In this episode of the Tales to Inspire Podcast, we’re welcoming 2025 with renewed purpose and commitment to amplifying the voices of those who have shared their stories of transformation and resilience. With 193 episodes and over 164 ambassadors featured, we’ve created a powerful archive of inspirational tales that remind us all that overcoming adversity is possible.

This year, Tales to Inspire is stepping up its support, not just by providing a platform for stories, but also by integrating those stories into the workplace. We know that work environments can be challenging, and our goal is to help foster connection and resilience through keynote talks, workshops, panel discussions, and tailored programs around awareness days.

Whether you’re looking for personal inspiration or seeking to bring powerful stories into your workplace, we have something for everyone. Our stories highlight the importance of self-acceptance, empathy, and the strength to overcome life’s obstacles.

To find out more or get in touch with us, visit talestoinspire.com. Thank you for being a part of this journey with us—let’s make 2025 a year of even greater inspiration and change!

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Cherelle Mitchell shares her journey of resilience, healing, and self-acceptance. From growing up with the challenges of her mother’s schizophrenia and emotional abuse to finding her voice and embracing her authentic self, Cherelle’s story is one of courage and transformation.

She opens up about coming out in 2014, navigating life as an LGBTQ+ teacher, and the importance of representation and acceptance in schools. Cherelle also reflects on how fitness and CrossFit became outlets for growth and balance in her life.

With honesty and vulnerability, Cherelle offers insights into overcoming imposter syndrome, prioritising mental health, and finding purpose in life. Her story is a powerful reminder of the strength in embracing who you truly are.

Key Topics Discussed:

Self-Acceptance and Healing: Cherelle emphasizes the importance of understanding and accepting oneself as the foundation for healing and personal growth.

Mental Health and Childhood Trauma: Cherelle reflects on her mother’s schizophrenia, emotional abuse, and how these experiences shaped her childhood, self-perception, and mental health.

Confronting the Past: Cherelle discusses how therapy, support systems, and confronting emotional trauma have been key in her healing process.

Navigating Identity and Sexuality: Cherelle shares her journey of coming out in 2014 and the challenges and societal pressures she faced, highlighting the significance of representation and acceptance.

The Role of Fitness in Healing: Fitness, particularly CrossFit, has been a powerful outlet for Cherelle’s physical and mental well-being, helping her find balance and joy in her life.

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Cherelle discusses how she has dealt with feelings of inadequacy despite her achievements, stressing the importance of self-compassion and recognising one’s value.

Career Transitions and Self-Reflection: Cherelle talks about her career journey, exploring different roles, managing burnout, and rediscovering her passion for teaching.

Social Prescribing and Community Building: Cherelle emphasizes the role of social and recreational activities in combating loneliness and building supportive communities.

Purpose and Societal Expectations: Cherelle challenges societal norms and reflects on how living authentically leads to greater joy and purpose.

The Power of Communication: Cherelle offers advice on being honest with oneself and others, maintaining open communication to foster understanding and avoid guilt.

In this bite-sized episode, Cherelle Mitchell shares her unique perspective on kindness, exploring how being kind to oneself serves as the foundation for a more compassionate and understanding world. From her own struggles with self-worth and mental health to the pivotal moments that shaped her journey, Cherelle reminds us that kindness starts from within and radiates outward.

Defining Kindness:

• Kindness starts with self-awareness and self-compassion.
• Recognising the importance of role models in shaping our understanding of kindness.

Cherelle's Personal Journey:

• Overcoming the pressure to always "be better" and learning to pause.
• Experiencing a personal crisis in 2014 that led her to mindfulness and self-reflection.
• Seeking professional help to address childhood trauma and challenges.

Kindness and Society:

• Examining the kindness scale in today’s world.
• How societal pressures, cultural capital, and individual experiences shape perceptions of kindness.

Kindness as a Fluid Concept:

• Understanding that kindness is not static—it can shift based on circumstances and emotions.
• The importance of honest communication and vulnerability to foster kindness in relationships and communities.

Shifting Perspectives:

• Cherelle’s belief in the power of mindset: reframing daily challenges to find gratitude and positivity.
• Recognising that unkind actions often stem from unresolved struggles rather than inherent malice.