Trigger warning: This episode includes discussions of suicide ideation, sexual trauma, and religious trauma. Please take care of yourself and skip this one if it feels triggering.

What happens when your entire life has been built on fear, control, and shame, and you finally decide to walk away?

This week, I’m joined by Courtney Wilder, author, speaker, and coach, who shares her powerful story of escaping a high-control religious group and learnt to rebuild her life from the inside out.

After years of suppressing her voice, questioning her worth, and living under constant scrutiny, Courtney made the brave decision to choose freedom, even when it meant starting over completely.

Through our conversation, she opens up about the messy middle of healing, and the anger and isolation that come with leaving everything you’ve ever known.

But she also shares how reconnecting with her intuition, building community, and doing the inner work helped her reclaim her sense of self.

In this episode, we chat about:

• Courtney’s experience growing up in, and breaking free, from a religious cult
• The pressure to be ‘perfect’, how she learned to suppress shame, and the impact of denying her darkness
• How hours of devotion and study led to damaging beliefs, and the link between control and grooming
• The night she packed her bags and left in search of life beyond those beliefs
• How partying, drugs, and stripping became her way of escaping a life that felt out of her control
• What led her back home, and back into the cult, after years of rebellion
• Her journey of rebuilding self-trust after years of fear and manipulation
• The role of the body and intuition when questioning beliefs and programming that aren’t your own

Courtney’s story is raw, honest, and full of twists and turns. A reminder that even after the darkest chapters, healing and freedom are possible.

Connect with Courtney:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seekingwilder/

Website: www.seekingwilder.com

Support the show:

Got a topic idea or would love to share your story on the podcast? Connect with me on

Instagram @lifeafterileftpodcast - I would love to hear from you.

New episodes drop every Thursday. Make sure you’re subscribed, so you never miss a story that could change your life (or someone else's).

And we’d love a 5-star review to help these stories reach the women who need them most.

❤️ Remember: Don’t be silent. Be unstoppable.

What does it really take to rebuild your life after divorce and separation?

This week, I’m joined by Sallyanne Hartnell, divorce coach, strategist, founder of Reflect Coaching, and podcast host.

Sallyanne helps women decide whether to stay or leave a relationship and guides them through divorce with less drama.

With a mix of practical strategies and deep emotional support, she empowers clients to reframe what divorce means, communicate with clarity, and make confident, future-focused decisions, so they can create a life that feels aligned, supportive, and truly their own.

In this episode, we chat about:

• Sallyanne’s own story of separation and divorce, and how it inspired her coaching work
• The biggest challenges women face when navigating divorce, separation, and co-parenting
• Why rebuilding your identity after divorce can feel daunting, and where to start
• The power of choosing yourself in relationships and life after separation
• Practical tips for creating financial independence after divorce
• What it really means to ‘centre yourself’ and live aligned with your values

Sallyanne’s work is a reminder that while divorce and separation can feel overwhelming, they can also be a gateway to clarity, freedom, and self-discovery.

Connect with Sally:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reflectcoaching/

Website: https://www.reflectcoaching.com.au/

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sallyanne-hartnell

Podcast, offers, and resources: https://bio.site/reflect_coaching

Support the show:

Got a topic idea or would love to share your story on the podcast? Connect with me on

Instagram @lifeafterileftpodcast - I would love to hear from you.

New episodes drop every Thursday. Make sure you’re subscribed, so you never miss a story that could change your life (or someone else's).

And we’d love a 5-star review to help these stories reach the women who need them most.

❤️ Remember: Don’t be silent. Be unstoppable.

Is fear something we should avoid, or does it actually make us feel more alive?

This week, I’m going solo with a Halloween-themed episode (costumes and lollies encouraged).

From my very first horror movie experience at seven years old, through teenage sleepovers with zombie films, to scare acting in haunted attractions in the UK and Australia, I’m sharing why horror has been such a huge part of my life, and why I believe being scared is one of the best feelings in the world.

Fear isn’t just about hiding behind a pillow at the movies. It’s about adrenaline, aliveness, and even building community with the people who “get” you. And when fear happens in a safe space, whether that’s a haunted house, making a bold move in your life, or stepping on stage at a live event, it can change everything.

In this episode, I chat about:

• My earliest (and slightly traumatic) childhood horror movie memories
• What it was like working as a scare actor in horror and haunted house attractions
• The community I found through horror festivals and writing for The London Horror Society
• Why safe fear makes us feel alive, from rollercoasters to public speaking
• How being scared connects to growth, bravery, and even business

So, if you’re a horror fan, Halloween lover, or just curious about what it takes to be a scare actor, this episode is for you.

Grab your witch’s hat, line up your favourite spooky film, and let’s talk about why fear can be fun.

Support the show:

Got a topic idea or would love to share your story on the podcast? Connect with me on Instagram @lifeafterileftpodcast - I would love to hear from you.

New episodes drop every Thursday. Make sure you’re subscribed, so you never miss a story that could change your life (or someone else's).

And we’d love a 5-star review to help these stories reach the women who need them most.

❤️ Remember: Don’t be silent. Be unstoppable.

Ever feel like your symptoms aren’t being taken seriously?

This week, I’m joined by Sarah Gray, pharmacist, nutritionist, certified lifestyle practitioner, and now author of a brand-new book all about perimenopause.

Sarah is passionate about helping women demystify this often confusing stage of life and giving them the tools to advocate for themselves.

From hormones to healthcare to simply being heard, Sarah is on a mission to help women stop dismissing their symptoms and start creating a team around them that truly supports their wellbeing.

Sarah shares her professional expertise as well as the personal reasons behind her work, and how her book is changing the way women approach this transition.

In this episode, we chat about:

• Sarah’s unusual symptoms, the dismissal she faced from doctors, and the moment one even questioned if she was making it up
• What perimenopause actually is, when it typically starts, and what’s really happening with your hormones
• Common symptoms of perimenopause vs. what could signal something else (like thyroid or iron issues)
• Why so many women’s symptoms are dismissed, and how to advocate for yourself while building a supportive health team
• The empowering shift that happens when you understand your body and options
• Sarah’s journey of writing her book and what she hopes women will take away from it

Sarah’s work is a reminder that knowledge is power, and that women deserve support, clarity, and compassion through every stage of life.

Connect with Sarah:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_nutrition_pharmacist/

Website: https://thenutritionpharmacist.com./

Book: https://thenutritionpharmacist.com/perimenopause-book

Support the show:

Got a topic idea or would love to share your story on the podcast? Connect with me on

Instagram @lifeafterileftpodcast - I would love to hear from you.

New episodes drop every Thursday. Make sure you’re subscribed, so you never miss a story that could change your life (or someone else's).

And we’d love a 5-star review to help these stories reach the women who need them most.

❤️ Remember: Don’t be silent. Be unstoppable.

Trigger warning: This episode includes discussions of self-harm. Please take care of yourself and skip this one if it feels triggering.

This is one of the hardest episodes I’ve ever recorded.

My heart was racing as I hit record because, for the first time, I’m sharing a story I’ve kept hidden for years - my experience with self-harm as a teenager, and how those scars shaped the woman I am today.

For so long, I carried deep shame about it. I hid my arms, made excuses, and feared people would see me as weak, broken, or simply “seeking attention.” But what I’ve learned is that self-harm is not about attention; it’s about survival when you don’t know another way.

In this episode, I open up about:

• The night I first self-harmed, and why it became my secret outlet as a teen
• The shame, stigma, and isolation I felt while hiding my scars
• How self-harm resurfaced in moments of heartbreak and abuse in adulthood
• The healthier coping strategies I’ve found, from journaling to personal development
• Why I now see my scars as a symbol of resilience rather than weakness

Sharing this makes me feel exposed and vulnerable, but I believe stories like this matter. If you’ve ever struggled with self-harm, or love someone who has, I want you to know you are not alone. There are other ways to cope, and healing is possible.

If my story helps even one person feel less isolated or gives them hope that recovery is possible, then recording this episode was worth every nervous breath.

If you need urgent support, reach out to one of these incredible services:

Lifeline – Crisis support and suicide prevention

Phone: 13 11 14 (24/7)

Text: 0477 13 11 14

Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au

Beyond Blue – Mental health support for anxiety and depression

Phone: 1300 22 4636 (24/7)

Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au

Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au

Resources: https://beyou.edu.au/resources/suicide-prevention-and-response/suicide-prevention/self-harm

Suicide Call Back Service – For people affected by suicide

Phone: 1300 659 467 (24/7)

Website: https://www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au

13YARN – Crisis support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

Phone: 13 92 76 (24/7)

Website: https://www.13yarn.org.au

Support the show:

Got a topic idea or would love to share your story on the podcast? Connect with me on

Instagram @lifeafterileftpodcast - I would love to hear from you.

New episodes drop every Thursday. Make sure you’re subscribed, so you never miss a story that could change your life (or someone else's).

And we’d love a 5-star review to help these stories reach the women who need them most.

❤️ Remember: Don’t be silent. Be unstoppable.

Trigger warning: This episode includes discussions of suicide ideation, self-harm, and drug use. Please take care of yourself and skip this one if it feels triggering.

What does it mean to transform unimaginable loss into a life filled with meaning and purpose?

This week, I’m joined by Irene Jones, entrepreneur and founder of Travel Globe, where she creates women-led travel businesses and experiences that empower, connect, and inspire. She's also a co-presenter on Travel Oz, one of Australia’s longest-running travel series.

After the devastating loss of her daughter, Irene faced profound grief and trauma, yet chose to step forward with courage and purpose.

With raw honesty and infectious energy, she shares how travel, community, and refusing to stay in the darkness became her pathway to healing.

Her story is a testament to the power of women lifting each other up, even in the face of grief, cancer, and the challenges life inevitably brings.

In this episode, we explore:

• Irene’s journey through grief after her daughter’s passing
• How her family navigated loss together and how she found healing through travel
• Why action often comes before emotion in the grieving process
• How Irene discovered her purpose after loss
• Her mission to create empowering, women-led businesses and travel experiences
• How grief, trauma, and mental health challenges can be transformed into resilience and strength

Irene’s story is both heartbreaking and deeply uplifting.

If you’ve ever wondered how to move forward after loss or how to find strength in the small moments, this episode is a powerful reminder that healing is possible.

Connect with Irene:

Website: https://irenejones.com.au/

https://www.travelglobe.com.au/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ijones_media/

https://www.instagram.com/travelglobeagents/

Our live event is back!

Life After I Left - the live event - is back in Melbourne on 16 Oct for our 4th unforgettable event. 4 brand new speakers sharing 4 raw, powerful stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Grab your tickets now: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/life-after-i-left-oct-2025-tickets-1514579691629

Support the show:

Got a topic idea or would love to share your story on the podcast? Connect with me on

Instagram @lifeafterileftpodcast - I would love to hear from you.

New episodes drop every Thursday. Make sure you’re subscribed, so you never miss a story that could change your life (or someone else's).

And we’d love a 5-star review to help these stories reach the women who need them most.

❤️ Remember: Don’t be silent. Be unstoppable.

How does it feel to be shaped by two cultures, always searching for where you truly belong?

This week, I’m joined by Mariana Gaona Lopez, a digital operations strategist, mum of two, wife, queer Mexican woman, and founder of Pink Ocean, where she helps service providers systemise and streamline the backend of their business.

Mariana’s story is one of resilience, curiosity, and the ongoing search for identity. Migrating from Mexico to Australia at 15, she knows what it’s like to navigate life between two cultures.

Through her sexuality journey, motherhood, and entrepreneurship, she’s embraced her identity as a Mexican Australian and created a life that honours all parts of who she is.

In this episode, we chat about:

• Moving to Australia as a teenager and learning to navigate Australian slang, humour, and culture
• Navigating life as a mother of third culture children, a queer person, a business owner, and a dual citizen
• The painful reality of femicide in Mexico, and how it impacts her connection to her homeland
• Building a business, life, and sense of self across two countries
• Her path to entrepreneurship, creating Pink Ocean, and supporting women to streamline their businesses

Mariana reminds us that identity isn’t fixed, it’s something we create, layer by layer, as we move through life.

Her story is both vulnerable and empowering, showing that belonging can be found in the spaces between.

Connect with Mariana:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pinkoceanvs

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@pinkoceanvs

Website: http://www.Pinkoceanvs.com.au

Join The Break Newsletter: https://pinkoceanvs.myflodesk.com/instagram

Our live event is back!

Life After I Left - the live event - is back in Melbourne on 16 Oct for our 4th unforgettable event. 4 brand new speakers sharing 4 raw, powerful stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Grab your tickets now: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/life-after-i-left-oct-2025-tickets-1514579691629

Support the show:

Got a topic idea or would love to share your story on the podcast? Connect with me on

Instagram @lifeafterileftpodcast - I would love to hear from you.

New episodes drop every Thursday. Make sure you’re subscribed, so you never miss a story that could change your life (or someone else's).

And we’d love a 5-star review to help these stories reach the women who need them most.

❤️ Remember: Don’t be silent. Be unstoppable.

Trigger warning: This episode includes discussions of domestic and family violence. Please take care of yourself and skip this one if it feels triggering.

What does it take to break free from generational cycles of abuse and find your voice?

This week, I’m joined by Jess Soto-Ramirez, a mindset and empowerment coach, podcast host, and advocate for women’s empowerment. She helps women rewrite their stories and to lead with confidence, clarity, and purpose.

Jess’s story is one of survival, courage, and the ripple effect that happens when one woman chooses to heal, not only for herself, but for her children, her community, and the generations that follow.

She shares how her mother’s experience with domestic violence shaped her childhood, what it was like growing up in women’s refuges, and the strength it takes to break the cycle of generational trauma.

In this episode, we chat about:

• Jess’s journey from rural Colombia to being raised in Australia by a single mum in search of a better life
• Growing up around domestic and family violence, and the long-term impact on her identity and relationships
• Moving through five schools and three women’s refuges in her first 12 years of life
• How her unsettled childhood fuelled her drive through high school, and her passion to coach women today
• What it really means to break the cycle of generational trauma
• Why environment, community, and supportive relationships are essential for healing
• The ripple effect of sharing your story and inspiring others to reclaim their power
• A powerful message to mothers on the impact they have, and why women’s voices matter in creating lasting change

Jess reminds us that healing isn’t just for ourselves, it’s for the generations that come after us. Her story is both raw and hopeful, showing that breaking cycles is possible.

Connect with Jess:

Instagram: @jesssotoramirez

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/ignite-with-jess-soto-ramirez/id1650700891

Rewire & Rise Playbook - coaching.jesssotoramirez.com/freebie

Our live event is back!

Life After I Left - the live event - is back in Melbourne on 16 Oct for our 4th unforgettable event. 4 brand new speakers sharing 4 raw, powerful stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Early bird tickets are limited, so grab yours now: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/life-after-i-left-oct-2025-tickets-1514579691629

Support the show:

Got a topic idea or would love to share your story on the podcast? Connect with me on

Instagram @lifeafterileftpodcast - I would love to hear from you.

New episodes drop every Thursday. Make sure you’re subscribed, so you never miss a story that could change your life (or someone else's).

And we’d love a 5-star review to help these stories reach the women who need them most.

❤️ Remember: Don’t be silent. Be unstoppable.

What happens when you finally have everything you thought you wanted, but still feel unfulfilled?

This week, I’m joined by Michelle McCarthy, creative agency founder, brand strategist, solo mum, speaker and all-round powerhouse.

From the outside, Michelle had it all, the high-flying corporate career, relationship, new car, the picture-perfect life. But behind the scenes, she felt stuck, unfulfilled, and ready for change.

Her story takes us from leaving a relationship with a couple of suitcases and walking away from the corporate ladder, to starting a business in Australia as an expat with no safety net, all while navigating the curveball of unexpected single motherhood.

Through it all, Michelle has rebuilt her life and business in a way that truly reflects who she is, proving that success doesn’t have to follow anyone else’s rulebook.

In this episode, we chat about:

• Michelle’s journey from corporate marketing to entrepreneur and brand strategist
• What it’s really like to start a business in a foreign country, with no safety net
• Navigating pregnancy, and single motherhood in Australia, with no family support around
• The identity shifts that come with leaving relationships, careers, and old versions of yourself behind
• Why building a business that feels authentic matters more than following trends
• Lessons in resilience, reinvention, and giving yourself permission to start again

Michelle’s story is a powerful reminder that your biggest challenges can also become the foundations for your next chapter.

It’s about trusting yourself, taking bold steps forward, and creating a life and business that truly feels like yours.

Connect with Michelle:

Instagram: @immichellemccarthy

Website: https://michellemccarthy.com.au/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@immichellemccarthy

Our live event is back!

Life After I Left - the live event - is back in Melbourne on 16 Oct for our 4th unforgettable event. 4 brand new speakers sharing 4 raw, powerful stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Early bird tickets are limited, so grab yours now: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/life-after-i-left-oct-2025-tickets-1514579691629

Support the show:

Got a topic idea or would love to share your story on the podcast? Connect with me on

Instagram @lifeafterileftpodcast - I would love to hear from you.

New episodes drop every Thursday. Make sure you’re subscribed, so you never miss a story that could change your life (or someone else's).

And we’d love a 5-star review to help these stories reach the women who need them most.

❤️ Remember: Don’t be silent. Be unstoppable.

What if trusting your gut wasn’t just a feeling, but a doorway into your intuition, psychic abilities, and even spiritual energy?

This week, I’m taking you on a solo episode to share my own story, and if you love a bit of woo woo, this episode is for you.

I shared my very first psychic experiences as a teenager, through toxic relationships where I ignored my intuition, to the ghost stories and spiritual awakenings that eventually led me to embrace this side of myself.

For a long time, I pushed down what I was feeling and sensing. But the truth is, our intuition never lies.

Learning how to protect my energy, ground myself, and open up to spiritual guidance has been life-changing, not only personally, but also in how I show up in relationships, business, and daily life.

In this episode, I share:

• My first psychic experiences and ghost encounters (and why they didn’t scare me at the time)
• How ignoring intuition kept me stuck in toxic relationships for years, and how this was connected to my psychic abilities
• Signs from the spirit world, from handprints to claw marks to nosebleeds, that couldn’t be explained
• The moment a stranger in a nightclub told me exactly what I needed to hear
• What I’ve learned about spiritual energy, lightworkers, and protecting your own space
• How developing your intuition can be a tool in life and business

This conversation is for you if you’ve ever felt a gut instinct, sensed “something” in the room, or wanted to explore your own psychic abilities.

So, if you’re curious about psychic experiences, ghost stories, or simply learning how to tune into your intuition and protect your energy, you’ll want to listen in.

Our live event is back!

Life After I Left - the live event - is back in Melbourne on 16 Oct for our 4th unforgettable event. 4 brand new speakers sharing 4 raw, powerful stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Early bird tickets are limited, so grab yours now: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/life-after-i-left-oct-2025-tickets-1514579691629

Support the show:

Got a topic idea or would love to share your story on the podcast? Connect with me on

Instagram @lifeafterileftpodcast - I would love to hear from you.

New episodes drop every Thursday. Make sure you’re subscribed, so you never miss a story that could change your life (or someone else's).

And we’d love a 5-star review to help these stories reach the women who need them most.

❤️ Remember: Don’t be silent. Be unstoppable.

What if calming your anxiety wasn’t about fixing yourself, but about slowing down, breathing, and being present?

This week, I’m joined by Cortnie Kemp, a somatic and functional breathing coach, contrast therapy instructor, bodyworker, and speaker. She helps women who are stressed, overwhelmed, or in pain release tension and find freedom through these practices.

As a mother herself, she knows the unique pressures and judgments women face, and the importance of creating safe spaces for healing, and community. From ice baths to bodywork to simply remembering how to breathe, her work is all about finding calm in the chaos and finding tools that work for you.

In this conversation, Cortnie shares her journey with anxiety, motherhood, and healing, as well as the practices she now uses to support others in doing the same.

In this episode, we chat about:

• Cortnie’s personal journey with anxiety and postnatal depression, and her path to healing
• Why bodywork is such a powerful tool for healing stored tension and emotion
• How breathwork supports calm, clarity, and nervous system regulation
• The benefits of ice baths and hot–cold therapy for mental health
• What Sacred Union really means and how she now uses offers different modalities to help other women
• The power of presence and ways to start practicing presence today
• Practical ways mothers can find space and release judgment in their daily lives

Cortnie’s story is a reminder that healing doesn’t have to look like striving or fixing; it can be as simple as remembering to breathe, connect, and allow yourself to be supported.

Connect with Cortnie:

Instagram: @cortniekemp

Website: https://www.cortniekemp.com.au/

Our live event is back!

Life After I Left - the live event - is back in Melbourne on 16 Oct for our 4th unforgettable event. 4 brand new speakers sharing 4 raw, powerful stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Early bird tickets are limited, so grab yours now: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/life-after-i-left-oct-2025-tickets-1514579691629

Support the show:

Got a topic idea or would love to share your story on the podcast? Connect with me on

Instagram @lifeafterileftpodcast - I would love to hear from you.

New episodes drop every Thursday. Make sure you’re subscribed, so you never miss a story that could change your life (or someone else's).

And we’d love a 5-star review to help these stories reach the women who need them most.

❤️ Remember: Don’t be silent. Be unstoppable.

Trigger warning: This episode includes discussions of sexual assault. Please take care of yourself and skip this one if it feels triggering.

How do you begin to heal when you can no longer hide from a truth you’ve buried for years?

This week, I’m joined by Lurinda Vollmer, a Somatic Shadow Work Coach and creator of the Surrender Retreat, an immersive healing experience guiding women from survival mode into self-trust, embodiment, and feminine reconnection.

As a support coach for the Shadow Work Alchemy Certification, she brings a trauma-informed, nervous system-led approach to trauma healing, helping women safely meet and integrate suppressed parts of themselves. Blending personal experience, intuitive facilitation, and somatic practices, Lurinda creates transformative spaces where women feel seen, safe, and empowered in their truth.

Today, Lurinda shares a story she has never spoken about on a platform like this before. She opens up about facing the reality of sexual assault after years of denial, and the resilience it takes to heal in a culture that often silences survivors. From navigating the long-term effects of trauma and shame to finding her voice and using it to support others.

In this episode, we explore:

• The moment Lurinda acknowledged her assaults after years of suppression
• How trauma and shame resurface over time, and their impact on mental health
• Her healing journey through retreats, somatic shadow work, and coaching
• What somatic shadow work is and how it supports deep emotional healing
• The importance of supportive networks, therapy, and safe spaces for women
• Why so many women are silenced, and what we can do to change that

Lurinda doesn’t just tell her story, she speaks for those who haven’t yet found their voice.

If you’ve ever felt unseen, unheard, or unsupported in your healing journey, this episode is a reminder, you are not alone, and your voice matters.

Her journey is both powerful and inspiring, carrying a key message, your truth is yours, and no one can take it away.

Connect with Lurinda:

Instagram: @perspectivebylurinda

Website: https://www.perspectivebylurinda.com/

Welcome to Surrender Retreat: https://www.perspectivebylurinda.com/surrenderretreat

Our live event is back!

Life After I Left - the live event - is back in Melbourne on 16 Oct for our 4th unforgettable event. 4 brand new speakers sharing 4 raw, powerful stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Early bird tickets are limited, so grab yours now: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/life-after-i-left-oct-2025-tickets-1514579691629

Support the show:

Got a topic idea or would love to share your story on the podcast? Connect with me on Instagram @lifeafterileftpodcast - I would love to hear from you.

New episodes drop every Thursday. Make sure you’re subscribed, so you never miss a story that could change your life (or someone else's).

And we’d love a 5-star review to help these stories reach the women who need them most.

❤️ Remember: Don’t be silent. Be unstoppable.

Trigger warning: This episode contains discussions of child physical and sexual abuse. Please take care of yourself and skip this one if it feels triggering.

What if the pain of your past could become the foundation of someone else’s healing?

In this episode, I’m joined by Jennifer Ginty, a single mum, podcast host, and entrepreneur, who shares her deeply personal journey of healing from childhood trauma and living with Complex PTSD and Major Depressive Disorder.

From growing up in an abusive home to navigating family court, Jennifer’s early life was shaped by silence and survival.

After years of pushing her past away, it all came to a breaking point, and her healing journey truly began through therapy, group work, and eventually, creating a  therapeutic toy called My Moody Monster.

Jennifer now uses her story to help others better understand their emotions, reconnect with their inner child, and heal from trauma in a way that feels safe, empowering, and real.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Jennifer’s journey from survival to emotional healing
• The moment her brain said "enough", and why breakdowns can be breakthroughs
• The transformative power of group therapy and trauma-informed support
• Creating 'The Moody Monster' to support emotional regulation in kids
• How childhood trauma can echo into adult relationships, and what healing really looks like

Whether you’re in the thick of your healing or just starting to unpack your story, Jennifer’s journey is a reminder that you're not alone, and that recovery, community, and creativity can offer a powerful way forward.

Jennifer and I are available to provide additional resources and organisations that can support you in your healing journey, so please reach out.

Connect with Jennifer:

Website: http://www.mymoodymonster.com

Podcast website: http://www.whennotyetbecomesrightnow.com

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@mymoodymonster

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/mymoodymonster

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/my-moody-monster

TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@mymoodymonster

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/93141440

Our live event is back!

Life After I Left - the live event - is back in Melbourne on 16 Oct for our 4th unforgettable event. 4 brand new speakers sharing 4 raw, powerful stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Early bird tickets are limited, so grab yours now: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/life-after-i-left-oct-2025-tickets-1514579691629

Support the show:

Got a topic idea or would love to share your story on the podcast? Connect with me on

Instagram @lifeafterileftpodcast - I would love to hear from you.

New episodes drop every Thursday. Make sure you’re subscribed, so you never miss a story that could change your life (or someone else's).

And we’d love a 5-star review to help these stories reach the women who need them most.

❤️ Remember: Don’t be silent. Be unstoppable.

What if the parts of yourself you’ve been hiding were actually the key to your healing?

Content warning: This episode includes brief discussions of sexual violence. Please take care of yourself and skip this one if it feels triggering.

This week, I’m joined by photographer, artist, and women’s embodiment facilitator, Sophie Spencer, whose story is raw, powerful, and full of unexpected turns.

Sophie doesn’t just capture images, she captures the essence of who you are beneath the surface.

Through intuitive, emotionally attuned photographic experiences, she helps women feel safe, seen, and at home in their bodies. She also brings this same intention to her branding and web design work, supporting women-led businesses to show up with authenticity and confidence.

From feeling invisible in high school to guiding women in reclaiming their bodies, stories, and sensuality, Sophie’s path reminds us that healing isn’t about fixing but reconnecting with the truth of who you already are.

In this episode, we cover:

• Sophie’s healing journey through trauma, shame, and self-doubt
• The power of embodiment, safe spaces, and deep self-reclamation
• Sophie's experience in a cult-like spiritual community
• Why embodiment is the missing link to creativity, confidence, and joy
• How topless photo shoots became a powerful part of her clients’ liberation
• What it means to reclaim your voice, your story, and your sensuality

This is a wild, honest conversation. It’s raw, inspiring, a little bit juicy, and full of “I feel seen” moments.

Especially for anyone who’s ever struggled with body image, perfectionism, or feeling like you needed to be more to be worthy.

Connect with Sophie:

Website: www.sophiespencer.com.au

Instagram: @sophiespencer___

Branding Instagram: @brandingbysophie_

Support the show:

Got a topic idea or would love to share your story on the podcast? Connect with me on

Instagram @lifeafterileftpodcast - I would love to hear from you.

New episodes drop every Thursday. Make sure you’re subscribed, so you never miss a story that could change your life (or someone else's).

And we’d love a 5-star review to help these stories reach the women who need them most.

❤️ Remember: Don’t be silent. Be unstoppable.

What if going backward was the very thing that moved you forward?

In this solo episode, I reflect on a recent trip back to the UK, which is the first time I've returned to my hometown of Sunderland in six years.

If I'm being totally honest, I was dreading it. But for a trip I wasn’t looking forward to, it turned out to be one of the most healing experiences of my life. So much so… I can’t wait to return!

From facing old trauma and reconnecting with loved ones, to realising that home isn't a place; it's who you are, this is a story of coming full circle and finding peace in the most unexpected ways.

In this episode, I speak about:

• Why returning to my hometown after six years away was one of the most healing things I’ve ever done
• The complicated beauty of family relationships and breaking generational trauma
• Reconnecting with my inner child and finally seeing my parents and brother with compassion
• The unexpected power of letting go of judgement, blame, and outdated stories
• What it really means to come home to yourself, and how to know when you’re ready
• Why the most uncomfortable next step is often the most freeing one

Whether you’ve been avoiding a conversation, a person, or even a part of yourself… this episode is a gentle invitation to stop running and start coming home.

Our live event is back!

Life After I Left - the live event - is back in Melbourne on 16 Oct for our 4th unforgettable event. 4 brand new speakers sharing 4 raw, powerful stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Early bird tickets are limited, so grab yours now: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/life-after-i-left-oct-2025-tickets-1514579691629

Support the show:

Got a topic idea or would love to share your story on the podcast? Connect with me on

Instagram @lifeafterileftpodcast - I would love to hear from you.

New episodes drop every Thursday. Make sure you’re subscribed, so you never miss a story that could change your life (or someone else's).

And we’d love a 5-star review to help these stories reach the women who need them most.

❤️ Remember: Don’t be silent. Be unstoppable.

What if the life you’re meant for starts the moment you finally listen to that inner nudge?

This week, I’m joined by Michelle Gardiner, a speaker, storytelling coach, and founder of The Aspire Series. Her story of packing up everything she knew to follow a feeling might just inspire you to do the same.

From walking away from a life that no longer fit, to building community in Bali, to returning to Melbourne and stepping into a new chapter, Michelle’s story is a powerful reminder that ‘home’ isn’t a place; it’s a sense of self, community, purpose, and belonging.

In this episode, we chat about:

• What happens when you follow your intuition, even when it makes no sense
• The power of community and finding your people wherever you are
• Redefining ‘home’ through connection, identity, inner trust, and purpose
• Navigating life pivots, new chapters, and letting go of what others expect
• What it means to hold an unfounded vision, stand in it fully, and bring it into fruition
• The real talk on motherhood, relationships, and making decisions for you

Michelle doesn’t sugarcoat the messy middle, and that’s exactly what makes her story so powerful.

If you’ve ever wondered “What if?” about a big move, a career shift, or a life change you can’t quite explain, you need to listen to this conversation.

Connect with Michelle on Instagram, LinkedIn⁠, and check out The Aspire Series.

Support the show:

Got a topic idea or would love to share your story on the podcast? Connect with me on

Instagram @lifeafterileftpodcast - I would love to hear from you.

New episodes drop every Thursday. Make sure you’re subscribed, so you never miss a story that could change your life (or someone else's).

And we’d love a 5-star review to help these stories reach the women who need them most.

❤️ Remember: Don’t be silent. Be unstoppable.

What if your biggest setbacks were actually setting you up for success?

This week, I’m joined by TEDx speaker, speaking coach, and all-around powerhouse Trang Nova, whose story will have you feeling fired up to rewrite your own.

From being the shy, introverted kid who never felt like she fit in, to building a business that helps others find their voice, Trang is proof that your past doesn’t define your potential.

Now, she’s on a mission to help more people speak with confident authority, lead powerful movements as a visible leader, and create a life that feels completely aligned.

In this episode, we chat about:

• Growing up in Australia with a traditional Vietnamese upbringing

• Trang’s journey from being a withdrawn introvert to the TEDx stage

• How she overcame self-doubt and built a business around her superpower

• The importance of using your voice to lead, influence, and create impact

• Rewriting your story, both personally and professionally

• Practical advice for making bold moves in your life or business

• Why you’ve already made it, and how to celebrate exactly where you are

Trang doesn’t just talk about confidence, she embodies it. Her story is a masterclass in personal growth, self-belief, and what happens when you stop playing small and start speaking up.

If you’ve ever held yourself back because you didn’t feel ready, visible, or confident enough, this is your reminder: you already have what it takes. And your voice? It’s your biggest asset.

Connect with Trang on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. Check out her website and podcast here.

Support the show:

Got a topic idea or would love to share your story on the podcast? Connect with me on

Instagram @lifeafterileftpodcast - I would love to hear from you.

New episodes drop every Thursday. Make sure you’re subscribed, so you never miss a story that could change your life (or someone else's).

And we’d love a 5-star review to help these stories reach the women who need them most.

❤️ Remember: Don’t be silent. Be unstoppable.

You’ve got the job, the relationship, the house… so why do you still feel disconnected?

In this episode, I’m joined by Yasmin Hussain, a transformational mentor for high-achieving women who are ready to break free from emotional eating, self-sabotage, physical, emotional, and energetic issues that have kept them stuck.

With a background in holistic health, shadow work, and embodiment, Yasmin's work goes beyond food and weight loss.

We talk about what it looks like to build your emotional capacity so you can stop repeating patterns, face your shadow with compassion, and actually hold more joy, success, and peace.

In this episode, we cover:

• What it was like for Yasmin to move from a life of privilege in India to starting from scratch in Australia

• How Yasmin healed childhood wounds, trauma, and addiction through shadow work, somatic practices, and embodiment

• Climbing the corporate ladder, travelling internationally, leading teams, managing global projects, and still feeling deeply unfulfilled

• The 18-year relationship she stayed in, even when her intuition told her it wasn’t right, and the reason why she chose to leave

• Emotional eating, dissociation, and how she reclaimed her body and power

• Why healing old wounds helped her find clarity, confidence, and alignment in both life and business

If you're navigating your own path of self-development, healing, or entrepreneurship, this conversation is a reminder that you don’t have to be perfect to move forward - you just need to stay present.

Loved this episode?

Send it to a friend who’s doing the inner work while growing her business. Or take a screenshot and tag me, I’d love to know what landed for you.

Connect with Yasmin on Instagram and check out her podcast.

Support the show:

Got a topic idea or would love to share your story on the podcast? Connect with me on

Instagram @lifeafterileftpodcast - I would love to hear from you.

New episodes drop every Thursday. Make sure you’re subscribed, so you never miss a story that could change your life (or someone else's).

And we’d love a 5-star review to help these stories reach the women who need them most.

❤️ Remember: Don’t be silent. Be unstoppable.

In this week’s episode, I’m joined by Evelyn Lopez Delon. Evelyn is a co-founder of SalesCommand, host of the Legacy Building Mamas podcast, business mentor, and founder of HER Digital Freedom™, a platformhelping ambitious women build profitable purpose-led businesses withoutburnout.

Evelyn reflects on her journey throughout her childhood and how these pivotal moments have now shaped the way she shows up as a mother and business owner. She now mentors other women to build aligned, freedom-filled businesses that honour their family, values, and season of life.

Evelyn’s work proves you don’t have to choose between beinga present mum and building a powerful legacy, you can do both.

In this episode, we cover:

• The moment Evelyn and her family packed up their life in El Salvador and migrated to Australia when she was just 4 years old
• How she navigated grief and change as a child, and how that has shaped her identity and mission as an adult
• The pivotal moment she decided to leave corporate after 17 years, and how motherhood sparked her leap into entrepreneurship, co-founding a business during maternity leave that quickly grew into a six-figure venture
• How she uses the lessons from her childhood to raise strong, self-assured children who know their worth
• The truth about leaving jobs, comfort zones, and how to take the first step
• The power of community and seeking support from women who’vewalked the path before you, when you're rebuilding yourself and stepping outside of your comfort zone

If you’re feeling stuck, if something in your life feels “off” or no longer aligned, this episode will give you the courage to check in, re-evaluate, and take that first step.

Connect with Evelyn on Instagram, her website, and check out her podcast.

Support the show:

Got a topic idea or would love to share your story on the podcast? Connect with me on Instagram @lifeafterileftpodcast - I would love to hear from you.

New episodes drop every Thursday. Make sure you’re subscribed, so you never miss a story that could change your life (or someone else's).

And we’d love a 5-star review to help these stories reach the women who need them most.

❤️ Remember: Don’t be silent. Be unstoppable.

In this solo episode, I open up about something huge, not just for me, but for the heart and soul of my hometown: Sunderland’s emotional return to football success.

I reflect on what it means to leave everything familiar behind, rebuild your identity, and pursue a new path. From growing up in a working-class city to moving abroad, becoming a woman in business, and making a new life. This episode is a journey through my childhood memories, cultural identity, and community pride.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• What it means to grow up in Sunderland
• The cultural pride behind being a “Mackem”
• My connection to the city, and why the team’s recent play-off victory after an eight-year setback isn't just a win on the field, it’s a sign of renewed hope for an overlooked city
• Why Sunderland A.F.C. is more than just a football club
• My reflections on starting over, home, identity, and the power of community

Even if you’re not a football fan, this episode will speak to anyone who’s ever felt the power of belonging, community, and returning to their home city.

Whether you're a woman in business navigating a new chapter, someone who’s left your hometown to chase a dream, or just trying to reconnect with who you are, this episode is for you.

Support the show:

Got a topic idea or would love to share your story on the podcast? Connect with me on Instagram @lifeafterileftpodcast - I would love to hear from you.

New episodes drop every Thursday. Make sure you’re subscribed, so you never miss a story that could change your life (or someone else's).

And we’d love a 5-star review to help these stories reach the women who need them most.

❤️ Remember: Don’t be silent. Be unstoppable.