Finding your thing – the power of hobbies and creative expression with Simon Green from Freedom Foundation

In this episode, Maddi and Orlaith explore the powerful connection between physical activity, creativity, and mental health wellbeing.They’re joined by Simon Green from Freedom Foundation, an organisation dedicated to empowering children and young people, building confidence and self-worth through music, dance, spoken word poetry and creative expression.Simon shares stories and insights from the young people he works with, exploring the challenges they face, and how finding a creative outlet can be life-changing. Together, they discuss the role adults play in helping children discover their passions and the importance of movement and creativity in developing emotional resilience.An inspiring conversation about self-expression, mental health, and the joy of finding ‘your thing’.About NottAloneNottAlone.org.uk is a mental health support resource for people of all ages in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, offering advice and information on a range of mental health subjects, as well as connections to free support services.NottAlone is for all ages, covering individuals, workplaces and advice on how to support a friend or loved one. There’s a dedicated section of the website for children and young people, their parents/carers and professionals working with them.Visit the NottAlone website: ⁠⁠nottalone.org.uk⁠⁠ About the podcastThis episode of The NottAlone podcast was recorded by Brendon Gravell at Inspire’s The Old Library Arts Centre in Mansfield and produced by Jessica Beckwith and Francesca Vaney. Our theme music is the NottAlone song, Not Alone by Alex Mighten. Find out more about the show: ⁠⁠nottalone.org.uk/thenottalonepodcast⁠⁠  NottAlone is a partnership between Nottinghamshire County Council, Nottingham City Council and the NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Integrated Care Board.

Om Podcasten

Real talk about mental health. Join hosts Dr. Orlaith Green and Dr. Maddi Popoola, co-founders of NottAlone, as they open up honest conversations about mental health and wellbeing on The NottAlone Podcast. Each episode brings you real-life stories, practical advice and insights from local professionals and advocates from across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. Our goal is to break stigma, normalise mental health discussions, and raise awareness of the free local support available in Notts. Life comes with challenges, but no matter what you’re going through, you are not alone.