Well, hello anxiety with Dr Jodi Richardson

If you've ever worried that your anxiety might be impacting your children, you're not alone. In this compassionate conversation, Dr Jodi Richardson is joined by family therapist and author Lisa Taylor to explore one of the most common concerns anxious parents have: "Am I affecting my kids?" Together, they discuss the difference between sharing feelings and burdening children, how anxiety can sometimes lead to overprotection, and why children don't need perfect parents, they need honest, connected ones. You'll hear practical strategies for talking to children about anxiety, supporting their independence, and helping them understand that a parent's feelings are never their responsibility to fix. Connect with Lisa Taylor Website: https://strengtheningfamilies.com.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisa.taylor.au/ Lisa's Book: "The Perfect Parent Trap" Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson Website: https://drjodirichardson.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjodirichardson/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friendships can shape our children's confidence, wellbeing and sense of belonging for years to come. In this episode, parenting educator and bestselling author Michelle Mitchell joins Dr Jodi Richardson to share practical strategies for helping kids build healthy friendships, navigate conflict, manage bullying, and develop the social skills they need to thrive. Together, they explore Michelle's powerful Friendship Framework and discuss what parents can do when friendship challenges arise. Links Michelle Mitchell Website: https://michellemitchell.org Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellemitchell.author Book Friendship Smart by Michelle Mitchell Dr Jodi Richardson Website: https://drjodirichardson.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjodirichardson See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Relationships can be one of our greatest sources of support, but few of us are ever taught how to build and maintain healthy ones. In this episode, Dr Jodi Richardson is joined by counsellor and relationship coach Anne Sidebottom for a thoughtful conversation about the relationship patterns we learn in childhood, how those patterns show up in adulthood, and what it takes to create healthier, more connected relationships. Anne shares her deeply personal story of navigating betrayal, separation and single parenthood, and how those experiences ultimately led her to a career helping individuals and couples strengthen their relationships. Together, Jodi and Anne discuss the power of counselling, the importance of understanding our family influences, and why seeking support is one of the bravest steps we can take. You'll also learn Anne's practical communication framework, the Feedback Wheel , a simple tool that can help couples navigate difficult conversations with greater understanding and less defensiveness. Whether you're navigating relationship challenges, healing from the past, or simply wanting to connect more deeply with the people you love, this episode offers wisdom, hope and practical takeaways. Connect with Anne Sidebottom www.sidebottom.com Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson https://drjodirichardson.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special bonus episode of Well, Hello Anxiety , Dr Jodi Richardson is joined once again by counsellor, mental fitness coach and Morita Therapist Carly Taylor for an extended conversation from their recent live podcast recording. Drawing on questions submitted by the audience, they discuss topics including workplace anxiety, preventing anxiety from becoming overwhelming, supporting children with anxiety, helping loved ones seek support, overcoming fears linked to past experiences, and finding more joy and balance in everyday life. This episode is filled with practical strategies, compassionate insights and reassurance for anyone navigating anxiety, relationships, parenting and life's many uncertainties. Connect with Carly Taylor: https://www.carlytaylorcoaching.com.au/ Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson https://drjodirichardson.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if anxiety isn't something to get rid of, but something to better understand? In this special live recording of Well, Hello Anxiety , Dr Jodi Richardson is joined by counsellor, mental fitness coach and Morita Therapist Carly Taylor for a powerful conversation about anxiety, attention, acceptance and what it means to live fully, even when life feels uncertain. Drawing on the wisdom of Morita Therapy , a Japanese approach to mental wellbeing, Carly shares why anxiety often shows up around the things we care about most, and how shifting our attention can transform our experience. Together, Jodi and Carly explore the relationship between fear and desire, why fighting uncomfortable emotions can make them stronger, and how we can build our capacity to face life's inevitable challenges. Through personal stories, practical strategies and thought-provoking metaphors, this conversation offers a compassionate and refreshing perspective on anxiety that will stay with you long after you've finished listening. In this episode, you'll discover: Why anxiety often appears alongside the things that matter most The powerful "two sides of the coin" metaphor for understanding fear What Morita Therapy teaches about acceptance and emotional wellbeing How attention shapes our experience of life Why trying to control emotions can create more struggle Practical ways to redirect attention when anxiety narrows your focus How to strengthen your "challenge muscle" and build distress tolerance The Japanese concept of Arugamama : "It is what it is. Now what needs to be done?" This special live episode is filled with warmth, wisdom and practical insights to help you navigate anxiety with greater self-compassion and courage. Connect with Carly Taylor: https://www.carlytaylorcoaching.com.au/ Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson: https://drjodirichardson.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When a relationship reaches a crossroads, uncertainty can feel overwhelming. In this episode, Dr Jodi Richardson speaks with Certified Gottman Therapist and Discernment Counsellor Anne Carter about navigating relationship challenges, managing anxiety during times of uncertainty, and understanding the options available when you're unsure about the future of your relationship. Anne explains how discernment counselling differs from traditional couples therapy, why clarity can ease anxiety, and how couples can move forward with greater confidence, whether that means rebuilding their relationship or choosing a different path. In this episode they discuss: What discernment counselling is How it differs from couples therapy Managing anxiety during relationship uncertainty The role of mindfulness and self-compassion The three pathways available to couples at a crossroads Why hope and clarity matter when making difficult decisions Resources Anne Carter | Well of Life Counselling & Therapy https://www.welloflife.com.au Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson https://drjodirichardson.com If this episode could help someone you know, please share it with them. ❤️ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DO YOU WANT TO HEAR THE POD LIVE? GET YOUR FREE TIX HERE Are you doing all the "right" wellbeing habits but still feeling exhausted? In this episode of Well, Hello Anxiety , Dr Jodi Richardson is joined by performance dietitian, executive coach and author Jessica Spendlove to explore why so many people are running on empty despite knowing the wellbeing basics. Jessica shares her practical approach to sustainable wellbeing, built around five key rhythms: sleep, nutrition, movement, stress, recovery and connection. Together, they discuss the power of consistency over perfection, why recovery is the antidote to stress, and how small, proactive habits can help boost energy, resilience and overall wellbeing. In this episode, you'll learn: Why you can feel exhausted even when you're doing all the "right" things How consistency supports better energy, sleep and wellbeing Why recovery is essential, not optional The importance of sleep timing and daily rhythms What "structured flexibility" means and how it can work for you How to build resilience through simple, sustainable habits Why your busiest days should shape your wellbeing strategy About Jessica Spendlove Jessica Spendlove is a performance dietitian, executive coach, speaker and author of For the Long Run: Build Your Daily Operating System for Energy, Recovery and Wellbeing . Her work helps people build sustainable energy, resilience and high performance through practical, evidence-based strategies. Connect with Jessica Website: jessicaspendlove.com Instagram: @jessicaspendlove LinkedIn: Jessica Spendlove Get the Book For the Long Run: Build Your Daily Operating System for Energy, Recovery and Wellbeing ( Wiley ) Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grief is something we will all experience, yet it's often one of the hardest topics to talk about. In this heartfelt and deeply moving episode of Well, Hello Anxiety , Dr Jodi Richardson welcomes back therapist, mental health educator, relationship expert and podcast host Marie Vakakis for an honest conversation about grief, loss and healing. Drawing on both her professional expertise and recent personal experiences, Marie shares her reflections on caring for her grandmother through dementia, navigating anticipatory grief, saying goodbye to her beloved dog Walter, and learning how to carry love forward after loss. Together, Jodi and Marie explore why grief is far more complex than most people realise, how it affects us emotionally and physically, the challenges grief can create in relationships, and why empathy - not fixing - is often the most powerful gift we can offer someone who is hurting. This conversation offers comfort, validation and practical insights for anyone experiencing loss, supporting a grieving loved one, or navigating the uncertainty of anticipatory grief. Dr Jodi & Marie talk about: What anticipatory grief really looks and feels like Why grief and anxiety are often closely connected The physical and emotional impact of loss Different grieving styles and how they can affect relationships The experience of pet loss and why it matters Why "grief is love with nowhere to go" Common phrases that aren't always helpful when someone is grieving The power of empathy, validation and simply showing up How cultural rituals can support the grieving process Why grief doesn't disappear—but can become easier to carry over time Practical ways to support a grieving friend, partner or family member Connect with Marie Vakakis: 🌐 Website: https://marievakakis.com.au 🎙️ This Complex Life Podcast: https://marievakakis.com.au/podcast 🧠 The Therapy Hub: https://thetherapyhub.com.au Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson: 🌐 Website: https://drjodirichardson.com 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjodirichardson 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drjodirichardson DO YOU WANT TO HEAR THE POD LIVE? GET YOUR FREE TIX HERE Loved This Episode? If this conversation resonated with you, please share it with someone who may need support through grief, loss or life transitions. Your ratings, reviews and shares help us reach more people and continue important conversations about anxiety, mental health and wellbeing. Remember: We don't heal grief by fixing it - we heal through connection, compassion and being witnessed. ❤️ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when exhaustion becomes your normal? In this episode, Dr Jodi Richardson sits down with kinesiologist, yoga and meditation teacher Ilana Kosakiewicz, whose own experience with chronic fatigue and autoimmune illness forced her to stop - and ultimately transformed her life. Together they explore: The early whispers of burnout we often ignore Why so many women have normalised exhaustion The difference between rest and recovery How “white space” resets the nervous system Micro‑moments of rest that actually work The power of Yoga Nidra and non‑sleep deep rest How slowing down helps us show up better for the people we love This conversation is a gentle reminder that rest isn’t indulgent - it’s essential. Connect with Ilana Kosakiewicz: Website: https://ilanak.com.au/ Instagram & Facebook: IlanaK.Kinesiology LinkedIn: Alana Kazakovich Podcast: The Energy Shift Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if anxiety isn't the problem? In this thought-provoking conversation, Dr Jodi Richardson is joined by psychologist and author Diante Fuchs to explore why so many people continue to struggle with anxiety despite trying therapy, strategies, and self-help tools. Dee shares her powerful Anxiety Trifecta framework, revealing the mental, emotional, and physical factors that can keep anxiety stuck. Together, they discuss: Why anxiety is a signal, not a flaw The difference between ordinary anxiety and stuck anxiety How fear of anxiety can keep the cycle going Why uncovering root causes matters The role of the nervous system in ongoing anxiety Dee's practical EASE Method for responding differently to anxiety How acceptance, compassion, and engagement can help you reclaim your life This episode offers a hopeful and refreshing perspective: there is nothing wrong with you, and anxiety may have more to teach you than you realise. Connect with Diante Fuchs Website: theunstuckinitiative.com Instagram: @ease.anxiety TikTok: @ease.anxiety Access the Stuck Anxiety Checklist discussed here: https://www.theunstuckinitiative.com/stuckanxietychecklist See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this deeply insightful episode of Well, Hello Anxiety, Dr Jodi Richardson welcomes Dr Ashleigh Moreland, founder of the Remind Institute, to unpack the nervous system, fawning, functional freeze, and the hidden barriers families face when seeking mental‑health support. Drawing from her PhD in neuroplasticity and her own 20‑year journey with anxiety, Dr Ashleigh reveals why she created her groundbreaking - and completely free - online Home Bases, designed for parents, practitioners, teachers, and schools who need clear, compassionate, research‑grounded guidance. They explore: • The difference between fight, flight, freeze and the relational survival response of fawning • Why so many parents say “yes” after saying “no” six times • How childhood emotional experiences shape adult nervous‑system safety • Why understanding behaviour through a trauma‑informed lens changes everything • The cost, access and overwhelm families face in the current mental‑health system • How Dr Ashleigh’s Home Bases offer scripts, explanations, tools and neuroscience‑based strategies anyone can use Explore the free Home Bases here: • Anxiety Home Base: re-mind.ang.institute/anxiety • ADHD Home Base: re-mind.ang.institute/adhd • Perfectionism Home Base: re-mind.ang.institute/perfectionism Join the free Facebook community Cycle Breakers, where all Home Bases are pinned and updated: facebook.com/groups/cyclebreakers Dr Ashleigh also shares what’s coming next: Home Bases for PTSD, complex PTSD, depression, dissociation, addiction, parenting, relationships, leadership and entrepreneurship — all designed to make expert‑level mental‑health support accessible to everyone. A generous, practical and empowering conversation for anyone navigating anxiety, parenting challenges, or their own healing. Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ Keep the conversations going — your donation helps fund and support future episodes: Donate here See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this deeply human and compelling conversation, Dr Jodi Richardson sits down with Connor Scott, the runner, fundraiser and counsellor whose extraordinary challenge - running 50 kilometres a day for 50 days - captured the attention of his community and raised vital awareness for youth mental health. This episode explores the real story behind the feat: the motivation, the cost, the injury he pushed through, and the moment he realised he had lost himself in the challenge he hoped would complete him. Connor shares how the aftermath left him physically and emotionally depleted, and how that difficult period sparked two powerful initiatives: Mind Over Miles, a movement‑based community run club centred on connection and mental wellbeing, and The Running Therapist, his unique counselling service blending movement, nature and side‑by‑side conversation to help people open up in a more comfortable, human way. Together, Jodi and Connor unpack the pressures of public commitment, the vulnerability of asking for help, the healing power of community, and the importance of showing up as your true self - whether you’re running a marathon or navigating life’s tougher seasons. A generous, honest and inspiring episode for anyone who’s ever pushed themselves too far, rebuilt from burnout, or discovered that the real finish line is connection. Keep the conversations going — your donation helps fund and support future episodes: Donate here Follow Connor and his work: Instagram: Connor Scott (@connorscott10) The Running Therapist Mind Over Miles 9 for 9 Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ Keep the conversations going — your donation helps fund and support future episodes: Donate here See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Dr. Jodi Richardson welcomes Connor Scott — physiotherapist, counsellor, founder of The Running Therapist , and co-founder of Mind Over Miles and 9 for 9 . Connor shares the raw truth of his mental health journey — from growing up in Liverpool and navigating hardship, to experiencing panic attacks, overwhelm, and reaching his lowest point… and the life-saving moment that changed everything. This episode explores: The courage it takes to open up — and why one honest conversation can change lives How connection, vulnerability, and movement became Connor’s pathway back to hope The simple but powerful role of friendship (and one mate’s idea that sparked something life-changing) What to say — and what not to say — when someone shares they’re struggling Why “holding space” matters more than having the perfect words You’ll also hear about Connor’s extraordinary fundraising effort: running 50km every day for 50 days to support mental health organisation Speak & Share — a commitment that took an 18‑month recovery and speaks to his mission of ensuring no one faces mental health challenges alone. Connor’s story is a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is a way forward — and that hope often begins with connection. Keep the conversations going — your donation helps fund and support future episodes: Donate here Follow Connor and his work: Instagram: Connor Scott (@connorscott10) The Running Therapist Mind Over Miles 9 for 9 💬 If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to someone you trust or a mental health professional. ➡️ Part 2 drops next week , where we continue this conversation and dive deeper into Connor’s work, community impact, and practical tools for mental wellbeing. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if almost everything you've been taught about happiness is wrong? In this insightful conversation, Dr Jodi Richardson is joined by happiness researcher, coach and author Declan Edwards to unpack the myths that keep us stuck in the pursuit of happiness and what actually helps us build a happier, more fulfilling life. Declan shares why happiness isn't something we achieve after reaching a goal, buying the next thing, or ticking all the right boxes. Instead, he explains how happiness can be cultivated through practical skills that help us navigate life's challenges, deepen our relationships, and spend more time flourishing. Together, Jodi and Declan explore: • Why "I'll be happy when..." is one of the biggest happiness traps • The difference between happiness and wellbeing • Why all emotions—even the uncomfortable ones—have an important role to play • How emotional literacy can improve psychological health • The power of noticing and naming our emotions • Why gratitude works (and how to make it a sustainable practice) • The wellbeing spectrum: from crisis and survival through to growth and flourishing • How connection, community and relationships shape our happiness • Practical happiness skills you can start using today This episode is a reminder that happiness isn't found in perfect circumstances—it's built through small, intentional practices that help us appreciate what is already here. Resources: 📖 How to Be Happy: Stop Chasing Happiness and Learn the Five Skills to Create It Instead by Declan Edwards 🎙️ Podcast: How to Be Happy 🌐 Learn more about the BU Happiness College: BU Happiness College Connect with Declan and the BU Happiness College on social media by searching "BU Happiness College". If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone who could use a little more happiness in their life today. 💛 Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ Dr Jodi Richardson – Anxiety Toolkit for Parents See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Part 2 of this deeply honest conversation, Dr Jodi Richardson continues her chat with Fleur Marks about the hidden cost of overachievement, the importance of rest, and learning to believe: you are enough . Fleur shares how a life-changing health journey forced her to rethink success, self-worth and the constant pressure to keep doing more. Together, Jodi and Fleur explore: Why we shouldn’t wait for burnout or crisis before slowing down The powerful idea of becoming “self-full” instead of selfless Fleur’s transformative tea ceremony practice at Cloud Hidden in Byron Bay Learning to sit still, rest and reconnect with yourself The mindset shift behind “I’ve done enough, I have enough, I am enough” Letting go of perfectionism and overachievement How self-care became essential - not optional Redefining success through joy, presence, connection and wellbeing This episode is a gentle but powerful reminder that life is happening now - and that success should never come at the cost of yourself. Resources & Links: Fleur Marks’ book: The Overachiever’s Reset: A Better Way to Succeed Without Losing Yourself Fleur’s website + free reset exercises: flomax.com.au Booktopia Amazon Australia Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ Dr Jodi Richardson – Anxiety Toolkit for Parents See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when the drive to succeed starts costing you your health? In this powerful first part of Dr. Jodi Richardson’s conversation with Fleur Marks, Fleur shares the shocking reality behind years of overachievement, perfectionism and relentless pressure to perform. After decades in high-pressure leadership roles, Fleur’s body eventually forced her to stop - leading to a diagnosis of a rare autoimmune disease that had spread to her brain, followed later by cancer. Together, Jodi and Fleur explore: The anxiety that can quietly sit beneath high achievement Why so many people feel unable to slow down The physical warning signs of chronic stress and burnout Perfectionism, people-pleasing and the fear of letting others down Why high achievers are often afraid to rest — and what that costs them This episode is for anyone who feels constantly “on,” overwhelmed, exhausted, or stuck in the cycle of proving their worth through productivity. Part 2 will dive deeper into healing, identity, rest, self-worth and redefining success. Resources & Links: Fleur Marks Official Website The Overachiever’s Reset by Fleur Marks Fleur Marks Speaking & Leadership Work Fleur Marks LinkedIn See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We spend a lot of time on this podcast exploring what's happening on the inside - our thoughts, our nervous system, our stress and worry. But what about the world around us? Today, Dr Jodi Richardson is joined by registered landscape architect and founder of Otara, Debbie Laporte, to explore how the spaces we inhabit - especially outdoor spaces - have a profound impact on our mental health and wellbeing. With over twenty years of experience designing school grounds, nature play areas and community environments across Australia and Europe, Debbie brings a fascinating perspective on why so many of us are struggling...and why the answer might be closer than we think. In this conversation, Jodi and Debbie discuss: Why humans are spending more time indoors than ever before, and what that's costing us mentally and emotionally The concept of nature deficit disorder and the growing movement of doctors prescribing time in nature What nature play actually is (and why it's not just for kids!) The powerful role of choice and risk in play, and what that means for raising resilient children Simple, low-cost ways to improve your outdoor spaces so you actually want to use them Why even five minutes outside can completely reset your mood and productivity Whether you have a big backyard or just a front doorstep, this episode will leave you looking at the spaces around you in a whole new way - and feeling inspired to get outside. Find Debbie and her work at www.orterra.com.au or on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’ve been feeling more anxious, foggy, flat or just not quite yourself lately — this conversation could be the missing piece. Dr Jodi Richardson sits down with nutritionist Ali Tehan to explore the powerful connection between gut health, mood and mental clarity — especially during perimenopause and menopause. Ali shares how changes in hormones can impact your gut microbiome, and in turn, your anxiety, energy levels, digestion and overall wellbeing. Together, they break down the science of the gut-brain connection into simple, practical steps you can actually apply in your everyday life. In this episode, they cover: - Why anxiety and brain fog can spike during this stage of life. - How the gut-brain axis influences mood and stress the key role of fiber, plant diversity and whole foods. - What’s really harming your gut health (and what helps). - The difference between probiotics and prebiotics small, realistic changes that can make a big impact. Plus, Ali shares where to start if you’re feeling overwhelmed — including how to assess your own gut health and build better habits without overhauling your entire life. If you’re looking for practical ways to feel more energised, clear-headed and in control of your health, this episode is packed with insights to get you started. Find Ali Tehan online: Website: https://www.alitehan.com.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellie_tehan_nutritionist/ Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Part 2 of her conversation with Dr Jodi Richardson on Well, Hello Anxiety, Australia’s leading play-at-work expert Dara Simkin dives deeper into how play can transform the way we think, work, and connect. Dara breaks down Dr Stuart Brown’s play personalities—including the creator, competitor, explorer, joker, kinesthetic, collector, storyteller and director—and explores how understanding your dominant styles can help you bring more play into everyday life (even in small, “mundane” moments like changing your coffee order or talking to a stranger). The conversation also unpacks why most of our days are actually improvised, yet we’ve never been taught how to do it well. Dara introduces the powerful “Yes, and” vs “Yes, but” exercise, revealing how a single word shift can completely change collaboration, energy, and creativity in conversations and workplaces. They also explore: Why play is essential for mental health, creativity, and resilience How workplace “play” often fails when it becomes performative instead of meaningful The importance of permission, space, and spark in creating playful work environments Why seriousness does NOT equal success How energy, bandwidth, and burnout are connected to how we live and work The idea of “vitamin C” (connection) and intelligent optimism in navigating modern life Dara also reflects on how play isn’t optional—it’s fundamental. As she shares, when we lose play, we lose access to creativity, hope, and flexible thinking. 👉 Learn more about Dara’s work: https://culturehero.co 👉 Explore the book Full Stack Human: https://fullstackhumanbook.com 👉 Available at Amazon, Booktopia, gimmicks readings and your local bookstore Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful Part 1 conversation on Well, Hello Anxiety, Dr Jodi Richardson is joined by Melbourne-based guest Dara Simkin—founder of Culture Hero, co-author of Full Stack Human: The Mindset Upgrade You Need to Stay Human in a World Ruled by Technology, and Australia’s leading play-at-work specialist. Together, they unpack why so many of us feel overwhelmed, anxious, and “frazzled” in 2026—even when life on paper looks fine. Dara explores how our nervous system, shaped for survival in a very different world, is now constantly reacting to modern-day stressors like financial pressure, global uncertainty, and nonstop information overload. At the heart of this conversation is a surprising antidote: play. Dara explains why play isn’t something we “earn” after work, but a vital biological and emotional reset that helps regulate the nervous system, reduce cortisol-driven stress states, and bring us back into connection, presence, and adaptability. She also introduces the idea of “intelligent optimism,” “strategic hope,” and why curiosity and small, playful moments can shift how we experience daily life. Jodi and Dara also explore the tension between growth and fear, the subconscious drivers behind anxiety and achievement, and why we often mistake survival patterns for personality traits. This episode also introduces Dara’s work in organisations through Culture Hero and her research-backed approach to play, belonging, and adaptability. Dara Simkin is a Melbourne-based consultant, speaker, and author, originally from the US, and brings a deeply human, practical lens to navigating modern anxiety and change. 📘 Learn more about Full Stack Human: https://fullstackhumanbook.com Part 2 continues next week, where Dara shares practical, real-life ways to integrate play into everyday routines to help calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety. Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.