Liberté - Free to Be Rachel Peru

Have you ever felt paralyzed by fear, unable to make the leap towards the life you truly desire? 

 Today's podcast features Heidi Fossali, life coach and author of "Frightened to Fabulous," where she recounts the pivotal moments of leaving an unhappy marriage and the resilience it took to rebuild her life as a single mother abroad. Her journey isn't just a story of personal victory; it's a beacon for anyone searching for the courage to pursue authentic joy and passion.

 I first met Heidi at a Noon retreat hosted by Eleanor Mills and we’ve been following each other’s journey ever since. Heidi has an infectious zest for life and is helping other women find theirs too.

 Discovering who we truly are is often a journey that intensifies in our midlife years, where change becomes not just a want, but a need. Heidi and I discuss the emotional whirlwinds that accompany these transformations, whether it's navigating the new terrain of divorce, redefining a career path, or adjusting to the empty nest when children leave home. 

Heidi shares, with permission, some of her clients’ own transformations, from overlooked to full of confidence is a powerful testament to the strength that lies in every woman. Moreover, we delve into the pressing issues that women in their 40s and beyond face—from the nuances of menopause to the importance of rekindling a relationship with one's body and spirit.

 We address the deep-seated topic of nurturing self-worth and the radiance that comes from within. Heidi highlights how true self-confidence is cultivated through internal clarity, nourishment, and physical well-being, rather than superficial makeovers. Whilst a flash of red lipstick might give you a quick lift , it’s the inner work that will make a difference?

 Heidi has lived in some fabulous locations, including Los Angeles, London and now South of France and she shares her global insights on aging and self-assurance, urging us to empower the next generation to break free from self-limiting beliefs. 

As we close, we tackle the profound impact of authenticity and community support—encouraging listeners to embrace their own narratives, to speak their truth, and connect with a world that thrives on shared stories of empowerment.

Follow Heidi on instagram @Heidi.fossali

I'll be back in a fortnight , In the meantime,

Keep being fabulous

Rachel x

 Key Notes-

(02:23 - 04:00) Breaking Free from Traditional Values (96 Seconds) 

(07:07 - 08:34) Transformation Journey (87 Seconds) 

(12:36 - 13:33) Rediscovering Confidence and Passion (57 Seconds) 

(22:51 - 24:00) Self-Confidence and Personal Transformation (69 Seconds)

(26:52 - 28:33) Empowering Women Through Public Speaking (101 Seconds) 

(30:40 - 31:37) Embracing Self-Love and Intuition (57 Seconds) 

(35:36 - 36:07) Finding Connection and Purpose in Midlife (31 Seconds) 



#Midlife, #Transformation, #Divorce, #Reinvention, #Empowerment, #Self-Confidence, #Personal Growth, #libertefreetobe #midlifestories

 


---

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/libertefreetobe/message

Have you ever pondered the threads that stitch together the story of our lives with the clothes we wear? 

Tee Gray, whose roots in Leeds’s historic fashion industry, blossomed amidst the vibrant fashion and clubbing scene of 80's London, takes us on an eclectic journey.

As we traverse the city's evolving music and fashion landscape, Tee's transformation from psychiatric nursing to a creative life in fashion embodies the synergy of personal growth and sartorial expression. 

Tee shares candid stories of overcoming setbacks and celebrates the pro-aging movement's spotlight at London Fashion Week to an opportunity to shoot with Rankin.

 Fashion's fleeting trends often overshadow the pressing need for sustainability and ethical production; this episode challenges the status quo. 

Tee's insights spotlight the resurgence of garment altering and ethical consumption, particularly among millennials. Tee shares her own love of collecting preloved jewellery and iconic fashion pieces that she not only incorporates in to her own wardrobe but also sells in her TrueStreetCurator  collection, available at the Red House in York.

 This episode is a patchwork of perspectives, experiences, and revelations that promise to leave you inspired to create a wardrobe that tells your unique story, one that's responsibly chic and timelessly fashionable.

 I had the pleasure of interviewing Tee in the newly launched Trad Collective store in the heart of Leeds, which was the perfect place to discuss our love for pre-loved and reworked sustainable fashion. I came away with an amazing reworked vintage denim jacket with a fabulous Frida Kahlo print on the back. It’s definitely worth a visit!

 I left our conversation feeling not only inspired but even more determined to fight against ageism in the fashion industry because it’s women’s voices like Tee’s that need to be part of the fashion forward conversation. Older women have lived experiences and wisdom to share that the next generation can learn so much from. 

 To find out more about Tee Gray visit-

IG @truestreetcurators

X  @truemuse1

Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/tee-gray/

 I'll be back in a fortnight but in the meantime.  

Keep being fabulous  

Rachel x ⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/libertefreetobe⁠⁠⁠




---

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/libertefreetobe/message

Ever wondered how a melody can lift spirits or a chorus can heal hearts?

Join us as I welcome back the remarkable Sophie Garner, whose voice and vision are transforming lives through the power of singing. Sophie first joined the podcast in 2020 (Ep.57) and has been on a non-stop mission since we last spoke.



Sophie shares her journey since 2020, from empowering corporate executives with song to facilitating workshops that champion emotional healing. Her work with a diverse array of groups, including those navigating the aftermath of brain injuries and teenagers confronting trauma, is nothing short of transformative. Prepare to be inspired by Sophie's stories of levelling the playing field with a melody and the profound impact that music and singing can have on personal growth. 

 

We chat about the magic that happens when we sing—how the release of endorphins and serotonin can alleviate pain and create a sense of connection that's as palpable as the harmonies in a choir. We tackle the myth of 'tone-deafness' and share uplifting stories of individuals who've found their voice beyond the shadows of childhood singing snags. I witnessed the power of Sophie’s community choir workshops at last year’s Womanifest, where she brought together a group of strangers and within an hour had created a harmonious choir that performed live that day, it was magical to watch.

 

Sophie is also on a mission to unlock people’s creativity with her new book "Reawakening the Creative Playmaker," which will be out this month and I am very proud to have contributed , sharing my own reconnection with creativity later in life. 



I am so excited about our upcoming workshop , Sophie and I invite you to join us, on Saturday 20th April, In Leeds for an event that's more than just a choir session—it's a gathering of empowerment, creativity, and community.

The day is going to be an incredible experience of empowerment through singing and creative self expression and  built body confidence. Sophie is a professional  singer and the UKs Choir to Confidence coach,  through her expert knowledge, she will support and guide you, connecting you to your own unique voice and power, unleashing your creativity. We will learn three songs and perform them live on social media at the end of the day. It's going to be magical.

You can find out more here- https://www.tickettailor.com/events/sophiegarner/1184339 

So, tune in, harmonize with us, and rediscover the joy of creative living.

To find out more about Sophie's work visit-⁠Sophie Garner⁠

You can also follow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sophie.garner/

Key points-

00:00) - Reconnecting with Singer and Choir

(08:18) - The Healing Power of Singing

(18:24) - Reawakening Creative Playmaker

(28:31) - Women Empowering Through Music and Community

(35:23) – The Empowerment Workshop- The Choir workshop

 Keywords-

#Choir #Empowerment #CreativePlaymaker #midlifewomen #Selfexpression #Confidence #Community #EmpowermentWorkshop #Singing, #Selfdiscovery #libertefreetobe #womenspodcast

Keep being fabulous   

Rachel ⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/libertefreetobe⁠⁠


---

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/libertefreetobe/message

Step into a world where art meets activism as we chat with Freda Shafi, the extraordinary British South Asian artist, food writer, vlogger, and newly published author of 'Suitorland'.

She shares her journey of personal evolution, standing tall against the winds of challenge and societal norms. Her novel pulls back the curtain on the lives of South Asian women growing up in West Yorkshire during the 70s, weaving a rich tapestry of community, culture, and the enduring influence of patriarchal systems. Freda's honesty and vulnerability shine as we discuss the mixed emotions that accompany creative expression and advocacy, showcasing the resilience embedded in giving voice to those often silenced. 

Navigating the tides of change, we delve into the pressing topic of menopause awareness, spotlighting the complexities faced by women in different communities. Freda opens up about her own path to understanding this pivotal phase and the responsibility she now feels to illuminate this often-misunderstood experience. We dissect the critical role oestrogen plays in women's well-being and the empowering act of making informed choices regarding menopause treatment. The conversation extends to the significance of representation, celebrating the voices of ethnic minority clinicians who bring diversity and strength to the narrative of women's health.

 If you don’t already follow Freda on instagram then I recommend you start now @fredashafi_spiceitup, her passion for food is a visual treat and leaves you wanting to recreate her recipes as she inspires us to cook from scratch and eat a healthy balanced diet. 

A delightful fusion of food, art, and sensory experiences emerges as we explore how my fine art background intertwines with a passion for culinary creation.

 We round off by embracing the audacity to live authentically, and the courage to transcend boundaries. Join us for this enriching journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and the pursuit of unshackled freedom.

Freda's candid conversation offers an inspirational look at how questioning the world around us can lead to profound strength and representation for those often left unheard.

 Freda leaves us with an uplifting, inspirational message: 

“To be free is to be ourselves without constraints.”

About Freda Shafi

Graduating with two degrees in Fine art, Freda Shafi has had a successful career in the creative sector, from being a lecturer, creative producer and for over twenty-five years she has worked with underrepresented and disenfranchised communities, helping to engage and raise their voices in mainstream cultural venues from theatre, opera north and art galleries. She still works with women from ethnic minority communities, because, as Freda says,

"I feel I can meaningfully support them, as they still face some of the barriers and glass ceilings, that my own generation broke through." In addition to being a published author, Freda is a writer and food columnist for Yorkshire Business Woman and several other publications. Freda has a second book deal and another offshoot to the novel - it's been optioned for TV! So please stay tuned!

EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH SHORT KEY POINTS

(0:00:02) - Empowering Women Through Art and Activism

British South Asian author Freda Shafi discusses her novel 'Suitorland' and its reflection on women's issues, community building through food, and the vulnerability of activism.

(0:17:18) - Empowering Women Through Menopause Awareness

Educating about menopause, importance of oestrogen, informed decision-making, role models, and amplifying minority voices.

(0:26:16) - Menopause, Food, and Future Endeavours

Self-advocacy in perimenopause, using HRT, informed choice, and the connection between food, art, and sensory experiences.

(0:42:23) - Embracing Freedom Through Liberté

True freedom comes from challenging limitations, owning thoughts, and being authentic. Freda's message: be yourself without constraints.












---

S

Valentine's Day often arrives with a mixed bag of emotions,
doesn't it?

Some revel in the celebration of love, while others feel the
sting of societal expectations. What better time to invite one of the UK's leading relationship experts, Kate Taylor, to talk about midlife dating, love, sex and relationships later in life.

I had the pleasure of working with Kate back in 2022 whilst working for Our Time, the online dating for over 50's. A nationwide study, carried out by Our Time, found that far from dwindling over time, more than half of over-50s (53%) claimed they feel friskier and sexier now than ever before. You can imagine Kate and I had a lot to talk about on the radio that day!

The research by over 50s dating service Our Time also found a quarter of over 50s said their relationship and sex life became more exciting after hitting a half century.

Kate's work includes writing for the  The Sun, Readers Digest, GQ, The Daily Mail, you may have even heard Alexa telling you some of Kate's dating tips. Kate is also an author of five books and the Our Time's dating expert.

Kate discusses the surging divorce rates among the 40 to 49 demographics, offering solace and wisdom for those questioning their romantic paths. Both Kate and I found love online, on Match.com, in our forties, and we share our personal experiences and victories, proving that new beginnings can be just a click away.

Navigating the dating scene during menopause can seem overwhelming. Kate’s excellent advice guides you through the intricacies of online dating expectations and how to plan for a comfortable first encounter.

Kate discusses how dating later in life can be a transformative experience, urging you to explore new possibilities of romance.

It's not just about new relationships either. Kate offers some excellent advice on how to rekindle a dwindling long term relationship and why she believes sex is such an important part of that.

EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH SHORT KEY POINTS

(0:00:02) - Dating Relationships in Midlife and Beyond

Midlife dating, Valentine's Day, and online dating are
discussed by relationship expert Kate Taylor and the host, sharing personal experiences.

(0:09:28) - Navigating Dating and Menopause Challenges

Managing the expectations and challenges of online dating,
including menopause, and tips for safe and comfortable first dates.

(0:16:44) - Maintaining Connection During Menopause
Relationships

Understanding hormonal changes and how seeking medical advice can help maintain intimacy during menopause.

(0:25:50) - Confidence and Success in Online Dating

Dating over 50 through online platforms, dispelling
attractiveness myths, presenting oneself positively, and changing perceptions of online dating.

(0:30:14) - Meaning of Liberté and Free to Be

Embrace self-love, try online dating, join the Liberté-Free to Be
community, engage on Instagram, subscribe, and support the podcast.

Kate's website has an amazing collection of insightful blogs, covering a wide range of relationship topics.

To find out more -https://lovekatetaylor.com/

Key words

Midlife Romance, Valentine's Day, Divorce, Online Dating,
Menopause, Confidence, Intimacy, Liberty, Free to Be, Relationships, Dating
Challenges, Hormone Replacement Therapy, Sexual Desire, Dating Over 50,
Resilience, Self-Love, Liberté Lifestyle Community,

Thank you for listening to the Liberté - Free to Be podcast, I hope it’s left you feeling inspired.

If it has, why not join the free Liberte Lifestyle Hub over on Facebook: Liberte Lifestyle Hub With over 300 women, all at different stage of midlife, making new connections and supporting one another.

Don’t forget to come and say hello @libertefreetobe on instagram.



If you have enjoyed this the podcast, please don’t forget to like, subscribe, review and share my Socials with your friends, your support really is much appreciated and means so much to me.

I’ll be back in a fortnight with another fabulous gu

My heart is always full of joy when Siobhan Murphy‚ aka @InteriorCurve to the design world‚ steps into a room, her presence is a brilliant burst of colour and confidence. Siobhan joins me to share her story, from childhood sketches to her celebrated status as a successful interior designer, best-selling author and body confidence activist.


Siobhan's journey through the BBC'S 'Interior Design Masters' TV show and beyond serves as a testament to living authentically, and together we explore her journey and acknowledge the bravery needed to let your personal style shine. that won’t fail to inspire.


Siobhan recounts leaving the world of the NHS to embrace her creative talent, into the realm of design, initially sparked by a transformative sabbatical. Moments of uncertainty are laid bare, be it on live TV with no safety net or stepping out to present to large audiences. The thread that connects us all, the exhilarating leap of faith into new chapters of our careers, emerges as we discuss the growth that comes from pushing beyond our comfort zones.

All while fostering that 'fake it till you make it' mentality that's often the secret weapon against those whispers of doubt.
Siobhan shares her dreams‚ from expanding her wallpaper design brand, chasing fresh television prospects, penning another book‚ along with the ever-present balancing act between business demands and creative flow.


As we wrap up, the conversation turns to the art of accepting compliments, the importance of self-acceptance, and supporting each other through midlife's vibrant journey.


Join us, and don't forget to celebrate every bit of your fabulous self along the way.
Find out more about Siobhan- https://www.interiorcurve.co.uk/


EPISODE CHAPTERS
(0:00:05) - Empowering Women's Midlife Journey
(0:06:04) - From Hesitation to Confidence
(0:17:20) - Maximalism
(0:24:02) - Career Transitions and Taking Risks
(0:31:30) - Future Plans and Inspirations
(0:36:05) - Accepting Compliments and Being Yourself
(0:40:42) - Inspiration and Support in Midlife Community

KEY POINTS

(0:00:05) - Empowering Women's Midlife Journey
Interior Curve's Siobhan Murphy shares her journey from fashion to interior design, body confidence activism, and bold, statement-driven designs.
(0:06:04) - From Hesitation to Confidence
Transition from corporate job to creative freedom, finding joy in work, taking a chance on the Interior Design Masters TV show, and embracing personal style.
(0:17:20) - Maximalism
Maximalism in design is about playful layering, personal expression, and the synergy between fashion and interior design.
(0:24:02) - Career Transitions and Taking Risks
Behind-the-scenes of live TV, challenges of digital content, personal growth, and choosing passion over familiarity.
(0:31:30) - Future Plans and Inspirations
A multi-talented creative discusses expanding their wallpaper business, television opportunities, and authoring a book, while finding inspiration in travel.
(0:36:05) - Accepting Compliments and Being Yourself
Accepting compliments, acknowledging creativity, and embracing individuality in style and surroundings for self-contentment.
(0:40:42) - Inspiration and Support in Midlife Community
Empowerment, connection, and celebration of freedom in midlife.


Thank you for listening to the Liberté- Free to Be podcast, I hope it’s left you feeling inspired.
If it has, why not join the free Liberte Lifestyle Hub over on Facebook.With over 300 women, all at different stage of midlife , making new connections and supporting one another.

Don’t forget to come and say hello @libertefreetobe on instagram.
I’d love to know what Free to Be means to you?


If you’re loving the podcast don’t forget to subscribe, rate, share with your friends and leave a review, your support is much appreciated.


I’ll be back in a fortnight, but in the meantime.
Keep being fabulous x.




---

Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lib