Higher Love with Megan

Megan Cooper
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Alternative Health
  • Updated Weekly

Top 5% Spotify Most Shared Podcasts, the Higher Love with Megan Podcast is not just another 'nice-to-have' wellness podcast. It is a disruptive challenge to the status quo, breaking out of the echo chamber of societal narratives within wellness and beyond. Join me, your host, Megan Cooper, a trauma-informed therapist and coach, as we foster an inclusive, diverse space that stands for higher love for all. Through thought-provoking, bold conversations that reunite wellness with social justice and activism, we remember our collective humanity and stand together as ambassadors for change.

  1. Aug 12

    Grieving our way to a new world with Nicola Duffell

    In this episode, Nicola Duffell and I explore the profound and often misunderstood realm of grief, emphasising its role in personal and collective liberation. We discuss grief's wild, messy nature and how that frees us from conditioned needs for structure, control and neatness. We open up to grief in the collective sense, a grief for a world that is burning, fairytales we lived in before brutal initiations into stark realities, our connection to the earth, our lineages and to each other. We discuss how expanding our relationship with grief is essential for reimagining future possibility and can foster deeper humanity and healing. About Nicola: Nicola Duffell calls herself a Life Mentor, Grief + Soul Activist - Poet, Writer + Author. She sees herself as a grief worker, with journeying with grief at the heart of all she does as a space-holder and human. Key Topics: The societal misunderstanding of grief and its implications Grief as an ongoing apprenticeship and relational process The role of storytelling and ritual in grief work The concept of soul severance and the shattering of illusions The importance of collective grief and community support Decolonizing grief and restoring cultural practices The gates of grief and their significance The relationship between grief, trauma, and systemic oppression The role of imagination and poetry in healing grief Practical ways to tend to grief in daily life Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest Nicola Duffell 02:20 Why grief is not just about loss of loved ones 05:23 Society's misunderstanding and repression of grief 08:25 The myth of grief being finite and 'getting over it' 09:54 Grief in all aspects of life and its relational nature 11:18 The sacredness of grief and the importance of community 15:57 Collective grief in times of global crisis 22:43 The shattering of illusions and worldviews 26:21 The necessity of grief for liberation and reimagination 36:57 The moments that punctuate our collective grief 44:37 Healing the earth’s grief and the role of nature 54:38 The link between unresolved grief and war 55:31 Decolonial approaches to grief and cultural restoration 01:00:21 The gates of grief and their significance 01:04:10 The importance of truth and unearthing hidden grief 01:07:36 The ongoing journey of grief and reimagining possibilities References: Nicola Duffell: https://www.nicoladuffell.com/ Francis Weller: https://www.francisweller.net/ Life's Poetry by Nicola Duffell: https://www.nicoladuffell.com/lifes-poetry-the-book

    Grieving our way to a new world with Nicola Duffell

  2. Jul 29

    Relating in the Time of Polycrisis with Keri Jarvis

    This week I welcome back the superb Keri Jarvis, who joined me for the episode "Disrupting the Wellness Industry" back in 2024. One of the wisest and most sensible people I have in my circle (as well as suitably radical and feisty - obviously) Keri shares her reflections on the ways we do and do not relate in today's world. Observing how many of the conditions and structures of our lives have rendered us relationally de-skilled, Keri and I explore possibility for communication, honesty, vulnerability, understanding and knowing ourselves and each other in a world which is increasingly polarised, divided and in short - a time of polycrisis! This is a must-listen episode for how we might actually create the environments and relational dynamics for what Keri calls, liveable futures TOGETHER. In this episode: - how systems of capitalism, supremacy and patriarchy have informed the way we interact with one another and in many respects deskilled us.- how mainstream ‘wellness culture’ or ‘Western psychology’ in some ways perpetuates some of these relational challenges, despite best intentions - how spaces of activism and social change can also mirror relational complexity and cycles of relational harm eimagining possibility for how we may be together in relational intimacy About Keri: Keri Jarvis is a Leftist Coach, Thought Partner & Community Activist supporting people to navigate the relational complexity of the polycrisis. Keri is deeply interested in how we’ve been relationally de-skilled, and disciplined into seeing ourselves and one another as separate cogs in a machine within Last Stage Capitalism. Her work supports people to develop more agile relationships with themselves, fertilising the possibility of generative, resilient relational dynamics.  She believes the portals to liveable futures can be entered through our relationships- if only we can bear to be perceived. To contact Keri: https://www.kerijarvis.com/ Key Topics: Relational de-skilling under capitalism The paradox of intimacy and estrangement Impact of wellness culture on relationships Strategies for relational courage and vulnerability Reimagining community through radical engagement The role of boundaries and grey areas in connection The importance of compassion and self-awareness Activism and relational work in social change Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and guest background 02:10 The relational paradox: desire for intimacy vs. fear of being known 05:01 Impact of capitalism and social systems on relational skills 09:02 The influence of wellness culture and individualism 15:02 Reimagining community through radical engagement 19:53 The importance of relational complexity and uncertainty 24:48 The role of boundaries and self-awareness in relationships 30:10 Practicing honesty and vulnerability in social change 35:05 The power of small acts of kindness and connection 39:56 Developing courage and compassion in activism 45:02 The potential of strangers and everyday interactions 49:56 Self-compassion and growth through relational challenges 01:00:07 Course announcement and closing remarks Resources: Radical Intimacy by Sophie K. Rosa Experiments in Imagining Otherwise by Lola Olufemi The Second Body by Daisy Hilgard George Monbiot at The Guardian Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler Love in a F****d Up World by Dean Spade Collaborating with the Enemy by Adam Kahane Everyday Habits for Transforming Systems: The Catalytic Power of Radical Engagement with Adam Kahane The Portal e-learning platform: https://collective.jointheportal.com/about-the-portal-collective If you enjoyed this episode please consider leaving a 5* review or take a moment to review the show - this makes a massive difference in helping more people find the conversations. Thank you for tuning in!

    Relating in the Time of Polycrisis with Keri Jarvis

  3. Jul 15

    🔑 PANEL EVENT: "A conversation of hope between survivors" with Stephen Kapos and Antoine Raffoul

    We're back! How better to arrive back than bring you the conversation I had the pleasure and honour of moderating in person back in May at Palestine House organised by the Galilee Foundation as part of a week-long series of events to commemorate the anniversary of the Nakba.This conversation was between the celebrated voices of solidarity, Holocaust survivor Stephen Kapos and Palestinian Nakba survivor Antoine Raffoul.  Stephen and Antoine are two survivors from different tragedies but united in their similar experiences of catastrophe. Together they share common stories of resilience, hope and resistance. This conversation highlights their lived experiences, reflections on justice, and visions for rebuilding Palestine through their shared lenses as architects. This event also illustrates the importance of storytelling as a form of resistance. Antoine and Stephen remind us that hope, coordination, and international solidarity are essential in confronting ongoing injustices. Their stories underscore that history may repeat, but collective action can lead to meaningful change. At the event we also saw the debut screening of SURVIVORS - a documentary chronicling the lives of Stephen and Antoine brought to us by award-winning film-makers Think, Make, Create founded by Jacqui Beaumont and Andrea Kapos, Stephen's daughter. WATCH THIS TEASER NOW! Please consider a donation to the Galilee Foundation and or the crowdfunder set up to bring SURVIVORS to our screens worldwide! All links below: The Galilee Foundation: https://www.galileefoundation.org.uk/ Think Make Create: https://thinkmakecreate.com/ SURVIVORS Documentary Official Teaser: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=69D-zrUipmw SURVIVORS Crowdfunder: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/survivors-campaign# The New Arab article: https://www.newarab.com/features/two-survivors-one-struggle-holocaust-nakba-and-gaza

    🔑 PANEL EVENT: "A conversation of hope between survivors" with Stephen Kapos and Antoine Raffoul

  4. May 5

    PART 2: "Meet The Angry Young Women" Part 2 with Dr Phoebe o'Brien and Megan Cooper

    In Part 2 of this two-part episode "Meet the Angry Young Women" Megan and Dr Phoebe o'Brien @tenshioppai address the article of the same title in The New Statesman in which they and a handful of British women were misrepresented and manufactured into what the journalist branded 'The Femosphere'. Megan and Phoebe continue to address the missing realities and contexts behind the words and look at the raw polling data to draw differing conclusions. Chapters 00:00 Recap from Part 1 02:23 The Intersectionality of Feminism and Activism 03:31 Art and Performance: A Feminist Perspective 05:35 Chronic Pain and Feminism: A Personal Narrative 07:02 The Intersection of Gender and Systemic Issues 08:44 Medical Misogyny and Women's Health 09:37 Misrepresentation of Women's Experiences 10:15 The Impact of War on Activism 14:09 Gender Dynamics in Activism 14:09 Radicalization Through Global Events 16:31 Emotional Responses to Conflict 18:07 The Value of Life and Gendered Perspectives 22:40 Political Alignment in Relationships 26:06 The Role of Data in Understanding Relationships 26:59 The Importance of Shared Values in Relationships 29:02 Privilege and Political Alignment 30:57 Understanding Political Views and Relationships 32:42 The Impact of Capitalism on Family Planning 34:33 Reproductive Autonomy and Economic Independence 37:02 Social Reproductive Labor and Gender Expectations 39:15 The Need for Alternative Family Structures 41:33 Perceptions of Privilege and Fear in Relationships 45:41 The Role of Advocacy and Activism in Women's Lives 49:54 The Power of Women in Social Justice If you enjoy the conversation, please consider rating the show or leaving a review. Share with anyone else who would appreciate the conversation and see you soon!

    PART 2: "Meet The Angry Young Women" Part 2 with Dr Phoebe o'Brien and Megan Cooper

  5. May 1

    PART 1: "Meet The Angry Young Women" - Dr Phoebe o'Brien & Megan Cooper respond to New Statesman

    In this episode, Megan Cooper and Dr. Phoebe O'Brien @tenshioppai critically analyse the recent article in The New Statesman entitled 'Meet the Angry Young Women' in which they, and a handful of other British women, were misrepresented and had their work repackaged to manufacture a 'Femosphere'. Together, they trawl the article offering rebuttal and clarity, comb through the raw data and discuss perspectives on gender politics and media portrayal. Key Themes: Media misrepresentation of women Analysis of polling data and its biases Systemic roots of capitalism and patriarchy Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 06:10 Context of the 'Angry Young Women' Article 11:16 Exploring the Article's Claims 15:26 Conflating Feminism with Extremism 19:22 Capitalism and Women's Autonomy 25:07 Understanding Capitalism and Its Impact on Women 26:13 The Rise of Pro-Socialist Sentiment Among Youth 27:20 Misrepresentation of Feminist Voices in Media 28:43 The Complexity of Women's Experiences and Trauma 31:34 Data Insights on Gender Relations and Safety 34:06 Navigating Patriarchy: Women's Perspectives 38:11 The Role of Protests in Social Change 43:03 The Intersectionality of Feminism and Activism Part 2 will follow soon!

    PART 1: "Meet The Angry Young Women" - Dr Phoebe o'Brien & Megan Cooper respond to New Statesman

  6. Apr 22

    How Emotional Connection Transforms Men in Relationship with David Chambers

    In this insightful interview, David Chambers shares his journey from a wild, adventurous life to becoming a men's coach focused on emotional connection, masculinity, and relationship health. He discusses societal narratives around masculinity, the impact of the man box, and practical ways men can evolve to create deeper, more authentic relationships. About David: David is a dating, relationships & intimacy coach for men. After growing up in a single-parent, female-dominated home with no male role model in his life, David struggled to understand what masculinity and a healthy romantic relationship entailed. After spending most of his 20s in meaningless dynamics and avoiding commitment. He went on a personal journey towards authenticity, self-awareness, emotional intelligence, purpose, harnessing his sexual energy, vulnerability, presence, openness, and honesty. Through this learning, he was able to break free from gender stereotypes and societal expectations of what a ‘real’ man should be to become his true and authentic self.  He is now in a loving partnership with a son and supports other men to find more fulfilment in dating, love and relationship. Key Themes: Societal narratives around masculinity and the man box The impact of childhood imprints and societal conditioning The role of vulnerability and emotional expression in men's lives Practical steps for men to develop self-awareness and emotional intelligence The influence of the Manosphere and alternative narratives on men's perceptions Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to David Chambers 02:15 David's Journey into Coaching 05:58 The Impact of Breakups on Personal Growth 11:28 Understanding Masculinity and Relationship Patterns 15:58 Avoidance and Emotional Challenges in Men 20:59 The Man Box and Its Effects on Men 26:11 Navigating the Manosphere and Finding Authenticity 30:19 Bridging the Gap: From 'I'm Fine' to Self-Awareness 31:36 Unpacking Emotional Catharsis 35:14 The Challenge of Personal Growth in Relationships 40:26 Navigating Masculinity in Modern Society 47:56 Confronting Societal Issues: Violence Against Women 54:51 Finding Hope Amidst Chaos To connect with David: Instagram - @theauthenticman Website - https://www.theauthenticman.net/ YouTube -  ⁨@TheAuthenticMan⁩

    How Emotional Connection Transforms Men in Relationship with David Chambers

  7. Mar 26

    🚨🔔SPECIAL EPISODE: What brings you hope? with Zack Alexander, Lewis Wedlock, Andrew 'Bernie' Bernard, Mindset with Muhammad, Leah Kim, Viv Grant and Kaia Allen-Bevan

    This week on The Higher Love with Megan Podcast, we’re doing something a little different. Instead of one full guest conversation, this episode is a special compilation — a collection of snippets from recent podcast episodes, all centred around one simple but very important question: What brings you hope at this time? Because let’s be honest… the world is A LOT right now and when you're paying attention, hope can be hard to hold onto. This episode is a gentle offering — a reminder that hope doesn’t have to be loud or perfect to matter. Sometimes it lives in community, in truth-telling, in resistance, in young people, in imagination, and in the small everyday things that keep us connected to our humanity. You’ll hear reflections from my guests so far in 2026, a mix of educators, activists, storytellers, and change-makers — each sharing what’s helping them stay grounded, open, and connected in these times. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 04:17 Zack Alexander – spiritual guide supporting deeper connection and meaning08:15 Lewis Wedlock – masculinities educator working with young people in schools11:13 Andrew “Bernie” Bernard – educator exploring healthy masculinities in schools 15:32 Mindset with Muhammad – decolonial storyteller and educator challenging dominant narratives 20:18 Leah Kim – storyteller and writer exploring identity, motherhood, and truth-telling23:39 Viv Grant – founder of Integrity Coaching, supporting school leaders and equity in education24:42 Kaia Allen-Bevan – activist and founder of Youth The Gap, amplifying youth voice and social change 26:36 OutroKey Themes: - Hope in difficult times - Community, resistance, and collective care - Young people, change, and possibility - The role of truth-telling and imagination - What keeps us connected to humanity As you listen, you might also ask yourself: What brings ME hope at this time? If this episode resonates, I’d love for you to share it with someone who might need it. And if you’ve been enjoying the podcast, leaving a rating, review, or recommendation really helps more people find these conversations and supports the show more than you probably realise.

  8. Mar 10

    Motherhood: REAL TALK beyond what society tells us with Leah Kim

    In this episode, I am joined by the brilliant Leah Kim who shares her deeply personal journey through motherhood, racial identity, and mental health, exploring systemic challenges and pathways to liberation. This conversation offers profound insights into maternal mental health, racial identity, and collective healing. About Leah: Leah 수진 Kim is a storyteller, consultant, podcaster, community organizer, and advocate for intersectional justice. A former yoga teacher and Nike's Global Yoga Ambassador for a decade, she is now an author and offers 1:1 editorial support for fellow writers. On the Voices on the Side and Cha with Laura and Leah podcasts, Leah hosts conversations with people of the global majority who inspire her with their advocacy, activism, and stories of resistance and resilience. Her first book — Mom, Unfiltered — will be published in April 2026. She lives in Brooklyn with her husband, son, daughter, and doodle. Key Themes: Maternal mental health and its impact on children The systemic erasure of non-white maternal experiences The journey of self-acceptance and identity post-motherhood The role of community and collective healing in maternal well-being Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Context of Motherhood 02:33 The Premise of 'Mum Unfiltered' 05:58 The Journey to Writing the Book 09:19 Filling the Void in Motherhood Literature 13:30 Personal Identity and Motherhood 19:14 The Impact of Trauma on Self-Perception 24:39 The Complexity of Women's Experiences 29:38 The Pressure to Erase Motherhood Challenges 33:17 Confronting Inner Turmoil 36:33 The Search for Identity in Motherhood 39:52 Racial Identity and Belonging 43:22 The Journey of Self-Acceptance 50:15 Hope and Community in Motherhood 57:44 Healing Beyond the Self Resources: Leah Kim's Website - https://leahkim.org Book: Mum Unfiltered - https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/mom-unfiltered-9798881842437/ To connect with Megan: www.higher-love.com IG: @higherlove_withmegan Like, comment, share with anyone who would benefit from the episode and if you enjoyed the conversation leave a 5* rating or review of the show.

    Motherhood: REAL TALK beyond what society tells us with Leah Kim
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About

Top 5% Spotify Most Shared Podcasts, the Higher Love with Megan Podcast is not just another 'nice-to-have' wellness podcast. It is a disruptive challenge to the status quo, breaking out of the echo chamber of societal narratives within wellness and beyond. Join me, your host, Megan Cooper, a trauma-informed therapist and coach, as we foster an inclusive, diverse space that stands for higher love for all. Through thought-provoking, bold conversations that reunite wellness with social justice and activism, we remember our collective humanity and stand together as ambassadors for change.

Information

  • Creator
    Megan Cooper
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    117
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Megan Cooper
  • Show Website
    Higher Love with Megan

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