The Healthy Home Show – Détails, épisodes et analyse

In this episode of the Healthy Home Show, Charlie talks with Becca Willis from Cotton Safe Natural Mattress about the hidden dangers of fire retardants in household furnishings, especially mattresses. They explore the health risks these chemicals pose and offer practical steps for creating a safer, toxin-free home environment.

Becca Willis on Linkedin
Instagram
Fidra
GOT Certification 

Summary:

Becca shares Cotton Safe’s journey toward making chemical-free mattresses after discovering the dangers of fire retardants, which release toxic fumes during fires and are linked to serious health issues like cancer and neurotoxicity. While UK regulations lag behind Europe’s, consumers can take small steps to reduce exposure by using mattress toppers, natural fibre bedding, and opting for chemical-free products. Cotton Safe’s focus on transparency, sustainability, and creating healthier sleep environments offers an easy starting point for those looking to make their homes safer. Visit cottonsafenaturalmattress.co.uk for more information.

Key Takeaways:

1. Fire Retardants Are Dangerous: These chemicals, found in furniture and mattresses, can cause toxic smoke in fires and have been linked to various health issues, including cancer, neurotoxicity, and developmental delays in children.
2. Europe is Ahead: European regulations on fire retardants and chemicals in household products are stricter than the UK's, raising questions about why the UK hasn't followed suit.
3. Small Steps Can Make a Big Difference: Can’t afford a new mattress? Use mattress protectors, toppers, or invest in natural fibre bedding to reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals.
4. Sustainability and Transparency Are Key: Choosing biodegradable, chemical-free mattresses helps both your health and the planet. Look for brands that are transparent about their production methods and materials.
5. Children Are More Vulnerable: Kids are more susceptible to the effects of fire retardants due to their size and behaviour. Make sure their sleep environment is as toxin-free as possible.

Get in touch

Thanks for listening to the Healthy Home Show Podcast. If you would like to see the video version of this podcast, please head over to our show on Youtube.

If you're an Instagram lover you can follow us for tips and strategies at The Healthy Home Show where we also run some lunchtime Insta Lives so that you can get help with any questions you may have on toxins in our homes and lifestyle and how to create an environment that supports your health.

If you would like to discuss a bespoke health programme for you or your workplace or would like to hire me as a speaker for your next wellbeing event, please contact me at [email protected].

For blogs, tips and free resources check out the website : www.charlielemmer.com

With love Charlie x

Introduction to Feng Shui: Kimberley Gallagher from "The Feng Shui Flow" shares her journey into Feng Shui, which began during the global lockdown when she started exploring different ways to improve her mental health. Initially skeptical, she became a believer after seeing positive changes in her life, particularly in her business and home environment, following Feng Shui practices.

The Feng Shui Flow Website
The Feng Shui Flow Podcast

Understanding Feng Shui: Kimberley explains that Feng Shui is about balancing energy in the home to create harmony and support various aspects of life. It's not just about moving furniture but involves understanding the energy flow in different areas of the home. She compares it to acupuncture for the home, clearing blocks to allow positive energy to flow.

Key Areas and Practical Tips:

• Health: The centre of the home is crucial for health. Kimberley advises decluttering and avoiding candles in this area to maintain positive energy.
• Wealth: The southeast area of the home governs wealth. Kimberley suggests placing items that personally symbolise prosperity, such as travel pictures, to enhance this energy.
• Love and Relationships: The southwest area is important for love. She recommends creating a balanced, inviting space in the bedroom with equal space on both sides of the bed and artwork that symbolises partnership.

Energy Flow in the Home: Kimberley emphasises the importance of keeping entrances clear to allow positive energy to enter and suggests using windows or balconies as primary sources of good energy in apartments.

Adapting Feng Shui to Modern Living: Kimberley advocates for a modern approach to Feng Shui, encouraging people to choose items that resonate with them rather than sticking strictly to traditional symbols. She believes that when people feel good in their space, they naturally attract positive things into their lives.

For those new to Feng Shui, Kimberley recommends starting with decluttering and identifying key areas of the home that correspond to different life aspects. She also advises trusting your gut when choosing a new home, as the right space will naturally feel supportive.

Get in touch

Thanks for listening to the Healthy Home Show Podcast. If you would like to see the video version of this podcast, please head over to our show on Youtube.

If you're an Instagram lover you can follow us for tips and strategies at The Healthy Home Show where we also run some lunchtime Insta Lives so that you can get help with any questions you may have on toxins in our homes and lifestyle and how to create an environment that supports your health.

If you would like to discuss a bespoke health programme for you or your workplace or would like to hire me as a speaker for your next wellbeing event, please contact me at [email protected].

For blogs, tips and free resources check out the website : www.charlielemmer.com

With love Charlie x

In this interview, Charlie and Alex discuss the concept of mindful walking and its benefits for both mental and physical health. Alex explains that mindful walking is about being fully present during a walk, without distractions like music or conversation. She emphasizes that this practice combines mindfulness, physical movement, and exposure to nature, which together create a powerful synergy that can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve overall well-being.

Alex introduces the W.A.L.K. formula—Walk or Wander, Attune, Let Go, and Keep It Up—as a simple guide to incorporating mindful walking into daily routines. She also talks about the benefits of spending time in nature, which has been scientifically proven to reduce anxiety and attention fatigue, a condition many people suffer from due to constant connectivity and distractions.

The conversation touches on how people can enjoy mindful walking even in less-than-ideal weather, with Alex encouraging listeners to embrace walking in the rain or simply observing nature from indoors.

They also discuss tools that Alex has developed to support this practice, including her book The Mindful Walker and a deck of 52 cards called the Simple Path, which offer different mindful walking activities.

Finally, Alex shares that spending more time in nature naturally increases our desire to protect the environment. The pandemic, she notes, has led many to rediscover the outdoors and sparked a greater interest in mindful practices. Charlie and Alex both express hope that these shifts in mindset will continue to grow, fostering a deeper connection between people and the natural world.

Links
Alex Strauss - The Mindful Walker - Youtube
The Mindful Walker Website
Books
The Mindful Walker - Alex Strauss
Stolen Focus - Johann Hari
Darin Olien - Fatal Conveniences

Key Takeaways 

• Mindful walking is about being fully present during your walk
• It combines mindfulness, movement, and nature exposure for holistic benefits.
• The W.A.L.K. formula: Walk or Wander, Attune, Let Go, Keep It Up.
• Spending time in nature reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, and combats attention fatigue.
• Tools like the Simple Path Card Deck and The Mindful Walker book support this practice.
• Incr

Get in touch

Thanks for listening to the Healthy Home Show Podcast. If you would like to see the video version of this podcast, please head over to our show on Youtube.

If you're an Instagram lover you can follow us for tips and strategies at The Healthy Home Show where we also run some lunchtime Insta Lives so that you can get help with any questions you may have on toxins in our homes and lifestyle and how to create an environment that supports your health.

If you would like to discuss a bespoke health programme for you or your workplace or would like to hire me as a speaker for your next wellbeing event, please contact me at [email protected].

For blogs, tips and free resources check out the website : www.charlielemmer.com

With love Charlie x

Laura Wood co-founded Invisible Creations about six years ago, inspired by her grandmother's struggles with mobility around her home. She noticed a glaring gap in the market for products that supported mobility without sacrificing style. Traditional aids like grab rails often look clinical and unappealing, making people feel like they were bringing a hospital into their home. Invisible Creations was born out of a desire to offer functional yet aesthetically pleasing solutions that everyone would be proud to have in their homes.

Laura Wood Linkedin
Invisible Creations Website

Key Takeaways 

1. Inclusive Design is for Everyone
2. Design That Adapts with You
3. Outdoor Accessibility is Crucial
4. Mainstreaming Accessible Products
5. Combatting Social Isolation
6. Future-Proofing Homes
7. Security Benefits
8. Technology and the Future of Accessible Design

Get in touch

Thanks for listening to the Healthy Home Show Podcast. If you would like to see the video version of this podcast, please head over to our show on Youtube.

If you're an Instagram lover you can follow us for tips and strategies at The Healthy Home Show where we also run some lunchtime Insta Lives so that you can get help with any questions you may have on toxins in our homes and lifestyle and how to create an environment that supports your health.

If you would like to discuss a bespoke health programme for you or your workplace or would like to hire me as a speaker for your next wellbeing event, please contact me at [email protected].

For blogs, tips and free resources check out the website : www.charlielemmer.com

With love Charlie x

Dr. Shelley James, the "Light Lady," highlights the importance of natural light for human health, influencing mood, sleep, and attention. She advises getting bright light in the morning and reducing evening light to maintain a healthy circadian rhythm. She recommends light bulbs with a balanced spectrum and limiting screen time before bed. Dr. James discusses biophilic lighting design, which connects us to nature through lighting. She suggests using quality dimmer switches and LED bulbs for efficiency. For children, she emphasizes limiting blue light exposure. Strategies for urban environments include placing furniture near windows and using reflective surfaces. Trends in lighting include circadian lighting, miniaturization, and sustainability. Her book, "Your Essential Survival Guide," offers more tips, and she is available on LinkedIn and Amazon.

Linkedin - Dr Shelley James
Amazon Books - Your Essential Survival Guide & Parents Guide
Dr Shelley's Website - Age of Light Innovations
Dark Sky UK 

Key Takeaways 

• Natural light is essential for mood, sleep, and attention.
• Morning light boosts health; evening blue light disrupts circadian rhythms.
• Optimize light by getting bright morning light and using balanced-spectrum bulbs.
• Biophilic lighting connects us to nature with layered and tunable light.
• Use quality luminaires and dimmer switches; LED lighting is efficient.
• For more tips, see Shelley James' book, 'Your Essential Survival Guide.'
• Manage kids' screen time by educating on blue light, setting rules, and offering alternatives.
• Kids are more affected by blue light than adults.
• Maximize natural light by positioning furniture near windows and using reflective surfaces.
• Trends: circadian lighting, miniaturization, sustainability.
• Dark sk

Get in touch

Thanks for listening to the Healthy Home Show Podcast. If you would like to see the video version of this podcast, please head over to our show on Youtube.

If you're an Instagram lover you can follow us for tips and strategies at The Healthy Home Show where we also run some lunchtime Insta Lives so that you can get help with any questions you may have on toxins in our homes and lifestyle and how to create an environment that supports your health.

If you would like to discuss a bespoke health programme for you or your workplace or would like to hire me as a speaker for your next wellbeing event, please contact me at [email protected].

For blogs, tips and free resources check out the website : www.charlielemmer.com

With love Charlie x

Chloe Bullock, founder of Materialize Interiors, discusses her journey into sustainable interior design and regenerative design. She shares her experiences working for the Body Shop and how it influenced her approach to sustainability. Chloe also talks about her involvement in Interior Design Declares and the importance of addressing climate breakdown and biodiversity collapse in the industry. She highlights the process of becoming a B Corp certified company and the benefits it brings. Additionally, Chloe discusses the issue of toxicity in flame retardants and her certification as a vegan designer. In this conversation, Chloe Bullock discusses the impact of animal agriculture, the lack of awareness about provenance, and the connection between nature and humans. They also touch on the issues of plastic pollution and the illusion of recycling. Chloe explains the principles of regenerative design and its difference from vegan and sustainable design. They discuss bio materials in construction and Chloe's upcoming book on sustainable interior design. Finally, they explore the importance of optimising wellness in interior spaces, particularly focusing on indoor air quality.

Links

Chloe's website - Materialise Interiors
PETA
BCorp
Chloe's Book - Sustainable Interior Design 

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Background

02:06
Journey into Interior Design

05:14
Integration of Sustainability Principles

08:11
Interior Design Declares

11:30
B Corp Certification

13:12
Toxicity in Flame Retardants

15:59
Vegan Design Certification

31:16
Lack of Awareness about Provenance

32:21
The Connection between Nature and Humans

33:29
Biodiversity Crisis and Self-Harm

34:29
Plastic Pollution and Health Impacts

35:42
The Illusion of Recycling

36:23
Regenerative Design and Vegan Design

39:06
Bio Materials and Sustainable Construction

42:19
Chloe Bullock's Book on Sustainable Interior Design

45:48
Optimizing Wellness in Interior Spaces

51:16
The Importance of Indoor Air Quality

Get in touch

Thanks for listening to the Healthy Home Show Podcast. If you would like to see the video version of this podcast, please head over to our show on Youtube.

If you're an Instagram lover you can follow us for tips and strategies at The Healthy Home Show where we also run some lunchtime Insta Lives so that you can get help with any questions you may have on toxins in our homes and lifestyle and how to create an environment that supports your health.

If you would like to discuss a bespoke health programme for you or your workplace or would like to hire me as a speaker for your next wellbeing event, please contact me at [email protected].

For blogs, tips and free resources check out the website : www.charlielemmer.com

With love Charlie x

Guest: Simon Jones from Air Quality Matters 

• Primary Causes of Poor Air Quality:
  • Particulate matter, formaldehyde, gaseous pollutants.
  • Impact of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and harmful chemicals in fragrances.
• Understanding and Managing Toxic Load:
  • Challenges of detoxing and reducing toxic load.
  • Effectiveness of opening windows and air quality in passive houses.
• Ventilation Challenges:
  • Issues in delivering effective ventilation systems, especially in social housing.
  • Comparison of indoor air quality between social housing and private rented sector.
• Defining Good Indoor Air Quality:
  • Importance of adequate ventilation and asking the right questions when considering ventilation solutions.
  • Shared responsibility of landlords and tenants in maintaining good ventilation.
• Additional Factors:
  • Impact of noise on properties.
  • Importance of communication about the benefits of ventilation.
  • Employer’s responsibility for workplace air quality and challenges in addressing home environments.
  • Effects of inadequate ventilation on workforce health.
• Air Quality Matters Consultancy:
  • Provides strategies and advice for the built environment.
  • Focuses on effective communication about ventilation and air quality.
  • Offers workshops and podcasts on air quality issues.
    
    Air Quality Matters Website
    Air Quality Matters Podcast
    Simon Jones Linkedin
    
    

Chapters 

• Main Culprits of Bad Air Quality: 00:41
• Managing Air Quality in the Home: 04:21
• VOCs and Harmful Chemicals: 05:14
• Fragrances and Health: 07:53
• Toxic Load and Detoxing: 09:52
• Effectiveness of Opening Windows: 10:43
• Passive Houses and Air Quality: 12:04
• Ventilation in Social Housing: 29:00
• Social Housing vs. Private Rented Sector: 30:28
• Good Indoor Air Quality: 31:23
• Responsibility for Ventilation: 32:15
• Achieving Good Ventilation Outcomes: 34:31
• Non-Compliance with Standards: 36:19
• Ventilation in New Homes: 37:19
• Basic Ventilation Principles: 38:06
• Noise Impact in Properties: 40:01
• Asking the Right Questions: 41:34
• Employer Responsibility: 43:13
• Complexity of Home Environment Interference: 44:39
• Workforce Impact: 45:34
• Health and Wellbeing Costs: 47:28
• Air Quality Matters Consultancy: 49:13
• Communicatin

Get in touch

Thanks for listening to the Healthy Home Show Podcast. If you would like to see the video version of this podcast, please head over to our show on Youtube.

If you're an Instagram lover you can follow us for tips and strategies at The Healthy Home Show where we also run some lunchtime Insta Lives so that you can get help with any questions you may have on toxins in our homes and lifestyle and how to create an environment that supports your health.

If you would like to discuss a bespoke health programme for you or your workplace or would like to hire me as a speaker for your next wellbeing event, please contact me at [email protected].

For blogs, tips and free resources check out the website : www.charlielemmer.com

With love Charlie x

Laura Rudoe, founder of Evolve Organic Beauty, shares her journey of creating a healthier and more sustainable skincare range. She discusses the impact of chemicals in skincare products and the importance of certifications and ethical practices. Laura also introduces Adaptology, a range of skincare products focused on adaptogenic ingredients. She provides recommendations for skincare during menopause and discusses affordability and marketing strategies. Finally, Laura shares tips for health and wellbeing, including the use of aromatherapy and reducing exposure to electromagnetic radiation. In this conversation, Laura and Charlie discuss sleep tracking and factors that can affect sleep quality. They also explore other health tools and practices that can contribute to overall well-being.

Takeaways

• Sleep tracking devices can provide valuable data to help improve sleep quality.
• Factors such as hormonal changes and alcohol consumption can impact sleep.
• Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and reducing screen time before bed can improve sleep.
• Other health tools, such as red light therapy, can have regenerative effects on the body.

Useful Links

Evolve Organic Beauty
The Environmental Working Group :
Cosmos Certification
The Rodale Institute:
Watch the Kiss The Ground Film:
Buy Adaptology products
Discover The Reseurrection Plant

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Evolve Organic Beauty

01:18
Laura's Journey to Creating a Healthier and Sustainable Skincare Range

07:15
The Impact of Chemicals in Skincare Products

17:17
Certifications and Ethical Practices

18:37
B Corp Certification and Regenerative Business

25:15
Introduction to Adaptology

27:45
Skincare Recommendations for Menopause

33:14
Affordability and Marketing Strategies

38:45
Tips for Health and Wellbeing

45:32
Sleep Tracking and Factors Affecting Sleep
48:09
Other Health Tools and Practices

Get in touch

Thanks for listening to the Healthy Home Show Podcast. If you would like to see the video version of this podcast, please head over to our show on Youtube.

If you're an Instagram lover you can follow us for tips and strategies at The Healthy Home Show where we also run some lunchtime Insta Lives so that you can get help with any questions you may have on toxins in our homes and lifestyle and how to create an environment that supports your health.

If you would like to discuss a bespoke health programme for you or your workplace or would like to hire me as a speaker for your next wellbeing event, please contact me at [email protected].

For blogs, tips and free resources check out the website : www.charlielemmer.com

With love Charlie x

In this episode of The Healthy Home Show, Charlie speaks with Nichola Adams from Inspired Ergonomics about the critical role of ergonomics in the workplace and home office. Nichola shares how her personal experience with back pain led her to focus on ergonomics, aiming to address the rising musculoskeletal issues, which now cause over 35 million lost workdays annually in the UK.

Inspired Ergonomics 

Key takeaways include:

• Impact of Poor Ergonomics: Remote work during COVID-19 led to makeshift setups, worsening back and neck pain, especially among younger workers due to “tech neck.”
• Simple Solutions: Raising laptops, using external keyboards, and investing in ergonomic chairs can significantly reduce strain.
• Holistic Pain Management: Nichola uses a biopsychosocial approach, addressing physical, psychological, and social aspects of pain for better recovery.
• Future of Ergonomics: The International WELL Building Institute is expanding to support home work environments, reflecting the shift towards hybrid work models.
• Employer Responsibility: Employers must support ergonomic setups at home as well as in offices, as required by health and safety regulations.

Nichola stresses the importance of proactive education in creating healthier workspaces, both at home and in traditional office settings.

Get in touch

Thanks for listening to the Healthy Home Show Podcast. If you would like to see the video version of this podcast, please head over to our show on Youtube.

If you're an Instagram lover you can follow us for tips and strategies at The Healthy Home Show where we also run some lunchtime Insta Lives so that you can get help with any questions you may have on toxins in our homes and lifestyle and how to create an environment that supports your health.

If you would like to discuss a bespoke health programme for you or your workplace or would like to hire me as a speaker for your next wellbeing event, please contact me at [email protected].

For blogs, tips and free resources check out the website : www.charlielemmer.com

With love Charlie x

In this episode of The Healthy Home Show, Charlie chats with Jay Morton from Bell Phillips Architects about the powerful connection between architecture, community, and well-being. They dive into how thoughtful design—especially in affordable housing—can transform lives, foster social bonds, and improve mental and physical health. Jay shares insights on the importance of community involvement in the design process, the long-term value of sustainable materials, and the need for healthier, more liveable spaces. Tune in to discover how building better homes can create a healthier future for both people and the planet.

Architects For Change Podcast
Bell Phillips Architects
Architect's Action For Affordable Housing


Key Statistics & Takeaways:

• Engaging communities in the design process leads to healthier environments and stronger social bonds.
• Retrofitting with proper insulation and ventilation can dramatically reduce energy use and prevent health issues like mould growth.
• Sustainable design practices using natural materials reduce carbon emissions and improve indoor air quality.
• Investing in health-focused housing can save up to 17% in healthcare costs and improve long-term societal outcomes.

Get in touch

Thanks for listening to the Healthy Home Show Podcast. If you would like to see the video version of this podcast, please head over to our show on Youtube.

If you're an Instagram lover you can follow us for tips and strategies at The Healthy Home Show where we also run some lunchtime Insta Lives so that you can get help with any questions you may have on toxins in our homes and lifestyle and how to create an environment that supports your health.

If you would like to discuss a bespoke health programme for you or your workplace or would like to hire me as a speaker for your next wellbeing event, please contact me at [email protected].

For blogs, tips and free resources check out the website : www.charlielemmer.com

With love Charlie x