Hurting people you care about doesn’t make you a bad person—it makes you human. But if you’re tired of snapping, shutting down, or saying things you regret, it’s time to figure out what’s really going on. In this episode, we’ll break down why your emotions sometimes spill out in ways that hurt others and how to stop the cycle before it damages your relationships.

We’ll dive into what triggers those moments, how bottled-up feelings play a role, and why owning your actions (without beating yourself up) is the key to growth. You’ll learn how to recognise when you’re on edge, communicate your needs before things boil over, and rebuild trust when you’ve crossed a line.

This episode is for anyone who wants to:

• Understand why they lash out or shut people out.
• Stop hurting the people they care about most.
• Learn how to manage emotions and repair relationships.

You’ve got the power to break the pattern and build stronger connections. Tune in to find out how.

Got something to say? - send me a voice note - https://www.speakpipe.com/Headstraight or send me an email: headstraightpodcast@gmail.com

If you need more information about helplines, services or what do to if you're in a crisis, take a look at our resource page: https://www.headstraight.co.uk/resources

Click here to view the episode transcript.
Creators & Guests

• Mark Taylor - Host

Let’s be real—asking for attention can feel awkward, even shameful. You worry you’re being “too much,” or maybe you’ve convinced yourself you shouldn’t need anything from anyone. But here’s the truth: wanting connection isn’t selfish—it’s human. In this episode, we’re unpacking why you feel guilty for asking for attention and how to start owning your needs without the shame spiral.

We’ll explore where that guilt comes from (hint: it’s not all on you), how to spot when you’re downplaying your feelings, and why being vulnerable doesn’t make you weak. You’ll learn how to communicate what you need in a way that feels genuine and fair, so you can build deeper, healthier relationships.

This episode is for you if you’ve ever:

• Felt bad for wanting someone to notice you.
• Struggled to ask for support or affection.
• Worried that expressing your needs would push people away.

You don’t have to apologise for being human. Come listen to learn how to ask for what you need—guilt-free.

We all make choices, but let’s be honest—some of them leave us wondering, “Why did I do that?” Whether it’s acting on impulse, going with the crowd, or just making decisions that don’t feel right, bad choices can stack up fast. In this episode, we’re digging into why we make the decisions we do and how to start making better ones—choices that actually work for you instead of against you.

We’ll explore what drives your decisions (hint: it’s not always logic), why blaming yourself won’t help, and how to stop living on autopilot. From recognising your values to avoiding knee-jerk reactions, you’ll get practical tips for turning your decision-making process around. So, if you’ve been stuck in a cycle of regrets and second-guessing, this episode is your guide to owning your choices and moving forward with confidence.

Listen now to:

• Stop reacting and start responding.
• Learn how to identify what really matters to you.
• Make decisions you can feel good about—without overthinking everything.

Your next better choice starts here.

Feeling unsafe—whether it’s at home, online, with friends, or around an adult crossing boundaries—can mess with every part of your life. But here’s the truth: you’re not powerless, and you don’t have to handle it alone. In this episode, we break down what to do when safety feels out of reach. From identifying what’s really going on to creating a plan and finding people who can help, we’ve got you covered. It’s all about taking small steps toward stability, because your safety isn’t negotiable—you deserve respect and support, no matter what.

Contacts for Support – If You’re Feeling Unsafe

UK Contacts

• Childline: Call 0800 1111 or visit childline.org.uk for free, confidential support 24/7.
• NSPCC Helpline: Call 0808 800 5000 or email help@nspcc.org.uk for advice and support on concerns about child safety.
• The Mix: Call 0808 808 4994 or chat online at themix.org.uk for support tailored to under-25s.

Other Countries

• USA: Call or text the National Runaway Safeline at 1-800-786-2929 or visit 1800runaway.org.
• Canada: Contact Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868; visit kidshelpphone.ca.
• Australia: Call Kids Helpline at 1800 55 1800 or visit kidshelpline.com.au.
• Worldwide: Access Child Helpline International to find a helpline in your country at childhelplineinternational.org.

Got something to say? - send me a voice note - https://www.speakpipe.com/Headstraight

If you need more information about helplines, services or what do to if you're in a crisis, take a look at our resource page: https://www.headstraight.co.uk/resources

Click here to view the episode transcript.

Ever feel like you’re handling everything on your own? In this episode, we’re breaking down how to create a support system that actually works. From figuring out who’s really there for you, to telling them why they’re important, to finding new connections with people who get you—we’re covering it all. Whether it’s strengthening your current relationships, getting closer to family, or finding mentors who’ll step up, this is your guide to building a support network that’s there when you need it most.

Got something to say? - send me a voice note - https://www.speakpipe.com/Headstraight

If you need more information about helplines, services or what do to if you're in a crisis, take a look at our resource page: https://www.headstraight.co.uk/resources

Click here to view the episode transcript.

In this episode, we tackle the big question: Why can’t I control my feelings? If you’ve ever felt like your emotions are on a wild rollercoaster that you didn’t sign up for, this one’s for you. From anger and fear to sadness and everything in between, emotions can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when you're in your teens. But what does it really mean to "control" your emotions, and is that even possible? We break down the science behind why emotions can feel so intense and offer practical tips on how to start managing them instead of letting them control you. Get ready to understand what’s happening in your brain, why emotions hit harder at certain times, and how to navigate them without losing your cool. Plus, we’ll share tools that’ll help you regain control of your emotions, one step at a time. Tune in for a no-nonsense look at how to stop letting your feelings drive the bus.

Got something to say? - send me a voice note - https://www.speakpipe.com/Headstraight

If you need more information about helplines, services or what do to if you're in a crisis, take a look at our resource page: https://www.headstraight.co.uk/resources

Click here to view the episode transcript.

In this first episode of Headstraight, we explore the all-too-common feeling of "not being good enough" that creeps in when we least expect it. Whether it’s comparing yourself to others or battling impossible standards, we break down why this feeling is so powerful and what you can do about it. Through real-talk and actionable insights, you’ll learn how to challenge those negative thoughts and start reclaiming your confidence. Tune in for practical advice on how to stop letting the "not good enough" voice hold you back, and begin taking control of your worth today.

Got something to say? - send me a voice note - https://www.speakpipe.com/Headstraight

If you need more information about helplines, services or what do to if you're in a crisis, take a look at our resource page: https://www.headstraight.co.uk/resources

Click here to view the episode transcript.

Welcome to season one - Understanding Emotions, where we dive deep into the feelings that often overwhelm us and explore what's really going on behind them. In this season, we’ll break down the complexities of emotions—from self-doubt and social pressure to the intensity of anxiety and frustration. You’ll learn how to take control of the stories you tell yourself and understand why emotions hit harder than expected. We’ll also focus on building healthy relationships, creating emotional safety, and making decisions that move you forward. With practical steps to improve your mental health, this season is designed to help you feel more in charge of your emotions and life. If you've ever felt like your emotions were running the show, this podcast is for you.

Got something to say? - send me a voice note - https://www.speakpipe.com/Headstraight

If you need more information about helplines, services or what do to if you're in a crisis, take a look at our resource page: https://www.headstraight.co.uk/resources

Click here to view the episode transcript.