Épisodes

  • Strategies for Energy, Vitality, and Sustainable Wellness
    Nov 20 2025
    In this episode, Gena interviews Valerie Huang Beck, a board-certified Ayurvedic practitioner and Vitality and Vision mentor. Valerie shares her transformative journey from experiencing burnout to discovering the holistic practices of Ayurveda, which helped her regain balance and vitality. They discuss the pressures faced by IT professionals, particularly the misconception that success requires sacrificing health and happiness. Valerie emphasises the importance of foundational health, energy, and alignment in achieving a thriving life. KEY TAKEAWAYS Ayurveda, a 5000-year-old system of holistic medicine, offers a framework for individuals to understand their health and well-being, helping them recover from burnout and achieve balance. Success should include health and happiness as integral components, rather than viewing them as sacrifices for career achievements. This shift in mindset can help individuals prioritise their well-being alongside their professional goals. To avoid burnout, it's crucial to include oneself in the equation of care. Individuals often neglect their own needs while trying to support others, leading to an imbalance that can result in stress and fatigue. Key daily routines for maintaining balance include mindful eating, ensuring adequate sleep, and creating a supportive environment. These foundational practices are essential for sustaining energy and health in demanding jobs. Building a supportive community or accountability group can help individuals stay committed to their wellness journey. Engaging with others who share similar goals fosters motivation and provides a sense of belonging, making it easier to implement lasting changes. BEST MOMENTS "When we ignore those symptoms and those signs, we override our nervous system science." "We think that we have to achieve big things and be the best and make the most money." "If you don't see yourself as worthy of care, it's going to be very hard for you to get out of burnout." "We conflate success with survival." "The first step is always to create space and time." HOST BIO Gena Frangina, a seasoned software engineer with over a decade of industry experience, is your trusted host on the "IT Stress Relief" Podcast. Her unique background includes a profound passion for psychology, culminating in the attainment of a Business Psychology MSc. Gena's diverse skill set extends to accreditation as a Hypnotherapist, under the tutelage of Paul McKenna and his renowned team, as well as expertise in wellness coaching. This extensive blend of technical acumen and psychological insight positions Gena as an exceptional host in the IT world. She not only understands the intricacies of the field but also excels in guiding IT professionals towards holistic well-being. Tune in to Gena's podcast for enlightening interviews with IT specialists, and gain access to a wealth of knowledge. https://genafrangina.com/podcast/ https://www.facebook.com/gena.frangina IG: @gena.frangina This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    44 min
  • Gena's Practical Techniques for Stress Relief and Well-Being - Revisited
    Nov 10 2025
    As we revisit this very first episode of IT Stress Relief, your host, Gena Frangina, delves into the pervasive issue of stress in the tech industry. As an IT professional and business psychologist, she highlights alarming statistics that reveal the extent of stress, anxiety, and burnout among IT workers, emphasising the importance of effective stress management. Gena shares practical strategies for achieving a sustainable work-life balance, including setting boundaries, managing time effectively, and practising stress relief techniques like mindfulness and exercise. KEY TAKEAWAYS Stress, depression, and anxiety accounted for 51% of all work-related ill health cases in the UK in 2019-2020, highlighting the significant toll stress takes on IT professionals. Establishing strict work hours and turning off notifications outside of work time is crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance and preventing burnout. Utilising productivity methods like the Pomodoro technique, time blocking, and the Eisenhower matrix can help prioritise tasks and reduce cognitive overload. Techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, regular exercise, and maintaining good sleep hygiene are essential for managing stress and improving overall well-being. It's important to talk about mental health and seek support when feeling overwhelmed. Embracing struggles and finding resources can lead to better coping strategies and improved mental health. BEST MOMENTS "In the fast-paced, high-pressure world of IT, stress isn't just a side effect. It's often built into the job." "Stress increases the risk of heart disease, anxiety, and even depression. Your work performance drops and opportunities for career growth shrink." "Saying no to someone or something means that you're actually saying yes to yourself." "If you're constantly tired or overwhelmed, it's time to make a change." "You should embrace your struggles. You should find support." HOST BIO Gena Frangina, a seasoned software engineer with over a decade of industry experience, is your trusted host on the "IT Stress Relief" Podcast. Her unique background includes a profound passion for psychology, culminating in the attainment of a Business Psychology MSc. Gena's diverse skill set extends to accreditation as a Hypnotherapist, under the tutelage of Paul McKenna and his renowned team, as well as expertise in wellness coaching. This extensive blend of technical acumen and psychological insight positions Gena as an exceptional host in the IT world. She not only understands the intricacies of the field but also excels in guiding IT professionals towards holistic well-being. Tune in to Gena's podcast for enlightening interviews with IT specialists, and gain access to a wealth of knowledge. ⁠https://genafrangina.com/podcast/⁠ ⁠https://www.facebook.com/gena.frangina⁠ IG: @gena.frangina This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    18 min
  • A Mother's Quest for Health and Balance in a High-Pressure IT Career with Lara Barnes
    Oct 28 2025
    Today, Gena interviews Lara Barnes, a Chief Customer Officer with nearly three decades of experience in the technology sector. Lara shares her inspiring career journey, highlighting her passion for customer success and team leadership. The duo discuss the biggest challenges of balancing a high-pressure IT role with parenting, particularly in the context of raising a child with learning and behavioural issues. KEY TAKEAWAYS Managing a high-pressure leadership role while raising a child can be incredibly challenging. It requires effective time management, consistency, and the ability to juggle professional responsibilities with parenting duties. Early childhood development is crucial, and parents should be aware of key milestones such as crawling and speech. Delays in these areas may indicate underlying issues that need to be addressed, such as retained reflexes that can affect learning and behaviour. Having a supportive network, whether through family, friends, or professionals, is essential for managing stress and ensuring that both work and parenting responsibilities are handled effectively. Taking time for oneself, even if it's just a short period each day, is vital for maintaining mental and physical health. Engaging in physical activity can help alleviate stress and improve overall well-being. A healthy diet plays a significant role in emotional and physical health. Gut inflammation can impact mood and stress levels, highlighting the importance of nutrition in both personal well-being and child development. BEST MOMENTS "I want to ensure that not only internally I'm having impact on how that is done, but then externally what the customer is seeing from us in our servicing." "You need to have a plan. You need to have the right people around you that can help." "If you look back at my academic GCSE science, I got double D, so I wasn't a science type person." "A child doesn't... they're not vindictive. They're little people. They're misunderstood because they still have these reflexes which should have gone within, they should have integrated." "The amount of negotiation and promises that I made in order to get those exercises done was really tough because I was tired." GUEST LINKS www.braindevelopment.co.uk Lara@braindevelopment.co.uk https://www.youtube.com/@BrainDevelopmentUK HOST BIO Gena Frangina, a seasoned software engineer with over a decade of industry experience, is your trusted host on the "IT Stress Relief" Podcast. Her unique background includes a profound passion for psychology, culminating in the attainment of a Business Psychology MSc. Gena's diverse skill set extends to accreditation as a Hypnotherapist, under the tutelage of Paul McKenna and his renowned team, as well as expertise in wellness coaching. This extensive blend of technical acumen and psychological insight positions Gena as an exceptional host in the IT world. She not only understands the intricacies of the field but also excels in guiding IT professionals towards holistic well-being. Tune in to Gena's podcast for enlightening interviews with IT specialists, and gain access to a wealth of knowledge. https://genafrangina.com/podcast/ https://www.facebook.com/gena.frangina IG: @gena.frangina This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    1 h et 11 min
  • Shaman Dawn's Guide to Reconnecting with Self and Community
    Oct 21 2025
    Gena sits down with Shaman Dawn, a certified hypnotherapist and traditional teacher from South Africa, to discuss the intersection of indigenous wisdom and modern psychology. Dawn shares her unique journey into shamanism, emphasising the importance of reconnecting with oneself, others, and nature in a fast-paced, technology-driven world. KEY TAKEAWAYS Emphasising the importance of reconnecting with oneself and others, recognising that disconnection can lead to feelings of isolation and stress. Healing often occurs in relationships and community settings. Incorporating simple daily practices, such as being present in the moment, can help manage stress and improve overall well-being. Focusing on one or two tasks at a time can reduce feelings of overwhelm. Acknowledging that it's normal to experience a range of emotions, including sadness and anxiety. These feelings are part of the human experience and should not be avoided but rather understood and processed. Highlighting the significance of maintaining physical health through proper nutrition, hydration, and rest. A healthy body contributes to better emotional and mental states, which are crucial for overall well-being. Adopting the seven sacred laws from the Anishinaabe Egepe tribe - wisdom, love, respect, bravery, honesty, humility, and truth - can guide individuals in living a happy and healthy life while honouring both themselves and others. BEST MOMENTS "Being a shaman is a calling. It's an innate gift that is given to a person, probably chosen by the soul before this lifetime." "Every single person on earth has this innate gifts and channels that I have. The difference is, it is my job to do that specific work." "People think that if they don't do something or have something, they are lesser or they're missing something compared to their peers." "Healing happens exponentially when we heal together. All shaman traditions and teachings will tell you that we are all one." "The moment we start becoming too all over the place, then our energy is a little bit more scattered. That's where we start feeling disconnected." HOST BIO Gena Frangina, a seasoned software engineer with over a decade of industry experience, is your trusted host on the "IT Stress Relief" Podcast. Her unique background includes a profound passion for psychology, culminating in the attainment of a Business Psychology MSc. Gena's diverse skill set extends to accreditation as a Hypnotherapist, under the tutelage of Paul McKenna and his renowned team, as well as expertise in wellness coaching. This extensive blend of technical acumen and psychological insight positions Gena as an exceptional host in the IT world. She not only understands the intricacies of the field but also excels in guiding IT professionals towards holistic well-being. Tune in to Gena's podcast for enlightening interviews with IT specialists, and gain access to a wealth of knowledge. https://genafrangina.com/podcast/ https://www.facebook.com/gena.frangina IG: @gena.frangina This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    1 h et 34 min
  • How a Phone-Free Hour Can Transform Your Day
    Oct 14 2025
    Today, Gena shares her personal experience of dealing with the chaos that ensued when her phone broke down. She reflects on our heavy reliance on smartphones and how they have become extensions of ourselves, often distracting us from real-life interactions and experiences. Gena encourages listeners to embrace the opportunity for offline living, suggesting that being without a phone can lead to stress relief and personal growth. KEY TAKEAWAYS Many people are highly reliant on their smartphones for daily tasks, including remembering phone numbers and staying connected, which can lead to chaos when a phone breaks down. Being without a phone can provide a chance to recharge and engage in activities that promote well-being, such as reading, spending time in nature, or enjoying hobbies without digital distractions. Real-life interactions and experiences occur outside of our phones. It's important to recognise that meaningful connections and activities can happen without constant digital engagement. Individuals can intentionally carve out time away from their phones, even without a breakdown, by setting aside an hour each day to disconnect and focus on activities that bring joy and relaxation. Regularly taking time away from digital devices can lead to reduced stress, a calmer nervous system, and a greater appreciation for the present moment, ultimately enhancing overall well-being. BEST MOMENTS "Aren't we too reliant on our phones? Being without a phone could turn out two ways for you." "Life happens outside of your phone. It's in the physical interactions you can have." "You can try for one hour a day to put your phone on flight mode... and go do the other stuff." "You don't need to wait for your phone to break down in order to arrange some analog time off for yourself." "If you do this consistently... you will notice how with time, you become more and more relaxed." HOST BIO Gena Frangina, a seasoned software engineer with over a decade of industry experience, is your trusted host on the "IT Stress Relief" Podcast. Her unique background includes a profound passion for psychology, culminating in the attainment of a Business Psychology MSc. Gena's diverse skill set extends to accreditation as a Hypnotherapist, under the tutelage of Paul McKenna and his renowned team, as well as expertise in wellness coaching. This extensive blend of technical acumen and psychological insight positions Gena as an exceptional host in the IT world. She not only understands the intricacies of the field but also excels in guiding IT professionals towards holistic well-being. Tune in to Gena's podcast for enlightening interviews with IT specialists, and gain access to a wealth of knowledge. https://genafrangina.com/podcast/ https://www.facebook.com/gena.frangina IG: @gena.frangina This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    11 min
  • The Power of Mindset and Community in the IT Industry with Aarti Mehta-Nayyar
    Oct 6 2025
    Today, Gena interviews Aarti Mehta-Nayyar, a former IT professional turned corporate coach and author of 'Unappreciated to Unstoppable'. Aarti shares her personal journey from feeling unfulfilled in the high-pressure tech industry to discovering her passion for coaching and helping others overcome stress and self-doubt. She discusses her experiences coaching cohorts at Mindvalley, the significance of resilience, and practical tools for managing stress, such as the power of breath and curiosity. KEY TAKEAWAYS Success is driven by how individuals feel about themselves internally rather than relying on external validation from others. Building a strong sense of self-worth is crucial for personal fulfilment and professional growth. IT professionals should focus on self-leadership by gaining clarity on their life goals and visions. This clarity helps in making informed decisions and setting boundaries, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling career. Simple practices like deep breathing and taking pauses can significantly reduce stress and enhance focus. These techniques help individuals become more present and curious, allowing for better problem-solving and creativity in their work. Many IT professionals experience feelings of being undervalued and overlooked, which can lead to burnout. It's essential to acknowledge these feelings and seek support, whether through coaching or creating a more supportive work environment. BEST MOMENTS "Success is driven by how you feel internally about yourself. Once you have internal validation, external factors do not drive you anymore." "There was a time when I just became numb to whatever was happening through the day, and that's how burnout happens." "It only takes 16 weeks to see transformation if that intention is there. If you focus on your growth, you will see magic happen." "When you have low self-worth, you start going into a victim mindset, feeling like life is happening to you." "You can get tricked into working overtime because you're working from home. So what's the problem?" GUEST BIO Today, I’m excited to introduce Aarti Mehta-Nayyar or coachAarti as she is lovingly called — a former IT professional who knows firsthand what it’s like to work in high-pressure, fast-paced tech environments where you can give your best and still feel unseen. After years in IT, Aarti transitioned into personal and corporate coaching. As a corporate coach, she helps companies build stronger team cultures, boost performance, and reduce burnout. She has coached six global cohorts at Mindvalley, trained new coaches in certification programs, and also works as a life coach helping individuals break free from stress and self-doubt. Aarti is the author of the book Unappreciated to Unstoppable and the creator of the Unstoppable You program, which empowers people to shift from people-pleasing to self-leadership. https://coachaarti.com Instagram @coachaarti HOST BIO Gena Frangina, a seasoned software engineer with over a decade of industry experience, is your trusted host on the "IT Stress Relief" Podcast. Her unique background includes a profound passion for psychology, culminating in the attainment of a Business Psychology MSc. Gena's diverse skill set extends to accreditation as a Hypnotherapist, under the tutelage of Paul McKenna and his renowned team, as well as expertise in wellness coaching. This extensive blend of technical acumen and psychological insight positions Gena as an exceptional host in the IT world. She not only understands the intricacies of the field but also excels in guiding IT professionals towards holistic well-being. Tune in to Gena's podcast for enlightening interviews with IT specialists, and gain access to a wealth of knowledge. https://genafrangina.com/podcast/ https://www.facebook.com/gena.frangina IG: @gena.frangina This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    1 h et 16 min
  • How AI Can Enhance Productivity and Well-Being
    Sep 29 2025
    Today, Gena shares her insights from a recent experience at Big Data London, highlighting the transformative impact of data and AI across various industries. She emphasises the importance of understanding how these technologies affect not only business strategies but also the well-being of IT professionals who face constant pressure. Gina introduces her upcoming session at the Prompt Engineering Conference, titled "Prompt Your Way to Calm," where she will explore how AI can be utilised to manage stress and build resilience. Buy tickets here: https://promptengineering.rocks/ https://promptengineering.rocks/#tickets Use code PEC10 for 10% OFF ! KEY TAKEAWAYS Data and AI are no longer just technical topics; they are integral to shaping business strategy, culture, and well-being across various industries, including banking, marketing, and product development. Many professionals worry that AI will take their jobs; however, it is suggested that AI can enhance productivity and contribute positively to well-being in the workplace. AI can be utilised not only for technical tasks but also for managing stress and building resilience. By using specific prompts, individuals can receive personalised and actionable advice. An example of a useful prompt is to ask AI to act as a resilience coach, providing tailored strategies to help IT professionals cope with stress after challenging situations. There will be a session at the Prompt Engineering Conference in London on October 16th, focusing on how AI can support well-being in the workplace, with practical templates combining prompt engineering and psychological insights. BEST MOMENTS "AI can do more than generate content or automate workflows or analyse data. With the right prompts, it can actually help us manage stress, reframe challenges, and build resilience." "A lot of people worry that AI will take their jobs. However, I think AI will actually help us in our jobs." "Instead of asking ChatGPT, 'help me with stress,' try 'act as a resilience coach.'" "Data and AI are no longer just technical topics; they're shaping business strategy, culture, and even well-being." "You'll notice the difference immediately. The AI's response shifts from generic tips to something much more personalised and actionable." HOST BIO Gena Frangina, a seasoned software engineer with over a decade of industry experience, is your trusted host on the "IT Stress Relief" Podcast. Her unique background includes a profound passion for psychology, culminating in the attainment of a Business Psychology MSc. Gena's diverse skill set extends to accreditation as a Hypnotherapist, under the tutelage of Paul McKenna and his renowned team, as well as expertise in wellness coaching. This extensive blend of technical acumen and psychological insight positions Gena as an exceptional host in the IT world. She not only understands the intricacies of the field but also excels in guiding IT professionals towards holistic well-being. Tune in to Gena's podcast for enlightening interviews with IT specialists, and gain access to a wealth of knowledge. https://genafrangina.com/podcast/ https://www.facebook.com/gena.frangina IG: @gena.frangina This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    7 min
  • Should You Fire Your Boyfriend?
    Sep 21 2025
    Today, Gena reflects on a unique question ‘Should you fire your boyfriend if they underperform?’. Drawing a parallel between professional and personal boundaries, Gena shares her own recent experiences with a toxic relationship. She candidly discusses the challenges of being the primary earner and caregiver, the emotional and financial burnout she experienced, and her journey to reclaiming her sense of self-worth. You can support us here: https://gofund.me/176cb5c7 KEY TAKEAWAYS Just as there are clear boundaries in a professional setting, we should have standards and boundaries for our personal relationships. A healthy relationship provides a positive "return on investment" (ROI) in three key areas: emotion, esteem, and energy. An unhealthy one results in a negative ROI. Manipulative individuals, like narcissists, will try to change your perception of reality and dismiss your concerns. Gena shares how an AI assistant helped her identify this behaviour. Success isn't always about career or financial achievements; sometimes, true success is the deep sense of peace and relief that comes from removing yourself from a stressful and unhealthy situation. BEST MOMENTS "How many of us actually have standards and boundaries when it comes to what type of relationships we are willing to accept as adequate and good from our boyfriends or girlfriends, spouses, and also friends?" "A healthy relationship provides a positive return on investment through mutual respect, support, and connection, while an unhealthy one can result in negative equity where you lose out on self-esteem, trust, and energy." "My cortisol most likely have been through the roof. I found that I was investing too much of my emotional energy trying to reason logically with a person who was never going to do that for me." "The whole in my financial and emotional bank was just getting bigger and bigger, 'til the point I think I just burned out, both financially and emotionally." HOST BIO Gena Frangina, a seasoned software engineer with over a decade of industry experience, is your trusted host on the "IT Stress Relief" Podcast. Her unique background includes a profound passion for psychology, culminating in the attainment of a Business Psychology MSc. Gena's diverse skill set extends to accreditation as a Hypnotherapist, under the tutelage of Paul McKenna and his renowned team, as well as expertise in wellness coaching. This extensive blend of technical acumen and psychological insight positions Gena as an exceptional host in the IT world. She not only understands the intricacies of the field but also excels in guiding IT professionals towards holistic well-being. Tune in to Gena's podcast for enlightening interviews with IT specialists, and gain access to a wealth of knowledge. https://genafrangina.com/podcast/ https://www.facebook.com/gena.frangina IG: @gena.frangina This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    19 min