Hands Up If You're Human

From Anxiety to Authenticity - Find Your Freedom with Caroline Scarles

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 05:00:00 +0100

This episode I am joined by the simply brilliant Caroline Scarles for a far roaming and honest conversation.

With more than 20 years in academia it would be easy to think of Caroline as a list of impressive sounding titles. Vice Dean and Professor carry implied weight as well as long tradition. But, along with her colleague, being the first women to hold certain senior positions at the university she lectured at, Caroline is acutely aware of the importance of letting your true self shine through.

In our conversation we cover the importance of authenticity, especially as a woman in another traditionally male dominated arena, the impact a recent ADHD diagnosis has had on how she shows up, the ever fewer fucks she has to give as a result of perimenopause, the role her mental health and long-covid and art has played in shaping her outlook on life and the enormous joy she gets from hosting mental health wild swims.

This is a brilliant conversation and one that could have gone on and on.

If you're interested in connecting with Caroline you can find Professor Scarles on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-scarles-7336351/

In her artistic guise on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/carolinerossart/

And, if you are interested in checking out your local Mental Health Swims (if you're in the UK), you can check it out here: https://www.mentalhealthswims.co.uk/

We very much hope you enjoy the episode.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

Thank you so much for listening to the Hands Up If You're Human podcast, we are truly grateful for you sparing us the time. If you have enjoyed what you've heard please subscribe and leave a rating and review, and please recommend and share with anyone you think might benefit from these conversations. If there is anything you personally are struggling with and would like us to discuss please feel free to drop us a line at handsupifyourehuman@gmail.com in complete confidentiality, and if you're interested in finding out a little more about me and my work you can find me at www.wyndhamjames.com, where you will be able to get a free copy of the "Companion Book of Inalienable (and often inconvenient) Truths". Until next time:

May compassion and curiosity guide us to the deeper connections we need.
May we see through compassionate eyes, may we speak with compassionate words, may we love without fear or expectation.
We wish you a peaceful and joyful few days and we will speak to you again soon.

From Maximum Chaos to Minimalist Contentment - Find Your Freedom with Joe Hilton

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 05:00:00 +0100

This episode I am speaking with Joe Hilton, a man who survived a self defined “decade of chaos” and has set out on an journey of “Freedom and Adventure”.

Joe is a down-to-earth and honest human being, willing to share and use his own lived experiences as a way to connect to the people he is looking to help.

Having suffered with his won mental health and patterns of behaviour that didn’t serve him, he embarked on an adventure to reconnect with himself and create the life he really wanted to live.

He now shares his story with others to show them there is a way to heal our wounds and start to create the lives we really want to live.

You can connect with Joe here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-hilton-/

Join me as I speak to Joe about his path, rejection of systems and minimalism.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

From Media Law to Manifesting Magic - Find Your Freedom with Tara Donovan

Tue, 27 May 2025 05:00:00 +0100

This episode I’m speaking with the brilliant Tara Donovan. Initially an entertainment lawyer, Tara made partner in her early 30s. Having scaled that particular mountain she very quickly realised that 20-30 more years of that would not create the fulfilling life she wanted. As big as here achievement was, how she felt showed her it was time for a new mountain to climb.

But what to do? Well, step one was working with a life coach who helped her arrive at her "5 Lights for a Fuck Yeah" approach to deciding what came next and what challenges she took on from then on!

What followed included becoming MD and later CEO for a famous celebrity chef, advisor and Non Executive Director for various organisations before a trip to Portugal directed her to buy, renovate and then share with the world the very special energy of Casa Fuzetta, listed by Conde Nast Traveller as one of the best yoga retreats in the world. Join Tara and me for this brilliant conversation.

Check out the beautiful and magical Casa Fuzetta here: https://www.casafuzetta.com/

Listen to and follow Tara's Podcast, Casa Fuzetta: The House of Stories here: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xiSxDKF8Ia09qHlXbmKxm?si=b7002d7064a641e2

And follow Casa Fuzetta on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/casafuzetta/

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

From HR to Horticulture - Finding Your Freedom with Vicky Widlake

Tue, 20 May 2025 05:00:00 +0100

This episode I’m speaking with someone whose story embodies the spirit of “Finding Your Freedom”.

Following a long and successful career in in-house Human Resources, Vicky Widlake decided it was time to leave the “comfort” and “safety” of being employed and set out on her own as an Organisational Development Consultant and Coach.

But, it was her decision to embrace a patchwork of things that she loves, in this case by training in horticulture, that really embodies the FYF energy and mentality.

You can find and connect with Vicky here:

https://clearfuturehr.co.uk/

https://hartgardens.co.uk/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/vickywidlake/

We hope you enjoy the episode.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

From Default Life to Deliberate Dad - Finding Your Freedom with Steve Cardwell

Tue, 13 May 2025 05:00:00 +0100

Today I’m speaking with someone whose focus on personal growth started when a scotch egg brought him to tears! Few stories begin with snack induced breakdowns but that is what happened to Steve when he realised he was stressed, burnt out and had no idea what he was doing with his life.

Despite having worked for himself and having been shaping his life his way, he still found he had slipped into the societal and business expectations as to how that had to look. And he didn't like what was happening as a result.

Cue the lovingly prepared scotch egg, emotional breakdown and life pivot. He now helps men take back ownership their lives and be the "Deliberate Dads" they dreamed of being.

Join me and listen as Steve talks about finding freedom, what he still has to free himself from and what he's creating freedom for. Jammed full of insight and practical tips this is a must listen for busy dads who feel overwhelmed and that they could be doing "better"!

We hope you enjoy the episode.

If you want to know more about Steve and the work he does you can follow him on:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deliberatedad_/#

And connect with him via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-cardwell-thought-pt-coach/

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

From "Good Girl" to "Good Girl Deprogrammer" - Finding Your Freedom with Michelle Minnikin

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0100

This time I’m speaking with someone on a mission. A mission of “Good Girl” deprogramming.

An Occupational Psychologist by training, a diagnosis of ADHD in 2020 was the spotlight Michelle Minnikin needed to understand herself and highlight the coercive control the systems society and culture impose on women especially.

Michelle is crystal clear when it comes to her own values, freedom (perfect for this podcast), fun and autonomy, and that to break the patterns of coercive control whatever she now does has to meet two of her three values. Anything less and whatever it is it's a hard no.

What followed her diagnosis, her values work and her exploration of coercive control was a ferocious and empathetic drive to help “Good Girls” everywhere, deprogram themselves. And to support this mission she wrote her book, "Good Girl Deprogramming - Unleash the rebel within".

Join me as Michelle and I speak about what finding your freedom means to her, what she consistently finds herself creating freedom from, and what she's creating freedom to - spoiler alert, it's an army of "good girl deprogrammers" so the tremors you feel might just be her army mobilising.

You can find Michelle's work and contact details at any of the places listed below:

Website: https://www.michelleminnikin.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mminnikin/

Good Girl Deprogramming Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2hjg13AHawVdWgcmV4VOjO?si=1783096b0f894e41

We hope you enjoy the episode!

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

From A-Listers to Author - Finding Your Freedom with Peter Berry

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0100

This episode I’m speaking with the man responsible in the 90s for bringing our awareness to Oprah, Frasier and Friends, before providing PR to the biggest names in music.

He has worked at the National Theatre, PR firms and Jamie Oliver. All of which has prepared him for life as an author as his “Deadly Dozen” impart justice the legal system cannot. Join me as I speak with author and all round great person, Peter Berry.

You can find PB's book on his author's page on Amazon, here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Peter-Berry/author/B0CXJ7G5MX?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1744618827&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

We hope you enjoy the episode.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

From Insecure to Integrated Health Professional - Finding Your Freedom with Stephanie J Moore

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0100

This episode it is my great pleasure to be speaking with, Stephanie J Moore, someone who is passionate about helping you live a healthier, happier life.

Initially training as a dancer my guest evolved through multiple stages in her life that, like all of us, shaped her trajectory. Suffering with significant health issues when she was younger it was when she looked alongside the traditional western approach to medicine that she found her health and her passion.

The problem she found was the separation of the human and the potentially short-termist and short-sighted results that created. In order to treat the human you have to see the human, the whole of them, and start to diagnose and treat based on a more holistic approach and understanding.

And so her passion for health and life-long learning came together.

Counselling & Psychotherapy, Nutritional Medicine, Life Coaching and Clinical Nutrition now come together to form her integrated approach to human health.

Join me for another fascinating conversation with the wonderful Stephanie J Moore.

We hope you enjoy the conversation.

If you are interested in connecting with Stephanie you can find all her details on her website: https://health-in-hand.co.uk/

Stephanie is the author of two books currently, which you can get direct from her, here: https://health-in-hand.co.uk/store/

or Amazon, here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Books-Stephanie-J-Moore/s?rh=n%3A266239%2Cp_27%3AStephanie%2BJ.%2BMoore

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

From Backing Bass to Bandleader - Funking your Freedom with Stefan Redtenbacher

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0100

This episode I’m speaking with someone who puts the “funk” in “funkify life”.

Stefan Redtenbacher is the creative force, and the funky bass, behind Redtenbacher's Funkestra. But...he is so much more.

From a conservatory education and early career as a session musician, to leading his own band, my guest and I talk about skill as a utility, how following their authentic self created problems and opportunities, perfectionism, impossible standards, and so much more.

Tune in for Stefan's insightful and thought provoking take on life.

And you can find and connect with Stefan and his music at the links below:

https://masterlinksessions.com/

https://funkifylife.com/

https://redtenbachersfunkestra.com/

https://redtenbachersfunkestra.com/joni/

And the link to "Dr Hypenstein":

https://open.spotify.com/album/1YVisujm1TssXD7TZCTT0P?si=_KzTuW3uScWVoESi4FwsZg

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

From Fast Jets to Finance - Finding Your Freedom with Kevin Gatland OBE

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000

This episode I am speaking with someone who understands how choices are shaped by circumstance.

During a successful career in the RAF operating Tornado fast jets, Kevin Gatland OBE, was used to meticulous planning. And given the nature of his work environment he also knew that life will always throw curve balls. So when his family was rocked by a tragedy he did the only thing he could; reappraise his priorities, define some new goals and plan accordingly.

After all, "If you can define your own goals and what you want to achieve, isn't that freedom?"

Join us as we discuss Kevin's adventure through life, the freedom he felt during his time in the RAF, the tragedy that pivoted his thinking and ambitions, the 4x quadrants of personal health and wealth, and so much more.

Kevin is a calming and humble soul who brilliantly demonstrates how to embody one of my favourite things I've heard in these conversations;

"My freedom values have changed".

If you would like to connect with Kevin you can find him on LinkedIn, here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-gatland/

We hope you enjoy the episode.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

From Buyer to Business Owner - Finding Your Freedom with Rebecca Newenham

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000

What do you do when you want to go back to work after having a family BUT you can't find any jobs that meet and accommodate all your needs?

Well, if you are this weeks guest, you start your own business specifically designed to meet and accommodate everything you now want and need.

This week I am speaking with Rebecca Newenham, a woman with a great many hats - just listen to the intro to the episode to hear how many - and all of them as a result of being clear what she wants in and from her life.

We talk about an enjoyable but limiting career, the importance of clear and non-directional support from her mother, her refusal to just accept what was on offer, her ability to focus on what she's good at and bring in others for the things she's not and so much more!

Quote from Rebecca Newenham

"I prove that you can launch and scale a successful business career without working the 9-5, and I’ve built the business to allow others to do the same."

We hope you enjoy the episode.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

If you're interested in finding out more about Rebecca you can find her here:

https://rebeccanewenham.com/

and here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccanewenham/

If you're interested in a Get Ahead VA Business Partner opportunity, visit here:

https://getaheadva.com/join-us/partner-opportunities/

And, if you want to get a copy of Rebecca's book you can do so here:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Virtually-Yours-flexible-running-assistant/dp/1913713148/ref=sr_1_1?crid=KVGC3X7ST1X4&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.PoQnAfUAercyLIleDBisMmfSLsYdPoHLIlDo20ytccjTNLYxmQSJbG1y1wpaHup5QqBSXOFqBk7JAmBrWDKRt1lv4ArnnEPRmRN_GQh6xWQ.ngUam10A708wK2LJed9HEdSm0z8zIs9I6v7U_vaS8_c&dib_tag=se&keywords=rebecca+newenham&qid=1742200780&sprefix=rebecca+newenham%2Caps%2C81&sr=8-1

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

From Paediatrics to Poetry - Finding Your Freedom with Connor Mc Donnell - Ep 28

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000

My guest this week could easily be forgiven for relaxing into the labels society and culture seemingly praise. As a Consultant Paediatric Anaesthetist he has a job of authority, responsibility and respect, and at one point that was important to him. However, over the last few years those labels have lost a great deal of their value to him.

Join me as Connor and I discuss the contradictions of external validation, the prioritisation of cultural "norms", the power of "Being Me" and the importance of not getting too comfortable with the labels we attach to ourselves.

This is a wonderful conversation where Connor shares some of his deep personal and transformational challenges, including how he has addressed his extreme competitiveness and need for praise as well as his sense of being too much, which has led to a sense of being unlikeable.

You can find and connect with Connor via his website:

https://www.conorgmcdonnell.com/

We both hope you enjoy the episode.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

From StarWars to StarPeace - Finding Your Freedom with Rosanna Hanness - Ep 27

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Sometimes in life you meet people who challenge you in a way that creates inflection points.

My guest today is one of those people for me. When I met her I was at rock bottom. Everything felt uncertain and the only thing I really thought I knew to be true was the fact that to change my life I would need to change my thinking. And then I met Rosanna "RozyGlow" Hanness.

Transformational Soul Coach, Multidimensional Success Coach, Yoga Teacher and now author of StarPeace 101: How to Create Peace in One Generation; The StarSeed StarMaps BluePrint, Rosanna was the catalyst for one of the key principles of the BluePrint Philosophy, which is "can you bridge to 10%?"

Rosanna is someone who understands how "out there" and "woo woo" some of what she says and channels is. She can even roll her own eyes at some of it because it sounds so contrary to the conditioning and accepted language of our cultures. AND, she is committed to helping every one of us find peace in ourselves, each other and collectively.

I am so excited to bring you this episode as Rosanna was and remains such an important and challenging soul in my life.

We both hope you enjoy the episode.

For more details on Rosanna and her work you can find her here:

https://rosannahanness.com/starpeace-consciousness/

https://rosannahanness.com/

https://www.rozyglow.com/

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

From Selling to Sanskrit - Finding Your Freedom with Chris Abay - Ep 26

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 05:00:00 +0000

This week I am joined by my very first yoga teacher, Chris Abay.

From "success" in a corporate career where he scaled the heights to be Managing Director of a global business to disconnection, despair and alcohol dependency, Chris experienced the reality of so many. He had created the life he was "supposed" to have created.

Wife, kids, house, busy high flying job, and had found it to be empty of what he really needed.

So how did this corporate burnout arrive at a place where he is now a yoga teacher, yoga studio owner, sound healer, community builder, life coach and podcast host?

What does finding freedom mean to Chris, what has he had to free himself from, and what can you do if you feel stuck, lost or in need of more freedom?

Tune in to hear the wise and humble words of someone who played a pivotal part in my own search for freedom.

If you are interested in the work Chris does, his studio, retreats, sound baths, anything we speak about, you can find Chris here:

https://abayoga.co.uk/

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

"Finding Your Freedom" - Season 3 Preview

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 05:00:00 +0000

The show is back after a longer than anticipated break.

Join Wyndham as he previews the new season of the Hands Up If You're Human podcast.

This season, to align with a new book Wyndham is publishing he has lined up a series of conversations with some remarkable people and he is focussing on a single, powerful question:

What does "finding your freedom" mean to you?

Come along for the ride this season of HUIYH and listen to the perspectives of:

Yoga teachers, spiritual guides, entrepreneurs, musicians, doctors, authors, nutritionists, ex fast jet pilots and many more.

We hope you enjoy the episode and the season to come.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

Reflections on 2024 and looking forward to 2025 (HUIYH e.23)

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 05:00:00 +0000

As we teeter towards the end of 2024 it's worth reflecting on the year that has been. The ups and downs, the progress made and ground lost.

So, join me for the last episode of the season and the year, as I look back, offer my take on new years resolutions, and provides a poem to take into 2025.

Hands Up If Your Human will be back with a new feel including more incredible guests.

I wish you a joyful and peaceful Christmas/festive/holiday/non-celebrated end of the year and I look forward to speaking again in the new year.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

Inalienable Truths Ep. 8 - Expectations - HUIYH (22)

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Sometimes other people's expectations of us can feel suffocating. And as with all elements of a human life there are layers of stories, nuance and complexity.

So join Wyndham as he introduces you to Inalienable Truth #8:

"You are not responsible for the pedestal others put you on."

If you're interested in the "Companion Book of Inalienable (and often inconvenient) Truths" which contains all 50 of the Inalienable Truths then simply head to wyndhamjames.com and follow the prompts when they pop up to get your free download.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

WTAF is "Doing the work"?

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 05:00:00 +0000

We see and hear it everywhere, especially on social media. And, like so much of social media, at times it can feel like a competition as to who is doing it best.

But, WTAF is "Doing the work"?

Is it journaling, meditation, yoga, primal screaming, forest bathing? Do you have to announce to the world how deeply you're commitment is to doing the work? And what if you're not doing those things? Does that mean you're failing in the work?

Join Wyndham and his very special guest, Louisa, as they discuss what "the work" is, the five stages of the work, the impact it can have on a relationship, whether it's enough for only one person in that relationship to be doing the work, and the real and perceived threat it can create to the status quo.

We hope you enjoy the episode!

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

Inalienable Truths Ep. 7 - Frustration - HUIYH (20)

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 05:00:00 +0000

When life perfectly matches the topic of the podcast episode!

This episode we talk about Frustration, which is apt as while recording this I was feeling deeply frustrated at how terrible I was being.

So, join me and let's take a look at what frustration is, when it occurs and what our choices are when it does kick in.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

Trusting The Process - Episode 19

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Some things are really hard. But, when Shakespeare, Michael J Fox, Rich Roll, the Stoics and Daoism agree on something, surely it's worth listening to, isn't it?

It's all too easy to wish we were further ahead than we are. We're constantly bombarded by curated images and stories of people's lives, all designed to present the very best version of someone's life that it's possible to present. Is it any wonder then that we can start to judge ourselves for not being further along our own adventure than we are?

Not only are we bombarded with reminders that other people have it better - at least that's what they want us to think - but actually navigating the challenging lessons we face that constitute our growth can be incredibly dauting. Staying the course when our personal growth adventure throws up these difficult challenges can feel almost impossible. So what can we do?

Well, we can turn to Shakespeare, the Stoics, Daoism, Michael J Fox and Rich Roll and ultimately Trust the Process.

Have a listen as Wyndham discusses the importance of keeping going when you know the intention and purpose serve you.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

Inalienable Truths Ep. 6 - Regret - HUIYH (18)

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 05:00:00 +0000

This week we talk about Regret.

We talk about what regret actually is and how, when we start to link the Inalienable Truths, they click together to create an ever expanding solid ground beneath our feet, from which we can boldly step forward into the lives we really want.

We also discuss the classic view on regret. On the one hand some people say they never regret anything. On the other side some people think anyone with no regrets lacks self-awareness and self-analysis.

Tune in to this episode to hear why Wyndham believes the optimum place to be it's actually somewhere in the middle.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

Self-Empowerment - Episode 17

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 05:00:00 +0000

This week we take a look at self or personal empowerment. So many of us spent so much of our lives in a state of disempowerment that the idea we can take control and have agency over our lives and how they turn out can seem alien.

So what do we do when we feel like a leaf on the ocean, buffeted and directed by currents beyond our control?

We could turn to the myriad tools and techniques "wellbeing gurus" bombard us with like meditation, mantras, affirmations, yoga etc etc. But what do we do when the tools stop working or we can't engage with them effectively in the first place?

In this solo episode of Hands Up If You're Human Wyndham discusses his perspective of self-empowerment and the three elements necessary for us to truly empower ourselves, reclaim our agency and assert some control over our lives.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

Inalienable Truths Ep. 5 - HUIYH (16)

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 05:00:00 +0000

This week Wyndham offers the 5th of the Inalienable Truths for you all to contemplate.

This Inalienable Truth is about the inevitability of consequences, both intended and unintended. For so long Wyndham didn't make decisions because all he could see were the "negative" consequences of his actions. What he lacked was clear vision and intention around what he was trying to create. Once we are clear on why we are doing what we are doing we empower ourselves to be able to deal with whatever comes as a consequence.

These episodes speak of the truths that lie next to our hearts. Not the stories we tell ourselves. Not the things we think we believe and believe to be true. Not the truths that make us feel better or worse. Simply the universal truths without judgement, without favour and without the biases created by our emotions. These are the Inalienable Truths we are left with when we strip away the stories we tell ourselves.

As they build week by week they begin to create solid ground on which we can stand and then take the courageous steps towards the lives we really want to live.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

Flu Fuelled Thoughts - Episode 15

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 05:00:00 +0100

This week Wyndham channels his serious dose of man-flu and sees where his thoughts take him.

In this episode he speaks about the importance of self-awareness and taking responsibility for one's actions and decisions. The importance of reconnecting with one's true self and to understand that "beliefs and truths" that shape our perspectives are not objectively true but are shaped by repetition and external influences.

Wyndham also highlights the role of our BluePrints in automating reactions based on what we think, believe, and perceive to be true. He stressed the need to interrupt these automatic reactions to create a more authentic and whole life and accept that making decisions will inevitably result to some degree in unintended consequences.

He goes on to emphasise the need to be intentional with actions and to recognise when old patterns of behaviour are no longer serving us. Wyndham also reflected on how our open hearted innocence is lost when we change our behaviours to protect ourselves from judgment or rejection.

He concludes by stressing the need for genuine, open-hearted, and heart-led decision making to ensure a sense of peace and acceptance.

We hope you enjoy the episode.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

Inalienable Truths Ep. 4 - HUIYH (14)

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 05:00:00 +0100

Wyndham is on his own this week as he offers the 4th of the Inalienable Truths for you all to contemplate.

This Inalienable Truth is about the primary motivators for the decisions we end up making. Bringing our awareness to what our truest and simplest motivations are can help us decide whether those automated patterns of decision making are still serving us, and if not, what we can do about it.

These episodes speak of the truths that lie next to our hearts. Not the stories we tell ourselves. Not the things we think we believe and believe to be true. Not the truths that make us feel better or worse. Simply the universal truths without judgement, without favour and without the biases created by our emotions. These are the Inalienable Truths we are left with when we strip away the stories we tell ourselves.

As they build week by week they begin to create solid ground on which we can stand and then take the courageous steps towards the lives we really want to live.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

Feeling Like A Fraud - Episode 13

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 05:00:00 +0100

After a longer break than intended Hands up If You're Human is back and Lisa and Wyndham couldn't be happier about it.

But the summer break hasn't been all beaches, sunsets and life experienced in an easy flow. One of the reasons this podcast exists is because of the uncertainty and rollercoaster nature of our lives as human beings and our commitment to accepting and working with this rollercoaster. And this summer has been exactly that for both our hosts. And when things feel bad it can hugely impact our confidence and perspective of our own authenticity.

So what do you do when you feel like a failure and a fake?

Tune in and listen to the latest honest and open conversation with Lisa and Wyndham on the Hands Up If you're Human podcast.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

HUIYH - Inalienable Truths Ep. 3

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 05:00:00 +0100

Welcome to the third episode in the HUIYH bonus series where Wyndham offers another "Inalienable Truth" for you, our listeners, and for Lisa to contemplate and reflect on.

These episodes speak of the truths that lie next to our hearts. Not the stories we tell ourselves. Not the things we think we believe and believe to be true. Not the truths that make us feel better or worse. Simply the universal truths without judgement, without favour and without the biases created by our emotions. These are the Inalienable Truths we are left with when we strip away the stories we tell ourselves.

As they build week by week they begin to create solid ground on which we can stand and then take the courageous steps towards the lives we really want to live.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

Overcoming Self-Sabotage: Set Yourself Free - Episode 11

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 05:00:00 +0100

We've all had moments in life where we are tantalising close to achieving something we have set our sights and heart on only for us to do something that derails it.

It might look like old habitual patterns of behaviour repeating themselves. Or, choosing the "known" over the "unknown" even when the known represents chaos. It might be driven by a BluePrint conditioned lack of self-worth.

In this episode Lisa and Wyndham talk about "Self-Sabotage". They discuss their own relationships with it, what they perceive the origins of it to be, the power of language and it's ability to manifest our greatest fears as well as our desires, and the incredible power of self-compassion.

This podcast is called Hands Up If You're Human, and self-sabotage, far from being something to suggest there is anything wrong with us, is actually a classic indicator that you belong in our club and that you are simply being human.

Which is not to say there's nothing you can do about it but we cannot address what we aren't aware of, so give this conversation a listen and see if you can shift your perspective on your own self-sabotage.

We hope you enjoy the episode.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

HUIYH talks about Inalienable Truths - Episode 10

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 05:00:00 +0100

Welcome to the second episode in the bonus series where Wyndham and Lisa offer an "Inalienable Truth" for your consideration and reflection.

These episodes speak of the truths that lie next to our hearts. Not the stories we tell ourselves. Not the things we think we believe and believe to be true. Not the truths that make us feel better or worse. Simply the universal truths without judgement, without favour and without the biases created by our emotions. These are the Inalienable Truths we are left with when we strip away the stories we tell ourselves.

As they build week by week they begin to create solid ground on which we can stand and then take the courageous steps towards the lives we really want to live.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

Episode 9 - Are you COMMUNICATING or just TALKING?

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 05:00:00 +0100

One of the frequently listed "secrets" of successful relationships is good communication. But what does that actually mean, how many of us would genuinely say they do it well (spoiler alert, not that many), and why is it so hard to do?

Lisa and Wyndham reflect on their relationships with partners, friends and family to try to figure out why we often feel defensive, how easy it is to misunderstand and misconstrue what people say, and critically, why we should be looking inwards at ourselves when we find ourselves reacting to what other people say and do!

Hopefully after this episode you'll have a better idea whether you are communicating or simply talking, and importantly, what to do about it.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

HUIYH talks about Inalienable Truths - Episode 8

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 05:00:00 +0100

Join Lisa and Wyndham for a new series of bonus episodes that speak of the truths that lie next to our hearts. Not the stories we tell ourselves. Not the things we think we believe and believe to be true. Not the truths that make us feel better or worse. Simply the universal truths without judgement, without favour and without the biases created by our emotions. These are the Inalienable Truths we are left with when we strip away the stories we tell ourselves.

Published on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month these episodes follow the main Hands Up If You're Human episodes on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays. That's right, we are now 4 episodes a month!

We hope your enjoy the conversations!

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

Dealing with Grief - Episode 7

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 05:00:00 +0100

We may crave certainty in our lives but the Universe doesn't work that way, except in one specific area.

Every single human being on this planet will experience grief, multiple times. And not just as a result of a loved one's death. There are so many experiences in life that can generate the overwhelming emotional tsunami of grief.

In this episode Lisa and Wyndham break one of the last taboos and discuss their own experiences of death and grief, both first hand and by degrees more removed. They talk about the lessons contained within our despair and in what might be considered a perverse twist, the privilege and joy they have felt whilst in the depths of grief's embrace.

Learning to navigate our own grief and become better support for others as they navigate theirs can literally change our lives and those of the people around us.

We hope you enjoy this episode.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

Episode 6 - Wyndham's Story

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 05:00:00 +0100

It's time to get too know Wyndham a little bit better, so today's episode is (some of) his story.

Wyndham talks about his first identity and powerful childhood experiences which he has come to realise shaped his BluePrint and therefore how he thought and acted for decades. He speaks about a 20 year professional career he felt trapped in, and he talks about the people and events that set him on his adventure to write his own BluePrint and create the life he really wants to live.

This is a very different story to the one told by Wyndham's co-host, Lisa, over the last two episodes and as a result they also discuss "comparative suffering" and the impact it can have in diminishing our felt right to feel bad about our situation.

They both hope it's relatable and possibly provides a different lens through which you can view your own lives.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

Bonus Episode 5.1 - Lisa's Story Part 2

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 05:00:00 +0100

Listen to this follow on episode from yesterday's Episode 5 because some important things went unsaid.

It is simply impossible to genuinely reduce someone's life down to a little over an hour of conversation. And in our conversation for Episode 5, Lisa felt some important elements went overlooked.

So, instead of rerecording the entire episode and almost certainly losing some of the golden nuggets that came up, we decided to record this bonus episode for you.

And boy are we glad we did!

Have a listen and let us know what you think!

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

Episode 5 - Lisa's Remarkable Story

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 05:00:00 +0100

Today we get to know Lisa a little better.

*** TRIGGER WARNING ***

In this episode Lisa talks us through some of the significant episodes and experiences from her life. These include conversations around mental health, suicide, and sexual assault.

Lisa has always said she is happy to share her wounds, not her scars, and this episode is remarkable in not only showing what we as humans are capable of healing from, but, seemingly miraculously, we can actually heal to a place where we are grateful for the experiences.

Listen to Lisa's remarkable, sometimes painful, sometimes traumatic, yet always inspirational story.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

Episode 4 - Boundaries & Balance

Tue, 21 May 2024 05:00:00 +0100

Draft

“Boundaries are, in simple terms, the recognition of personal space.”
Asa Don Brown

“When we fail to set boundaries and hold people accountable, we feel used and mistreated. This is why we sometimes attack who they are, which is far more hurtful than addressing a behaviour or a choice.”
Brené Brown

In which case why do we find it so hard to recognise and honour our personal space?

Give this episode a listen to find out what's going on and what to do about it.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

Episode 3 - Imposter Syndrome

Tue, 07 May 2024 05:00:00 +0100

We had lots of comments when we announced that we would be talking about Imposter Syndrome in this episode. Which suggests it's something that more people experience it than don't.

So we cover a lot of ground, from Lisa and Wyndham's own experiences to the thoughts and experiences of some of our listeners.

Is Imposter Syndrome our fault?
What's causing it?
Is it always a bad thing?
What can we do about it when it rears its head?

As always we want to hear what you think on this subject and the topic we have lined up for episode 4 - you'll have to listen to the end (or fast forward!) to find out what it is.

If you're enjoying what you hear please subscribe, share and review. If you're not enjoying it feel free to move on by, there's plenty out there for all tastes.

You can contact the show via email: handsupifyourehuman@gmail.com

You can also find Lisa at https://theyogabeing.co.uk/ for yoga and retreats, and at https://lisamaniatis.com/ for all coaching related services.

You can find Wyndham at https://www.wyndhamjames.com/ for his coaching related services.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

Episode 2 - Perfectionism

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 05:00:00 +0100

In this episode Lisa and Wyndham discuss the thorny and often debilitating topic of perfectionism.

From Wyndham's recent realisation that he has been a perfectionist for 37 years without knowing it, to Lisa's reflections on being a "recovering perfectionist", this conversation covers a lot of ground.

From the childhood incidents that were probably the genesis of their perfectionist tendencies, to ways of approaching these tendencies if you recognise them in yourself, hopefully this conversation will be insightful, helpful and offer two very different experiences.

You can contact the show via email: theallthatwearepodcast@gmail.com

You can also find Lisa at https://theyogabeing.co.uk/ for yoga and retreats, and at https://lisamaniatis.com/ for all coaching related services.

You can find Wyndham at https://www.wyndhamjames.com/ for his coaching related services.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb

Episode 1 - Introducing Our Brand New Podcast

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 05:00:00 +0100

Welcome to our new podcast, dedicated to exploring and celebrating the messy reality of being human. In these conversations we will be discussing the many challenges and barriers we all face that prevent us feeling connected, fulfilled and happy, and explore the ways we can create the lives we really want to live by understanding, accepting and fully embracing all that we are.

From our innate gifts and the things we’ve been taught to think of as our flaws, to our deepest unmet needs and desires that we feel shame over, we want to explore all the complexity that comes as a package deal simply by being human. Recognising and accepting ALL of our true selves empowers us to authentically show up in all aspects of our lives, and now more than ever it feels like the world needs as much acceptance and authenticity as possible.

In this episode:

We introduce you to our hosts, Lisa and Wyndham.
Explain what you can expect from future conversations
Let you know what the topic of conversation will be for episode #2

You can contact the show via email: handsupifyourehuman@gmail.com

You can also find Lisa at https://theyogabeing.co.uk/ for yoga and retreats, and at https://lisamaniatis.com/ for all coaching related services.

You can find Wyndham at https://www.wyndhamjames.com/ for his coaching related services.

And, you can buy my new book:

"Find Your Freedom: It's Time To Write Your Own BluePrint"

Simply visit Amazon and search for the title, or follow this link:

https://rb.gy/5yymgb