The Rest Repair Recover Podcast

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/

In this honest and uplifting episode from the YouTube archive, I'm joined by three brilliant consultants — Dr Boon Lim, Dr Deepak Ravindran, and Dr Melanie Danni — for an in-depth conversation answering some of the most pressing questions from the Long Covid community. Drawing on their unique expertise in cardiology, pain medicine, general adult medicine and autonomic dysfunction, our panel tackle the real challenges people with Long Covid face: living with uncertainty, the long wait for answers, and the frustration of not finding a single solution. We explore how clinics are responding, why symptoms can vary so much, and what you can actually do now — while waiting for appointments, referrals, or that elusive silver bullet. The doctors share the patterns they're seeing, the practical steps you can take to regain some control, and ways to approach your recovery with kindness, patience and agency. There's open discussion around commonly raised issues: getting a diagnosis for dysautonomia or POTS, what to do about research headlines like microclotting, and how to talk to your GP or specialist when they might not have all the answers yet. We also dive into the emotional toll of Long Covid, the powerful role of patient voices, and the importance of pacing, acceptance and holistic approaches. You'll come away with concrete tips for preparing for your clinic appointments, supporting your own healing, and building hope — wherever you are in your recovery. If you, or someone you love, are struggling to make sense of Long Covid, this episode will help you feel seen, supported and less alone.

In this fascinating conversation, I'm joined by the wonderful Dr. Carolyn Forsyth — a GP and former A&E doctor from the Highlands of Scotland, whose own experience with Long Covid completely transformed her understanding of chronic illness. Listen as we discuss (among other things) what doctors aren't taught about chronic illness and recovery. What You'll Get From This Episode: An honest insider view of why the traditional medical system struggles with conditions like Long Covid, CFS, ME and POTS. Real hope: Carolyn's experience proves that healing and huge life changes are possible — even if it doesn't feel like it at first. Validation: You are not imagining your symptoms. You are not making it up. And you are not alone. Actionable ideas for steps you can take right now to support your own recovery, whether you have medical support or not. Want to find out more about The Rest Repair Recover Programme? Head over to https://suzybolt.com/rest-repair-recover/

In this remarkable episode, Suzy Bolt welcomes her student, Mark Taylor, as he shares his inspiring story of recovery and discovery following a challenging journey with Long Covid. Mark opens up about how he navigated the complexities of returning to full-time work after his diagnosis left him exhausted and struggling. By joining Suzy's Rest Repair Recover programme and gaining a deeper understanding of what his mind and body needed, Mark gradually transformed his life. He recounts how learning to prioritise self-care, embrace small wins, and shift his mindset led to significant changes. The impact on both his personal well-being and relationship with his family was profound and lasting. Mark also dives into the importance of finding joy in everyday moments and how he now leads a more balanced, fulfilling life, which includes retraining to become a play therapist. This episode is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of self-awareness, and the potential for recovery when we allow ourselves to truly embrace change. Whether you're on a similar journey or seeking hope and inspiration, Mark's story is sure to resonate.

In this insightful and engaging episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Kevin Leivers, the founder of the Naked Pharmacy, about the fascinating world of supplements. Kevin shared his incredible journey of establishing the first online pharmacy dedicated to natural products, aiming to empower people with information for making informed decisions about their health. Coming from a 40-year background in healthcare, Kevin explained how he was inspired by the natural pharmacies of the early 1900s and sought to create a space for education and support in this fast-growing industry. We dive deep into the importance of understanding the origins of supplements and the potential health impacts of synthetic ingredients. Kevin advises listeners on how to approach supplements effectively, shedding light on common misconceptions, such as the true benefits and potential dangers of taking high doses of vitamins. Throughout our conversation, Kevin emphasises a holistic approach to health—one that balances diet, exercise, and supplementation. We discuss crucial nutrients like magnesium, zinc, and vitamin C, and explore the powerful effects of botanicals like turmeric and saffron. If you've ever found yourself lost in the supplement aisle or questioned the integrity of the products you're consuming, this episode is a must-listen. Kevin's passion for transparency and quality shines through, making it clear why Naked Pharmacy stands out in the crowded market of supplements. Join us as we uncover the truths behind supplements and empower you to make the best choices for your well-being. To find out more about my programme, Rest Repair Recover, click here: https://suzybolt.com/rest-repair-recover/

In this insightful and heartfelt episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Sue, who shares her compelling journey navigating the ups and downs of Long Covid. Sue discusses how discovering the Rest, Repair, Recover (RRR) community transformed her path to healing. At her lowest point, Sue felt isolated and unsupported. She describes the frustration of seeking answers in a medical system that seemed devoid of solutions, as well as the challenge of navigating spaces that only amplified her fears. With traditional coping mechanisms like determination and pushing through no longer effective, Sue reached a turning point. The conversation shifts as Sue reflects on finding the RRR community, initially skeptical of what she perceived as a focus on yoga. However, she soon discovered a supportive community that offered so much more. Sue shares how engaging with breathwork, meditation, and the concept of finding a 'tribe' helped her feel understood and less alone in her journey. Together, we explore the power of gentle movement, the importance of listening to one's body, and the remarkable impact of acceptance and humor in the recovery process. Sue also shares her insights into the concept of managing health and wellbeing as an ongoing commitment, rather than a finite goal. Tune in for an episode filled with wisdom, humor, and hope, as Sue describes how she reclaimed parts of her life and found joy, even amidst chronic illness. Whether you're personally affected by Long Covid or interested in the power of community and self-care, this episode offers valuable perspectives on living fully and authentically. To find out more about the Rest Repair Recover programme, head to: https://suzybolt.com/rest-repair-recover/