

Home-Body
Anna the Anxiety Coach
Welcome to the Home-Body podcast with Anna the Anxiety Coach, your trusted counsellor, coach, author, and anxiety specialist. Join us for insightful conversations on the human experience, as we explore the authentic challenges that life throws our way. In this show, we peel back the layers, delving deep into the raw and real aspects of our journey.
Prepare to open the door to self-discovery and reconnect with your body like never before. Anna will be your guide, providing actionable and effective steps to help you find your way back to your body's natural rhythm. No matter where you are on your path, our discussions will empower you to embrace your inner Home-Body.
Tune in for valuable insights, expert advice, and practical tools to enhance your mental and physical well-being. Discover the keys to a more harmonious life, right here on the Home-Body podcast. Let's dive into the show and begin your transformative journey together.
Prepare to open the door to self-discovery and reconnect with your body like never before. Anna will be your guide, providing actionable and effective steps to help you find your way back to your body's natural rhythm. No matter where you are on your path, our discussions will empower you to embrace your inner Home-Body.
Tune in for valuable insights, expert advice, and practical tools to enhance your mental and physical well-being. Discover the keys to a more harmonious life, right here on the Home-Body podcast. Let's dive into the show and begin your transformative journey together.
Episodes
Mentioned books

6 snips
Mar 16, 2025 • 17min
How to Calm Anxiety Without Talking About It: Nervous System Tools That Bypass the Mind
Explore body-based tools for calming anxiety that bypass verbal expression. Discover why traditional talk therapy may not address the physiological roots of anxiety. Learn techniques such as pursed lip breathing and co-synchronized breathing to activate calmness. Candle gazing helps shift your nervous state, while movement practices like shaking can release anxious energy. Emphasizing the importance of nurturing your nervous system, this conversation highlights that regulation is a practice—be gentle with yourself.

7 snips
Mar 9, 2025 • 17min
When Talk Therapy Isn’t Enough | Somatic Therapy, Gut-Brain Connection, Light Exposure, and Healing
This discussion highlights the limitations of traditional talk therapy and introduces the concept of somatic therapy, which targets trauma stored in the body. Discover how the gut-brain connection influences emotional health and the vital role nutrition plays. Light exposure also gets a spotlight for its impact on mood and sleep regulation. Gain practical tips on breathwork and grounding techniques to enhance your healing journey, emphasizing the importance of integrating body awareness with cognitive processing for comprehensive wellness.

Mar 2, 2025 • 26min
Gut Health, Hormones, and Mental Wellness with Dr. Marcus Cirelli | Functional Medicine, Anxiety, and Inflammation
My guest for this episode is Dr. Marcus Cirelli, a functional medicine expert and founder of Total Body Health. Dr. Cirelli shares his expertise on the intricate connections between gut health, hormonal balance, and mental health.
Inside this episode we discuss how imbalances in the gut microbiome and hormones can exacerbate anxiety symptoms, the role of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, and how chronic inflammation and environmental toxins can disrupt overall health.
Dr. Cirelli offers practical tips for improving gut health, including dietary changes, the importance of fermented foods, and how functional medicine can address the root causes of various health issues.
Key Takeaways:
- Gut health is crucial for mental well-being, as serotonin and dopamine are primarily produced in the gut.
- Hormonal imbalances, particularly oestrogen dominance, can significantly - exacerbate anxiety symptoms.
- Chronic inflammation is often linked to gut health issues and can contribute to autoimmune conditions.
- Environmental toxins can disrupt hormonal balance and overall health.
- Probiotics can be helpful but should be used cautiously and tailored to individual needs.
- Leaky gut can contribute to autoimmune conditions and various other health problems.
- Dietary choices, including fermented foods, are essential for supporting gut microbiome health.
- Emerging research in functional medicine is enhancing our understanding of gut health and its connections to mental health.
Chapters:
00:00 - The Connection Between Gut Health and Mental Well-Being
02:41 - Hormonal Influences on Anxiety
05:36 - Understanding Gut Issues and Their Impact on Health
08:32 - The Role of Oestrogen and Progesterone in Mental Health
11:24 - Chronic Inflammation and Autoimmune Conditions
14:21 - Environmental Toxins and Their Disruptive Effects
17:02 - Emerging Research and Diagnostic Tools in Functional Medicine
19:57 - Practical Tips for Improving Gut Health and Mental Wellness
About Dr. Marcus Cirelli:
Dr. Marcus Cirelli is a functional medicine expert with extensive post-doctorate training in clinical nutrition, functional medicine, and diagnostic medicine.
Specialising in chronic conditions such as autoimmune diseases, thyroid disorders, fibromyalgia, and hormonal imbalances, Dr. Cirelli uses state-of-the-art diagnostic testing to uncover the root causes of health issues.
Having healed himself from health challenges such as brain fog, leaky gut, and adrenal fatigue through functional medicine, Dr. Cirelli now helps others restore normal function and improve overall well-being. He practices in Cleveland, Ohio and offers remote consultations worldwide.
Follow Dr. Marcus Cirelli:
Instagram: @drmarcuscirelli
Website: https://www.tbhfunctionalmedicine.com/
Follow Anna:
Instagram: @annatheanxietycoach
Website: www.annatheanxietycoach.com

Feb 24, 2025 • 38min
Unlocking the Power of Breathwork w/ Samantha Skelly | Nervous System Regulation, Emotional Healing
Today on the Homebody podcast I am joined by powerhouse entrepreneur Samantha Skelly who has achieved international bestseller status as an author and established Pause Breathwork.
Samantha describes how breathwork functions as a transformational tool which helps people heal their emotions while regulating their nervous system and achieve personal growth.
She describes how breathwork generates long-lasting change through mind-body integration and demonstrates its unique approach compared to conventional self-help strategies.
Through her teachings Samantha examines the essential role intention-setting plays in breathwork practices while demonstrating its impact on personal experiences. Both beginners and experienced practitioners will find Samantha’s insights essential for anyone seeking healing and self-discovery through breathwork.
Key Takeaways:
- Personal transformation processes require nervous system regulation to achieve lasting results.
- Through breathwork you can establish an emotional connection at the cellular level which enables deep healing of emotions.
- Exploring breathwork leads to significant personal revelations and self-awareness.
- Effective breathwork practice and desired results depend on the practice of intention setting.
- Through breathwork people can experience reduced anxiety levels while also advancing in emotional recovery and strengthening their confidence in themselves.
- Through breathwork you enhance your emotional understanding which allows you to recognize your emotional requirements.
- Holistic healing requires both body-based techniques such as breathwork and mental exercises like mindset work.
- Practicing breathwork delivers quick results through enhanced mental clarity while improving emotional awareness and stress reduction.
- The expansion of breathwork will occur through increased training of facilitators who can deliver its transformative benefits.
Sound Bites:
"Breathwork is the antidote to anxiety."
"Breathwork is a collaboration with God."
Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction to Breathwork and Self-Help
02:51 - The Journey to Breathwork: Samantha’s Personal Experiences
06:48 - The Power of Breathwork in Emotional Healing
10:52 - Mind vs. Body: Breathwork's Role in Self-Help
14:38 - The Role of Intention in Breathwork Practices
18:57 - Understanding the Nervous System and Breathwork
22:50 - Immediate vs. Long-Term Benefits of Breathwork
26:41 - Building Self-Trust Through Breathwork
30:37 - The Future of Breathwork and Personal GrowthConnect with Samantha Skelly:
Instagram: @samantha.skelly https://www.instagram.com/samanthaskelly/
Website: pausebreathwork.com
Follow Anna:
Instagram: @annatheanxietycoach https://www.instagram.com/annatheanxietycoach/
Website: annatheanxietycoach.com

4 snips
Feb 16, 2025 • 35min
How to overcome perfectionism & Find Joy with Dr. Jen Douglas
Dr. Jen Douglas, a Stanford-affiliated psychologist and executive coach, shares insights on overcoming perfectionism. She discusses how perfectionism, often rooted in fear of inadequacy, can paralyze individuals and distort self-worth. Jen emphasizes the role of societal pressures and family dynamics in shaping these behaviors. Practical tools for fostering creativity and embracing imperfection are explored. She advocates for prioritizing joy and play, redefining success beyond achievements, and taking small steps toward personal growth.

Feb 10, 2025 • 40min
Navigating Uncertainty with Mollie Birney | Self-Trust, Anxiety, and the Power of Community
In this insightful conversation, life coach Mollie Birney explores how embracing uncertainty and building self-trust can help you navigate life’s challenges and reduce anxiety. Mollie explains that uncertainty often arises from a lack of self-trust and how faith, hope, and curiosity can be powerful tools in managing fear and indecision. She also discusses the importance of community support in fostering personal growth and offers practical advice on making small bets on yourself to build trust and confidence.
Key Takeaways:
- How a lack of self-trust fuels anxiety and uncertainty.
- Why control is an illusion and true freedom comes from embracing uncertainty.
- The value of self-trust over the need for control.
- How to start building self-trust with small, manageable risks.
- Why community support plays a vital role in personal growth and self-reflection.
- Making decisions means accepting loss, but also committing to growth.
- Using curiosity to navigate fear and uncertainty.
- The role of faith in trusting the process, not just the outcome.
- The importance of finding a supportive community in your journey.
- How to develop self-trust as a learned skill.
Chapters:
00:00 - What is Clinical Life Coaching?
00:39 - Understanding Uncertainty: A Sticky Subject
03:28 - The Psychology of Uncertainty & Control
06:27 - Self-Trust vs. Control: Finding Balance
09:09 - Betting on Yourself: Building Self-Trust
11:59 - Faith & Hope in Managing Anxiety
14:56 - Practical Steps to Cultivate Self-Trust
20:08 - Navigating Uncertainty and Indecision
24:21 - The Conflict Between Head and Heart
29:26 - The Power of Community and Support
38:25 - Embracing Curiosity in Uncertainty
Don't forget to subscribe for more episodes on personal growth, self-trust, and navigating life's challenges.
Follow Anna:
Instagram: @annatheanxietycoach
Website: annatheanxietycoach.com
Follow Mollie:
Instagram: @molliebirney
Website: www.molliebirney.com

Feb 5, 2025 • 31min
Overcoming Adversity and Building Resilience Through Running with Brooke McIntosh
In this inspiring conversation, Anna speaks with resilient athlete and keynote speaker Brooke McIntosh, who shares her powerful journey of overcoming adversity through the sport of running. Brooke explains how her mantra, "Just One More," helped her navigate mental health challenges and recover from a life-threatening accident. As she prepares for an ambitious run around Australia, Brooke discusses the therapeutic nature of running, the importance of community support, and the critical role of setting boundaries for mental and emotional well-being. This conversation emphasizes the power of vulnerability and how shared stories can foster greater mental health awareness.
Key Takeaways:
The mantra "Just One More" as a tool for resilience and overcoming challenges.
Running as a therapeutic practice to process emotions and improve mental health.
The vital role of community support on a journey to healing and personal growth.
Setting boundaries as a key strategy for maintaining mental and emotional well-being.
The importance of asking for help in personal growth and mental health management.
Brooke’s preparation for her inspiring run around Australia.
The ripple effect of sharing personal stories to inspire others and promote mental health awareness.
Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to Brooke McIntosh
01:26 - The Journey of Resilience: Overcoming Adversity
04:15 - The Mantra of "Just One More"
08:53 - Shifting Perspectives on Self-Care and Healing
13:20 - The Therapeutic Nature of Running for Mental Health
18:09 - The Power of Vulnerability and Asking for Help
22:59 - Energetic Hygiene and Setting Healthy Boundaries
27:31 - Looking Ahead: Brooke's Run Around Australia
Connect with Anna:
Instagram: @annatheanxietycoach
Website: annatheanxietycoach.com
Connect with Brooke:
Instagram: @brookemcintosh__
Website: brookemcintosh.com.au

Jan 26, 2025 • 47min
Navigating Chronic Illness: A Journey of Awakening
In this conversation, Anna speaks with Erika Bustos, a mind-body coach, about the intricate connection between emotional well-being and physical health, particularly in the context of chronic illness.
They explore the journey of healing, the importance of safety and connection, and the role of intuition in reclaiming wellness. Erika shares her personal experiences with chronic illness and how understanding the nervous system can empower individuals to navigate their healing journeys.
The discussion emphasises the need for co-regulation and the biological necessity of connection in the healing process.
Takeaways
- Physical pain is directly related to emotional pain.
- Illness is a process that often starts long before diagnosis.
- Healing requires understanding the mind-body connection.
- Safety is a crucial component of the healing journey.
- Intuition becomes accessible when the nervous system feels safe.
- Co-regulation with others is essential for healing.
- Chronic illness can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself.
- Mind-body healing involves both cognitive and somatic approaches.
- Basic needs like sleep and nutrition are foundational for healing.
- Empowerment comes from reconnecting with the body and its signals.
Chapters
00:00 Understanding the Mind-Body Connection
06:19 The Journey of Chronic Illness Diagnosis
13:26 The Impact of Fight or Flight on Healing
18:22 Exploring the Concept of Safety
21:36 Beginning the Healing Journey
22:04 Discovering Nervous System Regulation
22:57 Patterns of Dysregulation in Clients
24:20 Understanding the Importance of Safety
25:50 Intuitive Exploration of Safety
26:52 Connecting Intuition and Safety
28:34 The Shift from Thinking to Doing
30:37 The Role of Beliefs in Healing
33:07 Basic Biological Needs for Healing
37:01 The Importance of Co-Regulation
40:14 Encouragement for Those Struggling
44:47 The Need for Connection
Connect with Anna:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annatheanxietycoach/
Website: https://annatheanxietycoach.com/
Connect with Erika:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just.erikabustos/
Website: https://erikabustos.com/

Jan 19, 2025 • 46min
The Science of Resilience: Building Emotional Strength
In this conversation, Dr. Robyne HD and Anna explore the multifaceted nature of resilience, emphasising that it is not merely an inherent trait but a skill that can be developed.
They discuss the physiological aspects of resilience, the impact of past experiences, and the core elements that contribute to a resilient mindset. Practical habits for building resilience are shared, alongside insights into how stress affects our ability to cope.
The discussion also touches on the evolution of resilience across different life stages and the importance of being present in nurturing resilience in children.
Takeaways:
- Resilience is a verb; it's about action and practice.
- Grief can fundamentally change our physiological responses.
- Resilient individuals often have a strong sense of belonging.
- Perspective and acceptance are key components of resilience.
- Hope is essential for maintaining resilience in difficult times.
- Humour can serve as a powerful coping mechanism.
- Morning routines can significantly impact our resilience.
- Integrity and self-trust are crucial for building resilience.
- Stress can deplete our resilience if not managed properly.
- Resilience can be nurtured from a young age through supportive parenting.
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Resilience: A Neuroscientific Perspective
06:21 The Role of Experience in Building Resilience
11:53 Core Elements of Resilience: Five Key Pillars
20:05 Practical Habits to Cultivate Resilience
23:04 The Power of Slowing Down
25:33 Building Self-Trust Through Consistency
28:43 Navigating Stress and Resilience
30:41 The Simplicity of Self-Care
32:31 Embracing Discomfort in Crisis
34:27 Resilience Across the Lifespan
38:41 The Role of Parental Support in Resilience
Connect with Anna
https://www.instagram.com/annatheanxietycoach
https://www.annatheanxietycoach.com/
Connect with Dr. Robyne HD
https://www.instagram.com/dr_robynehd/
www.drrobyne.ca

Jan 13, 2025 • 44min
Unlocking the Secrets of Confidence with Erika Cramer
Summary
In this enlightening conversation, Anna Papaioannou and her guest explore the multifaceted nature of confidence, vulnerability, and personal growth. They discuss the societal pressures that contribute to a lack of confidence, the importance of self-trust, and how vulnerability can lead to true freedom. The dialogue emphasizes that confidence is not an innate trait but a practice that requires daily commitment and self-awareness. They share personal stories of resilience and transformation, highlighting the role of community and connection in fostering a supportive environment for growth. The conversation culminates in the announcement of a new book, 'Becoming Magnetic,' which aims to guide readers on their journey to becoming their most authentic selves.
Takeaways
Modern society's judgment impacts individual confidence.
Understanding oneself is crucial for building confidence.
Confidence is rooted in self-trust, not external validation.
Vulnerability is essential for authentic self-expression.
Confidence is a daily practice, not a fixed trait.
Life experiences shape resilience and personal growth.
Self-compassion is key to overcoming self-criticism.
Community support enhances personal development.
Emotional fluidity is vital for authenticity.
The journey to confidence is a collective experience.
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Confidence in Modern Society
05:15 The Practice of Confidence
10:10 Pivotal Life Experiences and Resilience
14:13 The Role of Vulnerability in Confidence
17:31 The Fluidity of Self-Expression
21:04 Awareness and Self-Compassion
26:36 The Power of Vulnerability and Connection
31:57 Overcoming Internal Battles
36:57 Becoming Magnetic: A Journey to Confidence
Connect with Anna
https://www.instagram.com/annatheanxietycoach/
https://www.annatheanxietycoach.com/
Connect with Erika
https://www.instagram.com/thequeenofconfidence
https://thequeenofconfidence.com/podcasts/


