In this episode of Becoming Lucy, British Army veteran Richy Thrower shares the truth about mental health after military service, and what life really looks like once the structure, routine, and identity of the army disappear.

Richy opens up about his time serving in Afghanistan, the grief of losing friends in service, and the emotional toll of transitioning to civilian life. He speaks honestly about isolation, identity loss, and why so many veterans struggle silently after leaving the forces.

After leaving the army, Richy faced rejection, instability, and periods of deep despair — including being kicked out by his father, spiralling into alcohol, and repeatedly hitting dead ends when reaching out to charities for help. His experience exposes the gaps in support systems for veterans at their lowest point.

Through resilience, relationships, and community, Richy slowly rebuilt his life. He found stability through security work, reconnected with his passion for motocross, and unexpectedly discovered filmmaking as a powerful tool for storytelling and advocacy. What began as filming motorsport events became a mission: to give veterans a voice, raise awareness, and push for real change.

Richy also speaks candidly about the darker side of advocacy — including threats faced while speaking out — and why veterans must be believed, supported, and protected long after their service ends.

This is a raw, honest conversation about veterans’ mental health, resilience, recovery, and community — and a reminder that survival doesn’t end when service does.

If you’re a veteran, know a veteran, or care about mental health and social change, this is an episode you need to hear.

You can find Richy and his work on @richythrower on Instagram and Tik Tok and You Tube.

Takeaways

• Thousands of veterans struggle with mental health after service.
• The hardest battles for veterans often occur at home.
• Richie Frower turned his struggles into purpose as a filmmaker.
• Routine and structure in the army provide a sense of stability.
• Mental health support for veterans is often lacking.
• Experiences in Afghanistan shape perspectives on gratitude.
• The loss of friends in service can lead to deep emotional struggles.
• Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging.
• Richie's journey reflects the importance of resilience and support.
• Advocacy for veterans is crucial in addressing their needs. Richy faced significant challenges after being kicked out by his father.
• He struggled to find help from various charities during a low point.
• Richy's journey involved spiraling into alcohol and despair before seeking help.
• He found stability through a job in security and rekindled his passion for motocross.
• Richy's foray into filmmaking began as a way to promote motorsport events.
• He quit a high-paying job to pursue his passion for video production.
• Richy emphasizes the importance of relationships in his recovery journey.
• He aims to create a film that highlights the struggles of veterans and offers solutions.
• Richy faced threats while advocating for veterans' rights and raising awareness.
• He encourages veterans to reach out for help and find the right support systems.

⚠️ Podcast Disclaimer

• Informational Only: This content is for general information and entertainment. It is not professional advice (legal, medical, financial, or otherwise).

• No Guarantees: We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or outcomes from using the information shared.

• Personal Views: Opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests and do not reflect the official positions of any affiliated organisations.

• No Liability: We are not liable for any actions taken based on this podcast.

• External Links: We are not responsible for content found on any external sites mentioned.

In this episode of Becoming Lucy, hosts Hana and Lucy sit down with Jess, a resilient and independent woman whose life story defies convention. From navigating early trauma and family challenges to building a career in stripping and modeling, Jess opens up about grief, resilience, and the power of chosen family.

Jess also shares the heartbreaking story of her best friend Maxine, who tragically died from cervical cancer at just 33, leaving behind two children. Through this, Jess reflects on loss, grief, and the importance of speaking up about health and self-care.

The conversation explores Jess’s experiences in the stripping industry, breaking down the realities behind the stigma, safety challenges in nightlife, and the emotional toll of her work. She discusses personal growth, career progression, financial independence, and navigating relationships and love after loss. Health challenges, including endometriosis, and mental health are also addressed, highlighting the resilience needed to navigate life’s complexities.

Through Jess’s story, this episode emphasizes empowerment, the strength of chosen family, and embracing a life beyond societal expectations. Listeners will gain insight into the realities of the stripping industry, coping with loss, and the journey toward confidence, stability, and happiness.

Key Takeaways:

• Jess’s life story is a testament to resilience and independence.

• Family dynamics shaped her sense of responsibility and identity.

• School experiences and societal stigma influenced her confidence.

• The stripping industry is often misunderstood, carrying both risks and opportunities.

• Community and chosen family are vital for navigating life’s challenges.

• Jess’s loss of Maxine underscores the fragility of life and the importance of advocacy and care.

• Navigating love, grief, and health challenges requires strength and self-awareness.

• Personal growth and empowerment come from embracing one’s unique path.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to a Life Unboxed

03:16 The Impact of Family Dynamics

10:51 Resilience Through Adversity

17:22 The Journey into Stripping

19:43 Breaking Stigmas: The Journey of a Stripper

21:24 The Evolution of Stripping: From Clubs to Digital Platforms

23:50 The Emotional Toll of Stripping: More Than Just Dancing

25:05 Community and Competition: The Dynamics Among Dancers

26:35 Perceptions vs. Reality: The Truth Behind Stripping

28:37 Navigating Challenges: The Impact of Online Platforms

30:25 Surviving the Industry: Personal Stories and Lessons Learned

35:07 Finding Positivity: Turning Adversity into Adventure

38:28 The Dark Side of Nightlife: Experiences of Spiking

40:41 Career Reflections: The Struggles and Breaks in Stripping

42:05 Friendship and Loss: Remembering Maxine

44:45 Coping with Grief: The Impact of Maxine’s Illness

47:58 Finding Love After Loss: Jess and Mike’s Journey

53:35 A New Chapter: Blending Families and New Beginnings

58:22 Embracing Confidence with Age

59:01 Balancing Work and Family Life

01:00:37 The Importance of Outdoor Activities for Kids

01:01:20 Navigating Health Challenges: Endometriosis

01:05:50 Understanding the Stripping Industry

01:12:00 Reflections on Personal Growth and Future Aspirations

⚠️ Podcast Disclaimer

• Informational Only: This content is for general information and entertainment. It is not professional advice (legal, medical, financial, or otherwise).

• No Guarantees: We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or outcomes from using the information shared.

• Personal Views: Opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests and do not reflect the official positions of any affiliated organisations.

• No Liability: We are not liable for any actions taken based on this podcast.

• External Links: We are not responsible for content found on any external sites mentioned.

Ectopic pregnancy is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition — yet it remains widely misunderstood, under-discussed, and often misdiagnosed.

In this episode of Becoming Lucy, Hana and Lucy are joined by guest Danielle, who bravely shares her experience of navigating two ectopic pregnancies, the emotional toll of pregnancy loss, and the long road toward healing.

Danielle opens up about trying to conceive, experiencing early pregnancy symptoms that didn’t fit the “textbook” narrative, and the confusion and fear that followed. She reflects on her experiences within the healthcare system — from A&E visits to receiving devastating diagnoses — highlighting how a lack of empathy and understanding can deepen trauma during moments of loss.

This episode explores the emotional complexity of miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy, including grief, shock, relief, guilt, and the pressure many women feel to “move on” too quickly. The conversation also addresses the importance of mental health support, open communication with partners, compassionate employers, and the role of community in recovery.

Through Danielle’s story, this episode aims to raise awareness, validate lived experiences, and encourage more informed, empathetic conversations around women’s health and pregnancy loss.

🎧 Episode Chapters / Timestamps

00:00 – Understanding Ectopic Pregnancy

06:49 – Danielle’s Journey Begins

11:52 – The A&E Experience

17:39 – The Emotional Rollercoaster

24:23 – Navigating Grief and Loss

30:34 – A New Pregnancy and Old Fears

34:10 – The Emotional Complexity of Early Pregnancy

37:22 – Miscarriage and Ectopic Pregnancy

41:49 – How Healthcare Impacts Pregnancy Loss

50:01 – Mental Health After Loss & Seeking Support

01:00:26 – Finding Closure and Moving Forward

01:08:50 – Lessons Learned: Awareness, Empathy & Support

Key Takeaways

• One in 90 pregnancies in the UK is ectopic
• Ectopic pregnancy is often misdiagnosed or misunderstood
• Pregnancy loss can bring conflicting emotions, including grief and relief
• Medical empathy (or lack of it) can shape long-term trauma
• Mental health support after loss is essential
• Community and shared stories can be powerful tools for healing
• Awareness and education improve outcomes and support systems

⚠️ Podcast Disclaimer

• Informational Only: This content is for general information and entertainment. It is not professional advice (legal, medical, financial, or otherwise).

• No Guarantees: We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or outcomes from using the information shared.

• Personal Views: Opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests and do not reflect the official positions of any affiliated organisations.

• No Liability: We are not liable for any actions taken based on this podcast.

• External Links: We are not responsible for content found on any external sites mentioned.

What does Christmas really mean — and who says there’s only one way to celebrate it?

In this festive season finale of Becoming Lucy, Lucy and Hana pour the drinks, lower the expectations, and get honest about Christmas traditions, nostalgia, family dynamics, and the pressure to make the holidays “perfect”.

From childhood memories and beloved Christmas adverts to decorating styles, winter rituals, house parties, and sprout debates (love or hate?), this episode is a warm, funny, and reflective conversation about celebrating in a way that actually feels right for you.

As they wrap up Series One, Lucy and Hana also reflect on the podcast journey so far — the self-doubt, the growth, the community that’s formed — and share their excitement for returning with Series Two in January.

Expect laughter, heartfelt moments, a nostalgic soundtrack, and a fun quickfire game to round things off 🍾

✨ Whether Christmas fills you with joy, mixed emotions, or quiet reflection — this episode is your reminder that connection matters more than perfection.

💫 What we explore:

• Christmas traditions, memories & nostalgia
• Family dynamics and holiday pressure
• Creating new memories with friends
• Loneliness, connection & community at Christmas
• Letting go of “perfect” expectations
• Music, memories & emotional moments
• Overcoming self-doubt & embracing creativity
• Reflections, gratitude & what’s next for the podcast
• A festive quickfire game to end on a high 🎄

🎙 Becoming Lucy is a space for honest conversations, shared stories, and embracing the journey — not just the destination.

Thank you for being part of our community.

Season Two returns January ✨

Chapters

00:00 Festive Greetings and Celebrations

02:40 Christmas Traditions and Personal Reflections

05:33 Decorating for the Holidays

08:27 Christmas Nostalgia and Family Dynamics

11:24 New Year's Eve Memories and Celebrations

23:43 Navigating Loneliness During the Holidays

26:32 Creating Magical Christmas Memories

29:29 The Pressure of Holiday Expectations

31:18 Finding Joy in Personal Traditions

33:27 The Importance of Connection and Community

35:25 Reflecting on Life's Journey

38:26 The Joy of House Parties and Gatherings

41:31 Creating Lasting Memories with Friends

45:28 Gratitude for Guests and Future Plans

46:52 Upcoming Guests and Community Engagement

49:34 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Creativity

52:33 Reflecting on the Podcast Journey

55:14 Exciting Future Plans and Guest Opportunities

01:04:08 Quickfire Questions and Fun Conversations

01:08:51 Christmas Traditions and Memories

01:14:07 Favorite Christmas Advertisements

01:16:11 Beloved Christmas Specials

01:18:28 Christmas Games and Family Fun

01:24:26 Sprouts: Love or Hate?

01:28:58 Reflections and Cheers to the Future

⚠️ Podcast Disclaimer

• Informational Only: This content is for general information and entertainment. It is not professional advice (legal, medical, financial, or otherwise).

• No Guarantees: We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or outcomes from using the information shared.

• Personal Views: Opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests and do not reflect the official positions of any affiliated organisations.

• No Liability: We are not liable for any actions taken based on this podcast.

• External Links: We are not responsible for content found on any external sites mentioned.

In this episode of Becoming Lucy, hosts Lucy and Hana sit down with Mel the Astrologer for a deep, grounding, and expansive conversation about astrology, birth charts, healing, and purpose.

Together, they explore how astrology can be a powerful tool for self-discovery, personal growth, and emotional healing — far beyond daily horoscopes. Mel shares her personal journey with astrology, how it supported her through grief and transformation, and why she believes birth charts are energetic maps that help us understand our subconscious beliefs, love dynamics, relationships, and life path.

To bring astrology to life in a tangible way, Mel also reads Lucy and Hana’s birth charts live on air, giving listeners a real-time insight into how a chart reading works — from Sun, Moon, and Rising signs to emotional patterns, relationship dynamics, and intuitive strengths.

The conversation covers:

• What your birth chart really reveals about you

• Sun, Moon and Rising signs — and why the Moon is key in relationships

• Emotional connections formed during astrology readings

• Creativity as a healing outlet

• Beauty, self-care, and the power of romanticising your life

• Trusting intuition, taking leaps of faith, and aligning with your spiritual assignment

• Navigating love, independence, self-worth, and emotional safety

• The future of spirituality and the rise of intuitive leaders and creators

Mel reframes astrology as a language of self-awareness, purpose, and collective healing, encouraging listeners to surrender to their path while staying rooted in self-worth and embodiment.

✨ Astrology isn’t about prediction. It’s about permission.

Follow Mel the Astrologer

📸 Instagram: @meltheastrologer

🎥 TikTok: @meltheastrologer

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Astrology and Its Significance

02:37 Mel's Journey into Astrology

05:31 Astrology's Misconceptions and Skepticism

08:40 The Power of Birth Charts

11:36 Mel's Personal Story and Transformation

14:27 Understanding Birth Charts and Their Importance

17:26 Exploring Sun, Moon, and Rising Signs

27:20 Understanding the Moon's Influence on Relationships

31:58 The Power of Creativity in Healing

35:18 Emotional Connections in Astrology Readings

40:15 Aligning with Purpose and Spiritual Assignments

45:08 Navigating Life's Intuitive Steps

50:20 The Role of the Moon in Personal Identity

52:16 The Power of Beauty and Self-Care

55:02 Romanticizing Life and Personal Rituals

56:07 Embracing Your True Self and Taking Leaps of Faith

58:27 Intuition and Trusting Yourself

01:01:19 Navigating Relationships and Personal Growth

01:05:03 Understanding Love Through Astrology

01:16:50 The Quest for Compatibility in Relationships

01:19:32 Navigating Independence and Relationships

01:20:31 Balancing Love and Personal Ambitions

01:23:07 The Importance of Self-Worth in Dating

01:26:56 Personal Growth and Spiritual Awakening

01:30:19 The Role of Astrology in Personal and Professional Life

⚠️ Podcast Disclaimer

• Informational Only: This content is for general information and entertainment. It is not professional advice (legal, medical, financial, or otherwise).

• No Guarantees: We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or outcomes from using the information shared.

• Personal Views: Opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests and do not reflect the official positions of any affiliated organisations.

• No Liability: We are not liable for any actions taken based on this podcast.

• External Links: We are not responsible for content found on any external sites mentioned.

In this episode of Becoming Lucy, hosts Hana & Lucy sit down with Jenny — PMDD advocate and founder of elevelle — to unpack the reality of living with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), one of the most misunderstood and misdiagnosed conditions in women’s health.

Jenny shares her raw, honest journey through hormonal health, misdiagnosis, identity loss, rage, depression, and the emotional distress that PMDD can cause — including the dark moments many women are too afraid to talk about.

Together, we explore:

✨ What PMDD actually is

✨ The difference between PMS and PMDD

✨ Why so many women go undiagnosed

✨ How hormonal fluctuations can trigger severe mental health symptoms

✨ The link between PMDD, suicidal thoughts & emotional dysregulation

✨ Jenny’s struggle for answers after pregnancy

✨ The role of self-advocacy in women’s healthcare

✨ How community support and shared experiences can be life-saving

✨ Why PMDD awareness is essential in workplaces, families & relationships

Jenny’s story is a reminder that women often navigate their health alone — and how powerful it can be when one person speaks up and creates space for others to be heard.

This episode is for anyone navigating PMDD, mental health struggles, hormonal imbalance, or the feeling of “not being yourself” during your cycle.

You’re not alone — and Jenny is proof that healing often begins with awareness.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to PMDD and Its Impact

02:53 Jenny's Journey: Life Before PMDD

04:44 The Onset of PMDD: Pregnancy and Hormonal Changes

11:17 Seeking Help: The Struggle with Diagnosis

19:15 Finding Community and Understanding PMDD

21:54 The Importance of Advocacy and Education

26:45 Navigating Relationships Through PMDD

30:28 Creating Awareness in Workplaces and Communities

34:47 Breaking the Taboo: Conversations About Periods

38:22 Understanding PMDD: Symptoms and Triggers

43:28 Navigating Fertility and PMDD

49:17 The Dark Side of PMDD: Mental Health Challenges

53:24 Advocacy and Awareness: The Power of Shared Experiences

01:00:08 Becoming a Voice for Change: Jenny's Journey

01:04:17 Building a Community: elevelle and Women's Health

⚠️ Podcast Disclaimer

• Informational Only: This content is for general information and entertainment. It is not professional advice (legal, medical, financial, or otherwise).

• No Guarantees: We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or outcomes from using the information shared.

• Personal Views: Opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests and do not reflect the official positions of any affiliated organisations.

• No Liability: We are not liable for any actions taken based on this podcast.

• External Links: We are not responsible for content found on any external sites mentioned.

In this powerful episode of Becoming Lucy, Lucy and Hana sit down with Capital FM presenter Josh Andrews to uncover the raw, funny and deeply human story behind his journey from hiding parts of himself… to finally living and broadcasting as his unapologetically authentic self.

From a karaoke machine in his aunt’s basement to becoming a beloved radio voice, Josh’s path has been anything but ordinary. He opens up about:

🎙️ The childhood moment he realised his voice was his superpower

🎙️ How at the age of 12 he got himself through the doors of hospital radio

🎙️ The chaotic, hilarious early promotion days — including Josh's and Hana’s infamous “gash grabber” moment

🎙️ The unique bond between co-hosts and why chemistry matters more than perfection

🎙️ Why fun, connection and relatability are the heart of great broadcasting

🎙️ Navigating his sexuality in the media world and the pressure to mute parts of his identity

🎙️ How LGBTQ representation in radio has evolved — and why role models matter

🎙️ The emotional shift from feeling he had to hide… to being fully, openly himself on and off air

🎙️ His hopes for the future, including the possibility of adoption and being a visible example for young queer listeners

This episode isn’t just about radio — it’s about identity, courage, representation and the confidence to let people see the real you. Josh’s story speaks to anyone navigating self-expression, LGBTQ+ identity, personal growth, fear of judgment or the journey of becoming who you truly are.

If you love episodes about broadcasting journeys, authenticity, resilience, modern media, or finding your voice, you won’t want to miss this one.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Journey

02:26 The Early Days of Radio

05:40 The Transition to Professional Radio

08:36 Finding Passion and Purpose in Broadcasting

11:31 The Impact of Hospital Radio

14:37 Navigating Career Growth and Opportunities

17:35 The Struggle with Authenticity

20:36 Understanding Identity in Broadcasting

21:34 Navigating Identity in Media

24:38 The Journey to Authenticity

29:32 The Role of Representation

35:24 Personal Connections and Public Life

42:33 The Power of Partnership in Broadcasting

48:28 Memorable Moments and Authenticity in Radio

54:37 Navigating Personal Life on Air

01:00:25 The Evolution of Radio and Its Future

01:02:49 A Journey of Transformation

01:04:25 Quickfire Fun and Insights

01:07:28 Pranks and Laughter

01:12:10 Future Aspirations and Family

01:15:38 Becoming Unapologetically Yourself

⚠️ Podcast Disclaimer

• Informational Only: This content is for general information and entertainment. It is not professional advice (legal, medical, financial, or otherwise).

• No Guarantees: We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or outcomes from using the information shared.

• Personal Views: Opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests and do not reflect the official positions of any affiliated organisations.

• No Liability: We are not liable for any actions taken based on this podcast.

• External Links: We are not responsible for content found on any external sites mentioned.

Life after loss and heartbreak can feel overwhelming—but it can also be a path to self-discovery. In this episode, Lucy and Hana chat with Ali about navigating grief, identity shifts, and life’s big changes.

Ali shares her personal journey through her mother’s illness, breakups, and the physical and emotional impact of grief. She dives into meditation, yoga, manifestation, and spiritual practices that helped her heal, including angel numbers, synchronicities, and a transformative trip to Bali. Ali also opens up about the comfort she found moving into her own home and learning to balance wellness practices with everyday life.

If you’re looking for guidance on emotional resilience, personal growth, and finding peace amidst life’s challenges, this episode is for you.

Topics include: heartbreak, grief, healing, meditation, yoga, manifestation, spiritual awakening, emotional well-being, personal growth, and life transitions.

Top Takeaways / Listener Highlights:

• Healing after heartbreak and life transitions is a journey of self-discovery.

• Meditation, yoga, and mindfulness can help process grief and stress.

• Physical symptoms may appear as a response to emotional distress.

• Support systems, grief counseling, and trusted resources are invaluable.

• Spiritual signs, synchronicities, and angel numbers can provide guidance.

• Balancing wellness practices with enjoying life is key to sustainable growth.

• Embrace change, trust your intuition, and allow yourself time to heal.

Optimized Chapters:

• 00:00 – Navigating Life’s Endings and New Beginnings

• 05:37 – Coping with a Loved One’s Illness: Cancer and Family Support

• 11:54 – Personal Transformations Amidst Grief and Heartbreak

• 19:26 – Finding Solace in Meditation and Mindfulness

• 26:52 – Processing Loss and Embracing Change

• 29:36 – The Complexity of Grieving Multiple Losses

• 33:05 – Navigating Low Points: The ‘Hagrid Stage’

• 39:11 – Physical Symptoms of Grief and Anxiety

• 40:18 – Finding Comfort in Spirituality, Signs, and Angel Numbers

• 48:29 – New Beginnings: The Emotional Journey to Homeownership

• 56:12 – Manifestation and Spiritual Guidance

• 59:09 – Bali and Spiritual Awakening

• 01:05:02 – Balancing Wellness, Yoga, and Living Fully

• 01:09:56 – Healing as an Ongoing Journey

• 01:13:40 – Embracing Uncertainty and Future Possibilities

⚠️ Podcast Disclaimer

• Informational Only: This content is for general information and entertainment. It is not professional advice (legal, medical, financial, or otherwise).

• No Guarantees: We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or outcomes from using the information shared.

• Personal Views: Opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests and do not reflect the official positions of any affiliated organisations.

• No Liability: We are not liable for any actions taken based on this podcast.

• External Links: We are not responsible for content found on any external sites mentioned.