Topics covered : Anxiety, brain fog, flooding, hot flushes, night sweats, weight gain, aches and pains, urinary incontinence, vaginal atrophy, pelvic physio, the impact of stress, sleep.

This episode was recorded over 3.5 years ago but it's still as relevant as ever.

I speak to Menopause coach and author, Catherine O’Keeffe, known online as Wellness Warrior.

When I recorded this conversation, I was 41 and hoping to have another baby. Now, I’m 45 and I'm very fortunate to have 2 young kids but I’m also now in perimenopause and listening to this chat once again, I took so much from it.

So I’ve been experiencing things like changes to my period and brain fog and a number of other typical symptoms for about 6-8 months now and this pod is full of information as Catherine delves into the physical, mental and emotional aspects of perimenopause and it’s a must listen!

Menopause is such a complicated and sensitive topic and the experience of it is so different for every woman.

If you want to reach out to Catherine, you can email her directly on catherine@wellnesswarrior.ie

Her book : ‘All You Need to Know About Menopause’ is available on her website Wellness Warrior

And find her on Instagram

Catherine O Keeffe (@wellnesswarrior.ie) • Instagram photos and videos

Mentioned during the conversation: Prof Myra Hunter & CBT Techniques:

02-WHC-FACTSHEET-CBT-WOMEN-FEB-2023-A.pdf

Products :

‘Yes organics’ Natural vaginal moisturiser

‘Olive & Bee’ Natural lubricant

* 24 patch testing is very important before applying any product internally

‘Vagifem’ – prescription only, from your GP

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Topics covered : Purpose, self and collective care, connection, values, non-negotiables, balance, legacy. 

Gerry Hussey otherwise known as 'The Soul Coach' is a performance psychologist who has been working in the fields of health and performance for almost twenty years. I have huge respect for him and am lucky enough to call him a friend.

Gerry and his wife Miriam are the founders of wellness platform ‘Soul Space’ and they are bringing their show ‘Coming Home’ to the National Concert Hall on the 10th of November and I know it will be an incredibly powerful day for all who attend.

In this conversation he invites us to ask ourselves some important questions to help us discover what our values are, he talks about the importance of dropping judgement and he shares practical tips on how to stay regulated during challenging times.   

Questions to ask ourselves :

What am I here to do?

Who am I here to be?

What’s the legacy I am going to dare leave behind?

What is the business I’m in?

What would love do?

Books :

‘The Hero’s Journey’ by Joseph Campbell

Gerry’s books ‘Awaken your power within’ and ‘The Freedom Within’

Coming Home, 10th November, NCH.

SOUL SPACE presents Coming Home with Gerry & Miriam Hussey| NCH | Live Music & Events | National Concert Hall

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Topics covered : Women’s health – sex, miscarriage, perimenopause, incontinence, shedding shame; motherhood and Mum guilt, Gaza and social media censorship. 

This week I speak to business owner, podcaster and personality, Laura Dowling, known online as the Fabulous Pharmacist.

Laura lives in Dublin, with her husband Frank, their 3 boys who are 16, 13 and 11 and their dog Carlo.

She worked as a pharmacist for over 20 years and is the founder & CEO of fabÜ nutritional supplements.

In this conversation she talks about women’s health and the importance of shedding shame when it comes to our bodies, motherhood, the ongoing genocide in Gaza and social media censorship.

fabÜ nutritional supplements – fabuwellness

If you liked this episode, others to check out are...

Alana Kirk : Midlife coach

Jenny Keane : Sex Education

Dr. Hazel Wallace : The Food Medic

Deirdre O'Kane : It only gets better

Sexologist Emily Power Smith : Sex Part 1 & 2

Menopause Part 1 & 2

Helena Tubridy :All things Fertility

If you’re a fan of what I do, please follow, rate and review in all the usual places.

And thanks, as always, for your support of Ready to be Real.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Topics covered : motherhood, march for maternity, channeling, authenticity, acting, yoga, letting go, signs.

This week I speak to actor and writer, Amy De Bhrún.

She’s married to Seán and they have 2 kids, daughter Billie and baby son River.

And in this conversation we speak about motherhood, her powerful March for Maternity speech, being authentic, TV show ‘Line of Duty’, her love of yoga and why ladybirds are important to her.

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider following the pod wherever you listen.

You can now rate it on Spotify and leave a little comment on Apple too.

Thanks a million!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Topics covered : Imposter syndrome, over-thinking, being triggered, relationships, finding purpose, changing careers, accountability, acceptance, overwhelm, fear of rejection, time management, people pleasing.

This is the second episode with life coach Mark Fennell, which we recorded about 5 months ago. It’s full of practical advice on a whole heap of topics and he also answers a selection of questions that were sent in on Instagram too.

To contact Mark, go to…

https://markfennell.ie/

If you liked this episode you can go back and listen to our first chat.

And if you’re a fan of the podcast, please let me know by leaving a rating or a little comment on Apple, it only takes a minute, I promise.

You can also click follow and rate on Spotify and share it with pals in real life and/or on social media. Doing any, or all of these would be absolutely brilliant, thanks a million!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Topics covered : Mental health, homophobia, same-sex marriage referendum in Ireland, rejecting shame. 

This week I speak to bar owner, drag queen and activist, Rory O’Neill aka Panti Bliss. Originally from Ballinrobe in Mayo, Rory lives in Dublin city with his husband Anderson and their dog Penny.

We spoke in late February and at times there is an eerie poignancy to our conversation as it happened as Covid restrictions were being lifted here in Ireland, but before the invasion of Ukraine.

In this conversation we speak about his now iconic Noble call in the Abbey Theatre and the events which led to it, he speaks about the impact the pandemic had on him, the freedom his alter ego Panti gives him, how he rejects shame of any kind and how he would like to be remembered. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Topics covered : Sexual abuse, grooming, domestic violence, rape, incest, sexual assault, coercive control, manipulation, gaslighting, guilt, shame, recovery.

Charlene Masterson was subjected to horrific sexual abuse at the hands of her father, David, for over 7.5 years.

The abuse started at 18 and the details of which are truly shocking, but her ability to talk about what she went through, is remarkable.

This summer, she made the brave decision to waive her right to anonymity in the hope of helping others who find themselves in controlling, abusive situations.

Now in her early 30’s she is getting back to what she loves to do and is finding herself again.

And in this conversation we talk about so much, including the bond she has with her mother, the damage of pity and the importance of friendships.

She is a gorgeous person, inside and out and deserves all the best that life can bring her.

To support her, please consider donating here...

https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-charlene-masterson

Help is available...

https://www.rapecrisishelp.ie/

24 hour helpline 1800 77 8888

Support – Mental Health Ireland

Please share this episode if you think it might help someone.

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Topics covered : Military training, vulnerability, self-belief, resilience, family life.

Ray Goggins served in the Irish Army for 26 years, including 17 years in the Army Ranger Wing and now he spends a lot of his time working with corporate teams in his role as director of training and leadership company ‘Coreskills’.

Originally from Cork, he lives in Kildare with his wife Sinéad and their two kids, Dan who's 13 and Louisa who's 10.

In this conversation we talk about his book ‘Ranger 22’ and the recent success of hit TV show ‘Special Forces -Ultimate Hell Week’; he also shares the best advice he ever got, and he speaks about the power of staying calm, in any situation.

Book – ‘Ranger 22- Lessons from the Front’ available online and in bookshops now.

Shows – ‘Resilience- conquering your inner demons. An evening with Ray Goggins and Rory O’Connor.’

For more, go to…

https://www.aneveningwith.ie/

And if you enjoyed this conversation, please consider showing your support, it only takes a minute and I’d really appreciate it.

You can leave a rating or a little comment on Apple or you can click follow on Spotify.

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Topics covered : Miscarriage, guilt, twin pregnancy, the power of letting go.

This month marks 2 years of the podcast and my second conversation with the wonderful Rosanna Davison.

Rosie lives in Dublin with her husband Wes and their three kids, daughter Sophia and identical twin boys Hugo and Oscar.

And this episode is a natural follow on from our first conversation as she shares some of the revelations in her new book ‘When Dreams Come True’ including having another miscarriage in February 2020, just before their twin boys were conceived, and how the number 11 seems to show up whenever she goes.

I suggest listening to our first conversation from July 2020 before listening to this and the miscarriage documentary that Rosie was part of is also still available to watch online. Click here…

https://www.tg4.ie/en/player/home/?pid=6245710102001&series=S%C3%ADle+Seoige%3A+Deireadh+Tochta&genre=Faisneis

Book - ‘When Dreams Come True – The heartbreak and hope on my journey to motherhood’ is available to buy online or instore now.

And if you enjoyed this conversation, please consider showing your support, it only takes a minute and I’d really appreciate it.

You can leave a rating or a little comment on Apple or you can click follow on Spotify.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Topics covered : Self-worth, empowerment, burn out, anxiety, fear, impact of the pandemic, mindset, career change, finding purpose.

In this conversation, life coach Mark Fennell explains what life coaching is all about and he shares his back story which led him to pursue a career in coaching.

He talks about the difference between a fixed and a growth mindset, managing anxiety, changing careers and lots more.

Useful questions to ask yourself…

* What am I afraid of?

* If I wasn’t afraid, what would I do?

To contact Mark, go to…

https://markfennell.ie/

If you’re a fan of the podcast, please let me know by leaving a rating or a little comment on Apple, it only takes a minute, I promise.

You can also click follow on Spotify and share it with pals on social media, thanks a million!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Topics covered : Grief, regrets, health issues, fear of rejection, self-worth, religion, love, vulnerability, loneliness, self-sabotage, finding purpose.

This week I speak to Rugby pundit, entrepreneur, mental health advocate and author Brent Pope.

Brent has had a difficult few years, from the death of his father in 2019 and now his recent health issues he feels were brought about by a drug he was prescribed.

In this conversation he’s reflective about his regrets in life and his hopes for the future and it was an absolute honour to chat to him.

Brent’s autobiography – ‘If you really knew me’

If you enjoyed this conversation, please consider showing your support, it only takes a minute and I’d really appreciate it.

You can leave a rating or a little comment on Apple or you can click follow on Spotify.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Topics covered : The physical, mental and emotional impact of childbirth, hormones, baby blues, post-natal depression, intrusive thoughts, pelvic floor, anxiety/shame/guilt, some hospital bag essentials, body changes, hair loss, placenta encapsulation, sleep, breastfeeding/ bottle feeding/ combination feeding, new-born baby tips, SIDS.

This is the fourth and final episode in my pregnancy miniseries and it’s all about postpartum.

My guest is parenting and baby expert Claire Thompson who goes by the Instagram handle ‘The Newborn Nanny’ and she is a wealth of knowledge.

She lives in Wicklow with her husband Ben and their four kids

(Evie, Emmy, Georgie and Harry) and in this

conversation we delve into the often-unspoken world of postpartum as she takes

us from the moment your baby is born to the hours, days, weeks and months that

follow. And she gives tons of practical advice that I think will really help you

navigate those early days.

You’ll find Claire on Instagram…

https://www.instagram.com/thenewbornnanny/

Tips/things to watch out for

*none of the products/brands mentioned are sponsored/paid for

Pack a small plastic jug in your hospital bag

(the why is explained in the episode!)

Drink plenty of water/fluids

Eat plenty of fibre

Product mentioned : ‘Fybogel’ Natural Fibre Drink

Bleeding : Wear dark clothing, use dark sheets, have plenty of maternity pads at the ready.

Limit visitors – be prepared to say no thanks!

Placenta encapsulation

Cork based company that offer a professional placenta encapsulation service nationwide…

https://placentatlc.ie/

Dr. Harvey Karp’s 5 S’s

https://happiestbaby.co.uk/blogs/baby/the-5-s-s-for-soothing-babies

Muslin cloths

C shaped pregnancy/baby pillows

Baby carriers/slings

If you like this podcast, please show your support by leaving a rating or a little comment on Apple and by clicking follow on Spotify, I’d be so thankful.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Topics covered : Alopecia Universalas, positive birth story, empowerment, inequality, activism, allyship, grief, miscarriage, still birth, episiotomy, PRIDE, colonisation.

This week I speak to celebrant and director of Entheos Ireland, Karen Dempsey, also known as The Bald Priestess.

Karen lives in Dublin, with her husband Liam, their son Beineán (18), daughter Róisín (5) and their dog Milo.

In this conversation Karen talks about Alopecia Universalas; coming to terms with it and how she doesn't miss her hair at all anymore. She speaks about why she set up 'Entheos', an inclusive organisation founded to serve people outside traditional faith paths and her work as a celebrant, which she is so passionate about. She shares her extraordinary home birth experience with Róisín during the chat, her thoughts on taking part in ancient pilgrimage Lough Derg, and why activism and allyship are very important to her.

To connect with Karen go to….

Entheos | Community • Ceremony • Change

The article I mentioned during the chat…

Sile Seoige - My Lough Derg Diary: darkness before dawn | Irish Independent

If you’re a fan of what I do, please follow, rate and review in all the usual places.

And thanks, as always, for your support of Ready to be Real.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode is all about labour and childbirth and my guest is midwife and childbirth educator, Avril Flynn.

She lives in Dublin with her husband Garret, their 3 year old son Felix and their dog Finn! 

And in this conversation she takes us from that first contraction right through to that glorious cup of tea and slice toast after you give birth!

We also share our own positive birth experiences making this a valuable listen especially for first timers.

She’s honest and naturally funny and her advice is reassuring, practical and empowering.

If you enjoyed this conversation, please consider showing your support, it only takes a minute and I’d really appreciate it.

You can leave a rating or a little comment on Apple or you can click follow on Spotify.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Topics covered : Pregnancy after loss, symptoms, journaling, nesting, affirmations, birth preparation, benefits of water during labour, stepping away from fear.

In this episode we explore the third trimester of pregnancy as I speak to pregnancy and birth educator, Kitty Hackel who goes by the Instagram handle ‘Birth, Baby, Beyond’.  In this conversation she offers practical, empowering advice on the third trimester, including preparing yourself as best you can for childbirth.

Some useful resources:

Body work in pregnancy 

 https://drakechiropractic.ie/

Spinning babies

https://www.spinningbabies.com/

Hospital stats

http://www.bump2babe.ie/

Perineal massage video

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CJwY8FmnRDj/?utm_medium=copy_link

Mother Blessing…

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.mother.ly/amp/how-to-have-a-mother-blessing-2628388007

Kitty’s courses/ downloads

https://www.birth-baby-beyond.ie/courses?page=2 

And if you enjoyed this conversation, please consider showing your support, it only takes a minute and I’d really appreciate it.

You can leave a rating or a little comment on Apple or you can click follow on Spotify.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For the next 4 episodes I’ll be talking all things pregnancy with a different guest each week and today we’ll focus on the 1st and 2nd trimesters.

In this episode I speak to Lucianne Hughes, also known as ‘The Sunshine Doula’. She’s married to Chris and they have 2 girls, Daisy who’s 4 and Poppy who’s 2.

She takes us from the moment you find out you’re pregnant up to the end of the second trimester. 

We talk about the physical, mental and emotional symptoms of pregnancy, the importance of correct supplementation, what to avoid, what to do, birthing options and the choices available to you, and lots more.

Birth Trauma Recovery:

http://aimsireland.ie/birth-healing/ 

Helena Tubridy: @helenatubridy  https://helenatubridy.com/

Lorraine Lozano: @globebabydoula https://www.globebabydoula.com/ also has a Birth Trauma Recovery programme called "3 Step Rewind"

Tara Whelan: @resilientemotions https://www.resilientemotions.ie/perinatal--emotional-wellbeing/birth-trauma

Birth options in Ireland:

http://aimsireland.ie/choice-in-pregnancy-and-birth-in-ireland/ 

and

https://www2.hse.ie/wellbeing/child-health/antenatal-and-maternity-care-options/public-care.html 

Holles St:  http://www.nmh.ie/pregnancy/community-midwifery-service.13604.html 

The Coombe:  https://www.coombe.ie/domino-early-transfer-home-services

Rotunda https://rotunda.ie/knowledgebase/community-based-midwives/

Antenatal workshops:

Lou Horgan @louhorganyoga https://www.louyoga.com/

Lorraine Lozano @globebabydoula https://www.globebabydoula.com/

 - Lorraine has Exploring Birth, Exploring Breastfeeding & Exploring VBAC workshops available

Women's Health Physio - pelvic floor prep:

Elaine Barry  @elainebarryphysio  https://www.elainebarryphysio.com/

https://www.louyoga.com/

Milltown Physiotherapy: https://milltownphysiotherapy.com/we-treat/womens-health/

The Physio Company - 20 locations in Ireland: https://www.thephysiocompany.com/services/womens-health

Maternity Clothes

Leggings https://www.beautyandthebumpmaternity.com/

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Topics covered : Miscarriage, pregnancy after loss, Covid positive during pregnancy, medically induced coma, hallucinations, drug withdrawals, dramatic birth experience, post-partum. 

Originally from Donaghmede in Dublin, Laura Curtis lives in Baldoyle with her boyfriend Robbie and their new-born daughter Demi.

But the past year has been one she’ll never forget.

Having been through a miscarriage she found herself pregnant again and was so looking forward to an uncomplicated pregnancy.

But in March this year, at 20 weeks pregnant, she was diagnosed with Covid.

At 29 years of age and with no underlying health conditions, she ended up in ICU in Beaumont Hospital, in a medically induced coma for 17 days, to try and save her life and that of her unborn daughter.

It’s a remarkable story of survival and overcoming and I am so thankful to Laura for taking the time to sit down and talk to me.

If you like this podcast, please show your support by leaving a rating or a little comment on Apple and by clicking follow on Spotify, I’d be so thankful.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Topics covered : Painful sex, sex toys and products, libido, menopause and sex, shame.

This is second part of the conversation I had with Ireland’s only clinical sexologist, Emily Power Smith.

In this episode, she answers a selection of your questions that were sent in on Instagram and it starts with advice on how best to speak to our kids and teenagers about their bodies and sex.

I hope by listening to these episodes that you’ll feel a little less alone in your experience and that you find Emily’s advice helpful.

For more, you’ll find her on https://www.empowersme.com

Resources…

‘Yes Organics’ natural vaginal moisturiser and organic coconut oil.

Betty Dodson, artist, author, teacher and PhD sexologist…

https://www.dodsonandross.com/

Emily and I are joining an impressive line-up of 16 international speakers - including medical and scientific experts – for the Menopause Success Summit 2021.

It’s a 1-day virtual event which is happening on Saturday the 25th of September.

Click here for more info…

www.menopausesuccesssummit.com

I really hope you enjoyed our candid conversation about sex (a topic that I will certainly revisit), and if you like my podcast please consider showing your support, it only takes a minute and I’d really appreciate it.

You can leave a rating or a little comment on Apple or you can click follow on Spotify.

Thanks a million!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Topics covered : The damage of shame, body confidence, libido, porn, sexual trauma.

This week I speak to Ireland’s only clinical sexologist, Emily Power Smith.

We spoke about so much that I’ve decided to split the chat in two as it’s such a huge topic to cover.

In this episode, we discuss our relationship with sexuality here in Ireland, we talk about body confidence, sex drive, porn and we’ll also delve into a few of the questions that were sent in on Instagram which had a lot of common themes, I hope by listening to these episodes that you’ll feel a little less alone in your experience and that you find Emily’s advice helpful.

You’ll find her on https://www.empowersme.com

And Emily and I are joining a stellar line-up of 16 international speakers - including medical and scientific experts - at the Menopause Success Summit 2021, a 1-day virtual event on Saturday September 25th - click here for more info…

www.menopausesuccesssummit.com

If you like this podcast, please show your support by leaving a rating or a little comment on Apple and by clicking follow on Spotify, I’d be so thankful.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Topics covered : Tragic accident, trauma, grief.

This week I speak to mother, wife and nurse Geraldine Mullan.

Originally from Galway, Geraldine met John Mullan from Moville, Donegal in 2010. 2 years later they were married and lived a very happy life together with their two children Tomás and Amelia, until a devastating accident changed everything.

On the 20th of August last year, a family day out ended in a nightmare when their car crashed into Lough Foyle.

John (49), Tomás (14) and Amelia (6) tragically all lost their lives while Geraldine miraculously survived.

In this conversation she talks about how she misses them every single day, the support from her family, friends and the local community and the ‘Mullan Hope Centre’, which recently opened to honour the memory of her gorgeous family.

This was an incredibly challenging conversation for Geraldine for obvious reasons, but her strength and composure are remarkable.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Topics covered : Adoption, mental illness, self-worth.

This week I speak to comedian and radio presenter, PJ Gallagher.

PJ lives in Clontarf in Dublin with his two dogs, Wendy and Stella.

He was born in the now infamous Bessborough Mother and Baby Home in Cork, in the 70’s and went on to be adopted and grew up with his mother, father and sister in Raheny in Dublin.

When he was 27 he met his birth parents who went on to marry after he was born and also went on to have 4 more children (2 girls and 2 boys)

(They’re from Roscommon and had named him Dermot at birth)

In this conversation he talks about being adopted, his unconventional upbringing, how he’s more ‘flight than fight’ and how he struggles with feeling of self-worth.

He adores dogs, bikes, Bohemian’s football club and small talk, but isn’t a fan of hugging!

He’s hilarious and searingly honest, and this conversation is as real as it gets.

If you like this podcast, please show your support by leaving a rating or a little comment on Apple and by clicking follow on Spotify, I’d be so thankful.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Topics covered : Tragic accident, trauma, child loss, grief.

Eileen Loughlin is a wonderful person and someone I’ve wanted to speak to for a long time.

She lives in Delvin in County Westmeath with her husband Enda and their two sons, Senan who’s 16 and TJ who’s almost 9.

And over 2.5 years ago her life changed forever when their 3.5 year old daughter Annabel, died in a freak accident in their home.

Now at 22 weeks pregnant she shares how profound the grieving process is, especially with a new addition on the way; how keeping Annabel’s spirit alive is so important to her and how she feels her presence with her.

This was an extremely challenging conversation for her but I really think that she honoured Annabel’s memory beautifully.

You can follow Eileen on Instagram if you don’t already, you’ll find her @everything.eileen

Other episodes on child loss on ‘Ready to be Real’

Dr. Suzanne McClean April 2020

Ian Lawton May 2021

Irish Times article with current Taoiseach Micheál Martin on child loss…

https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/health-family/parenting/miche%C3%A1l-martin-you-will-always-say-you-have-the-kids-you-lost-1.4582225

And If you like this podcast, please show your support by leaving a rating or a little comment on Apple and by clicking follow on Spotify, I’d be so thankful.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Topics covered : Long Covid, breathwork, freediving, mental illness, therapy, self-limiting beliefs, reinvention and overcoming.

This week I speak to champion freediver Claire Walsh.

Originally from Leixlip, she currently lives in Bray with her partner Boudy and she’s been freediving for 6 years now.

She’s competitive and driven, but there’s also a beautiful gentleness about her that allows her to connect to her breath and to the water and achieve what she has already, which is incredible.

She can hold her breath underwater for an impressive 5 minutes 59 seconds and she can dive to 59 meters on one breath alone.

A fan of therapy and regular self-care habits like sea swimming, mindfulness and meditation, this is a fascinating listen as she covers so much from her love and respect of the water from an early age, to struggling with her mental health in her 20’s, and she also talks about her other passions in life; music, drama and performance.

I was hanging onto her every word and I think you will too.

Reference -

Movie ‘Le Grand Bleu/The Big Blue’

* Claire is sponsored by Timewise Systems

If you like my podcast, please show your support by leaving a rating or a little comment on Apple and by clicking follow on Spotify, I’d be so thankful.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Topics covered : Fibre, relaxation, routine, sleep, gut-brain axis, impact of stress, IBS, microbiome, biotics.

Registered dietitian Lorraine Cooney has just released her book ‘Why you can’t go and what you can do to find life changing relief from constipation’ and this conversation is all about that!

She talks about the importance of fibre, relaxation and routine when it comes to a healthy digestive system.

Why supporting our microbiome is crucial and the differences between pro, pre and post biotics.

I learnt a lot listening to Lorraine and I feel that my own habits have improved since we spoke.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Topics covered : Pregnancy, wedding during Covid restrictions, meningitis, Pride celebrations.

This week I speak to brother and sister, James Patrice and Vanessa Butler.

James is a TV presenter, performer and social media sensation and Vanessa is a classically trained singer, music teacher and has grown her own following on Instagram in recent times too.

Proudly from Malahide, they have always been close, and in this conversation we learn things like 'what their favourite food is', 'who the biggest Diva is' and how their mother Fron, got her name.

But we also discuss the damage of making assumptions about people or situations, a major health scare that shook the whole family when James was only 10, the recent Pride celebrations and how Vanessa is having an uber productive 2021; marrying in a pandemic and being 20 weeks pregnant.

They’re utterly charming and it was a complete tonic to be in their company.

Check out James’ new TV show ’Battle of the Food Trucks’ on the RTE Player now and make sure you follow them both on Instagram, if you don’t already!

And If you like this podcast, please show your support by leaving a rating or a little comment on Apple and by clicking follow on Spotify, I’d be so thankful.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Topics covered : Suicide, grief.

This week I speak to counsellor and psychotherapist Peter Mahony who gives us a deeper insight into therapy; what it is and how we can benefit from it. We talk about the impact the pandemic has had on us and how important it is to mind ourselves and others, as we recover from the past year.

There’s a particular focus on teens and those in their early twenties in this episode. We also tap into self-worth, family dynamics, how friendships have changed during Covid and he also gives practical parenting advice and shares tips on how to be a better friend to someone who needs support.

Book mention…

‘What happened to you? Conversations on Trauma, Resilience and Healing’ by Bruce D. Perry and Oprah Winfrey

To contact Peter, you’ll find him here…

https://www.byyoursidetherapy.com/

And for a full list of all accredited IACP Counsellors/Psychotherapists in Ireland, go to...

https://www.iacp.ie/

If you like my podcast, please show your support by leaving a rating or a little comment on Apple and by clicking follow on Spotify, I’d be so thankful.

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Trigger warning : Fertility, miscarriage, cancer, hysterectomy, IVF, surrogacy.

This week I speak to Dublin woman Audrey O’Hagan who’s married to Dave and their son Hugh is almost a year and a half.

She’s in her thirties and works as a communications officer with Dublin Airport, a job she loves and in this episode, she lets us in on the past four years of her life that have had their fair share of ups and downs. And even though the conversation is deeply emotional and challenging at times, it’s also an uplifting listen too.

Follow Audrey on Instagram…

https://www.instagram.com/audge3000/?hl=en

If you’re concerned about any health issue or if you haven’t had a check-up in a while, perhaps listening to Audrey will encourage you to call your GP or make that appointment you’ve been putting off, or to reach out and ask for help if you’re struggling.

It really is so important to look after ourselves and if you need to talk to someone the Irish Cancer Society have a helpline open 9-5pm Monday to Friday 

Call and speak to a Nurse on the Cancer Nurseline on

FREEPHONE 1800 200 700 

Visit www.cancer.ie 

Or email cancernurseline@irishcancer.ie 

And if you like this podcast, please show your support by leaving a rating or a little comment on Apple and by clicking follow on Spotify, I’d be so thankful

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger warning : Disordered eating.

This week I speak to Aoife O’Brien about life with and after an eating disorder.

Originally from County Clare, Aoife now lives in Mayo with her fiancé Damian and their son Liam, who’s nearly 2. She works with the GAA/ Croke Park co-ordinating the Healthy Clubs project which promotes health and wellbeing within clubs.

But for years she was controlled by an eating disorder which went unnoticed for a long time. Now having fully recovered she is passionate about getting the message out that life after disordered eating, is very much possible.

In this conversation, we discuss diet culture, the signs of eating distress and how best to address it.

Podcast mention…

The Marino Therapy Centre

https://www.marinotherapycentre.com/

Helpful questions for journaling…

1. What did I do well today?

2. What did I learn?

3. What would I do differently?

Thanks to Ranae and Jacqueline for helping set up this conversation and of course to Aoife for all the effort she put in, to make it happen.

If you like this podcast, please show your support by leaving a rating or a little comment on Apple and by clicking follow on Spotify, thank you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger warning : Disordered eating, depression.

This week I speak to former model and media personality, Holly Carpenter.

She lives in Stoneybatter in Dublin with her dog Max, and has been in a relationship since October, but over the past 14 months she has had many ups and downs and she’s been very honest about her struggles with her mental health and the impact the pandemic had on her overall wellbeing.

She’s genuine, sensitive and naturally funny and in this candid conversation she talks about the years she spent modelling, competing at the ‘Miss World pageant’, taking part in ‘Britain’s Next Top Model’ and the toll it took on her, she also talks about the damage of toxic positivity, being separated from her parents for over a year, dating in a pandemic, her new found love of sea swimming and how she’s not a fan of the ‘5 year plan!’.

If you like this podcast, please show your support by leaving a rating or a little comment on Apple and by clicking follow on Spotify, thank you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger warning : Infant loss, grief, depression, disordered eating, weight loss.

This week I speak to father and ultra marathon runner, Ian Lawton.

He lives in Navan in County Meath, is married to Jennifer, and is the father of two sons, Ike who’s 12 and Hank who passed away 10 years ago, the day after he was born.

In this conversation he gives us a profound insight into infant loss, and the pain of a bereaved father. Not alone does he speak about loss and grief but also about rebirth and moving forward with a newfound purpose.

In a year, he went from being morbidly obese to becoming an extreme runner, which lead to him running 10 marathons in 10 days finishing on what would’ve been Hank’s 10th birthday, this February.

This September he turns 50, an age he wasn’t expected to live to see, and he’ll mark it by embracing the challenge of the 'Kerry Way Ultra', running the gruelling 200 kilometres through mountain passes, bogs, roads and trails.

This was a deeply emotional and challenging conversation for him and I commend his rawness and willingness to be real.

If you’d like to support Ian’s fundraiser, simply click on this link… https://www.gofundme.com/f/10TEN10 and his website is www.runningforhank.com

If you like this podcast, please show your support by leaving a rating or a little comment on Apple and by clicking follow on Spotify, I’d be so thankful.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger warning : Tragic death, complex grief, severe injuries, PTSD.

This is my conversation with the incredible Zoe Holohan.

On the 23rd of July 2018, Zoe and her husband Brian were on their honeymoon when disaster struck. Wildfires swept through the seaside town of Mati in Greece where they were staying and claimed the lives of 102 people. She miraculously survived despite her extensive injuries, while Brian, unfortunately didn’t.

In this conversation we hear how she and Brian met, what a wonderful man he was, their beautiful wedding day and how her life changed forever just a few days later, on their honeymoon.

She also speaks about her Dad and the close friendship they had, and how his death 3 weeks after that terrible day in Greece was yet another trauma to have to come to terms with.

This was by far one of the most moving conversations I’ve ever had, and I am in awe of Zoe’s courage, strength and resilience.

Her book :

‘As the smoke clears : The inspirational true story of surviving Greece’s deadly wildfires, overcoming devastating loss and discovering a path to renewal.’

If you enjoyed this chat please show your support by leaving a rating or a little comment on Apple and by clicking follow on Spotify, I’d be so thankful.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger warning : Postnatal depression, anxiety, sudden death, grief.

This week I speak to entrepreneur and mother, Sharon Keegan.

She lives in Dublin with her partner Seán and their two boys, Liam who’s 5 and Bob who’s 2.

As the founder of female empowerment clothing brand ‘Peachylean’, Shar’s USP is ‘being real’ so obviously she was the dream guest for this podcast.

Last December we sat down to have a chat and it was powerful.

2020 was a year with some wonderful highs but also some terrible lows for her.

She fulfilled a personal dream when she took part in the BBC’s Dragons Den securing the support of 3 Dragon’s, and someone who was really excited for her was her brother Alan who she was incredibly close to.

Unfortunately though, he was gone before it happened. In March 2020, he died suddenly, devastating her and the entire family.

Sharon is someone I admire massively, she’s not afraid to be vulnerable, and believes in taking chances.

In this conversation she talks about Alan and the pain his death has caused, the whirlwind of Dragon’s Den, the significance of certain numbers, and recognising signs, the benefits of movement and therapy, being body confident and the importance of silencing your inner critic.

Book mention :

The Celestine Prophecy by James Redfield

Catch Sharon's episode of Dragon's Den from the 29th April 2021 (Series 18, Episode 5) here...

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m000vm01/dragons-den-series-18-episode-5

If you enjoyed this chat please show your support by leaving a rating or a little comment on Apple and by clicking follow on Spotify, I’d be so thankful.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger warning : Multiple rounds of IVF, miscarriage.

Denise Phillips lives in Newbridge, Co. Kildare with her husband Mark, their 6 year old daughter Beth and she’s also step mother to 16 year old Ellie.

She’s hugely successful in her career as the owner of Pelo hairdressing and the co-owner of Irish hair brand Voduz and last week she got the surprise of her life when she found out she was over 6 months pregnant!

For the past 10 years, she had lived with unexplained infertility, no periods, no ovulation and the lining of her womb was very thin.

On their 9th cycle of IVF she went on to have their little girl and when Beth was a baby, she also took part in TV documentary ‘The Babymakers’, which followed the lives of couples for over a year, who were trying to conceive and showed the reality of IVF.

This was one of my favourite chats ever on the podcast, it’s full of wisdom and practical advice, especially for those who are navigating the often-challenging road to parenthood. She speaks about acceptance and gratitude and the importance of staying in your own lane.

And when we spoke on Tuesday when she had just come from all her pregnancy appointments in the Coombe hospital, where she found out she was almost 29 weeks pregnant!

Book mentions:

Deepak Chopra’s The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success

Vishen Lakhiani’s The Code of the Extraordinary Mind

If you enjoyed this chat please show your support by leaving a rating or a little comment on Apple and by clicking follow on Spotify, I’d be so thankful.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Topics covered : Palestine, Sinéad O’Connor, patriarchy, patriarchal feminine, family dynamics, wellness industry, grief, activism, midlife, decolonisation, liberation for all.

This week I speak to author and teacher, Sarah Durham Wilson, known on Instagram as Sarah of Magdalene.

She lives in Maine with her young daughter Avalon, her cat Odin and dog Riley.

She previously worked as an Arts and music writer with the likes of Rolling Stone, GQ and Vanity Fair.

And in this conversation she talks about Palestine and the impact the devastation in Gaza has had on her, the patriarchy, patriarchal women, the wellness industry and the importance of decolonisation.

This conversation helped me enormously and I think it could for you too.

Books :

‘Maiden to Mother’ by Sarah Durham Wilson

‘The Great Cosmic Mother’ by Monica Sjöö and Barbara Mor

‘God is a Black Woman’ by Christena Cleveland

If you like this conversation, other episodes to listen to…

Ruth Smith : Love and Justice

Daniel Mate : Dismantling blindspots

Dr Myriam François : Speaking truth to power

Caoimhe Butterly : Collective Care

Róisín El Cherif : Palestinian pride

Alana Kirk : Midlife coach

Holly Cairns : Politics is Personal

If you’re a fan of what I do, please follow, rate and review in all the usual places.

And thanks, as always, for your support of Ready to be Real.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Topics covered : Politics, Gaza, threat of the Far-right, people power.

This week I speak to farmer, scientist, feminist and leader of the Social Democrats, Holly Cairns.

She lives in West Cork on her family farm with her partner Barry, her dog Hei Hei and her cat Blaze.

And in this conversation she talks about growing up in a blended family, her bond with her mother, how she got into politics, her stance on the devastating situation in Gaza, the threat of the Far-right and the importance of unity, now, more than ever.

I have wanted to sit down and chat to Holly for a very long time as she's someone I really admire so I am delighted that we made it happen.

We met in 2019 for the first time and I liked her instantly.

She was genuine, down to earth and great company and I for one, am so glad that she decided to venture into politics, as her voice is so badly needed in the Dáil.

​Political quiz

2024 Political Quiz (isidewith.com)

checktheregister.ie

If you’re a fan of what I do, please follow, rate and review in all the usual places.

And thanks, as always, for your support of Ready to be Real.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.