Healing Gals Podcast

Daragh Fleming (author of Lonely Boy and A Brief Inhalation) is a writer from Cork, Ireland. He has work appearing in several literary magazines including Southword, Crannóg, Stand, Gutter, and more. He was highly commended for both the Patrick Kavanagh Award and the Fool For Poetry Prize in 2023, and shortlisted for the Alpine Fellowship Poetry Prize in 2024. He won the From The Well Competition in 2021 and the Ducairn Flash Competition in 2024. Daragh was also recently shortlisted for two Mental Health Media Award for his TEDx Talk on using creativity to enhance and maintain our mental health.Daragh sits with Molly to have a discussion about how good men can make the world better for women. And Daragh's perspective might surprise you. Topics covered:Chloe Koyce incidentGood men helping women/advocating for women's safetyHow we socialise boysMen not being able to cryBlindboy's episode How to speak to men who have an unhelpful view of masculinityevolutionary psychologyDaragh's friend who died by suicideGriefEmotional AnadoniaDaragh's Ted X TalkAdvice for menCreativityNatasha O'Brien and Aisling MurphyThe PatriarchyStudy on male health gave us the figures of perpetrators of male violence;https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/jun/03/one-in-three-australian-men-say-they-have-committed-intimate-partner-violence-world-first-research-findsHealing Gals podcast is not a replacement for therapy, this show is for entertainment purposes only. If you have been affected by anything discussed in this episode please access support services in your local area. Click this link for a list of support services that may be of use to you:https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/supports-services/Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is Ireland's leading provider of beauty courses. Karen Grehan, CEO, is a huge champion of women, and one of her main goals is to support women in achieving financial independence through skills-based learning, which is why she is such a good fit as the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. You can get the list of courses on www.lashdolls.ie or follow on Instagram @Lashdolls_Ireland  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S4 Ep 12 Beyond Surviving with Ciara Mangan. In the intro, Molly discusses travelling on her own for the first time ever to see BEYONCÉ! and what she learned from that experience. Molly also has a chat about good men and not settling for people who don't share your values. Now let's get to the episode.....Ciara Mangan is the founder of Beyond Surviving, a survivor-led charity organisation dedicated to connecting survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence, and supporting their healing, wellbeing, and growth—beyond surviving.Ciara is also a survivor of rape and workplace victim abuse and harassment. Having navigated the criminal justice system for over eight years, she is a formidable advocate for fellow survivors and for herself. Fueled by a relentless drive to speak up for what victims need and deserve as they navigate the road to justice in Ireland, Ciara challenges the judiciary system—raising awareness of its failures and the treatment of those at its core: victims. Her lived experience, and work with fellow survivors, underpins her commitment to systemic change and the urgent need for a victim-centred approach—one that treats victims with the dignity, respect, and consideration they deserve and demand (or in other words, the bare minimum).Molly discusses all of the above with Ciara. Ciara shares the story of her assault and the extremely difficult process of navigating our judicial system as a victim of crime. Ciara's story has so many lessons for all of us, it was a privilege to have Ciara Mangan on Healing Gals Podcast. I hope this discussion inspires you to discuss safety and spiking with the ones you love.Healing Gals podcast is not a replacement for therapy, this show is for entertainment purposes only. If you have been affected by anything discussed in this episode please access support services in your local area. Click this link for a list of support services that may be of use to you:https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/supports-services/Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is Ireland's leading provider of beauty courses. Karen Grehan, CEO, is a huge champion of women, and one of her main goals is to support women in achieving financial independence through skills-based learning, which is why she is such a good fit as the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. You can get the list of courses on www.lashdolls.ie or follow on Instagram @Lashdolls_Ireland  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the intro, Molly discusses the Natasha O'Brien documentary, which aired last week on RTE (available on the RTE Player). Molly chats about the importance of advocacy.Michaela from Rooted Feminine Wellness speaks about Whole Woman Care. Michaela is passionate about bringing ancient practices back to women, giving us practices that promote regenerative health.Topics covered:Travelling and learning regenerative medicine practices and whole woman careStigma on women's bodiesNatureLosing identity/colonialismLiving in seasons not calendarsRegenerative medicineMaking time to care for and nourish ourselvesWhole Woman CareVulva MappingDe-sexualising women's bodiesThe mother woundMagdalene traumaVirginityReligion used to shameHealing Gals podcast is not a replacement for therapy, this show is for entertainment purposes only. If you have been affected by anything discussed in this episode, please access support services in your local area. Click this link for a list of support services that may be of use to you:https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/supports-services/Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is Ireland's leading provider of beauty courses. Karen Grehan, CEO, is a huge champion of women, and one of her main goals is to support women in achieving financial independence through skills-based learning, which is why she is such a good fit as the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. You can get the list of courses on www.lashdolls.ie or follow on Instagram @Lashdolls_Ireland  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Wild Geeze are a burlesque and comedy duo. Laura Lavelle and Breda Larkin entertain crowds all over the country with their unique, hilariously entertaining shows. Molly is a big fan and was thrilled to get a chance to have them on Healing Gals Podcast to discuss all things self-expression, grief, and growth. This is a special episode, enjoy!Healing Gals podcast is not a replacement for therapy, this show is for entertainment purposes only. If you have been affected by anything discussed in this episode, please access support services in your local area. Click this link for a list of support services that may be of use to you:https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/supports-services/Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is Ireland's leading provider of beauty courses. Karen Grehan, CEO, is a huge champion of women, and one of her main goals is to support women in achieving financial independence through skills-based learning, which is why she is such a good fit as the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. You can get the list of courses on www.lashdolls.ie or follow on Instagram @Lashdolls_Ireland  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode is about generational trauma turned into generational gifts. Mary had some difficult experiences growing up which also gave her the skills she has now to be a medical advocate. She speak frankly about her self-worth being tied up in how well she could meet other people's needs. And how she saw herself as someone who didn't have needs or didn't have to be cared for, even as a child. She speaks about discovering her needs as a human/child/woman, and family member and becoming ill as a result of neglecting those needs. Mary speaks about her life and the lessons she has learned along the way. Mary is now a qualified nurse and medical advocate. She is using her life experience to support those navigating the medical system. Molly and Mary also discuss friendship breakdowns, burnout etc. Lots of lessons to explore!Mary speaks about a self-development programme she is a part of, from Empowerment Specialist, Nicola Connelly Byrne. You can see more about this on www.nicolaconnollybyrne.comMolly discusses a show called Couples Therapy with Dr. Orna Guralnik. Healing Gals podcast is not a replacement for therapy, this show is for entertainment purposes only. If you have been affected by anything discussed in this episode please access support services in your local area. Click this link for a list of support services that may be of use to you:https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/supports-services/Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is Ireland's leading provider of beauty courses. Karen Grehan, CEO, is a huge champion of women, and one of her main goals is to support women in achieving financial independence through skills-based learning, which is why she is such a good fit as the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. You can get the list of courses on www.lashdolls.ie or follow on Instagram @Lashdolls_Ireland  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jane Casey is a Dublin-based history content creator passionate about Ireland’s past and storytelling. Her motto, “Be curious about everything around us,” drives her engaging and accessible work. She’s also deeply interested in self-development and therapy.Topics discussed:Return to irish heritage/cultureGrief- Jane's mother passed away when she was two years old.Losing same sex parentBreaking cyclesTherapy is for everyone, healing is possible for everyone.Medical advocacy- the well women's clinicTransgenderismUnderrepresented communitiesTherapy lessonsHealing Gals podcast is not a replacement for therapy, this show is for entertainment purposes only. If you have been affected by anything discussed in this episode, please access support services in your local area. Click this link for a list of support services that may be of use to you:https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/supports-services/Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is Ireland's leading provider of beauty courses. Karen Grehan, CEO, is a huge champion of women, and one of her main goals is to support women in achieving financial independence through skills-based learning, which is why she is such a good fit as the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. You can get the list of courses on www.lashdolls.ie or follow on Instagram @Lashdolls_Ireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Badger (Mark) is a Storyteller, Educator and Creator who believes healing and progress comes from finding your voice and engaging in meaningful conversation. He uses traditional storytelling to teach people to connect with themselves, shape their stories, and effect change. Molly has a discussion with Mark with the intention of being an example of how men and women can come together to prevent gender based violence. Topics discussed:Women's AidSelf expressionCritical thinkingHow Mark is affected by the patriarchyDeconditioning the patriarchyEmotional educationObjectificationHow good men can support womenOrganised religion and it's impact (patriarchy).Molly recommends an inner child workshop with Gemma McHugh and Rosaleen Dunphy. You can find more info on this on Instagram; @gmchugh1 and @rosaleendunphy.Healing Gals podcast is not a replacement for therapy, this show is for entertainment purposes only. If you have been affected by anything discussed in this episode, please access support services in your local area. Click this link for a list of support services that may be of use to you:https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/supports-services/Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is Ireland's leading provider of beauty courses. Karen Grehan, CEO, is a huge champion of women, and one of her main goals is to support women in achieving financial independence through skills-based learning, which is why she is such a good fit as the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. You can get the list of courses on www.lashdolls.ie or follow on Instagram @Lashdolls_Ireland  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Molly sits down with two members of the Biokinesiologists Association of Ireland, Gena Smyth and Catriona Kelly. Caitríona Kelly is the founder of Blueberry Holistics and Chairperson of the BioKinesiology Association of Ireland. With a Master’s in Biomedical Science and a background in the medical device industry, she brings a unique blend of science and holistic healing to her work. Caitríona specialises in supporting clients with gut health, hormone support, stress, and immune health through BioKinesiology, Reflexology, and Sound Healing. Based in Wexford, she offers in-person and online sessions, creating a compassionate space for deep, personalised healing. Gena Smyth is passionate about combining natural and medical health solutions to provide truly holistic care. She is the founder of The Holistic Nurse and serves as the Secretary of the Biokinesiology Association of Ireland (BKAI). After earning a degree in psychiatric nursing and a master’s in Mental Health: she has spent 11 years working with vulnerable adults and young people, gaining deep insight into the limitations of conventional healthcare.In 2018, she completed her Master’s in Mental Health: Psychosocial Interventions, which deepened her commitment to holistic healing and furthered her knowledge of therapeutic approaches to mental health. In addition, she also undertook intensive yoga teacher training in rural India, where she learned powerful tools like mindfulness, meditation, breathwork, and stress management. In 2022, following her sister’s battle with cervical cancer and a period of profound personal loss, Gena opened her wellness practice in Wicklow, offering natural, root-cause-focused healing. She is currently expanding her therapeutic toolkit with EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) training to support clients navigating trauma and deep-rooted stress.Healing Gals podcast is not a replacement for therapy, this show is for entertainment purposes only. If you have been affected by anything discussed in this episode please access support services in your local area. Click this link for a list of support services that may be of use to you:https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/supports-services/Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is Ireland's leading provider of beauty courses. Karen Grehan, CEO, is a huge champion of women, and one of her main goals is to support women in achieving financial independence through skills-based learning, which is why she is such a good fit as the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. You can get the list of courses on www.lashdolls.ie or follow on Instagram @Lashdolls_Ireland  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Molly and regular contributor, Aisling Power, discuss some dilemmas sent in by listeners. Trigger warning: domestic abuse is discussed. Healing Gals podcast is not a replacement for therapy, this show is for entertainment purposes only. If you have been affected by anything discussed in this episode please access support services in your local area. Click this link for a list of support services that may be of use to you:https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/supports-services/Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is Ireland's leading provider of beauty courses. Karen Grehan, CEO, is a huge champion of women, and one of her main goals is to support women in achieving financial independence through skills-based learning, which is why she is such a good fit as the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. You can get the list of courses on www.lashdolls.ie or follow on Instagram @ Lashdolls_Ireland  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Molly continues the incredible discussion with psychotherapist, Bairbre Kelly. Bairbre is a mental health advocate, women's rights advocate, facilitator and Counselling Psychotherapist who runs her own private practice in Drogheda, Co Louth. She explains her unconventional approach to counselling as a reflection of her “outside of the box” neurodivergent perspective, having received an ADHD and dyslexia diagnosis at the age of 47.Topics covered:Being a cycle breakerKeeping your relationship with your kids while navigating phonesMuch moreHealing Gals podcast is not a replacement for therapy, this show is for entertainment purposes only. If you have been affected by anything discussed in this episode please access support services in your local area. Click this link a list of support services that may be of use to you:https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/supports-services/Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is Ireland's leading provider of beauty courses. Karen Grehan, CEO, is a huge champion of women and one of her main goals is to support women in achieving financial independence through skills based learning, which is why she is such a good fit as the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. You can get the list of courses on www.lashdolls.ie or follow on Instagram @ Lashdolls_Ireland  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Molly discusses a recent dysfunctional family dynamic where she noticed some real growth in herself and shares the tools she learned in counselling to navigate the dysfunctional dynamics that seem to be popping up like whack-a-mole. Molly then interviews psychotherapist, Bairbre Kelly. Bairbre is a mental health advocate, women's rights advocate, facilitator and Counselling Psychotherapist who runs her own private practice in Drogheda, Co Louth. She explains her unconventional approach to counselling as a reflection of her “outside of the box” neurodivergent perspective, having received an ADHD and dyslexia diagnosis at the age of 47.Topics covered:Finding your career later in lifeAnger as a motivator for advocacyNeurodivergenceLate ADHD diagnosischildhood experiences and how the messaging of those shapes our beliefsraising good menFeminismSex education for teens, consent etc.Tune in for Part Two next week!Healing Gals podcast is not a replacement for therapy, this show is for entertainment purposes only. If you have been affected by anything discussed in this episode please access support services in your local area. Click this link a list of support services that may be of use to you:https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/supports-services/Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is Ireland's leading provider of beauty courses. Karen Grehan, CEO, is a huge champion of women and one of her main goals is to support women in achieving financial independence through skills based learning, which is why she is such a good fit as the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. You can get the list of courses on www.lashdolls.ie or follow on Instagram @ Lashdolls_Ireland  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Molly sits down with Jason Poole to discuss gender based violence. Jason Poole is the brother of the late Jennifer Poole. Jennifer was murdered by her partner in April 2021 at 24 years of age. Jennifer was a victim of domestic violence and coercive control, which eventually led to her being stabbed to death by her ex-partner. Jason is now a strong advocate for changes in law that will protect women from suffering the same fate. Jason is a secondary school teacher and all-around incredible man that is working tirelessly to get Jennie's Law passed. Jennie's Law would allow for a domestic abuse register for repeat offenders and those with convictions. A Right to Ask policy, so individuals can check if a partner has a history of abuse. A Right to Know system, allowing Gardaí to warn those at risk proactively. Sign the petition here: https://my.uplift.ie/petitions/protect-lives-create-jennie-s-law-a-domestic-abuse-register-for-ireland?source=homepage&utm_medium=promotion&utm_source=homepageJason mentions the following important topics that you might want to read about:- 8 steps to domestic homicide https://www.dvact.org/post/do-you-know-the-8-step-timeline-in-domestic-abuse-homicides- Valerie's Law "Valerie's Law," proposed in Ireland, aims to address a legal loophole where parents convicted of murdering their partners retain guardianship of their children. This legislation, named after Valerie French, is intended to prevent individuals who have caused a family's trauma from continuing to influence their children's lives. The law seeks to safeguard children by removing the abuser's legal rights, including access to their children's details and the ability to make decisions from prison. Triangle of violence: Information on the epidemic of gender based violence: https://www.un.org/en/academic-impact/preventable-pandemic-sexual-and-gender-based-violenceNetflix documentary My Lover, My Killer Episode 5.Healing Gals podcast is not a replacement for therapy, this show is for entertainment purposes only. If you have been affected by anything discussed in this episode please access support services in your local are. Click this link a list if support services that may be of use to you:https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/supports-services/Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. Lashdolls Academy of Beauty is Ireland's leading provider of beauty courses. Karen Grehan, CEO, is a huge champion of women and one of her main goals is to support women in achieving financial independence through skills based learning, which is why she is such a good fit as the main sponsor of Healing Gals Podcast. You can get the list of courses on www.lashdolls.ie or follow on Instagram @ Lashdolls_Ireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 Season 4 is BACK!Season 4 Ep 1Lessons loading... with Aisling PowerMolly is back with a brand new season of Healing Gals Podcast. This week Aisling Power is also back to discuss their updated lessons from living as Healing Gals. Topics discussed:-Increase in racism-Triangle of Violence against women-Addressing misogyny-Protecting our peace at different Healing stages-Being perfectionistic in our Healing-Starting a new job and avoiding burnout-Being free from toxicity for the first time in a decade; nervous system is exhausted-Difficulty navigating supporting your child through difficult relationships-Difficulty navigating the court system and getting your child's voice heard-Gratitude Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Molly chats with Aisling Power about some really important topics at the start of this episode then a fun little chat about all the time Molly and Aisling were Toxic Little Bitches in their time before they knew better lol!Topics covered:ADHD diagnosis as an adultSensory issuesGetting tasks doneMedical advocacyWomen's health specialistThe "I Deserve" toolToxic behaviours in romantic relationshipsHealing Gals Podcast Season 3 is sponsored by Lashdolls Academy of Beauty. Follow them on Instagram @lashdolls_ireland and explore their courses on www.lashdolls.ieEnjoy the episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger warning for this episode: suicide is discussed in detail. Molly sits down with Kasia, a woman on a serious healing journey. Kasia is brave and vulnerable and was generous enough to share her experiences and lessons. Kasia discusses the following topics with Molly:- Childhood trauma- Suicide- Being parentified- Relationship breakdown- Healing the relationship with yourself- Healing the relationship with your child- Depression- Self regulationSeason 3 of Healing Gals is sponsored by Lashdolls Academy of Beauty. For more information on their beauty courses visit www.lashdolls.ieThe apology poem was written by Whitney Hanson. Enjoy the episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Molly sits down with Rosaleen Dunphy, holistic therapist, and Gemma McHugh, psychotherapist, to discuss the Inner Child. Rosaleen and Gemma are co-facilitators of Inner Child Workshops that support people (men too) in connecting to their inner child, learning about their inner child and healing their inner child. Molly experienced the workshop, which she paid for herself, and subsequently asked Gemma and Rosaleen to come on the podcast to discuss all things Inner Child.The start of the episode explores Rosaleen and Gemma's path to this work and then further into the episode, we delve into Inner Child work and Molly's experience of the workshop. You can contact Gemma or Rosaleen on Instagram. Go to the Healing Gals Podcast page and you'll see they are tagged in this week's episode post.The next Inner Child Workshop will be taking place on Sunday 16th February. Message Gemma or Rosaleen on Instagram to book your place .Enjoy the episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Karen Grehan, CEO of Lashdolls Academy of Beauty, has a powerful discussion with Molly in which she shares one of the biggest betrayals imaginable: her husband had been having an affair for five years with her friend. Karen shares her story of strength and resilience in the face of such adversity and her advice for women in a similar situation. I'm very grateful for Karen's vulnerability and strength.Enjoy the episode gals!Healing Gals Podcast Season 3 is sponsored by Lashdolls Academy of Beauty. Follow them on Instagram @lashdolls_ireland and explore their courses on www.lashdolls.ie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Molly and reguslar contributor, Aisling Power, continue to discussion on the experience of being an independent parent and give advice based on what they have learned. With a few laughs throughout, enjoy the episode!Healing Gals Podcast Season 3 is sponsored by Lashdolls Academy of Beauty. Follow them on Instagram @lashdolls_ireland and explore their courses on www.lashdolls.ie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Independent parents are those who do all or most of the work when it comes to raising children. Molly sits with Aisling to discuss the many facets of being an independent parent; highs, lows and it wouldn't be a Healing Gals episode if we didn't knock a bit of craic out of it too. Enjoy the episode!Healing Gals Podcast Season 3 is sponsored by Lashdolls Academy of Beauty. Follow them on Instagram @lashdolls_ireland and explore their courses on www.lashdolls.ie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Healing Gals Podcast Listeners sent in their dilemmas to healinggalspodcast@gmail.com and on social media. So Molly sat down with one of the gals, Aisling Power to discuss the dilemmas and share their thoughts. If you have any dilemmas or topics you'd like to be discussed on the podcast send them in and they may be discussed on the next episode of Healing Gals Podcast!Healing Gals Podcast Season 3 is sponsored by Lashdolls Academy of Beauty. Follow them on Instagram @lashdolls_ireland and explore their courses on www.lashdolls.ieEnjoy the episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.