Higher Love with Megan

Megan Cooper
  • 5.0 (1)
  • ALTERNATIVE HEALTH
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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. Motherhood: REAL TALK behind what society tells us with Leah Kim

    15H AGO

    Motherhood: REAL TALK behind 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/uk/mum-unfiltered-9781526646444/ 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.

    1h 5m
  2. Ruffling Feathers: 'Mindset with Muhammad' on The Power of Storytelling

    6D AGO

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

    FEB 25

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

    FEB 16

    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. Lewis Wedlock on Feminism, Embracing Discomfort and Fostering Brave Spaces

    FEB 9

    Lewis Wedlock on Feminism, Embracing Discomfort and Fostering Brave Spaces

    This week I am joined by masculinities educator Lewis Wedlock. Together we explore the complexities of masculinity, the impact of patriarchy, and the importance of self-care in activism. Lewis discusses the roots of his advocacy for men's wellbeing and the need to address systemic issues like misogyny and violence against women. We delve into the 'Not All Men' debate, emphasising the importance of accountability and the need for men to engage in conversations about masculinity, feminism and equity in order for us to build better communities and better futures. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Lewis Wedlock 01:26 Lewis's Journey into Masculinities Education 06:34 Understanding the Impact of Patriarchy 07:14 The Role of Men in Addressing Loneliness 09:48 Exploring Hyper-Patriarchy and Its Effects 12:13 Navigating Pushback in Conversations 15:02 Creating Safe Spaces for Discussion 16:05 The 'Not All Men' Debate 20:41 Embracing Complexity in Masculinity 26:14 Encouraging Men to Step Up 30:20 Confronting Bias and Discomfort 31:39 Creating Safety in Conversations 33:54 Addressing Violence Against Women 39:50 Navigating Masculinity and Feminism 50:02 Sustaining Hope in Activism 54:08 Resources for Further Learning 59:00 Outro About Lewis Lewis Wedlock is a masculinities educator specialising in person centered, culturally attuned deliveries and interventions.  He has spent the last five years working with thousands of young men across the UK in secondary and higher education, engaging them in topics such as feminism, allyship, accountability, sexism, misogyny and VAWG.  He has designed and delivered several interventions for schools looking to transform their masculinity school cultures and has worked with thousands of educators to support and empower young men within their school spaces. His debut book “Masculinities in Schools” was published by Sage in 2025. Lewis’s podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ChVU9ZIBqJCuXvfmgc0xu Lewis’s Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LewisWedlock Website: www.lewiswedlock.com  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lewis-wedlock/Men's Work: www.lewiswedlock.com/menswork Socials: @lewiswedlock on Instagram and TikTok

    1 hr
  6. Beyond the Spiritual-Industrial Complex with Zack Alexander

    FEB 2

    Beyond the Spiritual-Industrial Complex with Zack Alexander

    ANDDD we're back! After a January hiatus, the Higher Love with Megan Podcast returns to usher in a new year. And we are kick-starting 2026 with Zack Alexander. In this episode, Zack and I explore the tumultuous landscape of 2026 so far, reflecting on the disillusionment of 2025 and the collapse of false structures in society. We discuss the intersection of spirituality and politics, the challenges of navigating identity and activism, and the impact of global events on personal perspectives. Zack shares his journey from the wellness industry to a more politically aware stance, emphasising the importance of listening to diverse voices and the role of anger and grief in healing. The conversation culminates in a discussion about hope amidst chaos and the collective growth needed to create a better future. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage 01:52 Reflections on 2026: A Year of Change 05:09 Zack's Journey: From Law to Spirituality 09:29 The Intersection of Spirituality and Activism 17:12 The Impact of Geopolitical Events on Personal Values 21:59 Navigating the Complexities of Identity and Trauma 30:41 Privilege and Spiritual Constructs 34:50 The Need for Maturity in Wellness 53:41 Social Media's Impact on Discourse 54:02 Cultivating Hope in Challenging Times 57:30 Outro About Zack: Zack is a Spiritual and Leadership Mentor, a Jewish mystic weaving together psychology, grounded spirituality, political philosophy, business and leadership into one path. He reflects on what’s often unseen to help others deepen their journey and supports the process of healing through a trauma-informed lens. IG: @iamzackalexander Substack: https://zackalexander.substack.com/ Please take a moment to RATE, REVIEW and SHARE this episode with anyone who can benefit from the conversation. You can contact me directly via my website www.higher-love.com or find me on IG @higherlove_withmegan

    58 min

  7. 12/23/2025

    Best Bits 2025: A Year of Radical Action and Solidarity

    In this special edition of Higher Love with Megan, I look back at the podcasts past and present as we draw this year to a close. When I relaunched this podcast 18 months ago, my intention was to host the conversations I felt were most missing from the wellbeing space, taking listeners on a journey to learn, unlearn and grow together. This episode is a celebration of that shared journey. I revisit some of the most powerful moments from the last year, featuring voices that have challenged us to redefine what it means to be well in an unwell world. From the moral clarity of Misan Harriman to the bravery of Dr Mo Mustafa in Gaza, and the enduring spirit of Holocaust survivor Stephen Kapos, this compilation highlights our collective commitment to standing together in solidarity. Key Takeaways A Hunger for Change: The significant growth in the podcast’s audience demonstrates how hungry we are as a community for change at a time when despair can feel close. Co-creation and Community: This podcast is a collaboration and a symbiotic co-creation between guest, host, production and listener, embodying our shared collective humanity. Redefining Wellness: We are moving away from the silence often found in spiritual spaces and acknowledging that the highest iteration of spirituality involves speaking out against injustice. Interconnected Struggles: The genocide in Palestine has shone a light on wider systems of harm, including imperialism and capitalism, revealing how our struggles and our liberation are inextricably intertwined. Episode Highlights 04:00 – Dina Ghandour and Charles Myssey discuss the shock of silence within the wellness industry and the fallacy of ‘love and light’ bypassing. 07:40 – Misan Harriman reflects on the power of protest photography as an act of resistance and the importance of a clear conscience. 10:30 – Dr Mo Mustafa, Jen Brister and Georgia Takacs share insights on the bravery of medical workers in Gaza and the necessity of getting uncomfortable for the sake of humanity. 14:30 – Kieran Andrieu describes the emotional departure of the Freedom Flotilla and the tectonic shift in global solidarity for Palestine. 19:00 – 88-year-old Holocaust survivor Stephen Kapos and his daughter Andrea discuss his newfound 'celebrity' status as an activist. About the guests This episode features a collection of guests from throughout the year, including: Dina Ghandour & Charles Myssy: Practitioners and guides. Misan Harriman: Photographer and activist. Dr Mo Mustafa: Doctor and humanitarian. Jen Brister & Georgia Takacs: Founders of All Our Relations. Kieran Andrieu: Journalist and commentator for Novara Media. Antoine Raffoul & Yasmin Say: Palestinian voices and storytellers. Stephen & Andrea Kapos: Holocaust survivor and filmmaker. Marina Purkiss: Political commentator. Khaled Abdalla: Actor and activist. About Megan Instagram: ⁠@‌HigherLove_withMegan⁠ Website: ⁠www.higher-love.com⁠ This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft (http://lucylucraft.co.uk ). If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review.

    28 min
  8. Ashira Darwish: Decolonising Therapy and the Media

    12/15/2025

    Ashira Darwish: Decolonising Therapy and the Media

    In this episode, I am honoured to welcome Ashira Darwish, a Palestinian healer and former journalist who I first encountered through the film Where Olive Trees Weep. We have a raw and necessary conversation about the reality of the last two years for Palestinians, discussing how the ongoing genocide has shattered illusions about Western institutions, international law and the concept of justice. Ashira shares her journey from working in the media—and witnessing its complicity in dehumanisation—to becoming a healer. We explore the limitations of Western therapeutic models that isolate the individual from their community and spiritual roots, and she offers a powerful perspective on how true resilience is found in the collective and the divine. Decolonising the Mind: Ashira explains that living under occupation also means living under indoctrination. She describes the painful but necessary process of losing faith in Western systems and realizing that liberation begins with decolonising our own beliefs. The Failure of Western Media: Drawing on her background as a journalist and fixer, Ashira argues that impartiality is impossible during a genocide. She discusses how mainstream outlets have been complicit in spreading propaganda and dehumanising Palestinians. Healing is Collective: We discuss why Western therapy often fails by treating trauma as an individual disorder rather than a symptom of a sick society. Ashira advocates for healing that integrates the body, spirit, and tribe, rather than isolating the individual. Silence is Complicity: Ashira critiques spiritual leaders and the wellness industry for bypassing the reality of genocide. She emphasizes that you cannot claim to be for love and healing while remaining silent when humanity is under attack. 03:43 – Ashira discusses the process of decolonising her mind and the collapse of her belief in Western human rights institutions. 16:00 – How the resistance of the people in Gaza has beaten the algorithm and awakened global consciousness. 23:00 – A critique of 'impartiality' in journalism and the complicity of media outlets in the violence. 36:00 – Why the separation of mothers and children in capitalist societies creates trauma and how indigenous tribal structures offer a healthier alternative. 59:00 – The spiritual bypassing within the wellness industry and the necessity of taking action to stop genocide. Ashira Darwish is a Palestinian therapist, researcher and founder of Catharsis Holistic Healing. A former journalist and TV & radio producer, she spent 15 years working in the media before turning to healing work. She is the creator of the AIDA Active Meditation modality and works to support trauma healing within the Palestinian community. Instagram: @‌ashiradarwish Website: Catharsis Holistic Healing Course: School of Radical Imagination Instagram: ⁠@‌HigherLove_withMegan⁠ Website: ⁠www.higher-love.com⁠ This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft (http://lucylucraft.co.uk ) If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review. Key TakeawaysEpisode HighlightsAbout the GuestConnect with Megan

    1h 7m
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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.

Information

  • Creator
    Megan Cooper
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    110
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Megan Cooper
  • Show Website
    Higher Love with Megan

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