In this episode, Mandy explores the role of risk-taking in the lives of creatives and neurodivergent individuals. Far from reckless, risk-taking is often an act of bravery and self-trust, fuelling growth, innovation, and self-discovery.

Lucy Waide then shares her extraordinary personal story - an emotional and unflinching journey through illness, loss, reinvention, and recovery, showing what it truly means to take risks and keep rising.

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

🔹 Risk as a Creative Force – Mandy reflects on how creatives and neurodivergent individuals often embrace uncertainty and challenge norms, making bold decisions that lead to transformation. Taking risks isn't always glamorous but it’s essential for growth.

🔹 The Courage to Begin Again (and Again) – Lucy’s story is a powerful example of resilience in action. From losing a successful chocolate business to being brought to the edge of despair - twice - she shows how the road to recovery is paved with small, brave choices.

🔹 The Inner Voice That Sabotages Us – Lucy introduces “Dickhead,” her name for that persistent inner critic that fuels self-doubt and shame. Her raw honesty about suicidal thoughts and feeling like a failure will resonate with anyone who has faced darkness behind closed doors.

🔹 Rebuilding After Loss – After enduring career loss, a failed marriage, chronic illness, and financial collapse, Lucy slowly rebuilt her life - first with a part-time care job, then a shop, then art, then finally…herself.

🔹 The Power of Finding Your Tribe – Lucy’s recovery wasn’t just about personal effort. It was about connection -with supportive friends, family, and a business community that saw her worth when she couldn’t.

🔹 Art as Therapy and Identity – In her darkest moments, Lucy found solace in drawing. That creative spark became a lifeline, allowing her to rediscover joy, voice, and purpose - not through business success, but through authentic self-expression.

🔹 You Are Never Too Broken to Begin Again – Whether on the edge of despair or standing in a new chapter, Lucy’s story reminds us: there is always something on the other side of survival.

Memorable Quotes from This Episode:

🗨️ “Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.” – T.S. Eliot

🗨️ “I’ve found and love my voice. I’ve found and love my art. I’ve found and love my tribe. I’ve found and love me.” – Lucy Waide

Why You Should Listen:

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has taken a leap and fallen hard, battled illness or mental health, or felt crushed under the weight of their own expectations. Mandy and Lucy offer a powerful message of hope, honesty, and the healing power of creativity and connection.

✨ Tune in now to be inspired by Lucy’s brave and beautiful comeback.

Episodes were recorded in the authors own homes on various devices.
Podcast produced by "Your Fairy Podmother" of Voice It Podcast Agency
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