In this episode of Trims and Talk, I sit down with Shirley Samuels and Donald McLean for a conversation that’s been a long time coming. Together, we explore life, family, and navigating the British experience from different perspectives. Shirley, born and raised in the UK, shares her journey as a champion for mental well-being at SACMHA, a research connector with universities and the NHS, and an advocate for menopause awareness.
Our discussion touches on vulnerability, the weight of trauma, and the power of raw, human connection—those conversations that cut through the façade and remind us of what it means to truly care for one another. Shirley’s love for people, her ability to lead with empathy, and her dedication to the work she does make this conversation one of the most impactful we’ve ever had.