Create Your Kindspace

The Art of Writing in the Digital Age with Sara Matthews

Welcome to another episode of the ’Create Your Kindspace’ podcast, with me your host Caroline Laurenson. Create Your Kindspace is all about wellbeing and the different ways in which we care for ourselves and those around us.

Now does anyone else find it hard making friends as a grown up? To be fair I’ve never been very good at making friends, as a child I was painfully shy. And it’s actually really rare to find people you connect with instantly. But my next guest is 100% one of those people. Sara Matthews is the founder of Baravere Studies and I cannot wait for you to meet her.

Timestamps:

00:02:31             Sara's creative journey and background

00:07:41             How creatives often wear many hats

00:10:38             Overcoming the barriers to creativity     

00:14:04             Creativity as a wellbeing tool

00:16:07             The birth of Artful Encounters

00:20:03             What does the research say?

00:22:08             Building community through creative workshops

00:24:03             The power of handwriting vs. digital tools

00:29:02             AI is a tool, don’t be afraid to experiment with it

00:34:43             Conversations with AI

00:37:03             The European Chatbot Summit in Edinburgh

00:43:35             How does a creative like Sara switch off?

00:46:04             Mother's Day workshop announcement

00:50:08             Where to connect with Sara

 

Links:

Website: https://www.baraverestudio.com/

Sara’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saramatt2025/

Sara’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adsycreative/

Baravere Studio Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/baraverestudio/

Mother’s Day Event: https://createyourkindspace.com/mothers-day-creative-writing/

European Chatbot & Conversational AI Summit: https://theeuropeanchatbot.com/

 

Transcript:

Link to the transcript: https://createyourkindspace.com/the-art-of-writing-in-the-digital-age-with-sara-matthews/

 

It’s so interesting the linkage between technology and creativity. I think it is one of the things that I love most about what I do now. But like most things in life there does need to be a balance, and I hope that what comes across in our conversation is that technology should support rather than replace creative processes and that human touch.

I think the other thing that struck with me from our conversation is how important it is to have an outlet for self-expression, whether that’s something like journaling or a creative hobby like painting, or music.

So if you wanna join the conversation, you wanna get in touch and let me know your thoughts about this episode, I would love to hear from you. Also if you could give this episode a like and share on social media that would also be really helpful.

And a final thing, if you’re in the Aberdeen, it would be so wonderful to see you at our Mother’s Day event that we’re planning on the 22^nd of March. So make sure to check out the show notes. And I’m also gonna pop a link to the European Chatbot and Conversational AI summit, just in case you’re in Edinburgh that week as well.

 

Disclaimer:

The information on this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should seek the advice of an appropriately qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your own circumstances. You should not disregard, or delay seeking professional medical advice because of any information contained on this podcast.

Unless specifically mentioned on the podcast, Create Your Kindspace and Caroline Laurenson do not formally endorse or have any affiliation with any product or service mentioned in the podcast. The opinions and content provided and/or shared by any third-party guests, any third-party material or third-party website referenced in this podcast does not necessarily reflect the opinions or policies of Create Your Kindspace and Caroline Laurenson.

Caroline Laurenson on the Power of Daily Journaling

In this behind-the-scenes solo episode, I reflect on 2024 and how I ended up publishing the Create Your Kindspace guided journal. I did a lot of things last year that stretched me and I’m so glad that I took the time to invest in myself and focus on fewer but more meaningful projects. So grab yourself your favourite tea or coffee and join me for an intimate look at how a year of consistent journaling transformed both my personal and professional life.

Timestamps:

00:01:14             My Double Life on TikTok

00:03:34             The Power of Storytelling and Catching the Speaking Bug

00:06:08             The Power of Morning Journaling

00:09:56             Creating the Kindspace Guided Journal

00:11:11             Personal Reflections on 2024

00:12:14             Looking Forward to 2025

00:13:39             Do you have a word of the year for 2025?

Links:

Journal with Me: https://createyourkindspace.com/journal-with-me/

International Women’s Day Talk: https://createyourkindspace.com/stories-that-shape-us-with-caroline-laurenson/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-laurenson/

Transcript:

https://createyourkindspace.com/caroline-laurenson-on-the-power-of-daily-journaling/

If you’ve liked this episode, please screenshot it, tag us on social media @createyourkindspace and maybe share what your key takeaway was from the episode. I would absolutely love to hear from you. It would also be so wonderful if you could rate and review this podcast as it helps other people to find it.

Disclaimer:

The information on this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should seek the advice of an appropriately qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your own circumstances. You should not disregard, or delay seeking professional medical advice because of any information contained on this podcast.

Unless specifically mentioned on the podcast, Create Your Kindspace and Caroline Laurenson do not formally endorse or have any affiliation with any product or service mentioned in the podcast. The opinions and content provided and/or shared by any third-party guests, any third-party material or third-party website referenced in this podcast does not necessarily reflect the opinions or policies of Create Your Kindspace and Caroline Laurenson.

Pelvic Health Myth Busting with Rosie Davie

Welcome to another episode of the ’Create Your Kindspace’ podcast, with me your host Caroline Laurenson. Create Your Kindspace is all about wellbeing and the different ways in which we care for ourselves and those around us.

So right before the festive holidays I caught up with Rosie Davie, a physiotherapist who traded the rugby field for a mission to transform women's health care. I think it’s a topic that we don’t talk about enough and advice can often be unhelpful or outdated, so I’m so delighted to have Rosie help shine a light on the issues and share her top tips and advice.

Timestamps:

00:02:15             Introduction to pelvic health

00:04:39             From sports physio to pelvic health specialist

00:12:11             Understanding the gender health gap

00:17:33             Breaking down pelvic health taboos and the lack of education

00:19:43             How marketing preys on women’s vulnerability

00:25:02             A holistic approach to women's health

00:36:57             Supporting women post trauma

00:39:02             What’s next for Rosie’s business

00:45:25             Creating a kindspace through movement, puppies, family, friends and the beach

00:49:39             Where to get in touch with Rosie

 

Links:

Website: https://rosiedaviephysiotherapy.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rosiedaviepelvichealth/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosie-davie-a47237156/

Access Rosie’s Pelvic Health Resources: https://rosiedavie.teachable.com/p/aboutrosie

 

Transcript:

https://createyourkindspace.com/pelvic-health-myth-busting-with-rosie-davie/

I am sure I am not the only one after this discussion feeling empowered that our pelvic symptoms are not just something that we have to put up with as women. Yes, our bodies go through significant changes through pregnancy, motherhood and beyond in the transition to menopause, and these changes they are natural, but there are proactive and holistic approaches that can help us to improve how we feel and also allow us to still do the things we love. I think the call to action here is to prioritise our pelvic health and if we’re not getting the answers we need, seek out specialist support from someone like Rosie.

Thank you so much for listening all the way to the end, before you go, I have a little favour to ask, so if you’ve liked this episode, please screenshot it, tag us on social media @createyourkindspace and maybe share what your key takeaway was from the episode. It would also be so wonderful if you could rate and review this podcast as it helps other people to find it. Thank you so much.

Disclaimer:

The information on this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should seek the advice of an appropriately qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your own circumstances. You should not disregard, or delay seeking professional medical advice because of any information contained on this podcast.

Unless specifically mentioned on the podcast, Create Your Kindspace and Caroline Laurenson do not formally endorse or have any affiliation with any product or service mentioned in the podcast. The opinions and content provided and/or shared by any third-party guests, any third-party material or third-party website referenced in this podcast does not necessarily reflect the opinions or policies of Create Your Kindspace and Caroline Laurenson.

Be Kind to Your Gut with Gemma Stuart

Welcome to another episode of the ’Create Your Kindspace’ podcast, with me your host Caroline Laurenson. Create Your Kindspace is all about wellbeing and the different ways in which we care for ourselves and those around us.

I have had some truly wonderful guests this year and I’m really excited for you to meet my last guest of 2024. She’s a super straight-talking entrepreneur, passionate about her mission to support people with their digestive health and break the taboo of talking about poo. So let's dive into my conversation with Gemma Stuart, founder of Gut Wealth

Timestamps:

00:02:13             Gemma’s journey from IBS sufferer to founder of Gut Wealth

00:05:29             The social and emotional challenges of digestive health

00:08:24             Gemma’s five core tips for managing gut health

00:20:23             Entrepreneurship: The realities behind the scenes

00:31:36             The importance of listening and the power of kindness

00:37:31             Creating Your Kind Space: Gemma’s wellbeing practices

00:41:45             Reflections on our word of the year

00:45:54             Where to connect with Gemma and find out more about Gut Wealth

 

Links:

Website: https://www.gutwealth.co.uk/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gutwealth.co/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gutwealth.co/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gemmastuart/

 

Transcript:

https://createyourkindspace.com/be-kind-to-your-gut-with-gemma-stuart/

What a fantastic way to end 2024! I think the big takeaway for me from my discussion with Gemma was the power of being honest about our struggles - whether that's with our health, our businesses, or just life in general. Gemma's openness about living with IBS and the realities of running a business really resonated with me.

Thank you so much for being part of the Create Your Kindspace community this year. I've loved sharing these conversations with you, and I can't wait to bring you more inspiring guests in 2025.

Until then, keep creating your kindspace.

Thank you so much for listening all the way to the end, before you go, I have a little favour to ask, so if you’ve liked this episode, please screenshot it, tag us on social media @createyourkindspace and maybe share what your key takeaway was from the episode. It would also be so wonderful if you could rate and review this podcast as it helps other people to find it. Thank you so much.

 

Disclaimer:

The information on this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should seek the advice of an appropriately qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your own circumstances. You should not disregard, or delay seeking professional medical advice because of any information contained on this podcast.

Unless specifically mentioned on the podcast, Create Your Kindspace and Caroline Laurenson do not formally endorse or have any affiliation with any product or service mentioned in the podcast. The opinions and content provided and/or shared by any third-party guests, any third-party material or third-party website referenced in this podcast does not necessarily reflect the opinions or policies of Create Your Kindspace and Caroline Laurenson.

Tips for an Organised, Stress-Free Home with Debbie Junor

Welcome to another episode of the ’Create Your Kindspace’ podcast, with me your host Caroline Laurenson. Create Your Kindspace is all about wellbeing and the different ways in which we care for ourselves and those around us.

Our homes are such an important aspect of our wellbeing. But for many of us, they can be a source of stress and overwhelm when our stuff becomes too much to manage. Today’s guest Debbie Junor from Clean Slate is going to share all her top organising and decluttering tips and also how to approach more challenging things like bereavement, children’s toys and gifting in the run-up to Christmas.

Timestamps:

00:02:08 How Debbie became a professional organiser

00:06:40 Decluttering is not just about hoarders

00:09:44 How to get the stuff out of your home

00:16:54 Debbie’s advice for bereavement and sentimental items

00:21:40 Giving and receiving gifts without the guilt

00:24:33 Children’s toys and capturing memories

00:30:16 The rewards of helping people transform their living spaces

00:32:29 Challenges of running an organising business

00:37:04 The APDO community and professional support opportunities

00:41:25 Where to start on your decluttering journey

00:45:27 Debbie's kind space and future plans

 

Links:

Clean Slate Website: https://cleanslateuk.co.uk/

Debbie’s Countdown to Christmas Planner: https://cleanslateuk.co.uk/countdown-to-christmas-planner/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cleanslateuk.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cleanslateuk.uk/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-junor-90500419a/

APDO the UK's professional body for Declutterers and Organisers: https://www.apdo.co.uk/

 

Transcript:

https://createyourkindspace.com/tips-for-an-organised-stress-free-home-with-debbie-junor/

 

There is something so very freeing about letting things go, but often that can be hard to do on your own, and so I can see how working with someone like Debbie would make such a massive difference and kind of help you get back not only your physical space but also lighten some of that mental load too. So I really hope that you enjoyed this episode and you’re able to kind of implement some of the ideas that we talked about.

Thank you so much for listening, before you go, I have a little favour to ask, so if you’ve liked this episode, please screenshot it, tag us on social media @createyourkindspace and maybe share what your key takeaway was from the episode. It would also be so wonderful if you could rate and review this podcast as it helps other people to find it. Thank you so much.

 

Disclaimer:

The information on this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should seek the advice of an appropriately qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your own circumstances. You should not disregard, or delay seeking professional medical advice because of any information contained on this podcast.

Unless specifically mentioned on the podcast, Create Your Kindspace and Caroline Laurenson do not formally endorse or have any affiliation with any product or service mentioned in the podcast. The opinions and content provided and/or shared by any third-party guests, any third-party material or third-party website referenced in this podcast does not necessarily reflect the opinions or policies of Create Your Kindspace and Caroline Laurenson.

Essential Alexa Tips and Tricks for Busy Families

Welcome to another episode of the ’Create Your Kindspace’ podcast, with me your host Caroline Laurenson. Create Your Kindspace is all about wellbeing and the different ways in which we care for ourselves and those around us.

In today's episode, we're diving into the world of Alexa smart speakers. Last month I had the huge honour of performing a show as part of the Aberdeen Science Festival and I wanted to share it with you too. The show covered some of our favourite family-friendly tips and tricks to help you make the most of your Alexa. There’s so much that people don’t know about these devices, so let's jump in and discover how Alexa can create a kinder, smarter space for you and your family.

 

Timestamps:

00:01:10             Introduction and Overview

00:08:33             Important Data Privacy Advice

00:14:09             Getting Started and the Basics

00:16:02             Family-Friendly Features

00:18:36             Customising Your Alexa Experience

00:20:30             Some Alexa Skills to Try

00:25:57             Flash Briefings and Widgets

00:30:18             Hidden Features and Accessibility

00:33:07             It’s Quiz Time

00:36:57             Inspiring the Next Generation of Voice Developers

00:38:19             Resources for Further Learning

00:39:32             End of the Show Alexa Musical Piece

 

Links:

What can I say to Alexa? Book: https://tltechsmart.com/what-can-I-say-to-Alexa

HuggingFace https://huggingface.co/

Claude https://claude.ai/

Amazon Party Rock https://partyrock.aws/

Voice Flow https://www.voiceflow.com/

Vector Shift https://vectorshift.ai/

Alexa Skills Kit: https://developer.amazon.com/en-US/alexa/alexa-skills-kit/start

Alexa Developers on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbx0SPpWT6yB7_yY_ik7pmg

Dabble Lab: https://learn.dabblelab.com/alexa/

Codecademy: https://www.codecademy.com/learn/learn-alexa

 

Transcript:

https://createyourkindspace.com/essential-alexa-tips-and-tricks-for-busy-families/

 

Outro:

It was so much fun putting on this show. I think I slightly underestimated how much work it would be, but I’m so glad to have had the opportunity to share our Alexa knowledge. It was so amazing to share the stage with my daughter Eilidh too. If you’ve listened to this in audio format, you might also want to check out our YouTube channel for the video, where you’ll see our Alexa demo come to life when Eilidh pops out of the smart speaker box for the first time. If you’re looking for the list of resources mentioned, I’ve also popped these in the show notes for you. And of course if you have any Alexa questions, I’d be delighted to help.

Thank you for listening all the way to the end, before you go, I have a little favour to ask, so if you’ve liked this episode, screenshot it, tag us on social media @createyourkindspace and maybe share what your key takeaway was from the episode. It would be so wonderful as well if you could rate and review the podcast as this helps other people to find it. Thank you so much.

 

Disclaimer:

The information on this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should seek the advice of an appropriately qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your own circumstances. You should not disregard, or delay seeking professional medical advice because of any information contained on this podcast.

Unless specifically mentioned on the podcast, Create Your Kindspace and Caroline Laurenson do not formally endorse or have any affiliation with any product or service mentioned in the podcast. The opinions and content provided and/or shared by any third-party guests, any third-party material or third-party website referenced in this podcast does not necessarily reflect the opinions or policies of Create Your Kindspace and Caroline Laurenson.

Pei-I Yang Helps Us to Find Family Harmony

Welcome to another episode of the ’Create Your Kindspace’ podcast, with me your host Caroline Laurenson. Create Your Kindspace is all about wellbeing and the different ways in which we care for ourselves and those around us.

Today I’d like you to meet my wonderful friend Pei-I Yang from Rainbow Parenting Practice. We’re delving into the tricky topic of family relationships and specifically the tensions and issues that many of us face navigating the teenage years.

Timestamps:

00:01:11             Introduction and Pei-I's Background

00:04:07             The Importance of Seeking Help with Parenting

00:09:38             Understanding Family Dynamics and Inherited Parenting Traits

00:15:33             Pei-I's Approach to Helping Families

00:20:15             Success Stories and Transformations

00:28:19             Pei-I's Media Appearances and GB News Interview

00:34:26             The "Teen Talk" Podcast

00:42:15             Tuning into Your Soul and Self-Care

00:45:45             How to Connect with Pei-I and Rainbow Parenting Practice

 

Links:

Website: https://www.rainbowparentingpractice.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pei-i-yang/

Teen Talk Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4VZsroFmjmAyju7sHtDlkN?si=eca2ae1da3174d12

 

Transcript:

https://createyourkindspace.com/pei-i-yang-helps-us-to-find-family-harmony/

 

There is not a day goes by that I don’t feel grateful for my family and my kids. There is nothing that I wanted more growing up than to have a stable normal life. So it’s very comforting to know that there are people like Pei-I out there dedicating themselves to helping families through difficult times and allowing them to repair and rebuild those fragile relationships. If you are listening to this and you’re in need of support, I know Pei-I would be delighted to hear from you.

Thank you for listening all the way to the end, before you go, I have a little favour to ask, so if you’ve liked this episode, screenshot it, tag us on social media @createyourkindspace and maybe share what your key takeaway was from the episode. It would so wonderful as well if you could rate and review the podcast as this helps other people to find it. Thank you so much.

 

Disclaimer:

The information on this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should seek the advice of an appropriately qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your own circumstances. You should not disregard, or delay seeking professional medical advice because of any information contained on this podcast.

Unless specifically mentioned on the podcast, Create Your Kindspace and Caroline Laurenson do not formally endorse or have any affiliation with any product or service mentioned in the podcast. The opinions and content provided and/or shared by any third-party guests, any third-party material or third-party website referenced in this podcast does not necessarily reflect the opinions or policies of Create Your Kindspace and Caroline Laurenson.

Catherine Ann Reid Helps Us to Conquer Life's Admin

If I say the words Life Admin, what feelings come up for you? Is it immediate overwhelm? I think at this time of year, when we’re thinking about getting back to school and realising how the end of the year isn’t actually that far away, it can cause a slight sense of panic when you realise how many balls you are juggling. My guest today, Catherine Ann Reid has created a super user-friendly digital solution called Doqit that brings together all that life admin into one place and offers timely reminders so you’ll never drop a ball again.

Timestamps:

00:01:21             Introduction and Catherine Ann’s Background

00:03:31             The Inspiration Behind Doqit

00:06:44             Solving the Life Admin Problem

00:09:29             Implementing Doqit and User Stories

00:19:50             The Role of AI and Future Possibilities

00:23:26             The Tech Founder Journey

00:35:23             Reflections and Lessons Learned

00:41:15             Inspiring and Being Inspired By Our Kids

00:48:38             Finding Balance and Creating Kind Spaces

 

Links:

Website: https://www.doqit.io/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherineannreid/

 

Transcript:

https://createyourkindspace.com/catherine-ann-reid-helps-us-to-conquer-lifes-admin/

It never ceases to amaze me how resilient people can be. I am so blessed to be able to have such beautiful guests on, who share their life lessons and passion for helping others. You can hopefully tell from this episode that I feel a deep connection with Catherine Ann and Chloe, I’ve walked a similar path with my own disability. My mum had five kids and had to juggle all my appointments and treatment and I know she would have loved something like Doqit to help keep her organised.

Can I ask you a favour? If you’ve liked this episode, please screenshot it and tag us on social media @createyourkindspace. It would also be so wonderful if you could rate and review the podcast to help other people find it.