How To Be Selfish, Food for Focus and International Women's Day
Hello All and Happy February!
Gosh January was long wasn’t it, but I feel like we’re slowly coming out of the darkness and back into the light, and even though we’ve still got a bit more of winter to go I can see the first sights of Spring….mainly a little more daylight! Thankfully my guest this week has all the tools you need to push through the final stretch.
This week’s episode was an absolute joy to record as I was joined by psychologist, speaker and author Suzy Reading, and it felt particularly special because I’ve been a fan of Suzy’s work for many years. This is actually her second time on the podcast, but our first in person — and she was everything I knew she would be. Kind, reassuring and deeply inspiring.
My fabulous guest Suzy Reading
Suzy’s brand new book ‘How To Be Selfish’
Our conversation centres around Suzy’s seven steps to taking back your peace & power, her brilliant new book How to Be Selfish, and how to meet your own needs without guilt. So much of what we discussed really resonated with me — especially the idea of learning how to receive help. Something I’ll openly admit I’m not very good at.
We talk about harnessing our emotions as tools for change, rather than something to override or suppress, and about wintering well — slowing down, restoring energy, and seeing spring as the real new year. The episode felt grounding, affirming and quietly powerful — one I know I’ll return to again and again, and when i’m not listening, i’ll be delving into her wonderful book How To Be Selfish!
I really hope you enjoy it and you find the conversation as helpful as I did.
Happy Listening!
Get The Look
Studio Style
For this week’s studio look, I wanted something that felt relaxed whilst still being smart and so opted for this gorgeous Camel coloured wool jumper and classic black cigarette pants. I paired with black tights and heels as it was so cold but I didn’t want to resort to anything that felt too bulky. Away from work I would’ve been very happy walking around in a fleece onsie to keep out the cold, but somehow don’t think that would look quite as stylish travelling around London! So I got the nice bit of comfort I was craving from the jumper and the warmth from layering. As always each of these pieces are interchangeable so they’re great additions to any capsule wardrobe. Get the look below.
Away from recording, it’s been a full and meaningful week. I had the privilege of attending the launch of Smart Works Leeds International Women’s Day programme of events — something I felt incredibly proud to be part of.
Smart Works is a brilliant charity that supports unemployed women back into work by providing high-quality interview clothing, styling, and one-to-one coaching to help build confidence and self-belief at a pivotal moment in their lives. Their work goes far beyond clothes — it’s about opportunity and long-term empowerment.
Pic Credit: PGHL
I’m an extremely proud ambassador, and seeing the impact of the charity first-hand is always a powerful reminder of what can happen when women are supported, believed in, and given space to step into their potential. If you’d like to find out more please visit the website.
Alongside this, I’ve been trying out the new collagen range from Correxiko, and I’m looking forward to seeing how it supports my skin, hair and energy over the coming weeks. Will keep you posted!
It’s also been a busy week with work and writing — and next week I’m back on set, which means learning lines and staying focused. When I’m in this mode, I have to be quite intentional with what I eat to keep my energy steady and my mind clear.
I’m a huge lover of salmon for this — brilliant for memory, focus and omega 3s. Nutritionist Karen Newby talks about this a lot in the first episode of the new season, and it’s really stayed with me.
Food for thought
Chilli Salmon with Steamed Broccoli
This is quick, clean and packed with goodness — perfect when you need fuel without heaviness and a little extra clarity.
Ingredients (serves 2)
• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 tbsp Soy Sauce
• 1 tsp chilli flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 garlic clove, finely grated
• Tsp of honey
• Tender stem or regular broccoli
Poppy seeds optional
Method
Mix the soy sauce, chilli flakes, garlic, lemon juice, honey.
Brush over the salmon and leave for 10 minutes if you have time.
Pan-fry the salmon skin-side down for 4–5 minutes, then turn and cook for a further 2–3 minutes until just cooked through.
Steam the broccoli until tender but still vibrant.
Simple, nourishing and supportive — exactly what’s needed during busy weeks.
And I certainly need to be focused with juggling work, home life and being the mum of a teenager, who I sometimes feel like i’m actually his executive assistant. I mean how much admin do kids have these days?!
Anyway, I know many of you will relate to that and so I hope all of the things in this weeks post will help you if you’re in the madness of it all.
Have a great week and speak soon,
Natalie Xx
Women & Wellbeing - Podcast
Women's health and wellbeing podcast from lifestyle platform The Capsule. With honest chats, expert advice and real insight, Natalie Anderson talks all aspects of women’s wellbeing & mental health with weekly special guests. This podcast brings you inspirational conversations that will help you build your own wellbeing tool kit.
FOOD
