This is a conversation I recorded on the 3rd of September with Independent TD and Presidential candidate, Catherine Connolly.

She lives in the Claddagh in Galway with her husband Brian, and they have two adult children.

Her life and work have been shaped by a deep sense of social justice, compassion, and conviction.

Before entering politics, Catherine worked as a cleaner, a nurse’s aide, a psychologist, a teacher, and a barrister — a truly diverse path that reflects her deep-rooted commitment to public service.

She’s one of 14 siblings, and in this episode, she speaks about losing her mother at the age of nine — a loss that shaped the rest of her life.

We talk about: the power of listening, her love for Gaeilge, her long-standing advocacy for equality, Palestine and the kind of President she hopes to be if elected.

It’s honest and grounded— very much like Catherine herself.

Make sure you're registered to vote — you still have a few days left:

Check the Register

Agus caith do vóta ar an 24ú!

If you enjoy Ready to be Real, please consider following, rating, and reviewing the podcast — it really helps!

And thank you, as always, for your support.

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