Why is is that posting for the first time on any new platform feels so daunting?

This is the moment when there are literally no followers, readers, viewers or listeners. And yet somehow it always feels like making a grand entrance to a party that’s already well under way. Not in a sneak in unnoticed kind of way, but like the band’s going to stop playing, and the whole room go silent while everyone turns to gawk at you kind of way.

Anyway, someone here on Substack said the best way to kick things off is to introduce yourself and share what you’re about, and that seems simple enough, so here goes with the intro.

Hello, I’m Cass 👋🏼

I’m a psychologist/coach from Australia, but moved to London with my family in 2022. I also teach meditation but that makes me sound much more zen than I actually am.

I’m the host of a popular podcast called “Crappy to Happy”, which is all about living a happier, more meaningful life. It’s been going since 2017, which I think is quite something. Perhaps I’ll share eps here once I figure out Substack.

I’m also the author of three books in the “Crappy to Happy” series - each one focusing on how to be more fulfilled in a different area: life, work, and relationships. And I wrote and narrated an Audible Original called “The Imposter Solution” about how to overcome imposter syndrome.

So professionally, I guess I’m all about understanding and sharing what really makes for a more satisfying experience of life.

I left my private psychology practice and moved into the online space in 2017, creating online courses, doing media work, starting the podcast and writing the books. I still work with a handful of private coaching* clients and love it.
(*Coaching with a side of therapy because I can’t not be who I am.)

As for this newsletter, I landed (for now) on “Enquire Within”* as the title because I’m a big believer in the importance of self-reflection, regularly turning your attention towards your inner landscape of thoughts, feelings and sensations.

I think most of us spend too much time looking outside ourselves for something that’s already available within us.

In times of uncertainty, I always suggest tuning into what feels right for you, and trusting that inner wisdom before looking to something or someone else for answers.

And I believe any outward change will only be sustainable if it involves a thorough inner audit.

Ergo ‘Enquire Within’.

On a personal note:

Married for 23 years, mum to a late-teen daughter and two dogs who have also adapted to life in London. I was recently diagnosed with ADHD (almost called this newsletter “Easily distracted” or “Talks Too Much”), and subsequently have given up my two favourite vices - coffee (am) and wine (pm). Like I said - not that zen.

I’m happy to be here, writing, and enjoying making new connections.

Cass xo

Edit: 15 February, 2025

*Already changed the title. 🤦🏼‍♀️ Eternal Optimist seems a more fitting way to describe who I am and what I’m about, which is unfailingly positive that things can change for the better and finding ways to make that happen. Might still change it again. Blame the ADHD.