Ella Podcasts

Ella Podcasts by Lotusland Productions
  • 5.0 (17)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE

Tough times are hard to navigate. We share experiences, feelings and tools to cope and become resilient. Unpack what weighs us down - loss, grief, anxiety, panic, low self-esteem, disappointment, sadness and change. Feel less alone and take away ideas to lift that dark cloud and face the future. Sprinkled with humour. Creator / Host: Ella Sherman & Clinical Psychologist: Dr Jonathan Marshall with Two Special Guests per episode.

  1. MAR 27

    Addiction Explained: Is It a Disease, a Choice, or a Response to Pain?

    If you'd like to suggest episode subjects please reach out to us. Thank you! Few issues affect as many people, as quietly and as deeply, as addiction. In this episode of Ella Podcasts, we explore the reality of addiction — not just as a behaviour, but as something far more complex. Is addiction a disease, a choice, or a coping mechanism? And why do some people recover, while others struggle to break the cycle? From alcohol and drugs to social media, work, gambling and even exercise, addiction can take many forms - often hiding in plain sight.   Joining me are: 🔹 Dr. Jonathan Marshall – Clinical psychologist and former professor 🔹 Nick Jonsson – Executive coach specialising in addiction recovery and behavioural change 🔹 Avni Martin – Leadership coach and inner transformation specialist Together, we unpack the psychology, biology and emotional drivers behind addiction — and what it really takes to overcome it. 💬 In this episode, we discuss: * whether addiction is a disease, a choice, or something in between * how trauma, pain and unmet emotional needs can drive addictive behaviour * why addiction is often less about pleasure — and more about escaping discomfort * the role of dopamine, habits and environment in reinforcing addiction * why some addictions are socially accepted (like alcohol) while others are criminalised * whether you need to hit “rock bottom” to recover — and why that idea may be misleading * how relapse happens and why it’s often part of the recovery journey * the importance of replacing addiction with healthier structures, habits and community * how stigma, shame and judgment can prevent people from seeking help * the difference between high-functioning addiction and visible breakdown ⸻ 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS * Addiction is rarely just about willpower — it often has deeper emotional roots * Trauma and pain can significantly increase vulnerability to addiction * You don’t need to hit rock bottom to start recovery * Healing often requires addressing emotional, mental and physical layers * Community, connection and support are critical for long-term change * Replacing habits — not just removing them — is key to recovery * Relapse doesn’t mean failure — it can be part of the process * With the right support, change is possible for most people ⸻ Addiction isn’t just about substances or behaviours — it’s about what we’re trying to escape, avoid, or feel. This episode is a reminder that behind every addiction is a human story — and that recovery begins not with judgment, but with understanding. Support the show

    57 min

  2. MAR 25

    Too Old to Be Hired? The Truth About Ageism Nobody Talks About

    If you'd like to suggest episode subjects please reach out to us. Thank you! From being seen as experienced and capable… to suddenly being “too old,” “overqualified,” or “out of touch”—ageism is one of the most overlooked and accepted forms of discrimination in modern society. In this episode of Ella Podcasts, we explore the reality of ageism in the workplace, in culture, and in how we see ourselves. Why does growing older—something every single one of us will experience—so often come with bias, assumptions, and exclusion? This conversation challenges the idea that youth equals value, and asks a deeper question: what are we losing when we dismiss experience, wisdom, and lived perspective? Joining me are: 🔹 Dr. Jonathan Marshall – Psychologist and former professor 🔹 Simon J. Littlewood – Journalist, business advisor, and author 🔹 Samir Kothari – Investment fund manager And myself, Ella Sherman. Together, we explore ageism from psychological, cultural, and economic perspectives—unpacking where it comes from, how it shows up in real life, and what needs to shift. Drawing from personal experiences, workplace realities, and broader societal trends, this episode looks at the tension between youth-driven culture and the undeniable value of experience.   🧠 In this episode, we discuss: * why ageism is often ignored compared to other forms of discrimination * how fear of aging shapes attitudes toward older people * the role of media and tech culture in reinforcing youth bias * why older workers are often seen as less adaptable or less valuable * the reality of being “too senior” or filtered out in hiring processes * how experience and “crystallised intelligence” differ from youthful adaptability * whether retirement culture has unintentionally fuelled ageism * how social media distorts perceptions of success and relevance * the economic and structural factors behind workplace age bias * the importance of intergenerational collaboration and “reverse mentoring” 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS * Ageism is deeply embedded in culture—but rarely challenged * Fear of aging plays a major role in how society treats older people * Experience, wisdom, and long-term thinking are often undervalued * Many industries still rely heavily on older leadership—despite youth-focused narratives * Workplace systems and hiring processes can unintentionally reinforce bias * Staying mentally, socially, and physically engaged can shape how we experience aging * Connection across generations benefits both younger and older people * Aging is not decline—it is a different kind of strength 💬 Final thought Getting older should not mean becoming invisible. This episode is a reminder that age is not a limitation—it’s context, experience, and perspective. And in a world obsessed with what’s new, we may be overlooking the very people who understand it best. Support the show

    54 min
  3. Why Breakups Hurt So Much (And How to Heal After Heartbreak)

    MAR 19

    Why Breakups Hurt So Much (And How to Heal After Heartbreak)

    If you'd like to suggest episode subjects please reach out to us. Thank you! Few things shake us as deeply as the end of a relationship. Breakups can feel like grief, rejection, confusion, and loss all at once. In this episode of Ella Podcasts, we explore why relationships end, why some people stay too long, why others move on quickly, and what heartbreak really asks of us when love falls apart. This is a deeply human conversation about attachment, hope, and the stories we tell ourselves when someone leaves. Because breakups are rarely just about one moment—they’re often shaped by unmet needs, fear of abandonment, changing identities, resentment, or the painful realization that two people are no longer growing in the same direction. Joining me are:  🔹 Dr. Jonathan Marshall – Psychologist and former professor  🔹 Ina Hammer – Men’s emotional health and wellbeing coach  🔹 Samir Kothari – Investment fund manager sharing personal perspectives Together, we discuss:  • why relationships really break down  • how attachment styles shape love and loss  • why heartbreak can feel like trauma  • the role of social media in modern relationships  • whether trust can be rebuilt after infidelity  • what actually helps when you’re healing Key takeaways: • Breakups are rarely simple—even when the relationship wasn’t right • Healing takes time and isn’t linear • Missing someone doesn’t mean they were right for you • Letting go often means seeing the relationship clearly • You don’t have to rush your healing Heartbreak can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t last forever. With time, support, and honesty, it is possible to find your way back to yourself. 🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬. https://www.youtube.com/@EllasPodcasts-z9v?sub_confirmation=1  🔗 Stay Connected With Us. Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/816892014485089  ============================= 🎬Suggested videos for you: ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bCqS0f0cwbE  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cgaf77yQ2EQ  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbUgWPRRsNA  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSj-OtNqX4I  ================================= ✅ About Ella Podcasts. Welcome to Ella Podcasts, a space where we openly talk about tough times and the struggles that come with them. Hosted by Ella Sherman and clinical psychologist Dr. Jonathan Marshall, this podcast shares personal experiences, feelings, and practical tools to help you cope and build resilience.  We discuss topics like loss, grief, anxiety, low self-esteem, and life changes, offering support and understanding. Each episode includes insights from two special guests to help you feel less alone and find ways to face challenges with hope and a touch of humor. Join us for honest conversations that lift the weight off your shoulders and guide you through life's difficult moments. 🔔 Looking for real talk about life’s struggles? Subscribe for honest conversations, expert advice, & helpful tools to help manage life’s toughest moments. Support the show

    55 min
  4. Managing Suicidal Thoughts: Finding Light in the Darkest Moments

    MAR 13

    Managing Suicidal Thoughts: Finding Light in the Darkest Moments

    If you'd like to suggest episode subjects please reach out to us. Thank you! *Trigger Warning*: This episode discusses suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts, depression, self-harm, and mental distress. Please take care while listening. If you feel unable to stay safe, please contact your local emergency services or a suicide crisis helpline immediately. In this deeply personal episode of Ella Podcasts, we talk openly about managing suicidal thoughts, why they happen, what can trigger them, what helps in the darkest moments, and why it is worth staying alive. When I told people I was covering this topic, some warned me not to. But someone has to talk about what so many people silently endure, especially when children, teenagers, and adults are losing their lives before they’ve had the chance to discover what life might still hold for them. Joining me are: 🔹 Dr Jonathan Marshall – Psychologist and former professor 🔹 Sarah Cole – Educational coach sharing her lived experience of suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts 🔹 Chris Galea – Samaritans volunteer, leadership coach, and lecturer in suicide risk assessment Sarah shares with extraordinary honesty what it felt like to live with suicidal thoughts from a young age, how she survived, and what she now teaches young people about emotional regulation, belonging, movement, hope, and recovery. This episode is for anyone who has struggled, anyone supporting someone they love, and anyone who wants to better understand the reality of suicidal thoughts without judgment or fear. KEY TAKEAWAYS ✔ Suicidal thoughts can be shaped by both biology and life experience ✔ Many people who struggle do not look visibly distressed ✔ Asking about suicide does not plant the idea — it can open the door to help ✔ Shame and isolation can make suicidal thinking worse ✔ Small coping tools matter: journaling, movement, music, pets, routine, and connection ✔ Even a small glimmer of hope can be enough to help someone hold on If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for support. Talk to: A doctor or GP A therapist or counsellor A trusted teacher or adult A crisis line or suicide prevention hotline A friend who can stay with you and listen without judgment 🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬. https://www.youtube.com/@EllasPodcasts-z9v?sub_confirmation=1  🔗 Stay Connected With Us. Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/816892014485089  ============================= 🎬Suggested videos for you: ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bCqS0f0cwbE  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cgaf77yQ2EQ  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbUgWPRRsNA  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSj-OtNqX4I  ================================= ✅ About Ella Podcasts. Welcome to Ella Podcasts, a space where we openly talk about tough times and the struggles that come with them. Hosted by Ella Sherman and clinical psychologist Dr. Jonathan Marshall, this podcast shares personal experiences, feelings, and practical tools to help you cope and build resilience.  We discuss topics like loss, grief, anxiety, low self-esteem, and life changes, offering support and understanding. Each episode includes insights from two special guests to help you feel less alone and find ways to face challenges with hope and a touch of humor. Join us for honest conversations that lift the weight off your shoulders and guide you through life's difficult moments. Support the show

    59 min
  5. Men’s Mental Health: Why Men Hide Their Emotions & The Cost of Silence

    MAR 12

    Men’s Mental Health: Why Men Hide Their Emotions & The Cost of Silence

    If you'd like to suggest episode subjects please reach out to us. Thank you! Society often tells men to “man up.” Be strong. Be stoic. Solve problems. But never talk about your own. In this episode of Ella Podcasts, we explore the hidden emotional struggles many men face — and why expressing vulnerability is still widely seen as weakness. From childhood, boys are taught to suppress emotions. Crying is mocked. Sensitivity is ridiculed. And by adulthood, many men have learned to bottle up stress, anger, loneliness, and burnout. Yet despite the perception that men are privileged in society, they also lead in troubling statistics including suicide rates, addiction, homelessness, and workplace fatalities. So what’s really going on? Joining me to unpack this complex and often overlooked topic are: Dr. Jonathan Marshall – Psychologist and former professor Ina Hammer – Men’s emotional health and wellbeing coach Samir Kothari – Investment fund manager sharing personal perspectives Together we discuss: • Why male emotional expression is often discouraged from childhood • The cultural expectation that men must be stoic problem-solvers • Why men are socially allowed only anger and lust as emotions • The stigma men face when expressing vulnerability • Why male emotional openness is encouraged socially — but often penalised in dating and leadership • The contradiction between what society says it wants from men and what it actually rewards • Why men often suffer in silence until serious health consequences appear This episode explores a question that deserves far more attention: What happens when half the population feels unable to express their emotional pain?  KEY TAKEAWAYS  Boys are often socialised from childhood to suppress emotional vulnerability Male emotional expression is frequently ridiculed by both men and women Society rewards men for strength and control but punishes emotional openness Many men feel pressure to be providers and problem-solvers, not emotional communicators Men are often socially allowed only anger and lust as emotional outlets Emotional repression contributes to serious mental health challenges for men Honest conversations about men’s emotional wellbeing are long overdue  Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more conversations about careers, relationships, mental health and modern life. https://www.youtube.com/@EllasPodcasts-z9v?sub_confirmation=1  The Podcast is available on your favourite platforms:  Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music Stay Connected With Us Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/816892014485089 LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/16549037/  Suggested videos for you:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bCqS0f0cwbE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cgaf77yQ2EQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbUgWPRRsNA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSj-OtNqX4I Support the show

    53 min
  6. Workplace Burnout: Signs, Causes & How to Recover Before It’s Too Late

    MAR 2

    Workplace Burnout: Signs, Causes & How to Recover Before It’s Too Late

    If you'd like to suggest episode subjects please reach out to us. Thank you! Burnout has become so normalized in modern workplaces that many people wear it like a badge of honor. But burnout isn’t just “being tired.”  It’s emotional exhaustion.  Cynicism.  Detachment.  Loss of joy.  And sometimes… depression. In this powerful episode of Ella Podcasts, we unpack what workplace burnout really is — how it differs from normal stress, why it’s rising globally, and how both companies and individuals are contributing to the cycle. Joining me are: 🔹 Dr. Jonathan Marshall – Psychologist & former professor 🔹 Natalie Pappadin – Global transformation leader in tech 🔹 Avni Martin – Executive coach & leadership trainer Together, we explore: • The difference between stress and clinical burnout  • Why high achievers and “insecure overachievers” are most at risk  • The hidden childhood patterns that drive overwork  • How burnout impacts marriages, children, and entire families  • The physical toll — weight gain, pre-diabetes, anxiety, teeth grinding  • Why some companies knowingly hire people prone to burnout  • Generational differences in work identity  • The rise of the “Right to Disconnect” laws  • Whether AI will reduce burnout — or make it worse We also discuss the uncomfortable truth:  Burnout is often 50% external pressure — and 50% internal programming. If your identity is tied entirely to your job…  If you can’t say no…  If you feel unlovable unless you achieve… This episode will resonate deeply. 🎯 KEY TAKEAWAYS: ✔ Burnout is not just stress — it doesn’t disappear after a weekend off  ✔ High performers often burn out due to unresolved insecurities  ✔ Burnout can manifest as anger, cynicism, depression, or total emotional shutdown  ✔ It impacts families, marriages, and even future generations  ✔ Medication alone cannot fix a lifestyle problem  ✔ Setting boundaries early is critical  ✔ Micro-breaks throughout the day can prevent escalation  ✔ If necessary, changing jobs may be the healthiest option  ✔ Use clinical tools like PHQ-9 and GAD-7 to assess your mental health  ✔ You must separate your identity from your job Burnout is not weakness.  It’s a warning sign. And ignoring it can cost you years of recovery. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more honest conversations about career, mental health, and modern workplace realities. https://www.youtube.com/@EllasPodcasts-z9v?sub_confirmation=1 ⭐ The Podcast is available on: 👉 Apple Podcasts  👉 Spotify  👉 Amazon Music 🔗 Stay Connected: Facebook Group  LinkedIn Group #burnout #workplaceburnout #mentalhealthatwork #worklifebalance #careerburnout #highachievers #executiveburnout #stressmanagement #leadershipdevelopment #corporateculture #righttodisconnect #mentalhealthawareness #ellapodcasts Support the show

    57 min
  7. How to Pass a Job Interview: What Hiring Managers Really Look For

    FEB 25

    How to Pass a Job Interview: What Hiring Managers Really Look For

    If you'd like to suggest episode subjects please reach out to us. Thank you! Job interviews can be nerve-wracking. The pressure to perform, impress, and land the role can affect how you present yourself — even when you're highly qualified. In this episode of Ella Podcasts, we break down how to pass a job interview with confidence, from calming your nerves beforehand to answering difficult questions like “What’s your biggest weakness?” Dr. Jonathan Marshall, Chris J. Reed, and Aya AlimKulova share expert insights on what hiring managers are really looking for — and it’s not always the smartest person in the room. We discuss: • How to calm interview anxiety using simple psychological techniques  • Why culture fit often matters more than credentials  • How to prepare properly (and the mistakes that instantly disqualify candidates)  • The importance of energy, chemistry, and reading the room  • How to answer “What’s your biggest weakness?” without sabotaging yourself  • The role of LinkedIn, social proof, and recommendations  • How to handle rejection and stay resilient during a long job search  • Ageism, authenticity, and confidence in mid-career interviews From elevator pitches to research preparation, from body language to resilience — this episode is packed with practical interview strategies you can use immediately. Whether you're early in your career or navigating senior-level roles, this conversation will help you approach interviews with clarity, confidence, and realism. 🎯 KEY TAKEAWAYS: ✔ Take deep breaths and visualize success to calm pre-interview nerves  ✔ Research the company thoroughly — there is no excuse not to  ✔ Culture fit and interpersonal skills often outweigh pure intelligence  ✔ Prepare concise, relevant answers — avoid “war and peace” CV recaps  ✔ Turn weaknesses into growth stories  ✔ Ask thoughtful, open-ended questions at the end of the interview  ✔ Interviews are sales — you are selling your value  ✔ Rejection is normal — you only need one yes Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and leave a comment with your biggest interview challenge or your best tip for staying calm under pressure. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more career insights. https://www.youtube.com/@EllasPodcasts-z9v?sub_confirmation=1 ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ The Podcast is currently on your favorite platforms: 👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/sg/podcast/ella-podcasts/id1862679668 👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4GTmqCXOGz2XFhD68gU5fi?si=04cfd833babf4d5d 👉 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/75909126-0b85-4c58-804b-ae07fc45d8f9/ella-podcasts Support the show

    31 min
  8. Sexual Harassment at Work: What to Do, Red Flags to Watch For & How to Protect Yourself

    FEB 23

    Sexual Harassment at Work: What to Do, Red Flags to Watch For & How to Protect Yourself

    If you'd like to suggest episode subjects please reach out to us. Thank you! Sexual harassment in the workplace is more common than many people realise - and often more subtle than we expect. In this powerful episode of Ella Podcasts, we have an honest and necessary conversation about workplace sexual harassment, professional boundaries, power dynamics, and what you can do if you experience inappropriate behaviour at work. Our guests share real-world insights on how harassment can show up — from inappropriate comments and late-night “work” invitations to more covert forms of pressure and intimidation. We also discuss why women often face different risks in professional networking spaces, how to identify red flags early, and what practical steps you can take to protect yourself and your career. This episode is about awareness, empowerment, and creating safer professional environments - without shame, silence, or self-blame. Joining me is Dr Jonathan Marshall, Echo Wu and Tanya Quinn. If you’ve ever felt uncomfortable in a workplace situation but questioned whether it was “serious enough,” this conversation is for you. 🎯 Key Takeaways: ✔ Sexual harassment isn’t always obvious - trust your instincts  ✔ Late-night “professional” invitations can be red flags  ✔ Power dynamics make it harder to speak up - but documentation matters  ✔ You are not overreacting for setting boundaries  ✔ Developing resilience (“rhino skin”) should never mean tolerating misconduct  ✔ Workplaces must create safer reporting systems and accountability Sexual harassment affects confidence, careers, and mental wellbeing — but silence protects the wrong people. Let’s keep the conversation going. Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and leave a comment if this episode resonated with you or if you have thoughts on creating safer workplaces. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more conversations that matter. https://www.youtube.com/@EllasPodcasts-z9v?sub_confirmation=1 ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ The Podcast is currently on your favorite platforms: 👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/sg/podcast/ella-podcasts/id1862679668 👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4GTmqCXOGz2XFhD68gU5fi?si=04cfd833babf4d5d 👉 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/75909126-0b85-4c58-804b-ae07fc45d8f9/ella-podcasts 🔗 Stay Connected With Us Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/816892014485089 LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/16549037/ ============================= 🎬 Suggested videos for you: ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bCqS0f0cwbE ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cgaf77yQ2EQ ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbUgWPRRsNA ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSj-OtNqX4I ================================= #workplaceharassment #sexualharassment #womenatwork #careersafety #professionalboundaries #careeradvice #personaldevelopment #leadership #wor Support the show

    49 min
See All (16)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
17 Ratings

About

Tough times are hard to navigate. We share experiences, feelings and tools to cope and become resilient. Unpack what weighs us down - loss, grief, anxiety, panic, low self-esteem, disappointment, sadness and change. Feel less alone and take away ideas to lift that dark cloud and face the future. Sprinkled with humour. Creator / Host: Ella Sherman & Clinical Psychologist: Dr Jonathan Marshall with Two Special Guests per episode.

Information

  • Creator
    Ella Podcasts by Lotusland Productions
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Ella Podcasts
  • Show Website
    Ella Podcasts