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

    3D AGO

    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
  2. 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
  3. 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

  4. 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
  5. 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
  6. Solidarity is a Verb with Khalid Abdalla

    12/08/2025

    Solidarity is a Verb with Khalid Abdalla

    In this episode, I sit down with the actor and activist Khalid Abdalla. Known for his roles in The Kite Runner and as Dodi Fayed in The Crown, Khaled joins me for a conversation that is as raw as it is necessary. We recorded this shortly after he received news of the passing of a cherished colleague and on-screen father, bringing a palpable sense of vulnerability to the space. Together, we explore the intersection of artistry and political struggle. Khaled reflects on his background as an actor of Arab descent, his involvement in the Egyptian Revolution, and the deep responsibility he feels to speak out against the ongoing violence in Gaza. We discuss the complexities of representation, the shift from professional solitude to collective solidarity, and why maintaining hope is a disciplined, communal act. Key Takeaways The Artist as Witness: Khaled discusses the evolution of his career, from graduating during the Iraq War to his current activism. He articulates why artists cannot remain neutral and how creative forms—whether film, writing, or music—must adapt to meet the political urgency of the moment.Representation Matters: We touch on the cultural significance of his role as Dodi Fayed in The Crown. Khaled explains how playing a character the audience is encouraged to love and mourn, rather than fear, challenges decades of harmful tropes regarding Arab identity in Western media.From Solitude to Solidarity: A central theme of our conversation is the journey from feeling isolated in speaking out to finding a vast, supportive community. Khaled shares how stepping past the fear of professional risk revealed unexpected circles of solidarity.The Non-Linearity of Change: Drawing on historical examples, such as the Dunnes Stores strike against apartheid, Khaled reminds us that small, seemingly impossible acts of resistance can ripple out to create monumental shifts over time. Episode Highlights 01:45 – Khaled shares the grief he is carrying into the space following the loss of a revered colleague and on-screen father. 07:50 – Reflections on playing Dodi Fayed and the rare opportunity to portray an Arab character that invites love rather than fear. 16:00 – The initial loneliness of speaking out against the genocide in Gaza and the subsequent discovery of global solidarity. 26:40 – Khaled discusses the painful conditioning of accepting the loss of Arab lives and the refusal to accept this for future generations. 45:30 – A powerful story about the Dunnes Stores strike in Dublin and how a single grapefruit became a symbol of anti-apartheid resistance. About the Guest Khaled Abdalla is a British-Egyptian actor and activist. He gained international recognition for his role in the Academy Award-nominated film The Kite Runner. More recently, he portrayed Dodi Fayed in the Netflix series The Crown. Beyond the screen, Khaled is a prominent voice in social justice movements, having been deeply involved in the 2011 Egyptian Revolution and current solidarity campaigns for Palestine. Instagram: @khaledabdalla Episode Links The Kite Runner (Film) The Crown (Netflix Series) Nowhere (Play by Khaled Abdalla) Workers for a Free Palestine / Film Workers Pledge Connect with 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.

    50 min
  7. Never Again for Anyone: Stephen and Andrea Kapos on the Duty to Speak Out

    11/26/2025

    Never Again for Anyone: Stephen and Andrea Kapos on the Duty to Speak Out

    In this milestone 100th episode, I am honoured to be joined by 88-year-old Stephen Kapos and his daughter, filmmaker Andrea Kapos. Stephen, a child survivor of the Holocaust, has recently found himself in the public eye as a vocal activist for Palestinian solidarity. Together, we explore Stephen's journey from a retired architect to a prominent voice at protest marches, where he speaks as a witness to history to challenge current narratives. We discuss the powerful intergenerational bond formed through their shared activism and the documentary Andrea is currently filming to preserve these vital testimonies. Key Takeaways The duty to bear witness: Stephen believes his role is critical because there are very few remaining survivors with actual memories of the Holocaust who can speak to the realities of persecution and genocide. Intergenerational activism: For the Kapos family, attending marches and speaking out has become a shared experience involving Stephen, Andrea, and even Stephen's grandchildren, creating a deep sense of solidarity and pride. Distinguishing Judaism from Zionism: Stephen articulates his view that conflating Jewish identity with Zionism is dangerous and incorrect, noting that he views the actions of the Israeli state as contrary to his understanding of Jewish values Hope as action: Andrea reflects that hope is not a passive state but a "doing word" found in the act of gathering, marching, and refusing to be a bystander to history. Episode Highlights 00:03:00 Stephen discusses the warm reception he receives at marches and his response to the few detractors he encounters. 00:16:00 Transitioning from a career in architecture to becoming a public speaker and witness in his late eighties. 00:32:00 Stephen explains why he believes Palestinian solidarity and anti-Zionism are distinct from antisemitism. 00:51:00 The emotional experience of the 'Choose Love' event, where Stephen witnessed the reading of the names of children killed in Gaza. 01:05:00 Thoughts on why hope is found in the "doing" and the importance of the growing international movement. About the Guests Stephen Kapos is an 88-year-old survivor of the Holocaust from Budapest who has become a dedicated activist for Palestinian rights. He is a member of the group Holocaust Survivors and Descendants Against the Genocide in Gaza. Andrea Kapos is a documentary filmmaker and Stephen's daughter. She is currently producing a film chronicling the lives and meeting of her father and fellow survivor Antoine, exploring their parallel histories and shared solidarity. Episode Links Holocaust Survivors and Descendants Against the Genocide in Gaza Double Down News Stop the War Coalition Misan Harriman (Photographer mentioned regarding the 'Choose Love' event and portraits) Cafe Palestina Connect with Megan Instagram: ⁠@‌HigherLove_withMegan⁠ Website: ⁠www.higher-love.com⁠ This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft (lucylucraft.co.uk) If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review.

    1h 13m
  8. Levity in the Madness: Marina Purkiss on Not Being Politically Apathetic

    11/19/2025

    Levity in the Madness: Marina Purkiss on Not Being Politically Apathetic

    I had a brilliant conversation with Marina Purkiss, a political commentator known for her straight-talking, highly opinionated perspective on current affairs. Marina shared how her political journey began by simply putting out tweets, which grew into a large platform. We discussed how political apathy is a privilege , and for many, including Marina, the Brexit referendum was the wake-up call that made politics impossible to ignore.  Marina opens up about the challenges of political commentary, from being threatened with lawsuits to dealing with the chilling online abuse and sexism, particularly the vitriol directed at women. She expresses the deep rage she feels over the hypocrisy and incompetence of bad actors in politics. We also delve into the necessity of women bringing their true selves to power, and the importance of community and catharsis—like that found in her podcast, The Trawl—to manage the mental toll of being engaged in an overwhelming world. 📌 Episode Highlights 04:59 On the shift from political apathy to engagement: "I feel like we're in this point in time where it's just I can't look away".09:49 Marina shares that as her platform grew, she became less reckless and more cautious due to multiple threats of lawsuits and people disingenuously twisting her words12:28 Discussing the chilling backlash received on a tweet promoting humanity, which caused Marina to worry for her own safety and delete the post.18:50 Marina speaks to the perception that she must convince people she knows what she's talking about because of her appearance, highlighting the unconscious bias in the space.25:11 Expressing her deep rage over the hypocrisy and brazen corruption of politicians who bend over backwards for international interests over their own citizens.28:55 Acknowledging an unhealthy approach to dealing with rage, including having "constant adrenaline" and needing a glass of wine to slow down the nervous system.33:04 Finding hope in the rise of the Green Party and the fact that the "mask is slipping" for other parties, allowing truth to come out.37:57 Encouraging people new to politics to not worry about missteps and to seek information from credible, non-billionaire-backed sources like Byline Times or The New European 👤 About the Guest: Marina Purkiss Marina Purkiss is a political commentator, writer, and co-host of The Trawl podcast. She also maintains a full-time tech marketing career. The Trawl Podcast: Social Media: Please search for Marina Purkiss on social media. 🔗 Episode links: The Trawl Podcast: Co-hosted by Marina Purkiss and Jemma Forte.Byline Times: News publication recommended for informed reading.The New European: News publication (now called New World) recommended for informed readingCarol Cadwallah, Ash Sarkar, Politics Joe: Writers and organisations recommended for political commentary Connect with Megan: Instagram: ⁠@‌HigherLove_withMegan⁠ Website: ⁠www.higher-love.com⁠ This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft (lucylucraft.co.uk) If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review! Would you like me to share more details about The Trawl podcast?

    41 min
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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
    107
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Megan Cooper
  • Show Website
    Higher Love with Megan

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