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Send us a text Ever had a day where everything feels too loud and your body won’t stop bracing? I swap hospital alarms for stable mornings and discover why horses make terrible liars of us: they don’t hear your words, they feel your state. That became my wake-up call to slow the tempo, regulate first, and let results follow. I share the messy return to riding—buying an ex-racehorse, facing falls, then realising I couldn’t muscle my way back to confidence. Pressure only made him freeze. Natural horsemanship reframed the work: soften breath, loosen the jaw, match intention with action. When my inner “maybe” turned into a clear “we go,” the stops faded. Along the way, barn life offered an antidote to sensory overload: no headphones, no multitasking, just finite, tactile jobs—mucking out, filling hay nets, making feeds—that restore focus and end with a clean, visible finish. We translate those stable lessons into everyday tools you can use without getting covered in hay. Think sensory narrowing and decluttering for fewer inputs, slower hands with purpose, and low-stakes chores that calm the nervous system. I walk through four simple experiments: one-sense attention for five minutes, a 30–40% slower task with no multitasking, three daily check-ins for breath and tension, and a ten-minute swap from doomscrolling to gentle movement. The goal isn’t to be relaxed all the time—it’s to be regulated and congruent so your body trusts you again. If you’re craving less noise and more steadiness, this conversation is a practical map back to presence. Listen, try the experiments, and tell me what shifted. If the episode helped, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs the barn-level calm, and leave a quick review so others can find it too. Support the show Please consider helping me out, I'd seriously super appreciate it! 3 https://www.patreon.com/diariesofadoctor

Send us a text The mic is clipped to my coffee table, I’m under two blankets, and I’m finally ready to tell you where I’ve been: knee‑deep in mud, hay, and a kind of happiness that also leaves you wrecked. Over the last year I brought an ex‑racehorse into my life, then made the wildly optimistic choice to add a second. The podcast didn’t fade because I ran out of ideas—it paused because caring for 600‑kilo flight animals takes time, muscle, money, and a surprising amount of mental bandwidth. I walk you through what retraining a thoroughbred actually looks like, including the messy middle: building new cues, rebuilding my own riding muscles after a long gap, and making peace with risk. I share the falls, the shoulder that met a wall, the back that maybe should have been scanned, and the clinical calculus I make as a doctor who also loves a dangerous sport. We talk invisible labour—from farrier schedules and dental checks to feed plans and endless driving—and why I could organise vet visits before I remembered to pack my own lunch. You’ll hear a full day at the yard: lessons, mucking out, riding two horses, a gale that turned the yard into chaos, and the inevitable crash into the sofa for a Hannah Montana binge. Underneath the stories is a theme that matters beyond horses: burnout isn’t just about work. Passion can drain as well as give, especially when water bottles, snacks, and sleep fall off the list. I’ve started building systems, accepting help, and redefining self‑care as practical fuel, not perfection. I’m also launching a six‑part mini series on horses and health—nervous system lessons from the saddle, injury risk and reality, caretaker fatigue, movement that doesn’t feel like exercise, and what these animals give back. If you’ve ever loved something that quietly exhausted you, you’ll feel seen. Press play, ride along, and if this episode resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs permission to lower the bar, and leave a quick review to help others find us. Support the show Please consider helping me out, I'd seriously super appreciate it! 3 https://www.patreon.com/diariesofadoctor

Send us a text Can the road to YouTube stardom really be as glamorous as it seems? We take you behind the scenes of the less-glamorous side of content creation, sharing the unexpected hurdles that derailed our upload schedule—from a laptop mishap to the comforting yet distracting company of our dogs and binge sessions of Friends. This candid look provides an amusing account of balancing a chocolate addiction with a weight loss journey, all while navigating the unpredictable terrain of video editing disasters. We unpack the myth of effortlessly gaining millions of subscribers and draw parallels to chasing the American dream. Inspired by a friend's moderate success, our YouTube adventure began with high hopes but soon collided with the harsh realities of criticism and identity struggle. The lockdown became a pivotal moment, easing our self-consciousness in front of the camera and igniting a renewed creative spark. Our experience as a doctor who prefers to steer clear of medical discussions online adds another layer to the identity challenge. Explore the tightrope walk of harmonizing YouTube ambitions with professional responsibilities and personal passions. Reflecting on Sam Sulek's rise and the impact of social comparisons, we reveal the exhaustion behind the scenes while juggling a demanding day job, podcasting, and newfound equestrian pursuits. Experience our frustrations with finding the right editor to align with our humor and style, a quest temporarily stalled by technical setbacks. But hope isn't lost; with a repaired laptop and a supportive audience, we're ready to reclaim our creative space and share the reality of this unique journey weekly. Support the show Please consider helping me out, I'd seriously super appreciate it! 3 https://www.patreon.com/diariesofadoctor

Send us a text Ever felt like your world has turned upside down because of night shifts and disrupted sleep patterns? I did, too. In this episode, I recount my personal transformation from anxiety-ridden nights into mastering the art of working odd hours. You'll gain insights into establishing new routines and prioritizing personal hygiene amidst the chaos of unconventional schedules. We tackle common mistakes like skipping meals and ignoring self-care and share mental strategies to cope with the daunting hours of the night. Whether it's work, kids, or travel turning your world topsy-turvy, this candid discussion is your guide to not only surviving but thriving. Prepare to navigate the quirks of night shifts with me as we explore the delicate dance between the allure of a cozy bed and the fear of waking fatigue-stricken. From strategic naps to adjusting sleep patterns, we cover practical tips to fight tiredness and maintain energy levels. Let’s not forget the quirky, intrusive thoughts that sneak up during those late hours. Injecting humor and relatable anecdotes, I share how I’ve learned to manage time and energy more effectively, making the night shift a little less daunting and a lot more manageable. The journey doesn't stop there. We delve into the world of sleep aids, with a surprising twist on how antihistamines can be a non-addictive option to help reset sleep routines. From the guilty pleasures of indulging in chocolate-covered hobnobs out of boredom to navigating food and caffeine intake during unconventional hours, I share personal stories that shine a light on the balance between maintaining hygiene and household dynamics. This episode offers a raw, entertaining glimpse into the challenges and strategies that come with working in high-pressure environments like emergency departments, ensuring you’re equipped to tackle night shifts with confidence and a smile. Support the show Please consider helping me out, I'd seriously super appreciate it! 3 https://www.patreon.com/diariesofadoctor

Send us a text Night shifts can be a beast of their own, and as a locum doctor, I’ve had my fair share of struggles and triumphs. From the anxiety-ridden beginnings to embracing the unique flexibility and experiences they offer, this episode uncovers my journey through the nocturnal world of healthcare. I promise you'll discover insights not just for night owls, but for anyone facing unexpected challenges under the moonlight, whether it’s managing a sleepless baby or navigating late-night work emergencies. Reflecting on my early days as a healthcare assistant and phlebotomist, and the long nights filled with emotional and mental hurdles, I share candid anecdotes about waking patients at ungodly hours and the sometimes unsettling nature of the night shift grind. Despite the personal battles with anxiety and depression, which I faced head-on with support from occupational health, there were lighter moments too. Who would have thought a quiet night could turn into a game of hangman? This episode invites you into the raw and real experiences of working the night shift, where solitude becomes a close companion. But what about the toll on our health? We take a deep dive into the long-term effects of disrupted sleep cycles, the battle against unhealthy eating habits, and the surprising ways night shifts can affect our bodies. If you’re navigating the balancing act between financial incentives and well-being, this episode provides a mirror to those struggles, offering a candid look at the impact on one’s health and lifestyle. Through personal stories and reflections, we explore how crafting a healthier routine, even amidst the chaos of night shifts, can make a world of difference. Tune in to explore the epiphanies and lessons learned from a decade in the trenches of night work. Support the show Please consider helping me out, I'd seriously super appreciate it! 3 https://www.patreon.com/diariesofadoctor

Send us a text Recording a podcast on Christmas Day was both a heartwarming and challenging experience, as I found myself juggling the holiday spirit, family expectations, and the comfort of spending time with my pet frog. The festive chaos offered a quirky backdrop as I pondered the complexities of mental health amidst binge-watching true crime documentaries and shared my enduring fascination with unsolved mysteries, particularly the Madeleine McCann case. Venturing into the world of unsolved crimes, I explored the psychological impact they can have, drawing parallels with those haunting dreams of showing up to an exam completely unprepared. The episode took a reflective turn as I examined the rise of "armchair detectives" and their struggle with cognitive biases, which can obscure objectivity and influence perceptions during public trials. Amidst such serious discussions, a lighthearted interlude about Sally's trip and my amusing battle with words like "antics" offered some comic relief. Throughout the episode, I expressed gratitude for listener support and encouraged feedback to enhance the podcast experience. Join me for an engaging mix of introspection and humor, topped with a sprinkle of holiday cheer. Support the show Please consider helping me out, I'd seriously super appreciate it! 3 https://www.patreon.com/diariesofadoctor

Send us a text Ever wonder why true crime stories hold such a mesmerizing grip on our imaginations? Our latest episode promises to unlock the fascinating reasons behind our captivation with infamous criminals like Jeffrey Dahmer and Peter Sutcliffe. We tackle the intriguing paradox of true crime's popularity, especially among women, who stand at a higher statistical risk of victimhood. By dissecting our attraction to these extreme narratives, we uncover how they tap into our innate desire for conflict, resolution, and perhaps even a subconscious drive to become better problem solvers through stories of terror and survival. As we journey deeper, we explore the delicate balance between the potential benefits and pitfalls of consuming true crime media. Discover how the genre might act as a form of self-education or therapy, helping viewers confront their vulnerabilities and build empathy for victims. Yet, there's a darker side to this obsession, with risks of heightened anxiety and distorted worldviews. We discuss the evolution of crime in modern times and the ethical considerations that creators and consumers alike must navigate to avoid glamorization or victim-blaming. It's a reminder of the importance of moderation and the need for a mindful approach when engaging with such intense themes. Looking ahead, we offer a glimpse of future episodes, where we'll tackle intriguing subjects like high-protein diets, the personal and universal experience of stretch marks, and the pervasive nature of gossip. We even contemplate inviting a guest like Sophie to enrich our conversation with her enthusiasm. Ending on a festive note, we extend warm holiday wishes, leaving you with much to ponder until our next deep dive into the world of true crime and beyond. Support the show Please consider helping me out, I'd seriously super appreciate it! 3 https://www.patreon.com/diariesofadoctor

Send us a text Can holiday gift-giving truly express love and appreciation, or is it just another commercialized stressor in our lives? Join me as I unravel the emotional maze of buying presents during holidays and birthdays, a journey fraught with societal pressures and personal dilemmas. Imagine the chilly December air as I candidly recount my own struggles with the overwhelming marketing frenzy that insists we need to spend money to make the holidays special. My experiences with my boyfriend's stress over meeting gift expectations bring a personal touch to this broader conversation, as we collectively grapple with the relentless consumer cycle that spans seasons. Tune in to hear how I tackle the guilt of present-giving, balancing financial well-being with the desire to create meaningful connections. Humorously, I share how life distractions like a broken computer and my new horse obsession have kept me from drowning in material expectations. With anecdotes from popular culture and my own life, I aim to highlight the importance of prioritizing time spent with loved ones over the stress of purchasing gifts. Let’s question whether our relationships should truly hinge on material possessions or monetary displays of affection. Discover practical, creative strategies for turning holiday stress into genuine joy. From personalized artwork to thoughtful gift hampers, I offer ideas that emphasize planning and personal touches over financial strain. As someone who loathes shopping, I'm a huge advocate for online convenience to escape the chaos of crowded stores. By openly communicating with loved ones about gift expectations, we can reclaim the holiday season as a time for meaningful experiences, ensuring it becomes a period of connection rather than obligation. Let's save our sanity and our wallets while nurturing the relationships that matter most. Support the show Please consider helping me out, I'd seriously super appreciate it! 3 https://www.patreon.com/diariesofadoctor

Send us a text Ever wonder how transforming small habits can lead to big changes in your life? Join me on a journey of transformation as I share how the principles from "Atomic Habits" helped me navigate the ups and downs of the past six months. Working in a hospital's emergency department has taught me that life can be unpredictable, and I've learned the importance of taking proactive steps to live with purpose. This episode encourages you to evaluate your own life satisfaction, recognize personal flaws, and take steps toward self-improvement. Rediscovering passions was a crucial milestone in my personal growth journey. After years away, I've rekindled my love for horse riding, finding unexpected peace in this old hobby. Along the way, I found a new meditation app that improved my mindfulness practice and helped me maintain a consistent exercise routine. Plus, I'll share how James Clear's insights have guided me away from all-or-nothing thinking, leading to unexpected success on YouTube. Consistency, it turns out, is a game-changer. From the joy of horse riding to the therapeutic escape it provides, finding a passion that brings peace is invaluable, especially during the winter months. I'll share a poignant story of personal loss that underscores the urgency of living a fulfilling life. Upcoming episodes promise even more inspiration, with exciting plans including a guest appearance by Sophie. Join me in exploring self-improvement, meditation, and discovering new passions for a happier, more fulfilling existence. Support the show Please consider helping me out, I'd seriously super appreciate it! 3 https://www.patreon.com/diariesofadoctor

Send us a text Ever find yourself lost in the chaos of life, only to return with a splash of bold creativity and vibrant energy? That's exactly where I find myself as I return to Backseat Positivity after a six-month hiatus. With a newfound zest, fueled by unforgettable travels and life-altering changes, I reconnect with you all and my friend Sophie, who's been my cheerleader throughout. Listen as I humorously tackle the mundane like sorting laundry, all while sporting a colorful vintage top that mirrors my colorful plans for the future. This is just the beginning of an exciting journey to rediscover myself and spread positivity, one episode at a time. But wait, there's more! I’m stepping into the world of stand-up comedy—with more than a few banana peels underfoot. Join me as I navigate the world of joke writing, performance jitters, and the art of capturing humor in everyday moments. Between tales of my boyfriend Tom and my digital note-taking struggles, this episode is all about embracing spontaneity and finding laughter in the unexpected. Plus, discover how you can engage with our podcast through bite-sized clips or dive into full episodes. Get ready for an exhilarating ride filled with laughter, insights, and the promise of more dynamic discussions to come! Support the show Please consider helping me out, I'd seriously super appreciate it! 3 https://www.patreon.com/diariesofadoctor

Send us a text Imagine starting your day with a serene yoga session, feeling grounded and ready to conquer anything. How do you choose the perfect mat and accessories to complement your practice? In this episode, we unravel the secrets behind selecting the best yoga mats, accessories, and clothing to elevate your yoga journey. From the convenience of travel mats by Complete Unity Yoga to the supportive benefits of yoga blocks, I share my personal experiences and insights to help you make informed choices. Finding the right accessories can transform your yoga experience, especially when they are eco-friendly and stylish. We dive deep into the world of yoga bags, comparing options like the Mindful Jungle and Meadow of Enlightenment bags, which combine functionality with a commitment to sustainability. Additionally, we explore meditation essentials, such as pillows and blankets, and discuss how creating a dedicated meditation space can enhance your practice. Tips for maintaining proper posture with the help of yoga blocks are also provided, ensuring that you stay comfortable and aligned. Does practicing yoga with a larger body or limited flexibility feel daunting? Fear not—I share practical solutions such as using yoga straps and selecting appropriate attire to make your sessions more effective and enjoyable. Morning yoga in tranquil outdoor settings, coupled with cardio routines, can offer a holistic approach to fitness and mental well-being. As we wrap up, I reflect on how yoga has significantly boosted my mental health and confidence, leaving me feeling strong and empowered. Join us for this enriching discussion and get ready to embrace the transformative power of yoga. Support the show Please consider helping me out, I'd seriously super appreciate it! 3 https://www.patreon.com/diariesofadoctor

Send us a text Hey there, my dear friends and listeners! I've been on quite the unexpected journey, stretching what was meant to be a short break into an extended hiatus that took me off the grid and gave me a fresh perspective. Despite toting my podcast gear, I relished a pause from the usual recording routine, allowing me to recharge and reflect. That said, I wasn't entirely off the radar; I managed to share a delightful episode featuring the ever-insightful Sophie, who offered her gems of wisdom, a conversation that shouldn't be missed. The big news is the launch of our dedicated YouTube channel, Backseat Positivity, which marks a new chapter for our podcast adventures. It's a hive of activity where our community can gather, and I'm deep in the throes of moving episodes over to this fresh space – all while keeping things delightfully unpolished, as you've come to love. The behind-the-scenes efforts are hefty, and I'm all about preserving sanity over sticking to an unyielding schedule. So I'm plotting a grand return around the end of June or July, armed with episodes that promise to make the wait utterly worthwhile. Stick around, because we're about to get into some really good stuff together with our next batch of conversations. Support the show Please consider helping me out, I'd seriously super appreciate it! 3 https://www.patreon.com/diariesofadoctor

Send us a text Ever felt like your life is one big, fat question mark as you inch closer to 30? Grab your headphones and join us on a rollercoaster ride through adulthood, where we swap tales of job hunting escapades, living with our folks (again), and the magnetic pull of a nomadic lifestyle. Whether you're wrestling with a quarter-life crisis or chuckling at the thought of trading in socks for Christmas, we've got the stories that echo your own—and then some. Imagine grappling with the urge to buy a house solo in a world that seems tailored for twosomes, or the exotic appeal of working in Antarctica. Our candid conversations will make you feel right at home—or at least in the company of friends who get it. We're peeling back the curtain on the creative grind too, sharing the ins and outs of podcasting and content creation, all served with a side of dreams about comedy stardom and the quest for a fulfilling career. It's not all laughs though; we get real about the challenges of modern life. From picking the right career path to the financial tightrope walk, we don't shy away from the tough stuff. So, if you've ever found yourself pondering the practicality of pet ownership or the existential weight of life's big decisions, pull up a chair. We're navigating life's crossroads together, one hilarious, heartfelt episode at a time. Support the show Please consider helping me out, I'd seriously super appreciate it! 3 https://www.patreon.com/diariesofadoctor

Send us a text Exclusive code: DB15 15% OFF Sitewide (excluding sale items and not valid in conjunction with other offers).  Link to homepage: https://completeunityyoga.com/discount/DB15  Link to all products: https://completeunityyoga.com/discount/DB15?redirect=%2Fcollections%2Fall Link to travel yoga mat: https://completeunityyoga.com/discount/DB15?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fcompletegrip-eco-travel-yoga-mat Ever braved the biting cold and found yourself wishing for a warmer adventure? Let me guide you through my own frostbitten mishaps and the crucial wisdom they've frozen into my memory. My travels to the icy realms of Norway, Sweden, and Canada, along with a nail-biting ascent of Kilimanjaro, have taught me the hard way that preparation is key to not just enjoying, but surviving in cold environments. I'll be unpacking the layers of my journey, from the dangers lurking in underestimated weather to the lifesaving gear and strategies that kept me warm. When the sun dips below the horizon and the cold starts to creep in, a good night's sleep can feel like a distant dream. In this chat, I'll spill the secrets to turning that dream into reality with the right sleeping setup. Listen as I recount my own night-time blunders and how they led me to discover the wonders of a four-season sleeping bag, the underestimated power of a sleeping bag liner, and the thermal magic of a simple hat. You'll hear why hot water bottles can become your best friend in the great outdoors, and how the right thermals can mean the difference between shivering and snoozing in blissful warmth. Wrapping up our thermal voyage, I'll share the essential cold weather gear checklist that should accompany any thrill-seeker facing the frost. From the necessity of smart wool socks to the innovative hot rock that soothes your hands while charging your phone, I've got you covered. And it's not just about what you wear—what you eat plays a pivotal role too, as I'll explain the caloric firepower needed to fuel your body's natural furnace. Join me, and arm yourself with the knowledge to embrace the chill and turn winter woes into wondrous escapades. Support the show Please consider helping me out, I'd seriously super appreciate it! 3 https://www.patreon.com/diariesofadoctor

Send us a text Who said turning your living room into a sweltering hot yoga studio was a good idea? Certainly not me, after my side-splitting and sweat-inducing debacle that takes center stage in today's episode. It's Dawn here, spilling the beans on my valiant but vain attempt to save a few bucks and the precious minutes I spent getting to my local hot pod yoga class. Brace yourselves for a roller coaster of DIY disasters and the stark realization that sometimes, convenience isn't king. I'll regale you with the saga of my living room turned sauna and how a fan heater, a yoga mat, and great intentions weren't quite enough to rival the structured discipline of a proper studio setting. Amid the laughs, I've also got some pearls of wisdom to share on smoothing out the rough edges of our day-to-day lives to boost productivity. No guests joining me today, just a hearty dose of reality as I dissect the friction points that can chip away at our well-being and how a dedicated space for our endeavors can make all the difference. Tune in for a candid reflection on the social dynamics of group classes versus the solitude of home practice, the quirks of setting up (and tearing down) a would-be yoga space, and the technical snafus that even I can't always dodge. It's all about finding the balance between laughing at ourselves and learning from our foibles. Don't forget to hit that like button and drop a five-star rating if you enjoy this blend of humor and hindsight! Support the show Please consider helping me out, I'd seriously super appreciate it! 3 https://www.patreon.com/diariesofadoctor