly, Jess shares about the hugely impactful work she does with a charity who are committed to healing generational trauma via inner work… as well as what she continues to turn, face and feel in her own growth journey. 

Naturally, we go toe-to-toe with Jess on themes of people-pleasing, perfectionism and the pesky and challenging feelings of shame that often tag along. 

Throughout this conversation, we are reminded time and time again, that it is by sharing the stuff that we think we need to keep hidden, that we find the most beautiful connections and awakenings. As well as the access to self acceptance, self compassion and a really healthy serving of laughter… 

We couldn’t be more grateful for all the places we got to go with Jess… best drive ever (you’ll understand once you listen). 

As always, go gently, 

Em & Tan xx

P.S. If you want to connect with Jess, see the links below! 

Keywords

nicknames, charity work, people-pleasing, perfectionism, shame, self-acceptance, self-compassion, vulnerability, public judgment, childhood experiences, self-perception, curiosity

Takeaways

• Inner work coaching can profoundly impact lives.
• Shame and self-abandonment can sneak into various aspects of life.
• Practicing self-acceptance and self-compassion is crucial for personal growth.
• Shame often stems from childhood experiences and fear of judgment.
• Curiosity and compassion are key in overcoming shame.
• Sharing experiences fosters connection and challenges shame.
• Perspective shifts help us appreciate our growth.
• The journey of self-discovery requires patience and kindness toward ourselves.

Catalyst For Coaches

https://www.catalyst4coaches.com/

https://www.instagram.com/catalyst4coaches/

Jessica Simpson Communications -  https://www.jessicasimpsoncommunications.com/

Sociii Support

https://sociii.com/sociii-support/ 

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

Summary

Welcome to Episode 10 of "What I Don't Want You to Know..." 

(Just quietly, can we ‘high five’ ourselves and our amazing guests so far for ‘coughing up’ 10 episodes!!!!) 

In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome Simone Guild, a passionate advocate for personal growth, impact led leadership and intuitive decision-making. 

Join us as we are taken down the most incredible journey of conversation and real life story telling, as Simone opens up about her sometimes painful, sometimes magical and everything in between life experiences. 

This episode is packed with wisdom, vulnerability, and practical advice that reminds us all of the power of perseverance and self-discovery. Whether you're seeking motivation to overcome personal challenges, looking to develop your leadership skills, or simply want to connect with a remarkable individual, Simone's insights will inspire you to embrace your own journey. 

Here’s a sneak peak of what’s on offer…

1. Overcoming Personal Challenges - Sim opens up about her battle with rheumatoid arthritis and how it shaped her perspective on resilience and personal growth.
2. The Power of Intuition - Simone is living proof of the importance of listening to your “inner voice”. 
3. Childhood Experiences and Self-Confidence - Simone reflects on how her early life experiences impacted her self-confidence and generously shares strategies for overcoming self-doubt.
4. Finding Her Voice: Learn about Simone's journey of speaking up after experiencing trauma and the challenges of sharing vulnerable experiences.

Tune in for an enlightening discussion that encourages authenticity, self-reflection, and the courage to trust your intuition. 

As always, go gently, 

Em & Tan xx

Keywords

overcoming challenges, finding voice, rheumatoid arthritis, intuition, self-confidence, leadership development, finding voice, speaking up, trauma, intuition, impact led leadership, resilience

Takeaways

• Childhood experiences and traumas can impact self-confidence and the ability to speak up.
• Traumatic experiences often leads to a fear of speaking up and sharing vulnerable stories.
• Listening to our instincts and intuition is crucial for personal growth and leadership.
• Sharing our experiences can help us connect with others and build resilience.
• Finding our voice and speaking up can be a transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
• You can overcome anything, even in the face of difficult times.
• Trusting your intuition and following your inner voice can lead to unexpected and transformative experiences.

Instagram: @simoneguild

Website: simoneguild.com 

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

Welcome to Episode 9 of "What I Don't Want You to Know..." 

Today, we're thrilled to bring you a powerful and inspiring conversation with our guest, affectionately known as "Muz." 

In this raw and honest episode, Muz opens up about his journey through addiction, recovery, and the challenges of imposter syndrome. We discuss the crucial role of compassion and connection in combating depression and anxiety, highlighting the need for open conversations to de-stigmatise addiction and promote understanding.

Prepare for a deep dive into:

• Muz's personal battle with addiction and his path to recovery
• The stigma surrounding addiction and its impact on individuals and society
• How media representation shapes perceptions of addiction - for better or worse
• Muz's experiences with imposter syndrome as a senior leader in the workplace
• The transformative power of vulnerability and human connection

Join us for this uplifting discussion that celebrates the power of shared experiences and the strength found in vulnerability. Whether you're facing addiction, imposter syndrome, or simply seeking to understand these experiences better, this episode offers valuable insights and a message of hope.

Tune in and let Muz's journey inspire you to embrace your own growth, seek genuine connections, and find the courage to be authentically you.

As always, go gently, 

Em & Tan xx

Takeaways

• Addiction doesn't discriminate and can happen to anyone.
• Media representation of addiction can perpetuate stigma and stereotypes.
• Imposter syndrome is a common experience, even for those in leadership positions.
• De-stigmatising addiction requires open and honest conversations.
• Understanding and empathy are crucial in supporting individuals in recovery.
• Validation should come from within oneself rather than seeking it from others.
• Belonging is a fundamental human need, and the fear of not fitting in can contribute to imposter syndrome.
• Working with others in their recovery journey is a privilege and an opportunity for personal growth.
• Human connection and compassion are essential in combating depression and anxiety.

Resources + supports talked about in episode: 

Muz recommends Johann Hari's book 'Lost Connections' for those interested in understanding the root causes of depression and anxiety.

Website: https://johannhari.com/ 

Johann Hari TedTalk https://www.ted.com/talks/johann_hari_everything_you_think_you_know_about_addiction_is_wrong?subtitle=en 

We recommend (from our personal lived and living experience), 12 Step Recovery via na.org.au (Australia)

aa.org.au (Australia)

Liveslivedwell.org.au 

Southpacificprivate.com.au 

Other key supports (in Australia): 

lifeline.org.au 

Beyondblue.org.au 

13yarn.org.au 

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

Welcome to Episode 8 of "What I don't want you to know..."

Today, we have a delicious morsel of an episode and an incredible human to share with you. To us, she is affectionately known as "Jax,” but you may know her as Jacqui Toumbas—a passionate foodie, content creator, and retreat host with a rich Greek heritage.

In this heartfelt conversation, we dive deep into Jacqui's multifaceted journey. From cafe owner to full-time content creator, Jacqui opens up about her experiences balancing her love for food, family, and her cultural roots. 

This episode takes a courageous turn as Jacqui bravely discusses her journey of freezing her eggs. She candidly shares the challenges she faced, including societal expectations, body image issues, and the physical and emotional toll of hormone treatments. 

Our conversation goes global, with Jacqui recounting her transformative trip to Italy, a pivotal moment where she learned to truly love and accept herself. She delves into the fear of rejection and how embracing vulnerability became her superpower.

Grab a cup of tea (or wine, or whatever floats your boat), as we explore the importance of understanding oneself, the impact of societal pressures, and the joy of living authentically. Jacqui's journey reminds us that there's no rulebook for life and that embracing our true selves can lead to profound personal growth and fulfilment. 

Thank you beautiful “Jax”, for the smorgasbord of insights and awakenings… we are full to the brim with inspiration and gratitude. 

As always, go gently, 

Em & Tan xx 

Keywords

personal connections, nicknames, content creator, food, family, Greek heritage, retreat host, nutritionist, freezing eggs, societal expectations, body image, self-acceptance, vulnerability, body image, weight gain, hormone treatments, personal growth, Italy, rejection, imperfections

Takeaways

• Societal expectations and body image issues can impact one's self-perception. Understanding oneself is crucial for personal growth and success.
• Embracing vulnerability can be a superpower and lead to self-acceptance.
• There is no rule book for life, and everyone's journey is unique.
• Rejection and judgment from others should not define one's self-worth.
• Embracing imperfections and finding gratitude in one's body is empowering.
• Sharing vulnerability can create connections and inspire others.
• Belonging to oneself is more important than seeking validation from others.
• Appreciating the ups and downs of life can bring joy and fulfilment.
• Investing in personal growth and self-discovery is a lifelong journey.
• Finding one's own path and embracing chaos can lead to a fulfilling life.

Instagram: @jacquitoumbas

Website: jacquitoumbas.com

2025 Italy retreat: savourtheslow.com 

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