Shows
A Thought I KeptAre You Feeling Your Thinking? A Conversation with Anya PearseIn this episode of A Thought I Kept, host Claire Fitzsimmons invites Anya Pearse, a coach, mentor, and creative thinker, to discuss a thought that's stayed with her: 'Am I feeling my thinking?' The conversation explores the origins of this thought, inspired by the works of Byron Katie and Michael Neil, and explores themes of self-awareness, self-compassion, and acceptance. Anya shares personal anecdotes and insights into how this thought has impacted her understanding of emotions and thinking. This episode emphasizes the complexity and interconnectedness of ideas, thoughts, and feelings, and how understanding these can tr...
2025-10-0629 min
ConvergenceBiscuits the size of cat headsBrendan kicks the new calorie knowledge, Mark talks about his vision and not his Vision Pro, and Brendan takes Mark on a virtual tour of the NFT Museum.LinksWeb3 is Going GreatThe Worst Product I've Ever Reviewed... for NowThe DropoutMarissa Mayer, этот смех! laugh compilationTop 5 Korean TV romcoms – List Envy, with Anya Pearse
2024-05-241h 01
List EnvyTop 5 Korean TV romcomsEveryone’s pretty, everyone eventually gets down to it, no-one throws up, and occasionally steam comes out of someone’s ears. Is there more to cute Korean dramas than this?Turns out yes, yes there is, as positive psychologist and K-drama stan Anya Pearse explains.(00:00) - A lot of thought wente into this
(00:11) - Introduction
(00:57) - What makes K-dramas different?
(04:39) - Anya’s pick: Extraordinary Attorney Woo
(09:02) - Mark’s pick: I am Not a Robot
(12:50) - Anya’s pick: Are You Human?
(16:21) - Mark’s pick: Strong Girl Bong-soon
(22:03) - Anya’s pick: Navillera
(25...
2024-04-2349 min
Beyond the basementUnlocking happiness summit 2024Later today I'll be exploring how to unlock more connection and play in your life, with my friend Anya Pearse. Anya is hosting the 2024 Unlocking Happiness Summit. I'll share our conversation on socials once it's published. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit chriskenworthy.substack.com
2024-03-1818 min
The A to Z of HappinessZestZest – approaching life with excitement and energy – is a crucial component of happiness. It encourages us to engage with life as an adventure and to embrace curiosity, novelty, and enthusiasm, ultimately enhancing our happiness and wellbeing.In this final episode, Anya and Mark discuss zest as it relates to happiness and overall life satisfaction. They explore how engaging with life as an adventure can infuse our lives with energy and enthusiasm, and delve into the connection between zest, physical and psychological wellness, and the virtue of courage.Three promptsWhat puts a spring in y...
2024-02-2653 min
The A to Z of HappinessYesSaying "yes" can open us up to new possibilities, shift our perspective, and help us find humour and creativity in challenging situations. It’s all about being open to experiences, being curious, and embracing a mindset of possibility. By saying "yes" to ourselves and being willing to explore new opportunities, we can discover our upper limit behaviours and break through self-sabotage.In this episode, Anya and Mark explore the relationship between saying yes to oneself and saying yes to others, as well as the role of humour and shifting perspectives in finding the funny and possibilities in...
2024-02-1938 min
The A to Z of HappinessX marks the spotAccepting where we are in life and finding meaning in our circumstances can lead to greater happiness and fulfilment. We’re always presented with opportunities to reframe our perspective and embrace the present moment, even when faced with challenges. And incorporating love and kindness into our actions and interactions will have a positive impact on ourselves and those around us.In this episode, Anya and Mark explore the symbolism of the letter X and discuss the concept of being exactly where you're supposed to be. They delve into the idea of acceptance and finding meaning in di...
2024-02-1235 min
The A to Z of HappinessWisdomWisdom involves understanding and judging carefully, using discernment in various situations. It means knowing when to apply different virtues and making judgment calls based on specific circumstances.Wisdom can come from trusted friends who provide guidance and perspective, as well as from books. And we can develop practical wisdom by navigating life's challenges and making thoughtful decisions.In this episode, Anya and Mark discuss wisdom, its importance, and how it can be applied in various situations. They touch on the idea of discernment and judgment, highlighting the need to consider different perspectives and...
2024-02-0539 min
The A to Z of HappinessValuesUnderstanding our values can provide us with a compass to navigate life's complexities and make decisions that align with who we want to be in the world. By identifying our values and incorporating them into our choices and actions, we can find greater peace, meaning, and fulfilment in our lives.In this episode, Anya and Mark share personal insights on the role of values in their lives, and explore the concept of congruence with values and the challenges that arise when our actions aren’t in line.Three promptsHow do you wa...
2024-01-2944 min
The A to Z of HappinessUncertaintyUncertainty – especially during long periods of unpredictability – can lead to anxiety and exhaustion. The ongoing global events, like the pandemic and current geopolitical conflicts, have created a volatile, uncertain, chaotic, and ambiguous world, adding to the sense of uncertainty and unpredictability.This week, Anya and Mark explore the impact of uncertainty on our mental wellbeing and discusses the importance of resilience and shifting our focus to maintain hope and cope with ongoing uncertainty.Three promptsWhat are your anchors?What keeps your boat afloat?Where can you place your focus?ResourcesTh...
2024-01-2253 min
The A to Z of HappinessThinkingOur thinking has a powerful impact on our perception of the world and our own wellbeing. Our thoughts can shape our emotions, influence our behaviour, and even blind us to reality. By becoming aware of our thinking patterns and learning to observe our thoughts without judgment, we can gain more control over our mental states and make choices that align with our values. Understanding the relationship between our thoughts, emotions, and actions is key to cultivating happiness and improving our overall quality of life.Three promptsWhat is the story I’m telling myself?Is it...
2024-01-1544 min
The A to Z of HappinessSelf-compassionPracticing self-compassion is essential for our wellbeing. By cultivating self-kindness, recognising our shared humanity, and practicing mindfulness, we can free ourselves from self-judgment and shame. Self-compassion allows us to be there for ourselves, embrace our imperfections, and promote a healthier and more fulfilling life.In this episode, Anya and Mark explore the three pillars of self-compassion: self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness. Anya shares her personal experience with self-compassion and how it has been a game-changer for her. And they touch on the inner critic, fear of judgment, and the need for self-care.Three...
2024-01-0853 min
The A to Z of HappinessRelationshipsRelationships play a vital role in our happiness and wellbeing. Through various examples and discussions, Anya and Mark highlight the need for connection, support, and mutual appreciation.In this episode they explore attachment styles and their impact on relationships, and discuss the effects of loneliness and social isolation on mental and physical health.Three promptsWhat’s your relationship to relationships?Are you spending enough time with those you love?How can you strengthen your existing relationships?Resources“Other people matter”The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You're...
2023-12-2545 min
The A to Z of HappinessQuestionsAsking meaningful questions, both of ourselves and others, can lead to personal growth and expanded perspectives. By embracing curiosity and being open to new possibilities, we can break free from limiting beliefs and explore the world with a sense of wonder. Asking questions helps us challenge assumptions, gain new insights, and navigate the complexities of life with greater clarity and understanding.In this episode, Anya and Mark discuss the importance of asking meaningful questions along with the fear around them, and explore the significance of expanding one's perspective and embracing curiosity at work and in personal...
2023-12-1841 min
The A to Z of HappinessPlayPlay is not just a frivolous activity, but an essential part of our lives. It relieves stress, improves brain function, and promotes learning and problem-solving. Play allows us to explore new ideas and perspectives, heal emotional wounds, and strengthen our relationships. It’s a powerful tool for personal growth and wellbeing.In this episode, Anya and Mark discuss the benefits and importance of play in our lives, and how play can serve as practice for life.Three promptsWhat’s stopping you from playing?What is your kind of play?How can you brin...
2023-12-1156 min
The A to Z of HappinessOptimismOptimism plays a crucial role in shaping our perspective and experiences in life. It allows us to have a forward-looking outlook, embrace possibilities, and cultivate a growth mindset. Optimism helps us notice the good things, be open to change, and enhance problem-solving abilities. By choosing to see the world with optimism, we can create a more fulfilling and positive life.On this episode, Anya and Mark explore the concept of optimism and its significance in our lives. They discuss the relationship between optimism and happiness, the importance of having a growth mindset, and the challenges of...
2023-12-0433 min
The A to Z of HappinessNoLearning to say "no" is essential for setting boundaries, protecting our own time and energy, and being authentic to ourselves. It can be challenging, especially for people-pleasers, but by understanding our capacity, being self-compassionate, and practicing clear communication, we can navigate the complexities of saying "no" in a healthy and empowered way.In this episode, Anya and Mark discuss the challenge of saying “no” and setting boundaries, the importance of protecting personal time and capacity, and the difficulty of balancing people-pleasing with being authentic.Three promptsHow easy is it for you to s...
2023-11-2746 min
The A to Z of HappinessMeaningHumans flourish when they have meaning and suffer when they don't. Meaning can come from various sources: family, work, volunteering, or contributing to something bigger than oneself. It involves significance, purpose, and coherence, and can be different for everyone.In this episode, Anya and Mark discuss the importance of meaning in life and how it can bring happiness and fulfillment. They talk about the different components of meaning, such as significance, purpose, and coherence, and how finding meaning can give a sense of belonging to something larger than oneself.Three promptsWhat...
2023-04-1029 min
The A to Z of HappinessMeaningHumans flourish when they have meaning and suffer when they don’t. Meaning can come from various sources: family, work, volunteering, or contributing to something bigger than oneself. It involves significance, purpose, and coherence, and can be different for everyone.
In this episode, Anya and Mark discuss the importance of meaning in life and how it can bring happiness and fulfillment. They talk about the different components of meaning, such as significance, purpose, and coherence, and how finding meaning can give a sense of belonging to something larger than oneself.
Three prompts
What gives yo...
2023-04-1029 min
The A to Z of HappinessLoveLove is not just a romantic feeling, but a crucial aspect of human biology and social connections. Love has the power to positively impact our physical and mental health, and it is important to recognise and remove barriers that prevent us from giving and receiving love.In this episode, Anya and Mark explore the different types of love, from filial to platonic, and the many ways it shapes the human experience.Three promptsWho loved you into being?What barriers do you have towards love?How can you be the love you...
2023-04-0332 min
The A to Z of HappinessLoveLove is not just a romantic feeling, but a crucial aspect of human biology and social connections. Love has the power to positively impact our physical and mental health, and it is important to recognise and remove barriers that prevent us from giving and receiving love.
In this episode, Anya and Mark explore the different types of love, from filial to platonic, and the many ways it shapes the human experience.
Three prompts
Who loved you into being?
What barriers do you have towards love?
How can you be the love you want to...
2023-04-0332 min
The A to Z of HappinessKindnessKindness creates connection, and it begins with empathy. Kindness has emotional and physical benefits, and can create a ripple effect through society and relationships.In this episode, Anya and Mark discuss the importance of empathy and recognising our common humanity. They highlight the positive physical and emotional effects of kindness, including the "helper's high" and the ripple effect that can touch the lives of many.Three promptsWhere can you be unexpectedly kind?What does being unkind give you?How can you add more kindness to your life?ResourcesBe...
2023-03-2741 min
The A to Z of HappinessKindnessKindness creates connection, and it begins with empathy. Kindness has emotional and physical benefits, and can create a ripple effect through society and relationships.
In this episode, Anya and Mark discuss the importance of empathy and recognising our common humanity. They highlight the positive physical and emotional effects of kindness, including the “helper’s high” and the ripple effect that can touch the lives of many.
Three prompts
Where can you be unexpectedly kind?
What does being unkind give you?
How can you add more kindness to your life?
Resources
Be More Kind...
2023-03-2741 min
The A to Z of HappinessJoyJoy is an intense feeling of surprise and delight that’s often fleeting. It needs us to be fully present in order to experience it. Joy can be found in small things and in the present moment, and can help us to relax and drop negative emotions.Three promptsWhat brings you joy?How often do you experience it?What would happen if you navigated by joy?ResourcesSeligman’s PERMA+ Model Explained: A Theory of WellbeingBarbara Fredrickson, 10 positive emotionsYou aren't at the mercy of your emotions -- your brain creates them - TEDx...
2023-03-2034 min
The A to Z of HappinessJoyJoy is an intense feeling of surprise and delight that’s often fleeting. It needs us to be fully present in order to experience it. Joy can be found in small things and in the present moment, and can help us to relax and drop negative emotions.
Three prompts
What brings you joy?
How often do you experience it?
What would happen if you navigated by joy?
Resources
Seligman’s PERMA+ Model Explained: A Theory of Wellbeing
Barbara Fredrickson, 10 positive emotions
You aren’t at the mercy of your emotions – your brain creates them - TEDx L...
2023-03-2034 min
The A to Z of HappinessInsecurityInsecurity is a universal experience, causing us anxiety and creating negative beliefs about ourselves.
In this episode, Anya shares her own experiences and explains how insecurity can show up in different ways, like making it hard to sleep or causing physical symptoms. She and Mark talk about attachment styles which can lead to feelings of insecurity.
Anya explains the four types of attachment styles: secure, anxious and preoccupied, avoidant and dismissive, and disorganised. They reveal how new experiences can trigger negative beliefs about oneself and lead to social anxiety and a fear of not fitting...
2023-03-1257 min
The A to Z of HappinessInsecurityInsecurity is a universal experience, causing us anxiety and creating negative beliefs about ourselves.In this episode, Anya shares her own experiences and explains how insecurity can show up in different ways, like making it hard to sleep or causing physical symptoms. She and Mark talk about attachment styles which can lead to feelings of insecurity.Anya explains the four types of attachment styles: secure, anxious and preoccupied, avoidant and dismissive, and disorganised. They reveal how new experiences can trigger negative beliefs about oneself and lead to social anxiety and a fear of not...
2023-03-1257 min
The A to Z of HappinessHopeHope is a fragile and nebulous thing. It’s important to cultivate a glimmer of hope, a light in the darkness, and to look forward to something.
In this episode, Mark and Anya discuss the topic of hope. They explore the difference between hope and expectation, and the importance of finding and offering our best response when facing concerns. Anya shares her personal experience of despair and how hope helps her to carry on. They also touch on gratitude, active hope, motivation and goal setting.
Three prompts
What do you hope for?
What support do...
2023-03-0640 min
The A to Z of HappinessHopeHope is a fragile and nebulous thing. It’s important to cultivate a glimmer of hope, a light in the darkness, and to look forward to something.In this episode, Mark and Anya discuss the topic of hope. They explore the difference between hope and expectation, and the importance of finding and offering our best response when facing concerns. Anya shares her personal experience of despair and how hope helps her to carry on. They also touch on gratitude, active hope, motivation and goal setting.Three promptsWhat do you hope for?Wh...
2023-03-0640 min
The A to Z of HappinessGratitudeSometimes you have to show up and hit Record even when you’re not feeling your best. In this episode, Anya and Mark take time to recognise the good things in life, even when they’re tricky.
They play a game of Gratitude Bingo, where players draw things they’re grateful for in each corner of a piece of paper and compare their lists. Their lists include books, sunshine, tea, friends, warmth, opportunities, and cats. They discuss the benefits of finding commonalities and gaining insight into someone else’s life, and emphasise the power of gratitude in promotin...
2023-02-2746 min
The A to Z of HappinessGratitudeSometimes you have to show up and hit Record even when you’re not feeling your best. In this episode, Anya and Mark take time to recognise the good things in life, even when they’re tricky.They play a game of Gratitude Bingo, where players draw things they're grateful for in each corner of a piece of paper and compare their lists. Their lists include books, sunshine, tea, friends, warmth, opportunities, and cats. They discuss the benefits of finding commonalities and gaining insight into someone else's life, and emphasise the power of gratitude in promoting happ...
2023-02-2746 min
The A to Z of HappinessFearIs fear false evidence appearing real? Fear can be rooted in childhood trauma and shows up in our need for positive relationships. But how much attention do we need to pay to it?
This week, Anya unpacks the neurobiology of fear and how the amygdala acts as a smoke alarm, activating the body’s fight or flight hormone. She and Mark explore the importance of responding to fear in a mindful way, instead of trying to suppress or ignore it.
Anya reflects on how fear has taken away from her own happiness, and offers strategies to...
2023-02-2044 min
The A to Z of HappinessFearIs fear false evidence appearing real? Fear can be rooted in childhood trauma and shows up in our need for positive relationships. But how much attention do we need to pay to it?This week, Anya unpacks the neurobiology of fear and how the amygdala acts as a smoke alarm, activating the body's fight or flight hormone. She and Mark explore the importance of responding to fear in a mindful way, instead of trying to suppress or ignore it.Anya reflects on how fear has taken away from her own happiness, and offers...
2023-02-2044 min
The A to Z of HappinessEnergyMost of us are ambiverts and need different kinds of rest and recharging. Spoon Theory teaches us that energy needs to be managed carefully. We should all find our own ways to manage our energy levels and not just rely on one method. Remember that taking time to rest and relax, as it’s essential for sustaining our energy levels.
Three prompts
Where are you directing your energy?
What gives you energy?
How can use our energy to help us navigate?
Resources
Quiz: Are you an extrovert, introvert or ambivert?
Spoon Theory
Song of My...
2023-02-1336 min
The A to Z of HappinessEnergyMost of us are ambiverts and need different kinds of rest and recharging. Spoon Theory teaches us that energy needs to be managed carefully. We should all find our own ways to manage our energy levels and not just rely on one method. Remember that taking time to rest and relax, as it’s essential for sustaining our energy levels.Three promptsWhere are you directing your energy?What gives you energy?How can use our energy to help us navigate?ResourcesQuiz: Are you an extrovert, introvert or ambivert?Spoon TheorySong of My...
2023-02-1336 min
The A to Z of HappinessDesireThe second Noble Truth in Buddhism states that desiring is the cause of all suffering, so some of us can think that it’s a bad thing.
In this episode, Anya and Mark explore desire in all its forms and functions.
Three prompts
What do you want?
Is it a need, a want, or a desire?
What would happen if you were guided by your desires?
Resources
Wikipedia definition of desire
The four noble truths
Compassionate Mind website
The Compassionate Mind: A New Approach to Life’s Challenges (Compassion Focused Therapy), by Paul...
2023-02-0649 min
The A to Z of HappinessDesireThe second Noble Truth in Buddhism states that desiring is the cause of all suffering, so some of us can think that it’s a bad thing.In this episode, Anya and Mark explore desire in all its forms and functions.Three promptsWhat do you want?Is it a need, a want, or a desire?What would happen if you were guided by your desires?ResourcesWikipedia definition of desireThe four noble truthsCompassionate Mind websiteThe Compassionate Mind: A New Approach to Life's Challenges (Compassion Focused Therapy), by Paul GilbertVincent Fe...
2023-02-0649 min
The A to Z of HappinessCompassionCompassion is a biological necessity. It’s separate from sympathy or empathy, and as Bowlby puts it, “our brains are biologically designed to respond to the care and kindness of others”.
Things to consider
How comfortable are you with giving or receiving compassion – ie friendly care, patience, and a sense of connectedness?
What’s asking to be held, rather than healed?
What could a greater sense of compassion unlock for you?
Resources
I’ll Stand By You, by Pretenders
Wired for Dating: How Understanding Neurobiology and Attachment Style Can Help You Find Your Ideal Mate, and Wi...
2023-01-3039 min
The A to Z of HappinessCompassionCompassion is a biological necessity. It’s separate from sympathy or empathy, and as Bowlby puts it, “our brains are biologically designed to respond to the care and kindness of others”.
2023-01-3039 min
The A to Z of HappinessBelongingWhere or when did you last feel like you belonged… or did not belong? What are the differences between belonging and fitting in, and how can you create a greater sense of belonging for yourself?
Join Anya Pearse and Mark Steadman as they unpack the science of happiness, one letter at a time.
Resources
Fit Right In, by Kimiko Glenn, Vanessa Hudgens, James Marsden & My Little Pony
The Gifts of Imperfection, by Brene Brown
Lana Jelenjev, Community Alchemist
The Happy Startup School Summercamp
Big I, Little i CBT exercise (pdf)
If you want to go...
2023-01-2338 min
The A to Z of HappinessBelongingWhere or when did you last feel like you belonged… or did not belong? What are the differences between belonging and fitting in, and how can you create a greater sense of belonging for yourself?
2023-01-2338 min
The A to Z of HappinessAcceptanceWhat are you stopping yourself from accepting about yourself, and what would it mean for how you see yourself?
Resources
Born This Way, by Lady Gaga
The Guest House, by Rumi
New & Ancient Story Podcast with Charles Eisenstein: Episode 04 – Francis Weller: Of Grief and Reverence
The Wild Edge of Sorrow, by Francis Weller
The Body Keeps the Score, by Bessel van der Kolk
Radical Acceptance: Awakening the Love that Heals Fear and Shame by Tara Brach
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and its research basis
Psychological flexibility and family relationships research
The Museum of Happiness
Anya Pearse, In...
2023-01-1636 min
The A to Z of HappinessAcceptanceWhat are you stopping yourself from accepting about yourself, and what would it mean for how you see yourself?
2023-01-1636 min
The A to Z of HappinessIntroducing The A to Z of HappinessSome people seem to find happiness effortless. For others it can feel like something just out of reach, like the cake and ice cream you get at the end of a lifetime eating nothing but sprouts.
Anya Pearse is the Head of Positive Psychology at the Museum of Happiness, who has happiness at her core but works to maintain it every day.
Mark Steadman is just trying to figure out how to get to sleep at night without his brain reminding him of seven different dumb he did that day.
If, like them...
2023-01-1303 min
The A to Z of HappinessIntroducing The A to Z of HappinessIf you feel like three toddlers in a trench coat masquerading as a functioning adult, join Anya and Mark as they unpack happiness one letter at a time.
2023-01-1303 min
Better Bolder BraverConnecting Dots with Anya PearseAnya Pearse is like the mobile libraries of our childhood. You would look forward to it arriving and be welcomed in with open arms to a cave of wonders filled with exciting and nourishing resources to cosy up with.
She is the first to have a reassuringly apt reference in any conversation - be it a book, an article, a podcast, a poem… she can contextualise our experience in any moment within a wide world of others' experiences, reflections and wisdom - which is hugely comforting, inspiring and humbling. If we “read to know we are not alon...
2022-08-031h 03
Listen to Latest Full Audiobooks in Mystery, Thriller & Horror, SuspenseThe Retreat: A Novel by Sarah PearsePlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/533243to listen full audiobooks.
Title: The Retreat: A Novel
Series: #2 of Detective Elin Warner Series
Author: Sarah Pearse
Narrator: Elizabeth Knowelden
Format: Unabridged Audiobook
Length: 10 hours 36 minutes
Release date: July 19, 2022
Ratings: Ratings of Book: 3.6 of Total 15
Ratings of Narrator: 2.6 of Total 5
Genres: Suspense
Publisher's Summary:
AN INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER! From the New York Times bestselling author of The Sanatorium, a Reese’s Book Club pick, here, Detective Elin Warner uncovers the truth behind the suspicious deaths on a stunning island getaway. “Devilish and deliciously twisty.” —People “The suspense inexorably builds to a stunning cl...
2022-07-1910h 36
The Happy EntrepreneurBusiness doesn't have to be a battle, so put down the armourHow do we put down our armour of self-sufficiency and competence?While it protects us from challenges and shields us from criticism, it also cuts us off from deep connection and essential support.We think that we need the armour to “hold ourselves together” because if we “let go”, we might not be able to pull ourselves together again.Holding it all in affects our ability to be creative, make healthy business decisions, and have lives which spring from our core values.Holding...
2022-01-1948 min