A Podcast Conversation with Josh Connolly
We talked about parenting highly sensitive children, why HSPs attract bullies, and how sensitivity can become a source of empowerment.
Welcome to my newsletter building a supportive community for Highly Sensitive People (HSPs).
I had the pleasure of joining Josh Connolly on his Dysfunctional podcast at a studio in East London yesterday to talk about something deeply personal and important to me: high sensitivity. (I’ll send an update in the next few weeks when the podcast goes live).
We explored how I first began to understand this trait through my work with children and teenagers in NHS Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) —young people who were often misunderstood or mislabelled. These were perceptive, tuned-in, insightful, deep human beings. Not “problem kids” but children reacting to environments that didn’t support their overwhelmed nervous systems.
In our conversation, we spoke about:
What it means to be a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) in a fast-paced, disconnected world
Why sensitivity is so often pathologised
Why HSPs are particularly vulnerable to bullies and narcissists and what to do about it
We also explored how these painful experiences can become catalysts for healing, clarity, and ultimately, empowerment. How the suffering and challenges can act as a kind of portal, initiating HSPs into deeper self-trust.
What I really appreciate about Josh is how real he is and straight to the point — which is very refreshing. I loved his book It’s Them, Not You: How to Break Free from Toxic Parents and Reclaim Your Story, which I devoured during the half term holiday. He’s a generous, grounded disruptor, and I’m really grateful we got to have this conversation. I can’t wait for you to hear it.
It’ll be out soon so watch this space!
Josh’s Instagram
Josh’s website
Our HSP Retreat in Devon Starts this Thursday!
Our HSP Retreat UK is shaping up beautifully, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to Selgars Mill in Devon this Thursday. While all on-site rooms are now fully booked, it’s not too late to join us. You’re very welcome to bring a tent or campervan and still be part of this heartfully curated, nature-filled retreat designed for sensitive souls. We’d love to have you with us for a few days of rest, connection, and nourishment.
This retreat is designed with sensitive nervous systems in mind, offering a nurturing blend of movement, rest, nature, and connection.
You’ll have the option to join a wide variety of activities, including:
✨ Cacao and ecstatic dance
✨ Breathwork and sound baths
✨ Mindful art and nature walks
✨ Singing, yoga, and meditation
✨ Sharing circles, fireside gatherings, and HSP workshops
All activities are optional, and there’s plenty of space to simply rest, slow down, wander in nature, connect with likeminded souls or simply be.
Tickets include:
✔️You can choose to camp or purchase a ticket with no accommodation).
✔️ All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner – vegan, fresh and organically sourced)
✔️ Full access to all scheduled activities
✔️ Unlimited tea and coffee
✔️ Access to all site facilities
✔️ Support from a team of experienced facilitators
We’d love to welcome you!
Such important work. HSP's are so misunderstood and there's just not enough information or help out there. Thank you 🙏✨