Be Free with Susi McWilliam

Susi McWilliam
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  • ALTERNATIVE HEALTH
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Welcome to the Be Free Podcast. Join me and guest experts as we chat and share all the things health, wellbeing, mindset and happiness. Our struggles and challenges and how we overcame them. I'll be creating conversations that empower, ignite and support you. Chat that will inspire, educate and encourage. All to guide us towards a life that feels aligned and joyful. It's time to Be Free.

  1. 12/18/2025

    Period Power and Identity with Laura Bailey

    New Episode: Period Power and Identity with Laura Bailey This week’s episode of the Be Free Podcast is a rich, honest, and expansive conversation with Laura Bailey — TEDx speaker, librarian, and menstrual awareness advocate — exploring identity, body connection, and what it really means to live in rhythm with yourself. Laura shares how she no longer defines herself by fixed labels or roles, but instead allows her identity to evolve day by day. We talk about how passions, curiosities, and what lights us up are often far more truthful reflections of who we are than job titles or external expectations. A big part of this conversation centres around menstrual awareness and reconnecting with the body. Laura opens up about being disconnected from her cycle for 15 years while on the pill, and how attending a Conscious Cycles event completely changed her relationship with her body. Together, we explore how little education many of us received about hormones, cycles, and contraceptive choices — and the long-term impact of that lack of information. In this episode, we explore: 👉 Identity as something fluid, not fixed 👉 Why reconnecting with your menstrual cycle builds self-trust 👉 The gaps in menstrual and hormonal education across generations 👉 Why “one-size-fits-all” cycle syncing doesn’t work for everyone You’ll also learn: ✅ How tracking your cycle can feel empowering rather than restrictive ✅ Why perimenopause awareness earlier in life really matters ✅ How cyclical living helps you notice repeating patterns and unmet needs ✅ Gentle ways to reconnect with your body through stillness and listening ✅ Why normalising conversations about periods benefits everyone — including men If you’re craving a deeper connection to your body, your cycle, and your sense of self, this episode is a gentle invitation to slow down, listen, and trust your own rhythm. 🎧 Tune in to Be Free Podcast, Series 2 — and explore Period Power, identity, and authentic living. With Love, Susi xxx More From Laura: 🌐 Website: www.periodsandpleasure.com ✍️ Blog (Substack): https://periodsandpleasure.substack.com/ 📸 Instagram: www.instagram.com/periodsandpleasure 🎤 TEDx Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W_G1Z9c1r9c Listen & Connect 🎧 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8XqUswNFGaMrNaGaSwTl7w 🎧 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/be-free-with-susi-mcwilliam/id1587923194 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3bwzRqYW9KmYcDqj5t5bLg?si=cd802ffcdd674163 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susimcwilliamspiritandsoul Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susimcwilliamspiritandsoul Website: www.spiritandsoul.me #befreepodcast #podcastforwomen #periodpower #menstrualawareness #cyclicalliving #womenshealth #perimenopause #hormonalhealth #bodywisdom #selftrust #authenticliving #selfgrowth #healingjourney #mindfulness #periodpositivity #menstrualeducation #innerwisdom #selfreflection #personaldevelopment #spiritualgrowth #lifebalance #wellnessjourney #intuition #clarity

    44 min

  2. 12/11/2025

    Playing the Hand You are Dealt with John Kippen

    New Episode: Playing the Hand You are Dealt with John Kippen  This week’s episode of the Be Free Podcast is a truly inspiring one. I’m in conversation with John Kippen — TEDx speaker, resilience coach, magician, and author — as he shares his powerful journey of overcoming a brain tumour and facial paralysis, and how he found his way back to the stage after years of hiding. John’s story is a reminder of the deep healing power of self-acceptance, choosing to dream again, and stepping forward even when life has dealt us the unexpected. Through storytelling and magic, he now helps others move beyond limiting beliefs and live more authentically. In this episode, we explore: 👉 How hiding parts of ourselves disconnects us from our true power 👉 The role of self-acceptance in healing and rebuilding confidence 👉 Choosing to dream freely again after trauma or major life change 👉 Why surrounding yourself with supportive people is everything 🌿 You’ll also learn: ✅ How to rebuild confidence after illness, trauma, or adversity ✅ Using storytelling as a tool to shift limiting beliefs ✅ Why compassion and deep listening can change lives How small acts of kindness create powerful ripple effects ✅ The mindset behind choosing happiness and self-worth John also shares insights from his book Playing the Hand You are Dealt, encouraging us to see our challenges as gateways to growth rather than endings. If you’re navigating setbacks, self-doubt, or a season of rebuilding, this episode is your reminder that transformation is possible — and you don’t have to walk the path alone. 🎧 Tune in to Be Free Podcast, Season 2 — for an uplifting conversation on resilience, courage, and living authentically. With Love, Susi xxx More on John:  TedX: https://www.johnkippen.com/tedx Playing the Hand You are Dealt: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Playing-Hand-you-are-Dealt/dp/B0DKH36BRF Listen & Connect: 🎧 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8XqUswNFGaMrNaGaSwTl7w 🎧 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/be-free-with-susi-mcwilliam/id1587923194 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3bwzRqYW9KmYcDqj5t5bLg?si=cd802ffcdd674163 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susimcwilliamspiritandsoul Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susimcwilliamspiritandsoul Website: www.spiritandsoul.me #befreepodcast #podcastforwomen #resilience #selfacceptance #healingjourney #authenticliving #personalpower #mindfulness #selfgrowth #mentalhealthawareness #confidence #limitingbeliefs #storytelling #kindness #compassion #innerstrength #spiritualgrowth #lifebalance #wellnessjourney #hope #courage #transformation #selfworth #alignment #inspiration

    36 min

  3. 11/21/2025

    Understanding and Overcoming Health Anxiety

    🌗 New Episode: Understanding and Overcoming Health Anxiety  This week’s episode of the Be Free Podcast is a deeply personal one. I’m opening up about my own journey with health anxiety, how it resurfaced during perimenopause, and the tools I’m using right now to steady myself. Health anxiety can feel like a loop you can’t escape — the researching, the scanning, the checking, the fear… and the exhaustion. I’ve been there before, and I found my way through it. And even though it’s resurfaced during this season of hormonal change, I’m using everything I’ve learned to navigate it with compassion rather than panic. In this episode, I share: 👉 Why health anxiety often shows up as a need for control 👉 How perimenopause can heighten fear, overthinking & physical sensitivity 👉 What helped me years ago — and what’s helping me now 👉 Why breaking patterns (like googling symptoms or tracking every sensation) is essential 🌿 You’ll also learn: ✅ How to use breathing techniques to deactivate anxiety ✅ Why body-based practices like Yoga Nidra & body scans are powerful ✅ How to distinguish between symptoms vs. sensations ✅ Why over-reassurance, over-checking & hyperfocus keep you stuck ✅ How holistic habits, boundaries & self-compassion support healing ✅ When anxiety is actually a sign your body needs rest, not fear I also talk about antidepressants, alternative mental health support, and the importance of choosing what genuinely works for you. If you’re living in that cycle of fear, checking, and “what if,” this episode is your reminder that you’re not alone — and that there are ways to create calm, clarity, and trust again. 🎧 Tune in to Be Free Podcast, Season 2 — and learn gentle tools to support your mind, body & nervous system. With Love, Susi xxx Additional Support Links: ✨ Be Free Book Club (Use code PODCAST for 10% off Pay in Full):https://www.spiritandsoul.me/befreebookclub 🌿 Other Supportive Meditations:https://insig.ht/K4kmgTxAmYbhttps://insig.ht/fTYArEwAmYb 💛 Join Soul Surprise Monthly Live — from £1 (pay what you can):https://www.spiritandsoul.me/programmes Connect with me or tag me @susimcwilliamspiritandsoul  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8XqUswNFGaMrNaGaSwTl7w Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/be-free-with-susi-mcwilliam/id1587923194 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3bwzRqYW9KmYcDqj5t5bLg?si=cd802ffcdd674163 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susimcwilliamspiritandsoul Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susimcwilliamspiritandsoul Website: www.spiritandsoul.me #befreepodcast #podcastforwomen #perimenopause #adhdawareness #decisionfatigue #selftrust #mindfulness #authenticliving #selfgrowth #healingjourney #selfcare #mentalhealthawareness #stressmanagement #clarity #intuition #energyhealing #alignment #personaldevelopment #selfreflection #simplifyyourlife #innerpeace #wellnessjourney #spiritualgrowth #lifebalance #mentalclarity

    36 min

  4. 11/05/2025

    The Mental Load of Decisions

    🌗 New Episode: The Mental Load of Decisions  Over the past few months, decision-making has felt heavier than usual , something many of us experience, especially during perimenopause or when managing ADHD. The mental load, the self-doubt, the constant second-guessing, it can all become overwhelming. In this week’s episode of the Be Free Podcast, I open up about my own recent decisions from moving my horse to a new stable to pausing my meditation classes and even changing platforms for my courses after a steep price hike. None of these choices were easy, but each one reminded me of something powerful: 👉 Every decision we make is an act of self-trust. 👉 It’s okay to change your mind. 👉 And it’s okay to protect your energy by saying no or not right now. As women, especially during hormonal shifts, our decision-making capacity can fluctuate and that’s normal. In this episode, I share practical ways to reduce decision fatigue, from automating daily choices to creating space for reflection, and why saving your mental energy for what truly matters is an act of self-care. 🌿 You’ll also learn: ✅ How to simplify your life through small, consistent decisions ✅ How to tune into your body for intuitive guidance ✅ Why indecision drains your confidence and how to rebuild self-trust ✅ Gentle strategies to navigate big choices without overwhelm If you’re in a season of uncertainty or overthinking every “what if,” this episode is your reminder that clarity comes through movement not perfection. 🎧 Tune in to Be Free Podcast, Season 2 and give yourself permission to make decisions that support who you’re becoming. With Love Susi xxx Additional Support Links:  Join my email list and receive a free meditation: https://www.spiritandsoul.me/signup  Watch the episodes on youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8XqUswNFGaMrNaGaSwTl7w  Listen to the episodes on apple here: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/be-free-with-susi-mcwilliam/id1587923194  Spotify here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3bwzRqYW9KmYcDqj5t5bLg?si=cd802ffcdd674163  Connect with me or tag me @susimcwilliamspiritandsoul Website: www.spiritandsoul.me  Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/susimcwilliamspiritandsoul   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susimcwilliamspiritandsoul  #befreepodcast #podcastforwomen #perimenopause #adhdawareness #decisionfatigue #selftrust #mindfulness #authenticliving #selfgrowth #healingjourney #selfcare #mentalhealthawareness #stressmanagement #clarity #intuition #energyhealing #alignment #personaldevelopment #selfreflection #simplifyyourlife #innerpeace #wellnessjourney #spiritualgrowth #lifebalance #mentalclarity

    26 min

  5. 10/29/2025

    Seasonal Changes; Autumn

    🍂 Be Free Podcast is Back — Series 2 Begins: Seasonal Changes; Autumn After a nourishing break, I’m so excited to return with Series 2 of the Be Free Podcast! This new season flows with grounding energy, reflection, and soulful connection. Over the past few months, I’ve been guiding meditation and mindfulness programs, launching Susi’s Soul Surprise, and preparing for a second podcast (more on that soon 🌙). I’m also running my Meditation & Mindfulness Teacher Training this October and the next cohort waitlist is now open if you feel called to join. 🌾 Embracing Autumn’s Energy Shifts This episode is all about aligning with autumn, slowing down after the busyness of summer, letting go, and finding beauty in change. I share a beautiful reading from Kirsty Gallagher’s Sacred Seasons and reflect on the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, the art of finding beauty in imperfection. 🔥 Simplifying & Living Authentically I talk about moving my business fully online to focus on what truly matters — community, creativity, and mindful living. It’s a reminder to enjoy life’s simple pleasures: warm drinks, cozy evenings, and moments of reflection. 💫 Tune in to the new episode for grounding insights, journal prompts, and inspiration to reset for the season ahead. With Love Susi xxx Additional Support Links:  Join my email list and receive a free meditation: https://www.spiritandsoul.me/signup  Watch the episodes on youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8XqUswNFGaMrNaGaSwTl7w  Listen to the episodes on apple here: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/be-free-with-susi-mcwilliam/id1587923194  Spotify here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3bwzRqYW9KmYcDqj5t5bLg?si=cd802ffcdd674163  Connect with me or tag me @susimcwilliamspiritandsoul Website: www.spiritandsoul.me  Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/susimcwilliamspiritandsoul   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susimcwilliamspiritandsoul   #befreepodcast #spiritualpodcast #mindfulness #selfgrowthjourney #healingjourney #seasonalliving #autumnenergy #slowdownseason #selfcare #meditation #innerpeace #authenticliving #spiritualawakening #energyhealing #alignment #selflove #mindfulliving #nervoussystemregulation #groundingseason #reflection #intentions #balance #growthmindset #positivevibes #gratefulheart

    31 min

  6. 05/29/2025

    Why I'm Pressing Pause: A Journey to Depth, Purpose & Presence

    After 4 years and 112 episodes I'm taking a sacred pause. In this heartfelt solo episode, Susi McWilliam shares a powerful decision: she's pressing pause on recording new podcast episodes. Why? Because she's choosing depth over hustle, presence over performance, and true connection over constant content creation.Susi dives into the importance of mindful focus in building a life of purpose, and why stepping back is sometimes the boldest step forward. You’ll hear her reflections on what it means to truly follow your soul’s calling, how mindfulness creates space for clarity, and why cultivating community, slowly and soulfully matters more than ever.What You'll Hear:Why Susi is taking a break from podcasting (and what she's making space for instead)The connection between mindfulness and purposeful successHow slowing down allows you to show up more powerfullyThe value of depth in community, service, and impactWhat’s next in her mission to help others live more freely, mindfully, and authenticallyA Personal Invitation:This pause isn’t a goodbye, it’s a sacred pause. Susi is opening new, more intentional spaces for connection, community, and transformation. Be sure to stay connected for upcoming opportunities to journey deeper together.👉 Follow Susi on Instagram @susimcwilliamspiritandsoul💌 Join her email list for updates, inspiration, and upcoming offerings https://www.spiritandsoul.me/signup📖 Join book waitlist : https://www.spiritandsoul.me/meditation-script-book🧘🏽‍♀️ Meditation and Mindfulness Teacher Training https://www.spiritandsoul.me/meditationandmindfulnessteacher 🌿 Explore mindfulness trainings & events at www.spiritandsoul.meFollow me on insight timer: https://insighttimer.com/susimcwilliam Lesley Stoniers Cards: https://lesleystonier-com.myshopify.com/collections/all

    17 min

  7. 05/21/2025

    Sensitive Souls, From Panic to Purpose with Dr Jeanne Retief

    In this episode, we sit down with the incredible Jeanne, the powerhouse behind FIGGI Beauty and FIGGI Soul. Jeanne’s story is one of fierce reinvention, from a career in international human rights law to the founder of a growing skincare brand built for sensitive souls, all catalyzed by a life-altering diagnosis of Panic Disorder in 2015. We go deep into her evolution: What drove her to human rights law and how it shaped her voice. The moment that changed everything and forced her to confront her mental health head-on. Why burnout doesn’t mean the end, it can be the beginning of authentic connection. The birth of FIGGI and how it fuses skincare with soulful self-care. Her raw, real perspective on being a mother, a business owner, and an advocate in today’s world. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating change, craving purpose, or ready to turn their pain into power. ✨ Whether you're rebuilding, reimagining, or just trying to breathe again—Jeanne’s story will remind you: your sensitivity is not a weakness, it’s your superpower. Connect with Jeanne: 🌐 figgibeauty.com 📸 Instagram: @figgibeauty Additional Support Links:  Join my email list and receive a free meditation: https://www.spiritandsoul.me/signup  Want to join my facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1865088843718402  Watch the episodes on youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8XqUswNFGaMrNaGaSwTl7w  Listen to the episodes on apple here: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/be-free-with-susi-mcwilliam/id1587923194  Spotify here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3bwzRqYW9KmYcDqj5t5bLg?si=cd802ffcdd674163  Connect with me or tag me @susimcwilliamspiritandsoul Website: www.spiritandsoul.me  Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/susimcwilliamspiritandsoul   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susimcwilliamspiritandsoul  #MentalHealthAwareness #SkincareForSensitiveSouls #FIGGIBeauty #WomenWhoInspire #FromBurnoutToBreakthrough #EntrepreneurLife #PodcastEpisode #Wellbeing #AuthenticLeadership

    33 min

  8. 05/15/2025

    Joy First Living

    In this vibrant and soul-nourishing episode, I sit down with the incredible J.Nichole Smith, Brand Architect, Colour Psychology expert, and self-proclaimed Joy Seeker. With over 20 years of experience creating impact and beauty for brands across the globe, Nic has worked with everyone from billion-dollar businesses to creative entrepreneurs, all while living a “Joy First” lifestyle. We talk about what “Joy First” truly means, the power of small feel-good shifts, and how colour (yes, colour!) can radically transform the way we feel and work. Nic opens up about balance, and building a life that’s rooted in both success and soul. Whether you're chasing more joy, freedom, or just trying to feel good again this episode is for you. 🔥 Highlights: What it really means to live a “Joy First” life The simple shifts that can radically improve how you feel day-to-day How colour psychology can be a secret weapon for joy and confidence Tools Nic uses to stay mentally and emotionally well What freedom feels like to her, and how she stays grounded in it 💫 About Our Guest: J.Nichole Smith is a brand architect, designer, and expert in colour psychology. She’s been featured in USA Today, Real Simple Magazine, and the LA Times, and has helped celebrities, startups, and global brands align with joy and impact. Nic now lives in the North of England with her dreamy husband, two girls, and a sassy Frenchie, surrounded by sheep and inspiration. 🌐 Connect with Nic: Website: jnicholesmith.com Instagram: @jnicholesmith Additional Support Links:  Join my email list and receive a free meditation: https://www.spiritandsoul.me/signup  Want to join my facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1865088843718402  Watch the episodes on youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8XqUswNFGaMrNaGaSwTl7w  Listen to the episodes on apple here: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/be-free-with-susi-mcwilliam/id1587923194  Spotify here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3bwzRqYW9KmYcDqj5t5bLg?si=cd802ffcdd674163  Connect with me or tag me @susimcwilliamspiritandsoul Website: www.spiritandsoul.me  Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/susimcwilliamspiritandsoul   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susimcwilliamspiritandsoul  #joyfirst #colorpsychology #mentalhealth #creativeliving #freedomlifestyle #podcastersofinstagram #joyfulliving #colourmatters #colourfullife #wellbeingpodcast

    34 min
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About

Welcome to the Be Free Podcast. Join me and guest experts as we chat and share all the things health, wellbeing, mindset and happiness. Our struggles and challenges and how we overcame them. I'll be creating conversations that empower, ignite and support you. Chat that will inspire, educate and encourage. All to guide us towards a life that feels aligned and joyful. It's time to Be Free.

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