Shows
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.100 - How to stop diminishing your achievements (and start celebrating them!)When it comes to our achievements, a lot of us will rush straight past them, diminish them, or deny that they happened.
Maybe it’s from growing up in a schooling system focused on achievement rather than education.
Maybe it’s down to working in jobs that constantly ask “what could you do better next time?”
Whatever the reason, diminishing our achievements is a bad habit that I reckon a lot of us would be better without.
In today’s episode, I’ll talk about:
How diminishing your achievements could be affecting your wellbeing
Why you should start celebrating your achievements (and h...2023-04-0447 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.99 - How to prevent burnout at work, ft. Leah Steele“I’m really up against it this month, but I’m not burnt out.” So say the 77% of us who are, in fact, burnt out. We just don’t realise it.
Today I'm speaking with career sustainability expert Leah Steele, who has been working around burnout prevention for the past 6.5 years, having hit the wall herself as a high-performing lawyer.
And what did she do after hitting that wall?
The same thing most of us will do in burnout - she kept going.
Leah is about to blow the definition of burnout wide open to help you understand more about it, how it can...2023-02-011h 13
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.98 - How to create content for your business (without going mad)One of the best ways to grow your business and reputation is to create high-quality, consistent content... but it's so goddamn difficult!
Don't worry - you're not the only person struggling with this, and there are things you can do to become a better and more confident content creator.
Today I share the four main things to focus on to help you get visible and noisy online - whilst maintaining your sanity.
I'll discuss:
-- the four key areas to focus on to improve your content
-- how to become more consistent in your posting
-- why it's helpful to start w...2022-12-3046 min
Solving Suicide9. Lessons about suicide in 'It's a Wonderful Life'‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ is a classic Christmas film, with some surprisingly progressive insights around suicide!
It’s not without it’s flaws, but through analysing the depiction of the protagonist’s suicide attempt, we can learn a few lessons about suicide.
It can also up an extended conversation about suicide representation in popular culture.
Time for me to dust off the ol’ media studies degree!
Today, I’ll discuss:
-- the lessons we can learn about suicide from ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’
2022-12-2137 min
Solving Suicide8. Quick Fix #3 - Avoiding 'black and white' thinkingBlack and white thinking can trick us into believing we only have a limited amount of options to solve our problems… which can be particularly harmful if one of those options is suicide.
This binary 'black and white' thinking pattern is completely normal – it happens – but there are things we can do to notice and navigate through it, to take our brains in another, more helpful direction!
Even better, we can support other people when they're stuck in this mindset.
Today, I’ll discuss:
-- what bla...2022-12-0723 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.97 - How to support the rock of the family ft. Dr Sarah Goulding“You are not on call for humanity.” An important reminder that all caregivers need to hear from time to time.
Supporting other people will come naturally for some of us – whether we have positions of responsibility at work, or have caregiving roles in our personal lives.
But one trap supporters can too often fall into is supporting other people more than ourselves, which can lead to burnout, low energy, and poor mental health.
Today I’m sitting down with Dr Sarah Goulding – an NHS doctor turned coach for medics, who is passionate about helping medical professionals to look after themselves so they are i...2022-11-2448 min
Solving Suicide7. Speaking publicly about suicide - ft. Chris O'ConnellWhat’s the best way to challenge the stigma associated with suicidality? Perhaps it’s through more of us sharing our stories.
Today’s guest, Chris O’Connell, has been very vocal on LinkedIn about his experiences - including multiple suicide attempts – to help spread awareness to his network of 70k connections.
In this candid conversation, Chris shares the thoughts and contributing factors leading to one of his attempts, his insights into how we can build stronger mental health, and practical advice about how leaders can support the mental health of their people.
2022-11-2349 min
Solving Suicide6. Quick Fix #2 - Why suicidal thoughts are not your faultThere’s a damaging idea shouted loudly by the self-help community which can be massively detrimental to our mental health if we take it on board; the idea that EVERYTHING is your fault.
Don’t get me wrong – I’m a fan of personal responsibility. In fact, the ability to choose your own adventure and put actions into place forms a large part of the work I do with coaching clients.
But some gurus will have you believe that you are responsible, not just for how you react to the thin...2022-11-0925 min
Solving Suicide5. Suicidality and testosterone deficiency ft. Sam CookWhat if suicidal thoughts are rooted in biology? What if, in effect, it’s not the person’s fault but a result of a hormone deficit? Today’s conversation around testosterone deficiency with Sam Cook blew my mind and I think it’s going to do the same for you.
Sam Cook has worked in men’s health for over a decade and is the founder of Mojo Clinic in the UK; a service that specialises in testosterone deficiency and Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT.)
He has experienced suicidal thoughts throughout his early 20’s and has worked with...2022-10-2655 min
Solving Suicide4. Quick Fix #1: 'It only takes one'“In your podcast, could you cover… what to do when you’ve tried everything to improve your life and none of it has worked and you so you just want to stick your head in the oven? Asking for a friend.”
So read a dm I received from a listener a couple of weeks ago… and this podcast is the first part of my answer to them.
‘Quick Fix’ is a new mini-series, and it’s here to deliver short, succinct insights that could help you or someone you know who is navi...2022-10-1225 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.96 - My experiences with suicidalityI'm one of the one in five adults in the UK who has experienced thoughts of suicide. But if so many of us are affected by suicide, why aren't we talking about it more?
This idea was the initial spark that started Dark Coffee, and has recently inspired me to start my second podcast; Solving Suicide, where I'll be sharing insights, expertise and hot takes around suicidality to help zero the death rate.
I experienced chronic suicidal ideation (recurring suicidal thoughts and feelings) from the age of 19, which affected me massively throughout my twenties. So today, I wanted to discuss th...2022-09-2940 min
Solving Suicide3. My experiences with suicidalityBefore we can work towards finding solutions to suicide, it’s important to gain a deeper understanding of it. And one of the best ways we can do this is by sharing our stories and experiences with it.
For me, I experienced chronic suicidal ideation (recurring suicidal thoughts and feelings) from the age of 19, which affected me massively throughout my twenties.
So today, I wanted to discuss these experiences in a good amount of detail to give an inside view of what suicidality can feel like.
...2022-09-2839 min
Solving Suicide1. Introducing Solving SuicideSuicide is something that will probably affect us all. So, why aren’t more of us talking about it?
Solving Suicide aims to blow the conversation wide open by bringing together the great at the good in suicide prevention. Our aim is to hold powerful conversations that will help deepen understanding, share solutions and zero the death rate.
Episode 1 is an orientation to tell you:
what the podcast is about
who the heck your host is
who we think you are (and why you might en...2022-09-1021 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.95 - Perimenopause at work - and why it matters - ft. Michelle HarradencePerimenopause: we need to talk about it. Especially at work.
Because whether we like it or not, perimenopause will affect everyone at some stage in our lives either directly or indirectly.
Unfortunately, it’s not an opt-out kinda situation. (I know, bummer). There isn’t a workplace off button for hot flushes, brain fog or any other perimenopause symptoms.
Yet conversations around perimenopause - or indeed the other ‘pauses’ menopause and post-menopause - are seemingly off-limits at work.
Which leaves us with two burning questions:
Why is this the case?
What can we do about it?
Cue our latest podcast guest, Mi...2022-07-101h 03
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.94 - Ten hacks for team wellbeingWhen it comes to team wellbeing, a discounted gym membership or ‘open-door policy’ from management isn’t going to cut it.
We need – scratch that - we deserve more from our employers. Because we all have a fundamental right to be supported emotionally, developmentally, and financially in our place of work.
In simple terms, we all want to go to work and feel good about it.
But here’s the head-scratcher: what does workplace wellbeing actually look like?
How can we put together an actionable wellbeing policy; one that helps us to build a happier, fulfilled community at work?
Glad you asked!
To...2022-06-0842 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.93 - How to create an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive - ft. Rachael MoleWe all love the idea of creating better workplaces… but are we really taking everybody’s needs into account in order to build them?
Today, I’m joined by accessibility and inclusive work culture expert Rachael Mole to discuss how exploring the adjustments and improvements we can make for one person means everyone can benefit - from our team members to our clients and broader communities.
Rachael Mole is a disabled founder, and entrepreneur, shaking up what it means to have an inclusive workplace. Disabled since 12 years old, she faced barriers to education and the workforce. After a successful career building...2022-05-2551 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.92 - How to stay sane on social media - for business owners - ft. Lewis KempAs business owners, we all know we should be promoting ourselves on social media. But how can we cope with the noise, stress, time commitment and aggravation that comes along with these demonic platforms?
Fortunately, I know the guy to ask!
Lewis Kemp is CEO of bullshit-free creative agency Lightbulb Media based here in Manchester. If you recognise the name, you’ll either know him from his previous appearances on the podcast, or the general ruckus he causes over on LinkedIn.
Today, he’s here to help you figure out how to grow your business online, without losing your sanity along t...2022-04-261h 01
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.91 - How to cope with the cost-of-living crisis - advice from a therapist - ft. Helen CarouzosThe cost-of-living crisis has caused nothing short of a total bloody shitshow at our petrol pumps and supermarkets, and things are only set to get worse.
So, how the hell are any of us supposed to cope?
That’s what I asked my friend (and therapist) Helen Carouzos when we sat down last week.
In one short hour, Helen took me from being completely overwhelmed by the scale of the problem to feeling hopeful, optimistic, and starting a revolution (I kid you not…)
Prepare...2022-04-111h 09
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.90 - 5 skills to cultivate to make 2022 your best year in businessNot every business success is down to the bricks-and-mortar decisions – sometimes it’s about the skills that you bring to the table.
In today’s episode, I’ll be talking through 5 skills that have made a HUGE difference to the level of success and enjoyment I’ve been able to find in my business, and they also help my 1:1 coaching clients achieve the same.
These skills can help with everything from decision-making to leading your team. They can help ground you, guide you and give clarity and direction. There really is no end to the benefits they can provide!
I’ll discuss:
T...2022-01-3144 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.89 - How to stop being a dick to yourselfNo messing about today – I’m going to teach you the fine and noble art of how to stop being a dick to yourself. We have learnt over time how to put ourselves down and give ourselves a hard time… so it’s about time that we unlearn these bad habits.
Slight disclaimer: if you have suffered deep or complex trauma, you might find that today’s approaches won’t touch the sides. However, they may take the edge off and give you enough relief so that you start that process of being kinder to yourself, which can be a great startin...2022-01-0545 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.88 - 12 questions to ask to review your yearCongratulations – you’ve reached the end of another year! No mean feat in weird times like these.
But before we rush headfirst into goal setting and thinking about the year ahead, let’s take a minute to pause so we can reflect on wtf just happened.
Grab a brew, cuddle up and let’s debrief.
(Note: these prompts can be used to do a quarterly or monthly review, so keep it bookmarked somewhere handy to come back to later! They also make great conversation starters at parties…)
I’ll discuss:
reasons for reviewing your year – the perks and benefits of a reflective practi...2021-12-2943 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.87 - What to do when work sucksOver the last several years working with hundreds of business owners and millennial professionals, I’ve come to the stunning realisation that work SUCKS.
It’s a constant source of anguish and anxiety for the majority of us – even if you love what you do!
Not all the time (hopefully) but thanks to Capitalism, the need for work is high and the willingness to work is low. So how can we meet in the middle and make work more tolerable all around?
I’ll explore:
why accepting that work sucks can ironically lead to greater job satisfaction
how business owners feel guilty...2021-12-1031 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.86 - Falling out of love with your business (and how to fall back into it!)Running a business isn’t all four-hour workweeks and working from the beach. But the entrepreneur gurus won’t tell you that bit.
'Startup Fatigue' (or 'Founder Fatigue') is a term that was coined with Eddie Whittingham when I was a guest on his Business NoBS Podcast [linked here.]
During that conversation, I realised I’m in an ‘icky’ phase of my business where I feel like I’ve fallen out of love with it.
So, I wanted to do a deeper dive into this situation to help you if you ever hit this delightful wall! Because it’s a topic that can som...2021-10-1529 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.85 - Sleep hacks to supercharge your productivityWe all know the feeling of desperately needing sleep but not being able to switch our noisy brains off. Other times, we’ll get an inordinate amount of sleep but still wake up feeling groggy – which is a killer ahead of a busy workday!
So, how can we improve the quality of our sleep to give us the best head start and wake up feeling ready to tackle the to-do list?
Today, I’m bringing you some tried-and-tested methods that have worked for myself and my clients, as approved by science! (Don’t worry – I’m keeping the neuroscience basic so we can focu...2021-09-3033 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.84 - How to clear out a cluttered mindMarie Kondo, I am not. But I know a thing or two about tidying your head space to help your work and wellbeing – and it can come from a couple of unexpected places.
Today I’ll be discussing how clearing out physical spaces and auditing your tech can be the answer to getting more of your precious brain power back. A must for any business owner, or those of us struggling to juggle 100 things at once.
I’ll discuss:
How regaining mental clarity doesn’t have to mean focusing on our inner world – we can start by looking at the things around...2021-09-1625 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.83 - How to keep working when you feel like you‘re wading through treacleBeing in business can suck some weeks. There is too much to do, not enough time to do it, and you’re exhausted from the constant trudge of it all.
If this sounds like you, you’re going to love this episode.
It’s full to the brim with practical tips for working through your never-ending to-do list, even if you’re smack bang in the middle of an energy slump. And no, it doesn’t involve having a holiday and coming back to it all later. Sometimes, we need to push through.
By the end of this episode, you’ll have an acti...2021-09-0135 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.82 - How to get out of your social media posting slumpIf you use social media to promote your business, you probably have a love-hate relationship with it. You feel the NEED to post to find new audiences, raise brand awareness and answer customer inquiries… but there's resistance there!
Today, I want to break down these barriers getting between you and posting on social media and give you some reframes and practical ideas for getting over the posting hump.
This is a great episode if you’re stuck in a rut with your social media and need a short sharp shake to get you back on it.
I’ll discuss:
how FEAR can s...2021-08-2534 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.81 - The MOST important part of leadershipA lot of us fundamentally misunderstand what leadership is. That’s to be expected when very few of us receive any training! So, what does it mean to be a leader, and how do we do it well?
In this episode, Alice will share her take on the most important part of leadership that – once learnt – will help you delegate, lead confidently, empower your team members and feel like a badass.
**TRIGGER WARNING – super brief mention of low mental health including suicidality – skip forward 30 seconds at the 15-minute mark.
She’ll discuss:
the ONE THING that can define your success as a leader
the...2021-08-1925 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.80 - A hack to help you ask for help.Fact: A lot of us suck when it comes to asking for help. Particularly if we’re normally the one supporting everyone else, or if we think that we should have all the answers ourselves.
In this episode, Alice will reframe the concept of asking for help and give you a hack that will let it become easier in the future.
She’ll discuss
some of the practical and emotional barriers that prevent us from asking for help
Alice’s biggest barrier in asking for help
why asking for help is so important and can benefit your life, relationships and business...2021-08-1222 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.79 - 4 reasons NOT to get a coachA coach telling you NOT to get coaching?! We know, it’s weird. But coaching genuinely isn’t for everyone.
Join Alice to find out why coaching might not be right for you right now, and what other support might be better suited.
She’ll discuss:
how to identify whether 1:1 coaching is right for you right now
why it’s important to do research around coaching before investing
when to get coaching and when another form of support might be best
some of the main features of coaching, such as challenging questions
the dedication and energy levels required to succeed in 1:1 coac...2021-07-2719 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.78 - Comparisonitis and how to deal with itWhy can’t I be more like you?!
Comparisonitis. What is it, why does it happen, and why could it actually be a good thing for us?
In this episode Alice takes us through the shitty ways comparing ourselves to others can manifest, and what we can do about it. As always she gives us some tips and tricks to overcome the feelings of vulnerability and self-loathing; most importantly, she gives us steps towards growth and self-acceptance.
Also discussed:
Social media - what to do when you want to block that self-important bitch
How to identify what those jealous feelings migh...2021-07-0125 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee77. Advice from a recovering perfectionistWork smarter, not harder!
We’ve all heard that phrase and had it drummed into us. But what does it actually mean?
In this episode, Alice explores perfectionism and cutting through the feelings surrounding it. Why do we always strive for perfection, and is it actually benefiting us and our mental health? Alice gives out some handy advice and shares her personal experiences with perfectionism.
Also discussed:
Separating our performance from our feelings of how it might reflect our character
Finding connections in our industry and sharing the fuck ups along the way
Exploring where the feelings might have originated from
...2021-06-2321 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee76. How to handle difficult times when you feel powerlessIt would be an understatement to say that we've all struggled over the past year. But how can we keep pushing through difficult times when we're already feeling tired, overwhelmed or fed up?
Today, Alice (briefly) explains the science behind our survival instinct, why we should make friends with it, but also why we shouldn't let it sit in the drivers' seat for too long.
Also discussed:
how keeping focused on small changes can help steady us in changeable times
how our success and wellbeing lies in our everyday habits
how to activate our calming nervous system to help us rel...2021-02-0430 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee75. A Christmas Pep-TalkIn this week’s festive episode, host Alice Lyons aims to give a pep-talk ahead of Christmas, discussing how the year has been and how we should all be congratulated on it!
(Grace would like to clarify she did not request a Christmas episode be pre-recorded in November, she requested it be recorded in real time – a classic example of miscommunication and very representative of the year that is 2020!)
Also discussed:
(1:09) Intro
(2:00) A big well done on this year, the ways people have changed and moved around this year in terms of priorities and relationships
(04:59) What we need to hear, howe...2020-12-2228 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee74. Self-Care Isn't EasyIn this week’s (half pep-talk, half lovingly telling you off) episode, host Alice Lyons talks about how self-care isn’t easy, particularly with everything going on this year.
Primarily talking about how self-care isn’t a perk, as well as the fact employee wellbeing isn’t a perk, this episode talks about the difficulties of looking after yourself.
Also discussed:
(1:28) Introduction: how wellbeing and self-care are viewed as perks, particularly in the workplace, and how we all have a right to be treated well instead of being left to fill in the gaps due to inadequate assistance, ‘human first, employee s...2020-12-0828 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee73. 4 reasons to get a coachA question from one of our lovely followers sparked this week's episode. Our host Alice Lyons explains what coaching actually is, the difference between coaching and therapy and four reasons why you should consider getting one.
Also discussed:
(01:20) introduction
(02:28) The first reason to get a coach is to upskill yourself. Coaching is a very specific kind of relationship that can help you reach your goals. Your coach may have worked with someone who’s had the same goals as you before, therefore have experience in said area.
(03:38) Alice explains how coaching and mentorship differs. Mentors will normally make connections for you...2020-12-0331 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee72. Mental Health MythbustingJoin our host, Alice Lyons, as she tackles the frustrating and, at times, dangerous myths that plague the mental health conversation. Alice also offers some key points to consider surrounding the language we use when discussing mental health topics.
Also discussed:
(00:56) Introduction to the episode.
(03:01) Mental health myth number one: ‘the broken brain’. The ignorant idea that all mental health illnesses are due to something going ‘wrong’ in the brain, thus ignoring all possible societal and economic issues that may be contributing to a poor state of mental health. Alice focuses on a more holistic approach from the biopsychosocial model.
(08:39) Mental health m...2020-12-0234 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee71. Practical Advice for Managing StressIn this week’s episode, host Alice Lyons gives some practical advice around managing stress as the UK is currently in its second lockdown and winter is upon us. Alice gives 4 tips for managing stress, including wallowing, prioritising your wellbeing, protecting your energy and reaching out.
Also discussed:
(01:49) Brief intro
(02:42) Tip number 1 – Wallow: how powering through can be detrimental in the long-term, the build up of negative feelings, why it’s better to feel in the moment, toxic positivity
(10:08) Tip number 2 – Prioritise your wellbeing: finding time for yourself that is personal to you, how prioritising wellbeing can positively influence sleep, how impo...2020-11-1023 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee70. Pain, Pleasure and PeaceHello! Welcome to our 70th episode! We hope you're as excited as we are. In this episode our host Alice Lyons, discusses pain, pleasure and peace and how a book she's currently reading has both completely blown her mind and inspired her in so many ways.
Also discussed:
(1:30) Introduction to the episode(1:59) Alice has found the secret to wellbeing after reading 'The Compassionate Mind' by Paul Gilbert, discussing the theory and original researcher behind it (3:34) Discussing the 3 main drives that influence our behaviour, explaining what they mean and where they originate from (5:15) Explaining the soothing and contentment system in more d...2020-10-2223 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee69. We All Have a Part To Play In the Mental Health DiscussionJoin our host Alice Lyons, as she discusses the role we should all play in the mental health discussion, no matter our profession. The pandemic has taught us a lot of lessons, particularly that what we were doing before, might not be enough, and that’s okay. We can move forwards together.
Also discussed:
(01:15) Introduction to the episode
(02:58) We may not be educated in the field of psychology or qualified counsellors, but we don’t need to be to talk about our feelings and go for a coffee
(05:00) Alice discusses what mental health means to her and how we can posi...2020-10-1530 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee68. 4 Self Care Strategies for Building ResilienceThis week's solo episode follows host Alice Lyons as she gives 4 self care strategies for building resilience, covering the pandemic transition, the importance of reflection, the role of technology and how you can build your strength.
Also discussed:
(00:55) Introduction to the episode
(03:10) Weakness, discussing what we perceive as our weaknesses which are actually our strengths
(05:59) Pandemic transition, reflection on our current lives, asking ourselves important yet exhausting questions
(08:05) Acknowledging how well we are all doing this year, not focusing on criticism as there are many lessons to take from this year so far
(10:54) The four things that will support you i...2020-10-0123 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee67. The Nuance of Mental HealthToday’s episode is with Vikas Shah MBE, a serial-entrepreneur and philanthropist, having started his first technology business at age 14 and currently CEO of Swiscot Group.
Talking around his own experiences with mental health, how the discussion around mental health isn’t nuanced enough for such a complicated topic and the differences in the approach to public health issues versus access to mental health treatment.
Also discussed:
(02:03) Introduction to Vikas
(3:17) Vikas’ experience with speaking about his mental health, how it linked to entrepreneurship, his TedX talk and the impact it has had on people, how mental health can become a defini...2020-09-021h 20
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee65. Success, disruption and doing your own thingFormer Apprentice candidate and disruptive marketer Lewis Ellis about has learnt to forge his own way in the world through ignoring naysayers, embracing his quirks and building his self-confidence. He talks us through his career to date - from struggling financially alongside studying a Masters degree, through riding the publicity wave of The Apprentice, up to his recent redundancy (at the time of recording.) Lewis has now set up his own marketing agency Hussel Marketing alongside his travel startup ‘Hiddn Travel.’
Today we discuss:
- The pros and cons of being open, honest and transparent on social media
- How people...2020-07-191h 10
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee64: Top 5 Fears from LockdownIn today’s solo episode, Alice reflects back on the conversations she’s had with people during lockdown surrounding their fears; about Covid, their lives and the future. All sounds a bit meta and scary, but we found it reassuring to know that whatever we’re feeling (and however ‘well’ we think we coped with lockdown) we’re not on our own. We made it – maybe kicking and screaming – but we bloody made it.
She'll discuss:
(4:57) The fear of uncertainty – how it lends itself to anxiety, even among people who wouldn’t typically consider themselves to have mental health challenges.
(8:50) Everyone struggling thr...2020-06-2153 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee63. From Trapped to ThrivingToday’s episode is an interview with photographer and filmmaker Rick Bebbington, owner of Finale Studios, a photography and film business that helps businesses elevate their brand and products using strong, emotive video and photography content.
Rick speaks openly about his experiences with mental health, particularly around the process of grief after the loss of his parents, acceptance and coping mechanisms. He also talks about the process of seeking out help throughout his life due to fluctuating mental health.
Also discussed:
(1:02) Intro
(03:56) Rick’s mental health experiences, including experiencing the loss of h...2020-06-061h 24
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee62. Working Through Negative Self-TalkJenna Malone is a HTML Email Developer and the founder of ‘Underpaid Clothing’, a streetwear clothing brand grounded on standing up against corporate greed. A mental health advocate, Jenna speaks openly about how negative self-talk affected her throughout employment up until beginning her business, as well as toxic work environments and how she has found a purpose.
Also discussed:
(1:15) Introduction
(2:37) Jenna’s fear around starting her own podcast, her relationship with negativity and struggles taking actions, the barriers stopping us from doing things we want to
(8:22) Online communities, sharing our experiences in business and mental health, authenticity, taking up hobbies
(16:09) Where...2020-06-011h 02
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee61. Team Talk: Mental Health Awareness in LockdownHow is our mental health in the midst of a pandemic?
This week’s episode is with the Dark Coffee team, Alice Lyons, Lucy Williams and Grace Hall, about Mental Health Awareness Week. They talk about the type of content they’ve seen around MHAW, how conversations around mental health are changing and how we can facilitate more openness around mental health.
Stay tuned until the end of the episode for an exciting Dark Coffee project you can all get involved in!
Also discussed:
(1:00) Introduction to the episode
(3:19) Thoughts on this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week
(10:59) Drawing positives through reflec...2020-05-251h 00
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee60. Authenticity & Self-ExpressionThis week’s episode is a recording from a Facebook Live between Alice Lyons and Dani Hakim, CoFounder of Safe Space, a societal impact agency committed to helping companies and individuals pursue better mental health. Dani has 15 years of experience in the marketing industry, which is experience she uses creatively within the business.
The mission of Safe Space is to make mental health support accessible by providing initiatives, programmes and resources by network-trained professionals in a safe and nurturing environment to help people learn how to prioritise their mental wellbeing.
Dani and Alice discuss the concept of authenticity in business, th...2020-05-2256 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee59. Bipolar and LoudAre things actually changing?
Today’s podcast episode is with Phil Schofield (not that one), CEO of Ripple, a SharePoint software company. Phil describes himself as ‘bipolar and loud’, openly speaking about, and being an advocate for, mental health.
Phil describes how his work/life balance has shifted, the day-to-day of his mental health and how he views it as systems driven and being better because of, rather than in spite of, his mental health.
Also discussed:
(1:12) Introductions
(7:00) Moving away from the misconceptions of mental health and focus on specific disorders
(10:00) Phil’s mental health day-to-day (specifically in lockdown/working from hom...2020-05-151h 51
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee58. How to Start PodcastingHow do you start your own podcast?
In today’s episode, host Alice Lyons gives advice on how to start your own podcast. Whether you’re intimidated by the technicalities or think that you might be unable to record yourself properly, there are a few ways you can begin taking steps towards starting your own podcast.
Also discussed:
(1:42) Introduction to the episode
(2:59) Why do a podcast?
(7:54) How podcasting is a new medium and people use different formats and editing
(10:40) Not starting because you don’t know what to do
(11:36) An organic approach, leaving silence in
(15:31) Bringing emotionality to conversations and giving...2020-05-1246 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee57. Coping With Transition through UnderstandingHow do transitions affect our mental health?
Today’s podcast episode is with Nick Wilson, a speaker on mental health, resilience and change. Nick talks on a range of topics surrounding mental health in the workplace, including resilience and impact of change and transition.
Having served 14 years in the Army, including deployments on several Operational Tours in Northern Ireland, Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan, Nick speaks about his experiences with depression and PTSD and the difficulties of transitioning from the military back into society.
Also discussed:
(1:22) Introduction to the episode
(2:46) Nick’s introduction
(6:54) The concept of ongoing mental health rather than cris...2020-05-082h 02
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee56. So Let's TalkToday’s interview guest is Paddy Howley, founder of ‘So let’s talk,’ a hospitality and mental health project aiming to ‘86’ the silence around mental health and addiction in hospitality. A bartender who became a GM and then a consultant, Paddy has 13 years of personal experience in the industry and knows how a destructive cycle of long hours, no sleep, poor diet and high alcohol consumption can affect those in hospitality.
The idea for ‘So let’s talk’ came as a response to the lack of help for those in hospitality, creating an overwhelming response from those who have also felt the same. In...2020-05-0553 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee55. Culture, Change and ConnectionHow does a social business adapt to distance?
Today’s podcast episode is an interview with Marco Castelanelli, a professional Sommelier and CEO of Club Vino UK, organising exclusive wine-tasting events that share knowledge whilst creating an overall experience.
Currently adapting to lockdown, Club Vino offers home wine-tasting, with packages including 6-12 wines, printable tasting notes, and an online video in which Marco guides you through the wine-tasting experience:
Wine-tasting at home: https://club-vino.co.uk/home-wine-tasting/
Alice and Marco discuss how businesses are adapting to lockdown, the differences in Italian and English drinking and business culture and how creating an...2020-05-011h 22
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee54. Therapy and MeWhat is therapy actually like?
Today’s podcast episode is with Natalie Williams, a solicitor and mental health advocate who decided to seek out therapy in order to gain a better understanding of herself and feelings that were holding her back. Natalie discusses her initial apprehension towards therapy, how it gave her the tools to approach problems in her life and how essential a good therapist/client relationship is.
The concept of finding the right therapist at the right time is also covered, particularly in relation to moving on from harmful feelings and relationships.
Also discussed:
(1:16) Introductions
(2:33) Therapy in mental he...2020-04-2843 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee53. Dark Coffee Morning Rewind 2The first ‘Dark Coffee Morning’ took place on Facebook and Instagram Live, on Monday 23rd March, the first official day of lockdown in the UK. Aiming to be a conscious stream of thought covering a multitude of topics, Dark Coffee Mornings have adapted each day along with the situation.
This episode is a podcast version of the fourth ‘Dark Coffee Morning,’ on Thursday 26th March.
Discussed over the course of the Dark Coffee Morning:
The difficulties of social/physical distancing
Missing specific physical cues such as eye-contact and how odd it is trying to adapt to cues you’d usually have with...2020-04-2527 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee51. Mental Health, Health Care & Self-CareHow does mental health permeate the medical profession?
This week’s interview is with Dr Edward Lynch, CEO and Co-founder of ‘LYFE’, a lifestyle app created to help integrate a busy lifestyle and a busy schedule to better your health. The idea of LYFE came from two busy physicians working in a fast-paced environment, struggling to consistently fit a healthy lifestyle into a hectic schedule.
Dr Edward Lynch is a full-time Junior Doctor for the NHS, and an advocate for speaking openly about mental health. Ed speaks about his own experiences that lead him to talk publicly about mental health, which...2020-04-211h 26
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee50. 5 Lessons from 50 EpisodesHurray! It’s our 50th episode!
Join host of the Dark Coffee Podcast Alice Lyons as she talks about reaching such an amazing milestone for the podcast, whilst she also discusses five lessons she’s learned along the way that she’d like to pass on!
(1:18) Introduction to the 50th episode
(3:42) First lesson – ‘Being heard’, how we fundamentally want to express ourselves and be understood by others
(7:12) Second lesson – ‘Creating space for people’, giving people an opportunity to speak their minds
(13:55) Third lesson – ‘We all have problems,’ we see what we want to see and interpret things through our own perceptions
(18:24) Four...2020-04-1839 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee49. Breaking the StigmaAndy Salkeld is an accountant by trade, having worked in corporate finance on transactions across Europe and globally. Specialising in business intelligence, Andy also works with startups and is currently an Investor and Finance Director at dscvr, a Leeds-based tech business.
In this interview episode, Andy speaks about his book that is due to be published in May, ‘Life is a Four-Letter Word,’ including the inspiration behind the book, and his experiences that act as the subject-matter. He also touches upon the topic of being ‘just another guy’, generalism versus specialism and being a big-picture thinker in a detail-oriented world.
This int...2020-04-161h 46
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee48. Dark Coffee x WeAreASSIF CollabHow can we connect in times of isolation?
Today’s episode is an interview with Omar Latif, founder of ‘WeAreASSIF’, a soon-to-launch digital platform used to alleviate poor mental health and promote positive health and wellbeing through peer-to-peer support, behavioural change tools, videos and games for stress and anxiety.
WeAreASSIF’s origins began with Omar’s personal experiences with his own mental health. The app will use algorithms for voice and face recognition (micro-expressions) to learn as you use the app, giving intervention before you may even be aware you need it.
This episode discusses the upcoming virtual networking events taking pla...2020-04-1451 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee47. Hope and Mental HealthIs it better to have faith, or to have hope?
This week’s episode is a solo episode about the words ‘hope’ and ‘faith’ when it comes to mental health and the comfort it can bring some people, and how it isn’t representative for others. It also explores the concept that faith is different from hope in terms of certainty and being passive or active.
It also includes:
‘Man’s Search for Meaning’ – Viktor E. Frankl (the defining feature in escaping concentration camps – those who held onto hope survived, which was critical as it gave them meaning)
Faith as a value is more certai...2020-04-1116 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee46. Keep Calm and Coffee OnToday’s episode is with James Rhys of Farm Boy Brews, a business established in 2019 that combines his love of coffee with a passion for raising awareness of the importance of good mental health.
Farm Boy Brews aims to use great coffee as a tool for good, by raising awareness and some much-needed funds for mental health charities in the UK.
This episode revolves around the importance of doing what it is you want to do, how mental health can change and manifest, the pressure to succeed and how taking a step back can sometimes be exactly what you need.
It...2020-04-091h 14
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee45. Dark Coffee Live RecordingThe first ‘Dark Coffee Morning’ took place on Facebook and Instagram Live, on Monday 23rd March. Later that same day, the UK was officially placed in 'lockdown.' Aiming to be a conscious stream of thought covering a multitude of topics, the Dark Coffee Mornings adapted each day along with the situation.
Discussed over the course of the Dark Coffee Mornings:
1st day of lockdown in the UK, coming together and our appreciation for technology
The potential loss of interest in continuing a sense of community and being motivated versus those who adapt continually
The things we’re capable of under...2020-04-0743 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee44. Marketing in a CrisisHow do you market your business in a crisis?
This week’s episode is an interview with Lewis Kemp, CEO of Lightbulb Media, a digital marketing agency. In a time of crisis, there’s an open debate on exactly how we adapt our businesses and marketing to match the situation.
Lewis and Alice discuss how businesses can approach the tricky business of marketing during a crisis, also discussing:
(1:25) Intro
(3:14) Approach to content, including consistency and tone of voice, video content and how it has become more popular
(7:42) Putting the work into content now to get the benefit later, the sales funne...2020-03-3149 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee43. Living and Learning in LimboHow do you learn in limbo?
This week’s podcast episode is a three-person interview/discussion with the Dark Coffee team: Alice Lyons, host of the Dark Coffee podcast, Lucy Williams, the newest collaborator, and Grace Hall.
Focusing on the post-university limbo and applying it to the uncertainty of the current situation with coronavirus, the team discuss their own personal experiences with job searching, aligning their values with their work and how they cope with the stresses of uncertainty.
Also discussed:
(1:13) Everyone’s personal experience with leaving university & the uncertainty after leaving education
(8:30) How ineffective career advice/practical application/work expe...2020-03-2853 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee42. OCD and MeLucy Williams is a collaborator of Dark Coffee, having graduated with a degree in Psychology last summer. Lucy has experienced OCD and feelings of anxiety intermittently throughout her life and shares her experiences in a time where fixations on feelings of guilt due to the media and the high priority of hygiene have made some of the general population more likely to manifest symptoms similar to those of OCD.
The interview also discusses the bodily manifestation of OCD, the overlaps with certain forms of anxiety, the importance of therapy and advice for anyone who might be noticing the signs of...2020-03-2449 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee41. Fostering ConnectionsWhy don't we prioritise people's mental wellbeing as much as their physical wellbeing?
Today’s episode is an interview with Robert Fletcher of Heart Relocation, a company founded with the mission to provide the best possible customer service to assignee's relocating by working with them through their mobility journey through collaborative and innovative communication.
This interview focuses on the importance of bringing yourself to work, fostering an environment in which employees don’t feel a disconnect between working life and home life, and having a mental attitude that promotes change and connection, rather than panic and fear.
This episode also incl...2020-03-201h 34
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee40. Coming Out of the Spiritual ClosetHow can spirituality help you and your business?
Today’s guest is Intuitive Coach Benjamin Stubbs. An Intuitive Coach brings a perceptive rather than prescriptive approach to working with their clients and Ben relies on his intuition to know the questions to ask to help them access their own ‘inner wisdom’ to achieve professional and personal success.
He notes the work of Dr Joe Dispenza as being particularly influential as well as concepts ranging from The Law of Attraction to quantum physics. With a background in teaching, Ben talks passionately about his role as a guide in helping people find the right an...2020-03-171h 25
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee39. Eating Disorder Awareness WeekEating disorders are multi-faceted.
This week’s episode coincides with Eating Disorder Awareness Week, and is an interview with Dark Coffee collaborator Grace Hall, revolving around eating disorders/disordered eating and aspects such as the mental and physiological connection and how it can manifest.
The concept of eating behaviours stemming from the societal and familial influence is also touched upon, in relation to the concept of control that plays such a strong role in eating disorders.
Also discussed:
(3:17) Grace’s personal experiences with disordered eating
(6:23) How conscious the thinking process was behind disordered eating, the mental/physiological connection
(8:43) The different manif...2020-03-0343 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee38. Mind Over Grind round-upHustle culture is bullshit.
This week’s podcast episode follows on from Tuesday 18th February’s ‘Mind Over Grind’ event, a panel discussion focused on entrepreneurial mindset and mental health, covering topics such as imposter syndrome, burnout and resilience.
Host Alice Lyons and collaborator Grace Hall discuss how the event has evolved and what are the key takeaways from the event.
A response to ‘hustle culture,’ ‘girl bossing’ and all of the damaging things in-between, Mind Over Grind aims to show the authentic and candid experiences of people at different stages of their entrepreneurial journey.
This episode also includes:
(1:00) Recap of the recent ‘M...2020-02-2042 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee37. Suicide Ideation in Real(ish) TimeThis week, I felt low-key suicidal feelings. Don’t freak out! The word ‘suicide’ can throw us into a fearful head spin, but I want to take this opportunity to talk about the episode to illustrate what suicide ideation can look like. It isn’t always highly dramatic and explosive – sometimes it’s recognising a quiet intrusive thought when it enters your mind and learning to let go of the judgement that comes with it.
DISLAIMER – if you’re feeling actively suicidal, please don’t listen today. It might not be what you need to hear right now, this will still be here for...2020-02-0946 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee36. Creating head spaceWe could all use a little head space.
(No, not the app)
This weeks solo episode focuses on the importance of finding head space, namely, the importance of giving ourselves time to relax and process things at a manageable pace rather than the endless stream of work we're used to in the working week.
The episode also includes:
(1:12) The importance of head space and how it helps with depression, and anxiety episodes in terms of anticipation, as you’re pre-emptively looking after your mental health and building resilience
(2:36) Meditation- the difficulty of non-guided meditation, how meditation music can help focus. How...2020-01-2934 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee35. Courage, Compassion, ConnectionIs there courage in vulnerability?
Today’s episode is with Mike Richards, a trainee counsellor, Primary School teacher and mental health advocate. Mike is the founder of ‘Talk About It Mate,’ championing strength through vulnerability and starting open and honest discussions amongst men through simplicity.
Mike was diagnosed with ADHD in late 2018, through self-exploration, planning on completing his masters in Counselling at Salford University in 2020, having completed Mental Health First Aid training for Adults and Level 2 CPCAB Counselling Skills Qualifications at MCTC.
Mike’s Instagram: https://instagram.com/mike_d_rich?igshid=15hkyjd5bcd1z
Talk About It Mate Instagram: https://i...2020-01-221h 07
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee34. Holding On versus Letting GoDo you hold on to things, or let them go?
Today’s takeaway coffee focuses on the concept of holding on versus letting go. I’d consider myself the type of person who is on the ‘letting go’ end of the spectrum. I discuss the fact that people often are one or the other, and how this may present in your life and adulthood.
I also discuss:
My past, specifically how I approached relationships and jobs as somebody who was more prone to ‘letting go’ than ‘holding on’
How letting things go can often leave to hurting others
The impact of honesty your...2020-01-1514 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee32. Review of the Year (Part 2)Host Alice Lyons and collaborator Grace Hall continue their review of the year, touching on further subjects such as authenticity, the need to apologise, honesty and superficial attachments to things that might not bring us happiness in the long term.
New Year game: take a shot every time the words authenticity, honesty and value are said (at your own discretion).
Questions in this episode include:
(1:25) What are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned in 2019?
(20:15) What have you struggled with this year?
(32:15) What has been your biggest achievement in 2019?
(40:40) What are you grateful for this year?
(42:18) What are you mo...2020-01-0158 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee31. Review of the Year (Part 1)A look back on 2019 with host of the Dark Coffee Podcast, Alice Lyons, and collaborator Grace Hall both reflecting on what the year has brought in terms of wellbeing, mental health and overall lessons.
Between the laughter, odd references and multiple directions of this episode, there is a focus on the value of reflection, the importance of self-awareness and how being in recovery isn't a negative thing.
The first part of this podcast episode focuses on these questions, which are a great way to reflect on your year as we go into 2020:
(4:40) What word would you use to summarise 2019?
(8:50) If 2019...2019-12-3155 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark Coffee30. Get on your Soapbox!A rallying cry to the changemakers, mavericks and downright good guys who want to make a positive difference in the world.
Fresh off the back of the December election, I sit down to reflect on the state of the world. But don’t worry, it’s very uplifting (in a militant sort of way!)
I make the observation that the biggest reason that the Bond-Villains and dickheads of the world get into positions of power is that THEY SHOUT THE LOUDEST.
They don’t care who they offend or what other people think of them. This confidence helps them speak up, ge...2019-12-2030 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp. 29 Empowerment through Self-AdvocacyAn interview episode around disability, empowerment, accessibility, self-acceptance and connection.
This week, host Alice Lyons interviews Rachael Mole, talking about a range of subjects relating to disability and mental health, such as the lack of accessibility in society, difficulties in diagnosis, the importance of down-time and asking questions and resources available to those feeling isolated.
A champion for mental health and disability narratives, Rachael Mole is the Editor in Chief of the City Girl Network, a global social network helping women in their 20s and 30s call their cities ‘home’. As Editor of the City Girl Magazine, an online platform that...2019-12-181h 01
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp. 28 Being SingleIt's that time of year when everyone talks about being single....
This weeks episode focuses on the positives of being single, how it is viewed in retrospect and the present and how platonic relationships can often mirror what we're looking for in a romantic relationship.
I also discuss:
(1:20) Opening
(3:08) The counter-argument to ‘being single sucks’
(3:45) Relationships in retrospect, the differences between ‘then’ and ‘now’, and how there are different things to focus on that don’t bring up feelings of loneliness
(5:10) How being single doesn’t drop into conversation the same way being in a relationship does
(5:40) The old ‘you’ll find someone’, ‘som...2019-12-1122 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp. 27 Music, Mental Health and Harmonious CommunitiesEver thought about how singing helps us connect?
Episode 27 of the podcast is an interview with guest Emma Baylin, founder of Shared Harmonies, a business focusing on the power of human connection through singing. Em believes human connection and its power to influence positive change is the passion and thread that links all of her work.
You can find out more about Emma here: https://www.sharedharmonies.co.uk/
Emma's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-baylin-%F0%9F%8E%BC-shared-harmonies-cic-121123b6/
Shared Harmonies LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shared-harmonies-cic/
We talk about how live music can create a sha...2019-12-051h 03
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp. 26 The Importance of ConnectionToday’s podcast episode is a follow-up from the Pods Up North event, covering the main takeaways from the event. The event included discussions around diversity in podcasting, how it has evolved form traditional broadcasting platforms, and how podcasters have a freedom to discuss vital topics and give voice to minority communities.
This podcast also includes:
Differences between podcasts & traditional broadcasts such as radio
The amount of freedom in podcasting, in terms of content and editing, and how liberating that is
How podcasters not only give voice to their own experience, but give others, often from underprivileged communities, a platform to...2019-11-2726 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp. 25 A letter to my suicidal selfToday’s short episode revolves around an article on LinkedIn, titled ‘A letter to my suicidal self’, in which I explore my transformation over the years, my relationship with mental health, including suicidal feelings and feelings of guilt.
This episode also includes topics such as:
The relationship we have with mental health, and how it may change
How important it is to live for yourself, rather than others
The importance of not being weighed down by guilt on top of suicidal feelings and depression
How vital it is to treat yourself with the compassion that you treat others with
Fluctuating mental...2019-11-2115 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp. 24 One Year of Dark CoffeeToday’s special (full of laughter) episode celebrates the year anniversary of the Dark Coffee podcast, with guest Grace Hall interviewing host Alice Lyons on the motivation behind beginning the podcast, how it has evolved and what the future holds.
Grace is a collaborator of Dark Coffee, focusing on content creation, including the editing of the Dark Coffee podcast and content writing.
In this episode, Alice looks back on the progression of Dark Coffee, also discussing:
The impact of being under a spotlight when talking about suicide
How Dark Coffee has evolved, both in technology and meaning
The benefits of ha...2019-11-1753 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp. 23 'Strong' Men + UnderdogsOften, when it comes to discussing emotions, men can consider vulnerability a weakness rather than a strength. The concept of sharing emotions, from a mental health condition perspective or generally, is viewed with apprehension and avoidance. In today’s episode, I discuss the benefits of men being more open about their emotions, how we view underdogs in popular culture and how this relates to the conversation around men's emotions, touching on the benefits that open discussion can have on those around men in strong leadership positions.
I also discuss:
Why men can perceive emotions as weak
How men speaking openly ab...2019-11-1430 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp. 22 Unfiltered Social Media (Part 2)Today’s entertaining episode is part 2 of an interview with Lewis Kemp, discussing all things mindset, wellbeing and self-expression.
Lewis is CEO of Lightbulb Media, a results-driven digital marketing agency who take a no-nonsense approach to getting SME’s in front of their ideal customers. They help good people doing good work to shout louder about what they’re doing and be seen by the right people.
He’s a massive advocate of authenticity online, educating people around the platforms so they can benefit on both a professional and a personal level.
In this episode, we discuss the importance of mindset...2019-10-3147 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp. 21 Unfiltered Social Media (Part 1)In today’s energetic, entertaining and enlightening episode, I’ll be talking all things business and social media with the human version of the ‘100’ emoji - Mr Lewis Kemp.
Lewis is CEO of Lightbulb Media, a results-driven digital marketing agency who take a no-nonsense approach to getting SME’s in front of their ideal customers. They help good people doing good work to shout louder about what they’re doing and be seen by the right people.
He’s a massive advocate of authenticity online and educates people around the platforms so that they can benefit on both a professional and personal le...2019-10-2549 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.20 Broken and FixedIn the mental health discussion, there is a dichotomy emerging. The narrative seems to be split between an aggressive, ‘We’re broken!’ viewpoint, or a ‘We’re all okay!’ infantilised viewpoint. The discussion around mental health is still relatively new, but the language that we use now may dictate how it will appear in the future, meaning that it’s now more important than ever to be mindful of the effect our language can have. The more we talk, the more refined the conversation will become, but making sure that it is refined in a way that isn’t harmful is essential.
I...2019-10-1625 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.19 Suicide Prevention StrategiesToday's 'takeaway coffee' is a quick insight into suicide prevention strategies to mark World Suicide Prevention Day (on September 10th.)
I share my top 6 strategies for maintaining your own mindset as well as supporting other people who may be in emotional distress. These are based on my own experiences of managing my own suicidal feelings over a ten-year period. I’ve also collated some of the main points that I’ve gathered from experts in suicide prevention, including academics and crisis care providers.
First, I’d like to make an important distinction:
We only have INFLUENCE over other people.
We only have...2019-09-1110 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.18 Adventures in RejectionWhy talk about rejection in a podcast about mental health and wellbeing? Because some of the fastest improvements in our mental wellbeing can be achieved through shoring up our weaknesses. A lot of us struggle with emotional heavyweights that impact us out of nowhere, such as grief and loss. But a lot of us can struggle with the emotional fallout that comes from the everyday choices we make in our day-to-day life. Taking risks can leave us vulnerable to disappointment, embarrassment and, perhaps worst of all, rejection. Choosing to face rejection head on can feel uncomfortable and scary, but it...2019-08-1355 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.17 Understanding RiskWhat is your attitude towards risk? Are you an avid risk-taker, or do you try to avoid it at any cost? In today’s episode, I dive into my own interpretation of risk and the factors that determine which side of the fence we sit on. For me, it’s about understanding the relationship between possibilities, outcomes and our perception of them. The ‘risk model’ can even be applied to certain mental health conditions to help us better understand our thinking and behavioural patterns at different times.
We’ll discuss:
- The traditional, linear model of risk
- How our perception...2019-08-0417 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.16 The Power of Being Ordinary‘How can we prevent suicide?’ This is one of the questions I found myself asking this week when I sat down with Robert Jackson, the Director of Manchester and Salford Samaritans. I was interviewing Robert as part of an upcoming documentary which aims to delve into the murky waters of suicide to ask what we can all be doing to help combat the staggeringly high mortality rates. Happily, Robert had a lot of advice to give. Advice that all of us can use to help save lives.
Welcome to Dark Coffee, the podcast that takes a light approach to our dark...2019-07-1621 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.15 Grief in Real TimeMore of Alice’s thoughts on grief brought about by the sudden loss of her family dog. Alice talks about the grieving process as it settles in, discussing communal grief, the humanising nature of loss and how it’s so damn hard to say the right thing to people who are suffering.
Welcome to Dark Coffee, the podcast that takes a light approach to our dark times.
Join wellbeing advocate Alice Lyons as she attempts to normalise the conversation around mental health, from suicide to satisfaction and everything in between.
Dark Coffee aims to create a safe space to explore dark to...2019-06-2044 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.14 Breakups, Grief and LossToday, Alice talks about the difficult and uncomfortable topic of grief. She talks about the parallels between grief and other heartbreaks, as well as other feelings that can accompany the loss, such as anger. She also explores different outlets for these heavy and challenging feelings, of family and friends don’t want to talk about them anymore.
Welcome to Dark Coffee, the podcast that takes a light approach to our darkest times.
Join host Alice Lyons as she attempts to normalise the conversation around mental health, from suicide to satisfaction and everything in between.
Dark Coffee aims to create a safe s...2019-06-1123 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.13 Depression in real timeIn the rawest recording to date, Alice talks about managing her mental health during a depressive episode, where she explores her wandering thoughts and feelings in real time. She talks about oscillating between feeling a lot of overwhelming emotions at once, and a state of mental shutdown. She reflects on how this wave of depression compares to previous instances, and she talks through how she is weathering the storm in the moment that she is experiencing it.
Welcome to Dark Coffee, the podcast that takes a light approach to our darkest times.
Join host Alice Lyons as she attempts to norm...2019-05-1230 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.12 Emotional Honesty is StrengthIn a week full of drastic ups and downs, Alice takes some time to work through some difficult feelings that came to the surface. The act of reflection can be a very challenging practice, but one that can help us heal past traumas and hurts. The key is to acknowledge and express our feelings. We call this ‘Emotional Honesty’ and we see it as a sign of strength.
Welcome to Dark Coffee, the podcast that shines a light on our darkest times.
Join host Alice Lyons as she and her guests attempt to normalise the conversation around suicide ideation.
Dark Coffee...2019-04-1917 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.10 Self Care for Dummies'Self care' is a term that often gets used to help sell hair products and spa days, but what does it truly mean? In today's episode, Alice breaks down some ideas for developing your own self care routine. She uses the acronym S.P.A.C.E to explore Structure, Play, Activity, Clarity and Expression and provides lots of ideas of simple actions you can bring into your daily routine to lift your mood and help maintain your mental health.
Welcome to Dark Coffee; the podcast that shines a light on our darkest times.
Join host Alice Lyons as she a...2019-02-2833 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.9 Suicide FantasiesThe term 'fantasy' is often used to describe a vision or scenario which brings comfort to the person imagining it. So, what does it mean to experience a 'suicide fantasy'? Alice discusses this topic today with specific examples relating to her own experience. Listener discretion is advised.
Welcome to Dark Coffee; the podcast that shines a light on our darkest times.
Join host Alice Lyons as she and her guests explore their experiences with suicide ideation, in order to reduce the silence, stigma and shame that surrounds this issue.
Dark Coffee aims to create a safe space for people to dis...2019-02-1116 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.7 Why we all hate New Year (and why we shouldn't.)There’s no denying that New Year can be a difficult time for a lot of us. As a recovering ‘New Year Hater’ I’ve got my own short list of big reasons as to why this is. I’d like to use today’s episode to examine our discomfort around the season as a way of taking the edge off of it.
Welcome to Dark Coffee; the podcast that shines a light on our darkest times.
Join host Alice Lyons as she and her guests explore the topic of suicide ideation to help normalise the conversation around it.
Dark Coffee aims to...2019-01-0320 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.6 Loss, ActuallyWith the Christmas season in full swing, I've been thinking about how this time of year can be loaded with complex emotions for those of us who have experienced a loss. I talk about how the expectations of how Christmas 'should' be often leaves us feeling dissatisfied, frustrated or sad, and how these feelings are worthy of acknowledgement. I share my own story of grief to explore how we can negotiate these difficult, uncomfortable and unwelcome emotions in order to help understand them.
Welcome to Dark Coffee, the podcast that shines a light on our darkest times.
Join host Alice Ly...2018-12-1626 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.5 Lessons from ScroogeIn this week's episode, I discuss the story of Scrooge and explain how this character's transformation can give us all hope. It's a powerful story of redemption and hope that reminds us that it is never too late to make a change in our lives.
Welcome to Dark Coffee, the podcast that shines a light on our darkest times.
Join host Alice Lyons as she and her guests explore their experiences with suicide ideation, in order to reduce the silence, stigma and shame that surrounds this issue.
Dark Coffee aims to create a safe space for people to discuss suicide wi...2018-12-1514 min
Mind Over Grind from Dark CoffeeEp.4 Owning Your MistakesMistakes are a fact of life, but many of us can get trapped in the spiral of negative thinking that they invoke. Today's episode is a pep talk full of practical advice for moving on from mistakes, from brainstorming solutions in 'stupid idea time' to reframing your situation as an opportunity for growth.
Today, I speak about how damaging negative self-talk can be, including how it can impact situations disastrously and lead to avoiding problems rather than taking issues head-on. I also discuss, personally, how owning your mistakes can be difficult but necessary in moving forward. I also discuss how g...2018-12-0921 min