Interview with life enriching accessory brand Claudia Bradby

BUILDING INNER STRENGTH WITH CHARLOTTE LODEY x CLAUDIA BRADBY

MAY 2025

This week we caught up with life coach Charlotte Lodey, who is such an inspiration to us here at CB.

We’re always looking for ways to feel motivated, tying in our brand ethos of being more than just jewellery, with meaning and purpose behind every handcrafted design.

We met Charlotte on an amazing yoga retreat a couple of years ago. As a life coach, business consultant and speaker, Charlotte has a passion for helping people and businesses unlock their purpose and legacy.

“My journey into life coaching began from a deeply personal space. I’d always been fascinated by what drives people, how we find meaning, and how our early experiences shape the way we show up in the world.

“I wanted to create spaces where people could feel seen, understood, and empowered to live and lead from a place of alignment—not fear. And so, Charlotte Lodey Aligned was born.”

Confidence Building and Empowerment

Charlotte tells us that watching someone realise they are worthy of more is incredibly rewarding.

“Whether it’s someone finally speaking up in a meeting, a founder realigning their business with their values, or a young professional letting go of imposter syndrome and going for the role they were scared to apply for—it all comes back to empowerment. I get to witness people remember who they are and what they're capable of. That’s what I live for.”

This is often front of mind when Claudia skilfully designs each thoughtful piece, such as the iconic and inspirational World is Your Oyster Necklace.

“I love how intentional every CB piece is. Each piece has a story and a purpose. It allows you to connect on a deeper level to the jewellery you wear.

“Jewellery can be so much more than something we wear. It can be a symbol of strength, a reminder of our values, or a marker of a meaningful moment in our lives. Just like the work I do around purpose and legacy, intentional jewellery can hold energy, stories, and identity.

“Wearing a piece that represents who you are or who you're becoming can be incredibly empowering. Whether it's a bracelet that reminds you of your resilience, or a necklace you bought when you finally started backing yourself, those pieces connect us to our truth.

“Jewellery isn’t just about style it’s about soul. When chosen with intention, it becomes an extension of how we see ourselves, and how we want to show up in the world.”

Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone

This is something we all know we need to do, but taking the initial leap is often the biggest hurdle, we asked Charlotte where to start:

“Start with curiosity. You don’t need to leap into the unknown overnight. Begin by asking, ‘What am I avoiding and why?’ Often, our comfort zones are just safety nets built from old beliefs. When we start questioning those beliefs gently, we open the door to change. A small action, like saying yes to something new, or even saying no to something that doesn’t serve you can be a huge step forward.

“Stepping out of your comfort zone often means stepping into vulnerability and that can be scary. Our brains are wired to keep us safe, and anything unfamiliar can feel like a threat. Add to that layers of self-doubt, fear of failure, or worry about what people will think, and it makes perfect sense that we hesitate.

“But the truth is, growth doesn’t come from comfort. It comes from courage.”

Navigating challenging times in life was one of the inspirations behind our most loved Meditative Pearl Spinner Necklace, one of Charlotte’s personal favourites:

“The beautiful spinning feature allows me to use the necklace as a tool when I am focusing or thinking to spin in my fingers. It helps to regulate my nervous system and aid creative thinking. Plus I get so many compliments when I wear it as it is such a unique design.”

Practice Makes Perfect

We were also keen to know how to not slip back into the habit of reaching for the safety blanket. Charlotte told us:

“Make it a practice, not a one-off. I always encourage clients to build what I call ‘confidence momentum.’ That means choosing small, brave actions every day even if they feel insignificant. With each win, you’re expanding your zone bit by bit. Also, surround yourself with people who encourage growth, not just comfort.

“And remember: discomfort isn’t a sign you’re doing something wrong. It’s often a sign you’re doing something right.”

Finding Your Inspiration

Whether it’s a catch up with a friend, a gift which reminds you to look after yourself or a moment in nature, Charlotte teaches the art of pausing and reflecting:

“Tune into what lights you up. Too often, we’re on autopilot—living the life we think we should rather than the one we want. Pause. Reflect. Ask: What would feel exciting or fulfilling to me right now, even if it’s a little scary?

And then, take the first step. Inspiration doesn’t just strike; it grows from action. The more you lean into possibility, the more life expands to meet you.”

How to Be More Present

·       “Breathe intentionally. Even one deep breath can anchor you back into the moment,” says Charlotte.

·       “Check in with your senses. What can you see, hear, smell, feel?

·       “Put your phone down. Even for 10 minutes. Reconnect with real life.

·       “Ask yourself: ‘What’s true right now?’ That one question brings you back to now.

·       Gratitude. A quick mental list of what you’re grateful for shifts your focus from lack to presence.

A Final Note from Charlotte x

“Be bold. Be kind to yourself. And don’t forget—every great story starts with a brave decision.”