Why do some things feel emotionally bigger than they “should”?

In this bonus episode of Psychologically Speaking, psychologist and researcher Leila Ainge introduces The Hard Thing Challenge — a free five-day reflection challenge exploring the psychology behind difficult tasks, imposter feelings, avoidance, identity, and risk.

This episode also introduces the next season of Psychologically Speaking.

You’ll also get:

– details of Leila's free 5 day challenge.

– an introduction to The Reflection Room

– details on how the challenge works

– and a preview of the new podcast season exploring imposter phenomenon through the lens of risk

Join the challenge at www.leilaainge.co.uk

What happens when loss changes everything—not just emotionally, but structurally?

In this episode of Psychologically Speaking, Leila Ainge is joined by wellbeing consultant and psychotherapist Chrissy Orson to explore grief, identity shifts, and the moment your life no longer fits the way it used to.

After losing both her sister and father within weeks during lockdown, Chrissy shares how grief didn’t just affect her personally—it completely changed how she saw work, time, family, and what actually matters.

We talk about the psychology of grief, why many women “keep going” until they hit a wall, and how organisations often fail people at the moments they most need support.

This is a conversation about loss—but also about clarity, boundaries, and building a life that reflects what you now know to be true.

We cover:

• Grief, trauma, and identity shifts
• Why women keep going (even when they shouldn’t)
• The hidden admin and emotional labour of loss
• Psychological safety at work during life events
• Why flexible working often isn’t truly flexible
• Therapy vs coaching—and when you actually need each

Link to EMDR explainer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bIJZQAr9nQo

You can find Chrissy at:

Chrissy Orson MBACP (Accred) | She / Her | www.chrissyorson.co.uk

What happens when your life doesn’t follow the path you thought it would?

A conversation on identity, belonging, and the courage to build a career that doesn’t look right on paper but feels right in your life.

In this episode of Psychologically Speaking, I’m joined by coach and podcast host Fiorenza Rossini to explore identity, belonging, and the unexpected turns our careers can take. From financial engineering to full-time coaching, Fiorenza shares what it means to step away from “safe” career paths and build a life that aligns with your values.

We talk about the psychology of belonging, multicultural identity, working parenthood, and why so many of us feel like we don’t quite fit until we find the right spaces.

If you’ve ever questioned your career, your direction, or where you belong, this conversation will feel like a deep exhale.

We cover:

• Career pivots and “non-linear” success
• Identity shifts (especially motherhood and work)
• The psychology of belonging and community
• Why traditional paths don’t fit everyone
• What actually drives fulfilment (hint: not just money)