
Combating Teen Smoking and Vaping with Evidence.
11/12/2025 | 41 mins.
In this episode of the Prescription Strength Podcast, Sally joins to discuss the growing issue of vaping and smoking among teenagers. Sally represents a program developed from the University of Leeds's research, designed to prevent these habits through evidence-based interventions. The discussion covers the scale of the problem, the appeal of vaping to teenagers, and the essential role of education and early intervention. The episode also delves into the details of the 'Intent' program, including its implementation in schools and its effectiveness in reducing youth vaping and smoking. The conversation highlights the importance of addressing misinformation and understanding the nuances behind teenage behaviours towards these substances.For more information on the project visit: https://intent.evidencetoimpact.com/00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:30 The Scale of the Vaping Problem01:21 Personal Experiences and Observations04:46 The Intent Program Overview05:49 Current Vaping Environment in Schools10:46 Legislation and Accessibility Issues20:44 Program Implementation in Schools23:42 The Challenge of Changing Habits24:08 Specific Strategies for Success25:49 Understanding Addiction and Dependency29:22 The Role of Schools in Addressing Vaping32:53 Parental Involvement and Communication34:26 The Influence of Social Media and Role Models37:57 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action

Improving Patient-Doctor Relationships with Dr. Claire Davies
26/11/2025 | 47 mins.
In this episode of the Prescription Strength Podcast, host Lynette is joined by Dr. Claire Davies, a GP in Hackney and a coach for female doctors at crossroads in their lives. They discuss the importance of being heard as a patient, the challenges within the healthcare system, and the parallels in patient experiences for both medical professionals and general patients. Dr. Davies shares insights from her contributions to the book 'The Doctor is the Patient,' and they explore strategies to improve communication, patient confidence, and the crucial role of holistic care. The conversation concludes with methods to build patient confidence and the potential benefit of coaching to navigate the healthcare system effectively.00:00 Introduction to the Episode00:49 The Catalyst for the Conversation03:18 The Doctor-Patient Dynamic07:27 Challenges in Healthcare Continuity14:58 The Impact of Stress on Health22:34 Navigating the Healthcare System27:51 Addressing Patient Concerns Early29:41 The Importance of Second Opinions33:37 Technological Advances in Consultations37:32 Building Confidence and Self-Care39:24 Coaching for Personal Growth48:18 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationYou can reach Claire on Instagram @dr_claire_davies.  Or on Linkedin https://uk.linkedin.com/in/rebelconfidenceformedicalwomenand her website www.drclairedavies.co.uk.

Why I was wrong about Pilates - what it can do for you when you get it right.
29/10/2025 | 46 mins.
In this episode of the Prescription Strength Podcast, I talk to one of my clients Anne, an experienced Pilates instructor who took me to task after a previous episode when I shared a negative experience of Pilates. We delve into common misconceptions about Pilates, particularly its efficacy for back pain, and the differences between commercial gym classes and smaller, community-focused Pilates sessions. The instructor shares personal success stories of clients improving their health and mobility through Pilates. Listeners are encouraged to embrace movement and consider Pilates for various health benefits, including improved posture, reduced pain, and enhanced overall well-being.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:19 Debunking the Pilates Myth03:34 The Essence of a Good Pilates Class05:15 Personalised Pilates Instruction08:40 Pilates for Health and Recovery12:28 Success Stories and Real-Life Impact22:57 Understanding Different Perspectives on Posture and Alignment23:47 The Importance of Soft Tissue in Pain Management24:20 Addressing Misconceptions About Bulging Discs and Joint Wear25:49 Impact of Modern Lifestyle on Bone Health30:35 Finding the Right Pilates Class for You33:23 Advice for Pilates Beginners34:57 The Role of One-to-One Sessions in Pilates41:35 Building Community Through Pilates42:53 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Women's Midlife Nutrition with Emma Bardwell
09/10/2025 | 40 mins.
Navigating Nutrition and Menopause with Emma Bardwell: I chat to Emma Bardwell, registered nutritionist and author of The 30g Plan. We discuss the role of nutrition in women's health, particularly during menopause. Emma shares her personal experience with perimenopause and explains common symptoms that lead women to seek nutritional advice. We discuss the importance of protein and fibre in diet, the impact of social media on health perceptions, and debunk myths around superfoods and supplements. Emma emphasises practical approaches to nutrition and mentions her book 'The 30g Plan,' and we reflect on how GPs and nutritionists can better collaborate for patient care.Emma can be reached at https://www.emmabardwell.comHer book is available on Amazon and all book retailers. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:12 Guest Introduction and Focus on Women's Health01:00 Challenges Faced by Women in Midlife02:27 The Role of Nutrition and Initial Consultations07:17 Common Patterns and Misconceptions11:55 Importance of Protein and Fiber17:06 Debunking the Superfood Myth21:50 Making Decisions and Exit Plans22:38 Aggressive Marketing and Unrealistic Health Claims24:16 GPs and Nutritionists Collaboration28:17 The Gluten and Sourdough Debate36:48 Practical Dietary Advice40:08 Final Thoughts and Where to Find More Information

What is good physiotherapy? Why posture and pilates aren't as important as you are told.
18/9/2025 | 48 mins.
Understanding Physiotherapy: Myths, Realities, and Patient CareIn this episode, Lynette interviews Adam, an NHS physiotherapist with a significant online presence, to discuss common misconceptions about physiotherapy and the realities of the profession. Adam emphasizes the importance of proper diagnosis, especially in managing musculoskeletal issues like back pain. He narrates his personal experience with a severe back injury and highlights the value of shared experience in patient care. The discussion also touches on the cultural myths surrounding posture, the limited yet specific role of Pilates, and the deceptive allure of immediate treatments versus allowing natural healing over time. The challenges posed by varied opinions from different healthcare providers (e.g., chiropractors, osteopaths) are highlighted, stressing the need for patient education to sift through overwhelming and often conflicting information. The episode wraps up by reinforcing that patience, self-care, and evidence-based practices are key to effective physiotherapy.Adam is on Instagram @adammeakins & his website is https://www.adammeakins.com00:00 Introduction and Greetings00:37 Understanding Physiotherapy: Common Misconceptions02:18 Personal Journey into Physiotherapy03:16 Challenges in Physiotherapy Practice05:58 The Role of Physiotherapists in the NHS06:56 Patient Beliefs and Misconceptions07:58 Dealing with Mixed Messages in Healthcare15:14 Personal Experience with Injury22:02 The Debate on Imaging and Diagnosis27:04 Human Nature in Healthcare Decisions27:26 The Basics vs. Online Fitness Fads28:21 Debunking Functional Training Myths29:34 Pilates and Back Pain: Myths and Realities31:37 Strength Training for Women: Breaking the Myths33:52 Physiotherapy vs. Osteopathy vs. Chiropractic39:14 The Challenge of Doing Nothing in Healthcare41:43 Emerging Treatments in Physiotherapy42:44 Frozen Shoulder: Diagnosis and Treatment46:17 The Importance of Patience in Healing



The Prescription Strength Podcast