The Med Free Mental Fitness Podcast

Katinka Blackford Newman
  • 5.0 (3)
  • MENTAL HEALTH

I’m your host, Katinka Blackford Newman, a life coach, author and health journalist. The Med-Free Mental Fitness Podcast is an interview-led show exploring mental health, behaviour change and wellbeing in the context of modern life. Through in-depth conversations, it examines how people live with overwhelm, stress and long-term challenges, and what genuinely supports recovery, resilience and agency. At its core, the podcast is about meaning and agency beyond diagnosis and quick fixes, with space for complexity and differing perspectives. Guests include clinicians, researchers, authors, journalists and practitioners, alongside people with lived experience. Topics include mental health and diagnosis, grief and loss, sleep and insomnia, trauma, addiction and habit change, pain, weight, medication use and withdrawal, informed consent, and evidence-informed, non-pharmacological approaches to recovery. Video interviews are available on YouTube. If you would like personalised support through life coaching, you can book a free consultation via: www.kbnlifecoaching.co.uk Katinka@kbnlifecoaching.co.uk

Episodes

  1. 12/26/2025

    Grief, Pills, and Finding the Way Back: Brooke Siem on Life After Meds

    In this episode of the Med Free Mental Fitness podcast, I am joined by Brooke Siem, author of 'May Cause Side Effects.' Brooke shares her personal journey of being placed on antidepressants as a teenager following her father's sudden death, the side effects she experienced over 15 years, and her life-altering decision to come off the medication. Discover how Brooke navigated the challenging withdrawal process, rebuilt her mental health through practical tools and self-awareness, and now advocates for a life beyond medication. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the impact of psychiatric drugs and the strength found in med-free mental fitness. 00:00 Introduction to Med Free Mental Fitness 00:47 Brooke's Journey with Antidepressants 02:25 The Effects and Side Effects of Medication 04:11 Questioning the Medication 14:07 The Turning Point: Deciding to Come Off Medication 15:29 The Struggle of Withdrawal 18:14 Rebuilding Life Beyond Medication 31:28 Advocacy and Current Work 34:27 Final Thoughts and Reflections

    40 min

  2. 11/26/2025

    Normal or Neurodiverse? Challenging the Medicalisation of Childhood - Interview with Dr Sami Timimi

    In this thought-provoking episode, host Katinka Blackford Newman sits down with Dr. Sami Timimi—consultant child and adolescent psychiatrist, psychotherapist, and author of "Searching for Normal"—to explore the dramatic rise in psychiatric diagnoses among children. Together, they question whether we are truly uncovering hidden illnesses or simply pathologising normal human variation, stress, and distress. Dr. Timimi shares his decades of experience inside mental health services and explains why he challenges the medical model applied to childhood. The conversation dives deep into the unintended consequences of labelling, the limitations of psychiatric diagnoses, and the risks of over-medicalising children’s emotions and behaviours. Key topics include: Why rates of ADHD, autism, anxiety, and depression are soaringThe subjective nature of psychiatric diagnosesThe impact of labels on children, families, and societyThe role of medication and its long-term effectsAlternatives to the medical model: resilience, connection, and understanding If you’re a parent, educator, mental health professional, or simply curious about the future of mental health, this episode will challenge your assumptions and offer a fresh perspective. 🔔 If this conversation resonates, please like, subscribe, and leave a review to help these ideas reach more people! You can watch this episode as a video on youtube

    45 min

  3. 11/10/2025

    Journey Through Insomnia: Miranda Levy’s Battle & Recovery

    In this episode of the Med Free Mental Fitness podcast, hosted by Katinka Blackford Newman, we dive deep into the topic of insomnia with special guest Miranda Levy. Miranda, an accomplished journalist and author, shares her harrowing personal journey through severe insomnia following a sudden and traumatic end to her marriage in 2010. Her battle with sleep deprivation led to a prolonged and complicated relationship with various psychotropic drugs, which only exacerbated her condition. Miranda discusses the impact on her personal and professional life, including struggles with anxiety, panic, and a host of prescription medications that altered her everyday reality. Transitioning through multiple diagnoses and treatments, Miranda finally embarks on a journey towards recovery, finding solace in therapeutic approaches and rebuilding her life. Her book, 'The Insomnia Diaries: How I Learned to Sleep Again,' offers an honest and insightful look into her experiences, providing hope and practical advice for those facing similar struggles. Join us for an inspiring conversation about resilience, the dangers of dependency on medications, and the power of perseverance. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:16 Meet Miranda Levy: A Personal Journey 01:16 The Onset of Insomnia 01:42 The Struggle with Medication 05:29 Life in Disarray 08:40 A Desperate Search for Solutions 13:32 The Impact on Family and Diagnosis 19:50 A Chemical Soup of Medications 22:21 The Decision to Enter Rehab 23:36 Experiences in Rehab 24:51 Withdrawal and Akathisia 27:37 Hospitalization and Further Treatment 30:17 Living with Family and Initial Recovery 33:21 Gradual Improvement and New Beginnings 37:08 Rebuilding Life and Relationships 42:10 Reflections and Advice on Sleep Medication 44:50 Final Thoughts and Book Promotion

    46 min

  4. 10/18/2025

    Medication-Free Healing: The Legacy of Soteria House

    Join host Katinka Blackford Newman on The Med Free Mental Fitness Podcast as she dives into the topic of psychosis with Eugene Larkin, author of 'Seeking Soteria.' Eugene shares his experiences at the radical Soteria House project, where individuals with schizophrenia and psychosis were supported without medication. Discover the origins of Soteria Houses, the significant impact of offering presence over medication, and real-life success stories of those who thrived under this compassionate care model. This episode challenges the conventional views on mental illness and explores the potential of non-medicated approaches in mental health treatment. 00:00 Introduction to the Med Free Mental Fitness Podcast 00:40 Origins of Soteria House 03:04 Eugene's Journey to Soteria House 06:47 First Impressions and Early Experiences 09:45 Success Stories and Therapeutic Approaches 16:42 Understanding Psychosis and Mental Health Labels 19:37 Empathy and Understanding at TER 20:09 A Real-Life Example of Psychosis 20:41 The Journey of Rebirth 22:16 The Heroic Transformation 23:52 Reunion and Reflections 28:17 The Impact of Medication 31:26 The Satter Model's Influence 32:39 Medication: Choice vs. Force 36:06 The Misconception of Medication 38:10 Concluding Thoughts Katinka Blackford Newman is a life coach, journalist and CEO of the nonprofit Antidepressantrisks.org She can be reached at Katinka@kbnlifecoaching.co.uk

    39 min

  5. 09/30/2025

    Grief Isn’t an Illness: Author Mary Ann Kenny’s Cautionary Tale of Medication and Misunderstanding

    In this powerful episode, host Katinka Blackford Newman sits down with writer and speaker Mary Ann Kenny to discuss her extraordinary journey through grief, mental health challenges, and recovery and her new book The Episode. After the sudden loss of her husband, Mary Ann faced overwhelming grief that led to the prescription of an antidepressant which resulted in a severe adverse reaction. This led to led to a psychotic episode and a harrowing experience within the mental healthcare system. She candidly shares her story of navigating medication side effects, misdiagnosis, and the struggle to be heard by professionals. Mary Ann's resilience shines through as she recounts her path from despair to healing, the importance of support, and the lessons she learned about grief, recovery, and self-compassion. Whether you or someone you know is coping with loss, mental health struggles, or the complexities of psychiatric care, this episode offers hope, validation, and practical insights. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 01:30 – Mary Ann’s story: sudden loss and the onset of grief 10:00 – Navigating the healthcare system and medication side effects 25:00 – Hospitalisation, recovery, and rebuilding life 40:00 – Advice for those experiencing grief and mental health challenges If you found this episode valuable, please like, subscribe, and leave a review.

    48 min

  6. 09/16/2025

    Beyond the Jab: The Real Story of Weight Loss and Emotional Eating

    Join host Katinka Blackford Newman and guest Philippe Tahon, London-based psychotherapist and author of "Shrink, the Diet for the Mind," for a deep dive into the world of weight loss, emotional eating, and the new wave of weight loss jabs. This episode explores why diets often fail, the emotional roots of overeating, and how to find true freedom with food—without medication. Timecoded Highlights: 00:00 – Introduction:Katinka welcomes listeners and introduces the episode’s focus on weight loss, new weight loss jabs, and med-free methods.00:26 – Meet Philippe Tahan:Philippe’s background as a psychotherapist specializing in weight loss and body image, and author of "Shrink the Diet for the Mind."00:45 – Philippe’s Personal Journey:Philippe shares his own struggles with weight, dieting, and the emotional triggers behind overeating.02:45 – The Cycle of Dieting:Why diets work temporarily, the frustration of regaining weight, and the importance of understanding emotional eating.04:32 – Emotional Triggers & Therapy:How emotions like anger and anxiety drive overeating, and the role of therapy in breaking the cycle.07:11 – The Weight Loss Jab Phenomenon:Discussion of the rise of weight loss injections, their side effects, and why many people regain weight after stopping.10:00 – The Emotional Cost of Quick Fixes:Shame, secrecy, and the psychological impact of relying on medication for weight loss.13:00 – Why Diets Don’t Work:Philippe explains the limitations of diets, the set point theory, and why sustainable change requires addressing habits and emotions.16:00 – Mindful & Intuitive Eating:Coaching clients to eat mindfully, slow down, and reconnect with their body’s signals.19:40 – Family, Culture, and Self-Limiting Beliefs:How family narratives and generational beliefs shape our relationship with food and body image.22:00 – The Real Goal: Freedom, Not Just Weight Loss:The importance of finding confidence, happiness, and self-acceptance beyond the number on the scale.25:00 – Final Thoughts & Advice:Philippe’s honest take on weight loss jabs, the need for self-awareness, and how to make empowered choices.29:50 – Where to Find Philippe:Details on Philippe’s book, podcast, and how to connect with him online.

    30 min

  7. 07/09/2025

    Pills, Profits & the Untold Story: A conversation with Robert Whitaker

    The Hidden Harms of Psychiatric Medications: A Conversation with Robert Whitaker In this episode of the Med Free Mental Fitness podcast, host Katinka Blackford Newman interviews Robert Whitaker, an award-winning journalist and founder of MAD in America. They discuss the long-term harms of psychiatric medications, particularly antidepressants and ADHD stimulants, and challenge the mainstream narrative that these drugs are universally beneficial. Whitaker shares insights from his groundbreaking book, 'Anatomy of an Epidemic,' and reveals the disturbing lack of long-term efficacy data for these medications. The episode delves into the consequences of the widespread use of psychiatric drugs, the failures of the current medical model, and the necessity for more supportive, non-pharmaceutical interventions. 00:00 Introduction to Med Free Mental Fitness 00:45 Robert Whitaker's Journey and Impact 01:52 The Tragic Consequences of Psychiatric Medications 04:01 ADHD and the Long-Term Effects of Stimulants 06:13 Understanding the Long-Term Impact of Psychiatric Drugs 07:55 The False Narrative of Chemical Imbalances 22:46 The Reality of Antidepressant Withdrawal 32:27 Mad in America: A Platform for Change 35:12 A New Narrative for Mental Health 41:12 Conclusion and Contact Information

    42 min

  8. 06/15/2025

    The ADHD Drug Dilemma

    In this episode of The Med Free Mental Fitness Podcast, we expose the potential harms of ADHD medication and challenge the surge in ADHD diagnoses. Host Katinka Blackford Newman interviews Joseph Pack, founder of Drug-Free ADHD (https://drugfreeadhd.org/) who shares his personal journey with ADHD diagnosis and his decision to manage it without drugs. They discuss the long-term risks associated with ADHD medications, the impact of Big Pharma, and alternative management techniques such as breathing exercises, meditation, and cold exposure. Jo also questions the validity of the ADHD label and emphasises the importance of looking for empowering rather than limiting diagnoses. ·        ·       00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome ·       00:24 Joseph Pack's Personal ADHD Journey ·       02:29 The Start of Drug-Free ADHD ·       02:42 Experiences with ADHD Medication ·       04:04 Concerns and Side Effects of ADHD Medication ·       08:15 Debating ADHD Medication Efficacy ·       16:48 Alternative Approaches to Managing ADHD ·       20:12 Questioning ADHD Diagnoses and Labels ·       22:18 Dealing with ADHD: Personal Experiences ·       23:31 Questioning the ADHD Label ·       24:48 Challenges of Coming Off Medication ·       25:04 Breathing and Meditation Techniques ·       25:49 Cold Water Therapy for ADHD ·       26:19 Time Blocking and Productivity Hacks ·       28:08 Chaos Planning and the Never Nothing Rule ·       30:46 The Surrender Experiment and Spiritual Journey ·       35:08 Critique of Big Pharma and ADHD Medication ·       36:55 ADHD Diagnosis in Children ·       38:13 Final Thoughts and Recommendations Joseph Pack can be reached at https://drugfreeadhd.org/ If you want to have a conversation about life coaching, Katinka Blackford Newman can be reached through www.kbnlifecoaching.co.uk

    41 min

  9. 05/27/2025

    The Truth About Depression and Brain Chemistry

    In this episode, host Katinka Blackford Newman explores the causes of depression and the myth of the chemical imbalance. Her guest is psychiatrist Professor Joanna Moncrieff, author of a groundbreaking new book 'Chemically Imbalanced' which has caused waves in the media. Her book exposes how we have all been sold a lie: that mental illness, particularly depression has been proved to be caused by a chemical imbalance that medication can cure. They explore the alternative explanations for the causes of depression and the consequences of prolonged antidepressant usage. Key topics include emotional blunting, sexual dysfunction, increased risks of falls and fractures in older adults, bleeding associated with SSRIs, risks to unborn babies, and potential withdrawal syndrome in newborns. Additionally, the episode touches upon the possible links between antidepressants and increased heart problems as well as cognitive decline. Professor Moncrieff provides valuable insights into the causes of depression and the importance of understanding the implications of antidepressant use. 00:00 Introduction to Antidepressant Risks 00:10 Emotional Blunting and Sexual Dysfunction 00:15 Risks for Older Adults 00:27 Bleeding and Pregnancy Risks 00:44 Withdrawal Syndrome in Newborns 01:00 Heart Problems and Cognitive Decline 01:09 Summary of Adverse Effects With thanks to Iain Mitchell for his video editing skills Professor Moncrieff's book "Chemically Imbalanced"is widely available including at Amazon. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Chemically-Imbalanced-Making-Unmaking-Serotonin/dp/180399679X If you would like to have a conversation with host Katinka Blackford Newman about coaching , please book a call here , you can email her at Katinka@kbnlifecoaching and you can visit her coaching site at www.kbnlifecoaching.co.uk You can find out more about the potential risks of antidepressants at www.Antidepressantrisks.org - a not for profit founded by host Katinka Blackford Newman. ​​If you'd like to watch the video version of this interview, you can watch it here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FpZDWN8GW2g

    34 min

  10. 05/05/2025

    Medication, Mental Illness and Murder: Unravelling the Crespi Tragedy

    Medication, Mental Illness, and Murder: Unraveling the Crespi Tragedy In this episode, Katinka Blackford Newman interviews Ed Jones, the author of a compelling new book, 'Medication, Mental Illness, and Murder: What Killed the Crespi Twins.' The discussion delves into the tragic story of David Crespi, who murdered his twin daughters while under the influence of the antidepressant Prozac, which can have rare but severe side effects, including psychosis and violence. Jones shares his personal connection to the Crespi family and the investigative journey he undertook to uncover the truth behind the medication's impact. The episode explores the broader implications of antidepressant use, informed consent, and the often-overlooked dangers of these medications. 00:00 Introduction to Med Free Mental Fitness Podcast 00:30 Exploring the Link Between Antidepressants and Violence 00:59 The Tragic Story of the Crespi Family 02:22 David Crespi's Mental State and Legal Proceedings 10:10 Understanding Akathisia and Its Impact 13:18 Personal Experiences with Antidepressant-Induced Psychosis 13:45 Gratitude and Reflection 14:27 The Case of Lindsay Clancy 16:47 The Crespi Tragedy 17:31 The Role of Prescription Drugs 21:39 David Crespi's Prison Experience 24:20 Kim Crespi's Struggles and Hope 25:39 Preventing Future Tragedies 28:08 Final Thoughts and Resources If you would like to have a conversation with host Katinka Blackford Newman about coaching , please book a call here and you can visit her coaching site at www.kbnlifecoaching.co.uk ​​If you'd love to watch the video version of our interviews, be sure to subscribe to the podcast's YouTube channel

    29 min

  11. 04/16/2025

    The Diagnosis Trap, Laura Delano

    Unmasking Mental Health: Laura Delano's Journey through Misdiagnosis and Recovery. In this thought-provoking episode of The Med Free Mental Fitness Podcast, life coach, journalist, and author Katinka Blackford Newman engages in a deep conversation with Laura Delano, author of 'Unshrunk? How the Mental Health Industry Took Over My Life and My Fight to Get it Back.' Laura shares her harrowing experience of being diagnosed with bipolar disorder at 14, enduring 14 years of psychiatric treatments, and taking 19 different medications, only to question the validity and impact of her diagnosis and treatments years later. Now 15 years drug and diagnosis-free, Laura runs the Inner Compass Initiative, a nonprofit dedicated to helping people make informed choices about their mental health. Together, Katinka and Laura explore the implications of mental health diagnoses, the effects of psychiatric drugs, and the journey to reclaiming life and authenticity. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Host 00:45 Introducing Laura Delano and Her Story 03:20 Laura's Early Life and Diagnosis 09:04 Struggles with Medication and Mental Health 23:21 The Turning Point: Discovering a New Perspective 33:09 Life After Medication: Recovery and Advocacy 39:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts If you would like to have a conversation with host KATINKA BLACKFORD NEWMAN about coaching client, please book a call here and you can visit her coaching site at www.kbnlifecoaching.co.uk ​​If you'd love to watch the video version of our interviews, be sure to subscribe to the podcast's YouTube channel here.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UejLhcCwO3Q&t=44s

    41 min

  12. 03/27/2025

    Mental Fitness tools for parenting

    Navigating Mental Health Challenges: A Conversation with Rachel Kelly In this episode of the Med free Mental Fitness Podcast, host Katinka Blackford Newman speaks with bestselling author and mental health ambassador Rachel Kelly. Rachel shares her personal experiences with severe depression, the impact it had on her family, and her struggles with various medications. She discusses her journey to recovery, the importance of feeling empowered, and her skepticism toward the chemical imbalance narrative. They also explore Rachel's new book 'The Gift of Teenagers', which focuses on positive parenting and mental health strategies for young people. Rachel emphasizes the significance of agency in mental health recovery and the need for more preventative measures and non-medical approaches within the healthcare system. 00:00 Welcome to the Medfree Mental Fitness Podcast 01:04 Rachel Kelly's Mental Health Journey Begins 01:57 The Struggles with Medication 04:10 Impact on Family and Personal Reflections 05:17 Questioning the Chemical Imbalance Narrative 12:01 The Second Episode and Recovery 17:27 Writing and Sharing Her Story 25:45 The Gift of Teenagers 31:59 Final Thoughts and Reflections If you'd like to watch the video version of this podcast, watch it on Youtube https://youtu.be/ptANRGJ4JV8?si=DLf9kMDYNzJCon3r

    34 min
  • 12 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

I’m your host, Katinka Blackford Newman, a life coach, author and health journalist. The Med-Free Mental Fitness Podcast is an interview-led show exploring mental health, behaviour change and wellbeing in the context of modern life. Through in-depth conversations, it examines how people live with overwhelm, stress and long-term challenges, and what genuinely supports recovery, resilience and agency. At its core, the podcast is about meaning and agency beyond diagnosis and quick fixes, with space for complexity and differing perspectives. Guests include clinicians, researchers, authors, journalists and practitioners, alongside people with lived experience. Topics include mental health and diagnosis, grief and loss, sleep and insomnia, trauma, addiction and habit change, pain, weight, medication use and withdrawal, informed consent, and evidence-informed, non-pharmacological approaches to recovery. Video interviews are available on YouTube. If you would like personalised support through life coaching, you can book a free consultation via: www.kbnlifecoaching.co.uk Katinka@kbnlifecoaching.co.uk

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