Send White Fox Talking a Message

What happens when hate crime tears through a community? Behind the headlines and political noise, real people suffer lasting trauma that transforms into a "siege mentality," severely impacting mental health and wellbeing. Imran Shah, recently honored with an MBE for his 25 years of work in community cohesion, brings us to the front lines of this battle.

Drawing from his powerful personal journey that began with homelessness at age 15, Imran reveals how misinformation, exploitation, and division are strategically weaponized in today's digital landscape. His Digital Cohesion Unit works around the clock to identify potential flashpoints before violence erupts. "After the Southport murders," Imran explains, "we were contending with two types of social media posts—those from state actors planting misinformation to drive divisiveness, and those from extremist groups trying to get people 'frothing at the mouth.'"

The conversation shifts between deeply personal stories and broader societal observations. When communities lose youth centers, educational support, and economic opportunities, the vacuum is filled by those seeking to exploit vulnerable people. Yet Imran consistently highlights the counternarrative rarely covered in headlines—how everyday people from different faiths and backgrounds come together after tragedies to rebuild and support one another.

Perhaps most powerful is Imran's insight into breaking cycles of hate through education. "The social values are being set at a much younger age now," he notes when discussing programs that teach children about exploitation, radicalization, and community values before harmful influences can take root.

This episode offers a rare, nuanced look at community cohesion work that happens behind the scenes, revealing how personal trauma can transform into purpose when supported by compassion and connection. As Imran powerfully states, "If you're waiting for somebody to come in and help, you're going to be waiting a bloody long time."

Join our conversation that cuts through polarized debates to find common ground in our shared humanity. Don't forget to support White Fox Talking through our website where you can buy us a coffee to help keep these important conversations going.

Support the show

Send White Fox Talking a Message

Grace Olson's sheep aren't livestock – they're therapists with woolly coats and gentle souls that can transform lives. During this captivating conversation, Grace shares how her journey through bullying and suicidal tendencies led to unexpected healing through animal connections. Now, she's channelling these therapeutic experiences into beautifully illustrated children's books that might just save young lives.

Each of Grace's sheep-centered stories carries profound emotional lessons disguised as charming tales. "Merlin Finds His Magic" teaches children that helping others is where true magic lies. "Galahad Finds His Voice" speaks directly to sensitive children who feel different, showing them their uniqueness is actually their superpower. "Beryl Finds His Wings" demonstrates how changing negative thought patterns can transform one's entire experience of life.

What makes these stories particularly powerful is that they're based on real therapy sheep with remarkable abilities. Grace describes watching Merlin deliberately approach a grieving mother who had lost her son to suicide, standing with her for an hour in the snow and bringing her to laughter. The science behind animal therapy proves fascinating – sheep naturally maintain a relaxed parasympathetic state, and through mirror neurons, humans unconsciously adopt similar calm when in their presence.

Grace's mission comes from a place of profound urgency. As youth suicide rates continue climbing (her paediatrician sister reports cases increasing from 2/year to 2-3/month), these books aim to teach children early how to master their thoughts and develop emotional resilience. By presenting complex psychological concepts in accessible, engaging stories, she hopes to prevent the devastating mental health crises that often emerge during adolescence.

Want to experience the healing power of therapy sheep? Visit GraceOlsonAuthor.com to discover her books or find her YouTube channel, where videos of her singing to her sheep Galahad have become an unexpected source of joy for viewers worldwide.

Support the show

Send White Fox Talking a Message

Ever wondered how something as simple as your breath and cold water could completely transform your mental state and physical health? Jack Walker, certified Wim Hof instructor and founder of Wellness Retreat Spain, takes us on a deeply personal journey from struggling with cannabis addiction and unexplained depression to finding extraordinary clarity through breath work and cold exposure.

We are joined in the studio by Bradley Perigo, who practices the Wim Hof method. Also joining the conversation, online, is White Fox Talking resident Psychologist Dave Gallagher, to provide a scientific input.

The science behind the Wim Hof Method proves fascinating – when we deliberately cycle our nervous system between fight-or-flight and rest-digest states through specialized breathing techniques and cold immersion, we're literally rewiring our brain's stress response. This practice builds resilience that transfers to everyday challenges, from road rage to workplace pressure, creating a profound shift in how we handle life's difficulties.

What makes this approach so powerful is its accessibility. Jack explains how just two minutes in cold water (not necessarily ice!) can activate cardiovascular improvements through vasoconstriction and vasodilation, essentially exercising your 100,000 kilometres of blood vessels like you'd train a muscle. The method also stimulates brown fat activation, boosts immune function, and provides remarkable mental clarity – all confirmed by scientific studies showing significant improvements in mood, energy, and sense of control.

Whether you're battling stress, seeking performance enhancement, or simply curious about pushing beyond comfort zones, this episode offers practical insights for incorporating these techniques safely into your routine. Jack's upcoming wellness retreats in Spain provide an immersive opportunity to experience these benefits in a supportive environment, complete with yoga, meditation, and fresh farm-to-table dining.

Ready to discover what your body and mind are truly capable of? This conversation might just be the first step toward finding unexpected peace in discomfort.


Instagram

Website: Wellness Retreats Spain

VLOG

Support the show

Send White Fox Talking a Message

What happens when the fighting spirit meets profound loss? Two-time British Thai Boxing Champion Padraic McDonagh takes us on a raw, unfiltered journey through his remarkable life—from discovering Thai boxing as a 12-year-old on a Leeds council estate to building a legacy that transforms lives through combat sports.

McDonagh's story pivots around his mentor Steve Adams, who spotted his talent immediately and became a father figure in his life. "Stick at this, you're going to be a champion," Steve told him after his first training session. Those words planted seeds of self-belief that flourished into British championships by age 16. But when Steve passed away suddenly in 2010, McDonagh's world collapsed, leading to a dark period of grief, anxiety, and excessive drinking.

The podcast doesn't shy away from mental health struggles. McDonagh speaks candidly about developing "death anxiety" and how counseling ultimately saved him: "Even after the first session I could breathe again." His honesty dismantles stereotypes about fighters and masculinity, showing that seeking help requires tremendous courage.

Today, McDonagh's Golden Team Boxing Gym stands as both memorial and mission—a 4,000 square foot space where champions train alongside 73-year-old charity boxers and troubled youth find direction. His work extends beyond the gym into local primary schools, where he shows children from disadvantaged backgrounds that they too can achieve greatness: "I'm just from an Irish family in the middle of Seacroft and you can do exactly the same."

The conversation illuminates how combat sports naturally incorporate the "five pillars of mental health"—exercise, nutrition, sleep, community, and self-care—creating an environment where healing happens through discipline and connection. For anyone battling their own demons or looking to make a difference in their community, McDonagh's journey offers powerful proof that our deepest wounds can become our greatest purpose.

Golden Team Youtube
Golden Team Instagram

Subscribe now to hear more stories of transformation and resilience from everyday heroes making extraordinary impact.

Support the show

Send White Fox Talking a Message

What happens when you leave school to follow a band and end up shaping an entire era of clubbing? Dave Beer, the trailblazer behind the legendary Back to Basics, did just that. In our latest episode, Dave shares his remarkable journey from punk rock rebellion to an influential career as a promoter, musician, and artist. We explore how his struggles with ADHD in his youth fuelled a passion for music and community, leading to a life defined by resilience and creativity. Through Dave's eyes, we see how labels of the past, like being deemed "dysfunctional," can transform into powerful narratives of self-discovery and triumph.

Our conversation takes a reflective turn as Dave opens up about the impact of modern communication on youth and creativity, likening it to living under a "Big Brother" scenario. We reminisce about the origins of Back to Basics, celebrating its ethos of prioritising community and authenticity over profit. In a world dominated by screens and social media, Dave emphasises the importance of genuine human connection and the role of music in fostering creativity and self-expression. We touch on the nostalgia of 90s clubbing and the unique social atmosphere that defined an era of freedom and opportunity.

The episode takes an emotional depth as Dave candidly discusses his battle with cancer and the transformative power of love and support. He shares how Buddhism and the concept of synchronicity have brought him solace, inspiring a renewed appreciation for life. Dave's journey through adversity highlights the power of a positive mindset and the enduring impact of determination and passion. As we wrap up, we look forward to his upcoming projects, including a book, film, and album, underscoring the cyclical nature of life's experiences and the continuous pursuit of authenticity and creativity.

BANDCAMP

Support the show

Send White Fox Talking a Message

Have you ever felt like the healing power of nature could transform your life? Meet Abbie Barnes, a filmmaker, presenter, inspiring public speaker, mountain leader, and YouTuber, whose remarkable journey through adversity has led to the founding of Spend More Time in the Wild. In our engaging conversation, Abbie reveals how the solace of the outdoors provided refuge during childhood struggles with bullying, shaping a passion for encouraging others to harness nature's therapeutic benefits.

Abbie’s story is not just about personal healing but also about confronting and overcoming challenges when first entering the outdoor industry, where Abbie faced negativity and discouragement.

Abbie shares candidly of a personal journey, which touches on themes of identity, mental health, and finding strength in vulnerability. Abbie opens up about living authentically as a trans non-binary individual and the challenges of balancing societal expectations with personal acceptance. Through resilience and authenticity, Abbie has carved a path of empowerment, using experiences to foster and supportive community where others can embrace their true selves. Abbie shares personal insights into the connections between nature and mental well-being, underscoring the transformative power of showing up wholeheartedly for oneself.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into self-care and mindfulness practices that have supported Abbie’s growth and mental health. From using a camera as a tool for self-expression to building a mindful relationship with food, Abbie’s story is a testament to the importance of creativity, gratitude, and self-awareness. Abbie’s narrative encourages us to break free from societal constraints and find joy and balance in life.

Join us as we uncover the lessons and inspirations from Abbie Barnes, whose passion for the outdoors and authenticity serves as a guiding light for those seeking empowerment through nature and self-expression.

LinkTree

Spend More Time In The WILD

YouTube

Support the show

Send White Fox Talking a Message

Have you ever wondered why menopause isn't a standard topic in our educational curriculum? Join us on a journey with Catherine Childe, the Menopausal Teacher, as she takes us through her personal story of transitioning from a teaching career to becoming a beacon of support for women navigating menopause. Catherine courageously shares her struggles with anxiety and vertigo, revealing how these challenges ultimately led her to a new calling. Her experiences highlight not just the need for greater awareness, but also the societal and mental health implications that come with this natural life stage.

Through our conversation, we tackle the stigma and historical misconceptions surrounding menopause. Catherine discusses why so many remain silent about this significant phase, despite its overwhelming impact on over half the population. Unpacking the diverse symptoms and their effects on mental health, we explore the role of hormone replacement therapy and the holistic approaches that can make a difference. Our discussion sheds light on the scarce resources available, questioning why there's not more support for a condition that affects so many women.

Life doesn’t pause for menopause, and we explore how it impacts women juggling personal and professional responsibilities. Catherine shares insights on managing symptoms while maintaining self-worth and confidence. We highlight the importance of workplace support and community awareness, emphasising how open discussions can offer relief. In a world that often overlooks menopause, our conversation is a call to arms for comprehensive education and the dismantling of outdated stigmas. Join us as we aim to empower individuals with knowledge and tools to advocate for their health and well-being.

The Menopausal Teacher (Web)
The Menopausal Teacher (Instagram)

Support the show

Send White Fox Talking a Message

What if the secret to true wellness lies just beyond our comfort zones, in the embrace of nature's vast landscapes? Join us as we explore the adventurous world of Nicky Chisholm, affectionately known as Pink Nicky, whose journey from organising vibrant networking events for female entrepreneurs to thriving as a freelance project manager in the adventure industry is nothing short of inspiring. Nicky's love for the outdoors is infectious—whether she's running a half-marathon in the icy terrains of Greenland or hitting the road in her trusty camper van, Daisy. Through her stories, we uncover the profound impact of outdoor activities on mental well-being and the transformative power of building communities rooted in shared interests.

Family adventures have a unique way of shaping our relationship with the outdoors, and we delve into these legacies as we share personal stories of childhood camping trips and introducing the wonders of nature to the next generation. As life's chapters evolve, solo adventures beckon, offering new ways to connect with the world around us. From skiing in the Arctic to trekking through Peru, the bonds forged during these journeys remind us of the irreplaceable value of community and connection. Through these narratives, we emphasise the accountability and joy that come from shared experiences, reinforcing the idea that community is an essential part of our outdoor pursuits.

Celebrate International Women's Day with us through an ambitious swim event that unites 1,000 women across Brighton and Dorset. This initiative is all about stepping out of comfort zones, fostering empowerment, and celebrating the incredible bonds formed through shared adventures. We highlight stories of unexpected friendships from off-grid living in Sweden and discuss the healing power of water, which not only connects us with nature but also advocates for environmental change. We invite listeners to embrace their unique paths and find courage in community, while reflecting on the power of consistent outdoor practices for holistic well-being.

pinknicky.com

Instagram

Support the show