The Med Free Mental Fitness Podcast
The Med Free Mental Fitness Podcast
Podcast Description
I’m Katinka Blackford Newman— life coach, bestselling author and journalist.
This podcast is a space for real, honest conversations about mental health, medication, and the alternative paths people have taken to heal. I’ll be talking to those who’ve experienced the darker side of psychiatric drugs, as well as experts who can shed light on safer, more empowering solutions
If you’re curious about mental health beyond the prescription pad, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive in!
www.kbnlifecoaching.co.uk
[email protected]
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
This podcast centers on mental health topics, alternative healing methods, and personal recovery stories, with episodes exploring experiences of psychiatric medication, holistic strategies for well-being, and discussions on resilience. For example, a recent episode features bestselling author Rachel Kelly, who shares her journey of overcoming depression without medication.

I’m your host, Katinka Blackford Newman— life coach, author and health journalist.
This podcast is a space for conversations about mental health, medication, and the alternative paths people have taken to heal. I’ll be talking to those who’ve experienced the darker side of psychiatric drugs, as well as experts who can shed light on safer, more empowering solutions
If you’re curious about mental health beyond the prescription pad, you’re in the right place.
If you’d like to watch the video version of these interviews you can find them on Youube.
If you’d like to have a conversation about life coaching, contact me via my website or email below to book a free consultation.
www.kbnlifecoaching.co.uk
[email protected]
In this episode of the Med Free Mental Fitness podcast, I am joined by Brooke Siem, author of ‘May Cause Side Effects.’ Brooke shares her personal journey of being placed on antidepressants as a teenager following her father’s sudden death, the side effects she experienced over 15 years, and her life-altering decision to come off the medication. Discover how Brooke navigated the challenging withdrawal process, rebuilt her mental health through practical tools and self-awareness, and now advocates for a life beyond medication. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the impact of psychiatric drugs and the strength found in med-free mental fitness.
00:00 Introduction to Med Free Mental Fitness
00:47 Brooke’s Journey with Antidepressants
02:25 The Effects and Side Effects of Medication
04:11 Questioning the Medication
14:07 The Turning Point: Deciding to Come Off Medication
15:29 The Struggle of Withdrawal
18:14 Rebuilding Life Beyond Medication
31:28 Advocacy and Current Work
34:27 Final Thoughts and Reflections

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