• Labiaplasty - When the pursuit of perfection becomes dangerous!
    Jun 10 2025

    Labiaplasty & Ozempic : Understanding the Surge in Popularity... Our resident therapist and coach, Fi, interviews Ceira Robinson, from London's prestigious Mayfair cosmetic surgery scene. Might Like this? https://youtu.be/pK6vVHyeWcs?si=hEY6cYBTGeo4VWd6

    This eye-opening conversation reveals the alarming surge in cosmetic procedures, especially labiaplasty among young women, and exposes how social media pressures are driving dangerous beauty standards. The discussion also touches on emerging trends like Ozempic dietary injections and their intersection with body image issues.

    Key Topics Covered:
    • Labiaplasty surgery trends and consultation surges • NHS policies denying necessary aesthetic procedures • Body dysmorphia cycles in cosmetic surgery patients • Social media's toxic impact on women's body image • Risks of cosmetic surgery abroad vs. UK procedures • Ozempic and dietary injection trends affecting body standards • The emotional journey of cosmetic surgery recovery • Making informed choices about aesthetic procedures • Mental health implications of beauty standard pressures
    Essential viewing for anyone considering cosmetic surgery, struggling with body dysmorphia, or concerned about the industry's impact on women's mental health and self-acceptance.

    #CosmeticSurgery #Labiaplasty #BodyDysmorphia #MentalHealth #WomensHealth #SocialMediaImpact #BodyImage #NHS #AestheticProcedures #BeautyStandards #Ozempic #DietaryInjections #FiSclif #CeiraRobinson #TheParadoxOfChange"

    Chapters
    00:00
    The Surge in Cosmetic Procedures
    03:04
    Kira's Journey into Aesthetics
    06:12
    Understanding Cosmetic Surgeries
    08:57
    The Impact of NHS Policies on Surgery Access
    11:59
    Labiaplasty: A Growing Trend
    15:13
    The Cycle of Body Dysmorphia
    17:58
    Social Media's Role in Body Image
    20:56
    Navigating Patient Insecurities
    24:00
    The Personal Side of Cosmetic Surgery
    27:01
    The Balance Between Surgery and Self-Acceptance
    31:53
    Understanding Surgical Procedures and Recovery
    36:45
    The Emotional Journey of Cosmetic Surgery
    39:35
    The Impact of Social Media on Body Image
    41:19
    The Risks of Cosmetic Surgery
    51:20
    Navigating the World of Cosmetic Surgery Abroad
    58:43

    How to find us: https://linktr.ee/theparadoxofchange

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr
  • Anorexia Survivor and Therapist Explains Signs and Help
    May 26 2025

    How do we Understanding the Emotional Roots of Eating Disorders? You might like our other episode Infidelity https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gh-qO5lQg5U&t=1618s

    Elliot and Lauren explore how these disorders manifest differently in athletes compared to the general public, the impact of family dynamics, and the emotional struggles that often accompany these conditions.

    We highlights the importance of recognising the human behind the athlete and the need for healthy boundaries within family relationships. This conversation delves into the complexities of anorexia and eating disorders, exploring the clinical definitions, the psychological struggles faced by individuals, and the need for compassionate care in treatment. Lauren shares personal experiences, highlighting the impact of societal pressures, childhood trauma, and the often misunderstood nature of eating disorders.

    #EatingDisorderRecovery #HealingFromWithin #mentalhealth
    #EatingDisorderRecovery #AnorexiaAwareness #MentalHealthMatters #RecoveryJourney #HealingFromWithin #RiseAbovePodcast #BodyImageStruggles #YouAreNotAlone #RecoveryIsPossible #SelfLoveJourney #theparadoxofchange #lottiepassell-syms

    Connect with Lauren Vickery:
    Website: https://therapytribe.co.uk/

    Follow us https://linktr.ee/theparadoxofchange
    Website: https://theparadoxofchange.buzzsprout.com
    Instagram: @theparadoxofchange
    Twitter/X: @ParadoxofChange

    #AnorexiaRecovery #EatingDisorderAwareness #WarningSignsOfAnorexia #MentalHealthPodcast

    Chapters
    00:00 Understanding Eating Disorders: Warning Signs and Dynamics
    06:00 Mental Health in Professional Sports: The Human Behind the Athlete
    09:03 The Impact of Family Dynamics on Eating Disorders
    11:54 Exploring the Types of Eating Disorders
    15:00 The Role of Emotions in Eating Disorders
    20:17 The Impact of Weight and BMI on Diagnosis
    24:24 The Role of Control in Eating Disorders
    29:09 The Need for Compassionate Care in Treatment
    33:12 Hitting Rock Bottom: The Turning Point in Recovery
    35:17 Understanding Bingeing and Purging Behaviors
    36:29 Health Implications of Eating Disorders
    37:07 Exploring Different Types of Eating Disorders
    38:12 The Identity Crisis in Eating Disorders
    39:03 The Role of Social Media in Body Image Issues
    40:32 The Relationship Between Mental Health and Body Image
    41:53 The Male Perspective on Eating Disorders
    43:45 The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Eating Disorders
    45:49 The Process of Writing a Healing Book
    48:23 Reparenting the Inner Child
    50:11 Recognising Signs of Eating Disorders in Children


    How to find us: https://linktr.ee/theparadoxofchange

    Show More Show Less
    54 mins
  • Communication and Dating and what to learn
    May 5 2025

    Expert Advice On Intimacy, Sex & Relationships. We discuss everything from dating, to love bombing vs limerence to conscious uncoupling. You may like 'Do Happy People Cheat?': https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gh-qO5lQg5U

    A conversation with sex and intimacy specialist Lottie Passell-Syms, hosted by mental health podcast creators James Penny and Sam Bell:

    Sam and James our the brains behind "Flex Your Feelings" and this episode reveals hidden truths about modern dating advice and relationship healing in 2025.

    This therapist and coach workshop-style conversation combines professional insights with playful, actionable wisdom for relationship maintenance.

    Flex Your Feelings
    A mental health and wellness podcast hosted by James Penny, an 'almost sane' therapist specialising in child mental health, and Sam Bell, a 'former, all-round insecure idiot' on his own entrepreneurial journey. We take deep dives into important subjects while staying irreverently surface level, ensuring to connect with your inner child along the way. Our show embraces acceptance of others regardless of sexual orientation, focusing on seeking support and personal transformation.

    In this episode, we welcome intimacy and relationship specialist Lottie Passell-Syms. We discuss the importance of communication in relationships, the changing landscape of dating, and the need for empathy and connection. Lottie shares insights from her twenty years of experience in the field, emphasizing the significance of understanding each other's needs and expectations. This episode provides valuable insights into fostering healthier relationships and understanding individual needs.Chapters

    Pull up a chair, settle in, and 'flex your feelings'.
    https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/flex-your-feelings/id1738814183

    CHAPTERS:
    00:00 Introduction
    00:53 Understanding Intimacy
    03:09 Modern Dating Landscape
    05:58 Communication Essentials
    11:49 Expectations & Needs
    18:11 Empathy & Connection
    24:01 Power Dynamics
    35:22 Generational Perspectives
    43:33 Childhood Scripts
    49:11 Sexual Communication
    55:12 Anticipation & Play
    1:01:32 Breaking Taboos
    1:05:53 Limerence vs Love
    1:17:20 Conscious Uncoupling
    1:23:22 Relationship Maintenance
    1:29:00 Healing After Breakups

    **************

    🔍 KEY INSIGHTS:
    - Why modern relationships need more than just attraction
    - How to maintain intimacy in long-term partnerships
    - Breaking free from childhood relationship patterns
    - The truth about love bombing vs. limerence
    - Practical tools for better communication

    🎯 CONNECT WITH US:
    Website: https://theparadoxofchange.buzzsprout.com
    Instagram: @theparadoxofchange
    Twitter: @ParadoxofChange

    📧 WORK WITH LOTTIE:
    Website: lottie4salesims.com
    Location: Otterbourne, Hampshire

    #RelationshipAdvice #IntimacyTips #CouplesTherapy #ModernDating #MentalHealth #SexualWellness #RelationshipGoals #PersonalGrowth #FlexYourFeelings #ParadoxOfChange

    https://linktr.ee/theparadoxofchange

    How to find us: https://linktr.ee/theparadoxofchange

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 36 mins
  • Can a MONTH Without SEX Spark Romance Again? From Room Mates to Romance
    Apr 21 2025

    From Room Mates to Romance... How can we rescue the SEX and INTIMACY from a potentially failing relationship and rekindle the spark we're looking for into something even better! What if no sex leads to infidelity (https://youtu.be/Gh-qO5lQg5U) and, What if consciously choosing to pause your sex life could be the very thing that saves your relationship?

    Summary
    This week Lottie and Elliot explore the decline of intimacy in relationships, emphasising the importance of communication and the role of sensuality over sexuality. They discuss the concept of pausing sexual activity as a means to rediscover connection and intimacy, highlighting the significance of radical honesty and trust. Practical steps for couples to rebuild intimacy are also provided, along with insights into the dynamics of limerence and power struggles within relationships.

    Takeaways
    Communication and intimacy often decline together in relationships.
    Pausing sex can lead to deeper emotional connections.
    Sensuality can be prioritised over sexual expectations.
    Rediscovering touch can enhance intimacy without pressure.
    Radical honesty is essential for rebuilding trust.
    Limerence can complicate relationship dynamics.
    Couples often transition from lovers to roommates due to lack of communication.
    Trust levels affect the quality of conversations in relationships.
    Practical exercises can help couples reconnect emotionally.
    Intimacy is a journey that requires effort and commitment.

    Sound Bites
    "It's the glue that builds relationship."
    "What does sex mean to you?"
    "Intimacy is hypnotic."
    "We don't talk anymore, we argue mostly."
    "The journey from roommates to lovers."
    "We need radical honesty, don't we?"
    "What do you need from me right now?"


    Chapters
    00:00 The Decline of Intimacy
    02:58 The Power of Pausing Sex
    05:56 Exploring Sensuality Over Sexuality
    09:04 Rediscovering Connection Through Touch
    11:50 The Role of Communication in Relationships
    15:00 Understanding Limerence and Power Struggles
    17:57 The Journey from Roommates to Lovers
    21:01 Radical Honesty and Trust in Relationships
    24:05 Practical Steps to Rebuild Intimacy


    KEYWORDS: sex, dating advice, love, emotional connection, romance, intimacy, personal growth, dating, communication, love advice, relationships, love stories, romance advice, couple goals, relationship goals, roommates

    How to find us: https://linktr.ee/theparadoxofchange

    Show More Show Less
    37 mins
  • Do Happy People Cheat? Our resident sex and intimacy therapist shares all... Episode #023
    Mar 29 2025

    Rethinking infidelity - part 2 ... Exploring the definitions, the dynamics of micro affairs, and the emotional and physical impacts on relationships. The thrill and dopamine effects associated with infidelity, link to Episode 1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H6JUnK131nI&t=1250s

    They also touch on the changing dynamics of relationships and the rising prevalence of affairs. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of infidelity, exploring themes of honesty, emotional navigation, and the impact of modern relationships. They discuss the importance of communication in therapy, the distinction between forgiveness and acceptance, and the potential for growth following infidelity. The conversation emphasises the need for honesty in counseling and the challenges faced by couples in navigating their emotions and decisions.

    Takeaways
    Some people do second chances, some people don't.
    Affairs can lead to relationship growth if navigated properly.
    Micro affairs can breach trust without physical intimacy.
    Dopamine plays a significant role in the excitement of affairs.
    Emotional affairs can be more damaging than physical ones.
    Guilt and shame are common feelings after infidelity.
    Repairing a relationship requires active participation from both partners.
    Accountability is crucial for healing after an affair.
    The dynamics of relationships are changing, with more couples seeking individual therapy first.
    Affairs are on the rise, reflecting changing societal norms. Honesty is crucial in counselling settings.

    Infidelity often leads to complex emotional navigation.
    Support systems are essential for couples dealing with infidelity.
    The impact of modern technology on relationships is significant.
    Forgiveness and acceptance are distinct processes in recovery.
    Trust takes time to rebuild after infidelity.
    Communication is key to understanding relationship dynamics.
    Affairs can sometimes lead to deeper conversations and growth.
    Understanding personal motivations is important in therapy.
    Therapy can help clarify intentions and commitment levels in relationships.

    Resources:
    Rethinking infidelity ... a talk for anyone who has ever loved | Esther Perel | TED: https://youtu.be/P2AUat93a8Q?si=kzk12fQffKddgrw-

    Chapters
    00:00
    Understanding Affairs: Definitions and Dynamics
    03:06
    Micro Affairs: The Subtle Breach of Trust
    06:06
    The Thrill of the Affair: Dopamine and Excitement
    09:02
    Emotional vs. Physical Affairs: The Impact on Relationships
    12:03
    Navigating Guilt and Regret: The Aftermath of Infidelity
    15:04
    Repairing Relationships: The Path to Healing
    17:50
    The Role of Accountability in Healing
    21:01
    The Rise of Affairs: Changing Dynamics in Relationships
    26:42
    The Importance of Honesty in Counseling
    29:05
    Navigating Emotions and Decision-Making
    30:47
    The Modern Challenges of Infidelity
    34:35
    Forgiveness vs. Acceptance in Recovery
    38:17
    Trust and Instinct in Relationships
    42:14
    The Complexity of Affairs and Relationship Growth
    48:00
    Understanding Commitment in Therapy


    🔗 Follow us on:
    🎙️ The Paradox of Change Podcast: https://theparadoxofchange.buzzsprout...
    📲 Instagram: / theparadoxofchange
    📺 Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theparadoxofchange
    📢 If you’ve experienced infidelity or are working through trust issues, let us know your thoughts in the comments! ⬇️
    https://linktr.ee/theparadoxofchange

    💔 why did my boyfriend cheat on me?
    💔 why did my girlfriend cheat on me?
    💔 why did my partner cheat on me?

    How to find us: https://linktr.ee/theparadoxofchange

    Show More Show Less
    53 mins
  • Modern Man: A Therapist's Guide to Modern Male Mental Health
    Feb 23 2025

    The hidden crisis of male mental health in 2025. From workplace struggles to finding authentic connection, we uncover why so many men feel lost today. You might also like: • Men are losing their masculinity #017

    Today we sit down with BetterHelp therapist Richard Whitenstall.

    🎯 In This Episode:
    • Why men are struggling to find their place in modern society
    • The impact of workplace dynamics on mental health
    • How autism and vulnerability intersect with relationships
    • Understanding misogyny vs misandry in today's world
    • Practical guidance for men seeking direction

    💡 Key Takeaways:
    • Recognition of male vulnerability in therapy
    • The importance of authentic connection
    • Navigating workplace mental health
    • Building healthy relationship dynamics

    🔍 Featured Guest:
    Richard Whitenstall - BetterHelp Therapist specialising in male mental health and relationship dynamics

    🔗 Follow us on:
    🎙️ The Paradox of Change Podcast: https://theparadoxofchange.buzzsprout...
    📲 Instagram: / theparadoxofchange
    📺 Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theparadoxofchange

    RELATED HELP:

    • Richard Whitenstall - website https://gettherecounselling.co.uk
    • Heads Up Guys - https://headsupguys.org
    • https://www.ladzapp.co.uk


    How to find us: https://linktr.ee/theparadoxofchange

    Show More Show Less
    58 mins
  • Infidelity - The Many Faces of Affairs
    Jan 31 2025

    📢 Episode 21: The Truth About Infidelity, Affairs, & Healing Relationships

    💔 Why do people cheat? How does limerence (obsessive attraction) impact relationships? Can couples repair trust after an affair? In this episode of The Paradox of Change, Elliot Burgess explores infidelity, emotional affairs, attachment theory, and the complex emotions of betrayal.


    🔎 Topics Covered:
    ✅ Types of Affairs: Emotional, Physical, Financial, & Online Affairs
    ✅ Attachment Theory & Infidelity: How Childhood Influences Relationship Choices
    ✅ Limerence & The Science of Attraction: Why Some Affairs Feel Addictive
    ✅ Healing After Cheating: Steps to Rebuild Trust & Navigate Forgiveness
    ✅ The Role of Transparency & Boundaries in Preventing Affairs
    ✅ Gottman’s Four Horsemen of Relationship Breakdown & How to Fix It
    🎧 Listen to the full episode & subscribe for more deep conversations on relationships, psychology, and change.

    Additional Help:

    Esther Perel:
    "Rethinking Infidelity: A Talk for Anyone Who Has Ever Loved" (TED Talk):
    In this insightful talk, Esther Perel explores the complexities of infidelity, discussing why people cheat and how couples can navigate the aftermath.
    Watch the TED Talk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P2AUat93a8Q

    "Infidelity: Why I Wrote a Book About America's Most Controversial Topic":
    Perel discusses the ubiquity of infidelity and the importance of addressing it openly.
    Read the Article: https://www.estherperel.com/blog/infidelity-why-i-wrote-a-book-about-americas-most-controversial-topic

    John Gottman:
    "The Four Horsemen: Criticism, Contempt, Defensiveness, and Stonewalling":
    Gottman identifies four detrimental communication behaviors that can predict the end of a relationship and offers insights into recognizing and addressing them.

    Read the Article: https://www.gottman.com/blog/the-four-horsemen-recognizing-criticism-contempt-defensiveness-and-stonewalling/

    "The Four Horsemen: The Antidotes":
    This piece provides strategies to counteract the Four Horsemen behaviors, promoting healthier communication patterns in relationships.
    Read the Article: https://www.gottman.com/blog/the-four-horsemen-the-antidotes/

    These resources offer profound insights into understanding and improving relationship dynamics, particularly concerning infidelity and communication challenges.

    📌 Timestamps:
    00:00 Understanding Infidelity: A Complex Topic
    02:52 Physical vs Emotional Affairs: What’s the Difference?
    05:59 Limerence: The Science of Obsessive Love & Affairs
    09:02 Types of Infidelity: Beyond the Obvious Signs
    12:06 The Role of Remorse in Repairing Relationships
    14:51 Why Too Many Details About an Affair Can Be Harmful
    18:02 How Affairs Begin: The Cup of Tea Syndrome
    21:13 Online Affairs & The New Challenges in Modern Relationships
    23:48 The Importance of Intimacy in Relationship Repair
    26:51 Vulnerability & Communication: The Key to Preventing Affairs
    31:48 Navigating the Emotional Pain & Grief Cycle of Infidelity
    37:25 Forgiveness & Rebuilding Trust After Betrayal
    40:54 The Role of Transparency & Boundaries in Relationships
    45:27 Can Relationships Grow After Infidelity?

    🔗 Follow us on:
    🎙️ The Paradox of Change Podcast: https://theparadoxofchange.buzzsprout.com
    📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theparadoxofchange/
    📺 Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theparadoxofchange
    📢 If you’ve experienced infidelity or are working through trust issues, let us know your thoughts in the comments! ⬇️
    https://linktr.ee/theparadoxofchange

    💔 why did my boyfriend cheat on me?
    💔 why did my girlfriend cheat on me?
    💔 why did my partner cheat on me?

    How to find us: https://linktr.ee/theparadoxofchange

    Show More Show Less
    48 mins
  • From Courage to Confidence: Lessons from 2024 on Therapy, Coaching, and Growth
    Jan 12 2025

    “Change doesn’t happen unless you make it happen.”

    In this special year-end episode of The Paradox of Change podcast, Elliot, Lottie, and Fi reflect on the transformative journey of 2024, sharing personal stories, professional breakthroughs, and key lessons from their work in therapy, coaching, and business. From Fee’s leap into entrepreneurship and Lottie’s work as a sex and relationship therapist to Elliot’s insights into health and well-being, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways for therapists, coaches, and anyone passionate about personal growth.
    The episode also explores the themes of courage, confidence, and authenticity, diving into the challenges of marketing as a therapist, the mindset shifts required for success, and the launch of The Playbook—a comprehensive guide blending coaching and counseling techniques. Looking ahead to 2025, the hosts discuss their aspirations for the podcast, including featuring high-energy guests, client stories, and expanding their impact.

    https://linktr.ee/theparadoxofchange
    https://www.lottiepassellsyms.com/
    https://www.affirmbeliever.co.uk/
    https://www.instagram.com/fifisclif/

    Takeaways
    Embrace change as a necessary part of growth.
    Mindset is crucial for success in therapy and business.


    SEO Chapter Titles:
    00:00 - Welcome to The Paradox of Change Podcast
    01:05 - Introducing the Hosts: Fee, Lottie, and Elliot
    03:58 - Fee’s Year of Courage: Quitting a 14-Year Career for Coaching
    06:10 - Mindset, Money, and Marketing: Shifting Therapist Perspectives
    10:05 - Overcoming the Fear of Being Seen and Celebrating Wins
    15:03 - Lottie’s Journey: From Counsellor to Sex and Relationship Therapist
    19:52 - The Playbook Launch: Bridging Coaching and Counselling
    24:54 - Health as Wealth: Lessons Learned from 2024
    30:08 - Looking Ahead: Aspirations for 2025 and POC Guests
    39:06 - Authenticity in Therapy and Business: Embracing the Imperfect



    #MentalHealth #Therapy #Coaching #PersonalGrowth #MindsetMatters #BusinessCoaching #CouplesTherapy #Counselling #ThePlaybook #CourageOverComfort #TherapistMarketing #podcastshow #pocpodcast #theparadoxofchange

    How to find us: https://linktr.ee/theparadoxofchange

    Show More Show Less
    46 mins