In this episode of Beyond the Bubble, Andras sits down with Laura Shields—media trainer, former broadcast journalist, and founder of Red Thread—to explore the stories we tell ourselves, and how those stories evolve when shaped by trauma, neurodivergence, and lived experience. Laura opens up about her journey from a high-pressure media career to building a business in Brussels, navigating depression, anxiety, ADHD, and dyspraxia along the way.

The conversation ranges from geopolitics and 9/11 to generational trauma, psychedelic therapy, and the emotional cost of performance-driven careers. With warmth, wit, and striking honesty, Laura reflects on what it means to cope, to hope, and to reframe one’s identity through self-awareness and acceptance—without giving up the fight for better.

LinkedIn: / laurashieldsmediatrainer

Topics Covered:

- Laura’s unconventional path from CNN and BBC to Brussels entrepreneurship
- Personal reflections on trauma, 9/11, and the power of live media
- Neurodivergence explained: ADHD, dyspraxia, and how late diagnosis reframes identity
- The intersection of mental health, resilience, and self-compassion
- Why “healing” isn’t always the right word—and why that matters
- Building a business that works with your brain, not against it
- On storytelling, public speaking, and finding peace beyond the performance

Laura Shields – Founder of Red Thread | Media & Communication Trainer | Former CNN/BBC journalist | Advocate for neurodiversity and mental health awareness

Notable Quote:

"I'm not ashamed of any of this stuff. I like the fact that my brain is different. I don’t think it’s better or worse—but I’m still getting to know it.” – Laura Shields

https://be.linkedin.com  
Laura Shields - Red Thread EU | LinkedIn

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