Slimming Stories Around The World: Recent Episodes
Claire Oldham - West
Weight loss and fitness motivation showing that a great transformation is possible even when the going gets tough. Honest heartfelt conversations without the filter. I interview guests who share the whole weight loss story following a variety of weight loss plans such as Slimming World, Weight Watchers, Calories Counting & Keto.
In this episode, we’re diving into Laura’s story—a real, honest, and inspiring journey that all started with a walk. When Laura’s friend invited her out for a stroll, it didn’t seem like a big deal at the time. Laura hadn’t been out for a proper walk in ages, but she thought it’d be a nice way to catch up and spend time together. Little did she know that one walk would completely change the course of her life.
Laura’s friend knew she was going through a tough time and thought a bit of fresh air and a chat might help. She wasn’t wrong. The walk was tough—really tough. By the end, Laura felt absolutely drained and completely unwell. But instead of feeling defeated, she had a lightbulb moment. It was like her body was sending her a message loud and clear: something needed to change.
That moment was the push Laura needed. With her friend’s support, she started looking at her habits and how she could make some positive changes. Together, they came up with a plan. Meal prepping became a game-changer for Laura, giving her easy, healthy options right when she needed them. She also joined Slimming World, which added structure and accountability to her days.
But Laura didn’t stop there. To her own surprise, she found herself committing to early morning gym sessions—even at 5 a.m.! What started as a struggle quickly became a source of energy and pride. She wasn’t just making healthier choices with food; she was building momentum and confidence in every area of her life.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re stuck in a rut or you’re waiting for a sign to get started, this episode is for you. Laura’s story shows how one small step can lead to huge changes. It’s raw, relatable, and packed with little nuggets of motivation to help you start moving toward your goals.
If your interested in a taste of hypnosis register using the link below to be notified of the next challenge.
https://bit.ly/CHOCOLATE-HYPNOSIS
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.
Slimming Stories TikTok account - slimmingstoriespodcast
https://www.tiktok.com/@slimmingstoriespodcast?lang=en
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
We're just days away from Christmas, and as I was deciding which episode to publish, I came across a Reel by Cathy Heller where she shared two profound questions her friend had asked her.
These questions struck a chord with me, and I felt they would be perfect to share during this reflective season. Whether you're listening to this episode just before Christmas, right after, or even in the spring, these questions serve as a reminder that expecting different results while doing the same things can be transformed by the quality of the questions you ask yourself.
I encourage you to take a screenshot of these questions or write them down and reflect on them. They have the power to shift your perspective and create meaningful change.
I also wanted to demonstrate the power of vulnerability by sharing my own answers with you.
Question 1:
What do you need to let go of to become who you really are?
Question 2:
What needs to be born so you can truly be who you're meant to be and stop being who you're not?
In this episode, I discuss why these questions are so impactful, especially before jumping into "New Year's Resolutions." Instead of rushing to set goals, take a moment to pause, tune into your gut feelings, and connect with what truly matters to you.
As we wrap up 2024 with over 80,000 podcast downloads, I am so grateful to each and every one of my listeners for your support. You’ve made this journey incredible.
I also share details about my upcoming 3-Day Chocolate Detox Challenge starting in January, as well as the amazing results from the December challenge.
Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas and a transformative 2025!
If you are interested in the challenge sign up to the waiting list to be notified for the next one.
https://bit.ly/CHOCOLATE-HYPNOSIS
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.
Slimming Stories TikTok account - slimmingstoriespodcast
https://www.tiktok.com/@slimmingstoriespodcast?lang=en
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
This is part two following on from last week’s podcast guest Graham as he opens up about his initial skepticism when asked to participate in live hypnotherapy on Instagram for Mental Health Week. Despite his doubts, he took the plunge and, for the first time, experienced a profound sense of calm and serenity—an outcome he never thought possible as someone living with ADHD.
Graham shares how hypnotherapy has impacted his mental health in ways he didn’t expect. He reflects on how it differs from traditional talking therapy, offering insights into its unique ability to access deeper emotional healing. One of the most poignant moments of this episode is Graham’s account of finally visiting his brother’s grave, five years after his tragic passing—a step he attributes to the positive effects of hypnotherapy.
Graham’s story is a testament to resilience. As a passionate advocate for mental health, he shares how fitness continues to be a cornerstone of his well-being. From the highs of post-workout clarity to the struggles of staying consistent, he emphasizes how exercise is as vital for the mind as it is for the body.
Follow Graham on TikTok adhdas_fcuk
It's FREE! Join me in December for my next chocolate cravings challenge!
Click on the link below.
https://bit.ly/ClairesHypnosisChallenge
If you are interested in the challenge sign up to the waiting list to be notified for the next one.
https://bit.ly/CHOCOLATE-HYPNOSIS
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.
Slimming Stories TikTok account - slimmingstoriespodcast
https://www.tiktok.com/@slimmingstoriespodcast?lang=en
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
It’s the most wonderful time of the year—or is it? For many, the lead-up to Christmas is filled with joy and sparkle, but for others, it can be a challenging season. In this episode, we dive deep into mental health with the incredible Graham Dale, a passionate advocate who not only shares his journey but actively supports others by speaking about managing ADHD.
This week, we bring you part one of Graham's story. He opens up about how exercise has been a cornerstone in managing his mental health. From the post-workout highs to the moments he struggles without it, Graham candidly discusses the transformative power of fitness—not just for the body, but for the mind.
Graham shares a powerful and emotional story of how, one Christmas Eve, his mental health reached a critical point. In a moment of desperation, he sought help at a local police station, an event that, while not unfolding as he might have hoped, ultimately changed the trajectory of his life.
Graham’s heartfelt message comes with a trigger warning, as we delve into sensitive topics. His story serves as a reminder that mental health needs attention every day, not just during awareness weeks or holidays. He reflects on the loss of his brother, who was tragically killed five years ago, and how that grief shaped his journey. We also explore his experience with live hypnotherapy during Mental Health Week and its impact.
Graham’s resilience shines through, not only in his advocacy work but also in his personal life. Balancing his own challenges with ADHD while lovingly supporting his grandson highlights the importance of compassion, structure, and understanding in both fitness and mental health journeys.
As we approach Christmas, this episode aims to reach the one person who might need it most, reminding them they are not alone. Tune in, take what you need, and remember: mental health matters every day of the year. Enjoy the episode!
Follow Graham on TikTok adhdas_fcuk
It's FREE! Join me in December for my next chocolate cravings challenge!
Click on the link below.
https://bit.ly/ClairesHypnosisChallenge
If you are interested in the challenge sign up to the waiting list to be notified for the next one.
https://bit.ly/CHOCOLATE-HYPNOSIS
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.
Slimming Stories TikTok account - slimmingstoriespodcast
https://www.tiktok.com/@slimmingstoriespodcast?lang=en
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
EPISODE 128 - Heal Your Inner Self: Using Hypnosis to Tackle Emotional Eating and food cravings. Results of my November Chocolate Cravings Challenge .
I can't wait to give you an insight into November's 3 day “Chocolate Detox Hypnosis Challenge” as you hear highlights with the recordings I've shared with their consent.
This was by far my most interesting hypnosis session and it was clear that this challenge is geared towards those people that truly can’t resist chocolate and feel an overwhelming urge to eat chocolate most days. Those people that couldn’t take a bite and put the other half in the fridge!
You will be hearing from 2 of the attendees Emeline who you will remember from episode 121 of the podcast and a lady called Debbie.
On the first day of the challenge everyone was immersed into hypnosis. Some of those that attended had never experienced hypnosis so this was a great privilege to share the deep relaxation that can be found within hypnosis.
Day two is the day that I connected everyone to their child like younger self through hypnosis, they met younger versions of themselves, remembered forgotten moments, and even had the opportunity to offer their inner child comfort and healing. One participant, Debbie, shared a touching story of how she began to process the pain of a difficult childhood and found hope by connecting to a happy childhood memory with her Nan.
By the final day, the transformations were undeniable. Participants shared how their cravings had faded and how much lighter they felt emotionally. In the highlights you will hear their reactions
Claire emphasises the importance of emotional release in healing. She explains how past traumas often manifest physically and mentally until they’re addressed. Through hypnosis, those deeply buried emotions can finally come to the surface and be released, bringing clarity and freedom.
As an exciting next step, Claire is launching a six-week group program at the end of December. It will focus on emotional release and healing in a supportive group setting. These sessions promise to be deeply transformative, helping participants let go of stored emotions from trauma, grief, or other life challenges.
If this episode resonates with you, don’t hesitate to reach out to Claire or explore how her work can support your journey. Whether you’re looking to overcome cravings, process past experiences, or simply find a sense of peace, this is an episode full of hope and inspiration.
It's FREE! Join me in December for my next chocolate cravings challenge!
Click on the link below.
https://bit.ly/CHOCOLATE-HYPNOSIS
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.
Slimming Stories TikTok account - slimmingstoriespodcast
https://www.tiktok.com/@slimmingstoriespodcast?lang=en
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
YouTube
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
In today’s episode, I reflect on my journey with fitness and how my approach to motivation has shifted. We dive into the core of what first got me running — that need to connect with people and the challenge of running my first 5K. As someone who spends a lot of time working solo, running gave me a reason to be around others, which brought me a sense of joy and novelty.
As I look back, I've realised that the excitement of running wasn’t just about the finish line but also about how it made me feel. However, over time, my motivation has evolved. Life seasons change, and now walking, rather than running, feels more fulfilling. Walking has become my way to reconnect with nature, take photographs, and enjoy moments with family and friends — things that feel harder to do while running.
Why Re-evaluate Your Goals and Activities? In talking with podcast guests, I’ve found that sometimes achieving a goal weight or running pace doesn’t provide the feeling we expect. That’s why I’m asking myself: What do I genuinely want from my fitness journey right now? Instead of forcing a routine, I’m embracing walking as a way to move, connect, and unwind. This shift reminds me to question whether I’m staying active for myself or just because it’s what I’ve always done.
Walking has become a regular part of my routine because it feels accessible and enjoyable. I can listen to podcasts, explore new places, and even catch up with loved ones. Walking has also been a way to fit movement into my busy schedule without adding extra stress. It’s a reminder that sometimes, taking a break from our usual routine can actually bring us closer to our well-being goals.
Reflecting on Seasonal Motivation and Goals Our motivation can change with the seasons, and that’s okay. As the weather cools down, it’s normal to feel less inclined to go out for a run, and for me, that’s been an opportunity to focus on walking. Whether it’s due to changes in energy, interest, or environment, there’s no harm in taking time off from a fitness goal if it’s not serving you anymore. We’re not all meant to follow the same path, and adjusting to what feels right can lead to a more enjoyable, sustainable fitness journey.
Activity Tips for Staying Active Year-Round
- Grab Your Journal: Write down what movement makes you happiest. Whether it’s walking, dancing, or even exploring new workout classes, use this list to help you find motivation that comes from a place of joy.
- Embrace Seasonal Changes: Motivation naturally fluctuates, and adjusting to what feels right for you can make a huge difference. For me, switching to walking during the colder months has helped me stay active without the pressure of meeting a specific running goal.
- Enjoy the Process, Not Just the Goal: Remember, fitness doesn’t have to be about intense workouts. Moving more can be as simple as taking longer walks, exploring local parks, or dancing. It’s about finding ways to incorporate movement in a way that feels fun and fulfilling.
In this season of life, I’ve realised that moving is about enjoying each step, not pushing myself to a specific finish line. I hope this episode encourages you to embrace movement in whatever way feels best right now. Whether it’s walking, running, or trying something new, focus on what genuinely brings you joy and energy. Let’s walk, move, and enjoy where we are.
JOIN ME ON THE 11TH, 12TH & 13TH OF NOVEMBER AT 8:00 PM!
https://bit.ly/ClairesHypnosisChallenge
Slimming Stories TikTok account - slimmingstoriespodcast
https://www.tiktok.com/@slimmingstoriespodcast?lang=en
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.
In this week's episode, we welcome Lauren, a familiar face on Instagram, known for her honesty and motivation. She shares her journey from feeling uncomfortable in her body during summer to making a transformative decision to prioritise her health. Lauren talks about the challenges of navigating hot weather and the discomfort of being overweight, which often left her feeling self-conscious, especially around familiar faces at home. But when on holiday, far from people she knew, she would often feel a bit more liberated, even wearing a bikini, simply because she felt she had a bit more freedom to let go.
The pivotal moment for Lauren came in December, as she found herself shopping for holiday outfits, constantly discouraged by limited options. She describes the experience of clicking on a size 24 in an online shop, feeling as if it was a wake-up call. Despite being tempted to wait for the new year, Lauren chose to start her health journey in mid-December—a choice that would reshape her approach to health and fitness.
Lauren opens up about the mental blocks she faced on her journey. In her role as an assistant headteacher, the demanding schedule and high stress led her to rely on comfort foods. She describes how stress and exhaustion would lead her to binge on sugary snacks or pick up fast food as a quick fix, even admitting to reaching for a whole pack of donuts without much thought. The cycle of stress, overworking, and convenience eating had become a crutch, especially after long days that began as early as 7 a.m. and ended well after the school day.
During the interview, we dig into Lauren’s early days of making healthy changes. She reflects on the challenges of cutting out sugar and shifting to a new way of eating. Initially, she noticed immediate positive changes—feeling more energetic, less sluggish, and surprisingly, a significant reduction in her usual heartburn. After her first week, she felt a renewed sense of energy, a reminder of why she wanted to keep going with her new habits.
Lauren shares her meal habits, comparing what she used to eat with her current approach. Previously, her meals were filled with quick grabs like pastries and convenience snacks that she could easily eat while on the move. Now, her days start with an early breakfast she prepares herself, and instead of reaching for sugar-laden snacks, she finds herself satisfied with nutrient-dense meals. She’s also embraced meal prep, taking time each weekend to batch-cook a variety of dishes like chilies and curries. This way, her meals for the week are ready to go when she gets home, and she doesn’t have to resort to takeout.
For Lauren, the planning, structure, and convenience of batch-cooking have become essential, especially given her busy workdays. The time she dedicates on Sundays to prepare these meals has become a game-changer in maintaining her healthier lifestyle. Her approach serves as an inspiration for anyone who might feel constrained by time or energy but still wants to make positive changes.
Join us as Lauren shares her journey from feeling weighed down to building habits that bring her more joy, energy, and self-confidence. This episode is a testament to the power of small, consistent changes and how planning can help create a more balanced and fulfilling life.
JOIN ME ON THE 11TH, 12TH & 13TH OF NOVEMBER AT 8:00 PM!
https://bit.ly/ClairesHypnosisChallenge
Follow Lauren on Instagram at
l_dslimmingworld
Slimming Stories TikTok account - slimmingstoriespodcast
https://www.tiktok.com/@slimmingstoriespodcast?lang=en
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.
I wanted to take a moment in this episode to share my thoughts on an important topic in the weight loss space: weight loss injections. With so many people turning to this method, I thought it’d be helpful to open up a conversation around it. Some of the claims floating around about these jab’s include improvements in brain fog, reduced bloating, and even a decrease in early-onset dementia. I’ve personally heard a lot of buzz—my friend is raving about it, and a previous podcast guest I follow has also had positive results since starting the injection.
I’d love to hear your thoughts and questions on this topic, especially what you'd like me to ask an expert in a future episode. For many of us, weight loss isn’t just about the physical process; it’s tied deeply to our beliefs. I really want to challenge you to think about your mindset and beliefs around your ability to lose weight, especially if you’ve struggled in the past or feel stuck in your journey.
I’ve also found hypnosis to be a powerful tool for breaking through mental barriers. It’s been a game-changer for me, helping me overcome cravings, and I’m proud to say I haven’t touched chocolate in three years! If this resonates with you, I’d love for you to join my upcoming three-day challenge, starting on November 11th. It's designed to help you break your cravings and reset your relationship with food.
Before we wrap up, I’ll leave you with a question: When you reach for food, especially something like chocolate, is it really about hunger, or could it be a way to numb stress and chaos? Take some time to reflect on your habits, and if you’re looking to take back control, I’d be happy to have you join me in the challenge.
JOIN ME ON THE 11TH, 12TH & 13TH OF NOVEMBER AT 8:00 PM!
https://bit.ly/HypnosisWaitlist
Slimming Stories TikTok account - slimmingstoriespodcast
https://www.tiktok.com/@slimmingstoriespodcast?lang=en
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight
Maryam, who shares her personal story of battling body image issues and eating disorders. From feeling pressured about her weight as a child to experiencing severe disordered eating during her teenage years, Maryam opens up about her long and difficult journey to healing. She reflects on how her involvement in track and field at 16 worsened her eating habits, leading to health problems. After years of struggling with anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating, Maryam found yoga, which played a crucial role in her recovery. Yoga helped her regain mental clarity and emotional balance, offering a new approach to physical and mental health.
Maryam now uses yoga to maintain her well-being and hopes to inspire others dealing with similar struggles. This conversation offers insight into the long-term impact of body image issues and the powerful role of self-care in recovery.
You can follow Maryam on Instagram @maryamlaouiti_ go and show her some support!
JOIN ME ON THE 11TH, 12TH & 13TH OF NOVEMBER AT 8:00 PM!
https://bit.ly/HypnosisWaitlist
Slimming Stories TikTok account - slimmingstoriespodcast
https://www.tiktok.com/@slimmingstoriespodcast?lang=en
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.
Not only is this week a celebration of five years of the podcast, but it’s also the week I share the results of my chocolate craving hypnosis challenge that took place last week.
I talk about giving people a taste of some of the help I’ve received through hypnosis. This was next-level amazing, if I do say so myself!
Most challenges focus on learning, insights, and takeaways. My 3-day challenge was an immersive experience in hypnosis, designed to give those that joined the transformation that hypnosis alone can bring. This episode includes audio from the challenge on Day 1 and Day 3—you’ll hear the skeptics speak honestly about their doubts. While they liked the idea of resisting chocolate, deep down, they didn’t believe it would actually be possible.
Day 2 audio hasn’t been included, as that day focuses on connecting to repressed emotions by visiting participants' younger, childlike selves. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room—the tissues I asked them to bring definitely came in handy.
Despite the initial skepticism, the results are in: no one was able to smell the chocolate, let alone eat it!
The 3-day hypnosis challenge was pure joy—from the surprise of how hypnosis felt for those experiencing it for the first time to the emotional release on Day 2. One of the ladies mentioned that she doesn’t usually cry, let alone in front of a group of strangers, yet she felt safe doing so.
If you’d like to join me in November for the next chocolate cravings challenge, sign up using the link below. I’d love to see you there.
JOIN ME ON THE 11TH, 12TH & 13TH OF NOVEMBER AT 8:00 PM!
https://bit.ly/HypnosisWaitlist
Slimming Stories TikTok account - slimmingstoriespodcast
https://www.tiktok.com/@slimmingstoriespodcast?lang=en
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.
In this episode, I’m joined by the wonderful Debbie, whose story is truly inspiring. Debbie opens up about her incredible 5.5 stone weight loss journey with Slimming World and the unique challenges she faced along the way.
A lifelong lover of health and fitness, Debbie never had issues with her weight—until she was diagnosed with COPD. Prescribed steroids, she gained 5 stone over the course of 5 years, a difficult shift for someone who had always been active.
It wasn’t until her grandchildren came along that Debbie realised how much her weight was affecting her day-to-day life. Determined to make a change, she took on the challenge of creating healthier meals, learning to prepare food without staples like full-fat mayonnaise and oil.
Now, Debbie shares her journey and meal prep tips with thousands on TikTok, inspiring others through her determination, humour, with the support of her beloved "Ginge" (not the cat, but her partner!). Tune in for her story, and get ready to feel motivated by her positivity and practical approach to health and fitness.
JOIN ME ON THE 1ST, 2ND & 3RD OF OCTOBER AT 8.00PM!
https://bit.ly/3DaySSChallange
Have you missed the date of the challenge? Join my waitlist for the next one!
https://bit.ly/HypnosisWaitlist
Go follow Debbie over on her TikTok account thatb_tchdebie or if you're new to TikTok click on the link below.
https://www.tiktok.com/search?lang=en&q=batch%20cook%20debbie&t=1727639027849
Slimming Stories TikTok account - slimmingstoriespodcast
https://www.tiktok.com/@slimmingstoriespodcast?lang=en
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.
In this episode, I sit down with Emmeline to dive into her inspiring weight loss journey. She shares what motivated her to begin, discussing concerns about her health and her desire to lower risks ahead of an upcoming medical procedure. Emmeline also wanted to be a strong support for her son as he started high school.
We talk about how she approached her weight loss this time, focusing on making it a sustainable lifestyle change rather than just a short-term fix. She joined a weight loss program for accountability, but what’s really key for her is staying flexible and listening to her body, instead of being too rigid.
Emmeline opens up about making this a lifelong journey. She’s allowing herself more flexibility, especially when it comes to dining out, and is learning not to be too hard on herself. Her goal is to find a balance that works for her lifestyle long term.
One of the major factors in her success has been the support of her partner and family. Emmeline talks about how essential it has been to have open conversations with her loved ones about her goals and the kind of support she needs to stay on track.
JOIN ME ON THE 1ST, 2ND & 3RD OF OCTOBER AT 8.00PM!
https://bit.ly/3DaySSChallange
Have you missed the date of the 3 day hypnosis challenge?
Join my waitlist to be the first to be notified for the next one!
https://bit.ly/HypnosisWaitlist
Support Emmeline of her weight loss journey over at TikTok - changingmylife4eve simply click on the link below.
https://www.tiktok.com/@changingmylife4eva?lang=en
Slimming Stories TikTok account - slimmingstoriespodcast - simply click on the link below.
https://www.tiktok.com/@slimmingstoriespodcast?lang=en
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
You will see weekly lives and updates about the podcast.
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link
https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.
Today’s episode is a personal one where I’m opening up about my podcasting journey—there have definitely been some bumps along the way! From the early days of trying to figure out the technical side of things to facing my own mental health struggles, I’ve had my share of challenges.
At one point, I had to step away from the mic entirely. But thanks to the amazing support from this community, I found my way back and am excited to continue sharing with you!
As a celebration of the podcast being weeks away from its 5 year birthday I’ve got something really special for you. I’m offering a free 3-day hypnosis challange that I’ve put together to help you manage food cravings and emotional eating. This technique has been such a game-changer for me personally, and I can’t wait to see how it can help you too. It’s my way of giving back and saying thank you for all the support.
I’m sharing a very personal story—my struggle with a food addiction. I’ve now been free from chocolate, cakes, and sweets for over 1,000 days, which still feels incredible to say out loud! The sense of freedom and control it’s brought me is something I want to share with anyone who might be dealing with similar struggles.
I’ll be encouraging you to sign up for the free 3-day hypnosis challenge on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd of October.
No strings attached—this is truly just my way of offering hope and practical help. If cravings or emotional eating are something you’ve been struggling with, I think this could make a real difference.
I’ve experienced firsthand how powerful these techniques can be, and I really want you to have the opportunity to try them out. It’s free, there’s nothing to lose, and it might just be the step that changes everything.
Thanks for listening.
JOIN ME ON THE 1ST, 2ND & 3RD OF OCTOBER AT 8.00PM!
https://bit.ly/3DaySSChallange
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.
Episode 119: Unlocking Food Cravings: Heather's Hypnotherapy Insights.
In this episode, we delve into Heather's journey with cravings, hypnotherapy, and the surprising transformations that followed. We explore how her nostalgic connection with sweets from the 80s shifted after a session of hypnosis, shedding light on the power of the mind in reshaping our relationship with food.
Highlights from the Episode:
- Sweet Memories of the 80s: Heather reminisces about a time when chocolate bars and sweet treats were cherished on special occasions, evoking memories of love and warmth shared with her Grandma over Resse’s Cups and Andes Mints.
- Emotional Connections: The deep emotional tie Heather had with her grandmother and the associated treats became evident during a hypnotherapy session aimed at tackling cravings, leading her to tear up with newfound awareness.
- Exploring Hypnotherapy: Curious about the potential outcomes, Heather embarked on her first hypnosis experience, intrigued by the prospect of addressing her cravings and their impact on her weight loss journey.
- Transformation Unfolds: Heather narrates her journey through hypnosis, from craving Reese’s Cups and Andes Mints to feeling averse to them post-session. The once irresistible treats now evoke sensations like toothaches or overly minty toothpaste, highlighting the shift in perception after hypnotherapy.
- Personal Insights: Heather draws parallels between hypnosis and her love for yoga, sharing her unique perspective on how the two practices resonate and differ in unlocking the mind's potential.
Key Takeaways:
- Explore the emotional roots of cravings and their impact on your relationship with food.
- Consider hypnotherapy as a tool to address cravings and reshape your perceptions.
- Embrace the transformative power of the mind in creating healthier habits and choices.
Join us on this enlightening journey as Heather shares her experience of breaking free from food cravings and redefining her approach to mindful eating.
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel.
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.
So this happened 75k downloads!
In this episode, I reflect on the journey so far, marked by hitting 75k podcast downloads. Despite initial doubts from some, the support from listeners has been overwhelming, and I'm deeply grateful for each one who encouraged me along the way.
I’m so grateful to Cathy Heller and Emma Kikuchi for instilling in me the belief that I could embark on this podcasting journey and transition into entrepreneurship. It's been more than just a podcast; it's been about forming connections and friendships, both locally and internationally. The mantra of getting the messy version done was great for me as there was no other way the podcast would have ever been published!
We'll take a trip down memory lane, revisiting highlights from the past 117 episodes, featuring remarkable guests like Aoife, Lewis, Julie Ashlie, Aleisha, Alison, Melanie, Ruth & Bex. Throughout, the focus has remained on fostering raw, honest conversations around weight loss.
As we celebrate this milestone, I'm filled with pride and gratitude for the inspirational conversations that have shaped this podcast. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey!
A special thanks to Nicole, Kim, Emma & Johanna.
In gratitude,
Claire.
TRIGGER WARNING - Childhood neglect sexual abuse and trauma.
Introducing a very different podcast episode with an amazing lady called Jolene. Jolene had survived horrendous childhood neglect and trauma including childhood sexual abuse. Jolene explains how as a child she felt like an outsider and how she learned to survive being passed through the care system only to be abandoned by her mother again at age 15.
You will hear Jolene talk about her struggles with mental health that took her to talking therapy and how in the past she was even sectioned under the mental health act.
As a result of Jolene's childhood experiences she was diagnosed with PTSD.
Jolene received help and is now working in mental health however the PTSD night terrors would not subside.
Jolene would have to take Amitriptyline to go to sleep to relax her body only when she was asleep the night terrors would start. As a child Jolene would be on the out for her abuser and would keep her bedroom door ajar. Staring at the door frame in her bedroom as a child stayed with her into adulthood and she never felt safe enough to close her bedroom door.
After one session of hypnotherapy I was able to desensitise Jolene from the painful memories, the PTSD night terrors stopped and Jolene now sleeps with her bedroom door shut.
I am hoping that Jolene's bravery for allowing me to record two hypnotherapy sessions will provide others with hope who have struggled with PTSD and have been left feeling that this is something they have to live with for the rest of their lives and manage.
Hypnotherapy is powerful and is so much more than relaxation. I make no apologies for the fact that if you go to my YouTube Channel and watch the videos that you will see Jolene crying & shaking while she is releasing repressed emotions that she had held onto from childhood.
I wanted to bring to you a powerful mental health shift and didnt want you to think that hypnotherapy is another woo woo fad! Truly it is not!
The intention of publishing this episode was to show my listeners that there is always hope. If talking therapy and CBT has left you feeling frustrated, your subconscious mind can help you to release and process repressed emotions without the need to talk through the details of your past.
My uttermost gratitude goes out to Jolene who now lives a life surrounded by her children & grandchildren now working in mental health to help those who have struggled with their demons.
Jolene’s light is beyond bright.
Links below to Jolene's hypnotherapy sessions.
https://bit.ly/PTSDChildhoodTraumaHypnosis
https://bit.ly/PTSDNIGHTERRORS2NDLIVESESSION
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel.
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.
In this episode we delve into the journey of Johanna, a passionate Keto enthusiast who battles with the temptation of sugary treats, particularly her weakness for strawberry iced doughnuts. We explore the conversation leading up to and following her hypnosis session, witnessing the transformation in her cravings for doughnuts.
Johanna's love for cooking, baking, and all things Keto is undeniable. However, despite her dedication to the low-carb lifestyle, the intense aroma of her favourite doughnuts often tests her resolve. The smell of freshly baked doughnuts, particularly the strawberry iced ones, proves to be Johanna's Achilles' heel, tempting her despite her commitment to Keto.
Following the session, Johanna experiences a remarkable shift in her perspective and desires. She shares her newfound sense of control now that she no longer feeling compelled to indulge in the sugary temptations of doughnuts. The smell of doughnuts no longer triggers the same intense cravings, showcasing the transformative power of hypnosis in reshaping her relationship with food.
Johanna's journey serves as a testament to the potential of hypnosis in overcoming cravings and resisting temptation. Her story inspires listeners to explore alternative methods for achieving their health and wellness goals, reminding us that change is possible with dedication and the right mindset.
Tune in to this episode to witness Johanna's transformative journey and discover the profound impact of hypnosis on conquering cravings and embracing a healthier lifestyle.
You can watch Johanna’s hypnotherapy session on YouTube using this link.
https://bit.ly/DOUGHNUTCRAVINGS
Go ahead and follow Johanna on Instagram @latino_livin_keto
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel.
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.
Does emotional eating frustrate you?
Do you feel that while food cravings jeopardise you're good intensions you don't want to give up the comfort of the food you crave?
In this episode, you will hear how I often turn down clients looking for a quick-fix hypnotherapy for food cravings and weight loss.
The bigger picture...the elephant in the room that is often not discussed is the fact that the issue with our relationship with food often has very little to do with food!
The emotions that drive those food cravings should always be the first point of call before looking at any hypnotic cravings technique or virtual gastric band.
Emotional eating is driven by the subconscious - unconscious mind trying to provide you with a good feeling during times of stress and anxiety or simply overwhelm from a busy day.
If you are struggling with food cravings or a difficult relationship with food, if you're in a loop of self-sabotage, then this episode is for you.
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel.
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.
In today's episode, we have the incredible Lisanne joining us. She's a true inspiration, having successfully shed over 10 stone, and she's here to share the profound insights and experiences that shaped her weight loss journey.
Lisanne takes us on an insightful journey, providing a nuanced perspective on the highs, lows, and pivotal moments throughout her weight loss transformation. Her narrative is a compelling exploration of the challenges faced, setbacks encountered, and the triumphant instances that defined her unique path to wellness.
She delves into the pivotal mindset shift that served as a catalyst for her success, revealing the mental fortitude and unwavering determination required to maintain focus on her health goals.
Beyond the weight loss narrative, Lisanne graciously shares her role as a surrogate mother to a gay couple. This heartfelt discussion sheds light on the emotional and fulfilling aspects of participating in the creation of a family.
Furthermore, Lisanne provides insights into the post-weight loss phase, discussing her decision to undergo skin removal surgery. This candid exploration highlights the transformative impact of such procedures on both the physical and psychological aspects of one's well-being.
This episode serves as a celebration of resilience, strength, and the individuality of personal journeys. Lisanne's story not only inspires but also prompts meaningful reflections on the broader themes of health, compassion, and self-discovery.
We invite you to immerse yourselves in this thought-provoking conversation and glean inspiration from Lisanne's remarkable journey. Until our next encounter, stay inspired and take care.
You can follow Lisanne over on Instagram @lasagne79_weightloss
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel.
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.
Welcome to this week's podcast episode, where we dive deep into the intriguing world of food cravings. Join me as I share a personal insight into the struggles of dealing with irresistible desires for those foods we can’t leave alone!
In the spotlight today is Laurie, who battles with an undeniable craving for peanut butter. Picture this: she finds herself scooping the creamy delight straight from the jar with a spoon, just as she did in secret during her childhood. As confessions unfold, I admit to my own guilty pleasure of indulging in condensed milk.But fear not, for today we're parking the guilt and exploring the fascinating journey Laurie embarks on as she delves into hypnotherapy.
Stay tuned to witness the transformation as Laurie, guided by hypnotic suggestions, gradually loses her desire to taste or even smell peanut butter. This episode offers a captivating glimpse into the realm of control achievable through hypnotherapy.
I shed light on the notion that food cravings often have little to do with the food itself but are intricately tied to the associations with joyful moments. In Laurie's case, it's the early memories of childhood that fuel her peanut butter cravings. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the profound insights into the power of hypnotherapy in reshaping our relationship with food.
Have a great week, until next time take care.
Claire.
You can watch the hypnotherapy video over on my YouTube video using this link:https://bit.ly/PEANUTBUTTERCRAVINGS
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel.
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.
Introducing you to Danielle Savage, a truly beautiful soul, both inside and out. In this episode, we delve into Danielle's remarkable journey of weight loss and self-discovery. Danielle's story takes a significant turn when she becomes a mother. We explore the unique challenges and triumphs she faced on her weight loss journey as a young mum. Many of us can relate to the nagging guilt that sometimes creeps in when we prioritise self-care as Mum's.
So, join us as we unpack Danielle's transformation and the invaluable lessons she has to share. It's a journey of weight loss, self-discovery, and the profound impact of self-confidence on our lives and the lives of those we love. When we feel good, confident, and comfortable in our bodies, we radiate positivity to our children and everyone around us. It's a win-win situation.
Follow and connect with Danielle On Instagram at sw_danielle_savage
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel.
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.
Gillian wanted control of the hot cross buns she craved. But… Gillian was a baker who loved the smell and texture so much of hot cross buns that she had her own ritual of smelling and squeezing the buns before she went in for a bite! Carbs, cakes, and anything sugary were Gillian’s downfall.
Keto is the weight loss plan that Gillian wanted to follow; however, this is a very low-carb and low-sugar plan, so helping quit those cravings using hypnosis, especially as a baker, would be a challenge indeed relying on willpower alone.
You will hear Gillian describe how she felt about the food she craved both before and after hypnosis. Like many people embarking on a healthy eating program, Gillian talks about the guilt of feeling unable to resist the foods in the moments that cravings felt so strong. In Gillian’s words, “sugar makes the world feel good.” Challenging this belief system may sound impossible. However, the subconscious mind is powerful. Listen to this week’s episode and open your mind to the possibility that habits can be changed without weeks and weeks of fighting cravings.
You will find a longer format video to this week’s episode over on my YouTube Channel. Here is a link to watch part of the hypnotherapy session. https://bit.ly/HotCrossBunCravings
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel.
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.
I'm so pleased you're here for another podcast episode. I'm going to introduce you to Arielle today. She's a remarkable woman whose journey has rekindled her mental and physical fortitude through the art of boxing. In this episode, Arielle shares how she liberated herself from a narcissistic relationship. Drawing from her martial arts journey, she not only empowered herself but also founded her own boxing club. Through this venture, Arielle now coaches those grappling with their own challenges, helping them access their inner strength and unlock their physical potential.
This episode invites you to explore Arielle's journey and perhaps consider stepping into a boxing club or gym yourself. Would you consider boxing to help reset you health and fitness for 2024? Stepping out of our comfort zone can may surprise you!
Take care.
Claire.
Follow and connect with Arielle on these channels, you will find a free class in the website link below. Enjoy!
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/laceupboxingclub/
Website - www.core-strike.com
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel.
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.
Weight loss is 99% mindset, hypnosis with help you to move forward with your healthy intentions.
If you are consumed by food cravings and struggling with comfort eating I would be happy to hep you.
Thank you so much for downloading please subscribe for further episodes in your inbox!
"It's been a while, and I'm so glad to be back!
While you may have thought that was the end of the podcast, it was certainly a long pause. But I'm back, recording and looking forward to publishing new episodes.
So much has happened; you will hear how 2023 has had its challenges, but it's also important to keep showing up during difficult times.
In this episode, I discuss how future episodes are going to sound and how the podcast has evolved to cover the weight loss transformation of both the mind and body.
As a hypnotherapist, I want to dive deeper into mental health conversations because everyone looking to lose weight is often carrying more than the pounds they aim to lose.
Thank you for tuning in, please subscribe for future podcast episodes.
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup
Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel.
https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.
We all need encouragement from time to time and who better to share their weight loss journey than Tatenda, host of “Marvellous Encouragement."
Tatenda has always celebrated her curves and her motivation was never fuelled by a social media idealistic view of a woman's body.
This episode is very different from previous guest interviews as Tatenda had not struggled with weight or food choices from early childhood, teens, or twenties. Tatenda embarked on her weight loss journey at age 36 having lost the body confidence that she once adored. Tatenda found that celebrating curves was difficult in a UK size 22 body and compliments from her husband were difficult to take.
Tatenda felt embarrassed that she had got to a size 22 and she found herself hiding away in the bathroom to get changed and from social events.
You will hear Tatenda open up about how her excess weight had caused physical pains and how she didn't feel aligned with the health message she had to give working as a nurse. Motivating others to lose the weight they needed when she was a size 22 was something that Tatenda knew had to change.
Tatenda has now transformed her health journey and no longer worries about encouraging others. Tatenda wanted to share her encouragement on YouTube with her own channel “Marvellous Encouragement”.
The hiding away is now a thing of the past and Tatenda has taken back her power away from the scales and owns her weight loss journey. Tatenda shares how Slimming World, calorie counting & intermittent fasting have all helped her to step back into a healthy body.
Enjoy!
If you would like to follow Tatenda on YouTube and Instagram simply click on the links below and subscribe.
marvellous_encouragement
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@marvellousencouragement
If you would like to watch the podcast episode on video head over to my YouTube Channel https://bit.ly/YOUTUBESLIMMINGSTORIES
Would you like to learn more about my hypnotherapy services? Are you struggling with food cravings? Do you feel overwhelmed, perhaps your stress levels are at an all time high or your anxiety is through the roof?
Are you struggling to move forward with your life due to PTSD, Trauma, anxiety & stress?
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30-minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
You will see the hypnosis in action over on my YouTube Channel Emotional Release Hypnotherapy
https://bit.ly/emotionalreleasehypnotherapy
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/3H2RRn
Happy Valentines!
Sending you big Saint Valentine's greetings.
It feels so easy to love those we truly cherish, so easy to offer friends and family compliments and words of encouragement, and yet how easy is it to truly receive that same love?
In this episode, you will hear how Charlotte is given an insight into how her negative self-talk has really impacted her self-esteem.
This conversation will show you how easy it is to repeat negative self-talk on autopilot and Charlotte's reaction to the mirror work I help her with.
You will be able to hear the hypnosis I guide Charlotte over on my Youtube channel following this link.
Hypnosis is simply a pure state of focus.
The question is what hypnosis are you currently invested in?
What words do you focus on to describe your reflection on autopilot? So many times I hear people refer to hypnosis as woo woo! Yet people are already in hypnosis - each time they focus on negative self-talk and truly believe those negative words to be true.
Watch Charlotte's interview on her recovery from Emetophobia using this link.
https://youtu.be/0R9XC26A7jk
You will see the hypnosis in action over on my YouTube Channel Emotional Release Hypnotherapy.
https://bit.ly/emotionalreleasehypnotherapy
If you would like to watch the podcast episode on video head over to my YouTube Channel https://bit.ly/YOUTUBESLIMMINGSTORIES
Would you like to learn more about my hypnotherapy services? Are you struggling with food cravings? Do you feel overwhelmed, perhaps your stress levels are at an all-time high or your anxiety is through the roof?
Are you struggling to move forward with your life due to PTSD, Trauma, anxiety & stress? Are your fears & phobias in control or are you struggling with food cravings?
If you find yourself struggling to lose weight with Weight Watchers or Slimming World due to having zero control over the food on your plate I can help you to release the emotions you are trying to manage with comfort eating.
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30-minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/3H2RRn
Life has changed so much since Ruth last recorded an episode with Slimming Stories on episode 16. You may remember Ruth sharing her weight loss success with Slimming World dropping from a dress size 22 to a size 8.
With newfound confidence, Ruth explains how she applied to the world-renowned school of performing arts “Lipa’ …just for a laugh! Ruth never imagined that she would be accepted as this had always been a dream and Lipa was a fairytale wish in a land far far away!
Meanwhile, Ruth became unwell and was suspected of early menopause.
More miracles were in store for Ruth as she explains how having polycystic ovaries meant that the dream of having children was something she had accepted would never happen.
Do you believe in miracles!!!!?
Take a listen and hear Ruth's fantastic news.
Before Ruth's Podcast recording, I was able to take Ruth into hypnosis to help with pain management and a painful memory after Ruth had suffered a miscarriage.
We never know the weight of the emotional pain someone is carrying when they embark on their weight loss journey. It was a pleasure not only to provide Ruth with pain relief but also to release her mind from being stuck in the moment of trauma from the miscarriage she had suffered.
You will see the hypnosis in action over on my YouTube Channel Emotional Release Hypnotherapy
https://bit.ly/emotionalreleasehypnotherapy
If you would like to watch the podcast episode on video head over to my YouTube Channel https://bit.ly/YOUTUBESLIMMINGSTORIES
Would you like to learn more about my hypnotherapy services? Are you struggling with food cravings? Do you feel overwhelmed, perhaps your stress levels are at an all-time high or your anxiety is through the roof?
Are you struggling to move forward with your life due to PTSD, Trauma, anxiety & stress?
Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30-minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
I think I can vouch for the majority of my listeners when I say that most people committing to their weight loss have at some time sipped from the cup of Fad diets!
Even knowing that a juice diet is a quick fix isn't always enough to steer us away from investing in the notion that something with “tropical” in the title will bring about a subtropical magical fat-melting reaction without the hard work!
This week's episode is a minisode, one of many as I share a recent podcast sponsor opportunity. This was a little triggering as you will hear from my tone, my family thought this was a great idea! I had other thoughts and I'm sure you will all agree that declining the offer was the best move. Yes, I could have earned money however integrity and not having my podcast Spammed felt more in line with my Slimming Stories vision. Enjoy!
Each episode will be recorded so if YouTube is your thing you can find this episode by hitting subscribe on my channel https://bit.ly/YOUTUBESLIMMINGSTORIES
Each week I will be showing up and sharing my Slimming World weight loss journey and filling you in on the story so far.
YouTube Channels
Mental Health Hypnotherapy
https://bit.ly/YOUTUBEHYPNOTHERAPY
Would you like to learn more about my hypnotherapy services? Are you struggling with food cravings? Do you feel overwhelmed, perhaps your stress levels are at an all-time high or your anxiety is through the roof? Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30-minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/3H2RRn
it's been 6 months since my last Podcast episode I am now rejecting the excuse of not having time to Podcast!!
Without avoiding the obvious…it’s been a while!
Happy New Year!!! I am back with a whole new approach to podcasting.
Podcasting has been an experience for sure and one thing that has been in short supply is the time to continue in the way I previously did before I started my hypnotherapy business. However, I'm not one to quit and I wanted to share with you my new Podcast format.
Each episode will be recorded so if YouTube is your thing you can find this episode by hitting subscribe on my channel https://bit.ly/YOUTUBESLIMMINGSTORIES
Each week I will be showing up and sharing my Slimming World weight loss journey and filling you in on the story so far. In this week's episode, you will hear my intentions for 2023 and all about what's been happening since my last podcast episode.
YouTube Channels
Mental Health Hypnotherapy
https://bit.ly/YOUTUBEHYPNOTHERAPY
Would you like to learn more about my hypnotherapy services? Are you struggling with food cravings? Do you feel overwhelmed, perhaps your stress levels are at an all-time high or your anxiety is through the roof? Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30-minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/3H2RRn
In this week's episode, I bring you up to speed with my decision to rejoin Slimming World. I share my sugar craving update after 8 months of no temptation towards cake, chocolate, or sweets. If you're wondering…YES I am over the moon! I share the impact of being able to easily resist the glitter of sugar after receiving help using hypnotherapy.
You will hear about my new accountability for my Slimming World journey having decided to start a YouTube Vlog. This was far from an easy decision and if you click on the link to my YouTube Channel you will hear how quiet and nervous I was recording my first episode! Luckily by week two, the nerves had gone. If you're looking for extra accountability and a very honest insight into the on-scale and off-scale victories then I would love to see you over there.
Emma Isaacs Course Link
https://www.emmaisaacs.co.uk/heart-and-soul
YouTube Channels
Slimming Stories
https://bit.ly/YOUTUBESLIMMINGSTORIES
Mental Health Hypnotherapy
https://bit.ly/YOUTUBEHYPNOTHERAPY
Would you like to learn more about my hypnotherapy services? Are you struggling with food cravings? Do you feel overwhelmed, perhaps your stress levels are at an all-time high or your anxiety is through the roof? Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30-minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. claireoldhamwest.com
You can contact me by email at claireoldhamwest@gmail.com
Before mental health awareness week passes us by, I wanted to jump on and record an episode to support you in any struggles that you're feeling right now.
I want anyone that is listening to this episode to know that regardless of where they are at right now with their mental health, you are not broken and unfixable.
If you have tried C.B.T, N.LP, Counselling, E.M.D.R…..and have felt beyond the point of therapy this episode is especially for you.
I am giving you the chance for me to help you with a painful memory and the best part is that this is content-free, I do not need to know the details of the memory.
In this episode, you will hear how I explain that with the best will in the world if you are struggling with a painful memory from the past that a weight loss journey can feel like an uphill struggle.
I’m inviting you to offload the pain and while you will still remember the event the emotional pain will no longer be attached. I’m offering this to show you that there is hope and I'm offering this for free.
Listen as I read a testimonial from a lady who had spent years in therapy and how I helped her using this exact technique in just 10 minutes.
I know EXACTLY how this sounds! Honestly, even if you're skeptical I urge you to give this a try and break free from emotional pain.
**There are some people who may not benefit from hypnosis and once you register you will receive this information.
Register your interest by reaching out to me on my email address:
claireoldhamwest@gmail.com
Slimming Stories Facebook Group.
https://bit.ly/3H2RRns
YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCx4JqpRnPwmP6MvAf6ieYYw
You may remember Debbie Fawcett from episode 42 of the podcast. Debbie lost 15 stone with Slimming World and like many people over lockdown found the food she craved too big a temptation.
Having kept in contact with Debbie I suggested helping Debbie with the food she craved using hypnosis to regain control. Hypnosis was a brand new experience for Debbie but nevertheless Debbie agreed and found Hypnosis to be extremely helpful.
In this episode, you will hear how Debbie thought she hadn't gone fully into hypnosis and yet after the session, the chocolate cake and biscuits didn't even make it to Debbie's mouth.
I totally understand how different the approach of hypnosis and hypnotherapy seems which is why I'm bringing the sessions to you!
After the session, Debbie could only associate the biscuits and chocolate cake with salt! Debbie had wanted to be able to go into her kitchen for a cup of tea without the desire for biscuits, it's safe to say that her wish was granted!
Here is the link to see Debbie's full episode over on YouTube http://bit.ly/YouTubeClaireOldhamWest
Join me for my free webinar on Thursday the 27th of January where I will be introducing my new course “Slimming Stories Emotional Detox” http://bit.ly/EMOTIONALDETOX
If you're interested in hypnotherapy you can visit my website claireoldhamwest.com
To book a free discovery call to see if hypnotherapy is the right therapy for you just click on this link to schedule your 30-minute session. https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact
Episode 100, Imposter syndrome as a podcaster is very real, celebrating my 100 milestone of a podcast that nearly never started!
In gratitude I have published episode 100... ti's the season of miracles and the fact is there was a point I had given up on the idea of ever publishing a podcast.
For the first time ever I have published this episode with zero editing!!! Inspired by a recent hypnotherapy client that had lived with a stutter for 70 years I can safely say that my "erms" are no big deal and every voice deserves a platform.
This episode is my journey through imposter syndrome to feeling the drive to publish a podcast despite all of life's curveballs leading up to the launch. I hope this inspires anyone not to let go of their dreams and not to wait for that moment when all the stars align.
I weathered every storm leading up to the podcast launch but I just could not give it up!
I created this podcast on a wing and a prayer, lots of prayers in fact!
I talk about Cathy Heller's podcast course and meeting some gorgeous people in America who are now my biggest cheerleaders.
I discuss how podcasting has changed my outlook on life from first meeting fellow entrepreneurs to taking the leap to leave my day job in 2021 and starting my own business.
I give a shout-out to my husband Martin West who has always had my back and carried me through this process showing love and support each step of the way.
I share my thanks to the guests on my show, mostly strangers who opened their hearts to share their stories to inspire you the listener.
Take action, however, this looks and however messy it feels. Imposter syndrome is real but accepting all that scares you and pushing through this creates change.
Sending love, 2021 has been another COVID year but we did it, we made it through!
I hope 2022 gives you the opportunity to catapult yourself out of your comfort zone as you take your own scary steps towards doing the thing that lights you up. If I can host a podcast with 50k plus downloads you can do anything!
Thank you for listening.
Much love Claire.
Slimming Stories Facebook Group:
https://bit.ly/3H2RRns
Website link:
- here you can download my free hypnosis audio track.
https://www.claireoldhamwest.com
Episode 99, Aleisha Black talks openly about finding herself through obesity and the courageous steps she is taking to document her weight loss journey.
Aleisha felt that she had finally found the answer in managing weight gain in the form of nutritious meal replacements. Aleisha decided to document her journey on YouTube for accountability and this worked really well. The plan Aleisha chose to follow was a shake meal replacement and watching the scales reduce as well as her dress size was amazingly encouraging along with the words of support from her followers.
In this episode, Aleisha talks about the difficulties of maintaining weight loss when her husband's mental health struggles had increased to the point of experiencing suicidal thoughts. The days that followed meant that Aleisha's focus had to be with her family as a wife and mother and making time for her needs had taken a back seat. Depression followed and Aleisha felt desperately unhappy and sad having regained the weight that had been under control adding to Aleisha’s frustration.
This episode is unapologetically raw and shows the determination it takes just to get out of bed and face each day living with depression and trying to manage life.
Aleisha is now in a better place and was inspired to think differently and in the process offers hope to others who have also been in a dark place by documenting her weight loss journey on a podcast “finding myself through obesity”.
This is new for Slimming Stories documenting weight management before the full weight loss. I know you will all join me in wishing Aleisha all the best as she steps forward to make the positive changes necessary to improve her health.
You can follow Aleisha and her weight loss journey on Instagram @findingmyselfthroughobesity
https://www.instagram.com/aleisha_black_/
https://www.instagram.com/findingmyselfthroughobesity/
https://www.tiktok.com/@aleishablack
https://www.facebook.com/findingmyselfthroughobesity
Claire Oldham West: Hypnotherapist, Coach & Podcaster.
claireoldhamwest.com
This is part 2 of Angharad's slimming story. While Angharad was delighted to be in a position to receive Gastric Bypass surgery, who would have predicted Covid and a worldwide pandemic?! Angharad explains within this episode how the family was unable to visit and how post-surgery looked. Trying to be present for her children while dealing with the challenges that she was faced with after surgery is just one of the many inspiring conversations that you will hear. In fact, Angharad is blessed with children who offered support who knew how much the surgery meant to their mum.
This is a great story of determination and resilience and Angharad found herself using Covid as a motivator to allow herself to reset into her new body in time for her business to be reopened after lockdown. Angharad was able to enjoy walks out with her children and discover new walks along the way, something she never thought about before lockdown forced her to stay close to home.
Angharad greeted her clients in her smaller size when the doors to her business finally opened and received positive support.
This episode is a great listen especially for anyone considering this surgery as Angharad recalls the early days after surgery and gives great advice around expectations.
You can follow Angharad over on Instagram @angharads_next_chapter
You can subscribe to my new email list to experience the joy of pure relaxation with a free hypnosis audio track.
Click below to subscribe to my new email list:
claireoldhamwest.com
Having tried every diet and feeling hopeless with her weight loss journey Angharad turned to her G.P and was delighted to receive support through the N.H.S. in the form of a gastric bypass referral.
Unfortunately, because Angharad was neither diabetic or had high blood pressure this support came to an end and this resulted in despair for Angharad and a further 3 stone weight gain.
Acid reflux, joint pain, and declining mental health were all results of being out of control with food and yet food seemed to be the answer for dealing with every emotion happy or sad. Once finances became available Angharad was able to receive a gastric bypass.
Angharad documented the emotional process of weight loss and the ability to regain control and newfound self-esteem on Instagram. Angharad has reduced her dress size from a U.K size 26/28 to U.K size 8/6.
This is part 1 of Angharad's weight loss journey and she explains how she was so ready to shed the weight after years of disordered eating.
You can follow Angharad over on Instagram @angharads_next_chapter
You can subscribe to my new email list to experience the joy of pure relaxation with a free hypnosis audio track.
Click below to subscribe to my new email list:
Claireoldhamwest.com
Soozi enjoyed take-out food so much that she dedicated over 20 years of daily take-outs that seemed to offer a solution after a busy day at work.
Work for Soozi was once so busy and so intense that the very thought of seeing 7.00 a.m on her alarm clock was just too much, and the process of physically getting out of bed was becoming more and more difficult. Work pressures armed with a poor diet had left Soozi both mentally and physically drained.
The saving grace for Soozi came with the help of a friend who was able to share how a yoga retreat had made such a positive impact on her health that Soozi wanted to give it a try.
This week's episode offers an insight to anyone who feels burnt out and wondering how to even start to begin a journey back to wellness. The natural step for Soozi was to train as a yoga instructor to help others.
If you have been inspired to give yoga a try you can follow Soozi on Instagram and will find her website @areya_yoga
Areya Retreat online:
https://app.heymarvelous.com/areya-yoga/product/38558/about
You can subscribe to my new email list to experience the joy of pure relaxation with a free hypnosis audio track.
Click below to subscribe to my new email list:
claireoldhamwest.com
To see Lydia showing up on her Instagram account you would think that Lydia had a naturally confident and outgoing persona, that posting her photos would be a doddle.
During this interview, Lydia explains how it took over 2 months of taking photos before she was able to hit publish. The old insecurities were still very much a recent memory and yet somehow Lydia just couldn't hold back from putting herself out there.
Lydia explained that while she was toying with the idea of posting she would scroll and see other accounts promoting body positivity and other curvy ladies that truly inspired Lydia to take action.
At the point Lydia posted on Instagram she had started to lose weight with the help of calorie counting and this gave her the confidence boost that she needed.
Now Lydia shows up beautifully on Instagram with weight loss progress photos and documents how her clothes fit her shape both before and after the zip fastens! Truly inspiring!
Lydia didn't stop there and with the discovery of an online hoola hoop class, Lydia has found an exercise that she truly loves and this has helped so much with regaining her fitness and losing inches off her waist.
You can find Lydia on Instagram lydsjourney2target prepare to be inspired!
You can subscribe to my new email list to experience the joy of pure relaxation with a free hypnosis audio track.
Click below to subscribe to my new email list:
claireoldhamwest.com
Alison explains how she feels she wasted 30 years avoiding the things she loved to do and the disruption this caused managing life in a morbidly obese body.
Alison had many moments and experiences within those 30 years that were warning signs of her weight issue. Alison opens up about an experience of a fair ride and what she describes as a walk of shame when the seat belt to the ride didn't fit. Moments like these were embarrassing for Alison yet she walked from the ride exit straight to the candy floss stall. Alison knew her sweet tooth didn't help her health journey but during this time Alison explains that she was in denial at how big she had become.
With poor physical and mental health, Alison felt very low and antidepressants had been prescribed. High blood pressure and diverticulitis were other health problems that Alison had to deal with and even when Alison's was severely ill this still wasn't the turning point.
Luckily all this changed and if you're in need of some honest heartfelt motivation if you want to hear what true success sounds like Alison will amaze you in this episode. Alison, motivated by the task of sharing care for her Grandson went onto lose 11 and a half stones and no longer receives any medication! Alison's blood pressure is now normal and she no longer receives medication for antidepressants. Alsion's change of diet has helped the symptoms she had experienced with Diverticulitis so much so that she no longer experiences symptoms.
Alison’s 60th birthday celebrations included a Zip wire in Wales! Something that Alison is now free to enjoy, a new health journey is laid before her and new experiences await.
If you would like to follow Alison on Instagram her Instagram handle is
You can subscribe to my new email list to experience the joy of pure relaxation with a free hypnosis audio track.
Click below to subscribe to my new email list:
claireoldhamwest.com
Episode 93, Steve Lodge a slimming story of resilience and hope after a time of great loss.
Podcast Episode re-run.
Do we ever really know what is on the other side of “are you o.k”? This is the question Steves's friend asked during a time of despair when Steve was suffering from suicidal thoughts. Before Steve had hit rock bottom he had managed a successful weight loss of 6 stone after a health scare with his heart. Steve had also discovered a love for running and on paper was taking positive steps in the right direction.
Unfortunately for Steve, his mental health had plummeted, and unbeknown to him at this time Steve was about to discover his true inner strength. After confiding in his friend and seeking professional help Steve is thankfully living life to the full equipped with an armor of mental resilience. Steve went on to lose a total of 11 stone 11 and a half pounds with Slimming World and currently runs his own group as a consultant.
This episode is unapologetically raw and honest and demonstrates hope in the darkest of times.
Steve recently helped raise funds for the charity “Mind” and encourages anyone struggling with their mental health to seek help.
If you're reading this grappling for excuses why this isn't the week to start the healthy changes that your body is crying out to take a listen to Steve's story. This episode is an abundance of inspiration and clearly demonstrates that no slimming journey is without its twists and turns. Steve recalls the time when he suffered from dark thoughts as having an out-of-body experience. This story is very needed and I know this will help anyone who is struggling with isolation and who may be experiencing similar difficulties.
It goes without saying that I am so grateful that Steve has agreed to share his full slimming story on my podcast.
If you have enjoyed listening to Steve's story you can follow Steve on Instagram @steve_achieve
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Click below to subscribe to my new email list:
claireoldhamwest.com
Podcast Episode re-run.
Ashli Sterling had tried many fad diets but having previously worked as a Slimming World consultant Ashli knew that she had the tools at hand to make the necessary health changes she longed for. 2020 is due to be a big year for Ashli and amidst Covid 19 she seems to be taking all of the chaos in her stride with an exuberance of confidence Ashli explains this wasn't always the case.
For Ashli dropping dress sizes from a U.K size 16 to a U.K size 8 has given her confidence a huge boost and she had never thought she would be halving her dress size. Ashli talks about her love for food and her desire to show others how preparing tasty food doesn't have to be complex and how taking snapshots as a blogger on Instagram played an integral part in her weight loss journey. Ashli reached her goal weight long before plans of a wedding making Ashli's success all the more sweeter with no pressure to slim down for the big day. Ashli's commitment to her weight loss gifted her with the power of choice both on her plate and in the wedding boutique.
If you have enjoyed Ashlie’s Slimming Story you can follow her journey ashli_sw
Click below to subscribe to my new email list:
claireoldhamwest.com
You will receive a free relax and restore hypnotherapy track to enjoy at your leisure with V.I.P access to my new podcast following very soon.
Click on the link and enjoy!
August re run:
Who wouldn't want to appear on the front cover of a slimming magazine!? This is truly a glamorous place to show up in your full transformation glory after the hard work of weight loss. This week's episode is with Dominique Withers, the cover girl of Slimming World magazine March & April edition 2020.
I love a good weight loss magazine showing a transformation story and there haven't been many months since the age of 18 that I haven't bought both the Weight Watchers magazine and Slimming World magazine’s not forgetting Rosemary Connely back in the 90’s! Before Instagram and Facebook magazines were our only source of inspiration outside of our slimming classes.
Dominique shares her experience of the photoshoot and her slimming journey. This episode shows how losing two dress sizes can still have a positive impact on your body confidence. Dominique has also found a new love for running and how lockdown and the Instagram community have provided her with a chance to work towards new goals supporting the NHS. If you're in need of inspiration and know nothing about the Instagram community that is waiting to support and inspire you Dominque agrees that this has been a game-changer.
If you have enjoyed listening to Dominique’s story you can follow Dominique on Instagram @slimmingworld_dominique
Click below to subscribe to my new email list:
claireoldhamwest.com
You will receive a free relax and restore hypnotherapy track to enjoy at your leisure with V.I.P access to my new podcast following very soon.
Click on the link and enjoy!
20 years post-operation Hayley discusses how challenging her mindset and putting in place tools to help her focus on a positive outlook is still a challenge and a working progress.
Slimming World and healthy meal planning is also part of this episode, if you're asking yourself how or why you would have surgery only to gain weight I thought exactly the same.
Hayley explains the finer details of the gastric band procedure and this has definitely been a learning experience for me.
Hayley has been so generous in this interview to share her mental health struggles and we truly go deep into discussing mental health and how to manage this while on a slimming journey.
This episode is truly golden. If you have ever struggled with focus due to experiencing mental health issues this episode is catered just for you.
I could write a million’s words to describe my gratitude towards Hayley sharing her struggles in the hope of helping others…... so don't waste your time reading! Listen to part two of Hayley's slimming story and you will hear how exercise and a healthy lifestyle are helping Hayley beyond belief.
If you have enjoyed listening to Hayley's story you can follow Hayley on Instagram @hayleyrunlikely
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Click below to subscribe to my new email list:
https://bit.ly/freeHypnosis
You will receive a free relax and restore hypnotherapy track to enjoy at your leisure with V.I.P access to my new podcast following very soon.
Click on the link and enjoy!
Podcast Episode re-run.
This week Hayley Grocock shares a refreshingly honest slimming story covering her issues with her own mental health having been diagnosed with anxiety and depression 20 years ago.
Hayley is a very busy lady and the lockdown has found her working from home in her role as a CEO of a charity while managing homeschooling with her 6-year-old son.
Hayley definitely doesn't hold back in this episode and even discusses the “mummy wine” culture that she once felt was justified after finishing a hard day's work to help with relaxation.
Hayley is also my first guest to discuss medical intervention to aid weight loss after undergoing a gastric bypass in 2008, this is something I knew very little about and this interview was certainly a learning experience for me.
Doctors had always recommended exercise to Hayley to help with depression and at 19 stone Hayley couldn't think of anything worse than reaching for her trainers. Having now completed the London Marathon Hayley wished she had started running years ago, it seems that the medical professionals had hit the nail on the head and now Hayley would not be without her running shoes.
This is part 1 of Hayley's slimming story…….to be continued shortly.
If you have enjoyed listening to Hayley's story you can follow Hayley on Instagram @hayleyrunlikely
Click below to subscribe to my new email list:
- V.I.P access to my new upcoming podcast is only available as an email subscriber and not yet available on Itunes.
- Free hypnotherapy download.
https://bit.ly/claireoldhamwest
You will receive a free relax and restore hypnotherapy track to enjoy at your leisure with V.I.P access to my new podcast following very soon.
Click on the link and enjoy!
This episode has been on my mind since I first published the podcast in 2019.
To share or not to share a little of what brought me to face my fears of showing up in the world of podcasting.
This will give you an insight into why I am able to podcast and why fear doesn't hold me back.
In my old life as I now refer to it my sense of self-worth had been put to the test and while my friends and family had begged me to make better choices I just felt trapped.
The fear was real and I was up to my neck and sinking fast.
This episode dusts over some of the challenges that I experienced and my journey to a restored sense of self with improved confidence with the help of hypnotherapy.
Hypnotherapy has been a passion of mine for years and having taken the plunge to add this to my therapy toolkit along with counseling and psychotherapy I wanted to share my journey with you.
Hypnotherapy can complement any weight loss and fitness plan and I'm sending you a free relax and restore hypnotherapy download to help you to relax and boost your self-esteem.
Click below to subscribe to my new email list:
- V.I.P access to my new upcoming podcast is only available as an email subscriber and not yet available on Itunes.
- Free hypnotherapy download.
https://bit.ly/claireoldhamwest
Click on the link and enjoy!
Feeling the fear and doing it anyway!
Enjoy.
Jade talks openly about how being overweight and living in a U.K size 22 dress size affected her physically and mentally. Having adopted a routine of work and returning back to bed during the day resulted in low mood and depression and how this has now changed beyond belief.
Most people reading this having a human experience will have had those days where they simply want to rest and do little in terms of getting up and about out of the house. For Jade, this was more than an occasional feeling of lack of energy when she found herself returning back to bed during the daytime with food as part of her daily routine.
Fast forward to today and the contrast is astoundingly different, Jade who once chose to take a taxi for short journeys now sets her intention to get out of bed in the morning an hour earlier to start the day with a morning walk. Achieving a daily step total of 20k is something that Jade will often achieve as she has experienced newfound energy after losing 7 stone following the Slimming World plan.
Jade makes it clear in this episode that she is only human and still has days when she feels low but that the frequency of this is so much less and Jade explains what she describes as the “push through”, those times that she really doesn't want to leave the house but takes the first step to setting her daily intention resulting in exercise and an altered state of mind.
Now Jade has both a great relationship with food and along with her constant support of a loving partner and family Jade feels happier and healthier with so much more energy that her family can't always keep up with!
This is a beautifully inspiring transformation story of how in 11 months Jade was able to lose 7 stone and regain control over food.
You can find Jade on Instagram @slimming_world_wilko
You can join the Slimming Stories Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/391927294836170
Slimming Stories Instagram:
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
David, like many of the podcast guests, felt like a bigger child at school and actually approached his mum for diet advice. It's not often that a 14-year-old child will take action to change their weight but that's exactly what David did. David recalls how he didn't look as big as he had felt as a child. With intentions to reduce weight David followed a diet of cottage cheese, not his favourite food!
Another attempt at weight loss led David to follow the Atkins diet and he achieved success but found this way of eating too restrictive. There are many reasons why healthy eating plans and diets are hard to maintain and when David became the carer for his wife when she was diagnosed with cancer along with working from home and looking after his son food was not his number one priority.
This episode is a brave account of a real slimming journey and after losing his wife to Cancer David’s focus was to manage life while facing his own grief and being there for his son.
When receiving a diagnosis of high blood pressure meant that the operation that David needed was refused this became David's motivation to change.
David has changed his health outlook with the help of Slimming World and found peace with a newfound love of running which was certainly a surprise to David. Couch to 5k was next on the agenda and at 19 stone this didn't deter David, the determination to improve his fitness willed him along the path of change.
This episode pulls no punches, if you have a million and one reasons why the week ahead is too busy to commit to your health just listen to what is possible even during difficult times.
You can follow Davids weight loss journey over on Instagram @nornironman
You can join the Slimming Stories Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/391927294836170
Slimming Stories Instagram:
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
This is a rerun of Gareth's Slimming Story from episode 14, if you're in need of some motivation for the week ahead look no further!
At what point do we stop and take a reality check of how our excess weight impacts our health? Gareth knew that he needed to find a solution to his weight issues but was unable to find a diet or eating plan that allowed him to eat normal food that was sustainable.
As a result of Gareth’s increasing weight, he found that his health was at risk as he became tired as a result of being unable to have a restful night's sleep. Sleep Apnea was affecting Gareth in a big way leaving him unable to engage fully with his daughter due to tiredness and putting his safety at risk at work as he tried to work through his lack of sleep. Gareth's G.P appointment was the light bulb moment he needed to take action and he found a slimming group that offered support and friendship that would help him to take back control of his health and his life.
You can follow Gareth’s slimming journey on Instagram @gazgriffin86
Slimming Stories podcast is produced by Claire Oldham - West and you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram: @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Introducing Hannah to the second part of her slimming story bringing more inspiration for your week ahead.
Hannah has already created a bucket list to include trips to theme parks, something that Hannah struggled with when she was at her largest size. For 10 years Hannah talks about how she missed out on the rides after being unable to fit in a carriage. That is all now in the past and having enjoyed Disneyland Paris with her daughter Hannah is able to fit in the seats without any problems whatsoever!
Hannah gives an insight into the reality of what a dramatic weight loss can look like and discusses the very important topic of loose skin. While loose skin is something Hannah has accepted there are plans for Hannah to have surgery to remove this due to the health complications this can bring. Luckily Hannah's online supporters have helped to raise funds through a just giving page and a consultation with a surgeon is one step closer.
If you would like to help Hannah with her dream of skin removal surgery you can click on the link below to submit your donation.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/wqw7q6-raising-money-for-a-tummy-tuck
You can continue to follow Hannahs weight loss journey on Instagram @thefunnymummydoesslimmingworld
You can join the Slimming Stories Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/391927294836170
Slimming Stories Instagram:
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Having lost 13 stone Hannah has transformed her health and fitness beyond measure. On Instagram Hannah describes herself as the "funny mummy" - and having previously worked as an entertainment rep for 4 years I can 100 percent agree that Hannah has the ability to connect with people and bring on the laughter.
In this episode Hannah explains how the key to weight loss and fitness success is that something has to click, Hannah believes there has to be a moment that allows you to stop in your tracks for change to begin.
That click moment came for Hannah while celebrating her 30th Birthday party listening to her friends announce “life begins at 30!” Hannah is very honest about how she had felt during that time and how her mental health had deteriorated to a dark place of self-reflection. Hannah recalls how at the party she questioned what would happen if she continued not to take her doctor's advice and lose weight, Hannah realised she wanted to be healthy for her daughter and this led Hannah to take action.
You will hear how Hannah chose to blind weigh fearing the number on the scales and how she has found a warm welcome and new friends within the Slimming World community.
Part two will follow next week! Enjoy.
You can continue to follow Hannahs weight loss journey on Instagram @thefunnymummydoesslimmingworld
You can join the Slimming Stories Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/391927294836170
Slimming Stories Instagram:
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
I could have gone radio silent.
I could have opted out on social media.
This week's episode is a time to touch base amidst the chaos and share my learnings with you.
This episode isn't perfect.
It's the least edited podcast episode to date.
Showing up for yourself in difficult times and not being swept away into a self pity party does not come easy but sometimes change is challenging.
I hope this episode will help anyone who needs to keep moving forward despite having a testing week or finding themself in challenging times.
Claire x
For many men feeling uncomfortable in an overweight body with a surplus weight of 11 stone, the furthest thing from their minds would have been to reach for a mankini and strut their stuff!. It certainly takes an astonishing amount of self-worth and confidence to embrace such a look! However, Ross Smith had learned from a young age to get the jokes in before others had the chance, and finding a way to manage uncomfortable moments around negative talk about his weight was definitely a lot easier with the joy of good friendly banter and laughter.
Ross Smith was happy go lucky and although overweight he was content. Having a great family and circle of friends really had served Ross well. On a meeting with the mum of an old school friend Ross was dealt a loving slice of straight talk “Ross, you're a heart attack waiting to happen '' ... the wise words from Ethlene!
Ethlene the mum of an old school friend had welcomed Ross into their home as a young lad and it had been two years since Ethlene had seen Ross and her words came from a place of love and concern.
No doubt you can all relate to a moment in time just before change took place, the way you felt and the situation you had found yourself in alongside the people you shared that moment with.
Ross explains in this episode how after his marriage breakdown he found himself questioning his health and self-worth and knew exactly where those thoughts would lead if he didn't take action. Ethlene offered to take Ross... or rather told Ross that he was joining Slimming World and the rest is history!
If you're in need of inspiration and your fitness has been neglected Ross will also talk you through how swimming gave Ross the fitness incentive to start the couch to 5k that led to running a 10k. Ross has now found his niche with a love of walking.
You can follow Ross on Instagram @swrosssmith
Soon Ross will be climbing Mount Snowdon and raising money for a children's cancer charity. If you would like to support Ross on his journey you can donate by clicking on the link below.
http://bit.ly/RossSmithFundraising
You can join the Slimming Stories Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/391927294836170
Slimming Stories Instagram:
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Amy’s weight loss journey led her all the way to running her own group as a Slimming World consultant.
Amy set her sights on losing 100lb after a relationship breakup and hasn't looked back since. Being able to deal with her food issues with the help of Slimming World allowed Amy to see and feel the impact of how this changed her life and how it was helping others. Inspired by her own slimming journey Amy decided to train as a Slimming World consultant and with that decision, the best was yet to come. Amy decided to join fellow slimmers to embark on the challenge to climb Mount Snowdon giving Amy the chance to meet other slimmers and to feel even more inspired by what is possible when you're in a position to challenge your mindset, Inspiration that Amy has been able to pass onto the Slimming group she now runs. In the past taking steps to track her food intake was not always received well by family members but now with her new slimming family, Amy has found a place to share her highs and lows with people that truly understand the challenges of a slimmer.
If you have enjoyed Amy's story you can follow her slimming journey on Instagram @aimsterlouise_sw
If you would like to donate to Amy's Mount Snowdon charity walk, please click on Amy’s just giving page below.
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/AimsterDoesSnowdon2021
You can join the Slimming Stories Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/391927294836170
Slimming Stories Instagram:
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Clubhouse Group - Stop Dreaming Alone:
For anyone new to Clubhouse this is a new social media platform that you will need to apply to join or receive an invite to, it's a little inclusive at the moment but definitely worth your while. Stop Dreaming Alone is where I show up with my fellow entrepreneur friends to talk through the steps of starting out and taking action on business ideas so that you can put into place a plan to leave your day job and do the thing that lights you up!
https://www.joinclubhouse.com/club/stop-dreaming
This week's episode is with Lyndal Wimalasekera from Adelaide Australia. Lyndal embodies resilience and a positive mindset and having discovered Reels on Instagram Lyndal loves nothing more than to show up and cook with a dance thrown in for fun!
Lyndal firmly believes that it's really important to only focus on the things in your life that you can control and leave the things you can't. Lyndal has lost over 6 stone following the Weight Watcher plan and this episode explains how having a mood board has really helped her to achieve her goals with great success.
Despite the challenges that Lyndal has faced you will hear Lyndal talk about her life experiences and how she was able to deal with the darkest of days despite everything that has come her way.
Lyndal is really excited to have now been given the title of a WW Ambassador and I think this will be cause for more dancing on Reels and a possible YouTube channel in the making!
You can continue to follow Lyndal's weight loss journey on Instagram @lyndal.on.ww
You can join the Slimming Stories Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/391927294836170
Slimming Stories Instagram:
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Clubhouse Group - Stop Dreaming Alone:
For anyone new to Clubhouse this is a new social media platform that you will need to apply to join or receive an invite to, it's a little inclusive at the moment but definitely worth your while. Stop Dreaming Alone is where I show up with my fellow entrepreneur friends to talk through the steps of starting out and taking action on business ideas so that you can put into place a plan to leave your day job and do the thing that lights you up!
https://www.joinclubhouse.com/club/stop-dreaming
Ruth Calvert was a bright and studious child, teen, and young woman throughout her years in education within school, college & University Ruth found herself subject to bullying due to her size. Maybe we can excuse children due to their age and not knowing better or teens as being too preoccupied to understand the hurt the bullying had caused but this continued at University & also into her working life. The frustration of her excess weight led to trying most diets that led to a short-term fix. Luckily Ruth found a diet that she was able to stick to and having lost 7 stone 5 lb Ruth is only a stone away from meeting her goal weight. Ruth’s story is refreshingly honest and I know you will be inspired by Ruth’s bravery in facing up to her food issues and quieting down those voices from her past.
You can show Ruth your support by following Ruth’s Slimming Journey on Instagram @ruthlouise_sw
You can join the Slimming Stories Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/391927294836170
Slimming Stories Instagram:
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Clubhouse Group - Stop Dreaming Alone:
For anyone new to Clubhouse this is a new social media platform that you will need to apply to join or receive an invite to, it's a little inclusive at the moment but definitely worth your while. Stop Dreaming Alone is where I show up with my fellow entrepreneur friends to talk through the steps of starting out and taking action on business ideas so that you can put into place a plan to leave your day job and do the thing that lights you up!
https://www.joinclubhouse.com/club/stop-dreaming
Nicola describes how she sees her weight loss journey as different, there was no fixation of being a certain size or goal weight. Nicola knew her health was suffering from her excess weight and was determined to gain control.
Nicola explains that happiness is not a destination and recognises that people put so much emphasis on starting their weight loss journey by pinning happiness on a dress size or number on the scales. Having lost her mum to cancer and then her brother to addiction Nicola had many reasons to shy away from self-care and spend years comfort eating. Despite the loss, Nicola had gone through she started her own path to self-discovery several years before even starting a weight loss plan and this is what Nicola feels was the driving force to her successful weight loss.
Nicola was armed with a positive attitude and was in a good place when she stepped through the doors of a Slimming World class. While Nicola explains the weight loss process wasn't always easy she also believes that her journey of self-discovery enabled her to lose 12 and a half stone without losing sight of her goal.
This episode is a fantastic example of a reignited human spirit and such an inspiring story showing there's so much more to a weight loss transformation story that we normally see in magazines. Nicola shows the sheer determination and bravery that can come after living through the darkest times.
If you would like to follow Nicola on Instagram here is her Instagram handle @nicola_gets_slim
You can join the Slimming Stories Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/391927294836170
Slimming Stories Instagram:
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Clubhouse Group - Stop Dreaming Alone:
For anyone new to Clubhouse this is a new social media platform that you will need to apply to join or receive an invite to, it's a little inclusive at the moment but definitely worth your while. Stop Dreaming Alone is where I show up with my fellow entrepreneur friends to talk through the steps of starting out and taking action on business ideas so that you can put into place a plan to leave your day job and do the thing that lights you up!
https://www.joinclubhouse.com/club/stop-dreaming
Sharlene Rowan joined me in my Facebook group to talk about her journey with weight loss and her focus to be more comfortable in her clothes ready for her best friend's Ibiza wedding in July. Sharlene has already changed her dress size from a size 26/28 to a U.K size 16.
This is the first FaceBook Group live I have published as a podcast episode, I feel it's still really important that while we listen to success stories of guests at their target weight that we still celebrate the weight loss and fitness journey that is in progress.
The intention is to have real relatable conversations, enjoy!
You can continue to follow Sharlene's weight loss journey on Instagram @sharlenerowan_sw
Click on the link to join the Slimming Stories Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/391927294836170
Slimming Stories Instagram:
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Clubhouse Group - Stop Dreaming Alone:
For anyone new to Clubhouse this is a new social media platform that you will need to apply to join or receive an invite to, it's a little inclusive at the moment but definitely worth your while. Stop Dreaming Alone is where I show up with my fellow entrepreneur friends to talk through the steps of starting out and taking action on business ideas so that you can put into place a plan to leave your day job and do the thing that lights you up!
https://www.joinclubhouse.com/club/stop-dreaming
Kelly talks openly in this episode of how she no longer carries any guilt or shame around food, this has long gone and recently Kelly celebrated reaching her target weight and is thoroughly delighted.
Kelly was very quick to announce that her weight loss had taken her over 10 years to achieve, this was a process of self-discovery that wasn't just about the number on the scales. Patience, determination, and resilience certainly did pay off.
When Kelly had embarked on an intensive fitness regime over 10 weeks working out 6 days a week Kelly weighed only twice during this time and to Kelly's surprise while she was delighted that she had lost a dress size and 16 inches the scales only reduced by two pounds.
This was a game-changer for Kelly who had been so focused on the scales that she now recognised that a combination of exercise and healthy eating would produce the results that she had been waiting for.
I know this episode will truly inspire you, Kelly attended her fitness course weighing over 23 stone and continued to work on her fitness while eating a healthy diet. What can you put into place to give momentum to your weight and fitness goals?
I hope this episode will allow you to see what is truly possible when you take action and commit to your health and fitness journey.
You can continue to follow Kelly’s progress over on Instagram @catsmother_weightloss_journey
Slimming Stories Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/391927294836170
Slimming Stories Instagram:
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Clubhouse Group - Stop Dreaming Alone:
For anyone new to Clubhouse this is a new social media platform that you will need to apply to join or receive an invite to, it's a little inclusive at the moment but definitely worth your while. Stop Dreaming Alone is where I show up with my fellow entrepreneur friends to talk through the steps of starting out and taking action on business ideas so that you can put into place a plan to leave your day job and do the thing that lights you up!
https://www.joinclubhouse.com/club/stop-dreaming-alone
Fiona was sick and tired of feeling tired, most evenings after work would result in a nap on arrival home, and being tired and lethargic was very much the norm for Fiona. Now imagine a runner, not just any runner. Imagine someone effortlessly running Marathons in a strong fit body reaching for her trainers before heading for the couch, this is now Fiona’s routine. Fiona now faces 2020 not only in a strong body but now equipped with a strong mind has been able to make peace with her relationship with food. There was no wonder drug or high-intensity workout plan with a restrictive diet, luckily Fiona found her sanctuary with Slimming World and achieved a successful weight loss of 5 stone.
You can follow Fiona's journey further on Instagram @fiona_slimmingworld_diaries
Facebook Group, Instagram, and Clubhouse.
You can join all three by clicking on the links below.
Slimming Stories Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/391927294836170
Slimming Stories Instagram:
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Clubhouse Group - Stop Dreaming Alone:
For anyone new to Clubhouse this is a new social media platform that you will need to apply to join or receive an invite to, it's a little inclusive at the moment but definitely worth your while. Stop Dreaming Alone is where I show up with my fellow entrepreneur friends to talk through the steps of starting out and taking action on business ideas so that you can put into place a plan to leave your day job and do the thing that lights you up!
https://www.joinclubhouse.com/club/stop-dreaming-alone
Mark had never experienced issues with food as a child, teen, or young adult, this episode is rare as there is no back story of a poor relationship with food. On the contrary, Mark had an amazing love for life that he shared with the wife and daughters. Mark’s life was on track in many ways until an accident left Mark with an injury that quite literally changed his life.
The energy that Mark once had dwindled as he attended hospital appointments with specialists while taking strong medication that no longer enabled Mark to recognise any full sensation while eating and food became Mark's comfort along with alcohol.
Mark recalls how he simply just did not recognise his reflection as a 22 stone man.
Mark explains how the outcome of an operation turned around the impact of the accident and finally, Mark was able to take steps to address his health issues.
Do you believe in luck? Mark believes that the successful outcome of a complex operation was down to luck. I believe Mark's inner resilience was determined that he would make a comeback and although at this time Mark suffered depression he did exactly that.
Mark is definitely a comeback King and you can follow his journey further @marksmith99 enjoy!
Facebook Group, Instagram, and Clubhouse.
You can join all three by clicking on the links below.
Slimming Stories Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/391927294836170
Slimming Stories Instagram:
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Clubhouse Group - Stop Dreaming Alone:
For anyone new to Clubhouse this is a new social media platform that you will need to apply to join or receive an invite to, it's a little inclusive at the moment but definitely worth your while. Stop Dreaming Alone is where I show up with my fellow entrepreneur friends to talk through the steps of starting out and taking action on business ideas so that you can put into place a plan to leave your day job and do the thing that lights you up!
https://www.joinclubhouse.com/club/stop-dreaming-alone
Kym is such a breath of fresh air showing up on her Instagram account with her very brave body confidence posts. I must admit braving all to display cellulite and stretch marks isn't something I've had the nerve to do but this doesnt phase Kym one bit!
Kym talks openly of the pressures of comparing her body to that of an image that has been filtered to within an inch of its life and how although body image on social media is now a lot more honest Kym has to check her self-talk from time to time.
Being 5 foot 5 Kym talks of how she once would compare her body stats to other 5 foot 5 women and wonder why she didn't see the same image as her own. Things have changed a lot for Kym since having her daughter and reflect on her journey having lost 9 stone in weight with Slimming World.
Kym explains how it was hard to see the transformation that had taken place and when a friend known to Kim as her “small friend” suggested that Kym could borrow a hoodie Kym was bowled over that she was able to fit into the same clothes as her friend!!
This is as always a very honest podcast episode and Kym talks of being in a cycle of abusive relationships and how this had affected her self-esteem entering into a relationship as a size 8 and leaving a size 20. Kym talks openly about being a single mum and we compare experiences having lived the life of a single mum myself for 3 years.
This episode is packed to the brim of resilience and inspiration and Kym was an absolute joy, full of determination that will help to inspire you into supercharging your own weight loss and fitness plans.
You can show your support by following Kym @the.life.of.a.fitness.mum over on Instagram.
Facebook Group, Instagram, and Clubhouse.
You can join all three by clicking on the links below.
Slimming Stories Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/391927294836170
Slimming Stories Instagram:
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Clubhouse Group - Stop Dreaming Alone:
For anyone new to Clubhouse this is a new social media platform that you will need to apply to join or receive an invite to, it's a little inclusive at the moment but definitely worth your while. Stop Dreaming Alone is where I show up with my fellow entrepreneur friends to talk through the steps of starting out and taking action on business ideas so that you can put into place a plan to leave your day job and do the thing that lights you up!
https://www.joinclubhouse.com/club/stop-dreaming-alone
Kelly recalls being bullied about her weight and how she mastered the face of confidence as a coping mechanism through primary and secondary school.
Throughout Kelly's adult years being big and bubbly was a banner that Kelly was proud of and in public, she was able to walk tall with unfaltering confidence. Although Kelly had noticed changes in her health that caused problems, weight loss didn't seem to hold any momentum for Kelly due to holding onto an outdated notion that weight loss came with restriction.
Kelly had previously joined Slimming World and armed with her “restrict '' outdated mindset Kelly was confused why she didn't see the results on the scales...after all she was starving!! Kelly was hungry and had reduced her food intake but hadn’t stuck to the Slimming World plan.
Does any of this sound familiar? Have you paid to attend weight loss groups such as Slimming World and Weight Watchers only to leave class and do what the hell you felt like!? This makes absolutely no sense right!! I have been there trust me if this resonates you are not on your own.
Kelly was determined to lose weight after a video taken on holiday was posted on Facebook, Kelly was mortified and once again joined Slimming World this time losing 9 stone in weight. The change came for Kelly when she realised the amount of food she could eat with no need for hunger pangs. Kelly is a great inspiration and explains the positive impact changing her diet mindset has had on her life. What are you waiting for!?
Facebook Group, Instagram, and Clubhouse.
You can join all three by clicking on the links below.
Slimming Stories Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/391927294836170
Slimming Stories Instagram:
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Clubhouse Group - Stop Dreaming Alone: Saturday 7.30 p.m (U.K time zone G.M.T)
https://www.joinclubhouse.com/club/stop-dreaming-alone
In today's episode, I talk about the mindset that is needed before we start to commit to goals.
Have we really forgotten what success looks like?
Are we convinced that success is a thing of the past when it comes to the goals we set for ourselves?
I will show you an exercise that will help you to practice reconnecting to your most successful moments and to understand that feeling those great feelings of success is just a habit that we need to practice.
This month has definitely been a month of feeling the fear as I explain how it felt to leave my corporate job after 16 years!
This has definitely been a time that I've had to exercise a positive mindset to get me through negative chitter-chatter.
If you're facing a weigh day that is filling you with dread before you even look at the goal you have in mind, think about your internal dialogue to
make sure this is aligned with your goal for the best possible outcome.
Life is busy, it's so easy to forget that if you've previously had weight loss success that this is truly possible again.
Slimming Stories Facebook Group:
Click on this link to join.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/391927294836170
Don't forget to follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
When you imagine a success story would you include 40 weight gains? In part two of Phil's Slimming Story Phil explains how setbacks are part of a weight loss journey. I really hope if you're struggling with sticking to any weight loss plan that this is music to your ears!
There is no such thing as a perfect weight loss journey and this episode will allow you to realise that struggles are o.k and normal and if Phil’s weight loss journey includes setbacks then it's clear that getting back on track is always possible.
Phil talks about how having a positive mantra has allowed him to view life and opportunities in a whole new light. Now having applied his mantra to his weight loss journey and dating Phil is living proof that challenging a negative mindset can have the very best positive outcomes.
Please be sure to follow Phil on Instagram @phil.kayes.sw
Slimming Stories Facebook Group:
Click on this link to join.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/391927294836170
Don't forget to follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Phil knew he had an issue with his relationship with food and he knew that his health was suffering. The concerns Phil had were also echoed by his friends and family but the change did not flow from conflict following talking about his weight although many were worried about Phil and his large size.
Kindness came in the form of a friend who introduced Phil to Slimming World and this was the start of Phil re-educating himself around food.
Phil’s journey to eating a healthy plate was a challenging one having had a free reign of his parent's sweet shop as a child and eating processed convenience food along with takeaway treats. Phil talks about how for years as an adult he socialised and worked in pubs and how this had formed his staple diet.
This podcast episode is truly remarkable to think that someone like Phil who had struggled for so many years with his relationship with food was able to turn things around. Life for Phil now bears no resemblance to how he lived in the past and I can't wait for you to be inspired by Phil’s honest weight loss journey.
This is part one of Phil's Slimming Story with part two to follow next week.
Prepare to be inspired!
Please be sure to follow Phil on Instagram @phil.kayes.sw
Slimming Stories Facebook Group:
Click on this link to join.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/391927294836170
Don't forget to follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Melanie was disheartened, she had wanted to lose weight but having started the Slimming World Plan on Monday she found herself tucking into a Kebab by Wednesday!
What had happened and why hadn't this worked for Melanie? Melanie had a chat with her friend who invited her over to figure out what had gone wrong. It seems that Melanie had been stuck in a diet mentality. You know the one! The diet mentality of eat salad, don't eat pasta, restrict the potatoes and fill up on veg & fruit…..that one!
Luckily Melanie's friend had knowledge of the plan and challenged the meals that Melanie had chosen to eat for being too small. Eat more eggs, add bacon & beans these words were like music to Melanie's ears as it seemed that Melanie had not eaten enough. No wonder a kebab was on the cards! Now Melanie loves to see Instagram posts of new meals that take her fancy that she can try out at home.
Melanie’s dress size has changed from a 20/22 to a 12/14 and having found a love for running Melanie is loving her new body shape. After Melanie's blip at the start, she got straight back on track and lost weight in her first week and every week for a year. Inspiration is a click away, please show your support for my show by subscribing wherever you listen to the podcast!
Enjoy!
If you have enjoyed listening to Mellanie’s story you can follow Mellanie on Instagram @mellie_sw_
I would also love to invite you to join the “Slimming Stories” Facebook group by clicking on the link below.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/391927294836170
Don't forget to follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
We're a month away from the start of spring and while everything around us is all prepared for change the noise of lockdown can still be a little intense and result in leaving us feeling that it’s too dark for the bright spring flowers.
I'm here to speak during this uncertain time and dispel the myth that change and focus are not possible when each day is surrounded by uncertainty.
If there was ever a degree awarded for living during uncertainty and negativity I would be awarded a master's! In Spite of the background noise, I will show you how being able to commit to just 15 minutes a day will help you reconnect with your “why” and really allow you to focus on your health and fitness goals for 2021.
You are worth investing time in for self-development and all you need to do is just commit to starting.
I would also love to invite you to join the “Slimming Stories” Facebook group by clicking on the link below. I will be showing up during the week and I would love to see you there!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/391927294836170
Don't forget to follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
In this episode I reference Julia Cameron's book “The Artist’s Way” this book is a game-changer and can offer insight to everyone even if you're not on a creative path. The truth is everyone is creative! You show me a child that isn't able to paint a picture! life can get busy and this book will help you to connect to your authentic self. It's amazing and is also available on Audible.
Kirsty Lee has changed her dress size from a size 16/18 to a UK size 10 all in the name of health and the desire to set a good example for her daughter.
Kirsty was able to have an open and honest conversation with her doctor after experiencing pain from an issue with a condition Kirsty has had with her hip for many years. Kirsty left her consultation with her doctor with those words hitting the spot that would help motivate Kirsty to make positive changes to her diet and exercise to relieve the pressure from her hip by reducing her weight.
Just like many listeners to the podcast, this wasn't the first time Kirsty had embarked on a decision to lose weight but something had changed after her conversation with her doctor. Kirsty wanted to be fit and well and spend quality family time with her daughter. Sitting on the sidelines as an onlooker was no longer on the agenda for Kirsty.
Not only does Kirsty give you an insight into her weight loss journey with Slimming World Kirsty also openly admits to the reality of being at target weight but still seeing herself as a fat person.
This is a great honest episode as Kirsty also discusses the reality of the pressure of trying to fulfill all aspects of her life as many women do with sheer perfection! Kirsty discusses what triggers her in terms of working as a full-time mum with the pressure of keeping up with everything else as we both disclose our experiences of “mum guilt”.
You can follow Kirsty on Instagram @slimmingworld_kirstylee
Don't forget to follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram.
It takes a certain mindset to turn up to your teaching job with a back ready for the bell to ring to start your summer travels. This to me sounds like a dream! This sounds so free-spirited and wonderful and no doubt if your reading this you're imagining how that would feel if you could do the same…..if you're honest!
Renee is half English and half Italian and growing up in Adelaide Australia it was no surprise that curiosity of her heritage was upon her ready to be explored.
Renee explains that she is aware that she was very privileged to be able to visit 30 countries by the time she was 30.
After falling in love and marrying her soulmate in Hawai Renee reveals how her husband’s health deteriorated. Renee talks about her commitment to holding everything together while working and visiting her husband in the hospital while pregnant.
Renee's Slimming Story is very humbling and this episode will help you to search for your own narrative about what is truly possible even in the darkest of times. Renee follows the Weight Watchers online plan and loves engaging with her followers on Instagram so please show some Insta love and give her a follow.
You can follow Renee on Instagram @healthy_ren
Don't forget to follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram.
Andy decided to make a change with his health after a scary experience of chest pains, luckily Andy didn't need medication or intervention. This was a momentous occasion for Andy that made him rethink his lifestyle choices.
Help had always been at hand with suggestions to improve his health and lose weight in the form of supportive friends and family. Nothing had previously been able to motivate Andy to make changes and Andy had even formed behaviors to manage his size such as using a lift to go up and down a flight of stairs at work. After the chest pains, Andy knew he had to take action.
In this episode, you will hear Andy talk through ideas of how to move away from the scales if the number on the scales is standing in your way of achieving your goal. Andy shares his commitment to a personal trainer who has helped Andy when Andy was worried that he wasn't able to maintain his weight loss.
From being out of breath just walking up and down a flight of stairs to taking part in football training and taking regular walks and PT sessions Andy’s health has improved dramatically and Andy is no longer on the sidelines.
You can follow Andy on Instagram @achievingandy
In this podcast episode, Andy mentions a football club, personal trainer, and a book. Please find the details below:
Football club information can be found on Instagram @manvfat
Personal trainer information can be found on Instagram @nasfitboss
Andy's book recommendation is for "The Subtle Art Of Not Giving A F*CK" by Mark Manson
Don't forget to follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram.
My own insight into Slimming World and Weight Watchers is based purely on my own experience and opinion. If you are interested in learning more about either of these weight loss groups and organizations please contact them directly.
EPISODE 62 Rebekka Moore talks openly about body confidence after successful weight loss reduced her dress size from a size 20 to size 10.
Are you ready for an honest straight-talking conversation?
If so, you're in for a treat. For many years Bex believed that with weight loss came the answer to all of life's problems, this narrative was clearly dispelled after having a great weight loss and still not feeling that she liked herself. Bex recognised the drop in dress sizes and noticed the changes but along the way, it became clear that feeling good in her own size meant more than dropping the number on the scales.
Bex was raised to believe that what she saw on magazines or on T.V was the gospel truth, not having a true understanding of how the images were portrayed gave BEX an unrealistic expectation of what a real beautiful female body actually looked like.
The pressure of noticing folds when you sit down and stretch marks isn't something that is taught in school and neither is the use of airbrushing out imperfections.
Fast forward to 2020 when this episode was recorded and Bex is standing in her truth showing her beautiful self on social media and inspiring many with Instagram posts of her stretch marks and beautiful smile.
For the first time in years, Bex now likes herself, the full unedited version.
Inspiration overload!
You can follow Bex on Instagram @body.ofa.mum
Don't forget to follow Slimming Stories on Instagram@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram.
You can find Slimming Stories on Instagram
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Lewis found himself away from his home comforts and working within the busy city of London, renowned for its fast pace Lewis was totally out of his comfort zone. Ironically Lewis had been active before moving away with work, now living alone unable to cook anything resembling a healthy meal Lewis turned his attention to convenience food. Takeaways and a few cans of beer are how Lewis enjoyed his evenings. On returning home to Sunderland Lewis was encouraged by his mum to lose weight and this is when Lewis discovered some Slimming World members who kindly helped and encouraged Lewis to take the leap of faith to join his local Slimming World Group. Work was now calling Lewis to relocate to a remote part of Northern Ireland where Lewis could rely on great food with Hotel meals at the ready. At this point, most people would have caved under the pressure of being surrounded by rich food full of flavour, fat, and calories! However, Lewis made wise choices and after losing 10 stone 1.5lb the rest is history! This story shares an incredible transformation story of mind, body, and soul having discovered a newfound confidence Lewis has regained control of his life.
You can follow Lewis on Instagram @less_of_lew
Don't forget to follow Slimming Stories on Instagram@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram. @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
You can find Slimming Stories on Instagram
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Lucy shares a slimming story as she prepares for the new year on plan after losing 5 stone with Slimming World. Working full time as a new mum is a story that many people can relate to, the interrupted sleep... the food on the go... along with those moments where we look at our new bundle of love and feel like the luckiest person alive! Juggling being a new mum with full-time work is an art form in itself, then thrown into the mix working on the Covid wards as a nurse practitioner that deserves a whole new level of respect!
2020 was challenging and we all felt it, the Covid vaccine is the hope of 2021 and I'm happy to see this on the news this week. For those who are still reluctant to believe that Covid is a real threat, this episode will hopefully put that myth to rest as Lucy opens up about the reality of working with Covid patients.
Lucy embodies resilience and strength and along with all of the above Lucy and her partner, Aaron are prioritising their day around planning and making sure that they are able to do their best to commit to their weight loss journey.
While I'm writing this I'm recalling those moments where your weight loss consultant may ask you “ is there anything that will make it difficult to stick to plan this week” Well... Lucy could give many reasons why but that isn't on the cards for Lucy as she digs deep to find the determination to do her best even during a worldwide pandemic.
So…...what will stop you in 2021?
How can you reconnect to your inner strength and reliance? I hope this will allow you to see that there is always hope even in the darkest of times and we often forget our own strength until it's tested.
You can follow Lucy on Instagram @sw_lucyellen.x
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram. @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
You can find Slimming Stories on Instagram
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Happy new year! We've made it, we've survived a global pandemic………..2020 is long gone and 2021 awaits full of possibilities.
This episode is talking to the negative noise that is still Covid as the U.K is heading into tighter lockdown measures. This is the most wonderful time of the year for the weight loss industry and as we hear “new year, new you” on repeat I discuss how to turn down the noise of Covid while still keeping safe to allow yourself the ability to focus on your intentions for 2021.
I know the situation is still intense and it's like the elephant in the room...I'm preparing to take it on!
It's hard to ignore the noise of Covid and the constant stream of negativity but there are ways to manage these and take control of the situation and protect our energy reserves without going into burnout.
I share tips on mindfulness to help you feel clear in how to set your goals for the year ahead.
2020 gave us resilience equipping us to take on any challenge that comes our way in 2021.
In part 2 of Kirsty’s Slimming Story Kirsty Ingram explains how no one had ever mentioned or acknowledged her weight issues or offered help in addressing these. Through university, there was no mention or even during her 1st pregnancy when Kirsty managed with gestational diabetes due to being overweight while pregnant.
Kirsty did, however, receive the help that she needed in the parting words of her Grandad when Kirsty's family were called to the hospital to say their goodbye’s
“Kirsty it's just a shame you didn't have the ability to lose weight” and there it was for the first time someone had acknowledged that Kirsty needed help.
Those words had been spoken with love from Kirsty’s Grandad who passed shortly afterward, this was exactly what Kirsty needed to give Kirsty the momentum into taking action. Kirstys Grandad passed away in December and Kirsty walked through the doors of her local Slimming World class in January just weeks later.
Kirsty now works as a Slimming World consultant to inspire and help other people in their own efforts to lose weight after losing over 7 stone. Kirsty is now a target member and recalls the changes in this episode that collectively helped her weight loss and the ability to live in a healthy body.
You can follow Kirsty on Instagram @little_bit_less_sw
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram. @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
You can find Slimming Stories on Instagram
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Episode 57, part 1 of Kirsty Ingram’s weight loss journey following the Slimming World plan.
Wishing upon a star is Disney protocol! See a star and make a wish, this certainly made sense to Kirsty and in her innocence, as a young child Kirty would do just that. Maybe Christmas is making you feel cosy and nostalgic!? Do you remember what you would wish for from Father Christmas? Possibly a bike, Barbie, and Ken or a Care Bear!? Kirsty’s wishes were not of the materialistic kind, all Kirsty wanted was to be thin.
We've all been there and for some of us including Kirsty recognising our shape and size was different from those around us started at a very young age. Through school and later university, Kirsty talks about her relationship with food and the guilt of never feeling full.
Kirsty certainly owned her unique style at art college and if your thinking that Kirstys size held her back from expressing herself think again! Kirsty loved nothing more than to rock up in a suit and pink mohawk! Kirsty has a larger than life personality and I know this episode will help to inspire you with the new year just around the corner. This is part 1 of Kirsty's Slimming Story with part two to follow next week.
You can follow Kirsty on Instagram @little_bit_less_sw
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram. @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Is next week looking crazy busy!?
Would a little planning help?
Click on the link to download your free meal planner…...just keep swimming!
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
How do you even begin to plan a 12 stone weight loss, where do you even start!?
Claire Shaw has lost 12 stone following the Slimming World plan and talks us through the highs and lows of her weight loss. If you're in need of inspiration, if you have convinced yourself that being fit and healthy isn’t written in the stars for you then think again! Claire Shaw doesn’t stand for half measures and describes her commitment to slimming as “all or nothing”. Are you ready for momentum overload!? Introducing Claire Shaw to Slimming Stories.
You can follow Claire Shaw on Instagram @swclaireshaw18.
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram. @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Is next week looking crazy busy!?
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Click on the link to download your free meal planner…...just keep swimming!
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
If you're feeling Christmas overwhelm this episode is for you.
'Tis the season for many things with a little self-care thrown in. Episode 55 is my way of reassuring you that it is possible to get organised for Christmas and not to stress yourself within an inch of your life!
I am normally hitting the shops in November and December but thanks to my car crash in August and COVID that hasn't happened. I am here to declare that this is not a crisis and share my experience of how to work through the overwhelm with writing lists.
Big confession…. to date, I have brought one gift and have posted zero cards! I must admit the overwhelm this morning was a little real! However, if you are finding yourself in a similar predicament just listen to this episode and follow the advice I can guarantee that all will be well and calm will resume!! Pinky promise!
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram. @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Is next week looking crazy busy!?
Would a little planning help?
Click on the link to download your free meal planner…...just keep swimming!
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Julie had wanted to commit to her weight loss journey in the past but like so many people working and looking after a family didn't always allow for time to focus on her own needs.
With lockdown came the gift of time and this gave Julie the opportunity to focus and commit to change. For the first time in her adult life, Julie recently bought clothing in a size 12! Lockdown has given Julie the ability to be able to switch off for a moment and really reconnect with what she needed to do to focus on her weight loss and fitness ambitions.
Julie follows the Weight Watchers plan in Australia recently rebranded as WW. Recognising the importance of self-care has been key to allow Julie to commit to her successful weight loss. Julie believes that choosing a fitness regime that you find easy is a great start to improving fitness and Julie loves spending time walking along the beautiful coastline in Australia enjoying long walks and gaining momentum in the miles she covers.
Julie wanted to concentrate on being the best version of herself.
Having lost over 4 stone on the WW blue plan, learning to swim and enjoying regular bike rides Julie has certainly transformed her health story and is now here to inspire others to do the same.
You can follow Julie on Instagram @jooles_slav
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram. @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Is next week looking crazy busy!?
Would a little planning help?
Click on the link to download your free meal planner…...just keep swimming!
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Aaron Snares is a Slimming World stick of rock!
If you're a Slimming World member you will have no doubt have read Aaron's transformation story. Aaron has certainly made a fantastic health transformation as he explains in this episode how his health issues have all disappeared along with the pounds.
Aaron shares how a conversation with his Nan motivated him to take steps to change. Not only has Aaron seen changes on the scales, but his love for exercise has been re-born. Aaron had taken a step back from sports and now having lost weight has made great strides raising money for the charity Mind on sponsored walks and committing to putting in the work at the local gym.
This episode covers Aaron's struggles with anxiety and I know his honesty will help others as Aaron shares his coping strategies and how to recommit to your weight loss journey when times have been hard.
Aaron has had great success and while social media can bring communities together Aaron's special spark has attracted the attention of online trolls and Aaron shares how unwanted comments truly made him feel.
Transformation doesn't just stop with weight loss as Aaron and partner Lucy welcomed a newborn to their family in 2020 providing a firm focus for a continued commitment to his health journey.
You can follow Aaron on Instagram @snareslad_sw
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram. @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Is next week looking crazy busy!?
Would a little planning help?
Click on the link to download your free meal planner…...just keep swimming!
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Feeling body confident after weight loss is a fantastic feeling, falling pregnant knowing the weight needs to come off again takes determination……..something that Victoria has stacks of! Victoria is a busy working mum of two and explains how she finds time to balance self-care, work, motherhood, and planning meals for the week that she enjoys with her husband and young family! If you can relate to Victoria’s busy life and in need of inspiration to stick to plan this week’s episode will show you that gaining control of your weight is possible no matter what challenges lay ahead. While people in the U.K focused on their health and fitness goals in January Victoria’s home was surrounded by smog living within 2 hours of the fire in Australia and tending to the patients affected by the fire as a nurse in her day job. Victoria has resilience and determination that has helped her to lose 2 stone 11lb after the birth of her second child and does not show any signs of stopping or allowing anything to stand in her way. After recording this episode Victoria continues to work as a nurse during Covid and manages to find time to commit to her weight loss as a WW Ambassador.
You can follow Victoria’s weight loss journey on Instagram, her food looks amazing! victoria.on.ww Victoria has also featured in a Weight Watchers book, a true pocket-rocket on inspiration!
You can follow Victoria on Instagram @victoria.on.ww
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Is next week looking crazy busy!?
Would a little planning help?
Click on the link to download your free meal planner…...just keep swimming!
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Episode 51 Lindsey Duffy shares the challenges she recognised post weight loss realising the weight loss had gone too far.
Lindsey felt uncomfortable in her size 14/16 clothes and rather than join a local weight loss group Lindsey joined several online forums who followed the Slimming World plan.
Lindsey suffers from anxiety and the very thought of walking into a local weight loss group was simply terrifying. Success was on the horizon for Lindsey who was able to lose her excess weight and reach her goal weight-reducing her dress size from a U.K size 14/16 to 8. Lindsey found herself asking what next!? The weight had come off, she was happy with the number of the scales so now what?
For Lindsey attending a gym was another big no-no but she was able to push back negative thoughts and start attending a gym that held classes too. This would be Lindsey's new goal, a toned body.
Lindsey loved the gym, the feeling of accomplishment after a workout gave Lindsey a great buzz and really helped her manage her anxiety.
At this point, Lindsey's obsession with her body became more clear as the scales reduced further as Lindsey recalls looking neither fit nor healthy. The challenge came in increasing the number on the scales, this felt quite alien at first but over time Lindsey was able to increase the number on the scales and focus on looking after her new lean shape with the help of healthy food and a sensible workout schedule.
You can follow Lindsey on Instagram @slimming.gym.and.gin
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram. @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Is next week looking crazy busy!?
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Click on the link to download your free meal planner…...just keep swimming!
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Episode 50, part 2, Elisha Langridge discusses mind-full eating and her detachment from labeling food as good or bad.
In part 2 of Elisha's slimming story, Elisha declares that all food is food and how she looked at the labels given to food to see if this was hindering her weight loss progress. Elisha is now more mindful of her food choices and asks herself how the food she is planning to prepare will make her feel.
Elisha now eats consciously and guilt-free while following a healthy balanced diet with Weight Watchers. Elisha has also discovered the benefits of moving more and choosing exercise she enjoys.
In the past exercise was purely a means to an end. In the past exercise was part of Elisha's routine as this helped her create a calorie deficit and Elisha was transfixed on this and had lost sight of the possibility of any exercise being enjoyable.
Exercise for Elisha is a total contrast having recognised the feel-good effects of running, walking and HIIT classes choosing to take part in activities she loves and actually enjoying the process.
This week's episode is refreshing as Elisha opens up about her views on realistic social media, weight loss, mindfulness, and re energising her body after a stressful day at work.
You can follow Elisha on Instagram @rainbow_room
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Is next week looking crazy busy!?
Would a little planning help?
Click on the link to download your free meal planner…...just keep swimming!
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Elisha has struggled with the impact of being overweight for most of her life. Time at school was an awakening to childhood taunts about her size. Luckily for Elisha, a loving home provided support with a family that helped Elisha provide healthy packed lunches after a doctor suggested weight loss at age 10.
There was a time that Elisha had found herself in a binge diet cycle and for a long time Elisha struggled to have a healthy relationship with food. I think we've all been guilty of being super strict with a healthy eating plan in the week, saving treats and calories for a blow out at the weekend!? This had become a pattern for Elisha until she recognised that she wanted a health overhaul and Elisha found this by following the WW plan.
Now Elisha is a WW Ambassador and has made friends with food and shows how to cook and prepare healthy nutritious food to satisfy hunger and the eyes!
Elisha's Instagram rainbow_room is full of tasty food ideas with plant-based treats that look far from drab and would inspire anyone to transform their unhealthy plates and break the cycle of binge diet weight loss.
You can follow Elisha on Instagram @rainbow_room
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Is next week looking crazy busy!?
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Click on the link to download your free meal planner…...just keep swimming!
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Episode 48, Tom Farrow shares how he was able to lose over 10 stone and challenge his secret eating.
Tom's intention to lose weight always started well.
Unfortunately for Tom these intentions only lasted for a few days. Monday mornings always seem like a great day to start and many Monday mornings for Tom felt like "the" Monday.....the special Monday that magic would happen!
Does any of this sound familiar!? Tom's behavior around food was out of control, secret eating in his car to and from work was commonplace. The not so secret office treat table was always there to offer its service with regular celebratory biscuits and cakes that can help tipple any determined dieter over the edge.
Tom has now reclaimed his power and since joining Slimming World Tom has lost over 10 stones and gained so much more. To Tom's surprise, he has found a healthy way to make a Kebab!
Tom met his fiance at his weight loss group and the before and after transformation now includes Tom's son Alfie. Life couldn't be any more different for Tom. Tom was so inspired by the weight loss plan that he now works helping other people to lose weight s as a consultant.
You can follow Tom on Instagram @slim_with_tomf
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
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12 months of podcasting has actually happened! This episode is a celebration of the podcast after 12 months and an insight into how I launched a podcast feeling the fear with every fibre of my body!
Being alive during the COVID pandemic is like living in a negative groundhog day! I am living proof that working towards a goal even when circumstances are far from perfect is achievable.
Challenging myself and taking myself out of my comfort zone is one of the best things that has ever happened to me. The purpose of this episode is to show you that despite the sh*t storm you may be living through you can still show up for yourself and work towards your goals. Forget the “I can't” belief that you have held onto for years, I will explain how you can re-write those negative stories and start afresh.
Give yourself some grace, offer yourself some forgiveness, and look at the stories you tell yourself. If you want to re-write your happy ending I'm hoping this episode will inspire you to do that.
Weight loss and fitness goals can be challenging, before we've even started we've often convinced ourselves we will fail.
If this sounds all too familiar it's time to rewrite your story.
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Is next week looking crazy busy!?
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Click on the link to download your free meal planner…...just keep swimming!
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Episode 46, Ashley Owen opens up about binge eating.
Have you ever thought that your issues around food rotate around a pattern of binge eating? Do you ever have days and weeks of good intentions only to find yourself mindlessly eating with self-control a distant memory?
This week's guest talks openly and honestly about binge eating and living with and managing her urge to eat. This episode is a deep dive into Ashley's relationship with food, binge eating has definitely stopped me in my tracks when I've had good intentions.
Ashley has sought professional help for her patterns of behavior around binge eating and discusses the help that has been useful and offers advice on how she has managed this over the years.
Recently Ashley set out on her own journey of self-discovery and found that videoing her need to purge on food helped Ashley to learn and understand her behaviors around food more than ever. Initially, Ashley decided to keep these videos private but has since gone public to help inspire other people who can relate to having succumbed to binge eating.
You can follow Ashley on Instagram @urgewarrioress
Head over to YouTube and search for Urge Warrioress to see Ashleys videos.
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
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Tom joined me as a guest on episode 10 of Slimming Stories when he explained that he had lost weight and was refocusing after a difficult time. Episode 10 was recorded in 2019 long before COVID had ever been common knowledge. Who knew at this time that a worldwide pandemic was on the horizon.
For many people who use food as a comfort lockdown has been very difficult being surrounded by lots of time to comfort eat. At the start of the pandemic, this is exactly what Tom was worried about. Ironically 2020 and the luxury of time to refocus and recharge Tom has found great success with his weight loss and fitness goals.
Tom explains how he's discovered new foods and loves having time for food preparation and taking new walks in the area that he lives in. Tom had struggled with Body Dysmorphia in 2019 but after having time to reflect Tom explains how the nagging voice that was Body Dysmorphia has quieted down.
We are living in strange times and we all need to hear the brilliance of a transformation story in particular from Tom who had been in such a bad place in 2019. Tom has over time been able to turn things around and feel healthy both mentally and physically. Such a hero's journey with a very happy ending.
You can follow Tom’s slimming journey on Instagram @fightfatwithtom
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
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Episode 44, Resilience rerun with Gina Dean who lost over 8 stone with Slimming World.
Collapsing on the floor within a Marks and Spencers changing room was a great day for Gina! Moment’s before Gina had chosen a pair of size 8 jeans to try on amidst the excitement and screams of exhilaration that the jeans actually fit Gina had found herself in a giggling heap on the changing room floor! Rewind 12 months earlier and size 8 jeans would have been a far cry from the dress size that Gina had grown accustomed to. A family wedding and an unflattering photo having avoided so many photo opportunities gave Gina a wake-up call to take action. Gina explains how she had been overweight for 20 years and excess weight had caused her health problems, feeling out of breath, and experiencing pain in her knees became a daily occurrence. Having lost over 8 stone in weight with Slimming World and feeling fit and healthy running, Zumba is frequently on Gina's time table. Half Italian Gina was able to enjoy her recent holiday to Italy soaking up the sights in her beautiful new wardrobe and enjoying a flight with so much leg space! Fastened in her seat belt and feeling the space that surrounded her brought Gina to tears, happy tears that were symbolic of a new lifestyle for Gina without restrictions.
You can follow Gina’s slimming journey on Instagram @gina.dean
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
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Years of negative self-talk had conditioned Lisa to react to all compliments suspiciously. In this weeks’ episode, Lisa explains how she just didn't believe the compliments people gave her and would shrug them off in disbelief.
After Lisa's divorce, Lisa found herself as a single mum sitting in therapy wondering what she needed to do next to get her life back on track. Although Lisa had started to lose weight and wanted to be and feel healthier she recognized that she just didn't love herself. Years of neglecting her self care meant that even when she did lose some weight this did not impact positively on her self image as she had lost her way. While going through therapy Lisa decided to start running, with running Lisa was able to reconnect with her Mojo and the rest is history!
Lisa now offers coaching and nutrition advice for those in need and knows all too well the struggles people face when trying to improve their health and fitness.
Lisa talks about how energized going for a run makes her feel and how with the help of running and good nutrition Lisa has transformed her life.
This episode is jam-packed full of inspiration and motivation to help challenge a negative mindset. If the idea of loving yourself seems an odd idea to have, Lisa insists that this is a necessary goal before any weight loss and fitness journey.
Lisa offers a great insight into her own self-care journey to help you get started.
You can find Lisa Marie Delugo by following her journey on her Facebook page and subscribing to her podcast and on Instagram, just search for “not your average mother runner”.
Links:
Facebook page: @notyouraveragemotherrunner
Instagram: not your average mother runner
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Is next week looking crazy busy!?
Would a little planning help?
Click on the link to download your free meal planner…...just keep swimming!
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
It takes a lot to be yourself on social media, to truly be yourself. To show up on the good and the bad days especially when on a weight loss journey…. without the filters and hours spent pruning your locks! You would be right in thinking that it takes a certain amount of confidence and courage.
Long before Debbie discovered her answer to weight loss and YouTube Debbies confidence was in short supply.
Debbie once weighed 26 stone 7 pounds and she felt every pound that had brought Debbie issues with her health, skin, confidence, self-worth, and made her feel that she had to accept being morbidly obese. Like most people reading this Debbie had tried many diets but they just didn't seem to work and Debbie had lost faith that she had the motivation to see a healthy eating plan through to the end...in the podcast, Debbie explains she just didn't have the will power.
After a trip to London with her sister and nephew and not being able to fit in a ride at a theme park, Debbie was asked to attend a family meeting. Debbie's sister having spent time with Debbie at London could see how Debbies excess weight was affecting her health and Debbie’s sister and mother were extremely worried.
After listening to her family's concerns Debbie decided to give Slimming World a try and Debbie went onto lose a staggering 15 and a half stone.
Debbie now has a YouTube Channel “Debbie's World” helping and encouraging others that struggle with their weight and offering support. Debbie has such a gorgeous nurturing persona that it's easy to see how this has been a success. With weight loss, Debbie has found the confidence to show up and be herself. A truly honest and inspiring weight loss story.
Please offer your support to Debbie by following her journey on Instagram and subscribing to her YouTube Channel.
Instagram link: @debster_sw
“Debbies World” YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/c/DebbieSW
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Is next week looking crazy busy!?
Would a little planning help?
Click on the link to download your free meal planner…...just keep swimming!
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
This episode is a re-run of Episode 6 with Aoife Larkin, when failure isn't an option resilience shows us the show must go on!
Has your doctor ever encouraged you to improve your health by losing a few pounds? If so you will be able to relate to Aoife Larkin, my guest on this week’s podcast.
It’s fair to say that Aoife’s doctor cut straight to the point when announcing that if Aoife didn’t do anything about her eating habits that her friends and family would be carrying her out in a box! Harsh, shocking words that hit home to Aoife that shook Aoife into taking action and finding sanctuary with Slimming World. Aoife was 25 stone 9lb when she stepped on the scales at her first weigh-in and has had an astonishing weight loss of 14 stone 10lb. Aoife's weight loss and her mobility around the stairs in her home resulted in a fall midway through her weight loss journey but this didn’t stop Aoife. After falling on her staircase suffering a break to her pelvis, tailbone and fractured femur Aoife didn’t give in and the weight loss continued.
A walking challenge came Aoife’s way and with improved fitness, she agreed after all Aoife explained “it was just a walk”. Aoife had in fact agreed to climb the highest mountain in Ireland “Carrauntoohil," and with no training after all it was just a walk... Aoife well and truly conquered the mountain! From feeling breathless after walking 3 steps of her staircase to thousands of steps Aoife has come such a long way in more ways than one. Another wonderful lady sharing her story to inspire you into taking action….what are you waiting for!
If you have enjoyed listening to Aoife you can follow Aoife on Instagram @ 3fs_fees_fave_foods_
Please be sure to follow her journey further.
To join me and Kim Flodin on Monday the 31st of August for Kim’s free 5 day challenge “Align with your intuition” click on the link below.
kelekilove.com
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Is next week looking crazy busy!?
Would a little planning help?
Click on the link to download your free meal planner…...just keep swimming!
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Having stepped back through the door of his weight loss class Shaun knew that this time would be different. Shaun having suffered a health scare and with his sights firmly set on being a healthy role model for his young daughter felt a shift in his intentions.
One week later after stepping back on the scales Shaun achieved a weight loss of 17lbs reassuring Shaun that he had the ability to achieve a positive change that would in turn be life-changing.
Sometimes it can be hard to focus when setting goals to lose weight, there are always reasons or excuses not to take action. None of this applied to Shaun the second time around and his determination to prove to both himself and his family that he could lose weight with a superb focus and drive was his priority.
This determination didn't just start and stop with healthy food changes, this mentality helped Shaun to increase his fitness. Shaun loved the gym and also decided to start running. Shaun was so motivated to have completed a 5k in less than 30 minutes the following day he went onto complete a 10k! For non-runners…..this is not an easy quest!
This isn't fiction! There is no punch line! Hear on Slimming Stories how a determined resilience for change was unshakeable.
Having been inspired by Slimming World Shaun now works as a consultant helping to inspire and motivate others on their weight loss journey.
To download your FREE meal planner for the week ahead, click on the link below!
@sw_slimmingstories_podcast
If you have enjoyed listening to Shaun you can follow Shaun on Instagram @shaun_fat_to_fit_2018 please be sure to follow his journey further.
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Shaun knew the reality of how his access weight was impacting his life and the restrictions this was imposing on him.
Shaun recalls a trip to a theme park and watching his daughter enjoying the rides from afar. Shaun’s excess weight meant he was unable to join in and create special memories that family trips at theme parks are made for.
Having had success with weight loss only to regain the weight Shaun experienced a health scare with extreme chest pain while with his daughter and family member. The health scare was magnified at the thought of being alone with his daughter if in the future his health were to take a turn for the worst. Shaun's motivation to succeed was now in overdrive with the focus on the love he had for his daughter. Shaun knew he needed to take stock of his health and rewrite the ending of his health journey. Shaun was no longer prepared to wait for further chest pains and with determination went on to lose 10 and a half stone.
Shaun now inspires others to do the same as a Slimming World consultant. This is part 1 of Shaun's story with part 2 to follow next week.
If you have enjoyed listening to Shaun you can follow Shaun on Instagram @shaun_fat_to_fit_2018 please be sure to follow his journey further.
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
The world truly is a different place post-COVID. People are questioning the hamster wheel of life and if their beliefs, behaviors, and routines pre COVID really did serve them well. This is an ideal time to introduce you to my great friend and fellow podcast host Kim Flodin and share her self care insights.
Kim Flodin is a Reiki Master, Intuitive Healer, Psychic Coach, and Energy Guide. In this week's episode, Kim opens up the conversation around self-care as you've never heard it before.
Kim’s life changed when she attended a workshop created by Byron Katie, this is definitely not a household name in the U.K but in the U.S Byron Katie is a force to be reckoned with having been featured on Oprah to discuss her therapy and also recently interviewed by Russel Brand. Kim was so moved by the changes the workshop had on her life that she was trained by Byron Katie while working for her at Byron Katie's European workshops. This work is amazing and I wanted Kim to give you an insight into how this can help you if you are in a pattern of negative beliefs that will just not go away.
Kim also discusses the Wim Hof breathing technique and how this has helped her with anxiety and her health.
The reason for bringing Kim on for a deep dive into self-care is during lockdown we hear “be kind to yourself” “love yourself” these affirmations are very common but do we truly know how to do those things? Kim shares her insights and I know you may never have tried any form of therapy or breathing techniques so this will certainly be an eye-opener!
Come and join me as I take part in a free 5-day challenge with Kim ”Align with your intuition” often we hear….just trust your gut instinct. This class will show how we can learn to tune into our 6th sense to lead a more authentic life. Click on the link to sign up, this runs between August the 31st and September the 4th just click on the link to sign up.
See you there!
https://www.kelekilove.com
If you have enjoyed listening to Kim you can follow Kim on Instagram @kim.a.flodin you can also hear more self-care topics on Kim’s podcast “How to fall in love with yourself toolkit” found anywhere you listen to podcasts!
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
After a lifetime of weight loss only to regain the weight Selena was sick and tired of yo-yo-ing up and down the scales. Selena was so frustrated with the excess weight that she chose to seek professional help in the form of weight loss surgery. After consultations and psychological assessments, Selena's surgery was booked and Selena found herself waiting for the date of the surgery. With only one week to go, Selena pulled out of the surgery and the rest is history.
Selena had come to a crossroads, the surgery was the one thing that she could count on to end the cycle of yo-yo dieting…..so know what?
At this point, Selena committed to herself that she was going to make a change.
Selena found that change with Weight Watchers and the support of a fantastic personal fitness coach called Dwayne.
Selena believes that with the help of a diet that satisfied her appetite and a fitness regime that challenged her wavering confidence there was no way she could fail. Success followed and Selena has finally found her solution to end years of yo-yo-ing up and down the scales and she feels amazing.
If you have enjoyed listening to Seleena’s story you can follow Seleena on Instagram @transformingsel. If you would like to connect with Selena’s fitness coach you can contact Dwayne via @uvsl.official or @dwayne_uvsl
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Don't forget to subscribe!!!! I am a one-woman podcaster and need your support! Thank you for tuning in.
Episode 36, Shannon Palmer, a great story of resilience despite years of bullying Shannon was able to take back control and deal with her excess weight.
This week's guest Shannon is the epiphany of resilience. Throughout her time at Primary and Secondary school Shannon suffered bullying centered around her excess weight. The bullying was constant but this led Shannon to seek comfort in food and so the cycle had been set There didn't seem any way out for Shannon and she seemed to come to terms with the thought that she was the funny friend, not the friend who had dates with boys. Shannon felt isolated and in her final year at secondary school, Shannon yearned to feel stunning at her upcoming school prom. Unbeknown to Shannon’s parents Shannon drastically cut her calorie intake and the weight dropped off but a size 10 dress didn't make Shannon feel the confident person she hoped to feel and so the weight went back on.
After school and in her first job Shannon chose slimming pills to reduce her weight and they worked but this was only a temporary fix and again the weight loss wasn't sustainable. Life became chaotic when while at work Shannon received a call to say that her family home was ablaze and Shannon lost everything…..literally nothing was saved. Receiving the news that her mum was 4 minutes away from death Shannon felt broken.
Life carried on and yet Shannon felt stuck. While on a family holiday Shannon vowed that she would lose weight and wear a bikini just like the slim girls she saw at her hotel. Shannon hadn’t ever worn a bikini but after walking through the doors at Slimming world this is exactly what she did.
Shannon has learned to love herself and her self esteem and confidence are now proudly intact.
Despite the negativity that Shannon had been surrounded with she has proved that there is hope in the darkest of circumstances.
If you have enjoyed listening to Shannon’s story you can follow Shannon on Instagram @thelittlelifeofshazzap
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Melanie was disheartened, she had wanted to lose weight but having started the Slimming World Plan on Monday she found herself tucking into a Kebab by Wednesday!
What had happened and why hadn't this worked for Melanie? Melanie had a chat with her friend who invited her over to figure out what had gone wrong. It seems that Melanie had been stuck in a diet mentality. You know the one! The diet mentality of eat salad, don't eat pasta, restrict the potatoes and fill up on veg & fruit…..that one!
Luckily Melanie's friend had knowledge of the plan and challenged the meals that Melanie had chosen to eat for being too small. Eat more eggs, add bacon & beans these words were like music to Melanie's ears as it seemed that Melanie had not eaten enough. No wonder a kebab was on the cards! Now Melanie loves to see Instagram posts of new meals that take her fancy that she can try out at home.
Melanie’s dress size has changed from a 20/22 to a 12/14 and having found a love for running Melanie is loving her new body shape. After Melanie's blip at the start she got straight back on track and lost weight in her first week and every week for a year. Inspiration is a click away, please show your support for my show by subscribing wherever you listen to the podcast!
Enjoy!
If you have enjoyed listening to Mellanie’s story you can follow Mellanie on Instagram @mellie_sw_
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
In this episode, Leah talks about what happened next after stepping through the doors of her local Slimming World class. Not only does Leah talk through the actions and events that took place leading up to reaching her goal weight Leah also talks about her newfound love for running.
Just to put things into perspective this is a lady who needed to achieve a 10 stone weight loss to reach a healthy BMI. At the start of her weight loss journey, Leah struggled to walk up her street without feelings of discomfort.
Once Leah could see that the weight loss plan she followed was working and that it wasn't just a fad diet Leah set her sights on improving her fitness and a whole new story unfolds.
If summer has found you feeling uncomfortable in your clothes, maybe your old summer clothes are tight and you have had to buy a new summer wardrobe. If you're feeling that your weight and health have taken a back seat during lockdown then I know Leah's story will help you to see that anything is possible. Prepare to be inspired and ask yourself how would you feel this time next year coming on this podcast sharing your story with the same success Leah has had? Leah believes that if she can do this anyone can. What are you waiting for?
This week's episode was sponsored by Nicole Rivers' Stop Wring Alone Podcast and Writing Community.
You can reach out to Nicole on Instagram @stopwritingalone or at stopwritingalone.com
If you have enjoyed listening to Leah’s story you can follow Leah on Instagram @sw_the_dieting_mummy_bear
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
I personally loved listening to Bella Mackie on Audible.
Jog On is an amazingly honest book of how Bella found running to be a massive help with her mental health. I would highly recommend this book.
EPISODE 33 - part 1, Leah Trainor shares how life as a mum of two boys inspired her 10 stone weight loss with Slimming World.
Leah was overjoyed to be attending her first doctor's appointment with her midwife after receiving the great news that she was expecting her first baby. Leah with overwhelmed with joy and excitement as she walked through the doors in eager anticipation. Leah's friend had spoken about the first appointment as just like any new mum to be Leah felt that this appointment had made it official, Leah was now a mum….there was definitely no going back!
The excitement and joy were soon to be quashed by her first consultation and it became clear that there were grave concerns for Leah due to the excess weight she carried. Fortunately, Leah gave birth to a healthy baby boy with celebrations all around! Leah loved being a mum, 6 months later Leah and husband Andrew decided to try for another baby and with delight introduced their second baby boy into their family.
Despite the initial concerns for Leah and her health while pregnant Leah was able to have two babies with no complex health interventions.
Leah fully embraced being a new mum but as soon as the boys became more active it was clear that Leah had to make a change. Leah didn't want to be sat on the sidelines watching Andrew or family and friends take her boys around soft play. Leah wanted to join in but weighing over 20 stones this was often difficult.
The realization that Leah could be missing out on activities with her sons motivated her to take action and having lost 10 stone Leah has been able to share her slimming story. Prepare to be inspired!
If you have enjoyed listening to Leah’s story you can follow Leah on Instagram @sw_the_dieting_mummy_bear
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Mollie's love of clothes shopping had come to a halt, the love of clothes that Mollie once had become a distant memory when Mollie felt that her battle with food was at its worst.
Mollie had gained weight and didn't have the desire to shop for size 18/20 clothes instead she chose to buy leggings and baggy tops at her supermarket. Then came University and cheerleading. Cheerleading for Mollie was an absolute joy and having been brought up attending dance and gymnastics as a youngster cheerleading was a great fit for Mollie. Mollie found joy in cheerleading and the buzz and enthusiasm in everyone involved helped Mollie to focus on herself and her weight. Food optimizing for Mollie was easy and worked well around Mollies classes and evening cheerleading routines. The food Mollie was now turning to was nutritional and affordable and soon Mollie was losing weight and dropping dress sizes from size 20/18 to 12/14. Mollie’s friends are amazed at the foods she can now eat and recently Mollie was able to shop online for clothes she could only have ever dreamed of wearing. When was the last time you really looked forward to your fitness routine? If this episode helps you question your exercise routine and if you're looking to change things up in exchange for a regime you love and adore cheerleading could be the exercise for you.
…..And with your hands on your hips, a smile on your lips, spirit in your heart, we're ready to start!!....the podcast that is! I just couldn't resist a cheerleading slogan! Enjoy.
If you have enjoyed listening to Mollie’s story you can follow Mollie on Instagram @sw_mollie_06
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by
Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Amy wanted to lose weight after giving birth to her beautiful daughter. Amy's family gently guided her through the doors of her local slimming group by not taking no for an answer! However, although Amy was now a member of a slimming group Amy took some convincing that Slimming World was the right weight loss plan for her. Amy committed to two weeks on the plan but no more and the weight came off with ease. Surprised by her success Amy committed to a full month explaining that surely the weight loss would stop at this point. Now four stone 10lbs lighter Amy knew that she had chosen the right weight loss plan that worked around her busy life when working and looking after her young daughter.
Amy chose to use lockdown as a way to challenge her issues with her confidence. Amy talks of her new love for walking in the woods with her partner and daughter and how she has found the confidence to go on her own soaking up the peace and quiet that has benefited Amy promoting a healthy state of mind.
Amy is an open book and just like her Instagram account shares an honest portrait of all that life brings to her doorstep. Amy never thought that she would have the confidence to post photos of her stretch marks but in 2020 Amy did exactly that. Amy is beautiful both inside and out and encourages other women to embrace their confidence and recognize their beauty.
If you have enjoyed listening to Amy's story you can follow Amy on Instagram @amy_sw_journeyx
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Do we ever really know what is on the other side of “are you o.k”? This is the question Steves's friend asked during a time of despair when Steve was suffering from suicidal thoughts. Before Steve had hit rock bottom he had managed a successful weight loss of 6 stone after a health scare with his heart. Steve had also discovered a love for running and on paper was taking positive steps in the right direction.
Unfortunately for Steve, his mental health had plummeted and unbeknown to him at this time Steve was about to discover his true inner strength. After confiding in his friend and seeking professional help Steve is thankfully living life to the full equipped with an armor of mental resilience. Steve went on to lose a total of 11 stone 11 and a half pounds with Slimming World and currently runs his own group as a consultant.
This episode is unapologetically raw and honest and demonstrates hope in the darkest of times.
Steve recently helped raise funds for the charity “Mind” and encourages anyone struggling with their mental health to seek help.
If you're reading this grappling for excuses why this isn't the week to start the healthy changes that your body is crying out to take a listen to Steve's story. This episode is an abundance of inspiration and clearly demonstrates that no slimming journey is without its twists and turns. Steve recalls the time when he suffered from dark thoughts as having an out-of-body experience. This story is very needed and I know this will help anyone who is struggling with isolation and who may be experiencing similar difficulties.
It goes without saying that I am so grateful that Steve has agreed to share his full slimming story on my podcast.
If you have enjoyed listening to Steve's story you can follow Steve on Instagram @steve_achieve
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
20 years post-operation Hayley discusses how challenging her mindset and putting in place tools to help her focus on a positive outlook is still a challenge and working progress.
Slimming World and healthy meal planning is also part of this episode if you're asking yourself how or why you would have surgery only to gain weight I thought exactly the same. Hayley explains the finer details of the gastric band procedure and this has definitely been a learning experience for me.
Hayley has been so generous in this interview to share her mental health struggles and we truly go deep into discussing mental health and how to manage this while on a slimming journey.
This episode is truly golden. If you have ever struggled with focus due to experiencing mental health issues this episode is catered just for you.
I could write a million’s words to describe my gratitude towards Hayley sharing her struggles in the hope of helping others…... so don't waste your time reading! Listen to part two of Hayley's slimming story and you will hear how exercise and a healthy lifestyle are helping Hayley beyond belief.
If you have enjoyed listening to Hayleys story you can follow Hayley on Instagram @hayleyrunlikely
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
This week Hayley Grocock shares a refreshingly honest slimming story covering her issues with her mental health having been diagnosed with anxiety and depression 20 years ago.
Hayley is a very busy lady and the lockdown has found her working from home in her role as a CEO of a charity while managing homeschooling with her 6-year-old son.
Hayley doesn't hold back in this episode and even discusses the “mummy wine” culture that she once felt was justified after finishing a hard day's work to help with relaxation.
Hayley is also my first guest to discuss medical intervention to aid weight loss after undergoing a gastric bypass in 2008, this is something I knew very little about and this interview was certainly a learning experience for me.
Doctors had always recommended exercise to Hayley to help with depression and at 19 stone Hayley couldn't think of anything worse than reaching for her trainers. Having now completed the London Marathon Hayley wished she had started running years ago, it seems that the medical professionals had hit the nail on the head and now Hayley would not be without her running shoes.
This is part 1 of Hayley's slimming story…….to be continued shortly.
If you have enjoyed listening to Hayley's story you can follow Hayley on Instagram @hayleyrunlikely
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
I’m so excited about today's episode. Doug Kramer is our first boxer on Slimming Stories and I'm a boxing fan!
For anyone who has attempted to box albeit in the form of a gym exercise class or within a community boxing space be assured that boxing is the most intense workout, you will find! So with Doug in peak fitness you may be thinking that today’s episode is around a fitness journey? Wrong!
Doug Kramer once weighed 28 stone and has had great success with an amazing weight loss of over 11 stones with Slimming World. Doug no longer has to shop for t-shirts in a size 6 XL and is free to shop in all stores not just for trainers as Doug explained they were once the only things that could be relied upon to fit!
Doug is setting a fantastic example for his family and his children also enjoy boxing training. Doug would previously shop with friends and feel like an outsider looking at rails full of clothes he wanted to buy but nothing was in his size. This is in stark contrast to the suit Doug has ready and waiting for his wedding day next year all set to commit to wedding vows with his stunning fiance. If you need motivation this episode is definitely for you, the dedication of Doug’s fitness regime and health focus is second to none.
Doug is the first to admit he allows for time out for special occasions but now having learned to cook tasty healthy meals he knows that being on plan is now a routine he's happy to keep.
If you have enjoyed listening to Doug’s story you can follow Doug on Instagram @the_sw_journey_of_d_n_s
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Who wouldn't want to appear on the front cover of a slimming magazine!? This is truly a glamorous place to show up in your full transformation glory after the hard work of weight loss. This week's episode is with Dominique Withers, the cover girl of Slimming World magazine March & April edition. I love a good weight loss magazine showing a transformation story and there haven't been many months since the age of 18 that I haven't
bought both the Weight Watchers magazine and Slimming World magazine’s not forgetting Rosemary Connely back in the 90’s! Before Instagram and Facebook magazines were our only source of inspiration outside of our slimming classes. Dominique shares her experience of the photo shoot and her slimming journey. This episode shows how losing two dress sizes can still have a positive impact on your body confidence. Dominique has also found a new love for running and how lockdown and the Instagram community has provided her with a chance to work towards new goals supporting the NHS. If you're in need of inspiration and know nothing about the Instagram community that is waiting to support and inspire you Dominque agrees that this has been a game changer.
If you have enjoyed listening to Dominique’s story you can follow Dominique on Instagram @slimmingworld_dominique
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Matt knew he was overweight and knew that this was affecting his health but other than being aware of diets that would leave him feeling deprived and miserable he knew very little about how to take the first steps to instigate change. During a routine appointment at his local surgery, Matt was unaware that the conversation that would unfold would lead to life-saving intervention. Matts G.P offered help with his weight, no lectures no judgment just help. The help came in the form of 12 free classes at a local Slimming World class and Matt accepted the offer. Matt felt that the help offered by his G.P had come at the right time and although he was due to go on a holiday abroad he wanted to take action and investigate further as he was concerned that his weight was too heavy for the scales. While abroad Matt contacted his consultant and was reassured that the scales went up to 40 stones and the rest is history! Matt weighed in at over 33 stones on his first group meeting and that was the last time he saw that number on the scales. Matt has now lost over 12 stone in weight and has discovered a newfound control over his eating habits. Another honest slimming story to help keep you feel inspired during the lockdown.
If you have enjoyed listening to Matt and his Slimming Story you can follow him on Instagram
@ fat_matt_to_fab_matt
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Episode 24 Claire Oldham - West - part 3. My not so secret slimming diary aged 44 and a quarter, April update.
This month's episode during lockdown was the month I received both slimmer of the week and slimmer of the month certificates!! Could this be an end to my yo-yo dieting or is this a new welcomed change during a more relaxed me in the land of lockdown. This month I share my experience of giving up added sugar for Lent, yes this happened to both my surprise and my husband Martin who thought that this was an impossible task I had set myself but I did it! My last taste of a chocolate bar was the 25th of February and I have zero cravings! This is true and yes it feels very strange. I’m hoping that this isn't some magic spell that has been cast my way and that my control over all things of the sugary persuasion will remain.
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Slimming Stories is also a Facebook Group.
Lewis found himself away from his home comforts and working within the busy city of London, renowned for its fast pace Lewis was totally out of his comfort zone. Ironically Lewis had been active before moving away with work, now living alone unable to cook anything resembling a healthy meal Lewis turned his attention to convenience food. Takeaways and a few cans of beer are how Lewis enjoyed his evenings. On returning home to Sunderland Lewis was encouraged by his mum to lose weight and this is when Lewis discovered some Slimming World members who kindly helped and encouraged Lewis to take the leap of faith to join his local Slimming World Group. Work was now calling Lewis to relocate to a remote part of Northern Ireland where Lewis could rely on great food with Hotel meals at the ready. At this point, most people would have caved under the pressure of being surrounded by rich food full of flavour, fat, and calories! However, Lewis made wise choices and after losing 10 stone 1.5lb the rest is history! This story shares an incredible transformation story of the mind, body, and soul, and having discovered a newfound confidence Lewis has regained control of his life.
If you have enjoyed listening to Lewis and his Slimming Story you can follow him on Instagram @sw-lew
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West, you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Slimming Stories is also a Facebook Group.
Ashli Sterling had tried many fad diets but having previously worked as a Slimming World consultant Ashli knew that she had the tools at hand to make the necessary health changes she longed for. 2020 is due to be a big year for Ashli and amidst COVID 19 she seems to be taking all of the chaos in her stride with an exuberance of confidence Ashli explains this wasn't always the case. For Ashli dropping dress sizes from a U.K size 16 to a U.K size 8 has given her confidence a huge boost, Ashli never thought she would be halving her dress size. Ashli talks about her love for food and her desire to show others how preparing tasty food doesn't have to be complex and how taking snapshots as a blogger on Instagram played an integral part in her weight loss journey. Ashli reached her goal weight long before plans of a wedding making Ashli's success all the more sweeter with no pressure to slim down for the big day. Ashli's commitment to her weight loss gifted her with the power of choice both on her plate and in the wedding boutique.
If you have enjoyed Ashli’s Slimming Story you can follow her journey ashli_sw
Slimming Stories podcast is written and produced by Claire Oldham - West and you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Slimming Stories is also a Facebook Group.
Episode 21, Jessica Faulkner the most positive bride to be amidst COVID-19 shares her weight loss as a Slimming World member.
Jessica joined her local slimming group with the intention of just losing half a stone. Several stones later and with healthy eating choices embedded into her lifestyle with a newfound love for fitness inches followed the weight loss, reducing Jessica's dress size from a U.K size 22 to size 10 - 12. Jessica exuberates confidence and it's difficult to imagine Jessica ever feeling any different but during our conversation, Jessica opens up about how changes to her diet and fitness have increased her confidence and how happy she feels compared with life in a larger body. This episode was published during COVID- 19 but Jessica doesn't show any signs of overwhelm a testament to the support of a loving fiance, family, and friends. Shopping for a wedding dress had been a worry for Jessica but now in a smaller size, Jessica has the freedom to choose whatever style she finds on the rail in the wedding boutique. Being an overweight mum was something that once laid heavy on Jessica's mind but now she is free to keep up with her young daughter and shine as a role model providing healthy footsteps for daughter Felicity to follow in.
If you have enjoyed Jessica's Slimming Story you can follow her journey @jess.abrahams_sw
Slimming Stories podcast is produced by Claire Oldham - West and you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Slimming Stories is also a Facebook Group.
Episode 20, Andie Darlington my first transgender guest shares her slimming story as a Slimming World member.
Andie is a Slimming Stories first having won both "Man Of The Year" within her local Slimming World Class and "Woman Of The Year". Andie who works as a journalist felt so at ease within her local Slimming World class that unbeknown to the man that walked through the door several years previous she would be surrounded by an acceptance allowing her to lead an authentic life. Andie describes how she didn't want to be an old man looking back on life wondering what if….. Transitioning in 2020 is received with more acceptance than in years gone by but there are still challenges as Andie talks about hateful messages that she still receives today. Andie’s episode will be published amidst the Coronavirus pandemic during a time when people started to reach out to one another with a pause from their laptops and iPhones. Andie didn't expect the warmth and acceptance she received at her local slimming class but this is exactly what happened. Andie talks about lifelong friendships in a heartwarming story in a time when we are all in need of a virtual hug.
If you have enjoyed Andie’s story you can continue to follow her slimming journey on Instagram @andiedarlington
Slimming Stories podcast is produced by Claire Oldham - West and you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Slimming Stories is also a Facebook Group.
Episode 19, Davey Baverstock shares his 16 and a half stone weight loss journey.
Food had become Davey's best friend, his coping mechanism when times got tough. At the age of thirty Davey had major health problems having reached 28 stone his body was reacting to the extra work his body was challenged to do on a daily basis. Davey developed a condition called sleep apnea and on a visit to his G.P surgery, the doctor discussed how Davey was on the highest concentration of Oxygen for someone using the equipment at home without regular hospital visits. The doctor explained that if Davey's weight gain continued at this rate of incline that his life expectancy would be cut short giving Davey the devastating news that he would have just a further 8 years to live. This Slimming Story could be a lifeline for anyone listening thinking that there's no hope. Davey's wake up call was that moment with his doctor and seeing the devastation on his mum's face. A truly inspiring Slimming Journey that started with Slimming World losing 16 and a half stone. No story is without its twists and turns and we see so many picture-perfect slimming stories in glossy magazines that this week's podcast is so refreshingly honest and relatable. Davey’s slimming journey was put to the test when his mum past away last year, enduring the painful process of grief Davey knew he owed it to his mum to get back on track and Davey is once again taking brave steps in the right direction.
If you have enjoyed Davey’s story you can follower her slimming journey on Instagram @itsdaveysworld
Slimming Stories podcast is produced by Claire Oldham - West and you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Slimming Stories is also a Facebook Group.
Episode 18
Amy set her sights on losing 100lb after a relationship breakup and hasn't looked back since. Being able to deal with her food issues with the help of Slimming World allowed Amy to see and feel the impact of how this changed her life and how it was helping others. Inspired by her own slimming journey Amy decided to train as a Slimming World consultant and with that decision, the best was yet to come. Amy decided to join fellow slimmers to embark on the challenge to climb Mount Snowdon giving Amy the chance to meet other slimmers and to feel even more inspired by what is possible when you're in a position to challenge your mindset. Inspiration that Amy has been able to pass onto the Slimming group she now runs. In the past taking steps to track her food intake was not always received well by family members but now with her new slimming family, Amy has found a place to share her highs and lows with people that truly understand the challenges of a slimmer.
If you have enjoyed Amy's story you can follower her slimming journey on Instagram @aimsterlouise_sw
Slimming Stories podcast is produced by Claire Oldham - West and you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Slimming Stories is also a Facebook Group.
If you would like to appear as a guest on the show please DM me on Instagram.
Bonus Episode 17 introducing Nicole Rivera and her podcast “Stop Writing Alone”
THE SHOW NOTES FOR Ep 59
Recently Nicole discovered, to her horror, that the one question Oprah Winfrey claims to be the single most important question for any person to answer in their lifetime -- What do I want? -- was the one question she couldn’t answer. Ever since discovering this, she has worked to find her answers in her creative life as well as her life as a whole. After listening to author and creativity coach, Jessica Abel, discussing the “shoulds” in our lives, Nicole discovered they can lead us all to the answer to our wants which will then help us reach for all our dreams -- especially when it comes to our writing careers.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE EVER AFTER SPRING WRITING RETREAT with Nicole Rivera & Sam Kimberle, follow this link https://mailchi.mp/898c01af51e2/everafter2020
Mentioned in this episode:
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DIYMFARadio Episode 293 Interview with Jessica Abel https://diymfa.com/podcast/episode-293-jessica-abel
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Jessica Abel’s blog post on the “shoulds” https://jessicaabel.com/what-happens-when-you-let-your-demons-run-loose/
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@stopwritingalone Instagram post about the most important question “What do I want?” https://www.instagram.com/p/B8_B2TNhAFS/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
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Stop Writing Alone Episode 57: Interview with Jenna Britton https://stopwritingalone.com/2020/02/13/episode-57-jenna-britton-talks-personal-essays-podcasts-and-newsletters/
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EVER AFTER SPRING WRITING RETREAT application https://mailchi.mp/898c01af51e2/everafter2020
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NV Rivera YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpPlp1EVzQhDFPdGp5w2KoQ?view_as=subscriber
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Stay connected to learn about all Stop Writing Alone stuff -- get on Nicole’s email list: https://mailchi.mp/ff8df93e57dc/penpals
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Buy Nicole a coffee (AKA support the podcast!) https://ko-fi.com/stopwritingalone
Places to connect to the STOP WRITING ALONE community and introduce yourself:
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Stop Writing Alone FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/stopwritingalone/
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Join the Stop Writing Alone with Nicole Rivera FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2205774733034348/
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Stop Writing Alone website: https://stopwritingalone.com/
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Join the Stop Writing Alone email list: https://mailchi.mp/ff8df93e57dc/penpals
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Stop Writing Alone Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/stopwritingalone/
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Nicole’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/nv_rivera
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The Stop Writing Alone voice number (call to introduce yourself!): (646) 907-9607
When you find a group of people who lift you up on a daily basis, it is important to share their awesome. Here are links to the women in Nicole’s Mastermind group (currently going by the name The Voxer Vixens!). Please support these women who do so much to support Nicole on a daily basis!
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Kim A. Flodin https://www.howinthehellpodcast.com/
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Lisa Murray https://ihavedreamsdammit.com/
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Claire Oldham West https://slimmingstories.podbean.com/
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Johanna Jaquez-Peralta https://www.instagram.com/latina_livin_keto/
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Emma Isaacs https://www.instagram.com/emmaisaacsdesign/
Nicole Rivera
writer
podcast host
iTunes: STOP WRITING ALONE! podcast
website:stopwritingalone.com
Facebook: Stop Writing Alone
Ruth Calvert was a bright and studious child, teen and young woman throughout her years in education within school, college & university. However, unfortunately for Ruth, her wonder years were subject to bullying due to her size. Maybe we can excuse children due to their age and not knowing better or teens as being too preoccupied to understand the hurt the bullying had caused but this continued at university & also into her working life. The frustration of her excess weight led to trying most diets that provided a short term fix. Luckily Ruth found a diet that she was able to stick to with Slimming World and having lost 7 stone 5 lb Ruth is only a stone away from meeting her goal weight. Ruth’s story is refreshingly honest and I know you will be inspired by Ruth’s bravery in facing up to her food issues and quieting down those voices from her past.
You can follow Ruths Slimming Journey on Instagram @ruthlouise_sw
Slimming Stories podcast is produced by Claire Oldham - West and you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Slimming Stories is also a Facebook Group.
If you would like to appear as a guest on the show please DM me on Instagram.
March is the month we celebrate International Women's Day and I wanted to celebrate members of my Master Mind Group who have helped me on my podcast journey. Kim Flodin is an absolute joy and inspires me daily. Trigger warning this episode contains swear words.
Our Lives Flashed Before Our Eyes During the Avalanche... of Bubbles
If you’ve been listening, you know that we are part of a big family… I’m the oldest of 7 in a family of five girls and two boys and our mom was the oldest of eight in a family with 3 brothers and 5 girls and these were the people who taught us that if you weren't laughing at life's craziness, you were doing it wrong.
A big extended family also came with other perks – one was cousins! And, lots of them! Two, we had big family get-togethers filled with lots of laughter, smartassery and shenanigans and three, our summers were filled with staying with our cousins at their various houses or having them come to stay with us! I’d venture a guess that for a lot of us cousins in our large extended family, those family swaps during the summer months hold some of our best and most unforgettable memories. We didn’t go on family vacations, so going to a cousin’s house in the far off land of Wisconsin for a stay was a big deal!
Today’s episode as told by our sister Erin and our cousin Heather is about one of those summer stays with our Aunt Annie, who was, as Heather calls her… “the fancy aunt”. I’m going to take a moment to give Annie a should out and wish her a belated 75th birthday! I saw her not that long ago and she’s still our fancy aunt who still knows how to have a good time!
- Join us on Facebook! bit.ly/FacebookHITH
- Follow us on Instagram @kimaflodin or @howinthehellpodcast
- Buy us a cookie or two! bit.ly/ko-fiHITH -Thanks to our Storytellers: Heather Vaudreiul and Erin Smith -Thanks The Coloring Book Coach, listen to How to Fall in Love with Yourself Toolkit:http://bit.ly/fallinlovetoolkit -Thank you YouTube Free Music Audio Library & Silent Partner for our theme song, 7th Floor Tango and ad music, Blue Skies http://bit.ly/youtubeHITH
Produced, edited, written and hosted by Kim A. Flodin, with editing help from Kari Flodin. How in the Hell Did I Get Here description: Do you love crazy, true, and oftentimes, hilarious, stories about travel, kids, work, relationships, paranormal encounters, animals, and more? Join host Kim A. Flodin and her four sisters - Kari Flodin, Jenny Gardner, Erin Beach and Skye Dunn, plus occasional fun guests every Thursday as they share their funny How in the HELL Did I Get Here? Stories.
At what point do we stop and take a reality check of how our excess weight impacts our health? Gareth knew that he needed to find a solution to his weight issues but was unable to find a diet or eating plan that allowed him to eat normal food that was sustainable. As a result of Gareth’s increasing weight, he found that his health was at risk as he became tired as a result of being unable to have a restful night's sleep. Sleep Apnea was affecting Gareth in a big way leaving him unable to engage fully with his daughter due to tiredness and putting his safety at risk at work as he tried to work through his lack of sleep. Gareth's G.P appointment was the light bulb moment he needed to take action and he found a slimming group that offered support and friendship that would help him to take back control of his health and his life.
You can follow Gareth’s slimming journey on Instagram @gazgriffin86
Slimming Stories podcast is produced by Claire Oldham - West and you can follow Slimming Stories on Instagram @sw_slimmingstories_podcast
Slimming Stories is also a Facebook Group.
If you would like to appear as a guest on the show please DM me on Instagram.
New month new me, does this sound familiar!? Well, I've declared that we choose to decide the start of the new year, time is man-made and if tomorrow is your new year to start getting back on a plan that’s fine with me because I'm doing just that! This is my honesty post as promised stupidly back in January!! Why did I think a podcast Slimming diary was a good idea again!?
I think January momentum had something to do with it!
So this update is long overdue as I rushed to record February's episode of the diary realizing whilst recording that we are in fact in March. Again on the theme of good ideas I gave up added sugar for Lent and decided to give my running career legs again. If you are a fantastic dieter in total control of your eating this may not be the episode for you, If on the other hand like most of the population weight loss is a struggle then join me for relatable banter of the highs and lows of my dieting journey.
Fiona was sick and tired of feeling tired, most evenings after work would result in a nap on arrival home and being tired and lethargic was very much the norm for Fiona. Now imagine a runner, not just any runner. Imagine someone effortlessly running Marathons in a strong fit body reaching for her trainers before heading for the couch, this is now Fiona’s routine. Fiona now faces 2020 not only in a strong body but now equipped with a strong mind has been able to make peace with her relationship with food. There was no wonder drug or high-intensity workout plan with a restrictive diet, luckily Fiona found her sanctuary with Slimming World and achieved a successful weight loss of 5 stone.
Fiona describes how her life has been transformed with a healthy diet and exercise after years of being overweight and conquering obesity.
Feeling body confident after weight loss is a fantastic feeling, falling pregnant knowing the weight needs to come off again takes determination……..something that Victoria has stacks of! Victoria is a busy working mum of two and explains how she finds time to balance self-care, work, motherhood, and planning meals for the week that she enjoys with her husband and young family! If you can relate to Victoria’s busy life and in need of inspiration to stick to plan this week’s episode will show you that gaining control of your weight is possible no matter what challenges lay ahead. While people in the U.K focused on their health and fitness goals in January Victoria’s home was surrounded by smog living within 2 hours of the fire in Australia and tending to the patients affected by the fire as a nurse in her day job. Victoria has resilience and determination that has helped her to lose 2 stone 11lb after the birth of second child and does not show any signs of stopping or allowing anything to stand in her way.
You can follow Victoria’s weight loss journey on Instagram, her food looks amazing! victoria.on.ww Victoria has also featured in a Weight Watchers book, a true pocket-rocket on inspiration!
Today’s episode with Tom Fox shows an ability to rise up even in the darkest times. Having tasted success with a weight loss of 8 stone 5lb Tom knew he wanted to get back on track with his eating habits but under the strain of experiencing mental health issues the ability to do this was extremely difficult indeed. In 2019 Tom had been diagnosed with Anxiety, Depression, and Body Dysmorphia Disorder. Difficulties within the workplace and a relationship breakdown had left Tom feeling out of control. So, how did Tom get back up? That is the question! When mental health bangs on your door how can we even begin to think about self-care and weight loss? This episode details the journey Tom was able to take back into healthy eating and back into the driving seat. Currently, Tom has lost over 4 stone and you can follow his weight loss and fitness antics on Instagram. Such a breath of fresh air! @fightfatwithtom.
The first weigh-in after Christmas, the most wonderful time of the year! With bloated bellies and a wardrobe full of good intentions, we walk the green mile destination unknown. Does this sound dramatic enough!? In fact, we have all most likely over-indulged over Christmas and would have had to either have lived like a saint or caught the flu to have escaped a gain on the scales. Today's episode is all about honesty facing the new year and looking at our focus and goal setting. I have made the brave decision to document my weight loss for 2020 in part 1 of my “not so secret slimming diary”. In January after we step on the scales our good intentions are set in stone. I’m unsure it's due to the fact that we've eaten our body weight in chocolate that encourages a healthy lifestyle or the realization that living off such a high-calorie intake isn't all what its cracked up to be! I promise to update the podcast with regular updates as I tackle my food baby! There will be moments of temper and calm, wobbles and resistance as I face my weight issues head-on in 2020.
Collapsing on the floor within a Marks and Spencers changing room was a great day for Gina! Moment’s before Gina had chosen a pair of size 8 jeans to try on and amidst the excitement and screams of exhilaration that the jeans actual fit Gina had found herself in a giggling heap on the changing room floor! Rewind 12 months earlier and size 8 jeans would have been a far cry from the dress size that Gina had grown accustomed to. A family wedding and an unflattering photo having avoided so many photo opportunities gave Gina a wake-up call to take action. Gina explains how she had been overweight for 20 years and excess weight had caused her health problems, feeling out of breath and experiencing pain in her knees became a daily occurrence. Having lost over 8 stone in weight with Slimming World and feeling fit and healthy running and Zumba are frequently on Gina's time table. Half Italian Gina was able to enjoy her recent holiday to Italy soaking up the sights in her beautiful new wardrobe and enjoying a flight with so much leg space! Fastened in her seat belt and feeling the space that surrounded her brought Gina to tears, happy tears that were symbolic of a new lifestyle for Gina without restrictions.
Johanna Peralta knew things had to change, her eating habits had been poor for as long as she could remember and feeling unable to stick to any healthy eating plan had a negative impact on her confidence.
The help came in the form of a neighbor who had followed the Keto plan and rather than quickly dive into making changes Johanna took time to research this new way of eating to see if this was something that would work for her. Johanna confessed to having tried the maple syrup “Beyonce” diet along with Slim Fast. Nothing had worked like Keto did and now Johnna is mentoring others around the Keto way of life or as Johanna would like to call it “latina_livin_keto”.Trying out new recipes is now one of Johanna's passions so much so that she has dedicated an Instagram account to posting beautifully prepared tasty Keto-friendly meals, the cheesecake looks amazing!
You can find Johanna on Instagram at latina_livin_keto or contact Johanna for 121 mentoring email address: johanna@latinalivinketo.com
Has your doctor ever encouraged you to improve your health by losing a few pounds? If so you will be able to relate to Aoife Larking my guest on this week’s podcast. It’s fair to say that Aoife’s doctor cut straight to the point when announcing that if Aoife didn’t do anything about her eating habit's that her friends and family would be carrying her out in a box! Harsh, shocking words that hit home to Aoife that shook Aoife into taking action and finding sanctuary with Slimming World. Aoife was 25 stone 9lb when she stepped on the scales at her 1st weigh-in and has had an astonishing weight loss of 14 stone 10lb. Aoife's weight loss and her mobility around the stairs in her home resulted in a fall midway through her weight loss journey but this didn’t stop Aoife. After falling on her staircase suffering a break to her pelvis, tailbone and fractured femur Aoife didn’t give in and the weight loss continued.
A walking challenge came Aoife’s way and with improved fitness, she agreed to the challenge. Aoife had, in fact, agreed to climb the highest mountain in Ireland “Carrauntoohill”, and with no training, after all, "it was just a walk" Aoife well and truly conquered the mountain! From feeling breathless after walking 3 steps of her staircase to thousands of steps Aoife has come such a long way in more ways than one. Another wonderful lady sharing her story to inspire you into taking action….what are you waiting for!
Michelle Cook had a love of fitness and anything sports-related during her time at school. This had seemed a distant memory after Michelle had children and her needs had taken a back burner. Feeling uncomfortable in her clothes Michelle found support at her local Leisure center with regular swimming lessons, gym classes, and group cardio workouts. However, the local Council had money constraints due to government cutbacks and the village’s Leisure center had to close leaving Michelle downhearted. Then came the saving grace of a new private gym allowing Michelle to rekindle her fitness flame. Michelle’s new gym owner encouraged Michelle to take up some new challenges and the rest is history. Tough mudder and Iron man competition are now among Michelle's achievements. If you're in need of a motivational fix Michelle is just the ticket to show you all you need is a willingness to start.
Life is busy in the Emma Issacs household and making time to stop and relax while taking in the holiday’s can be easier said than done. Emma works as a freelance designer and balances this with raising two young children. In this week’s episode, Emma and I talk honestly about food temptations during the holiday season and delegating some free time to switch off. Trick or treat can send cravings into overdrive as we decide like Emma a treat a day while on holiday or full blow out! I know many people have dreaded the temptations that half term brings whether away on holiday or days outs with the kids. Emma Issacs will give food for thought around the conversation we have around our children and discuss taking the pressure off as holidays are a precious time to be enjoyed. Or if your anything like my husband and I a waterpark holiday in Spain plays second fiddle to Anime, Peaky Blinders, Riverdale and YouTube!
Julie Upton decided to start running triggered by the loss of a loved one and wanting to raise money for a cancer charity in memory of her beloved Liz. Liz was a special lady who had helped to care for both Julie and her sister when her own mum struggled with her mental health. Taking part in “Race For Life” was Julie's way of showing Liz her gratitude in saving Julie and her sister from being taken into care and recognition for the Love she felt for Liz. Julie took action and picked up her old school trainers partially chewed by her dog and with a baseball cap to maintain her anonymity set off! To put this into perspective Julie had not just left school and was aged 33 when she thought learning to run in her old school trainers was a great idea! This was the start of Julie's running ventures and didn't start and stop from her house to the lamp post at the top of her street. Julie went on to run the London marathon surrounded by the love of her family and new running family.
How do you even begin to plan a 12 stone weight loss, where do you even start!?
Claire Shaw has lost 12 stone following the Slimming World plan and talks us through the highs and lows of her weight loss journey. If you're in need of inspiration, if you have convinced yourself that being fit and healthy isn’t written in the stars for you then think again! Claire Shaw doesn’t stand for half measures and describes her commitment to slimming as “all or nothing”. Are you ready for momentum overload!? Introducing Claire Shaw to Slimming Stories.