Speak Shame with Dr Connie Kerali

Dr Connie Kerali

Hello Remarkable Woman, have you ever been silenced by shame? Have you ever believed that you’re not enough? Do you believe that you're unworthy of love or belonging? Are these beliefs holding you back in your personal or professional life? If this sounds like you, then you’re in the right place. Speak Shame with me, Dr Connie Kerali, - medical doctor, life coach & survivor of sexual violence - is a collection of expert insights on how to rediscover your self-worth, as well as inspiring conversations with remarkable women who have faced and overcome adversity. By sharing their stories, my hope is that you may find strength, connection, and hope in your own journey, and that shame itself loses its power. So, sit back, relax, and don't forget to like and subscribe to the show.

  1. Breaking Generational Cycles: Poonnamme Speaks On Her Experience As A 1st Born British-Asian

    3D AGO

    Breaking Generational Cycles: Poonnamme Speaks On Her Experience As A 1st Born British-Asian

    In this episode of Speak Shame we discuss sexual violence, attempted suicide, and eating disorders and with support links are provided below. Dr Connie interviews Poonnamme, a Sikh woman raised between the UK and Punjab, with over 35 years in health and social care, who now also facilitates Kundalini Shakti activation. She shares how being the first-born girl and only child brought intense pressure tied to family honour and community expectations, including expectations around education and status. She describes being sexually assaulted at 17 by someone known to the family and a subsequent attempted suicide. She shares that at 18 she entered an arranged marriage and describes living “two lives” as a Western professional and a traditional subservient wife. Becoming a mother was a turning point in her decision to break cycles for her daughter. Poonnamme reflects on how her experiences shaped her voice, resilience, and ability to feel pride in both who she is and who she was.  01:40 Introducing Poonnamme: Care, Grief & Spiritual Awakening 04:43 Chapter One Begins: Firstborn Daughter, Culture vs Religion 08:24 School Disruption, Illness & the Pressure to ‘Achieve’ 12:51 Sexual Assault at 17 & Being Silenced 16:25 Aftermath: Dissociation, Attempted Suicide & Cultural Stigma 25:10 Arranged Marriage & Living Two Lives 29:09 The Turning Point: A Manager Who Believed Her 34:59 Breaking the Cycle: Leaving the Marriage & Choosing Healing 41:42 From Survival Mode to Self-Harm: Bingeing, Bulimia & Over-Exercise 47:36 Crossroads Moment: Turning Down Alcohol & Drugs 49:07 Spiritual Reawakening: Prayer, Meditation & Surrender 52:56 Survival Mode Hits the Body: Illness, Work, and Single Motherhood 55:55 The Wake‑Up Call: Daughter in Uniform & Choosing Self‑Healing 57:52 Healing Isn’t “Love & Light”: Shadow Work and the Dark Night of the Soul 59:42 Stepping Into Purpose: Training, Energy Work & Fear of Judgment 01:03:37 How the Journey Shaped Me: Voice, Identity, and Finding Your Tribe POONNAMME Instagram: @JagoSacredEnergyWebsite: JagoSacredEnergy.co.uk UK SUPPORT SERVICES In an emergency, dial 999; for non-emergencies or dial 101 (UK only)Find your nearest NHS Sexual Assault Referral CentreFind an NHS Talking Therapy service near you or contact your GP surgeryCharities: Mind, The Samaritans, Rape Crisis, Women’s Aid, Victim Support GET IN TOUCH Join the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.The Storytellers Club is an uplifting, supportive membership space where Remarkable Women rediscover their worth through story, creativity & connection. Find out more here.

    1h 35m
  2. Say It Out Loud: Finding Your Voice With Vasavi Kumar

    FEB 19

    Say It Out Loud: Finding Your Voice With Vasavi Kumar

    In this week’s episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie Kerali speaks with Vasavi Kumar, licensed therapist, mindset coach, voice actor, TV host, and author of Say It Out Loud. Vasavi shares how she began to stop doubting herself and regain trust in her voice by developing an “immaculate” inner narrative - one that is kind, encouraging, and safe - so that external criticism no longer carries the same weight. She explains how her work has evolved over 15 years alongside her own personal growth, and how sharing the truth with emotion and precision helps her connect with clients who are on a similar path. Vasavi offers a practical example of challenging limiting beliefs by reframing the fear of raising prices for her Out Loud School. She also reflects on Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl performance as a reminder for women of colour and children of immigrants to stay true to their culture without whitewashing themselves for acceptance. Vasavi discusses how grief after her father’s death in May 2025 led her to temporarily silence herself, and how returning to speaking out loud helped her process emotions and reduce shame. She closes by emphasising that shame festers in silence and isolation, and that everyone needs a safe place to be witnessed and express themselves - one of the reasons she created the Out Loud School, which she notes is not therapy but is therapeutic. 00:00 The impact of silencing yourself and why shame shrivels when voiced 01:05 Introduction to Speak Shame and guest Vasavi Kumar 03:45 Vasavi’s “first chapter”: ending self-doubt and trusting her voice 07:00 Rewiring the inner narrative and treating yourself with respect 12:40 Helping others while doing your own ongoing inner work 15:40 How telling the truth and sharing personal stories attracts aligned clients 19:10 A practical reframe: challenging limiting beliefs when raising prices 27:10 Bad Bunny, authenticity, and refusing to whitewash culture for acceptance 35:30 Grief, losing your voice after her father’s death, and returning to expression 42:10 Why not using your voice affects mental, emotional, physical and financial wellbeing 48:15 Finding a safe place to “say it out loud” and what Out Loud School offers 55:10 Where to find Vasavi and her remarkable woman inspiration VASAVI KUMAR • Instagram: @MyNameIsVasavi • Website: vasavikumar.com GET IN TOUCH Join the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.The Storytellers Club is an uplifting, supportive membership space where Remarkable Women rediscover their worth through story, creativity & connection. Find out more here.

    31 min
  3. I'm Not A Failure:  Faith Aisien-Ezugwu On Dyslexia & Developing Self-Compassion

    FEB 12

    I'm Not A Failure:  Faith Aisien-Ezugwu On Dyslexia & Developing Self-Compassion

    In this episode, host Dr Connie Kerali interviews Faith Aisien-Ezugwu, author of the poetry and spoken word book 'I Am Here' and host of the 'Re: Series' podcast. Faith shares her journey from growing up in Nigeria and overcoming feelings of inadequacy and being labeled a 'failure' as a child, to her successful career in business and events management. She discusses her struggles with dyslexia, the emotional challenges she faced, and how therapy helped her find self-compassion and self-worth. Faith offers advice to listeners on believing in themselves, recognising their strengths, and seeking the support they need. She also reflects on the importance of discussing mental health issues and breaking cultural stigmas. The episode concludes with a powerful reading from her book, 'I Am Here'. 00:00 Introduction to Faith Aisien-Ezugwu 01:15 Faith's Early Life and Inspirations 03:29 Overcoming Challenges and Self-Discovery 11:35 The Journey of Writing 'I Am Here' 14:05 Advice for Self-Compassion and Growth 19:04 Faith's Reflections on Family and Culture 22:44 The Importance of Therapy and Mental Health 28:31 Concluding Thoughts and Final Reading FAITH AISIEN-EZUGWU Website: FaithAisienEzugwu.com Instagram: @inkwellfaith Podcast: The Re: Series GET IN TOUCH Join the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.The Storytellers Club is an uplifting, supportive membership space where Remarkable Women rediscover their worth through story, creativity & connection. Find out more here.

    32 min
  4. Believing Your Body Has Failed You: Emily Silva Hockstra On Infertility, Grief & Healing

    JAN 29

    Believing Your Body Has Failed You: Emily Silva Hockstra On Infertility, Grief & Healing

    In this week's episode, Dr Connie Kerali interviews Emily Silva Hockstra, a five-time author and spiritual life coach. Emily shares her journey from an anxiety-ridden child to a successful author and coach. She discusses her personal experiences, including suffering a miscarriage at 18, transitioning from a corporate career to wine tasting, and eventually pursuing her passion for writing full-time. Emily delves into the profound impact of grief and shame on her life after a diagnosis of primary ovarian insufficiency meant that she was unable to conceive, detailing how therapy, yoga, and self-discovery have been crucial in her healing journey. She also talks about the creation of her books, such as 'Moonlight Gratitude' and 'Sunset Gratitude,' and emphasises the importance of seeking help and finding inner peace. The episode closes with Emily reflecting on her sources of inspiration and offering advice for those navigating their own struggles. 00:00 Introduction to Emily Silva Hockstra 01:03 Emily's Early Life and Career Journey 04:20 The Turning Point: Pursuing Writing and Life Coaching 07:45 The Journey of Writing and Publishing 08:56 Personal Struggles and Grief 14:36 Therapy, Healing, and Self-Discovery 22:58 Coaching Philosophy and Connection with Clients 25:03 Final Thoughts and Inspirations EMILY SILVA HOCKSTRA Instagran: @SoulsAdventuresWebsite: SoulsAdventures.com GET IN TOUCH Join the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.The Storytellers Club is an uplifting, supportive membership space where Remarkable Women rediscover their worth through story, creativity & connection. Find out more here.

    29 min
  5. High-Achieving, Still Unworthy? Dr. Adia Gooden On Cultivating Unconditional Self-Worth

    JAN 15

    High-Achieving, Still Unworthy? Dr. Adia Gooden On Cultivating Unconditional Self-Worth

    In this week's episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie Kerali interviews Dr. Adia Gooden, a licensed clinical psychologist and expert on self-worth, self-compassion, and mental health. Dr. Adia shares her journey from growing up in Pasadena, California with professional parents, to becoming a renowned psychologist and speaker. She delves into the impact of early life challenges on her sensitivity to others' feelings, and how her academic and personal struggles with worthiness guided her career choice. Dr. Adia and Dr Connie discuss the importance of understanding self-worth stories, practicing self-compassion, and the layers of performance and vulnerability. Dr. Adia also opens up about her personal experiences with shame and depression, emphasising the need to reconnect with one's unconditional self-worth. The episode concludes with practical steps for listeners to begin their journey towards self-worth and self-compassion, along with a tribute to Dr. Adia's inspiring grandmother. 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Adia Gooden 01:32 Early Life and Influences 04:08 Journey into Clinical Psychology 07:48 Empowering Women and Self-Worth 14:10 The Masks We Wear 20:27 Steps to Self-Compassion 24:21 Personal Experiences and Connection 27:56 Final Thoughts and Inspirations DR. ADIA GOODEN Email: DrAdia@DrAdiaGooden.comWebsite: DrAdiaGooden.com GET IN TOUCH Join the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.The Storytellers Club is an uplifting, supportive membership space where Remarkable Women rediscover their worth through story, creativity & connection. Find out more here.

    36 min
  6. When Women Get Sick: Rebecca Bloom on Removing the Shame Around Asking For Help

    11/06/2025

    When Women Get Sick: Rebecca Bloom on Removing the Shame Around Asking For Help

    In this week's episode, we welcome Rebecca Bloom, a Yale and NYU-educated patient and workplace advocate, and author of 'When Women Get Sick'. Rebecca discusses her journey from a legal career specialising in employee benefits to her long-standing role as a patient advocate at Bay Area Cancer Connections. She shares personal experiences that fuelled her advocacy, including her family's battle with breast cancer and her own high-risk health journey. The conversation highlights the importance of building a support team, the challenges women face in healthcare, and the need for proactive planning. Rebecca also touches on her work as a storytelling coach and emphasises the critical nature of mental health and mindfulness in the healing process.   00:00 Introduction to Rebecca Bloom 01:53 Rebecca's Early Life and Career 04:32 Catalysts for Advocacy 06:19 Stories of Advocacy 09:56 The Importance of Asking for Help 13:57 Mindfulness and Mental Health 18:43 Rebecca's Personal Health Journey 21:13 Proactive Health Planning 28:23 Empowerment and Hope 31:02 Connecting with Rebecca 31:56 Final Thoughts and Inspirations   REBECCA BLOOM ·      Instagram: @WhenWomenGetSick ·      Website: WhenWomenGetSick.com   GET IN TOUCH Join the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.The Storytellers Club is an uplifting, supportive membership space where Remarkable Women rediscover their worth through story, creativity & connection. Find out more here.

    36 min
  7. Religious Shame & Abortions: Gabby Long on Her Body, Her Choice

    10/22/2025

    Religious Shame & Abortions: Gabby Long on Her Body, Her Choice

    In this episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie interviews Gabby Long, a reproductive rights advocate, mother, and healthcare storyteller. Gabby shares her journey from growing up in central Florida to becoming an outreach organiser for 'A Woman's Choice,' an independent abortion provider. She discusses her family's background in activism and her early volunteer experiences. Gabby also opens up about her personal experience with abortion, highlighting the emotional and practical challenges she faced. She speaks passionately about her work in reproductive health advocacy, the importance of community support, and the need for accessible healthcare. The discussion also covers Gabby's involvement with organisations like We Testify and the Floridians Protecting Freedoms Coalition, and she offers advice to those going through similar challenges. Gabby emphasises the importance of voting, mutual aid, and community building to drive societal change.   00:00 Introduction to Gabby Long 01:40 Gabby's Early Life and Activism Roots 03:54 Navigating Personal Challenges and Advocacy 06:59 Entering the Reproductive Rights Field 14:16 Professional Growth and Advocacy Work 22:55 The Importance of Community and Support 31:23 Final Thoughts and Call to Action   US BASED SUPPORT SERVICES ·      Website: We Testify;  ·      Instagram: @WeTestify   UK BASED SUPPORT SERVICES ·      British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS) ·      National Health Service (NHS) Abortion Support   GET IN TOUCH Join the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.The Storytellers Club is an uplifting, supportive membership space where Remarkable Women rediscover their worth through story, creativity & connection. Find out more here.

    37 min
  8. How Anxiety & Shame Shaped My Life as a Doctor - Dr Alison Smith's Story

    10/08/2025

    How Anxiety & Shame Shaped My Life as a Doctor - Dr Alison Smith's Story

    In this week's episode, Dr Connie Kerali interviews Dr Alison Smith, founder of Earth and Bloom, a coaching practice supporting doctors and healthcare professionals. Dr Alison shares her journey from a GP with over 20 years of experience to a coach who blends nature, creativity, and one-to-one facilitation. She discusses her challenging childhood, her initial struggles in medicine, and how coaching transformed her life, unlocking her creativity and aligning her values. Dr Alison and Dr Connie delve into the topics of shame and anxiety in the medical profession, highlighting the need for support and open dialogue. Dr Alison also talks about her current work, including one-on-one coaching and sister circles, emphasising the importance of nature and community in healing and personal growth.   00:00 Introduction to Dr Alison Smith 01:54 Dr Alison's Early Life and Influences 06:27 Journey into Medicine 10:17 Challenges and Realisations in Medical Career 13:08 Discovering Coaching and Personal Transformation 16:34 The Importance of Addressing Shame in Medicine 26:50 Current Work and Coaching Practice 28:55 The Power of Storytelling and Community 34:42 Closing Thoughts and Inspirations   DR ALISON SMITH ·      Instagram: @Earth_and_Bloom ·      Website: https://www.earthandbloom.uk ·      LinkedIn: Dr Alison Smith   GET IN TOUCH Join the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.The Storytellers Club is an uplifting, supportive membership space where Remarkable Women rediscover their worth through story, creativity & connection. Find out more here.

    41 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Hello Remarkable Woman, have you ever been silenced by shame? Have you ever believed that you’re not enough? Do you believe that you're unworthy of love or belonging? Are these beliefs holding you back in your personal or professional life? If this sounds like you, then you’re in the right place. Speak Shame with me, Dr Connie Kerali, - medical doctor, life coach & survivor of sexual violence - is a collection of expert insights on how to rediscover your self-worth, as well as inspiring conversations with remarkable women who have faced and overcome adversity. By sharing their stories, my hope is that you may find strength, connection, and hope in your own journey, and that shame itself loses its power. So, sit back, relax, and don't forget to like and subscribe to the show.