This week, I’m joined by Dr Julie Smith – clinical psychologist, best-selling author and one of the most trusted mental health voices online. With over 9 million followers across social media, Dr Julie has made it her mission to share no-nonsense advice for the moments when life gets overwhelming.We talk about how fear shows up in our lives – from catastrophic thinking and compulsive behaviours, to why you wake up feeling like everything is too much. Julie opens up about receiving a breast cancer diagnosis while writing her latest book, Open When, and how it forced her to practise what she preaches: facing fear head-on and taking action in the service of your own rescue.We also explore the tools that help us reclaim agency in difficult times – including mindfulness, emotional regulation, and learning to question that inner voice telling you you’re not good enough. If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in a spiral of fear or self-criticism, this conversation is packed with practical guidance and real-life hope.LET’S STAY IN TOUCH🗣 Got something to share? Text or send a voice note on 07796657512—just start your message with LOB.💬 Use the WhatsApp shortcut: https://wa.me/447796657512?text=LOB📧 Prefer email? Drop me a line at lifeofbryony@dailymail.co.uk.If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone who might need it. It really does help us reach more people.Bryony xxBOOKS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODE📚 Open When: A Companion for Life’s Twists and Turns by Dr Julie SmithA warm, practical guide to building resilience and emotional strength during the hardest moments of life.CREDITS🎙 Presenter: Bryony Gordon🎙 Guest: Dr Julie Smith🎧 Content Producer: Jonathan O’Sullivan🎥 Audio & Video Editor: Luke Shelley📢 Executive Producer: Mike WoollerA Daily Mail production. Seriously Popular. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.