Higher Love with Megan

Megan Cooper

Top 5% Spotify Most Shared Podcasts, the Higher Love with Megan Podcast is not just another 'nice-to-have' wellness podcast. It is a disruptive challenge to the status quo, breaking out of the echo chamber of societal narratives within wellness and beyond. Join me, your host, Megan Cooper, a trauma-informed therapist and coach, as we foster an inclusive, diverse space that stands for higher love for all. Through thought-provoking, bold conversations that reunite wellness with social justice and activism, we remember our collective humanity and stand together as ambassadors for change.

  1. PART 2: "Meet The Angry Young Women" Part 2 with Dr Phoebe o'Brien and Megan Cooper

    5 DAYS AGO

    PART 2: "Meet The Angry Young Women" Part 2 with Dr Phoebe o'Brien and Megan Cooper

    In Part 2 of this two-part episode "Meet the Angry Young Women" Megan and Dr Phoebe o'Brien @tenshioppai address the article of the same title in The New Statesman in which they and a handful of British women were misrepresented and manufactured into what the journalist branded 'The Femosphere'. Megan and Phoebe continue to address the missing realities and contexts behind the words and look at the raw polling data to draw differing conclusions. Chapters 00:00 Recap from Part 1 02:23 The Intersectionality of Feminism and Activism 03:31 Art and Performance: A Feminist Perspective 05:35 Chronic Pain and Feminism: A Personal Narrative 07:02 The Intersection of Gender and Systemic Issues 08:44 Medical Misogyny and Women's Health 09:37 Misrepresentation of Women's Experiences 10:15 The Impact of War on Activism 14:09 Gender Dynamics in Activism 14:09 Radicalization Through Global Events 16:31 Emotional Responses to Conflict 18:07 The Value of Life and Gendered Perspectives 22:40 Political Alignment in Relationships 26:06 The Role of Data in Understanding Relationships 26:59 The Importance of Shared Values in Relationships 29:02 Privilege and Political Alignment 30:57 Understanding Political Views and Relationships 32:42 The Impact of Capitalism on Family Planning 34:33 Reproductive Autonomy and Economic Independence 37:02 Social Reproductive Labor and Gender Expectations 39:15 The Need for Alternative Family Structures 41:33 Perceptions of Privilege and Fear in Relationships 45:41 The Role of Advocacy and Activism in Women's Lives 49:54 The Power of Women in Social Justice If you enjoy the conversation, please consider rating the show or leaving a review. Share with anyone else who would appreciate the conversation and see you soon!

    53 min
  2. How Emotional Connection Transforms Men in Relationship with David Chambers

    22 APR

    How Emotional Connection Transforms Men in Relationship with David Chambers

    In this insightful interview, David Chambers shares his journey from a wild, adventurous life to becoming a men's coach focused on emotional connection, masculinity, and relationship health. He discusses societal narratives around masculinity, the impact of the man box, and practical ways men can evolve to create deeper, more authentic relationships. About David: David is a dating, relationships & intimacy coach for men. After growing up in a single-parent, female-dominated home with no male role model in his life, David struggled to understand what masculinity and a healthy romantic relationship entailed. After spending most of his 20s in meaningless dynamics and avoiding commitment. He went on a personal journey towards authenticity, self-awareness, emotional intelligence, purpose, harnessing his sexual energy, vulnerability, presence, openness, and honesty. Through this learning, he was able to break free from gender stereotypes and societal expectations of what a ‘real’ man should be to become his true and authentic self.  He is now in a loving partnership with a son and supports other men to find more fulfilment in dating, love and relationship. Key Themes: Societal narratives around masculinity and the man box The impact of childhood imprints and societal conditioning The role of vulnerability and emotional expression in men's lives Practical steps for men to develop self-awareness and emotional intelligence The influence of the Manosphere and alternative narratives on men's perceptions Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to David Chambers 02:15 David's Journey into Coaching 05:58 The Impact of Breakups on Personal Growth 11:28 Understanding Masculinity and Relationship Patterns 15:58 Avoidance and Emotional Challenges in Men 20:59 The Man Box and Its Effects on Men 26:11 Navigating the Manosphere and Finding Authenticity 30:19 Bridging the Gap: From 'I'm Fine' to Self-Awareness 31:36 Unpacking Emotional Catharsis 35:14 The Challenge of Personal Growth in Relationships 40:26 Navigating Masculinity in Modern Society 47:56 Confronting Societal Issues: Violence Against Women 54:51 Finding Hope Amidst Chaos To connect with David: Instagram - @theauthenticman Website - https://www.theauthenticman.net/ YouTube -  ⁨@TheAuthenticMan⁩

    1 hr
  3. 26 MAR

    🚨🔔SPECIAL EPISODE: What brings you hope? with Zack Alexander, Lewis Wedlock, Andrew 'Bernie' Bernard, Mindset with Muhammad, Leah Kim, Viv Grant and Kaia Allen-Bevan

    This week on The Higher Love with Megan Podcast, we’re doing something a little different. Instead of one full guest conversation, this episode is a special compilation — a collection of snippets from recent podcast episodes, all centred around one simple but very important question: What brings you hope at this time? Because let’s be honest… the world is A LOT right now and when you're paying attention, hope can be hard to hold onto. This episode is a gentle offering — a reminder that hope doesn’t have to be loud or perfect to matter. Sometimes it lives in community, in truth-telling, in resistance, in young people, in imagination, and in the small everyday things that keep us connected to our humanity. You’ll hear reflections from my guests so far in 2026, a mix of educators, activists, storytellers, and change-makers — each sharing what’s helping them stay grounded, open, and connected in these times. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 04:17 Zack Alexander – spiritual guide supporting deeper connection and meaning08:15 Lewis Wedlock – masculinities educator working with young people in schools11:13 Andrew “Bernie” Bernard – educator exploring healthy masculinities in schools 15:32 Mindset with Muhammad – decolonial storyteller and educator challenging dominant narratives 20:18 Leah Kim – storyteller and writer exploring identity, motherhood, and truth-telling23:39 Viv Grant – founder of Integrity Coaching, supporting school leaders and equity in education24:42 Kaia Allen-Bevan – activist and founder of Youth The Gap, amplifying youth voice and social change 26:36 OutroKey Themes: - Hope in difficult times - Community, resistance, and collective care - Young people, change, and possibility - The role of truth-telling and imagination - What keeps us connected to humanity As you listen, you might also ask yourself: What brings ME hope at this time? If this episode resonates, I’d love for you to share it with someone who might need it. And if you’ve been enjoying the podcast, leaving a rating, review, or recommendation really helps more people find these conversations and supports the show more than you probably realise.

    28 min
  4. Motherhood: REAL TALK beyond what society tells us with Leah Kim

    10 MAR

    Motherhood: REAL TALK beyond what society tells us with Leah Kim

    In this episode, I am joined by the brilliant Leah Kim who shares her deeply personal journey through motherhood, racial identity, and mental health, exploring systemic challenges and pathways to liberation. This conversation offers profound insights into maternal mental health, racial identity, and collective healing. About Leah: Leah 수진 Kim is a storyteller, consultant, podcaster, community organizer, and advocate for intersectional justice. A former yoga teacher and Nike's Global Yoga Ambassador for a decade, she is now an author and offers 1:1 editorial support for fellow writers. On the Voices on the Side and Cha with Laura and Leah podcasts, Leah hosts conversations with people of the global majority who inspire her with their advocacy, activism, and stories of resistance and resilience. Her first book — Mom, Unfiltered — will be published in April 2026. She lives in Brooklyn with her husband, son, daughter, and doodle. Key Themes: Maternal mental health and its impact on children The systemic erasure of non-white maternal experiences The journey of self-acceptance and identity post-motherhood The role of community and collective healing in maternal well-being Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Context of Motherhood 02:33 The Premise of 'Mum Unfiltered' 05:58 The Journey to Writing the Book 09:19 Filling the Void in Motherhood Literature 13:30 Personal Identity and Motherhood 19:14 The Impact of Trauma on Self-Perception 24:39 The Complexity of Women's Experiences 29:38 The Pressure to Erase Motherhood Challenges 33:17 Confronting Inner Turmoil 36:33 The Search for Identity in Motherhood 39:52 Racial Identity and Belonging 43:22 The Journey of Self-Acceptance 50:15 Hope and Community in Motherhood 57:44 Healing Beyond the Self Resources: Leah Kim's Website - https://leahkim.org Book: Mum Unfiltered - https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/mom-unfiltered-9798881842437/ To connect with Megan: www.higher-love.com IG: @higherlove_withmegan Like, comment, share with anyone who would benefit from the episode and if you enjoyed the conversation leave a 5* rating or review of the show.

    1hr 5min
  5. Ruffling Feathers: 'Mindset with Muhammad' on The Power of Storytelling

    4 MAR

    Ruffling Feathers: 'Mindset with Muhammad' on The Power of Storytelling

    Storyteller, decoloniser and miseducator, Muhammad draws upon his background in NHS therapies, his skills as a teacher and love of humour and satire to create entertaining but impactful content on our political landscape and current affairs. Together we explore themes of unlearning and the importance of engagement in the face of societal challenges. Muhammad shares his journey from educator to miseducator, emphasising the need to amplify marginalised voices and challenge dominant narratives. We discuss the intersection of mindset, well-being, and politics, highlighting too the role of humour in coping with confronting realities. We also address the pushback faced by those being visible and vocal, finding balance amidst being informed and the importance of building community to foster resilience and hope. Takeaways: - Storytelling is a powerful tool for change. - Unlearning is essential to understanding complex issues. - Mindset should focus on collective well-being, not just individualism. - Humour can be a form of resistance against oppressive narratives. - Facing pushback is part of the solidarity journey. - Community support is vital for sustaining action. - Children's perspectives can inspire hope and change. - Solidarity requires courage and a willingness to speak out. - Education should encourage critical thinking and empathy. - Finding joy and connection within activism is crucial. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Muhammad 03:32 The Journey of Unlearning and Relearning 06:25 Experiencing Palestine: A Personal Awakening 08:47 The Power of Storytelling and Solidarity 10:59 Mindset and Well-Being: A Cultural Perspective 13:40 The Interrelation of Politics and Personal Well-Being 15:46 Language, Politics, and the Power of Words 18:01 Finding Humour in Challenging Times 25:45 The Power of Humour in Activism 27:53 Facing Pushback and Threats 33:26 Finding Confidence and Speaking Out 39:34 Balancing Activism and Self-Care 46:19 Hope Through Education and Community About Muhammad: Storyteller, disruptor and miseducator whose videos "might make you laugh, think or regret following me" Muhammad draws upon his background in NHS therapies and his skills as a teacher to make political satire and informed commentary on the times through which we are living. As a father, he is committed to being a small part of the great ecosystem of change to ensure a better world for the next generation. He holds an expansive view of mindset, seeing it as not an individual experience but interconnected with community and the collective experience. As a Muslim man, he refuses to let his story be told for him in today's climate and is dedicated to challenging narratives and mainstream narratives especially in solidarity with communities experiencing oppression or marginalisation. IG: @mindsetwithmuhammad To get in touch with Megan: www.higher-love.com IG: @higherlove_withmegan If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a 5* rating or review. Subscribe or follow on the platform on which you are watching and share with those who would benefit from the conversation.

    54 min
  6. Breaking Free of the 'Man-Box': Gender-based Violence & Masculinity with Andrew 'Bernie' Bernard

    25 FEB

    Breaking Free of the 'Man-Box': Gender-based Violence & Masculinity with Andrew 'Bernie' Bernard

    In this conversation, I am joined by Andrew 'Bernie' Bernard to explore the complexities of masculinity beyond the 'man box' and address the crisis of violence against women and girls. Bernie has spent the past decades educating teens about gendered inequality and coercive control recognising the importance of education in shaping healthier relationships. Together, we discuss the societal pressures on young men, the role of social and mainstream media in influencing perceptions and the stumbling blocks - centred around what Bernie describes as manufactured male victimhood - that often derail these crucial conversations. Bernie shares personal experiences and insights on how to empower the next generation to challenge harmful narratives and embrace empathy and understanding. This is an essential listen and a complementary episode to Lewis Wedlock on Feminism, Embracing Discomfort and Fostering Brave Spaces. About Bernie: Andrew `Bernie` Bernard is an entrepreneur, a TEDx Speaker, and facilitator who over the past couple of decades has worked with schools, businesses, charities, universities and colleges. He runs signature workshops including 'What Makes a Man/(Hu)Man', 'Sarah's Legacy / Domestic Violence', 'Look What you Made Me Do: Coercive Control Insights' and 'Life by the Balls'. As of December 2025, Bernie has spoken to over 70,000 young people about masculinity, coercive control and domestic abuse. W:  innovativeenterprise.co.uk V:  https://vimeo.com/156256349  Tw / X / IG:  @_WhatMakesAMan_ References: Liz Plank - For the Love of Men Florence Knapp - The Names Melanie Brown - Brutally Honest Andrew Bernard - The Ladder: Supporting students towards successful futures and confident career choices Bernie is currently editing his forthcoming book 'Masculinity, Relationships and Respect in Schools' a guide to discussing sexism, misogyny and 'toxic' / dominance-based masculinity in educational settings. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Connection 03:15 Understanding Masculinity and the Man Box 04:44 The Impact of Hyper-Masculinity 07:25 The Role of Men in Addressing Violence Against Women 08:39 Personal Experiences and Their Influence on Advocacy 10:00 The Importance of Education in Relationships 12:07 Coercive Control and Its Effects on Young People 14:30 The Need for Critical Conversations in Schools 17:15 Challenging Misconceptions About Feminism 19:49 Empathy and Understanding in Education 22:14 Empathy and Gendered Experiences in Public Spaces 24:00 The Normalization of Women's Safety Concerns 26:10 The Role of Social Media in Gender Dynamics 28:20 Media Representation of Violence Against Women 31:50 Understanding Violence as a Men's Issue 34:18 The Complexity of Coercive Control 39:01 Personal Impact of Violence and Societal Awareness 39:27 Understanding Coercive Control 43:16 The Ecosystem of Male Victimhood 50:43 Navigating Hope and Empowerment 54:41 The Journey of Self-Discovery

    59 min
  7. A New Education: Liberation, Legacy and Hope with Viv Grant and Kaia Allen-Bevan

    16 FEB

    A New Education: Liberation, Legacy and Hope with Viv Grant and Kaia Allen-Bevan

    In this conversation, Megan Cooper hosts past guests Kaia Allen-Bevan and Viv Grant, who together share their personal and professional experiences around education. Kaia and Viv describe how their own personal experiences as students catalysed their journeys into education, with Viv being the youngest head teacher in the UK turned founder and director of Integrity Coaching, supporting school heads and senior teachers and Kaia founding Youth the Gap CIC. They delve into the challenges and complexities of the educational system, the importance of inner work for leadership, and the collective responsibility to address systemic harm. The discussion emphasises the need for long-term allyship, unity, and a long-term commitment to anti-racist work in schools, while also reflecting on the coexistence of grief and joy, discomfort and hope. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Backgrounds 03:39 Feelings About Education 06:53 Experiences as Students 17:23 Inspiration for Current Work 20:22 Leading Change in Education 26:30 Resistance and Systemic Harm 29:28 Vision for a Liberated Education 34:55 Awakening to Unity and Resistance 36:23 Defining Anti-Racist Work in Education 39:32 Youth the Gap: Transforming School Ecosystems 41:49 Pro Stewarding the Future: Legacy in Education 46:29 Belonging and Justice in Education 49:59 Walking in the Dark: Navigating Uncertainty 54:44 Invitations to Inner Wisdom and Hope 56:55 Outro About Kaia: Kaia Allen-Bevan is a multi-award winning activist, founder of Youth The Gap and director at Edge of Difference, creative and host, recognised by Forbes and Business Today as making a 'global impact' Kaia invites us all to be comfortably uncomfortable in addressing injustice, and not just leaving it all up to the 'activists' to spark long-term and meaningful change. @kaia.ab @youththegap About Viv: Viv Grant is an Executive Coach, author and public speaker known for her deep insights into leadership, vulnerability and resilience. She is the Director of Integrity Coaching, London's leading provider in coaching services for Headteachers and Senior School Leaders. https://www.integritycoaching.co.uk/ > Please take a moment to leave a rating or review. You can get in touch with Megan at www.higher-love.com @higherlove_withmegan

    58 min
5
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

Top 5% Spotify Most Shared Podcasts, the Higher Love with Megan Podcast is not just another 'nice-to-have' wellness podcast. It is a disruptive challenge to the status quo, breaking out of the echo chamber of societal narratives within wellness and beyond. Join me, your host, Megan Cooper, a trauma-informed therapist and coach, as we foster an inclusive, diverse space that stands for higher love for all. Through thought-provoking, bold conversations that reunite wellness with social justice and activism, we remember our collective humanity and stand together as ambassadors for change.

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