The Laura Dowling Experience

🎧 Episode DescriptionIn this powerful and deeply human conversation, Miriam O’Callaghan opens up about the defining moments that shaped her life — from navigating high-pressure live television, to facing unimaginable personal loss, to raising eight children while working in the public eye.Miriam speaks candidly about the ups and downs of her pregnancies and births, the chaos of live political debates, grief, resilience, menopause, and what it’s really like to live so much of her life under intense public scrutiny. She shares the heartbreaking story of losing her sister and father within weeks of each other, her legal fight against an online scam using her name, and the grounding philosophies that have kept her centred through it all.This episode is raw, emotional and filled with wisdom — a rare look at one of Ireland’s most beloved broadcasters, beyond the headlines and beyond the studio lights.🔑 Key PointsWriting a memoir after 20 years of hesitationWhy Miriam avoided writing her book, the emotional weight of telling her own story, and what finally pushed her to begin.The pressure and chaos of live TVBehind the scenes of major political debates, on-air confrontations, and the mental load of broadcasting to millions.The year everything changedLosing her sister at 33, losing her father shortly after, and how grief reshaped her perspective on life and motherhood.Fertility struggles, pregnancy trauma & raising eight childrenCandid reflections on secondary infertility, complex pregnancies, motherhood, and letting go of perfection.Menopause, HRT & women’s healthWhy she advocates openly for hormone therapy, vaginal oestrogen, and breaking the silence around women’s health.The Facebook “face-cream” scamHow scammers used her name for years, how it affected her family, and what happened when she took Facebook to court — and won.Gratitude, grounding & implacable courtesyThe philosophies that guide her relationships and keep her anchored through chaos.📚 Mentioned in this Episode• Life, Work, Everything — Miriam’s memoir (print & audiobook)• Paul Read — the solicitor who represented Miriam in her Facebook/Meta scam case• Holles Street Maternity Hospital & The Coombe• Prof. Caher & Dr. Colm (Miriam’s obstetricians)• Evorel Conti Patch & Vagifem (HRT mentioned)• John Hume, Pantibliss (Rory O’Neill), Leo Varadkar, Tommy Tiernan, Roy Keane• Ireland’s Marriage Equality referendum & key cultural moments• “Implacable courtesy” — Seamus Heaney’s advice⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Introduction & Miriam’s Early Career06:50 – The Loss of Her Sister & Father12:30 – Navigating Motherhood & Raising Eight Children16:45 – Pregnancy Complications & Birth Stories22:10 – Handling Pressure in Live Broadcasting27:55 – The Haemorrhage During Pregnancy34:40 – Surviving Public Scrutiny & Balancing Family38:10 – The Facebook Scam & Taking Meta to Court43:30 – Gratitude, Faith & Daily Grounding Rituals48:20 – Reflections on Resilience & What Truly MattersThanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

📝 Episode Description:In this fascinating and refreshingly honest conversation, Laura Dowling sits down with physiotherapist Siobhan O'Donovan, better known as The Boobie Physio, to unpack the hidden physical and emotional impact of breast weight on women’s lives.From posture and pain to sport, confidence, and hormonal changes, Siobhan reveals why so many women — regardless of cup size — are living with discomfort that’s completely preventable. She explains the science behind breast support, the myths around bra sizing, and how simple changes in alignment can boost everything from performance to self-esteem.This episode is part education, part revelation — and it might just change how you think about your body forever.⏱️ Key Points & Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Who is The Booby Physio?02:00 – Why posture still matters (and how gravity works against us)06:00 – Bone health, hormones, and how movement can prevent osteoporosis09:00 – The hidden weight women carry: breast movement in three planes13:00 – How breast pain and embarrassment push teenage girls out of sport17:00 – The psychology of confidence and body awareness23:00 – Why so many women are wearing the wrong bra size29:00 – How outdated measuring methods are still being used35:00 – The physics of breast support: posture, shape, and comfort43:00 – How to actually fit a bra properly — and why black ones feel tighter49:00 – Caring for your bras: resting elastic, avoiding fabric softener55:00 – Asymmetry, teabag tits, and why most lingerie models are wrong1:00:00 – Why wired bras aren’t the enemy1:05:00 – The link between back pain, confidence, and breast support1:10:00 – How the right bra can literally improve your performance1:15:00 – Final takeaways: lifting women up — physically and emotionally💡 Actionable Tips:Reassess your posture daily — small adjustments make a big difference.Get properly fitted for a bra (and don’t add those extra inches!).Rotate your bras to let the elastic recover and last longer.Think of breast support as part of overall musculoskeletal health.Educate daughters, nieces, and teens early — prevention starts young.Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Deirdre O’Kane joins Laura for a funny, honest and wide-ranging conversation about what it was really like being one of the few women in stand-up when she started out.She talks about the early days of breaking through in a male-dominated industry, finding her own voice, the reality of long-term relationships, raising kids in the age of WhatsApp chaos, and using humour to get through tough times.This is a brilliant mix of personal stories, cultural insight and big laughs.🕒  Timestamps & Key Points00:00 — Pre-chat & setup: A warm, relaxed start as Laura and Deirdre banter about microphones, lighting, and jawlines.04:00 — Wild beginnings: Boarding school, being part of “the bold gang,” and discovering performance through impersonating teachers and nuns.06:00 — Acting vs. stand-up: Early love-hate relationship with stand-up and what made it so tough starting out.08:20 — Women in comedy: Audience groans, breaking barriers, and how social media helped shift the landscape.11:00 — Self-censorship: Why she avoided certain topics early on — and how that’s changed.14:00 — Touring life: What it’s really like on the road as a comic, from long drives to late nights.17:00 — Irish vs. UK audiences: How humour translates across borders and why Irish audiences are special.20:00 — Long-term relationships: Honest reflections on discomfort, denial, and doing the work over decades together.23:00 — Expectations in love: Balancing domestic reality with romantic ideals — and keeping individuality.27:30 — The Magdalene Laundries bit: Taking on a taboo topic and walking a fine line between darkness and humour.30:00 — Phone bans and stand-up: How comics protect their material from leaking online.33:00 — Comedy as a lifeline: How stand-up kept her family afloat when her husband was ill.36:00 — Motherhood & identity: Returning to stand-up after kids and why motherhood fuelled her next show.43:00 — Modern motherhood rant: Emails, WhatsApp groups, class reps, and why it’s all too much.48:00 — Quick fire: Worst gig ever, sharing the stage, favourite punchlines, and industry reflections.53:00 — Politics & culture: A candid take on the current Irish political climate and cultural shifts.🧠 Key ThemesWomen in comedy & gender barriersFinding your comedic voiceLong-term relationships & emotional honestyModern motherhood and social pressuresComedy as both art and survivalCultural change in Ireland & beyond🪄 Actionable TakeawaysCourage comes with craft — pushing boundaries can create powerful cultural moments.Honesty in relationships matters — even the uncomfortable parts.Women’s voices in comedy are no longer the exception.Modern motherhood comes with too many expectations — and laughter helps cut through the noise.Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

📝 Episode DescriptionIn this powerful episode of The Laura Dowling Experience, Laura sits down with advanced nurse practitioner and child psychotherapist Deirdre Mellet to unpack what’s really going on for teenagers today.From self-harm and emotional dysregulation to ADHD, anxiety, and the pressure of living in an overwhelming world, Dearbhla brings deep professional insight — and a lot of heart — to the conversation.This episode is essential listening for parents, caregivers, teachers, and anyone who wants to better understand and support young people.🧠 Key PointsWhy there’s no such thing as “normal” in mental healthWhy teens are feeling increasingly lost and overwhelmedUnderstanding self-harm and emotional dysregulationHow to help teens regulate their emotionsADHD medication: what parents should knowThe impact of global stress and social media on teen mental healthHow to find qualified therapists and build trust with young people🛠️ Actionable TipsLead with empathy, not solutions — acknowledge feelings before fixing.Watch for triggers and early signs of overwhelm in teens.Use metaphor (like “being a lighthouse”) to reframe parenting approaches.Explore practical supports such as Jigsaw, CAMHS, and occupational therapy.Prioritise finding the right therapist, not just the first available one.🕛 Timestamps00:00 — “There’s no such thing as normal” — Why we need to rethink mental health02:05 — Why so many young people are struggling today03:30 — Understanding self-harm and emotional overwhelm05:45 — Getting into CAMHS: criteria, challenges & real experiences08:00 — Girls vs boys: how ADHD can present differently10:00 — What anxiety really feels like for young people12:00 — Accessing services: what parents can do while waiting for support13:45 — How to teach emotional regulation (and why “fixing” doesn’t work)17:00 — What’s really behind teen anger and emotional outbursts23:00 — “Be the lighthouse, not the anchor” — A powerful parenting metaphor29:00 — Why ADHD medication isn’t a quick fix (finding the sweet spot)36:00 — Tools like ear loops & OT support that can make a difference40:00 — Motivation struggles in teens with ADD/ADHD42:00 — How to respond if your child shares or writes about dark thoughts44:00 — The emotional weight of the world on young people47:00 — How to find a qualified therapist you can trust50:00 — Why therapist fit matters more than people think53:00 — Misconceptions around “lack of empathy” in young people55:00 — Sextortion & online risks: what parents need to know58:00 — Final reflections: why connection is everythingThanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this podcast episode, host Laura Dowling interviews Andrew Dunne, a former professional rugby player turned physiotherapist and founder of a clinic in Rathmines, Dublin. Andy discusses his transition from rugby to physiotherapy, driven by his own injury experiences and a pivotal conversation with a team doctor. He shares insights into his clinic's work, which focuses on helping patients, particularly those with cancer and other serious health conditions, improve their quality of life through tailored exercise regimens and lifestyle changes. They also explore the broader healthcare system's challenges, the importance of attitude and connection in life, and the need for a holistic approach to patient care.Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:19 From Rugby to Physiotherapy: Andy's Journey01:21 Dealing with Injuries and Rehabilitation02:47 Life After Rugby: Personal Reflections07:08 Challenges in the Healthcare System11:56 The Importance of Lifestyle Medicine32:44 Exercise as a Standard of Cancer Care36:14 Addressing Lifestyle in Cancer Treatment36:45 Baseline Assessment and Fitness Trials39:32 Understanding VO2 Max and Fitness Measurement41:09 The Importance of Compassion in Healthcare42:18 Role of Occupational Therapy44:15 Health Coaching and Sustainable Change46:26 Heart Rate Zones and Exercise Prescription52:10 Challenges in Managing a Healthcare Clinic55:15 Increasing Cancer Diagnoses in Younger Populations57:50 Exercise and Neuroplasticity in Parkinson's01:00:13 Sexual Dysfunction and Quality of Life01:01:24 The Paving Wheel: A Tool for Wellness01:03:25 Clinic Information and Social Media Presence01:05:07 Advice for Young People and the Meaning of LifeThanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Eileen shares her powerful story of overcoming a challenging upbringing in Ballymun, Dublin, during the heroin epidemic of the 1980s and 90s. She discusses her 14-year struggle with drug addiction, her journey to recovery, and how she found solace and a new path in hairdressing. Eileen is now the founder of 'Hair Together,' an award-winning social enterprise that teaches hairdressing and barbering with integrated personal development and well-being programs to young people from challenging backgrounds and women exiting the prison service. Eileen talks about the impact of her programs, the importance of community and support, and her ongoing mission to help the next generation. She also touches on the challenges of running a social enterprise and her hopes for further expansion and community support.Timestamps00:00 – Opening Poem & Introduction00:38 – Meeting at the PWC Women in Business Awards00:48 – Eileen’s Work: Hair Together & Social Enterprise01:21 – Focus on Young People & Women Exiting Prison02:01 – Eileen’s Background: Growing Up in Ballymun02:25 – Struggles with Addiction & Finding Hairdressing03:47 – Recovery, Fashion Weeks, and Giving Back04:50 – Starting Hair Together: The Early Days06:09 – How the Program Works & Impact08:41 – Staying Connected with Graduates10:15 – Opening the New Salon & Academy12:14 – Age Range & Types of Participants13:12 – The Impact on Young People’s Lives15:54 – Social Enterprise Model & Funding18:39 – Eileen’s Childhood & First Experiences with Drugs24:25 – Selling Drugs & Addiction Deepens31:35 – Family Intervention & Going to Greece34:00 – Detox, Rehab, and Recovery Journey41:14 – Life After Rehab: Moving to Waterford44:07 – Motherhood, Relapse, and Final Recovery48:41 – Mental Health, Therapy, and Spirituality54:46 – Advice for Young People55:53 – The Meaning of Life & Closing ThoughtsThanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this engaging podcast episode, Miriam Hussey, a former pharmacist who transitioned from traditional pharmacy to holistic health, discusses her transformative journey. Miriam shares her 'aha moment' that led her to realise that true health goes beyond prescriptions and requires addressing lifestyle and preventative measures.Highlighting the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and soul, Miriam elaborates on the concept of dis-ease, emphasising the need to look beyond mere symptoms to find the root causes of health issues. She outlines her approach through key pillars: physical health, mental well-being, and soul nourishment. She also offers insights into overcoming emotional eating, achieving balance in modern life, and the importance of self-love and care.This episode underscores the necessity of holistic wellness in achieving a balanced, fulfilling life, and it encourages listeners to make meaningful changes to align with their true selves.Timestamps04:00 Introduction to Miriam Hussy's Journey04:35 The Aha Moment: Realising the Need for Change05:51 The Concept of Dis-ease and Its Roots07:59 Exploring the Three Pillars of Wellness09:20 The Importance of the Soul in Modern Wellness13:19 Personal Struggles and Overcoming Challenges14:14 The Impact of Early Life Experiences16:31 The Role of Energy and Ancestral Trauma17:48 Navigating Life's Difficult Decisions18:59 The Butterfly Analogy: Embracing Transformation19:47 The Power of Listening to Your Soul21:57 Balancing Practicality and Passion24:17 The Interconnectedness of Mind, Body, and Soul35:40 Finding Joy and Regulating Your Nervous System36:20 Choosing Your Path: Following Your Passion37:11 Understanding Emotional Eating39:22 The Vicious Cycle of Overeating44:32 Healing Through Mirror Work48:25 Balancing Primary and Secondary Foods01:04:32 Advice for Young People: Staying True to Yourself01:06:30 The Meaning of Life: Joy and PeaceThanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Laura Dowling Experience, Matt Kaeberlein, a global leader in ageing science, discusses his mission to help people and animals live longer and healthier lives by modifying the biological mechanisms of ageing. Matt, CEO of Optisan, a healthcare technology company, talks about his transition from academia to entrepreneurship and highlights the importance of lifestyle factors—nutrition, exercise, sleep, and social connection—in maximising health span. The conversation explores emerging approaches to longevity, including hormone therapy, therapeutic plasma exchange, and the use of drugs such as rapamycin and SGLT2 inhibitors. Matt shares personal experiences with ageing-related health strategies and offers valuable insights into the role of love and altruism in achieving a fulfilling life.Timestamps02:48 – Introduction: Meet Matt Kaeberlein, global leader in ageing science03:13 – What does Matt Kaeberlein do? Biological mechanisms of ageing04:40 – The concept of health span vs. lifespan06:55 – Four pillars of health span: Eat, Move, Sleep, Connect09:04 – The importance of human and animal connection11:06 – Beyond lifestyle: Hormones and health span16:06 – Menopause, HRT, and women’s health24:55 – Testosterone therapy for men: Risks and benefits31:35 – Alcohol, lifestyle, and longevity34:34 – Environmental exposures: Heavy metals, microplastics, and health39:44 – Therapeutic plasma exchange and ageing research47:09 – Rapamycin: The science, trials, and potential for longevity59:46 – Diet, fasting, and inflammation: What Matt Kaeberlein eats1:07:32 – Continuous glucose monitoring and behaviour change1:14:07 – SGLT2 inhibitors and other promising drugs1:19:07 – Final advice: Choose love, not fear; the meaning of lifeThanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Laura welcomes Melissah, whose daughter Evie has Down Syndrome. Melissa shares her personal journey from pregnancy and the unexpected postnatal Down Syndrome diagnosis, to raising Evie and balancing life as a mother of three. The conversation highlights the importance of awareness and education about Down Syndrome, including Melissah's efforts through the annual Purple Run fundraiser. The discussion covers various aspects of Evie's life, from her rapid birth and initial health challenges to her school experience and relationship with her sisters. Melissa also discusses societal perceptions, the importance of inclusive language, and her hopes for Evie's future. Listeners are encouraged to support the Purple Run and Down Syndrome Ireland, organisations that have played a significant role in Melissah's journey.Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Melissa03:24 Discussing Down Syndrome Awareness and Fundraiser04:59 Melissa’s Journey to Motherhood05:40 Evie’s Birth and Diagnosis09:48 Adjusting to Life with Down Syndrome12:14 Evie’s Development and Family Dynamics15:10 Navigating Education and Services21:07 Language Sensitivity and Advocacy24:03 Challenges and Triumphs of Parenting a Child with Down Syndrome25:06 Community Support and Public Perception26:25 Future Concerns and Independence27:20 Educational Talks and Menopause Awareness32:14 Fundraising and Support Services35:08 Daily Life and Personal Stories42:17 Final Thoughts and AdviceThanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Keith Walsh is a broadcaster, writer, actor and mental heath advocate. We discuss how he self medicated with drugs, alcohol, exercise and food restriction until a diagnosis in his late forties of ADHD and autism.We chat about his childhood trauma his mental health struggles and advocacy and how he is ok with having no friends.This is a podcast for anyone who has ADHD or suspects that they or a loved one has ADHD. It is a podcast that shows you there is hope and light and love for us all. This is a podcast for anyone who is searching for something, but are unsure what that something is.Keith has an upcoming show, Kinda Mental on Saturday April 22nd 2023 in the Whale theatre in Greystones. You should check it out!The Laura Dowling Experience is brought to you by fabÜ R&R RELAX. A unique formulation of premium grade botanicals- ashwagandha, L-theanine from green tea, chamomile and melissa. These were blended together with magnesium and B vitamins for a less stressful day and a more restful sleep. Non-sedating and non-addictive. Read the reviews on www.fabuwellness.com. Available on www.fabuwellness.com and pharmacies and healthfood stores nationwide.Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations.Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I’m taking a two-week break from the podcast to complete my new book, 'Love Your Vulva', and its audiobook, which will be released on September 23rd. In the meantime, explore the podcast archives with 133 episodes on topics like menopause, ADHD, sexual wellness, cardiology, physiotherapy, and more. For new listeners, I encourage you to start from the beginning to catch some great episodes. I'll be back with a new episode on September 11th. Stay fabulous!Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Adam Harris, an influential autism advocate from Ireland, shares his personal journey from childhood through to establishing the organisation 'As I Am'. The discussion touches on his early life, the challenges he faced as a child with autism, his education experience, and the development of his advocacy to promote autism awareness and inclusion. Adam highlights the significant progress made in Ireland, the ongoing need for better support and services, and the various societal and personal challenges faced by autistic individuals and their families. He also talks about the impact of autism on family life, the intersectionality of being autistic and LGBTQ+, and the importance of continued advocacy and education in ensuring equality and acceptance for autistic people.Find all the information on the upcoming Autism Europe International Congress, taking place in Dublin from 11th-13th September 2025, here: https://autismcongress2025.org/Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Welcoming03:36 Early Childhood and Autism Diagnosis04:58 Challenges in School and Social Life06:51 Transition to Mainstream Education09:16 Adolescence and Self-Advocacy11:48 Founding 'As I Am' and Advocacy Work13:44 Progress and Challenges in Autism Awareness15:24 Autism Friendly Communities21:19 The Importance of Data and Diagnosis26:33 Support for Non-Verbal Autistic Individuals28:39 Resources and Future Plans29:14 Funding Challenges and Community Support30:08 Addressing Misinformation About Autism30:43 Public Attitudes and International Perspectives34:43 Mental Health and Autism35:57 Structural Discrimination in Healthcare39:24 Personal Experiences with Autism41:27 Financial Strain on Families43:43 Supporting Autistic Families and Friends44:59 Assessment and Diagnosis of Autism46:01 Debunking Myths About Autism47:58 Genetics and Autism48:31 Intersectionality: Autism and LGBTQ+51:17 Corporate Support and Advocacy53:07 Upcoming Autism Europe Congress54:12 Final Thoughts and AdviceThanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Description:In this inspiring episode, Nicola shares her personal journey from being an anxious child and teacher to becoming a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) therapist. She explains the core principles of CBT and how it can help with anxiety, stress, low mood, menopause symptoms, parenting challenges, and more.Nicola also discusses the power of self-compassion, mindfulness, and resilience, offering practical tips you can apply to everyday life. Whether you’re managing daily stressors, navigating parenting, or seeking strategies for better mental health, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you lead a healthier, more balanced life.Key Topics:Understanding CBT and its real-life benefitsManaging anxiety, stress, and low moodCBT strategies for menopause symptomsParenting tips, including parent-led CBT for childrenResilience, self-care, and mindfulness techniquesTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction and Welcoming Nicola00:06 – Understanding CBT: Basics and Personal Experiences02:18 – From Teacher to Therapist: Nicola’s Journey06:00 – CBT Applications: Anxiety, Parenting, and More06:37 – CBT for Menopause: Managing Symptoms and Strategies09:13 – Techniques for Brain Health and Cognitive Function12:33 – Practical CBT Techniques for Everyday Challenges22:20 – Managing Sleep and Pain with CBT34:57 – Addressing Libido and Relationship Dynamics38:04 – Balancing Life’s Demands38:50 – The Importance of Self-Care39:52 – Navigating Relationships and Communication43:48 – Understanding CBT and Low Mood50:56 – Parent-Led CBT for Children57:17 – Addressing Bullying and Anxiety in Children01:09:38 – Building Resilience and Authenticity01:14:37 – Final Thoughts and AdviceThanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when grief collides with a broken mental health system? In this raw and powerful conversation, Mary Ann Kenny shares the devastating journey that began when her husband died suddenly, leaving her alone with two young children. What followed was unimaginable - a psychotic episode triggered by medication side effects that led to her hospitalisation and a harrowing fight to keep her children.Mary Ann reveals with striking clarity how a single "false confession" made under duress transformed her from grieving mother to perceived threat, resulting in her children being placed on an at-risk register until adulthood. Her account of being questioned by teams of professionals without therapeutic support, experiencing severe physical suffering that went untreated, and fighting to reclaim her identity as a mother challenges everything we believe about mental healthcare.What makes this conversation extraordinary is Mary Ann's ability to articulate her experience of psychosis from the inside - the delusional conviction of guilt she developed, her eventual recovery, and her painstaking work to understand what happened by obtaining her medical records. Beyond the trauma, this is ultimately a story of incredible resilience, as Marianne not only recovered but transformed her experience into her memoir "The Episode."This discussion goes far beyond a personal story to expose critical gaps in mental healthcare and question how we support those experiencing psychosis. For anyone who has faced mental health challenges, supported someone through crisis, or simply believes in more compassionate care, Marianne's journey offers profound insights into the human capacity to shatter and rebuild. Her voice speaks not just for herself, but for countless others who haven't found the words to tell their stories.Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Journalist and beauty editor Edwina Ings-Chambers shares her refreshingly honest take on body image and the concept of body ownership rather than confidence. She opens up about feeling she's never had full agency over her body, even when slim, and how menopause has brought both new challenges and unexpected freedom.Key Points:Why Edwina rejects “body neutrality” in favour of body ownershipGrowing up with a critical, image-focused motherEmotional eating vs exercise as coping strategiesMenopause changes: loss of body familiarity but newfound freedomWorking in fashion while battling body image issuesA lifelong love of vintage fashion and old Hollywood glamourCareer highlights at The Financial Times and beyondThanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us a textCancer has overtaken cardiovascular disease as the leading cause of death in Ireland, yet our mortality rates are falling faster than anywhere else in Europe. What's driving this paradox? Professor Deirdre Murray, Director of the National Cancer Registry of Ireland, pulls back the curtain on how cancer data is transforming healthcare in this country.Every year, the Registry captures data on approximately 24,000 new invasive cancer cases, plus 11,000 skin cancers. While this might sound alarming, Murray explains how this comprehensive collection method actually provides Ireland with more accurate statistics compared to countries that only sample portions of their population. The registry tracks three vital metrics: incidence rates, mortality figures, and survival statistics – all essential for effective cancer control.The conversation takes fascinating turns through Ireland's screening programmes, where cervical screening has already begun reducing cancer incidence, and the revolutionary impact of the HPV vaccine, which is projected to make cervical cancer a rare disease by 2040. Murray dismantles common misconceptions about cancer, explaining why most patients are over 60 despite media portrayals focusing on younger patients, and why early diagnosis remains so crucial: "The earlier you go to get things checked out, the earlier the stage you are diagnosed, the less treatment you're going to need."Perhaps most striking is Murray's revelation about Ireland's technological challenges. Despite being a tech-literate nation, Ireland ranks last among 22 developed countries for health digital policy and data linkages. With over 800 different systems operating across our public health sector alone, the fragmentation prevents the seamless information flow that could transform cancer care. As Murray puts it, "My local Tesco knows more about me than my local hospital does."Whether you're concerned about cancer risk factors, curious about screening programmes, or interested in how data shapes healthcare policy, this episode offers invaluable insights into the present and future of cancer control in Ireland. Listen now to understand the remarkable progress we've made and the challenges that still lie ahead.Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us a textDr Natasha Langan, a chartered clinical psychologist and accredited psychosexual therapist, explores how childhood sexual abuse impacts intimacy, and how ADHD in women can increase vulnerability to traumatic relationships and sexual exploitation.• Women with ADHD face higher rates of sexual victimization, unplanned pregnancies, and relationship dissatisfaction• Trauma includes both major events (sexual assault) and smaller experiences that accumulate over time (public humiliation, feeling "different")• Shame plays a central role in both ADHD and sexual trauma, creating beliefs that "something is wrong with me"• Compassion-focused therapy helps address shame by understanding our "tricky brains" that evolved for survival, not happiness• Vaginismus involves involuntary pelvic floor muscle spasms making penetration painful or impossible• Women's pain has historically been dismissed by healthcare providers, creating barriers to proper treatment• Sexual healing requires broadening ideas about what constitutes sex beyond penetration• A multidisciplinary approach combining physiotherapy, psychology, and sometimes medical care is most effective• Sexual health is a fundamental human right that includes pleasure, not just prevention of STIs or pregnancyThanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us a textNavigating separation and divorce is emotionally charged and legally complex, requiring careful consideration of finances, children’s needs, and your own well-being throughout the process. Family law solicitor Hilary O’Connor offers clear guidance on managing this challenging life transition.Mediation should be the initial step in separation proceedings as it is free and enables couples to resolve issues collaboratively.Living “separate and apart” for one year qualifies for separation in Ireland, while divorce requires two years out of the last three.Emotions run high during separation – being “too mad and too sad” can impair decision-making and needlessly prolong the process.The family home often becomes a central issue, but financial realities mean that one household budget must now support two homes.Pensions are just as important as property in settlement discussions, yet are frequently overlooked.Access to children is the child’s right to see both parents, not a “gift” the primary carer can withhold.The legal process includes submitting affidavits of means and welfare, with full financial disclosure required for settlements.Qualified cohabitants (those living together for 2+ years with children or 5+ years without) have similar, though not identical, rights to married couples.Maintenance for children continues until the age of 18 (or 23 if in full-time education), while spousal maintenance may be lifelong.Self-care is essential – seek counselling, surround yourself with supportive people, and “stock up on vitamins” as your immune system will be affected.Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us a textDr. Darragh McCashin joins us to explore how the online world affects our boys' mental, emotional and social development, offering insights on navigating digital challenges while supporting healthy masculinity.• Different responses to toxic online content: some boys consume and ignore, others parrot without understanding, some believe and embody, and some gradually adopt beliefs over time• Research shows social media bans don't reduce overall usage—children simply "make up for lost time" outside restricted hours• Critical digital literacy is more effective than restriction, teaching young people to recognize manipulation and question sources• The term "toxic masculinity" can be counterproductive, potentially pathologizing boyhood itself• "Pre-bunking" techniques can help children identify misinformation patterns before encountering them• Open conversations about masculinity provide space for boys to develop healthy perspectives• Screen time is less important than what it's replacing—sleep, physical activity, in-person social connections• Collaborative approaches to setting digital boundaries work better than unilateral restrictions• The psychological impact of digital communication patterns on Gen Z's workplace preferences and social interactions• Prevention strategies for online harms must consider individual differences and family dynamicsCheck out the Anti-Bullying Centre website and search "Masculinity Influencers" for free resources to help navigate these conversations with the young people in your life.Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us a textRereleasing this podcast as it was so popular and really demystified genital health!Dr. Aisling Loy, consultant in genitourinary medicine, debunks common misconceptions about sexual health and provides practical advice on addressing genital concerns with compassion and expertise.In this episode, we explore some of the most common myths and overlooked truths in vaginal and sexual health. From the misdiagnosis of chronic candida to the effects of grooming habits on vulval skin, we discuss how everyday routines can impact intimate wellbeing. We cover the sharp rise in STI rates among young women, the importance of HPV vaccination for both boys and girls, and why regular testing is essential, even when there are no symptoms. We also look at conditions such as bacterial vaginosis and herpes, and how changes in condom use are influencing infection rates, all through the lens of the vaginal microbiome.Book your STI screening at guideclinic.ie or sticlinicdublin.ie. Home testing kits are available through SH24.Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.