This podcast is where I share the kind of conversations we don’t always have out loud. I’m Rachel, a therapist and writer, and I talk about healing, growth, and the messy but beautiful parts of being human. I’m glad you’re here.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
Publisher
Rachel Shaw
Category
health & fitness · health & fitness · society & culture
In this episode, I'm joined by my friend Abi (and her sausage dog Piper) for an honest conversation about faith and mental health.
I share my own story of growing up in church as a vicar's daughter, walking away at 16, and finding my way back to faith and community. Abi opens up about her own mental health journey, and how she can now see God moving through it looking back.
We talk about why stepping back into church can feel terrifying with past baggage, the tension between professional therapy and church culture, the difference between being a 'fan' of Jesus versus a follower, and trusting God's will over our own - including around infertility and unanswered prayers.
Suffering, faith, and why we're not meant to do any of it alone.
If this resonates, let us know in the comments 🤍
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
19 Mar 2026
Rock Bottom, Boundaries & Finding Who You Are
In this episode of Rachel & Co, I'm joined by Natalie from Lips and Linez - aesthetic practitioner, dance teacher, and mum of three - for one of the most honest conversations I've had on the podcast.
We talk about what it's like to grow up feeling like you're never quite good enough, how childhood experiences shape your confidence, self-worth, and relationships long into adulthood, and what it actually takes to start unlearning all of that.
Natalie opens up about her rock bottom moment - the turning point that pushed her to rebuild her life from scratch as a single mum - and we get into body image, people-pleasing, narcissistic relationships, setting boundaries, and what it really means to know who you are and what you deserve.
If you've ever felt like you've spent years giving too much of yourself to the wrong people, or you're somewhere in the middle of figuring out who you actually are, this episode is for you.
Credits (Instagram):
@lipsandlinez - Natalie my lovely cohost
@_nativespace_ - Studio and Editing
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
19 Feb 2026
Life Transitions, Choosing Yourself & Friendship
In this episode I’m joined by Emma - one of my closest and longest friends - as we talk about personal growth, life transitions, and how friendships evolve as we change.
We share our real experiences of outgrowing situations, setting boundaries, and making the difficult decision to choose yourself when something is damaging - even when it’s uncomfortable. We explore self-worth, loyalty, and what it means to prioritise your mental health without losing yourself in the process.
If you’re navigating friendship changes, big life shifts, or learning how to set healthier boundaries, this conversation is for you.
Like and subscribe for more honest conversations about mental health, relationships, and personal development - and share your experiences in the comments below 🤍
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
22 Jan 2026
Ask A Therapist - Q&A Special
In this episode, Adam brings a series of thoughtful questions they were curious to ask a therapist - around trauma, parenting, personality, and how our early experiences shape us.
This isn’t about quick fixes or labels. It’s a grounded conversation, offering perspective, reflection, and gentle insight into the things many people often wonder about.
If you’re curious about therapy, interested in understanding yourself more deeply, or simply want a calm, human conversation about emotional life, this episode is for you.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
18 Dec 2025
Business, Vulnerability & Men’s Mental Health
This episode explores business, vulnerability, and men’s mental health.
We talk about building a business from a place of authenticity rather than expectation.
The impact of shifting gender roles in relationships.
And how some men can feel disconnected or unsure of their place when women are independent and holding a lot - emotionally, practically, and financially.
We also speak openly about vulnerability.
About how it’s ok to struggle.
And why allowing ourselves to not be ok can be a powerful step towards healthier relationships and a healthier sense of self.
An honest conversation about identity, pressure, and learning to show up as you are.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
18 Nov 2025
Resentment, Independence & Questioning Your Childhood
In this episode, Holly and I open up about what it’s really like to grow up in a chaotic or toxic environment and how becoming independent far too young shapes you as an adult. We talk about the long-term impact of having to figure things out on your own, how those patterns can follow you into parenthood, and what it brings up emotionally when you’re raising children without the model you needed yourself.
We also explore the evolving relationship with your own parents - the distance, the confusion, the grief, and the complex feelings that come with trying to build a healthier life than the one you grew up in. It’s an honest and vulnerable conversation for anyone navigating generational healing.
If you enjoyed this episode...
Subscribe, leave a review, or share it with someone who might relate. New episodes every month.
Connect with me:
Instagram: @rachelshawtherapy
Website: rachelshaw.co.uk
TikTok: @rachelandcopodcast
Credits:
Studio & Editing - Native Space (@_nativespace_ on Instagram)
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
16 Oct 2025
Parenting Authenticity, Communication & Narcissism
In this episode, I’m joined by the lovely Julia for a deeply honest conversation about parenting authenticity, the complexity of communication, and the hidden dynamics of narcissistic relationships.
We explore what it means to raise children who feel safe to be their authentic selves, how communication often has multiple layers and how easily meaning can get lost in translation.
We also talk about the deep insecurity that often drives narcissistic behaviour, and how misunderstood victims can be by those who haven’t experienced these relationships firsthand.
This is a grounded, heart-led discussion for anyone interested in emotional awareness, self-development, and authentic connection.
If you want to see more of Julia and give her some love then go follow her over on Instagram @julia_littlebirdhairdesign 🤍
Where else to find me:
Website: www.rachelshaw.co.uk
Instagram: @rachelshawtherapy
Tiktok: @rachelshandcopodcast
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5fjzCs9yR3GYDkOKdROPvp?si=80f2199b1b5e4a9d&nd=1&dlsi=192e74dcdc6a4a05
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rachel-co/id1834170812
Credits:
Studio & Editing - @_nativespace_ on Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
16 Sept 2025
Neurodiversity, Breakups and How to Move On
Breakups are tough, and moving on is rarely simple.
In this episode, Lois and I talk about heartbreak, what it means to heal after a relationship ends, and how our brains process that experience in unique ways. This is an open and honest conversation about the realities of letting go, the challenges of moving forward, and the messy emotions that come with breakups.
Like, comment and subscribe if you enjoyed this conversation!
You can find me on:
Website: www.rachelshaw.co.uk
Instagram: rachelshawtherapy
Tiktok: rachelandcopodcast
Spotify and Apple Podcasts
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
20 Aug 2025
Compromise, Attachment and How To Avoid Messing Up Your Kids
In this episode, I'm joined by Leah and we explore what compromise in relationships really looks like, how our attachment styles shape the way we handle conflict, and the fears many of us carry about becoming parents. It’s a conversation about the patterns we inherit, the ones we pass on, and how we can begin to break the cycle.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
19 Aug 2025
Rachel&Co Teaser
Have a sneak peek at the first episode!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
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