But You Look So Good

In this episode, we dive into the tricky world of supporting clients who are managing chronic health conditions and wrestling with medication decisions. How do we respect the prescribing doctor’s expertise while also empowering clients to make informed choices? How can we talk about what we’ve seen work (or not work) without overstepping? And what about the emotional rollercoaster that comes with...

Parenting is hard. Parenting with a chronic health condition? That’s a whole new level of complexity. In this episode, we dive into the messy, beautiful, and often exhausting reality of raising kids while managing an unpredictable body. From the guilt of missing out to the creative ways we adapt, we’re talking about the highs, the lows, and everything in between. We’ll also tackle one of the bigge...

In this episode of But You Look So Good , hosts Sally and Seona explore the concept of Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) and its relevance to individuals living with chronic health conditions. They discuss whether significant adversity, such as chronic illness, can genuinely lead to positive transformation, or if this idea imposes unrealistic expectations on those already facing ongoing struggles. The e...

Labels can be powerful—they help us find community, access support, and make sense of our experiences. But they can also feel limiting, overwhelming, or like they don’t quite fit. In this episode, we unpack the labels often attached to chronic illness and explore what they mean for our identity, self-perception, and interactions with the world. Do labels help us feel seen, or do they box us in? An...

In this episode, It’s Mental , we explore the difference between mental health and mental illness, breaking down the many dimensions that shape our mental well-being. Mental health isn’t just about the presence or absence of illness—it’s a dynamic, ever-changing experience influenced by our environment, relationships, and personal circumstances. We also unpack common misconceptions and consider ho...

In this episode, Where Did Everyone Go? we explore loneliness and social isolation in chronic illness. Sally and Seona unpack the difference between the two, how they affect physical and mental health, and why support networks often shrink over time. Join us as we discuss the emotional toll of isolation, the societal factors at play, and ways to foster meaningful connections. ⁠⁠Livology (Psycholog...

Sleep often takes a backseat to other aspects of health, but its impact on cognitive function, mood, and physical well-being is undeniable. In this episode, Seona and Sally explore the importance of sleep, sharing their own experiences with shifting sleep patterns, the challenges of balancing work, parenthood, and the temptation to stay up late. They also discuss practical sleep hygiene tips and e...

Humour can be a lifeline, a way to find light in the darkest moments—but is it always helpful? In this episode, Sally and Seona explore the complex relationship between humour and chronic illness. While research often labels humour as a maladaptive coping strategy, they challenge this notion, discussing its benefits for resilience, connection, and mental well-being. They also unpack the downsides—...

Welcome to the podcast But You Look So Good. We are two psychologists on a mission to illuminate the realities of living with chronic health conditions. Hosted by Sally Shaw and Seona Ilalio, both living with chronic health conditions. They lead Livology, a private practice specialising is psychological support for those navigating chronic health challenges. Tune in to hear candid conversations an...

Seona and Sally dive into the power of saying 'No' and the importance of setting boundaries in everyday life. They share personal experiences, role-play real-life scenarios, and offer practical strategies to help you navigate difficult conversations with confidence. Whether it’s managing relationships, work expectations, or personal energy levels, learning to say ‘No’ without guilt is a cr...

In this episode of But You Look So Good , Sally and Seona dive into the necessity and benefits of embracing slow living. They share personal stories and reflections on how living intentionally can help navigate a fast-paced world, especially while managing a chronic condition. From setting boundaries and reducing stress to practicing gratitude and mindful habits, this episode offers practical tips...

In this episode, Seona and Sally explore the shift from identifying as a warrior battling a chronic health condition to embracing the role of a CEO managing it. Through personal stories, practical tips, and reflective insights, they encourage listeners to rethink their approach to living with a chronic condition. Join the conversation for a fresh perspective that fosters self-compassion, empowers...

In this insightful and entertaining episode of But You Look So Good, Seona and Sally sit down with GP Melanie Tait, who brings a unique perspective as both a doctor and someone living with a chronic health condition. They dive into the often misunderstood dynamics of the GP-patient relationship, sharing tips on how to make the most of your GP visits, what to expect (and not expect) from your docto...

Join Sally and Seona as they share their personal journeys to becoming psychologists. In this episode, they open up about the twists and turns that led them to their careers, candidly reflecting on the challenges, rewards, and unexpected moments along the way. From early career detours to the lessons learned through practice, they offer a unique glimpse into the world of psychology. Whether you're...

In this light and personal episode, Seona and Sally reflect on their experiences from 2024 and share their intentions for 2025, now that the new year is underway. They talk about the importance of one-on-one time with their children, taking control of finances, and prioritising self-care, showing how setting meaningful intentions can feel achievable rather than overwhelming. Tune in for reflection...

In this final episode of the year, "Intentions Over Resolutions This New Year," Seona and Sally explore why setting intentions can be a more compassionate and realistic approach than rigid resolutions. They discuss the power of reflecting on the year that’s been and how aligning your intentions with your values can lead to more meaningful growth. With personal stories, practical tips, and strategi...

In this episode, Seona and Sally delve into the whirlpool of the festive season, sharing personal anecdotes and exploring strategies to help you manage the stress and chaos of Christmas. From dealing with grief during the holidays to navigating the pressure of social expectations, they offer practical tips and psychological insights. Tune in for a candid discussion that prioritises connection over...

Is Cancer Chronic? Join Sally and Seona as they explore the complex nature of cancer as a chronic illness. In this episode, they welcome Marisa Stevens, an oncology nurse practitioner, to discuss the practical, social, and emotional challenges faced by patients living with cancer. Listen in as they debunk myths, share insights on the importance of holistic care, and highlight the significance of o...

In this episode, Sally and Seona share their thoughts on the SBS documentary A World of Pain , hosted by Osher Günsberg. They discuss its portrayal of chronic pain, offering their unique perspectives as psychologists living with chronic health conditions. They also explore the broader implications of living with chronic pain on mental health, social relationships, and self-identity. Whether you ex...

In this episode of But You Look So Good , Seona and Sally delve into the sensitive and multifaceted topic of Performing Illness . They examine how the need for validation, the search for community, and the desire for support can influence the way people navigate and present their experiences with chronic health conditions. With empathy and insight, they discuss the fine line between authentically...

In this relatable episode, Sally and Seona dive into the world of mindfulness and meditation. Will it help you unwind, or will your mind wander to snacks and never-ending to-do lists? They share personal stories, clinical insights, and practical tips on integrating mindfulness and meditation into everyday life. Explore how mindfulness and meditation can reduce stress, manage pain, and boost focus—...

In this episode, Sally and Seona dive into the world of support groups in response to a listener’s question about their value. Tune in as they share personal stories and insights on the benefits—and sometimes challenges—of peer support for mental health and chronic conditions. From overcoming initial doubts to discovering genuine connections, they explore how support groups can be wonderfully bene...

In this episode, Sally and Seona sit down with dietitian Marnie Nitschke to dig into the tricky relationship people with chronic health conditions often have with food. Marnie shares her expertise on balanced eating, myth-busting around specific diets, and why “one-size-fits-all” nutrition rarely works. They explore popular diets like anti-inflammatory and Mediterranean, discussing the value of an...

In this reflective episode of But You Look So Good , Sally and Seona explore the layered experience of sharing their personal and professional journeys with chronic health conditions. They tackle the emotional costs of storytelling, finding the right boundaries, and the delicate balance between vulnerability and privacy. With warmth and honesty, they open up about the challenges and rewards of sha...

In this episode of But You Look So Good , Seona and Sally delve into the layers of grief that are unique to those living with chronic health conditions. They explore how grief shows up in unexpected ways - not just with the loss of loved ones, but through shifts in self-identity, altered life dreams, abilities and evolving relationships. Together, they discuss how to manage these often invisible b...