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Cyber Synapse Podcast

Cyber Synapse Podcast

By Catherine Knibbs

Creating connections and conversations about people, technology and the intersection of health and wellbeing. Recorded through the "cyber synaptic space." Catherine speaks to people who are considered experts in their fields. Important information for parents, teachers, professionals and anyone who wants to learn about cyberspace, digital parenting, security, data protection, counselling, health, wellbeing, personal growth and development. This is your acoustic & neuroplastic ride that will synthesise areas of information you never knew could be!
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Online Professionalism

Cyber Synapse PodcastDec 04, 2017

00:00
33:01
Virtual Therapy with an Artificial listener and learner?

Virtual Therapy with an Artificial listener and learner?

A hot topic right now... Artificial Intellignce. and yes we jumped on the bandwagon, But.. how is the crossover into the use of this technology by therapists, counsellors and psychologists and what will this mean for the profession?

What or when will this cause problems and issues and if so what types?

Who is responsible for the education, caretaking and guidance in this space for professions such as those who offer talking therapy and how is the information shared in those spaces protected? And from what?


There are no complete and robust answers yet as the technology advances and so this is likely to be one of many conversations taking place and today im joined by Meg Moss (policy at NCPS) and Rory Lees-Oakes (Big boss at Counselling Tutor) to do just that


Listen in and expand your thinking around the ethical dilemmas here!

Dec 11, 202301:01:06
Recognising the Signs of Missing Children: Understanding the Importance of Reporting and Acting Quickly

Recognising the Signs of Missing Children: Understanding the Importance of Reporting and Acting Quickly

In this episode, we will discuss the issue of missing children and how we can learn to recognise the signs. Our conversation will delve into what exactly "missing" means and why it can be difficult to define. We will also explore the necessary steps for filing a report and why this is crucial in finding a missing person.

We are joined by Caroline Humer, a global child protection expert, who will shed light on the overlap between runaway children and those who are exploited. We will also examine why the first 24 hours are critical when it comes to locating a missing child.

Missing children is an urgent matter that requires immediate action, so let's dive into the discussion and learn how we can all play a role in keeping our communities safe. So, if you want to understand more about this issue, make sure to keep reading! #MissingChildren #ChildProtection #ActFast

Dec 10, 202350:24
Online Professionalism in a world of censorship

Online Professionalism in a world of censorship

Im joined by Rory Lees-Oakes once more to discuss how times have changed since we last spoke a few years ago, about online professionalism. Rory has just written this chapter for the recently released book: Cybersecurity and Data Protection for practitioners via Routledge publishers. (you can buy your copy on all good book retailer sites too)


We discuss high end Psychologists who have been reprimanded (of sorts) and how therapy clients may well see the values, politics or other public posts that the professsionals make online and where does that leave the therapeutic relationship?


What has Micheal Douglas and Falling Down got to do with this?

listen in to find out!



Dec 10, 202359:18
Child sexual abuse material and safeguarding. What needs to happen?

Child sexual abuse material and safeguarding. What needs to happen?

This episode may be difficult for some people to hear. Please ensure you are able to listen where you are not in public spaces if you need space to take a break. The content today is raw, potent and speaks to what this crime is WITHOUT DETAILS. However; this may be difficult to listen to. We must start having these conversations outside of law enforcement, without blame, shame and too much detail and we need to educate with compassion and not anger. Sergio explains why he is committed to working in this field, currently without wages because this is a profession laden with necessity and drive. What we discuss today is the reality of many years work in this field for both of us and a topic I want to speak to more loudly than ever before. Sergio is a fantastic guest today and discusses what we really need to do going forward. Big tech and society, together:
Jul 12, 202301:24:20
Masculinity, Man Boxes and Martial Arts

Masculinity, Man Boxes and Martial Arts

WELCOME BACK!!


after writing two books which are due out this month and next I went off air... the good news, I'm now writing another book but intend to keep some of these episodes going because they are timeless pieces of the space online. Anyway back to the guest this time:


A discussion with my colleague Richard (from the world online-safety) about the world that young men find themselves growing up in, where the narrative can be harmful to experiences and understandings of masculinity and why this isn't always toxic. Why martial arts has formed much of a growing trend in managing emotions and discipline in is truest form and why Richard Pomfrett is determined to work with young men in his new program where he educates boys about their travels into manhood A fantastic exploration through a deep dive conversation. Enjoy!

Jun 07, 202301:23:44
Security Awareness 101

Security Awareness 101

With Perry Carpenter: Chief Evangelist!  Author of: Transformational Security Awareness. I know many therapists are scared of tech, many can find it overwhelming and so I decided to speak with one of the most comprehensive communicators in the field of security awareness. One who shares my passion for the overlap between human and tech, human behaviour and those darn errors of judgment and mistakes we make with tech.  


In this episode, we tackle why sole traders are often out of the loop of cybersecurity and why this large topic area can be easily accessible and how to tame the monster!  Perry is eloquent in his approach and we have many themes that overlap in terms of why we do what we do, and Perry brings lots of overarching models and theories to the table. This is quite the episode!  Do take a look at Perry's book, and the company he reefers to; KnowB4 https://www.knowbe4.com and see why I was soooo stoked to speak with him.. I reckon there are another 40+ conversations I could have with him!  




For therapists and counsellors listening: Welcome back to the cyber-based conversations; we have a long way to go. Head over to www.privacy4.co.uk if you want to get great, accurate and up to date advice on matters like the ones discussed here today. Get the right advice from someone in the field.

Apr 05, 202101:08:43
Gamers Beat Cancer: Let's have more game on than game over!

Gamers Beat Cancer: Let's have more game on than game over!

Welcome to season 4 of Cyber Synapse and I am back with technology-related material!!   

Season 4 started in 2020, however, this is the first video of season 4 as I was spending time with the audio versions on other platforms for ease and for time. This, however, was such an important conversation that we decided between us to add the video to my channel. This content today dives into the stories of people with Cancer, therefore please do look after yourself if you take the time to listen/watch.   

Gamers Beat Cancer is a CIC based in the UK which began in the headspace of Steve Bracewell who finds himself fighting AML for the second time when we record this episode. I am joined by one of the other members of GBC; Ben Nicholls.  


The episode may be hard to hear for some, inspiring for others and exciting for those who can see what we aim to do to support Cancer patients, families and staff using.....Gaming..Huzzah!!  Enjoy this episode, its raw and GBC means business.  


Timestamps (approx) 

02:00 Steve explains what AML is and why he came to create GBC and what he sees for the vision of the work  

12:00 Ben introduces himself, his story  

25:00 The trauma of Cancer, the financial cost of Cancer and how the UK benefits system really needs a change here in the UK

30:00 What hospitals look like to the patients, why lack of stimuli is unhelpful. Why gaming tablets may just be an answer  

34:00 A call to action for Developers, Gaming, VR and Technology organisations!  

36:00 why tech can provide patients a lifeline, agency and help where helplessness exists  

41:00 Where the focus tends to be on heterosexual patients and families and why the LGBQTI+ community seemed to be missing groups, what GBC intends to do about this  

50:00 Online gaming therapy with patients, (practised safely and ethically via specialist training of course!!)  


To learn more about the gift of gaming, how you can help and how gaming can be the space for healing see www.gamersbeatcancer.co.uk  Don't forget to find out more from Cath at www.catherineknibbs.co.uk and sign up for my newsletter to stay up to date with news and more.  

I'll be back here soon when the Rona is gone and I can get back to working face to face and gaming with my clients in the clinic!  


#gameonnotgameover #giftofgaming #cancerdoesntdiscriminatepeopledo

Feb 01, 202154:08
Synthesising and personal growth: Mental Health, Biohacking, Trauma and beyond.

Synthesising and personal growth: Mental Health, Biohacking, Trauma and beyond.

Today I'm joined by another Instagram buddy who is in the health and wellbeing sector.  Today we talk all things Mental health, Diagnoses, Wellbeing, Trauma, Childhood Trauma and Functional Health

The second half of this conversation is superb tying in so many domains and paradigms. 



0:30 Intro to Sara Chaves and the Insta post that got this episode recorded

03:00 OCD what is that?

07: 45 How thoughts can become obsessive. 

08:30 Inflammation pathways.. of thoughts?

11:00 Children, epigenetics and the passing on of behaviours?

15:00 Role modelling on social media

18:00 Everyone has Mental health Issues

23:00 What about those who don't get help? What kind of boss do they make?

26:00 Why SSRI's are not always the universal answer, why they could be a panacea.

28:00 Jordan Peterson and Benzo's

31:00 Trauma, Crime, Diabetes, and Physical Health; how this is related to Mental Health

33:00 ACES, Trauma and CV-19 where censorship could end up stopping the spread of health advice

36:00 be responsible for your own health and wellbeing

38:00 Crap meditation IS the meditation

41:00 Neuro-Nerding! Why we know very little but we know a lot about the brain. 

48:00 CPD for growth; personal and professional. Do your own work first.

51:00 Middle of the road, be the expert of yourself. Eat, Drink, Sleep, Take notice

53:00 The wave of integration between mental health and functional health

55:00 Biohacking without breaking the bank

58:00 Proactive rather than reactive. Choose whats costs 'nowt'

60:00 Marie Condo and minimalistic living. (I own my personal book collection here and ask please don't judge LOL)

Conversations that matter.


A big thank you to Sara for a fantastic conversation. TBC......!!



Dec 07, 202001:03:10
Season 4 kicks off with Endocannabinoids; say what?

Season 4 kicks off with Endocannabinoids; say what?

Season 4 kicks off without the long intro: This about getting to the talk immediately! 

Its an episode taking an amazing dive into a subject that is going to create a double-take for some people.  I'm joined today my Michelle Ching, whom I met on Instagram where she was discussing the Endocannabinoid system with another podcaster. It's one of my favourite topics to discuss in terms of the wisdom of the body and the capabilities our cells have to regulate us in trauma and threat responses and flow!

Its a widely misunderstood system and one that often gets a bad wrap when you discover that its the same biological process associated with  CBD, and THC.  If you don't know what these are? Then listen in!! 

Hint this is not a chat about cannabis.

Firstly we begin with a look at the western medical system and why we both now work, speak and exist in the world of holistic and co-operative healthcare, from there 


00:05 We begin!

06:00 Mental health and coaching, self and purpose.

09:00 Wonderfull products and why they are CBD based

12:00 Endogenous cannabinoid systems and how these work with CBD

18:00 Safety and threat

27:00 Mitochondria and Endocannabinoid systems

33:00 Anandamide- an amazing molecule

41:00 Physician/Therapist overseeing, why we really need someone to watch and care along with us. 

50:00 The ECS - an extraordinary system. 

58:00 Cannabis and "insert named disease", what's the connection?

1 hour onwards : side effects, delivery methods, dosages

Trauma-informed holistic healing and an ECS approach




Nov 02, 202001:12:41
Bonus episode to season 3 finale with Olivia James

Bonus episode to season 3 finale with Olivia James

2:30 - Polvagal theory and associative memory in trauma

7:00 - its excitement not nerves, does this reframe really work?

20:00 why public speaking is a big issue for some

26:00 The Q&A section of presenting. Why this can be an issue for speakers

32:00 - why the mainstream media demonise technology and create a dysregulation in the social engagement system

36:00 - gaming, fun and biases of the public (and some academics)

47:00 - Neil Strauss (and others) and the PUA community and why this is trauma not sex addiction. 

54:00 - Why Daz adverts are the same technique used by the social dilemma narrative

1:07 - VR and how this is a fab intervention. (IMHO)


1:10- E-motions, health and wellbeing


See you in season 4!

Oct 19, 202001:18:36
Season 3 finale - trauma with no BS

Season 3 finale - trauma with no BS

Todays end episode is completed with a colleague of, and in the world of trauma. Oliva James and I chat about public speaking, trauma, twitter hassle, calling out the BS, the trauma Olympics and how this is a framework for something I called traumatology identity. Why do some people need their label, their victimhood and repetitive nature of story telling, We look to the palatable reframe of awful human behaviour and why we do this?

How the current climate is causing children to mistrust, cybertrauma, attachment trauma and more. Why sandals and candles might be the best phrasing from Oliva about the approaches of cliche, practice to help you heal from your trauma. 

Rapport and the story of trauma and how relational safety can be the regulator for the client and or patient. 

Why being a people person is the most important aspect in trauma healing. 

We end on a chat about IEMT (Integrative Eye Movement Technique) and what this is and why we both like this intervention.

To follow is a bonus edition because we didn't get everything covered in this episode!



Oct 05, 202001:38:07
The Pandemic within the pandemic: Nicole Dawson-Cullinan and I discuss systemic trauma, burnout and Wellness International
Sep 07, 202047:10
Functional Medicine as a parent, neighbour and practitioner, why conversations encompass a lot!

Functional Medicine as a parent, neighbour and practitioner, why conversations encompass a lot!

This episode I am speaking with another functional medicine practitioner as the lockdown continues.

I am joined by Corrina Van Der Erden from Germany, where she is creating one of the biggest networks of functional medicine/health practitioners in Europe! Corrina takes us through her story of noticing when she was 15 that she had an autoimmune disease, and how this has impacted her life, and yet through the process of functional medicine she has created a life of health for herself and others, including her children.

Given the lockdown has impacted so many people in so many ways this is an episode for you to really get to grips with how you can take care of your health, for you and your children, and your children's children.

01:30 Corrina's journey into School of Applied Functional Medicine

03:30 Why helping others and altruism drive the health movement

08:00 Noticing Hashimotos

13::00 When help is local

28:00 What you eat is often related to your symptoms

34:00 Health advice "I read it in a book" why books and advice evolve over time

38:00 Power to local people to make a change

43:00 How Functional health in Germany can mean needing to speak German about your poop. When the translation isn't quite enough

49:00 Micro movements and the daily use of your body

54: 00 Women's health, straight-talking, and poop conversations, why Functional Health has to include your digestive motions



Aug 03, 202001:03:59
Ronen Stilman- Attached to Technology: Therapists reflections of relational processes and technology

Ronen Stilman- Attached to Technology: Therapists reflections of relational processes and technology

I'm joined today by a fellow psychotherapist with a passion for understanding technology and how we relate to and with this invention of man.

Ronen and I have riffed about this subject matter at conferences for some time, and even in a sauna at the TA conference in Birmingham in 2019, where we were supposed to be taking care of ourselves and relaxing, yet it turned into an animated conversation about the development of the human next to/with and through this (see the chats I've had about the detox properties of saunas in previous episodes)

We talk attachment, tough, relationships, gaming, and parenting and, much more, A Fabulous conversation and this must be part one...

 See the timestamps below for more details:

05: 30 Covid and Technology, the ambivalence of therapists

07:20 The infancy of understanding

10:50 Relating, what is this, and how does the threat response impact us?

13:50 Touch, Attachment (strokes & strokes) and tech

16:40 Attachment and regulation

20:10 Cars and technology, what's the link?

23:00 Addiction, or replacement. Is this relating?

26:00 How Ronen noticed childhood play and his own experience

30:20 Polyglot and language; are you talking about me?

33:30 The vehicle of socialisation, disconnection, and connection

37:30 Boredom, self-connection, and regulation

42:10 Pack warfare or team cohesion?

45:45 Parenting and gaming, power dynamics!!

48:10 Closing the circle


Ronen can be. found on his Facebook page: Ronen Stilman Psychotherapy


As always you can stay up to date with my news by heading to my website and signing up for the newsletter. www.catherineknibbs.co.uk


Please subscribe and if you have two minutes rate/comment and share this episode!!


Jul 06, 202052:03
Darryl Edwards speaks to me about Blacklivesmatter, Empathy and SES issues.

Darryl Edwards speaks to me about Blacklivesmatter, Empathy and SES issues.

Darryl Edwards joins me today for one of the most timely and important conversations.  This is not new in terms of the subject matter, however, we have to change the narrative.. its time.   Timestamps:  04:02 Black Lives Matter, an introduction. 05:44 #BrokenLegsMatter 08:40 Empathy for victims, do we have to experience it to 'know' it? 13:01 This is our shared trauma experience as black people. 15:45 "Diplomatic conversations" why this becomes a norm? 20:00 Why are you out running?  26:10 Angry, Bitter, or something else? 29:30 On the fence, what can I do or say to challenge the status quo? 36:35 One eye open, one eye closed, why the "background operating system" is always ON 39:30 Overcompensation to reduce and mitigate racist decisions. 43:15 The district line life expectancy of 20 years difference. Barking to Richmond.. why;  SES and living conditions.  45:30 "Just eat this food & exercise this way" why the privileged narrative is patronising and misses the culture and SES. Class and racism. 47: 50 Clean eating, Why it's not about Olive oil as a dressing! Lifestyle choices versus Elitelsim 49:02 "If you just..." Why this narrative is unhelpful. Listening is key. Why blame helps no-one 53:35 COVID impact on the 'haves vs have nots', how the environment will have an impact on health 57:00 Why you don't need a gym; how you can help yourself in lockdown in less than 2M squared 60:01 The government guidelines approve exercise during the lockdown and why this is so good for everyone 64:40 The civil uprisings of the sixties and the parallel to current responses to George Floyd's death and blacklivesmatter 67:02 That could have been me: Cybertrauma and how black people witness trauma and why this is an issue we need to take into account moving forward. how the news creates much more trauma for people. 73:15 Why metaphor might just be the way to communicate the issues that we need to talk about.   This interview matters so please do share where you can.  You can find Darryl on Insta at @fitnessexplorer  His website is www.primalplay.com

Jun 15, 202001:17:33
Thomas Olivier- Bio-individuality in health

Thomas Olivier- Bio-individuality in health

Thomas Olivier, CEO of Omnos.me joins me today after a bit of a wait to get him on the podcast. I met Thomas in 2017 when I joined him for my Nutrigenetics/Nutrigenomics training and knew that I had to get this story out to people about how they could get a handle on their health and mitigate some serious health conditions going forward based on their unique 'bio-individuality'' (N=1)  Thomas has developed a stunning platform that allows for a person to take an in-depth dive into their health at the genetic level where the changes (SNP's) matter. This episode is one not to miss if you're treating to avoid the big 4 killer diseases!  Thomas speaks about his journey to the launch of Omnos.me, and what this actually is!    


Timestamps: ... 

05:48- We are dying of diseases 

07:33 DNA, Epigenetics and what we are made of (hint its 37 trillion cells and more) 

11:02 Whole genome sequencing, do we need this or specific tests? What's the cost? 

14:37 Would veganism suit my genes? How would I know and why is Omega 6 and 3 important? 

17:02 Scientifically validated genetic and functional testing. Why does this sound like NASA? 18:30 The four killers. Multifactorial? 

21:38 Gamification of health systems, #levelup? 

24:  Toxic environments, car fumes what harm can they do? 

30:50 Choices in health: will COVID make a difference? 

33:00 Our vulnerability, body wisdom and connectedness 

36:15 New Health architecture, the new future? 

40:00 Health Optimisation events and sharing of knowledge 

45:00 The future is faster, why Kotler and Diamandis make their mark in this conversation! (love this bit, but I am biased with tech) 

50:00 Are health predictions like meteorology? 

52:00 Balancing not boosting your immune system 

55:00 Optimsiing: what is this?  


You can find Thomas at Omnos.me on Instagram... the platform is https://www.omnos.me/   




as always to find out more, sign up for free courses around Epigenetic Psychotherapy  & Functional health visit www.catherineknibbs.co.uk

Jun 01, 202001:00:58
Pain equals purpose: male mental health and the balance of masculinity: All heart, All spine

Pain equals purpose: male mental health and the balance of masculinity: All heart, All spine

First of all this episode was put on the back burner whilst a few episodes took centre stage during the outset of covid-19. Thank you to Matt Dipll for being patient as this was recorded some weeks ago!! Danke!

So moving to the episode, firstly this is a wonderful, wonderful conversation with some fantastic reflections about culture, the advancement of life, the deep biology of each of us, and the humanness of the life narrative. Matt has a background in Chinese Medicine, Has travelled and lived all over the world practising and then heading into the world of biohacking after losing a friend, and being in and around workers in technology and also his own health.

We talk technology, sun=bjectiveness and objectiveness and how this was the seeing towards Matt working around his Male psyche, emotional needs and impact of this on day to day living. Matt brings into the conversation about how mental health presentations also are represented in biological health. Matt talks about how life, early needs and wants are mirrored through interpersonal connection. Pain is most certainly an underlying reason for health issues (See my blogs on ACES and illness).

Matt talks about inside out and outside in and how to 'be' a man.. What is a man and what is healthy masculinity? There are layers here and this is THE most wonderful part of the conversation today. THIS is authentic and raw and real. You need to listen deeply here so be in a space where you can absorb this message. It's so good. Like for reals really good!


Apologies for coughing in the episode, anyone would think that there was a reason for this. (perhaps?)


CONTACT:

Matt is on Insta @Biohacking101.co and @MattDippl


BOOKS:

Iron John by Robert Bly

Manhood by Steve Biddulph (book) :  

His Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/stevebiddulphraisingboys







May 08, 202001:01:56
Sex, Relationships and Pornography use during Covid-19

Sex, Relationships and Pornography use during Covid-19

This is an adhoc episode discussing the impact of physical distancing, upon relationships, sexual activity and pornography use, explained through the theories of Polyvagal, interpersonal and relational aspects. Don't worry you don't have to understand these theories in depth, We make it easy to understand.


As always to find out more about Cath see www.catherineknibbs.co.uk

Apr 13, 202039:27
HeartMath, Coherence and Self Regulation- In times of Stress (Covid-19)
Apr 04, 202059:42
Functional Health- Before, During and After Covid-19

Functional Health- Before, During and After Covid-19

This video was originally recorded before the current health crisis. The introduction sets the scene for why getting to the root cause of an issue is the prefix to good health. Now we are in the light of Covid-19 this approach is likely to be more important than ever. Shania and I discuss why functional, holistic, naturopathic methods can really help you understand your health to the cellular level and how this can help mitigate from issues in the future.  Shania can be contacted at www.radiantbalance.co.uk   As always more information about Catherine can be found at wwwcatherineknibbs.co.uk

Apr 02, 202057:51
Neurohacking- When performance of brain and body synchronise

Neurohacking- When performance of brain and body synchronise

Today I'm joined by Ben Cote from Neurohacker Collective. (NHC). We get straight into who NHC are and what happens at HQ. How dialling in and stacking your health comes from a place of assistance rather than the phenomena of "hacking'. This really is a natural approach and one hugely supported in science and research. 

Ben explains about Qualia and why this is such a great nootropic and not a smart drug meant to "make you smarter". We then go onto cover Eternus and why this is a great stack for longevity, which i am sure many of us want! 

What Qualia actually does is literally quite amazing, and Im saying that after almost 6 months of taking it. so cannnot wait to be a long term supporter of my own cellular functioning and health. (which I have been doing but this takes it to the next level) It has to be experienced in order to get where we are coming from in this episode in terms of the phenomenological experience. (One persons deep lived experience) and this has been really hard for me to describe to people and I'm quite a lexical communicator! Ben talks through  the process of how NHC learn and trial the contents of the products and why they make the difference they do to you if you are hoping to achieve that mental performance breakthrough.

For me the empathic resonance and attunement and #levelup I get when I take these products has literally moved me into a different domain of human connection, thinking and reasoning.  Ben discuses how he gets to speak with so many people at trade shows and what people reflect and how the narrative reflection of most consumers of these products is pretty similar, and that folks makes a better than a few anecdotal findings.

The ingredients of these products are all aimed at creating a naturalist harmony within your own body and mind and looking at them they are all essential ingredients of a well oiled machine cascading in a bottom up and top down manner. 


You really DO need to try them, with all of the caveats we speak about. But do head over to neurohacker.com and get your orders in!


P.S. Eternus has also had a major impact on sleep quality and efficiency as I'm now functioning better since stacking. Wow guys at NHC. Thank you! 


For more information and to get in touch with Cath head over to www.catherineknibbs.co.uk 

Mar 08, 202001:03:38
Broken to beautiful, healing, health and human connection

Broken to beautiful, healing, health and human connection

Todays episode features Shawn Wells MPH, LDN, RD, CISSN, FISSN and is a humdinging top to toe neuronal frazzle of delight.

Which may sound like a fangirling overload, however sometimes there are some people who speak in such an eloquent way that all I can say is this is a must listen/watch for you!

Shawn is balanced, critical, and speaks about his journey from the deepest places of what he calls his brokenness to his place of beauty which is a genuine well intentioned place of helping others heal. We talk positivity, finding your purpose, passion and tribe for longevity. We look at health indicators and how to sift through the plethora of information relating to diet and nutrition. Most importantly Shawn reiterates purpose and mindset and how happiness might just be the key to fulfilment and those extra few years on your life!

Shawn is a Nutritional Biochemist, Registered Dietician, Certified Sports Nutritionist and Chief Clinical Dietician and Worlds Greatest Formulator, ..basically I think he is a wizard of all things from research to the mitochondria, "now thats what I call science!" (which will be the name of the next episode when I get chance to speak with him in the future)


Shawn can be found here: https://shawnwells.com/ and here  https://zonehalo.com/

He is on Insta and Twitter as the same name so go follow him quick sharp!



As costs are rising to host this podcast, I made a decision to open the podcast to sponsorship and advertising, so if you are interested get in touch.



Feb 03, 202001:06:48
Top down-Bottom Up? Learning about who you really are, heuristics of Education, Work, Life and Flow.

Top down-Bottom Up? Learning about who you really are, heuristics of Education, Work, Life and Flow.

This episode is a fantastic start to 2020 for anyone who still might not know who they are, thinks they have to have all the qualifications and skills by the age of 21 and who may need a reassuring reflection as we head into the new year new you rhetoric.

Im joined by Sagar Doshi today and this is a super jam packed top to bottom episode of zippy one line motivational assurances that you are doing just fine as you are, for example Sagar quotes  "where you study or work is not the sum of your life" (I love this by the way)

We talk how tests/exams/assessments are carried out to 'measure your output' and how this is often seen as the reflection of the entire picture and how this affects young people and adults and yet course correction and progress are a part of life.

Sagar is a product manager at Imbellus who are a games/assessment studio that seeks to measure abstract skills—and ultimately, human potential—using game-based assessments. So this episode travels over technology and human domains and the conversation is packed with the all important discussion of reaching your potential.


I loved this episode so much, I have listened back to it (which is unheard of), its that good, IMHO.

See you next time

I refer to Daniel Kahneman's book "thinking fast and slow" so this is your check in on the show notes for it. 

Sagar's work can be found at : https://www.hellosagar.com/

Jan 02, 202051:35
Self- improvements and health, how deep learning about you can improve who you are

Self- improvements and health, how deep learning about you can improve who you are

Today i'm joined by Tony Wrighton; he is the presenter of the podcast Zestology (link below), Sky sports presenter, author and fairly new Father to a 9 month old.

This is an episode that transitions over a number of subjects and is one about being human, having flaws, attempting to rid ourselves of these parts we don't like. A fascinating set of topics for those of you interested in human beingness, self development, and personal growth. 

We talk about Tony's journey into health and wellbeing, which takes us into Emotional Freedom technique (EFT) also known as trapping. Tony talks about his self confessed addictive personality and how this ties in with tech, we look at digital hygiene, morning routines and modelling of behaviours to children (whether they are 9 months old or in their 20's). 

We even get into therapy, NLP, relationships and what having a baby does to sleep (and more). We talk red wine and resveratrol, oura rings and spreadsheets for tracking health, quite the jam packed episode!

Tony's website and link to his podcast are below is his histamine site that he refers to; so go ahead and get some more energy and vitality from his time and effort, its another good recommendation to top up your knowledge!

**For those of you who are body trained/aware or perhaps a therapist see if you can hear the moment that the synchrony of attunement occurs between Tony and I and feel the energy shift, its quite remarkable and very lovely and as always, its about heart not head.



https://histamineintolerance.net/

https://tonywrighton.com/


Dec 23, 201948:22
Light - a therapy all of/in it's own

Light - a therapy all of/in it's own

Todays episode is part one of a conversation I'll be coming back to at a later date with my friend Mads Juhl Christensen, whom I met whilst volunteering at the biohackers Summit that took place in September this year in London and was the most awesome beginning of a new health movement thats going to be the way we all (hopefully) turn towards taking a step to a longer, happier and healthier life!

SO I asked Mads to come on the podcast as he is a font on knowledge and similarly like my other guests he also has a story to tell about his health journey. We fill this hour with so much information that you'll likely need to go back and listen to it again. I make no apologies for our enthusiasm and occasional tangents around topics. 

We talk light and how your cells rely on this at differing times of the day and what this actually does at a cellular level, we talk hormones and the process of support through light in order to carry out this function and why getting outside is probably the best free hack/gift there is on the planet for mental health and wellbeing.


Way too much to describe on the show notes, so go ahead and dive in on this subject, theres so much to know that we wil be back to visit this alongside the EMF issues we allude to in the episode


Take care and see you soon


Dec 16, 201901:11:51
Distracted Driving- When smartphones may result in not so smart decisions behind the wheel

Distracted Driving- When smartphones may result in not so smart decisions behind the wheel

Todays episode is aimed at the Christmas season which begins now and beyond. Todays message is based on a podcast episode with Neil from over two years ago; the message still needs to be shared and to create a discussion.
What is interesting about this message is it you the listener that we are asking to share and to begin the conversation.
Questions such as: Do you really drive safely at all times and do you take phone calls whilst you drive? Listen to Neil and discuss why this is actually an issue and how we are not capable of doing this with the level of concentration that we think we have. (Its neuroscience!!) nCognitive bias on this topic matter si what we address in this episode. Neil reflects "just because you can and its' not 'illegal' doesn't make it safe", so consider whats going on in the cars around you and if the driver, that stranger truly believes that they can multitask and keep other road users safe including you and your family?

This may seem like a fact that you are already mentally disputing, I mean not many of us like to think we have flaws and many of us don't want to think our driving may be under par or indeed that we are unable to carry out a task due to a limitation of our brains functioning; surely we are intelligent and what about the fact we have been driving for so long? Listen to Neil and I in this episode and please feed back and share this epsidie to begin this conversation.

Let's see this issue as important as Driving Under the Influence. Let's make a difference to our driving and perhaps that will be enough to model the behaviour for another.

SMART PEOPLE CAN MAKE SMART CHOICES AND PHONES ARE NOT THAT SMART - UPDATE 3 Dec 19...check this video out and see what you think:.....https://www.theaa.com/about-us/newsroom/twice-as-likely-to-crash-text-driving-as-drink-driving

Dec 02, 201942:06
Why email security? Why?

Why email security? Why?

Today im joined by Donald Allen a cybersecurity writer, cybersecurity evangelist. This means Donald likes to explain how cybercriminals can exploit, hurt and hack.

Donald helps you understand how to create passwords that you can remember, why you need to keep your webcam covered when not in use and why you need to protect your emails as a priority. How criminals socially engineer their emails to phish you and why these are getting much more sophisticated. Why public wifi is an issue and what you need to know about these hotspots!

Why if you won or run a business you need to ensure your staff are aware of these issues, How emails work, why you need to know about servers, 



Here is Donalds website in case you didn't catch it the show so you can get his book.

www.dacybersecurity.com 

Nov 12, 201946:38
Child Sexual Abuse Material Online: Part 2, The impact, the issue, the resolution?
Nov 01, 201950:02
Child Sexual Abuse Material Online (Part 1) *edit- Includes the recent news update about Age ID Plan

Child Sexual Abuse Material Online (Part 1) *edit- Includes the recent news update about Age ID Plan

The title alone may be enough to evoke a feeling of discomfort in you. Some of you may be here because you are curious and some for reasons other than that. This in an information based interview and therefore contains conversations that relate to the title.

If you haven't listened to the introduction to Season 3 -Please do so as I explain the format of the first two episodes of this season and the caveat around being cybertraumatisied. 


I begin this episode with John Carr,: A Child Online Safety Consultant. We discuss the prevalence of child sexual abuse material online (CSAM) and why as a society we need to be taking as much action as we can to reduce this, educate our parents, professionals and support organisations that deal with this everyday, such as the IWF and INHOPE (Coming next episode!)

John takes us through some of his recent blogs (which he does regularly and with passion). We discuss how this material ends up online, how grooming is also related and the online white harms paper and how this can help us understand the duties of care that social media companies can take to assist in reporting and remove much of this material. This is a conversation that can lay dormant and out of our comfort zones no more. John is complimentary about the actions we re taking in the UK in terms of the online harms white paper and age identification plan and how these will assist us in reducing some of these issues/threats and concerns. We didn't get round to talking about Domain Name over HTTPS so please head to Johns blog to see why this is one of a/(my) major worries!

Johns blog can be found : https://johncarr.blog/2019/

And he is on LinkedIn and Twitter


EDIT 17 OCT 2019

It was reported in the media on the 18th October 2019 that the Online Identification plan will be scrapped- as you would expect this caused uproar however this is what actually appears in the statement released by Parliament:

"The government has concluded that this objective of coherence will be best achieved through our wider online harms proposals and, as a consequence, will not be commencing Part 3 of the Digital Economy Act 2017 concerning age verification for online pornography. The Digital Economy Act objectives will therefore be delivered through our proposed online harms regulatory regime. This course of action will give the regulator discretion on the most effective means for companies to meet their duty of care. As currently drafted, the Digital Economy Act does not cover social media platforms. " taken from https://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-statements/commons/ 

This means that there is still much work to be done here and in the meantime the discussion that John and I have about social media, grooming, adult content and yet to be discussed in depth DOH still remain. 

Children and Young people will continue to be at risk of seeing this material online and if you would like to know as a parent what to do- head to my youtube channel for the Parents guide to Porn (short video) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BzXa-giQV0o&t=1s 


Oct 17, 201941:28
Season 3 Intro- Whats in store?

Season 3 Intro- Whats in store?

Oh boy . this is going to be the best season so far.

The first two episodes I have wanted to bring to you for a long time, however the atmosphere never felt quite right because this is the most uncomfortable of topics. There is a caveat here for you be aware of as the material i episode 1 and 2 relates to children and sexual abuse material online. 

It woulds seem I am being asked to speak more on this subject matter and so I felt the time was right to have these conversations.

SYNTHESIS of THEORY AND PRACTICE

Since beginning this podcast I wanted to synthesise my therapy world with tech and biohacking (functional health) and this seemed haphazard whist I figured out who to talk to and and how to bring them together on the podcast- however during the last year I have been putting theory and practice together as a Functional Psychotherapist outsode of the podcast and voila season 3 will feel more coherent and with actionable tasks and advice for you from the experts ...and there are a number of them to come this next year; helpful tips on Parenting, professional practice and personal hacks just found a way into your ears. I look forward to taking you an an epic journey in season 3!

Oct 16, 201904:48
Why VR is the biz, Why is it people are avoidant/fearful or freaked out by it?
Sep 24, 201955:58
Virtual Sandtray; How digital tech enables us to work in depth and remotely

Virtual Sandtray; How digital tech enables us to work in depth and remotely

Today's episode is all about Dr Jessica Stones phenomenal thinking about what clients and people might need in terms of a tool or intervention to help them manage an issue through a format that has never existed- until now.. a digital virtual version of depth psychology and psychotherapy. 


Not only is this way ahead of the game in terms of platform and practical functionality for people who may be housebound, hospitalised and even incarcerated this is the technology that is making a difference  to those with somatic (body) and sensory issues.


This episode goes into so much depth that we had to call time on how engrossed we were and how we hardly gave enough time to the book she edited on tech in therapy; and how this is already needing so many more practitioners expertise as technology exponentially advances! Dr Stone will be back for more on this!


One of my favourite conversations on the podcast because this is tech AND therapy - the best intervention for accessing the Psyche in my personal opinion- you'll have to listen to judge for yourself!!


You can find out more about the Virtual Sandtray here: https://www.sandtrayplay.com/


Twitter: @VirtualSandtray

Aug 23, 201901:02:39
Get your #Geek on and find your tribe!

Get your #Geek on and find your tribe!

This weeks episode features Dr Megan Connell, the co-founder of https://www.g33kslikeus.com/ whereby the motto here is:

"Be unapologetically enthusiastic" (I just LOVE this)

Dr Connell, is a board certified licensed psychologist, which by the way is a big deal (if you don't know how these things work)

She was another fab person to talk to and we covered (in a shorter than normal episode) getting your geek on and finding your tribe; using this to find a career, the therapeutic connections that can be made with people when you find your commonalities through science, tech, games or otherwise. Celebrations of people having passions. You  might be able to tell that I love this approach to human connection and Megan (and Ryan Kelly) have done a wonderful job of building this community.

We talk Table top games such as DND (Dungeons and Dragons) and how Megan has an all female game that runs as well as her many projects/videos which you can find out about on the website above- I would recommend checking it out as Ryan Kelly a previous guest is also the co-founder and contributor to this site. Go check it out!




Aug 08, 201929:24
Why young people may not report online activities as illegal, because perhaps they don't know it is?

Why young people may not report online activities as illegal, because perhaps they don't know it is?

This weeks guest is Dr Holly Powell Jones. We have a blast discussing her research that was completed for her Doctoral thesis, which looked at how young people make sense of the online world in terms of legalities, criminal aspects, reporting and support. Holly explains how the young people she worked with on this research and those she teaches can often get mixed up in terms of knowing what is and isn't legal online, what constitutes as criminal behaviour and why some young people are less likely to report when they see or are a victim of a crime online.This is a great addition to the previous two episodes, so go ahead and listen to them if you haven't already!


Holly highlights how the victim blaming language and biases are still aimed towards behaviours that people could have done differently to change the outcome of an event and we look at young peoples views around pornography use, sexting and the age of consent and why this is such a difficult are a for young people to navigate online when the law seems to be confusing for them; isn't it just though?

Holly mentions a play that relates to this and unfortunately i cannot see that it is running elsewhere and was a 2018 production.

The play is called Why is the Sky Blue and was run by Tackroom Theatre directed by Abbey Wright. 


Holly can be found on LinkedIn


As always than you for watching/listening and spreading the word, I am extremely grateful for the feedback I am receiving. If you would spread the word to your friends over the summer we can begin to help people learn about online activities and how to help ourselves as adults and children and young people too!


Jul 15, 201959:28
The cyber helpline for the "when" it goes awry!

The cyber helpline for the "when" it goes awry!

I'm joined today by Rory from the Cyber helpline THE goto website for the "when" moment(s) that were discussed last episode!

Rory and I discuss how he set up the helpline to be a 24/7 site that you can goto when you find yourself a victim of a cyber related attack or mistake that you might have made

When you reach the site, type in your cyber issue that you need help with such as being hacked, malware, phishing attacks and hey presto the ingenuity and magical elfs (aka Machine learning bots/AI) that run the site at the front end help you take the next steps in protecting yourself, your data, your money or your life. (apologies to those who now have an earworm)

And if you want to parlez with a real human you can do that too.


Why does this site offer something that is amazing? Well this is THE reason I interviewed Rory, you see some humans visit sites that perhaps they don't want others to know about, perhaps they were caught out by a brilliantly designed email or clicked a pop up thinking they had won a new iPad! etc...and now in the hands of the shame monster they don't want to report to the police for fear of being laughed at, or are too embarrassed to tell. Next episode you'll find out another reason people don't report issues (its another great in depth analysis of people and cyber!), anyway back to the helpline

well immediacy is often the biggest key in resolving cyber related issues and attacks. Those pesky criminals are impatient and your money can make them so. Herein lies the quick solution by heading to the helpline and tapping in what has happened the bot can work out what kind of attack you have been a victim of. The site is fast, very clever and can gives you step by step information as to how you can now resolve the issue, in easily to understand language too!

The site is... yep you've guessed it!   www.thecyberhelpline.com 


Listen in to find out how great this is and please do rate, subscribe, like, share and let people know about this episode and podcast so that we can all learn how to protect ourselves, get help when we need it and share the knowledge. 

Thanks for listening/watching I really appreciate this. My inner warm fuzzie is feeling the love!

You can head over to patreon to sponsor this podcast on www.patreon.com/cybersynapse as theres hidden content for subscribers and I am well aware that us podcaster folk are doing this for free and many of us need your help. 

Consumers can only consume if producers produce and I am seeing this request more and more on social media. Free is only as good as it costs...

Jul 04, 201948:58
Getting Hacked; Emails and more. Why its not a question of if but more about when?

Getting Hacked; Emails and more. Why its not a question of if but more about when?

Today Im joined by Jeri a cybercrime analyst at the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau, so a person who really knows whats happening to the general public in terms of Cybercrimes, so not a case of Cath telling you and perhaps you thinking yeah right Cath... this is Action Fraud reports about the scale of the issue, from the people themselves and as you'll hear not all cases are reported...This applies to singular users of cyberspace or a business.

Why do you need to know about cybercrime? Why should you care? What can happen? and is it true that you're more likely to be a victim of cybercrime  than burglary? 

Technology is now, well it always has but more-so now providing a larger arena to exploit, harass and menace users and in some cases destroy lives.

There are some real highlights in terms of explaining what kinds of 'attacks' are happening and how this will impact a persons business or life.

Theres a really important section in here about why our email systems are the 'hub' of our cybersecurity focus and why I suggest in particular that my profession and those who deal with sensitive categories of data (ie very personal information about their customers) really needs to do more to protect themselves, their devices and their clients because the current level of knowledge around these issues is akin to ostrich/bury your head in the sand syndrome (which is not a real diagnosis by the way) and this is putting people at risk. Of what? Listen to this episode and the next one to get a glimpse into the worlds of what can happen.

Sensationalist? Not at all; We're only scratching the surface here in this episode and both Jeri and I know just how deep this rabbit hole goes and we would like for the public to prick up their ears to the information contained herein.

For more information please listen to episodes from Season 1 and for the Action fraud Website goto: https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/

Next episode is all about what to do when these things happen.... and how you can help yourself so stay tuned!



Jun 25, 201941:41
Polyvagal reflections of young people, devices, schools and Mental health

Polyvagal reflections of young people, devices, schools and Mental health

This weeks episode is epic. The content is so, so full to the brim and will also be followed by a video that I will be putting on my YouTube channel to help explain the Polyvagal theory (PVT) discussed in this episode. Using both examples that we give. (everyone likes free resources right?)


You see Justin and I are #geeks about this PVT and I brought Justin on because he has his own podcast dedicated to this topic and is the only person I know that I could totally #nerd out with over it, as its the foundational premise of my cybertrauma theory. What does happen though is we get into all forms of applying this theory which I am predicting will hit the big time trends in 2019. There is a new star on the block and he is called Stephen Porges. (Only he has been around since the 90's and I have had the privilege of attending a number of his 2-3 day workshops a few years ago and now I am beginning to see this ripple hitting the media as we speak!)


Justin and I talk about how the PVT can assist in giving people a language to narrate what they already know and understand to be true within themselves, a language to converse with others, a language for teachers, staff and professionals to use with each other and young people.


Throughout the episode we refer to the Vagal #states and what these mean and how you can begin to understand children, young people and adults in terms of what they have learned to do based on the information that is fed to their brain to make sense of. (Point to note is the Vagal nerves are not responsible for the behaviours- this will be in my video to follow)


We talk about devices, computer games, mirror neurons and arousal states, energy levels, social media and how this has an effect on young peoples mental health and wellbeing.


Through the lens of Psychotherapy, PVT and Trauma we discuss what is happening for young people today, how this affects their mental health and how we can work with them, understand their digital world and education systems.


Around 2/3 of the way into the episode there is a shift into a deep discussion around self aware parenting with raw examples from Justin and I about what this is like and why our profession and PVT has helped inform us  as parents and what this is actually like. This is IMO the best part of todays episode in terms of giving you a real insight into the theory and how it is applied IRL!!


Thanks for listening/watching and see you next time.

Rate, Subscribe and share on iTunes, YouTube and beyond- lets get this theory out there to the masses and  help build a new lexicon, we deserve to be shame free human beings.

Jun 03, 201901:33:48
Onlinevents the CPD hub for therapists

Onlinevents the CPD hub for therapists

This episode I turn the table on John and Sandra Wilson of Onlinevents. You see I have been interviewed by John many times going all the way back to 2013 (or earlier I cant quite remember as I wrote this), with Sandra (Saz) at the helm of the technical wizardry in the background helping things run smoothly for each interview they conduct.

John and Sandra explain who they are and how Onlinevents runs; and yes just one E in the middle.  The platform of Onlinevents has grown considerably to what is now likely to be the number one CPD hub for therapists in the world. Each week John and Sandra run a day in the week for interviews, which is filled with some of the most knowledgeable specialists in their fields.

Topics range from conversations about ethics, interventions to theory and beyond.  Each interview is broadcast free of charge and has more than one chat room which both John and Saz simultaneously monitor and feedback to the guest, it really is a phenomenal skill to watch and I know the struggle of trying to keep on track in the interview and yet John accomplishes this with grace and ease each time.

Each interview is handled by he skills of this team, containing the complexities of the topics and lasts approximately an hour, which never quite feels enough and counts towards CPD (continuing professional development, similar to CE points in the US) for anyone who takes the time to watch either live or in the hub, which is a members area that allows access to all of the previous interviews. 

Rather like a podcast this is a platform that enable therapists to learn outside of their training schedule and pique their interests in areas and disciplines they may not have encountered otherwise.


And a special thanks to Rory for the audio edits who does a marvellous job, where my internet providers are not always as robust!


You can find out more about onlinevents here: www.onlinevents.co.uk


May 29, 201954:37
Geekery in research, do we need to understand gaming research like a Professor X?

Geekery in research, do we need to understand gaming research like a Professor X?

Today im joined by Dr Ryan Kelly, a Clinical Psychologist and co-founder of G33KS like us, which we talk about in this episode and how the idea of using self confessed "geekery' can help us as practitioners to connect with our clients and how many of us use computer games and science in order to do this.


Ryan speaks with great eloquence about the video game debate, bias in research and how this can be tweaked using certain statistical measures and then how this can be reported.

Why research questions can be 'loaded' and how this can be used to reported to the general public.

We look at how to disseminate research effectively and with a human touch and how there is a move to do this by a number of professionals.


Then we move over to the work of Geek therapy, and around therapeutic live gaming such as Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) and how this helps parents understand the world of their child, also with Aspie young people allows the young people to socialise and build skills with and around each other. How this is not a 'new fact' to table top players of these games.


I have to mention Goat Simulator as one of the funniest games that I have ever played and to have Ryan talk about this was a fantastic moment, you really do need ton play it to get it


Geeks like us can be found here: https://www.g33kslikeus.com/

Ryan can be found on twitter @DrRKelly 


Enjoy

May 22, 201901:06:48
Digital Deciders.. is it Authoritarian- What about Culture?
May 09, 201953:28
"Expertise" on the internet. Are the e-safety resources helpful, empowering or aimed at shock/fear?

"Expertise" on the internet. Are the e-safety resources helpful, empowering or aimed at shock/fear?

This weeks episode features a fabulous guest Rebecca Avery, it is a stunningly jam packed conversation encompassing many of the latest trends and e-safety buzzwords that turn many people off. No fear though as we don't actually name any of them,. What we do cover is; The Online Harms white paper (very briefly), Meme's (Article 13 and whether copyright will remove these), "that" viral trend of recent times. We reflect on the e-safety advice and how the Education sector can often get caught up in myths and scare stories, however this can often be driven by fear. We reflect on what often happens in Education and how e-safety can be driven by assembly based 'lessons' and one time interventions and how these may not work effectively as the Education sector relies on the 'expertise' of visitors who may frighten the children, parents and staff. We discuss how critical thinking needs to be applied to those professionals who claim to be 'experts' in their field and how resources in this area need to be evidence based and peer reviewed so that we can do better in our education of children and help them. We reflect on why shock tactics do not work and how we can empower young people, rather than present 'style over substance' (well said Rebecca!). This leans into the 'commercialism' of certain resources and how these can err on the side of 'shock', 'fear' and the 'Just say No' approach...or perhaps an ego boost?

In short do you critically think about any resources you use or support? Are we barking up the wrong e-safety trees? Is the e-safety message overlapping and hiding the conversational content that could yield so much more learning for both child and adult? How do you assess anything you read or watch online? Have you ever taken a step back to do so?

This episode will be great for Teachers, Professionals and Parents alike.

Do share this episode and perhaps share with people who take things at face value online. Challenging our thinking is the way to open our minds to new information and this enables us to create more conversations. As always, thank you for listening, I appreciate all of you who do and thank you to those of you who get in touch to let me know how this helps you and your children. I am really honoured to have your feedback. Please do leave a review on iTunes and let's empower ourselves to do better and help our children!
Apr 27, 201901:23:34
Digital Authoritarianism- parent or nanny state? Regulated to the n’th degree?

Digital Authoritarianism- parent or nanny state? Regulated to the n’th degree?

When will the internet become regulated to a degree that you will no longer have free will? This weeks episode takes a look into authoritarianism and how this transitions into the digital world. Are you seeing all you can see? Will we become a state where free speech, free searches and access are no longer a thing? Will our choices be determined like a Truman show? This episode looks at choices made by China and Russia and how we could also be privy to a ‘patented’ state. Another deep conversation with Justin Sherman and one that will get you thinking....
Apr 08, 201901:00:04
Parents Guide to video games- an essential conversation about an essential book

Parents Guide to video games- an essential conversation about an essential book

This episode I'm joined by Dr Rachel Kowert and this is the last of the trio of gaming related specials. Fear not though as this conversation is a super duper chat about Rachels book which is an easy to read guide with evidence based facts delivered in an easy to read format, taking away the academic 'wordery' that can so often discourage parents from reading large 'clunky' books. Rachel writes a compact book which can be read in one sitting, which is kind of how we like books to be that are aimed at Parents who rarely have time for a hot coffee!

We talk 'shop', addiction, violence, unintended learning, misogyny, gaming communities, friendships, communication, male to female ratios, vision, flow, loneliness and discuss new areas of research that need investigating.

This was another awesome guest and one I would love to have back as we navigate further research and findings around digital media and parenting.
Let me know your thoughts on the last few episodes and content and lets see what else there is missing from your knowledge banks.

As always thanks for being a listener and supporting the podcast, please do share this with anyone you think might need to hear about these issues. please take 30 seconds to rate the podcast too to help people discover it.

Take care and catch you soon!

Rachel’s book is: A parents guide to video games, The essential guide to understanding how video games impact your child's physical, social, and psychological well-being
Apr 01, 201901:00:51
The Psychology of Zelda- your life played out in a game or vice versa?

The Psychology of Zelda- your life played out in a game or vice versa?

This extra and special episode comes to you courtesy of the book edited by Dr Anthony Bean, which is called The Psychology of Zelda, Linking our world to the legend of Zelda series.
We talk about the books chapters written by some fantastic contributors and bringing topics such as existentialism, projection, grief, feminism and more!
This book is now my top ranking therapeutic book based on the contents and one that is essential reading for players of this game (past or present) and for parents and professionals. It really is a delightful read and one I hankered down on upon its arrival, which I have been eagerly anticipating since Tony and I spoke last episode.

Tony has some great reflections on the book contents and this is one episode that sits snuggly between two gaming specials bringing you the second of a trio of #gamingforgood and not as 'bad' as is often made out by the media skew...listen in to find out.

As always thanks for your support in the podcast downloads and shares that take place. Thank you to those people who feedback and let me know what they like and are enjoying. Please do continue to let me know and support the podcast as this really does hack into my writing time and I am doing my best to bring you as many episodes as I can, as quickly as I can.

This is a special trio based on some recent feedback at a conference asking about this topic; and my passion to emphasise the huge amount of research and knowledge in this area that highlights the real benefits of games. (adults and child alike)

Enjoy!
Mar 23, 201950:47
Getting Gamers- why, when, where, how and what, 10 years of expertise crammed into one episode!

Getting Gamers- why, when, where, how and what, 10 years of expertise crammed into one episode!

Today I'm joined by Dr Jamie Madigan who is the host of a podcast called The Psychology of GAMES (not gaming as I called it in the chat #fail). He and his podcast will be such a great addition to your podcast library and knowledge bank - all of the questions you have about gaming have likely been answered on his podcast/site or in his book! See below for all links Jamie speaks about his website which has 10 years worth of work behind it so again any answers you are seeking are likely to be found on there, we have a quick tour of some gaming issues which include those biggies that have appeared on previous episodes such as Violence, Addiction and Jamie shares his views around these topics. Overwhelmed/starstruck (& with tech issues on the day) meant lots of questions I wanted to ask fell out of my head as I didn't have my notes with me- I'm still learning on the job, so this episode is the first of a few focusing on games/gaming and I'll hopefully get Jamie back this year to converse about the in depth issues as we hopefully move away from the media driven hype and myths around games.... I hope!!! Jamies website is: www.psychologyofgames.com His book is Getting gamers and is here for UK peeps: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Getting-Gamers-Psychology-Impact-People/dp/1442239999 You can also find him on Twitter: @JamieMadigan Let me know if there are any questions you would like answering going forward and SUBSCRIBE!! LIKE!! SHARE!! etc...
Mar 18, 201953:46
The real research findings behind the Iphone and emotional wellbeing/MH Debate
Mar 04, 201941:51
Talking to your child about Sex and Porn in a digital age

Talking to your child about Sex and Porn in a digital age

This week Im joined by Lael Stone. All the way from Sunny Australia. She is a Mum, education specialist around birth, sexuality and parenting and creates wellness in families through connection, communication and education.
On this episode we talk about talking to your children about Sex and Pornography in a compassionate, open and empathic way, with lots of humour.

We focus on age appropriate conversations, body image, childbirth, realistic versus pornograhic sexual activity and conversations that might not be suitable for around younger children unless youre ready to answer those questions!

This episode really gets in touch with the topic and parenting without shaming language and hopefully will give you confidence to begin these conversations with your children, no matter the age. And yes its likely to be more embarrassing for you rather than them?

Lael Stone has a facebook page with the same name find her over there to follow her work.


Unfortunately the book referenced is unavailable in the U.K. but hopefully soon!
Jan 29, 201952:42
Are young people acting as mini-therapists online?

Are young people acting as mini-therapists online?

Today I'm joined by Aylssa Cowell who is working in Brunei in an International school and works with young people as a school counsellor. Aylssa was also previously a Youth worker here in the U.K and we met through the topic of teaching Sex -education for young people.

We talk Young people and sexuality, young people and peer pressure and Instagram stories, identity and how young people are seemingly staying on their devices to 'be there' for each other and how this can mimic the job that Aylssa and I do, ie are young people 'Counsel' for their peers?
We contemplate that in our roles we are expected to have supervision as vicarious trauma, compassion fatigue and burn out are a real threat to our profession, yet young people are managing the Mental Health of their peers, who can be almost anywhere in the world at any time.

Young people really are doing their best for each other, however this is not a role they can be expected to keep fulfilling at this volume if they are to thrive in their own rights? More adults needed to help them manage this please, adolescents need to concentrate on being adolescents, so get talking to them and see how many peers they feel they need to look out for and you might just be amazed. They are tenacious, caring and supportive and perhaps thats why they are on their smartphones as much as they are?

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