Stories From Behind the Mask - The parts we edit out Mon, 01 Jun 2026 10:06:41 +0100 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2571643 en-gb © 2026 Stories From Behind the Mask - The parts we edit out yes a5aaa637-64f9-546b-8b56-c3d0fa194766 hello@joannawoodphotography.co.uk Joanna Wood episodic true Step behind the polished surfaces and curated feeds. This is where we hear the stories we usually keep to ourselves — the doubts, the triumphs, the moments that shaped us. Each episode, I sit down with bold entrepreneurs, creators, and change-makers to uncover the parts they’ve edited out, the truths they rarely share, and the lessons that transformed them.


If you want to see people as they really are — messy, human, and extraordinary — this is your front-row seat.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Joanna Wood hello@joannawoodphotography.co.uk https://storage.buzzsprout.com/1wfeywyoehg3b16l7luoa8y22lmu?.jpg Stories From Behind the Mask - The parts we edit out Episode 11 - Tracey-Jane Hughes - Listening Whisperer Episode 11 - Tracey-Jane Hughes - Listening Whisperer Tracey-Jane has spent much of her life putting others first - her children, her clients, her family, even the storms and dramas of people around her. From early setbacks, like being in a wheelchair as a teenager, through the grief of losing her mum, to financial struggles, business challenges, and the breakdown of her marriage, she often hid behind external circumstances. They became both a reason and a shield - distractions from listening to her own needs.

The mask she wore was serenity. Calm. The smile that suggested everything was fine, even when she was holding storms inside. To the outside world, she looked like the safe harbour in chaos - collected, steady, even distant at times. But the truth is, Tracey-Jane was deeply present, feeling everything, processing everything, and supporting others while quietly holding her own pain.

There are parts of her journey she hasn’t often spoken about: the painful unravelling of her marriage, the realisation of patterns of conditional love, and the exhaustion of carrying so much responsibility while feeling unseen by those closest to her. Yet through these experiences, she’s discovered her own strength - not the strength of perfection or control, but the strength of honesty, self-trust, and choosing herself.

For Tracey-Jane, being truly visible now means listening to all the layers of herself - physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual - and expressing her truth in whatever form feels right. It’s about no longer silencing her own needs to fit someone else’s expectations, but instead stepping into life as her liberated, authentic self.

Her story is one of resilience, compassion, and quiet rebellion - a reminder that even the calmest waters often run deepest.

Tracey-Jane has spent years wearing the mask of serenity - calm on the outside, while storms raged within. After loss, grief, and the breakdown of her marriage, she is choosing to unmask, to listen to her own truth, and to embrace all parts of herself. Her story shows that true strength doesn’t come from holding it all together, but from the courage to let yourself be fully seen.

https://www.tracey-jane.com/

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




www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/


]]> Tracey-Jane has spent much of her life putting others first - her children, her clients, her family, even the storms and dramas of people around her. From early setbacks, like being in a wheelchair as a teenager, through the grief of losing her mum, to financial struggles, business challenges, and the breakdown of her marriage, she often hid behind external circumstances. They became both a reason and a shield - distractions from listening to her own needs.

The mask she wore was serenity. Calm. The smile that suggested everything was fine, even when she was holding storms inside. To the outside world, she looked like the safe harbour in chaos - collected, steady, even distant at times. But the truth is, Tracey-Jane was deeply present, feeling everything, processing everything, and supporting others while quietly holding her own pain.

There are parts of her journey she hasn’t often spoken about: the painful unravelling of her marriage, the realisation of patterns of conditional love, and the exhaustion of carrying so much responsibility while feeling unseen by those closest to her. Yet through these experiences, she’s discovered her own strength - not the strength of perfection or control, but the strength of honesty, self-trust, and choosing herself.

For Tracey-Jane, being truly visible now means listening to all the layers of herself - physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual - and expressing her truth in whatever form feels right. It’s about no longer silencing her own needs to fit someone else’s expectations, but instead stepping into life as her liberated, authentic self.

Her story is one of resilience, compassion, and quiet rebellion - a reminder that even the calmest waters often run deepest.

Tracey-Jane has spent years wearing the mask of serenity - calm on the outside, while storms raged within. After loss, grief, and the breakdown of her marriage, she is choosing to unmask, to listen to her own truth, and to embrace all parts of herself. Her story shows that true strength doesn’t come from holding it all together, but from the courage to let yourself be fully seen.

https://www.tracey-jane.com/

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




www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/


]]> Joanna Wood Buzzsprout-19149606 Wed, 27 May 2026 08:00:00 +0100 2149 1 11 full false Episode 10 - Rachel Dunford - The Impact Specialist Episode 10 - Rachel Dunford - The Impact Specialist For years, Rachel hid behind a navy logo - safe, professional, but silent about who she really was. The moment her brand finally reflected her colour, passion and love for her work, everything shifted. She began to show up as herself. Bright, bold, visible.

But appearances can be deceiving. Known for her confidence and sociability, Rachel often battles with social anxiety behind the scenes. Networking rooms, events, even simple gatherings could feel overwhelming, and yet she learned to manage it by becoming more selective - choosing spaces and people that allowed her to feel safe and understood.

Her mask has been the image of a successful businesswoman who has it all together. The truth is less polished. Alongside her work, she has solo parented her two children most weeks while her husband works away in television. It’s a juggle, one that sometimes leaves her dropping balls no one sees. Add in health challenges over the last year and a half, and there have been moments where her business couldn’t run at full tilt - though few would have guessed it.

Rachel rarely talks about her decision to change her name, taking her stepdad’s surname to honour the man who has always been her true father. It’s a piece of her identity that grounds her, woven into her business and her children’s names, carrying the love and stability he has given her throughout her life.

More recently, she’s been exploring the possibility of ADHD - a revelation that explained decades of masking and self-criticism. Realising that not everyone’s brain races at 100 miles an hour has been both painful and freeing. Her speed, her creativity, her productivity - they’re gifts, but they also leave her drained, self-critical and sometimes too hard on herself.

Rachel’s confidence can dip, often tied to her physical performance. Sport and fitness give her bravery, but repeated injuries this year have dented her self-worth. That’s partly why her work matters so deeply: she helps women uncover their true impact through the voices of those they serve, cutting through the noise of comparison and helping them see their worth reflected back with clarity and honesty.

For Rachel, visibility means honesty. It’s about showing the grit behind the gloss: the solo parenting, the exhaustion, the determination to hold onto her values even when the business world prizes noise over meaning. Her story is a reminder that strength isn’t about never struggling - it’s about showing up anyway, and creating impact on your own terms.

Rachel built her reputation as a confident, colourful businesswoman - but behind the brand was a quieter battle with anxiety, self-doubt, and the challenges of solo parenting while running a business. Her journey has been one of unmasking: from honouring her true identity by taking her stepdad’s name, to exploring life with ADHD, to redefining visibility as honesty, not perfection. Today she helps others see the real impact of their work, proving that strength lies in showing up as yourself, not in hiding behind the mask.

https://racheldunfordconsulting.co.uk/

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

www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/


]]> For years, Rachel hid behind a navy logo - safe, professional, but silent about who she really was. The moment her brand finally reflected her colour, passion and love for her work, everything shifted. She began to show up as herself. Bright, bold, visible.

But appearances can be deceiving. Known for her confidence and sociability, Rachel often battles with social anxiety behind the scenes. Networking rooms, events, even simple gatherings could feel overwhelming, and yet she learned to manage it by becoming more selective - choosing spaces and people that allowed her to feel safe and understood.

Her mask has been the image of a successful businesswoman who has it all together. The truth is less polished. Alongside her work, she has solo parented her two children most weeks while her husband works away in television. It’s a juggle, one that sometimes leaves her dropping balls no one sees. Add in health challenges over the last year and a half, and there have been moments where her business couldn’t run at full tilt - though few would have guessed it.

Rachel rarely talks about her decision to change her name, taking her stepdad’s surname to honour the man who has always been her true father. It’s a piece of her identity that grounds her, woven into her business and her children’s names, carrying the love and stability he has given her throughout her life.

More recently, she’s been exploring the possibility of ADHD - a revelation that explained decades of masking and self-criticism. Realising that not everyone’s brain races at 100 miles an hour has been both painful and freeing. Her speed, her creativity, her productivity - they’re gifts, but they also leave her drained, self-critical and sometimes too hard on herself.

Rachel’s confidence can dip, often tied to her physical performance. Sport and fitness give her bravery, but repeated injuries this year have dented her self-worth. That’s partly why her work matters so deeply: she helps women uncover their true impact through the voices of those they serve, cutting through the noise of comparison and helping them see their worth reflected back with clarity and honesty.

For Rachel, visibility means honesty. It’s about showing the grit behind the gloss: the solo parenting, the exhaustion, the determination to hold onto her values even when the business world prizes noise over meaning. Her story is a reminder that strength isn’t about never struggling - it’s about showing up anyway, and creating impact on your own terms.

Rachel built her reputation as a confident, colourful businesswoman - but behind the brand was a quieter battle with anxiety, self-doubt, and the challenges of solo parenting while running a business. Her journey has been one of unmasking: from honouring her true identity by taking her stepdad’s name, to exploring life with ADHD, to redefining visibility as honesty, not perfection. Today she helps others see the real impact of their work, proving that strength lies in showing up as yourself, not in hiding behind the mask.

https://racheldunfordconsulting.co.uk/

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

www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/


]]> Joanna Wood Buzzsprout-19149539 Wed, 20 May 2026 08:00:00 +0100 2323 1 10 full false Episode 9 - Dr Jenny Gordon - The Mother in Lawsome, Communication Specialist Episode 9 - Dr Jenny Gordon - The Mother in Lawsome, Communication Specialist Jenny has spent much of her life hiding pain, loss, and betrayal behind a brave, sunshiny face. Behind that optimism lies the story of a broken marriage, a lost home, and the slow erosion of her true self while trying to please others. She learned to shine despite the darkness, seeking the light in difficult times and finding glimmers of hope every day.

Her journey has been one of owning both shadow and light - facing unbearable emotions without running, while simultaneously showing up for the world with courage, humour, and heart. Jenny has learned that masks can serve a purpose, but only when worn consciously, and that vulnerability is a source of strength.

Through her experiences, she has cultivated self-belief, recognising that betrayal and hardship do not define her - rather, her response, reflection, and continued growth shape who she is. By embracing all facets of herself, Jenny has uncovered a whole, resilient, and brilliant being, and she now steps into visibility, showing others that it’s possible to live authentically without losing one’s essence.

Her poem, Doing Time, beautifully encapsulates this balance - the internal struggle and external resilience, the dance of shadow and light, and the reclamation of self.


Jenny’s story reveals the power of embracing both shadow and light. She has learned to face pain, loss, and betrayal with courage, while still showing up as her full, authentic self. Her journey reminds us that vulnerability is strength, and true visibility is found when we hold all parts of ourselves with love.

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

https://motherinlawesome.com/

https://www.instagram.com/themotherinlawesome/

www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/


]]> Jenny has spent much of her life hiding pain, loss, and betrayal behind a brave, sunshiny face. Behind that optimism lies the story of a broken marriage, a lost home, and the slow erosion of her true self while trying to please others. She learned to shine despite the darkness, seeking the light in difficult times and finding glimmers of hope every day.

Her journey has been one of owning both shadow and light - facing unbearable emotions without running, while simultaneously showing up for the world with courage, humour, and heart. Jenny has learned that masks can serve a purpose, but only when worn consciously, and that vulnerability is a source of strength.

Through her experiences, she has cultivated self-belief, recognising that betrayal and hardship do not define her - rather, her response, reflection, and continued growth shape who she is. By embracing all facets of herself, Jenny has uncovered a whole, resilient, and brilliant being, and she now steps into visibility, showing others that it’s possible to live authentically without losing one’s essence.

Her poem, Doing Time, beautifully encapsulates this balance - the internal struggle and external resilience, the dance of shadow and light, and the reclamation of self.


Jenny’s story reveals the power of embracing both shadow and light. She has learned to face pain, loss, and betrayal with courage, while still showing up as her full, authentic self. Her journey reminds us that vulnerability is strength, and true visibility is found when we hold all parts of ourselves with love.

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

https://motherinlawesome.com/

https://www.instagram.com/themotherinlawesome/

www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/


]]> Joanna Wood Buzzsprout-19149496 Wed, 13 May 2026 08:00:00 +0100 2578 1 9 full false Episode 8 - Precious Zumbika MBA - Construction & Infrastructure Advisory/Impact & Expert Keynote Speaker Episode 8 - Precious Zumbika MBA - Construction & Infrastructure Advisory/Impact & Expert Keynote Speaker Precious Zumbika, a business owner and founder of Karis Advisory Services, shares her journey from Zimbabwe to the UK, where she became a prominent figure in construction despite initial challenges as one of the few female professionals on site. She discusses her transition from a corporate role to entrepreneurship, focusing on two main pillars of her business: built environment advisory and leadership consultancy. Precious explains her upcoming launch of an Inner Circle Global Leadership Platform, which will host annual events focused on improving workplace leadership. Precious reflects on her previous talk about personal growth and the development of her HOPE framework, which helps leaders reclaim their authentic selves.

Precious shares her personal experience of losing her father 22 years ago, describing how she initially dealt with anger and denial before eventually reaching a place of gratitude for the 24 years she had with him. She revealed that she still feels his influence through the books he read and the lessons he taught her, which she now passes on to others. Precious emphasized the importance of vulnerability in human connections and expressed a desire to share her story to encourage others to be open about their own grief and experiences.

Precious discusses the importance of self-leadership and removing personal masks, emphasizing the need to understand and accept one's true self before making changes. She shared her upcoming platform for business leaders, which will include a community hub, weekly power hours, and an advisory leadership program.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/precious-zumbika-mba/

www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/


]]> Precious Zumbika, a business owner and founder of Karis Advisory Services, shares her journey from Zimbabwe to the UK, where she became a prominent figure in construction despite initial challenges as one of the few female professionals on site. She discusses her transition from a corporate role to entrepreneurship, focusing on two main pillars of her business: built environment advisory and leadership consultancy. Precious explains her upcoming launch of an Inner Circle Global Leadership Platform, which will host annual events focused on improving workplace leadership. Precious reflects on her previous talk about personal growth and the development of her HOPE framework, which helps leaders reclaim their authentic selves.

Precious shares her personal experience of losing her father 22 years ago, describing how she initially dealt with anger and denial before eventually reaching a place of gratitude for the 24 years she had with him. She revealed that she still feels his influence through the books he read and the lessons he taught her, which she now passes on to others. Precious emphasized the importance of vulnerability in human connections and expressed a desire to share her story to encourage others to be open about their own grief and experiences.

Precious discusses the importance of self-leadership and removing personal masks, emphasizing the need to understand and accept one's true self before making changes. She shared her upcoming platform for business leaders, which will include a community hub, weekly power hours, and an advisory leadership program.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/precious-zumbika-mba/

www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/


]]> Joanna Wood Buzzsprout-19025880 Wed, 06 May 2026 08:00:00 +0100 2213 1 8 full false Episode 7 - Rachel Savory - Trauma-informed nervous system & identity coach Episode 7 - Rachel Savory - Trauma-informed nervous system & identity coach Rachel has long hidden behind polishedness, strength, and independence - the mask of the “expert,” the emotionally regulated coach who seems calm and composed even when quietly winging it. Behind that exterior lies a life of raw grief, trauma, and invisibility: a cancer journey that stole parts of her identity, the pain of separation and heartbreak, and the daily choices of mothering through it all while rebuilding herself again and again.

Her mask allowed her to be seen, to perform, and to survive - but the real power emerges as she peels it back. Choosing herself in the face of illness, heartbreak, and exhaustion has taught her that self-worth isn’t given; it must be reclaimed, moment by moment. Through her vulnerability, Rachel embodies the courage to show up fully, embracing both the messy and luminous parts of herself.

For Rachel, true visibility is not about perfection, it’s about authenticity. It’s showing up with all her light, darkness, grief, and triumph - and in doing so, giving other women permission to do the same. Her story is a living example of resilience, honesty, and the transformative ripple of choosing yourself out loud.

Rachel once hid behind strength, polish, and composure, concealing grief, illness, and heartache. Now she stands fully visible, embracing her messy, luminous self, showing that authenticity, self-love, and courage are the true marks of power.

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

https://rachels.coach/

https://www.instagram.com/rachelscoach



www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/


]]> Rachel has long hidden behind polishedness, strength, and independence - the mask of the “expert,” the emotionally regulated coach who seems calm and composed even when quietly winging it. Behind that exterior lies a life of raw grief, trauma, and invisibility: a cancer journey that stole parts of her identity, the pain of separation and heartbreak, and the daily choices of mothering through it all while rebuilding herself again and again.

Her mask allowed her to be seen, to perform, and to survive - but the real power emerges as she peels it back. Choosing herself in the face of illness, heartbreak, and exhaustion has taught her that self-worth isn’t given; it must be reclaimed, moment by moment. Through her vulnerability, Rachel embodies the courage to show up fully, embracing both the messy and luminous parts of herself.

For Rachel, true visibility is not about perfection, it’s about authenticity. It’s showing up with all her light, darkness, grief, and triumph - and in doing so, giving other women permission to do the same. Her story is a living example of resilience, honesty, and the transformative ripple of choosing yourself out loud.

Rachel once hid behind strength, polish, and composure, concealing grief, illness, and heartache. Now she stands fully visible, embracing her messy, luminous self, showing that authenticity, self-love, and courage are the true marks of power.

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

https://rachels.coach/

https://www.instagram.com/rachelscoach



www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/


]]> Joanna Wood Buzzsprout-19025849 Wed, 29 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0100 1625 1 7 full false Episode 6 - Sarah Brason - Grief Navigator Episode 6 - Sarah Brason - Grief Navigator Sarah spent years climbing into boxes with neat little labels - Mother, Wife, Creative Director, Designer, Mentor. Each role gave her a mask, a way of being seen. But inside, she knew they were restrictions, disguises that diluted her truth and her power.

The chapters she rarely shared are the ones that shaped her most: walking home at 19 and being raped; the devastating loss of her second daughter in 2015. These weren’t just traumas, they were crucibles. Each one forged her, carving resilience, depth, and a fierce sense of purpose. They taught her she is not defined by what happens to her, but by how she responds.

Now, Sarah stands not as a victim, but as a woman forged by fire - stronger, grounded, and unafraid to hold both the darkness and the light. She has found joy and contentment not by ignoring her past, but by integrating it. By saying: this too is me.

To be visible, for Sarah, is to step fully into her purpose - helping other women find themselves after trauma, to shine their own light when all seems lost. She knows the dark, but she also knows the way out. And that is her gift.

Sarah has been forged by trauma - but she is not defined by it. Her story is one of resilience, transformation, and purpose: finding joy and strength not in spite of her past, but because of it. Today, she helps other women reclaim their light in the dark.

https://griefnavigator.co.uk/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-brason-ownyourstory/

www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/


]]> Sarah spent years climbing into boxes with neat little labels - Mother, Wife, Creative Director, Designer, Mentor. Each role gave her a mask, a way of being seen. But inside, she knew they were restrictions, disguises that diluted her truth and her power.

The chapters she rarely shared are the ones that shaped her most: walking home at 19 and being raped; the devastating loss of her second daughter in 2015. These weren’t just traumas, they were crucibles. Each one forged her, carving resilience, depth, and a fierce sense of purpose. They taught her she is not defined by what happens to her, but by how she responds.

Now, Sarah stands not as a victim, but as a woman forged by fire - stronger, grounded, and unafraid to hold both the darkness and the light. She has found joy and contentment not by ignoring her past, but by integrating it. By saying: this too is me.

To be visible, for Sarah, is to step fully into her purpose - helping other women find themselves after trauma, to shine their own light when all seems lost. She knows the dark, but she also knows the way out. And that is her gift.

Sarah has been forged by trauma - but she is not defined by it. Her story is one of resilience, transformation, and purpose: finding joy and strength not in spite of her past, but because of it. Today, she helps other women reclaim their light in the dark.

https://griefnavigator.co.uk/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-brason-ownyourstory/

www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/


]]> Joanna Wood Buzzsprout-19025821 Wed, 22 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0100 1821 1 6 full false Episode 5 - Gwenne Dickson - Empowerment Coach & Soul Purpose Activator Episode 5 - Gwenne Dickson - Empowerment Coach & Soul Purpose Activator For most of her life, Gwenne didn’t know she had ADHD. At 57, sitting at a women’s ADHD conference, everything finally clicked. Words like rejection sensitivity, time blindness, and now & not now weren’t abstract concepts; they were her life. What she had always been accused of being late, disorganised, emotional, messy  suddenly had context. The shame and self-doubt she had carried for decades cracked open into relief, belonging, and compassion for herself, her mum, and her gran, who she now realises also lived with undiagnosed ADHD.

Her mask, especially in her corporate career, was the façade of organisation and calm. She built systems, smiled, and tried to hold it all together while hiding how deeply she felt everything. Feedback cut her to the core, conflict overwhelmed her, and anxiety lived under the surface, taking its toll on her body as well as her mind. She coped by searching  Reiki, NLP, meditation, manifestation and eventually found herself building a whole toolkit of skills that she not only used for herself but began sharing with others. Her hypersensitivity became her gift, guiding her into teaching, energy work, and spiritual connection.

The deeper side of Gwenne’s journey has been largely private. On retreats, she discovered her ability to connect to her Higher Self and unseen energies, but for years she told family and colleagues she was just “doing yoga.” Behind that cover, she was uncovering a spiritual strength that felt too vulnerable to share openly. She found community online and in spiritual circles, yet often kept her most transformative experiences in a separate box, away from her closest people.

What many don’t know is that Gwenne has trained to a level few in the world achieve: she can energetically open others to their own unique gifts and guide them to use those gifts professionally. Though she has sometimes held back from sharing it widely limited by old beliefs around worthiness and fear of rejection she knows this is her calling. She’s here to help changemakers, healers, and visionaries heal themselves and ripple that transformation into the world.

Her journey hasn’t erased self-doubt; she still wrestles with unworthiness and procrastination. But she also knows vulnerability is the key. The treasure is in the cave we fear to enter. For Gwenne, true visibility means stepping forward without the armour, writing the book she’s meant to write, and showing the world her story and her methods.

Through her unmasking, Gwenne’s message is clear: our greatest struggles hold the treasure we seek. And when we dare to Flip the Script, we not only free ourselves, but create the ripple effects of healing and change the world is waiting for.

https://livingyourbestlifecoaching.co.uk/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=529263666
https://www.youtube.com/@gwennedickson3149
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gwenne-dickson/



www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/


]]> For most of her life, Gwenne didn’t know she had ADHD. At 57, sitting at a women’s ADHD conference, everything finally clicked. Words like rejection sensitivity, time blindness, and now & not now weren’t abstract concepts; they were her life. What she had always been accused of being late, disorganised, emotional, messy  suddenly had context. The shame and self-doubt she had carried for decades cracked open into relief, belonging, and compassion for herself, her mum, and her gran, who she now realises also lived with undiagnosed ADHD.

Her mask, especially in her corporate career, was the façade of organisation and calm. She built systems, smiled, and tried to hold it all together while hiding how deeply she felt everything. Feedback cut her to the core, conflict overwhelmed her, and anxiety lived under the surface, taking its toll on her body as well as her mind. She coped by searching  Reiki, NLP, meditation, manifestation and eventually found herself building a whole toolkit of skills that she not only used for herself but began sharing with others. Her hypersensitivity became her gift, guiding her into teaching, energy work, and spiritual connection.

The deeper side of Gwenne’s journey has been largely private. On retreats, she discovered her ability to connect to her Higher Self and unseen energies, but for years she told family and colleagues she was just “doing yoga.” Behind that cover, she was uncovering a spiritual strength that felt too vulnerable to share openly. She found community online and in spiritual circles, yet often kept her most transformative experiences in a separate box, away from her closest people.

What many don’t know is that Gwenne has trained to a level few in the world achieve: she can energetically open others to their own unique gifts and guide them to use those gifts professionally. Though she has sometimes held back from sharing it widely limited by old beliefs around worthiness and fear of rejection she knows this is her calling. She’s here to help changemakers, healers, and visionaries heal themselves and ripple that transformation into the world.

Her journey hasn’t erased self-doubt; she still wrestles with unworthiness and procrastination. But she also knows vulnerability is the key. The treasure is in the cave we fear to enter. For Gwenne, true visibility means stepping forward without the armour, writing the book she’s meant to write, and showing the world her story and her methods.

Through her unmasking, Gwenne’s message is clear: our greatest struggles hold the treasure we seek. And when we dare to Flip the Script, we not only free ourselves, but create the ripple effects of healing and change the world is waiting for.

https://livingyourbestlifecoaching.co.uk/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=529263666
https://www.youtube.com/@gwennedickson3149
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gwenne-dickson/



www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/


]]> Joanna Wood Buzzsprout-18879287 Wed, 15 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0100 2307 1 5 full false Episode 4 - Mel Hopkins - Client Happiness Strategist Episode 4 - Mel Hopkins - Client Happiness Strategist Mel has spent much of her life behind the scenes, quietly keeping everything running smoothly while remaining largely invisible. Calm, competent, and polished, she mastered the art of making life work for everyone else, often at the expense of not being seen herself. The invisibility that once fueled self-doubt became a quiet armour - a way to stay safe while still making things happen.

For years, she wore the mask of control and capability, of always having it together. Onlookers saw efficiency, strength, and reliability - but seldom the thoughtful, reflective, and deeply creative mind behind it. Underneath, Mel carried the fear that her quiet approach wasn’t enough, that her contributions were invisible, that her voice didn’t matter.

Through her journey, she discovered that what she once thought of as weaknesses - carefulness, thoughtfulness, and reflection - are actually sources of profound power. They allow her to connect deeply, think creatively, and make meaningful impact in life and business. She learned that real confidence isn’t about volume or perfection; it’s about courage, integrity, and showing up fully, even when it feels uncomfortable.

Now, Mel steps into visibility on her own terms. She embraces all sides of herself - the professional, the playful, the reflective - and owns her value. Her story is a testament to the extraordinary power of quiet, thoughtful people: that influence doesn’t always shout, and courage doesn’t always roar.


https://www.meloniehopkins.co.uk/
https://www.facebook.com/melonie.hopkins.14
https://www.linkedin.com/in/meloniehopkins/
https://www.instagram.com/mel_hopkins_chm/reels/

www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/


]]> Mel has spent much of her life behind the scenes, quietly keeping everything running smoothly while remaining largely invisible. Calm, competent, and polished, she mastered the art of making life work for everyone else, often at the expense of not being seen herself. The invisibility that once fueled self-doubt became a quiet armour - a way to stay safe while still making things happen.

For years, she wore the mask of control and capability, of always having it together. Onlookers saw efficiency, strength, and reliability - but seldom the thoughtful, reflective, and deeply creative mind behind it. Underneath, Mel carried the fear that her quiet approach wasn’t enough, that her contributions were invisible, that her voice didn’t matter.

Through her journey, she discovered that what she once thought of as weaknesses - carefulness, thoughtfulness, and reflection - are actually sources of profound power. They allow her to connect deeply, think creatively, and make meaningful impact in life and business. She learned that real confidence isn’t about volume or perfection; it’s about courage, integrity, and showing up fully, even when it feels uncomfortable.

Now, Mel steps into visibility on her own terms. She embraces all sides of herself - the professional, the playful, the reflective - and owns her value. Her story is a testament to the extraordinary power of quiet, thoughtful people: that influence doesn’t always shout, and courage doesn’t always roar.


https://www.meloniehopkins.co.uk/
https://www.facebook.com/melonie.hopkins.14
https://www.linkedin.com/in/meloniehopkins/
https://www.instagram.com/mel_hopkins_chm/reels/

www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/


]]> Joanna Wood Buzzsprout-18879305 Wed, 08 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0100 1894 1 4 full false Episode 3 - Sheila Smith - Founder of Behomed Episode 3 - Sheila Smith - Founder of Behomed Sheila has spent much of her life behind a mask of polish and control, showing up as confident, competent, and in command - even when inside she wrestled with self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Fear of judgment and the need to appear flawless often weighed on her, but she refused to let it stop her from stepping into her purpose.

A pivotal moment came in 2002, when she travelled solo through Burma (Myanmar) under military rule. Meeting Mr Book, a former teacher and underground bookseller, opened her eyes to the true meaning of freedom and the importance of using her voice. That journey shaped her profoundly, showing her the courage it takes to speak out in the face of oppression and inspiring her lifelong commitment to empowering others.

Sheila now understands that visibility isn’t about perfection or applause - it’s about showing up fully, sharing doubts, fears, and values, and using her voice to create meaningful change. Her story is a testament to the power of starting messy, leading from integrity, and speaking up for those who cannot. Sheila demonstrates that courage, not perfection, is the true mark of a leader.


www.behome.co.uk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheila-smith-property-investor/?skipRedirect=true
https://www.facebook.com/sheilamsmithuk


www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/


]]> Sheila has spent much of her life behind a mask of polish and control, showing up as confident, competent, and in command - even when inside she wrestled with self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Fear of judgment and the need to appear flawless often weighed on her, but she refused to let it stop her from stepping into her purpose.

A pivotal moment came in 2002, when she travelled solo through Burma (Myanmar) under military rule. Meeting Mr Book, a former teacher and underground bookseller, opened her eyes to the true meaning of freedom and the importance of using her voice. That journey shaped her profoundly, showing her the courage it takes to speak out in the face of oppression and inspiring her lifelong commitment to empowering others.

Sheila now understands that visibility isn’t about perfection or applause - it’s about showing up fully, sharing doubts, fears, and values, and using her voice to create meaningful change. Her story is a testament to the power of starting messy, leading from integrity, and speaking up for those who cannot. Sheila demonstrates that courage, not perfection, is the true mark of a leader.


www.behome.co.uk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheila-smith-property-investor/?skipRedirect=true
https://www.facebook.com/sheilamsmithuk


www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/


]]> Joanna Wood Buzzsprout-18879335 Wed, 01 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0100 2327 1 3 full false Episode 2 - Charlotte Saunders - Breathwork Coach Episode 2 - Charlotte Saunders - Breathwork Coach Rebellion, Breath & Becoming Fully Visible

For much of her life, Charlotte Saunders wore the “good girl” mask - compliant, over-giving, striving to be palatable and approved of. On the surface, she was a successful bookkeeper and business owner. Underneath, she was quietly suffocating a deeper truth: that she was here to heal, guide, and walk others home to themselves.

In this episode of UNMASKED, Charlotte shares the long, layered journey that brought her back into alignment with her soul. Charlotte speaks candidly about how these moments didn’t shrink her - they sharpened her. They became the compass that led her away from conformity and towards rebellion in service of healing.

We explore her radical career shift from forensic psychology into breathwork, firewalking, and embodied transformation - sparked by a single, life-altering breathwork session that cracked her open and changed everything. Now a breathwork coach and firewalking instructor, Charlotte is stepping into her next evolution: training others to do this work while completing her Master Healer studies.

Together, we talk about unmasking at midlife - what it really means to stop performing, stop pleasing, and start prioritising self-alignment. Charlotte reflects on embracing her neurodivergence without labels, finding deep acceptance within her family, and the profound symbolism of physically creating and removing a mask during the UNMASKED experience. A moment of full visibility. No pretence. No apology.

This conversation is about visibility as liberation. About dropping roles. About choosing authenticity - slowly, bravely - and trusting that the right people will meet you there. Charlotte’s story is a reminder that living in alignment with your soul isn’t just transformative… it’s freeing.

If you'd like to follow Charlotte or get in touch her links are below

www.lottiesaunders.com
www.instagram.com/charlottesaundersbreathandfire
https://www.facebook.com/charlotte.saunders.96

www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/


]]> Rebellion, Breath & Becoming Fully Visible

For much of her life, Charlotte Saunders wore the “good girl” mask - compliant, over-giving, striving to be palatable and approved of. On the surface, she was a successful bookkeeper and business owner. Underneath, she was quietly suffocating a deeper truth: that she was here to heal, guide, and walk others home to themselves.

In this episode of UNMASKED, Charlotte shares the long, layered journey that brought her back into alignment with her soul. Charlotte speaks candidly about how these moments didn’t shrink her - they sharpened her. They became the compass that led her away from conformity and towards rebellion in service of healing.

We explore her radical career shift from forensic psychology into breathwork, firewalking, and embodied transformation - sparked by a single, life-altering breathwork session that cracked her open and changed everything. Now a breathwork coach and firewalking instructor, Charlotte is stepping into her next evolution: training others to do this work while completing her Master Healer studies.

Together, we talk about unmasking at midlife - what it really means to stop performing, stop pleasing, and start prioritising self-alignment. Charlotte reflects on embracing her neurodivergence without labels, finding deep acceptance within her family, and the profound symbolism of physically creating and removing a mask during the UNMASKED experience. A moment of full visibility. No pretence. No apology.

This conversation is about visibility as liberation. About dropping roles. About choosing authenticity - slowly, bravely - and trusting that the right people will meet you there. Charlotte’s story is a reminder that living in alignment with your soul isn’t just transformative… it’s freeing.

If you'd like to follow Charlotte or get in touch her links are below

www.lottiesaunders.com
www.instagram.com/charlottesaundersbreathandfire
https://www.facebook.com/charlotte.saunders.96

www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/


]]> Joanna Wood Buzzsprout-18630535 Tue, 24 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000 2404 1 2 full false Episode 1 - Joanna Wood - Your Host Episode 1 - Joanna Wood - Your Host  Hi, I'm Joanna and this is Stories from Behind the Mask, the parts we edit out. Every week I'll be sitting down with entrepreneurs who've built businesses, created legacies and dare to show up in the world and we talk about the stories they usually keep to themselves. 

The doubts, the wins, the personal challenges, the moments that changed everything. This is about being seen, unpolished and completely real. So if you're ready for honesty and truth, it's time to share today's story from behind the mask. 

Hi, I'm Jo and this is Stories from Behind the Mask, the parts we edit out. 

This podcast is about the stories that sit behind the polished photos, the curated feeds and the versions of ourselves we present to the world. Because the truth is, most of us are walking around wearing some kind of mask. 

Sometimes it's confidence, sometimes it's humour and sometimes it's silence. And over the coming months, I'm going to be sitting down with entrepreneurs, creators, coaches and humans with extraordinarily powerful stories to talk about what it really means to be seen. Not the polished version, but the honest one and to share their stories that they might not have felt like they could share. And being business owners, we hide behind this version of a mask that we wear to keep ourselves safe and maybe not to let anyone in. 

Maybe we have to show up as these perfect people who have got everything sorted, where actually we're not. We're just firefighting every single day. 

And that's the one reason I created these podcasts is because all these incredible people that I photographed for last year's Unmasked project all have stories to tell. And having had the exhibition and giving them the space to be who they truly are, their stories need to be put out into the world. 

So that's the reason why I've started this podcast. But before I start asking other people to step out from behind the mask, well, it only feels fair that I go first. And do you know what? That's particularly scary. But hey, I have to lead by example. I can't ask other people to share their stories when I'm not sharing mine. 

www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/


]]>  Hi, I'm Joanna and this is Stories from Behind the Mask, the parts we edit out. Every week I'll be sitting down with entrepreneurs who've built businesses, created legacies and dare to show up in the world and we talk about the stories they usually keep to themselves. 

The doubts, the wins, the personal challenges, the moments that changed everything. This is about being seen, unpolished and completely real. So if you're ready for honesty and truth, it's time to share today's story from behind the mask. 

Hi, I'm Jo and this is Stories from Behind the Mask, the parts we edit out. 

This podcast is about the stories that sit behind the polished photos, the curated feeds and the versions of ourselves we present to the world. Because the truth is, most of us are walking around wearing some kind of mask. 

Sometimes it's confidence, sometimes it's humour and sometimes it's silence. And over the coming months, I'm going to be sitting down with entrepreneurs, creators, coaches and humans with extraordinarily powerful stories to talk about what it really means to be seen. Not the polished version, but the honest one and to share their stories that they might not have felt like they could share. And being business owners, we hide behind this version of a mask that we wear to keep ourselves safe and maybe not to let anyone in. 

Maybe we have to show up as these perfect people who have got everything sorted, where actually we're not. We're just firefighting every single day. 

And that's the one reason I created these podcasts is because all these incredible people that I photographed for last year's Unmasked project all have stories to tell. And having had the exhibition and giving them the space to be who they truly are, their stories need to be put out into the world. 

So that's the reason why I've started this podcast. But before I start asking other people to step out from behind the mask, well, it only feels fair that I go first. And do you know what? That's particularly scary. But hey, I have to lead by example. I can't ask other people to share their stories when I'm not sharing mine. 

www.joannawoodphotography.co.uk
www.instagram.com/joannawoodphotography
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-wood-photography-6747a7235/
https://www.facebook.com/joanna.wood.13/


]]> Joanna Wood Buzzsprout-18856739 Tue, 17 Mar 2026 19:00:00 +0000 941 1 1 full false