Shows
Connection Matters PodcastWhen Fear Wants to Contract You: Creating Vision in Uncertain TimesThis episode explores the importance of connected self-leadership during times of transformation and uncertainty. We dive into why feeling fear is essential rather than something to push down, how contraction shows up when we're afraid, and why focusing only inward disconnects us from the interconnected web of life. I'll guide you through practical exercises for clarifying your values, crafting a personal vision grounded in everyday spirituality, and discovering your unique mission. Drawing on concepts from Joanna Macy's Great Turning and systems theory, we explore how breakdown precedes breakthrough, and why your individual vision contributes to collective transformation. This is...
2025-10-1834 min
Connection Matters PodcastMystic Nomad: A Woman's Wild Journey to True Connection with Annette KnoppBrief Overview:In this episode of Connection Matters, Annette Knopp shares her transformative journey from restlessness and spiritual searching to embodied awakening and authentic connection. Together, we explore how to navigate inner wounds, avoid spiritual traps, and cultivate a life grounded in belonging, purpose, and meaning.Key Themes & Topics:Recognising authentic spiritual guidance versus spiritual bypassingHow early life experiences shape our seeking and patternsStaying with the dark nights of the soul as a path to growthThe four pillars of true connection: belonging, purpose, transcendence, and narrativeIntegrating inner healing with spiritual practice to live fully humanRelationships...
2025-10-081h 06Connection Matters PodcastThree Big Choices That Changed My Life - What Are Yours?In this episode, we explore what it really means to live authentically in a world full of expectations. I'll take you behind the scenes of my unconventional choices: why I converted a van and how it became my sanctuary during challenging times, why I've invested in coaches and mentors for over 14 years straight, and how I've never worked a full-time job in my entire career.We dive deep into the courage required for connected self-leadership, the philosophy of "enough" versus endless accumulation, and why conscious choices aren't selfish - they're actually deeply generous. You'll discover practical ways...
2025-08-0632 minConnection Matters PodcastConnection Over Chaos - A Parent's Guide to Surviving Summer at HomeIn this honest episode, I take you inside our family's summer experiment and share the practical wisdom I've learned about staying connected to yourself and your children when everything feels unstructured and intense.Key Themes and Topics:We explore why self-care isn't selfish but essential for summer survival, how to create anchoring practices that ground you when routines disappear, and finding the sweet spot between structure and spontaneity that allows real connection to flourish. I share personal stories about navigating summer transitions, managing expectations, and what happens when you're spending more time together in less...
2025-07-2330 minConnection Matters PodcastAll Eyes on Gaza - Real Lives, Real PeopleIn this deeply moving episode, I share a story about my recent video call with Noorhan, a 25-year-old mother in Gaza, and explore how personal healing work and collective action are inseparably connected. We'll journey through the cost of speaking truth in today's world, the magic that happens when we gather in solidarity circles, and why your sensitivity isn't weakness—it's exactly what the world needs. Learn practical ways to stay present with collective trauma, find your authentic response to injustice, and join a community committed to connected action. Please donate to Noor and her family using thi...
2025-07-1629 min
Connection Matters PodcastBearing Witness to Whats Happening in Palestine Without Shutting Down: Sacred Practices for Processing Collective Griefhttps://www.leonajohnson.life/blogpodcast/staying-awake-without-shutting-downThis isn't your typical Connection Matters episode, but it might be one of the most important conversations we'll have. I'm sharing how to navigate the collective trauma of witnessing genocide in real-time while staying connected to your own healing and capacity for meaningful action.Key Themes and Topics:We explore why witnessing collective trauma affects sensitive beings so deeply, practical ways to stay informed without drowning in despair, and sacred rituals for processing grief while maintaining hope. I share my personal experience working in Gaza, the historical context...
2025-07-0150 minConnection Matters PodcastStripped Back, Tuned In: Simplicity, Spirituality & Self-Leadership with Vicky Mateuhttps://pages.leonajohnson.life/beyond-self-helpWhat does it look like to live in deep alignment, with nature, with purpose, and with your own inner compass? In this rich and nourishing conversation, Leona sits down with long-time friend, teacher, and collaborator Vicky Mateu, whose life’s work bridges spiritual ecology, parenting, nature connection, and embodied living.Vicky brings a unique tapestry of training in emotional intelligence, oriental dietetics, grief tending, theatre, alternative education, and spiritual traditions. Her grounded yet luminous presence shines through in this conversation where she and Leona explore:Living simply and sustainably while raising a...
2025-06-241h 06Connection Matters PodcastThe Ripple Effect: How Your Inner Work Transforms Everything (And Everyone) Around YouJoin me for an intimate exploration of how personal transformation creates ripples that touch every relationship, community, and space you enter. You'll discover practical tools for emotional awareness, authentic connection, and joyful learning that transform reactive patterns into connected self-leadership. In this heart-centered episode, we dive deep into the interconnected web of personal growth, exploring how emotional resilience, meaningful relationships, and continuous learning support each other in beautiful, unexpected ways. I share the powerful RAIN practice for navigating difficult emotions, the art of deep listening that transforms relationships, and why approaching life with beginner's mind keeps us...
2025-06-1731 minConnection Matters PodcastHow Nature Questing Awakens Your Inner Compass and Everyday SpiritualityIn this inspiring episode, you'll learn how to design your own nature quest ceremony - whether you have four hours or four days - and discover how this ancient practice becomes a gateway to connected self-leadership and integrated living.Join me as I share intimate stories from my own questing journey, including my transformative 40th birthday solo ceremony and facilitating wild women in the Spanish wilderness. We explore the art of asking powerful questions that invite real insight, how to prepare for and hold sacred space in nature, and the crucial integration practices that bring the gifts...
2025-06-1040 minConnection Matters PodcastFinding Your True North: Balancing Vision, Presence & Purpose in a Noisy WorldSo many of us feel caught between two extremes—trying to enjoy the present moment while also feeling pressure to figure out the future. In this heartfelt and practical episode, I dive into the deeper reasons traditional goal-setting often leaves us feeling stuck or unfulfilled, and why cultivating a “Life Compass” rooted in your values and purpose can be far more empowering than rigid life plans.We explore how vision and purpose are not the same—and how understanding both can help you feel more alive, focused, and connected to what truly matters. I share personal stories, spiritua...
2025-06-0330 min
Connection Matters PodcastRooted in Healing: How One Woman’s Herbal Journey Inspires Authentic Living - With Jane ChristieWhat You’ll Discover Join Leona and herbalist Jane as they explore the inspiring journey from speech therapy to a soul-led life of plant medicine, self-trust, and deep nature connection. Discover how everyday herbs, intuitive practices, and simple living can support personal growth and healing.Key Themes and TopicsJane’s transition from speech therapist to herbalist and entrepreneurEarly inspirations and her grandmother’s rose gardenThe medicinal and spiritual dimensions of herbalismCreating and working with flower essences like “Rebirth” (dandelion)Practical and intuitive approaches to herbal tea...
2025-05-271h 20
Connection Matters PodcastBeauty in Breakdown: 4 Resilience Practices for When Life Falls ApartIn this heartfelt episode, I share my personal journey through breakdown and the four essential practices that became my lifelines, helping you build your own resilience toolkit for life's inevitable challenges.Key Themes and TopicsJoin me as I explore the counterintuitive wisdom that our most painful breakdowns often contain hidden gifts, if we have the courage to move through rather than around our pain. I'll guide you through four life-saving practices: anchoring in personal rituals that reconnect you to yourself, activating your web of human connection when you need it most, refocusing your energy in...
2025-05-2031 minConnection Matters PodcastWhen Nobody Gets Your Connection Path: Finding Your Spiritual Tribe in a Disconnected WorldIn this soul-nourishing episode, I share personal stories and practical wisdom for anyone feeling alone in their passion for connection, nature, and spirituality. You'll discover four powerful approaches to honor your path while navigating relationships with loved ones who may not understand your practices or interests.Key Themes and TopicsExplore how to practice nature connection and everyday spirituality purely for yourself rather than trying to change others; learn strategies for finding and nurturing relationships with like-minded souls even when they're not in your immediate circle; discover how to become a culture creator who actively...
2025-05-1333 minConnection Matters PodcastCreating Sacred Space at Home: It’s a Way of BeingWe explore the four essential elements of sacred space - intention, connection, presence, and evolution - and I guide you through practical, heart-led ways to declutter, create meaningful rituals, and invite beauty into your home, no matter the size or stage of life you’re in.Whether you're a soulful entrepreneur, a busy parent, or someone craving more everyday spirituality, this episode offers grounded inspiration and gentle practices to help you create space that nourishes your soul and supports your purpose.Key topics include:What sacred space really means (beyond crystals and cushions)...
2025-05-0627 minConnection Matters PodcastThe Art of Gathering - From Small Talk to Soul TalkJoin me in exploring how simple intentional shifts can transform ordinary gatherings into powerful spaces of genuine connection and growth. In this warm and engaging episode, we dive deep into the elements that make gatherings meaningful—whether in your home, community, or workplace. You'll learn how to create safety and structure, incorporate beauty and gratitude, and cultivate authentic sharing. Drawing from personal stories, everyday spirituality, and practical life coaching insights, I'll guide you step-by-step through hosting connective circles, family meals, or impactful work meetings. Whether you're a heart-centred entrepreneur, facilitator, or simply someone who longs for deeper com...
2025-04-2947 minConnection Matters PodcastCultural Emergence Explained: Conscious Living & Connected LeadershipEver wondered what exactly "Cultural Emergence" means, and how it could make a tangible difference in your daily life? Join me, Leona Johnson, as we dive deeply into this powerful practice, exploring how intentional culture-making influences everything from our personal well-being to collective transformation. You'll learn about the essential role of vision, discover practical tools and principles for communicating authentically, and explore ways to embody this approach in everyday life and leadership. Together, we’ll imagine a culturally emergent day, discuss why shared language matters, and explore actionable frameworks—including the Design Web and the PEACE toolkit—to help you sh...
2025-04-2527 min
Accidental GodsA Longing for Belonging: Shifting the Cultural Paradigm with Looby Macnamara and Leona JohnsonIf we are in the midst of the Great Derangement (thank you Amitav Ghosh), what tools do we have to help us shape a system that is actually fit for purpose? Who are our elders and what can they teach us? How do we learn to listen to our heart's (and hearts') desire and shape the communities of place, passion and purpose that will allow us to emerge into a different culture? Our two guests this week live and work at the heart of a global movement for cultural change. Looby Macnamara is the co-founder of the C...
2025-04-021h 23Connection Matters PodcastCultivating Connected Self-Leadership in a Disconnected WorldThis episode explores the transformative practice of connected self-leadership through journeying through the elements of presence and self-awareness as foundations for authentic leadership. Discover how to distinguish between the voice of fear and your inner wisdom, and learn how nature connection can strengthen your self-leadership practice. We explore the research behind mindful awareness, discuss how everyday choices become spiritual practice, and offer concrete strategies to integrate connected self-leadership into daily life. Perfect for heart-centered people, seeking everyday spirituality, and anyone ready to lead from the inside out rather than be guided by external expectations.Ready to strengthen...
2025-03-1433 minConnection Matters PodcastThe Elemental Connection: How Earth, Water, Fire & Air Deepen Your Everyday SpiritualityThrough storytelling, science, and practical wisdom, we’ll uncover:✨ The unique lessons and energies each element offers✨ Simple, everyday practices to integrate elemental connection into your life✨ How tuning into the elements can bring clarity, balance, and renewal✨ Why nature-based wisdom is essential for heart-centred livingBy the end of this episode, you’ll have a fresh perspective on how these fundamental forces shape your personal journey and how to cultivate their presence in your daily life.✨ Free Resource for You!Want to dive deeper into elemental connection? Download my free Elemen...
2025-03-1138 minConnection Matters PodcastHow nature connection can help us find focus and flowBy the end of this episode, you’ll walk away with fresh strategies to bring ease and clarity into even the busiest days.Plus, don't miss the Flow with Nature: Daily Guide to Expanding Time and Focus . It's a FREE Nature-Based Time Management Guide to help you start a nature-connection practice that can reshape your days. Check out the full write-up, blog post and show notes here.
Thank You for Listening!I am so grateful to you for tuning into this episode of Connection Matters Podcast. This i...
2024-11-0714 min
Connection Matters PodcastAny Human Power with Manda ScottTo dive deeper into these themes and explore detailed podcast notes inclduing more about Manda's new novel Any Human Power, check out my latest blog post here. More about Manda ScottManda Scott is an award-winning novelist and host of the acclaimed Accidental Gods podcast. Best known for the Boudica: Dreaming series, her previous novels have been short-listed for the Orange Prize, the Edgar, Wilbur Smith and Saltire Awards and won the McIlvanney Prize. Her latest novel ANY HUMAN POWER is a Mytho-Political thriller which lays out a Thrutopian road map to a Flourishing future w...
2024-10-291h 22Connection Matters PodcastHealing Ancestral Family Patterns for Personal GrowthIn this episode you’ll learn practical tools like journaling prompts, nature-based practices, and rituals for release—all designed to help you navigate and transform inherited patterns with compassion and intention. We also explore ways to tap into the strengths and wisdom of your lineage, turning ancestral connection into a source of healing.Tune in for an inspiring conversation that invites you to reconnect with your roots and step into your fullest potential. And don’t forget to check out our FREE DOWNLOADABLE.pdf that offers further guidance, practices, and journaling exercises. Download it now and beg...
2024-10-1616 min
Connection Matters PodcastRe-wilding Our Nervous System For Connection with Jon YoungTo read more about the episode read the full blog post here.Jon Young’s personal journey into nature connection and cultural mentoringThe influence of Indigenous communities like the Bushmen of the KalahariThe impact and legacy of Jon’s mentor, Tom Brown Jr., and his teachings on peace, love, joy, and purpose.The role of sensory integration and emotional regulation in human wellbeingCommunity gatherings as a pathway to building resilience and connectionThe five sacred questions of Cultural Emergence as tools for transformationPractical insights and tips for integrating nature connection into everyday lifeTune in to learn more abou...
2024-10-101h 17
Connection Matters PodcastThe magic of immersive connection experiences with Looby Macnamara and Leona JohnsonIn this inspiring and enriching conversation Leona and Looby talk about the Model of The Eight Shields and how following the natural patterns of flow from daily and seasonal, to life stages and their corresponding energies, can create the optimum conditions for connection, healing and growth. Using this model powerful fields of connection and emergence can occur. They discuss how entering these environments where encouragement, authenticity, joy and deep connection are designed as part of the foundational premise, can completley reset our nervouse system and enable us to return to everyday life at home resourced with tools and the...
2024-05-2145 min
Real Voices of Happy ValleyEpisode 38 Leona Johnson talks about Forest School and Live Wild connecting people with natureLeona Johnson has been involved in a Forest School, Live Wild, a social worker and transformational life coach … among other things. Her mission – her passion - is to connect people with nature and each other. Viv and Dave met up with her in Mytholmroyd and heard about wildings holiday cubs, live wild family activities and fire questing. Have a listen and find out more at www.livewild.org.uk and www.leonajohnson.life
2024-05-1727 min
Connection Matters PodcastNVC and Compassioante Communication with Sarah LudfordWhat is NVC?A consciousness, a mindset, way of beingCompassion and connectionPactical tool- listening, open questionsClear and simple structure to help us communicate with curiosity and compassionMarshall Rosenburg talked about it as a spiritual practiceA choice a way I live lifeAhimsa- sanscrit- non-violence - a=absence of -violenceNVC a tool of social changeNVC being used in Bosnia, Palestine, Israel, Prisons, Rwanda.National group - nvc trainers for conflict within NVC communityRestorative justiceConflict brings a message, not everyones needs are met, is natural and normal,NVC for Connection and changeLinks mentioned in this episodewww.sarahludford.co...
2022-06-0152 min
Connection Matters PodcastCreating and Understanding Meaning with Sal GencarelleLinks mentioned in this episodeHelpers Mentoring Society Linkshttps://www.helpersmentoringsociety.net/https://www.instagram.com/helpersmentoring/https://www.facebook.com/helpersmentorhttps://helpersmentoringsociety.mykajabi.com/bisonprojectOur website is www.livewild.org.uk/connectionmatterspodcastMy personal instagram is https://www.instagram.com/connection.matters.leona/Support us on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/connectionmatterspodcastConnect with us on instagram https://www.instagram.com/livewilduk/The music for this podcast is -Hermosa Dia by Ray Johnson https://soundcloud.c...
2022-02-151h 36
Connection Matters PodcastGlobal Social Leaders With Amy ManderLinks mentioned in this episodehttps://www.globalsocialleaders.com/www.future-foundations.co.uk#gslfest #gslgoals #smallactions #bigimpactOur website is www.livewild.org.uk/connectionmatterspodcastConnect with us on instagram https://www.instagram.com/livewilduk/My personal instagram is https://www.instagram.com/leona.connection.matters/The music for this podcast is -Hermosa Dia by Ray Johnson https://soundcloud.com/visionrayBiographyFuture Foundations’ mission is to inspire young people to achieve their full potential and become leaders in their lives and within society. Our vision is a society where all organisations are led by socially conscious peo...
2021-06-171h 06
Connection Matters PodcastCommunity, Collaboration and Connection with Danny EnglishThings we talk about in this episodeThe value of experiencing community and nature connection as a young adultUSA- Interlocken- centre for experiential educationFinding connection and healing. From lost teen to purposeful adult.Louise Chawla - Research on Significant life experiencesPositive, meaningful and memorable experiences being a catalyst for changeThe importance of enthusiastic and significant adult mentorsCollaboration as a driver for connection and communityHaving support/accountability but also autonomyThe joy of writing childrens storiesLinks mentioned in this episodehttps://www.webekids.net/www.patreon.com/connectionmatterspodcastOur website is www...
2020-11-231h 09
Connection Matters PodcastThe Power of Mentoring with Victoria MewThings we talk about in this episodeJourney into Nature ConnectionThomas Schorr-Kon- TrackwaysWilderness Awareness SchoolThe Art of MentoringThe power of long term mentoringThe Forest School Associations- Nature Premium CampaignFSC- Forest School CampsRed Squirrel ResourcesLinks mentioned in this episodewww.patreon.com/connectionmatterspodcasthttps://redsquirrelresources.co.ukhttp://www.cultivating-curiosity.co.ukhttps://www.naturepremium.orghttps://www.trackways.co.uk/homeOur website is www.livewild.org.uk/connectionmatterspodcastConnect with us on instagram https://www.instagram.com/livewilduk/My p...
2020-09-281h 24
Connection Matters PodcastSpirit Communication, Death, Life and what comes after with Martha Hunt HandlerBooks Mentioned in this episodeThe Gift of Fear by Gavin De BeckerSigns by Laura Lynne JacksonUntamed by Glennon DoyleLinks mentioned in this episodehttps://marthahunthandler.com/Our website is www.livewild.org.uk/connectionmatterspodcastConnect with us on instagram https://www.instagram.com/livewilduk/My personal instagram is https://www.instagram.com/leona.connection.matters/The music for this podcast is -Hermosa Dia by Ray Johnson https://soundcloud.com/visionrayBiographyI see magic at work everywhere around me. I don’t believe in coi...
2020-09-211h 18
Connection Matters PodcastThe Choose Love Movement with Scarlett LewisThings we talk about in this episodeThe Sandy Hook Tragedy and Scarletts experience of losing her son.Forgiveness is a choice then a processThe Choose Love MovementWhy do we need a Social and Emotional Learning programme in SchoolsPTSD and Post Traumatic GrowthThe courageous Rwandan Genocide orphans who reached out to the brother of Jesse Lewis to give him the strength to move forwardsHealing from TraumaCorona Virus Pandemic and the social and emotional consequences for societyThe FREE choose love programme.Links mentioned in this episodewww.patreon.com/connectionmatterspodcasthttps://chooselovemovement.org/
2020-09-071h 16Connection Matters PodcastConnection Matters Podcast TrailerMusic by Ray Johnson https://soundcloud.com/visionray
Thank You for Listening!I am so grateful to you for tuning into this episode of Connection Matters Podcast. This is my passion and where I share my hope for a better world. If you enjoyed what you heard, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing the podcast on your preferred platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners and spread the message of connection, healing and growth!Stay Connected:Join the Community: Be part of our growing community by si...
2020-05-2702 min