You want to try something new.
You can imagine what might become possible.
And then a familiar thought arrives: that’s not for me.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by spiritual hypnotherapist Lynnsey Robinson, founder of the Align Your Mind™ mindset app and co-host of the High Vibin’ It and Spiritual Kinks podcasts.

We explore Lynnsey’s approach to hypnotherapy, the subconscious mind and the beliefs that can influence how we see ourselves and our possibilities. She shares how she works with clients to examine familiar patterns, and explains the distinction between hypnotherapy for personal change and stage hypnosis for entertainment.

Having experienced hypnotherapy and been hypnotised myself, I was curious to understand those differences and hear more about Lynnsey’s work. We also discuss the fear of being seen, the stories we tell ourselves about what we’re capable of, and why those stories can be worth revisiting.

Lynnsey’s own journey brings another layer to the conversation. After becoming a mum, she found herself drawn back to studying hypnotherapy while also feeling the pressure to choose a familiar, financially predictable path. Her story opens up an honest discussion about following an interest, making room for uncertainty and beginning with small steps.

I share how that has appeared in my own life, from changing direction at 45 to listening to the nudge towards yoga teacher training—something I’m enjoying exploring as a hobby.

We also talk about how our definition of success evolves. Can you be grateful for what you have and still want to grow? Can you appreciate where you are without deciding that you’re finished?

This conversation offers a chance to become curious about your inner dialogue, consider what you’d like to move towards, and explore Lynnsey’s perspective on hypnotherapy, intuition and manifesting.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Explore the distinction between hypnotherapy and stage hypnosis, including Lynnsey’s explanation of awareness and choice during a session.
• Become curious about familiar beliefs rather than automatically treating them as permanent truths about who you are.
• Make an intimidating goal more approachable by starting with a small, practical step.
• Consider what you want to move towards, alongside what you’d like to leave behind.
• Allow gratitude and ambition to coexist—you can appreciate your life and still be interested in what comes next.
• When a discouraging thought appears, ask: “What would I like to believe instead?”

About the Guest:

Lynnsey Robinson is a spiritual hypnotherapist and founder of the Align Your Mind™ mindset app. Her work focuses on helping women explore limiting beliefs, connect with their intuition and move towards a life that feels aligned with them.

She brings a spiritual perspective to hypnotherapy, mindset and manifesting, and co-hosts the High Vibin’ It and Spiritual Kinks podcasts. In this episode, she shares both her approach to working with clients and the personal decisions that brought her into this work.

Show Resources:

Explore Lynnsey’s work and Align Your Mind: https://links.lynnseyrobinson.com/ 

Follow Lynnsey on Instagram: @lynnseyrobinson

Follow Emma, the podcast host, on Instagram: @emmalagerlow

Explore Emma’s website: https://www.emmalagerlow.com/

If you explore hypnotherapy recordings, choose a safe place where you can rest undisturbed. Don’t listen to them while driving or operating machinery.

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram Stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @lynnseyrobinson.

Yours in curiosity and possibility, Emma. X.

A little tension. A feeling of restlessness. Tiredness you keep promising yourself you’ll deal with later.

When life is full, it’s easy to brush those feelings aside and keep going. But becoming more aware of them can open up a different conversation with yourself.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Melissa Lever, a physiotherapist, Pilates instructor and founder of Body Intuition Collective, to explore interoception: our ability to notice signals from within the body.

Drawing on 20 years of clinical experience, Melissa shares how seeing people return to her practice with recurring discomfort prompted her to explore the relationship between physical sensations, stress and the demands of daily life.

She introduces her four-step approach — notice, interpret, regulate and align — and explains how we can begin asking what we’re feeling, what it might mean in context, and what support or adjustment we might need.

We explore the habit of pushing through, the importance of boundaries, and the added complexity of interpreting how we feel during perimenopause. Melissa also shares how movement, time outdoors and connection fit into her own life, alongside seeking appropriate professional support.

Melissa and I first connected on Instagram, and as I learnt more about her work, I was intrigued. With many of us navigating menopause, perimenopause and busy lives, I wanted to understand how we could become more attentive to ourselves. Our conversation also reminded me that loving what you do doesn’t mean you can do everything.

Beyond her professional work, Melissa reflects on seven months travelling around Australia with her husband, three children and their dog. The experience challenged her love of planning and helped her clarify what she wanted to make more room for at home.

We also talk about the courage involved in building something new after an established career, and how success can evolve from professional achievement to a life with greater connection, wellbeing and presence.

This conversation is an invitation to become curious about how you feel, rather than automatically carrying on.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Interoception is awareness of signals from within your body. Melissa explains how noticing those sensations can become a skill we practise in everyday life.
• Pause before you push through. Her four-step approach — notice, interpret, regulate and align — offers a way to consider what you’re feeling and what you might need.
• Context matters, particularly during perimenopause. Hormonal changes, sleep, stress and workload can overlap, making curiosity and appropriate professional support valuable.
• Boundaries help create room for wellbeing. Saying yes to something can also mean giving up time for rest, connection or another personal priority.
• Success can change as your life changes. Melissa shares why good health, time and presence have become central to her definition of wealth.

About the Guest:

Melissa Lever is a physiotherapist with 20 years of clinical experience, a Pilates instructor, clinic co-owner and mum of three based on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Her clinical work includes physiotherapy and Pilates, with a focus on helping people move in ways suited to their individual needs.

She founded Body Intuition Collective to help people develop greater awareness of their body’s internal signals. Through education, retreats and online programs, Melissa brings together her physiotherapy experience and interest in interoception, supporting women to explore their wellbeing and make choices that reflect what matters to them.

Show Resources:

Explore Melissa’s work: https://bodyintuitioncollective.com.au

Follow Melissa on Instagram: @bodyintuitioncollective

Recalibrate Retreat, Sunday 18 October: https://www.bodyintuitioncollective.com.au/store/p/recalibrate-retreat

Habits Program — Perimenopause Edition: https://www.bodyintuitioncollective.com.au/store/p/recalibrate-program

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host, on Instagram: @emmalagerlow

Explore Emma’s book: Worthy & Wealthy.

Continue listening with Episode 109: When Wellness Becomes Overwhelming: Rethinking Midlife Health with Susan Hunter.

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram Stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @bodyintuitioncollective. We’d love to hear what resonated with you.

Yours in listening to yourself, Emma. X.

We often assume confidence is something we need before we introduce ourselves, ask a question, extend an invitation or pursue an opportunity. But what if confidence is actually created by doing the very things that make us uncomfortable?

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by speaker, author and social courage expert Nick Bendel. In August 2019, Nick began an ambitious project to have lunch with 500 strangers. What started as a way for a natural introvert to improve his social skills and build relationships became a six-year exploration of courage, confidence, rejection and human connection.

The project eventually inspired his book, The 500 Lunches Effect: How Social Courage Changes Everything. I was immediately intrigued by Nick’s story. I certainly enjoy a long lunch, but meeting 500 strangers is an entirely different proposition. I wanted to understand what compelled him to begin, what kept him going and what he discovered through talking to people from vastly different professions, ages and backgrounds.

Nick explains that social courage means taking action when we don’t feel completely ready or when we risk being judged, rejected, criticised or embarrassed. It might involve asking for a promotion, speaking in front of an audience, approaching someone at an event or inviting somebody on a date. We explore why fear of another person’s reaction can create hesitation, how easily we turn rejection into a judgement about our worth and why somebody else’s “no” is generally far less personal than we imagine.

Nick also shares practical ways to make social connection feel less intimidating. We don’t need a brilliant opening line or an impressive story. A simple introduction, genuine curiosity and thoughtful listening can be enough to begin a meaningful conversation.

Our conversation moves beyond networking to consider the deeper importance of human connection. In a world where so much communication now occurs digitally, it is possible to move through our days surrounded by people without truly connecting with any of them.

Nick’s experience is an invitation to become a little more courageous, a little more curious and more willing to take the small social risks that can open the door to new relationships and opportunities.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Confidence follows action. Waiting until we feel confident can keep us stuck indefinitely. Confidence grows when we take action despite feeling uncertain or uncomfortable.
• Social courage is personal. Speaking publicly may feel natural to one person and terrifying to another. Courage isn’t determined by the action itself, but by what taking that action requires from the individual.
• Rejection is rarely the judgement we imagine it to be. Someone may decline an invitation because of their time, responsibilities or insecurities. Their answer does not automatically say anything about our worth.
• We don’t need to be particularly clever to begin a conversation. A simple introduction and genuine interest in another person can be far more effective than trying to deliver the perfect opening line.
• Listening helps people feel valued. Asking thoughtful questions and giving someone room to share what matters to them can create stronger rapport than dominating a conversation.
• An imperfect plan can produce meaningful progress. Social courage doesn’t require an enormous leap. Choosing the smallest realistic step and building from there makes change more sustainable.
• Connection is an important part of success. Money, status and achievement can feel hollow without meaningful friendships and relationships in our lives.

About the Guest:

Nick Bendel is a speaker, author and social courage expert who helps people overcome hesitation and create more opportunities in their careers and lives.

He is the author of The 500 Lunches Effect: How Social Courage Changes Everything, based on his six-year project to have lunch with 500 strangers. Drawing on his background as a journalist and business owner, Nick explores how small acts of social courage shape relationships, confidence and success. He speaks and writes about social courage, networking, confidence, personal growth and the hidden role hesitation plays in human potential.

Show Resources:

Visit Nick’s website: https://www.nickbendel.com

Connect with Nick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-bendel

Follow Nick on Instagram: @mrnickbendel

Follow Emma Lagerlow on Instagram: @emmalagerlow

Discover more about Emma and her work: https://www.emmalagerlow.com/

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram Stories and tag us at @emmalagerlow and @mrnickbendel.

Yours in courage and connection, Emma. X.

The focus understandably turns to the person who is unwell. But surrounding them are often parents, partners, siblings and friends trying to make sense of an unfamiliar system while carrying fear, uncertainty and responsibility of their own.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by perioperative nurse, carer peer worker, SANE peer ambassador and author Sarah Martin. Sarah and her family became what she describes as “accidental carers” when one of her children experienced a mental health crisis while travelling overseas. What followed changed the course of their lives and eventually inspired Sarah’s first book, Dear Psychosis.

Her second book, Dear Carer, turns its attention to the people standing beside someone living with complex mental ill health.

Sarah shares how little support her family could find for themselves and why stigma, privacy and the desire to protect a loved one caused them to become increasingly silent. We explore the isolation this can create for carers and the difference it makes to feel genuinely seen, heard and understood by someone who is willing to listen.

We also discuss the practical knowledge families may need when navigating mental health services and emergencies, from understanding the roles of different clinicians to recognising a loved one’s triggers and preparing a toolkit before a crisis occurs.

At the heart of our conversation is Sarah’s message that carers must be cared for too.

She speaks candidly about the years she spent placing her own needs aside, why accepting invitations and seeking psychological support became important parts of her own wellbeing, and how looking after yourself ultimately helps the person who depends on you.

I first met Sarah through the Expert Author Community, and her first book, Dear Psychosis, left an enormous impression on me. With my own children entering adulthood, I found her family’s experience riveting, moving and confronting. Sarah also showed me what an honest and incredibly compelling book could be, so it was a genuine honour to finally have this conversation with her.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Families can become carers without warning or preparation. When complex mental ill health enters a family, everyone can be affected, yet support and information are often directed only towards the person who is unwell.
• Stigma can leave entire families navigating mental ill health in silence. Carers may be reluctant to speak openly because they want to protect their loved one’s privacy, but that silence can also deepen their own isolation.
• Mental ill health deserves the same curiosity and compassion as any other chronic illness. Sarah encourages us to ask respectful questions, learn more and challenge the way mental and physical illnesses are treated differently.
• Carer self-care is essential, not selfish. Accepting help, maintaining connection and having somewhere safe to talk can support both the carer and the person relying on them.
• Preparation can make an overwhelming situation more manageable. Understanding possible triggers, knowing what support is available and creating a practical toolkit before a crisis can help families make more informed decisions when pressure is high.
• Feeling heard and seen can create an extraordinary ripple effect. Sarah’s work is grounded in helping people recognise that they are not alone and that even one person’s story can make a meaningful difference to someone else.

About the Guest:

Sarah Martin is a perioperative nurse with more than 40 years of experience, a carer peer worker and a SANE peer ambassador. She is also a mum of three, one of whom lives with bipolar affective disorder.

Sarah is the author of Dear Psychosis, which shares her family’s experience of complex mental ill health, and Dear Carer, created to provide carers with the information, perspectives and practical guidance Sarah wished her own family had been able to access. Through her writing and advocacy, she is committed to reducing the stigma and silence surrounding mental ill health and helping carers feel less alone.

Show Resources:

Connect with Sarah Martin on Instagram: @sarahmartin.author

Connect with Sarah Martin on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088825839661

Connect with Sarah Martin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-martin123/

Follow Emma Lagerlow on Instagram: @emmalagerlow

Discover more about Emma and her work: https://www.emmalagerlow.com/

Mental Health Support:

If you or someone you know needs support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or text 0477 13 11 14. You can also access information and peer support through SANE.

If this episode raises concerns for you or someone you love, please contact an appropriate mental health support service or emergency service in your location.

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram Stories and tag us at @emmalagerlow and @sarahmartin.author.

Yours in compassion and connection, Emma. X.

For so many ambitious and driven people, looking after ourselves can become something we continually plan to return to later.

Once the deadline has passed.

Once the project is finished.

Once life becomes a little less demanding.

But what if our wellbeing isn’t separate from our ability to perform? What if it’s actually the foundation that allows us to keep doing the work that matters to us?

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Jessica Spendlove—speaker, coach, advisor and author of For the Long Run: Build Your Daily Operating System for Energy, Recovery and Wellbeing.

Jess has spent 15 years working at the intersection of wellbeing and high performance. Her career began in performance nutrition, working with hundreds of elite athletes, Olympic medallists, seven professional sporting teams and the Special Forces. Today, she brings those lessons into her work with corporate leaders, high-performing teams and organisations.

Together, we explore why even some of the best performers in the world are still working to master the fundamentals, and why the increasingly complicated world of protocols, optimisation and extreme routines can make wellbeing feel harder than it needs to be.

Jess shares her philosophy of upgrading rather than overhauling. Instead of measuring ourselves against an ideal routine—or even a previous version of ourselves—she encourages us to create rhythms that suit our current season and can be maintained on our busiest days, not only our best ones.

We also discuss why knowledge alone doesn’t always lead to change. Drawing on her experience in professional sport, Jess explains how our environment, systems and relationships can influence our behaviour far more than another piece of information.

Connection is another important part of the conversation. Jess explores why sustainable wellbeing includes our relationships, values and sense of purpose, and what can happen when achievement begins to take priority over everything else.

Jess and I first met at a speaker training workshop with Sally Prosser, and it was lovely to reconnect. I continue to be blown away by Jess’s drive—particularly knowing that she wrote this book while navigating business and motherhood with a very young daughter.

Yet what I found most interesting was how that season shaped the book itself. Rather than presenting a rigid formula, Jess has created an approach that recognises that our capacity changes and that sustainable performance needs to leave room for the reality of our lives.

This is such a thoughtful conversation about ambition, energy, recovery, relationships and redefining success so that we can continue doing meaningful work without losing ourselves in the process.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Sustainable high performance isn’t about lowering your ambitions. It’s about building the foundations that allow you to pursue meaningful goals without continually sacrificing your health and wellbeing.
• Upgrade rather than overhaul. Extreme routines and short-term challenges can be difficult to sustain, while one or two consistent changes can help create momentum and greater capacity over time.
• Your approach needs to work on your busiest days—not only your best ones. Jess encourages us to stop benchmarking ourselves against an ideal routine or a previous season of life and create rhythms that reflect our current capacity.
• Even the highest-performing people in the world are still mastering the fundamentals. Nutrition, sleep, movement, stress management, recovery and connection remain central, regardless of how advanced someone’s performance environment may be.
• Knowing what to do isn’t always enough. Our systems, environment and relationships can make healthy behaviours easier to follow and often matter just as much as information or motivation.
• Connection is part of wellbeing. Our relationships, values and sense of purpose affect how well we live and perform, and success can feel increasingly empty when it takes us out of alignment with them.
• Our definition of success can evolve. Jess reflects on moving beyond externally driven achievement and considering the kind of life she wants to live, the person she wants to be and her capacity to enjoy what she is creating.

About the Guest:

Jessica Spendlove speaks, coaches and writes about sustainable high performance and wellbeing. She is a keynote speaker, advisor and author of For the Long Run: Build Your Daily Operating System for Energy, Recovery and Wellbeing.

Across her 15-year career, Jess has worked with hundreds of elite athletes, Olympic medallists, seven professional sporting teams, the Special Forces, corporate leaders and high-performing organisations. Her work helps people embed wellbeing as a foundation for sustainable performance and leadership.

Jess is also an Associate with Monash University’s Corporate Education program and host of the Stay at the Top podcast. Through her speaking, coaching and writing, she is working to change the narrative so that success is achieved not at the expense of our health, but because of it.

Show Resources:

Learn More About Jessica’s Book, For the Long Run: https://jessicaspendlove.com/book/

Connect with Jessica on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaspendlove/

Follow Jessica on Instagram: @jessicaspendlove

Follow Emma on Instagram: @emmalagerlow

Visit Emma’s Website: https://www.emmalagerlow.com/

Learn More About Emma’s Book, Worthy & Wealthy: https://www.amazon.com.au/Worthy-Wealthy-Discovering-Abundance-Fulfilment/dp/1998528022

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram Stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @jessicaspendlove.

Yours in Sustainable Success, Emma. X.

There’s always something else we’re told we should be doing. Another habit to add. Another number to track. Another expert telling us what we’re getting wrong. And with so much information available, it can sometimes feel harder—not easier—to know where to begin.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by author, speaker and naturopath Susan Hunter, whose work challenges the story the wellness industry has been selling Gen X women. Susan has worked predominantly with women for more than 20 years and is the author of the book, The Health Edit: How Gen X Women Are Resetting the Script on Midlife.

Together, we explore why women have become both the wellness industry’s biggest market and some of its most confused consumers. We talk about the guilt and overwhelm that can arise when caring for our health becomes another long list of things to manage, particularly for women already carrying full professional, family and mental loads.

Susan shares her approach to simplifying health by identifying the area that needs our attention most, focusing on one essential change and allowing that change to become part of our lives before trying to do more. Rather than continually adding new routines, treatments or targets, she encourages women to develop the clarity and confidence to make health decisions that are genuinely relevant to them.

We also explore movement as an important health foundation, why constantly tracking our bodies can sometimes disconnect us from how we actually feel, and what a post-optimisation approach to health could look like.

As a woman in midlife myself, I found this conversation incredibly informative. I loved Susan’s hopeful perspective that our forties and fifties can be a time to think more intentionally about our long-term health, while also becoming clearer about our purpose, values and the way we want to live.

This is a thoughtful conversation about moving beyond health overwhelm, trusting ourselves more and recognising that caring for our wellbeing doesn’t need to mean doing everything at once.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• The wellness industry can make health feel like an additional burden. When women are continually reminded of everything they aren’t doing, looking after themselves can become another source of pressure rather than support.
• More information doesn’t always create greater clarity. Conflicting advice, emerging trends and health content on social media can make it difficult to understand what is relevant to our individual circumstances.
• One meaningful change can be more useful than trying to change everything. Susan explains how focusing on the area that needs our attention most can make health feel more manageable and create benefits that flow into other parts of our wellbeing.
• The foundations still matter. Movement we enjoy, real food, sleep and learning to listen to our bodies may not sound as exciting as the latest optimisation trend, but they can provide a practical place to begin. Complex or persistent concerns, however, may require appropriate professional investigation and support.
• Tracking can become counterproductive. Susan explores how an intense focus on scores, targets and data can create anxiety and draw us away from how we actually feel.
• Midlife can be approached as an opportunity rather than a decline. This stage of life can invite us to make more intentional choices about our health, redefine success and consider what we want the decades ahead to look like.

About the Guest:

Susan Hunter is an author, speaker and naturopath who believes the wellness industry has been selling Gen X women the wrong story. Through her work, Susan encourages women to view their health as a source of creative power in the second half of life—not as another part of themselves that needs to be continually optimised.

Her debut book, The Health Edit: How Gen X Women Are Resetting the Script on Midlife, offers an alternative to the overwhelm and complexity surrounding women’s health. Susan’s approach is grounded in greater clarity, realistic change and moving away from the idea that more is always better. She is also launching The Health Edit podcast alongside the book.

Show Resources:

Visit Susan’s website: https://www.susanhunter.com.au/

Read Susan’s Substack: https://susanhunterhealth.substack.com/

Follow Susan on Instagram: @susanhunterhealth

Connect with Susan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-hunter-67282024/

Follow, Emma the Podcast Host on Instagram: @emmalagerlow

Visit Emma's website: https://www.emmalagerlow.com/

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram Stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @susanhunterhealth.

Yours in Simplicity, Emma. X.

Without the job title. The achievements. The roles you play. The expectations you’ve spent years trying to meet.

It’s one of life’s most important questions, in my opinion: Who are you, really?

And it’s exactly the question at the heart of my conversation with author, speaker and coach Dion Elliott Jensen, whose new book Conscious Footsteps explores what can happen when we begin looking beyond what we do and reconnecting with who we are underneath it all.

For much of Dion’s life, his identity and sense of worth were intertwined with achievement, career, status and the roles he played. But when life began dismantling so much of what he believed defined him, he was faced with a confronting question:

Who am I when everything I thought defined me is gone?

What followed wasn’t, as Dion describes it, a process of reinventing himself. It was one of remembering who he already was.

I believe so much of our lives can be spent attaching our identity to external markers — what we achieve, how successful we are, the work we do and what other people think of us. So when I discovered Dion’s philosophy of “I am who I am, not what I do,” how could I not take the opportunity to interview him?

And there is so much more to his story than this alone.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, Dion and I explore identity, authenticity and what it means to live more consciously. We talk about the masks and roles we can accumulate throughout our lives, and what may be waiting underneath them when we become curious enough to look.

We explore the power of journaling and why putting our thoughts onto paper can be incredibly cathartic, as well as the importance of curiosity — not only about ourselves, but about the people around us.

And we delve into Dion’s fascinating perspective on love: why he believes love is the one true emotion and why it can be okay for love to be a one-way street.

At its heart, this is a conversation about looking beyond what we’ve achieved and asking ourselves some bigger questions about who we are, how we want to live and what really matters.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• I am who I am, not what I do. Our careers, achievements and roles may be important parts of our lives, but Dion challenges us to consider what happens when we stop allowing them to define our identity and worth.
• Transformation may be less about reinventing ourselves and more about remembering ourselves. Sometimes becoming more authentically ourselves requires letting go of the identities, expectations and masks we’ve accumulated along the way.
• Journaling can be a powerful tool for self-discovery. Dion shares the role writing has played in his own journey and how putting our thoughts and experiences onto paper can be cathartic and help us understand ourselves more deeply.
• Curiosity can change the way we relate to ourselves and others. Rather than rushing to judgement or assuming we already know, becoming genuinely curious can open the door to greater understanding, compassion and connection.
• Love doesn’t always need to be reciprocated. Dion shares his perspective on why it can be okay for love to be a one-way street and what changes when we view love as something we choose to embody rather than something we give only in exchange for receiving it.
• Conscious living asks us to look beneath the roles we play. When we separate who we are from what we do, we create space to consider what feels authentic, purposeful and meaningful to us.

About the Guest:

Dion Elliott Jensen is an author, speaker and coach whose work explores identity, leadership, authenticity, purpose and love.

For much of his life, Dion believed his worth was measured by what he achieved, building his identity around career, success, status and the roles he played. When life began dismantling many of those external markers, he found himself confronting the question: Who am I when everything I thought defined me is gone?

That question became the beginning of a profound personal journey — one Dion describes not as reinvention, but as remembering.

Today, Dion helps individuals and organisations redefine identity, lead more authentically and live with greater purpose, challenging people to look beyond titles, expectations and the masks they have learned to wear.

He is the author of Conscious Footsteps and is guided by a simple but powerful philosophy:

“I am who I am, not what I do.”

Through his writing, speaking and coaching, Dion encourages us to consider whether our greatest transformation comes not from becoming someone new, but from letting go of who we thought we had to be.

Show Resources:

Follow Dion on Instagram: @dionelliottjensen

Check Out Dion's Website: https://dionelliottjensen.com/

Learn More About Dion's Book: https://www.amazon.com.au/Conscious-Footsteps-Dion-Elliott-Jensen/dp/1764311922

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram: @emmalagerlow

Learn More About 1:1 Coaching with Emma: https://www.emmalagerlow.com/become-the-butterfly-coaching-program

Book a FREE Call with Emma: https://calendly.com/hello-emmalagerlow/30mincall

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram Stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @dionelliottjensen.

Yours in Being Conscious, Emma. X.

When I achieve the goal. When I earn more money. When the kids are settled. When work calms down. When I finally get through this busy season of life. But what if being happier isn’t about reaching a point where we feel happy all the time?

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by happiness researcher, educator and philosopher Declan Edwards, founder of BU Happiness College and author of How To Be Happy. With a Masters Degree in Positive Psychology, Declan has dedicated his career to understanding the science and skillsets behind happier workplaces, communities and lives, sharing his insights with organisations including the United Nations General Assembly, PKF Global, TEDx and The Red Cross.

And really, who doesn’t want to be happier? I know I certainly do. But what I took most from this conversation wasn’t about trying to feel happy all the time. In fact, it was almost the opposite. Declan and I explore why we need to become more curious about all of our emotions rather than labelling some as good and others as bad. Our emotions move and change when we allow ourselves to experience them, and perhaps by making room for the full spectrum of being human, we create more room for happiness too.

We unpack what positive psychology actually is and explore the PERMAH model of wellbeing, our natural human bias towards noticing the negative, and the value of sometimes simply doing something because it makes us feel good. We also talk about the “I’ll be happy when” trap — our tendency to postpone happiness until something in our lives changes — and why our own happiness matters not only for us, but for the ripple effect it can have on the people around us.

This is such an insightful and uplifting conversation about understanding our emotions, letting go of the expectation that we should be happy all the time and recognising that happiness is something we can actively cultivate within the lives we’re already living.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Positive psychology isn’t simply about positive thinking. Declan explains what positive psychology actually explores and introduces the PERMAH model and the different elements that contribute to our wellbeing.
• Happiness doesn’t mean being happy all the time. Making space for the full range of our emotions can be an important part of experiencing greater happiness and wellbeing.
• Sometimes it’s valuable to simply do things that make you feel good. Not everything needs to be productive, impressive or moving us towards another goal — pleasure and enjoyment have value too.
• All of our emotions have a place. Through the wheel of emotions, we explore why becoming curious about what we’re feeling can be more helpful than trying to avoid or suppress the emotions we’d rather not experience.
• Our brains naturally pay more attention to the negative. Understanding our human negativity bias can help us recognise why noticing and cultivating the good in our lives sometimes requires intention.
• Beware the “I’ll be happy when” trap. Constantly attaching happiness to the next achievement, milestone or change can keep moving happiness somewhere into the future instead of allowing us to experience more of it now.
• Your happiness matters. Prioritising your own happiness isn’t selfish. How we feel and how we show up creates a ripple effect that can influence our relationships, workplaces, families and communities.

About the Guest:

Declan Edwards is a happiness researcher, educator and philosopher with a Masters Degree in Positive Psychology. As the founder of BU Happiness College, Declan has dedicated his career to sharing the science and skillsets that contribute to happier workplaces, happier communities and happier living. His work has seen him invited to share his insights with leading organisations including the United Nations General Assembly, PKF Global, TEDx and The Red Cross.

Declan is also the author of How To Be Happy, which explores five foundational happiness skills designed to help people understand and actively cultivate greater happiness in their everyday lives. Ultimately, Declan is driven by the hope that his work creates a ripple effect — helping individuals become happier and, in turn, making the world around them just a little bit happier.

Show Resources:

Learn More About the BU Happiness College: https://www.buhappinesscollege.com/

Check Out Declan's Website: https://declanedwards.com.au/

Learn More About Declan's Book, How To Be Happy: https://amzn.to/40AU8BT

Follow Emma on Instagram: @emmalagerlow

Check Out Emma's Website: https://www.emmalagerlow.com/

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram Stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @declanedwards_bu.

Your in Being Happy, Emma. X.

For so many women, being capable, reliable and the person everyone can depend on becomes part of our identity. We keep going, keep giving and keep meeting everyone else’s needs — sometimes without realising just how depleted we’ve become ourselves.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Counsellor and author Pam Espin, founder of Beyond Purpose Therapy and author of Not Built to Break: How to Stop Surviving and Lead from Wholeness.

Pam has a wealth of knowledge across so many areas, and I loved having the opportunity to explore just a few of them in this conversation. Together, we unpack the roots and symptoms of burnout and why simply treating what we see on the surface may not address what’s really going on underneath. We explore women’s tendency towards self-sacrifice, the importance of understanding and allowing our emotions rather than labelling them as “good” or “bad”, and Pam’s Trifecta Method for understanding where we may be carrying our survival load.

We also delve into the late diagnosis of ADHD in women — why it can go unrecognised for so long, what receiving a diagnosis can mean, and how years of trying to meet expectations while navigating life differently can take their toll.

At the heart of our conversation is an idea that beautifully reflects Pam’s work and her book: we weren’t built simply to survive our lives. Sometimes there is value in becoming curious about what’s actually happening beneath the surface rather than continually trying harder, pushing through or becoming better at coping.

This is such an insightful conversation about burnout, emotional wellbeing, neurodivergence, self-sacrifice and what it can mean to move beyond survival mode towards greater understanding and wholeness.

Key Takeaways:

• Burnout is about more than feeling tired. Pam explores some of the deeper roots and symptoms of burnout and why it’s important to understand what may be driving our exhaustion rather than simply finding new ways to push through it.
• Women can become conditioned to self-sacrifice. Constantly prioritising the needs and expectations of others can come at a cost, particularly when we lose connection with our own needs in the process.
• There are no “good” or “bad” emotions. Our emotions provide us with information, and learning to experience and understand them without judgement can change the way we relate to ourselves.
• Pam’s Trifecta Method helps us look beneath the surface. We explore how Pam uses this framework to understand where our survival load may be showing up across the mind, body and heart.
• ADHD can present differently in women and remain unrecognised until later in life. Pam shares insights into late diagnosis and what understanding your neurodivergence can mean for the way you make sense of your past and move forward.
• We weren’t built simply to survive. Pam’s work and her book Not Built to Break explore what can happen when we move beyond coping and survival mode and begin addressing the deeper patterns underneath them.

About the Guest:

Pam Espin is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Counsellor, author and founder of Beyond Purpose Therapy, a telehealth-based practice providing trauma-informed therapy to adults across NSW, Queensland, the ACT and Victoria. Pam works particularly with people who may appear capable, responsible and high-functioning on the outside while internally navigating burnout, emotional exhaustion, ADHD-related overwhelm, unresolved trauma or long-standing stress responses.

Her integrative, trauma-informed approach draws on EMDR, Schema Therapy and somatic approaches, with an emphasis on emotional safety, nervous system regulation and addressing underlying patterns rather than focusing solely on symptom management. Pam is the author of Not Built to Break: How to Stop Surviving and Lead from Wholeness and host of The Burnout Recovery Podcast. Through her therapy, writing and conversations, she encourages people to move beyond simply coping and develop a deeper understanding of the patterns keeping them in survival mode. Pam’s work is grounded in the belief that healing doesn’t come from pushing harder or performing better, but through support, understanding and creating enough safety to begin to soften.

Show Resources:

Follow Pam on Instagram: @pam_espin

Check Out Pam's Website: https://beyondpurposetherapy.com/

Learn More About Pam's Book: https://www.amazon.com.au/Not-Built-Break-surviving-wholeness/dp/1764551192

Follow Emma on Instagram: @emmalagerlow

Check Out Emma's Website: https://www.emmalagerlow.com/

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram Stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @pam_espin. 

Yours in Wholeness, Emma. X.

For bestselling author, award-winning keynote speaker and executive HR consultant Sophie Bretag, experiences of burnout and cancer became part of a much bigger journey of rethinking how she wanted to live, work and show up in the world. In this episode of It’s a Mindset, Sophie joins me for a deeply personal conversation about kindness, boundaries, resilience and what it means to become more of yourself — particularly as we move through midlife.

As the founder of Metta Leaders and author of The Kind Way, Sophie has spent almost two decades working in executive HR and leadership. But her understanding of kindness extends far beyond the workplace.

We talk about her own experience of burnout, her cancer journey and the lessons that came from being forced to reassess the way she was living. We also explore the many different facets of HR and its impact on people and organisations, why boundaries are an essential part of kindness, and why putting yourself at the centre of your own life isn't selfish.

One of my favourite parts of our conversation was our discussion about midlife and the permission it can give us to stop trying to be who we think we're supposed to be and instead become more of who we already are.

Sophie is genuinely one of the kindest, most vibrant, beautiful and generous souls I know. She has been a huge supporter of me and my work — something I was so grateful to hear again during this conversation — and it was wonderful to have the opportunity to learn more about her story and the experiences that have shaped the work she does today.

This is a conversation about what can happen when life asks us to slow down, reassess what matters and choose a kinder way forward — not only for the people around us, but for ourselves.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Burnout can be a powerful signal that something needs to change. Sometimes slowing down gives us the opportunity to reconsider how we want to live and what truly matters.
• Kindness includes boundaries. Being a kind person doesn't mean constantly saying yes, putting everyone else first or abandoning your own needs.
• Midlife can be an invitation to become more of yourself. Rather than reinventing ourselves entirely, this chapter can give us permission to embrace more of who we've always been.
• Putting yourself at the centre of your life isn't inherently selfish. There are times when prioritising your own wellbeing, needs and dreams is exactly what you need to do.
• HR has the potential to profoundly shape people's experience of work. Sophie shares some of the different facets of HR and why human-centric leadership matters.
• Success can be measured differently. Through The Kind Way, Sophie challenges traditional ideas about performance and explores kindness as a life-changing metric for leadership, success and the human spirit.

About the Guest:

Sophie Bretag is a bestselling author, award-winning keynote speaker and executive HR consultant specialising in kindness-led, human-centric leadership. As the founder of Metta Leaders, Sophie brings almost two decades of executive HR and leadership experience working with organisations across Australia and internationally.

Drawing on both her professional expertise and her own experiences of burnout and significant health challenges, Sophie is passionate about redefining performance by placing human capacity and kindness at the centre of leadership.

Her book, The Kind Way, explores kindness as a life-changing metric for leadership, success and the human spirit, encouraging us to reconsider how we lead, work and live.

Show Resources:

Follow Sophie on Instagram: @sophiebretag

Connect with Sophie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophiebretag/

Check Out Sophie's Book, The Kind Way: https://www.mettaleaders.com/book

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram: @emmalagerlow

Check Out Emma's Book, Worthy and Wealthy: https://www.amazon.com.au/Worthy-Wealthy-Discovering-Abundance-Fulfilment/dp/1998528022

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram Stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @sophiebretag. 

Yours in Kindness, Emma. X.

So many women spend years putting their own dreams on hold, believing there'll be time "one day". But what if it's never too late to rediscover yourself, reconnect with your creativity and have the courage to build a life that truly reflects who you are?

In this episode of It's a Mindset, I'm joined by renowned artist and fashion designer Anastasia Cairns, founder of a.nty story. Born in Indonesia and trained in fashion design in both Milan and Australia, Anastasia has created a beautiful slow fashion label that combines wearable art with a powerful mission: to empower women to embrace their individuality, strength and inner goddess.

Having known Anastasia for several years and supported part of her journey, I've had a front-row seat to the passion, courage and resilience behind a.nty story. It has been incredibly rewarding to watch her rediscover herself and transform a dream into reality through her stunning, vibrant designs. This conversation is deeply personal as we reflect on the challenges she's overcome, the lessons she's learned and the woman she's become.

Together, we explore what it means to lose yourself in a relationship, rebuild with courage, reconnect with your dreams and redefine success on your own terms. This is a heartfelt conversation about resilience, creativity and remembering that it's never too late to create a life that feels authentically yours.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• How wearable art can empower women to express their individuality, strength and inner goddess.
• Why losing yourself in a relationship doesn't have to define the rest of your life — and how it's possible to rebuild with courage.
• How reconnecting with your creativity can help you rediscover who you truly are.
• Why true success isn't measured by achievements, but by finding inner peace and having the courage to follow your dreams.

About the Guest:

Anastasia Cairns is an Indonesian-born artist and fashion designer whose work celebrates the beauty, strength and individuality of women. After studying fashion at the prestigious Istituto Marangoni in Milan and completing a Master of Design in Australia, she founded a.nty story — a slow fashion label that combines vibrant wearable art with a mission to empower women to embrace their authentic selves. 

Through both her paintings and fashion collections, Anastasia inspires women to reconnect with their inner strength, celebrate their uniqueness and express themselves with confidence. Her journey of rebuilding her life, following her dreams and creating a purpose-driven business is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to rediscover yourself and create a life that feels truly aligned.

Show Resources:

Follow a.nty story on Instagram: @a.ntystory

Check Out the a.nty story Website: https://antystory.com.au/

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram: @emmalagerlow

Learn More About Become the Butterfly: https://www.emmalagerlow.com/become-the-butterfly-coaching-program

Book Complimentary Call with Emma: https://calendly.com/hello-emmalagerlow/30mincall

If you loved this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram Stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @a.ntystory. 

Yours in Empowerment, Emma. X.

I think, if we're honest, most of us have. No matter where we come from or what our story looks like, we're all searching for the same thing in one way or another — happiness, peace and a life that feels meaningful.

In this episode, I sit down with author, mindset coach and wellbeing storyteller Charu Moorjani, whose beautiful debut book, The Happiness Pathway, explores what it really means to create happiness from the inside out.

What struck me most about this conversation was just how many shared beliefs we have. From the importance of slowing down and spending time alone, to recognising that self-worth isn't found in external validation, it felt like I'd met a kindred spirit. It was one of those conversations that leaves you feeling calmer, more hopeful and inspired to make small, intentional changes in your own life.

Key episode takeaways:

• Why spending time alone is one of the greatest ways to reconnect with yourself.
• Simple daily rituals — like gratitude, pausing and making time for yourself — that can help cultivate lasting happiness.
• The difference between happiness and fulfilment, and why living in alignment matters more than chasing the next achievement.
• Why your self-worth isn't found in external validation, but in believing you're already enough.

About the Guest:

Charu Moorjani is an Australian author, mindset coach and wellbeing storyteller known for her honest memoir-style writing and grounded approach to personal growth. Her debut book, The Happiness Pathway, blends her lived experiences with practical tools to help readers rebuild their self-worth, create healthy boundaries without guilt and develop simple daily habits that cultivate lasting happiness. Every chapter includes personal stories, reflections and gentle exercises to help readers create meaningful, lasting change. Through her writing, workshops and community conversations,

Charu creates safe spaces for reflection, healing and personal growth, reminding us that happiness isn't something we find once — it's something we choose to create every day.

Show Resources:

Follow Charu on Instagram: @thehappinesspathway

Check Out Charu's Website: https://thehappinesspathway.com/

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram: @emmalagerlow

Check Out Emma's Website: https://www.emmalagerlow.com/

If you loved this episode, I'd be so grateful if you shared it on your Instagram Stories and tagged us @emmalagerlow and @thehappinesspathway.

Your in Happiness, Emma. X.

In a world where stress, overwhelm and constant busyness have become the norm, it's easy to put our own wellbeing at the bottom of the list. But what if some of the most powerful ways to support our mental health were also the simplest?

In this episode of It's a Mindset, I'm joined by my beautiful friend Danielle Coppleson, an accredited Mindfulness Meditation Facilitator, certified Modern Qigong Teacher and Mental Health Nurse with more than 25 years' experience helping people navigate life's challenges.

Danielle and I have known each other since high school, but we reconnected when we both became mums and attended prenatal yoga together. Since then, it's been such a joy to watch our paths evolve in similar ways, each of us creating spaces where people can slow down, reconnect with themselves and feel supported.

Together we explore how mindfulness, meditation, Modern Qigong and, perhaps most importantly, community can become powerful tools for protecting our mental health and helping us live with greater presence, resilience and connection.

Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, craving more calm, or simply looking for practical ways to support your wellbeing, this conversation is a gentle reminder that you don't have to do it alone.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Why protecting your mental health starts with simple daily practices rather than dramatic life changes.
• How mindfulness, meditation and Modern Qigong help calm the nervous system and reconnect the body and mind.
• The powerful role community and connection play in supporting our wellbeing.
• Practical tools to reduce stress and create more presence in everyday life.
• Danielle's unique perspective after more than 25 years as a Mental Health Nurse.
• Why creating safe, inclusive spaces can help people feel seen, supported and empowered to thrive.

About the Guest:

Danielle is an accredited Mindfulness Meditation Facilitator and certified Modern Qigong Teacher, with over 25 years of experience in public health settings as a Mental Health Nurse. Qigong is an ancient, gentle, movement practice which relieves tension, cultivates, and balances energy between the body and mind. Danielle is also a daughter of European parents, mum to two beautiful young adult girls, wife, sister, friend and part of the local Cronulla community. She is passionate about mental health, creating safe, inclusive spaces where individuals feel seen, supported, and empowered to learn skills which enhance their health and wellbeing.

Show Resources:

Follow Dan on Instagram: @a_mindfulmovement

Check Out Dan's Website:  https://amindfulmovement.com.au/

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram: @emmalagerlow

Check Out Emma's August Sound Healing Event: https://events.humanitix.com/soulful-sound-immersion-august

Support Resources :

If this conversation has brought up anything difficult for you, please know that support is available.

• NSW Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511 (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for NSW residents)
• Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support)
• Beyond Blue Support Service: 1300 22 4636 (24/7 mental health support)

If you loved this episode, I'd be so grateful if you shared it on your Instagram Stories and tagged us @emmalagerlow and @a_mindfulmovement. 

Yours in Mindfulness, Emma. X.

As a mother of four almost-adult children, I feel like I've spent a significant portion of my life navigating the school system. So, I was fascinated to sit down with former school principal, author and yoga teacher Susan Simon to hear her perspective from the other side of the school gates.

In this episode of It's a Mindset, Susan shares the realities of leading a school and the challenges principals face behind the scenes. We explore how much teaching has changed in recent years, particularly with the increasing demands of administration and curriculum, and the impact these changes can have on educators and school communities.

But Susan's story extends well beyond the school gates. We also explore her transition from school principal to yoga teacher and the shift in identity that can come when we leave a role that has defined us for so long. Susan also opens up about her breast cancer diagnosis and how it profoundly changed the way she values her life and the people in it.

This conversation made me reflect on how closely we can tie our identity to what we do — and the courage it can take to step into a new chapter when a role we've held for so long comes to an end.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• The challenges school principals face behind the scenes and the complexity of leading a school community.
• How teaching has changed, particularly with increasing administrative and curriculum demands.
• Susan's transition from school principal to yoga teacher and the identity shift that can come when we leave a long-held role.
• How a breast cancer diagnosis changed Susan's perspective and deepened her appreciation for life and the people she loves.

About the Guest

Susan Simon lives on five acres of natural bushland in Tanawha, in south-east Queensland. She and her husband Geoff head up a lively family of six adult children and an emerging gaggle of grandchildren. Simon loves spending time with family and friends, and her passions include writing, yoga, travel, art and music. Simon has been writing creatively all her life, in journals, poetry and short stories. The Secrets of St Jude’s is her first full length novel. She was inspired to write it through the encouragement of colleagues in a creative writers’ group.

Born in Suffolk, England, Simon went to school in Cambridge. She studied at the University of Nottingham and graduated with Joint Honours in English and Fine Art. After working in London, she moved to Australia. Simon took up the profession of teaching and eventually became a school principal of three independent schools, including being the founding principal of St Andrew’s Anglican College in Peregian. She graduated with her doctorate in 2008 which paved the way for a career in academia with a focus on teacher education and school leadership.

Show Resources:

Connect with Susan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sue-simon-4181b630/

Follow Susan on instagram: @susan.simon_author

Connect with Susan on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SueSimon11/

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram: @emmalagerlow

Check Out Emma's Website: https://www.emmalagerlow.com/

If you LOVED the episode, make sure you share this on your Instagram Stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @susan.simon_author.

Yours in Valuing the Life You Have, Emma. X.

When I hit record on Episode 1 of It's a Mindset, I had no idea where this podcast would lead. What started as a way to share conversations and build confidence before publishing my book has become one of the greatest gifts of my life.

Nearly 100 guests (and plenty of solo episodes), thousands of downloads, countless stories, and more lessons than I ever imagined. In this special 100th episode, I'm reflecting on the biggest insights I've gathered - not just from my incredible guests, but from the journey of showing up week after week for the past two years.

Looking back, I can see how much I've changed alongside the podcast. The conversations haven't just shaped the show - they've shaped me. Whether you've been here since Episode 1 or you've only recently discovered It's a Mindset, thank you for being part of this journey.

If you've ever listened to an episode, shared one with a friend, left a review or simply taken something valuable away from a conversation, this episode is for you.

Key Episode Takeaways:

1. The criticism we fear is rarely as powerful as the growth that comes from showing up anyway.
2. Every person has a story - and curiosity is one of the greatest teachers.
3. Success looks different for everyone, but living in alignment with your values matters more than external achievement.
4. Community, mentors and expanders can completely change the direction of your life.
5. Vulnerability creates connection far more than perfection ever will.
6. True wealth isn't just financial - it's purpose, wellbeing, relationships and freedom.
7. Midlife isn't about winding down; it's an opportunity to reinvent yourself.
8. Small, consistent actions create extraordinary outcomes over time.
9. Some conversations stay with you forever because they arrive exactly when you need them.
10. The biggest lesson of all? We never stop becoming.

I also mention some favourite episodes along the way, including conversations with Bernard Cates, Chelsea Pottenger, Kerryn Harvey, Donna McGeorge, Helen Baker, Caitlin Judd, Tamsin Simons, Gayle Smerdon, Penelope Barr and many more who have generously shared their wisdom on It's a Mindset.

Show Resources:

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - @emmalagerlow

Check Out Emma Website - https://www.emmalagerlow.com/

Learn More About Emma's Book, Worthy & Wealthy - https://www.amazon.com.au/Worthy-Wealthy-Discovering-Abundance-Fulfilment/dp/1998528022

If you enjoyed this milestone episode, I'd love you to share it to your Instagram Stories and tag me @emmalagerlow so I can personally thank you. 

Thank you for being part of the first 100 episodes.

Here's to the next 100 episodes, Emma. X.

For so many of us, especially in midlife, getting a good night's sleep can feel elusive. Yet quality sleep is one of the most powerful foundations for feeling our best, performing at our best, and living a healthier, happier life.

In this episode of It's a Mindset, I'm joined by portfolio careerist, advisor and author Penelope Barr. Drawing on more than 25 years of executive experience, Penelope has made it her mission to help high performers create more aligned and sustainable ways of working and living.

Her new book, Win the Night to Win the Day: Sleep Well. Work Better. Live Best., explores why our best days are created the night before and shares practical strategies to help you sleep better.

As a menopausal woman, sleep can be elusive for me, so I was fascinated to hear what Penelope had to say on the subject, given she's written an entire book about it. This conversation challenged the idea that sleep is something we simply hope for and instead showed how we can intentionally create the conditions to sleep better, improve our performance and feel more energised each day.

If you've ever struggled to switch off at night, wake feeling exhausted, or wondered how better sleep could improve every area of your life, this episode is for you.

Key Episode Takeaways: 

• We are biological beings, and no matter how hard we try, we can't outsmart our need for quality sleep.
• Winding down for optimal sleep isn't just about willpower - it's about creating intentional systems and habits that support better rest.
• Success isn't about looking good to others; it's about creating a life that genuinely feels good to you.
• Discover Penelope's 6:3:3 lifestyle framework and whether it could help you sleep better, perform at your best, and create more sustainable success.

About the Guest:

Penelope Barr is a Portfolio careerist, Advisor, Author and working parent. Penelope draws on more than 25 years of executive experience to help high performers and organisations design more aligned and sustainable ways of working and living. She’s the creator of the 6:3:3 concept, focused on the connection between rest, performance, and strategic, sustainable success. Penelope’s new, “Win the Night to Win the Day. Sleep Well. Work Better. Live Best.” It's a strategic guide for high performers created by research, interviews with global experts and years of experiments to help you design your personal best days to sleep well. Your best days are made at night.

Show Resources:

Connect with Penelope on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/penelopebarr/

Follow Penelope on Instagram - @ penelope_barr

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - @emmalagerlow

Check Out Emma's Book, Worthy & Wealthy - https://www.amazon.com.au/Worthy-Wealthy-Discovering-Abundance-Fulfilment/dp/1998528022

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram Stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @ penelope_barr.

Yours in Winning the Night, To Win the Day, Emma. X.

The alarm doesn't go off.

Someone says something that rubs you the wrong way.

Work feels overwhelming.

Your confidence takes a hit.

And before you know it, one bad day starts feeling like a bad week, a bad month, or even a bad life.

In this episode of It's a Mindset, Emma sits down with Learning and Organisational Development specialist, speaker and author Dr Gayle Smerdon to explore why bad days happen, how we can recognise them early, and most importantly, what we can do to stop them spiralling.

Gayle is the author of The Bad Day Playbook and founder of the "Make Work Less Sh*t" philosophy. Drawing on decades of experience working with leaders, teams and organisations, she shares practical and compassionate strategies for navigating life's inevitable difficult moments.

Who hasn't had a bad day?

I know I've experienced a few recently, and this conversation really landed for me. One of the things I loved most about speaking with Gayle was her reminder that while bad days are inevitable, staying stuck in them isn't.

This episode is filled with practical wisdom, self-awareness and gentle reminders that we have more agency than we often realise when we're struggling.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• How a bad day can slowly turn into a bad week, a bad month or even depression if left unchecked
• The early warning signs that you're having a bad day
• Why recognising what's happening is often the first step towards changing it
• The powerful questions you can ask yourself when you're struggling
• How to identify what is within your control and what isn't
• The role of self-awareness in navigating difficult emotions
• Why connection can be one of the most important tools during a bad day
• How to know whether you need support, space or something else entirely
• Why bad days are part of being human and don't define who you are

One of the most powerful messages from this conversation is that while we can't always control what happens to us, we can influence what happens next. Bad days may be inevitable. Staying stuck in them isn't.

About the Guest

Dr Gayle Smerdon is a Learning and Organisational Development specialist, speaker and author who helps people make work less exhausting and more meaningful.

For more than two decades, she has worked across universities, government and not-for-profits, helping leaders and teams navigate change, build capability and create healthy workplace cultures.

With a PhD in Sociology and a Graduate Diploma in Psychology, Gayle studies how organisations function (and malfunction), exploring the interplay between systems, culture and behaviour.

She is the author of The Bad Day Playbook and founder of the "Make Work Less Sh*t" philosophy - a practical, funny and deeply human approach to improving work without pretending everything is fine. Gayle believes bad days may be inevitable, but staying stuck in them isn't.

Show Resources:

Connect with Gayle on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gayle-smerdon/

Follow Gayle on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/gaylesmerdon/

Check Out Gayles Website: https://www.gaylesmerdon.com/

Follow Emma on Instagram: @emmalagerlow

Purchase Worthy & Wealthy: https://www.amazon.com.au/Worthy-Wealthy-Discovering-Abundance-Fulfilment/dp/1998528022  

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @gaylesmerdon.

Remember: A bad day doesn't mean you have a bad life.

Go Gently, Emma. X.

We live in a world overflowing with information. Books, podcasts, courses and advice are more accessible than ever before.

Yet many of us still struggle to bridge the gap between what we know and what we actually do.

In this episode of It's a Mindset, Emma sits down with leadership expert, keynote speaker and author Tamsin Simounds to explore why information alone doesn't create change - experience does.

Drawing on the principles from her book, The Experiment Mindset, Tamsin shares a brain-aligned approach to growth that challenges the way many of us think about personal development. Together, Emma and Tamsin unpack why high achievers often become trapped by their own success, why waiting until something feels comfortable is holding us back, and how embracing experimentation can create lasting transformation.

As someone who has recently launched The Next Chapter Collective, Emma deeply resonated with Tamsin's message. Building something new always involves uncertainty, vulnerability and a willingness to step into the unknown. In many ways, every next chapter is simply one big experiment - and perhaps that's exactly the point.

If you've been waiting to feel ready before making a change, this conversation may be exactly what you need to hear.

One of the most powerful reflections from this conversation is considering how much you've changed over the past ten years compared to how much you expect to change over the next ten. Most of us dramatically underestimate our capacity for growth.

This episode is a reminder that the life you want isn't created through more information alone. It's created through action, experimentation and a willingness to step into the unknown.

Key Episode Takeaways: 

• Why information alone doesn't create lasting change
• The difference between progress and genuine growth
• How successful people can unknowingly become trapped by their own identity
• The three levers that drive behaviour and transformation
• Why waiting for confidence before taking action rarely works
• How adopting an experimental mindset can help you navigate uncertainty and change
• Why the life you want may be much closer than you think
• Why you don't have to stay the same person you've always been

About The Guest:

Tamsin Simounds is a leadership expert, keynote speaker, entrepreneur and author of The Experiment Mindset.

Her work focuses on helping people bridge the gap between what they know and what they actually do by creating experiences that generate meaningful behavioural change.

She is also the founder of JumpProof, a platform designed to help individuals and organisations embrace experimentation as a pathway to growth, resilience and transformation.

Show Resources:

Follow Tamsin on Instagram: @tamsinsimounds

Connect with Tamsin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamsinkate/

Check Out Tamsin's Website: https://www.tamsinsimounds.com/

Follow Emma on Instagram: @emmalagerlow

Learn More About The Next Chapter Collective - https://www.emmalagerlow.com/the-next-chapter-collective

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @tamsinsimounds

Here's to embracing the experiment, Emma. X.

Not a fleeting idea. Not a New Year's resolution. A dream that keeps quietly tapping you on the shoulder, year after year, even as life gets busy.

In this solo episode of It's a Mindset, Emma explores why so many women put their dreams on hold while they focus on everyone else. From careers and caring responsibilities to being the "good girl" and meeting expectations, it's easy to lose sight of what we truly want.

Emma shares her own journey of following dreams that once felt impossible - leaving a 25-year corporate career, writing an award-winning and bestselling book, launching a podcast, travelling the world, hosting sound healing events, and now finding herself drawn towards a new possibility: yoga teacher training.

This episode is an invitation to pause, reflect and ask yourself a powerful question:

What dream have you put on hold?

If you've been feeling restless, stuck, unfulfilled, or like there's something more waiting for you, this conversation is for you.

As Emma shares in Worthy & Wealthy, true abundance begins with understanding who you are, what you want and having the courage to take the next step. And perhaps your next step starts today.

 Key Episode Takeaways:

• Why so many women put their dreams on hold while prioritising everyone else's needs
• Why the "good girl" conditioning can keep women playing small
• Why your next chapter doesn't need to be dramatic to be meaningful
• Three powerful questions to help you reconnect with what you truly want
• Why permission, support and accountability are often the missing ingredients for change
• How to recognise when you're ready for your next chapter

Journal Prompts

Take some time to reflect on these questions:

✨ What dream have I put on hold?

✨ Why did I put it on hold?

✨ What would happen if I finally gave myself permission to pursue it?

✨ If nothing changed over the next five years, how would I feel?

Doors Are Now Open to The Next Chapter Collective

If this episode stirred something within you...

If you've been thinking about the dream you've put on hold...

If you've been wondering what's next...

Or if you're simply ready to invest in yourself again...

I'd love to invite you to join The Next Chapter Collective.

This brand-new five-week coaching experience has been designed for women who know they're ready for something more - more purpose, more fulfilment, more clarity and more intention in the next chapter of their lives.

Together, we'll explore the same five pillars that sit at the heart of Worthy & Wealthy:

✨ Self-Worth

✨ Purpose

✨ Wellbeing

✨ Financial Empowerment

✨ Freedom

These are the same five pillars that transformed my own life and became the foundation of my book, Worthy & Wealthy.

This is the work we'll be doing together over five weeks - moving beyond inspiration and into action, with the support, accountability and encouragement to create meaningful change.

Program begins: Tuesday 23 June

Weekly Live Coaching Calls: Tuesdays at 7:30pm AEST

Includes:

✔ Five weeks of live coaching, support and accountability

✔ Weekly Zoom sessions

✔ Recordings available if you can't attend live

✔ Reflection exercises, practical tools and workbook activities

✔ A supportive community of like-minded women

✔ A complimentary 60-minute private coaching session

Places are intentionally limited to ensure a personalised and supportive experience.

If you're ready to stop putting your dreams on hold and start intentionally creating your next chapter,

I'd love to support you inside the program.

You can find all the details and enrol via the link in the show notes.

Show Resources:

Follow Emma, The Podcast Host on Instagram - @emmalagerlow

Learn More About The Next Chapter Collective - https://www.emmalagerlow.com/the-next-chapter-collective

Check Out Emma's Book, Worthy & Wealthy - https://www.amazon.com.au/Worthy-Wealthy-Discovering-Abundance-Fulfilment/dp/1998528022

So let me leave you with one final question:

What dream have you put on hold?

Maybe your next chapter isn't about becoming someone new.

Maybe it's about finally becoming more of who you've always been.

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag @emmalagerlow.

Here's to Your Next Chapter, Emma. X.

Maybe you've spent years being the good daughter, the good employee, the good partner, the good mum - putting everyone else's needs ahead of your own and measuring your worth by how much you do for others.

But what if constantly being "good" comes at a cost?

In this episode of It's a Mindset, I sit down with author, strategist and community builder Caitlin Judd to explore the hidden cost of being the "good girl" and what it takes to break free from the expectations that no longer serve us.

Caitlin's journey has taken her from corporate life to building a portfolio career across consulting, coaching, digital products and entrepreneurship. She is the co-founder of the award-winning female founder community lady-brains and author of the thought-provoking book Good Girl, Goodbye.

Together, we explore the conditioning many women inherit, where it comes from, and how it can quietly shape our identities, relationships, careers and sense of self-worth.

As someone who has often identified with being the "good girl" myself, I found this conversation incredibly insightful. Feeling like being a good girl was always part of my identity had me truly resonating with Caitlin's work and how we can begin to shed those expectations and create lives that feel more authentic and aligned.

Key Episode Takeaways: 

• Caitlin's Good Girl archetypes and how they show up in women's lives
• Why the "good girl" can evolve into the "good mum" and continue shaping our choices
• Where the pressure to be a good girl originates and how it becomes internalised
• Why so many women prioritise everyone else and don't even make it onto their own list
• The relationship between people-pleasing, perfectionism and self-worth
• How to begin reclaiming your voice and creating a life that reflects who you truly are

About the Guest:

Caitlin Judd is an author, strategist, speaker and co-founder of the award-winning female founder community lady-brains. After leaving corporate life in 2014, she built a portfolio career spanning consulting, coaching, digital products and online programs across Australia, North America, Asia and Europe. Her debut book, Good Girl, Goodbye, explores the conditioning women inherit, the cost of people-pleasing and the journey of disentangling from expectations that no longer serve us. Through her work, Caitlin helps women find their voice, claim their authority and create lives aligned with who they truly are.

Show Resources:

Follow Caitlin on Instagram - @itscaitlinjudd

Check Out Caitlin's Website - https://www.caitlinjudd.com/

Read Caitlin's Substack - https://substack.com/@caitlinjudd

Buy Caitlin's Book, Goodbye Good Girl - https://www.amazon.com.au/Good-Girl-Goodbye-Rewrite-Reclaim/dp/1394389361

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - @emmalagerlow

Learn More About The Next Chapter Collective - https://www.emmalagerlow.com/the-next-chapter-collective

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @itscaitlinjudd.

Yours, In Saying Goodbye to your Good Girl, Emma. X.

In this practical and empowering episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by award-winning financial adviser, speaker and author Helen Baker for a conversation about financial freedom, security and why knowledge truly is power when it comes to money.

Helen is the founder of On Your Own Two Feet, an Australia-wide service dedicated to helping women gain and retain financial independence. Her latest book, Money for Life, is a brilliant guide for women wanting to better understand their finances, plan for the future and create greater choice and stability in their lives.

As you know, I’m incredibly passionate about financial stability as one of the key pillars in creating a truly worthy and wealthy life - and helping women step into abundant and empowered next chapters. I loved this conversation with Helen because it makes financial planning feel practical, achievable and deeply connected to living well both now and in the future.

Together, we explore why financial planning is about so much more than numbers - it’s about creating freedom, security and options for your life. Helen also shares why financial awareness and planning are so important for women - particularly during major life transitions such as separation, divorce and retirement - and how having a strategy can help women avoid financial vulnerability later in life.

This is such an important and empowering conversation for women at every stage of life - particularly those wanting greater freedom, confidence and security around money.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Why financial planning is really about freedom, choice and achieving your goals
• The importance of financial stability and planning ahead for the future
• How financial knowledge empowers women and creates greater confidence
• Why having a financial strategy can help women avoid vulnerability later in life
• The importance of advocating for yourself during separation and divorce
• The ethos of “live well now and plan for the future”
• Practical ways women can feel more in control of their money and future

About the Guest:

Helen Baker is an award-winning financial adviser, speaker and founder of On Your Own Two Feet, an Australia-wide service dedicated to empowering women to gain and retain their financial independence. She holds multiple Masters degrees and has been recognised nationally for her contribution to financial literacy and women’s financial empowerment.

Helen is the author of four books, including her latest release Money for Life, and is a regular media commentator across Australian television, radio and print media. Her work is deeply focused on helping women create greater financial confidence, security and freedom at every stage of life.

Show Resources:

Follow Helen on Instagram - HERE

Connect with Helen on LinkedIn - HERE

Check Our Helen's Website - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About The Next Chapter Collective - HERE

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @onyourowntwofeet.

Yours in Financial Freedom, Emma. X.

Despite living in a time where we’re more connected than ever digitally, so many people still feel lonely, disconnected or uncertain about love, intimacy and belonging.

In this deeply thoughtful and intriguing episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Natalia Rachel - writer, relationship and culture innovator, trauma-informed educator and author of Other Lovers. Natalia’s latest book explores romantic love, intimacy and relationships in the modern world through a unique blend of storytelling, psychology, sociology and emotional insight.

Together, we explore the ways we give and receive love, how modern life impacts our relationships, and why so many people are quietly questioning traditional ideas around partnership, marriage and belonging.

This conversation also touches on the isolation many people experience in modern life - particularly mothers and families living in silos without the deeper sense of connection and community humans truly crave.

I absolutely love an episode about relationships and exploring love in the modern world as Natalia does - there was so much in this conversation that intrigued me and left me reflecting deeply afterwards. This is a thoughtful, emotionally intelligent and expansive conversation about modern love, connection, self-awareness and what it means to truly belong.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• How our relationships deeply impact our wellbeing and sense of self
• Why so many people are living in isolation and “silos” in the modern world
• The importance of belonging, connection and community - especially for mothers and families
• Why more people are questioning traditional ideas around love and marriage
• How modern relationships can become a pathway for deeper self-awareness and healing
• The ways we give and receive love in today’s world

About the Guest:

Natalia Rachel is a writer, relationship and culture innovator, speaker and trauma-informed educator whose work explores healing, embodiment, relationships and the human experience. She is the author of Why Am I Like This? and Other Lovers, a genre-bending contemporary fiction series exploring love, intimacy and relationships in the modern world through storytelling, psychology and emotional insight. Natalia’s work inspires deeper connection, compassion and relational awareness, with a mission to help create a more connected and emotionally intelligent world.

Show Resources:

Follow Natalia on Instagram - HERE

Connect with Natalia on LinkedIn - HERE

Check Out Natalia's Website - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About The Next Chapter Collective - HERE

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @natalia_rachel_change.

Yours with Love in the Modern World, Emma. X.

In this empowering episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Wendy Pitts-Reeves - business coach, former psychotherapist, speaker and entrepreneur - for a deeply honest conversation about self-worth, courage, money mindset and what it really takes to build a business that supports both your clients and yourself.

Wendy shares her powerful journey from having discomfort around money, to building a thriving six-figure business grounded in clarity, confidence and purpose.

Together, we explore why so many women struggle to fully own their value, the danger of constantly waiting for permission, and how courage is often the first step toward creating the life and business you truly want.

I enjoyed exploring Wendy’s 7-Step Courage to Confidence process and how it can be applied to any dream we might have. Because while anything is possible when you put your mind to it, having a process to move through fear and self-doubt certainly helps.

If you’ve ever questioned your worth, held yourself back, or felt called to something bigger - this conversation is for you.

Key Episode Takeways:

• Wendy’s powerful 7-Step Courage to Confidence process
• Why self-worth shapes every decision we make in business and life
• The importance of boundaries, systems and valuing your work
• Why women need to stop asking for permission and trust themselves more
• How courage is often already within us - we simply need to recognise it

About the Guest:

Wendy Pitts-Reeves is a business coach, former psychotherapist, speaker and entrepreneur who helps women build businesses that support both their clients and themselves. After beginning her career deeply conflicted about money and losing thousands in unpaid work, Wendy transformed her relationship with self-worth, business and success. Today, she runs a thriving six-figure business and empowers women to step into confidence, own their value and create meaningful work without apology.

Show Resources:

Connect with Wendy on LinkedIn - HERE

Check Out Wendy's Website - HERE

Tune in to The Ideal Practice - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About The Next Chapter Collective - HERE

If you LOVED the episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow.

Yours in Courage & Confidence, Emma. X.

Like something in your life hit pause - and you were left questioning everything you thought success looked like?

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Fleur Marks - globally recognised leadership trainer, performance mindset coach and author of The Overachiever’s Reset.

Fleur built a highly successful career over two decades in senior leadership, driven by ambition, high standards and relentless performance. But that same pace ultimately led to a life-threatening health crisis - what she describes as the “waiting room of death” - forcing her to confront the reality that the way she was succeeding was unsustainable.

What followed wasn’t a step back from ambition… but a complete reset. In this deeply honest and powerful conversation, Fleur shares how she rebuilt her mindset, redefined success, and now helps high performers break free from the overachiever’s cycle - where self-worth becomes tied to achievement and external validation.

I was deeply moved by Fleur’s strength of character and her ability to stay positive through such significant health challenges. This conversation is a reminder that true success isn’t about doing more - it’s about understanding what matters, and learning to lead and live in a way that supports both performance and wellbeing.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• How Fleur navigated major health challenges and used them as a catalyst for change
• Why so many high performers are trapped in the “overachiever’s cycle”
• The power of radical self-acceptance in breaking free from relentless striving
• How believing you are enough could change everything - for you and those around you
• The importance of focusing on what’s in your control and consciously choosing your response

About the Guest:

Fleur Marks is a globally recognised leadership trainer, performance mindset coach and author of The Overachiever’s Reset. After two decades in senior leadership at WPP, a life-threatening health crisis forced her to stop and completely rethink how she was living and leading.

Today, Fleur helps high performers break free from the overachiever’s cycle - where self-worth is tied to achievement - and supports them to lead with clarity, impact and sustainability, without sacrificing themselves in the process.

Show Resources:

Follow Fleur on Instagram - HERE

Connect with Fleur on LinkedIn - HERE

Check Out Fleur's Website - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About The Next Chapter Collective - HERE

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @fleurjmarks.

Yours in Being Impactful, Emma. X.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Graeme Cowan - resilience expert, professional speaker, Board Director of R U OK?, and author of five books, including his latest, Great Leaders Care.

Graeme shares his deeply personal story of experiencing a five-year episode of depression - a period his psychiatrist described as one of the most severe he had ever treated. What emerged from that time is not only a powerful story of recovery, but a mission to help others build resilience, improve wellbeing, and create meaningful change through conversation.

Drawing on the insights behind Great Leaders Care, Graeme explores what it really means to lead with empathy, create psychologically safe environments, and support the people around us - whether at work, at home, or in our wider communities.

Together, we explore how Graeme turned one of the most challenging periods of his life into a way to support others - particularly leaders - to create safer, more connected environments where people feel seen, heard, and supported.

I was incredibly moved by Graeme’s vulnerability in sharing his story, and how he has transformed that experience into something so impactful. It’s a beautiful reminder that even in our hardest moments, there is the potential for growth, meaning, and contribution.

This conversation highlights just how powerful a simple conversation can be - and how it can quite literally change a life.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• How Graeme turned his personal experience of breakdown into a mission to support others
• Why great leaders prioritise care and create psychologically safe environments
• The power of humility in creating authentic connection and trust
• How one meaningful conversation can have the potential to change a life

About the Guest:

Graeme Cowan is a resilience expert, professional speaker and Board Director of R U OK?, where he has seen firsthand how simple conversations can lead to meaningful change.

With a background in senior leadership roles at Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer and AT Kearney, Graeme’s work today is deeply shaped by his own lived experience. In 2000, he went through a five-year episode of severe depression — a period his psychiatrist described as one of the most challenging he had ever treated. From that experience, Graeme developed a powerful new perspective on resilience, wellbeing and performance, which now underpins his work with leaders and organisations around the world.

He is the author of five books, including the internationally acclaimed Back From the Brink, and his latest, Great Leaders Care, which explores how empathy and care can transform leadership and workplace culture. Graeme has been described by the Australian Financial Review as a “resilience expert”, and is known for his authentic, relevant and thought-provoking style.

Based in Sydney near Lane Cove National Park, Graeme enjoys spending time in nature, connecting with family and friends, and sharing ideas that spark conversations — because he believes those conversations have the power to change lives.

Show Resources:

Follow Graeme on Instagram - HERE

Connect with Graeme on LinkedIn - HERE

Check Out Graeme's Website - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About The Next Chapter Collective - HERE

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @graemecowan.

Take Care, Emma. X.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Lisa Taylor - family therapist, relationships consultant, speaker and founder of Strengthening Families Australia. With over 25 years of experience supporting families, schools and organisations, Lisa brings a deeply heart-centred approach to helping us understand the patterns that shape how we connect.

Together, we explore what Lisa calls the “Perfect Parent Trap” - the pressure to get it right, to say the right thing, to respond perfectly - and how that can actually move us further away from the connection we’re really seeking. Instead, Lisa invites us to shift from control to connection, and to become more aware of the emotional imprints from our own upbringing - what she calls our heartprints - and how they influence the way we show up as parents today.

This conversation really resonated with me on a personal level. Lisa and I are at a similar stage of parenting, and as fellow authors in the Expert Author Community, there was such a natural connection and shared understanding between us. I absolutely love the work she’s doing to support families, and the insights she shared - particularly around our own heartprints - were incredibly powerful.

This is one of those episodes that gently invites you to pause, reflect and consider how you’re showing up in your closest relationships - not from a place of judgment, but from a place of curiosity and growth.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• What the “Perfect Parent Trap” is and why trying to get it right can backfire
• How your own childhood “heartprints” shape the way you parent
• Why shifting from control to connection can transform your relationships
• The importance of presence - being where your body is - in creating deeper connection 

About the Guest:

Lisa Taylor is a family therapist, relationships consultant, speaker and founder of Strengthening Families Australia with over twenty-five years of experience walking alongside thousands of families, schools and organisations across Australia.

Her heart-centred approach helps parents, educators and leaders strengthen relationships, heal generational patterns and transform how they connect with one another. She lives on the Bellarine Peninsula with her husband Chris, their three children and Faith, their golden retriever.

Show Resources:

Follow Lisa on Instagram - HERE

Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn - HERE

Check Out Lisa's Website - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About The Next Chapter Collective - HERE

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @lisataylor.au.

Your in Conscious Parenting, Emma. X.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Robyn Greaves - a highly regarded career change specialist and coach who has worked across some of the world’s most recognised organisations including BHP, Apple, Woolworths and Westpac.

Robyn brings a thoughtful, practical and deeply human approach to navigating career and life transitions, particularly in what she calls our “third chapter.” Together, we explore what it really means to step into this next phase of life - not as an ending, but as an opportunity to create something meaningful, fulfilling and entirely your own.

This conversation resonated with me on such a deep level. The idea of a “third chapter” feels incredibly aligned with where so many of us find ourselves in midlife - reflecting, recalibrating, and asking bigger questions about who we are and how we want to spend our time. It’s also why I’m so passionate about the work I do and why I’m about to launch The Next Chapter Collective - a space designed to help you reconnect with who you are, what you want, and how to move forward with intention. If you’ve ever felt that quiet nudge that there’s more available to you… this episode will speak to you.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Why your “third chapter” (your 50s and 60s) can be one of the most powerful and fulfilling stages of life
• The importance of creativity and curiosity for healthy ageing and ongoing growth
• How this phase is less about achievement and more about contribution and meaning
• Why time isn’t as guaranteed as we think - and the importance of choosing how you want to spend it

About the Guest:

Robyn Greaves is a highly regarded career change specialist and coach with a background in senior leadership development and organisational change across BHP, Apple, Woolworths and Westpac. She is recognised for her thoughtful, practical and deeply human approach to late-career transition, helping experienced professionals create an epic third chapter.

Show Resources:

Connect with Robyn on LinkedIn - HERE

Check Out Robyn's Website - HERE

Learn More About Robyn's New Book, Your Third Chapter - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host - HERE

Learn More About The Next Chapter Collective - HERE

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow.

Yours in Your Next Chapter, Emma. X.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Matthew Sorensen - a specialist in corrective exercise, strength and conditioning, manual therapy, counselling and lifestyle coaching, who takes a deeply integrative approach to health, performance and wellbeing.

Matt designs personalised programs that support resilience, injury prevention and sustainable health, and his work goes far beyond the physical. With a background spanning nutrition, strength and conditioning, and advanced manual therapies, he brings a unique lens to understanding the body - not just as something to fix, but something to listen to.

Matt and I actually met around 20 years ago at the gym, and it’s been intriguing to see how our paths have evolved in a similar direction - both of us becoming more curious about what really makes people tick, beyond the surface.

In this conversation, we explore the deeper connection between body, mind and behaviour, and how so often what we’re experiencing physically is a reflection of something deeper. Matt also shares insights from his extensive work in CHEK therapy, his experience lecturing and educating others in the field, and the philosophy behind his books, including What Pain Is Telling You - Your Diagnosis Is Just the Symptom.

This is one of those conversations that invites you to slow down, tune in, and reconsider the way you relate to yourself - not just physically, but emotionally and mentally as well.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• What CHEK therapy is and how it looks at the body as an integrated system
• Why your relationship with yourself and your level of self-awareness underpins everything
• Why your “yes” has no value until you learn to say “no”
• The importance of letting yourself off the hook more often and listening to what your body actually needs

About the Guest:

Matthew is a specialist in corrective exercise, strength and conditioning, manual therapy, counselling, and lifestyle coaching. He designs personalised, integrative programs that support performance, resilience, injury prevention, and sustainable health. Alongside his clinical work, Matt lectures at governing institutes for Personal Trainers and Massage Therapists. He has developed and delivered multiple professional workshops and is the author of two books

Show Resources:

Follow Matt on Instagram - HERE

Follow Matt's Podcast, The Body's Compass on Instagram - HERE

Check Out Matt's Website, The Healing Hub - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About The Next Chapter Collective - HERE

Learn More About Emma's 1:1 Coaching - HERE

If you LOVED the episode, make sure you share this on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @mattsorensenhh.

Yours in Listening to Your Body, Emma. X.

You feel inspired. Motivated. Clear. And then life gets busy again… and you find yourself right back where you started.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m diving into why this happens - and more importantly, what it actually takes to move from insight into meaningful, lasting change. Because reading the book is one thing… but integrating it into your life is something else entirely.

Key Takeaways:

• Why inspiration alone isn’t enough to create change
• The common pattern I see in women (and have experienced myself) when it comes to personal growth
• Why midlife is such a powerful opportunity to redefine what you truly want
• The importance of knowing your values and creating a life that actually reflects them
• How real transformation happens through reflection, conversation and support

This episode is very close to my heart. When I wrote Worthy & Wealthy, my intention was never just to inspire - it was to help women actually create a more fulfilling, abundant life. But what I’ve come to realise is that insight doesn’t create change on its own.

We need space. We need reflection. And often… we need support.

That’s where the real shifts happen.

An Invitation:

This episode also marks the beginning of something new. If this conversation resonates with you, I’ve opened the waitlist for The Next Chapter Collective - a small, guided group experience designed to help you integrate these ideas and step into meaningful change.

You can learn more and join The Next Chapter Collective here.

Show Resources:

Learn More About The Next Chapter Collective - HERE

Learn More About Emma's Book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

Follow Emma on Instagram - HERE

If you loved this episode… Make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag me @emmalagerlow - I love seeing what resonates with you.

You don’t need another book. You need a space to live what you’ve already learned.

Yours In Your Next Chapter, Emma. X.

Or maybe you’ve found yourself focusing on the now - the bills, the holidays, the day-to-day - while quietly hoping the future will somehow take care of itself. In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Jessica Brady - money educator, former financial adviser and co-founder of Fox & Hare Financial Advice, who is on a mission to make money education more accessible, inclusive and aligned with the life you actually want to live.

With over 20 years of experience in financial services, Jessica has worked with some of Australia’s biggest institutions including Macquarie Bank, Commonwealth Bank and Zurich Australia. She is also the co-founder of Ladies Talk Money, a platform designed to help women and non-binary people navigate a financial system that hasn’t always been built for them.

Jessica’s approach is refreshingly honest and down-to-earth - cutting through the jargon and shame that so often surrounds money, and replacing it with practical tools, behavioural insights and real-life strategies.

We also touch on her new book, Get Growing, which brings this philosophy to life - helping people clear out what’s holding them back and start building a future that feels financially secure, aligned and truly their own.

I loved how comfortable Jessica is discussing money and finances - especially when it comes to unpacking the limiting beliefs so many of us carry. It’s a conversation that feels empowering, not overwhelming.

If you’ve ever felt like money is something you haven’t quite figured out yet, this episode is for you.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Why making financial education more accessible is key to creating real change
• How women, in particular, carry limiting beliefs around money - and how to start shifting them
• The importance of creating harmony between your present lifestyle and future financial goals
• Why you are never too young - or too old - to start taking control of your finances

About the Guest:

Jessica Brady is a money educator, former financial adviser and co-founder of Fox & Hare Financial Advice, a B Corp-certified and award-winning financial practice. With over 20 years’ experience working with leading institutions including Macquarie Bank, CBA and Zurich, Jessica is passionate about making financial education more accessible, inclusive and aligned with real life.

She is the co-founder of Ladies Talk Money, a platform supporting women and non-binary people to navigate money with confidence, and the creator of The Greenhouse, an online financial literacy program designed to empower people to take control of their financial future.

Jessica is a sought-after speaker and media contributor, and the author of Get Growing, a practical and empowering guide to building wealth without shame or jargon.

Show Resources:

Follow Jessica on Instagram - HERE

Check Out Jessica's Website - HERE

Learn More About Jessica's New Book, Get Growing - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About 1:1 Coaching with Emma - HERE

Book a FREE Discovery Call with Emma - HERE

If you LOVED the episode, make sure you share this on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @jessbrady_financialadvice.

Yours in Growing Your Wealth, Emma. X.

For many women, perimenopause and menopause arrive right in the middle of their most senior and demanding career years. Yet for decades it has been something we’ve quietly managed behind closed doors.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Karen Stein, a menopause champion, executive and group coach, keynote speaker and award-winning author who is on a mission to change the way organisations understand and support women through this important life stage. Karen is passionate about being “MAD about menopause” - not in frustration, but in raising Menopause Awareness and Dialogue so workplaces become places where women can continue to thrive, lead and contribute at their highest level.

Having gone through menopause myself, this conversation really resonated with me. Looking back, I often think how helpful it would have been to have more awareness and support around what was happening physically, mentally and emotionally. Instead of feeling like something you just have to push through, imagine if it was openly understood and supported.

Karen is helping move the conversation from something private and invisible to something that leaders, organisations and colleagues understand as a business, leadership and wellbeing issue.

We also explore Karen’s inspiring personal journey of studying later in life to become an executive coach, and how that decision opened up a deeply fulfilling new chapter in her career.

If you’ve ever wondered how we can create more understanding, compassion and support around menopause - in workplaces and in relationships - this is such an important conversation.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Why perimenopause and menopause are workplace conversations we can no longer ignore
• How Karen is advocating for better awareness and support for women in organisations
• Why men also need to understand menopause - both as leaders and in their personal relationships
• Practical ways to start conversations about perimenopause and menopause at work
• How studying later in life and becoming an executive coach opened a deeply fulfilling new chapter for Karen

About The Guest:

Karen is a Menopause Champion, Executive & Group Coach, Keynote Speaker and Award-winning Author. She is on a mission to be MAD about menopause and support organisations in being the same! Karen does so through her focus in lifting the understanding and awareness of workplaces regarding perimenopause and menopause. She is sought after to help move the dial on understanding this life stage - moving it from a private issue, to one which is understood to impact leadership, business and wellbeing. Her second book which provides self coaching strategies to support women manage menopause in the workplace is due for release late next year.

Show Resources:

Connect with Karen on LinkedIn - HERE

Follow Karen on Instagram - HERE

Check Out Karen's Website - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About 1:1 Coaching with Emma - HERE

Book a FREE 30-Minute Call with Emma - HERE

If you loved this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @nerakniets.

Yours in Advocating for Yourself, Emma.

In Episode 83 of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by the inspiring Saliya Katungu-Moran, women’s strength and wellness coach and founder of Talala Bloom - a community-driven movement helping women build strength in their bodies, confidence in their choices and wealth beyond money. This conversation is a beautiful reminder of what happens when women support one another to rise - physically, emotionally and financially.

Saliya’s work focuses on helping high-achieving women who feel burnt out, disconnected or ready for something more to reconnect with their strength, their wellbeing and their purpose.

This episode felt particularly special for me because I had the privilege of working with Saliya inside one of my 1:1 coaching capsules and witnessing her grow Talala Bloom as a side hustle alongside a successful corporate career. Watching her step into this work reminded me so much of my own journey into purpose-led work.

Beyond that, she is genuinely one of the kindest and most grounded people I know - someone who truly walks her talk when it comes to wellbeing and living in alignment.

I’m also honoured to be speaking at her upcoming She Blooms Reboot Retreat, which is a beautiful reflection of the supportive spaces she creates for women.

With a background in Psychology and extensive experience leading large-scale programs in the corporate world, Saliya blends evidence-based training, mindset work and practical life strategy to support women to reset, rebuild and rise - physically, emotionally and financially.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• How Saliya built Talala Bloom alongside her corporate career
• The powerful lessons she learned through burnout and the importance of rest
• Why strength training can be a gateway to confidence and long-term wellbeing
• The importance of connection and community among women
• The rituals and practices that help us show up fully for others - and ourselves Saliya’s story is a beautiful reminder that strength isn’t just physical - it’s also the courage to listen to your body, honour your needs and build a life that truly supports you.

About the Guest:

Saliya Katungu-Moran is a women’s strength and wellness coach and the founder of Talala Bloom, a community-driven movement helping women build strength in their bodies, confidence in their choices and wealth beyond money.

With a background in Psychology (BSc Hons) and years of experience leading large-scale programs in the corporate world, Saliya blends evidence-based training, mindset work and practical life strategy to support high-achieving women who feel burnt out, disconnected or ready for more.

Through her 1:1 coaching, group programs and She Blooms retreats, she creates spaces where women can reset, rebuild and rise - physically, emotionally and financially.

Currently in a season of intentional growth (and pregnancy), Saliya is focused on scaling Talala Bloom virtually while preparing for motherhood and continuing to champion strength as a powerful vehicle for long-term wellbeing.

Show Resources:

Follow Saliya on Instagram - HERE

Check Out Saliya's Website - HERE

Learn More About the She Blooms Reboot Retreat - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About Emma's Become the Butterfly Program - HERE

Book a FREE Discovery Call with Emma - HERE

Saliya’s story is a beautiful reminder that strength isn’t just physical - it’s also the courage to listen to your body, honour your needs and build a life that truly supports you.

If you loved this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @talalabloom.

Yours in Blooming, Emma. X.

In this powerful and thought-provoking episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by psychologist and consultant Vaibhav Ranglani, who is based in India and works with smart, ambitious people feeling emotionally exhausted, overwhelmed and stuck in cycles of stress and overthinking.

This conversation is a compassionate but honest reality check about the patterns, beliefs and behaviours that may be keeping us stuck — and what it really looks like to take responsibility for our inner world.

Having been connected to Vaibhav since the early days of my life coaching journey, it was incredibly heartwarming to have him on the show and witness the depth of insight he brings through his psychology work. India is also high on my bucket list, so I loved chatting with him and learning more about his homeland and perspective.

If you’ve ever wondered whether therapy could help you… or questioned the role you might be playing in your own challenges… this episode will gently invite you to reflect in a whole new way.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Why many people misunderstand what therapy actually is
• The importance of compassion, empathy and kindness — regardless of someone’s circumstances
• How to honestly reflect on whether you may be contributing to your own challenges
• Why aligning your actions with your identity is a powerful step toward change
• The role of truth, directness and honesty in effective therapy

About the Guest:

Vaibhav Ranglani is a psychologist and consultant based in India who supports smart, ambitious individuals feeling emotionally exhausted to regain control of their lives. Through his compassionate and direct approach, he helps clients reduce stress and anxiety, stop overthinking, sleep more peacefully, and show up as their best selves each day. Vaibhav offers both exploratory calls for those considering therapy and focused consultation sessions for those ready to begin their personal growth journey.

Show Resources:

Follow Vaibhav on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About Therapy with Vaibhav - HERE

Book a FREE Discovery Call with Vaibhav - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About Coaching with Emma - HERE

Book a FREE Discovery Call with Emma - HERE

This episode is a beautiful reminder that growth doesn’t come from blame — it comes from awareness, compassion and the willingness to look within.

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag @emmalagerlow and @no.bs.psychologist_

Yours in Compassion, Empathy and Truth, Emma. X.

You’re not alone.

In Episode 81 of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Emma Edwards — financial behaviour specialist, founder of The Broke Generation and author of The Wardrobe Project — to unpack the powerful psychology behind our spending habits, self-image and relationship with consumption.

Emma undertook a radical experiment: one full year without buying any clothes. No new pieces, no second-hand finds, not even rentals. What followed was a deeply honest journey that challenged the cultural “hamster wheel” of fashion consumption and revealed just how closely our spending can be tied to identity, insecurity and emotional needs.

This conversation goes far beyond budgeting. It’s about awareness, behaviour and the quiet patterns driving many of our financial decisions. Emma really encouraged me to reflect on my own consumption — especially when it comes to clothing — and what might be sitting underneath those choices. It was such a powerful reminder that money habits are rarely just about money.

Emma is the founder of Broke Media and host of The Broke Generation Podcast, reaching tens of thousands of listeners each month. As a Certified Financial Behavior Specialist®, she is known for helping people feel good about money by focusing on the psychology behind our financial choices — not just the numbers.

Key Episode Takeaways

• The dopamine hit of buying clothes — and what’s really driving it
• How insecurities (and beauty and diet culture) can fuel overconsumption
• Emma’s year-long no-buy clothing experiment and what it revealed
• Why money is often about security or freedom — and what that actually means for you
• Emma’s powerful ethos: as long as you’re doing something, clarity on your life path will come

About the Guest:

Emma Edwards is a financial behaviour specialist, author and founder of The Broke Generation — now evolved into Broke Media, a personal finance media company helping people feel good about money. She is the author of Good With Money and The Wardrobe Project, and host of The Broke Generation Podcast, reaching tens of thousands of listeners each month. Through her work, Emma helps audiences understand the psychology behind their financial habits, with the firm belief that getting on top of your money starts with getting to know yourself.

Show Resources:

Follow Emma on Instagram - HERE

Check Out Emma's Website - HERE

Learn More About The Wardrobe Project - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About Emma's 1:1 Coaching - HERE

Book a FREE Discovery Call with Emma - HERE

Emma’s approach is refreshingly honest and deeply insightful, reminding us that getting good with money starts with getting to know yourself.

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag @emmalagerlow and @the.brokegeneration.

Thanks for tuning in.

Yours in Conscious Spending, Emma. X.

Like you’re functioning - working, parenting, leading - but your energy isn’t where it used to be?

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I sit down with Tim Jack Adams - founder of three purpose-driven companies and author of Energised - to explore what it really means to feel alive, purposeful and connected again.

Since 2009, Tim has worked with leadership teams across industries to embed functional wellbeing into organisations - not as a tick-box initiative, but as a sustainable way of working. His approach is deeply personal, always tailored, and grounded in one belief: when people feel valued, purposeful and connected, they perform at their best.

What I loved about this conversation is that it wasn’t about hustle or productivity - it was about energy. Real energy. The kind that comes from living in alignment. As someone who speaks often about purpose as a pillar in Worthy & Wealthy, this episode resonated deeply. Tim’s perspective brought me such clarity and joy - because when we feel energised by what we do, life feels lighter, not heavier.

Key Takeaways:

• What a “battery check” is - and how it makes checking in with mates easier and more natural
• Why purpose isn’t optional - it’s fuel The role of nature, presence and connection in restoring energy
• Why wellbeing isn’t separate from life… it is life
• And how giving less value and time to work (and more to living) might actually improve both

There is also an honest discussion about mental health and suicide in this episode. If this is a sensitive topic for you, please listen with care. In Australia, Lifeline is available 24/7 on 13 11 14.

About the Guest:

Tim Jack Adams is an entrepreneur, wellbeing advocate and author of Energised. Since 2009, he has founded three companies with one mission: helping people reconnect with themselves, their teams and what truly matters.

Through these ventures, Tim has worked with leadership teams across industries to embed functional wellbeing, strengthen culture and build sustainable momentum. His approach is deeply personal - taking the time to understand each team’s unique needs and co-creating practical pathways that deliver real results, not just feel-good moments.

Tim believes that when people feel valued, purposeful and connected, they perform at their best. And when organisations operate this way, they don’t just build better companies - they help create a better world.

Show Resources:

Follow Tim on Instagram - HERE

Check out Tim's Website - HERE

Learn More About Tim's New Book, Energised - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About 1:1 Coaching with Emma - HERE

Book a FREE 30-Minute Discovery Call with Emma - HERE

Tim reminds us that being energised isn’t about doing more - it’s about reconnecting to what truly matters.

If this episode resonated, I’d love you to share it on your Instagram stories and tag @emmalagerlow and @timjackadams.

Yours In Feeling Energised, Emma. X.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by the extraordinary Jordana Borensztajn - global speaker, TEDx presenter, public speaking coach, corporate humourist, author, and Australia’s only female magician and mentalist in the corporate world. This is one of those conversations that leaves you smiling, energised, and just a little braver than before.

With more than 20 years on stage, Jordana brings an infectious sense of joy, confidence and presence to everything she does. She’s worked with everyone from multi-millionaires and sports stars to global corporate leaders - helping people find their voice, step into confidence, and express themselves more fully.

In this episode, we explore courage not as something you “have” or “don’t have”, but as something you build through play, curiosity and self-trust. Jordana shares how comedy can free us from judgement, how magic and mentalism invite wonder and presence, and why confidence grows when we allow ourselves to be seen - imperfectly and authentically.

I loved this conversation because Jordana’s multi-passionate path resonates deeply with me. Her ability to weave together speaking, humour, magic and coaching mirrors my own experience balancing coaching, podcasting and sound healing - trusting that all parts of us are allowed to coexist and be expressed. If you’re craving more lightness, confidence, and permission to show up as your whole self, this episode will leave you uplifted and inspired.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Why embracing fear - rather than avoiding it - is key to building confidence
• How comedy creates freedom from judgement and self-criticism
• The power of play, presence and wonder in helping us feel more alive
• Why being fully expressed is essential to confidence, connection and joy

About the Guest:

Jordana Borensztajn is a global speaker, TEDx presenter, event MC, corporate humourist, public speaking coach, author - and Australia’s only female corporate magician and mentalist.

With more than 20 years of experience on stage, Jordana is renowned for lighting up rooms with high energy, deep insight and unstoppable laughter. She has presented at conferences and events across Australia, Japan, the United States, New Zealand, Fiji and the UK, and is known for creating unforgettable, highly personalised experiences through humour, storytelling and awe-inspiring moments of wonder.

A former journalist and stand-up comedian, Jordana is also a world-leading public speaking trainer who has coached multi-millionaires, sports stars and celebrities. Her mission is simple: to educate with joy, help people feel more confident, and transform audiences from the inside out.

She is also the author of four books, including her most recent, The Little Book of Influence.

Show Resources:

Follow Jordana on Instagram - HERE

Check out Jordana's website - HERE

Learn More About The Little Book of Influence - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About Emma's Become the Butterfly Coaching Program - HERE

Book a FREE Discovery Calle with Emma - HERE

If you loved this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram Stories and tag @emmalagerlow and @jordanaborensztajn so we can keep spreading the joy.

Yours in Confidence, Emma. X.

In this deeply moving episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Sarah Susak - a commercial lawyer, full-time working mum, meditation teacher, and quite honestly, one of the most resilient humans you’ll ever hear from.

Sarah has spent more than two decades leading legal functions for some of the world’s most iconic brands, including Coca-Cola and Colgate-Palmolive, across the South Pacific and Europe. Today, she is the General Manager for Legal and Corporate Affairs at a leading Australian food manufacturer.

But in 2017, shortly after becoming a mother, Sarah’s life changed forever when she was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive head and neck cancer. What followed was an extraordinary journey through major facial reconstructive surgeries, intensive radiation treatment, and ongoing medical challenges - a journey that ultimately led her to discover the ancient practice of Vedic meditation.

Meditation became a cornerstone of Sarah’s healing, recovery, and resilience, inspiring her to train as a Vedic meditation teacher and, in 2023, launch Medi Steady Go®, a business dedicated to sharing the wisdom and techniques she credits with saving her life.

After almost seven years in remission, Sarah faced another unexpected challenge in 2024 when she was diagnosed with a metastasis to the lung. Although safely removed, complications followed, including a rare autoimmune condition that left her on life support and hospitalised for nearly three months. Once again, through holistic health practices and her unwavering daily meditation routine, Sarah made a remarkable recovery - defying medical expectations.

Today, Sarah lives a joyful, purpose-filled life in Sydney with her husband and daughter and is the author of YOURU, her first book.

As a daily meditator myself, I found this conversation incredibly grounding and inspiring. Sarah’s experience reaffirmed for me the power of meditation not just as a tool for calm, but as a way of reconnecting with what’s already within us - steadiness, resilience, and quiet joy. Listening to Sarah has encouraged me to go deeper in my own practice and to explore Vedic meditation more fully. I genuinely can’t wait to join one of her Medi Steady Go® workshops.

This episode is a reminder that while we can’t always control what happens to us, we can choose how we meet it.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• What Vedic meditation is and how it differs from other meditation practices
• The powerful role meditation can play in healing - physically, emotionally and spiritually
• Why a health diagnosis doesn’t have to be defined only by fear or negativity
• How focusing on what you can do restores a sense of agency and hope
• Why happiness isn’t something you need to chase - it’s always there, waiting beneath the noise

About the Guest

Sarah Susak is a full-time working mum.

A commercial lawyer with over two decades of experience, Sarah has led the legal function of some of the world’s most iconic brands, including Coca-Cola and Colgate-Palmolive, across the South Pacific and Europe. She is now a full time General Manager for Legal and Corporate Affairs at a leading Australian food manufacturer.

In 2017, shortly after becoming a mother, Sarah was diagnosed with a rare and deadly head and neck cancer. Her journey through major facial reconstructive surgeries, intensive radiation treatment and ongoing medical challenges led her to discover the ancient practice of Vedic meditation, which became a cornerstone of her recovery and inspired her to train as a Vedic meditation teacher. In 2023 she launched Medi Steady Go®, a business dedicated to sharing the wisdom and techniques that she credits with saving her life.

After being in remission of cancer for almost seven years, while completing YOURU in 2024 Sarah was diagnosed with a metastasis to the lung. Though safely removed, she developed a rare autoimmune condition which saw her on life support and hospitalised for almost three months. With the help of holistic health practices and her daily meditation routine, she made a remarkable recovery, defying medical expectations.

She is now living a joyful and purpose-filled life in Sydney with her husband and daughter.

YOURU is her first book.

Show Resources:

Follow Sarah on Instagram - HERE

Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn - HERE

Check Out Sarah's Website - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Check Out Emma's 1:1 Coaching - HERE

Book a FREE 30-Minute Call with Emma - HERE

If you loved this episode, please share it on your Instagram Stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @sarah_susak - we’d love to know what resonated most for you.

Yours in Finding Inner Happiness, Emma.

So many women grow up learning to suppress their feelings, their anger, their creativity and their truth. Over time, that silencing can show up as low self-worth, unhealthy relationships, burnout, or even physical illness.

Today’s guest, Steph Bruno-Newton, knows this journey deeply. Steph is the host of the Can I Get a Refill? podcast, a former dancer and singer, a new mum, and a passionate advocate for women reclaiming their voices and creating lives that feel expansive, expressive and nourishing.

Her story is one of resilience, courage and creative rebirth. In this episode, Steph shares how years of silencing - shaped by relationships, trauma and societal expectations - led her to disconnect from herself, and how finding her voice became the key to healing, self-trust and finally filling her own cup.

As a fellow podcaster, I loved this conversation. There’s something incredibly powerful about women using their voices - not just to be heard, but to help other women feel less alone, more validated, and more empowered to step into the driver’s seat of their own lives. This episode is honest, tender, and deeply inspiring.

We also explore Steph’s singing journey, including auditioning for The Voice and appearing on Millionaire Hot Seat.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Finding your voice after being silenced can change everything - your health, your relationships and your sense of self
• Creating space for self-expression is one of the most powerful ways to fill your cup
• Sharing our stories helps other women feel seen, heard and less alone
• Even the most painful experiences can become portals to growth and purpose
• Choosing to look for meaning doesn’t dismiss the pain - it transforms it

About the Guest:

Steph Bruno-Newton is a former Dancer, Singer (on brief motherhood pause), Writer, Podcast Host, Manifestor and most importantly, Mum to an 18month old. 

Show Resources:

Follow Steph on Instagram - HERE

Follow Can I Get a Refill Podcast on Instagram - HERE

Check out Steph's website - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About Emma's 1:1 Coaching - HERE

Book a FREE 30-Minute Discovery Call with Emma - HERE

If you loved this episode, please share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @stephbrunonewton so we can thank you and keep the conversation going.

Yours in voice, self-expression and full cups, Emma x 🦋

In this deeply insightful episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by John Broadbent - men’s mentor, retreat facilitator and father - for a powerful conversation about men, emotions, relationships, and what it really means to understand one another more compassionately.

John has spent nearly 30 years working in men’s personal development, supporting men through major life transitions including midlife, fatherhood and the move into what he calls Eldership. Through his work - and his lived experience as a father and partner - John has witnessed firsthand how societal expectations and stereotypes shape the way boys and men learn (or don’t learn) to relate to their emotions.

This conversation is a grounded, honest exploration of how men experience and express emotions, how this differs from women, and how understanding those differences can profoundly improve our relationships - as partners, parents and humans.

A personal note from me I took so much from this episode. As someone in a long-term relationship - and as a mother of a son - this conversation gave me deeper insight into how men’s emotional worlds work, and how often misunderstandings arise not from lack of care, but from different emotional wiring and conditioning. It’s already shifted how I relate to my partner, and how I think about expectations, boundaries and communication - and I know it will do the same for many of you.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• How men experience and process emotions - and why this often looks different to women
• The impact of societal conditioning and expectations on boys and men
• Why emotional expression isn’t the same as emotional depth
• How understanding men’s inner worlds can improve communication and connection in relationships John’s use of Internal Family Systems (IFS) and why it’s central to his work with men
• Powerful parenting insights around boundaries, leadership and why being your child’s friend isn’t the same as being their parent
• How unrealistic expectations placed on children (and partners) can quietly damage connection

About the Guest:

John Broadbent is a dedicated father to two young men, a husband, and a business owner with nearly 30 years of experience in men’s personal development. As a specialist coach, mentor, retreat creator, and facilitator, he has witnessed first-hand the profound impact societal stereotypes have on boys and men, including his own sons. John designs and leads weeklong rite-of-passage programs for men navigating significant life transitions, such as midlife and later years, guiding them to explore the rich terrain of Eldership. Passionate about helping men define their legacy, he supports them in rediscovering their vitality, purpose, and passion for life as they age.

Show Resources:

Follow John on Instagram - HERE

Connect with John on Facebook - HERE

Check Out John's Website - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Check Out Emma's 1:1 Coaching - HERE

Book a FREE 30-minute Discovery Call with Emma - HERE

If you LOVED this episode, please share it on your Instagram stories and tag @emmalagerlow and @manunplugged. And if it sparked reflection around your relationships, I’d love you to pass it on to someone who might need this perspective too.

Yours in understanding, connection & compassion, Emma. X.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Amy Maree Campbell, Founder and CEO of Island Vibes - an Australian-made, inclusive sunless tanning brand born from lived experience, loss, resilience and a deep commitment to skin health.

Amy’s journey is extraordinary. From starting out as a mobile spray-tan artist in 2005, to becoming Nine Network Sydney’s contracted celebrity tan artist, to building and later selling a hugely successful hair and beauty salon - and finally choosing to focus fully on Island Vibes - this is a story of courage, clarity and conviction.

What makes this conversation especially powerful is why Amy does what she does. Growing up, she watched multiple members of her immediate family battle serious skin cancers, including melanoma. Those experiences shaped her lifelong mission to educate people - especially young women and teens - about sun safety, without shaming or fear.

At 50, I found myself deeply resonating with this conversation. I’ve finally made peace with stepping away from being a sun-seeker, and while I’ve used fake tan before, I know I’ll be far more intentional about protecting my skin moving forward. This episode felt like a timely reminder that mindset, education and self-care evolve as we do.

Key Takeaways:

• Why skin-cancer awareness - particularly for teens - matters more than ever
• How Island Vibes offers a safer, natural-looking alternative to sun exposure
• Amy’s journey through IVF and endometriosis, and how resilience shaped her leadership
• The power of belief, manifestation and vision boards in building a business
• Why Amy sees challenges as inevitable life lessons - not roadblocks
• The importance of community, support and inclusive beauty at every age

About the Guest:

Amy Maree Campbell is the Founder and CEO of Island Vibes, an Australian-made sunless tanning brand created to deliver a natural, inclusive glow without the harmful effects of sun exposure. With nearly two decades of experience as a spray tan artist - including work as Nine Network Sydney’s contracted celebrity tanner - Amy is widely respected for her expertise, authenticity, and commitment to skin health.

Amy’s passion for safer tanning was born from deeply personal experience, having witnessed multiple family members battle skin cancer from prolonged sun exposure. This journey transformed her from a former sun seeker into a passionate skin advocate, educator, and entrepreneur.

After building and successfully selling Southern Sydney’s largest combined hair and beauty salon, The Bridal Bar, Amy chose to focus fully on Island Vibes - a brand grounded in inclusivity, community, and self-belief. She is also a co-author of Navigating Motherhood, an IVF and endometriosis advocate, and a powerful voice for conscious beauty and women-led business.

Amy’s story is one of resilience, vision, and choosing a better way - for your skin, your body, and your life. 

Show Resources:

Follow Amy on Instagram - HERE

Connect with Amy on LinkedIn - HERE

Check Out Amy's, Island Vibes Website - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About Emma's 1:1 Coaching - HERE

Book a FREE 30-Minute Discovery Call with Emma - HERE

This is a conversation about health, identity, motherhood, belief and choosing long-term wellbeing over short-term aesthetics - without losing joy, confidence or glow.

If you loved this episode, please share it on your Instagram stories and tag @emmalagerlow and @amy_maree_c - it helps these conversations reach more people who need them.

Yours in self-care, sun safety and conscious choices, Emma. X.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Daniel Murray, a leadership speaker, coach and consultant who specialises in helping people unlock performance through curiosity, empathy and emotional intelligence - without losing rigour or results.

Daniel brings a fascinating blend of strategic thinking and human understanding to leadership. With a background in mathematics, corporate strategy and executive leadership, he helps leaders develop what he calls the tough skills - the ones that truly shape culture, trust and performance.

This conversation genuinely intrigued me. Having been accused at times of not being empathetic, I was deeply curious to unpack what empathy actually is - and what it isn’t - especially in high-performance environments. Together, we explore how empathy shows up in leadership, why it’s often misunderstood, and how leading with empathy doesn’t mean being soft - it means being effective.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• What empathy really is (and the different types of empathy)
• How to tell if you’re actually empathetic - or just well-intentioned
• Why kindness matters just as much for yourself as it does for others
• How empathic leadership builds trust, safety and commitment
• Why understanding others is the foundation of leadership that truly works

If you’re a leader, coach, parent, or anyone navigating relationships where influence matters, this episode will challenge the way you think about empathy - and invite you to lead with more understanding, clarity and intention.

About the Guest:

Daniel Murray (BSc, MBA Exec) helps frustrated people leaders unlock the true performance of their people by developing curious and empathic skills to harness the 'tough skills' of leadership. His degree in mathematics and background in corporate strategy provides Daniel with a unique perspective blending strategic thinking with empathy and emotional intelligence in practical and pragmatic ways. 

His clients rave about his ability to bring humour and fun to the challenges of people leadership and make complex neuroscientific concepts simple and practical to implement. As a professional speaker, trainer, coach and consultant, Daniel is able to help clients harness their most powerful assets, their people, through leadership skills that work. 

He has worked with clients such as BHP, Lion, ASX, Allianz, Chubb Life Insurance, Tyro Payments, CBA, QBE, Swiss RE, Nova Entertainment, Perpetual, Genpact, The Executive Connection, The CEO Institute, Bulbeck group and Applied Medical. 

Building a committed team is one of the hardest and most important skill for every leader, Daniel helps his clients become empathic leaders worth following.

Show Resources:

Connect with Daniel on LinkedIn - HERE

Check Out Daniel's Website - HERE

Learn More About Daniel's Book, The Empathy Gap - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About 1:1 Coaching with Emma - HERE

Book a FREE 30-Minute Call with Emma - HERE

If you loved this episode, please share it on your Instagram stories and tag @emmalagerlow - it helps the podcast reach more people who need these conversations.

Yours in Leading with Empathy, Emma. X.

As 2025 draws to a close, today’s solo episode is a gentle invitation to reflect, integrate and intentionally open the door to what’s next.

This episode was inspired by my recent Align & Manifest workshop, where reflection was paired with sound healing - allowing insight to land not just in the mind, but in the body. What unfolded in that space reminded me how powerful it is to slow down, feel, and consciously close a chapter before stepping into a new one.

Throughout this episode, I guide you through a series of reflective questions you can journal with, sit with, or simply let land - whether you’re listening quietly at home or on the move. There’s no pressure to do this “perfectly”; you can always return to these questions when the moment feels right.

I also share my own reflections from the year - what felt heavy, what surprised me, what supported me, and what I’m consciously releasing - alongside how embodiment and sound have become an increasingly important part of how I support integration and growth.

This is a soft, spacious episode designed to help you close 2025 with awareness, gratitude and self-trust - and step into 2026 from a grounded, intentional place rather than autopilot.

Reflection Questions:

1. What felt heavy or challenging for you in 2025 - and how can you honour that honestly?

2. What supported you, surprised you, or felt good this year - even in small, quiet ways?

3. What did 2025 teach you about yourself, and what are you ready to let go of as this chapter closes?

4. Choose a feeling for the year ahead?

5. Who are you becoming as you move into your next chapter?

6. What are you ready to welcome more of in 2026?

7. And finally, what is your word for 2026?

Key Takeaways:

• Why pausing at the end of a year is an act of self-leadership, not avoidance
• Why choosing a feeling for the year ahead can be more powerful than rigid goals
• The role of sound healing in helping reflection integrate on a nervous system level

Show Resources:

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About 1:1 Coaching with Emma - HERE

Book a FREE 30-minute Discovery Call with Emma - HERE

Learn More About Emma's Book, Worthy and Wealthy - HERE

If you loved this episode, I’d be so grateful if you shared it with someone who might need a gentle pause right now. You can also tag me on Instagram @emmalagerlow - I always love seeing where and how you’re listening.

Yours in reflection, intention and becoming, Emma x

This episode is a powerful reminder that real growth - personal or professional - doesn’t come from strategy alone. It comes from connection.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Vinisha Rathod - strategist, author, and commercial growth partner - for a rich, honest conversation about leadership, gender, embodiment, and what it truly takes to grow without losing yourself.

Vinisha brings over a decade of experience across political campaigns, seven years consulting at Ernst & Young and Boston Consulting Group, and leadership work across tech, culture and scale-up organisations in the Middle East. Today, she partners with leaders navigating major inflection points - from 15 to 50, 250 and 500+ people - where strategy alone simply isn’t enough.

She’s also the author of The Briefcase Effect, a philosophy that reframes personal branding as clarity, resilience and integrity from the inside out — not performance or polish.

Vinisha is such a charismatic soul, and I absolutely loved this conversation - especially our discussion about the importance of connection. It echoed so much of my own work as a coach, where I see again and again that sustainable growth only happens when we’re connected to our bodies, our values, and each other.

This episode felt honest, grounded and deeply human. If you’ve ever felt the tension between ambition and wellbeing, or growth and self-abandonment, this conversation will really land.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Why connection matters more than strategy when it comes to sustainable growth
• How gender constructs quietly shape leadership, power and opportunity
• Why advocating for safety, equity and addressing domestic violence belongs in leadership conversations
• The value of a friendship audit and choosing relationships that support your evolution

About the Guest:

Vinisha Rathod is a strategist, author and commercial growth partner who works with leaders and organisations navigating complex growth and transformation.

With over a decade of experience spanning political campaigns, seven years consulting with Ernst & Young and Boston Consulting Group, and senior leadership roles across tech and culture engagements in the Middle East, Vinisha brings real-world grit and systems thinking to scaling people, culture and structure - not just strategy.

She is known for partnering with organisations at critical inflection points - from 15 to 50, 250 to 500+ people, and during major transitions such as mergers, funding and expansion - helping leaders reset focus, build sustainable cultures, strengthen decision-making, and grow without burnout.

Vinisha is also the author of The Briefcase Effect, a philosophy and action plan that reframes personal branding as clarity, resilience and authenticity built from the inside out - not polished facades.

Her work centres on helping individuals and organisations grow with integrity, connection and long-term sustainability.

Show Resources:

Follow Vinisha on Instagram - HERE

Check Out Vinisha's Website - HERE

Learn More About The Briefcase Effect - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About 1:1 Coaching with Emma - HERE

Book a FREE Discovery Call with Emma - HERE

If you loved the episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us: @emmalagerlow and @avinii_shar.

Yours in Connection, Emma. X.

In a world obsessed with comfort, ease and avoiding discomfort, today’s guest offers a powerful reframe: stress isn’t the enemy - how we respond to it is.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Dr Paul Taylor, a Psychophysiologist, former Royal Navy Officer, and one of the world’s leading experts in hardiness - the science of turning stress into growth, strength and resilience.

Paul brings a rare depth of insight, combining neuroscience, psychology, nutrition, exercise science, military leadership and real-world performance. He’s the author of the bestselling, award-winning Death By Comfort and his newly released book The Hardiness Effect, and host of the Hardiness Podcast, ranked in the top 0.5% of podcasts globally.

Together, we explore why modern life is quietly eroding our resilience, how over-comfort is making us more fragile, and why learning to lean into challenge - rather than avoid it - is essential for wellbeing, leadership and long-term fulfilment.

I genuinely don’t think I’ve ever written so many key takeaways from a single episode. Paul is incredibly inspiring - calm, practical and deeply human in the way he explains stress, courage and growth. This conversation challenged my thinking and reinforced something I see every day in my coaching work: mindset alone isn’t enough. True resilience lives in the body, the nervous system and our willingness to meet discomfort with intention.

If stress has been feeling heavy, relentless or overwhelming - this episode will give you an entirely new lens.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Hardiness isn’t about avoiding stress - it’s the courage to grow because of it
• Why comfort is quietly undermining our resilience and wellbeing
• How Stoicism is about feeling emotion without being controlled by it
• You always have a choice in how you respond - even under pressure
• Why the fight response (not just flight or freeze) plays a vital role in healthy stress management 

About the Guest:

Dr. Paul Taylor is a Psychophysiologist, with a PhD in Psychology, separate master's degrees in Exercise Science and Nutrition and a postgraduate qualification in Neuroscience. A former Royal Navy Officer and Adjunct Professor at University of San Francisco, Paul is a leading expert in hardiness - the cutting-edge science that transforms stress into competitive advantage.

As Director of Paul Taylor Consulting, he delivers keynote talks and hardiness training, leadership and performance workshops to companies such as Oracle, SAP, PWC, NAB, CBA, BUPA & the Australian Military. He has conducted published research that shows that his programs have proven benefits for increasing hardiness, cognitive function and employee wellbeing, whilst reducing burnout across multiple industries.

Paul is the author of the best-selling, multiple award-winning book "Death By Comfort" and has just released his second book, "The Hardiness Effect". Paul also hosts the Hardiness Podcast, which is in the top 0.5% of all podcasts globally, and has developed a hardiness app to help people develop this crucial life skill.

His media experience includes co-hosting the TV series "Body and Brain Overhaul," appearing on "The Biggest Loser" as a subject matter expert and being voted Australian Fitness Industry presenter of the year twice.

Paul's high-pressure leadership experience includes roles as Airborne Anti-submarine Warfare Officer and Helicopter Search-And-Rescue Crew Member with the Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm. He's undergone rigorous Military Combat Survival training, became a professional boxer in 2012, and in 2021, both Paul and his son Oscar became Australian Karate Champions.

Show Resources:

Follow Paul on Instagram - HERE

Check out Paul's Website - HERE

Learn More About Paul's new book, The Hardiness Effect - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About 1:1 Coaching with Emma - HERE

Book a FREE 30-Minute Discovery Call with Emma - HERE

If you loved the episode, please share it on your Instagram stories and tag us: @emmalagerlow and @paultaylor.biz

If you’re ready to rethink stress, reclaim your inner strength, and build resilience that lasts — this episode is essential listening. Yours in courage and growth, Emma x

So many of us move through life wearing masks - hiding our sensitivities, our complexity, our neurodivergence, or simply the parts of ourselves we fear won’t be accepted.

Today’s guest, Alina Bellchambers, knows this journey intimately. Alina grew up inside her family’s bookstore, spending her childhood immersed in other worlds - worldbuilding, psychology and fantasy becoming early languages she now weaves into her writing.

Today, she’s the author of two highly acclaimed romantasy psychological thrillers: The Order of Masks - a high-stakes tale of deception, power, and identity and The Weight of Crowns - a darkly seductive exploration of destiny, desire and the cost of becoming who you truly are. 

And this conversation goes exactly there - into identity, masking, authenticity, self-acceptance, and what it really takes to stop shaping yourself to keep others comfortable.

I adored this conversation because Alina speaks so openly about unmasking, self-acceptance and the freedom that comes when you allow yourself to be fully you. These themes are so deeply tied to my work as a mindset coach - helping people peel back the layers of who they thought they needed to be and reconnect with who they truly are.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Why fantasy (and especially romantasy) offers such powerful escapism and how Alina uses her psychology background to create rich, layered characters and psychologically tense storylines
• What “masking” really means, how it shows up for women, and why so many are misdiagnosed or misunderstood
• The role of autism and neurodivergence in identity formation and self-acceptance and why letting go of others’ expectations is the most liberating thing you’ll ever do
• The reality of becoming an author - the discipline and the magic of creative flow
• What happens when you stop shrinking, stop performing, and start choosing authenticity

About the Guest:

Alina Bellchambers grew up in her family’s bookstore and spent her childhood immersed in fantastical worlds. Today, she channels that lifelong love of storytelling into writing romantic fantasy and psychologically rich thrillers featuring fierce female protagonists, morally grey characters, intoxicating magic and seductive court politics.

She is the author of two acclaimed romantasy novels - The Order of Masks and The Weight of Crowns.

Alongside her writing career, Alina is also an actor, model and public speaker. She holds a degree in psychology and writes from her forty-acre hobby farm in the picturesque Adelaide Hills of South Australia.

When she’s not typing away in her study (with a cup of tea always nearby), Alina enjoys creative arts, hiking with her feisty dog Scamp, and connecting with her readers on social media at @alinabellwrites.

Show Resources:

Follow Alina on Instagram - HERE

Check Out Alina's website - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Check Our Emma's 1:1 Become the Butterfly Coaching Program - HERE

Book a FREE 30-minute Discovery Call with Emma - HERE

If you loved this episode, please share it on your Instagram stories and tag us: @emmalagerlow and @alinabellwrites.

Yours in Fantasy and Authenticity, Emma. X.

If that thought has ever floated through your mind, you’re in very good company. Only 33% of Australians feel financially prepared for retirement, which means most of us are quietly wondering if we’re doing enough - even if we’re not saying it out loud. That’s why this week’s conversation with James Wrigley is such a powerful one.

James is one of Australia’s most trusted and followed financial advisers, part-owner of First Financial, and the author of the newly released book Retire Life Ready.

James is the adviser people turn to when they feel stuck, overwhelmed or simply unsure what’s possible. He helps people zoom out, breathe, and see that they’re not behind, they’re not trapped, and they’re definitely not too late to shape a financial future they feel proud of. What I love about James is his ability to blend strategy with empathy.

His story - from accidentally applying for a job he didn’t fully understand straight out of uni, to discovering it was his forever career - reminds us that sometimes the best paths are the ones we don’t plan.

As a midlife woman myself, retiring life ready is no longer a “future me problem” - it’s something I’m intentionally thinking about. So I paid very close attention to everything James shared.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• What you want to do with the third of your life you spend in retirement Retirement isn’t an ending - it’s a reimagining.
• The sooner you start thinking about your retirement plan, the better, small actions today open big possibilities later.
• The power of saying yes; being open to learning and making small changes can radically shift your future.
• Knowing how much is “enough” for YOU - how to identify your personal level of financial comfort and freedom - not society’s.

About the Guest:

James Wrigley is one of Australia’s most trusted financial advisers and part-owner of First Financial. With more than 20 years’ experience, he’s known for helping everyday Australians cut through overwhelm, make confident decisions, and prepare for the future with clarity. James is also the author of the newly released book Retire Life Ready, and his practical, jargon-free videos have reached hundreds of thousands of people online. His work blends empathy, strategy and straight-talking advice to help people create a retirement - and a life - they’re genuinely excited about.

Show Resources:

Follow James on Instagram - HERE

Check out Jame's book, Retire Life Ready - HERE

Learn More About First Financial - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About Emma's Wealth Mastery Self-Paced Program - HERE

If you LOVED the episode, please share it on your Instagram stories and tag @emmalagerlow and @iamjameswrigley - I love seeing your takeaways.

Yours in Retiring Life Ready, Emma. X.

Maybe you’re confident, capable, and the go-to person in every other area of your life - yet in relationships you still find yourself over giving, second-guessing your needs, or slipping into old habits that no longer feel like you.

If that sounds familiar, this episode will land deeply.

This week, I’m joined by Clinical Psychologist and Couples Counsellor Phoebe Rogers, Founder of The Relationship Space, whose work is changing the way women understand love, attachment, emotional safety, and self-worth.

Phoebe once lived the same patterns so many smart women do - emotional burnout, self-abandonment, choosing partners who couldn’t meet her, and feeling confused about why love felt harder than it needed to. Everything shifted for her when she discovered attachment theory, Schema Therapy, and Inner Child work - approaches that helped her break old cycles and finally choose secure, steady, emotionally available love.

What I adore about this conversation is that it’s not just for women dating or looking for love. It’s for anyone who wants healthier, more connected, more emotionally reciprocal relationships - including the one they have with themselves.

Even after nearly 25 years of marriage, I learned so much about my own patterns, my own instincts, and the subtle ways we silence ourselves in order to keep the peace. I know you will too.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Why women overgive - and how to stop abandoning yourself. Phoebe explains why so many women slip into the role of giver, fixer, or emotional anchor - and how to shift into healthier, more reciprocal patterns.
• How Schema Therapy reveals the beliefs driving your relationship habits and understanding them changes everything - not just romantically, but across friendships, family and work.
• Your wounded child: the part of you that still needs reassurance and safety, Phoebe shares powerful insights into how to connect with and soothe the younger part of yourself that’s driving your biggest fears and reactions.
• The power of listening to yourself, from intuition to boundaries.

About the Guest:

Phoebe Rogers is a Clinical Psychologist and Couples Counsellor specialising in dating and relationships, and is the Founder of The Relationship Space. She once struggled to find a healthy relationship, and kept repeating patterns of emotional burnout and self-abandonment; after discovering attachment theory, Schema Therapy and Inner Child work she was able to break free of unhelpful relationship patterns and find love- firstly with herself, and then with a partner. She now helps other women choose emotionally available, secure love, by understanding their patterns, healing past wounds, and choosing differently. She helps women develop self-trust in dating, to communicate their needs without fear, and choose the love they deserve. Phoebe is sought out for her compassionate, direct, and integrative approach, using Schema Therapy, and good old-fashioned pragmatic advice. She also runs an online group for women who want healthy relationships.

Show Resources:

Follow Phoebe on Instagram - HERE

Connect with Phoebe on Facebook - HERE

Learn More About Phoebe's Book, When Will It Happen For Me - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About Emma's 1:1 Coaching - HERE

Book a Complimentary 30-Minute Call with Emma - HERE

If you LOVED this episode, please share it on your Instagram stories and tag @emmalagerlow and @therelationshipspace - I genuinely love seeing your insights and ah-ha moments.

Yours in Love, Emma. X.

This episode goes straight to the heart of that question. I had the joy of sitting down with Hilton Misso, founder of the Think2Be Group, entrepreneur, lawyer, philanthropist, and a man who has spent almost 80 years studying, practising, and living the principles of mindset, mindfulness, and meaningful success.

From leading Trilby Misso to a record-breaking $57 million sale, to building Sesame Lane Early Learning Centres into thriving hubs of connection and care, Hilton’s story is less about business… and more about who you choose to be.

This podcast is called It’s a Mindset for a reason - and Hilton embodies that truth. The number of times he referenced mindfulness, conviction, awareness, and intention was deeply inspiring.

As a coach who helps women uncover their values and purpose, I found myself nodding along every five minutes. Hilton’s success methodology mirrors so much of what I teach - that success begins within, long before it becomes visible.

Hilton’s new book, How to Manifest Success, distils more than six decades of leadership, business and personal development into 50 proven lessons for turning ambition into achievement. Part memoir and part masterclass, this book reveals how to: turn big ideas into tangible results rewire your mindset and eliminate self-doubt build sustainable, long-term wealth spot and act on rare opportunities use adversity as fuel for reinvention align your thinking, actions and energy for lasting success It’s a powerful companion for anyone who loves mindset, manifestation and purposeful living.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Mindfulness as a success foundation - presence drives clarity and better decisions.
• Credibility, authenticity & awareness - the traits Hilton believes matter most.
• Conviction creates reality - the Think2Be philosophy: you must think it before you become it.
• The compounding power of wealth - long-term, intentional choices create freedom.

About the Guest:

Author Hilton Misso an entrepreneur, lawyer and philanthropist with over 60 years’ experience in business, leadership, and personal growth. He built Trilby Misso Lawyers, one of Australia’s fastest-growing law firms and led successful ventures across childcare, investments, property and wellness, including a thriving asset management portfolio. How to Manifest Success is his first book

Show Resources:

Connect with Hilton on LinkedIn - HERE

Check out Hilton's website - HERE

Learn more about Hilton's book - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Check out Emma's award winning book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

Learn more about 1:1 coaching with Emma - HERE

If you loved the episode, share it on your Instagram stories and tag @emmalagerlow, we’d love to hear what resonated. 

Yours in Manifesting Success, Emma. X.

What if the secret wasn’t doing more… but doing less?

In this powerful episode, I’m joined by Donna McGeorge, a sought-after international speaker, coach, and bestselling author of 15 books including The 25-Minute Meeting, The First 2 Hours, 1 Day Refund, ChatGPT Revolution and her latest, Red Brick Thinking.

Donna’s work has been featured in Harvard Business Review, Forbes, Fast Company, and across national TV, and she’s known for her no-fluff, high-energy approach that cuts through the noise to create meaningful, lasting change.

We dive deep into the concept of Red Brick Thinking - the art of strategic subtraction. It’s about stripping away the unnecessary layers of busyness so you can create space, focus, and move forward with clarity.

The idea of emotional red bricks really resonated with me; because often, the things that weigh us down aren’t on our calendar, they’re in our hearts and minds. Letting go of those “bricks” creates space not just for productivity, but for peace.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• The Red Brick Strategy is about strategic subtraction - doing less, but better.
• Creating space and capacity allows you to give energy to what’s truly important.
• Sleep, movement, and nutrition are the non-negotiable foundations for focus and flow.
• The power of the “enough” movement - knowing when you’ve done enough, have enough, and are enough.
• How tools like ChatGPT can help you reclaim your time by automating the busywork and freeing you up for creative, meaningful tasks.

About the Guest:

From boardrooms to auditoriums, Donna McGeorge sparks practical change that lasts.

A sought-after international speaker, and bestselling author of 15 books, including The 25 Minute Meeting,  First 2 Hours,  1 Day Refund,  ChatGPT Revolution and her latest, Red Brick Thinking - Donna helps leaders and teams to cut through noise, creating space and capacity for what’s most important in their lives.

Her work has been featured in Harvard Business Review, Forbes, Fast Company and on national TV.

Whether with 20 leaders behind closed doors or 2,000 in a packed auditorium, Donna delivers high-energy sessions filled with sharp insights, relatable stories and immediately actionable ideas - no jargon, no fluff and no one will be checking their emails, while Donna is speaking!

Show Resources:

Follow Donna on Instagram - HERE

Connect with Donna on LinkedIn - HERE

Check Out Donna's books - HERE 

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host - HERE

Learn More About 1:1 Coaching with Emma - HERE

Book a FREE Discovery Call with Emma - HERE

If you LOVED this episode, make sure to share it on your Instagram Stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @dmcgeorge - we’d love to hear what resonated most! 

Yours in Doing Less, Emma. X.

Now, this little podcast sits proudly in the Top 5 % of shows worldwide - and I’m beyond grateful.

In this special anniversary episode, I’m reflecting on the biggest mindset shifts and lessons that have shaped both me and this growing community. From the guests who’ve shared their wisdom to the listeners who’ve written saying an episode changed their outlook - it’s been a journey of growth, gratitude, and so much magic.

In this episode I share:

• Why mindset changes everything - and how these conversations have transformed my coaching work.
• Why worth always comes before wealth, and how Worthy & Wealthy grew from that belief.
• Why midlife is a rebirth, not a crisis, and how reinvention keeps us alive.
• How connection is currency; the real magic behind meaningful conversations.
• And how consistency breeds confidence; showing up, even when it’s hard.

The Mindset Library Giveaway:

To celebrate, I’m gifting 12 incredible books from my podcast guests - bundled into three “Mindset Library” packs.

To enter:

1. Follow @emmalagerlow
2. DM me which bundle you’d love - Worth & Wealth, Wellbeing & Wisdom, or Freedom & Fulfilment
3. Share your favourite episode or biggest takeaway

I’ll be choosing three winners next week. 

Please note: Giveaway open to Australian residents only (sorry, international friends!).

Show Resources:

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Check out Emma's book Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

Learn more about 1:1 Coaching with Emma - HERE

Book a FREE Discovery Call with Emma - HERE

Thank you for being part of this journey  for listening, sharing, and believing in the power of mindset. Here’s to the next chapter of worth, wealth & wellbeing.

If you LOVED this episode please enter the giveaway and share your takeaways to your Instagram story and tag me @emmalagerlow.

Yours In Mindset Mastery, Emma. X.

It’s not you. It’s perimenopause.

This week, I’m joined by Sarah Gray, one of Australia’s leading dual-qualified health professionals in pharmacy and nutrition, and a certified menopause practitioner with over 25 years of experience.

Sarah brings science-backed, holistic wisdom to a topic that affects every woman; yet is still so misunderstood. Through her work and her new book, It’s Not You, It’s Perimenopause, she’s helping women make sense of their symptoms, take control of their wellbeing, and feel empowered through this transition.

Having navigated perimenopause myself, I can honestly say; it would have been wonderful to have Sarah’s book and guidance back then. Her calm, evidence-based approach makes this complex stage of life feel far less confusing and far more hopeful.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Tailoring your health to your unique needs is key; there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to perimenopause.
• Many women come to Sarah wanting to lose weight, but the real issue is often navigating hormonal shifts, not calories.
• One surprising benefit of this stage? Confidence - knowing who you are and what truly matters.
• It’s about understanding what supports you - good nutrition, movement, community - and what you can let go of for greater harmony.

About the Guest:

Sarah Gray is one of Australia’s leading dual-qualified health professionals in pharmacy and nutrition, and a certified menopause practitioner with over 25 years of experience in the health and wellness industry. Her holistic approach focuses on supplements and science-based solutions for perimenopause and menopause. A trusted thought leader, Sarah has appeared on Channel 10’s My Market Kitchen and is a recognised voice across radio, print, digital media and podcasts. She is also a regular contributor to leading health blogs and publications.

Show Resources:

Follow Sarah on Instagram - HERE

Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn - HERE

Check out Sarah's website - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn more about 1:1 coaching with Emma - HERE

If you LOVED this episode, share it on your Instagram Stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @the_nutrition_pharmacist - we’d love to hear your biggest takeaways.

Yours in navigating perimenopause, Emma. X.

This week on It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Julie Talbot, a UK property investor, strategist, and freedom seeker who’s redefining success by putting time and location freedom first.

As an expat stay-at-home mum, Julie discovered that growing a UK property portfolio was the perfect “job” - flexible, family-friendly, and totally location-independent. Over the past decade, she’s built and managed over 40 projects for herself and her clients, all without setting foot back in the UK.

Now, she slow travels full-time with her husband and twin daughters, embracing worldschooling over the school run and showing what it truly means to live life on your own terms.

As someone who’s been reflecting on freedom as one of my deepest personal values, I found this conversation incredibly inspiring. Julie is living proof that when you design your life intentionally, not by default, the rewards go far beyond financial.

Key Episode Takeaways

• What worldschooling really is - and how it creates freedom and connection as a family
• Why defining what freedom means to you is essential before you can build it
• How the best lessons in property investing often come from your biggest mistakes
• Why slow travelling full-time can actually be more affordable than a traditional lifestyle

About the Guest

Julie is an active UK property investor, strategist, and freedom seeker, reshaping how to grow and manage a UK property business by putting time and location freedom first.

As an expat stay at home mum, she found growing a UK property portfolio the perfect “job” - flexible, doable from anywhere, and a great fit for family life.

Over the past decade, she’s grown portfolios for herself and clients, managing 40+ projects - without flying back to the UK.

With a background in business design and process management, Julie helps expats and nomads make strategic choices that unlock time and location freedom so that they can scale or manage their UK property ventures, from wherever they want to be in the world.

Julie now slow travels full-time with her husband and twin daughters, choosing worldschooling over the school run.

Her motto? “If you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right.”

Show Resources:

Follow Julie on Instagram - HERE

Connect with Julie on Facebook - HERE

Download Julie's Freebie: 3 simple steps to location freedom in your property business - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Download the Free Chapter of Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

Learn More About Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @julierosetalbot - we’d love to hear your biggest takeaway! Because true wealth isn’t just about money; it’s about freedom, choice, and the courage to design your life your way.

Yours in Freedom Seeking, Emma. X.

Turns out, it’s only 14 minutes - and according to my guest, that tiny slice of time can completely transform your mindset, your habits, and your happiness.

This week, I’m joined by Cooper Chapman, professional surfer, speaker, and founder of The Good Human Factory. After more than a decade on the waves, Cooper’s true passion has become helping people strengthen their mental health through simple, intentional practices that build resilience and connection.

His journey started close to home; inspired by his dad’s experience with depression and the heartbreaking loss of people close to his family. Since then, Cooper’s mission has been clear: to create a world where people don’t just avoid struggling with mental health, but actually learn how to thrive - from classrooms to corporate boardrooms.

As someone who’s always loved exploring well-being (and who also has a surf-obsessed family!), chatting with Cooper was such a pleasure. His energy is calm, grounded, and real - and his 1% philosophy is something we can all bring into our lives, no matter how busy we are.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Being intentional with just 1% of your day (14 minutes) can change your life.
• Practising gratitude as a community creates a ripple effect of positivity and connection.
• The power of habit stacking - small shifts compound over time into huge transformation.
• Cooper’s mission is to flip the script on mental health - from crisis management to everyday well-being, in schools, workplaces, and beyond.

About the Guest:

A professional surfer for more than 10 years, Cooper grew up in Narrabeen in New South Wales, Australia. Cooper’s interest in mental health was prompted by his father’s bout with depression and the suicide of two family friends. Meditating on a regular basis and practicing mindfulness helps Cooper manage his anxiety and perform at a high level, whether he’s competing in a contest or giving a speech.

With a low-key, caring manner that connects with all audiences, Cooper Chapman has trained thousands of Australian students, teachers, athletes, and corporates to increase their mental strength and resilience.

Show Resources:

Follow Cooper on Instagram - HERE

Check out the Good Human Factory Website - HERE

Learn More About the 1% Good Club - HERE

Check out Cooper's book, The 1% Good Club - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Check out Emma's Free Resources - HERE

Download Emma's FREE Gratitude Journal - HERE

If you LOVED this episode, share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @cooperchapman

Because sometimes, the biggest change starts with just 1%.

Yours in Being a Good Human, Emma. X.

The numbers are staggering: on average, there’s a $1 million lifetime earnings gap between women and men. That’s not just a statistic, it’s a wake-up call.

In this episode, I’m joined by Roxanne Calder, Managing Director of EST10 and author of Earning Power: Breaking Barriers and Building Wealth for Women. Roxanne has spent her career helping women take back their power and rewrite the rules around worth, confidence, and money.

We dive into the deep roots of the gender pay gap - why so many women still don’t ask for more, how societal conditioning to “be liked” holds us back, and what it takes to confidently claim your value. If you’ve ever hesitated to ask for a pay rise, raise your prices, or step into your next level - this episode will give you the mindset and motivation to change that.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• There’s a $1 million difference in women’s lifetime earnings compared to men, awareness is the first step toward change.
• Taking back your power starts with asking for more, even when it feels uncomfortable.
• Societal conditioning to be “liked” can hold women back from advocating for themselves.
• Small, brave steps - whether it’s negotiating a salary or trying an ice bath (Roxanne’s form of meditation!) - build the muscle of confidence and courage.

About the Guest:

Roxanne Calder is a recruiter, career advisor, and employment expert. As the Managing Director of EST10, one of Australia's leading recruitment agencies, Roxanne has spent her career navigating the intricate intersections of talent and opportunity, reshaping how individuals and businesses approach success in the workplace. Her latest book Earning Power: Breaking Barriers and Building Wealth for Women gives you the mindset, tools and confidence to take control of your future.

Show Resources:

Connect with Roxanne on LinkedIn - HERE

Follow Roxanne on Instagram - HERE

Check out Roxanne's website, EST10 - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Check out Emma's book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

If you LOVED this episode, share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @roxanne.calder because when women earn more, everyone rises.

Yours in Asking for Your Worth, Emma. X.

That’s exactly the space Ally Emanuel has walked through - and powerfully risen beyond, on more than one occassion.

In this episode, I sit down with Ally, the inspiring force behind Thrive With Ally, a wellness space designed to help women - especially over 50 - reclaim their strength, heal from trauma, and rise unapologetically into thriving. With her warm, down-to-earth approach, Ally weaves together simple nutrition, micro-habits, and mindset coaching to help women feel energised, grounded, and confident.

For me, this conversation really struck a chord, the resilience Ally embodies and her determination to keep going despite life’s curveballs reminded me of the mindset shifts I’ve had to make in my own journey. Watching her thrive in her 50s is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to step into your best self

Key Episode Takeaways:

• You’re never too old, and it’s never too late to reinvent yourself.
• Self-discipline will take you further than luck ever could.
• Ally trains and meal preps not to impress others, but to be strong for herself.
• With age comes freedom: the less you care about what others think, the more you learn to love yourself when you do the work. 

About the Guest:

Thrive With Ally is a powerful wellness space led by nutrition coach Ally Emanuel, designed to support women - especially over 50 - in rising above chaos, healing from trauma, and reclaiming their strength. With a warm, down-to-earth approach, Ally combines simple nutrition, micro-habits, and mindset coaching to help women feel confident, energised, and deeply grounded. This is more than wellness, it’s a guided path from survival to true, unapologetic thriving.

Show Resources:

Follow Ally on Instagram - HERE

Connect with Ally on Facebook - HERE

Follow Aly on Tik Tok - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Lean more about 1:1 Coaching with Emma - HERE

Book a FREE Discovery Call with Emma - HERE

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @thrivewithally.e. 

Yours in Thriving, Emma. X.

That’s exactly where I found myself as I turned 50 this month. And while it’s been a whirlwind of book launches, travel, family, and even my first-ever surprise party (!!), it also felt like the perfect moment to share the lessons that have truly stuck with me.

In this solo episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m taking you behind the scenes of my own reflections - the five biggest lessons I’ve learned (and re-learned) that I believe can help you, no matter what chapter of life you’re in. From realising that self-worth is a daily practice (not a destination), to letting go of the need to have it all figured out, to embracing true wealth beyond money - these are the reminders that keep me grounded, inspired, and ready to step into the next chapter with courage and clarity.

For me, the biggest takeaway is this: anything is possible when you put your mind to it, especially if you give yourself permission to define wealth, success, and happiness on your own terms.

Key Episode Takeaways

• Self-worth isn’t about what you achieve, it’s about remembering you’re enough right now.
• Do what makes you happy - and stop worrying so much about pleasing everyone else.
• You don’t have to have it all figured out, curiosity and openness matter more than certainty.
• True wealth goes beyond money - it’s about meaning, connection, and experiences.
• Manifesting isn’t “woo”, it’s clarity, action, and energy aligned.

Show Resources

Follow Emma, the Instagram Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn more about 1:1 Coaching with Emma - HERE

Check out Emma's book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

If this episode resonates with you, I’d love for you to share it with someone who could use these reminders, and tag me @emmalagerlow so I can celebrate with you too.

Yours in Milestones and Mindsets, Emma. X.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I sit down with Dr. Siew-Fang Law and Hannes van Rensburg, co-founders of Bento Box of Care, to explore what happens when giving and caring come at the expense of our own wellbeing.

Siew-Fang brings over 25 years of experience in leadership, psychology, and coaching, helping leaders heal from burnout, trauma, and compassion fatigue. Hannes has nearly four decades of experience in safety, environment, and risk management, and together they’ve created Bento Box of Care to support people and organisations in building a true culture of care.

For me, this conversation was such a reminder that women especially are often conditioned to keep pouring into others, until we’re running on empty. It also opened my eyes to how much our bodies try to tell us about stress, burnout, and compassion fatigue, if only we stop long enough to listen.

Key Episode Takeaways

• What compassion fatigue really looks like — and why it’s more common than we think.
• How women are conditioned to care for others, often at the expense of themselves.
• The impact of unacknowledged “small traumas” and the lack of mental health support in many workplaces.
• Why listening to your body’s symptoms matters when it comes to stress, burnout, and care.

About the Guests

Dr Siew-Fang Law is the CEO and co-founder of Bento Box of Care. She builds leadership models drawing on her professional training in social psychology and peace psychology, and over 25 years of leadership and governance experience in higher education and nonprofit sectors. She provides coaching, therapy and organisational training to help leaders heal from compassion fatigue, burnout and trauma as well as build a culture of care for the organisation. Her coaching approaches include Root-Cause Therapy, Trauma-Informed Coaching-Therapy, Mediation, Conflict Resolution, Diversity and Inclusion.

Hannes van Rensburg has 37 years of experience in Health, Safety, Environment, Community, Risk Management, and Charity, caring for teams in various industries. He has worked for the Dow Chemical Company and BHP. In 2021, he founded JANSZ Leadership Excellence, co-create programs to develop authentic safety leaders. In 2024 Hannes co-found Bento Box of Care Pty Ltd with Dr. Siew-Fang Law to co-create a Culture of Care in organisations through the Power of Care.

Show Resources:

Check out the Bento Box of Care website - HERE

Connect with Dr Siew-Fang on LinkedIn - HERE

Connect Hannes on LinkedIn - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn more about Emma's 1:1 coaching - HERE

Check out Emma's book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

If you LOVED this episode, please share it with someone who needs the reminder to put themselves back on the list — and tag us @emmalagerlow.

Yours in Compassion & Care, Emma. X.

Gary knows a thing or two about reinvention. With over 46 jobs under his belt, from topless waiter to lecturer, startup founder to CEO advisor, his “give it a go” approach has shaped a life full of transformation. Now a transformational change specialist and bestselling author of Mastering the Art of Reinvention, Gary helps people and organisations reinvent themselves when they feel stuck.

In this episode, we dive into Gary’s brilliant “boss of the brain” analogy, the tension between foresight and blindsides when it comes to change, and why sometimes it takes hitting rock bottom to force reinvention.

For me, the most powerful reminder was that reinvention is never one-size-fits-all. The art of reinventing yourself is unique to each of us, but it’s also one of the most empowering ways to move forward when life feels stuck.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Gary’s simple “boss of the brain” analogy to explain the difference between brain and mind.

• Why 60% of people never follow their dreams, and how fear of failure is at the root of it.

• How foresight versus blindsides impact our ability to reinvent, and why catalysts matter.

• Reinvention is deeply personal, but it’s always possible when you’re willing to try.

About the Guest:

Gary Waldon is a transformational change specialist who has helped many people and organisations reinvent themselves using his practical and engaging approach. He has had over 46 different jobs throughout his life, including being a topless waiter, lecturer, teacher, start up founder and CEO advisor, along with earning two master’s degrees in business and finance. Gary has played significant transformational roles across multiple industries including health, technology, finance, consulting, education, and aviation. His ‘give it a go’ approach to life has seen him featured in media widely. He is also the best-selling author of the 2020 book release, Sort Your Sh!t Out.

Show Resources:

Check out Gary's website - HERE

Follow Gary on Instagram - HERE

Check out Gary's page on Facebook - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn more about Emma's 1:1 coaching - HERE

Check out Emma's book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

If you LOVED the episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us: @emmalagerlow and @garywaldon2.

Yours in Reinvention, Emma. X.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I sit down with Casey Beros, award-winning health journalist, bestselling author, keynote speaker, and one of Australia’s leading medical MCs. For two decades, Casey has been translating complex science into practical strategies that empower everyday people to live healthier, happier lives.

But it was becoming the primary carer for her beloved dad that changed everything. That experience inspired her heartfelt new book, Next of Kin, a compassionate and practical “what to expect when you’re expecting to care for someone you love.” Part memoir, part guide, it’s a much-needed companion for navigating the emotional and often overwhelming toll of care.

As a mum of two herself, Casey understands firsthand the unique strain of the sandwich generation, caring for ageing parents while raising children and trying to maintain a sense of self. She brings honesty, humour, and deep compassion to this conversation.

For me, this episode was a reminder of how important it is to prepare for the inevitable, the loss of our parents, and how caring can challenge everything from our routines to our sense of self. My biggest takeaway? The most meaningful thing we can do is spend time with the people we love, and when we align to one clear purpose, it sustains us even when times are tough.

Key Episode Takeaways

• The toll of care not only on the carer, but on those around them as well.
• Why it can feel impossible to maintain wellbeing routines while caring for someone with acute needs.
• The most meaningful time is always the time spent with those you love.
• How having one thing that is uniquely yours, your purpose, can create greater alignment and sustain you through difficult seasons.

About the Guest

Casey Beros is an award-winning health journalist, bestselling author, keynote speaker and one of Australia's leading medical MC's. She has spent the last 20 years asking our brightest minds how we can all live happier, healthier lives. Along the way she found some answers, and she shares them with the Australian public in a way that's both steeped in science and delightfully entertaining. She has hosted TV programs for the ABC and Channel 10, and written for many of our leading digital publications. She has a superhuman ability to translate complex science into practical and actionable strategies that empower the most important person in the health journey - you.

Being the primary carer for her beloved Dad was the catalyst for Casey to write her new book Next Of Kin - a 'what to expect when you're expecting' to become a carer for someone you love. A heartfelt companion, it's a practical and compassionate guide to navigating the complex, emotional and challenging world of care. Mum to two little girls, Casey is Australia's self-proclaimed parallel parking champion and knows the words to more pop songs than is probably normal.

Show Resources

Learn more about Casey's new book, Next of Kin - HERE

Check out Casey's website - HERE

Follow Casey on Instagram - HERE

Follow the Podcast Host, Emma Lagerlow on Instagram - HERE

Learn more about 1:1 coaching with Emma - HERE

If you LOVED the episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @caseyberos.

Yours in Care and Compassion, Emma, X.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I sit down with Shelley Flett, a transformational leadership trainer, executive coach, and author who knows firsthand that leadership goes far beyond the boardroom. After stumbling in her early leadership years, Shelley has devoted her career to empowering people to transform, not just transact, inspiring us all to lead with strength and kindness in the many roles we play.

Shelley shares her holistic approach to leadership, from drawing on intuition and emotional intelligence, to cultivating self-awareness and curiosity about our own triggers. We explore how the same principles that make great leaders at work can also strengthen our relationships at home and in life.

For me, this conversation was a reminder that true leadership begins with self-awareness and knowing what you need. Whether you’re leading a team, guiding a family, or supporting a friend, the courage to be both strong and kind can transform not just your own experience, but everyone around you.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• The importance of trusting your intuition in leadership, at work and in life.
• Why being a great leader means being both strong and kind.
• How a morning routine can set your state of mind before the “doing” begins.
• The role of self-awareness, noticing your triggers and getting curious instead of reactive.

About the Guest:

As a leader who got it terribly wrong in her early years, Shelley appreciates the challenges that come with managing performance, policies and processes alongside people, culture and wellbeing.

Since leaving her corporate role 2015, she has devoted her time to empowering leaders to drive their development journey and create strong team cohesion. Her focus revolves around the need to transform over transact and build capability over dependency.

Shelley is a Master Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) and Spiral Practitioner which allows her to take a holistic approach when working with leaders to connect head, heart and gut. She holds a Diploma in Leadership Coaching and Mentoring and is certified in LSI, DiSC, Roche Martin Emotional Intelligence, Values Pendulum and Green Belt Six Sigma.

She is a Professional Certified Coach through the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and has clocked over 1300 hours of one on one leadership coaching.

Shelley doesn’t consider herself a writer but has authored three books: The Direction Dilemma, why knowing what you want makes you a better leader; The Dynamic Leader, become the leader others are inspired to follow; and, Feedback, seek it, give it, connect with it. She uses her writing as a disciplined way of growing herself and deepening her knowledge. She is forced into the detail, even though her preference is big picture and feels the discomfort she encourages her clients to sit with.

Shelley believes the journey to dynamic leadership is lifelong, it's exciting and challenging - and the most fulfilling adventure one can embark on in their career.

Show Resources:

Connect with Shelley on LinkedIn - HERE

Follow Shelley on Instagram - HERE

Check out Shelley's website - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About Coaching with Emma - HERE

Check Out Emma's Book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

If you LOVED the episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @shelleyflett_leadership_coach.

Yours in Leadership and Life, Emma. X.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I sit down with Nikki Carvell, a UK-born, Sydney-based DJ, producer, and educator who proves that passion knows no age limit. After a career in the police force and CIO roles, Nikki picked up DJing at 43 and has since become a force in Australia’s house music scene.

From sharing the stage with legends like Purple Disco Machine and Basement Jaxx to founding her own label Dare To Records, Nikki’s story is proof that aligned action can rewrite your life at any stage.

For me, this conversation was a powerful reminder that you’re never too old to find your passion. Nikki’s courage, resilience, and love for music are contagious — and it made me reflect on the moments I’ve stepped into something new later in life. My biggest takeaway? Once you find the thing that lights you up, everything changes.

Key Episode Takeaways

• Nikki started DJing at 43, after careers in the police force and IT.
• Overcoming imposter syndrome often means throwing yourself in the deep end and remembering everyone is just a person.
• Don’t fear rejection, keep your ultimate goal in sight and take aligned action.
• Finding your passion can be life-changing, no matter when it happens.

About the Guest

Nikki Carvell is a UK-born, Sydney-based DJ, producer, and educator who has rapidly ascended Australia's house music scene since 2018. Originally from Leeds—a city renowned for its vibrant club culture—she brings a deep-rooted passion for classic, disco, and jackin' house to her performances. Her dynamic sets have earned her spots supporting international acts like Purple Disco Machine, Basement Jaxx, Mel C, John Digweed, Jamie Jones, and Fat Tony, as well as annual appearances at Ibiza's iconic Soul Heaven parties.

Beyond the decks, Nikki is the owner of Sydney DJ School, where she has mentored over 400 aspiring DJs. She also hosts a weekly show on Mambo Radio, sharing her musical insights with a broader audience. In addition to released on UK label In It Together, in 2024 she launched her own label, Dare To Records, debuting with the single “Ain’t Paradise” featuring remixes by Angelo Ferreri and Birdiee followed by "Life Is a Groove," featuring remixes by Angelo Ferreri and Mark Picchiotti.​ With a focus on creating 100% original vocal driven disco/house there is more to come in 2025.

Nikki's journey is a testament to passion and perseverance—having learned to DJ at 43, she has become a respected figure in the electronic music community, inspiring others to pursue their dreams regardless of age or background.

Show Resources:

Follow Nikki on Instagram - HERE

Check out Nikki on YouTube - HERE

Listen to Nikki's music on Spotify - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More about Coaching with Emma - HERE

Check out Emma's book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

If you LOVED the episode, share it on your Instagram stories and tag us: @emmalagerlow and @nikki.carvell.music.

And if you’re ready to explore your own passion, whether it’s uncovering your purpose, starting a new chapter, or carving out a completely new path, you can dive deeper through my book Worthy & Wealthy, explore my free resources, or reach out for 1:1 coaching at emmalagerlow.com.

Yours, in Dancing to Your Own Beat, Emma. X.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Karen Gately, best-selling author, Sensei, and Founder of the Corporate Dojo, to explore what it means to become a Black Belt Leader of yourself and others.

Drawing on her martial arts training, Karen shares how discipline has shaped her leadership style and approach to business. She opens up about overcoming childhood trauma, why it’s never your shame to carry, and how setting strong boundaries helped her recover from people pleasing. We also discuss her mission to lift the collective emotional intelligence — and why this is the foundation of great leadership.

I loved how Karen blends discipline, compassion, and life experience into practical wisdom you can apply today. This episode is full of insights that will stay with you long after listening.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• How martial arts has influenced Karen’s way of doing business from a discipline perspective.
• Why trauma experienced during childhood is not your shame.
• How Karen recovered from people pleasing by developing strong boundaries.
• Karen’s mission to lift the collective emotional intelligence.

About the Guest:

Empowering people to become Black Belt Leaders of themselves and other people.

Karen is a best-selling author, Sensei and Founder of the Corporate Dojo. A prolific writer and media commentator, Karen is a trusted authority on People Leadership and Self Mastery to the likes of ABC, Chanel 9, HR Director and CEO Magazines. Over the last 20 years Karen has influenced thousands of leaders across Australia and abroad to grow through development of character and capability strengths essential to effective and influential leadership. Karen works as a leadership Sensei, guiding her students to become both the best versions of themselves, and great leaders of people.

Karen can be engaged to provide strategic advice to Senior Leaders and HR Directors, and facilitate leadership, team and organisation development programs.

Show Resources:

Check out Karen's website - HERE

Check out Karen on YouTube - HERE

Connect with Karen on LinkedIn - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Check out Emma's book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

If you LOVED the episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram Stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @corporatedojo.

Yours in Discipline in Leadership, Emma. X.

As I record this, I’m about a month away from turning 50, and it feels so fitting to celebrate with Episode 52 of It’s a Mindset. This year has been a dream come true, a year of intentional travel, purpose-driven projects, and big life moves that have stretched me in all the best ways.

In this solo episode, I’m sharing a behind-the-scenes look at how I manifested my dream year, from New York City to Hawaii, Europe, and even an unexpected adventure in Seoul.

I’m also getting real about the financial side of things, because creating a life of freedom and fulfilment isn’t about pretending money doesn’t matter, it’s about using it intentionally to support your values and goals.

I’ll also be talking about: The emotional full-circle moment of returning to NYC after my corporate career at JPMorgan. Why Europe was a legacy trip for my family - and how we made it happen for six people. The exact cost of that trip and how the Holiday Hero Budget Planner helped us plan for it without sacrificing joy. How this podcast is shifting gears with weekly episodes and the incredible guests I have lined up. The power of combining strategy with belief - and living my book, Worthy & Wealthy, in real time. If you’ve ever wanted to know how to turn a vision into reality, not through hustle, but through intentionality, mindset, and heart-led strategy - this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways:

• Why travel isn’t just about holidays, but about living in alignment with your values.
• How to consciously plan for big life goals (and the money talk we need to be having).
• The balance of manifestation and structure - and why both matter.
• What’s next for It’s a Mindset and how you can be part of its growth.

Show Resources:

Get your Holiday Hero - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Check out Emma's book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

Listen now via the link in bio or on your favourite podcast platform. And if you haven’t yet downloaded the Holiday Hero Budget Planner, you’ll find the a link here, it’s the tool that helped me turn this dream year into a reality.

If you love this episode, please share it on your Instagram stories and tag @emmalagerlow. Thanks for tuning into this solo episode and for supporting It's a Mindset!

Yours in Manifesting Your Dream Life, Emma. X.

In this powerful and honest episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Lisa Merryweather, a former Mergers & Acquisitions lawyer with over 25 years of experience navigating high-stakes deals and intense corporate pressure.

These days, Lisa is rewriting her own definition of success. She’s a coach, mentor, and creative thinker exploring a whole new way of working, one that puts the human (not just the hustle) first. We talk about what happens when your body starts whispering (and then screaming) that something’s not right. Lisa shares the realities of life at the top—burnout, perfectionism, pushing through—and the courageous choice to stop, step back, and reimagine what fulfilment really means.

As someone who also spent years in the corporate world (hello, JPMorgan!), I found Lisa’s insights refreshingly raw, thoughtful, and important.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• The pressure of high-performance roles—and the unrealistic expectations that come with them
• The importance of self-compassion and giving yourself grace in times of transition
• Why perfectionism can quietly sabotage your growth
• The privilege and responsibility of being able to redefine wealth and success once you have financial stability

Show Resources:

Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn - HERE

Follow Emma, the podcast host on Instagram - HERE

Check Out Emma's Book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

Download Chapter 1 of Worthy & Wealthy for FREE - HERE

About the Guest:

Lisa Merryweather is a former Mergers & Acquisitions lawyer with over 25 years of experience — which means she has spent a fair share of her life drafting complex agreements, managing high-stakes negotiations, and becoming way too familiar with corporate regulations.

These days her life looks a little different. Lisa now work across a portfolio of roles — coaching and mentoring high-achieving professionals, writing (slightly-too- long-but-hopefully-entertaining LinkedIn posts, under the guise of preparing to write a book) and building the next chapter of her career.

There’s something new brewing — an idea Lisa has been developing to support founders through one of the more intense transitions in their business (and personal) lives. It’s still in development, but let’s just say it’s founder-first, perspective-heavy, and created for the kind of people who want to do things differently.

So yes — coaching and mentoring are part of what Lisa does. But so is building something never seen or done quite this way before. Curious? So am I. Let’s all stay tuned.

If you LOVED the episode, please share it on your Instagram stories and tag @emmalagerlow, I would love to hear what landed for you.

Yours in Giving Yourself Grace, Emma. X.

In this special 50th episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by the intuitive and radiant Gabrielle Celeste, astrologist, spiritual guide, and co-host of the Spiritual Sisters Podcast. Gabrielle has delivered over 500 channeled astrology readings, blending deep spiritual insight with cosmic wisdom to help people understand their subconscious blocks and align with their soul’s purpose.

We dive into everything from Saturn Return and Chiron wounds, to balancing masculine and feminine energies—and how astrology can actually reveal the roots of our intrinsic self-worth.

As someone who's deeply curious about astrology and spiritual connection (but still learning!), I found Gabrielle’s insights fascinating and so validating. Whether you’re new to this world or already a cosmic explorer, this conversation will get you thinking differently about your inner world, your patterns—and your power.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• What your Saturn Return really means—and why it shakes up your life
• How understanding Chiron can help you heal
• The difference between intrinsic and extrinsic self-worth
• Exploring masculine vs. feminine energy—and why harmony matters
• What astrology teaches us about reincarnation and soul growth

Show Resources:

Follow Gabrielle on Instagram - HERE

Follow the Spiritual Sisters podcast - HERE

Check out Gabrielle's website - HERE

Follow Emma, the podcast host on Instagram - HERE

Check out Emma's book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

About the Guest:

Gabrielle Celeste is an Intuitive Astrologist who has conducted over 500 channeled astrology readings. She is the co-host of internationally recognised podcast, The Spiritual Sisters Podcast, and owner of Agua Astrology.

Gabrielle specialises in marrying her intuitive gifts with her training as an Astrologist to help her clients discover their subconscious blocks and limiting beliefs by way of their natal birth charts. This allows her clients to work with predictive and upcoming energy that aligns with their goals and the timeline for their greatest and highest good.

If you LOVED this episode, share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @gabrielleceleste22. Let’s keep the conversation flowing across the stars.

In Wonder and Worth, Emma. X.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by the wise and joyful Danette Fenton-Menzies: Director of Learning at Magical Learning, host of Adapt with Danette FM, and author of The Adaptable Leader. With over 30 years of experience spanning CFO roles, executive coaching, and leadership across both public and private sectors, Danette brings a powerful blend of brain science, heart-centred leadership, and practical tools to help you stay grounded, joyful, and opportunity-focused, no matter what life throws your way.

We cover everything from visualising big goals and managing stress to the surprising lessons Danette learned from being coached by the legendary Robin Sharma (yes, that Robin Sharma!). She even shares how she manifested her dream Porsche by her 40th birthday, through visualisation, aligned action, and a mindset of possibility.

This is a rich, uplifting conversation that reminds us that joy isn’t something we find after the hard season, it’s something we choose all the time.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• How to lead and communicate with more love and kindness, especially in family-run businesses
• The importance of seeing people’s innate gifts and empowering those around you
• Why asking “What’s the opportunity?” is a powerful mindset shift during uncertain times
• How nervous system regulation, presence, and joy lead to better decision-making
• The value of rest and reflection, like taking quarterly breaks (holidays) to recharge
• Why intentionality and surrender are key to achieving your goals (even the Porsche you’ve been dreaming of).

Show Resources:

Connect with Danette on LinkedIn - HERE

Follow Magical Learning on Instagram - HERE

Check Out Magical Learning on YouTube - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Check Out Emma's Book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

About the Guest:

Danette is Director of Learning for Magical Learning and author of The Adaptable Leader: 7 skills to help you succeed during uncertainty, and podcast host of Adapt with Danette FM. She is a Certified Master Trainer and Coach: Intelligent Leadership® Executive Coaching, a Chartered Accountant, FCPA and has over thirty years’ experience in both the private and public sectors including CFO at SafeWork Australia. She works with global family businesses, corporates and government. She uses the latest brain science and tools to help leaders adapt faster and optimise opportunities while navigating uncertainty.

If you LOVED this episode, share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @magical_learning, we’d love to hear what inspired you!

Your in the Joy of Learning, Emma. X.

When Nick Bracks reluctantly agreed to appear on Dancing With The Stars, he had no idea it would become the launchpad for a career in mental health advocacy, public speaking, and entrepreneurship. But as he began sharing his story publicly, one marked by anxiety, depression, and a near-fatal car crash, doors began to open.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I sit down with Nick to talk about how one unexpected opportunity led to another, and how owning his story helped him build a life of impact and purpose. From his early struggles growing up in a high-profile political family to reinventing himself as a speaker, mental health advocate, and founder of the corporate wellness platform Move Your Mind, Nick shares the raw, real, and refreshingly honest version of success.

As someone who’s also stepped away from a more traditional path to follow a purpose-driven life, I found Nick’s insights incredibly grounding. His message? It’s not about having it all figured out, it’s about showing up, one brave step at a time, and asking for help along the way.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Why we need to normalise men speaking about mental health, without shame or embarrassment
• How taking brave, small steps each day (even when you're struggling) can lead to massive personal change
• The importance of finding your why, and staying connected to it through both highs and lows
• Why doing one thing for yourself every day (like exercise or something that lights you up) can be a powerful mental health tool
• How Nick is helping individuals and businesses create holistic change through his work with Move Your Mind

Show Resources:

Check Out Nick's website - HERE

Listen to Nick's podcast Move Your Mind - HERE

Follow Nick on Instagram - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Check Out Emma's Book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

About the Guest:

Founder & CEO of software company Move Your Mind, Nick currently hosts the podcast Move Your Mind with Nick Bracks & Soul Trader, as radio show by Disrupt Radio on DAB+.

Growing up in one of the most famous political families in Australia, Nick was exposed to life in the public eye since he was 12 years old. Struggling to cope with depression and anxiety through substance abuse, Nick first gained his own notoriety in his early 20s through a publicly documented car crash that nearly killed himself and his best friend.

The drunk driving incident became a catalyst for Nick to turn his life around, exposing his mental health issues and allowing him to get the help he desperately needed. The media attention he gained after the crash led to a modelling career and an invitation to participate as a contestant on “Dancing With The Stars”. While on Dancing With The Stars, Nick took the opportunity to speak publicly about his battle with depression and anxiety, becoming a pioneer in mental health advocacy.

Since then, Nick has developed a successful public speaking career on the topic, conducting over 1,000 talks at organisations around the world, including several TED talks. The “Neighbours” actor is also a successful entrepreneur, founding Move Your Mind Pty Ltd – a corporate wellness software for employees in construction and similar industries. Nick released his first book with publisher Wiley in 2021 and currently runs a podcast under the same name  – Move Your Mind.

Today, Nick is focusing on growing his business, while hosting DAB+ radio show “Soul Trader” on Disrupt Radio, his public speaking, and working towards the production of his own dark comedy TV show, Amiss.

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @nickbracks. Let’s keep breaking down stigma and shifting mindsets, one honest conversation at a time.

Yours in Moving Your Mind, Emma. X.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by the incredible Chelsea Pottenger—an international motivational speaker, accredited mindfulness and meditation coach, and the founder of EQ Minds. Chelsea’s journey from high-performing corporate achiever to mental health advocate is nothing short of inspiring.

After experiencing postnatal depression, Chelsea chose to view her breakdown as a breakthrough. She reinvented her life from the inside out—trading a relentless hustle lifestyle for one grounded in mindfulness, routine, and service to others.

Trigger Warning: This episode includes a brief mention of suicidal ideation during Chelsea’s experience with postnatal depression. Please listen with care. While the conversation is ultimately filled with hope and resilience, we encourage you to prioritise your wellbeing and skip this episode if needed.

Now, she shares science-backed tools and personal insights that help individuals and organisations build resilience and prevent burnout.

As someone who has also walked away from the intensity of corporate life to live more intentionally, I found Chelsea’s story deeply relatable and affirming. Her message reminds us that we are not broken or behind—we are becoming.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• How Chelsea reframed her postnatal depression as a gift that allowed her to reinvent her life and career
• Why daily rituals (like not checking your phone first thing, practicing gratitude, and meditating) are essential anchors for people with anxiety
• The power of the word “YET” and how this growth mindset tool can reframe challenges and build emotional resilience
• Why embedding mental health education into school curriculums is vital for raising resilient, emotionally aware children

Show Resources:

Check Out the EQ Minds Website - HERE

Follow Chelsea on Instagram - HERE

Connect with Chelsea on LinkedIn - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Check Out Emma's Book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

About the Guest:

Founder and Director of EQ MINDS, Chelsea Pottenger is a psychology postgraduate, accredited Mindfulness & Meditation coach, Mental Health Ambassador for The Gidget Foundation Australia and a woman on a mission.

Chelsea is on a mission to reset the corporate agenda, asking businesses to prioritise their employees mental health first.

This mission is grounded and inspired by her own experience. Chelsea experienced severe Post Natal Depression (PND) following the birth of her daughter six years ago. In her journey to recovery, she retrained and adopted a new way of living, integrating a new set of tools into her life to manage and optimise her mental health. Chelsea is determined to show corporate businesses how they can support their employees to care for their mental health, to nurture, sustain and optimise their wellbeing in and outside of the office.

Chelsea’s first book, The Mindful High Performer, combines everything she has learned to create a toolkit to help strengthen your mental and physical health.

Chelsea Pottenger works with many big corporate and small independent businesses everyday to educate and empower action.

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @chelseapottengerofficial. Let’s keep this powerful conversation going!

Yours in Becoming, Emma. X.

In this episode, I’m preparing for my fifth trip to New York City — the first in over 20 years. I’ll take you back to my first visit when I was 22, sharing memories from that time and reading an excerpt from my journal.

I also reflect on my work trips to New York when I was at JPMorgan and how the city shaped my personal and professional life.

As I’ve come full circle with this return to the city, I’ll explore how New York’s meaningful experiences connect with the values in my new book Worthy & Wealthy, particularly the importance of connection and creating lasting memories.

I’ll also share how the Holiday Hero Budget Planner played a key role in getting this trip off the ground and helping me turn this dream into reality.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• The power of revisiting a place and the growth that happens in between

• How travel experiences shape your personal journey and connections

• The importance of making meaningful memories and how they tie into a fulfilling life

• How the Holiday Hero Budget Planner can help turn travel dreams into reality

Show Resources:

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About the Holiday Hero Budget Planner - HERE

Check Out Emma's Book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share this on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow! 

Yours in Love Affairs with Destinations, Emma. X.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Serina Bird—also known as The Joyful Frugalista—who’s built a multimillion-dollar portfolio through intentional frugal living and smart investing. She’s the author of The Joyful Frugalista and How To Pay Your Mortgage Off in 10 Years (a finalist in the 2024 Australian Business Book Awards), and she’s the host of the Joyful Frugalista podcast.

Serina proves that frugality doesn’t mean going without—it means being values-aligned, community-focused, and intentional with your money. Her approach really resonated with me, especially her belief that true wealth isn’t just financial, but emotional, spiritual, and communal. We also explored the mindset behind money goals, the impact of wage stagnation, and how mindful living can bring true abundance.

Serina’s wisdom comes not only from her financial success but also from her personal journey of resilience and empowerment, making her insights even more powerful.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Why wage stagnation and housing affordability are prompting more people to explore creative investing and frugal living
• How frugality is becoming a mindful, sustainable lifestyle—and the surprising benefits of Serina’s Buy Nothing challenges
• How Serina uses clear financial goals to build not just security, but well-being
• Why community, emotional wealth, and spiritual abundance are just as important as money when it comes to living a rich life.

Show Resources:

Follow Serina on Instagram - HERE

Follow Serina on Facebook - HERE

Check out the Joyful Frugalista website - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Check Out Emma's Book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

About the Guest:

Serina Bird is a proud frugalista who has amassed a muti-million dollar portfolio through frugal living and sound investing. She is the author of several books including The Joyful Frugalista and How To Pay Your Mortgage Off in 10 Years (which was a finalist in the 2024 Australian Business Book Awards). Serina is host of The Joyful Frugalista.

As a little side note, it’s been a full circle moment for me personally: Worthy & Wealthy—my own book—is now a best-seller in the Budgeting and Money Management categories on Amazon, a space that both Serina and I deeply care about. It’s incredible to be part of this conversation on creating true, lasting wealth.

Serina’s wisdom comes not only from her financial success but also from her personal journey of resilience and empowerment, making her insights even more powerful. This podcast episode is packed with practical wisdom and uplifting insights—perfect if you’re looking to reframe your mindset and create true abundance, no matter what’s happening in the economy.

If you LOVED the episode, be sure to share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @thejoyfulfrugalista!

Yours in being joyfully frugal, Emma. X.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Julie Hyde—leadership and mindset coach, LinkedIn Top Voice, and author of You Always Have a Choice and Busy?. Julie is someone who doesn't just talk about leadership—she embodies it, even when life has thrown her some of its toughest curveballs.

Julie opens up about how her cancer diagnosis and major health challenges became a gift—one that realigned her focus, reignited her purpose, and reshaped how she shows up in the world. From corporate leadership to personal transformation, Julie shares practical frameworks and hard-won wisdom to help you live more intentionally and lead from within.

As someone who’s also faced moments of realignment and reinvention, I found this conversation both grounding and deeply inspiring. Julie reminds us that leadership is not about titles—it’s about how we show up in every moment and the ripple effect we create along the way.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Turn adversity into alignment – How Julie reframed her cancer diagnosis as a catalyst for living more purposefully.
• Disciplined routines – Why exercise, sleep, and consistent habits are non-negotiable, especially during tough times.
• Above the line vs. below the line behaviours – A simple but powerful tool to bring awareness to how you lead and respond.
• Rethinking legacy – Julie’s beautiful insight that legacy isn’t just what we leave behind—it’s how we lead every single day.

Show Resources:

Connect with Julie on LinkedIn - HERE  

Follow Julie on Instagram - HERE  

Follow Julie on Facebook - HERE

Check Out Emma's New Book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

About the Guest:

Julie Hyde doesn’t just talk leadership—she challenges it.

A leadership and mindset coach, LinkedIn Top Voice, and author of You Always Have a Choice (ABBA Finalist) and Busy?, Julie empowers leaders to take control, own their choices, and create a legacy they’re proud of. She’s also the host of Leading You, a top 5% global podcast that cuts through the fluff to deliver real conversations on leadership, mindset, and resilience.

With two decades of corporate experience, a Harvard qualification, and a track record of leading high-performing teams, Julie knows what it takes to go from overwhelmed to intentional. She’s faced career setbacks, life-threatening adversity, and the relentless corporate grind—but she’s turned every challenge into a catalyst for growth.

And when she’s not challenging leaders to step up, you’ll find her fuelling her energy with glam rock, movies, and (of course) strawberries.

If you LOVE the episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @juliehydeleads!

Yours in Leading with Purpose, Emma. X.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m reflecting on the journey that happens after you achieve a big goal and step into living your purpose. After the excitement of launching my book Worthy & Wealthy and celebrating that milestone, I’m taking you behind the scenes of what it feels like once the initial thrill fades.

As a new author, I’ve experienced the rush of success—book launches, PR campaigns, celebrations—but what happens when the newness begins to settle? In this solo episode, I’m diving into the emotional and practical side of living your purpose every day and the importance of goal-setting beyond your biggest achievement.

I relate deeply to this transition, as the moment I published my book was both exhilarating and overwhelming. It’s been a profound process of stepping into my purpose, yet there are always new layers to uncover, new goals to set, and new horizons to explore. This episode will inspire you to reflect on what’s next for you after achieving your goals and how you can continue evolving with intention.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• What happens after you achieve your big goal—and why that “what now?” phase is crucial for your continued growth.
• The importance of setting new goals, even after reaching your biggest milestone.
• Why aligning your new goals with your purpose and values is key to long-term fulfilment.
• How to navigate the emotional side of success and continue moving forward even when the excitement fades.

Show Resources:

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About Emma's New Book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

Check out Emma's Website - HERE

If you loved the episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag me @emmalagerlow.

Thank you so much for tuning into It’s a Mindset and for your continued support as I’ve launched my book. I’m truly grateful for each of you.

Yours in worth, wealth, and following your purpose, Emma. X.

Melo Calarco certainly has, and he's learned to manage stress in the moment. In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I'm joined by Melo, a TEDx speaker and multi-award-winning author of Beating Burnout, Finding Balance.

In his book, Melo shares his incredible journey, cycling over 30,000 km across five continents, where he learned to overcome life-threatening challenges and manage stress. His mission now is to help individuals and high performers avoid burnout and perform at their best.

Melo’s story is transformational, and as someone who's faced my own challenges from travel to entrepreneurship, I can relate to the importance of thriving in the face of adversity.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Incredible stories from Melo’s cycling journey around the world, with life-changing lessons.
• The power of meditation and the importance of 90-second breath breaks to manage stress.
• Mental health challenges affect everyone—even high-profile individuals.
• Prevention is better than cure when it comes to burnout, and self-care is key during tough times.

About the Guest:

As a TEDx Speaker and multi award-winning author, Melo loves sharing his passion with the world speaking about wellbeing, high-performance, resilience, mindfulness, mental health and so much more. His workshops and keynotes have been described as ‘truly transformational’ drawing from his unique life lessons while cycling over 30,000km across five continents, where Melo learned to manage stress, build mental endurance, and overcome many challenges, including near-death experiences. He now shares this profound experience with global companies and high performers to help them operate at their best, without the risk of burning out.

Show Resources:

Download a FREE sample of Melo's Book, Beating Burnout, Finding Balance - HERE

Connect with Melo on LinkedIn  - HERE

Follow Melo on Instagram - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Check out Emma's New Book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

If you love this episode, share it with a friend and tag us on your Instagram stories @emmalagerlow and @melocalarco_coach!

I hope you enjoy this inspiring conversation about mental health, resilience, high performance, and adventure!

Yours, in Performing at Your Best, Emma. X.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Jacqui Clarke, a personal wealth and money management expert, who shares over three decades of experience in helping individuals, families, and business owners manage and preserve their wealth. As the author of Stop Worrying About Money, Jacqui’s message is simple: with careful planning and effort, you can manage your money, so it doesn’t manage you.

With more than 25 years at Deloitte and PWC, Jacqui’s expertise has helped high-net-worth families and business owners take control of their financial futures. In this episode, we’ll dive into practical strategies for managing money, recognising the hidden costs in our lives, and overcoming financial challenges.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• The importance of knowing the true cost of your life—how much it really costs to open the front door of your home and manage everyday expenses.
• The danger of expense creep and how it can silently impact your finances.
• How to become financially empowered by taking full responsibility for your finances, avoiding delegating your financial decisions to others, and recognising financial abuse. By understanding and addressing financial control, you can make better, more informed choices for your future.
• The role of grief and loss in reshaping how we view money and what really matters in our lives.

About the Guest:

Jacqui Clarke FCA, FTI, GAICD, JP, author of Stop Worrying About Money (Wiley, $29.95), is a trusted advisor, board member, executor and veteran business executive. As a personal wealth and money management expert and over three decades of experience, 25 years at Deloitte and PWC helping high-net-worth families, individuals and business owners to build, manage and preserve their wealth. Her message is simple: with careful planning and effort, you can manage your money, so it doesn’t manage you. 

Show Resources:

Follow Jacqui on Instagram - HERE

Follow Jacqui on Facebook - HERE

Connect with Jacqui on LinkedIn - HERE

Check out Jacqui's website - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn more about Emma's Book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

I can deeply relate to Jacqui’s insights, particularly the idea of being empowered to take control of my finances rather than feeling like a passenger in the process. Her advice on financial responsibility is a powerful reminder of how much we can achieve when we stop burying our heads in the sand and start being proactive with our money.

If you loved this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @jacquiclarke000!

Yours in Financial Empowerment,

Emma. X

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Michelle Scheibner, a thought leader in Personal Brand Strategy and author of Hush, a memoir that explores the intersection of history, culture, beliefs, and genetics to uncover the truth of where our personal identity begins. Michelle has spent over 30 years working with executives, C-suite leaders, and business owners, and she now focuses on how family history and genetics influence our life choices and identity.

Michelle’s career journey took her from education to leadership roles at AMEX UK, where she honed her business development skills. But in recent years, Michelle shifted her focus toward exploring the deep connection between personal identity, family history, and genetics. Her research reveals how our family systems, history, culture, and beliefs shape our identities, often in ways we don’t fully realise.

In this episode, we’ll discuss how your personal brand is not just about your career, but about finding and understanding your essence. Michelle shares how grief can trigger questions about identity, the pivotal role mothers play in shaping our lives, and what epigenetics can teach us about how family influences us. We also explore the importance of understanding your past to unlock your potential for the future.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Personal brand is about finding your essence – Your personal brand, whether for career or personal growth, is a reflection of who you are, not just what you do. Cultivating it starts with understanding yourself at a deeper level.
• Grief can trigger unanswered questions – Grieving not just losses but also unresolved questions about your life’s path can unlock your true identity.
• Epigenetics and the role of family in shaping personal identity – Our genetics and family systems influence not only our decisions and life choices but also our personal identity. Understanding the pivotal role of mothers as our first relationship can reveal the deep impact they have on how we view ourselves and how we show up in the world.
• The importance of understanding your past for your present and future – Investing in understanding your past allows you to use that knowledge to shape your future.

As someone who’s navigated my own journey of understanding identity and the impact of family history—especially through my travels to the UK and Netherlands, where I have heritage—I deeply relate to Michelle’s work. Her insights are eye-opening and will challenge how you view your personal growth and future possibilities.

About the Guest:

Michelle’s commitment to bringing the most current thought leadership to Personal Brand Strategy, led her to an enquiry into the ways family secrets and silence, intergenerational pain and genetics impacts our life choices and personal identity. Michelle’s career began in education before heading to England where she cut her business teeth at the headquarters of AMEX UK, Europe, Middle East and Africa. Having held management and leadership positions in education, consulting and business development Michelle has spent the last 30 years working with executives including C-Suite, business leaders and high potentials.

Michelle has spent the last four years researching and exploring the proposition that we come into the world with a genetic blueprint integral to the system of our family of origin, which ultimately can impact the decisions and choices we make in life. Her story illustrates the intersection of history, culture, beliefs and genetics to reveal where true identity resides. She has a published TEDx Talk on the validity of personal identity labels.

Show Resources:

Follow Michelle on Instagram - HERE

Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn - HERE

Check out Michelle's Website - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More about Emma's Book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

Michelle’s book, Hush, has had a profound impact on me, and I know her message will resonate deeply with you as well. If you're curious about the intersection of family history and identity, I highly recommend checking it out!

If you loved this episode, be sure to share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @the_identity_activator!

Yours in Knowing Your Identity, Emma. X.

In Episode 39 of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by the incredible Kelly Irving, a best-selling book coach, editor, and creator of the Expert Author Community—a global coaching program that has launched hundreds of award-winning authors. Kelly’s expertise is empowering business owners, creatives, and aspiring authors to bring their biggest, boldest ideas to life, whether through traditional, hybrid, or self-publishing.

One of Kelly’s greatest accomplishments? She’s never had a book pitch rejected by a publisher.

I can personally speak to the immense value Kelly has brought to my journey. As I wrote my own book, Worthy & Wealthy, her guidance and mentorship were pivotal. Her expert advice and the nurturing environment of the Expert Author Community have not only shaped my book but have given me a sense of belonging and purpose in my author journey.

In this episode, Kelly shares her Write Book Method, which helps creative thinkers connect the dots and solve complex messaging problems. She guides them to produce works that not only enrich their lives but the lives of others too.

We also dive deep into Kelly’s personal journey, including the year she spent traveling the globe with her family. She opens up about facing her biggest fears head-on while pursuing audacious goals and how that experience reshaped her career and her life.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• The lessons Kelly learned during her year-long adventure with her family, and how it impacted both her career and personal life.
• How to face your biggest fears and push through the discomfort to achieve your most audacious goals.
• The truth that everyone is human, and even the most successful authors and entrepreneurs experience obstacles and moments of doubt—it’s all part of the journey.
• The highs, lows, and everything in between when it comes to writing and publishing your own work, plus Kelly’s top tips for aspiring authors.

As someone who’s also faced my own fears and challenges while working towards big goals, Kelly’s insights resonated deeply with me. Her ability to manage both a thriving business and a family while pushing through the fear is truly inspiring—and I believe it will be for you too!

About the Guest:

Kelly Irving is a best-selling book coach, editor, and creator of the Expert Author Community – a global coaching experience that has launched hundreds of award-winning authors into the world. She nurtures business owners to bring their biggest, best and most commercially viable ideas to market, via traditional, hybrid or self-publishing (she’s never had a book pitch rejected by a publisher).

Kelly’s unique Write Book Method helps connect dots and solve complex business messaging problems by empowering original, creative and renaissance spirits to share new solutions, offer new insights and produce work that enriches their lives as well as others.

Show Resources:

Write your Book with the Expert Author Community - HERE

Follow Kelly on Instagram - HERE

Connect with Kelly on LinkedIn - HERE

Nail your best book idea with the Book Canvas - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More About Emma's Book, Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

If you LOVED this episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @goodcontentkel!

Yours in Pursuing Big Audacious Goals, Emma. X.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m joined by Lisa Hodgson, a home organisation and declutter specialist who helps people transform their homes into organised, clutter-free spaces. By creating a peaceful environment, we can reduce stress, increase happiness, and make room for more joy and clarity in our lives.

Lisa shares her journey of helping individuals and families navigate the challenges of clutter and how the decluttering process can lead to a more intentional, aligned life.

Whether you're looking to create a serene home or simply reduce the stress of daily life, this episode is full of actionable tips to help you clear the physical and mental clutter.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• The societal pressure of needing more stuff and how consumerism often leads to overwhelm and why having less can bring more peace.
• Unhealthy coping habits and exploring how overshopping, bingeing, and scrolling can numb dissatisfaction
• How meditation helps us shift from “having” to “being,” allowing us to become more present and discover what we truly want.
• Sharing the load in relationships and the importance of communication and alignment early in relationships to create balance and a harmonious living environment.

As someone who values the impact of a decluttered space on clarity and well-being, I can relate deeply to Lisa’s message. The simple act of clearing clutter can have profound effects on your mindset and emotional well-being.

About The Guest:

Lisa Hodgson is a home organisation and declutter specialist who helps parents or soon to be parents create organised clutter-free homes that support building a happy abundant family life with lower stress and more fun.

Show Resources:

Follow Lisa on Instagram - HERE

Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn - HERE

Check out Lisa's website - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More about Emma's Book, Worthy and Wealthy - HERE

If you LOVED the episode, share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @thisislisahodgson.

Yours in Peace and Joy, Emma. X.

In this episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m sharing the inspiring story of Aviv Palti, the CEO of Lifestyle Brands, co-founder of the Cambodia Rural Students Trust (CRST), and author of Empowered. Aviv and his family have had a profound impact on countless lives in Cambodia, empowering students and families to break the cycle of poverty through education.

Back in 2009, Aviv’s daughter was denied a life-changing school trip to Cambodia to volunteer with disadvantaged rural families. Instead of letting that opportunity slip away, Aviv and his family embraced the chance to travel to Cambodia together, volunteering to teach English at a rural school in Siem Reap province.

Those two weeks would change not only their lives but the lives of thousands of rural Cambodian students and their families. Many of their students were the children of survivors of the Khmer Rouge regime and the subsequent civil war. While their parents were illiterate, they understood the incredible value of education.

This experience inspired Aviv and his family to return to Cambodia several more times, eventually founding the Cambodia Rural Students Trust (CRST) in 2011. The trust was built on three pillars: Education, Empowerment, and Inspiration, with the goal of sustainably breaking the cycle of poverty and creating a ripple effect that continues to impact thousands of lives in Cambodia.

Aviv is also the author of Empowered: A New Generation of Leaders, which tells the inspirational story of rural youth in Cambodia who empowered themselves and their families to rise from poverty to the middle class in just eight years.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• The power of embracing unexpected opportunities when Aviv and his family decided to volunteer in Cambodia ultimately leading to the founding of CRST.
• The history and resilience of Cambodia after the Khmer Rouge regime and the civil war, and how education has become a vital tool for healing and empowerment.
• The CRST three pillars of Education, Empowerment, and Inspiration are helping break the cycle of poverty and creating a lasting ripple effect.
• The 5 steps to creating lasting impact - dream big, plan, act, correct, and continue—key steps for anyone starting an impactful project.

As someone who has also experienced Cambodia’s incredible beauty and humbling culture, I relate deeply to Aviv’s mission. His family’s commitment to making a difference is awe-inspiring, and I encourage you to listen and discover how we can all contribute to this transformative work. Just $25 can make a difference, and I’ve personally donated to this incredible initiative.

About the Guest:

Aviv Palti is the CEO of Lifestyle Brands, a homewares company he co-founded 40 years ago. In 2011, along with his family, Aviv founded the Cambodia Rural Students Trust (CRST), a non-government organisation based in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Built on the three pillars of Education, Empowerment and Inspiration, CRST has sustainably broken countless cycles of poverty, and continues to create a far-reaching ripple effect impacting thousands of lives.

Show Resources:

Check Out the CRST Website - HERE

Connect with Aviv on LinkedIn - HERE 

Follow the CRST on Instagram - HERE  

Follow CRST on Facebook - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Learn More about Emma's New Book, Worthy and Wealthy - HERE

If you LOVED the episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag us @emmalagerlow and @crst_ngo.

 Don’t forget to grab Aviv’s book or donate to this worthy cause if you have the opportunity! Listen to Episode 37 now and be inspired by the incredible work Aviv and his family are doing to empower students in Cambodia and break the poverty cycle through education.

Yours in Empowerment, Emma. X.

In this solo episode, I’m thrilled to share the launch of my debut book, Worthy & Wealthy: Discovering Abundance and Fulfilment Beyond Money. This marked a huge milestone as the book officially launched on Amazon, and I can’t wait to tell you all about it!

In this episode, I dive into why I wrote Worthy & Wealthy and how I came to redefine wealth beyond just money. The challenges and breakthroughs I experienced during the writing process. How this book is designed to help you discover your true worth and create a life of abundance in all areas, not just financially. I truly relate to the journey of transformation this book speaks to. Over the years, I’ve had to let go of outdated beliefs around success and wealth—it's been a process of redefining what truly makes me feel abundant. Writing this book was part of my own personal growth, and I hope it helps you on your journey too!

Key Episode Takeaways:

• The inspiration behind Worthy & Wealthy and why it’s more than just a book about money - it’s about embracing your worth and stepping into abundance in all areas of your life.
• Why Worthy & Wealthy is the perfect guide for anyone looking to redefine their relationship with money and success.
• How your support in purchasing and reviewing the book can help amplify its message. Together, we can inspire others to embrace their true worth and live an abundant and fulfilled life.

Show Resources:

Order Worthy and Wealthy and Access Book Bonuses - HERE

Order Worthy and Wealthy on Amazon - HERE

Check out Emma's Website - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

If you LOVED the episode, make sure you share it on your Instagram stories and tag me @emmalagerlow! I’d love to hear what resonated with you.

Thank you for being part of this exciting journey with me. If you haven’t grabbed your copy of Worthy & Wealthy yet, click the link below! Your support means the world to me.

Yours in Worth and Wealth, Emma. X.

In Episode 35 of It’s a Mindset, I’m thrilled to welcome Jane Tara, an inspiring author of over a hundred children's books, several plays, and five novels, including her bestselling Tilda is Visible. Jane is a passionate daily meditator, a rescue mutt enthusiast, and an advocate for self-growth. After spending 13 years living in five different countries, Jane has settled back home in Sydney.

In this episode, we dive deep into Jane's journey and the inspiration behind Tilda is Visible, a novel about women in midlife feeling invisible. We also explore how meditation, self-worth, and creative expression play a pivotal role in reclaiming your sense of self.

Jane shares how a misdiagnosed eye disorder became the catalyst for her bestselling book, and how the work of Joe Dispenza on meditation and manifestation helped her unlock her potential in every aspect of life, including financial abundance. We also discuss the power of inner work to grow self-worth and the profound ripple effect it has on relationships, careers, and personal well-being.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• How meditation, especially Joe Dispenza's teachings, empowered Jane’s personal and creative transformation.
• How Jane’s experience with misdiagnosis led to the creation of her bestselling book, Tilda is Visible.
• The powerful premise of Tilda is Visible, which tackles the issue of women in midlife feeling invisible and the societal pressures that fuel it.
• How doing the inner work to boost self-worth can transform your career, relationships, and even financial abundance.

I’m deeply inspired by Jane’s work as a writer and her insights on self-worth, creativity, and personal transformation. This episode is a beautiful reminder that doing the inner work isn’t just about self-love—it’s about how this work ripples into every area of your life, including wealth.

About the Guest:

Jane Tara has published over a hundred children’s books, several plays and five novels. She’s a daily meditator, a sucker for a rescue mutt and, most of all, a front-row cheerleader for her two sons. She spent thirteen years wandering the world and lived in five countries but is now happily at home in Sydney. Her novel Tilda is Visible was released earlier this year.

Show Resources:

Check out Jane's website - HERE

Follow Jane on Instagram - HERE

Follow Jane of Facebook - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast host on Instagram - HERE

Join the Waitlist for Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

If you loved this episode, or know someone who would benefit from Jane's wisdom, be sure to share it with them or buy them Tilda is Visible! Don’t forget to tag us on Instagram @emmalagerlow and @janetaraauthor to continue the conversation.

Tune in to Episode 35 and discover how to reconnect with yourself, reclaim your worth, and bring empowerment to every part of your life—making you feel more visible than ever before.

Yours in Visibility, Emma. X.

In Episode 34 of It’s a Mindset, I’m excited to welcome Simi Rayat, a global business psychologist, speaker, facilitator, and executive coach who works with leaders from Fortune 500 companies to scaling organisations. Simi is also the Wiley-published author of Productivity Joy, and she helps leaders become a joy to work for and do business with.

Get ready for an energising, insightful, and joyous conversation! In this episode, Simi shares her journey of growing up in a small village in the UK and how her early experiences sparked her interest in the concept of belonging.

As a leader in the corporate world, Simi discusses how personal accountability is key for leaders to understand their impact on others and create positive environments. She also dives into the powerful PRIME acronym and the 5 Q’s Formula that can help you architect your own day, making conscious choices for greater productivity and joy.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• How leaders can take responsibility for how they show up and create positive a positive impact and ripple effect.
• Simi shares her journey of becoming aware of her reactivity and how to shift to a more mindful and impactful way of living.
• Learn about the 5 Q’s Formula of the PRIME acronym and how it can help you design your day with intention and joy.
• The Joy of Work Mission: Simi’s mission to help 5 million professionals move from merely surviving to truly thriving at work.

I was deeply inspired by Simi’s insights on leadership, productivity and gratitude. Her approach reminds us that we all have the power to create an environment where we can thrive, bringing joy into the workplace and to our lives.

About the Guest:

Simi works as a global business psychologist, speaker, facilitator and executive coach to leaders from Fortune 500, multinational organisations to scaling organisation in Australia. She's a Wiley published author of the book: Productivity Joy. She helps leaders become a joy to work for and do business with. Get prepared for an energising, insightful and joyous conversation with Simi Rayat.

Show Resources:

Connect with Simi on LinkedIn - HERE

Follow Simi on Instagram - HERE

Follow Simi on Facebook - HERE

Watch Simi on YouTube - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

Join the waitlist for Emma's new book Worthy and Wealthy - HERE

If you loved this episode or know someone who could benefit from Simi’s leadership wisdom, please share it with them! Don’t forget to tag us on Instagram @emmalagerlow and @simirayat_cpsychol to spread the inspiration!

Tune in to Episode 34 and discover how you can bring more joy and productivity into your work and life!

Yours in Productivity Joy, Emma. X.

In this special episode of It’s a Mindset, I’m celebrating a huge milestone - one full year of podcasting! It’s been an incredible journey filled with powerful conversations, inspiring guests, and countless lessons about mindset, growth, and what truly drives us.

In this episode, I’m reflecting on the five key mindset lessons I’ve learned from my first year of podcasting. You’ll get a peek behind the curtain of It’s a Mindset, from the common themes that emerged across conversations with incredible guests, to the insights I’ve gained about myself and the world of personal growth.

I’ve discovered so much about mindset and personal development along the way - some lessons were surprising, others were affirmations of things I’ve believed for years. What stood out most to me were the common threads across my guests, and the way mindset shapes our lives, both personally and professionally.

Key Episode Takeaways:

1. The Power of Travel - Antarctica being the most common bucket list destination and the significance of travel in broadening perspectives.
2. The Role of Movement and Meditation - How movement and meditation are pivotal rituals in enhancing well-being and personal growth.
3. Stepping Outside Your Comfort Zone - The most common answer for mindset shifts: public speaking. It’s a challenge, but it’s a powerful tool for growth.
4. Wealth is Holistic - Guests look at wealth as a multi-faceted concept, with money as just one pillar of a fulfilling life.
5. Compassion and Legacy - The universal desire to leave a legacy of compassion and self-compassion, making an impact beyond financial success.

It’s been an extraordinary year, and I can’t wait to share more with you in the next chapter of this journey. Speaking of which, I’m thrilled to announce that my book Worthy & Wealthy is coming soon! This book is a roadmap to help you break free from limiting patterns and live in alignment with your true self.

Join the waitlist now for early access and exclusive bonuses, including a Wealth Mastery Masterclass and a 15-minute one-on-one call with me. Let’s continue the journey of self-discovery and transformation together!

I’ve learned so much from my amazing guests and from you, my listeners, who have supported this podcast from day one. I’m beyond grateful for every download, every review, and every piece of feedback I’ve received along the way. 

Show Resources:

Join the waitlist for Emma's new book Worthy & Wealthy - HERE

Find out ways to work with Emma - HERE

Follow Emma, the Podcast Host on Instagram - HERE

If you loved this episode, or if you know someone who could benefit from these insights, please share it with them! Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @emmalagerlow so I can hear your thoughts and share the inspiration.

Tune in to Episode 33, and let’s celebrate this milestone together while we explore how mindset can shape your journey to success and fulfilment!

Yours in Celebration and Mindset, Emma. X