Here's Hoping with Jayda G

40 Episodes
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By: Jayda G

Here’s Hoping, hosted by Grammy nominate music producer and DJ Jayda G is a podcast that explores the theme of hope, when we need it, how we find it and why we still have reasons to feel it. We explore guests’ personal journeys with hope, how they’ve formed and navigated the three pillars of having hope - goals, agency and pathway. An environmental toxicologist scientist as well, Jayda recently released her first documentary Blue Carbon on CNN and identified the need to dive further into the theme of hope, with this podcast coming at a time when it is need...

BONUS: Here's Thinking x Benjy Kusi
Last Friday at 5:00 AM

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the amazing Queer, British-Ghanaian inclusion and wellbeing consultant, Benjy Kusi - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from our guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…


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Benjy Kusi

Jayda G

Mia Zur-Szpiro

Here's Hoping Podcast

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BONUS: Here's Thinking x Anna Lunoe
Last Friday at 5:00 AM

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with DJ, producer, vocalist, and radio host, Anna Lunoe - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from our guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…


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Anna Lunoe

Jayda G

Mia Zur-Szpiro

Here's Hoping Podcast

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Shame to Pride and Becoming a Kinder Person with Benjy Kusi
Last Wednesday at 4:23 PM


In this episode which as joyful and entertaining as it is thought provoking. Benji shares insights into his British-Ghanaian heritage, his journey of self-acceptance as a queer individual, and how the tension between his different identities led him to challenge the status quo. Jayda and Benjy discuss the debilitating effects of shame and how overcoming it can lead to living one's best life. Benjy shares the journey of writing his debut book 'Hope This Helps’ and his core message of differentiating between the difference of kindness over niceness, how to sit with the discomfort of acknowledging on...


BONUS: Here's Thinking x Nova Reid
07/04/2025

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with award-winning speaker, writer, and producer, Nova Reid - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from our guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…


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Nova Reid

Jayda G

Mia Zur-Szpiro

Here's Hoping Podcast

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Healing Shame & Good Allyship with Nova Reid
07/02/2025

In this episode Nova and Jayda dive into the emotional complexities of shame, racism, healing, and hope. Nova shares how her early experiences with racism in the UK combined with her role in mental health to manifest in her significant work within racial justice. The conversation explores the importance of seeing activists as whole people, the emotional toll of this work, and the role of self care in sustaining change. Nova reflects on writing her bestselling book The Good Ally and shares the impact of her anti racism courses, offering stories of transformation that inspire hope. She unpacks how...


BONUS: Here's Thinking x Matthew Briggs
06/27/2025

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the former premier league player to now life coach and mentor to young Fulham FC academy players, Matthew Briggs - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from our guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…


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Matthew Briggs

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Premiere League to Rock Bottom to Mentoring with Matthew Briggs
06/25/2025

Jayda sits down with former professional footballer Matthew Briggs, famously known as the youngest ever Premier League player. Matthew reveals both the extraordinary highs and crushing lows of his career, including injuries, struggles with alcoholism, and mental health battles. He shares his journey from early success to hitting rock bottom, attempting suicide and finding himself working on a construction site. To how he lifted himself out of these depths, how he had the strength to ask for support, reconnect with the simple joy of playing and he found his way back to his sense of self through mentorship and...


BONUS: Here's Thinking x Jocelyn Longdon
06/20/2025

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the award-winning environmental justice technologist, Author, Speaker and Educator, Jocelyn Longdon - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…


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Jocelyn Longdon

Jayda G

Mia Zur-Szpiro

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Discipline of Hope & Environmental Justice with Jocelyn Longdon
06/18/2025

In this episode Jayda and Jocelyn explore the intricate intersections of climate science, social justice, and technology, with Jocelyn offering really interesting perspectives on finding hope for the climate. Joycelyn shares her journey from an unconventional background in astrophysics and journalism to her groundbreaking work in conservation technology. Delving into her platform, Climate in Colour, and her PhD research in bioacoustics, Joycelyn discusses the importance of centring indigenous knowledge and addressing environmental racism. She also unpacks how our perceptions of success are deeply impacted by colonialism and the need to shift towards more inclusive, just frameworks. This episode tackles...


BONUS: Here's Thinking x Jamz Supernova
06/13/2025

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the trailblaizing DJ, Radio host, label head, podcaster and tastemaker, Jamz Supernova - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…


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Jayda G

Mia Zur-Szpiro

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Reprioritising Your Body and Time as a Mother with Jamz Supernova
06/11/2025

This episode explores Jamz's journey in the music industry, her growth as a DJ, and the balance of being a working mother. She shares with Jayda why she’s pausing new releases on her label amid industry changes, and how she uses those moments to pause, learn, and regrow. They discuss the rising impact of live music and why it gives Jayda hope. Jamz also opens up about routines that keep her grounded—like running, working out, and therapy. She offers insights on staying true to yourself, adapting to industry shifts, and the power of travel and cultural immersion in h...


BONUS: Here's Thinking x Kusheda Mensah
06/06/2025

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the amazing British-Ghanaian furniture designer, Kusheda Mensah - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…


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Kusheda Mensah

Jayda G

Mia Zur-Szpiro

Here's Hoping Podcast

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Premature Birth & Sharing Space with Kusheda Mensah
06/04/2025

In this moving episode, Kusheda shares her experience of having a premature birth with her first son and what supported her and gave her hope whilst her baby was in intensive care for the first weeks of his life. Jayda and Kusheda also talk about what it’s like being working creative mums and the importance of investing in yourself, whilst also appreciating how becoming mothers has expanded their work and purpose on a deeper level. Kusheda shares with Jayda what drew her to designing furniture and how countering loneliness and isolation is a big motivation for her, as we...


BONUS: Here's Thinking x Jeremiah Asiamah
05/30/2025

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the amazing DJ & Radio presenter Jeremiah Asiamah - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…


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Jeremiah Asiamah

Jayda G

Mia Zur-Szpiro

Here's Hoping Podcast

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Salvation in Radio & Proving Haters Wrong with Jeremiah Asiamah
05/28/2025

In this deeply personal and inspiring episode, Jeremiah opens up about his incredible journey—from being told he'd never amount to anything to becoming a respected figure in the music world. Along the way, he shares how radio became a lifeline during a time of intense isolation, his near loss of a brother, and the profound role his faith has played throughout his life. Jeremiah reflects on his early years, the influence of his family, and how music—alongside the unwavering support of his church—helped him rise above bullying and self-doubt to become a Radio 1 primetime DJ. With remark...


BONUS: Here's Thinking x Ollie Olanipekun 
05/23/2025

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible creative director and founder of creative agency, and Flock Together, Ollie Olanipekun - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…


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Ollie Olanipekun

Jayda G

Mia Zur-Szpiro

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Bird Watching, Flock Together, Accessible Nature for POC with Ollie Olanipekun
05/21/2025

In this joyful episode of Here's Hoping, Jayda sits down with Ollie Olanipekun to discuss what led him to founding the POC birdwatching collective Flock Together. They delve into how Flock Together addresses the underrepresentation of diverse communities in nature and the ways in which connecting to the outdoors can transform lives. Ollie shares his personal journey from a high-paced career in advertising to founding a community that inspires people of color to embrace birdwatching, with recognition of the power of nature in fostering patience, better mental health, and a deeper connection with the world around us. Ollie shares...


BONUS: Here's Thinking x Nat Lue
05/16/2025

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible writer and podcaster, Natalie Lue - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…


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Natalie Lue

Jayda G

Mia Zur-Szpiro

Here's Hoping Podcast

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Recovering from People Pleasing & Unavailability with Nat Lue
05/14/2025

Speaking to relationship coach OG, Nat Lue, Jayda hears about Nat’s own personal journey of overcoming emotionally unavailable relationships, and how everything changed when Nat realised she was part of the problem and the pattern! Nat also shares her insights on what makes people compatible in relationships and the significance of core values in relationships and how to spot them. Nat also talks to the interplay of anxiety and people-pleasing, and why setting boudnaries and doing personal work can give you the strength and hope to break out of unfulfilling dating patterns. Natalie offers practical advice and deeply pe...


BONUS: Here's Thinking x Kelechi Okafor
05/09/2025

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible actress, writer, activist, pole dancer and teacher, Kelechi Okafor - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…


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Kelechi Okafor

Jayda G

Mia Zur-Szpiro

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Reclaiming Strength & Political Resistance with Kelechi Okafor
05/07/2025

Kelechi discusses her multifaceted career and how she balances her diverse passions, by appreciating that interests have different seasons, and how through human design she has learnt to appreciate she has different sources of energy for different things. Jayda and Kelechi discuss how they both find power in their authenticity, the power of pole dancing and physical strength and their relationship with strength as black women. Kelechi also sheds light on her upcoming novel, ‘Awakened,’ which explores the mysterious disappearances of young black British people and the complexities of AI in politics and how she uses writing to give a vo...


BONUS: Here's Thinking x Ziya Tong
05/02/2025

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible award-winning broadcaster, journalist, and environmental advocate Ziya Tong - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…


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Ziya Tong - Plastic People Doc

Jayda G

Mia Zur-Szpiro

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Turning Climate Despair into Joyful Resistance with Ziya Tong
04/30/2025

In this episode of Here's Hoping, host Jada G. sits down with award-winning broadcaster, journalist, and environmental advocate Ziya Tong to explore the intersection of hope, science, and environmental activism. They trace Ziya’s journey from discovering a love for nature through David Attenborough documentaries to becoming a leading voice in climate science. The conversation spotlights her film Plastic People, which investigates the microplastics crisis, and her bestselling book The Reality Bubble, which reveals our environmental blind spots. Ziya shares inspiring stories—from meeting Jane Goodall to swimming with belugas—and offers thoughtful reflections on turning despair into action, using...


BONUS: Here's Thinking x Denai Moore
04/25/2025

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible Jamaican born music Artist and Chef, Denai Moore - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…


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Denai Moore

Jayda G

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Recipes for Life and Being Genre-Free with Denai Moore
04/23/2025

Jamaican-British music artist and food writer, Denai Moore shares with Jayda how she balances her dual passions for music and food, as well as how her Jamaican roots shape her culinary creations and inspire hope and confidence in her music career. Denai discusses the creative processes behind her latest vegan Jamaican cookbook, Plentiful, and the shared emotional and spiritual experiences of songwriting and recipe creation. Jayda and Denai delve into creating community, exploring a nuanced cultural identity, and Denai’s reflections on how to start something new and take risks like a business by being attuned to and trusting yo...


BONUS: Here's Thinking x Talia Koren
04/18/2025

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible dating podcaster, content creator, and entrepreneur, Talia Koren - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…


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Talia Koren

Jayda G

Mia Zur-Szpiro

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Dating Intentionally, Identifying Core Values & Relationship Maintenance with Talia Koren
04/16/2025

Jayda welcomes non-nonsense dating coach Talia Koren to share her no-nonsense advice and wisdom on dating intentionally and maintaining hope in the modern dating landscape. They discuss the challenges of dating today, the importance of aligning actions with desires, and how to make grounded decisions amidst the chemistry and sparks of new relationships. Talia also opens up about her personal dating journey, her views on slow-burn relationships, effective communication in partnerships, and invaluable advice for creating a fulfilling single life. Together, they explore how to set realistic expectations, maintain personal boundaries, and nurture healthy, meaningful connections. Tune in for...


BONUS: Here’s Thinking x Sasha Digiulian
04/11/2025

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible world champion and multi medalist rock climber, Sasha Digiulian - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…


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Sasha Digiulian

Jayda G

Mia Zur-Szpiro

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Climbing for World Medals and When Your Body Says No with Sasha DiGiulian
04/09/2025

Today Jayda sits down with world-renowned professional climber Sasha Digiulian. From early aspirations and overcoming significant challenges, including major surgeries and gender bias in climbing, Sasha shares her incredible journey with resilience and hope. Sasha lets Jayda in on the mantra that drives here and her transition from competitive climbing to outdoor adventures, and the pivotal moments that defined her career. As well as her reflections on working towards goals, and learning how to listen to your own body and say no. Sasha also opens up about embracing her femininity in a male-dominated sport, revealing personal experiences of sexism...


BONUS: Here’s Thinking x James Massiah
04/04/2025

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible poet, DJ, rapper and founder of the new poetry event Adult Entertainment, James Massiah - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…


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James Massiah

Jayda G

Mia Zur-Szpiro

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Church to Hedonism, Playful Poetry and Why Determinism Cultures Hope with James Massiah
04/02/2025

In this engaging episode, James shares with Jayda his journey from growing up in the church to developing his unique philosophies and artistic expressions. The conversation delves into his transition away from religious beliefs, his exploration of hedonism, and how these themes manifest in his poetry. They also discuss the importance of community, sustainable pleasure, and artistic excellence. James sheds light on his upcoming projects and the philosophy of amoral egoism, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself and one's artistic vision. This episode offers deep insights for anyone interested in the interplay between art, identity, and hope.<...


BONUS: Here's Thinking x Michelle Elman
03/28/2025

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible life coach, author and public speaker, Michelle Elman - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…


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Michelle Elman

Jayda G

Mia Zur-Szpiro

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Break Ups & Boundaries in Friendships & Romantic Relationships with Michelle Elman
#40
03/26/2025

In this episode Jayda and Michelle talk all things dating and break ups, both romantic and platonic! Michelle delves into her journey of setting boundaries, overcoming people-pleasing tendencies, and offers practical advice to our listeners on how to assert oneself in relationships and friendships. The conversation transitions into her personal experiences with breakups, particularly dealing with the aftermath of a recent infidelity, and the importance of maintaining clear communication and self-respect in such times as a form of self care and way to personally practice hope. Jayda and Michelle also talk about the often-overlooked complexities of friendship dynamics and...


BONUS: Here's Thinking x Gianmarco Soresi
03/21/2025

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible stand-up comedian, actor, and creator, Gianmarco Soresi - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…


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Jayda G

Mia Zur-Szpiro

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Child of Divorce, Immigrant Humor, Working Crowds & Writing Jokes with Gianmarco Soresi
#39
03/19/2025

A huge comedy fan, Jayda is thrilled to meet New York-based comedian and actor Gianmarco Soresi in this episode. Where they discuss the vital role humour plays in survival, especially within immigrant and minority experiences, and how laughter can foster hope and resilience. Gianmarco shares his journey from being a theatre kid to a stand-up comedian, the impact of his upbringing and being a child of divorce on his comedic style, and the unique challenges of performing comedy across different venues and formats. He also delves into the nuances of crafting jokes about sensitive topics without causing harm, how...


BONUS: Here's Thinking x Charlie Dark
03/14/2025

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible DH, founder of Run Dem Crew, Yoga teacher and health and wellness advocate - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…


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Charlie Dark

Jayda G

Mia Zur-Szpiro

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Running for Mental Health, Making Wellness Inclusive for People of Colour & Being Authentic in the Music Industry with Charlie Dark
#38
03/12/2025


In this fascinating conversation, Charlie shares his profound journey through music and mental health with Jayda. Talking about the incredible highs he’s experienced as a DJ, but also the often unspoken harder parts of the industry, including the loneliness and depression he experienced. Diving deeper into his mental health, Charlie talks with Jayda about he was struggling the hardest at some of the most pivotal moments in his career, and how discovering running and yoga transformed his mental health. Jayda hears how the significant impact running had for Charlie, led him to found the urban ru...


BONUS: Here's Thinking x Liv Little
03/07/2025

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the incredible writer and creative, Liv Little - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…


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Liv Little

Jayda G

Mia Zur-Szpiro

Here's Hoping Podcast

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Ending Projects, New Chapters & Writing for Yourself with Liv Little
#37
03/05/2025

In this episode Jayda welcomes Liv Little, writer and founder of iconic POC magazine gal-dem. Liv shares her journey from founding gal-dem,to navigating its ending and her experience of closing chapters and beginning new ones. She shares the impact caring for her father when he was sick had on her life and career choice thereafter, and the process of writing her first book, Rosewater, whilst her father was battling terminal illness, and the importance of creating a space that just existed for herself. Expanding on her writing, Liv discussed not only learnt about herself through the creative process...


BONUS: Here's Thinking x Molly McCann-Pearson
02/28/2025

In Here's Thinking, Jayda and her producer Mia discuss this week's episode! We share our thoughts on our episode with the iconic mixed martial arts champion, Molly McCann Pearson - what we loved, what we learnt and what we’re taking away from her guest for hope.

If you haven’t listened to the latest episode, make sure you go do that first! Then come back and debrief with us…


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Molly McCann Pearson

Jayda G

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