Imperfect Us

Leanne Camilleri and Leesa Downes

The Imperfect Us Podcast

  1. 10/31/2025

    Episode 55. Good Girl Game Changers with Dr Michelle McQuaid

    In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Michelle McQuaid, a leading voice in wellbeing science and mental health. Michelle shares her research and personal journey around “good girl” beliefs. The conversation explores how these beliefs develop, their impact across generations, and the practical skills that help women (and men) move toward authenticity and self-leadership. Michelle offers actionable strategies for building self-compassion, setting boundaries, and finding supportive communities or “huddles.” The episode is filled with relatable stories, science-backed advice, and empowering reminders that we are all perfectly imperfect. 00:00 – Introduction & Welcome 02:10 – Michelle’s Background & Approach 03:30 – What Are “Good Girl” Beliefs? 05:40 – The Three Factors: Perform, Please, Protect 08:00 – Research Findings Across Generations 10:00 – Breaking the Cycle: Skills for Change 12:00 – Self-Compassion & Perfectionism 14:00 – Secure Attachment to Self 16:00 – Self-Leadership & Internal Family Systems 19:00 – Managing Stress Responses 22:00 – Somatic Tools & Nervous System Regulation 25:00 – Rethinking Strength & Setting Boundaries 30:00 – Nutritious Love vs. Junk Food Love 34:00 – The Role of Community & Huddles 38:00 – Gender Differences & Social Expectations 42:00 – Role Modeling & Mentoring 45:00 – Closing Reflections & Key Takeaways 48:00 – Where to Find Dr. Michelle McQuaid 49:00 – Final Thoughts & Farewell

    1 hr
  2. 03/20/2025

    Episode 50. What We Can Learn From Neuroscience with Dr. Sherry Majd

    In this episode of the Imperfect Us Podcast, we engage in a captivating conversation with Dr. Sherry Majd, a distinguished neuroscientist and associate professor. The discussion explores Dr. Majd's pioneering research and her passion for integrating scientific insights to foster positive mental change. Key topics include: The importance of teaching neuroscience in the workplace to enhance creativity, reduce misunderstandings, and improve team dynamics. The concept of neuroplasticity, its role in learning and adapting to new skills, and its significance in recovery from trauma or disease. Practical applications of mindfulness and emotional intelligence to navigate challenges and support personal development. Dr. Maj's insights into the mindset, comparing it to computer software that can be programmed for success and happiness. The episode is filled with actionable strategies for leveraging neuroscience to influence and support others, emphasizing the need for self-awareness, consistent practice, and constructive habits. Dr. Majd also shares recommendations for further reading and resources to deepen listeners' understanding of neuroscience and its impacts on everyday life. Join Leanne and Leesa as they unlock the secrets of thebrain's transformative potential with Dr. Sherry Majd. Connect with Leanne: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LeanneCamilleri (MAPP)|LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Leesa: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Leesa Downes. MAPP|LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ This podcast was produced by Brenton Ainsworth: ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BrentonAinsworth |LinkedIn

    52 min
  3. 01/31/2025

    Episode 49. Declarative Language Is A Game Changer with Linda Murphy

    In this conversation, we are chatting with Linda Murphy. A speech language pathologist and relationship development intervention consultant. Along with numerous articles, Linda has authored the decorative language and Co-Regulation Handbooks. She is dedicated to helping individuals and families using a positive, thoughtful communication style that emphasizes understanding, patience, respect, and kindness. Connect with Linda Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.declarativelanguage.com LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Linda K. Murphy | LinkedIn⁠   Linda’s Resources Read Linda’s books Amazon.com.au: Linda K. Murphy: books, biography, latest update Listen to TILT Parenting: Strategies, Insights, and Connection for Parents Raising Neurodivergent Children Podcast Check out Kelly Mahler's Interoception Read Barry Prizant’s book Uniquely Human: Updated and Expanded: A Different Way of Seeing Autism Visit PDA North America Read Ido in Autismland: Climbing Out of Autism's Silent Prison  Connect with Leanne: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Leanne Camilleri (MAPP)|LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Leesa: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Leesa Downes. MAPP|LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ This podcast was produced by Brenton Ainsworth: ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Brenton Ainsworth |LinkedIn

    37 min

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The Imperfect Us Podcast