Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Speak Shame
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ep 37 - What Runs the World? Shame: Dr. Judith Pilla on Our Most Misunderstood Emotion | 12 août 2026 | 00:54:01 | |
What if everything you thought you knew about shame was wrong? In the Season 4 finale of Speak Shame, Dr Connie is joined by Dr. Judith Pilla – psychotherapist, shame researcher, and author of How Shame Runs the World – for a conversation that will change how you think about one of our most powerful and least understood emotions. Dr. Pilla reveals why shame isn't simply a negative emotion to be eliminated. It's an evolutionary signalling system every human carries. She breaks down the crucial difference between pro-social shame (the kind that teaches useful lessons) and corrosive shame (the kind that only hurts) and why understanding that difference is the key to finally healing. Expect an eye-opening conversation covering perfectionism, procrastination, people-pleasing, the shame machine of social media, projection, discrimination, and why 90% of the shame we carry was never ours to begin with. If shame has been silencing you, this episode is for you. 00:00 Content Warning 00:13 Show Intro 01:24 Meet Dr Judith Pilla 02:08 What Shame Is 03:37 Shame Versus Guilt 06:44 How Shame Shows Up 08:58 Why She Wrote It 13:06 Why Shame Runs World 13:59 Pro Social Shame 17:23 Corrosive Shame 19:15 Internalised Messages 23:28 Healing Shame Basics 26:03 Use It Then Lose It 28:06 Finding Safe People 33:56 Gender and Shame 36:31 Perfectionism and Procrastination 41:05 Masks and Social Media 44:24 Projection and Dumping Shame 46:41 What to Do Today 49:30 Inspirational woman: Gisèle Pelicot 52:54 Closing and What’s Next DR. JUDITH PILLA · Website: HowShameRunsTheWorld.com UK SUPPORT SERVICES • In an emergency, dial 999; for non-emergencies or dial 101 (UK only) • Find your nearest NHS Sexual Assault Referral Centre • Find an NHS Talking Therapy service near you or contact your GP surgery • Charities: Mind, The Samaritans, Rape Crisis, Women’s Aid, or Victim Support GET IN TOUCH
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| Ep 36 - "I Abandoned Myself": Monika Molander on High Achievement, Trauma & Healing | 29 juil. 2026 | 00:50:08 | |
Monika Molander spent three decades trying to earn love through achievement: top universities, a career at Google and Meta, and relentless perfectionism. From the outside, an impressive life. On the inside, an unshakeable belief that she still wasn't enough. In this episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie talks to Monika, self-leadership and embodiment coach and survivor, about the eating disorder she developed as a teenager, the sexual abuse she experienced while living abroad, the years she spent unable to leave a damaging relationship dynamic, and the depression that finally brought everything to a halt. And about the retreat in Costa Rica that changed everything. Monika's message: you cannot think your way out of shame. Healing comes through self-discovery, through being witnessed in your story, and through understanding that the shame we carry is never just ours. Expect a warm, deeply honest conversation about perfectionism, belonging, generational trauma, and what it really means to stop performing for love and start living from it. 00:00 Content Warning 01:03 Meet Your Host 01:36 Introducing Monika 02:39 Chapter One Costa Rica 04:18 Roots of Not Enough 06:22 Achievement as Armour 10:43 Control and Eating Disorder 13:28 Chasing Approval and Belonging 18:24 Sexual Abuse and Shame Spiral 24:09 Loss Surrender and Retreat Call 29:06 Self Love Breakthrough 34:25 Coaching and Shame Healing 39:56 Leaving Corporate to Coach 44:33 Advice for Feeling Stuck 46:50 Where to Find Monika 47:52 Remarkable Women and Closing
MONIKA MOLANDER · Instagram: @MonikaMolander · Website: TheSelfLovePath.com
UK SUPPORT SERVICES • In an emergency, dial 999; for non-emergencies or dial 101 (UK only) • Find your nearest NHS Sexual Assault Referral Centre • Find an NHS Talking Therapy service near you or contact your GP surgery • Charities: Mind, The Samaritans, Rape Crisis, Women’s Aid, or Victim Support GET IN TOUCH
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| Ep 35 - "Healing Should Not Have to Wait": Emily Jacob on Sexual Violence Recovery | 15 juil. 2026 | 00:47:25 | |
Emily Jacob went on a date in 2008 and woke the next morning to find she had been raped. What followed were six years she calls "the abyss" – years of surviving, struggling, and slowly finding her way back to herself.
In this episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie talks to Emily – founder of Reconnected Life, trauma-informed recovery specialist, keynote speaker, and survivor – about the gap that exists between disclosing sexual violence and accessing proper therapeutic support, and why she built a programme to close it.
Emily's self-guided recovery programmes are now licensed by more than 20 charities, NHS sexual assault referral centres, and universities across the UK, reaching over 10,000 survivors. Her mission: healing should not have to wait.
Expect an honest, hopeful conversation about sexual violence recovery, what "getting therapy ready" really means, the power of survivor community, and proof that we do not stay forever broken. We are changed, and we get to choose who we want to become.
00:00 Content Warning 00:43 Meet Your Host 01:15 Introducing Emily Jacob 02:46 Rebel Roots 05:19 Why Healing Can’t Wait 07:36 How Reconnected Life Began 08:19 The 2008 Assault Story 09:28 Abyss Years and Finding Community 15:30 First Disclosure and Reporting 22:51 Therapy Waitlist and Early Sessions 26:31 Building Therapy Ready Tools 29:40 Licensing to Charities and Growth 33:37 Big Vision for NHS Access 36:20 How to Find Emily’s Resources 38:58 Hope and Post Trauma Growth 44:49 Inspired by Granny Rose 46:33 Final Thanks and Sign Off
EMILY JACOB · Website: www.Reconnected.Life · Licensing Info: www.Reconnected.Life/Licensing · Resources for Survivors: HealingResources.Reconnected.Life · Free Facebook Community - Survivors Supporting Survivors · Instagram: @ReconnectedLife.EmilyJ · LinkedIn: Emily Jacob
UK SUPPORT SERVICES • In an emergency, dial 999; for non-emergencies or dial 101 (UK only) • Find your nearest NHS Sexual Assault Referral Centre • Find an NHS Talking Therapy service near you or contact your GP surgery • Charities: Mind, The Samaritans, Rape Crisis, Women’s Aid, or Victim Support GET IN TOUCH
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| Ep 34 - "Missing A Fourth Of My Brain": Shannon Freedman On Brain Injury & Limitless Potential | 01 juil. 2026 | 00:27:47 | |
Shannon Freedman was driving to work when a freeway accident left her fighting for her life and ultimately missing a quarter of her brain. Doctors didn't think she'd survive. In this episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie talks to Shannon – financial consultant, rapid transformational therapist, and brain injury survivor – about the two decades she spent believing she wasn't capable or worthy after her accident, and the mindset shift that finally set her free. Shannon shares what it's really like to hear everything while in a coma, why she carried shame and self-doubt for years, and how she now helps others rewrite their relationship with money and unlock their own limitless potential. Expect an honest, hopeful conversation about brain injury recovery, mindset, and money – and proof that you are never defined by what happens to you, only by what you decide to do with it. 00:00 Welcome to Speak Shame 01:06 Meet Shannon Freedman 03:06 Chapter One: The Crash 05:10 Coma and Surgery 07:06 Recovery and Proving Them Wrong 10:21 From Self Doubt to RTT 13:13 Coaching Money and Brain Healing 16:52 First Steps to Reframe Shame 19:22 How to Work With Shannon 21:31 Money Mindset Reset 25:13 Remarkable Woman Inspiration 26:32 Final Takeaways and Goodbye
SHANNON FREEDMAN Instagram: @figure8freedmancoachingandrtt Linkedin: Shannon Financial Solutions Website: www.Figure8Freedman.com GET IN TOUCH
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| Ep 33 - Choosing Forgiveness: Madeleine Black on Healing After Sexual Violence | 17 juin 2026 | 00:24:02 | |
At 13, Madeleine Black was gang-raped. For decades, shame kept her silent, but she came to realise: the shame was never hers to carry. In this powerful episode, Dr Connie is joined by two-time TEDx speaker and author of Unbroken, Madeleine Black, who made the extraordinary decision to forgive the men who raped her – not for them, but for herself. Madeleine shares her journey from trauma, silence, and a psychiatric ward at 14, to writing her book and speaking on global stages about sexual violence and shame. Expect a raw, honest conversation about healing, forgiveness, finding your voice, and why sharing your story is one of the most powerful things you can do. This episode will remind you: it's not what happens to us, it's what we do with it. 00:00 Content Warning 00:39 Meet the Host and Guest 02:43 The Night Everything Changed 03:46 Aftermath and Survival 04:57 The Impact of Shame 06:24 Finding a Voice and Love 10:37 Going Public and Forgiveness 14:23 Ripple Effects and Writing Unbroken 17:46 Advice for Healing 19:17 Resilience and Family Legacy 21:39 Where to Find Madeleine 22:04 Remarkable Woman Inspiration 23:15 Closing and Resources
MADELEINE BLACK · Instagram: @madblack65 · Website: MadeleineBlack.co.uk
UK SUPPORT SERVICES • In an emergency, dial 999; for non-emergencies or dial 101 (UK only) • Find your nearest NHS Sexual Assault Referral Centre • Find an NHS Talking Therapy service near you or contact your GP surgery • Charities: Mind, The Samaritans, Rape Crisis, Women’s Aid, or Victim Support GET IN TOUCH
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| Ep 32 - "The Shame Isn't Yours To Carry": Chioma Alade On Surviving Sexual Abuse In The Church | 03 juin 2026 | 00:29:58 | |
What happens when the place you ran to for safety becomes the source of your greatest harm? In Episode 32 of Speak Shame, Dr Connie Kerali is joined by Chioma Alade, UK clergy, cult and sexual abuse specialist, and founder of By Fourteen. Chioma grew up in an abusive home and found what she believed was safety in the church, only to be groomed and sexually abused by her Sunday school teacher for over a decade. She didn't recognise it as abuse until she was 30. In this powerful conversation, Chioma opens up about the culture of shame that kept her silent, the grooming tactics predators use within faith communities, what radical acceptance really feels like, and the long road to healing, including the medical consequences of abuse that nobody talks about. She also shares how her late diagnosis of Ehlers Danlos syndrome added another layer of complexity to her journey, and why she founded By Fourteen: to help every child identify a predator before the age of 14. This episode is for anyone who has ever been silenced by shame, let down by an institution they trusted, or told that what happened to them was their fault. The shame was never yours to carry. Topics covered: church sexual abuse, grooming, coercive control, cult abuse, shame and religion, faith communities and safeguarding, Ehlers Danlos syndrome, invisible disability, healing from trauma, predator awareness, By Fourteen, Black British women, Nigerian culture and shame 📲 Connect with Chioma: Instagram @ChiomaAlade and @ByFourteenOrg. If you have been affected by this story, you can seek support at charities such as Rape Crisis, Hersana, Secrets Worth Sharing, or Surviving Universal UK.
02:44 Chapter One: Potential 03:50 Childhood Abuse And Church 06:33 Realising It Was Abuse 07:53 Fury And Dismantling A Cult 09:13 Radical Acceptance And Recovery 10:39 Medical Impact And Regulation 13:01 Speaking Out And Training 15:43 Culture Of Shame In Faith 17:38 Advice To Survivors 19:03 Ehlers Danlos Diagnosis 20:41 By Fourteen And Disability Advocacy 22:43 Healing Takeaways And Resources 24:44 NHS Pathways For Survivors 26:46 Remarkable Women Inspirations 29:06 Closing And Where To Connect GET IN TOUCH
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| Ep 31 - "No One Is Coming to Save Me": Sacha Hughes on Grief, Self-Sabotage & Finding Her Voice | 04 mai 2026 | 00:24:22 | |
"Where is this guy? I want to be rescued. And then I realised: No one is coming to save me." In Episode 31 of Speak Shame, author Sacha Hughes shares her journey from self-sabotage to self-love and how she turned her pain into a published novel. When Sacha was 24, her mum died of cancer. She turned to Pinot Grigio to numb the grief. For years, she believed Mr. Right would rescue her from the depths of despair. When that marriage ended in divorce, she had a choice: sink or rise. She chose to rise. What you'll hear: · Growing up as the shy, anxious youngest of four already carrying the belief "I'm not good enough" · How her mother's death sent her into a decade of self-sabotage, numbing with drugs & alcohol, and searching for rescue · The moment she realised: "This breakdown is going to become my breakthrough" · Five years of reading spiritual books while her children slept, absorbing Louise Hay, Wayne Dyer, Eckhart Tolle · The Shirley Valentine moment that sparked her debut novel · Her advice: "Stop leaning into the hurt. Start leaning into the lessons." Sacha's message: You are responsible for your life. No one is coming to save you. Put on your own superhero cape and become your own heroine. If you've been waiting for rescue, if you're stuck in self-sabotage, if you feel like a fraud in your own life, this conversation is for you. Topics covered: grief and loss, self-sabotage, numbing with drugs and alcohol, people pleasing, imposter syndrome, spiritual awakening, divorce recovery, turning pain into purpose, finding your voice, writing as healing 📖 Get Sacha's book: Love, Grief, and More Sex Than Pinot 01:17 Meet Sacha Hughes 02:00 Chapter One Childhood 04:51 Losing Mum and Coping 06:48 Marriage Divorce Turning Point 07:36 Healing Books and Meaning 08:39 Holiday Spark Writing Begins 09:43 Becoming an Author 12:50 Advice for Feeling Stuck 15:54 Getting Visible and Connecting 17:31 Where to Find Sacha 18:24 Key Takeaways and Self Rescue 20:15 Shame Themes and Identity 22:13 Remarkable Woman Tribute GET IN TOUCH
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| Ep 30 - "I Felt Like I Was Faking It": Rachel Hartigan on Journalism & Female Ambition | 22 avr. 2026 | 00:35:51 | |
"You don't have to explain your ambition. You can just be ambitious." In episode 30 of Speak Shame, journalist and author Rachel Hartigan shares her journey from feeling like an imposter in journalism to writing a book that unravels one of history's greatest mysteries: Amelia Earhart's disappearance. Rachel spent 12 years at National Geographic covering everything from genetic potatoes to the long road to women's suffrage. But it was two expeditions to a remote Pacific island – searching for traces of Amelia Earhart – that led her to write Lost: Amelia Earhart's Three Mysterious Deaths and One Extraordinary Life. What you'll hear: · How Rachel found her way into journalism (hint: her dad handed her a magazine) · Why she felt like she was "faking it" for years and when that changed · What she learned about storytelling from writing 200-word pieces on genetic potatoes · The moment she realised she could write a book · Why Amelia Earhart refused to explain her ambition and what that means for women today · Rachel's advice to her younger self: "Stop wasting energy on insecurity. Just try." Rachel's message: You don't have to justify what you want to do. Men don't have to explain themselves so why should we? If you're a writer, journalist, or woman tired of over-explaining your ambition, this conversation is for you. Topics covered: journalism career path, imposter syndrome, National Geographic, Amelia Earhart mystery, female ambition, writing a book, not apologising for your goals, women in history 📖 Get Rachel's book: Lost: Amelia Earhart's Three Mysterious Deaths and One Extraordinary Life 🌐 Connect with Rachel: RachelHartiganAuthor.com; Instagram: @RJ_Hartigan 01:12 Meet Rachel Hartigan 02:16 Origin Story: Reader 03:46 Finding Journalism Path 08:00 Owning Journalist Identity 10:06 National Geographic Curiosity 13:25 Lessons as a Reporter 16:37 Amelia Earhart Expeditions 20:25 Why Earhart Still Matters 25:42 Ambition Without Apology 28:23 Next Book Ideas 29:37 Advice for Aspiring Writers 31:25 Words to Younger Self 32:31 Where to Find Rachel 33:38 Remarkable Woman Inspiration GET IN TOUCH
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| Ep 29 - From "Obsolete" to Unstoppable: Jennifer Schroeder Exposes Workplace Age Bias | 08 avr. 2026 | 00:36:03 | |
In this inspiring episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie Kerali interviews Jennifer Schroeder, who at 58 was told her skills were “obsolete” and faced systemic age bias after hundreds of rejections. Jennifer recounts a planned 15-minute meeting where she was threatened with a performance improvement plan or severance, describing shock, shame, anger, and an out-of-body feeling, followed by months of replaying the event and noticing earlier signs like being excluded from meetings. Needing income, she tried various jobs while recovering for 12–18 months. She later posted videos on LinkedIn and TikTok, sparking thousands of responses from others experiencing similar discrimination, and grew The Unobsolete to support both HR leaders and professionals. Her key advice is to pay attention, document workplace issues, and remember you are not powerless or obsolete.
01:14 Introducing Jennifer Schroeder 03:21 A Career Turned Upside Down 04:43 Shock and Out of Body 06:27 The Walk of Shame 08:51 Red Flags in Hindsight 11:50 Aftermath at Home 15:11 Rebuilding After the Blow 18:49 Birth of The Unobsolete 20:48 Stories From the Community 23:17 Turning Posts Into a Mission 26:59 Practical Survival Advice 29:48 Where to Find Jennifer 30:39 Purpose From Pain 31:48 Not Powerless 33:27 A Remarkable Woman Tribute
JENNIFER SCHROEDER Linkedin: Jennifer Schroeder TikTok: @TheUnobsolete Instagram: @TheUnobsolete YouTube: @TheUnobsolete GET IN TOUCH
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| Ep 28 - The Mixed Race Experience: Dr. Jenn on Identity Shame & Finding Belonging | 26 mars 2026 | 00:32:18 | |
In this episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie Kerali is joined by Dr. Jenn (Jennifer Noble), a licensed psychologist and parent coach specialising in children, teens, identity development, and the mixed-race population, and founder of Free to Be Collective. Dr Jenn shares her early life in Santa Monica shaped by diversity and international travel, and discusses her own mixed-race identity (African American and Sri Lankan Tamil) and how being read as Black influenced her understanding of perception and identity. She describes recognising a gap when mixed-race adults at community events revealed they had never processed identity with their parents, often feeling shame and pressure to choose one “box.” Dr Jenn explains her work helping parents understand the “third” mixed-race experience, increase intentional cultural exposure, and support adolescents navigating appearance, belonging, and assumptions. She highlights how societal expectations create shame and names Wangarī Maathai as a key inspiration. 00:00 Mixed Race Identity Gap 00:33 Meet Dr Connie Kerali 01:09 Introducing Dr. Jenn 02:47 Chapter One: Origins 04:55 Finding Her Purpose 08:27 The Need She Saw 11:30 Coaching Parents Basics 13:49 Cultural Exposure Matters 16:53 Sade and Self Freedom 19:40 Advice for Mixed Race Teens 23:49 Key Takeaways for Everyone 25:57 Connect with Dr Jenn 27:23 Shame and One Box Thinking 29:50 Remarkable Woman Inspiration DR. JENN (JENNIFER NOBLE) INSTAGRAM: @DrJennPsych WEBSITE: FreeToBeCollective.com GET IN TOUCH
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| Ep 27 - From Survival to Freedom: Neelu speaks out about Domestic Violence and Life After Divorce | 12 mars 2026 | 01:36:21 | |
Dr Connie Kerali has a powerful conversation with the remarkable, Neelu, a business coach and single mother of four, about domestic violence, coercive control, financial abuse, and marital rape within a 17-year marriage. Neelu shares growing up in a conservative Muslim family, being pushed toward marriage from her teens, and recognising dysfunction through motherhood and learning healthier parenting. She describes escalating control by her husband and in-laws, neglect during pregnancies, coerced pregnancies, and isolation, alongside family toxicity, stigma around mental health, and being treated as “crazy” after seeking therapy and Prozac for clinical depression. After repeated broken promises, failed couples counselling, and her husband leaving the family while withholding support, Neelu chose divorce and also distanced herself from her own family. She now rebuilds independence, sets boundaries, and uses social media to reduce shame and support other women. 01:30 Introducing Neelu 06:58 Motherhood Wake Up Call 08:10 Unlearning and Boundaries 19:45 Engagement Red Flags 28:56 Control and Neglect 33:37 Marital Rape and Pregnancy 40:11 Fourth Pregnancy Turning Point 43:40 Job Loss and COVID Return 47:57 Back in Kerala Toxic Homes 52:13 Depression and Seeking Help 01:02:59 Money Control and Neglect 01:07:19 Decision to Divorce 01:12:33 Healing and Boundaries 01:20:00 Happily Divorced Community 01:24:40 No Shame and Hope 01:29:56 Reclaiming Joy Post Divorce NEELU
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| Ep 26 - Breaking Generational Cycles: Poonnamme Speaks On Her Experience As A 1st Born British-Asian | 26 févr. 2026 | 01:34:59 | |
In this episode of Speak Shame we discuss sexual violence, attempted suicide, and eating disorders and with support links are provided below. Dr Connie interviews Poonnamme, a Sikh woman raised between the UK and Punjab, with over 35 years in health and social care, who now also facilitates Kundalini Shakti activation. She shares how being the first-born girl and only child brought intense pressure tied to family honour and community expectations, including expectations around education and status. She describes being sexually assaulted at 17 by someone known to the family and a subsequent attempted suicide. She shares that at 18 she entered an arranged marriage and describes living “two lives” as a Western professional and a traditional subservient wife. Becoming a mother was a turning point in her decision to break cycles for her daughter. Poonnamme reflects on how her experiences shaped her voice, resilience, and ability to feel pride in both who she is and who she was. 01:40 Introducing Poonnamme 04:43 Firstborn Expectations 08:24 Schooling And Illness 11:14 Career Dreams Clash 12:51 Sexual Assault Silence 16:25 Aftermath And Survival 25:10 Arranged Marriage Begins 26:02 Two Lives At Home & At Work 29:09 A Manager Believes 34:59 Leaving To Break Cycles 36:49 Healing And Sharing 41:42 Trauma In The Body 43:23 Eating Disorder Spiral 47:36 Crossroads With Substances 56:20 Self Healing Awakening 01:00:00 Launching Healing Practice 01:03:37 Identity And Finding Voice 01:13:56 Advice For Feeling Stuck 01:21:02 Where To Find Poonnamme 01:27:51 Remarkable Women And Gratitude POONNAMME
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| Ep 25 - Say It Out Loud: Finding Your Voice With Vasavi Kumar | 19 févr. 2026 | 00:30:47 | |
In this week’s episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie Kerali speaks with Vasavi Kumar, licensed therapist, mindset coach, voice actor, TV host, and author of Say It Out Loud. Vasavi shares how she began to stop doubting herself and regain trust in her voice by developing an “immaculate” inner narrative - one that is kind, encouraging, and safe - so that external criticism no longer carries the same weight. She explains how her work has evolved over 15 years alongside her own personal growth, and how sharing the truth with emotion and precision helps her connect with clients who are on a similar path. Vasavi offers a practical example of challenging limiting beliefs by reframing the fear of raising prices for her Out Loud School. She also reflects on Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl performance as a reminder for women of colour and children of immigrants to stay true to their culture without whitewashing themselves for acceptance. Vasavi discusses how grief after her father’s death in May 2025 led her to temporarily silence herself, and how returning to speaking out loud helped her process emotions and reduce shame. She closes by emphasising that shame festers in silence and isolation, and that everyone needs a safe place to be witnessed and express themselves - one of the reasons she created the Out Loud School, which she notes is not therapy but is therapeutic. 00:00 The impact of silencing yourself and why shame shrivels when voiced 01:05 Introduction to Speak Shame and guest Vasavi Kumar 03:45 Vasavi’s “first chapter”: ending self-doubt and trusting her voice 07:00 Rewiring the inner narrative and treating yourself with respect 12:40 Helping others while doing your own ongoing inner work 15:40 How telling the truth and sharing personal stories attracts aligned clients 19:10 A practical reframe: challenging limiting beliefs when raising prices 27:10 Bad Bunny, authenticity, and refusing to whitewash culture for acceptance 35:30 Grief, losing your voice after her father’s death, and returning to expression 42:10 Why not using your voice affects mental, emotional, physical and financial wellbeing 48:15 Finding a safe place to “say it out loud” and what Out Loud School offers 55:10 Where to find Vasavi and her remarkable woman inspiration VASAVI KUMAR • Instagram: @MyNameIsVasavi • Website: vasavikumar.com GET IN TOUCH
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| Ep 24 - I'm Not A Failure: Faith Aisien-Ezugwu On Dyslexia & Developing Self-Compassion | 12 févr. 2026 | 00:31:42 | |
In this episode, host Dr Connie Kerali interviews Faith Aisien-Ezugwu, author of the poetry and spoken word book 'I Am Here' and host of the 'Re: Series' podcast. Faith shares her journey from growing up in Nigeria and overcoming feelings of inadequacy and being labeled a 'failure' as a child, to her successful career in business and events management. She discusses her struggles with dyslexia, the emotional challenges she faced, and how therapy helped her find self-compassion and self-worth. Faith offers advice to listeners on believing in themselves, recognising their strengths, and seeking the support they need. She also reflects on the importance of discussing mental health issues and breaking cultural stigmas. The episode concludes with a powerful reading from her book, 'I Am Here'. 01:23 Meet Faith Aisien-Ezugwu 02:34 Chapter One Poem 05:07 Childhood and Culture 09:22 Dyslexia and Self Work 12:59 Writing the Book 15:30 Advice to Younger Self 18:10 Mentoring and Hard Work 20:29 Parenting and Breaking Silence 24:09 Therapy and Self Compassion 27:01 Remarkable Women Inspiration 29:56 Final Reading and Wrap Up FAITH AISIEN-EZUGWU Website: FaithAisienEzugwu.com Instagram: @inkwellfaith Podcast: The Re: Series GET IN TOUCH
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| Ep 23 - Believing Your Body Has Failed You: Emily Silva Hockstra On Infertility, Grief & Healing | 29 janv. 2026 | 00:29:17 | |
In this week's episode, Dr Connie Kerali interviews Emily Silva Hockstra, a five-time author and spiritual life coach. Emily shares her journey from an anxiety-ridden child to a successful author and coach. She discusses her personal experiences, including suffering a miscarriage at 18, transitioning from a corporate career to wine tasting, and eventually pursuing her passion for writing full-time. Emily delves into the profound impact of grief and shame on her life after a diagnosis of primary ovarian insufficiency meant that she was unable to conceive, detailing how therapy, yoga, and self-discovery have been crucial in her healing journey. She also talks about the creation of her books, such as 'Moonlight Gratitude' and 'Sunset Gratitude,' and emphasises the importance of seeking help and finding inner peace. The episode closes with Emily reflecting on her sources of inspiration and offering advice for those navigating their own struggles. 01:06 Meet Emily Silva Hockstra 02:09 Chapter One: Origins 03:10 Corporate to Wine Life 05:27 Quitting to Create 06:04 Life Coaching Begins 07:04 First Book Breakthrough 08:52 Building the Book Series 10:29 POI Diagnosis and Grief 13:49 Day to Day Shame Spiral 15:42 Therapy and Body Healing 18:48 Vulnerability Takeaways 20:36 Advice for Listeners 22:14 Unpacking Shame Stories 23:50 Coaching After Grief 25:46 Stay Connected Online 26:10 Final Reflections 27:35 Remarkable Woman Tribute EMILY SILVA HOCKSTRA
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| Ep 22 - High-Achieving, Still Unworthy? Dr. Adia Gooden On Cultivating Unconditional Self-Worth | 15 janv. 2026 | 00:35:45 | |
In this week's episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie Kerali interviews Dr. Adia Gooden, a licensed clinical psychologist and expert on self-worth, self-compassion, and mental health. Dr. Adia shares her journey from growing up in Pasadena, California with professional parents, to becoming a renowned psychologist and speaker. She delves into the impact of early life challenges on her sensitivity to others' feelings, and how her academic and personal struggles with worthiness guided her career choice. Dr. Adia and Dr Connie discuss the importance of understanding self-worth stories, practicing self-compassion, and the layers of performance and vulnerability. Dr. Adia also opens up about her personal experiences with shame and depression, emphasising the need to reconnect with one's unconditional self-worth. The episode concludes with practical steps for listeners to begin their journey towards self-worth and self-compassion, along with a tribute to Dr. Adia's inspiring grandmother. 01:20 Introducing Dr Adia Gooden 02:53 Chapter One: Pasadena Roots 03:29 Early Seeds of Self Doubt 05:29 Why She Became a Psychologist 09:12 Chasing Worth Through Achievement 12:31 Rewrite Your Self Worth Stories 15:27 The Masks We Wear 17:56 First Steps Into Vulnerability 21:48 Four Steps of Self Compassion 25:42 A Shame Story and Healing 29:17 Unconditional Self Worth Defined 31:16 How to Work With Dr Adia 32:43 Remarkable Woman: Nana Tribute DR. ADIA GOODEN
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| Ep 21 - When Women Get Sick: Rebecca Bloom on Removing the Shame Around Asking For Help | 06 nov. 2025 | 00:36:17 | |
In this week's episode, we welcome Rebecca Bloom, a Yale and NYU-educated patient and workplace advocate, and author of 'When Women Get Sick'. Rebecca discusses her journey from a legal career specialising in employee benefits to her long-standing role as a patient advocate at Bay Area Cancer Connections. She shares personal experiences that fuelled her advocacy, including her family's battle with breast cancer and her own high-risk health journey. The conversation highlights the importance of building a support team, the challenges women face in healthcare, and the need for proactive planning. Rebecca also touches on her work as a storytelling coach and emphasises the critical nature of mental health and mindfulness in the healing process.
01:16 Meet Rebecca Bloom 03:05 Rebecca’s Origin Story 05:33 Why She Wrote When Women Get Sick 07:56 Karen’s Insurance Battle 11:12 Shame and Asking for Help 15:13 Mindfulness That Actually Helps 19:46 Rebecca’s High Risk Journey 22:29 Draft Your Support Team 25:25 Plan Before You’re Sick 29:17 Hope for Women’s Health 31:39 Key Takeaways and Where to Find Her 33:42 Remarkable Women Shoutouts
REBECCA BLOOM · Instagram: @WhenWomenGetSick · Website: WhenWomenGetSick.com
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| Ep 20 - Religious Shame & Abortions: Gabby Long on Her Body, Her Choice | 22 oct. 2025 | 00:37:06 | |
In this episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie interviews Gabby Long, a reproductive rights advocate, mother, and healthcare storyteller. Gabby shares her journey from growing up in central Florida to becoming an outreach organiser for 'A Woman's Choice,' an independent abortion provider. She discusses her family's background in activism and her early volunteer experiences. Gabby also opens up about her personal experience with abortion, highlighting the emotional and practical challenges she faced. She speaks passionately about her work in reproductive health advocacy, the importance of community support, and the need for accessible healthcare. The discussion also covers Gabby's involvement with organisations like We Testify and the Floridians Protecting Freedoms Coalition, and she offers advice to those going through similar challenges. Gabby emphasises the importance of voting, mutual aid, and community building to drive societal change.
01:04 Meet Gabby Long 02:32 Chapter one: roots 03:51 Growing up and volunteering 07:24 Young love and pregnancy 08:03 Choosing abortion with Nana 11:13 Crisis centres and clinic hurdles 15:20 From patient to advocate 17:49 Florida politics and access 21:04 What is hyperemesis? 23:59 Advice and finding community 27:52 Lived experience at work 32:16 Mutual aid and voting
US BASED SUPPORT SERVICES · Website: We Testify; · Instagram: @WeTestify
UK BASED SUPPORT SERVICES · British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS) · National Health Service (NHS) Abortion Support
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| Ep 19 - How Anxiety & Shame Shaped My Life as a Doctor - Dr Alison Smith's Story | 08 oct. 2025 | 00:40:34 | |
In this week's episode, Dr Connie Kerali interviews Dr Alison Smith, founder of Earth and Bloom, a coaching practice supporting doctors and healthcare professionals. Dr Alison shares her journey from a GP with over 20 years of experience to a coach who blends nature, creativity, and one-to-one facilitation. She discusses her challenging childhood, her initial struggles in medicine, and how coaching transformed her life, unlocking her creativity and aligning her values. Dr Alison and Dr Connie delve into the topics of shame and anxiety in the medical profession, highlighting the need for support and open dialogue. Dr Alison also talks about her current work, including one-on-one coaching and sister circles, emphasising the importance of nature and community in healing and personal growth.
01:15 Meet Dr Alison Smith 03:22 Chapter One: Childhood Worlds 07:40 Path Into Medicine 12:49 Anxiety and Loneliness as a GP 14:21 Coaching and Nature Reset 17:47 Shame and Anxiety in Medicine 21:36 Thinking Environment and Listening 25:40 Advice for Doctors in Shame 27:52 How to Work With Alison 29:59 Sister Circles and Retreats 32:24 Humiliation Culture and Hope 35:52 Remarkable Woman and Poem
DR ALISON SMITH · Instagram: @Earth_and_Bloom · Website: https://www.earthandbloom.uk · LinkedIn: Dr Alison Smith
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| Ep 18 - Dying For An Abortion: Kayleigh on the Impact of Abortion Bans | 24 sept. 2025 | 00:23:26 | |
In this episode of Speak Shame, we meet Kayleigh, a reproductive justice advocate, abortion storyteller, and program coordinator at Fund Texas Choice. Kayleigh discusses her personal journey from growing up in a military family and surviving domestic and sexual violence, to finding her calling in supporting Texans seeking out-of-state abortion care. She shares her own abortion experience, the ongoing struggles due to restrictive abortion laws, and the critical need for emotional and logistical support for individuals facing systemic barriers. Kayleigh highlights the transformative power of sharing abortion stories to dismantle stigma and offers insights for those seeking support or considering an abortion.
01:13 Meet Kayleigh 02:01 Chapter One: Origins 03:56 College and Abuse Realisation 04:29 Choosing Abortion 07:00 Finding Support 08:40 Helping Texans Travel 10:29 The Fall of Roe 12:04 What Clients Face Now 13:34 No Judgment Advocacy 15:07 Advice and Resources 17:06 Power of Storytelling 18:52 Where to Get Help 20:05 Bans Are Killing People 21:27 Inspired by Ancestors
US BASED SUPPORT SERVICES · We Testify; Instagram: @WeTestify
UK BASED SUPPORT SERVICES · British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS) · National Health Service (NHS) Abortion Support
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| Ep 17 - I Was Intolerant to My Life: Annalie Howling on Becoming Unapologetic | 10 sept. 2025 | 00:44:09 | |
In this week’s episode, Dr Connie sits down with Annalie Howling, a highly qualified performance coach with over 20 years of experience working with business leaders, elite athletes, and members of the armed forces, including ex-UK Special Forces. Annalie discusses her journey from a turbulent childhood to becoming a sought-after speaker, author, and EMDR certified global practitioner. She shares her insights on how shame and her people-pleasing nature have impacted her life and work. Annalie also elaborates on her book ‘Unapologetic: Unshackle Your Shame. Reclaim Your Power,’ and her personal experiences, including her breakthrough moment during a training in San Francisco and the importance of community and vulnerability. She concludes with her latest ventures, including retreats in Lisbon and France, aimed at fostering genuine connections and personal growth.
01:03 Meet Annalie Howling 04:39 Violent Childhood Shame 06:39 Escape Through Work 07:29 Burnout Wake Up Call 08:10 Coaching Breakthrough 13:27 Good Girl & People Pleasing 15:10 Fawn Response Explained 19:27 Survivor Shame Reframed 24:42 Sharing Stories Heals 25:39 Love Without Secrets 26:40 Freed From Shame 27:12 Patriarchy And Compliance 31:34 Life After Shame 35:06 Inner Child Reframe 37:39 Work With Annalie
ANNALIE HOWLING · Instagram: @AnnalieHowling GET IN TOUCH
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| Ep 16 - I Had An Abortion: Jessy Rosales on Refusing to Carry Other People's Shame | 27 août 2025 | 00:49:38 | |
In this week's episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie hosts Jessy Rosales, an impassioned advocate for reproductive justice who began their journey in 2016. Jessy discusses their efforts in organizing communities and leveraging media to support reproductive justice legislation, notably leading to the passage of Senate Bill 24, which mandates abortion services in California university medical systems. Jessy shares their personal struggles with their identity and a powerful testimony of their own experience seeking an abortion as a student, which underscores the systemic barriers even in progressive states like California. Despite these challenges, Jessy's activism has continued to impact state and national policies. Listeners are encouraged to empathise, reflect on the sources of their own shame, and find strength in community. The episode wraps up with Dr Connie discussing the pivotal role of Jessy's mother in shaping their resilient spirit.
01:12 Meet Jessy Rosales 03:46 Chapter One: Origins & Identity 08:28 Finding advocacy work 12:34 Pregnancy and decision 15:02 Barriers to abortion care 19:21 Second trimester and SB24 22:16 Community and We Testify 24:36 Living with secrecy 29:36 Advice to younger self 33:33 Empathy and shame unpacked 41:23 Hope and movement power 44:36 Remarkable woman: Mom
JESSY ROSALES · Website: WeTestify.org · Instagram: @WeTestify
UK BASED SUPPORT SERVICES · British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS) · National Health Service (NHS) Abortion Support
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| Ep 15 - Rest Equals Lazy: Eve Ostrovskaya on Challenging Her Inner Critic as a Working Mum | 13 août 2025 | 00:48:03 | |
In this episode of Speak Shame with Dr Connie Kerali, Eve Ostrovskaya, a Transformational Leadership and Matrescence Coach, former Fortune 500 HR leader, and founder of Working Parent Coaching, shares her journey from growing up in post-Soviet Russia to navigating a successful career in London while raising three children. As a coach, she helps ambitious women overcome the pressures of perfectionism and the challenges of balancing career and motherhood. Eve discusses the concept of matrescence, comparing it to adolescence, and highlights the transformative leadership skills gained through parenthood. She emphasises the need for self-compassion and the importance of recognising parents as leadership assets. The episode concludes with Eve's inspiring messages on the power of kindness and the need to reshape societal views on parenting and leadership.
00:40 Meet Eve 02:22 Chapter One: Childhood 05:14 From Russia to London 06:01 Career Drive and Early Motherhood 08:52 Thirties Crunch Time 13:24 Treadmill Reflection 19:33 Advice for Tired Moms 21:39 Rest Equals Lazy 25:35 Redefining Rest and Exercise 28:42 What Is Matrescence 34:39 Parenthood as a Leadership Asset 40:01 How to Work With Eve 43:27 Kindness and Closing 44:50 Remarkable Woman Inspiration
EVE OSTROVSKAYA · Website: WorkingParentCoaching.co.uk · Instagram: @EveOstrovskaya · LinkedIn: Eve Ostrovskaya · Matrescence Info: Matrescence by Lucy Jones, Mama Rising by Amy Taylor-Kabbaz
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| Ep 14 - “I’m Not Attracted To You”: Dr Connie Kerali on Dating, Low Self-Esteem & Self-Acceptance | 30 juil. 2025 | 00:39:10 | |
In this week's episode of Speak Shame with Dr Connie Kerali, Darleen Davies, an International Career and Mindset Coach, takes over guest hosting duties. The episode dives into the theme of dating shame, beginning with Dr Connie sharing her formative 'Good Girl' chapter. They delve into the impact of perfectionism and people-pleasing on her life and relationships, especially in the context of dating. Dr Connie opens up about how therapy helped her confront her low self-esteem and transform her dating experiences, leading to a healthier relationship with herself and eventually finding unconditional love. The conversation also emphasises the power of self-acceptance and self-compassion and ends with a tribute to her remarkable mother.
00:36 Meet Dr Connie & Guest Host, Darleen 02:02 The Good Girl Chapter 03:29 Perfectionism and Worth 06:50 Losing Yourself to Fit In 07:46 Dating as a Late Bloomer 09:52 Surface Level Relationships 14:56 Therapy as a Turning Point 17:59 Alopecia Date Revelation 22:49 Building Self Worth Foundations 27:51 Dating With Confidence 29:37 Coming Home With Dave 33:18 Advice for People Pleasers 35:36 Honouring a Remarkable Mum
DARLEEN DAVIES · Website: DarleenDaviesCoaching.com · Instagram: @DarleenDaviesCoaching
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| Ep 13 - The Grief of Infertility: Alison Beder Solway on Surrogacy, Resilience & Hope | 16 juil. 2025 | 00:40:35 | |
In this episode, Dr Connie interviews Alison Beder Solway, a debut author and founder of ABS Fitness. Alison shares her profound journey to motherhood through surrogacy, as detailed in her memoir, The Miles We Run. Discussing her challenging health condition, HHT, Alison explains the struggles and learnings during her path to building a family. She draws powerful analogies between her resilience in surrogacy and her training for the New York City Marathon. Alison highlights the importance of hope, resilience, education, and self-advocacy, while offering encouragement to those facing similar challenges.
00:33 Meet Alison 02:43 Traumatic Pregnancy and HHT Diagnosis 06:48 Hearing You Can’t Carry Again 09:18 Surrogacy Realities and Trust 12:59 Support Systems and Silence 15:51 Journals, Marathon and Meaning 20:02 Shame Shifts Into Grief 22:56 Talking to Kids About Surrogacy 25:03 Helping Others and Legal Nuances 29:13 Lessons, Resilience, Advocacy, Intuition 35:49 Choosing Hope and Closing Out 37:04 Where to Find Alison 37:57 Remarkable Woman: Brené Brown
ALISON BEDER SOLWAY · Website: TheMilesWeRun.com
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| Ep 12 - I Had A Miscarriage: Dr. Jessica Zucker’s Fight Against Shame | 02 juil. 2025 | 00:43:41 | |
In this episode of Speak Shame with Dr Connie Kerali, Dr. Jessica Zucker, a psychologist specialising in reproductive health and author of the book 'I HAD A MISCARRIAGE: A Memoir, A Movement', shares her journey and advocacy work. Dr. Zucker discusses how her personal experience with miscarriage led to the creation of the viral #IHadAMiscarriage campaign, aiming to break the silence and reduce the stigma surrounding pregnancy loss.
She highlights the importance of sharing stories to combat shame and encourages women to find their voice, whether publicly or privately. The conversation goes on to discuss Dr. Zucker's second book, 'NORMALIZE IT: Upending the Silence, Stigma and Shame That Shapes Women's Lives', and extends to broader themes of women's mental health, vulnerability, and the healing power of storytelling.
01:11 Meet Dr Jessica Zucker 02:25 Jessica’s Origin Story 05:07 The Miscarriage Experience 07:30 Launching the Viral Campaign 11:51 How It Changed Her Work 18:14 Friends, Family and Stigma 21:51 Why She Wrote Normalize It 26:06 Recognising Shame Signals 26:57 When Silence Feels Safer 29:12 Self Blame and Control Myths 31:17 Therapy as a Turning Point 32:36 Going Public With Trauma 36:02 Vulnerability Through Sharing 38:51 Ways to Tell Your Story 41:27 Inspiration and Farewell
DR. JESSICA ZUCKER · Website: DrJessicaZucker.com · Instagram: @IHadAMiscarriage
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| Ep 11 - Rejecting Shame in Motherhood | 07 mai 2025 | 00:40:43 | |
In the final episode of the series, Dr McClain Sampson, a professor of social work and founder of Hear Me Roar Coaching, shares her journey and mission to empower women, particularly focusing on maternal mental health. Dr Sampson talks about her challenging childhood, her academic career, the transformative impact of her unplanned pregnancy, and the development of her passion for maternal health. She emphasises the importance of mental health support for new mothers, the critical role of self-efficacy, and introduces her concept of 'Savage Self-Care'. Dr Sampson also shares her personal struggle with her teenage son's addiction and how it has shaped her approach to coaching and mental wellness. The episode concludes with practical advice for mothers dealing with similar challenges and the significance of staying connected to oneself.
00:38 Trigger Warning and Welcome 01:26 Meet Dr McClain Sampson 02:27 Chapter One Childhood Roots 03:57 From Research to Coaching 10:58 Son’s Crisis and Rehab 15:32 Aftermath Grief and Shame 21:29 Practical Steps to Break Shame 27:40 Savage Self Care Framework 33:22 How to Work With Her 35:51 Key Takeaway Essential Self 38:15 Remarkable Woman Tribute
If you need additional support after listening to this episode you can use the links below to find more information on some places to go: · In an emergency, dial 999 (UK only) or 911 (USA); for non-emergencies, dial 101 (UK) · A doctor or practice nurse at your GP surgery · A voluntary organisation such as The Samaritans (UK – call for free anytime: 116 123) or 988 Lifeline (USA – call for free anytime: 988)
Dr McClain Sampson · Website: HearMeRoarCoaching.com · Instagram: @HearMeRoarCoaching · LinkedIn: McClain Sampson · YouTube: @HearMeRoarCoaching-HMR
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| Ep 10 - Finding Hope During My Treatment For Cancer | 23 avr. 2025 | 00:26:46 | |
In this week’s episode, Dr Connie Kerali interviews Amanda Wakefield, a High Conflict Relationship Recovery and Resilience Life Coach based in Luxembourg. Amanda shares her personal journey, from becoming an orphan at a young age to overcoming significant challenges including cancer. She discusses the importance of hope, the impact of grief on vulnerability, and the steps she took to regain control of her life. Amanda also talks about her transition from a corporate career to coaching, her methods for helping others find their inner strength, and the importance of a supportive network. This inspiring discussion highlights the transformative power of resilience and hope.
00:00 Meet the Guest Amanda 02:16 Chapter One Orphaned Young 03:23 What Hopelessness Feels Like 05:43 Finding Hope Again 08:57 Cancer and Inner Peace 10:49 Support Network and Alternatives 13:08 From Survival to Coaching 15:44 How to Work With Amanda 17:29 There Is Always Hope 19:43 Asking for Help First Time 21:55 Energy Drainers and Intuition 23:55 Women Who Inspire Amanda
AMANDA WAKEFIELD · Website: AmandasBeyondCoaching.com · LinkedIn: Amanda Wakefield · Instagram: @AmandaResilienceCoach
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| Ep 9 - Breaking The Silence Surrounding Infertility | 09 avr. 2025 | 00:36:22 | |
In this week's episode, Jennifer Robertson, a fertility coach and author, shares her compelling seven-year journey through infertility, pregnancy loss, and surrogacy. She discusses the impacts of her early life experiences, the emotional and mental toll of infertility, and how she ultimately embraced self-care and mental health. Jennifer talks about her transition to becoming a fertility coach and the importance of finding community and support. She also provides insights into coping mechanisms, balancing mental health, and setting boundaries. Throughout the episode, she emphasizes the power of accepting emotions and the need for personal agency.
01:09 Meet Jennifer Robertson 02:18 Chapter One Backstory 05:47 Seven Year Journey 07:31 Infertility Triggers Insecurities 10:12 Disenfranchised Grief 11:43 Mental Health Shift 14:36 Motherhood Wake Up Call 17:25 Support and Community 20:51 Double Life During Infertility 24:48 Boundaries and Agency 27:31 Why It Feels Isolating 30:23 How to Work With Jen 31:22 Embrace All Parts 34:02 Remarkable Woman Inspiration
JENNIFER ROBERTSON · Website: JenniferRobertson.co · Instagram: @MsJenniferRobertson
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| Ep 8 - Overcoming Work-Related Shame: A Transformational Journey | 27 mars 2025 | 00:35:19 | |
In this week's episode, Dr Connie interviews Rebecca Cuberli, a seasoned creative leadership coach specializing in emotional intelligence. Rebecca shares her journey from corporate life to becoming a coach, detailing her wake-up call during the COVID-19 pandemic, her struggle with burnout, and her path to self-discovery and purpose. She emphasises the importance of emotional intelligence, self-acceptance, and vulnerability. Rebecca also discusses the transformative impact of her work on leaders and teams, and her vision for spreading emotional intelligence skills globally. The episode concludes with Rebecca's advice for individuals seeking to find their purpose and her acknowledgment of key influencers in her life.
01:17 Meet Rebecca Cuberli 02:41 The Corporate Wake Up 04:32 Toxic Culture Burnout 07:09 Shame and Mindset Shift 09:34 Detox and Self Discovery 13:48 Curiosity to Find Purpose 16:50 Vulnerability as Leadership 18:13 Transformational Coaching Wins 22:36 The Dandelion Effect Dream 25:04 Tools to Tackle Shame 29:12 How to Work With Rebecca 31:50 Remarkable Women Who Inspire
REBECCA CUBERLI · Website: RebeccaCuberli.com · LinkedIn: Rebecca Cuberli · Instagram: @RebeccaCuberliCoach
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| Ep 7 - Finding My Voice: Speaking Up About Life Behind Closed Doors | 13 mars 2025 | 00:36:48 | |
In this week's episode, holistic counsellor and root cause therapist, Lorene Roberts, joins the discussion to share her impactful journey of overcoming life's most challenging transitions, including an emotionally and sexually abusive marriage. Lorene offers insight into how she turned her painful experiences into a source of strength and guidance for other women. She discusses her latest work, including a new course on emotional freedom, and reflects on the importance of self-discovery and the lessons learned from her past. Lorene is candid about her struggles and triumphs, emphasising the necessity of resilience, determination, and self-belief in the path to healing.
00:37 Meet Lorene 03:33 Childhood Lessons and Needs 04:45 Cruelty Behind Closed Doors 06:39 Recognising Rape and Consent 08:15 Owning the Pattern 09:30 Healing Layers and Root Cause 11:30 Tony Robbins Turning Point 15:29 Choosing Not to Be Bitter 17:27 Rock Bottom Wakeup Call 17:49 Choosing Self Development 20:39 Rebuilding Self Worth 22:17 Solo Travel Breakthrough 25:41 Becoming A Therapist 28:19 Self Belief Takeaways 29:07 Advice To Younger Self 30:26 How To Work With Lorene 32:57 Remarkable Women Inspirations
If you need additional support after listening to this episode you can use the links below to find more information on some places to go: · In an emergency, dial 999; for non-emergencies, dial 101 (UK only) · Find your nearest NHS Sexual Assault Referral Centre (England only) · Find an NHS Talking Therapy service near you (England only) · A doctor or practice nurse at your GP surgery · A voluntary organisation such as Rape Crisis, Women’s Aid, or Victim Support
LORENE ROBERTS · Website: LoreneRoberts.com · Facebook: @LoreneRoberts · LinkedIn: Lorene Roberts · YouTube: @LoreneRoberts
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| Ep 6 - The Road to Recovery: A Self Love Journey | 27 févr. 2025 | 00:39:04 | |
In this episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie Kerali interviews Jeannette Hounjet, a certified coach, Reiki Master, and advocate for women's recovery. The discussion centres on the journey to self-acceptance and authenticity. Jeannette shares her story of overcoming feelings of inadequacy and the quest for genuine self-love. They delve into practical steps for transforming negative self-talk, the importance of finding personal support systems, and the continuous nature of self-improvement. Through this inspiring conversation, listeners are encouraged to begin their own journeys toward healing and unshakable self-love.
01:18 Meet Jeannette Hounjet 02:16 Chapter One Starts Now 03:20 The Missing Piece Authenticity 05:48 People Pleasing and Shame 06:58 Choosing the Self Journey 09:52 Louise Hay and Self Love 15:35 Finding Voice and Support 20:01 From Surviving to Thriving 23:56 Navigating Unsupportive Circles 27:43 Self Talk and Affirmations 34:30 Remarkable Woman and Resources
JEANNETTE HOUNJET SOCIAL MEDIA · Instagram: @NowShesLiving · LinkedIn: Jeannette Hounjet
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| Ep 5 - A Child's Search for Love, An Adult's Discovery of Their Worth | 13 févr. 2025 | 00:47:31 | |
In this episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie Kerali talks with Nina de Sausmarez, a self-belief and empowerment coach. Nina shares her personal story of overcoming a challenging and traumatic past marked by drug use, running away from home, and experiencing shame from her difficult upbringing. The discussion delves into Nina's patterns of seeking validation and safety, her experiences of self-sabotage, and the profound realisation of her need for radical responsibility. Nina's journey to self-awareness, self-acceptance, and ultimately, empowerment through therapy and introspection is explored. The episode emphasises the importance of doing the work to heal from shame and using personal transformation to help others. In the end, Dr Connie and Nina discuss the impact of sharing these stories to inspire hope and resilience in others.
01:14 Meet Nina de Sausmarez 01:38 Chapter One The Runaway 03:32 Volatile Childhood Roots 05:34 Numbing the Void 08:27 Leaving Home at Sixteen 13:32 Caught Stealing and Shame 16:02 Motherhood and Self Sabotage 25:07 Rock Bottom Choice 26:16 Question Your Reality 28:38 Therapy And Safety 30:39 Radical Responsibility 34:42 Becoming A Coach 40:42 Find Nina Online 41:36 Message To Younger Self 43:08 Inspired By Grandma 45:20 Shame In The Light
NINA DE SAUSMAREZ SOCIAL MEDIA · Instagram: @NinadeSausmarez · Facebook: @NinadeSausmarez · LinkedIn: Nina de Sausmarez · Website: NinadeSausmarez.com
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| Ep 4 - Living Positively With HIV | 30 janv. 2025 | 00:45:04 | |
On this episode of Speak Shame with Dr Connie Kerali, I’m joined by Doreen Moraa Moracha, a phenomenal woman who shares her life story of living with HIV for 32 years. In a deep and inspirational conversation, Doreen recounts being diagnosed at 13, her journey through self-acceptance, and her role as an HIV/AIDS advocate. She discusses the stigma, challenges, and triumphs she has faced, including the impact on her mental health, dating life, and the importance of community support. Doreen also offers practical advice for those living with HIV and emphasizes the power of acceptance and self-love in overcoming life’s adversities.
01:04 Meet Doreen Moraa 02:14 Chapter One Diagnosis 03:47 Finding Her Voice 05:22 First Public Disclosure 11:43 Keeping It Secret 14:18 Denial Cure Search 16:22 Back On Treatment 19:35 Dating With HIV 23:00 PrEP and U Equals U 23:53 Dating and Disclosure 25:22 Going Public Online 30:50 Acceptance and Support 35:07 ARVs Explained 37:24 Prevention Takeaways 39:51 Message to Younger Self 40:32 Closing and Where to Follow
· Find a sexual health clinic near me (UK only) · Home STI Testing – Sexual Health London
DOREEN MORAA MORACHA SOCIAL MEDIA · Instagram: @yes_I_have_HIV · YouTube: @IAmABeautifulStory · Facebook: @DoreenMoraaMoracha · TikTok: @yes_I_have_HIV · LinkedIn: Doreen Moraa
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| Ep 3 - From Prison to Purpose: A Journey of Self-Discovery | 16 janv. 2025 | 00:54:21 | |
In this episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie Kerali interviews Nichole Banks, a divorce recovery coach and host of The Nichole Banks Podcast. Nichole shares her powerful journey from enduring two divorces, facing infidelity, and struggling with severe self-doubt, to eventually being incarcerated for embezzlement. After spending time in prison, Nichole reemerged into society with an air of shame but managed to transform her life through self-prioritization, positive affirmations, and rebuilding her self-esteem. Nichole also discusses finding enduring love and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and authentic living. The conversation is filled with actionable insights and inspiring messages for anyone dealing with similar adversities.
01:20 Meet Nichole Banks 02:12 A Book Born From Divorce 08:06 Rock Bottom and Embezzlement 10:20 Sentenced to Prison 12:27 Life Inside and Programs 14:46 Release and Crushing Shame 16:48 Rebuilding Mindset 22:35 Journaling and Daily Tools 29:23 Owning Your Worth 31:04 Wellbeing and Boundaries 33:54 Finding Love Again 34:59 Building Trust with Jeff 43:00 Date Yourself First 49:34 Inspired by Oprah 52:28 Where to Find Nichole
NICHOLE BANKS RESOURCES
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| Ep 2 - From Shame to Strength: My Path to Healing After Sexual Violence | 02 janv. 2025 | 00:55:42 | |
In this episode of Speak Shame with Dr Connie Kerali, Dr Connie, a medical doctor, life coach, and survivor of sexual violence, shares her powerful story of overcoming shame and finding strength through vulnerability. Interviewed by her long-time friend and career change coach, Darleen Davies, Dr Connie recounts being silenced by shame for several years after being raped, and her path to healing through therapy and support from loved ones. The discussion highlights the importance of connection, sharing one's story with someone that you trust, and the impact of hearing Dr Christine Blasey Ford speak her truth about being sexually assaulted as a teenager. Dr Connie's mission is to share inspiring stories of women who have faced and overcome adversity, so that others may find strength, connection, and hope in their own journeys, and so that shame itself loses its power.
00:00 Welcome and Trigger Warning 01:37 Meet the Guest Host 02:56 Why Share This Now 04:15 The Assault in 2015 06:05 Shame and Staying Silent 13:32 Reporting to Police 15:42 Life Starts Unraveling 18:12 Therapy Search and Breakthrough 23:46 Telling Friends and Finding Connection 26:05 Opening Up to Family 29:57 Why I Stayed Silent 32:44 Telling Dad and Brother 34:41 Shame Losing Power 38:39 Purpose Through Sharing 48:50 Mission and Self Worth 53:28 Remarkable Woman Tribute 55:08 Final Resources and Goodbye
If you need additional support after listening to this episode you can use the links below to find more information on some places to go:
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| Ep 1 - Speak Shame with Dr Connie Kerali: Coming Soon! | 21 nov. 2024 | 00:01:12 | |
Hello Remarkable Woman, have you ever been silenced by shame? Have you ever believed that you’re not enough? Do you believe that you're unworthy of love or belonging? Are these beliefs holding you back in your personal or professional life? If this sounds like you, then you’re in the right place.
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