Unbusy On Purpose

About Unbusy On Purpose

Unbusy On Purpose is the podcast for small business owners who are done with the hustle, overwhelm, and pressure to “do more.” Hosted by Lucy Carter, each episode helps you slow down, cut through the chaos, and take back control. Expect real stories, practical tips that won’t fry your brain, and weekly reminders to focus on what actually matters. No fluff, no guilt—just grounded guidance to help you build a business that fuels your life, not drains it.

Publisher

Lucy Carter

Category

business · health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

11 Dec 2025

Latest episode

8 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

10 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   8 Oct 2026

   Are Millennials Collectively Grieving The 90's... Or Are We Just Overstimulated?

   Have you felt unusually heavy lately? Not necessarily sad. Not necessarily burnt out. Just… heavy. Tired, overwhelmed, mentally full and craving some kind of space you can’t quite put your finger on. In this episode of Unbusy on Purpose, I’m exploring why so many of us seem to be feeling this way right now and whether there’s more going on than simply having too much to do. I go down a bit of a rabbit hole around burnout, overstimulation, modern life, nostalgia and the mental load we’re carrying, including a thought I can’t stop thinking about: are we actually missing the past, or are we missing how much mental space we used to have? I also touch on the current Venus retrograde and the idea of using periods of heaviness and reflection as an opportunity to look at what might need our attention. This isn’t an episode about giving you another list of things to do when you’re already exhausted. Instead, you’ll come away with a different way of looking at that feeling of heaviness and some questions to help you understand what your mind and body might actually be asking for. Because maybe you don’t need to fix the feeling. Maybe you need to listen to it. Where you can find me: Find me on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/iamlucycarter) @iamlucycarter & @unbusyonpurposepodcast Find me on YouTube    / @lucycarter1111 Join the Unbusy Collective on Skool (https://www.skool.com/the-unbusy-collective-5475) Watch/listen to this episode on other platforms: https://unbusyonpurpose.riverside.com/ (https://unbusyonpurpose.riverside.com/)

2. 

   31 Aug 2026

   When Self-Doubt Isn't Actually the Problem: A conversation with Kathryn Grace

   What if the part of you that’s constantly second-guessing yourself, overthinking everything or feeling like you’re not quite enough… isn’t actually trying to hold you back? In this episode, I’m joined by Kathryn Grace, an IFS-informed therapist and founder of House of Self, for a conversation that completely shifted the way I think about self-doubt, imposter syndrome and the parts of ourselves we often try to silence. We talk about what’s actually happening underneath those moments of “Who am I to do this?”, why even incredibly successful people can struggle with feeling like a fraud, and how our reactions, behaviours and patterns can often be coming from different parts of us trying to protect us in their own way. Kathryn introduced me to Internal Family Systems (IFS) and honestly, I love the way it reframes the conversation with myself on daily basis. We explore: Why self-doubt doesn't necessarily mean you lack confidence or self-belief What “parts” are and how they can influence the way we think, behave and respond The difference between being blended with an emotional reaction and being able to step back from it How self-trust and boundaries are connected Why trying to override, fix or suppress certain parts of ourselves can keep us stuck What happens when we take responsibility for our own parts rather than projecting them onto other people How this work can completely change the way we experience our relationships, with ourselves and with others And why self-acceptance doesn't mean settling for where you are; it can actually create the space for real change There’s a lot in this conversation that made me stop and think, particularly around how much of what we do is driven by parts of us that are trying to keep us safe, successful, liked or in control. Find Kathryn You can connect with Kathryn and learn more about her work here: Website: https://www.houseofself.org/ (https://www.houseofself.org/) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.houseofself/ (https://www.instagram.com/the.houseofself/) Want to slow things down? If this conversation has you thinking about your own patterns, your capacity, and what you might actually need right now, you might want to join me inside the Unbusy Reset Retreat (https://unbusyresetretreat.carrd.co/). It's an online, 3-day self-paced reset designed to help you slow down, get clear on what's actually going on, prioritise what matters, let go of what doesn't, and start creating more space for yourself. Join the Unbusy Reset Retreat: https://unbusyresetretreat.carrd.co/ (https://unbusyresetretreat.carrd.co/) Because sometimes you don't need another strategy. You need enough space to actually hear yourself. Where you can find me: Find me on Instagram www.instagram.com/iamlucycarter (http://www.instagram.com/iamlucycarter) Find me on YouTube    / @lucycarter1111 Join the Unbusy Collective on Skool: The Unbusy Collective (https://www.skool.com/the-unbusy-collective-5475) Watch/listen to this episode on other platforms: https://unbusyonpurpose.riverside.com/ (https://unbusyonpurpose.riverside.com/)

3. 

   11 Aug 2026

   The Difference Between Knowing Something Intellectually and Actually Integrating It Into Your Life

   The Podcast Came Back When I Did... Have you ever known exactly what you should be doing… and still found yourself doing the opposite? You know you need to slow down. You know you need better boundaries. You know you need to rest. You know something needs to change. I’ve been there. In fact, I realised I had spent a lot of time knowing what I needed to do without necessarily understanding why I found it so difficult to actually do it. Because knowing something intellectually doesn’t automatically mean we’re ready to live it. Season 2 starts with a truth I’ve come to understand more deeply: you can’t transform what you haven’t slowed down enough to understand. In this first episode, I’m sharing why I stepped away from the podcast, what happened during that time, and what it took for me to come back. I talk about the months that shaped this season, from meaningful work and family milestones to navigating the emotional weight of the anniversary of my partner’s cardiac arrest and my dad’s death and how those experiences brought me back to something I’d been talking about for years, but was now learning to live. Awareness is only the beginning. Understanding is what helps us create change. I introduce my SIMPLE Theory, a process I developed through my own journey to help move from burnout, disconnection and overwhelm towards something more sustainable, honest and aligned. I explore: Why feeling stuck isn’t always a motivation problem The difference between noticing a pattern and actually changing it Why slowing down and turning inward can help us understand what’s really going on How making sense of what we feel can create clarity and movement Why protecting your peace, setting boundaries and letting go can matter more than pushing harder How something as simple as writing things down can create space when your mind feels foggy I’m also sharing a little of what’s coming in Season 2 - including conversations around therapies and modalities that can support real change, practical tools you can experiment with, and my upcoming three-day Unbusy Reset Retreat. (https://unbusyresetretreat.carrd.co/?fbclid=PAcGRvZgJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA85MzY2MTk3NDMzOTI0NTkAAae-reQ-Zmx3Ffk0uNhXz6RNqx8cE0RVXZhnDP1oP9UaD9gf1XIhf2GyoIGDsw_aem_s31XBp6WJsP8rNhQjKHkTg&utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio) Because I don’t believe we need to overhaul our entire lives overnight. I think the bigger shifts often begin with the smallest ones. And sometimes, the first step isn’t changing anything at all. It’s finally slowing down enough to understand why you do what you do. If you’ve been feeling disconnected, exhausted, creatively blocked, stuck, or wondering why everything feels harder than it should, this season is for you. You don’t have to be “on” all the time to be valuable, visible or moving forward. Sometimes you’re not falling behind. Sometimes you just need to pause long enough to hear yourself again. Where you can find me: Find me on Instagram www.instagram.com/iamlucycarter (http://www.instagram.com/iamlucycarter) Find me on YouTube    / @lucycarter1111 Watch/listen to this episode on other platforms: https://unbusyonpurpose.riverside.com/ (https://unbusyonpurpose.riverside.com/)

4. 

   30 Mar 2026

   Burnout in High-Achieving Women: The Hidden Pressure of Holding It All Together with Emma Lee

   This episode is for the woman who looks like she has it all together… but inside, feels like she’s barely holding on. You’ve built the business, you manage the home, and you’re the one everyone relies on. From the outside, it looks like you’re handling it all. But internally, you feel stretched, exhausted, and unsure how long you can keep going like this. In this episode of Unbusy on Purpose, I’m joined by mindset coach Emma Lee to explore burnout in high-achieving women, people-pleasing patterns, overcommitment, and the hidden mental load that often goes unseen. Emma shares her personal journey through burnout — and how years of pushing, overgiving, and self-pressure led her to realise that her mindset was driving her harder than anything external ever had. Together, we unpack: Why high-achieving women are more prone to burnout The link between people-pleasing, perfectionism, and overwhelm How internal pressure keeps you stuck in cycles of doing more What it looks like to create success without burnout How to reconnect with yourself without everything falling apart This conversation isn’t about productivity hacks or doing more. It’s about understanding the root of your burnout, shifting the way you relate to yourself, and creating a more sustainable, aligned way of living and working. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in the cycle of doing it all, this episode is for you. You can find Emma here: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/emmalee_mindsetcoach/ (https://www.instagram.com/emmalee_mindsetcoach/) Website - https://www.emmalee.life/ (https://www.emmalee.life/) You can listen to her poem "Choosing Yourself" here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DTvhUMSgDrL/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== (https://www.instagram.com/reel/DTvhUMSgDrL/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) Where you can find me: Find me on Instagram www.instagram.com/iamlucycarter (http://www.instagram.com/iamlucycarter) Find me on Tik Tok www.tiktok.com/@iamlucycarter (http://www.tiktok.com/@iamlucycarter) Find me on YouTube    / @lucycarter1111 Watch/listen to this episode on other platforms: https://unbusyonpurpose.riverside.com/ (https://unbusyonpurpose.riverside.com/)

5. 

   9 Mar 2026

   Comparison, Self-Worth & the Need for Validation: Rewriting Your Self-Image

   For as long as I can remember, I’ve measured myself against other people and I didn’t realise how much that was shaping the decisions I was making. In this episode of Unbusy on Purpose, I’m talking about comparison, self-worth, and the deep need so many of us have for validation from other people. For a long time, I believed my worth lived in two places: how I looked and how clever I was. If I felt attractive, I felt wanted. If I felt smart, I felt valuable. And if someone gave me a compliment, approval, recognition it meant I could finally relax. And that is no way to create an aligned life. Living that way shaped a lot of my decisions. It influenced the men I chose, the business decisions I made, and the way I held myself back. It felt like there was this invisible force running my life, constantly whispering that I needed to prove myself. In this episode, I unpack where that feeling actually comes from and the psychology behind comparison and how our self-image is a blue-print formed from a young age. I also talk about the work of Maxwell Maltz and insights from his book Psycho-Cybernetics, which explain how the way we see ourselves internally shapes the way we behave and the choices we make in our lives. In this episode, I share: Why comparison is actually a natural psychological response How our self-image quietly influences our confidence and behaviour Why external validation can feel so addictive How childhood experiences can shape the beliefs we carry about ourselves Practical ways to begin rewiring those beliefs and building real self-trust If you’ve ever felt like you’re constantly measuring yourself against other people, or like your worth depends on how others see you, this conversation will help you understand why that happens and how you can begin to change it. Because your worth was never meant to be something you had to prove. Lucy xx Find me on Instagram www.instagram.com/iamlucycarter (http://www.instagram.com/iamlucycarter) Find me on Tik Tok www.tiktok.com/@iamlucycarter (http://www.tiktok.com/@iamlucycarter) Find me on YouTube    / @lucycarter1111 Watch/listen to this episode on other platforms: https://unbusyonpurpose.riverside.com/ (https://unbusyonpurpose.riverside.com/)

6. 

   10 Feb 2026

   Why You Can’t Focus: The Neuroscience of Attention, Distraction & Overwhelm

   Have you ever sat down to focus… and somehow ended up overwhelmed, distracted, and frustrated with yourself? In this episode, I'm diving into the neuroscience behind attention, distraction, and overwhelm and why struggling to focus isn’t a personal failure or a lack of discipline. It’s sometimes just biology. I share how listening to Dr. Andrew Huberman’s podcast helped me finally understand what was happening in my brain on a neurological level, especially during my recent bout of brain fog. His work gave me language and compassion for my own experience, and helped me see that overwhelm is often a signal from our nervous system, not something to push through harder and I hope with me sharing this, it can help you too. I explore: How attention actually works in the brain Why distraction is more likely when we’re stressed or under-stimulated What neuroscience says about cognitive load and overwhelm Why challenging, focused work can actually reduce distraction Practical, science-backed ways to work with your brain instead of against it. I also reference a neuroscience study using brain imaging that shows how, when we engage in a challenging task, the brain actively strengthens attention networks and suppresses distractions, explaining why “deep focus” works and multitasking doesn’t. Referenced study: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4870472/ (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4870472/) This episode is for you if you want to: Feel calmer and clearer instead of constantly overwhelmed Understand your focus struggles without self-judgment Learn how to structure your days in a way that supports your nervous system If focus has felt hard lately, this episode will help you understand why, and give you permission to slow down, simplify, and realign with how your brain is designed to work. Lucy xx Find me on Instagram www.instagram.com/iamlucycarter (http://www.instagram.com/iamlucycarter) Find me on Tik Tok www.tiktok.com/@iamlucycarter (http://www.tiktok.com/@iamlucycarter) Find me on YouTube    / @lucycarter1111 Human Design Chart: https://ahumandesign.com (https://ahumandesign.com) Be Present App: https://www.bepresentapp.com (https://www.bepresentapp.com)

7. 

   16 Jan 2026

   When Anxiety Shows Up: Even When You Think You’ve “Healed”

   Anxiety doesn’t always announce itself. Sometimes it creeps in quietly, even when you thought you had a handle on things. In this episode of Unbusy On Purpose, I share a recent personal experience where anxiety surfaced unexpectedly when my partner Stephen needed stent surgery. After months of therapy, I genuinely believed I was past this… until my nervous system had other plans. We explore why anxiety often shows up during times of stress, why it doesn’t mean you’re “back at square one,” and how our bodies respond to perceived threats. I also share what actually helped calm my nervous system in the moment and why these are signs of healing, not failure. If anxiety has ever caught you off guard, this episode is a reminder that you haven’t undone your growth. You’re human and your body is doing its best to keep you safe. Lucy xx Lucy xx Find me on Instagram www.instagram.com/iamlucycarter (http://www.instagram.com/iamlucycarter) Find me on Tik Tok www.tiktok.com/@iamlucycarter (http://www.tiktok.com/@iamlucycarter) Find me on YouTube    / @lucycarter1111

8. 

   5 Jan 2026

   New Year, New Boundaries: January is the time for Reflection, Not Resolutions.

   Okay, January… can we all just slow the F down for a sec? Everywhere you look it’s “new year, new me” and a million resolutions screaming at you. Honestly? My nervous system is already exhausted just thinking about it. In this episode of Unbusy On Purpose, I’m giving you permission to slow the hell down. Instead of diving headfirst into goals, we’re talking boundaries — with others, yes, but also with ourselves. Because let’s be real: if you don’t set them, someone (or something) will… and that always feels sh#t. Here’s what I cover: [02:27] The pressure of January and why it’s not about rushing into goals but taking time to reflect. [03:01] Why setting new boundaries is the real focus this month. [04:25] How to decide what from last year deserves your energy — and what doesn’t. [06:09] Reflecting on where boundaries were crossed and what that taught us. [10:48] My personal boundary story: speaking up and protecting my self-respect. [13:23] How to use January to gain clarity on your experiences and boundaries. [15:25] Wrapping up with how to set the stage for a calmer, clearer, more protected 2026. If you’re ready to kick off the year with clarity, a little fire in your belly, and your peace fully protected… this episode is for you. Lucy xx Find me on Instagram www.instagram.com/iamlucycarter (http://www.instagram.com/iamlucycarter) Find me on Tik Tok www.tiktok.com/@iamlucycarter (http://www.tiktok.com/@iamlucycarter) Find me on YouTube    / @lucycarter1111   (https://www.youtube.com/@LucyCarter1111)

9. 

   26 Dec 2025

   Being ‘busy’ Is Blocking Your Breakthrough

   Being ‘busy’ Is Blocking Your Breakthrough: Why constant action is keeping you overwhelmed & overworked. Are you spinning your wheels in your business, always doing, always hustling… but feeling like nothing’s actually moving forward? This episode dives into the difference between busy action and aligned action, uncovering why constant hustle can keep you stuck, exhausted, and overwhelmed. I’ll guide you through how slowing down, acting with intention, and focusing on aligned action can create clarity, relief, and real breakthroughs — without burning yourself out. By the end, you’ll have reflections to help you spot where you’re overdoing it and practical steps to get back into alignment with your business and life. P.S. My Dad makes a sneaky (spiritual) appearance Takeaways: The difference between busy action and aligned action The hidden cost of constant action How alignment creates relief and sustainable growth Chapters: 00:00 Understanding Busy Action 05:51 The Pitfalls of Constant Action 12:20 The Importance of Alignment 20:25 Reflection and Invitation

10. 

    11 Dec 2025

    Rising Again: How to Rebuild Your Life and Business After Big Life Changes

    In this episode of 'Unbusy On Purpose' I went a little bit rogue! I had a planned to do a completely different topic but just as I went to record, something told me to trust my intuition and speak from the heart of what I felt needed to be shared with you and not what I thought needed to be shared with you. I share my personal journey through grief and transformation, emphasizing the importance of healing and self-care. I also discuss the collective energy of how 2025 has been such a HUGE and TRANSFORMATIONAL year for so many people and the necessity of tending to your inner child in those dark, tough moments. I encourage you to embrace your emotions, take time for yourselves, and initiate positive changes in your lives. Takeaways This year has been a roller coaster for many people. Grief can either make you bitter or better. It's essential to tend to your own emotional garden. Taking time for yourself is crucial for healing. We need to nurture our inner child. Growth requires patience and self-love. Initiating change starts with being present. You can't predict the future, so focus on the present. Lucy xx Find me on Instagram ⁠@iamlucycarter⁠ (www.instagram.com/iamlucycarter) Find me on Tik Tok ⁠@iamlucycarter⁠ (www.tiktok.com/@iamlucycarter) Find me on YouTube ⁠@lucycarter1111⁠ (https://www.youtube.com/@LucyCarter1111)