Explore every episode of the podcast The Prescription Strength Podcast

In this episode, I'm joined by Tat Armstrong Gray, a personal trainer based in East London, who is here to share her story of recovering from a serious spinal injury through lifting weights.

At about 19, Tat broke two vertebrae in a skiing accident and had a spinal fusion, with a bone graft from her hip to rebuild the one that was shattered.

She has also lived with type 1 diabetes since the age of 14. Over the years that followed, the pain got steadily worse and the weight kept going on, until she could barely walk. At 31 she decided to change that, and went on to lose 30 kilos, and the back pain went away.

Then something surprised her: being smaller felt frail rather than strong, and that is what led her to the weights.

We talk about approaching strength training with a fragile back: finding a trainer who will listen, starting with no weight at all, and learning to tell the pain of getting stronger from the pain that is a warning. She explains why a scaled-down burpee is a good way to measure progress, why technique is everything with a deadlift, and why the advice from a consultant was to be as strong as possible while being as light as possible.

We also talk about what lifting gave back beyond strength: a sense of autonomy over a body with conditions that can't be controlled, an outlet for rage, and needing about half the insulin. And we get into the barriers that stop people starting, from personal training qualifications that barely cover medical conditions, to exercise referral schemes that turn people away for the very things exercise would help, to why she thinks the health at any size message can hold people back.

In this episode:

A skiing accident, two broken vertebrae and a spinal fusion

Living with type 1 diabetes and chronic pain

Losing 30 kilos, and feeling frail rather than strong

Being as strong as you can while being as light as you can

Starting strength training with a fragile back

Good pain, bad pain, and a traffic light system

Why burpees make a good measure of fitness

Autonomy, rage and the mental side of lifting

Why so few people are ever pointed towards the gym

The risks and costs of doing nothing

Health at any size, and why it worries her

Leading by example, for friends and for children

As Tat puts it: fitness people want you in the gym.

If you enjoyed this, listen back to my conversation with Mick Wadge, who started lifting at 85, and his coach Ross Starkie:

"He Started Strength Training at 85. This Is What Happened": https://pod.link/1762298788/episode/NGQ2NmZmNzQtMjI2NS00YzI0LWE2MTktNTRkZmI5ZTAyMTE4

In this episode, I'm joined by Dr Fraser Gordon, consultant physician in the NHS and founder of Xvera Medical, a consultant-led online clinic offering testosterone replacement, perimenopause and menopause care, and weight management.

Fraser started out in pharmacology and research into adverse drug reactions before moving into medicine, and has spent twenty years working at the acute end of the NHS. What finally pushed him into private practice was watching medicine become more commercial: people confidently presenting opinions as established facts, and forgetting the basic scientific and statistical principles that need to sit behind them.

We talk about why simple explanations are so easy to believe, from rhyming sayings to adrenal fatigue, a claim he found convincing at first and says has no real scientific basis. We talk about finding a patient to fit a treatment rather than a treatment to fit the patient, and why a test needs a question before it is done, explained with a police officer, New Year's Eve and a woman in a pink unicorn hat.

We also get into the commercial pressure that comes with owning a private clinic. When his marketing team asked for a target conversion rate of 95%, his answer was that converting nearly everyone would mean the clinic was not doing the right job. Not prescribing, he argues, isn't a failure. We talk about a young stroke patient who would not take a statin but was using anabolic steroids and recreational drugs, and what that says about risk perception and marginal gains. And we talk about menopause care, why he was adamant the clinic had to offer it, and the gaps in what doctors are taught.

In this episode:

From pharmacology to medicine, and why the clinic exists

A finite NHS and an almost infinite demand

Adrenal fatigue, and why simple explanations are so believable

Finding a patient for a treatment, and pretest probability

Home testing kits and scans without a clinical question

GLP-1s, and what happens when the treatment stops

Conversion rates, and why a no can be good care

Treating the person, not just the disease

A young stroke, statins and risk perception

Menopause care, HRT and the gaps in medical training

Checking that the person you see is registered and regulated

The one thing you would fix with a magic wand

As Fraser puts it: it's better medicine, done properly.

Find out more about Xvera Medical: https://xveramedical.com

If you enjoyed this, listen back to my conversation with Roxanne Stevenson Brown, founder of Find Care Compare, about finding your way between NHS and private care: "Who Should I See? Navigating NHS and Private Healthcare": https://pod.link/1762298788/episode/OTM4MjdlYjItMTQyYy00ZjhhLWI3N2YtZDU4NTIzNmY3OGIy

In this episode, I'm joined by Sir Muir Gray, public health doctor and one of the people behind the NHS programme Live Longer Better.

Anti-ageing is booming, and with it the idea that if you optimise yourself enough, you can add years to your life. Muir's take is that ageing itself, the normal biological process, is not the cause of major problems until our late nineties. What causes most of the problems we put down to age is three other things: loss of fitness, disease, and the world we live in.

We talk about why your genes matter much less than was once thought, and why what he calls your exposome, everything you have been exposed to since birth, matters far more. Muir explains why he never uses the word lifestyle, why he wants chairs recognised as an occupational hazard, and why he stands up from his chair 82 times a day.

We also talk about the risk of caring too much. Thirty years ago Muir wrote an article in The Lancet asking whether we care too much for our elders, and he would still like to change the word carer to enabler. And he sets out what actually matters if you are 50 or 60 and want to make a difference to the years ahead: a Mediterranean diet, thirty minutes a day of brisk walking, ten minutes for strength, suppleness and skill, and keeping your brain and your social life busy.

In this episode:

• Why ageing itself is not the problem until your late nineties
• Genes, the exposome, and what your parents died of
• Loss of fitness, and the five S's
• Why the NHS is a national disease service
• Clubs, communities, and moving a little money out of the NHS
• Do we care too much for our elders?
• Retirement as a renaissance, and retirement regret
• What matters at 50 or 60: diet, activity and staying engaged
• Creative health, and staying connected when you can't get out
• What a clinician can do in nine seconds

As Muir puts it: it's never too late.

Find out more about Live Longer Better: https://www.livelongerbetter.uk

If you enjoyed this, listen back to my conversation with Christine Hobson, who ran her first marathon in her 60s: "At 50 She Was Struggling. At 73, She's Fitter Than Ever": https://pod.link/1762298788/episode/ZTkyNGE1YTYtZDM3ZC00NzY5LWI0ZTMtNWU3NDlmZDU4ZmRk

In this episode, I'm joined by Mick Wadge, the 88-year-old weightlifting grandad who has taken TikTok by storm, and his coach, Ross Starkie.

Mick spent years caring for his wife Margaret, who had rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis. When she died, he found himself at a loss, and carrying far more weight than he wanted to. So he took an old broom handle, hung two milk bottles full of water on it, and started training on his patio.

When he turned 85, his grandson booked him four sessions with Ross, a strength and conditioning coach who works with professional athletes. Three years on, Mick has deadlifted 100kg, come off his metformin, had a letter from Arnold Schwarzenegger and lifted on national television.

We talk about why so many people, health and fitness professionals included, are frightened of older people lifting weights, and why Ross thinks doing nothing is the bigger risk. Ross explains how he coached Mick up from an empty bar with nothing more complicated than adding a little weight over time, and why the things Mick already did every day were a squat, a hinge and a deadlift by another name.

We also talk about getting up off the floor, a skill that can matter far more than any personal best, and the technique Ross taught Mick that local firefighters have since asked to share.

In this episode:

Caring for a partner, and putting your own health last

Starting with a broom handle and two milk bottles

Why a council gym can be a great place to start

What structured coaching adds as you get older

Why coaches are nervous of training older clients

Angina, prediabetes, and why Ross says keep the coffee and cake

Getting up off the floor, and why it matters

Arnold Schwarzenegger, This Morning, and saying no to Britain's Got Talent

What to look for in a gym and a coach

Why it is never too late to start

As Ross puts it: it's scarier not to do anything at all.

Follow Mick on TikTok: @old.man.mick2

If you enjoyed this, listen back to my conversation with Christine Hobson, who ran her first marathon in her 60s: "At 50 She Was Struggling. At 73, She's Fitter Than Ever": https://pod.link/1762298788/episode/ZTkyNGE1YTYtZDM3ZC00NzY5LWI0ZTMtNWU3NDlmZDU4ZmRk

Women’s health is about far more than hormones and HRT. In this episode, I’m joined by scientist and researcher Dr Gayathri Delanerolle, whose experience of endometriosis, pregnancy loss and medically induced menopause helped shape the questions she now asks in her research.

Gayathri shares what it was like to live with severe symptoms for years, why finally seeing the extent of her endometriosis brought both relief and difficult questions about fertility, and how those experiences led her to develop the Marie Project.

We talk about gaps in women’s health research, the experiences that conventional menopause discussions can miss, and what Gayathri is learning by listening to women across different countries and cultures. It’s a conversation about asking better questions—and making room for the answers women actually give.

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr Andy Ward, a GP working with people experiencing homelessness in Leicester, and Kyra Biddle from Dear Albert’s Stairway Project, who brings her own lived experience of homelessness, addiction and recovery.

Kyra shares what happened when her family lost their home when she was just 14, how alcohol became a way of coping, and what it really means to live in survival mode.

We talk about the barriers people experiencing homelessness can face when trying to access healthcare, why appointments, medication and even apparently simple health advice can become almost impossible to navigate when you don’t have somewhere safe to live, and how stigma can destroy trust.

Andy explains how working in homeless healthcare changed the way he practises medicine, and why behaviour that can look “difficult” makes much more sense when you understand what someone may be living through.

But this is also a conversation about recovery. Kyra is now more than four years into her own recovery and uses her experience to support others. We talk about what helped her, why being listened to and treated as a human being matters, and how sometimes the beginning of recovery can be as simple as a cup of tea, a Hobnob and somewhere you feel welcome.

A conversation about homelessness, addiction, healthcare, recovery — and the importance of seeing the person in front of you.

You can contact Dear Albert here: https://www.dearalbert.co.uk

See the fantastic work of Inclusion Healthcare here: https://www.inclusionhealthcare.co.uk

We all know exercise is good for our heart — but most people still think that means cardio.

In this episode, I’m joined by Emily McGrath, Senior Cardiac Nurse at the British Heart Foundation, to talk about why strength training deserves a place in the conversation about cardiovascular health.

Emily shares some of the most common worries she hears from people after a heart diagnosis, from palpitations and medication to the fear of exercising again. We talk about why a heart problem can completely change the way you see your body — and why people can end up treating themselves as far more fragile than they really are.

We also talk about the evidence for strength training and heart health, including its effects on blood pressure, and why getting stronger can make everyday life easier as we age.

Emily shares her own experience of starting strength training, despite initially feeling intimidated by it, and we discuss how to begin without needing to become a gym person, lift enormous weights or completely overhaul your life.

Finally, we talk about the British Heart Foundation’s Strong Woman Challenge, a free 31-day challenge designed to help women try strength training at home and build confidence with it.

Because cardio is excellent for your heart. But it doesn’t have to do all the work.

In this episode:

• Why people can feel frightened of exercise after a cardiac diagnosis
• Palpitations, smart watches and health anxiety
• Why strength training is still overlooked in heart health
• The effect resistance training can have on blood pressure
• Starting strength training when you feel intimidated or unsure
• Why our bodies are often less fragile than we imagine
• Strength, function and maintaining independence as we age
• Cutting through the noise about strength training in midlife
• The BHF Strong Woman Challenge

Join the October challenge here  www.bhf.org.uk/strongwoman

Feeling tired all the time is one of the most common reasons people see their GP. But before assuming it must be your thyroid, hormones, cortisol or a vitamin deficiency, what else could your energy be telling you?

In this episode, I talk through the energy audit I’d encourage you to do: when did your energy change, when does your battery drain, and where are the best hours of your day actually going?

We look at sleep, work and caring responsibilities, food, alcohol and exercise; what your GP may reasonably investigate; and why blood tests are only one part of the picture.

Most importantly, I explain how to experiment with one thing at a time, look for patterns and collect useful information about yourself.

You don’t need to diagnose yourself. Become a detective before you become a diagnostician.

Finding the right healthcare can be surprisingly difficult.

Who should you see? Should you wait for the NHS or consider going private? How do you compare providers, understand waiting times, work out what you’re entitled to — and know whether the person you’ve found online is actually reputable?

In this episode I’m joined by Roxanne Stevenson Brown, founder and CEO of Find Care Compare, a platform designed to help people navigate NHS and private healthcare options in one place.

We talk about why healthcare has become so difficult to navigate, the growing overlap between NHS and private care, Right to Choose, reviews versus actual clinical outcomes, and why women so often become the unofficial “chief medical officers” for their entire families.

We also discuss Roxanne’s bigger ambition: making healthcare information easier to access regardless of who you know, where you live or how well you understand the NHS.

Find Care Compare: findcarecompare.com

Christine Hobson was struggling with her health in her 50s. She had arthritis, poor sleep, low mood and found everyday movement increasingly difficult.

Then, in her 60s, things changed.

Christine took up running after retirement, completed her first London Marathon — and eventually went on to complete more than 100 marathons, including one in Antarctica. She later discovered strength training and powerlifting too.

Now 73, Christine has a refreshingly different perspective on ageing: we spend far too much time worrying about what movement might do to us, and not enough worrying about what happens when we stop moving.

We talk about:

• Starting exercise later in life
• Arthritis, pain and the fear of movement
• Strength training and osteoporosis
• Why fitness keeps your options open as you age
• Staying socially connected after retirement
• The danger of gradually allowing your world to get smaller
• Why it is never too late to start

This is a conversation about much more than exercise. It’s about staying capable, curious and engaged with life as you get older.

Breast cancer treatment can save your life, but what happens when the treatment itself triggers an immediate menopause?

In this episode I’m joined by journalist Carissa Casey, who shares her deeply personal experience of surgical menopause following breast cancer treatment.

While her cancer was successfully treated, she found herself facing severe insomnia, joint pain, recurrent urinary tract infections, weight gain, mood changes and a body she barely recognised—all without ever feeling properly prepared for what lay ahead.

Together we explore:

• Why surgical menopause is so different from natural menopause
• The impact of suddenly losing oestrogen overnight
• Breast cancer, tamoxifen and the difficult conversations around treatment decisions
• Why recurrent UTIs are so common after menopause—and what can help
• The gaps in menopause support for women after cancer treatment
• The importance of informed decision-making and asking questions
• How misinformation and expensive supplements can fill the void when women aren’t getting the support they need

This isn’t a conversation about criticising cancer treatment. It’s about recognising that surviving cancer is only part of the journey, and that women deserve honest conversations about what comes next.

Whether you’ve experienced menopause yourself, support someone who has, or work in healthcare, I hope this discussion leaves you feeling better informed and better equipped to ask questions.

If you found this episode helpful, please consider following the podcast and leaving a review. It really does help more people discover these conversations.

We’re surrounded by conflicting advice on fat loss. Hormones, fasting, metabolism, supplements, menopause, "starvation mode"... it's no wonder so many people feel confused.

In this episode I'm joined by coach and author Emma Storey-Gordon to separate evidence from marketing and discuss what really helps women lose fat—and, more importantly, keep it off.

This isn't a conversation about quick fixes. It's about understanding the science, the psychology and the realities of everyday life.

We discuss:

• Why a calorie deficit still matters (and why that's not the whole story)
• The biggest fat loss myths doing the rounds online
• Why smart people often struggle with weight loss
• Tracking calories: helpful tool or unnecessary obsession?
• Why weekends quietly sabotage progress
• The role of habits, environment and decision fatigue
• Why maintenance is the hardest—and most important—part of fat loss
• How ageing changes the challenge without making success impossible
• Why comparing yourself to your younger self (or someone else) is rarely helpful

Emma combines a science background with more than a decade of coaching real women, bringing together evidence with practical strategies that actually work in everyday life.

You can reach her and pre-order the book here:

ESGfitness.co.uk
 https://www.instagram.com/esgfitness/
pre order link: https://ebury.lnk.to/thefatlosscoachforwomen
and substack: https://esgfitness.substack.com/

None of us gets to choose every turning point in our lives.

For GP and author Dr Clara Doran, that turning point came during maternity leave when persistent symptoms eventually led to a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.

But this isn't really a conversation about MS.

It's about what happens when life suddenly stops following the plan you thought you had.

We talk about the uncertainty before a diagnosis, the pressure many of us feel to keep going even when we're struggling, and why carrying on isn't always the same thing as coping.

Clara also shares how her diagnosis led her to explore brain health, sleep, rest, creativity and the everyday habits that quietly shape how we think, feel and function.

If you've ever faced a life change you didn't choose or simply feel exhausted by trying to keep all the plates spinning, I think you'll find something here.

• Why uncertainty is often harder than certainty
• Returning to work after a life-changing diagnosis
• The hidden cost of "just coping"
• Why rest is not a luxury
• Brain health beyond supplements and biohacks
• The importance of creativity and joy
• Learning to accept a different future without giving up hope

Books mentioned

• Doctor Interrupted — Dr Clara Doran
• Heads Up: How to Look After Your Brain So It Will Look After You — Dr Clara Doran

Are collagen, magnesium and greens powders really worth your money?

If social media has convinced you that every woman over 45 needs a cupboard full of supplements, you’re not alone.

In this episode, GP and strength coach Dr Lynette Ewart looks at why midlife women have become such a major target for supplement marketing, what the evidence actually says, and which supplements may genuinely be worth considering.

You’ll hear about:

• Why supplement companies target midlife women
• The difference between marketing claims and scientific evidence
• Creatine, vitamin D and vitamin B12
• Why “natural” doesn’t automatically mean effective
• Three simple questions to ask before buying any supplement

This isn’t an anti-supplement rant. Some supplements have an important place in healthcare. But before you spend money on the latest powder, gummy or capsule, it’s worth knowing what the evidence really shows.

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast and leave a rating or review—it really helps more people find evidence-based health information.

Have you been offered a statin and wondered why? Perhaps your cholesterol hasn’t changed very much, you feel perfectly well, and suddenly your GP practice wants to discuss cholesterol or cardiovascular risk.

In this Pocket Prescription I explain how statin decisions are made in primary care, why age has such a powerful influence on risk calculations, and why the conversation is usually about future cardiovascular risk rather than cholesterol alone.

Topics covered include:

• Why statins are offered even when you feel well
• How cardiovascular risk calculators work
• The difference between cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular risk
• Why two people with similar cholesterol results can receive different advice
• The role of blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, age and lifestyle
• Absolute risk reduction and why context matters
• Common misconceptions about statins
• How to think about the balance between potential benefits and side effects

This episode focuses on primary prevention—people who have not previously had a heart attack, stroke or established cardiovascular disease.

As always, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as personal medical advice.

If you have concerns about your own health or medication, please speak to your healthcare professional.

Have you ever been told that your metabolism is broken, damaged, or slowing down with age?

Social media often blames metabolism for everything from weight gain to low energy, but the reality is usually much more complicated. In this episode, I cover the difference between metabolism and appetite, why the two are often confused, and why that distinction matters if you’re trying to lose weight or improve your health.

Topics covered include:

• What metabolism actually is
• Why metabolism is often more stable than people think
• The research on metabolism and ageing
• Why appetite changes far more dramatically than metabolism
• The impact of sleep, stress, hormones and environment on hunger
• Menopause, weight gain and common misconceptions
• Why some medications can lead to weight gain
• The role of protein, fibre and lifestyle habits in appetite regulation
• Why “fixing your metabolism” is usually the wrong goal

If you’ve ever worried that you’ve damaged your metabolism or that age has made weight loss impossible, this episode will help you understand what’s really going on.

As always, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as personal medical advice. If you have concerns about your own health, please speak to your healthcare professional.

Have you been diagnosed with an underactive thyroid and found yourself confused by conflicting advice online?

Perhaps you’ve heard that T3 is the “active” thyroid hormone, wondered why you’re prescribed thyroxine (levothyroxine), or been tempted by thyroid supplements, private testing, or claims that conventional treatment is missing something.

In this episode, I cover how thyroid hormones work, why thyroxine remains the standard treatment for hypothyroidism, why T3 isn’t routinely measured, and where much of the confusion around thyroid health comes from.

Topics covered include:

• The difference between T4 and T3
• Why levothyroxine is usually prescribed
• Why T3 isn’t routinely tested
• How thyroid blood tests are interpreted
• Thyroid supplements, selenium and zinc
• Why some people still feel unwell despite treatment
• The role of fatigue, sleep, menopause and other health conditions
• How to approach thyroid information online with a critical eye

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by conflicting messages about thyroid health, this episode will help you understand the basics and make sense of the conversation.

As always, this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as personal medical advice. If you have concerns about your own health or treatment, please speak to your healthcare professional.

Fish oil used to be seen as universally “good for the heart.” Then suddenly the headlines said it might be dangerous.

So what’s actually true?

In this Pocket Prescription episode, GP Lynette Ewart explains what recent fish oil studies really showed, why different heart conditions matter, and why nutrition science so often gets reduced to simplistic headlines.

A practical, evidence-based guide to making sense of the confusion — without the hype.

Cortisol has become the internet’s favourite explanation for almost everything.

Poor sleep? Cortisol.
Weight gain? Cortisol.
Waking at 3am? Cortisol.
Tired all the time? Apparently also cortisol.

But what does cortisol actually do, when is it genuinely a medical problem, and how much of the online conversation is misunderstanding mixed with marketing?

In this Pocket Prescription episode, GP and strength coach Lynette Ewart explains what cortisol really is, why the wellness industry became obsessed with it, and what people often miss when they blame stress hormones for everything.

This isn’t a “stress doesn’t matter” episode. It absolutely does. But the internet version of cortisol has drifted a long way from reality.

In this episode:

• What cortisol actually does in the body
• Why cortisol rises normally during stress
• The difference between chronic stress and true cortisol disorders
• Why “hormone imbalance” is often used as a vague catch-all term
• The problem with random online hormone testing
• Why sleep, recovery, activity and overall health still matter more than hacks

No hacks.
No supplements being pushed.
Just a calm, evidence-based explanation from clinic reality.

You can also watch the video version on the  Prescription Strength YouTube channel

Most people think their eating habits come down to discipline. I don’t think that’s true.

In this Pocket Prescription episode, I talk about one of the biggest things people overlook when they’re struggling with food, weight, or health habits: their environment.

Because whether it’s the food in your cupboards, the people around you, your stress levels, your routine, or simply what’s constantly within arm’s reach, your environment quietly shapes your behaviour all day long.

And if you’re relying on willpower alone while surrounded by things working against you… that’s a very difficult battle to win.

In this episode, I explore:

• Why eating habits are rarely just about motivation
• The hidden influence of your home and daily surroundings
• Why “nothing has changed” often isn’t actually true
• How modern environments make overeating incredibly easy
• The difference between blame and understanding
• Simple ways to make healthier choices feel easier without relying on constant self-control

A short, practical episode about why behaviour makes a lot more sense once you stop viewing it as a personal failing.

The video version of this episode is also available on YouTube.

If your weight is creeping up and you’re convinced nothing has changed—you’re probably right. But that doesn’t mean nothing has changed.

In this Pocket Prescription episode, I break down why weight gain in midlife often feels confusing and unfair. We cover:

• Why weight gain tends to happen in seasonal spikes, not a straight line
• How muscle loss (and body composition changes) quietly shifts the rules
• The reality of busier lives, less movement, and more sitting
• Why sleep and recovery matter more than you think

This isn’t about blame or “trying harder.” It’s about understanding what’s actually going on so you can decide what’s worth changing.

No hacks. No shortcuts. Just the basics—done properly.

Losing weight is often seen as the hard part. It isn’t.

In this episode, I’m joined by psychologist Dr Courtney Raspin, co-author of The Weight Loss Prescription, to talk about what actually happens after the weight comes off—and why this is where most people struggle.

We explore the gap between weight loss and weight maintenance, particularly in the context of weight loss injections. Because while these medications can be incredibly effective, they don’t solve the underlying behaviours, habits, and psychological patterns that determine what happens next.

This is the part of the conversation that often gets missed: the “exit plan.”

About the book

The Weight Loss Prescription by Dr Courtney Raspin and Dr Max Pemberton brings together the medical and psychological sides of weight loss—particularly in the context of modern treatments like GLP-1 medications.

It’s not a quick fix guide. It’s a framework for what happens after.

When you know what you “should” do but still can’t make yourself do it, it’s easy to assume you’re the problem.

In this episode, I’m joined by GP and Chimp Management director  Dr Sarah Caddy to break down procrastination and perfectionism using the Chimp Model from Professor Steve Peters.

We explore why capable, intelligent people still get stuck, how perfectionism quietly fuels avoidance, and why motivation is the least reliable part of the process.

This is a practical conversation about what’s actually going on in your brain when you delay, overthink, or wait for the “right time” — and how to start working with it instead of fighting it.

We cover:

• why procrastination isn’t laziness

• how perfectionism drives inaction

• the role of habits, beliefs and self-image

• why motivation fades (and what matters more)

• making a plan that works on your worst day

• how comparison and marketing hijack your thinking

• simple ways to get unstuck and take action

Links:

• The Chimp Paradox

• A Path Through the Jungle

• Chimp Management

If you’ve ever thought “I know what to do, I just can’t make myself do it,” this will make uncomfortable amounts of sense.

Patients aren’t just turning up with symptoms anymore — they’re turning up with diagnoses, treatment plans, and a feed full of advice.

In this episode, I’m joined by Deb Cohen — former BMJ investigative journalist and co-author of Bad Influence — to unpack how the internet has reshaped health information, trust, and the doctor–patient relationship.

We talk about the rise of “Dr TikTok,” why algorithms feel like they know you better than you know yourself, and how perfectly reasonable curiosity can turn into confusion, anxiety, and unnecessary interventions.

This isn’t about blaming people for getting it wrong. It’s about understanding the system we’re all now navigating.

Deb’s book:

Bad Influence: How the Internet Has Hijacked Our Health

Available in hardback and audiobook

Time stamps:

00:00 Podcast Welcome

01:21 Debs Journalism Journey

02:22 Pandemic Shift to Social

03:08 Dr TikTok Moment

04:18 Fertility Test Wakeup

05:10 Facebook to TikTok Era

07:40 Algorithms and Trust

12:00 Self Diagnosis Loops

16:25 NHS Distrust and Fixes

19:01 Borrowed Legitimacy

21:26 Stories vs Evidence

23:30 US Model Goes Global

26:09 Influencers Selling Drugs

28:03 Doctor Influencer Ethics

28:45 IV Drips and Red Flags

31:58 Spotting Conflicts and Hype

35:57 Tech Bro Health Mindset

37:42 Wearables Scans and Cascades

41:51 Private Tests NHS Fallout

43:41 NHS Gaps and Private Clinics

46:44 AI Regulation and Hope

49:51 Using the Internet Wisely

51:20 Book Wrap Up and Thanks

What happens when cancer treatment finishes, but nobody really tells you what comes next?

In this episode, I’m joined by Sarah Newman, a cancer and exercise specialist and founder of Get Me Back. Sarah shares her own story of being diagnosed with cervical cancer during pregnancy, going through intensive treatment, and then facing the part that often gets far less attention: life afterwards.

We talk about the shock of deconditioning, the fear of doing damage, outdated advice about lifting weights, and why rest alone is not enough when it comes to rebuilding after cancer. Sarah also explains how strength training, patience and the right support can help people reconnect with their bodies and regain confidence after treatment.

This is an important conversation for anyone recovering from cancer, supporting someone who is, or working with patients who feel a bit abandoned once treatment ends.

Sarah’s work: Get Me Back

Website: https://www.getmeback.uk

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate and share the podcast.

If you want, I can also give you 5 alternative title options that are slightly punchier, sadder, or more hopeful depending on the angle you want.

You’ve finished cancer treatment.

Now what?

Most people default to being cautious — and for good reason. But when caution turns into inactivity, it quietly works against you.

In this episode:

• Why fear and “being careful” can stall recovery

• What inactivity does to muscle, fitness and long-term health

• The evidence that exercise improves survival after cancer

• How to rebuild safely with simple, structured movement

The shift:

Rest helped you survive.

Now it’s time to rebuild.

• Start where you are — not where you were

• Build confidence through small, repeatable steps

• Aim for:

  • Regular walking

  • 2 strength sessions per week

• Fear will show up — that doesn’t mean you’re causing harm

Key Takeaways

In this episode, I’m joined by dietitian Victoria Schonwald to explore the link between eating disorders, malnutrition and brain function.

We discuss why restrictive eating doesn’t just affect the body—it changes the brain. And why, for many people, recovery isn’t about thinking differently first, but eating differently.

We cover:

• How malnutrition affects mood, anxiety and thinking patterns

• Why therapy alone can fall short without adequate nutrition

• The rise of disordered eating in midlife women

• The unintended consequences of weight loss injections

• Orthorexia and the growing fear of “unhealthy” food

• Why recovery is possible at any age

This is a practical, compassionate conversation about food, fear, and why the brain needs fuel to heal.

Eating disorders don’t just affect teenagers—and they don’t always go away.

In this episode, Rachel shares her experience of living with an eating disorder from adolescence into midlife, including how menopause and modern weight-loss culture triggered a relapse.

We talk about the difference between eating disorders and disordered eating, why many people don’t get help early enough, and what recovery really looks like in real life.

If your relationship with food has ever felt complicated, this will resonate.

We cover:

• Eating disorders in midlife

• Relapse and menopause

• Diet culture and workplace conversations

• Getting help (and barriers to it)

• What recovery actually looks like

What if anxiety isn’t just something that happens to you — but something you unknowingly keep feeding?

In this episode, I’m joined by psychotherapist and bestselling author Owen O’Kane to talk about his book Addicted to Anxiety and why anxiety can become so hard to break free from.

We explore the habits that feel helpful in the moment — Googling symptoms, checking, avoiding, seeking reassurance — and why they often make anxiety worse over time.

We also discuss why anxious thoughts aren’t facts, how anxiety shows up in the body, and why learning to tolerate uncertainty is often the turning point.

In this episode we cover:

• Why many people don’t realise how much anxiety is driving their behaviour

• How reassurance, checking and avoidance reinforce anxiety

• Why thoughts are not the problem — but what we do next is

• The link between anxiety and physical symptoms

• Why the body needs to be addressed, not just the mind

• How walking and simple regulation strategies can help

• Why anxiety is often learned — and can be unlearned

• What it actually looks like to recover

If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in overthinking, symptom-Googling or needing constant reassurance, this episode will give you a very different way to understand anxiety — and a way forward.

Why Most People Over 50 End Up in A&E

Falls are one of the most overlooked threats to health and independence as we age—and they’re far more common (and serious) than most people realise.

In this Pocket Prescription episode, I explain why falls—not heart attacks—are one of the leading reasons people over 50 end up in A&E, and what actually happens after that fall that makes the difference between recovery and decline.

I cover:

• Why falls are so dangerous (beyond just fractures)

• The reality of hip fractures and loss of independence

• The “long lie” and why being unable to get up can be life-threatening

• The hospitalisation cascade: muscle loss, infections, and loss of confidence

• Why falls risk increases with age (strength, balance, and sensory changes)

• The surprising role of hearing loss in falls risk

• Common hazards at home that are often missed

Most importantly, this episode focuses on what you can actually do:

• How strength training reduces falls risk

• Simple ways to improve balance at home

• Why practising getting up off the floor matters

• Practical changes to make your home safer

• How to plan for a worst-case scenario

Falls are not just “bad luck” or clumsiness—they are predictable and, importantly, preventable.

If you want to stay independent, this is something worth paying attention to.

Links & resources:

• Download my free Start Strength Safely plan

• Join my weekly newsletter

• Age UK home safety checklist (falls prevention)

You can also listen to my full conversation with A&E consultant Professor Rob Galloway on how to stay out of hospital.

Emergency medicine consultant Professor Rob Galloway joins me to talk about what is really happening inside A&E departments across the NHS.

This conversation was prompted by an article Rob wrote describing the current pressures in emergency care — corridor care, ambulance delays, and the growing mismatch between what the NHS was originally designed to treat and the illnesses now filling hospitals.

We discuss why the system is struggling, the consequences for patients and staff, and why the solution isn’t simply more money but a fundamental rethink of prevention, primary care and how demand is managed.

Rob also shares the personal story behind his charity Rare People, which funds research into treatments for rare diseases following his daughter’s diagnosis with a rare genetic condition.

• Corridor care and the normalisation of unsafe conditions

• Ambulance delays and hidden system failures

• Why the NHS model struggles with chronic disease

• Risk in general practice and emergency medicine

• Defensive medicine and increasing investigation

• Lifestyle illness and demand on emergency services

• Falls, strength and long-term health

• Rare disease research and Rob’s charity Rare People

Rare People charity:

https://rarepeople.org

Download my FREE 3 day plan :Start Strength training Safely https://www.prescriptionstrength.co.uk/3-day-strength-start/Get my Weekly Newsletter here https://bit.ly/3LkdrLGIn this video I outline the reasons that get in the way for most people when it comes to starting strength training. Don't let that be you.

Is Weight Training Safe with High Blood Pressure?

The Truth About Valsalva and Blood Pressure SpikesDr Lynette Ewart, an NHS GP and personal trainer, challenges fear-based advice that people with high blood pressure should avoid lifting heavy weights, bracing or the Valsalva manoeuvre.

She outlines who should be cautious, why fears are exaggerated and unfounded.

00:00 Myth Busting Warnings00:34 Why People Fear Lifting02:05 Blood Pressure Fluctuations03:09 Valsalva Explained04:39 Who Needs Caution05:33 How Hard To Train06:21 Fear Versus Progress06:55 Final Takeaways

Pelvic floor symptoms are common, treatable, and don’t mean you have to give up exercise. In this episode, pelvic health physiotherapist Clare Bourne, author of Strong Foundations, explains what prolapse really is, how physio helps, and why strength training isn’t the enemy.

We discuss:

• What pelvic organ prolapse actually means (and why symptoms matter more than grades)

• Stress vs urge incontinence — and how treatment differs

• What happens at a pelvic health physio appointment

• Why “just do your Kegels” isn’t enough

• Bladder retraining and common irritants (caffeine, fizzy drinks, alcohol)

• The overlooked role of constipation

• Pessaries as practical support

• Lifting weights safely and confidently

Bottom line: Pelvic floor issues are not a life sentence. With the right guidance, most women can improve symptoms and stay active.

Book link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Strong-Foundations-pregnancy-postpartum-perimenopause/dp/0008604223/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0

A pocket prescription episode .

Episode Summary

If you’ve been diagnosed with high blood pressure, you’ve probably been told to walk more. That’s good advice — but it’s not the whole picture.

In this episode, I explain why resistance training is one of the most underused tools in blood pressure management. The evidence shows it can lower blood pressure just as effectively as cardio — while also improving metabolic health, vascular function, and long-term strength and independence.

We’ll cover:

• Why small reductions in blood pressure matter

• What strength training actually does to your blood vessels

• How it improves insulin sensitivity and metabolic health

• What this realistically looks like in a normal week

Cardio isn’t wrong. It’s just incomplete.

If you’re managing hypertension, strength training should be part of the prescription.

The video version of this episode is available on YouTube.

Building Stronger Bones: The Importance of Proper Loading and Strength TrainingIn this episode, Dr. Lynette Ewart, with over 20 years of experience in the NHS and as a personal trainer, discusses the necessity of proper loading and strength training for maintaining bone health as you age.

She explains why gentle exercises like walking and stretching are not enough to keep bones strong. Dr. Ewart highlights the importance of planned, purposeful, and progressive strength training to reduce fracture risks and prevent frailty. She emphasises that bones respond to challenge, not comfort, and provides practical advice on safely incorporating strength training into daily routines. Tune in to learn actionable steps to keep your bones healthy and strong.00:00 Introduction: The Truth About Bone Health00:58 Common Advice and Its Shortcomings02:07 The Importance of Specificity in Exercise02:40 Why Gentle Exercise Isn't Enough03:17 The Science Behind Bone Loading04:44 Effective Bone Loading Strategies05:53 Common Fears and Misconceptions06:56 Conclusion: Embrace the Challenge

The Benefits of Strength Training for ArthritisDr. Lynette Ewart, GP and strength coach, dispels the myth that weight training is harmful to those with arthritis. She explains how strength training actually protects and benefits arthritic joints by increasing movement and nutrient flow to cartilage.

The video covers why avoiding strength training is a mistake, the physiological benefits of movement, and what an effective and safe training program should look like for arthritis sufferers.

Dr. Ewart emphasizes that pain doesn't always mean damage and highlights the importance of controlled, gradual, and consistent training.00:00 Debunking Myths About Arthritis and Strength Training00:38 Why Avoiding Strength Training Backfires02:23 Understanding Arthritis and Joint Health04:13 The Benefits of Strength Training for Arthritis06:54 Designing a Safe and Effective Strength Program08:18 Key Takeaways and Encouragement

Addressing Gender Disparities in CPR Training: An Urgent Call for Change

In this podcast, Chloe discusses the critical issue of gender disparities in bystander CPR administration, shedding light on the alarming statistic that women are significantly less likely to receive CPR than men. 

Originating from a Duke University study and supported by various other studies, Chloe shares her journey from discovering this issue to actively campaigning for the inclusion of female-bodied mannequins in CPR training sessions. She highlights how discomfort, fear of doing it wrong, and societal taboos contribute to this disparity. 

Chloe's petition aims to mandate the use of female mannequins in training to better prepare the public and ultimately improve survival rates for women. The conversation touches on the need for systemic changes in healthcare training and the importance of overcoming baseless fears of legal repercussions for CPR providers.

Please sign the petition here https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/738976

00:00 Introduction to Gender Disparities in CPR

01:02 The Shocking Statistics

02:02 Barriers to Performing CPR on Women

03:53 Campaigning for Change

04:10 Training with Female Mannequins

10:08 Addressing Misconceptions and Fears

17:56 Support from Organisations

19:42 The Importance of Awareness and Conversation

20:16 Challenges in Women's Healthcare

21:43 The Petition Process Explained

24:11 Training on Female Mannequins

25:49 The Reality of CPR and AED Use

29:34 Encouraging Action and Overcoming Fear

32:49 Final Thoughts and Call to ActionAddressing Gender Disparities in CPR Training: An Urgent Call for Change

Reach Chloe on any of these platforms

https://substack.com/@everydaysteminist?r=1mdv9x&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=profile

https://youtube.com/@everydaysteminist?si=VZkXno79Hbdi83zO

https://www.tiktok.com/@everydaysteminist?_r=1&_t=ZN-93YyHKw3eTe

https://www.instagram.com/everydaysteminist?igsh=M25lejN1d3huY2Zw&utm_source=qr

Debunking the Myth: Can You Really 'Outrun' a Bad Diet?In this episode, I critically examine the popular saying 'You can't outrun a bad diet.'

Often touted as a physiological law, I delve into what this phrase actually means and whether it holds any truth. Through personal anecdotes and examples from my medical practice, I explore the nuanced relationships between diet, exercise, and overall health.

I argue that phrases like these can be harmful and distract from the real benefits of exercise. Ultimately, I advocate for integrating both nutrition and physical activity to achieve a balanced, healthy lifestyle.00:00 Introduction: Can You Outrun a Bad Diet?01:07 Debunking the Bad Diet Myth01:25 Real-Life Examples of 'Bad Diets'03:56 The Importance of Energy Balance05:07 Exercise vs. Diet: The Bigger Picture06:24 The True Benefits of Exercise08:09 Conclusion: Embrace Movement, Not Slogans

Welcome to Prescription Strength, where we explore practical advice for building and sustaining healthy habits.

In this Pocket Prescription episode, Dr. Lynette Ewart tackles a common but rarely discussed challenge: sticking with strength training even when you don’t love it. Whether you’re a few months into your routine and finding it a chore, or you’re just starting out, this episode is for you.

Dr. Lynette Ewart examines the myth that all good-for-you habits should eventually become enjoyable, introducing the concept of neutrality—accepting that some things are simply useful and functional, even if they don’t spark joy.

Drawing relatable comparisons to everyday tasks like working, brushing teeth, and even leisure screen time, she offers perspective on why consistency trumps perfection. This candid discussion reminds us that strength training is an investment in our future selves, and real progress is sometimes measured in just showing up, not always in dramatic results.

Tune in as Dr. Lynette Ewart shares honest, compassionate insight to help you stick with your training—not because it’s easy, but because it’s worth it.

Debunking Health Myths and Fad Diets with Craig JacksonIn this episode of the Prescription Strength Podcast, Dr. Lynette Ewart is joined by Craig Jackson of Craig Jackson Fitness. They discuss Craig's signature program, Breaking Fads, which aims to debunk widespread diet myths and promote sustainable health advice.

The episode dives into the origins and risks of popular diet trends, such as the carnivore diet, and addresses common medical myths, including the misconception that teething causes fever in babies. Dr. Ewart and Craig also explore the importance of strength training and routine in long-term health, the role of supplements, and practical advice for achieving balanced nutrition. Throughout, the emphasis is on education and sustainable lifestyle changes over quick fixes.

Craig can be found on Instagram at

https://www.instagram.com/craigjackson.fitness/?hl=en

Here is Breaking Fads link:https://breakingfad.craigjackson.fitness/breakingfads 

Starts 9th Feb, early access for spaces 28th Jan00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest00:14 The Origin of 'Breaking Fads'02:40 Discussing Popular Diet Fads11:40 Medical Myths and Misconceptions17:15 The Truth About Supplements27:58 Debunking Calorie Tracking Myths28:22 Calorie Tracking for Education, Not Obsession29:28 Using MyFitnessPal as a Meal Planner30:56 The Importance of Nutritional Quality31:48 The Role of Fiber in Diet32:27 Calorie Counting Misconceptions35:41 Portion Control Strategies37:56 Medical Myths: Teething and Temperature41:38 The Dairy Debate43:51 The Importance of Protein Intake46:16 The Journey to Sustainable Habits50:58 Final Thoughts and Program Information52:35 The Role of Strength Training in Aging

This is the first Pocket Prescription — short episodes for people who want to think more clearly about health without the noise.

In this episode, I ask a simple question that’s harder than it sounds: what does being healthy actually mean?

Health isn’t how you look, and it isn’t always how you feel. Both are unreliable. Appearance can hide exhaustion, anxiety, or fragility. Feelings fluctuate with sleep, stress, hormones, and life.

Instead, this episode explores health as capacity — the ability to meet the demands of life, recover when things wobble, and continue. Not perfectly. Just sustainably.

Drawing on insights from great books such as The Seven Ages of Death, by Dr Richard Shepherd and Sod Sitting, Get Moving by Sir Muir Gray, I look at how the meaning of health shifts with age — from performance early on to resilience, independence, and margin later in life.

This isn’t about optimisation or transformation.

It’s about building something that lasts — and staying in the relationship with your health, even imperfectly.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Life-Changing Diagnoses with Dr. Ceara ClarkeIn this episode, Dr. Ceara Clarke, a clinical psychologist in a large NHS hospital, discusses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and how it helps patients move forward after life-changing events or diagnoses.

The conversation covers practical strategies for dealing with anxiety, stress, and the psychological impact of chronic illness.

Dr. Clarke shares insights on the importance of values, self-compassion, and resilience, offering valuable tools for those navigating significant health changes.00:00 Introduction and Technical Notes00:32 Meet Dr. Ceara Clarke00:56 Discussing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)01:27 Initial Patient Interaction Scenarios06:32 Technical Difficulties and Continuation08:22 The Importance of Listening and Support10:23 Family Dynamics and Emotional Support11:08 Patient Stories and Peer Support14:07 Addressing Blame and Self-Compassion19:16 Understanding the Fight or Flight Response40:59 The Role of Values in ACT Therapy47:08 Exercise: Discovering Your Values49:22 Understanding Personal Values50:47 Practical Strategies in ACT51:42 Behavioral Exercises and Follow-ups53:46 Dealing with Thoughts and Feelings55:47 Thought Diffusion Techniques57:15 Acceptance and Commitment in Daily Life01:01:19 Self-Compassion and Managing Criticism01:07:36 The Importance of Being Present01:14:47 Adapting to Life Changes01:24:45 Resources and Recommendations

In this episode of the Prescription Strength Podcast, Sally joins to discuss the growing issue of vaping and smoking among teenagers. 

Sally represents a program developed from the University of Leeds's research, designed to prevent these habits through evidence-based interventions.

The discussion covers the scale of the problem, the appeal of vaping to teenagers, and the essential role of education and early intervention. 

The episode also delves into the details of the 'Intent' program, including its implementation in schools and its effectiveness in reducing youth vaping and smoking. 

The conversation highlights the importance of addressing misinformation and understanding the nuances behind teenage behaviours towards these substances.

For more information on the project visit: https://intent.evidencetoimpact.com/

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:30 The Scale of the Vaping Problem

01:21 Personal Experiences and Observations

04:46 The Intent Program Overview

05:49 Current Vaping Environment in Schools

10:46 Legislation and Accessibility Issues

20:44 Program Implementation in Schools

23:42 The Challenge of Changing Habits

24:08 Specific Strategies for Success

25:49 Understanding Addiction and Dependency

29:22 The Role of Schools in Addressing Vaping

32:53 Parental Involvement and Communication

34:26 The Influence of Social Media and Role Models

37:57 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action

In this episode of the Prescription Strength Podcast, host Lynette is joined by Dr. Claire Davies, a GP in Hackney and a coach for female doctors at crossroads in their lives. 

They discuss the importance of being heard as a patient, the challenges within the healthcare system, and the parallels in patient experiences for both medical professionals and general patients. 

Dr. Davies shares insights from her contributions to the book 'The Doctor is the Patient,' and they explore strategies to improve communication, patient confidence, and the crucial role of holistic care. 

The conversation concludes with methods to build patient confidence and the potential benefit of coaching to navigate the healthcare system effectively.

00:00 Introduction to the Episode

00:49 The Catalyst for the Conversation

03:18 The Doctor-Patient Dynamic

07:27 Challenges in Healthcare Continuity

14:58 The Impact of Stress on Health

22:34 Navigating the Healthcare System

27:51 Addressing Patient Concerns Early

29:41 The Importance of Second Opinions

33:37 Technological Advances in Consultations

37:32 Building Confidence and Self-Care

39:24 Coaching for Personal Growth

48:18 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

You can reach Claire on Instagram @dr_claire_davies.  

Or on Linkedin  https://uk.linkedin.com/in/rebelconfidenceformedicalwomen

and her website www.drclairedavies.co.uk.

In this episode of the Prescription Strength Podcast, I talk to one of my clients Anne, an experienced Pilates instructor who took me to task after a previous episode when I shared a negative experience of Pilates. 

We delve into common misconceptions about Pilates, particularly its efficacy for back pain, and the differences between commercial gym classes and smaller, community-focused Pilates sessions. 

The instructor shares personal success stories of clients improving their health and mobility through Pilates. 

Listeners are encouraged to embrace movement and consider Pilates for various health benefits, including improved posture, reduced pain, and enhanced overall well-being.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:19 Debunking the Pilates Myth

03:34 The Essence of a Good Pilates Class

05:15 Personalised Pilates Instruction

08:40 Pilates for Health and Recovery

12:28 Success Stories and Real-Life Impact

22:57 Understanding Different Perspectives on Posture and Alignment

23:47 The Importance of Soft Tissue in Pain Management

24:20 Addressing Misconceptions About Bulging Discs and Joint Wear

25:49 Impact of Modern Lifestyle on Bone Health

30:35 Finding the Right Pilates Class for You

33:23 Advice for Pilates Beginners

34:57 The Role of One-to-One Sessions in Pilates

41:35 Building Community Through Pilates

42:53 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Navigating Nutrition and Menopause with Emma Bardwell: I chat to Emma Bardwell, registered nutritionist and author of The 30g Plan.

We discuss the role of nutrition in women's health, particularly during menopause. Emma shares her personal experience with perimenopause and explains common symptoms that lead women to seek nutritional advice.

We discuss the importance of protein and fibre in diet, the impact of social media on health perceptions, and debunk myths around superfoods and supplements.

Emma emphasises practical approaches to nutrition and mentions her book 'The 30g Plan,' and we reflect on how GPs and nutritionists can better collaborate for patient care.

Emma can be reached at https://www.emmabardwell.com

Her book is available on Amazon and all book retailers. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:12 Guest Introduction and Focus on Women's Health01:00 Challenges Faced by Women in Midlife02:27 The Role of Nutrition and Initial Consultations07:17 Common Patterns and Misconceptions11:55 Importance of Protein and Fiber17:06 Debunking the Superfood Myth21:50 Making Decisions and Exit Plans22:38 Aggressive Marketing and Unrealistic Health Claims24:16 GPs and Nutritionists Collaboration28:17 The Gluten and Sourdough Debate36:48 Practical Dietary Advice40:08 Final Thoughts and Where to Find More Information

Understanding Physiotherapy: Myths, Realities, and Patient CareIn this episode, Lynette interviews Adam, an NHS physiotherapist with a significant online presence, to discuss common misconceptions about physiotherapy and the realities of the profession. Adam emphasizes the importance of proper diagnosis, especially in managing musculoskeletal issues like back pain. He narrates his personal experience with a severe back injury and highlights the value of shared experience in patient care. The discussion also touches on the cultural myths surrounding posture, the limited yet specific role of Pilates, and the deceptive allure of immediate treatments versus allowing natural healing over time. The challenges posed by varied opinions from different healthcare providers (e.g., chiropractors, osteopaths) are highlighted, stressing the need for patient education to sift through overwhelming and often conflicting information. The episode wraps up by reinforcing that patience, self-care, and evidence-based practices are key to effective physiotherapy.

Adam is on Instagram @adammeakins & his website is https://www.adammeakins.com00:00 Introduction and Greetings00:37 Understanding Physiotherapy: Common Misconceptions02:18 Personal Journey into Physiotherapy03:16 Challenges in Physiotherapy Practice05:58 The Role of Physiotherapists in the NHS06:56 Patient Beliefs and Misconceptions07:58 Dealing with Mixed Messages in Healthcare15:14 Personal Experience with Injury22:02 The Debate on Imaging and Diagnosis27:04 Human Nature in Healthcare Decisions27:26 The Basics vs. Online Fitness Fads28:21 Debunking Functional Training Myths29:34 Pilates and Back Pain: Myths and Realities31:37 Strength Training for Women: Breaking the Myths33:52 Physiotherapy vs. Osteopathy vs. Chiropractic39:14 The Challenge of Doing Nothing in Healthcare41:43 Emerging Treatments in Physiotherapy42:44 Frozen Shoulder: Diagnosis and Treatment46:17 The Importance of Patience in Healing

Lifting and Life Lessons with a 70-Year-Old Powerlifter

Join host Dr. Lynette Ewart on the Prescription Strength Podcast as she delves into an inspiring conversation with Diane, a 70-year-old competitive powerlifter. Discover how Diane navigated the fitness landscape, from feeling daunted entering a gym to becoming a seasoned competitor, lifting weights heavier than many half her age. They discuss the importance of muscle mass, overcoming injuries, maintaining a healthy diet, and the critical element of consistency. This episode provides practical insights and motivational advice for anyone considering starting their fitness journey, especially women who might feel sidelined by societal expectations. Don't miss this empowering episode filled with real-life experiences and valuable fitness tips.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:19 Dan's Journey to the Gym

01:15 Finding the Right Trainer

04:05 The Importance of Lifting Properly

07:16 Transition to Competitive Powerlifting

11:33 Diet and Protein Focus

14:29 Managing Weight and Health

27:07 Training Routine and Competition Prep

27:31 Pre-Competition Training Routine

27:58 Training Schedule and Family Life

29:04 Training Sessions and Exercises

29:44 Importance of a Good Trainer

30:07 Managing Training Blocks and Plateaus

32:17 Dealing with Injuries

33:13 Consistency and Motivation

36:03 Cardio and Conditioning

41:28 Supplements and General Health

44:58 Starting Late and Staying Consistent

48:38 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Debunking Sleep Myths with Dr Lynette Ewart: From Perfect Sleep to Insomnia Solutions

In this episode of the Prescription Strength Podcast, host Dr. Lynette Ewart, a GP and personal trainer, delves deep into the world of sleep with sleep expert Dr Eidn Mahmoudzadeh of The Sleep Project. They discuss common myths around sleep, especially the misconception that everyone needs eight hours of sleep. 

Audience will learn about individual sleep needs, the impact of anxiety on insomnia, and practical steps to improve sleep initiation. The conversation also covers the misuse of sleeping pills, the role of melatonin, and the pros and cons of napping. 

Tune in to get evidence-based advice on achieving better sleep without falling for fear mongering and commercial gimmicks.

To work with Dr Lynette Ewart visit www.prescriptionstrength.co.uk

To work with Dr Eidn Mahmoudzadeh visit www.thesleepproject.life 

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:21 Debunking Sleep Myths

01:32 The Impact of Sleep Duration

03:27 Personal Experiences with Sleep

05:22 Sleep and Anxiety

13:16 Practical Sleep Tips

20:55 Handling Sleep Interruptions

29:16 The Science Behind Sleep

34:22 Sleep and Weight Loss

36:32 Hormonal Changes and Hunger

37:39 Sleep Deprivation and Impulse Control

39:30 Sleep Apnea and Obesity

40:46 Chronic Conditions and Sleep

41:35 Sleeping Pills: Short-Term vs Long-Term Use

46:58 Melatonin: Uses and Effectiveness

55:43 Napping: Benefits and Drawbacks

01:05:09 The Sleep Project: Services and Support