Shows
You Keep Me SaneDecision Fatigue: The Tiny Decisions Draining You | Sanity Check No. 30Episode Overview:This week, we hit that point where the mental tabs were maxed out - and it wasn’t about the big stuff. It was the what’s for dinner, the laundry, what vitamins to give the kids, the endless little choices that chip away at your sanity. We talk about decision fatigue and how it creeps in when your brain just can’t carry any more. From turtles to t-shirts, it’s not always the weight of the decision, it’s the volume.Key Discussion Points:What decision fatigue re...2025-07-2408 min
You Keep Me SaneAmbition & Self-Worth: How Can They Coexist? | YKMSEpisode OverviewThis week’s episode was sparked by a thoughtful voice note from a listener who asked a powerful question: Where does ambition fit into self-worth?In a culture that often ties success to external achievements, it’s easy to get caught in the trap of proving your value through accolades, productivity, or recognition. But can ambition and self-worth actually coexist in a healthy way? We believe they can and should.In this conversation, we unpack what healthy ambition looks like, why striving isn’t the enemy of self-worth, and how ou...2025-07-2318 min
You Keep Me SaneFrazzled to Calm: Micro Shifts That Lower Cortisol | Sanity Check No.29Episode Overview:Ever feel like you're living in survival mode - snappy, tired, and overwhelmed for no clear reason? You're not imagining it. That constant buzzing in your body might be cortisol, your stress hormone, running the show. In this short but powerful sanity check, we unpack why cortisol is especially high in midlife - and what you can do to gently bring it down without needing a retreat, a full reset, or a complete life overhaul.This episode is your reminder that calm is closer than you think. With a few small...2025-07-1708 min
You Keep Me SaneClearing Space, Clearing Stress: The Mental Load of Mess | YKMSEpisode Overview:Ever looked around your home and felt your shoulders tense? You're not alone. In this episode, we sit down with Lauren from Perfect Space Home Organisation - a professional organiser who brings more than tidy cupboards. She brings peace of mind.We talk clutter, cortisol, and the emotional stories hiding in our cupboards. From junk drawers to inherited guilt, Lauren helps us unpack how physical mess contributes to mental stress, and how small changes can transform more than just your space.This episode is a warm, honest chat about w...2025-07-1649 min
You Keep Me SaneWhy Do We Treat Single Women Like Something’s Gone Wrong? | Sanity Check No. 28Episode OverviewWhy do we still treat single women like they’re unfinished stories? In this week’s Sanity Check, we’re getting honest about the outdated assumptions around being single in midlife - and why choosing to stay true to yourself is far from a failure.We reflect on a conversation Aileen had with a single friend who said it best: “I know peace now, and I’m not giving it up unless someone truly meets me where I’m at.”If you’ve ever felt the pressure to explain your singleness...2025-07-1010 min
You Keep Me SaneThe Grey Areas We Don’t Talk About: A Conversation on Consent & Self-Worth | YKMSEpisode OverviewAs mothers of teenagers, we’ve been thinking deeply about how consent, self-worth, and emotional literacy shape the choices our kids make. We remember our own adolescence - when being desirable felt like currency and boundaries were hard to define. It was easy to confuse attention with value, and even harder to say no when something didn’t feel right.This week, we unpack all of that in a powerful conversation with Lucy Baxter - a film lecturer, filmmaker, and mother using virtual reality to help young people explore consent and emot...2025-07-0949 min
You Keep Me SaneGrief: The Ache That Doesn’t Expire | Sanity Check No. 27Episode OverviewIn this deeply personal Sanity Check, Aileen opens up about the long, layered experience of grief - particularly after losing both her parents. Together, we reflect on why grief makes people uncomfortable, how loss reshapes us, and why healing has no timeline. This one’s for anyone carrying the weight of grief, old or new.In this episode:Why losing a parent hits differently no matter your ageThe grief that comes from change: countries, relationships, rolesHow to support someone grieving when there’s nothing to fixListener Take...2025-07-0311 min
You Keep Me SaneMars, Venus & the Midlife Shift: What’s Driving the Rise in Divorce | YKMSEpisode OverviewIn this raw and deeply reflective episode, Aileen and Julie explore a rising trend: why so many women in their 40s and 50s are re-evaluating long-term relationships. This isn’t about drama or scandal, it’s about identity, unmet emotional needs, and the quiet inner voice that often grows louder in midlife.They unpack how perimenopause, shifting priorities, and decades of invisible labour can create a turning point. But this isn’t an episode about leaving, it’s about getting honest. For some, that leads to deeper connection. For others, it brings c...2025-07-0222 min
You Keep Me SanePost-High Blues: Why We Crash After Good Things | Sanity CheckEpisode Overview:You know that weird flat feeling after something great? A big event, a reunion, a dream trip… and then suddenly you’re back to real life, feeling unexpectedly low? This week’s Sanity Check dives into exactly that. After the excitement of the Podcast Show and finally being in the same room again, we open up about the emotional crash that followed.In this short but powerful episode, we explore the psychology behind post-event letdown, why it happens, and how to move through it without shame or self-judgment.What We Tal...2025-06-2610 min
You Keep Me SaneReal Connection – It isn’t a Luxury, it’s a Lifeline | YKMSEpisode OverviewIn this episode, we unpack the kind of connection that changes us - the raw, real, healing kind. After spending time together at the Podcast Show in London, we reflect on what it felt like to be seen, heard, and held by strangers.What started as a marketing moment turned into a powerful reminder of why we started You Keep Me Sane in the first place.This episode is a love letter to those deep moments of “me too,” to the strangers who became kindred spirits, and to anyone feel...2025-06-2521 min
You Keep Me SaneWhen Growth Creates Distance | Sanity CheckEpisode OverviewEver opened up to someone only to be met with silence or worse, a thumbs up emoji? In this Sanity Check, we dive into the disappointment of emotional disconnection, especially when it comes from people we’re close to. We unpack the hard truth: not everyone has the emotional capacity to meet you where you're at - and it’s not about you.This conversation is a compassionate reminder that your vulnerability is not too much, and choosing to protect your peace doesn’t make you cold. It makes you strong.2025-06-1906 min
You Keep Me SaneThe Soft Life: Unpacking What It Really Means | YKMSEpisode OverviewIs it time to stop chasing “having it all” and start redefining what really matters? In this episode, we unpack the growing cultural shift away from hustle culture and into what many are calling the soft life - a slower, more intentional way of living. We talk honestly about the tension between ambition and rest, how societal expectations have shaped women’s nervous systems, and why the soft life isn’t about giving up, it’s about tuning in.From motherhood and single parenting to invisible labour, work stress, wellness fatigue and everyth...2025-06-1832 min
You Keep Me SaneBone-Tired: The Exhaustion We Don’t Talk About | Sanity CheckEpisode Overview:In this candid Sanity Check, Aileen and Julie dive into the kind of exhaustion that sleep alone can’t fix. It’s not just the 3am perimenopause wake-ups, the Prosecco regrets, or the never-ending to-do list - it’s the deeper, invisible load that keeps us wired 24/7.They unpack the toll of being constantly “on,” from anticipating everyone’s needs to never truly switching off, even when the kids are older. Whether it’s playing the role of juggler, chef, therapist, or clown, the emotional and nervous system load of motherhood and midlife de...2025-06-1210 min
You Keep Me SaneHarder to Be Happy? It Might Be Your Wiring, Not Your Fault | YKMSEpisode Overview:In this episode, Aileen and Julie reflect on why some people seem naturally happier, while others (like themselves!) are built with layers, reflection, and emotional intensity. Through personal stories, laughter, and a dose of science, they explore how understanding emotional wiring can shift the way we experience happiness and relate to ourselves.They also revisit a metaphor that’s stuck with them for years: are you an onion or a potato? It began as a throwaway comment by Julie's husband, but it’s grown into a powerful framework for unde...2025-06-1129 min
You Keep Me SaneSaying NO - Why Is It So Hard? | Sanity CheckEpisode OverviewThis listener-inspired Sanity Check explores the discomfort so many of us feel when it comes to saying no or speaking honestly. Aileen and Julie unpack the messy middle between people-pleasing and genuine empathy, and explore the deeper fears—like judgment, rejection, or letting someone down—that keep us stuck in yes-mode even when we're at capacity.Whether you're someone who always says yes out of habit, fear, or heart, this episode offers research-backed insights and gentle reminders that you're not alone—and that boundaries are not a betrayal of kindness.K...2025-06-0510 min
You Keep Me SaneThe Invisibility Cloak: Midlife, Visibility, and Redefining Worth | YKMSEpisode OverviewIn this deeply reflective episode, Aileen and Julie explore the quiet but powerful transition many women experience in midlife—the shift from being seen and celebrated for youth and appearance to becoming quietly overlooked by a culture that worships the new. But is this invisibility a loss… or a kind of liberation?Through honest conversation and personal stories, they unpack what it means to feel unseen in a world that once watched your every move, and how this stage of life can offer something far richer: presence, peace, and purpose.2025-06-0422 min
You Keep Me SaneCortisol vs Oxytocin: The Daily Hormone Battle | Sanity CheckEpisode Overview:In this mini Sanity Check, Aileen and Julie dive into the chemistry of your emotions—specifically the push-pull dance between cortisol and oxytocin. Whether you’ve felt constantly on edge, snappy, or totally burnt out, this episode breaks down what’s really happening in your body and why even small, mindful shifts can help you reset.Key Talking Points:Why cortisol rises in everyday situations—especially the chaotic after-school hours.The role cortisol plays in anxiety, poor sleep, burnout, and even menopausal weight gain.How oxytocin (the “hug hormone”...2025-05-2909 min
You Keep Me SaneLet Them: Our Honest Take on the Viral Mantra | YKMSEpisode Overview:In this episode of You Keep Me Sane, Aileen and Julie dive into the power behind Mel Robbins’ now-viral “Let Them Theory.” From navigating tricky relationships to handling judgement and unmet expectations, they explore why this simple mindset shift can be so freeing—and so hard to put into practice.Drawing on their own stories of burnout, people-pleasing, and family conflict, they unpack how learning to “let them” has helped them reclaim their energy, protect their peace, and stop hustling for approval. It’s not about being passive—it’s about releasing control...2025-05-2820 min
You Keep Me SaneIntrovert or Extrovert? Why It Matters More Than You Think | Sanity CheckEpisode OverviewIn this Sanity Check, Aileen and Julie unpack what it really means to be an introvert or an extrovert—and why understanding the difference is essential for your mental health. It’s not about being shy or social—it’s about how you refill your tank. Whether you’ve been feeling flat, snappy, or overstimulated, this episode is a reminder to tune into what your nervous system actually needs.Key Discussion PointsThe myth that being outgoing = extrovertedWhy stimulation isn’t the same as nourishmentThe "low hum of depletion" a...2025-05-2208 min
You Keep Me SaneBetrayal Isn’t Always Loud — But It Always Hurts | YKMSEpisode Overview:Betrayal is one of those words that immediately stirs something in us. In this episode, Julie and Aileen unpack the many forms betrayal can take — not just romantic, but the kind that happens quietly in families, friendships, and formative moments. From overheard conversations to cruel friendship dynamics, they reflect on how early betrayals shaped their sense of self-worth and trust in others. They also respond to a heartfelt listener letter that touches on public ridicule from family — a pain that runs deep and lingers for years.This is a conversation for anyo...2025-05-2129 min
You Keep Me SaneBreaking Point: How Our Lowest Moments Spark the Biggest Change | SCEpisode OverviewIn this episode, Julie and Aileen reflect on those moments in life where everything feels like too much — when you're overwhelmed, disconnected, or just not yourself. Inspired by a Mel Robbins quote, they explore the idea that feeling lost is often the beginning of finding your way back — or forward — to a stronger, wiser version of yourself.Whether it’s the chaos of parenting, a life change, or the slow build-up of a thousand small stresses, this conversation is a reminder that these low points can be turning points — if we let them.2025-05-1509 min
You Keep Me SanePleasure vs Happiness: Why We’re Chasing the Wrong Thing | YKMSEpisode Overview:In this deeply honest conversation, Aileen and Julie explore a powerful realisation about the difference between pleasureand happiness. Triggered by a reel on dopamine vs serotonin, the chat unpacks how chasing short-term highs can leave us feeling emptier than ever—especially during perimenopause and other identity-shifting life stages. This episode offers a compassionate lens on our coping mechanisms and a gentle invitation to start seeking what actually sustains us.Key Discussion Points:▪️ Dopamine vs Serotonin — What they are, how they affect us, and why...2025-05-1428 min
You Keep Me SaneIs This Even a Holiday? Redefining the Term to Fit This Life Stage | Sanity CheckEpisode OverviewIn this short but honest Sanity Check, Aileen and Julie unpack what taking a holiday really means when you're juggling a business, parenting, and the relentless mental load of modern life. From Aileen’s seaside escape in Spain (featuring a surprise meerkat) to Julie’s chaotic family visit up north, both share how even time away doesn’t always mean switching off.They explore the guilt, the pressure, the impossibility of true rest—and why we need to redefine what a break looks like in this phase of life.K...2025-05-0911 min
You Keep Me SaneThe Silent Shift: Body, Identity, and Midlife | YKMSEpisode OverviewThis week, we’re diving deep into the menopausal middle—the physical, emotional, and psychological shift that happens during perimenopause. What started as a simple sanity check sparked a huge response from our listeners, so we’re going further.We’re talking about the silent confusion, the disorienting body changes, the grief, and the unexpected loss of identity that so many of us are experiencing—but rarely speaking about. From belly fat to brain fog, muscle loss to mood shifts, and even a re-evaluation of friendships, we share what’s helped us and why we need...2025-05-0732 min
You Keep Me SaneNo One Warned Us About This Phase: Perimenopause Meets Teenagers | Sanity CheckEpisode Overview:In this Sanity Check episode, Julie and Aileen dive into the hormonal chaos that hits when perimenopause and parenting teenagers collide. It's the messy middle no one warned us about—when your body feels like it’s breaking down just as your kids are ramping up. From brain fog to teen meltdowns, they share the raw, relatable truth about trying to hold it all together when everyone under the roof is riding a hormonal rollercoaster.🔑 Key Discussion Points:The double whammy of navigating perimenopause while raising hormonal teenagers.Feeling...2025-05-0111 min
You Keep Me SaneSelf-Compassion: The Grace We Struggle to Give Ourselves | YKMS Episode OverviewIn this episode of You Keep Me Sane, Aileen and Julie respond to a heartfelt listener letter asking a powerful question: Why is self-compassion so hard, even when we know it's important?They explore how deeply ingrained beliefs—from childhood conditioning to societal pressure—can make kindness toward ourselves feel indulgent or even weak. But what if self-compassion is actually the bravest, most radical thing we can offer ourselves?With honesty, vulnerability, and plenty of relatable moments, they break down the difference between self-compassion and self-indulgence, share personal stories of sp...2025-04-3021 min
You Keep Me SaneRedefining Productivity: What Counts as 'Enough' | Sanity CheckEpisode Overview:In this Sanity Check episode, we take a closer look at the push and pull between busyness and perceived laziness. Following the response to our episode on exhaustion as a status symbol, we explore the idea of productivity—how we define it, how we tie our worth to it, and how we can start shifting the way we measure a 'good day.'Key Discussion Points:The Productivity Trap: Why so many of us feel like we haven't done enough, even when we've checked everything off th...2025-04-2409 min
You Keep Me SaneSo Much Guilt! – Even When We Haven’t Done Anything Wrong | YKMSEpisode Overview:In this episode of You Keep Me Sane, Aileen and Julie dive deep into the weight of guilt—how we carry it, why we feel it, and whether it’s even the right word for what we’re experiencing. They explore how guilt is often misplaced, ingrained in us from childhood, and tied to expectations that may not even be ours. Is it actually guilt, or is it just sadness, regret, or feeling bad? And how do we begin to let it go?Key Discussion Points:🔹 The Diffe...2025-04-2327 min
You Keep Me SaneThe Menopausal Middle: Our Bodies Changed the Rules (and We Weren’t Ready) | Sanity CheckEpisode OverviewIn this episode of Sanity Check, Aileen and Julie dive into a frustrating yet deeply relatable topic—the stubborn menopausal middle. They share their personal experiences of how their bodies have completely changed the rules, making it harder than ever to maintain weight or fit into the clothes they’ve always worn. While they’ve done a lot of work on body image and self-worth, the disconnect between how they feel mentally and what’s happening physically is real. Together, they unpack the emotional, practical, and identity-based challenges that come with these changes—and explor...2025-04-1713 min
You Keep Me SaneThe Weight of Expectations: Breaking Free from What No Longer Serves You | YKMSEpisode Overview Have you ever felt like certain people expect more from you than they do from others? Maybe your family still sees you as the one who always shows up, or your friends assume you’ll always make the effort, even when life has changed. In this episode, we unpack the hidden weight of expectations—where they come from, how they get reinforced, and why it’s so difficult to shift them.We also explore how expectations play out in different areas of life—family, friendships, work, parenting—and why resetting them is so cruci...2025-04-1623 min
You Keep Me SaneFeeling a Lack of Joy? Let’s Talk About Anhedonia | Sanity CheckEpisode OverviewHave you ever felt like the things that used to bring you joy just… don’t anymore? Like you’re going through the motions, but the spark is gone? That’s anhedonia—the inability to feel pleasure from things that once made you happy. In this episode, we dive into what anhedonia really is, why it happens, and how to gently invite joy back into your life.We also discuss the work of Dr. Judith Joseph, a psychiatrist who has helped shed light on this experience. Her insights helped us recognize what we we...2025-04-1008 min
You Keep Me SaneWhen the Past Calls, Don’t Answer: Embracing Who You Are Now | YKMSEpisode OverviewEver feel like you become a past version of yourself around certain people or places? In this episode, we explore why we unconsciously shrink to fit old roles, especially with family or longtime friends. Inspired by a powerful listener letter, we talk about shifting identities, letting go of outdated labels, and the courage it takes to fully step into who you are now.Key Discussion PointsA listener’s story about reverting to their old self at homeWhy we fall back into habits around certain peopleThe discomfort of being se...2025-04-0936 min
You Keep Me SanePerimenopause: Just When We Thought We’d Heard It All! | Sanity CheckEpisode OverviewJust when you think you’ve heard it all, perimenopause throws in a few more surprises—rashes and breathlessness! In this Sanity Check, Aileen and Julie dive into these lesser-known symptoms, sharing their own experiences, frustrations, and what they’ve found helps (or doesn’t). If you’ve ever wondered why your skin suddenly erupts into chaos or why you’re out of breath just existing, you’re not alone!Key Discussion PointsAileen’s mysterious rash – An itchy, red, and inflamed reaction that appeared out of nowhere and ref...2025-04-0312 min
You Keep Me SaneHealth Anxiety & Mammograms: A Game-Changing Solution with Naomi Cosman | YKMSEpisode OverviewRoutine health checks can be a major source of anxiety, especially for women. Mammograms, pap smears, and other screenings come with emotional weight, discomfort, and sometimes even fear. In this episode, we dive into the reality of health anxiety and the barriers preventing many women from getting their regular breast exams.We’re joined by Naomi Cosman, Global Head of Marketing & Investor Relations at Koning Corporation, to discuss a groundbreaking new technology that’s changing the way women experience breast screening. Say goodbye to painful, outdated mammograms—this is the fu...2025-04-0238 min
You Keep Me SaneFrom Shutdown to Calm: Pulling Yourself Back from Anxiety | Sanity CheckEpisode OverviewIn this episode of Sanity Check, Julie opens up about her recent struggles with anxiety—how it’s been creeping back in despite years of managing it well. She and Aileen discuss the common triggers that can bring anxiety back, the signs to watch for, and practical steps to stop it from spiraling. They also share personal experiences, tools, and small but impactful strategies to calm the nervous system and regain balance.Key Discussion PointsHow anxiety can unexpectedly return even when you’ve learned to manage itRecognizing early...2025-03-2714 min
You Keep Me SaneRethinking Addiction: From Judgment to Understanding | YKMSEpisode OverviewIn this episode of You Keep Me Sane, Aileen and Julie take a deep dive into the concept of addiction—not just in the traditional sense of substance abuse but in the broader context of human behavior. Drawing inspiration from Gabor Maté’s work, they explore addiction as a response to pain rather than a failure of willpower. From sugar and shopping to busyness and technology, they examine the ways addiction manifests in everyday life and how it connects to unresolved trauma.Redefining Addiction: It’s more than just drugs or alco...2025-03-2629 min
You Keep Me SanePerimenopause & Hair Loss: A Conversation We Need to Have | Sanity CheckEpisode OverviewHair loss is often seen as a men’s issue, but for many women, it’s a deeply emotional experience tied to identity, confidence, and self-worth. In this short but important Sanity Check, Aileen opens up about her personal experience with hair loss, the impact it had on her self-image, and the surprising encounter that gave her hope. Julie and Aileen discuss why hair loss isn't just about vanity, the role of perimenopause and hormones, and practical steps to support hair health.Key Discussion PointsAileen’s personal journe...2025-03-2011 min
You Keep Me SaneAuthenticity vs. Approval: The Tug of War We All Face | YKMSEpisode OverviewIn this episode, we explore the journey back to authenticity—why we lose it, how we reclaim it, and what it costs us when we don’t. From childhood conditioning to the pressure to fit in, we unpack how the need for approval can disconnect us from who we really are. With insights from Gabor Maté and our own stories, we reflect on what it means to show up as your true self.Key Discussion PointsLosing Ourselves: How early conditioning shapes our identity.Authenticity vs. Attac...2025-03-1929 min
You Keep Me SaneYou're Not Fun Anymore: How Motherhood, Mental Load, and Perimenopause Shift Everything | Sanity CheckEpisode Overview:In this Sanity Check, Aileen and Julie dive into a topic that hits hard: the feeling of having lost the fun, playful side of yourself. Whether it comes from a partner, a friend, or even your own kids, hearing "you're not fun anymore" can sting deeply. They discuss personal experiences, the emotional toll of mental load, and how societal expectations often strip women—especially mothers—of their spontaneity and joy. This candid conversation explores why this happens and how we can reclaim our sense of fun.Key Discussion Points:Th...2025-03-1310 min
You Keep Me SaneThe Comparison Trap: Why We Feel It & How to Break Free | YKMSEpisode OverviewComparison can sneak in through social media, friendships, or everyday moments—leaving us feeling like we’re not enough. In this episode, we explore the roots of comparison and jealousy, how they impact self-worth, and what we can do to shift our mindset. Through personal stories and practical tools, we look at how to move from comparison to connection.Key Discussion PointsComparison vs. Jealousy: What’s the difference and why it matters.Our Stories: Moments where we’ve felt “less than.”The Social Media Effect...2025-03-1233 min
You Keep Me SaneThe Power Shift: How Women’s Wealth Transforms the World | Sanity CheckEpisode OverviewThis week’s Sanity Check lands on International Women’s Day, and we’re diving into a conversation that doesn’t get nearly enough attention—the immense power of women in the economy. Despite the progress we’ve made, studies show it will take until 2158 to achieve full gender parity. That’s five generations away. Simply put, change isn’t happening fast enough.In this episode, we explore the real impact of women’s financial power, the barriers that still hold women back, and what the world might look like if our economic syste...2025-03-0610 min
You Keep Me SaneMoney Without Guilt: Why Earning, Saving & Investing Matters | YKMSEpisode OverviewMost of us left school knowing algebra—not how to budget, manage debt, or invest. In this episode, we unpack the money lessons we wish we’d learned, how to shift our mindset around finances, and why it’s never too late to take control. Let’s break the silence around money and start making it work for us.Key Discussion PointsFinancial Gaps in School: Why we weren’t taught basic money skills.Money Mindset: How guilt, shame, and old beliefs hold us back.Lessons...2025-03-0531 min
You Keep Me SaneOverdeveloped Sense of Duty: When Helping Becomes a Habit |Sanity CheckEpisode OverviewIn this Sanity Check episode, we explore a term that resonates deeply with many women: an overdeveloped sense of duty. Julie shares how she first heard this phrase in her early twenties, and it stuck with her. Over the years, she began to recognise how it played out in her life—compulsively taking on responsibility, stepping in to fix things, and helping others without question. Aileen and Julie discuss where this drive comes from, how it plays out in their own lives, and the emotional toll it can take....2025-02-2712 min
You Keep Me SaneHappiness: Why Does It Feel So Elusive? | YKMSEpisode OverviewWhy does happiness feel like something we’re always chasing but never quite reaching? In this episode, we dive into why happiness feels so elusive and how we can redefine it in a way that feels more fulfilling. Drawing from personal experiences, Russ Harris’ The Happiness Trap, and Dr. Judith Joseph’s 5 Vs for mental health, we explore how meaning, connection, and small sparks of joy can reshape the way we think about happiness.Key Discussion PointsThe Happiness Trap – Russ Harris' concept of why chasing happiness makes it harder t...2025-02-2625 min
You Keep Me SaneExhaustion Isn’t a Status Symbol: Embracing Rest and Play | Sanity CheckEpisode OverviewIn this week's Sanity Check, Aileen and Julie dive into one of Brené Brown’s transformative quotes:“It takes courage to rest and play in a culture where exhaustion is seen as a status symbol.”They explore how society glorifies busyness and how deeply ingrained patterns of justifying our time can impact our well-being. Reflecting on their personal journeys, they discuss shifting from a mindset of relentless productivity to embracing rest, play, and meaningful living.Key Discussion PointsThe Cultural Glorification of Exha...2025-02-2014 min
You Keep Me SaneBody Image and Self-Worth: Rewriting the Narrative | YKMSEpisode Overview:In this deeply personal episode of You Keep Me Sane, Aileen and Julie dive into the complex topic of body image, exploring why size and shape continue to hold such power over our self-worth. They share candid stories from their own lives, reflecting on the lasting impact of societal expectations, family influences, and personal experiences with food, body shame, and self-acceptance. This heartfelt conversation also delves into how they’re working to foster healthier body narratives for their daughters, challenging the cultural norms that have shaped generations.Key Discussion Points:...2025-02-1932 min
You Keep Me SaneFrom Cats to Dogs: The Unexpected Benefits of Having Pets | Sanity CheckEpisode Overview: In this short Sanity Check, Aileen and Julie explore the unexpected joy and comfort pets bring to our lives. From the unconditional love of dogs and cats to the calming presence of a turtle, they dive into how pets enrich their families and create lasting memories. They share personal stories about their own pets and reflect on the valuable lessons they’ve learned, such as responsibility, empathy, and mindfulness. Whether you’re a seasoned pet owner or contemplating getting a furry friend, this episode will remind you of the immense joy and emotional suppo...2025-02-1315 min
You Keep Me SaneThe Unlived Life: Are We Burdening Our Kids with Our Past? | YKMSEpisode OverviewIn this episode, we explore a thought-provoking quote by Carl Jung: "The greatest burden a child must bear is the unlived life of its parents." We unpack what this means, how our unresolved struggles or unmet dreams can impact our children, and how we can foster self-awareness to break the cycle.Aileen and Julie reflect on their own experiences—how their upbringings shaped them and how they strive to parent differently. They discuss the importance of emotional intelligence, self-reflection, and ensuring that children are free to...2025-02-1227 min
You Keep Me SaneBreaking the Cycle: Why Women Should Lift Each Other Up, Not Tear Each Other Down | Sanity CheckEpisode Overview:In this episode of Sanity Check, Aileen and Julie dive into a topic that resonates deeply with many women: how we can sometimes be our own worst critics, and how we must work towards lifting each other up rather than tearing each other down. They explore how societal pressures, insecurities, and unhealed wounds can fuel negative behaviour between women, and why it's crucial to change the narrative towards mutual support and empowerment.Key Discussion Points:Aileen and Julie reflect on a recent conversation about...2025-02-0613 min
You Keep Me SaneOne Set of Hands, Countless Responsibilities: The Single Parent’s Journey | YKMSEpisode Overview:In this deeply personal episode, Aileen opens up about her experiences as a single parent, raising her daughter Amelia for over a decade. She shares both the rewarding and the challenging aspects of single motherhood, offering insight into the emotional, physical, and financial burdens that often go unseen. Julie and Aileen also discuss how building a supportive community, embracing vulnerability, and seeking help from friends can make all the difference.Key Discussion PointsThe Mental Load: Aileen opens up about the constant decision-making strain of solo...2025-02-0529 min
You Keep Me SaneA Break from Booze: Why We’re Doing it And Why It’s Tough | Sanity CheckEpisode OverviewIn this episode of Sanity Check, Aileen and Julie reflect on their decision to take a break from alcohol. Sharing their personal experiences and challenges, they explore how alcohol affects them differently now, especially in the context of perimenopause. They discuss the cultural pressures around drinking, how alcohol impacts their energy, sleep, and mental health, and how stepping back has led them to rediscover a more mindful and present version of themselves.Key Discussion PointsThe impact of perimenopause on alcohol tolerance, including changes...2025-01-3013 min
You Keep Me SaneBoundaries: How Saying No Can Be the Ultimate Act of Self-Respect | YKMSEpisode OverviewIn this episode of You Keep Me Sane, Aileen and Julie dive into the sometimes tricky but essential topic of boundaries. Prompted by a listener email reflecting on struggles with self-worth and boundary-setting, they explore why boundaries are so important for protecting your energy, maintaining healthy relationships, and fostering self-respect.Both Aileen and Julie share personal stories of learning to say no, recognising resentment as a red flag, and overcoming the guilt that often comes with prioritising their own needs. They also discuss the powerful connection between boundaries and self-worth and why...2025-01-2919 min
You Keep Me SaneDemi Moore's Speech: Put Down the Measuring Stick and Be Enough | Sanity CheckEpisode Overview: In this short Sanity Check, Aileen and Julie dive into the powerful message of self-worth delivered by Demi Moore in her acceptance speech for her first acting award at the age of 62. Inspired by Moore's journey of resilience and self-belief, they explore the concept of being enough just as we are, and how we often get caught up in unrealistic standards and comparisons. Together, they discuss how we can let go of the measuring stick and embrace our inherent worth.Key Discussion Points:2025-01-2310 min
You Keep Me SaneAgeing is Not a Flaw: Stop Apologising and Start Celebrating the Value of Ageing | YKMSEpisode OverviewIn this episode, Aileen and Julie discuss why women often feel the need to apologise for ageing, unpacking societal pressures and how our self-worth is tied to our appearance. They explore how to shift the narrative around ageing, embracing the wisdom and experience that come with it.Key Discussion PointsThe Ageing Double Standard: Why society praises ageing men but sidelines ageing women.Beauty, Patriarchy & Capitalism: How women’s value has been linked to youth and appearance.Media Representation: The lack of older wo...2025-01-2230 min
You Keep Me SaneProcrastination Unpacked: Why We Avoid and How to Start | Sanity CheckEpisode OverviewIn this quick Sanity Check, Aileen and Julie delve into one of the most relatable struggles we all face: procrastination. From the fear of failure to the pull of perfectionism, they discuss the many reasons we avoid tasks and share practical tips on how to break free from the cycle of procrastination.Key Discussion PointsWhy Procrastination Happens:Fear of failure, fear of success, perfectionism, lack of interest, and overwhelm are just some of the reasons why we procrastinate....2025-01-1611 min
You Keep Me SaneAnxiety: Our Stories, Struggles, and Ways to Cope | YKMSEpisode OverviewIn this episode of You Keep Me Sane, Aileen and Julie share an honest, relatable conversation about anxiety—how it manifests, how it affects their lives, and the tools they’ve found to navigate through it. From childhood experiences and lifelong struggles to the surprising onset of anxiety in peri-menopause, they open up about their personal journeys and offer practical strategies for managing anxiety. This episode is a reminder that you’re not alone and that there are ways to find calm, even in the chaos.Key Discussion PointsW...2025-01-1536 min
You Keep Me SaneGrowth Through Adversity: How Challenges Shape Who We Become | Sanity CheckEpisode SummaryIn this episode, Aileen and Julie explore the powerful, often difficult process of growth through adversity. Reflecting on their own life experiences—from heartbreak to major transitions—they discuss how challenging moments have fundamentally shaped who they are. Together, they ask whether personal growth always requires hardship and consider ways we can foster self-development even in calmer times. For anyone navigating a tough period or looking to cultivate growth without drama, this episode offers gentle encouragement and thoughtful perspectives.Key Takeaways:Growth Through Adversity: Aileen and...2025-01-0914 min
You Keep Me SanePurpose Reimagined: Discovering Your Spark in Everyday Moments | YKMSEpisode OverviewIn this episode of You Keep Me Sane, Aileen and Julie explore the idea of purpose—not as a grand, singular mission, but as discovering your “spark.” They share personal stories and practical insights to help you identify the small, meaningful moments that bring joy and fulfilment, encouraging a more present and intentional approach to life.Key Discussion PointsChallenging Traditional Views of Purpose: Why tying purpose to external achievements often leaves us unfulfilled.Discovering Your Spark: What sparks are, how th...2025-01-0828 min
You Keep Me SaneA New Year’s Intention: Breaking the Addiction to Not Being Okay | Sanity CheckEpisode OverviewHappy New Year! In this special episode, Aileen and Julie introduce Sanity Check, a short weekly segment offering quick insights alongside their regular episodes. They explore the idea of being addicted to not feeling okay—a mindset where struggle and chaos feel normal—and share how they plan to break free from this cycle in 2025.Key Discussion PointsReframing Resolutions: Shift from pressure-filled resolutions to positive intentions like “I will drink more water” instead of “I won’t drink alcohol.”Addicted to No...2025-01-0217 min
You Keep Me SaneHolding Patterns: What's Keeping You Stuck? | YKMSEpisode OverviewIn this episode of You Keep Me Sane, Aileen and Julie delve into holding patterns—the habits or beliefs that keep us stuck in life. These cycles, often rooted in fear or indecision, can prevent growth and change. Inspired by a heartfelt letter from a listener, Sue, they reflect on personal experiences and offer insights on recognising and breaking free from these patterns.Through honest conversations, Aileen and Julie highlight the importance of self-awareness, small intentional steps, and trusted relationships in moving forward.Key Discussion PointsUnderstanding Holding Pa...2025-01-0121 min
You Keep Me SaneMerry Christmas! Whatever That Looks Like For You | YKMSEpisode OverviewIn this Christmas Day episode, Julie and Aileen hold space for every kind of Christmas—joyful, bittersweet, or quiet. They reflect on family traditions, the challenges the holiday can bring, and the importance of creating moments of connection and meaning, however the day unfolds.Key Discussion PointsThe Complexity of ChristmasThe holiday can bring joy but also amplify feelings of loneliness, grief, or overwhelm.Acknowledging that it’s okay to feel however you feel today.Creating Conn...2024-12-2515 min
You Keep Me SanePre-Christmas Chaos – Embracing "Good Enough" | YKMSEpisode OverviewIn this festive sanity check, Aileen and Julie reflect on the chaos of the pre-Christmas period. From endless to-do lists and the pressure to create the "perfect" holiday, they share their personal experiences and remind us that good enough truly is good enough.Key Discussion PointsThe Holiday Juggle: Why the week before Christmas feels overwhelming and how 80% of people feel stressed by preparations.Perfection Pressure: The emotional load of striving for a picture-perfect holiday often leaves us overwhelmed. Studies show that 42% of people feel pressured...2024-12-1814 min
You Keep Me SaneSelf-Worth in Kids: Why It Matters and What the Journey Looks Like | YKMSEpisode OverviewIn this heartfelt episode, Aileen and Julie delve into the challenging but vital topic of self-worth in children. How do we help our kids feel worthy and enough when many of us struggle with self-worth ourselves? Inspired by a listener's letter, they explore what self-worth truly is, why it’s essential for kids, and how we can teach it while still learning it ourselves.Key Discussion PointsWhat Is Self-Worth? Understanding it as an inner belief in your value—different from self-esteem.The Cost of Low Self...2024-12-1139 min
You Keep Me SaneAlways On: The Weight And Chaos of the Mental Load | YKMSEpisode OverviewIn this episode of You Keep Me Sane, Aileen and Julie delve into the exhausting and often invisible reality of this life stage, the mental load and the chaos it can create in our lives. With the added pressures of the holiday season, they share honest reflections on the relentless demands of caregiving, managing households, and balancing work, all while navigating emotional and mental well-being. They also explore practical strategies for managing the overwhelm and embracing imperfection during life’s busiest stages.Key Discussion PointsWhat Is Mental Lo...2024-12-0440 min
You Keep Me SaneMenopause: The Elephant In The Room | YKMSEpisode OverviewIn this episode, we dive into peri-menopause—something so many of us face, yet rarely talk about.Aileen and Julie share their personal experiences with everything from brain fog and sleepless nights to unexpected symptoms like anxiety and allergies, offering honesty, insight, and a reminder that you’re not alone.Key Discussion PointsAcknowledging the Elephant in the Room - How menopause often feels sidelined, despite being a significant life transition.The Symptom Minefield - Exploring 48 recognised symptoms of menopauseNavigating Treatments and...2024-11-2739 min
You Keep Me SaneThe Art of Listening - How Being Heard is Vital to Growth, Health and Connection | YKMSEpisode OverviewIn this episode of You Keep Me Sane, we explore the art of listening and its impact on connection, growth, and health. Inspired by listener feedback, we discuss what it takes to be a good listener and how real listening strengthens relationships, helps us feel understood, and supports mental and physical well-being.Key Discussion PointsWhy Listening Matters: How truly listening (without interrupting or fixing) deepens connection.Traits of a Good Listener:→ Creates a safe, judgment-free space→ Is fully present—even in voice...2024-11-2028 min
You Keep Me SaneJudgement - It’s Impact On Who We Are | YKMSEpisode Overview:In this episode of You Keep Me Sane, Aileen and Julie unpack the impact of judgement—how it shapes our choices, fuels fear, and feeds the inner critic. Through personal stories and honest reflection, they explore how to move beyond judgement and into self-acceptance.Key Discussion Points:The Power of Judgement: How it influences self-worth and holds us back.Fear of Being Judged: Childhood roots, societal pressures, and how it shows up today.Self-Judgement: Why our inner critic often hits harder than others’ opin...2024-11-1325 min
You Keep Me SaneFear: How it Shows Up In Our Lives and How to Break Free | YKMSEpisode Summary:In this episode, Aileen and Julie dive into the all-too-familiar experience of fear, exploring a quote that struck a chord:“All you have to do is show up. Be late. Be scared. Be confused. Just be there. You'll figure out the rest as you go.”They open up about how fear has shaped their journey—from launching the podcast to navigating personal and professional challenges. Whether it’s the fear of being seen, judged, failing, or not being ‘enough,’ they share honest reflections on what it takes to show up a...2024-11-0535 min
You Keep Me SaneIntro - How We Met and Why We Started the Podcast! | YKMSEpisode Summary: In this special introductory episode, Aileen and Julie share the story behind their chance meeting, the evolution of their friendship, and the inspiration behind You Keep Me Sane. From a serendipitous encounter in Greenwich Park to years of daily WhatsApp messages that became an anchor for both of them, they reflect on the challenges they’ve faced, the support they’ve shared, and their decision to bring these honest conversations to others. This episode provides insight into the friendship that forms the heart of You Keep Me Sane, a sp...2024-11-0513 min
You Keep Me SaneSelf Worth: Making The Shift From External Approval To Inner Strength | YKMSEpisode Overview In this episode of You Keep Me Sane, Julie and Aileen dive into the topic of self-worth, exploring what it means, how we lose touch with it, and how to rebuild it from within. They share personal stories and insights into why self-worth is crucial for living authentically and setting healthy standards for oneself.Key Discussion PointsWhat is Self-Worth? Understanding self-worth as an intrinsic sense of value, independent of achievements or external validation.Losing Touch with Self-Worth: How societal conditioning and early...2024-11-0532 min
You Keep Me SaneRedefining Success: Finding Your Own Path | YKMSEpisode Overview:In this heartfelt episode of You Keep Me Sane, Aileen and Julie explore the often elusive concept of success. They delve into how societal definitions can overshadow personal aspirations and how we can redefine success on our own terms.Key Discussion Points:What Success Means to Us: Aileen and Julie share their personal journey with the definitions of success, highlighting how these have evolved over the years.The Weight of Societal Expectations: A discussion on how societal norms can...2024-10-3131 min