The Rest Repair Recover Podcast

In this powerful conversation, I’m joined by Dr Boon Lim and Joe Iddison as we explore Joe’s remarkable story of overcoming POTS, insomnia, and intense brain fog following Long Covid. Joe opens up about how his life was turned upside down after contracting Covid in February 2021. From being fit, active, and content in his work in the music industry, he suddenly found himself bed-bound, isolated, and facing debilitating symptoms including palpitations, overwhelming fatigue, insomnia, and night-time adrenaline surges. Despite seeking help through A&E and a series of remote consultations, Joe struggled to find clear answers or real progress. Enter Dr Boon Lim, an expert in cardiology and autonomic dysfunction, who was able to help Joe understand what was actually happening in his body. Joe was ultimately diagnosed with POTS and autonomic dysfunction related to Long Covid. Dr Lim discusses the science behind these symptoms, the importance of breathwork, and why standard medications don’t always help, sometimes even making things worse. Crucially, Joe shares how discovering the Rest Repair Recover programme provided a turning point. Through regular, gentle yoga, breathwork, and a sense of online community even via replays, Joe experienced hope, empowerment, and incremental recovery. The emotional and psychological aspects of recovery are a big focus in this chat: we discuss the importance of connection, dealing with the fear of the unknown, and the vital role of mindset. This is an honest and practical episode for anyone struggling with Long Covid, POTS, or fatigue syndromes, especially if you’ve felt invalidated or alone in your journey. Joe’s story proves that with compassionate care, the right tools, and a supportive community, real and lasting recovery is possible. Find hope, practical tips, and expert insight in this inspiring episode.

In this insightful and reassuring episode, Suzy Bolt is joined by pharmacist Kevin Leivers to delve into the sometimes controversial topic of SSRIs, commonly known as antidepressants. Together, they break down what SSRIs actually do in the body, moving beyond the notion that they’re simply “happy pills” or prescribed only for anxiety. Suzy shares her own experience of recovery, highlighting how SSRIs supported her not just emotionally but also physically, even helping with sleep and immune resilience. Kevin offers his expert perspective on how these medications work to increase serotonin, why there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, and what it really means to create a “window of light” for people struggling with depression. They don’t shy away from talking about the risks and the stigma, but also explore the powerful role of nutrition, gut health, and natural supplements such as saffron. You’ll hear practical, science-backed alternatives and complements to SSRIs, from vitamin B12 and protein to tackling inflammation and considering probiotics after antibiotics. If you’ve ever wondered about the benefits and limitations of antidepressants or felt uncertain when they’ve been recommended to you, this honest conversation will give you tools, insight, and permission to ask more questions and take control of your own wellbeing journey.

In this heartfelt and uplifting episode, I had the absolute pleasure of turning the tables and interviewing Jackie Baxter, the wonderful host of the Long Covid Podcast. Usually the one behind the questions, Jackie bravely shares her own Long Covid journey, right from the very beginning, through her darkest days, and all the way to finding recovery and a new sense of self. Jackie opens up about what life was like before she became ill, juggling a busy and active lifestyle, stressful work, and the early days of the pandemic when guidance and understanding were limited. She describes the bewildering onset of symptoms, the push-pull cycle of trying to push through, and the rollercoaster of hope, frustration, and uncertainty that so many people with Long Covid will recognise. We talk about the key turning points in her recovery: discovering the power of breathwork, the importance of rest, and learning to tune into her own body and mind. Jackie shares how gentle practices like yoga nidra and cold water swimming became lifelines, and how setting up the Long Covid Podcast was not just a way to help others, but also a crucial part of her own healing. We also dive into the realities of recovery: Tackling persistent fears like reinfection, navigating relationship tensions, and learning to embrace the “new normal” of Jackie 2.0. There are practical tips, honest reflections, and a wonderful sense of resilience and hope running through our conversation. If you’re in need of inspiration to keep going, want a reminder that you’re not alone, or are just curious about how to find your way through the ups and downs of Long Covid, this episode is for you. Thank you so much to Jackie for sharing so openly. As ever, don’t give up hope. Recovery is possible, and you might just find silver linings and new strengths along the way. Listen now for an honest and wise conversation on recovery, resilience, and embracing life after Long Covid.

In this heartfelt and uplifting episode, I sat down with Tara Brendell to explore the ups and downs of her remarkable year of recovery following a post-vaccine injury. Tara, a contemporary dancer and choreographer, shared how her life and career were suddenly turned upside down after experiencing a severe reaction to her third Covid vaccine. We talked about what it felt like when everything changed overnight — the panic, confusion, and constant search for answers in a healthcare system that didn’t have solutions. Tara opened up about her time spent sleeping in a tent in the garden, her longing to be by the sea, and the simple, powerful things that kept her hopeful even on the hardest days. We discussed the crucial moments that helped her move forward: recognising the need for self-compassion, rediscovering joy through gentle movement, and connecting with a community who truly understood. Tara’s journey—through fear, frustration, and ultimately to new strength—will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt stuck or alone in their own health challenges. Her story is a moving reminder that even in our lowest moments, small acts of kindness towards ourselves can ignite real change. If you’re craving practical hope, honest conversation, and a celebration of what it means to heal, this episode is for you. Looking for more support in your recovery? Visit https://suzybolt.com/rest-repair-recover/ for classes, workshops, and a friendly community focused on holistic health and nervous system regulation.

In this deeply moving episode, I sat down with Linda and Lisa, a married couple from the North of the UK, to talk candidly about the realities of navigating chronic illness together. Both fell seriously ill at the same time—one following a Covid infection, the other after a vaccine reaction—forcing them not only to face their own health battles, but to figure out how to support each other through the darkest of days. Linda opens up about her dramatic health crash in 2021, the rollercoaster of misdiagnoses, and discovering a likely history of neurodiversity that added new layers to her journey. Lisa shares how her early experience of Long Covid spiralled into a complex mix of allergies and debilitating symptoms, culminating in a life-altering MCAS (mast cell activation syndrome) flare, just as she began to recover. We talk openly about the family trauma that shaped them, the financial strain and isolation of back-to-back illnesses, and the gutting fear of not being present for their daughter. Both found themselves pushed to the absolute limit—and both found, through connection, research, and community, glimmers of hope they never expected. Listen as we explore what “recovery” really means when health becomes a moving target. Linda and Lisa reflect on the tools, insights, and support that helped them start to rebuild—not just as individuals, but as partners and parents. From the practical realities of daily life (sometimes literally incapable of getting out of bed) to the small victories—like golfing, sea swimming, and rediscovering joy—they offer honesty, wisdom, and hope for anyone feeling lost in a health maze. If you need reminding that recovery is possible, even when hope feels thin, or you’re craving real talk about the impact of chronic illness on families, tune in for this powerful, inspiring conversation. If you're ready to take the next step and find the community support and classes you need, join us here: https://suzybolt.com/rest-repair-recover/

In this thoughtful and practical episode, I chat with Kevin Leivers from The Naked Pharmacy to unpack the complex and often overwhelming topic of inflammation, especially as it relates to chronic illness. We begin by exploring what inflammation actually means in the body, why it’s such a key player in ongoing health issues, and why a one-size-fits-all approach rarely works. Together, Kevin and I break down not just the science, but also gentle, natural ways to reduce chronic inflammation—from curcuminoids in turmeric, to the power of probiotics and the unsung hero, slippery elm. Kevin shares his deep knowledge of both pharmaceuticals and plant-based interventions, shedding light on the pros and cons of everything from over-the-counter anti-inflammatories to more experimental routes like LDN (low dose naltrexone), PEA, and even nicotine patches. We discuss the importance of knowing what’s really in your supplements, starting at the lowest effective dose, and assessing whether something is genuinely right for your unique body. We also touch on the role of social media and how desperation can sometimes drive us to try anything and everything—all at once. You’ll leave this conversation feeling more empowered to slow down, assess the options, and choose what’s truly best for you—without panic or overwhelm. If you’re navigating chronic inflammation or know someone who is, this episode is both a calm anchor and a toolkit for making better decisions about your health journey, one gentle step at a time.

In this insightful and practical conversation, I sat down with Kevin Leivers from The Naked Pharmacy to untangle the often confusing world of supplements. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering whether you’re taking your vitamins at the right time of day, or if combining your supplements with certain foods really makes a difference, you’re in good company. Kevin and I dove into the common mistakes people make, the importance of consistency, and why the form your supplement comes in—capsule, powder, or liquid—can matter more than you think. We also explored the notorious topic of iron supplementation: why some forms tend to upset your stomach, and how to experiment safely and effectively until you find what works for you. Plus, Kevin offers invaluable advice for anyone taking prescribed medication, highlighting when you should seek professional guidance to avoid unwanted interactions. Whether you’re looking to get the most from your investment in wellness or simply want clarity on what your body really needs, this episode is packed with grounded advice, myth-busting, and the kind of reassuring wisdom that cuts through the noise. Tune in for a calm, clear-eyed chat about getting supplements right, so they can truly support your health.

In this insightful discussion, Dr. James Kustow, a consultant psychiatrist specializing in adult ADHD, uncovers the surprising connections between ADHD, chronic illness, and immune system function. He explores the impact of mast cells on both mental health and inflammation, providing practical strategies for self-care. The conversation delves into the unique challenges of diagnosing ADHD in adults and women, especially during hormonal changes. Dr. Kustow emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to treatment, enhancing our understanding of these intertwined health issues.

In this moving and insightful episode, I sat down with Rebekah Aiston to talk about her remarkable journey through Long Covid and recovery—before and after discovering Rest Repair Recover and later on, The Fern Programme. Rebecca shares with great honesty what it was like to be at her very lowest: bedbound, isolated, and desperate for answers that simply weren’t forthcoming. She describes the physical and mental toll of her illness - including debilitating fatigue, terrifying symptoms, and repeated setbacks - but also the gradual, gentle progress that followed when she stopped searching for a magic cure and committed to a slower, more compassionate approach. We explore the winding path from frustration and fear to acceptance, highlighting the importance of self-compassion, therapy, and connection with others - particularly through the rest repair community and the transformative power of finding a recovery buddy. Rebekah also speaks candidly about the challenges of pacing, changing her relationship with work, and the role past experiences and anxiety played in her recovery story. If you’re currently feeling stuck or overwhelmed, you’ll find hope in Rebecca’s story. Her slow, steady, and trauma-informed path to healing is a testament to the power of self-kindness, community, and not giving up - however daunting the setbacks may be. Stay with us for a conversation full of warmth, wisdom and, above all, the reassurance that recovery, just like Rebekah’s, is possible.

Welcome to another insightful interview. In this conversation, Suzy Bolt sits down with Kevin Leivers from The Naked Pharmacy to dive deep into the crucial topic of sleep. This one is a must-watch for anyone struggling with rest, especially when managing chronic illness or post-viral fatigue. What’s Inside This Episode? Join Suzy and experienced pharmacist Kevin Leivers as they unravel the science behind sleep, explore the options typically offered by GPs, and discuss the wider impact of prescription medications and natural solutions when sleep is hard to come by.  With expert pharmaceutical knowledge and a holistic approach to wellbeing, Kevin offers invaluable advice on how to create a supportive environment for quality sleep, particularly during times of illness and recovery. You'll discover: 00:00 – Meet Kevin Leivers: Pharmacist & Supplement Specialist 00:57 – The Frustrations of Insomnia & First Steps at the GP 02:03 – Commonly Prescribed Sleeping Drugs: Z Drugs, Benzodiazepines & Antihistamines 04:48 – Why Prescription Sleeping Pills Are Only a Short-Term Fix 06:56 – Sleep, Anxiety & Breaking the Fear Cycle 07:12 – What Disrupted Sleep Could Be Telling You About Your Body 07:25 – Running Parallel Support Systems: The Role of Sleep Hygiene 10:05 – The Impact of Food, Drink & Supplements on Sleep 13:00 – Resetting Your Circadian Rhythm: Light, Exercise & Routine 15:06 – The Power of Mindset & Mental Hygiene for Deep Rest 16:41 – Building a Collaborative Relationship With Your GP 17:06 – Are You Taking Too Many Supplements? Why Less is More 19:39 – Magnesium: Natural vs Synthetic and the Real Difference 24:06 – The Benefits of Epsom Salt Baths and Magnesium Butters 25:50 – Earthing, Yoga, and Breathing: Calming Your Nervous System 27:18 – Melatonin: The Facts on Prescriptions and Quality 30:56 – Herbal Sleep Solutions: Lavender, Passiflora, Chamomile & Valerian 33:08 – Recap & Mindset: Don’t Panic About Sleepless Nights Whether you’re recovering from chronic illness, supporting a dysregulated nervous system, or simply searching for restorative sleep, this episode is filled with empowering insights.  Kevin explains the nuances between pharmaceuticals and natural supplements, and Suzy and Caroline keep the conversation grounded in real-life experience. ✨ If you’re on a journey of recovery or looking to improve your sleep naturally, this episode is for you.  Subscribe to our channel for more conversations on healing, rest, and empowerment—plus expert interviews and practical guidance. 👍 Like, comment, and share if you found this episode helpful! And remember, it’s really important that you talk to your medical professional first before you change your supplement regime. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Want to get 20% off the supplements we discussed from The Naked Pharmacy? Use the code SUZYBOLT at checkout: https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/  -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Find out more and join our Rest Repair Recover community here: https://suzybolt.com/rest-repair-recover/ Ready to dive deeper and get more personalised support in a smaller group setting? Click here: https://suzybolt.com/the-fern-programme/