A Path to Self-Healing with Chris Leather

APTSH

A Path to Self-Healing is a podcast for anyone trying to feel a little steadier, a little stronger, and more at home within themselves. This space is here to remind you that you’re not alone, and that healing is possible. Take what resonates, leave what doesn’t, and trust yourself enough to find your own path to healing, just as I have. Let’s be honest, life can knock the wind out of you. Stress builds up. Old patterns creep back in. Your mind won’t switch off. Some days you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or just stuck, like you’re carrying more than you should have to. I'm Chris Leather, your host, a Certified Master Practitioner in Hypnotherapy, NLP, and Life Coaching with years of walking alongside people just like you. I've seen first-hand how powerful these tools can be: rewiring unhelpful beliefs, quieting the inner critic, building unshakable confidence, and reclaiming a sense of calm even when the world feels chaotic. Through this podcast, I blend that professional experience with genuine compassion, heartfelt conversations, and tools you can actually use, right now. Every episode feels like sitting down with someone who genuinely gets it, honest, grounded and real. You’ll hear raw, uplifting stories from people who’ve turned pain into growth, thoughtful conversations with mental health experts sharing fresh insights, and simple, evidence-based tools to help you ease anxiety, handle stress, build resilience and feel more at home in yourself. Whether you're looking to break free from negative spirals, rebuild after a tough season, strengthen your self-care routine, or simply feel more connected and empowered in your daily life, this is your space. No judgment, no quick fixes, just honest guidance and a community that reminds you: you're seen, you're worthy, and healing is within reach. We laugh. We open up. We try things out together. And along the way, we gently chip away at the stigma around mental health, by talking about it honestly and celebrating every small win that matters. If you’re ready to take the next step towards a calmer mind and a life that feels more like your own, I’d love you to join me. I'd love to connect beyond the mic too: Everything I do: https://www.chrisleathercoaching.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisleathercoaching/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chrisleathercoaching LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-leather-chris/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Apathtoself-healing TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chrisleathercoaching Thank you for being here. Your mental health matters deeply to me, and I'm truly grateful to walk this path with you. Let's begin.

  1. No Options Ty Gipson’s Diabetes to Transplant Journey

    APR 1

    No Options Ty Gipson’s Diabetes to Transplant Journey

    No Options Ty Gipson’s Diabetes to Transplant Journey In this powerful episode of A Path to Self-Healing, I sit down with Ty Gipson – a speaker, entrepreneur, and true survivor who has turned serious health challenges into incredible strength and purpose. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at just eight years old, Ty later faced kidney failure and underwent a life-changing dual kidney-pancreas transplant. Through it all, he developed a powerful “no option mindset” that helped him build two successful businesses, serve on Georgetown City Council, win the Service to Mankind Award, and launch his own inspiring podcast. Ty opens up about his tough-love childhood in southeast Texas, how his parents refused to let diabetes become an excuse, and the practical mindset shifts that got him through the darkest times. He also shares his simple but powerful 3-step framework: Grow or Die, Hope or Despair, and Humour or Drama. This conversation is full of raw honesty, resilience, and actionable wisdom for anyone facing health struggles, business setbacks, or difficult seasons in life. Chapters (00:00) Introduction Ty Gipson and The No Option Mindset (04:30) Roots in Southeast Texas – How His Childhood Built Strength (12:00) Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at Age 8 (22:00) Turning Diabetes Into a Blessing (30:00) Kidney Failure at 30 and the Dual Organ Transplant Journey (48:00) Life After the Transplant – Family, Business Success and Giving Back (58:00) The Power of the Mind – 3 Steps to Overcome Darkness and Build Resilience (1:08:00) His Podcast No Options and Why You Should Share Your Story (1:18:00) Closing Hope on the Other Side of Adversity Ty’s journey beautifully shows that the hardest roads often lead to the most beautiful destinations – deeper purpose, stronger family bonds, and a life lived in full colour. Connect with Ty Gipson Website: https://ty.gipson.com Water Boy Graphics: https://waterboygraphics.com Podcast: No Options (search “No Options Ty Gipson” on Spotify, YouTube and all platforms) If you enjoyed this honest conversation on resilience and self-healing, subscribe to A Path to Self-Healing and join me for more real stories about overcoming life’s biggest challenges. Please take a moment to rate and review the show – it really helps us grow and reach more listeners.

    1h 34m
  2. Healing Heartbreak Love and Relationships with Jax Beatty

    MAR 10

    Healing Heartbreak Love and Relationships with Jax Beatty

    Heartbreak, trauma, and unhealthy relationship patterns don’t have to control your life. Join me and psychotherapist Jax Beatty as we talk about healing from heartbreak, understanding attachment, and building healthier relationships. We discuss how to set boundaries, trust yourself again in love, and break repeating emotional cycles. In this episode, I sit down with Jax for an open and honest conversation about love, heartbreak, trauma, and the patterns that quietly shape the relationships we find ourselves in. Jax is an experienced psychotherapist with over 30 years working in mental health. She specialises in Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) and EMDR, and has worked in a wide range of settings including the NHS, addiction treatment services, and forensic environments supporting offenders within the criminal justice system. Alongside her private practice, she helps individuals and families navigate complex challenges such as trauma, addiction, emotional regulation, relationships, and personal growth. We talk about why breakups can feel so overwhelming and why people often find themselves chasing love even when it hurts. Jax shares insights from her therapeutic work, explaining how early life experiences shape attachment patterns in adult relationships. Many of the behaviours we carry today, from fear of abandonment to difficulties with trust, often come from these early patterns. We also discuss the ways people unknowingly repeat the same relationship dynamics, how anxious and avoidant attachment styles affect the way we relate to others, and why awareness is often the first step toward breaking these cycles. Jax explains how understanding your emotional triggers can help you respond to relationships more consciously. The conversation also covers love bombing, recognising when someone moves too fast emotionally, and the importance of taking time to truly get to know a partner. We talk about the emotional side of heartbreak, including how breakups can affect self-worth and identity, and why having supportive people around you makes a significant difference during recovery. Jax also shares insights on trauma and emotional regulation, explaining how difficult experiences can leave lasting patterns in adult relationships. We discuss the importance of self-awareness, self-compassion, and doing the inner work that allows people to form healthier, more secure connections. Finally, we touch on how tools like AI are appearing in therapeutic spaces, the support they can provide, and why human connection remains irreplaceable. This episode is about growth, healing, and learning to trust yourself so you can navigate love and relationships with confidence. If you’d like to learn more about Jax or her work, you can find her here: Website: https://www.jaxbeattypsychotherapy.co.uk/ Email: info@jaxbeattypsychotherapy.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/psychotherapy_jax_beatty/

    1h 44m
  3. Peak Performance and Mindset Mastery with Matt Young

    FEB 17

    Peak Performance and Mindset Mastery with Matt Young

    In this inspiring and high-impact episode, I sit down with Matt Young, peak performance mindset coach, global keynote speaker, former professional footballer, and ultra-endurance athlete, to explore what it really takes to unlock human potential, build emotional resilience, and develop an elite mindset. From overcoming anxiety and self-doubt to mastering discipline and purpose, Matt shares powerful insights and practical tools to help you perform at your best in life, sport, and business. (0:01 – 0:20) | Introduction Meet Matt Young, peak performance coach, global keynote speaker, former professional footballer, and ultra-marathon runner. Matt shares a snapshot of his journey, setting the tone for a powerful conversation about mindset, resilience, and personal growth. (0:22 – 1:54) | The Three Pillars of Peak Mindset Matt introduces his core philosophy and explains how movement, posture, breathing, and focus directly shape emotions and confidence. He explores how the body influences the mind, why most communication is body-led, and how intentional physical habits can dramatically improve performance in sport, business, and everyday life. (1:56 – 8:54) | Background & Purpose Matt shares his journey into coaching and personal development, including his years of study in psychology, behaviour, and anatomy. He explains his mission to empower others, help people break through emotional barriers, and why this episode is especially valuable for anyone feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about their next step. (8:55 – 9:52) | Where the Drive Comes From A reflection on Matt’s upbringing and the influence of his parents. He discusses how early encouragement, strong values, and belief in possibility shaped his ambition, resilience, and long-term work ethic. (9:53 – 12:51) | From Football to Rock Bottom Matt opens up about life after professional sport, losing his identity, and experiencing emotional and mental struggles. He explains how discipline, consistency, and self-belief helped him rebuild his confidence and create a new sense of purpose beyond football. (12:51 – 15:27) | Leading from the Front Why lived experience matters more than theory. Matt explains his belief that “talk is cheap” and that true leadership comes from practising what you preach. He shares why he continually challenges himself so he can guide others with authenticity and credibility. (15:27 – 16:25) | Empathy Through Experience A discussion on how personal hardship, loss, and emotional pain develop deeper empathy. Matt explains how having “been there” allows him to connect more genuinely with clients and support them through anxiety, fear, and uncertainty. (16:38 – 20:17) | Coaching Philosophy & Qualifications Matt talks through his professional development, including NLP, hypnotherapy, life coaching, and CBT-based approaches. He explains how he blends theory with lived experience to create a holistic, results-driven coaching model that serves clients worldwide. This episode is packed with insight for anyone interested in: • Peak performance and elite mindset development • Overcoming anxiety and emotional blocks • Building resilience through adversity • High-performance habits and discipline • Leadership, impact, and personal growth If you’ve ever felt stuck, uncertain, or limited by your own thinking, this conversation offers both practical strategies and powerful mindset shifts. Learn more about Matt’s executive coaching and keynote speaking here: https://www.mattyounglc.com/executivecoachingspeaking See more mindset and performance content on his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@mattyounglc If you’re ready to strengthen your mindset, build mental toughness, and unlock peak performance, this episode is for you, offering practical tools to boost confidence, manage stress, overcome limiting beliefs, and build resilience, self-discipline, and high-performance habits for long-term success.

    1h 1m
  4. Trauma, Self-Healing, and How It Shapes Your Life with Beckie Sorby

    JAN 19

    Trauma, Self-Healing, and How It Shapes Your Life with Beckie Sorby

    Have you ever woken up feeling like you're carrying an invisible backpack full of rocks? Maybe you flinch at sudden noises, feel unsafe even when everything looks fine, or get super snappy over tiny things. That’s what trauma can feel like for so many people, and it’s not always the big, dramatic movie-style event we imagine. In this really open and gentle episode of A Path To Self-Healing, I sit down again with my lovely friend Becky Sorby, an incredible hypnotherapist, NLP practitioner and Mnemodynamic Therapist (This therapy helps people access, process, and re-encode emotional memories so they no longer control the present in unhealthy ways) she has this amazing way of sitting with people right in the middle of their mess, no judgment, just quiet belief that things really can get better. We talk about: How trauma isn’t always one huge thing, sometimes it’s lots of smaller, quiet wounds that slowly change how you see yourself, trust people, love, and even just get through the day. The fight, flight, freeze (and sneaky people-pleasing “fawn”) responses your body does to try to keep you safe. Why your body remembers everything (hello tight shoulders, racing heart, or shutting down completely) Everyday examples that can leave marks like breakups, losing someone you love, unstable childhood moments, even moving schools a lot. How triggers work and why sometimes we react in ways that don’t even feel like “us”. The biggest hope is healing isn’t just surviving, it’s about getting your life and nervous system back. Becky shares what she’s learned from her deep trauma training, busts common myths, and explains why your body isn’t broken, it’s just trying (sometimes too hard) to protect you. Whether you’re wondering “Will I ever feel okay again?”, you want to understand someone you care about, or you’re just curious how the mind and body actually hold onto tough stuff, this episode is for you. It’s honest, kind, full of real hope, and packed with simple things you can start doing right now to feel a little lighter. Guest: Beckie Sorby, Gold Status Hypnotherapist, Licenced Practitioner of NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) Mnemodynamic therapist (Practitioner who helps people heal emotional patterns and trauma by working directly with memory, body responses, and subconscious emotional storage). Find Beckie at: beckiesorby.co.uk | Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beckiesorbyhypnotherapy/?hl=en | Hypnotherapy Directory: https://www.hypnotherapy-directory.org.uk/hypnotherapists/beckie-sorby If any of this resonates, grab a cuppa, press play, and know you’re not alone. Healing really is possible, one gentle step at a time. If this episode resonated with you, maybe it helped you make sense of something you've been carrying, or gave you a little spark of hope, I'd love to hear from you. Drop a comment below and let me know what stood out, or if there's anything you'd like us to dive deeper into next time. And if you enjoy these honest, heartfelt conversations on the path to self-healing, please hit that follow/subscribe button so you never miss an episode. Your support means the world and helps us keep bringing these important topics to more people who might need them. Thanks for being here with us today. Take care of yourself, be kind to your nervous system, and remember: healing is possible, one gentle step at a time. See you in the next one.

    1h 7m
  5. 10/14/2025

    What It Really Means to Be a Man Mental Health Dating Purpose and Growth

    In this episode of Modern Men, I sit down with my business partner Charles, a 27-year-old entrepreneur and digital marketer from Dorset, and my mate James, a 45-year-old tiler and former artist from West Yorkshire, for a raw and honest conversation about what it truly means to be a man today. We dive into men’s mental health, tackling anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, and the pressures of modern life. From navigating dating apps and social media traps to dealing with grief, isolation, and the lingering stigma around help-seeking, we share personal stories, insights, and practical strategies for building resilience and wellbeing. Charles opens up about battling anxiety at university in a suicide hotspot and finding connection through friendship. James talks about his first-year despair in a course that didn’t fit and how reclaiming his path freed him. I reflect on grief after losing my dad during COVID-19 and a 14-hour burnout collapse, sharing lessons on coping, self-care, and rebuilding strength. We also discuss actionable tools to improve mental, emotional, and physical health: prioritising sleep, establishing boundaries with phones and social media, engaging in home workouts, cardio, ice baths, and whole-food nutrition. When it comes to dating, we talk about authenticity, patience, and finding meaningful connections offline. This episode is perfect for runs, commutes, or soul-searching, offering laughs, truths, and practical advice for men looking to break toxic myths, build resilience, and take charge of their mental health. We remind listeners that you are not alone, and self-healing is a journey we all share.

    1h 25m
  6. 01/23/2025

    Understanding Grief and Coping with Loss Finding Hope with an End-of-Life Nurse

    Join me in this deeply personal episode as I share one of the most pivotal moments of my life—the loss of my father, my guiding light through life’s challenges. Grief is a universal experience, yet it can feel isolating and overwhelming. Through sharing my journey, I hope to offer comfort, connection, and hope to anyone navigating the complex emotions of loss. In this episode, we discuss the emotional turbulence of grief: waves of sorrow, moments of disbelief and numbness, anger, and the creeping presence of guilt that often follows a loved one’s passing. I reflect on how my own experience unfolded during the COVID-19 pandemic, where isolation, anxiety, and loneliness compounded the pain, affecting sleep, appetite, and even physical wellbeing. To bring additional insight, I’m joined by my mum, a retired end-of-life care nurse, who shares her years of experience supporting individuals and families through the final chapters of life. Together, we discuss the emotional and practical aspects of coping with loss, how grief manifests in different ways, and strategies to navigate this difficult journey with resilience and self-compassion. This episode is for anyone who has experienced the death of a parent, friend, or loved one, and is searching for understanding, connection, and hope. We explore how shared experiences can bring solace, how grief can be processed in healthy ways, and how even in the darkest moments, small glimpses of light and hope can emerge. Whether you’re seeking guidance, comfort, or simply a listening ear, this conversation is a heartfelt companion through the labyrinth of grief, offering reflections, personal stories, and practical insights to help you heal and find meaning in the aftermath of loss.

    39 min
  7. 12/20/2024

    Digital Marketing Entrepreneurship and Setting Goals with Charles Down

    I’m excited to welcome Charles Down, an entrepreneurial digital marketing expert and the owner of Forefront Digital, a leading digital agency in the UK. In this episode, Charles shares his journey from starting out in the corporate world to building a successful business that helps companies transform their online presence through cutting-edge web design, development, and SEO strategies. We dive into the world of digital marketing, exploring how to craft exceptional online experiences that truly connect with audiences. Charles offers first-hand insights into entrepreneurship, business growth, and the importance of setting clear goals to achieve success. He explains how he and his team at Forefront work with a diverse range of clients, helping them grow their brands online while maintaining authenticity and purpose. Listeners will gain valuable advice on navigating the challenges of starting and scaling a business, leveraging SEO and marketing strategies, and staying motivated while pursuing ambitious goals. Charles also shares lessons on resilience, risk-taking, and personal growth that have shaped his journey as an entrepreneur. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, small business owner, or someone interested in digital marketing and business strategy, this episode is packed with inspiration, actionable tips, and insights you can apply to your own professional journey. Connect with Charles Down and Forefront Digital: Website: https://weareforefront.com/ Email: info@weareforefront.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weareforefront/

    1h 5m
  8. 11/15/2024

    Managing Anxiety and Negative Thoughts How to Stay Positive

    If you struggle with anxiety or want to understand it better, this episode is for you. I’m joined by Sue Ashford, therapist and Midlife Coach, as we dive into the statistics, symptoms, and strategies for coping with this prevalent mental health challenge. We discuss the impact of anxiety on the brain, including changes in the amygdala and hippocampus, and explain why understanding these mechanisms can help you take control of your mental wellbeing. Sue shares practical insights into common strategies for managing anxiety, including identifying triggers, staying physically active, and using relaxation techniques to reduce stress. Anxiety is a pressing issue that affects millions, but it is not an illness—it’s a signal from your body and mind that requires attention and care. In this episode, we explore ways to respond to anxiety with awareness and practical action, rather than fear or avoidance. Listeners will gain actionable tips for managing anxiety in everyday life, building resilience, and maintaining emotional wellbeing. We also discuss the importance of self-compassion, establishing routines that support mental health, and finding strategies that work for you personally. Whether you’re seeking tools for coping with your own anxiety, supporting someone you care about, or simply want to understand the science behind anxiety, this episode provides valuable insights and guidance from an experienced therapist. Connect with Sue Ashford: Website: https://www.sueashford.com/ Email: info@sueashford.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sueashfordcoaching/

    54 min

About

A Path to Self-Healing is a podcast for anyone trying to feel a little steadier, a little stronger, and more at home within themselves. This space is here to remind you that you’re not alone, and that healing is possible. Take what resonates, leave what doesn’t, and trust yourself enough to find your own path to healing, just as I have. Let’s be honest, life can knock the wind out of you. Stress builds up. Old patterns creep back in. Your mind won’t switch off. Some days you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or just stuck, like you’re carrying more than you should have to. I'm Chris Leather, your host, a Certified Master Practitioner in Hypnotherapy, NLP, and Life Coaching with years of walking alongside people just like you. I've seen first-hand how powerful these tools can be: rewiring unhelpful beliefs, quieting the inner critic, building unshakable confidence, and reclaiming a sense of calm even when the world feels chaotic. Through this podcast, I blend that professional experience with genuine compassion, heartfelt conversations, and tools you can actually use, right now. Every episode feels like sitting down with someone who genuinely gets it, honest, grounded and real. You’ll hear raw, uplifting stories from people who’ve turned pain into growth, thoughtful conversations with mental health experts sharing fresh insights, and simple, evidence-based tools to help you ease anxiety, handle stress, build resilience and feel more at home in yourself. Whether you're looking to break free from negative spirals, rebuild after a tough season, strengthen your self-care routine, or simply feel more connected and empowered in your daily life, this is your space. No judgment, no quick fixes, just honest guidance and a community that reminds you: you're seen, you're worthy, and healing is within reach. We laugh. We open up. We try things out together. And along the way, we gently chip away at the stigma around mental health, by talking about it honestly and celebrating every small win that matters. If you’re ready to take the next step towards a calmer mind and a life that feels more like your own, I’d love you to join me. I'd love to connect beyond the mic too: Everything I do: https://www.chrisleathercoaching.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisleathercoaching/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chrisleathercoaching LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-leather-chris/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Apathtoself-healing TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chrisleathercoaching Thank you for being here. Your mental health matters deeply to me, and I'm truly grateful to walk this path with you. Let's begin.