Relational Lives Podcast

Join us on Relational Lives as we welcome back Dr. Graham Campbell from Flint Healthcare in Sussex to dive into the world of autism in adults. 
Dr. Graham unpacks what autism spectrum disorder is, debunking myths about its presentation and exploring its core traits, from social communication challenges to sensory processing differences. He discusses why autism is often missed in women due to masking, the complexities of diagnosis, and the mental health challenges like anxiety and depression, that can accompany undiagnosed autism. 
With warmth and expertise, Dr. Graham shares practical advice for those wondering if they might be on the spectrum, emphasising the power of self-understanding and acceptance.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about autism, its impact, and how to navigate it with compassion.
Resources Mentioned:
https://embrace-autism.com/raads-r/
https://embrace-autism.com/cat-q/
https://open.spotify.com/show/1f9iLg1OLTqphlx9EQKSZv
https://flinthealthcare.co.uk/
Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome & Introducing Dr. Graham Campbell01:17 – What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?02:39 – The Foundations of Autism: A Neurodevelopmental Perspective04:00 – Gender Differences: Why Autism is Often Missed in Women06:39 – The Rise in Adult Autism Awareness07:55 – The Diagnostic Process: Screening and Assessments10:38 – Sensory Processing: Hypo- and Hyper-Sensitivity12:06 – Stimming and Individual Differences in Autism13:23 – Social Challenges: Navigating Relationships and Communication15:12 – Masking: The Exhaustion of Hiding Autism16:13 – The Self-Critical Voice and Shame in Autism24:56 – Co-occurring Conditions: Anxiety, Depression, and Eating Disorders27:32 – The Value of Diagnosis: Understanding, Not Medicalisation29:56 – Seeking a Diagnosis Without Medical Records33:42 – Autism and Work: Challenges and Strengths36:23 – Advice for Those Exploring Autism: Learn and Reflect38:33 – Would You Rather? Fun Quickfire Round40:56 – Closing Thoughts & Takeaways  
Connect with us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relational_livesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/relationallives/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@relational_livesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tempo-psychotherapy-services-33a00318/ 
Want to share your story or come on the show to discuss your dilemma? 
Write to us, and we might cover it in a future episode. Drop us a message at relationalives@gmail.com or anonymously complete our form here: https://forms.office.com/e/qcrCkbhPiT. 
We’d also love to hear updates if you’ve written in before.  
Subscribe for future episodes on trauma, attachment, and more mental health topics. 
If you found this episode helpful, please like this video or share it with a friend.  
Disclaimer:Please remember, this is not meant to be a replacement for personal therapy and is for information and self-reflection only. Please reach out to an appropriate professional in your area if you feel you need individualised help.
Credits:Hosts: Alison Bickers and Ros Peckham at www.mytempo.co.ukMusic by: Stile Tree StudioProduced by: Synergy Podcast Studio

Join us on Relational Lives as we sit down with Jason ‘Wip’ Roberts, who shares his heartfelt story of navigating childhood abandonment and finding belonging. From his biological mother leaving at age four to the shock of his stepmother’s departure in his 20s, Jason opens up about the persistent void that shaped his life. He reflects on how the 90s rave scene provided a sense of community, how his travels embraced the familiar feeling of being “lost,” and how meeting his wife, Katie, became his anchor at 30. With humour, wisdom, and a touch of silliness—including a song from his famous shed—Jason discusses overcoming emotional barriers, the courage it takes to talk openly as a man, and building a family that feels complete.
This episode is a moving exploration of resilience, connection, and self-discovery, perfect for anyone seeking to understand their journey through loss and love.
Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome & Introducing Jason ‘Wip’ Roberts01:18 – The Weight of Being a Deep Thinker02:10 – Childhood Loss: Jason’s Mother Leaving at Age 406:04 – A New Family with His Stepmother & the Shock of Her Departure09:35 – Embracing the Feeling of Being “Lost” in His 20s13:15 – Finding Belonging in the 90s Rave Scene18:00 – Meeting Katie: Finding an Anchor at 3022:40 – The Void of Loss & How It Persists28:15 – Jason’s Humour: A Silly Song from the Shed31:27 – A Recent Loss: Finding Closure After His Mother’s Passing33:18 – Therapy & Making Sense of Childhood Wounds36:22 – The Courage to Talk: Breaking the Stigma for Men39:51 – Jason’s Shed: A Creative Haven of Escapism41:28 – Would You Rather? Fun Quickfire Round43:38 – Closing Thoughts & Takeaways  Follow Jason:
Connect with us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relational_livesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/relationallives/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@relational_livesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tempo-psychotherapy-services-33a00318/  
Want to share your story or come on the show to discuss your dilemma?
Write to us, and we might cover it in a future episode.
Drop us a message at relationalives@gmail.com or anonymously complete our form here: https://forms.office.com/e/qcrCkbhPiT.
We’d also love to hear updates if you’ve written in before.  
Subscribe for future episodes on trauma, attachment, and more mental health topics. If you found this episode helpful, please like this video or share it with a friend.  
Disclaimer:Please remember, this is not meant to be a replacement for personal therapy and is for information and self-reflection only. Please reach out to an appropriate professional in your area if you feel you need individualised help.  
Credits:
Hosts: Alison Bickers and Ros Peckham at www.mytempo.co.ukMusic by: Stile Tree StudioProduced by: Synergy Podcast Studio  
 

Join us on Relational Lives as we sit down with Will Adolphy, a psychotherapist, educator, and speaker who specialises in men’s mental health and masculinity. 
Will shares his powerful story of navigating panic attacks, depression, and the pull of online masculinity influencers during his early 20s. From finding validation in rigid ideologies to discovering healing through therapy, community, and self-reflection, he opens up about the challenges of emotional isolation and the “man box” that shapes how men experience the world.  
This conversation is raw, honest, and full of insights—covering vulnerability, the impact of online culture, and how Will now helps boys and men find healthier ways to connect with themselves and others through his organisation, Empath. Whether you’re curious about men’s mental health or seeking tools to navigate your own relationships, Will’s journey offers a path to understanding and growth.  
Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome & Introducing Will Adolphy02:10 – Will’s Early Struggles with Panic Attacks & Depression07:45 – Discovering a Masculinity Influencer & Online Rabbit Holes12:20 – The Pull of Validation & Rigid Ideologies18:00 – Emotional Isolation & the Block to Opening Up22:40 – Breaking Free: Therapy, 12-Step Recovery & Community28:15 – The “Man Box” & Its Impact on Men and Others33:10 – Working with Boys: Modelling Vulnerability in Schools40:05 – Red Pill Culture & the Search for Answers Online47:30 – Advice for Parents: Supporting Boys with Empathy52:20 – Will’s Ongoing Journey & Building Empath55:30 – Would You Rather? Fun Quickfire Round57:00 – Closing Thoughts & Takeaways  
Follow Will:@psychwill https://www.willadolphy.com/  
Connect with us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relational_livesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/relationallives/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@relational_livesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tempo-psychotherapy-services-33a00318/  
Want to share your story or come on the show to discuss your dilemma? Write to us, and we might cover it in a future episode. Drop us a message at relationalives@gmail.com or anonymously complete our form here: https://forms.office.com/e/qcrCkbhPiT. We’d also love to hear updates if you’ve written in before.  Subscribe for future episodes on trauma, attachment, and more mental health topics. 
If you found this episode helpful, please like this video or share it with a friend.  
Disclaimer:Please remember, this is not meant to be a replacement for personal therapy and is for information and self-reflection only. Please reach out to an appropriate professional in your area if you feel you need individualised help.  
Credits:Hosts: Alison Bickers and Ros Peckham at www.mytempo.co.ukMusic by: Stile Tree StudioProduced by: Synergy Podcast Studio

Shownotes:
Episode: Happily Single: Cas on Freedom, Healing & Living Life Her Way
Cas joins us on Relational Lives to share her inspiring and often funny story of choosing to live happily single. From navigating breast cancer and surgical menopause to finding freedom, independence, and joy, she reflects on relationships, compromise, and why being alone doesn’t mean being lonely.
This conversation is full of laughter, honesty, and wisdom - touching on family, friendship, child-free living, adventure, and the importance of creating a life that feels true to you. Whether you’re single, coupled, or somewhere in between, Cas's story is a reminder to embrace life, live it fully, and define happiness on your own terms.
In this episode:
00:00 – Welcome & Introducing Kaz02:10 – Choosing to Be Single After Breast Cancer07:45 – Discovering Peace & Joy in Independence12:20 – Compromise, Overgiving & Relationship Lessons18:00 – Freedom vs. Loneliness: Breaking Social Expectations22:40 – Life Without Children & Finding Fulfillment as a Godparent28:15 – Adventures, Travel & Loving Independence33:10 – Childhood, Family Influences & Fear of Feeling Trapped40:05 – Healing from Trauma, Grief & PTSD After Cancer47:30 – Advice for Younger Women on Relationships & Choices52:20 – Embracing Adventure, Contentment & Living Fully55:30 – Would You Rather? Fun Quickfire Round57:00 – Closing Thoughts & Takeaways
Follow Cas @danceyertitsoffhttps://www.instagram.com/danceyertitsoff
Connect with us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relational_livesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/relationallives/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@relational_livesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tempo-psychotherapy-services-33a00318/
Want to share your story or come on the show to discuss your dilemma? Write to us and we might cover it in a future episode. Drop us a message at relationalives@gmail.com or you can anonymously complete our form here: https://forms.office.com/e/qcrCkbhPiT. We’d also love to hear updates if you’ve written in before. 
Subscribe for future episodes on trauma, attachment and more mental health topics. If you found this episode helpful, please like this video or share it with a friend.
Disclaimer:Please remember, this is not meant to be a replacement for personal therapy and is for information and self-reflection only. Please reach out to an appropriate professional in your area if you feel you need individualised help.  
Credits:Hosts: Alison Bickers and Ros Peckham at www.mytempo.co.ukMusic by: Stile Tree StudioProduced by: Synergy Podcast Studio"

Shownotes:Episode: From Trauma to Triumph | Jamie Rudd on Inspiration and HealingIn this powerful episode of Relational Lives, Jamie Rudd shares his journey of surviving a near-fatal car accident, the trauma and recovery that followed, and how he transformed his experience into SoulKind - a storytelling and community project inspiring hope through adversity.This is a moving conversation about resilience, optimism, vulnerability, and the healing power of stories.In this episode:00:00 - Welcome & Introduction to Jamie Rudd01:10 - The 2018 Car Accident05:40 - Acts of Kindness: The “Superheroes” Who Saved Jamie10:15 - Injuries, Hospital & ICU Experience15:20 - Optimism, Determination & Early Recovery Mindset20:05 - Learning from Other People’s Stories26:30 - Vulnerability, Acceptance & Growth33:00 - Creating SoulKind: From Book to Non-Profit40:10 - Walk the Ways Fundraising Challenge45:20 - Closing Reflections & “Would You Rather”Resources mentioned:SoulKind: https://www.soulkindpeople.co.uk/Walk the Ways: https://www.soulkindpeople.co.uk/walkthewaysAcceptance & Commitment Therapy: https://contextualscience.org/actConnect with us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relational_livesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/relationallives/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@relational_livesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tempo-psychotherapy-services-33a00318/Want to share your story or come on the show to discuss your dilemma? Write to us and we might cover it in a future episode. Drop us a message at relationalives@gmail.com or you can anonymously complete our form here: https://forms.office.com/e/qcrCkbhPiT. We’d also love to hear updates if you’ve written in before. Subscribe for future episodes on trauma, attachment and more mental health topics. If you found this episode helpful, please like this video or share it with a friend.Disclaimer:Please remember, this is not meant to be a replacement for personal therapy and is for information and self-reflection only. Please reach out to an appropriate professional in your area if you feel you need individualised help. Credits:Hosts: Alison Bickers and Ros Peckham at www.mytempo.co.ukMusic by: Stile Tree StudioProduced by: Synergy Podcast Studio"

We’re wrapping up Series 1 of Relational Lives and taking a short two-week break. Thank you for joining us on this journey so far - it’s been amazing! 🎉Series 2 will be even more exciting, with more guests and real-life stories to inspire and encourage you. If you’d like to share your story, get in touch at relationallives@gmail.comStay subscribed, and we’ll be back very soon on 11th September.Connect with us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relational_livesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/relationallives/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@relational_livesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tempo-psychotherapy-services-33a00318/Want to share your story or come on the show to discuss your dilemma? Write to us and we might cover it in a future episode. Drop us a message at relationalives@gmail.com or you can anonymously complete our form here: https://forms.office.com/e/qcrCkbhPiT. We’d also love to hear updates if you’ve written in before. Subscribe for future episodes on trauma, attachment and more mental health topics. If you found this episode helpful, please like this video or share it with a friend.Disclaimer:Please remember, this is not meant to be a replacement for personal therapy and is for information and self-reflection only. Please reach out to an appropriate professional in your area if you feel you need individualised help. Credits:Hosts: Alison Bickers and Ros Peckham at www.mytempo.co.ukMusic by: Stile Tree StudioProduced by: Synergy Podcast Studio

In this episode of Relational Lives, Ali and Ros take an honest, practical look at Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). They unpack what OCD really is and explore how intrusive thoughts, compulsions, and emotional distress interact. Ali explains different subtypes of OCD, how therapy can help, and offers hope to anyone struggling. Whether you’ve lived with OCD for years or are just beginning to question your thoughts and behaviours, this episode is packed with understanding, reassurance, and practical steps forward.Please note that this episode covers harder aspects of OCD including paedophilia OCD and harm OCDShownotes:Episode: OCD: What It Really Is - And How Therapy Can HelpIn this episode:00:00 – Intro02:08 – What Is OCD? Obsessions, compulsions & misunderstandings09:14 – Is It OCD or just a quirk?13:37 – The role of trauma, control & childhood experiences16:20 – Taboo thoughts & shame in OCD23:36 – Types of OCD30:00 – How therapy works: CBT & ERP explained36:17 – Challenges in treatment: Internal rituals, resistance & EMDR42:20 – Client stories & self-help recommendations43:04 – 3 takeaway tips & thought experiments📍 Resources mentioned:'Overcoming Obsessive Compulsive Disorder' by David Veale and Rob WilsonBritish Association for Behavioural & Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP):https://www.babcp.comTherapy types mentioned: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP), EMDRConnect with us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relational_livesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/relationallives/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@relational_livesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Relational_LivesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tempo-psychotherapy-services-33a00318/Want to share your story or come on the show to discuss your dilemma? Write to us and we might cover it in a future episode. Drop us a message at relationalives@gmail.com or you can anonymously complete our form here: https://forms.office.com/e/qcrCkbhPiT. We’d also love to hear updates if you’ve written in before. Subscribe for future episodes on trauma, attachment and more mental health topics. If you found this episode helpful, please like this video or share it with a friend.Disclaimer:Please remember, this is not meant to be a replacement for personal therapy and is for information and self-reflection only. Please reach out to an appropriate professional in your area if you feel you need individualised help. Credits:Hosts: Alison Bickers and Ros Peckham at www.mytempo.co.ukMusic by: Stile Tree StudioProduced by: Synergy Podcast Studio

In this episode of Relational Lives, we take a deep dive into the reality of toxic relationships - how they differ from unhealthy ones, the warning signs to look out for, and why even strong, self-aware people can find themselves trapped in them. We explore behaviours like gaslighting, love bombing, manipulation, coercive control, and isolation, as well as the underlying psychological dynamics that keep people hooked.Whether it’s with a partner, friend, family member, or even in the workplace, understanding toxic dynamics is the first step toward reclaiming your power. If you or someone you know is in a relationship that feels harmful, this conversation could make a difference.Shownotes:Episode: Toxic Relationships: How to Spot the Signs and Protect YourselfIn this episode:
0:00 – Introduction & what makes a relationship toxic1:06 – Recap: healthy vs unhealthy relationships3:12 – The food analogy: unhealthy vs toxic6:28 – Narcissism: traits vs personality disorder9:45 – Gaslighting explained with example15:20 – Why people stay in toxic relationships20:42 – Manipulation, coercive control & love bombing26:18 – How toxic behaviour erodes self-esteem and creates shame30:50 – Isolation tactics & “walking on eggshells”35:12 – Childhood patterns, boundaries & first steps toward change📍 Resources mentioned:Episode on healthy relationships:https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-3suv8-188c4bdEpisode on unhealthy relationships:https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-b4zgq-191258eEpisode on the inner critic:https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-p5jy5-18625d5Connect with us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relational_livesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/relationallives/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@relational_livesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tempo-psychotherapy-services-33a00318/Want to share your story or come on the show to discuss your dilemma? Write to us and we might cover it in a future episode. Drop us a message at relationalives@gmail.com or you can anonymously complete our form here: https://forms.office.com/e/qcrCkbhPiT. We’d also love to hear updates if you’ve written in before. Subscribe for future episodes on trauma, attachment and more mental health topics. If you found this episode helpful, please like this video or share it with a friend.Disclaimer:Please remember, this is not meant to be a replacement for personal therapy and is for information and self-reflection only. Please reach out to an appropriate professional in your area if you feel you need individualised help.
Credits:
Hosts: Alison Bickers and Ros Peckham at www.mytempo.co.uk
Music by: Stile Tree StudioProduced by: Synergy Podcast Studio

In this episode of Relational Lives, Ali and Ros explore the three most common conflict styles that show up in relationships: blame-blame, attack-withdraw, and withdraw-withdraw. With warmth, insight, and lived experience, they help listeners identify their own patterns, understand the emotional drivers underneath, and reflect on how these cycles affect connection. Whether you argue loudly or shut down silently, this episode will help you make sense of what's really happening between you and your partner.Shownotes:Episode: Conflict Styles: How You Fight & Why It MattersIn this episode:00:00 – Intro: Why conflict styles matter03:00 – Blame–Blame (Attack–Attack) Style: Fact wars & emotional explosions11:40 – What’s really going on under the blame game14:15 – Pursuer–Withdrawer Pattern: A one-sided fight for connection20:50 – The still face, shutdowns, and how withdrawal fuels escalation27:40 – Text message tension: Modern conflict and emotional distance30:10 – Withdraw–Withdraw Style: The silent disconnect34:30 – Is no conflict really a problem? When disconnection feels safe38:15 – How to recognise your style & what to do with it42:32 – 3 Takeaway Tips + 'Would You Rather' segment📍 Resources mentioned:'Hold Me Tight' by Dr. Sue Johnson (book + online course0Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) - Therapy model underpinning the conflict stylesStill Face Experiment by Dr. Edward Tronick – Referenced during the withdrawal discussionUnderstanding attachment styles:https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-xwpd3-186c726Negative relationship cycles:Connect with us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relational_livesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/relationallives/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@relational_livesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Relational_LivesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tempo-psychotherapy-services-33a00318/Want to share your story or come on the show to discuss your dilemma? Write to us and we might cover it in a future episode. Drop us a message at relationalives@gmail.com or you can anonymously complete our form here: https://forms.office.com/e/qcrCkbhPiT. We’d also love to hear updates if you’ve written in before. Subscribe for future episodes on trauma, attachment and more mental health topics. If you found this episode helpful, please like this video or share it with a friend.Disclaimer:Please remember, this is not meant to be a replacement for personal therapy and is for information and self-reflection only. Please reach out to an appropriate professional in your area if you feel you need individualised help.
Credits:
Hosts: Alison Bickers and Ros Peckham at www.mytempo.co.uk
Music by: Stile Tree StudioProduced by: Synergy Podcast Studio

In this episode of Relational Lives, Ali and Ros dive into the concept of negative cycles in relationships - the invisible patterns we fall into when things go wrong with our partners. Whether you’re a “pursuer,” “withdrawer,” or locked in blame–blame dynamics, this episode breaks down what’s really going on beneath the surface. Using relatable examples (including that infamous dishwasher debate!), they explain how these emotional loops are driven by vulnerability, attachment, and unspoken needs. With practical metaphors like the “infinity loop” and the “main floor vs. basement,” Ali and Ros offer insights that can transform how you relate and repair.Whether you're in a long-term relationship or reflecting on your own patterns, this is essential listening for building connection, safety, and understanding.Shownotes:Episode: The Negative Relationship Cycle You Need to KnowIn this episode:00:00 – Introduction & why understanding negative cycles matters04:08 – The Infinity Loop: How couples get stuck08:10 – Pursuer–Withdrawer Cycle: The dishwasher example14:03 – Why we react the way we do: emotion beneath the behaviour19:42 – Blame–Blame Dynamics (Find the Bad Guy cycle)23:55 – Two Withdrawers & the danger of disconnection29:40 – When cycles are quiet but still painful32:05 – Raw Spots: Our emotional triggers from the past38:00 – How to begin breaking the cycle: Self-awareness & repair42:26 – 3 Takeaway Tips + 'Would You Rather' segment📍 Resources mentioned:The Infinity Loop: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_xski0fK11JTfN2CLYndjsucJqYxZ_Z3/view?usp=drive_linkUnderstanding Attachment Styles:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmAoZfhTbTcEmotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) – framework referenced throughoutConnect with us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relational_livesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/relationallives/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@relational_livesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Relational_LivesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tempo-psychotherapy-services-33a00318/Want to share your story or come on the show to discuss your dilemma? Write to us and we might cover it in a future episode. Drop us a message at relationalives@gmail.com or you can anonymously complete our form here: https://forms.office.com/e/qcrCkbhPiT. We’d also love to hear updates if you’ve written in before. Subscribe for future episodes on trauma, attachment and more mental health topics. If you found this episode helpful, please like this video or share it with a friend.Disclaimer:Please remember, this is not meant to be a replacement for personal therapy and is for information and self-reflection only. Please reach out to an appropriate professional in your area if you feel you need individualised help.
Credits:
Hosts: Alison Bickers and Ros Peckham at www.mytempo.co.uk
Music by: Stile Tree StudioProduced by: Synergy Podcast Studio