• Jonathan Cole (Video); The Hidden Power of Embodiment: How Physical Conditions Shape Identity and Connection
    Feb 4 2026

    In this episode, renowned neurophysiologist Jonathan Cole meets David and Naomi and shares insights on how our physical body shapes our sense of self, communication, and emotional life. We delve into how physical conditions influence identity, the importance of embodiment, and the nuances of non-verbal communication in human experience.

    Key topics:

    • The role of neurophysiology in understanding sensory and motor deficits
    • How loss of movement or sensation affects personal identity and social perception
    • The impact of facial paralysis, disfigurement, and cosmetic surgery on social interaction and emotion
    • The significance of gesture, posture, and body language in communication
    • Differences in experiencing congenital vs. acquired conditions like blindness and deafness
    • How embodiment influences mental health and self-awareness
    • The societal implications of physical diversity and discrimination

    Timestamps: (Approx)

    00:00 - Introducing Jonathan Cole: Neurophysiology and accessible science 02:20 - How the nervous impulse explains bodily function and its narrative in literature 03:48 - Living without proprioception: Ian Waterman's story 06:30 - The curiosity-driven career bridging science and literature 08:37 - Embodiment and our automatic movements 10:22 - Practical challenges faced by those with proprioception loss 12:55 - The daily marathon of adapting to bodily disabilities 15:07 - Embodiment's effect on self-identity and social perception 16:47 - How social identity shifts with physical conditions like disfigurement or paralysis 18:48 - The importance of societal acceptance and personal resilience 22:03 - Visual vs. auditory vs. congenital vs. acquired sensory loss 25:10 - The process of adapting after spinal cord injuries and the role of community 27:29 - How embodiment influences verbal and non-verbal communication 30:49 - The role of body language and prosody in expressing emotion 34:22 - Embodiment and emotional expression: stories of women regaining feeling 37:10 - Cosmetic interventions, aging, and emotional expression 41:07 - Gesture impairments and their impact on relationships 43:20 - How physical expression (or lack thereof) influences support-seeking and social support 46:37 - Recognizing true character beyond facial cues 47:49 - Society's empathy and inclusion for embodied diversity 50:10 - The importance of understanding psychological and physical impairments

    Resources & Links:

    • Hard Talk by Jonathan Cole https://blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/product/Hard-Talk-by-Jonathan-Cole/9780262049566?srsltid=AfmBOop5VwVWOtq9Q9DYvXR7jan_GAkc9HX_yJGbT294qjKQlQBgbM7V
    • Chekhov’s Sakhalin Journey: Doctor, Humanitarian, Writer (Paperback). Jonathan Cole https://www.waterstones.com/book/chekhovs-sakhalin-journey/jonathan-cole/9781350367517

    Note:

    The discussion underscores the profound connection between our physical embodiment and our emotional, social, and psychological selves. Recognizing and accommodating physical diversity enhances societal empathy and supports human connection.

    Show More Show Less
    54 mins
  • Jonathan Cole (Audio); The Hidden Power of Embodiment: How Physical Conditions Shape Identity and Connection
    Feb 4 2026

    In this episode, renowned neurophysiologist Jonathan Cole shares insights on how our physical body shapes our sense of self, communication, and emotional life. We delve into how physical conditions influence identity, the importance of embodiment, and the nuances of non-verbal communication in human experience.

    Key topics:

    • The role of neurophysiology in understanding sensory and motor deficits
    • How loss of movement or sensation affects personal identity and social perception
    • The impact of facial paralysis, disfigurement, and cosmetic surgery on social interaction and emotion
    • The significance of gesture, posture, and body language in communication
    • Differences in experiencing congenital vs. acquired conditions like blindness and deafness
    • How embodiment influences mental health and self-awareness
    • The societal implications of physical diversity and discrimination

    Timestamps: (Approx)

    00:00 - Introducing Jonathan Cole: Neurophysiology and accessible science

    02:20 - How the nervous impulse explains bodily function and its narrative in literature

    03:48 - Living without proprioception: Ian Waterman's story

    06:30 - The curiosity-driven career bridging science and literature

    08:37 - Embodiment and our automatic movements

    10:22 - Practical challenges faced by those with proprioception loss

    12:55 - The daily marathon of adapting to bodily disabilities

    15:07 - Embodiment's effect on self-identity and social perception

    16:47 - How social identity shifts with physical conditions like disfigurement or paralysis 18:48 - The importance of societal acceptance and personal resilience

    22:03 - Visual vs. auditory vs. congenital vs. acquired sensory loss

    25:10 - The process of adapting after spinal cord injuries and the role of community

    27:29 - How embodiment influences verbal and non-verbal communication

    30:49 - The role of body language and prosody in expressing emotion

    34:22 - Embodiment and emotional expression: stories of women regaining feeling

    37:10 - Cosmetic interventions, aging, and emotional expression

    41:07 - Gesture impairments and their impact on relationships

    43:20 - How physical expression (or lack thereof) influences support-seeking and social support

    46:37 - Recognizing true character beyond facial cues

    47:49 - Society's empathy and inclusion for embodied diversity

    50:10 - The importance of understanding psychological and physical impairments

    Resources & Links:

    • Hard Talk by Jonathan Cole https://blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/product/Hard-Talk-by-Jonathan-Cole/9780262049566?srsltid=AfmBOop5VwVWOtq9Q9DYvXR7jan_GAkc9HX_yJGbT294qjKQlQBgbM7V
    • Chekhov’s Sakhalin Journey: Doctor, Humanitarian, Writer (Paperback). Jonathan Cole https://www.waterstones.com/book/chekhovs-sakhalin-journey/jonathan-cole/9781350367517

    Note:

    The discussion underscores the profound connection between our physical embodiment and our emotional, social, and psychological selves. Recognizing and accommodating physical diversity enhances societal empathy and supports human connection.

    Show More Show Less
    54 mins
  • Alex Renton (Audio); Boarding School, Abuse, Slavery; Understanding History, Addressing the Present
    Jan 28 2026

    Keywords

    boarding school, trauma, recovery, family dynamics, sexual abuse, journalism, heritage, slavery, mental health, societal change

    Summary

    In this conversation, journalist Alex Renton discusses the profound impact of his boarding school experiences on his life and career. He reflects on the trauma associated with his time at school, including issues of abuse and the challenges of speaking out. Renton also explores the complexities of family dynamics, particularly in relation to his own experiences and the legacy of his family's involvement in slavery. Throughout the discussion, he emphasizes the importance of openness, empathy, and responsibility in addressing these difficult topics and fostering healing.

    Takeaways

    Alex Renton reflects on the lifelong impact of negative boarding school experiences.

    His career as a journalist was influenced by his skepticism towards authority.

    Alex began writing about boarding schools after learning about abuse cases at his former school.

    He emphasizes the importance of speaking out against abuse and the challenges that come with it.

    The conversation highlights the need for empathy towards survivors of abuse.

    Family dynamics play a crucial role in how individuals cope with trauma.

    Alex discusses the prevalence of abuse in boarding schools and the need for systemic change.

    He explores his family's history of involvement in slavery and its emotional implications.

    The importance of openness and transparency in healing from trauma is emphasized.

    Alex advocates for better communication and understanding in addressing issues of abuse.

    Sound bites

    "I think, you know, I mean, I do talk people do."

    "I think we still sending children into danger."

    "I think we have to talk and we have to open."

    Chapters (Timings approx)

    00:00 The Impact of Boarding School Experiences

    09:11 The Long-Term Effects of Trauma

    18:08 Navigating Relationships with Parents

    21:22 Stereotypes of Boarding School Education

    24:43 Encouraging Disclosure and Support

    27:44 The Prevalence of Abuse in Boarding Schools

    29:47 Barriers to Disclosure: The Male Perspective

    32:25 Societal Attitudes Towards Male Victims

    34:30 Exploring Family Legacy and Historical Injustices

    39:16 Healing Through Openness and Responsibility

    43:26 Current Projects: A Hopeful Future for Child Safety

    46:54 Ten second outro video.mp4

    Show More Show Less
    47 mins
  • Alex Renton (Video); Boarding School, Abuse, Slavery; Understanding History, Addressing the Present
    Jan 28 2026

    Keywords

    boarding school, trauma, recovery, family dynamics, sexual abuse, journalism, heritage, slavery, mental health, societal change

    Summary

    In this conversation, journalist Alex Renton discusses the profound impact of his boarding school experiences on his life and career. He reflects on the trauma associated with his time at school, including issues of abuse and the challenges of speaking out. Renton also explores the complexities of family dynamics, particularly in relation to his own experiences and the legacy of his family's involvement in slavery. Throughout the discussion, he emphasizes the importance of openness, empathy, and responsibility in addressing these difficult topics and fostering healing.

    Takeaways

    Alex Renton reflects on the lifelong impact of negative boarding school experiences.

    His career as a journalist was influenced by his skepticism towards authority.

    Alex began writing about boarding schools after learning about abuse cases at his former school.

    He emphasizes the importance of speaking out against abuse and the challenges that come with it.

    The conversation highlights the need for empathy towards survivors of abuse.

    Family dynamics play a crucial role in how individuals cope with trauma.

    Alex discusses the prevalence of abuse in boarding schools and the need for systemic change.

    He explores his family's history of involvement in slavery and its emotional implications.

    The importance of openness and transparency in healing from trauma is emphasized.

    Alex advocates for better communication and understanding in addressing issues of abuse.

    Sound bites

    "I think, you know, I mean, I do talk people do."

    "I think we still sending children into danger."

    "I think we have to talk and we have to open."

    Chapters (Timings approx)

    00:00 The Impact of Boarding School Experiences

    09:11 The Long-Term Effects of Trauma

    18:08 Navigating Relationships with Parents

    21:22 Stereotypes of Boarding School Education

    24:43 Encouraging Disclosure and Support

    27:44 The Prevalence of Abuse in Boarding Schools

    29:47 Barriers to Disclosure: The Male Perspective

    32:25 Societal Attitudes Towards Male Victims

    34:30 Exploring Family Legacy and Historical Injustices

    39:16 Healing Through Openness and Responsibility

    43:26 Current Projects: A Hopeful Future for Child Safety

    46:54 Ten second outro video.mp4

    Show More Show Less
    47 mins
  • Rochelle Marashi (Audio): Stalking's Psychological Impact, implications for therapists.
    Jan 21 2026

    Summary

    Rochelle Marashi, a psychotherapist, discusses her research on stalking and coercive control, emphasizing the importance of not labeling women as victims but as targets. She shares insights on the challenges of identifying stalking, the role of media in shaping perceptions, and the need for a multidisciplinary approach in therapy. Rochelle also highlights the psychological impact of stalking and the importance of therapists understanding the nuances of such experiences.

    Check out Rochelle’s website for more information,

    https://metacog.co.uk/

    Khttps://metacog.co.uk/eywordshttps://metacog.co.uk/

    keywords

    Rochelle Marashi, stalking, coercive control, psychotherapy, media influence, psychological impact, multidisciplinary approach, victim vs target, therapist awareness, safety planning

    Takeaways

    • Rochelle Marashi prefers the term 'targets' over 'victims'.
    • Stalking is calculated and targeted, not by default.
    • Media often romanticizes stalking, affecting public perception.
    • Therapists should name stalking to help clients understand.
    • Stalking can lead to terror, trauma, and isolation.
    • A multidisciplinary approach is crucial for support.
    • Therapists' awareness can aid in client disclosure.
    • Stalking isn't always recognized by clients or therapists.
    • Therapists should use minimal notes to protect clients.
    • Understanding stalking's escalation is vital for safety.

    Sound bites

    • 'Stalking is calculated and targeted.'
    • 'Media romanticizes stalking.'
    • 'Therapists should name stalking.'
    • 'Stalking leads to terror and trauma.'
    • 'A multidisciplinary approach is crucial.'
    • 'Therapists' awareness aids disclosure.'
    • 'Stalking isn't always recognized.'
    • 'Use minimal notes to protect clients.'
    • 'Understanding escalation is vital.'
    Show More Show Less
    29 mins
  • Rochelle Marashi (Video): Stalking's Psychological Impact, implications for therapists.
    Jan 21 2026

    Summary

    Rochelle Marashi, a psychotherapist, discusses her research on stalking and coercive control, emphasizing the importance of not labeling women as victims but as targets. She shares insights on the challenges of identifying stalking, the role of media in shaping perceptions, and the need for a multidisciplinary approach in therapy. Rochelle also highlights the psychological impact of stalking and the importance of therapists understanding the nuances of such experiences.

    Check out Rochelle’s website for more information,

    https://metacog.co.uk/

    Khttps://metacog.co.uk/eywordshttps://metacog.co.uk/

    keywords

    Rochelle Marashi, stalking, coercive control, psychotherapy, media influence, psychological impact, multidisciplinary approach, victim vs target, therapist awareness, safety planning

    Takeaways

    • Rochelle Marashi prefers the term 'targets' over 'victims'.
    • Stalking is calculated and targeted, not by default.
    • Media often romanticizes stalking, affecting public perception.
    • Therapists should name stalking to help clients understand.
    • Stalking can lead to terror, trauma, and isolation.
    • A multidisciplinary approach is crucial for support.
    • Therapists' awareness can aid in client disclosure.
    • Stalking isn't always recognized by clients or therapists.
    • Therapists should use minimal notes to protect clients.
    • Understanding stalking's escalation is vital for safety.

    Sound bites

    • 'Stalking is calculated and targeted.'
    • 'Media romanticizes stalking.'
    • 'Therapists should name stalking.'
    • 'Stalking leads to terror and trauma.'
    • 'A multidisciplinary approach is crucial.'
    • 'Therapists' awareness aids disclosure.'
    • 'Stalking isn't always recognized.'
    • 'Use minimal notes to protect clients.'
    • 'Understanding escalation is vital.'
    Show More Show Less
    29 mins
  • Jo West (Audio); From Prison to Practice: Jo West's Journey
    Jan 14 2026

    Keywords

    forensic psychology, ADHD, prison system, independent practice, emotional wellbeing, mental health, trauma-informed care, psychological assessments, private practice, risk assessment

    Summary

    In this conversation, Jo West, a consultant forensic psychologist, shares her journey from working in the prison service to establishing her independent practice. She discusses the challenges and differences she observed between male and female prison environments, her experiences with ADHD, and the importance of emotional wellbeing in her field. Jo emphasizes the need for trauma-informed care and the complexities of psychological assessments, particularly in the context of ADHD diagnoses.

    Takeaways

    Jo West transitioned from the prison service to independent practice.

    She found the prison environment both daunting and rewarding.

    Jo emphasizes the importance of trauma-informed care in women's prisons.

    She has a passion for supporting individuals with ADHD.

    Jo's late diagnosis of ADHD provided clarity on her life experiences.

    She highlights the challenges of working in private practice without a team.

    Jo believes in the importance of thorough psychological assessments.

    She uses mindfulness and DBT skills for her own emotional wellbeing.

    Jo discusses the pressure of expectations in ADHD assessments.

    She finds fulfillment in reducing the chance of reoffending through her work.

    Sound bites

    "I think it was really trauma-informed."

    "I think it can be frustrating."

    "I had to come to terms with all that."

    Chapters

    00:00 Transitioning from Prison Service to Independent Practice

    01:32 Journey to Forensic Psychology

    04:19 Experiences in Men's vs. Women's Prisons

    07:42 Current Work as an Independent Psychologist

    08:37 Navigating Parole Hearings

    13:02 Challenges of Private Practice

    16:12 ADHD Diagnosis and Its Impact

    19:16 Expectations Around ADHD Assessments

    21:40 Emotional Wellbeing in Forensic Psychology

    Show More Show Less
    24 mins
  • Jo West (Video); From Prison to Practice: Jo West's Journey
    Jan 14 2026

    Keywords

    forensic psychology, ADHD, prison system, independent practice, emotional wellbeing, mental health, trauma-informed care, psychological assessments, private practice, risk assessment

    Summary

    In this conversation, Jo West, a consultant forensic psychologist, shares her journey from working in the prison service to establishing her independent practice. She discusses the challenges and differences she observed between male and female prison environments, her experiences with ADHD, and the importance of emotional wellbeing in her field. Jo emphasizes the need for trauma-informed care and the complexities of psychological assessments, particularly in the context of ADHD diagnoses.

    Takeaways

    Jo West transitioned from the prison service to independent practice.

    She found the prison environment both daunting and rewarding.

    Jo emphasizes the importance of trauma-informed care in women's prisons.

    She has a passion for supporting individuals with ADHD.

    Jo's late diagnosis of ADHD provided clarity on her life experiences.

    She highlights the challenges of working in private practice without a team.

    Jo believes in the importance of thorough psychological assessments.

    She uses mindfulness and DBT skills for her own emotional wellbeing.

    Jo discusses the pressure of expectations in ADHD assessments.

    She finds fulfillment in reducing the chance of reoffending through her work.

    Sound bites

    "I think it was really trauma-informed."

    "I think it can be frustrating."

    "I had to come to terms with all that."

    Chapters (Times are approx)

    00:00 Transitioning from Prison Service to Independent Practice

    01:32 Journey to Forensic Psychology

    04:19 Experiences in Men's vs. Women's Prisons

    07:42 Current Work as an Independent Psychologist

    08:37 Navigating Parole Hearings

    13:02 Challenges of Private Practice

    16:12 ADHD Diagnosis and Its Impact

    19:16 Expectations Around ADHD Assessments

    21:40 Emotional Wellbeing in Forensic Psychology

    Show More Show Less
    24 mins