Beautiful Mess

E02: Untangling the Beautiful Mess: Breathwork, Neurodiversity, and Inclusive Leadership

Ready to breathe easy through your beautiful mess? 
Today’s episode is all about untangling neurodiversity and finding empowerment through breath.  As someone who received her own ADHD diagnosis later in life, Isabel Pollen brings a personal lens while demonstrating breathing exercises you can use anytime challenging conversations arise. 
Whether you're recently diagnosed, leading a diverse team or simply looking for new perspectives, this episode offers inspiration through thoughtful stories and practical mindfulness exercises. Join her to explore the topic of neurodiversity and walk away with strategies for supporting others and navigating life's complexities with more self-understanding and community.
Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation:
Being diagnosed with ADHD at 48 and how it has changed her perspective
The impact of Leanne Maskell's accessible ADHD talks for children and teachers 
A call for inclusive leaders to discuss supporting neurodivergent individuals in teams
Episode Highlights:
[01:33] Isabel’s Unexpected ADHD DiagnosisIsabel shares how receiving an ADHD diagnosis at 48 was a surprise, but has given her so much insight into herself and access to a community of support. She is still learning and processing nine months later but feels grateful to have some answers.
[05:46] Leaders in NeurodiversityIsabel invites leaders from all backgrounds to join the conversation about inclusion. From mental health experts to those leading diverse teams, she hopes to explore practical strategies and lessons learned related with supporting neurodivergent individuals.
[07:16] Breathwork for Courageous Conversations Isabel introduces a 4-4-4 breath technique and encourages listeners to use it whenever they need to step into challenging discussions. Taking even one deep breath can help access our parasympathetic nervous system and feel more relaxed and prepared.
Resources Mentioned:
Leanne Maskell's accessible ADHD talks

E01: Beautiful Mess Beginnings

Discover the beauty within life's chaos.
On this premiere episode of Beautiful Mess, Isabel Pollen launches her new podcast exploring personal growth through diverse stories of challenge and strength. In the debut episode, hear the intriguing origin of the name "Beautiful Mess," and get a glimpse into Isabel's storied theater career. 
Discover her passion for sparking meaningful discussions on navigating life's complexity through inspiring conversations. Listen for a taste of guests sharing their perspectives on finding light in life's so-called "messes" and gain a new perspective on embracing the ups and downs of being beautifully human.
Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation:
Origin of the name
Isabel's vision for diverse personal growth stories
Reflections on Isabel's acting career and family
Transition from acting to coaching work
Goals for creating a supportive podcast community
Episode Highlights:
[02:31] The Origin of "Beautiful Mess"
Isabel shares how she discovered the thought-provoking name "Beautiful Mess" on a sushi menu in Berlin. This chance encounter sparked her idea to use the name for a podcast exploring life's complexity through inspiring conversations.
[03:14] The Goal of This Podcast
Beautiful Mess focuses on personal development and growth that encompass many different areas of people's lives. Personal development looks and feels completely different for everyone depending on factors like their individual circumstances, experiences, and goals. This podcast will explore personal growth broadly, through diverse guests and perspectives that resonate with listeners on many levels and in various aspects of their lives.
Future episodes will include a diverse range of guests and their perspectives. Expect to hear "a whole plethora of voices" through Isabel’s conversations with guests, allowing different stories and views on the theme of personal development and navigating life's challenges to be shared. 
[06:53] About Isabel Pollen
Based in London, Isabel has had a 30-year career in the theater performing across the world. She trained at the esteemed Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. More recently, Isabel has worked as a life coach in between acting jobs, utilizing her skills in storytelling and facilitation to help clients.
[12:55] From Acting to Coaching 
Isabel details her transition from acting to life coaching work, using her skills in storytelling and facilitation. She discusses becoming accredited in The Physical Intelligence Institute's program and how she now combines coaching and acting to help clients.
Resources Mentioned:
The Physical Intelligence Institute
 

Beautiful Mess Trailer

Welcome to Beautiful Mess, where personal growth is a lifelong journey. Join our host Isabel Pollen and her guests of entrepreneurs, mental health advocates, parents, and more! Our goal is to ignite curiosity, spark conversations, and offer practical strategies for navigating life's complexities.