The Relationship Blueprint: An Evening with Karen Doherty and Natalie Russell

Are you tired of being stuck in the "talking stage" loop? Wondering if dating apps are actually built for connection, or just for hookups? Whether you are navigating the complexities of toxic patterns, questioning your readiness for a commitment, or trying to understand how neurodiversity impacts intimacy, it’s time for some real answers.

Join world-renowned relationship specialist Karen Doherty for an unfiltered, transformative masterclass on modern love.

Meet Your Host: Karen Doherty

You likely recognise Karen as the direct, rationally attuned therapist from the hit Netflix series Blue Therapy. With 23 years of experience and a background at the prestigious Tavistock Centre, she specialises in the messy intersection of attachment styles, sexuality, and neurodiversity.

Known for her appearances on ADHD Chatter and The Hidden 20%, Karen brings complex psychological concepts down to earth with her signature "tell-it-like-it-is" style. This masterclass is a deep dive into the psychological blueprints that dictate who we choose, why we stay, and how we love.

What We’ll Explore

• The Readiness Reality Check: Are you actually looking for a partner, or just an escape from being alone?

• Breaking the Toxic Cycle: How to identify "red flags" before they become patterns—and how to break free for good.

• Dating Apps Decoded: Navigating the digital landscape without losing your sanity or your standards.

• Neurodiversity & Intimacy: Practical, affirming frameworks for couples navigating ADHD and other neurodivergent traits.

Special Guest: Natalie Russell

Joining Karen is guest speaker Natalie Russell, who brings a rare combination of lived experience, professional training, and emotional intelligence to The Relationship Blueprint.

With a grounded, highly relatable approach, Natalie unpacks everything from modern dating and emotional availability to boundary-setting and self-worth. She has a unique ability to translate complex relational dynamics into honest, accessible conversations. Adding warmth, a calm presence, and natural humour, Natalie brings both depth and lightness to relationship topics that can often feel difficult to navigate.

The Takeaway

If you want to better understand how you love, why you repeat certain patterns, and what it really takes to build healthier relationships, this is a night you won’t want to miss.

Come for the conversation. Leave with a road map for more meaningful, authentic connections.

Secure your spot now and take the first step toward the relationship you actually want.

Protected & Progressing Live: A Parenthood Journey Expo

Protected & Progressing Live: A Parenthood Journey Expo

This expo is designed for anyone navigating the parenthood journey—whether expecting, on leave, returning to work, or supporting someone who is.

Key Details:

• Date & Time: Saturday, 3 October 2026 | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

• Location: Citylabs 1.0, Nelson Street, Manchester, M13 9NQ

• Tickets: Adults £10 | Kids go free (Capacity is limited)

• Perks: Every £10 adult ticket includes a luxury goodie bag worth over £30.

Event Highlights

• Panel Discussions: Four audience-led panels covering fertility and loss, navigating return-to-work barriers and flexible working, the "invisible load" of parenting, and coming back stronger after maternity leave.

• Practical Workshops: Hands-on drop-in sessions offering feeding support, breathwork, creative writing, postpartum Pilates, and health coaching.

• Free Legal Advice: The employment team from Pregnant & Protected and Primas Law will provide free, no-obligation guidance on workplace rights and discrimination.

• Exhibitor Floor: A full floor of complimentary stalls featuring charities, support organisations, wellness practitioners, and recruitment specialists.

Accessibility & Facilities

• Fully wheelchair accessible with step-free entry and lift access.

• Baby changing facilities, pushchair parking, and dedicated quiet spaces for breastfeeding.

• On-site Starbucks, though attendees are welcome to bring their own food and snacks.

Get your tickets now

Human Before Homeless: Lets Discuss Homelessness

Homelessness is one of society's most pressing challenges, but lasting change requires more than raising awareness—it requires action. This discussion brings together people with lived experience, frontline practitioners, policymakers, researchers, and community leaders to explore practical, evidence-based solutions that prevent homelessness, support recovery, and create pathways to stable housing.

Together, we will challenge common misconceptions, examine the systemic causes of homelessness, and highlight what works—from prevention and affordable housing to mental health support, employment opportunities, and community partnerships. Most importantly, the conversation will focus on how each of us, as individuals, organisations, businesses, and decision-makers, can play a role in creating meaningful change.

By shifting the conversation from crisis to solutions, this event aims to inspire collaboration, influence policy, and empower communities to take action towards ending homelessness.

We have guest speaker Shakana Acheapong. Shakana, founder of Balance Together, will share why she started the organisation and her vision for creating meaningful change.

She’ll explore the reality of homelessness in London, the importance of community, and the role we all have to play. Most importantly, Shakana will challenge the stigma and assumptions that surround homelessness and encourage us to look beyond what we think we know.

Expect an honest, thought-provoking conversation that may just change the way you see homelessness.

Surviving to Thriving: Women Rising Together

What happens when you survive something that was never meant to break you, and decide to rebuild your life on your own terms?
Surviving to Thriving is a powerful and honest Outlet Ten Discussions event exploring domestic violence, resilience, rebuilding and the journey from surviving to finding your confidence, voice and sense of self again.

Hear from Natalie Russell and Maxine Booth as they share their personal experiences of domestic violence and the journeys that followed. They will speak openly about what it takes to rebuild after abuse, how they found their strength, and how they went on to build careers and lives beyond their experiences.

Natalie brings a rare combination of lived experience, professional training and emotional intelligence to conversations around relationships and personal wellbeing. Her ability to explore complex psychological and relational dynamics in a grounded, relatable way creates space for honest conversations without losing warmth or humanity. Alongside her personal story, Natalie offers insight, perspective and encouragement for women navigating difficult experiences and finding their way forward.

Maxine Booth, TV personality, journalist, actress and podcast interviewer, brings her own lived experience alongside her experience of storytelling and connecting with people. Her story is one of resilience, rebuilding and creating a successful career while reclaiming confidence and identity.
Following these powerful conversations, Claira Hermet, BBC broadcaster, content creator and women’s self-love and empowerment coach, will take the conversation beyond survival and into self-worth, confidence and empowerment. Drawing on her own experiences of loss, resilience and transformation, Claira will explore what it means to believe in yourself again, challenge limiting beliefs and create a life that feels truly yours.

This isn’t simply a conversation about domestic violence. It’s a conversation about what comes next.

It’s about recognising your worth. Finding your voice. Rebuilding your confidence. Understanding that your past does not have to dictate your future.
Whether you have experienced domestic abuse yourself, supported someone who has, or simply want to understand more, Surviving to Thriving offers a space to listen, learn, connect and feel empowered.

Come for the stories. Stay for the conversations. Leave knowing that surviving is not the end of the story.

It’s where thriving can begin.

Presented by Outlet Ten Discussions
For too long, the conversation around men’s mental health has been silenced by stigma, pressure, and unrealistic expectations. It’s time to change the narrative.
Join Outlet Ten Discussions for an honest, impactful event dedicated to breaking down the barriers surrounding men’s mental well-being. This isn't just another lecture, it’s a safe, open space for real talk, shared experiences, and actionable advice. Whether you are navigating your own mental health journey, supporting a loved one, or simply want to be part of this vital conversation, this event is for you.
Come for the community. Leave with the tools and resources to help yourself and others thrive.

🎤 Meet Your Speaker: Matt Johnson

British Television Presenter, Broadcaster & Mental Health Advocate
Best known for his engaging personality and signature warmth on popular UK morning shows, Matt Johnson has charmed audiences across the nation. You likely recognise him from his widespread success as a presenter on ITV’s This Morning, as well as his work on Channel 5’s The Wright Stuff and the BBC’s The National Lottery.
But beyond the screen, Matt is a fiercely outspoken advocate for mental health awareness.
Drawing from his own personal experiences, he has dedicated himself to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and encouraging honest, open conversations. Through his impactful advocacy work and campaigns with the leading mental health charity Mind, Matt actively promotes vital resources for those in need.
Bringing his unique blend of charisma, professionalism, and deep passion for mental health advocacy, Matt is here to share his story and lead a conversation that truly matters.

🎟️ Join the Conversation

Don't miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and help break the stigma together.
Spaces are limited. Secure your tickets today!