Real.Raw.Authentic Podcast

Caroline Middelsdorf

The Caroline Podcast is: Real, Raw, Authentic. Join your psychologist traveling to the homes of public figures, experts, and inspiring people, Caroline uncovers the untold stories of resilience, healing, and transformation. Each episode dives into personal journeys through struggles like trauma, mental health challenges, and life’s toughest moments, offering listeners inspiring insights and practical tools for their own growth and healing. This podcast is a safe place to feel seen, supported, and empowered, a reminder that no one has to struggle in silence. 

  1. 1d ago

    Petr Čech On the Mindset That Defines a Legend

    I didn’t expect this conversation to go where it went.Petr Čech, one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time, sitting across from me, talking about loss, fear, near-death, and what it actually costs to perform at the highest level for two decades.The Champions League final. His last game with Arsenal. A nurse telling a 10-year-old he’d never play again. A head injury that nearly took his life. The mental toll nobody sees from the outside.But also, the mindset that made him unbreakable. How he learned to perform under impossible pressure. Why confidence isn’t motivation, it’s preparation. And what separates the good from the truly great, on and off the pitch.This is the conversation about sport, mental health, and what it really means to be at the top of your game, that nobody was having loudly enough.This one stayed with me long after we stopped filming.🎙️ Real Raw Authentic with Caroline MiddelsdorfDon’t forget to like 👍🏻 subscribe and share with somone who needs to hear this Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction and Early Career Challenges00:53 - Interview Introduction: Peter Cech01:38 - Childhood in Czechoslovakia02:01 - Family Background and Sibling Loss03:04 - Parents' Occupations and Early Exposure to Sports04:09 - Growing Up with Sports05:35 - Choosing Football Over Ice Hockey07:03 - Passion for Football and Early Experiences08:06 - Becoming a Goalkeeper10:02 - First Major Injury and Its Impact13:15 - Dreaming of a Professional Career15:20 - Overcoming Negative Comments and Determination18:00 - Lessons from Sports: Failure and Teamwork20:13 - Dealing with Pressure as a Young Athlete24:01 - Developing a Mindset to Handle Stress27:22 - First National Team Call-Up28:36 - Inner Voice and Mindset Shift29:52 - Avoiding Regrets and Embracing Failure32:52 - Reflecting on Regrets and Burnout33:57 - Perspective from a Head Injury35:03 - Curiosity and Open-Mindedness36:39 - Confidence Through Preparation41:16 - Nervousness in New Environments42:18 - Human Challenges of Professional Athletes44:50 - Champions League Final Experiences46:00 - Mind and Body Alignment in Sports47:12 - Advice on Handling Anxiety and FailureIf you’re on the journey of healing emotional (often invisible) wounds, you’re in the right place 🤍My 3-month program Phoenix is here to gently support and guide you.Start with a free lesson here:https://carolinemiddelsdorf.comNot sure where to begin?My mini course will help you take the first steps:https://stan.store/carolinemiddeldorf/p/how-to-start-your-healing-journey-mini-course?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio

    1h 33m
  2. 11/28/2025

    Are Psychdelics the Future of Trauma Therapy? | Ingmar de Gooijer

    In this episode of REAL. RAW. AUTHENTIC.🎙️ I sit down with Ingmar de Gooijer, founder of Magnolia in the Netherlands — one of the leading centers for ketamine therapy and psilocybin-supported journeys. Ingmar has years of experience guiding people through deeply transformative non-ordinary states of consciousness. At Magnolia, every journey begins with a careful medical and psychological screening and continues with a fully personalized program — whether it’s ketamine-assisted therapy under clinical supervision or psilocybin truffle experiences facilitated by psychiatrists, psychologists, physicians, or experienced guides. In this conversation, we dive into the real questions people usually avoid: • Who ketamine therapy is for — especially individuals struggling with treatment-resistant depression who haven’t found relief through traditional methods. • Who benefits from psilocybin — people seeking deeper emotional insight, meaning, and the ability to gently access their inner healing intelligence. • How psychedelics can help unlock emotions — parts of yourself you’ve suppressed, avoided, or simply couldn’t reach through talk therapy alone. • How these experiences can bring forward what you might need to see in order to heal, shift, or finally process long-held patterns. • What psychedelics cannot do — and why they are not a magic bullet in trauma healing. • Why the real work begins after the session, during integration, grounding, and making sense of what came up. We talk honestly about safety, misconceptions, emotional breakthroughs, and how these substances can support your healing journey. I ask the curious, uncomfortable, and essential questions that everyone wonders about but rarely says out loud. This episode is for everyone: • Therapists, coaches, and people in the healing field • Anyone navigating trauma, depression, or emotional stuckness • People curious about psychedelic therapy • People who feel they’ve tried everything and still feel lost • Anyone wanting to understand how healing actually works beyond the surface Don't forget to share your main takeaway in the comments below and hit the subscribe button to never miss an episode. FYI: Magnolia is co-founded with Emilie Donders, MD, and supported by a team of psychiatrists, physicians, psychologists, and experienced facilitators. Their work complies with Dutch healthcare regulations (Wkkgz), and the entire approach is grounded in safety, ethics, and high-quality medical care. How to connect with Ingmar de Gooijer & Magnolia: website: https://mymagnolia.nl/en/ linkedin Magnolia: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mymagnolia/ Linkedin Ingmar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ingmardegooijer/ How to connect with host Caroline Middelsdorf: website: www.carolinemiddelsdorf.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolinemiddelsdorf?igsh=MXd4M2pxZXlydmFmMQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr Real.Raw.Authentic Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realrawauthenticpodcast?igsh=MTlnbzJiZHExOGFhYw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2IJkwaEJc7xkPasLGcPt7h?si=PER-iPcTSuajMEP25VI4qA

    1h 27m
  3. Is this the Future of Trauma Therapy? | Ingmar de Gooijer

    11/27/2025

    Is this the Future of Trauma Therapy? | Ingmar de Gooijer

    In this episode of REAL. RAW. AUTHENTIC.🎙️ I sit down with Ingmar de Gooijer, founder of Magnolia in the Netherlands — one of the leading centers for ketamine therapy and psilocybin-supported journeys.Ingmar has years of experience guiding people through deeply transformative non-ordinary states of consciousness. At Magnolia, every journey begins with a careful medical and psychological screening and continues with a fully personalized program — whether it’s ketamine-assisted therapy under clinical supervision or psilocybin truffle experiences facilitated by psychiatrists, psychologists, physicians, or experienced guides.In this conversation, we dive into the real questions people usually avoid:• Who ketamine therapy is for — especially individuals struggling with treatment-resistant depression who haven’t found relief through traditional methods.• Who benefits from psilocybin — people seeking deeper emotional insight, meaning, and the ability to gently access their inner healing intelligence.• How psychedelics can help unlock emotions — parts of yourself you’ve suppressed, avoided, or simply couldn’t reach through talk therapy alone.• How these experiences can bring forward what you might need to see in order to heal, shift, or finally process long-held patterns.• What psychedelics cannot do — and why they are not a magic bullet in trauma healing.• Why the real work begins after the session, during integration, grounding, and making sense of what came up.We talk honestly about safety, misconceptions, emotional breakthroughs, and how these substances can support your healing journey.  I ask the curious, uncomfortable, and essential questions that everyone wonders about but rarely says out loud.This episode is for everyone:• Therapists, coaches, and people in the healing field• Anyone navigating trauma, depression, or emotional stuckness• People curious about psychedelic therapy• People who feel they’ve tried everything and still feel lost• Anyone wanting to understand how healing actually works beyond the surfaceDon't forget to share your main takeaway in the comments below and hit the subscribe button to never miss an episode. FYI: Magnolia is co-founded with Emilie Donders, MD, and supported by a team of psychiatrists, physicians, psychologists, and experienced facilitators. Their work complies with Dutch healthcare regulations (Wkkgz), and the entire approach is grounded in safety, ethics, and high-quality medical care.How to connect with Ingmar de Gooijer & Magnolia: website: https://mymagnolia.nl/en/linkedin Magnolia: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mymagnolia/Linkedin Ingmar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ingmardegooijer/How to connect with host and your psychologist Caroline Middelsdorf: website: www.carolinemiddelsdorf.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolinemiddelsdorf?igsh=MXd4M2pxZXlydmFmMQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qrReal.Raw.Authentic Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realrawauthenticpodcast?igsh=MTlnbzJiZHExOGFhYw%3D%3D&utm_source=qrWatch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MjtGi_7b9c4

    1h 27m
  4. The Master of the Journey Within | Shifu Zuan at Shaolin Temple Europe

    11/08/2025

    The Master of the Journey Within | Shifu Zuan at Shaolin Temple Europe

    We are all on a journey, searching for answers, meaning, and connection. Often, we’re trying to find ourselves, yet we don’t even know how or where to start. Many of us struggle with loneliness, numbness, and overwhelm.In this episode, I travel to the Shaolin Temple Europe in Otterberg, Germany, to meet Master Shifu Zuan, a true guide on the path of self-realization, presence, and inner mastery.Filmed in one of the most inspiring and peaceful settings, this episode is not just something to listen to — it’s an invitation. An invitation to begin your own journey within, to awaken the wisdom, discipline, and peace that already live inside you.If you’ve ever felt lonely, lost, or disconnected, this conversation is especially for you — a reminder that the answers you seek are not outside of you, but within.As you listen, you will feel Shifu Zuan’s calming and powerful energy, grounding, centering, and expanding your awareness with every word.During my time at the temple, I experienced the annual Shaolin Festival, witnessing the graceful flow of Tai Chi, the strength and focus of Kung Fu, and the deep mind-body connection that moves like a dance within. I also experienced the stillness and reverence of a mindful tea ceremony, where each breath and movement became meditation. These moments revealed how inner mastery teaches us a new language — the language of the nervous system — where body, mind, and soul align in harmony.Shifu Zuan’s teachings are rooted in the traditional Chinese Arts, Philosophy, Daoism, and Buddhism, which he masterfully weaves into modern life. His expertise, wisdom, and presence have guided many to reconnect with their essence, find balance, and awaken their true nature.In this episode, we explore:🥋 What it truly means to walk the path of self-realization🥋 How to integrate Shaolin philosophy into daily life🥋 The balance between discipline, surrender, and inner strength🥋The language of the nervous system and the power of inner alignment🥋Practical tools and insights to inspire your own journey withinThis conversation is real, raw, and authentic, filled with heart, humility, and timeless wisdom. It is not only about awareness, but about action, embodiment, and awakening.This episode will stay with you, opening your heart, calming your mind, and inviting you to discover the sacred alignment within yourself. You will feel Shifu Zuan’s serene presence throughout, and I cannot wait for another conversation with this remarkable teacher.⬇️ Connect with Master Shifu Zuan (Shifu Zuan):Journey Into Oneself: https://www.journeyintooneself.world/shifu-zuanIG: [https://www.instagram.com/journeyintooneself.world?igsh=cmRldmpna2ZzeDVs]Shaolin.Online: https://shaolin.online.com IG: [https://www.instagram.com/shaolin.online?igsh=bmpuZTR3enNjcDU3]Shaolintempleeurope: https://www.shaolintemple.euIG: [https://www.instagram.com/shaolintempleeurope?igsh=N2ZzcjdocDk1dTI=]⬇️ Connect with host Caroline Middelsdorf:Podcast Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/realrawauthenticpodcast?igsh=MTlnbzJiZHExOGFhYw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr]Website: [https://www.carolinemiddelsdorf.com]TikTok: [https://www.tiktok.com/@carolinemiddelsdorf]MAt the end of the episode, I’d love to hear from you! Please subscribe 🔔, like 👍🏻 , and share ⏩ this video, and let me know in the comments: 👉🏼What was your main takeaway from this episode or what inspired you the most?

    59 min
  5. The Invisible Wounds Behind Perfectionism & Eating Disorders

    11/08/2025

    The Invisible Wounds Behind Perfectionism & Eating Disorders

    🎙️ Welcome to Real. Raw. Authentic. — the podcast where I, psychologist Caroline Middelsdorf, travel the world to break the silence around invisible wounds, normalize vulnerability, and remind you that you are never alone. In this London episode, I sit down with model, professional surfer, athlete, and Love Island UK star Laura Crane.  Laura opens up about her journey through eating disorders, anxiety, perfectionism, and the pressures of being a female athlete o facing judgment on national TV and navigating life after Love Island— and how she found her way back to authenticity, courage, and self-love. ✨  This is an inspiring conversation about healing, fear, resilience, and what it really means to embrace who you are. Because we all have a story — and sharing it is what brings us together in a divided world. 💡 If this conversation resonates with you, don’t forget to subscribe and hit the like button — it helps us spread the message that no one has to walk their healing journey alone.  Find my guest Laura Crane on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraloucrane?igsh=MXJ3dmVhdDU2OHZhag==  ➡️Learn more about my work (Host: @carolinemiddelsdorf ):  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolinemid...  Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/realrawauthenticpodcast?igsh=MTlnbzJiZHExOGFhYw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr  Website: www.carolinemiddelsdorf.com TikTok: @carolinemiddelsdorf Facebook: / 18utfd. . Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-m-b835b017a

    1h 6m
  6. 11/07/2025

    The Master of the Journey Within | Shifu Zuan at Shaolin Temple Europe

    We are all on a journey, searching for answers, meaning, and connection. Often, we’re trying to find ourselves, yet we don’t even know how or where to start. Many of us struggle with loneliness, numbness, and overwhelm. In this episode, I travel to the Shaolin Temple Europe in Otterberg, Germany, to meet Master Shifu Zuan, a true guide on the path of self-realization, presence, and inner mastery. Filmed in one of the most inspiring and peaceful settings, this episode is not just something to listen to — it’s an invitation. An invitation to begin your own journey within, to awaken the wisdom, discipline, and peace that already live inside you. If you’ve ever felt lonely, lost, or disconnected, this conversation is especially for you — a reminder that the answers you seek are not outside of you, but within. As you listen, you will feel Shifu Zuan’s calming and powerful energy, grounding, centering, and expanding your awareness with every word. During my time at the temple, I experienced the annual Shaolin Festival, witnessing the graceful flow of Tai Chi, the strength and focus of Kung Fu, and the deep mind-body connection that moves like a dance within. I also experienced the stillness and reverence of a mindful tea ceremony, where each breath and movement became meditation. These moments revealed how inner mastery teaches us a new language — the language of the nervous system — where body, mind, and soul align in harmony. Shifu Zuan’s teachings are rooted in the traditional Chinese Arts, Philosophy, Daoism, and Buddhism, which he masterfully weaves into modern life. His expertise, wisdom, and presence have guided many to reconnect with their essence, find balance, and awaken their true nature. In this episode, we explore: 🥋 What it truly means to walk the path of self-realization 🥋 How to integrate Shaolin philosophy into daily life 🥋 The balance between discipline, surrender, and inner strength 🥋The language of the nervous system and the power of inner alignment 🥋Practical tools and insights to inspire your own journey within This conversation is real, raw, and authentic, filled with heart, humility, and timeless wisdom. It is not only about awareness, but about action, embodiment, and awakening. About Shifu Zuan: Master Shi Heng Zuan is a renowned Shaolin teacher and spiritual guide known for his deep understanding of traditional Chinese Arts and his ability to bring Eastern wisdom into modern living. His guidance has helped countless people find clarity, strength, and peace. Filmed at: Shaolin Temple Europe, Otterberg, Germany Hosted by: Caroline Michéle, Psychologist and Host of Real Raw Authentic This episode will stay with you, opening your heart, calming your mind, and inviting you to discover the sacred alignment within yourself. You will feel Shifu Zuan’s serene presence throughout, and I cannot wait for another conversation with this remarkable teacher. ⬇️ Connect with Master Shifu Zuan (Shifu Zuan): Journey Into Oneself: https://www.journeyintooneself.world/shifu-zuan IG: [https://www.instagram.com/journeyintooneself.world?igsh=cmRldmpna2ZzeDVs] Shaolin.Online: https://shaolin.online.com IG: [https://www.instagram.com/shaolin.online?igsh=bmpuZTR3enNjcDU3] Shaolintempleeurope: https://www.shaolintemple.eu IG: [https://www.instagram.com/shaolintempleeurope?igsh=N2ZzcjdocDk1dTI=] ⬇️ Connect with host Caroline Middelsdorf: Podcast Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/realrawauthenticpodcast?igsh=MTlnbzJiZHExOGFhYw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr] Website: [https://www.carolinemiddelsdorf.com] TikTok: [https://www.tiktok.com/@carolinemiddelsdorf] At the end of the episode, I’d love to hear from you! Please subscribe 🔔, like 👍🏻 , and share ⏩ this video, and let me know in the comments: 👉🏼What was your main takeaway from this episode or what inspired you the most?

    59 min
  7. Why Men Suffer In Silence

    09/03/2025

    Why Men Suffer In Silence

    In this episode of Real, Raw & Authentic, I sit down in Los Angeles with Ben Smith - holistic wellness coach, athlete, ex-military, and trauma-informed retreat facilitator. Ben’s story is one of resilience, courage, and deep transformation.We dive into why so many men suffer in silence — carrying loneliness, shame, and unspoken struggles behind closed doors. Ben opens up about his own journey, the inner battles he faced, and the tools that helped him on his healing journey.💡 We explore:❤️‍🩹The unworthiness wound and how childhood pain shapes identity❤️‍🩹How overthinking becomes a false safety net — and why so many stay stuck there❤️‍🩹The silent battles men fight but rarely talk about (+ signs to look out for)❤️‍🩹How somatic work, nervous system regulation, and feeling your body can change your lifeChoosing yourself and your healing - and how that changes the language within.This is a raw and vulnerable conversation about the parts of healing people rarely speak about — shame, identity, and self-worth. Ben shares openly, breaking the silence around men’s mental health and showing what’s possible when we choose to face our wounds instead of hiding them.If you’re curious about trauma healing, hearing a bit more about psychedelics, or understanding the hidden struggles men face, this episode will challenge the way you see yourself — and maybe even inspire your own healing journey.🎧 Listen, feel, and be inspired.No fluff. No filters. Just real, raw, and authentic talk that invites you to explore your own healing.🔔 Subscribe for more conversations that open minds and hearts💬 Share your thoughts in the comments — your story matters❤️ Support my podcast by liking and sharing if this conversation resonatesConnect with Ben Smith:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benveesmith?igsh=MTV0YzhzazZzNzNzbQ==Learn more about my work: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolinemiddelsdorf?igsh=MXd4M2pxZXlydmFmMQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qrPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realrawauthenticpodcast?igsh=MTlnbzJiZHExOGFhYw%3D%3D&utm_source=qrWebsite: www.carolinemiddelsdorf.comTikTok:  @carolinemiddelsdorf  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/18UtFDarjg/?mibextid=wwXIfr

    58 min

About

The Caroline Podcast is: Real, Raw, Authentic. Join your psychologist traveling to the homes of public figures, experts, and inspiring people, Caroline uncovers the untold stories of resilience, healing, and transformation. Each episode dives into personal journeys through struggles like trauma, mental health challenges, and life’s toughest moments, offering listeners inspiring insights and practical tools for their own growth and healing. This podcast is a safe place to feel seen, supported, and empowered, a reminder that no one has to struggle in silence.