Artwork for Thrive Solo
Society & Culture

Thrive Solo

Lucy Meggeson

Let’s be real — being single and child-free? It’s pretty damn awesome. Don’t believe me? Stick around. I promise you, by listening to this podcast, you’re going to start seeing your solo life in a whole new light — one that feels empowering, exciting, and full of possibility.


I’m Lucy Meggeson, and I’m here to help you stop seeing singlehood as a consolation prize and start embracing it as the incredible opportunity that it is. Because the truth? Being single isn’t second best. It’s not a waiting room. And it sure as hell isn’t a life of lack. In fact, when you lean into it, it can be just as fulfilling—if not more so—than being coupled up with kids.


And besides, no matter what our relationship status, what we all really want is to feel good in the here and now. So instead of focusing on what’s ‘missing,’ let’s focus on what’s possible. The freedom. The adventure. The extra time and headspace to create a life that’s truly our own.


Because here’s the thing: you are so much more powerful than you realise. Your thoughts shape your reality. And when you shift your mindset, you shift your life. My mission isn’t just to help you feel better about being single—it’s to help you recognise your own agency. To help you see that you are the creator of your own experience. And that you, and you alone, get to decide what your life looks like.


So join me here every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, and let’s build lives that feel joyful, meaningful, and wildly fulfilling — on our own terms.


Let’s Thrive Solo…together.


E-mail me at lucy@lucymeggeson.com

  • 616 episodes
  • Updated Saturday

Support the show

Goes straight to the publisher. podnod takes nothing.

Episodes616

  • March 14 · 14 min

    Minisode Ep.200 — Mindset Starts In The Morning

    Send us Fan Mail In this week's minisode, I’m getting honest about why 2026 so far has felt a bit off for me — my morning routine went out the window, and so did my mindset. I share how even a mini version of my usual habits (gratitude, meditation, movement and uplifting inputs) instantly lifted my mood, and why the first couple of hours of your day can make a HUGE difference to how you feel and how your whole day goes. Support the show Buy my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Join my membership community for single women, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Download my FREE PDF 'Top 10 Comebacks for the Most Annoying Questions Single Women Get Asked' Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/comebacks Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

  • March 12 · 30 min

    Thursday Thoughts — Starting Small With Movement

    Send us Fan Mail On today's Thursday Thoughts, Polly and I are talking about moving your body, and more specifically, starting small when you’ve been injured or you’ve got out of the habit of taking exercise. Polly and I talk about what our exercise routines look like when we’re taking it easier than usual, which can include some simple stretches or 10 minutes on a rebounder. We also touch on nasal breathing and why it’s so helpful for our overall health. The main thing to take from this conversation is that even the smallest amount of movement is better than nothing. We really hope you’ll find something useful in here. Love, Polly & Lucy x Support the show Buy my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Join my membership community for single women, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Download my FREE PDF 'Top 10 Comebacks for the Most Annoying Questions Single Women Get Asked' Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/comebacks Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

  • March 10 · 59 min

    The One Where I Talk To Singer-Songwriter, Akosia

    Send us Fan Mail My guest on this week's episode of Thrive Solo is the fabulous Akosia, an Australian singer-songwriter who is also an actor and a voiceover artist. Akosia is single, doesn’t have kids, and lives in Melbourne, Australia. Her music defies genres with its raw mix of pop, jazz, soul, dance, and R&B. In our conversation, Akosia and I talk about her career, how her late father influenced her music, her religious upbringing, as well as an abusive relationship that she managed to walk away from. We also talk about how she no longer wants to make men her central focus, some of the questionable conversations on Steven Barlett’s podcast, The Diary Of A CEO, relationship red flags, solo travel and much, much more. 03:54 Akosia's Musical Journey 06:09 Influence of Akosia's Father 07:24 Overcoming Personal Struggles 10:14 Navigating the Music Industry 15:25 Acting Career Highlights 17:53 Focus on Single Life 21:17 Abusive Relationship Insights 30:54 The Importance of Quality Time in Relationships 31:32 Introducing the Feedback Wheel 32:00 Discussing Alarming Statistics on Abuse 33:56 The Peace of Being Single 37:58 Navigating Modern Dating Challenges 44:22 The Complexities of Parenthood Decisions 51:34 Final Thoughts and Reflections Follow Akosia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iam.akosia/ Check out her music on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0Oe5XB0pjnOZZo8snWSHoL Read the books Akosia mentioned, 'Fierce Intimacy' and 'Why Does he Do That?' Read ‘Why Does He Do That’: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Why-Does-He-That-Controlling-ebook/dp/B000Q9J0RO Read ‘Fierce Intimacy’: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Fierce-Intimacy-Standing-Another-Love/dp/1683641574 Support the show Buy my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Join my membership community for single women, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Download my FREE PDF 'Top 10 Comebacks for the Most Annoying Questions Single Women Get Asked' Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/comebacks Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

  • March 7 · 10 min

    Minisode Ep.199 — Grieving The Life You Thought You Would Live

    Send us Fan Mail On this week's minisode, I'm talking about how one of the hardest parts of being single can be a quiet grief for the life you expected: the culturally prescribed path of meeting someone, marrying, and having kids. This particular kind of grief is often an understated pang triggered by friends’ family milestones, but can coexist with genuine happiness, independence, and peace in a single, child-free life. Grief can also signal transition, and letting go of an outdated future while building a meaningful life that fits your present. Support the show Buy my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Join my membership community for single women, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Download my FREE PDF 'Top 10 Comebacks for the Most Annoying Questions Single Women Get Asked' Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/comebacks Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

  • March 5 · 26 min

    Thursday Thoughts: The Amount of Good Things in Your Life Depends on Your Ability to Notice Them

    Send us Fan Mail On this week's Thursday Thoughts, Polly and I are talking about how the amount of good things in your life depends on your ability to notice them. With so much fear and negativity in the news right now, it’s easy for your attention to be pulled towards what feels heavy and overwhelming. That’s why being intentional about where you place your focus matters more than ever. This conversation is a gentle reminder that you can train your brain to look for more of what’s uplifting and good. It’s not about ignoring reality — it’s about strengthening your capacity to see the positive alongside it. We hope you find something that resonates in here. Love, Polly & Lucy x Support the show Buy my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Join my membership community for single women, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Download my FREE PDF 'Top 10 Comebacks for the Most Annoying Questions Single Women Get Asked' Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/comebacks Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

  • March 3 · 1 hr 14 min

    The One Where I Talk To Author & Journalist, Poorna Bell

    Send us Fan Mail My guest this week is Poorna Bell, an award-winning author, journalist, public speaker and former executive editor at the Huff Post. Her sixth book, (and fourth non-fiction book) She Wanted More, came out just last month, and shines a much-needed spotlight on the lives of women in their 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond, challenging the stagnation narratives that society tries to force upon us. The book explores various themes including the distinction between motherhood and otherhood, diving into the reality that women can be childfree and still live lives of purpose and meaning. Our conversation includes: the tragic loss of Poorna's husband Rob; how society still sees marriage as the superior path; her thoughts on the viral Vogue article, 'Is Having A Boyfriend Embarrassing Now?'; Poorna's current outlook on dating; decentering men, i.e. removing them as the focal point in our lives; the impossible standards placed on women when it comes to ageing; and Poorna's new book, She Wanted more. 05:28 Poorna’s Story: Losing Her Husband & Rethinking the 'Life Script' 09:25 10 Years On: Grief, Healing, and Finding Joy & Peace Again 16:06 From Wife to Widow to Single: Status, Stigma, and Solo Travel 22:23 Dating Pressure 25:25 Viral Vogue article ‘Is Having A Boyfriend Embarrassing Now?’ + Why Women’s Lives Get Harder with Men 34:20 Why She Wrote ‘She Wanted More’: Aging, Reinvention, and Rejecting the Decline Narrative 38:13 Older Women Athletes & Rewriting the ‘Frailty’ Narrative 40:07 Aging as Liberation: Social Media Role Models in Their 60s 43:17 Letting Go of the Male Gaze 47:53 Desire, Menopause & the Many Realities of Midlife Sex 49:49 Heidi Clements, HRT, Money & Why Friendship Matters More Than Romance 52:54 Decentering Men: Putting Yourself Back at the Center 55:50 Are We Escaping the Patriarchy? Measuring Progress (and What’s Missing) 59:50 Dating Burnout, Quitting Drinking & Dipping a Toe Back Into Dating 01:05:12 Online Dating Reality Check: Hybrid Dating, Expectations & Efficiency 01:08:46 Final Words of Advice Buy Poorna's book, She Wanted More: https://www.amazon.co.uk/She-Wanted-More-space-dream/dp/1785122835 Follow Poorna on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poornabell/?hl=en Follow Poorna on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@poornabell Support the show Buy my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Join my membership community for single women, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Download my FREE PDF 'Top 10 Comebacks for the Most Annoying Questions Single Women Get Asked' Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/comebacks Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

  • February 28 · 8 min

    Minisode Ep. 198 — It's Not A Competition; It's A Correction

    Send us Fan Mail On today's minisode, I'm talking about the backlash to my social media content which — like the podcast — celebrates and advocates for single, childfree life — especially comments from coupled people telling me to stop 'going on about' being single. My message has always been that singlehood is not better than marriage and children, but also that it is not worse, and it deserves equal validity. There is no question that society continues to stigmatise single women in a multitude of ways, not least through the intrusive questions implying we are lonely, incomplete, or left behind, while married people are not similarly interrogated about things such as regret, divorce, or lost independence. By naming the benefits of single life, and necessarily pointing out the trade-offs of marriage and parenthood, my aim is to correct the long-standing cultural imbalance, reduce shame, and help younger women see multiple legitimate routes to a meaningful life. Support the show Buy my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Join my membership community for single women, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Download my FREE PDF 'Top 10 Comebacks for the Most Annoying Questions Single Women Get Asked' Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/comebacks Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

  • February 26 · 30 min

    Thursday Thoughts — Staying Present While Moving Forward

    Send us Fan Mail On this week's Thursday Thoughts, Polly and I talk about all manner of things including where we’re at with our goals and habits, the importance of staying present in the moment, and how crucial awareness is if we want to make any kind of change in our life. We hope you’ll find something useful in here! Love, Polly & Lucy x Support the show Buy my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Join my membership community for single women, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Download my FREE PDF 'Top 10 Comebacks for the Most Annoying Questions Single Women Get Asked' Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/comebacks Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

  • February 24 · 1 hr

    The One Where I Talk To Icelandic Travel Guide, Einar Thorsteinsson

    Send us Fan Mail It’s a very special episode today because my guest is someone I really do love, even though I’ve only known him for a matter of weeks. His name is Einar Thorsteinsson, and he was the wonderful, wonderful guide on my recent trip to Iceland in January. This trip was a first for me, not only because I’d never been to Iceland before, but also because I was hosting the trip - having partnered with Explore Worldwide for a Thrive Solo trip for single women. There were 13 of us from the UK, the Netherlands, and the US, and we had a truly fabulous and really quite special 5 days, not least because we had Einar as our most brilliant, brilliant guide. To put it in context, Einar is a 67 year old, very happily married man with five adult children, and he was given us lot as his group - but I like to think that he loved us as much as we loved him! In this conversation, Einar talks about how and why he became a tour guide for Explore in his retirement years, he talks all about Iceland and why he loves it, and he describes the trip that we did in the south of the country which included waterfalls, beaches, and the Northern Lights. Einar also dishes the dirt on what it was like to be in charge of an unruly group of single women! I bloody love this man, and I know you will too. 02:15 Special Guest: Einar Thorsteinsson 04:58 Einar's Background and Career 07:48 The Iceland Trip Experience 13:03 Exploring Iceland's Natural Wonders 24:58 Group Dynamics and Reflections 31:09 The Magic of the Northern Lights 33:47 Magical Night Under the Northern Lights 35:25 Managing Expectations for the Northern Lights 38:11 Exploring Iceland's Natural Wonders 40:59 The Wild Beauty of Iceland's Black Beach 44:11 Final Day Adventures and Reflections 45:22 Looking Forward to Future Iceland Adventures 57:39 Conclusion and Farewell Support the show Buy my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Join my membership community for single women, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Download my FREE PDF 'Top 10 Comebacks for the Most Annoying Questions Single Women Get Asked' Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/comebacks Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

  • February 21 · 8 min

    Minisode Ep.197 — Do I Like Who I Am When I'm With Them?

    Send us Fan Mail Support the show Buy my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Join my membership community for single women, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Download my FREE PDF 'Top 10 Comebacks for the Most Annoying Questions Single Women Get Asked' Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/comebacks Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

  • February 19 · 30 min

    Thursday Thoughts — Breaking The Cycle Of Negativity

    Send us Fan Mail On this week's Thursday Thoughts, Polly and I are talking about breaking the cycle of negativity. We explore how easy it is to get caught in those negative spirals where one thought leads to another and suddenly we're knee-deep in a full-on wallow, feeling pretty rubbish about everything. We chat about how the way we feel most of the time becomes the energy we're putting out into the world — and how that energy attracts more of the same right back to us. We also share some of the practical things we both use to gently interrupt a negative spiral and shift our state when we notice ourselves heading down that familiar path. We hope that you enjoy this conversation. Love, Polly & Lucy x Support the show Buy my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Join my membership community for single women, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Download my FREE PDF 'Top 10 Comebacks for the Most Annoying Questions Single Women Get Asked' Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/comebacks Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

  • February 17 · 58 min

    The One Where I Talk To Singer-Songwriter, Harley Moon Kemp

    Send us Fan Mail My guest this week on Thrive Solo is British country singer-songwriter, Harley Moon Kemp, who also happens to be the daughter of Spandau Ballet’s Martin Kemp, and Shirlie Kemp of both Pepsi and Shirlie, and Wham. Harley Moon appeared in last year’s Celebrity Race Across The World with her brother, Roman Kemp, and not only did they appear in it, but they won it. I’m sure many of you will have seen it and subsequently heard Harley Moon mention her happily single status. In this episode, Harley Moon and I talk about how she ended up getting into country music in particular and what she loves most about that genre; we talk about how she is absolutely loving single life right now; we talk about how her parents very happy marriage has impacted what she wants and expects from a relationship. We also discuss the shift in the dating scene in her generation, how people are no longer going out to meet people in the way they used to, and how dating as a high profile person can present its own challenges. 02:15 Meet Harley Moon Kemp 03:45 Harley Moon's Musical Journey 06:00 Discovering Country Music 14:47 Embracing Single Life 23:49 The Modern Dating Scene 31:07 The Inspiration Behind 'My Girls (Love Me Better)' 32:45 Reflecting on the song 'I Know What Good Looks Like' 35:12 Personal Reflections on Relationships 38:43 Living with Intention and Positivity 47:29 The Adventure of 'Race Across the World' 54:43 Final Thoughts and Farewell Follow Harley Moon on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harleymoonkemp Listen to Harley Moon on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7lTrAtvHlfVsJZgXMMR05X Support the show Buy my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Join my membership community for single women, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Download my FREE PDF 'Top 10 Comebacks for the Most Annoying Questions Single Women Get Asked' Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/comebacks Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

  • February 14 · 7 min

    Minisode Ep.196 — We Do Not Give One Single Fu*k

    Send us Fan Mail Support the show Buy my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Join my membership community for single women, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Download my FREE PDF 'Top 10 Comebacks for the Most Annoying Questions Single Women Get Asked' Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/comebacks Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

  • February 12 · 33 min

    Thursday Thoughts — The Patriarchy

    Send us Fan Mail On this week's Thursday Thoughts, Polly and I are talking all about the patriarchy. This social system that historically centres white men as the default holders of power, money, status and authority, is woven into the very fabric of society. It shows up in a million subtle - and not so subtle - ways: women playing small because they’ve been taught to be pleasing, quiet, polite and accommodating; women taking on the ‘invisible load’ of housework and kid-min; women being put down at work or at home because of the inherent and subconscious belief that men are somehow superior. In this conversation, Polly and I talk about how the patriarchy has shown up in our own lives, as well as how things are so much worse for women in other countries and cultures. And this is exactly why women need to start speaking up and standing up for both themselves, and the many, many women who are less fortunate than those of us in western cultures. We hope you’ll find something interesting in here. Love, Polly & Lucy x Support the show Buy my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Join my membership community for single women, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Download my FREE PDF 'Top 10 Comebacks for the Most Annoying Questions Single Women Get Asked' Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/comebacks Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

  • February 10 · 1 hr 4 min

    The One Where I Talk To Sober Coach, Sarah Bennett

    Send us Fan Mail My guest on this week's episode of Thrive Solo, is the gorgeous Sarah Bennett, a single and childfree sober coach living in Hertfordshire. In her 30s, Sarah felt under huge pressure to find a partner and have children. As friends settled down and started families, she often felt left behind. In trying to numb the loneliness and deep sense of inadequacy she felt, Sarah’s drinking steadily increased. But instead of helping, it left her feeling lower and more depressed, with hangovers that made her feel even more alone, and a growing sense of shame and being out of control. Sarah is now 54 and in a very, very different place. She had already come to terms with being childless (although these days she calls herself childfree), but after her last relationship ended a couple of years ago, she decided to stop drinking. This has transformed her life in ways she couldn’t have imagined, and she is finally comfortable in her own skin, and has learnt to love and accept herself exactly as she is, without feeling like she needs a relationship or children to validate her life. Last year, Sarah trained with The Sober Club and became an accredited sober coach, and she now runs The Sobriety Society, supporting women who want to change their relationship with alcohol. She’s worked with women in many different situations, but her heart is very much with those who are single and childless. 02:06 Guest Introduction: Sarah Bennett's Journey 02:19 Sarah's Struggles and Transformation 03:17 The Sobriety Society and Coaching 05:07 Sarah's Single Life and Reflections 17:35 Challenges of Drinking and Finding Clarity 32:19 The Benefits of Quitting Alcohol 33:40 Social Pressures and Reactions to Quitting 37:54 Personal Experiences and Challenges 43:59 Coaching and Helping Others 52:37 Health Risks and Statistics 56:45 Final Thoughts and Resources Check out Sarah's website: https://www.thesobrietysociety.co.uk/ Follow Sarah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesobrietysocietyuk Find Sarah on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesobrietysocietyuk Support the show Buy my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Join my membership community for single women, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Download my FREE PDF 'Top 10 Comebacks for the Most Annoying Questions Single Women Get Asked' Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/comebacks Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

  • February 7 · 9 min

    Minisode Ep.195 — Your Standards Are Not Too High

    Send us Fan Mail Support the show Buy my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Join my membership community for single women, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Download my FREE PDF 'Top 10 Comebacks for the Most Annoying Questions Single Women Get Asked' Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/comebacks Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

  • February 5 · 29 min

    Thursday Thoughts — Main Character Energy

    Send us Fan Mail On this week's Thursday Thoughts, Polly and I talk about what it really means to shift out of the background and into the lead role of your own life. We chat about how easy it is, especially for women, to unconsciously slip into a supporting role, putting everyone else’s needs first, waiting for the “right time,” or playing small out of habit rather than intention. We explore how being the main character doesn’t mean being loud or dramatic. It simply means taking up space in your own life. And it doesn’t require a big, sweeping change — sometimes it’s just one small moment where you back yourself and remember that you’re allowed to take the lead and want more. We hope you find something useful in here. Love, Polly & Lucy xx Support the show Buy my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Join my membership community for single women, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Download my FREE PDF 'Top 10 Comebacks for the Most Annoying Questions Single Women Get Asked' Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/comebacks Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

  • February 3 · 1 hr 6 min

    The One Where I Talk To Peloton Instructor, Hannah Frankson

    Send us Fan Mail My guest this week is one of those people that I just fell in love with because she is completely divine and she has the best energy — not to put too fine a point on it, but I bloody loved her! Her name is Hannah Frankson, and she is a 37 year old Peloton Instructor living in London, totally rocking her solo life. That said, she is also dating and very much open to a relationship with the right guy. From a very young age, Hannah was mad about athletics and it was her dream to go to the Olympics - she worked incredibly hard at athletics for years, also working as both a model and personal training in order to pay the bills. But life had other plans for Hannah and, having broken up with the man she was supposed to marry, she discovered indoor cycling and realised she absolutely loved it. She was subsequently headhunted by Peloton - by the end of this episode you'll understand why they wanted her - and the rest is history. She’s been one of Peloton’s instructors for 6 years. In our conversation, Hannah and I talk all about her life as a single woman without kids in London town, we talk about her amazing career, we talk dating, we talk self worth, and much, much more. 02:15 Guest Introduction 02:48 Hannah's Athletic Journey 07:19 Modelling and Personal Training 16:43 Discovering Peloton 19:35 The Peloton Experience 26:26 Single and Thriving 33:50 Challenging the Narrative: Single Women and Happiness 34:32 The Movement of Single Women 35:21 The Importance of Reframing Single Life 37:03 Addressing Misconceptions on Social Media 38:16 Empowering Single Women Through Fitness 40:34 Navigating Dating and Self-Worth 49:03 Creating a Fulfilling Single Life 51:56 Incorporating Fun and Community into Single Life 54:17 Advice for Women on Fitness and Self-Care 01:02:36 Final Thoughts and Farewell Follow Hannah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannahfrankson/?hl=en Fid Hannah at Peloton: https://www.onepeloton.com/en-GB/instructors/ImFranktheTank Support the show Buy my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Join my membership community for single women, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Download my FREE PDF 'Top 10 Comebacks for the Most Annoying Questions Single Women Get Asked' Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/comebacks Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

  • January 31 · 9 min

    Minisode Ep.194 — Running Like We're On Fire

    Send us Fan Mail This week's minisode is a fiery pep talk for your wildest dreams: I unpack the quote “One life. Just one. Why aren’t we running like we are on fire towards our wildest dreams,” and get honest about fear, perfectionism, and waiting for permission. This is a nudge to choose aliveness over hesitation — pick a direction, take the tiniest step, keep it consistent, and stop treating your real life like a rehearsal. Support the show Buy my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Join my membership community for single women, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Download my FREE PDF 'Top 10 Comebacks for the Most Annoying Questions Single Women Get Asked' Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/comebacks Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

  • January 29 · 27 min

    Thursday Thoughts — The Power Of Nature In A World Gone Mad

    Send us Fan Mail On today’s Thursday Thoughts, Polly and I are talking about the power of intentionally tuning into nature during crazy times. Most of us would agree that the state of the world right now is…alot. It can feel overwhelming and scary, to say the least, and it’s easy to feel completely out of control. One of the best ways to put things into perspective - not to mention regulate our overstimulated nervous systems - is to remember that we are a part of something much, much greater than ourselves. Sometimes a walk in nature is all we need to feel calmer; a cuddle with our cat can bring us back to joy; and noticing the beauty of the flowers or the birds can make us feel more grounded. So if you’re feeling upset, scared, or horrified by what’s happening in the world, one of the best things you can do is surround yourself with nature - whether that’s a walk along the coast, or just popping into your local city park. We sincerely hope you’ll find something helpful or interesting in here. Love, Polly & Lucy x Support the show Buy my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Join my membership community for single women, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Download my FREE PDF 'Top 10 Comebacks for the Most Annoying Questions Single Women Get Asked' Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/comebacks Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!