Flex Your Feelings

James Penney
  • 5.0 (2)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT

I'm James Penney, host of Flex Your Feelings - a self-help and wellness podcast. I am so pleased that you discovered the show and I hope you enjoy the episodes. I interview experts and entrepreneurs who are committed to helping people in their own ways, and they share their insights, experience and wisdom with you. Your support for the show means so much to me, so it is with great respect and humility that I ask you to click the follow button and leave a review, which will help me continue to keep the episodes coming. So, pull up a chair, settle in, and 'flex your feelings'. 

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    Why Addiction Happens — And What It Really Takes to Recover | Mandy Saligari

    Why does addiction keep pulling people back, even when they know it’s destroying their lives? In this powerful episode, renowned addiction therapist Mandy Saligari takes us on her journey from personal recovery to becoming a leading voice in outpatient addiction treatment. Drawing on decades of experience, Mandy uncovers the deeper roots of addiction and explains why recovery isn’t just about stopping — it’s about taking responsibility, changing patterns, and rebuilding a life from the inside out. She shares practical strategies for individuals and families, explores the critical role of early intervention, and reveals why sustainable recovery requires both structure and compassion. Mandy also dives into the influence of family systems, and how building resilience, discipline, and self-awareness can transform not just recovery, but life itself. Whether you’re personally affected by addiction or simply want to understand the psychology behind recovery, this conversation offers clear insights, actionable guidance, and a fresh perspective on what it truly takes to break free. More from Mandy: TEDx: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JD4O7ama3o8 Website: https://www.charterharleystreet.com/ Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Proactive-Parenting-self-destructive-behaviours-self-esteem-ebook/dp/B07GDPVL9K?ref_=ast_author_mpb&fbclid=PAVERTVgQcDqRleHRuA2FlbQIxMABzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA81NjcwNjczNDMzNTI0MjcAAaeqVScOf21RUKSLWxM3RwlUgFmOQt9XuuwrJSpzzNzgnFdq02_G2vtkRriONw_aem_g5583elNw-nM93ahnvx-ig Keywords: addiction, recovery, outpatient treatment, self-worth, mental health, mental health, addiction mental health, mental health awareness, Mandy Saligari addiction, recovery, self-discipline, early intervention, mental health, family systems, therapy, stigma, self-respect, boundaries

    1h 27m

  2. 24 FEB

    Attachment Is the First Language We Ever Learn — And It Never Stops Speaking: Attachment and Adoption | Dr Sarah Mundy

    What does early adversity really do to a child’s developing mind — and how can caregivers help reshape that story? In this episode, clinical psychologist Dr Sarah Mundy, who specialises in early adversity and attachment with adoptive families, unpacks the science and heart behind attachment theory. She explores how early trauma impacts children’s emotional development, behavior, and relationships — especially within adoptive families. Sarah shares practical, compassionate tools parents and caregivers can use to nurture secure attachment, including the transformative power of storytelling in helping children process their experiences and build emotional resilience. This conversation offers hope, clarity, and actionable strategies for anyone supporting a child through trauma recovery. Whether you're a parent, adoptive caregiver, or professional working with children, this episode provides insight into building trust, strengthening connection, and fostering long-term emotional wellbeing. Socials: IG: parenting_through_stories Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Please-Stay-Here-Separation-Parenting/dp/1838014411/ref=sr_1_3?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.5PczhilJ5mo1IU09I65RCBPfP8PqdEmDOaUK9898BxPGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.6EcsyOKO_SFIQ-sXvb6SgjdXNUtpBkknawzsauvYOCc&dib_tag=se&qid=1771865128&refinements=p_27%3ADr+Sarah+Mundy&s=books&sr=1-3 keywords attachment theory, early trauma, adoptive families, parenting, storytelling, emotional wellbeing, secure attachment, trauma recovery

    1h 8m

  3. 17 FEB

    What Happens When Gay Men Choose Connection Over Sex? | with Chris, Founder Of No Sex Gay Weekend

    What happens when gay men take sex off the table? In this episode, Chris shares the bold idea behind No Sex Gay Weekend — a space designed to spark real connection without the pressure of hooking up. He opens up about loneliness in the gay community, the aftershocks of COVID, the impact of chemsex, and how modern dating — from open relationships to swipe-and-dispose culture — can leave people feeling more isolated than ever. This is an honest conversation about intimacy beyond sex, the tension between physical attraction and emotional depth, and why safe spaces for genuine connection matter more than we think. Less pressure. More presence. Real connection. IG: @nosexgayweekend Website: nosexgayweekend.com Keywords: No Sex Gay Weekend, LGBTQ+, emotional connection, gay community, loneliness, open relationships, modern dating, chemsex, friendship, community building, gay man

    53 min

  4. 10 FEB

    How to Thrive Solo: Being Single Is Not a Failure | Michael McQueary

    What if being single isn’t a problem to solve—but a season to master? In this episode, founder of the new app Solo Circle, Michael McQueary challenges the stigma around singlehood, unpacking how societal pressure convinces people they’re “behind” if they’re not coupled up. He shares his personal journey of self-discovery, the power of learning to be in relationship with yourself, and why community changes everything. Discover more about Solo Circle and how to unlearn shame, build a deeper relationship with yourself, and find strength through community. Socials: IG: solo_experiences Website: solocircleapp.com Keywords single life, self-discovery, societal pressures, community, loneliness, self-love, personal growth, relationships, Solo Circle, embracing solitude

    46 min

  5. 27 JAN

    Somatic & Psychedelic Therapy: You’re Not Broken—You’re Disconnected | Christian Snuffer

    What if healing isn’t about “fixing” what’s broken? In this episode, therapist Christian Snuffer reveals how somatic practices and psychedelics are reshaping therapy, unlocking deep, lasting change in body, mind, and nervous system. He exposes why so many of us feel disconnected, how trauma lives in our bodies, and why learning to truly feel again is the key to love, connection, and thriving in life. This isn’t just therapy—it’s a roadmap to reclaiming your humanity. Socials: IG: @_attunement Keywords somatic therapy, psychedelics, mental health, trauma, central nervous system, healing, disconnection, love, relationships, therapy

    1h 17m

  6. 30/12/2025

    Why Most People Fail at Fitness (And How to Avoid It) | Hayden Thomas

    Fitness isn’t about abs — it’s about habits, mindset, and support. Online coach Hayden Thomas opens up about his journey from overweight teenager to fitness coach, and how training reshaped his confidence and mental health. He talks fat loss myths, protein confusion, and why starting small is the key to lasting change. We also explore how Warhammer, play, and community fit into a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. Socials: IG: @haydenthomasfitness Keywords fitness journey, mental health, overcoming barriers, online coaching, Warhammer, weight loss, self-esteem, exercise motivation, health and wellness, fitness, health, diet, weight loss, self-improvement, protein, habits, well-being, nutrition, personal growth

    1h 26m

  7. 19/11/2025

    Dr Matt Slavin | Reconnect: Why Nature Will Revive Your Mind

    Clinical psychologist Dr. Matt Slavin explores how evolutionary psychology shapes our modern minds. From fear and anxiety to collaboration, competition, and connection, he reveals how embracing change—and reconnecting with nature—can transform mental health. Packed with insights on compassion, curiosity, and play, this episode shows how stepping into the wild can heal both mind and society. Socials: IG: @drmattslavin Website: drmattslavin.com Keywords evolutionary psychology, mental health, compassion, collaboration, competition, fear, anxiety, therapy, nature, connection

    1h 8m

  8. 11/11/2025

    It’s OK to Wobble: The Moment I Finally Asked for Help | Jack Murphy

    Mental health advocate Jack Murphy shares his journey from the automotive world to mental health, confronting addiction, stigma, and the myths around therapy. He introduces Wobble, a platform making mental health support more accessible, and urges men to prioritise emotional fitness before crisis strikes. A raw, powerful conversation about breaking barriers and changing how we view mental health. Socials: IG & TikTok: @jackbmurphy_ @wobble.therapy Website: jack@getwobble.co.uk getwobble.co.uk Discount code: FLEXYOURFEELINGS20 - for 20% off all Wobble therapy sessions Keywords mental health, therapy, alcoholism, stigma, early intervention, Wobble, emotional health, community support, personal journey, men's mental health

    1h 6m
See All (30)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

I'm James Penney, host of Flex Your Feelings - a self-help and wellness podcast. I am so pleased that you discovered the show and I hope you enjoy the episodes. I interview experts and entrepreneurs who are committed to helping people in their own ways, and they share their insights, experience and wisdom with you. Your support for the show means so much to me, so it is with great respect and humility that I ask you to click the follow button and leave a review, which will help me continue to keep the episodes coming. So, pull up a chair, settle in, and 'flex your feelings'. 

Information

  • Creator
    James Penney
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    30
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © James Penney
  • Show Website
    Flex Your Feelings

You Might Also Like