I'm Fine

In this episode, Jean sits down with Francesca Hayward, the principal dancer at the Royal Opera House, to discuss one of the most significant challenges she has faced in her illustrious career—burnout. Ballet may look graceful and effortless on stage, but behind the scenes, it demands immense physical, mental, and emotional strength. Francesca opens up about how pushing herself to the limit for years led to a period of deep exhaustion, both physically and emotionally, shedding light on the often-hidden struggle with burnout in high-performance careers.Burnout is defined as a state of extreme emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion, typically brought on by prolonged stress. It can leave a person feeling detached, drained, and unable to perform even the simplest of tasks. While it’s often associated with corporate jobs, burnout affects all kinds of professions—especially those, like ballet, that require intense dedication and discipline. Recent studies show that nearly 52% of workers feel burned out, and in high-pressure environments like the arts, this can manifest in serious physical and emotional symptoms.For Francesca, the intense preparation for her debut as the lead in Swan Lake—a dream role for any ballerina—was the tipping point. Eventually, she sought help from a therapist, who diagnosed her with burnout and recommended physical therapy to release the tension she had been holding in her body for so long. Francesca’s story highlights how burnout isn’t just about feeling tired—it’s about being stretched beyond your limits, often to the point where recovery feels impossible. But with the right support, recovery is possible. Her experience reminds us that even in the pursuit of greatness, taking care of ourselves must come first.-----Host: Jean CampbellGuest: Francesca HaywardExecutive Producer: Jean CampbellProducer: Wicked Child Studio, Hailey Rovner MalachComposer: Eduardo Vella

In this episode, Jean sits down with the incredibly resilient singer-songwriter Debbie. Debbie opens up about her experiences growing up in a household where she and her sister were often left alone and had to become independent at an early age. She shares haunting memories of emotional and physical abuse, both at home and in school, and how these experiences shaped her worldview and identity.Debbie discusses how her early life of isolation and trauma led to her diagnosis of Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) and the impact it had on her journey into adulthood. We explore what C-PTSD is, its symptoms, and how it differs from PTSD. Complex PTSD develops in response to prolonged, repeated trauma—often starting in childhood—and can manifest in emotional dysregulation, difficulty trusting others, and feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness. According to studies, approximately 13% of people who experience trauma develop PTSD, and for many who experience long-term trauma, C-PTSD is the more accurate diagnosis.Debbie candidly talks about how music became both an escape and a healing tool for her. She touches on her journey to accept herself, including navigating her identity and relationships in the aftermath of her parents’ death, all while pursuing her passion for music. Throughout the conversation, Debbie’s strength and vulnerability shine through as she shares the ways she has found support in therapy, spirituality, and self-compassion.Key Takeaways:Debbie’s Early Life: The challenges she faced growing up, including neglect and abuse, which led to early independence.Complex PTSD: Definition, symptoms, and statistics surrounding the condition.Music as Healing: How Debbie’s connection to music has been a source of empowerment and healing.Finding Support: Therapy, spirituality, and self-care practices that helped Debbie navigate her grief and trauma.You can follow Debbie on Instagram @debbie_---Host: Jean CampbellGuest: DebbieExecutive Producer: Jean CampbellProducer: Hailey Rovner Malach, Wicked Child StudioComposer: Eduardo Vella 

In this deeply moving and inspiring episode, Jean welcomes Nicole Pedra, a model, actress, influencer, and motivational speaker who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) at the tender age of 10. Nicole shares her remarkable journey through childhood, adolescence, and adulthood with MS, offering an honest look into the challenges of navigating life with a chronic illness.While MS is typically diagnosed in adults, it is exceedingly rare in children. Only about 3-5% of MS cases are diagnosed before the age of 16, making Nicole’s early diagnosis at just 10 years old a particularly uncommon and challenging journey. Pediatric MS differs in its progression from adult MS, often marked by more frequent relapses and more intense flare-ups. However, the brain’s plasticity in children allows for better compensation and recovery from nerve damage, which can make their long-term outcomes more hopeful.Nicole recounts her early experiences with pediatric MS, from the intense physical symptoms to the emotional struggles of feeling isolated and misunderstood. Despite these hardships, she found strength in her resilience, which has guided her through the ups and downs of managing her health, relationships, and career.Together, Nicole and Jean explore topics such as:The unique challenges of pediatric MS versus adult MS.How Nicole's early symptoms were misdiagnosed and her subsequent journey to find answers.The importance of finding community and support, even if it takes time. The emotional toll of keeping her diagnosis secret and how it affected her relationships.Her decision to embrace her condition publicly, becoming a voice for others living with chronic illness.The power of resilience and how adversity has shaped Nicole into the empowered woman she is today.Practical strategies Nicole uses to manage her health, balance her life, and keep a positive mindset.----Host: Jean CampbellGuest: Nicole PedraExecutive Producer: Jean CampbellProducer: Wicked Child Studio, Hailey Rovner Malach Composer: Eduardo Vella 

In this raw and heartfelt conversation, Jean sits down with her close friend, supermodel, actress and founder of Gurls Talk, Adwoa Aboah. Together, they dive deep into the complexities of pain – both visible and invisible. Adwoa opens up about her personal struggles with mental health and addiction, sharing how pain manifested in her life from a young age, how it felt isolating, and the powerful journey to learning how to cope.Adwoa discusses the importance of acknowledging pain, the role shame plays in mental health, and how she ultimately found solace in community and self-awareness. They explore the challenges of being vulnerable, the healing power of connection, and the lessons learned from pain, including how it can shape resilience and compassion.This episode is an intimate look at overcoming internal battles, growing from dark places, and the importance of finding hope, even in the most difficult moments. Whether you're facing your own struggles or supporting someone who is, Adwoa's insights offer a powerful reminder that healing is possible and you're never alone in your journey.Key Topics:Adwoa’s personal story of pain, boarding school, and feeling isolated.The role of shame in mental health and how it affects healing.How finding community and speaking out can be transformative.Overcoming addiction and embracing sobriety.How to hold on to hope and redefine what healing looks like.Gurls Talk is a community-led non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the mental health and wellbeing of adolescent girls and young women*. Following Adwoa Aboah’s personal experience with mental health, Gurls Talk was formed with the goal of creating safe spaces – both on and offline – where gurls can access mental health resources, share their experiences and support each other so they never feel alone or have to reach a breaking point.You can follow Adwoa on Instagram @adwoaaboah You can learn more about Gurls Talk by heading to www.gurlstalk.com ---Host: Jean CampbellGuest: Adwoa AboahExecutive Producer: Jean CampbellProducer: Wicked Child Studio, Hailey Rovner MalachComposer: Eduardo Vella 

In this episode, Jean welcomes supermodel and actress Abbey Lee to discuss her 20-year journey with endometriosis, a chronic condition affecting over 10% of women of reproductive age worldwide—approximately 190 million. Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing severe pain, inflammation, and sometimes infertility. Abbey shares her personal experiences, from her first symptoms in childhood to enduring years of misdiagnoses before receiving a proper diagnosis following surgery. The conversation dives deep into the challenges of managing chronic pain, its impact on mental health, and the daily struggle of living with this condition. Abbey also sheds light on the misconceptions within the medical community and emphasizes the importance of resilience, self-care, and a strong support system. She offers practical advice, sharing coping mechanisms like meditation, diet, and the role of a supportive partner, giving listeners hope and guidance in navigating similar experiences.Abbey Lee is an Australian supermodel and actress who first gained global recognition for her work in high-fashion campaigns and runway shows for top designers like Gucci, Versace, and Alexander McQueen. Known for her striking look and versatility, she became a fixture in the modeling world, gracing the covers of international editions of Vogue and Numéro. Abbey successfully transitioned into acting, starring in major films such as Mad Max: Fury Road, The Neon Demon, and Lovecraft Country.You can follow Abbey on Instagram at @abbeylee 00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:45 Abby's Journey with Endometriosis02:29 Defining Endometriosis03:26 Early Symptoms and Misconceptions06:11 Living with Chronic Pain10:52 Navigating Career and Pain16:00 Emotional and Mental Impact20:11 Seeking Help and Finding Relief23:58 Mind-Body Connection29:13 Meditation and Coping Strategies31:39 Exploring Meditation Techniques33:22 The Role of a Supportive Partner36:43 Navigating Intimacy and Pain40:37 The Journey to Diagnosis47:08 Managing Endometriosis Through Lifestyle Changes58:08 Finding Strength and Resilience01:00:04 Words of Wisdom and Final Thoughts---Host: Jean CampbellGuest: Abbey Lee Executive Producer: Jean Campbell Studio: Podcast House Producer: Wicked Child Studio, Hailey Rovner Malach Composer: Edoardo Vella 

Jean welcomes Laura Mason, an autoimmune wellness blogger, chef, and the creator of Love Chef Laura. Laura shares her inspiring journey of healing from Hashimoto's and Rheumatoid Arthritis, her love for culinary arts, and the transformative therapies that have helped her manage chronic pain and transform her life. Highlights: Introduction to Laura MasonLife-changing Diagnosis: Laura's journey through being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis while raising young children.Creating a Support Network: The vital role of family and online communities in Laura's healing journey.Cold Water Immersion Therapy: Laura's powerful experience with cold water immersion therapy and the creation of Happy Winter Swim Club.Bee Venom Therapy: Detailed insights into bee venom therapy, its process, and how it has significantly reduced Laura's pain.Diet and Wellness: Transitioning to a paleo and carnivore-based diet, and the impact of dietary changes on her autoimmune symptoms.Personal Struggles and Triumphs: Overcoming the mental, emotional, and physical challenges of living with autoimmune diseases.Hope for Others: Laura's heartfelt advice for anyone dealing with chronic pain: You are not alone and there is hope for healing.Join us for this powerful conversation and discover the resilience and strength it takes to transform one's life in the face of adversity. Make sure to follow Laura Mason at her blog Love Chef Laura and on social media for more on her journey and wellness tips.You can follow Laura at https://www.instagram.com/lovecheflaura/--- Host: Jean CampbellGuest: Laura Mason Executive Producer: Jean CampbellProducer: Wicked Child Studio, Hailey Rovner Malach Composer: Edoardo Vella 

Long COVID has affected an estimated 65 million people worldwide, leaving many to navigate life with ongoing symptoms.Long COVID, a condition affecting an estimated 65 million people worldwide, can bring a wide range of lingering symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, chronic pain, and respiratory issues, often lasting for months or even years.In this heartfelt episode, Jean speaks with Lilly Downs, an advocate for long COVID recovery, who shares her personal journey through illness, resilience, and finding joy amidst adversity. Lilly discusses her experiences with long COVID, autoimmune disorders, and chronic pain, and how these challenges have reshaped her view on life, happiness, and priorities.a little about Lilly from Lilly: Hi! I’m Lilly, I’m 20 years old & have been battling my own body since getting covid in 2020. My GI tract became paralyzed, my immune system went haywire & I have spent over 9 months fighting for my life in the hospital. I started making TikToks to document my journey & destigmatize life with chronic illness, feeding tubes & a central line.  You can follow Lilly on TikTok @lillydowns 01:00 - Lilly's Initial COVID Diagnosis and living with chronic pain and multiple diagnoses 07:00 - Coping with pain from a young age 14:00 - Accepting the reality of your own mortality and shifting your life priorities 20:00 - Finding support and building community and the integral role of nurses in her recovery 23:00 - Self-care through creative outlets and finding independence----Host : Jean CampbellGuest: Lilly DownsExecutive Producer: Jean CampbellProducer: Wicked Child Studio, Hailey Rovner Malach Composer: Edoardo Vella 

In this compelling episode, Jean Campbell and Edward Burgess Wells sit down with world-class photographer Jamie Hawkesworth. Jamie shares his remarkable journey from amateur photographer to photographing the covers of VOGUE, diving deeply into his decade-long struggle with chronic back pain and how it has influenced his work and life. This episode explores the intersection of creativity and pain, resilience in the face of a seemingly insurmountable challenge, and the transformative power of discipline and acceptance.Hawkesworth was born in Ipswich, Suffolk in 1987. Initially introduced to photography as part of his forensic science degree, he then switched to study the medium, graduating from the University of Lancashire in 2009 with a BA in Photography. Hawkesworth’s Preston Bus Station was published in 2017; On Keeping a Notebook in 2019; and The British Isles in 2021. In 2018 he received the Award for Editorial, Advertising and Fashion Photography from the Royal Photographic Society. He has worked on editorial campaigns, catalogues and commissions for Alexander McQueen, J.W.Anderson and Loewe, amongst many others. His documentary works have been exhibited in London, Amsterdam and New York. His work is held in the permanent collections of the Victoria & Albert Museum, London and Huis Marseille, Amsterdam.Hawkesworth lives and works in London. - Current exhibition https://huxleyparlour.com00:00 - Introduction to Jamie Hawkesworth02:00 - Jamie and Jean's First Meeting6:08 - Photographing Through Pain14:49 - Turning Point and Recovery25:34 - Physiotherapy and Managing Pain28:32 - Current Routine and Final Reflections--- Host: Jean CampbellCo-host: Ed Burgess-Wells Guest: Jamie Hawkesworth Executive Producer: Jean CampbellProducer: Wicked Child Studio, Hailey Rovner MalachComposer: Edoardo Vella 

In this episode, influential stylist, fashion director, and one of Jean's most dear friends, Julia Sarr-Jamois, shares her candid experience with pain, anxiety, and OCD, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.Julia recounts how the sudden changes in her life, including isolation and uncertainty, triggered anxiety and OCD symptoms, leading to severe panic attacks. OCD, or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, affects approximately 1-2% of the global population, with millions more experiencing intrusive thoughts and anxiety. These conditions often involve persistent, unwanted thoughts and repetitive behaviors aimed at reducing distress.She discusses the impact on her personal and professional life and the therapeutic approaches that helped her cope, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and regular therapy sessions. Julia emphasizes the importance of accepting oneself, practical exercises to manage anxiety, and viewing challenges as opportunities for growth.00:00 Welcome and Introduction01:12 Julia's Journey with Pain and OCD02:01 Coping During COVID-1903:10 Experiencing Anxiety and Panic Attacks03:42 Understanding and Managing OCD06:18 Therapy and Finding Solutions15:53 Self-Help Strategies and Empowerment19:59 Reflections and Final ThoughtsJulia Sarr-Jamois is one of the most influential names in fashion today. As both the youngest and first black Fashion Director in Vogue’s history, Julia is a powerful driving force for change within the industry. She was a founding member of the Mentoring Matters and Rubric mentoring initiatives and has consistently championed diversity throughout her prolific career. In 2018, Julia was invited to Nigeria to join the panel of the prestigious Fashion Weekend as part of their Promoting Enterprise Festival, championing emerging talent and education.Born to a French mother and Senegalese father, Julia was raised in South London, enjoying success as a model before joining the editorial team at i-D when she was 19. Julia’s exceptional talent for fashion is reflected through her dynamic editorial storytelling and social media presence. Julia’s eclectic style and eccentric elegance makes her one of the most photographed fashion directors, ruling the best dressed lists around the world.With over 17 years experience in the industry Julia has honed a refined but joyful aesthetic, distinguished by her signature use of bold colour as well as her effortless mixing of streetwear and high fashion aesthetics.Julia’s work has been featured in leading style titles including T Magazine, Self Service, M Le Monde, Double and More Or Less. Her work spans print and design, collaborating with photographers including Tyrone Lebon, Alasdair McLellan, Tyler Mitchell, Harley Weir, Zoë Ghertner and Nadine Ijewere. Julia has consulted for brands including Homer, Dolce & Gabbana, Hermès, Chanel, and Zara.You can follow Julia on Instagram @sarrjamois You can learn more about Julia's creative agency, Best Represents, by heading to https://bestrepresents.com/---Host: Jean CampbellGuest: Julia Sarr-Jamois Executive Producer: Jean CampbellProducer: Wicked Child Studio, Hailey Rovner Malach Editor: Edoardo Vella 

In this episode, Jean is joined by Farideh Banafshei, a counseling psychologist nearing the completion of her doctorate. They discuss Farideh's journey from working in finance to transitioning into psychology, driven by her own experiences of imposter syndrome and stress in high-pressure environments. Farideh highlights the pressures women face in professional settings, the impact of perfectionism, and the ways society's unrealistic expectations can lead to mental health issues. She shares personal anecdotes about her struggle with severe health issues that led her to reassess her life and healing journey. The conversation also explores the role of cultural dynamics in disordered eating and the importance of internal reflection for genuine self-healing. Farideh emphasizes that true strength comes from within and that therapeutic work helps individuals uncover their innate resilience.00:00 Introduction to Farideh Banafshei00:58 Farideh's Career Journey02:39 Transition to Psychology02:50 Understanding Affective Disorders04:22 Challenges in High-Pressure Environments08:05 Personal Struggles and COVID Impact11:26 The Breaking Point and Recovery15:27 Perfectionism and Self-Discovery22:26 Disordered Eating and Cultural Perspectives31:36 Finding Support and Healing34:39 Final Thoughts and AdviceYou can learn more about the J. Flowers Health Institute by heading to their website: https://jflowershealth.com/--- Host: Jean CampbellGuest: Farideh Banafshei Counsellor, MBACPExecutive Producer: Jean CampbellProducer: Wicked Child Studio, Hailey Rovner MalachComposer: Edoardo Vella