Happy Thistle

Woody Morris

Happiness is all around us but sometimes it can be hard to find..I’m here to remind you of your happy, sharing top tips along the way and helping you remember when you smile the world smiles back💜

  1. 16H AGO

    From Bedroom Startup to Mortgage Powerhouse: The Dom Taddei Story

    What does it really take to build a business from scratch and turn it into one of Scotland’s biggest success stories? In this episode, we’re diving into the journey of Dom Taddei, Founder and CEO of Clear Mortgage Solutions, and trust me… it’s a good one. We’re talking humble beginnings (think: a bedroom in Galashiels), bold decisions, and a leap of faith. Yep—while most people were playing it safe, Dom was going all in. Because this isn’t just a story about mortgages. It’s about mindset. The same guy who built a company in the middle of a recession also sailed across the Atlantic… and—yes, really—jumped into the open sea after watching Jaws. Not exactly your average CEO behaviour, but it tells you everything you need to know about his approach to fear, challenge, and pushing limits. Fast forward to today, and he’s leading a thriving network of over 170 advisers—but what really stands out isn’t just the growth. It’s the culture. Alongside his awesome wife and business partner Claire, Dom has built a people-first company that genuinely invests in mental health, career progression, and helping others succeed on their own terms. In this chat, we get into the lessons learned from tough times, why resilience beats comfort every time, and the core values that drive the business forward—from “never give up” to “enjoy the journey” (because what’s the point if you’re not having a bit of fun along the way?). It’s honest, it’s inspiring, and it’s packed with insights for anyone building something of their own—or just looking for a reminder that challenges can be the making of you. Pop the kettle on… or grab a fizzstick😂 you’re going to enjoy this one.                                                            💜💜💜 Find your financial footing with Mortgage Advice Bureau. In a market of shifting interest rates and complex options, the "mental load" of finding the right mortgage can be exhausting. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to remortgage before rates move again, we’re here to declutter the process. Our advisers turn industry jargon into clear choices, helping you secure a deal that fits your life today. Start your journey here: https://mailchi.mp/mab.org.uk/happy-thistle-get-in-touch Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. There may be a fee for mortgage advice. The actual amount you pay will depend upon your circumstances. The fee is up to 1%, but a typical fee is 0.3% of the amount borrowed.”

    41 min
  2. MAR 18

    Building Confident, Courageous & Happy Girls: The Happy Thoughts Squad Story💜

    After 23 years as a primary school teacher, Cheryl Lessels began noticing something deeply concerning — more and more young girls were struggling with anxiety, low confidence, and a quiet belief that they simply were not good enough. When Cheryl’s own daughter began experiencing anxiety and panic attacks, she felt the same helplessness so many parents feel when watching their child struggle emotionally. That moment changed everything. In this inspiring conversation, Cheryl shares how she turned decades of experience supporting children into a powerful new mission: helping girls build confidence, resilience, and emotional strength. She is the founder of Happy Thoughts Squad, a subscription box designed for girls aged 7–16 that gently nurtures self-esteem, positive thinking, and emotional wellbeing — while also supporting busy parents who want to raise strong, kind and confident daughters. Cheryl’s mission is simple but powerful: to help raise a generation of girls with kind hearts, fierce minds, and brave spirits. If you care about raising confident girls, supporting children’s mental wellbeing, or turning life challenges into meaningful change, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Cheryl you are a shining light!  If you would like to learn more about the Happy Thought squad boxes and follow their story click below:  https://happythoughtssquad.com/ https://www.instagram.com/happythoughtssquad?igsh=bWRlNTVlc290Y3Az&utm_source=qr

    22 min
  3. Painfree and purpose lead - learn how to move your body back to Happy with Somatic Coach Bron Armstrong

    MAR 11

    Painfree and purpose lead - learn how to move your body back to Happy with Somatic Coach Bron Armstrong

    I’m chatting with Bron Armstrong, a Somatic practitioner based in Kelso in the beautiful Scottish Borders. Bron has always been active but over time, her body started telling a different story. She was diagnosed with mild scoliosis, a functional leg length difference, and asthma… and gradually, more and more pain became part of daily life. And here’s the thing — she tried everything. If you’ve ever been in pain, you’ll know that feeling of just wanting your body to feel like your own again. Then she discovered the Hanna Method of Somatics — and that’s when things really began to change. Through learning how to work with her nervous system and retrain her body from the inside out, she experienced huge improvements — better posture, easier movement, freedom from pain… and even becoming asthma free. Amazing. Now she helps others do the same - supporting people to create long-term, pain-free change. In today’s conversation, we talk about how stress and life experiences can get stored in the body, why pain isn’t always what we think it is, and how small, gentle movements can lead to big shifts — not just physically, but emotionally too. Because feeling happy isn’t just about what’s going on in our minds… it’s about feeling at home in our bodies. So if you’ve ever felt stiff, sore, stressed — or just curious about how to feel more comfortable in yourself — this one’s for you. Let’s get into it… there’s also a  wee bonus at the end where Bron takes us through a few somatic movements. Enjoy! .. and if you want to get in touch with Bron find her details below. Connect with Bronwyn Email: bronwyn@bronwynsclinicalsomatics.co.uk Website: www.bronwynsclinicalsomatics.com

    29 min

About

Happiness is all around us but sometimes it can be hard to find..I’m here to remind you of your happy, sharing top tips along the way and helping you remember when you smile the world smiles back💜