Two Inconvenient Women

The discussion dives into the complex relationship between work and personal fulfillment. It explores the grim history of workhouses and critiques societal views on welfare. Themes of trust and flexibility in the workplace are highlighted, alongside the emotional journey of returning to work. The hosts reflect on success, advocating for a balance between personal happiness and societal expectations. They also examine the potential of universal basic income to enhance community well-being, emphasizing trust and human dignity in society.

Delve into the intricate dance of national pride and identity as hosts discuss the controversial rise of flag displays in England. Explore personal narratives that highlight the emotional weight of symbols like the St. George's Cross and the Union Jack amidst tensions surrounding immigration. Reflect on humanity's timeless quest for belonging, contrasting patriotism with nationalism. The conversation encourages empathy and inclusivity, urging listeners to navigate the complexities of flags and the stories they tell about our shared experiences.

A new season is upon many of us at this time of year. Summer shifting into Autumn, the beginning of a new school year, a new work cycle. Maybe just returning to work after a rest. In all of the excitement of 'beginning again' there often comes also a slight pause within us all, asking us "Am I wanting to keep doing this? Is this allowing me to be all I want to be?"This week, Rachel shares a poem from John O'Donohue called 'For a New Beginning' inviting us to listen to that quiet voice deep within us. We look forward to being back together for Season 4 of Two Inconvenient Women next week.For a New Beginningby John O'DonohueIn out-of-the-way places of the heart,Where your thoughts never think to wander,This beginning has been quietly forming,Waiting until you were ready to emerge.For a long time it has watched your desire,Feeling the emptiness growing inside you,Noticing how you willed yourself on,Still unable to leave what you had outgrown.It watched you play with the seduction of safetyAnd the gray promises that sameness whispered,Heard the waves of turmoil rise and relent,Wondered would you always live like this.Then the delight, when your courage kindled,And out you stepped onto new ground,Your eyes young again with energy and dream,A path of plenitude opening before you.Though your destination is not yet clearYou can trust the promise of this opening;Unfurl yourself into the grace of beginningThat is at one with your life's desire.Awaken your spirit to adventure;Hold nothing back, learn to find ease in risk;Soon you will be home in a new rhythm,For your soul senses the world that awaits you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our August break continues here at ThoughtBox, so this week we're sharing a short collection of previous episodes where we dive into the nuance of environmental wellbeing and what it means to learn to care for our planet. Some of the highlights from our past three seasons are this mini-series are below:Season 1, Episode 4: Falling in love with the worldSeason 2, Episode 7 (Exploring the inconvenience of nature connection): Are we connecting with nature, or just using it?Season 3, Episode 4 (Exploring the inconvenience of trees): What can a tree teach us about relationships?Season 3, Episode 12 (Exploring the inconvenience of earth-care): Why is caring for the planet essential for all life to flourish?If you'd like to join us for any of the Triple WellBeing opportunities mentioned in the podcast, you can find more information at:Triple WellBeing Introduction workshop: a free, one-hour session (Wednesday 27th August 2025, 1pm-2pm BST)Triple WellBeing Practitioner Course: a one-day, online workshop (Friday 26th September 2025, 10am-3pm BST)Transforming Education Retreat: a three-day residential programme (Monday 6th - Wednesday 8th October) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dive into the nuances of social well-being as the conversation reflects on the importance of community care. Explore why gathering is essential and what we risk losing by not doing so. Consider how the modern world challenges our capacity for empathy and humanity. A moving poem on belonging is shared, adding emotional depth to the discussion. Together, these insights encourage us to reconnect with our shared humanity and foster a sense of belonging within our communities.

This installment explores the intricacies of personal well-being, focusing on growth and acceptance. A reflective poem sets the tone, highlighting the often-overlooked power of rest. Delving into spirituality, the conversation questions whether we exist in a spiritual void. The idea of re-sourcing oneself leads to intriguing insights on self-care, presented as a self-less act. Listeners are encouraged to tap into previous discussions that enrich their understanding of self-care and well-being.

Discover the transformative power of reconnecting with nature and how it can shape our relationship with the environment. The discussion emphasizes the urgent need to appreciate the natural world and fosters a sense of community through initiatives like urban gardening. Explore personal journeys of bravery and self-gratitude, highlighting how these experiences can enhance our connection to the earth. Ultimately, the conversation reveals that nurturing ourselves is essential for effective earth-care, advocating for a collective responsibility towards our planet.

Dive into the profound impact of human connection as the hosts discuss the importance of 'people-care' in a hyper-individualized world. They explore how music fosters relationships and reflect on the beauty of nature's sounds, from the cries of crows to the empathy towards pigeons. Cultural narratives and the contrasting behaviors of bonobos and chimpanzees shed light on our own social dynamics. The episode emphasizes compassionate listening and the healing potential of community, urging us to embrace diversity for true well-being.

Self-care is often dismissed as selfish, yet it's essential for our well-being and the well-being of others. The conversation dives into practical daily routines like gratitude journaling and meditation to enhance mental health. It also highlights the importance of setting boundaries, comparing them to riverbanks that allow for balance and flow. Shared experiences in self-care foster deeper connections, urging us to prioritize wellness amidst societal pressures. The episode champions personal resilience as a foundation for supporting those around us.

Dive into the enriching world of holistic education, where learning engages the head, heart, and hands. Discover the significance of authentic connections and lifelong friendships in navigating life's stresses. The conversation emphasizes the need for emotional intelligence in education, critiquing traditional methods for overshadowing creativity and well-being. With insights from alternative educational models, the hosts advocate for integrating arts and emotional engagement to nurture the whole person, promoting healthier learning environments.