The Built By JH-Fitness Podcast

A platform that I will utilize to provide value, education & knowledge so you can progress along on your own health & fitness journey

Rebuilding Rehab: Tom Swales on root cause healing & movement mastery 08/03/2025

Bonus Episode W/Karl O Rourke mindset, ayuascha, personal development 07/21/2025

Breathe Into the Real You: Somatic Healing, Trauma, and the Ripple Effect with Sinead from Rewild” 07/06/2025

Breathe Into the Real You: Somatic Healing, Trauma, and the Ripple Effect with Sinead from Rewild” In today’s episode of the Built by JH Fitness Podcast, I’m joined by someone incredibly special—Sinead from Rewild and the practice of Rewild Trauma-Informed Somatic Breathwork. Sinead is not only a powerful space holder in this healing work, but someone I’ve had the honour of being mentored by through the Rewild Trauma-Informed Somatic Breathwork training. And more recently, I had the privilege of sitting down with her to explore the depth of this life-changing practice. This conversation is honest, grounded, and deeply reflective. We dive into the essence of somatic breathwork—not just as a modality, but as a return to self. From the rise of breathwork in Ireland, to the need for safe, trauma-informed spaces, we explore what it really means to heal authentically and sustainably. Whether you’re curious about breathwork, exploring healing work, or seeking deeper self-awareness—this episode offers wisdom, compassion, and direction. And if it resonates with you, there’s an opportunity to take this further: the next Rewild Trauma-Informed Somatic Breathwork experience is happening in Ireland this August. You can reach out to Sinead directly through her personal Instagram or @rewildbreathwork, or connect with me at @builtbyjhfitness if you’d like more info or want to reserve a space. Now let’s get into it... --- Episode Breakdown: Introduction to Sinead and her breathwork journey How breathwork found her—and how it transformed her path The growth of somatic breathwork in Ireland What makes Rewild Trauma-Informed Somatic Breathwork different The importance of safety, integration, and embodied facilitation The role of the facilitator: integrity, presence, and responsibility Navigating discomfort, fear, and emotional release The truth about healing—no quick fixes, just deep work How breathwork supports mental health and emotional resilience Understanding trauma: Big T vs little t Calling in the right people for the right healing spaces Opening space for male vulnerability and healing The ripple effect healing has on your relationships and your life How to find the right style and approach to breathwork for you /episode/index/show/e3549349-abd3-49c2-b1ea-1472a2c35142/id/37291165

"Empowered by Connection: Healing, Self-Love & the Truth Within with Arlene Hayes" 06/29/2025

Let’s Talk Periods, Pain & Power: Women’s Health with Órla 06/23/2025

"Beyond the Mirror: Reclaiming Self-Worth in a World Obsessed with Image w/ Kirstie Duggan 06/15/2025

"Beyond the Mirror: Reclaiming Self-Worth in a World Obsessed with Image w/ Kirstie Duggan In this episode of the Built by JH Fitness podcast, I sit down with Kirsty Duggan—coach, mentor, and passionate advocate for mental wellness and self-discovery. We dive into the roots of her story, exploring the pressures of the beauty industry, the distortion of self-image through social media, and how she’s used both science and spirituality to forge a deeply authentic path to health—inside and out. If you've ever felt like you're chasing someone else's version of "better," this episode is your permission to pause, reflect, and rediscover you. --- Main Topics & Bullet Points: Kirsty’s Background & Story Her introduction to the beauty industry and early influences Shifting from aesthetics to authentic self-worth Why she transitioned into coaching and mental health advocacy The Beauty Industry & Mental Health Unrealistic standards imposed on women Internalised perfectionism and comparison The toxic cycle of appearance-based validation Social Media & Self-Perception The curated highlight reel and its psychological toll Filters, body image, and the illusion of “normal” Disconnect between online identity and inner reality Realistic Expectations in Fitness Debunking “shred culture” and overnight transformations Creating space for individual journeys and personal goals The importance of celebrating progress beyond aesthetics Misinformation in Health & Fitness The danger of trendy advice with no context Red flags to look for when consuming health content online The difference between coaching and controlling Mental Health in Coaching Why coaches must understand emotional health Holding safe space vs. just prescribing solutions The human side of fitness: empathy, trust, and trauma-informed care Kirsty’s Mental Health Journey Her personal struggles and turning points How healing made her a better coach and mentor Learning to sit with discomfort and grow from it The Power of Self-Discovery & Boundaries How saying “no” became an act of power Rediscovering identity beyond roles or appearance Setting emotional boundaries for protection and peace Breathwork & Alternative Therapies Exploring the body-mind connection through non-traditional methods How breathwork, energy healing, and self-awareness transformed her healing Bridging the gap between spiritual and scientific wellness Science vs. Soul: Bridging the Gap Why evidence-based and intuitive approaches both matter Listening to your body while respecting proven practices Merging somatic work with structured health strategies Healthcare, Lived Experience & Mental Wellness Navigating healthcare while advocating for self The limits of a medical model for emotional healing Using personal experiences to better support others Physical Activity & Mental Health Movement as medicine—not punishment Training as a tool for emotional regulation Rebuilding mindset and identity after injury Injury, Setbacks & Re-evaluation How injury shifted her perspective on goals Mental resilience in times of physical limitation Redefining success: strength isn’t just physical Encouragement of Self-Discovery Letting go of perfection and embracing curiosity The courage it takes to choose your path Reclaiming ownership over your story and wellbeing --- Kirsty’s story reminds us that true transformation isn’t about how we look—it's about how we feel, how we show up for ourselves, and how willing we are to rewrite the script we were handed. If today’s conversation resonated with you, remember: you’re not broken, and you don’t need fixing—you just need space to become. Be kind to yourself, question what no longer serves you, and take that next small step towards your own version of healing /episode/index/show/e3549349-abd3-49c2-b1ea-1472a2c35142/id/37013975

The Breath That Breaks You Open – Trauma-Informed Somatic Breathwork 06/08/2025

The Breath That Breaks You Open – Trauma-Informed Somatic Breathwork The Breath That Breaks You Open – Trauma-Informed Somatic Breathwork “What if the answer to years of stress, trauma, or stuckness isn’t in doing more—but in breathing differently?” “This episode dives into the forgotten power that lies right under your nose: your breath. We’re unpacking the journey into somatic breathwork—where real, cellular transformation begins.” “This isn’t about trendy techniques—this is about a tool that rewires how you think, feel, and heal.” --- Why Breathwork? Breathwork as the bridge between the conscious and subconscious mind. Understanding that trauma isn't just in the story—it's in the nervous system. The question that led us here: Why are we constantly reliving our past pain, and how can we release it without retelling the story a thousand times? --- Introduction to Somatic Breathwork What is trauma-informed somatic breathwork? Not just breath patterns—this is nervous system recalibration. Designed to release stored trauma and re-regulate the body. --- The Journey Inward: Why We Breathe to Heal Story-based reflections on powerful breathwork sessions: A woman releasing grief held for decades—without saying a word. A man confronting buried shame—and walking out lighter. A client who said, “I didn’t even know I needed this... but I’ve never felt more at peace.” --- The Psychology + Physiology of Breathwork Breath as a direct switch to the parasympathetic nervous system. How trauma affects the breath—and how the breath releases trauma. Immediate shifts people feel: clarity, emotional release, deeper presence, and physical calm. The breath doesn’t lie—it tells the body it’s safe again. -- What People Say After Breathwork “It felt like a lifetime of therapy in an hour.” “My body let go of something I didn’t even realise I was holding.” “For the first time, I didn’t overthink—I just felt.” --- Encouragement to Try It You don’t need to be ‘spiritual’ or ‘woo’—you just need to be human. Breathwork meets you where you are. No words required. Just presence. Just breath. Ready to feel what’s possible with your own breath? DM me “BREATHE” to join our next guided session or learn more about how trauma-informed breathwork can shift your mind, body, and life. /episode/index/show/e3549349-abd3-49c2-b1ea-1472a2c35142/id/36905750

Gratitude, Grit, Growth & the power of being vunerable with Brian Keane 06/03/2025

Beyond the Ropes: Boxing, Fatherhood & the Fight for a Better Life with Jonathan 'Thunderbolt' O'Brien" 05/25/2025

Beyond the Ropes: Boxing, Fatherhood & the Fight for a Better Life with Jonathan 'Thunderbolt' O'Brien" In this episode of Built by JH Fitness, I’m joined by the electrifying Jonathan “Thunderbolt” O'Brien – boxer, father, coach, and motivator – for a raw and inspiring deep dive into the world of boxing and the battles outside the ring. From the early days of his journey to the highs and lows of fight prep, fatherhood, and finding purpose after hanging up the gloves, Jonathan shares life lessons forged through resilience, reflection, and relentless drive. We talk about what it means to be a role model in and out of the ring, how coaching is more than shouting instructions, and how COVID changed his perspective forever. We also touch on the mental toll of social media, the future of boxing, judging controversies, and the power of showing up with positivity every single day. Whether you're a boxing fan, a parent, a coach, or someone chasing personal growth – this one's for you. Meet Jonathan “Thunderbolt” O’Brien Introduction to Jonathan and how boxing became a defining part of his life. The Journey of a Boxer Early training days, sacrifices made, and how the sport shaped his mindset and discipline. Fatherhood & Role Modeling The responsibility of raising kids while carrying the identity of a fighter and public figure. Life Lessons from Boxing Resilience, handling pressure, discipline, and dealing with both wins and losses. The Reality of Coaching What it takes to be a true coach beyond tactics and training plans – empathy, leadership, and mentorship. Fight Preparation & Mental Grit The rituals, mindset, and emotional toll of getting ready to step into the ring. Mental Resilience in and out of the Ring Coping strategies, staying focused, and pushing through personal and professional adversity. Life After Boxing Navigating identity shifts, purpose, and self-worth once the gloves come off. The Impact of COVID-19 Personal and professional reflections from the pandemic years and how it changed his outlook. Personal Growth & Change How Jonathan has evolved as a man, father, and coach through self-awareness and honest conversations. The Future of Boxing Thoughts on the state of the sport, opportunities for young fighters, and what needs to change. Judging Integrity in Boxing Discussing controversial decisions and the need for reform in how fights are scored. The Role of Coaches & Managers How the right guidance can make or break a fighter – and how to spot the ones who truly care. Health & Safety in the Ring CTE, long-term health, and why protection for fighters needs to go beyond the physical. Social Media & Mental Health The pressure to perform online, toxic comparisons, and how to stay mentally strong in the spotlight. Motivation, Positivity & Daily Mindset Jonathan’s personal take on showing up each day with purpose, humility, and positivity. /episode/index/show/e3549349-abd3-49c2-b1ea-1472a2c35142/id/36702255