The Keep Smiling Podcast

Lara Rebecca
  • 5.0 (5)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Keep Smiling is hosted by Lara Rebecca. With a focus on wellbeing, mindset, and growth, this podcast features honest and authentic discussions with inspirational guests, with an aim to destigmatise the conversation circulating mental health, raise awareness, and provide hope to listeners.

  1. More Than a Diagnosis: Identity, Purpose, and Learning to Live | Molly Fenton

    4D AGO

    More Than a Diagnosis: Identity, Purpose, and Learning to Live | Molly Fenton

    Today we are joined by Molly, a Welsh women’s health and youth voice advocate focusing on breaking shame and stigmas around our bodies, and enabling difficult conversations. After a childhood ruled by a Brain Tumour she documents her life with illness whilst campaigning on a government level and telling the world about her experiences, from the TEDx stage to the United Nations! She now uses her lived experience to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and encourage more open and honest conversations about our bodies and the realities of living with illness. In this episode, she speaks openly about her journey from diagnosis to empowerment, and how her experiences have shaped her identity, her advocacy, and her outlook on life. She also shares the often unspoken realities of living with illness — from the physical challenges to the emotional and social impact that people don’t always see. Molly reflects on how these challenges can shape your sense of self, your confidence, and how you learn to navigate the world around you. Molly also speaks honestly about turning adversity into purpose, using her voice to raise awareness, build community, and support others navigating their own challenges. Her story is a powerful example of how difficult experiences can become a catalyst for growth, purpose, and meaningful change. IG / Tiktok @mollfenton @loveyourperiod Linkedin ‘Molly Fenton BCAh’ Podcast ‘The GlioBabes’

    55 min
  2. The Power of Vulnerability in Men’s Mental Health | Ben Morris

    FEB 27

    The Power of Vulnerability in Men’s Mental Health | Ben Morris

    Today we’re joined by Benji — a barber, father, and mental health advocate — who is on a mission to change the conversation around men’s mental health. Drawing from his own lived experience, including personal struggles and the loss of loved ones to suicide, Benji speaks openly about pain, resilience, and healing. In this episode, we explore how his childhood and adolescence shaped his identity, the challenges he navigated along the way, and how vulnerability and authenticity were central to his growth.  At its core, this conversation is about encouraging men to speak up, redefining strength, and recognising vulnerability as a powerful pathway to healing. Takeaways Childhood dynamics significantly shape our identities and coping mechanisms.Adolescence is a critical time for self-discovery and understanding one's place in the world.Vulnerability is essential for authentic connections and personal growth.Reinvention is a continuous process that requires self-reflection and honesty.The stigma surrounding mental health can hinder open conversations and support.Building a supportive network is crucial for personal development and healing.Listening and empathy are powerful tools in helping others navigate their struggles.Finding purpose through adversity can lead to meaningful change in oneself and the community. Find Ben: IG: @male.mind.podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/74di64rBQG8gqvhcw4y1Ak

    1 hr
  3. #108 Reframe, Rewire, Rescript Your Mind | Changing Habits and Finding Purpose| Miles Furnell

    FEB 13

    #108 Reframe, Rewire, Rescript Your Mind | Changing Habits and Finding Purpose| Miles Furnell

    Today we’re joined by Miles Furnell - an independent writer, theorist and practitioner who has spent more than three decades applying insights from cognitive behavioural science and motivational psychology to help organisations to engage, influence and inspire people all around the world, winning more than 80 international awards along the way. In this episode, Miles shares insights from his new book, discussing the Mind Frame Method, which helps individuals reframe their stories and habits to lead more authentic lives. The conversation delves into the importance of understanding scripts and beliefs, the effects of trauma and grief, and the significance of finding purpose in everyday actions. milesfurnell.com www.linkedin.com/in/miles-furnell @milesfurnell Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Reframe-Story-Rewire-Habits-Rescript-ebook/dp/B0FP5KPXD8 Takeaways Finding purpose is about what you do, not a destination.Scripts are learned behaviours that can be reframed.The Mind Frame Method helps rewire habits and beliefs.Self-soothing can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms.Trauma impacts our worldview and self-perception.Grief and trauma require different approaches to healing.Connecting with others can lead to unexpected opportunities.Authenticity is key to living a fulfilling life.Most people are navigating life without a clear plan.Reflection and perspective are essential for personal growth

    1 hr
  4. #107 Backpacking Asia: Adventure, Growth, Spontaneity & Transformation | Katey Peters

    08/25/2025

    #107 Backpacking Asia: Adventure, Growth, Spontaneity & Transformation | Katey Peters

    I met today’s guest, Katey, while backpacking through Vietnam. We crossed paths on the infamous Ha Giang Loop and ended up travelling together for a while — sharing countless special moments and thought-provoking conversations. It didn’t take long for me to know I had to bring her onto the podcast to share some of those wonderful insights, reminisce on our adventures, and document the experience. In this episode, we explore the real side of solo travel — from the expectations and reasons we set off in the first place, to surrendering to spontaneity, embracing solitude, and navigating the not-so-glamorous realities of budget backpacking. We dive into the emotional load of long-term travel, the lessons in resilience and adaptability, and how adventures abroad can completely reshape your values and priorities. We also talk about the often-overlooked “post-travel come down” — that bittersweet return home where the world feels unchanged, but you know you’re not the same. Overall, it’s a wholesome, giggly conversation where we reflect on our highlights, those magical unplanned moments, how we’ve grown and evolved, and the relief we feel at having taken that leap to book a one-way ticket. Our hope is that it inspires you to take yours too.

    2h 1m
  5. #106 Confronting Life-Altering Illness & Learning to Live | Meg Lewis

    08/10/2025

    #106 Confronting Life-Altering Illness & Learning to Live | Meg Lewis

    Today I’m joined by Meg Lewis – a passionate advocate and activist in the health space, making a profound impact in respiratory care and palliative health. Meg shares her deeply challenging and complex journey with Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis, a rare form of Pulmonary Fibrosis that can cause irreversible lung damage. The condition is life-altering, with no cure, limited management options, and a severe lack of research, awareness, and available resources. It’s a reality that many struggle to even imagine, yet Meg offers an unfiltered, human perspective — shining a light on the physical, emotional, and social challenges that come with living with such an under-recognised illness. She also speaks openly about the ripple effects of her diagnosis, including medically induced disordered eating. From the intense fear of food and choking brought on by her condition, to the emotional toll of weight gain from steroid treatment, Meg vulnerably explores the complex intersection between physical health, body image, and mental well-being. And yet, at the heart of her story is a powerful message about what it means to truly live — even in the face of uncertainty. Meg reminds us of the importance of filling life with the things you love, embracing the “everyday magic” of small joys, and finding moments of laughter and connection despite hardship. https://www.instagram.com/thelungnrestless/ https://thelungnrestless.substack.com TikTok: The Lung N Restless

    42 min
  6. #105 From Burnout to Balance: Holistic Tools for Women’s Vitality | Kirsty Smith

    07/20/2025

    #105 From Burnout to Balance: Holistic Tools for Women’s Vitality | Kirsty Smith

    Today I’m joined by Kirsty, a Functional Medicine Health Coach passionate about helping women shift from a constant state of survival - feeling depleted and exhausted - to a place where they are energised, mentally clear, emotionally balanced, and thriving In this episode, we dive into practical, holistic lifestyle strategies to optimise female health. We explore how to fuel your body with balanced nutrition, improve sleep quality and recovery, regulate cortisol and manage stress. We discuss how to shift your mindset around movement, and creating consistent, nourishing habits that promote long-term wellbeing. Whether you're running on empty or simply looking to proactively elevate your vitality, this conversation is full of accessible tools and gentle reminders for you. Find Kirsty: https://www.natural-rays.com/ @natural_rays_hormone_harmony https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirstysmithnaturalrays/ Membership: https://www.natural-rays.com/hhc

    54 min
  7. #104 I'M BACK | Lessons & Reflections From Solo Travel

    07/06/2025

    #104 I'M BACK | Lessons & Reflections From Solo Travel

    Backpacking solo through Southeast Asia was one of the most transformative, growth-filled experiences - packed with moments I could never have anticipated. In this long-overdue episode, I reflect on the biggest lessons travel taught me. From trusting in spontaneity and letting go of control, to rediscovering joy in simplicity, connection, and learning to truly rely on myself. I share the highs, the lows, the magic in the mess, and the raw, honest truths about what happens when you let life unfold without a predetermined plan.  Tune in for stories about unexpected friendships, incredible adventures, pinch-me moments, and the beauty of immersing yourself in a whole new way of life.

    42 min
  8. #103 Hiatus Announcement | One-Way Ticket To Asia

    12/09/2024

    #103 Hiatus Announcement | One-Way Ticket To Asia

    I’m taking a little break. I’ve got a one-way ticket to Southeast Asia… I’m about to go solo backpacking for I-don’t-know how long. It’s been a busy few years - building my business, chasing external validation, measuring my worth through grades, race times, podcast downloads, business bookings… all the things society perceived as 'successes.' But now, it's time to step away from all of that. I’ve been a student, a lecturer, a keynote speaker, a podcast host. Bbut rarely do I take time to acknowledge Lara. So this trip isn’t just about exploring a new place. It’s about reconnecting with me - without all the pressures, the expectations, or the constant need to perform. It will be about embracing the present moment, spontaneity, appreciating the beauty in just being - not always chasing the next thing. I want to wake up, not feel the pull of my laptop, not measure the value of my day by productivity. I want to wander aimlessly, learn to be okay without an immediate plan, do things for the pure joy of it, form connections, have impactful conversations with people from all walks of life. I know it will take time to fully transition and let go, as this mindset is deeply ingrained. But I hope to gradually shed the constant pressure to 'do' and learn to simply be - to embrace stillness, presence, and the freedom that comes with letting go of the need to always be moving forward. See you sometime in the future - for no doubt, many incredible stories, revelations and memories.

    16 min
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Ratings & Reviews

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About

Keep Smiling is hosted by Lara Rebecca. With a focus on wellbeing, mindset, and growth, this podcast features honest and authentic discussions with inspirational guests, with an aim to destigmatise the conversation circulating mental health, raise awareness, and provide hope to listeners.

Information

  • Creator
    Lara Rebecca
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    111
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Lara Rebecca
  • Show Website
    The Keep Smiling Podcast