The Lift Podcast

Jet Lag Explained: How to Travel Smarter and Feel Better

In this episode, Simon and Darren unpack the science of jet lag, exploring why rapid travel across time zones disrupts our sleep, energy, mood, and overall well-being. They dive into the role of circadian rhythms, why flying east is often harder than flying west, and how light exposure, meal timing, hydration, and movement can make or break your adjustment to a new time zone.
The conversation also highlights the psychological side of travel and why personalised strategies matter—because no two travellers respond the same way.
Whether you travel for work, holidays, or family, this episode offers practical, evidence-based insights to help you arrive feeling more human and less jet-lagged.
 
Got questions? We'd love to hear from you: podcast@theliftproject.global
 
To find out more about how you can boost your well-being, visit: www.theliftproject.global
 
#JetLag #TravelWellbeing #CircadianRhythm #SleepHealth #HealthyTravel #LifestyleMedicine #TravelTips #BodyClock #LongHaulTravel #WellbeingPodcast #SleepScience #ModernLife

Enough Already: The Cure for Overwhelm and Overconsumption

In this thought-provoking episode, Darren and Simon dive deep into one of life’s biggest questions: What is enough?Exploring the powerful link between human health and the health of our planet, they unpack the root causes of chronic disease, the hidden costs of endless economic growth, and the human tendency to constantly want more.
The conversation challenges modern ideals of success and invites listeners to consider how moderation, community, and self-examination can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life. They discuss why behavioral change goes far beyond willpower — it requires understanding our deeper motivations, reconnecting with others, and recognising our place in a much larger ecosystem.
Whether you're interested in lifestyle medicine, sustainability, or simply living with more intention, this episode offers a grounded and inspiring perspective on how taking care of ourselves begins with redefining “enough.”
Key Takeaways
The “five whys” technique uncovers root causes of health and behaviour issues.
Economic growth can have hidden negative impacts on personal and planetary health.
Human and environmental health are deeply interconnected.
The desire for “more” often leads to burnout, dissatisfaction, and ecological strain.
Moderation is essential for wellbeing and long-term health.
Community and social connection act as powerful protective factors.
Behaviour change requires understanding our true motivations.
Asking “What is enough?” can transform our choices and our health.
Personal growth begins with honest self-reflection.
 
Got questions? We'd love to hear from you: podcast@theliftproject.global
 
To find out more about how you can boost your well-being, visit: www.theliftproject.global 

AI and the Loneliness Epidemic: Are We More Connected or More Alone?

Despite being more digitally connected than ever, rates of loneliness, isolation, and emotional disconnection are soaring. In this thought-provoking conversation, Simon Matthews and Darren explore the growing loneliness epidemic—and the surprising ways artificial intelligence might both contribute to the problem and be part of the solution.
They discuss how AI companions, chatbots, and digital assistants are increasingly being used to fill emotional voids, and what that means for our mental health, empathy, and ability to form real human connections. The conversation also explores the ethical implications of human-AI relationships, the psychology of connection, and how our emotional responses—such as frustration or gratitude—can actually influence AI’s performance.
💡 Key Takeaways:
Loneliness is now one of the most pressing public health issues of our time
AI interactions may soothe short-term isolation—but risk deepening disconnection
Emotional expression (even frustration) can influence AI responses
Building relationships with AI raises ethical and emotional questions
Digital empathy may shape the future of human connection
True belonging still depends on authentic, human-to-human connection
This episode invites you to reflect on how we use technology to connect, comfort, and communicate—and what it means for the future of human relationships, mental health, and society.
 
Want to find out more? Head to www.theliftproject.global 
Got questions for the podcast? We'd love to hear from you contact@thepodcast.global  
 
#ArtificialIntelligence  #AIandEthics  #HumanAIInteraction  #TechPodcast  #AIBehavior #EmotionalIntelligence  #FutureOfAI  #MindsetMatters  #DigitalWellbeing #TheLiftProject

Why Traditional Goal Setting Fails (and What to Do Instead)

What if the problem isn’t you—it’s the way we set goals?
In this insightful conversation, Simon Matthews and Darren unpack the complexities of behaviour change and goal setting, exploring why so many of us struggle to sustain motivation and how we can approach goals in a healthier, more flexible way. They discuss the emotional rollercoaster of unmet goals, the science of self-efficacy, and the pitfalls of traditional “all-or-nothing” thinking. Instead of rigid targets, they advocate for open goals that foster curiosity, self-understanding, and genuine growth.
Key takeaways: ✅ Goals are powerful tools—but only when they’re meaningful and flexible✅ Self-efficacy is the secret ingredient behind lasting change ✅ Boom-and-bust thinking often leads to burnout and disengagement ✅ Failure can be one of our greatest teachers ✅ Open and observational goals help cultivate self-awareness ✅ Curiosity and experimentation make change more sustainable
Whether you’re chasing health improvements, personal growth, or renewed motivation, this episode will help you set goals that work for you—not against you.
 
Got questions? We'd love to hear from you: podcast@theliftproject.global
 
To find out more about how you can boost your well-being, visit: www.theliftproject.global
 
#BehaviorChange #GoalSetting #SelfEfficacy #MindsetMatters #PersonalGrowth #MotivationPodcast #LifestyleMedicine #HealthPodcast #ResilienceTools #TheLiftProject

The Parachute Principle: Simple Lessons for Lasting Lifestyle Change

What do parachutes have to do with health? In this thought-provoking episode, Darren and Simon unpack the parachute metaphor to explore the challenges, creativity, and courage needed to make lifestyle medicine work in the real world. They discuss why evidence alone isn’t enough—change only happens when we deploy what we know. From the size of interventions and the importance of maintenance, to the power of small, meaningful actions, this conversation dives deep into how we can transform theory into sustainable, life-changing habits.
 
Key takeaways:
🪂 Why evidence for parachutes (and lifestyle medicine) isn’t always straightforward
🪂 How to identify the smallest meaningful intervention for real impact
🪂 Why regular maintenance keeps lifestyle changes effective
🪂 The importance of action, flexibility, and personal resources in achieving health goals
🪂 Why creativity and advocacy are vital for implementing lifestyle medicine
 
Whether you’re a clinician, health coach, or simply passionate about preventive health, this episode will inspire you to stop packing and start deploying your parachute—because knowledge without action won’t get you far.
 
Got questions? We'd love to hear from you: podcast@theliftproject.global
 
To find out more about how you can boost your well-being, visit: www.theliftproject.global
 
#LifestyleMedicine #HealthPodcast #BehaviorChange #PreventiveHealth #SustainableHealth #WellbeingJourney #HealthInnovation #MindsetMatters #HealthyHabits #TheLiftProject

Fan Favourite Replay - Regret & Decisions: How to Make Choices You Won’t Second-Guess

Back by popular demand! This fan-favourite episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling with regret and decision-making.
Do you ever find yourself stuck in a loop of "What if?" and "I should have…"? Regret is a universal emotion, but what if you could make choices with more confidence and less second-guessing? 🤔
In this episode, Simon and Darren unpack the psychology of regret and decision-making, particularly in healthcare and lifestyle medicine. They explore:
🔹 The three types of regret (Outcome, Process, and Option Regret)🔹 How decision fatigue affects your choices🔹 The role of informed choice in healthcare and personal well-being🔹 Practical strategies to avoid decision paralysis and move forward with confidence🔹 How psychology and economics shape our decision-making processes
Whether you’re facing a major life choice or just struggling with everyday decisions, this conversation will empower you to make choices you won’t regret!
👉 Listen now and take control of your decisions!
📢 Follow & Subscribe for more insights on health, mindset, and well-being!
🎙️ Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & more!
 
#DecisionMaking #Regret #MindsetMatters #PsychologyOfChoice #HealthyDecisions #SelfImprovement #MentalWellbeing #LifestyleMedicine #BetterDecisions #BehaviorScience #HealthChoices #PersonalGrowth #MindsetShift #DecisionFatigue #PodcastClips #Podcast

Facilitating Change: A New Lens on Patient Resistance

Why do people resist change—and how can clinicians respond more effectively?
In this insightful conversation, Simon Matthews and Darren explore the complex role of resistance in clinical practice, tracing its historical roots in psychology and reframing it as a valuable resource rather than a barrier. They discuss how autonomy, systemic influences, and patient motivations shape behaviour—and how curiosity can be a powerful tool for understanding and supporting patients on their journey to change.
Key insights from this episode:💡Resistance is not a personality trait—it’s a signal to explore deeper 💡Freud’s early ideas on defence mechanisms and their influence today 💡The importance of autonomy in driving sustainable behaviour change 💡How systemic and environmental factors influence patient decisions 💡Why ambivalence reveals the value of different choices 💡The clinician’s role as a facilitator, not a dictator of change 💡How curiosity and reframing resistance can improve clinical outcomes
This episode is a must-listen for clinicians, health coaches, and anyone interested in the psychology of behaviour change and patient engagement.
 
Got questions? We'd love to hear from you: podcast@theliftproject.global
To find out more about how you can boost your well-being, visit: www.theliftproject.global
 
#BehaviorChange #ClinicalPractice #PatientEngagement #ResistanceToChange #HealthPodcast #LifestyleMedicine #MotivationalInterviewing #CuriosityInCare #AutonomyMatters #PsychologyPodcast

The Healing Power of Light: Why Sunlight Matters More Than You Think

Light isn’t just about vision—it’s vital for your mental and physical health. In this eye-opening conversation, Simon Matthews and Darren delve into the fascinating science of light and its profound impact on overall well-being. From the mood-boosting power of natural sunlight to the surprising effects of blue, red, and artificial light, they unpack the latest research and share practical strategies for harnessing light to live a healthier, happier life.
Key insights from this episode:🌞 Why 10,000 lux of natural light for 20–30 minutes can lift your mood🌞 The link between light exposure and seasonal affective disorder (SAD)🌞 How red light penetrates deep into tissues to support mitochondrial health🌞 The dangers of artificial light at night and its link to weight gain🌞 Why indoor lighting often falls short—and how to fix it🌞 The essential role of natural light in vitamin D production and overall well-being
Whether you’re curious about light therapy, struggling with low mood, or simply looking to upgrade your lifestyle, this conversation will inspire you to step outside, soak up the sunshine, and see light in a whole new way.
Got questions? We'd love to hear from you: podcast@theliftproject.global
To find out more about how you can boost your well-being, visit: www.theliftproject.global
#LightAndHealth #LifestyleMedicine #SunlightTherapy #MentalWellbeing #SeasonalAffectiveDisorder #CircadianRhythm #RedLightTherapy #VitaminD #NaturalHealing #HealthPodcast

Small Nudges, Big Results: The Science of Shaping Habits

In this thought-provoking episode, Simon Matthews and Darren dive into the fascinating world of behavioural change, exploring how community activities—like fishing—can become powerful catalysts for responsible behaviour and social connection.
 
Through engaging stories and practical examples, they reveal:
☀️How environmental design and infrastructure influence the choices we make
☀️The psychology of nudging people towards better habits
☀️The different orders of change that drive sustainable behaviour
☀️Why context and community responsibility matter in shaping positive outcomes
☀️Real-world lessons from fishing communities and beyond Whether you’re passionate about behavioural science, community building, or simply curious about how small changes can make a big impact, this episode offers fresh insights and practical tools you can apply in your own life and community.
 
Got questions? We'd love to hear from you: podcast@theliftproject.global
To find out more about how you can boost your well-being, visit: www.theliftproject.global
 
#BehaviourChange #NudgeTheory #CommunityBuilding #PositiveHabits #BehaviouralScience #SocialPsychology #CommunityResponsibility #EnvironmentalDesign #FishingLife #SustainableCommunities #WellbeingPodcast #MindsetMatters #HabitFormation #ChangeForGood #PsychologyInAction

Adventure, Purpose & Connection: A Lifestyle Medicine Approach to Mental Wellbeing

In this inspiring episode, Darren and Simon explore the powerful link between outdoor activity, social connection, and mental well-being. Through heartfelt personal stories—like Darren's son's upcoming adventure run and the phenomenal success of Coastrek, a charity walk empowering women—they dive deep into how movement, nature, and community work together to support mental health.
 
🎙️ Topics Covered:
• How physical activity in nature improves mood and reduces stress
• Why social connection is essential for long-term well-being
• Gender differences in participation and engagement
• The role of lifestyle medicine in preventing mental health issues
• How community events like Coastrek blend purpose, movement, and support.
 
Whether you're a healthcare professional, fitness enthusiast, or just looking for practical ways to boost your well-being, this episode offers uplifting insights and real-world strategies to help you reconnect with yourself, others, and the great outdoors.
 
👉 Subscribe for more empowering conversations on mental fitness, community wellbeing, and lifestyle-based health!
📧 Got questions? We'd love to hear from you: podcast@theliftproject.global
👉To find out more about how you can boost your well-being, visit: www.theliftproject.global