Peace Unplugged

Exposing SpeakUp: Mental health support Margate

 Speak Up CIC, Margate. In this episode of Peace Unplugged, we dive deep into the heart of Speak Up CIC, a peer support project. Join me as I speak with Maggie and Kay, who share their inspiring journey of establishing the organization in 2011. They discuss the importance of maintaining an independent voice in mental health services and the challenges they face in a system increasingly driven by numbers rather than people. The conversation highlights the critical role of community support, the significance of individual journeys, and the transformative power of peer-led initiatives.Maggie and Kay reflect on their experiences with previous organizations, the evolution of mental health services, and the necessity of creating safe spaces for individuals to express themselves. They emphasize the value of listening and being heard, which fosters healing and confidence among members. Through engaging stories and insights, they illustrate how creative expression and community involvement can lead to personal growth and resilience.This episode is a powerful reminder of the human connection that underpins mental health support and the ongoing fight against stigma. Tune in to understand how Speak Up CIC is making a difference in the lives of many and how you can be part of this vital conversation.00:00 - Peace Unplugged speaks to Speak up CIC about peer support05:14 - Maggie says it's about people having somewhere safe they can go10:26 - Nelson College London has helped tackle mental health stigma14:36 - Rethink ran personality to peer support service for five years16:30 - If we say we want something, usually it happens17:14 - What brings you peace Kate? Music. What sort of music do you like?21:18 - No funding at all. So our members subscribe, and then the members make beautiful things

Personality Disorder: coping and managing

In this compelling episode of Peace Unplugged, Martin sits down with Louise Dukes, a passionate advocate for mental health and the founder of Clarity Counselling. Louise opens up about her journey with personality disorder, sharing the raw and honest realities of living with the condition. She reflects on her early diagnosis, the trauma that shaped her experiences, and the challenges of navigating a relationship with a partner struggling with addiction. Through candid storytelling, Louise discusses the impact of stigma, the importance of self-awareness, and the power of resilience. She emphasizes the significance of understanding emotions and the role of trauma in shaping our identities. With insights drawn from her professional background and personal struggles, Louise inspires listeners to embrace their journeys and foster genuine conversations around mental health. Join us as we explore the complexities of personality disorders and the path toward healing and acceptance.00:00 - You know that thing where you go into jobs and you feel like, you know,00:29 - Today's episode focuses on personality disorder06:08 - Louise gave birth to her daughter Ruby on Wednesday morning10:28 - I'm grateful because I've got friends, I've lost children13:31 - Yeah. I get the labeling is a real pain16:33 - People display challenging behavur because all they're trying to say is listen20:05 - You don't smoke anymore, but can you still not smoke when under pressure24:04 - Every negative I will turn into a positive. I am a survivor. Yeah, I am. I. Am.
https://www.claritycounsellingandlifecoaching.co.uk/

Who is Lady Gaga?

Born Gaga is a successful Lady Gaga tribute act that I have seen. In this episode, I spoke with Nicky, the singer. She describes in detail her passion for music, the therapeutic benefit she gets from performing, and how important mental health is. She explains her background in musical theatre, her experience performing on cruise ships, and who her musical influences are. 
We discuss Robbie Williams, The Dualers, The Specials, Madness, and Ska music. 

Breaking the Stigma: A conversation on Neurodiversity

In this thought-provoking episode of Peace Unplugged, Martin engages in a heartfelt conversation with Nick from the USA, who shares his candid experiences with neurodiversity. Nick opens up about the stigma surrounding his condition, recounting the challenges he faced after being fired from his job despite being a top performer. With emotional maturity, he reflects on his coping mechanisms, the lessons learned, and his aspirations to start his own podcast. This episode delves into the complexities of neurodiversity, the importance of understanding oneself, and the need for genuine conversations in a world filled with judgment. Join us as we explore the journey toward acceptance and the pursuit of peace in a neurodiverse world.00:00 - That's another just divergent path. I don't need a diagnosis. Uh, just to talking to me for five minutes00:24 - Nick speaks with honesty and humanity about his own experience with neurodiversity01:04 - You were fired from your job because of your neurodiversity03:33 - The week before I was fired, my manager taught me something new09:08 - Nick says safe spaces are not conducive to the real world15:08 - When you meet someone new, you have an unwritten list of priorities21:06 - The loss of a job is a loss, isn't it, Nick26:20 - Something else I'm asking is what gives you peace is doing the things you love35:23 - When I got fired from a company, I experienced unbelievable depression42:05 - Nick says he was fired from his job because of his autism46:28 - Nick: I think what you're doing is great, and it's great

How do I get started publishing a podcast?

As a newbie to podcasting, I'm sharing my experience and some easy ways to get started while fully enjoying the experience, experimenting, and embracing the challenge. I'm also sharing what I have learned myself and what I have learned from some early training. 

A presentation to the Womens Institute

Birchington Women's Institute evening group. A live recording  on Mindfulness Meditation in early February 2025. I managed to get 45 ladies to meditate for around 20 minutes, focusing on their health and well-being and the well-being of others. Thank you to the ladies who invited me. I explain what mindfulness is and demonstrate how it works by inviting the ladies to participate. 

What are the responsibilities of councils part 2

Health and well-being is a key focus in the community.  Cllr Reece Pugh and Cllr George Kup discuss in more detail in this episode, the subject of well-being in the community and what practical steps they are using to address this. They also speak about personal wellness and issues that they are passionate about as well as personal testimony on how they find peace and well-being. 

Do I have depression?

The elements of low mood and depression along with my personal experience of it, both as a sufferer and also as a listener to assist others. This is a result of over 20 years of experience working to help others. I focus on active listening techniques, using empathy, being curious and non-judgmental, and how to be cautious about giving advice or problem-solving. Contact links are provided at the end of the recording. 

What are the responsibilities of local councils?

Health and well-being is a key focus in the community. I spoke with Cllr George Kup and Cllr Reece Pugh, who represent Birchington North as district councilors. They explain the the responsibilities, limitations and challenges of their role. They also reveal planned changes to local politics and how it is planned to improve services. There is some discussion around current issues in their Ward. This is part 1 of a 2 part podcast. 

When poetry breaks free

Martin and Lilly explore the world of poetry, discussing personal journeys, the therapeutic nature of writing, and the emotional depth that poetry can convey. They share their inspirations, favorite poets, and the importance of community and feedback in the creative process. The discussion also touches on the significance of mindfulness in writing and the joy of sharing poetry with others. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricate relationship between distress and creativity, particularly in music and poetry. They explore how personal experiences shape artistic expression, the nuances of writing poetry versus song lyrics, and the importance of collaboration in creative processes. The discussion also touches on the significance of mindfulness and community engagement, addressing themes of loneliness and connection in local life. The speakers share personal anecdotes and insights, emphasizing the value of taking action in creative endeavors and the beauty of raw, unrefined expression.   Listen as Lilly reads some of her heartfelt poems, including "I See You" and "Dying Leaves," sharing the stories and emotions behind them. We also touch on the importance of community and feedback in her writing journey, as well as her aspirations for the future.    Join us for a captivating conversation that celebrates the power of words and the healing nature of poetry.     Whether you're a seasoned poet looking for inspiration or a curious listener eager to discover a new form of expression, you'll find it hear where there is a deep dive into how poetry is created from integrity, honesty and exploration of feelings and senses as well as finding new words to use for expression. 
Poetry can be a therapeutic outlet for emotions.
Writing often stems from intense feelings, both positive and negative.
Community feedback can enhance the writing experience.
The act of writing poetry encourages mindfulness and presence.
Personal experiences heavily influence poetic themes.
Different poets can inspire unique writing styles.
Handwriting poetry can convey emotions differently than typing.
Sharing poetry can create connections with others.
Exploring philosophical themes can enrich poetry.
Favorite words can add depth and uniqueness to poems. Distress often fuels creativity in music and poetry.
Art can be a reflection of personal experiences and emotions.
Poetry allows for diverse interpretations and meanings.
Song lyrics require a different structure than poetry.
Collaboration can enhance or dilute creative work.
It's important to take action rather than wait for perfection.
The first draft can often be the most authentic version.
Mindfulness practices can foster community connections.
Loneliness can exist even in crowded spaces.
Local life can be quirky and full of interesting stories.
"I just couldn't stop writing."
"I write how I'm feeling at the time."
"It's such a good one."
"I love that one."
"I really felt the emotion a lot more."
"It's great isn't it?"
"I think I've got it on a drive."
"Poetry is a brilliant art form."
"Don't get it right, get it written."
poetry, writing, creativity, therapy, inspiration, emotions, feedback, community, mindfulness, personal journey, creativity, distress, poetry, songwriting, writing process, collaboration, mindfulness, community, loneliness, local life