Everywhere We Go

123 Episodes

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From Bullied Kid To Bold Voice

2025-10-2101:00:31

The room goes quiet when someone tells the truth. Aidan does exactly that—about bullying that tried to break him, a voice he built to protect the boy inside, and the diagnoses that keep reshaping the map. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, and, just today, borderline personality disorder: each name explains a piece of the chaos, none of them tell him who he is. He talks about the girder moments—performing through pain in panto, collapsing on the kitchen floor, a letter written in the dark, and the exact day he chose sobriety for himself and nobody else.We get into how a manager’s insight opened the door to an ADHD diagnosis, why five medications in nine months didn’t bring relief, and how BPD finally put a name to the paranoia and splitting that wrecked family life over something as small as a forgotten Coke zero. Aidan explains the persona “Aidan G” as a shield that lets him sing when the real Aidan would run from the mic, and how that split can be a lifeline, not a lie. Then we pivot to craft: turning online hate from a Pride performance into a defiant pop song, learning production, saying yes to small gigs, and building Eurovision dreams through relentless songwriting camps.This is an episode about mental health, recovery, Irish pop, theatre life, and making art that tells the truth without swallowing you whole. It’s warm, raw, and weirdly joyful, because he’s decided the next six months are for bringing joy while feeling joy. If you’ve ever worn a label you didn’t choose, this conversation gives you a way to hold it differently. Listen, share with a friend who needs it, and if it resonates, subscribe and leave a review so more people can find the story and the songs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A mother, a partner, a widow, and finally herself—Shelly’s honest journey through grief and coming out

2025-10-1301:11:041

A childhood spent counting coins at the shop till and scooting groceries home taught Shelly how to be responsible. But nothing prepared her for the emotional calculus of young motherhood, chaos around addiction, and guiding her daughters through their father’s final months with love and honesty. This is a story about choosing steadiness when life keeps throwing curveballs—and finding your true self long after everyone thought your story was set.We sit with the early independence of growing up in Newbridge, the move that muted her freedom, and the uneven rhythm of a blended family split between two houses. Shelly shares how teenage anxiety and nights out blurred into an on-off relationship with Paddy, a pregnancy that reset her priorities, and the relentless work of being the constant parent. When hope briefly returned—help sought, an engagement, a new baby—reality hit harder. She made the call to leave, not out of anger, but out of care for her girls and herself.When Paddy’s vague symptoms were repeatedly dismissed, it was a gentle insistence from her partner, Talt, that led to the scan and the truth: cancer. Shelly chose to bring the girls into that truth with her—visits, pizza, little jokes—so that goodbye wouldn’t be a shock but a held moment. That decision softened grief and shaped their memories. Then, slowly, another truth surfaced. Shelly realised she’s a lesbian. With therapy, patience, and honesty at home, the label finally matched the life. The house exhaled, her style and energy aligned, and even dating—tentative, curious—became part of a kinder rhythm.We talk about co-parenting after loss, bringing children into grief with care, coming out later in life in Ireland, and redefining what a family can look like without apology. Through it all, Shelly and Talt model a rare kind of loyalty: love that changes shape but not intention. If you’ve ever felt out of place in your own life, this conversation offers proof that clarity can come late—and still arrive right on time.If this story moved you, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs courage today, and leave a quick review to help others find it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Masking, meltdown, and the courage to be seen: how advocacy turns judgement into belonging

2025-10-0601:13:09

Start with the truth: a teenage girl cried for a year after the “good first day back” and a mum climbed in beside her with Harry Styles on the stereo, late‑night drives, and a plan to let light in. That’s how Just Two Girls was born—out of burnout, misdiagnosis, and the stubborn belief that honesty saves lives.We open up about the early years—meltdowns in supermarkets, running and hiding, sensory pain around showers and hair brushing—and how a neat dyspraxia label hid what was really going on. School called Kate “a pleasure to teach” while she masked so hard she wrote “help” on sheets of paper in class. We dig into the system ping‑pong between disability teams and CAMHS, why girls are so often missed, and how a late autism diagnosis at 17 changed everything. The shift is immediate: permission to be herself, language for needs, and the confidence to say “autistic and proud” even when someone stares at curled hair and says the quiet part out loud.There’s humour in the grit—airport assistance in pink cowboy hats, the learning hub that couldn’t compute “autistic” with “put‑together,” and the moment we asked a school to take down puzzle‑piece imagery. There’s also a practical spine for anyone navigating similar terrain: why medication became a bridge out of despair, how to design routines that regulate, what ARFID looks like beyond “picky eating,” and how sensory‑friendly hours and apartments can make travel survivable. We don’t accept “just stay home.” Access isn’t a perk; it’s parity. And advocacy isn’t branding; it’s letting someone else breathe easier because you spoke first.If you’re a parent searching for hope, a teacher trying to help the “quiet” student, or a teenager wondering why you feel like an alien in a crowded room, pull up a chair. We’re building the thing we needed: clear language, small wins, and the courage to be seen on the bad days as much as the good ones. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs it, and tell us: what would make public spaces kinder for you? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Finding Faith After Loss

2025-09-2901:03:51

Tracy Metcalfe raw conversation takes us through the remarkable highs and devastating lows of her life journey. From her humble beginnings in Darndale where "we had nothing but we had everything," to becoming a single mother navigating life's hardest challenges without consistent support, Tracy's story is one of extraordinary resilience.The emotional centerpiece of Tracy's journey revolves around her father's passing and her spiritual interpretation of this profound loss. What began as overwhelming grief evolved through faith into an unexpected peace as she realized: "My dad went out on top." This revelation—that his death spared him from witnessing her mother's decline into dementia—provided a theological framework that transformed her understanding of loss. Her viral video featuring her father's humorous reaction to a fake designer bag purchase stands as a treasured memory that unexpectedly connected with thousands.Tracy speaks candidly about her physical transformation journey, including weight loss surgery and subsequent reconstructive procedures. Her harrowing experience traveling to Turkey for dental work only to discover all her teeth needed extraction resulted in four months without teeth while continuing to raise her teenage daughter and work in a detention center. Despite these external changes, she reveals the persistent internal struggle with body dysmorphia—the inability to recognize her transformed appearance despite objective evidence.The conversation culminates in Tracy's faith journey, which she carefully distinguishes from "religion." Finding community in non-denominational Christianity has provided meaning amid suffering. "I hate the word religion," she explains, "we focus on a relationship." This distinction forms the cornerstone of her spiritual practice and emerging peace.For anyone navigating grief, physical transformation, or questioning their purpose, Tracy's story demonstrates how finding meaning in suffering doesn't eliminate pain but can transform how we carry it. Listen and discover how resilience can emerge from even the darkest places when we're open to unexpected sources of light. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When Silence Kills: The Hidden Truth About Male Victims

2025-09-2201:35:20

Two sisters bravely share the heartbreaking story of how they lost their father to domestic violence, revealing a devastating truth about male victims that's rarely discussed in our society.Growing up in Dublin with a father they describe as strict but loving, Karen and Lynn never imagined they'd one day be fighting for justice in a system that failed to protect him. Their father's relationship with a younger woman from the Czech Republic raised concerns from the beginning – strange behaviour, inconsistent stories, and troubling incidents involving their children. But what started as uncomfortable family dynamics gradually revealed itself as something far more sinister.The sisters recount the mounting evidence they witnessed: unexplained bruises their father would dismiss, disturbing late-night phone calls from his partner, and incidents where police were called to their home. Despite their growing suspicions, they struggled to believe their proud, strong father could be a victim of domestic abuse. When confronted, he would change the subject or become defensive – a response they now recognize as common among male victims trapped in abusive relationships.What makes this story particularly powerful is how it challenges our assumptions about domestic violence. The sisters describe their shock at discovering their father had taken out safety orders he never followed through with, and how authorities missed critical warning signs. When tragedy finally struck – captured on CCTV as his partner pushed him with fatal force – the justice system compounded their grief by minimizing the pattern of abuse during sentencing and redacting their victim impact statements.Now caring for their father's teenage daughter, the sisters have transformed their pain into purpose, advocating for legal reforms and greater awareness of male victims who often suffer in silence until it's too late. Their message is urgent and clear: domestic abuse affects people of all genders, and society must do better at recognizing and protecting all victims before more lives are lost.Have you noticed warning signs of abuse in someone you care about? Don't wait to reach out – resources are available regardless of gender, and your concern could save a life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Chaos to Christ: A Pastor's Unlikely Journey

2025-09-1501:04:30

What happens when a troubled teenager from a Dublin council estate discovers faith in the midst of chaos? Des Curtis' story is nothing short of miraculous.Growing up in Whitechurch during the 1980s, Des experienced firsthand the devastating impact of family breakdown when his parents separated due to his father's alcoholism. At just seven years old, he found himself packing his toys into black bin bags as his mother fled with her children to a women's refuge. The years that followed were marked by profound instability – his mother's struggles with depression and suicide attempts, Des's own descent into substance abuse beginning at age eleven, and his eventual expulsion from two secondary schools.By fifteen, Des appeared destined to become another statistic, until an unexpected path emerged through carpentry. Yet even this hope was shattered when a devastating motorbike accident left him with metal plates in his arms and ended his career dreams. Isolated, depressed, and smoking cannabis alone in his garden shed, Des reluctantly agreed to join a church football team – a decision that would transform his life forever.The transformation wasn't immediate or magical. It came through authentic relationships with teammates who talked about God as if He were real and present in their lives. When Des finally made the decision to embrace faith for himself at nineteen, he experienced a profound emotional release as years of accumulated trauma began to heal. That very evening, when offered drugs by former friends, he found himself declining – something fundamental had shifted within him.Des's journey continued through Bible college where he met his future wife, Judith, and discovered his calling to ministry – something he never would have predicted. Today, as a pastor at St. Mark's Church, Des reflects on the power of forgiveness, particularly regarding his father, and the joy he's found through his relationship with God.Whether you're struggling with your own past or simply curious about faith, Des's story reminds us that transformation is possible even from the most unlikely beginnings. As he puts it, "People ask me if I believe in miracles. I say I do, because I am one." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Mother's Endless Nightmare: The Loss of Dylan Killalee

2025-04-1452:26

The raw, harrowing account of losing a child to reckless driving collides with a mother's fierce determination to seek justice in this powerful conversation with Catherine Killalee.Catherine takes us through the life of her son Dylan – a football-loving, energetic young man who was just six weeks away from completing his electrical apprenticeship when tragedy struck. With disarming honesty, she recounts the night she received the devastating phone call, rushing to the scene at the Red Cow intersection where Dylan had been fatally hit by a speeding driver going more than twice the legal limit.What follows is a gut-wrenching journey through Ireland's justice system that leaves more questions than answers. Catherine details the agonizing process of identifying her son's body, being prevented from touching him, telling his younger twin siblings what happened, and organizing a funeral where Dylan's football teammates formed a guard of honor despite the bitter cold.The most infuriating part of Catherine's story emerges when she describes the court proceedings. Despite the driver's excessive speed and fleeing the scene, he received just four years and four months – effectively serving around three years with standard reductions. Meanwhile, Catherine discovered her son suffered 65 fatal injuries, including amputated legs, only when it was read aloud in court, with the perpetrator sitting just feet away.Catherine's passionate call for reform resonates throughout as she fights to appeal what she sees as a grossly inadequate sentence. Her description of grief as "sneaky" and the ripple effect through her entire family creates a portrait of loss that's both universal and achingly specific. Through tears and determination, she represents countless families who feel betrayed by a system meant to deliver justice but instead compounds their pain.Ready to support change in how dangerous driving cases are handled? Share this episode and join the conversation about meaningful justice reform that truly values human life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Behind the Calories: A Story of Loss, Love, and Moving Forward

2025-04-0746:59

Hayley Joyce opens up about her remarkable journey from the Ballymun flats to becoming a respected chef and social media creator with a passion for making weight loss accessible and enjoyable for everyone.Growing up in Shangan flats created lasting memories for Hayley – the community spirit, the chip vans outside their block, and the distinctive warmth rising through the building that her mother still misses today. These formative years shaped her down-to-earth approach to life and cooking, creating a foundation for the relatable content she now shares with thousands.Her path to social media success wasn't planned but evolved naturally during lockdown. What started as simple Slimming World food posts for friends and family transformed into a platform where she shares calorie-counted meals and her popular "fakeaway" series – healthier versions of takeaway classics. "I want to make people's weight loss journey fun," she explains. "I don't want people just thinking they have to eat chicken and rice." This philosophy of making healthy eating accessible rather than restrictive resonates deeply with her followers.Behind the food content lies a story of profound resilience. Hayley speaks candidly about losing her school friend Jennifer to domestic violence and the sudden death of her best friend Leah last year. These losses changed her completely, temporarily derailing her content creation until she found the strength to continue, knowing her friend would have wanted her to carry on. Her ongoing relationship with Leah's daughter Heidi provides both healing and purpose.Currently navigating the challenges of house hunting with her boyfriend of nine years, Hayley maintains her characteristic optimism despite the frustrations of bidding wars in today's property market. Looking toward the future, she hopes for a home of their own and starting a family, approaching each new chapter with the same authenticity that defines her social media presence.Follow Hayley for simple, delicious recipes that prove weight loss doesn't have to be boring, and witness how someone can transform personal struggles into a platform that uplifts others. Her story reminds us that sometimes our greatest purpose emerges from our deepest pain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Education Gap: Why Children with Autism Are Being Left Behind

2025-03-3101:08:29

Every single thing in his life I've had to fight for." These words cut to the heart of Jodie's experience raising Caelan, her five-year-old son with autism and developmental delays. In this raw conversation, Jodie takes us through her journey from a complicated pregnancy at 19 to her current desperate search for a school placement for her son.The system's failings become painfully clear as Jodie recounts the endless waiting lists, denied services, and bureaucratic obstacles that have defined her family's experience. Despite a formal autism diagnosis, Caelan has received virtually no public speech therapy or occupational therapy. Now, after applying to 18 different schools with autism classes, they've been rejected from nearly all - joining a growing community of families with nowhere to send their children come September.What makes this conversation so powerful is Jodie's unflinching honesty about both the joys and struggles of raising Caelan. She describes the sleepless nights that finally improved with melatonin, the meltdowns she couldn't understand because her son couldn't communicate what was wrong, and the beautiful moments of connection that make everything worthwhile. Through tears and determined advocacy, she reveals how parents are forced to become experts, fighters, and researchers when the systems meant to help them fail.This isn't just one family's story - it represents a national crisis affecting hundreds of children with autism across Ireland. As Jodie puts it: "It's constantly going around in circles." Join us for this essential conversation about what happens when children with special needs fall through the cracks, and the parents who refuse to let them be forgotten. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brenda's Bits: Finding Sobriety, Self-Worth, and Success in London

2025-03-2401:32:50

Raw honesty hits like a thunderbolt when Brenda Dennehy opens up about the relentless washing machine of anxiety that spun in her head since childhood. Her journey from a loving Cork family to the depths of addiction offers profound insights into how mental health struggles can silently shape our lives long before we understand what's happening.Brenda's story shatters the stereotype of alcoholism only affecting older men, revealing how at just 25, she was secretly battling withdrawal symptoms while maintaining the façade of a promising media career. The heart-wrenching moment she finally whispered "I need help" to her mother after a public breakdown at an All-Ireland Final marks just the beginning of a recovery path filled with unexpected turns.What makes this conversation extraordinary isn't just Brenda's unflinching account of her two rock bottoms – it's watching her remarkable resilience bloom into genuine self-love. After years of hating herself, losing dream jobs, and overdosing on prescription medication, she fought back with unwavering determination, ultimately manifesting her long-held dream of working in London television. The transformation from someone who couldn't go grocery shopping without crippling anxiety to a woman who proudly declares "I'm my own best friend" offers hope that's both realistic and deeply inspiring.Whether you've faced addiction yourself, supported someone who has, or simply want to understand the complex relationship between mental health and substance dependency, this conversation will change how you think about recovery. Brenda's powerful testament to staying sober through her father's sudden death reminds us that our greatest achievements aren't always visible to others – sometimes they're the quiet victories we win every single day when we choose to keep going. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Beauty, Bullying, and Bouncing Back: Stephanie's Untold Story

2025-03-1853:03

Raw, resilient, and refreshingly real – Stephanie Simons opens up for the first time about the extraordinary journey that shaped the woman behind Bowie Stacks beauty empire.From her first breaths, born into homelessness with a teenage mother battling addiction, Stephanie's path was never going to be ordinary. The Ballybough Flats provided a backdrop of community amid poverty, where childhood games existed alongside the harsh realities of Dublin's drug epidemic. With unflinching honesty, she reveals the physical and mental abuse she endured as a child, stepping into a parental role for her younger sister while still a child herself.Dancing became her escape – until bullying shattered that dream when her hair began falling out from stress. But as Stephanie's story unfolds, we witness the remarkable resilience that would define her life. From beauty college to running "nixers" door-to-door, she built her first salon by age 20. Even as motherhood and pandemic challenges arose, she persevered, performing treatments with a newborn in a carry cot beside her.Perhaps most powerful is Stephanie's candid discussion of the online controversy that nearly destroyed her – when a treatment complication went viral and unleashed a torrent of trolling. Yet through faith, determination and unwavering focus, she transformed that visibility into business growth, now operating multiple locations across Ireland.This conversation goes beyond beauty treatments (though we do learn about salmon DNA injections and other innovations). It's about a woman who refused to be defined by her circumstances, who breaks generational cycles for her children, and who stands tall despite persistent challenges.Have you ever wondered what truly builds strength? Listen as Stephanie shares her powerful message: "No matter what cards you're dealt, it's how you play them." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Louise’s Journey: The Road Less Travelled from Addiction to Advocacy

2025-03-1001:54:58

Rising from the Ashes tells the incredible story of Louise’s journey from hardship to a life of purpose and hope. Growing up surrounded by addiction, violence, and loss, she endured unimaginable challenges, including the devastating impact of losing her partner to drugs and navigating life as a young mother. Yet, against all odds, she made the courageous decision to turn her life around.Now, driven by a deep determination to help others, Louise works tirelessly within her community to inspire change, provide unwavering support, and advocate for a better future. In this podcast, she shares her personal story of resilience, the challenges her daughter faces following a late cerebral palsy diagnosis, and the extraordinary strength it takes to keep moving forward.Join Louise as she opens up about her journey of survival, healing, and the transformative power of giving back. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Navigating Life and Independence: Tracy O’Keefe’s Resilient Journey from Separation to Self-Discovery

2024-09-1601:00:15

How does one navigate the tumultuous journey from a long-term relationship to personal independence? Tracy O'Keefe from Dunamid shares her transformative life story, from her vibrant childhood in Kilbarrick to the emotional challenges of separating in her early 40s. Tracy opens up about her upbringing, her early marriage, and the complex feelings surrounding her separation, offering an honest look at emotional numbness, guilt, and the impact of life's transitions on personal growth.Tracy’s candid reflections reveal the emotional and mental hurdles she faced while rediscovering her identity post-separation. We discuss the influence of menopause on mental health, the struggle for self-discovery, and how stepping out of a dependent relationship led to newfound confidence and self-awareness. Tracy’s journey is a testament to the resilience it takes to find one's own voice and preferences, highlighting the importance of personal growth and the strength that emerges from adversity.Finally, we dive into practical insights on navigating divorce, shedding light on avoiding unnecessary legal expenses, managing child custody, and the intricacies of removing a name from a mortgage. Tracy also shares her expertise in helping others through DIY divorces, aiming to facilitate smoother transitions for those seeking a fresh start. Join us as we explore the resilience and strength of modern women who refuse to settle for less, celebrating their courage to advocate for better lives and more equitable treatment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity: Shauna Rice's Battle with Cancer and Triumph Over Challenges

2024-09-0901:20:431

What does it take to remain resilient amidst life's toughest challenges? Our guest, Shauna Rice from Ballyferma, has experienced more than her fair share of trials, and her story is nothing short of inspiring. Through laughter and memories, Shauna opens up about her childhood filled with warmth and the unbreakable bond with her mother and sisters. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of family dynamics and the power of community connections.When faced with a cancer diagnosis, how do you juggle the demands of motherhood and personal health? Shauna takes us through her emotional journey of managing everyday life while battling breast cancer, first witnessing her mother's struggle and later facing her own diagnosis while pregnant. She shares the difficult decisions she had to make, the strength she found in her family, and the poignant moments that defined her resilience. From the fear of losing her mother to the heartbreak of her own diagnosis, Shauna's narrative is a testament to human strength and the importance of a supportive network.Recovery is not just a physical journey, but an emotional one as well. Shauna opens up about the complexities of post-surgery family dynamics, the ongoing treatment decisions, and her aspirations of returning to the performing arts. Despite the hurdles of chemotherapy and the exhaustion of caring for her children, she remains hopeful for the future. With plans for reconstructive surgery and dreams of gracing the stage once again, Shauna's journey is a powerful reminder of the enduring hope that fuels us through life's trials. Join us for an episode that celebrates resilience, family support, and the pursuit of joy amidst adversity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Empowering Women: Sherin and Rachel's Path to Building Sister Sheds

2024-08-2601:21:52

What happens when your childhood is shaped by both Egyptian and Irish cultures and then disrupted by a sudden move across borders? Join us, Sherin and Rachel, as we share the candid and emotional stories of our upbringing, family separation due to religious conflict, and the profound bonds that have shaped our lives. Our reflections on growing up with strong maternal figures, navigating the loss of a parent, and confronting the bittersweet nature of lost friendships offer a heartfelt look into the resilience required to overcome life's challenges.Imagine the chaos of a family emergency abroad, compounded by communication barriers and outdated passports. We recount the harrowing experience of navigating these obstacles, the overwhelming grief of losing a loved one far from home, and the emotional journey of repatriation. These experiences, both personal and communal, highlight the deep bonds within our family and our commitment to creating supportive spaces for women. We also delve into the creation of Sister Sheds, a community-driven initiative that has transformed lives through the power of shared experiences and unwavering support.Our story is rooted in resilience and empowerment. We discuss the challenges of securing funding, ensuring inclusivity, and the joy of seeing women form lasting friendships and support networks through Sister Sheds. Our journey is one of healing, community connection, and the ongoing exploration of our spiritual gifts. Tune in to hear how our past has shaped our present and inspired the creation of a community that champions the strength of togetherness and the healing power of shared stories. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Raising a Medically Complex Child: Niamh's Unwavering Faith

2024-08-1801:08:00

What happens when life's challenges seem insurmountable, yet you find the strength to keep moving forward? Join us for an intimate conversation with Niamh O'Shaughnessy as she shares her deeply personal journey of resilience and hope. Growing up in the tight-knit community of Darndale, Niamh opens up about the strict household rules, childhood trauma, and mental health struggles that shaped her adolescence. From experiencing OCD and substance experimentation to the pain of psychiatric admission, Niamh's story is a testament to the power of maintaining a positive outlook amidst life's adversities.Navigating the complexities of toxic relationships, Niamh sheds light on the emotional strain of raising children with developmental concerns. Her candid discussion about single parenting a child with severe medical needs, including Ollie's diagnosis of multiple brain abnormalities and cerebral palsy, offers a raw and unfiltered look at the physical and emotional toll it takes. Despite these hardships, Niamh's determination to create a stable environment for her children shines through, as she advocates for systemic support and dreams of establishing a specialized care facility for children with disabilities.Through each chapter of our conversation, Niamh's unwavering faith and resilience become evident. From the harrowing night of Ollie's seizure to the ongoing battle for a mold-free home, she remains steadfast in her belief in kindness, perseverance, and the strength to face whatever comes her way. Tune in to hear Niamh's inspiring journey, filled with grace, joy, and a relentless pursuit of a better future for her children and others facing similar challenges. This episode is a heartfelt reminder of the importance of faith and the power of hope. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chasing Dreams and Embracing Change: Robyn's Journey from Stability to Influencer

2024-06-0801:03:372

Have you ever wondered what it takes to leave a stable job and chase your dreams? Robyn, an emerging influencer, shares her incredible journey of leaving her ten-year career at the HSE to pursue her passion full-time. With the support of her best friend Dean and her loyal French bulldog George, Robyn navigates the emotional and financial challenges of this life-changing decision. Get ready to be inspired by her story of resilience and determination that breaks free from societal expectations.This episode takes you through Robyn's transformation from a transient lifestyle in Monastery to finding solace in a family home in Newcastle. Hear about the emotional healing that comes with feeling safe and stable, and the joy of reconnecting with family. Robyn also opens up about her experiences with weight management medications like Saxenda and Ozempic, and the emotional impact of sharing her health journey on social media. It's a powerful narrative of personal growth, healing, and the pursuit of happiness.We also explore the highs and lows of Robyn's new career as an influencer, from securing brand partnerships to planning a unique van podcast. Discover the behind-the-scenes realities of content creation, financial planning, and the ethics of sharing personal stories online. Robyn's journey is a reminder that success comes with its own set of challenges, but with courage and support, it's possible to transform your life and achieve your dreams. Listen in for heartfelt moments and valuable insights into navigating life's changes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cherished Memories and Comical Confessions with a Pair of Lifelong Pals

2024-05-2501:20:161

Ever found yourself reminiscing about those good old days when life was less about deadlines and more about the next laugh? Well, pull up a chair, because on our latest episode, we're catching up with Hughie Legget, the man who took the leap from Coolock to New Hampshire, and our delightful guest Natalie, straight from the courts. We're tearing open the scrapbook of our youth, reliving the trials of twinhood, the comedy of our schoolyard antics, and the intricacies of navigating friendships across continents.As the evening rolls on, we're bringing the past alive with stories that'll have you clutching your sides – from developer conferences that took unexpected detours to wild nights at Republica club that ended with caring for strangers and losing phones. We'll revisit the hilarious mix-ups (a DJ and a weatherman, really?), and take you through the narrow streets of Montfaucon, where every corner turned led to another escapade.But it's not all laughter; some memories tug at the heartstrings. We'll share the solemn pact between friends, the remarkable tale of a sister who became a guardian too soon, and the emotional journeys that unfold when life throws its curveballs. Join Hughie, Natalie, and me for an episode that's as much about cherishing the bonds we've built as it is about the sheer unpredictability of where life takes us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Journey of Courage: How One Dublin Mother Fought Cancer and Championed Maternity Rights

2024-05-2001:00:51

Facing the unimaginable, Erica Tierney of Rathcoole, Dublin, opens up about her poignant journey through pregnancy while battling cancer. Her vivid recollection transports us into the heart of a small village where childhood memories intertwine with the resilience required to confront life's harshest trials. The laughter of Dublin's quirky traditions and the unwavering support of a close-knit community lay the foundation for Erica's extraordinary narrative—a testament to the human spirit in the face of adversity.As the conversation unfolds, Erica's candidness reveals the stark contrast between the anticipation of new life and the daunting reality of a cancer diagnosis. Her story takes a deeper, more personal turn as she shares the intricacies of navigating a mastectomy, early chemotherapy, and the emotional turmoil of welcoming a child amidst personal health uncertainties. The resilience of a woman balancing the joy of motherhood with the resolve to fight for her life is nothing short of inspiring, offering listeners a raw glimpse into the strength found within the bonds of family and community.Beyond her personal battle, Erica steps into the realm of advocacy, highlighting her fight for legislative reform to extend maternity leave for women facing similar plights. Her passion for change and her relentless campaign for compassionate policies serve as a beacon of hope and a clarion call to action. Through her journey, we not only embrace the challenges and triumphs of her experience but also recognize the power of one voice to ignite a movement for the betterment of many. Join us as we carry the torch lit by Erica's story, advocating for a world where the fight against cancer includes the pursuit of dignity and change. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Life's Toughest Storms and the Hope that Follows

2024-05-1301:15:21

Have you ever walked through the streets of your hometown and felt the weight of a thousand stories pressing in around you? Our guest Shauna Finnegan knows this sensation intimately, sharing with us his journey from the humble beginnings in Tallaght to overcoming the obstacles of family life marred by addiction. Her stories of local landmarks, the trials of reuniting with separated siblings, and the resilience required to face a parent's substance abuse offer a raw, unfiltered glimpse into the reality many face behind closed doors.Motherhood is a rollercoaster, perhaps even more so when it arrives in the unexpected form of teenage pregnancy. Through laughter and tears, our guests recount instances of comedic pregnancy reveals turned family conflicts, the fears of preeclampsia, and the strength found in the shared experience of simultaneous pregnancies. As they navigate medical complications and premature births, their stories of hope and endurance paint a vibrant picture of the challenges and miracles that come with bringing new life into this world.Finally, we hold space for the heartrending tales of loss and the bittersweet process of healing. In the intimate recollections of a stillbirth and the silent struggle with grief, Shauna opens up about finding ways to remember and honor their lost children. We explore the life-changing impacts of these experiences, from the paths to recovery to the joy and anxiety of pregnancy after loss. Join us for an episode that transcends mere conversation, becoming a tribute to the power of human connection and the unwavering spirit of those who have weathered life's fiercest storms. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Comments (4)

Aoife Black

unreal! What a women!

Sep 28th

Linda Walsh

Brilliant Sinead ❤️

Sep 26th

Sandra Johnson

This is my favourite podcast..I absolutely love listening to you talking to normal people & you always ask the right questions. keep up the great work. 😘

Jul 20th

Jackie Sweeney

'Can I mind your baby'!! Brought me back to my childhood in Kildare in the 90s..pushing my best friends brother around the estate in his buggy for 20p!! l

Sep 19th

#box-pro-ellipsis-176189909039662{-webkit-line-clamp:2;}Everywhere We Go

Aoife Black

Linda Walsh

Sandra Johnson

Jackie Sweeney