In this warm and deeply informative episode, I share a conversation with Clinical Psychologist Dr David Cooper, an OCD specialist, researcher and adjunct lecturer at UNSW, to unpack what OCD really is — beyond the stereotypes of neatness, order, and perfectionism.

Together, we explore the many ways OCD can show up, why intrusive thoughts feel so distressing, and how shame often stops people from seeking help.

I also share my own experience living with OCD — the shame, the internal battles, and the exhaustion of compulsions that can unfold in a split second.

Dr Cooper explains:
• What OCD actually is
• Why intrusive thoughts feel so real and emotionally overwhelming
• The many forms OCD can take — including harm OCD, existential, moral, relationship and taboo thoughts
• Common and misunderstood OCD presentations
• How shame and secrecy keep OCD stuck
• The evidence-based treatments that genuinely help, including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
• Practical ways to seek the right support

Whether you live with OCD, love someone who does, or simply want to better understand this complex and widely misunderstood condition, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and hope.

Bio

Dr David Cooper is a clinical psychologist and adjunct lecturer at the University of New South Wales. His clinical work focuses on helping people with obsessive-compulsive disorder and other life problems that keep repeating. He is involved in scientific research on how we can improve treatment for OCD and he maintains an online directory to help people in Australia connect with clinicians who have expertise in OCD. He works in private practice in Kiama, on the south coast of NSW.

Links mentioned during the episode:

https://ocd.org.au/directory

https://iocdf.org

https://soocd.com.au

Link to Paper published by Gayle Maloney:

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brat.2025.104878

Maloney G, Arntz A, Pittenger C. The imagery rescripting protocol for obsessive-compulsive disorder (ImRs-OCD): A decade of iterative refinement in treatment sequencing following ERP. Behav Res Ther. 2025 Dec;195:104878. doi: 10.1016/j.brat.2025.104878. Epub 2025 Oct 2. PMID: 41092684.

Keywords: OCD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, OCD symptoms, intrusive thoughts, compulsions, ERP therapy, Exposure and Respon

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Thanks so much for listening,

Cass x

Disclaimer:

The information provided on the Mind Your Being Podcast is for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. The content shared on this podcast is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition.

Reliance on any information provided by the Mind Your Being Podcast, its hosts, guests, or others appearing on the podcast is solely at your own risk. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast creators or hosts.

In this short solo episode, Cass offers a calming guided meditation to support the awareness practice explored in The Mindful Midlife Series (Episodes 13, 14 & 15).

This meditation is based on the classic ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) technique Leaves on a Stream — not Cass’s creation, but her gentle take on the well-loved practice. Through simple visualization, you’ll learn to observe your thoughts without getting caught up in them.

A soothing technique that supports mindfulness, emotional regulation, and soothing an overthinking mind to help you reconnect with a sense of calm.

Perfect for a quick reset or a mindful moment during a busy day.

Take a breath, settle in, and let’s begin.

https://mindyourbeing.com.au/

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Thanks so much for listening,

Cass x

Disclaimer:

The information provided on the Mind Your Being Podcast is for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. The content shared on this podcast is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition.

Reliance on any information provided by the Mind Your Being Podcast, its hosts, guests, or others appearing on the podcast is solely at your own risk. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast creators or hosts.

In Part 3 of the Mindful Midlife Series, we take the insights from the last two episodes even deeper. You’ll learn how self-compassion, mindful breathing, and gentle awareness practices can help you loosen the grip of negative thoughts, calm your nervous system, and let go of perfection.

Midlife is often full of competing demands, shifting identities, and rising pressure — but it can also be a powerful time to pause, reflect, and reconnect with what truly matters.

Join Cass for a grounding, practical episode filled with simple tools you can use anytime to feel more balanced, more present, and more supported within yourself.

A beautiful listen for anyone wanting more clarity, calm, and compassion in their midlife chapter.

Dr Kristin Neff's Self-Compassion Website:

https://self-compassion.org/the-research/

https://mindyourbeing.com.au/

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https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574785410170#

https://x.com/mind_yourbeing

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Thanks so much for listening,

Cass x

Disclaimer:

The information provided on the Mind Your Being Podcast is for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. The content shared on this podcast is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition.

Reliance on any information provided by the Mind Your Being Podcast, its hosts, guests, or others appearing on the podcast is solely at your own risk. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast creators or hosts.

In this second episode of The Mindful Midlife Series, we move from awareness to action.

I walk you through The 3 C’s: Catch it, Check it, Change it — a simple, evidence-based process to help you notice (catch it) unhelpful thoughts, question (check) it whether they’re true, and gently reframe (change it) them with more perspective and self-compassion.

If you’ve ever found yourself overthinking, spiralling into self-doubt, or being harder on yourself than you’d ever be with someone you love, this episode gives you practical tools to create space between your thoughts and your reactions — so you can feel calmer, clearer and more grounded in your everyday life.

This is part 2 of a 3-part series designed to help you build a more flexible, compassionate relationship with your mind.

https://mindyourbeing.com.au/

https://www.instagram.com/mindyourbeingpodcast/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574785410170#

https://x.com/mind_yourbeing

https://www.youtube.com/@MindYourBeingPodcast

Thanks so much for listening,

Cass x

Disclaimer:

The information provided on the Mind Your Being Podcast is for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. The content shared on this podcast is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition.

Reliance on any information provided by the Mind Your Being Podcast, its hosts, guests, or others appearing on the podcast is solely at your own risk. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast creators or hosts.

Have you ever noticed how one small thought can shift your entire mood?

In this first episode of The Mindful Midlife Series, Cass explores the stories we tell ourselves, why our brains are wired to focus on the negative, and how habitual thinking patterns — or cognitive distortions — can shape the way we feel and behave.

You’ll learn how to begin noticing your thoughts with awareness, curiosity, and kindness, and why this first step is so powerful in easing self-criticism and stress.

This episode is the perfect starting point if you want to understand your mind better and start relating to your thoughts in a gentler, more effective way.

**N.B. During the episode I mentioned studying Psychology - to be clear and not mislead, I formally studied 2 Units of a Bachelor Degree (Psychology), and I am not a Psychologist.

I have completed a Diploma in Counselling and other short-courses related to Mindfulness, stress reduction and various other health topics.

https://mindyourbeing.com.au/

https://www.instagram.com/mindyourbeingpodcast/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574785410170#

https://x.com/mind_yourbeing

https://www.youtube.com/@MindYourBeingPodcast

Thanks so much for listening,

Cass x

Disclaimer:

The information provided on the Mind Your Being Podcast is for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. The content shared on this podcast is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition.

Reliance on any information provided by the Mind Your Being Podcast, its hosts, guests, or others appearing on the podcast is solely at your own risk. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast creators or hosts.

Episode Description:

A fall can happen in seconds — but its impact can last a lifetime.
Beyond the physical injuries, a fall can shake our confidence, independence, and wellbeing.

In this episode of Mind Your Being, I’m joined by Exercise Scientist Amy Wildner from the Wildmann Group — who specialises in preventing falls and injuries in older adults.

Together, we explore:
✨ Why fall prevention matters long before we reach old age
✨ The most common (and often overlooked) risk factors
✨ How strength, balance, and environment all play a role
✨ Simple, practical strategies to help you — or your loved ones — stay safe, strong, and independent.

Whether you’re in midlife, caring for aging parents, or simply want to age well — this episode is for you.

Bio: Amy Wildner

Amy has a degree in Exercise Science from the University of Wollongong. Amy spent numerous years in the United Kingdom developing Exercise Rehabilitation programs for the National Health Service for chronic diseases and musculoskeletal conditions. This is where she completed her specialty in the Prevention of falls and injuries in Older People.

Since returning to Australia, Amy has continued to utilise these skills, establishing the WildMann group who specialise in ‘Maintaining Independence and Improving Lifestyles’ for our older population.

Through WildMANN group, Amy runs a number of falls prevention services such as Postural Stability Classes and In-home Strength and Balance programs.

When not at work, you will find Amy out running in the early hours of the morning or watching her children play basketball in Wollongong.

Links:

https://wildmanngroup.com.au/

https://www.facebook.com/wildMANNgroup/

Resources mentioned by Amy during the episode:

https://www.activeandhealthy.nsw.gov.au/preventing-falls/staying-active-and-on-your-feet

Stepping On Program – 7 week program – available in Australia and most states in the US

https://www.steppingon.com/

https://mindyourbeing.com.au/

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https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574785410170#

https://x.com/mind_yourbeing

https://www.youtube.com/@MindYourBeingPodcast

Thanks so much for listening,

Cass x

Disclaimer:

The information provided on the Mind Your Being Podcast is for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. The content shared on this podcast is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition.

Reliance on any information provided by the Mind Your Being Podcast, its hosts, guests, or others appearing on the podcast is solely at your own risk. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast creators or hosts.

Episode Description:

In this episode of Mind Your Being, Cass chats with Bridget Carmady, naturopath and founder of Clémence Organics — an award-winning certified organic skincare brand born from compassion, science, and a love of nature.

Bridget shares the deeply personal story behind Clémence Organics, and why integrity, health and mindful self-care are at the heart of her brand.

Together, Cass and Bridget explore what clean beauty really means, how to identify truly certified organic skincare, how women’s skin changes in midlife and Bridget provides practical, nurturing advice for supporting hydration, balance, and glow through hormonal transitions.

A beautiful, grounded conversation about resilience, purpose, and the connection between our skin, health, and wellbeing.

Links:

https://clemenceorganics.com/

https://www.instagram.com/clemenceorganics/

https://www.facebook.com/clemenceorganics/

https://mindyourbeing.com.au/

https://www.instagram.com/mindyourbeingpodcast/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574785410170#

https://x.com/mind_yourbeing

https://www.youtube.com/@MindYourBeingPodcast

Thanks so much for listening,

Cass x

Disclaimer:

The information provided on the Mind Your Being Podcast is for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. The content shared on this podcast is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition.

Reliance on any information provided by the Mind Your Being Podcast, its hosts, guests, or others appearing on the podcast is solely at your own risk. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast creators or hosts.

Hormone therapy, lifestyle treatment options, and real answers to your menopause questions.

Episode synopsis:

In Episode 3 of the Mind Your Being Podcast, Dr Lisa Cochrane joined us for an insightful conversation about menopause — and the response from listeners around the world was incredible. So many thoughtful, personal questions came in that we invited Dr Lisa back for this special Q&A episode.

In this conversation, we dive into your top questions on:

• Unusual symptoms like “cold” flushes and whether HRT can help
• Fatigue that lingers even with hormone therapy
• Allergic reactions and sensitivities to HRT patches and gels
• Practical questions about patch adhesives, swimming, and gel absorption
• Where to apply patches and gels for best effect
• Bleeding patterns on HRT — what’s normal, and when to seek medical review
• Managing stress and anxiety post-menopause with and without HRT

Dr Lisa brings her expertise as a Lifestyle Medicine physician to unpack these questions with clarity, compassion, and evidence-based guidance.

Whether you’re navigating perimenopause, post-menopause, or simply curious about the role of hormone therapy and lifestyle in midlife wellbeing, this episode is filled with practical insights to help you feel more confident and supported in your health journey.

Biography - Dr Lisa Cochrane

Lisa is a dedicated GP with extensive clinical experience. After graduating from the University of Melbourne in 2003, she has developed a special interest in holistic women’s health, menopause care and chronic disease management.

Links:

Dr Lisa Cochrane's Practice: Vitality Lifestyle Medicine

https://www.facebook.com/vitalitylifestylemedicine

https://www.instagram.com/vitality.lifestyle.medicine/

AMS Home - Australasian Menopause Society

Jean Hailes | Creating a healthier future for all women

Menopause Treatment Online Australia | WellFemme

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https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574785410170#

https://x.com/mind_yourbeing

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Thanks so much for listening,

Cass x

Disclaimer:

The information provided on the Mind Your Being Podcast is for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. The content shared on this podcast is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition.

Reliance on any information provided by the Mind Your Being Podcast, its hosts, guests, or others appearing on the podcast is solely at your own risk. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast creators or hosts.