Ice, Fire & Finding Yourself: Lorraine McDonnell on Healing, Courage, and Radical Resilience
In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Power Movers, Roy sits down with Lorraine McDonnell — public speaker, bestselling author, and Level 2 Wim Hof Method instructor — to explore the raw, unfiltered story behind her transformation from trauma survivor to fearless leader and guide. From a free-spirited childhood on a farm in rural Ireland to surviving two brutal assaults that would alter her life path, Lorraine shares how she hid her pain for years — only for it to surface decades later in the form of PTSD, panic attacks, and addiction. But that was only the beginning of her comeback. Through courage, mindset work, and embracing radical practices like cold exposure, firewalking, and breathwork, Lorraine built herself back up — stronger than ever. Her story is not just one of survival, but of fierce purpose, and she’s now helping others reclaim their power, their bodies, and their lives. If you're a business owner, trauma survivor, or simply someone navigating life's challenges, this episode will shake you, heal you, and inspire you to rise.
🔥 What We Cover in This
Episode:
🌾 Lorraine’s wild and free childhood in rural Ireland — and how it shaped her spirit
😔 The two traumatic assaults she survived as a student — and why she stayed silent
💥 The psychological toll of trauma, PTSD, and self-medicating with alcohol
🙏 Her breaking point — and the moment she knew something had to change
❄️ Her discovery of the Wim Hof Method and the unexpected power of cold water
🔥 Firewalking, mountain summits, and reclaiming control through radical resilience
💼 How she left corporate life to build a thriving wellness business from scratch
📚 The birth of her bestselling memoir I Am Lorraine — and why it’s more than just a book
🎤 Her vision for a global movement to break shame and inspire courage
🧠 How breathwork became the key to calming her mind and healing her trauma
💡 What every entrepreneur should know about courage, purpose, and living in the NOW
🧊 Notable Quotes:
“I didn’t want to write something that was tinted through an unrealistic lens. I wanted to tell the raw, honest truth — and show that healing is possible.”
“Cold exposure didn’t just change my physiology — it gave me back control over my mind.”
“Firewalking and ice baths may be extreme, but they bring you into the moment — and that’s where all your power is.”
“When we hold onto trauma in silence, it doesn’t go away — it just resurfaces later. Speaking is healing.”
💡 Why You Should Listen:
Whether you're navigating trauma, burnout, or simply feel stuck in your current chapter — Lorraine’s story will remind you that it’s never too late to start over. Through real talk, hard truths, and a whole lot of grit, she reveals how cold water and courage can reset not just your nervous system, but your life. You’ll walk away from this episode with a renewed sense of purpose, actionable tools, and an understanding that healing doesn’t have to look perfect — it just has to be honest.
📚 Resources & Mentions:
📖 Lorraine’s Book: I Am Lorraine on Amazon*
🔗 Lorraine’s Website: www.iamlorraine.com
📲 Instagram: @iamlorraine
🎯 Connect with Roy:
🌐 Website: allthepower.co.uk
📥 Email: roy@allthepower.co.uk
📱 Social: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook
📝 Disclaimer:
The information shared in this episode is for informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified professional before making personal or business decisions related to trauma, health, or well-being.
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