Explore every episode of the podcast But You Look So Good
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loneliness and Isolation living with a chronic health condition | 16 Mar 2026 | 00:30:25 | |
Loneliness and isolation are experiences many people describe when living with a chronic health condition. Sometimes it’s the reality of relationships changing or people drifting away. Other times, it’s a quieter loneliness - the feeling of being surrounded by people who care, yet still feeling alone in an experience that others may not fully understand. In this episode, we explore what loneliness can feel like when you’re living with a chronic condition, why it happens, and some gentle ways people begin to reconnect - with others and with themselves - even while life has changed. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. Instagram @butyoulooksogoodpodcast | |||
| An Interview with Sophie - Navigating Hearing Loss and a Changed World | 09 Mar 2026 | 00:43:13 | |
In this episode we speak with Sophie, who shares her story of navigating multiple health diagnoses from her teenage years and the profound life changes that followed, including losing her hearing in her 20s. Sophie reflects on how these experiences reshaped the way she communicates, connects with others, and understands herself. We talk about identity, relationships, loneliness, and the unexpected ways people adapt when life changes in ways they never anticipated. This is a thoughtful and honest conversation about learning new ways to move through the world. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. Instagram @butyoulooksogoodpodcast | |||
| Introverts, Extroverts & Your Social Battery - Why It Matters When You Live With a Chronic Illness | 05 Jan 2026 | 00:31:33 | |
In this episode, Sally and Seona unpack what introversion and extroversion really mean — and why understanding your social energy becomes even more important when you’re living with a chronic health condition. They explore how chronic illness can change your social battery, why socialising may feel more draining or complicated than it used to, and how this isn’t a personal failing but a nervous system reality. The conversation offers language for guilt, grief, and shifting capacity, and practical ways to pace social connection more kindly. Whether you need more solitude, crave connection but tire quickly, or feel caught between the two, this episode helps you better understand your energy, set gentler boundaries, and honour both who you are and what your body needs.
MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Looking Back with Kindness, Moving Forward with Intention | 30 Dec 2025 | 00:38:31 | |
As 2025 comes to a close, Sally and Seona invite you to pause, breathe, and reflect — gently. In this episode, they look back on the year that was and talk about why reflection can be especially meaningful (and complicated) for people living with chronic health conditions. Together, they explore how to acknowledge challenges, honour invisible effort, and make sense of change without slipping into self-blame or pressure. The conversation then turns toward 2026, with a focus on setting intentions rather than rigid goals. Sally and Seona share their own reflections and intentions, and discuss how values-based, flexible intentions can better support fluctuating energy, health, and capacity. This episode is a compassionate end-of-year check-in — a reminder that rest is productive, pausing is allowed, and growth doesn’t have to look loud or linear. Wherever you’re landing at the end of this year, you’re welcome here.
MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Coping with Christmas - Re-Release | 22 Dec 2025 | 00:44:22 | |
In this re-released episode (recorded Christmas 2024), Seona and Sally delve into the whirlpool of the festive season, sharing personal anecdotes and exploring strategies to help you manage the stress and chaos of Christmas. From dealing with grief during the holidays to navigating the pressure of social expectations, they offer practical tips and psychological insights. Tune in for a candid discussion that prioritises connection over perfection, and learn how to create a joyful season, even amidst the holiday madness. Perfect for anyone looking to transform their Christmas from a time of endurance to a time of genuine enjoyment. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. Instagram @butyoulooksogoodpodcast | |||
| Pets & Health: The Power of Companionship | 15 Dec 2025 | 00:38:12 | |
Join psychologists Sally and Seona for a fun, heart-warming dive into the world of pets and the surprising ways they can boost our wellbeing - especially when living with a chronic health condition. From loyal dogs who get us out the door, to snuggly cats who know exactly when we need comfort, to fish, birds, and all the quirky critters in between, this episode explores why animals can make such a big difference to our daily lives. Sally and Seona chat about the science behind companionship, the gentle motivation pets bring to move our bodies, and the small routines that help us feel grounded. They also keep it real, unpacking the less-fluffy side of pet ownership - the costs, the cleaning, and the challenges of caring for an animal when your own health is unpredictable. Whether you’re a lifelong animal lover or pet-curious, this one’s for you! Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. Instagram @butyoulooksogoodpodcast | |||
| Who's Going to Date You Now? - Re-Release | 08 Dec 2025 | 00:40:56 | |
Re-Release: In this episode titled “Who’s going to date you now?," hosts Sally Shaw and Seona Ilalio tackle the complexities of dating with a chronic health condition. They delve into the unique challenges of disclosing your condition to potential partners and how this crucial conversation can often serve as a useful screener for compatibility or to filter out unsuitable matches. Sally and Seona share their personal experiences of dating after their diagnoses, offering candid insights and practical advice for navigating romance with a chronic illness. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Can We Talk? Effective Communication for Real Life | 01 Dec 2025 | 00:43:37 | |
Communication feels like it should come naturally — we speak every day, after all — but real, effective communication isn’t instinctive. It’s a learned skill, not a personality trait. And if you’ve ever thought, “I’m just not good at communicating,” here’s the good news: you absolutely can learn it, strengthen it, and make it work for you. In this episode, we unpack why communicating can feel so much harder when you’re juggling symptoms, fatigue, emotions, or just the general overwhelm of life. Because let’s be honest — expressing your needs, setting boundaries, or navigating tricky conversations takes energy… and sometimes you simply don’t have much to give. We’re here to normalise it: you’re not bad at communicating — you’re tired, stretched, and human. Join us as we explore practical, compassionate ways to communicate more clearly, kindly, and confidently, even when you’re not at your best. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Running on Spoons | 24 Nov 2025 | 00:32:27 | |
Ever wondered why people with chronic illness talk so much about spoons? In today’s episode, psychologists Sally and Seona dive into Spoon Theory - the cutlery-based metaphor that attempts to explain what it’s like to navigate life with limited energy. They unpack the origin story of the theory, created in 2003 by writer Christine Miserandino, who used a handful of spoons in a restaurant to explain the invisible daily costs of living with lupus. Sally and Seona chat about why the spoon metaphor resonates so deeply with people living with chronic health conditions, how it helps with communication, pacing and planning, and why “spoonies” everywhere have proudly embraced it. Expect laughs, real-life examples, and gentle validation for anyone who’s ever had to choose between washing their hair or answering an email. Whether you're running on one spoon or a full drawer, this episode is for you. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| The Pity Model: When Good Intentions Miss the Mark | 18 Nov 2025 | 00:30:58 | |
We often hear about the medical and social models of disability — but there’s another one quietly shaping attitudes toward people with chronic illness and disability: the pity model, sometimes called the charity model. This model positions people as tragic or brave simply for existing, creating distance rather than connection. It can show up in fundraising drives, well-meaning comments, or systems that treat support as generosity rather than rights. In this episode, we unpack how pity disguises itself as kindness, how it impacts self-worth and inclusion, and what it takes to move from sympathy to solidarity. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| What an Ego! | 10 Nov 2025 | 00:34:40 | |
In this episode, we’re talking about ego - not in the “you’ve got a big ego” kind of way, but in the psychological sense: the part of us that helps shape our identity, our sense of control, and how we relate to the world. For people living with chronic health conditions, understanding ego is powerful. Because illness challenges everything the ego likes: control, competence, independence, achievement, and identity. We’ll unpack what ego is, what it looks like when it’s in balance or out of balance, and how awareness of ego can support acceptance, connection, and self-compassion. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Creating Habits: Reducing the Need for Will Power! | 03 Nov 2025 | 00:37:29 | |
Join psychologists Sally and Seona as they unpack the art of habit creation when you’re living with a chronic health condition. We’re not talking about running marathons or green juice cleanses - we mean small, doable habits that actually make life easier. From moving your body (even a little), eating well without guilt, managing appointments and meds without losing your mind, to nurturing your relationships and mental health - we’ll cover it all with honesty and humour. Discover why tiny habits matter even more when energy is limited, and how to make self-care automatic on the days motivation has left the building. You’ll finish this episode with a few realistic, research-backed ideas to try this week - no perfection required. Because when life already demands a lot, good habits should help you breathe easier, not harder. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| To Those Who Love Us - What it’s really like to love someone whose life, body, or identity has changed | 02 Mar 2026 | 00:35:17 | |
What it’s really like to love someone whose life, body, or identity has changed This episode is for the people who stay - partners, friends, parents, siblings - who are trying to love someone whose life has changed, and quietly wonder if they’re getting it right. We talk about what it actually feels like on both sides of change: the grief that sits heavily, the awkwardness that can creep into conversations, the way reassurance can miss the mark, and why things can feel harder even when someone “looks okay.” This isn’t an episode about fixing, advising, or doing love perfectly.It’s about understanding, presence, and learning how to stand beside someone when certainty disappears. If you love someone whose body, identity, or life looks different than it once did - and you’re trying to find your place in that - this episode is for you. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. Instagram @butyoulooksogoodpodcast | |||
| Green-Flag Relationships: How to Spot the Good Ones | 27 Oct 2025 | 00:36:58 | |
Ever found yourself wondering if that friend who says, “You don’t look sick!” is waving a tiny red flag? In this episode, psychologists Sally and Seona dive into the world of green-flag relationships - the people who make you feel safe, seen, and slightly more human on the rough days. We unpack what red and green flags really mean, why supportive connections are good for both your mood and your immune system, and how to spot those rare gems who bring soup and good boundaries. Expect plenty of laughs, a dash of psychology, and some real-life stories about friendship, fatigue, and figuring out who’s worth your limited energy. Tune in for a warm, funny, and slightly irreverent chat about finding — and keeping — the people who let you be your gloriously imperfect self. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Wee Confessions: the Continence Conversation with KJ | 20 Oct 2025 | 01:05:55 | |
Let’s talk wee and poo (yes, really). In this episode, psychologists Sally and Seona are joined by MS, Immunotherapy, and Continence Support Nurse KJ Lazarus from the Austin Hospital in Melbourne for an honest—and surprisingly funny—chat about one of the least talked-about sides of many chronic health conditions: continence. From unexpected leaks to constipation woes, KJ brings warmth, humour, and practical wisdom to a topic most of us prefer to avoid. We explore what’s actually normal, why these issues happen, and the small changes that can make a big difference—think pelvic floor basics, daily routines, and psychological strategies to be able to talk about it. There are laughs, some “oh thank goodness it’s not just me” moments, and plenty of reassurance that you don’t have to suffer in silence. Tune in for a candid, compassionate conversation that makes talking about wee and poo just another part of managing your chronic health condition. We would also like to acknowledge the wonderful work of KJ’s mentor and friend, Louise Kurczycki, who, with her passing in 2014, left a legacy of improved incontinence assessment, treatment and care for those living with multiple sclerosis. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. Instagram @butyoulooksogoodpodcast | |||
| F#@k This! | 13 Oct 2025 | 00:34:40 | |
Have you noticed how many people wear T-shirts, tote bags, or pins that say “F#@k MS,” “F#@k Cancer,” “F#@k Fibromyalgia,” “F#@k Pain,” or “F#@k This Fatigue”? There’s a reason those slogans resonate so deeply — they capture something that most people living with chronic health conditions rarely get to express openly: anger. That gut-level, exhausted, fed-up, “I can’t do this anymore” kind of anger.The anger at your body, the system, the doctors, the constant uncertainty.The anger at how small your world can feel some days — and how invisible that pain often is to others. In this episode, Seona and Sally unpack where that anger comes from, what the research tells us about it, and how to turn it from a destructive force into something empowering and protective. Because behind every “F#@k my condition” moment is a person who still cares deeply about their life — and wants things to be better.
MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. Instagram @butyoulooksogoodpodcast | |||
| Rewriting the Rules - Living beyond Society’s Shoulds | 06 Oct 2025 | 00:42:03 | |
We all grow up absorbing society’s “shoulds”—what success looks like, how much we’re meant to achieve, and even how our bodies should function. But what happens when life doesn’t fit those rules? For many people living with chronic illness, these expectations become not only unrealistic, but harmful. In this episode, we explore the hidden weight of societal expectations and why unlearning them is essential—not just for those managing health conditions, but for anyone longing to live more freely. We’ll talk about how to spot the “shoulds” that keep you stuck, why they hit harder when you’re navigating illness, and what it looks like to rewrite the rules in a way that honours your health, your values, and your humanity. Practical strategies, reflective prompts, and a big dose of compassion will help you step into a life defined not by external pressure, but by authenticity and freedom.
MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. Instagram @butyoulooksogoodpodcast | |||
| I Get Tired Too - Re-Release | 29 Sep 2025 | 00:34:16 | |
This week, we revisit this episode of But You Look So Good where we explored the complexities of relatability when living with a chronic health condition. While well-meaning friends and family often try to connect, their efforts can sometimes feel dismissive or invalidating—especially when it comes to fatigue. Through personal stories, roleplays, and relatable scenarios, they unpack the stark difference between everyday symptoms and the persistent, overwhelming nature of chronic ones. Join the conversation to gain insights on how to foster genuine connection, empathy, and better communication with loved ones, while validating the unique challenges faced by those living with chronic conditions. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Why Do We Self-Sabotage? | 22 Sep 2025 | 00:35:12 | |
Ever caught yourself procrastinating, avoiding, or making choices that don’t serve you — even when you know better? That’s self-sabotage, and it’s far more common than we think. In this episode, Sally and Seona unpack why we get in our own way, what the research says about it, and how chronic health challenges can add extra layers of complexity. Together, they explore practical strategies to recognise self-sabotage, respond with compassion, and start moving in the direction that matters most. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| What if I’ve Made the Wrong Decision? | 15 Sep 2025 | 00:35:24 | |
Sally and Seona explore the tricky (and sometimes tormenting) world of decision-making — especially when living with chronic health challenges. From decision fatigue to the regret spiral, they unpack why choices can feel so loaded and share practical ways to take the pressure down a notch. Think: treating decisions as data gathering, leaning into values, and sprinkling in some much-needed self-compassion. A thoughtful reframe to help you worry less about “the wrong decision” and focus more on what matters. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. Instagram @butyoulooksogoodpodcast | |||
| Preparing for Medical Appointments | 08 Sep 2025 | 00:36:04 | |
Ever left a medical appointment and thought, “Wait… what just happened?” You’re not alone. Research shows we forget up to 80% of what doctors tell us (so it’s not just the brain fog talking). In this episode, we’re diving into the art of preparing for medical appointments when you live with a chronic health condition. From writing down your three most important questions, to remembering that yes, you are allowed to bring a support person (or at least a notebook), we’ll share practical tips to make your appointments less stressful and more productive. We’ll also cover some psychological tricks – like reframing “I’m being difficult” into “I’m advocating for myself” – and why self-compassion belongs in your medical folder, right alongside your test results. Think of this episode as the pep talk your future self will thank you for. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Resilience: Not about Bouncing Back! | 01 Sep 2025 | 00:40:18 | |
We hear the word resilience everywhere—but what does it really mean? In this episode, Sally and Seona unpack the myths around resilience and explore how we can actively build it in everyday life, especially when things don’t go to plan. Resilience isn’t about being tough all the time, ignoring pain, or forcing positivity. Instead, it’s about flexibility, connection, and the “ordinary magic” of small daily practices that keep us steady. Drawing on research, lived experience, and practical psychology, we share five key ingredients that help strengthen resilience: connection, meaning-making, values-driven action, self-compassion, and flexibility. For those living with chronic illness, resilience isn’t about snapping back to the old version of yourself—it’s about adapting, finding purpose, and building a meaningful life alongside the challenges. Tune in for practical tips, gentle reflections, and a reminder that resilience is something we can all grow, one thread at a time.
MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Optimistic Realism - Let’s Go! | 25 Aug 2025 | 00:38:36 | |
Living with a chronic health condition means facing a whole mix of emotions - from hope and positivity to worry and “what ifs.” In this episode of But You Look So Good, psychologists Sally and Seona dive into optimism, pessimism, and the middle ground we like to call optimistic realism. We explore what the research says about how mindset shapes our health, why a little pessimism isn’t always a bad thing, how blind optimism can be a bit dicey, and how optimistic realism is the place to aim for. Most importantly, we share practical tips for building “learned optimism” - simple strategies to bring more balanced hope into everyday life. Whether you tend to expect the best, brace for the worst, or swing between the two, this episode is for you. Join us for a grounded, lighthearted chat about finding hope without losing sight of reality. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Multitasking Is a Myth: Why Our Brains Struggle (and How to Take the Pressure Off) | 23 Feb 2026 | 00:31:46 | |
We live in a world that glorifies multitasking - answering emails while listening to a podcast, cooking dinner while helping with homework, scrolling while “relaxing.” But what if multitasking isn’t a superpower at all? In this episode, we explore the psychology and neuroscience behind why our brains struggle to do multiple cognitively demanding tasks at once. We unpack the concept of “switch costs,” cognitive load, dopamine, and why constant task-switching can increase stress, anxiety, and mental fatigue. We also dive into why multitasking can feel especially overwhelming when you live with a chronic health condition. Fatigue, pain, brain fog, and fluctuating energy mean your cognitive bandwidth is already stretched - and the pressure to “keep up” can make things worse. This is a compassionate conversation about capacity, nervous system regulation, and how shifting toward monotasking can reduce stress and help you honour your energy — without guilt.
MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. Instagram @butyoulooksogoodpodcast | |||
| Music as a Mood Medicine | 18 Aug 2025 | 00:43:24 | |
In this episode of But You Look So Good, psychologists Sally and Seona (who both live with chronic health conditions) explore how music can be a powerful tool for mood regulation and emotional support. From the stadium anthems that give you goosebumps to the songs that make you cry in the car park, we unpack how music affects the brain and why it can be more effective than you might think in shifting how we feel. We’ll dive into research around music as a coping strategy for chronic illness, and share simple, fun strategies you can try — like giving yourself a "playlist prescription." Bonus: no side effects! (except possibly dancing in your kitchen). This episode is informative, practical, and filled with heart (and a few laughs). Please note: we are not saying for a second that some banging 90s tunes are a substitute for clinical treatment of mental health conditions. But You'll Be OK (Online Course) - a live, supportive, six-week experience designed specifically for people living with chronic illness. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Who Am I Now - Re-Release | 11 Aug 2025 | 00:52:22 | |
Sally and Seona are having a week off to put the finishing touches on the new course ‘But You’ll Be OK’ (starting on August 22nd - enrol now!), so in this episode of But You Look So Good, we revisit the episode exploring the question we ask ourselves after receiving a chronic illness diagnosis, “Who am I now?”. They share personal experiences, answer listener questions, and provide practical insights on how to navigate the shifts in identity that come with health challenges. From societal expectations to the internal process of self-acceptance, this episode takes a thoughtful look at how chronic illness reshapes who we are. Join the conversation and discover ways to find clarity and empowerment on this complex journey. But You'll Be OK (Online Course) - a live, supportive, six-week experience designed specifically for people living with chronic illness. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| What Can We Do With Guilt & Chronic Illness? | 04 Aug 2025 | 00:33:33 | |
Why do we feel so guilty for something we didn’t choose? In this episode, we explore the quiet, complicated guilt that often comes with chronic illness—blaming yourself for getting sick, feeling like a burden, or wondering if you’re "sick enough" to deserve support. If guilt has ever whispered, “this is your fault”, you’re not alone. Let’s talk about where that guilt comes from—and how to meet it with compassion instead of shame. But You'll Be OK (Online Course) - a live, supportive, six-week experience designed specifically for people living with chronic illness. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. Instagram @butyoulooksogoodpodcast | |||
| One year of Looking So Good! | 28 Jul 2025 | 00:32:39 | |
In this light-hearted but meaningful 52nd episode, we celebrate one whole year of podcasting with MS, microphones, and a lot of laughter. Join us as we reflect on the surprises, stand-out strategies, and hilarious moments from our first year talking all things psychology and chronic health. We answer some quirky reflection questions, confess what got us through (spoiler: naps and snacks), and ask the big one—if our podcast were a cake, what would it taste like? Whether you’ve been with us since episode one or just popped in, we’re so glad you’re here. Let’s raise a spoon to making it this far! But You'll Be OK (online course) - a live, supportive, six-week experience designed specifically for people living with chronic illness. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Identifying Your Strengths | 21 Jul 2025 | 00:42:21 | |
Living with a chronic health condition can feel like a never-ending list of what you can’t do — but what if we shifted the focus to what’s strong in you, not what’s wrong with you? In this week’s episode, psychologists with lived experience Sally and Seona explore the power of identifying your character strengths. They introduce the free VIA Character Strengths Survey and unpack how strengths differ from values, why it matters to know yours, and how even the smallest use of a strength (like humour, perseverance, or kindness) can make a tough health day a little more manageable. Expect research-backed insights, personal stories, and practical ideas for using your strengths — even from bed. Because you are still you, even when your body isn’t cooperating. Take the quiz, join the chat, and rediscover what makes you feel like yourself again. Links Sign up for our free webinar here! Combatting the "What If's" of Anxiety with Sally Shaw and Seona Ilalio Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Will I Ever Like My Body Again? | 14 Jul 2025 | 00:45:26 | |
In this episode, we explore the complex and often difficult relationship we have with our bodies—especially when living with chronic illness. We dive into the feelings of grief, frustration, and even betrayal that can come with bodily changes, and ask: is it possible to like our bodies again? More importantly, we consider how to become allies rather than enemies to our bodies, acknowledging the hard while also noticing moments of kindness and connection. If you’re struggling with body image or just want a gentler way to relate to yourself, this episode offers compassion, practical ideas, and hope. Links Sign up for our free webinar here! Combatting the "What If's" of Anxiety with Sally Shaw and Seona Ilalio Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| It's Not Always the Chronic Illness | 07 Jul 2025 | 00:33:14 | |
When you live with a chronic health condition, it’s easy to assume every new symptom is “just part of it.” Headache? Must be the usual. Fatigue? Classic Tuesday. But in this episode, we chat about why it’s important not to blame everything on your chronic illness. As two psychologists with lived experience, we’ve both done it—and seen our clients do it too. We talk about tuning into your body, when to get things checked, and how to advocate for yourself without spiralling into Dr. Google. Sometimes, yes, it’s your chronic condition flaring… but sometimes it’s food poisoning. Or low iron. Or just life! Tune in for a warm, honest chat—with a few laughs along the way. Links Sign up for our free webinar here! Combatting the "What If's" of Anxiety with Sally Shaw and Seona Ilalio Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Do I Have to Always Forgive? | 30 Jun 2025 | 00:37:23 | |
In this episode, Sally and Seona ask the big question: do we always have to forgive to move on? Spoiler alert - nope! They dive into the messy, very human experiences of being hurt by others (hello, unhelpful doctors and disappearing friends) and explore why forgiveness isn't always the right fit. With warmth and humour, they chat about what healing can look like when forgiveness feels too hard, too soon, or just not right. Think boundaries, meaning-making, and self-compassion instead. Whether you're a full-on forgiver or still rage-writing letters you’ll never send, this episode reminds you that healing is personal — and you get to do it your way. Sign up for our free webinar here! Combatting the "What If's" of Anxiety with Sally Shaw and Seona Ilalio Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Let's Talk Attachment Styles | 24 Jun 2025 | 00:36:38 | |
In this episode of But You Look So Good, we dive into the fascinating world of attachment styles—how they’re formed, how they show up in adult relationships, and how chronic illness can add a whole new layer. We chat about what it’s like navigating connection, vulnerability, and independence when your body doesn’t always cooperate. Whether you lean anxious, avoidant, secure, or somewhere in-between, this episode is all about understanding your patterns with curiosity and compassion—not shame. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Medical Gaslighting | 09 Jun 2025 | 00:39:37 | |
Worried you’ll be dismissed? Talked over? Told it’s just anxiety again? You’re not overreacting — you’re navigating a healthcare system that often fails to believe people with chronic conditions. In this episode, Sally and Seona unpack the quiet damage of medical gaslighting and the very real impact of ableism in healthcare. If you've ever second-guessed your symptoms or left an appointment feeling worse than when you walked in, this one’s for you. We talk about why it happens, how it messes with your head, and how to start backing yourself — even when the system doesn’t. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Finding Flow when your body has other plans | 16 Feb 2026 | 00:33:30 | |
What does “flow” mean when your body has other plans? We hear athletes at the Winter Olympics talk about being “in the zone” - moments where time disappears, movement feels effortless, and everything just clicks. But for people living with chronic health conditions, those versions of flow can feel distant, lost, or even painful to hear about. In this episode of But You Look So Good, Sally and Seona explore the psychology of flow and gently reimagine what it can look like in a chronically ill body. We talk about the kinds of flow many people had access to before diagnosis - sport, dance, intensity, productivity - and how flow often changes shape after illness. This isn’t about pushing through or getting back to who you were. It’s about noticing quieter moments of absorption: listening to music, cooking a familiar meal, being fully present with someone you trust. Flow doesn’t disappear — it adapts. And sometimes, it meets us exactly where we are. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. Instagram @butyoulooksogoodpodcast | |||
| Why Is It So Hard to Ask for Help? | 02 Jun 2025 | 00:51:59 | |
Why is asking for help so hard—even when we desperately need it? In this honest and light-hearted episode, two psychologists with lived experience unpack the emotional knots and social expectations that make help-seeking feel so awkward for people living with chronic health conditions. Through humour, relatable stories, a sprinkle of psychological theory, and a couple of role plays, they explore how asking for help can be a powerful act of strength—not weakness. Whether you’re a seasoned chronic illness CEO or just sick of hauling your own grocery bags, this episode is your gentle nudge to lean in, let go, and lighten the load.
MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Do I Talk About My Condition Too Much? | 26 May 2025 | 00:35:08 | |
“Am I oversharing? Are people sick of hearing about it? Should I just pretend I’m fine?” This week, Sally and Seona unpack the surprisingly loaded question: Do I talk about my chronic health condition too much? If you’ve ever second-guessed yourself mid-sentence or worried you’re becoming “that friend,” this one’s for you. We explore the internal and external pressures to minimise your experience — from polite silence to social masking — and dig into the fear of being seen as negative, dramatic, or attention-seeking. We’ll talk about internalised ableism, boundaries, why validation isn’t oversharing, and how being honest about your reality can create deeper connection (yes, even when it’s messy). As always, expect warmth, lived experience, and a few tangents. Because maybe the real question isn’t “Am I talking too much?” — it’s “Why do I feel like I have to shrink myself to be heard?” Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| I Don't Want to Know | 19 May 2025 | 00:45:52 | |
Join Sally and Seona, as they dive into the all-too-familiar phrase: “I don’t want to know if I’m getting worse.” In this episode, they explore why so many of us avoid medical tests or dread results — even when we know it might help. Blending warmth, humour, and psychological insight, they unpack the brain’s resistance to bad news, the function of hope, and how the fear of decline can quietly shape our decisions. If you’ve ever delayed a test, ignored a symptom, or just needed to hold onto hope a little longer, this one’s for you. With lived experience and the occasional tangent, Sally and Seona remind us: avoiding the news doesn’t make you weak — it makes you wonderfully human.
MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Is This the Beginning of the End… and Other Lies Anxiety Tells Us | 12 May 2025 | 00:39:18 | |
In this episode, we’re diving deep into the what ifs — those spiralling thoughts that show up when anxiety grabs the mic. From “What if I never get better?” to “What if I lose everything?”, we explore why these stories feel so real, how chronic illness can amplify them, and what it takes to gently challenge the lies anxiety tells us. If you’ve ever found yourself spiralling into the worst-case scenario, this one’s for you. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| To Disclose or Not… and Other Workplace Woes | 05 May 2025 | 00:39:50 | |
In this episode, we dive into the complex, messy, and often exhausting experience of navigating work while living with a chronic health condition. From the invisible weight of fatigue to the emotional toll of deciding whether (or how) to disclose your diagnosis, we explore the unspoken pressures so many of us face. We talk about internalised ableism, the myth of the ideal worker, and what it means to reimagine work in a body that no longer plays by the old rules. If you’ve ever left a meeting to nap in your car or second-guessed asking for accommodations, this one’s for you.
MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. Instagram @butyoulooksogoodpodcast | |||
| But You Could be Kinder to Yourself | 28 Apr 2025 | 00:41:14 | |
This week, we’re diving into self-compassion — what it really means, why it’s so hard sometimes, and how it can make a real difference when you’re living with a chronic health condition. Sally and Seona share personal stories, research insights, and simple, practical ways to be a little kinder to yourself (without the eye rolls). If you’ve ever struggled with self-criticism or felt like self-compassion just isn't for you, this episode will help you rethink it.
MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Stress Management 101 | 21 Apr 2025 | 00:45:25 | |
Psychologists Sally and Seona know how deeply stress impacts chronic illness. In this episode, they explore how it worsens symptoms like inflammation, pain, and fatigue—and why managing it is essential. They walk through four key areas to help lighten the load: daily hassles, ongoing stressors, everyday joys, and having something to look forward to. Blending lived experience with psychological insight, this is a compassionate chat for anyone feeling overwhelmed or worn out. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or years in, you'll find validation, practical tools, and hope from two people who truly get it.
MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. Instagram @butyoulooksogoodpodcast | |||
| Untangling the Story: Rewriting Your Narrative | 14 Apr 2025 | 00:42:32 | |
In this episode of But You Look So Good, Sally and Seona explore how Narrative Therapy can help people with chronic health conditions separate themselves from limiting, all-consuming stories. From labels placed on us to the scripts we internalise, it’s easy to feel stuck. We’ll share how reclaiming your narrative can offer clarity, compassion, and a renewed sense of identity—plus practical tools and personal insights to help you remember: you are so much more than your diagnosis. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. Instagram @butyoulooksogoodpodcast | |||
| How Do You Feel About... Medication | 07 Apr 2025 | 00:44:16 | |
In this episode, we dive into the tricky world of supporting clients who are managing chronic health conditions and wrestling with medication decisions. How do we respect the prescribing doctor’s expertise while also empowering clients to make informed choices? How can we talk about what we’ve seen work (or not work) without overstepping? And what about the emotional rollercoaster that comes with long-term medication—fear, frustration, even identity shifts? Join Seona and Sally as they unpack all of this and more. If you’ve ever felt stuck between medical advice and what feels right for you, this episode is here to help you feel more confident in your choices! Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Coping with Kids - Parenting with a Chronic Health Condition | 31 Mar 2025 | 00:46:19 | |
Parenting is hard. Parenting with a chronic health condition? That’s a whole new level of complexity. In this episode, we dive into the messy, beautiful, and often exhausting reality of raising kids while managing an unpredictable body. From the guilt of missing out to the creative ways we adapt, we’re talking about the highs, the lows, and everything in between. We’ll also tackle one of the biggest questions: How do you talk to your kids about your condition? Whether you’re navigating fatigue, pain, or mobility challenges—or just trying to keep up with the chaos—this one’s for you. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| When Friendships Change After Diagnosis | 09 Feb 2026 | 00:34:16 | |
Who stays, who fades, and how to grieve that (and come out the other side). Friendships can be for a reason, a season or for a lifetime. Living with a chronic health condition can make navigating friendships seem more difficult sometimes. Chronic illness doesn’t just change bodies - it changes relationships. In this episode, we explore what happens to friendships after diagnosis: why some deepen, why some drift, and how to cope with both the loss and the evolution. We talk about expectations, boundaries, reciprocity, and the quiet grief that isn’t always acknowledged. This is for everyone who’s ever wondered, “Why don’t they call anymore?” Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) But You’ll Be OK (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Is Post-Traumatic Growth Really a Thing? | 24 Mar 2025 | 00:54:03 | |
In this episode of But You Look So Good, hosts Sally and Seona explore the concept of Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) and its relevance to individuals living with chronic health conditions. They discuss whether significant adversity, such as chronic illness, can genuinely lead to positive transformation, or if this idea imposes unrealistic expectations on those already facing ongoing struggles. The episode examines the scientific basis of PTG, critiques of the concept, and ways to approach personal growth without pressure. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| How Do You Feel About... Labels? | 17 Mar 2025 | 00:39:13 | |
Labels can be powerful—they help us find community, access support, and make sense of our experiences. But they can also feel limiting, overwhelming, or like they don’t quite fit. In this episode, we unpack the labels often attached to chronic illness and explore what they mean for our identity, self-perception, and interactions with the world. Do labels help us feel seen, or do they box us in? And what happens when the labels we’re given don’t align with how we see ourselves? Tune in as we navigate the complicated relationship between language and lived experience
MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| It's Mental | 10 Mar 2025 | 00:33:49 | |
In this episode, It’s Mental, we explore the difference between mental health and mental illness, breaking down the many dimensions that shape our mental well-being. Mental health isn’t just about the presence or absence of illness—it’s a dynamic, ever-changing experience influenced by our environment, relationships, and personal circumstances. We also unpack common misconceptions and consider how societal attitudes impact the way we talk about and experience it. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on what mental health really means and why it matters. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||
| Where Did Everyone Go? | 03 Mar 2025 | 00:40:49 | |
In this episode, Where Did Everyone Go? we explore loneliness and social isolation in chronic illness. Sally and Seona unpack the difference between the two, how they affect physical and mental health, and why support networks often shrink over time. Join us as we discuss the emotional toll of isolation, the societal factors at play, and ways to foster meaningful connections. Livology (Psychology - Private Practice) MS: Get Your Head Around It! (Online Course) If you need any support after listening to our podcast, you can contact Lifeline in Australia at 13 11 14, available 24/7. For support in other locations, please visit Befrienders Worldwide. | |||