Beyond the Smile

Marylayo

Beyond the Smile - with MaryLayo is about issues and life events that negatively affect our mental health and spiritual wellbeing (biblical perspective). Various topics will be discussed, alongside guests, to help listeners understand more about their challenges and learn how they can live a more free and radiant life. read less
Health & FitnessHealth & Fitness
Religion & SpiritualityReligion & Spirituality
EducationEducation
Mental HealthMental Health
ChristianityChristianity
Self-ImprovementSelf-Improvement

Episodes

Evictions: The Trauma of Losing A Home
12-11-2024
Evictions: The Trauma of Losing A Home
SummaryEviction is a deeply traumatic experience that can have lasting effects on mental health and personal development, as discussed by MaryLayo and her guest, Jo Sama. Both share their personal stories of eviction, reflecting on how these experiences shaped their childhoods and influenced their journeys into adulthood. The conversation highlights the suddenness and urgency of being forced from their homes, along with the feelings of shame and the struggle to maintain a sense of normalcy while navigating the upheaval. Jo articulates the complexities of coping with such events, emphasizing the importance of understanding and addressing the emotional aftermath. This candid dialogue not only sheds light on the realities of eviction but also serves as a call for greater awareness and compassion towards those affected by it.ShownotesA heartfelt dialogue unfolds between MaryLayo and her guest Jo Sama, focusing on the harrowing yet relatable topic of eviction. Their conversation explores the often-unspoken emotional toll that comes with being forced from one’s home, a reality that both have faced in their lives. Jo reflects on her childhood, sharing vivid memories of sudden moves and the feelings of loss and uncertainty that accompanied them. The discussion dives deep into the psychological impacts of eviction, emphasizing how such experiences can shape one's identity and sense of belonging. MaryLayo and Jo also touch on the protective mechanisms individuals adopt in response to trauma, such as humor and emotional suppression. They reflect on the societal stigma surrounding eviction, which often discourages open conversations and leaves those affected feeling isolated and ashamed. Through their shared narratives, they emphasize the importance of breaking the silence and fostering understanding about the realities of housing instability. Jo’s candid reflections on forgiveness—both of her situation and herself—provide a powerful framework for healing and personal growth, illustrating the transformative potential of addressing and sharing one’s pain. The episode culminates in a broader discussion about resilience and community support, urging listeners to recognize the ongoing impact of eviction on mental health and well-being. MaryLayo and Jo advocate for compassion and awareness, highlighting the need for societal change in how eviction is perceived and discussed. With a spiritual wellness tip to conclude, Mary reinforces the message of hope and restoration, encouraging listeners to empathize with those affected by eviction and to seek connection and support in their own lives.
Life After Loss: How Ronke Joseph Found Strength After Losing a Leg
08-10-2024
Life After Loss: How Ronke Joseph Found Strength After Losing a Leg
SummaryRonke Joseph shares her profound journey of recovery following a life-altering accident that resulted in the amputation of her leg. On January 13, 2015, a car struck Ronke while she was on her way to work, leading to a series of surgeries and a challenging road to healing. Throughout her experience, Ronke emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and the strength found in faith, which provided her with peace during her most difficult moments. She discusses the emotional and psychological hurdles she faced, including the need for support, while also highlighting the significance of being kind to oneself during the recovery process. Ronke's story is not just one of loss, but also of resilience, self-discovery, and the realization that life can continue to hold meaning and purpose even after traumatic events.ShownotesMaryLayo engages in a profound dialogue with Ronke Joseph, who shares her incredible journey of recovery after a tragic accident that resulted in the amputation of her right leg. Ronke's story begins on a seemingly ordinary day in January 2015, when she, on her way to work, was struck by a car in London. The accident was not only a physical catastrophe but also a pivotal moment that challenged her mental and spiritual wellbeing. Throughout the episode, Ronke reflects on the chaos of the accident, the immediate response of bystanders, and the subsequent medical interventions that saved her life. What resonates deeply in her narrative is her unwavering faith, which provided her with an unexplainable peace during such a traumatic experience. As she navigates the complexities of her recovery, Ronke delves into the psychological aspects of coping with her new reality. She talks about her struggles with medication, the emotional rollercoaster of surgery, and the moments of despair that punctuated her healing process. However, she also highlights how her faith remained a constant source of strength. Ronke's ability to find gratitude in her situation, despite the loss, is both moving and inspiring. She emphasizes the importance of community support, the role of family and friends during her hospital stay, and how their presence helped her maintain a sense of normalcy amidst the upheaval. In a broader context, Ronke discusses the lessons learned from her experience, including the discovery of new passions and talents that emerged during her recovery. She underscores the importance of self-kindness and patience, urging others facing similar struggles to embrace their journey without comparison. She provides insights into the grieving process of losing a limb, and subsequently acceptance and adaptation. Ronke's story is not just about loss but about resilience, hope, and the power of faith, serving as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, one can find strength and purpose.Guest's detailsRonke Joseph is the author of IMPACT: My Story, My Ebenezer, My Victory, a compelling true life story about the life changing incident that impacted her life in many ways
Domestic Abuse & Faith: Supporting Survivors
10-09-2024
Domestic Abuse & Faith: Supporting Survivors
Domestic Abuse & Faith: Supporting SurvivorsToday's episode is on domestic abuse and Marylayo is talking to guest, Brandie Opone, who has a passion for empowering others. Brandie leads a vibrant women's ministry group in her local church and serves on the board of her local community to champion positive change.Discussion covers:Shining a Light: Using Your Gifts to Make a DifferenceBalancing Submission and Control in RelationshipsThe Impact of Domestic Abuse on Mental Health and WellbeingRebuilding Lives: Advice for Survivors of Domestic AbuseRecognising the Signs: Supporting Those Experiencing Domestic AbuseResources and Support for Survivors of Domestic AbuseTaking Care of Your Mental Health When Working with SurvivorsFinding Hope: Reaching out for Help in Times of AbuseTake a moment to delve into what may be 'beyond the smile' - listen in to the conversation.Guest details:Brandie is a multi-talented woman with a passion for empowering others. Her background in Governance and Compliance provides a foundation of strength, while her talents as a gospel singer, songwriter and music director bring a touch of creativity. However it's her unwavering commitment to support women's empowerment that truly shines. Brandie leads a women's ministry, where she fosters a space for women to flourish. She inspires them to discover their unique identities in Christ, guiding them towards self-discovery and purpose. She is a dedicated advocate for those facing domestic violence. Her work focuses on raising awareness and ensuring all have access to the support and resources they need to heal and thrive. Brandie serves on her local community board, championing positive change and encouraging community engagement. Guest contact details:InstagramFacebookResources:RestoredWoman's TrustVictim SupportRefugeWomen's aidRespect - Men's advice lineMarylayo's spiritual wellbeing tip: Meditate on the bible scripture John 10:10For help in dealing with mental health related matters, please seek specialist advice and support if needed.#BeyondTheSmile #DomesticAbuse #MaryLayoTalks #MentalHealth #Faith
Battling through Trauma: Ricky's Journey
13-08-2024
Battling through Trauma: Ricky's Journey
Battling through TraumaMaryLayo talks with Ricky Sluder, a Life & Relationship Coach, who shares about his journey surviving childhood abuse, neglect and loss. Ricky shares about what helped him to receive inner healing and develop his relationship with God.MaryLayo’s spiritual wellness tip is: meditate on Revelations 3:20. For more insights on mental health and spiritual wellbeing. Remember to follow and share if you found the discussion helpful.#BeyondTheSmile #Trauma #MaryLayoTalks #MentalHealth #ChristianFaith #ChildAbuseMarylayo's spiritual wellbeing tip: Meditate on the bible scripture Revelation 3:20.For dealing with mental health related matters, please seek specialist advice and support if needed.Guest details:Ricky is a Life & Relationship Coach and leading expert globally in the field of fraud detection and prevention. Ricky served the state of Texas as a Special Criminal Investigator (Hostage Negotiator), attached to an FBI Task Force in Dallas, TX.After leaving law enforcement, Ricky spent 13 years working for large technology firms like IBM and SAS, offering fraud detection solutions and consulting services in more than 29 countries.In 2022, Ricky published his book, Accepting Truth, Finding Hope! Being a childhood trauma survivor, and having battled Complex PTSD himself, Ricky developed a faith-based alternative to the traditional mental health model.An avid writer, Ricky also enjoys writing feature length film screenplays, and he has a passion for public speaking. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Texas State University. A proud father of two, and a fifth generation Texan, he resides in Fort Worth, Texas.
Living with Childlessness
16-07-2024
Living with Childlessness
Living with Childlessness In this episode, MaryLayo talks to couple – Daniele & Tina Fiandaca, about their journey navigating through childlessness, and the impact this has had on their mental health. Daniele and Tina share about the hopes and dreams they had for a family, their experience of miscarriage, IVF treatment and grief, and their feelings about shame and societal pressure.Concluding with a touch of spiritual wellness, MaryLayo offers a reflective tip from 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, inviting listeners to join her next time for more insights on mental health and spiritual wellbeing. Remember to follow and share if you found the discussion helpful.For dealing with mental health related matters, please seek specialist advice and support if needed.#MaryLayoTalks #BeyondTheSmile #Childless #InfertilityJourney #MentalHealth #EmbracingChildlessness #ChildlessGrief #MiscarriageGuest details:Daniele Fiandaca is founder of Token Man Consulting, an inclusion and diversity consultancy which specialises in engaging senior leaders and men with I&D and inspiring them to become inclusive leaders and agents of change. Clients include BNP Paribas, Channel 4, Colt, Hitachi Vantara, Merlin Entertainments, Monster Energy, Nestlé and Ogilvy. He is also co-founder of Masculinity in the Workplace, the only I&D event that is designed specifically to engage men. He is also an executive coach, author and agent of change - he was recently named one of the Top 50 Trailblazers in Gender Equality in the UK.Tina Fiandaca balances her career as a part-time People and Culture Director with her passion for volunteer work. She dedicates her time to counselling at Childline and assisting as a Wardrobe Assistant at Smart Works. She lives in London, and embraces the city's diverse offerings. When she's not working or volunteering, you can find her watching movies, singing with the Some Voices choir, and dancing at daytime discos.External Resources:Tina's blog: a Journey of Infertility and ChildlessnessDaniele's LinkedIn post: Do You Have Children? 'Grief: A Study of Human Emotional Experience' lecture - Jody DayMaryLayo's spiritual wellbeing tip: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NLT)
Starting Counselling - Genis' Story
16-04-2024
Starting Counselling - Genis' Story
Starting Counselling: Genis' StoryIn this episode MaryLayo and guest, Genis Fernandes, discuss seeking help, finding a counsellor and highlight some of the frustrations and benefits they experienced on their journey.Concluding with a touch of spiritual wellness, MaryLayo offers a reflective tip from Philippians 4:13, inviting listeners to join her next time for more insights on mental health and spiritual wellbeing. Remember to follow and share if you enjoyed the conversation about finding a counsellor.Take a moment to delve into what may be 'beyond the smile' - listen in to the conversation. For help in dealing with mental health related matters, please seek specialist advice and support if needed. Questions include:Why did you consider counselling?How did you go about choosing your counsellor?What do you remember when you first had counselling?How long have you been having therapy?What frustrations have you experienced or heard about counselling?What tips would you give someone who is in two minds about having counselling?Guest details:Genis Fernandes works as a Research Programme Lead and also serves as a volunteer for a mental health charity. Marylayo's spiritual wellbeing tip: Meditate on the bible scripture Philippians 4:13.External resources:Body and Soul Charity The CaravanListening PlaceSamaritansFor help in dealing with mental health related matters, please seek specialist advice and support if needed.#BeyondTheSmile #StartingCounselling #MaryLayoTalks #MentalHealth #GettingHelp #HavingTherapy
Finding Your Career
06-02-2024
Finding Your Career
SummaryIn this episode of "Beyond the Smile" with host MaryLayo, we delve into the intricacies of finding not just a job, but a fulfilling career that aligns with one's interests and talents. Career and talent strategist Stephen Shortt, CEO of Career Fit, unpacks the importance of job satisfaction and how it contributes to overall happiness and good mental health.Listeners will explore the idea of passion versus enjoyment in career choice, the growing phenomenon of career burnout, and the evolving landscape of jobs that may not even exist yet. Stephen Short emphasises the value of career guidance in schools and how parental expectations can shape—and sometimes limit—a child's career aspirations.The episode also discusses how individuals can navigate career transitions, whether early in their work life or in their later years. It reassures those at career crossroads that happiness in their profession is not just attainable but deserved.Concluding with a touch of spiritual wellness, MaryLayo offers a reflective tip from Psalm 37, inviting listeners to join her next time for more insights on mental health and spiritual wellbeing. Take a moment and delve into what may be 'beyond the smile'. Remember to follow, like and share if you enjoyed the discussion on the critical relationship between career satisfaction and overall life satisfaction.For help in dealing with mental health related matters, please seek specialist advice and support if needed.#BeyondTheSmilePodcast #FindYourCareerPath #PassionVersusEnjoyment #MaryLayoTalks #MentalHealth #SpiritualHealthTimestamps(00:00:01) Introduction to Mental Health and Spiritual Well-being(00:00:45) Aligning Career with Interests(00:04:01) The Cost of Misaligned Career Choices(00:14:11) Career Guidance in Irish Schools(00:16:31) Teen Readiness for Career Choices(00:18:32) Future of Work Discussion in Schools(00:24:49) Multiple Career Changes in a Lifetime(00:26:01) Insights from the eBook 'Your Next Career'(00:30:09) Transforming Passion into Career(00:33:47) Identifying a Career Focus(00:36:01) Biannual Career Trends Update(00:38:30) Advice for Career Crossroads(00:41:52) Spiritual Wellness Tip: Psalm Chapter 37Guest details:As a Career & Talent Strategist, Stephen is deeply committed to helping individuals and organisations in devising and achieving their career aspirations through a blend of career counselling, talent assessment, and strategic planning. His work with ETC Consult, CareerFit, Talent Select, Successful Succession, Delta Events and Distributed Training is centred around helping to match the right people with the right careers. Stephen’s upcoming books, “Your Future Career” and “Your Next Career,” are further examples of his commitment to helping others at different stages of their career journeys. “Your Future Career” is geared towards students and young professionals, while “Your Next Career” offers guidance for those seeking to change or enhance their career paths.Marylayo's spiritual wellbeing tips: Meditate on Bible scripture: Psalm 37:23-24Meditate on song: Open My Heart,...
Perfectly Imperfect
09-01-2024
Perfectly Imperfect
PerfectionismIn today's episode of MaryLayo Talks, I’m with guest, Dr Tom Curran, a world-leading expert on perfectionism. We talk about perfectionism and share our own personal experiences. Questions included:What led you to focus on perfectionism?What's perfectionism and how does it develop and impact on someone's mental health?What misconceptions about perfectionism should be debunked?How could someone know where they sit on the perfectionist spectrum?What role does society play in fostering or challenging perfectionist tendencies? What interesting research findings have you found about perfectionism?How can someone overcome the challenges related to perfectionism?Take a moment to delve into what may be 'beyond the smile' - listen in to the conversation.Guest details:Thomas Curran is a chartered psychologist and Associate Professor in the Department of Psychological and Behavioural Science at the London School of Economics. He has written on perfectionism and related topics for TIME magazine and the Harvard Business Review. His work has been featured in publications such as the New Scientist and the Times of London, and covered by many international publications including the Guardian, Economist, Telegraph, Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and Ariana Huffington's 'Thrive Global' campaign. In 2018, he gave a TEDMED talk entitled 'Our Dangerous Obsession with Perfectionism is Getting Worse' and in 2023 he published his debut book, ‘The Perfection Trap.’Guest's website: https://www.thomascurran.co.uk/ MaryLayo's spiritual wellbeing tip:Meditate on the bible scriptures: Matt 11:28-30 & 2 Corinthians 12:9Listen to Dear God. Artist: Cory Asbury Related resources: Also check out podcasts Episode 4: Not now...Later! & Episode 10 Still Procrastinating? Connect with MaryLayo:LinkedInInstagramFor help in dealing with mental health related matters, please seek specialist advice and support if needed.
Shamed Grief
12-12-2023
Shamed Grief
Grief with ShameIn today's episode of MaryLayo Talks, I’m with guest, Professor Dale Larson, an award winning author and clinical psychologist, about the feeling of shame some can have when grieving and how they can overcome the challenges based on evidence-based findings.  Discussion includes:What comes under the bracket of ‘shameful grief’?How cultural and societal norms impact the perception of shame when grieving?How can someone face and unburden their secrets?What are the healthy and unhealthy ways to deal with secrets?What tips and advice would you give to someone who is suffering from grief in silence?Bible scriptures to support spiritual wellbeing.Take a moment. Delve into what may be 'beyond the smile' and listen in to the conversation.Guest details:Professor Dale Larson is an award winning author and clinical psychologist. He is the J. Thomas and Kathleen L. McCarthy Professor of Counseling Psychology at Santa Clara University, a Fellow in three Divisions of the American Psychological Association (Counseling, Health, and Humanistic Psychology) and Member of the International Work Group on Death, Dying, and Bereavement.  Larson, D. G., & Chastain, R. L. (1990). Self-concealment: Conceptualization, measurement, and health implications. Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology, 9(4), 439-455.Larson, D. G., Chastain, R. L., Hoyt, W. T., & Ayzenberg, R. (2015). Self-concealment: Integrative review and working model. Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology, 34(8), 705-729.Guest's website Related resources: Check out Episode 7: Losing Keven Marylayo's spiritual wellbeing tips: Romans 8:1 & 1 John 1:9.Connect with MaryLayo:LinkedInInstagramFor help in dealing with mental health related matters, please seek specialist advice and support if needed.
All Work, No Play
31-10-2023
All Work, No Play
All Work and No Play - Insights on BurnoutIn today's episode of MaryLayo Talks, I’m with guest Dr Karen Michell. Karen, an occupational health nurse with experience in academia, shares her experience of going through burnout, both as a worker and a boss, and how it impacted her mental health.The conversation and questions include:What is burnout?What are the common signs of burnout?What burnout symptoms did you experience?What triggered the burnout?How did you come to realise you had burnout?How many times have you experienced burnout?What key steps did you take to overcome burnout?What do you do to keep you from burning out again?What advice would you give to someone who is currently experiencing burnout?How faith in God helped in the burnout process.Bible verses for burnout.Take a moment to delve into what may be 'beyond the smile' - listen in to the conversation.Guest details:Karen is a wife and mother with two grandsons. She is also an occupational health nurse practitioner with over 25 years’ international experience spanning occupational health, safety, research, and education. Her professional experience is underpinned by a strong academic and research background which extended into occupational safety and health (OSH) consultancy in pharmaceutical, construction, logistics, healthcare and manufacturing sectors.Karen's a Fellow of the Academy of Nursing in South Africa in recognition of her contribution to research and practice in occupational health nursing. She is an accomplished international author and presenter on multiple occupational safety and health related subjects. MaryLayo's spiritual wellbeing tip: Meditate on the bible scripture Colossians 1:11.Related resources: Also check out podcasts Episode 1: Running on Empty & Episode 8: Helping the Helper. Connect with MaryLayo:LinkedInInstagramFor help in dealing with mental health related matters, please seek specialist advice and support if needed.
Bouncing Back from Brain Tumour
17-10-2023
Bouncing Back from Brain Tumour
Going through a Brain Tumour In today's episode of MaryLayo Talks, I’m with guest, Mildred Talabi, about her experience when she discovered she had a brain tumour and the impact this had on her mental health and spiritual wellbeing during the recovery process. The conversation includes:Signs that led Mildred to realise that something wasn’t right and that she had brain tumour.Questioning and hearing from God about the illness.       Mildred’s recovery process after surgery.Challenges and successes post operation.The different forms of support Mildred received from friends and family.How Mildred deals with the annual medical check-ups.Mildred’s faith in Jesus over her health and future.  Bible scriptures and music that helped Mildred in her journey.What Mildred learned about herself following her battle with brain tumour.How Mildred now views life and the changes made following the experience.Advice for those going through a serious health challenge.Take a moment to delve into what may be 'beyond the smile' - listen in to the conversation.Guest details:Mildred Talabi trained as a Journalist and worked in the media, before transitioning into Public Relations and then Communications. Along the way, Mildred started several businesses, authored four books, and had the privilege of speaking to and training many audiences across different countries. Today, Mildred specialises in working with female leaders and women in business to build powerful and authentic personal brands through being visible on LinkedIn. Guest's websiteMaryLayo's spiritual wellbeing tips: Meditate on the bible scriptures: John 16:33, Philippians 4:13 & Psalm 23:4Listen to No Longer Slaves. Artist: Zach Williams. Connect with MaryLayo:LinkedInInstagramFor help in dealing with mental health related matters, please seek specialist professional advice and support if needed.