What if the hardest battles in life are the ones no one else can see?

From childhood OCD and intrusive thoughts to motherhood, identity, self-compassion and raising a neurodivergent family, Penny Moodie shares an honest and deeply moving conversation about what it means to live with uncertainty.

Best known as the author of The Joy Thief, mental health advocate and Co-host of @ItsNotWhatYouThinkPodcast , Penny explains why OCD is so often misunderstood, how Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy changed her life, and why compassion, not perfection, is often the key to healing.

The conversation also explores the invisible identity shift that many parents experience, the challenges of raising neurodivergent children, and why modelling emotional regulation matters more than trying to be the “perfect” parent.

Whether you live with OCD, love someone who does, or simply want to understand yourself and others with greater compassion, this episode offers practical insight and genuine hope.

In this episode you’ll discover:

• What OCD really feels like beyond common stereotypes

• Why uncertainty fuels anxiety - and how to respond differently

• How self-compassion can interrupt shame

• The identity challenges of becoming a stay-at-home parent

• Lessons from raising a neurodivergent family

• Why modelling behaviour is more powerful than giving advice

• Balancing openness with protecting children’s privacy

If this conversation resonates with you, please like, subscribe and share it with someone who might need to hear it.

Competition Details

Season 3 is proudly supported by Pulito Group. To celebrate, they’re giving one lucky business the chance to win $1,000 towards a professional commercial clean.

To enter, visit @pulito_group on Instagram, complete the form via the link in bio, follow @pulito_group, like the competition post, and tag a business owner, operator or decision-maker in the comments.

About the Let's Check In Podcast

Let's Check In Podcast explores the uncertain middle of modern life through candid conversations, expert insights and practical tools for navigating change, growth and wellbeing. Subscribe for new episodes and conversations that help make sense of life's challenges, opportunities and everything in between.

00:00 Parenting Changed Me First

00:30 Introduction 02:53 When OCD First Appeared

06:33 Learning To Live With Uncertainty

09:13 Pulito Group Sponsor Offer 10:15 The Biggest Misconceptions About OCD

14:15 Why Self-Compassion Matters

15:51 Losing Yourself In Parenthood

20:00 Your Children Become Your Greatest Teachers

22:30 Raising Neurodivergent Kids With Compassion

25:28 Family Diagnoses & Rediscovery

25:50 Hugh's Diagnosis

26:35 Why Penny Started It's Not What You Think Podcast

28:15 Breaking Shame, Protecting Privacy

31:06 Suzie's Reflections