The Laura Dowling Experience

🎧 Episode DescriptionThis conversation with Ger Killian offers a thoughtful and honest look at what it really means to feed children in today’s world. As co-founder of The Lunch Bag, Ger has spent years navigating the realities of school meals - from supply chains and budgets to the emotional responses of parents and children alike.What emerges is a story not just about food, but about trust. Trust from parents who want reassurance their child will eat. Trust from children learning to try new things. And trust in a system that is still evolving, trying to balance immediate needs with long-term impact.This episode gently challenges assumptions, reminding us that meaningful change takes time. It invites us to think more deeply about how we support children - not just nutritionally, but emotionally and socially too.🔑 Key PointsWhy “safe foods” matterRemoving familiar foods like chicken goujons revealed how important predictable meals are for children, especially those under stress.The complexity of feeding children at scaleDelivering meals involves logistics, cost pressures, regulations, and nutritional standards that most people never see.The unintended consequences of a welfare modelTargeting meals at certain children can create stigma and affect how children engage with food in school.The role of culture in what children eatHistorical and cultural influences shape how children respond to unfamiliar foods and new meals.Parental instinct and food securityParents often send extra lunches not out of distrust, but from a deep instinct to ensure their child is fed.The importance of education around foodWithout teaching children what they are eating, meals can feel unfamiliar and disengaging rather than supportive.A long-term opportunity for changeSchool meals have the potential to improve not just nutrition, but equality, behaviour, and future outcomes.📚 Mentioned in this EpisodeThe Lunch BagA leading Irish school meal provider delivering fresh, nutritionally balanced lunches to schools nationwide.Website - https://www.thelunchbag.ie/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thelunchbag_/Healthy Ireland GuidelinesNational nutritional standards that define what a balanced school meal should include in terms of protein, vegetables, and overall health.World Food ProgrammeA global organisation that highlights how access to school meals, particularly for girls, can improve education and long-term outcomes.EU Child GuaranteeA European initiative focused on ensuring children have access to essential services, including nutritious food and education.BallymaloeAn Irish food producer and cookery school that supported the development of nutritious sauces for school meals.Spice of Life (Cork)A food supplier that helped create large-scale, nutritionally balanced sauces for school meal programmes.Willowbrook (Belfast)A supplier providing fresh fruit and vegetables used in school meals across Ireland.⏱️ Timestamps00:00 - Introduction to Ger and The Lunch Bag03:00 - Building a school meal service from scratch07:00 - The rollout of free school meals10:00 - Welfare vs progressive school meal models13:00 - Why children disengage from meals over time18:30 - How school meals are produced and delivered27:00 - Food culture and food neophobia in Ireland32:00 - The chicken goujon controversy36:00 - Reformulating “safe foods” for children40:00 - Nutrition, lentils, and hidden improvements48:00 - Food waste and misunderstanding the system54:00 - What needs to change moving forwardThanks 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 DescriptionThis episode traces Dr Andy Hogan’s path into immunology, from a childhood curiosity to a career exploring how the immune system shapes our health. Growing up in a challenging environment, the Access Programme gave him a route into higher education - highlighting the impact of support and opportunity.Alongside his story, Andy explains the immune system not just as a defence against illness, but as something deeply involved in everyday health. He explores how obesity, ageing, and chronic inflammation affect immune function, and how these links connect to conditions like diabetes, cancer, and infection.There’s also reflection on COVID-19, vaccines, and the future of medicine - from why pandemics were expected to how immunity develops over time. It’s a conversation that blends scientific insight with real-world impact.🔑 Key PointsA single opportunity can reshape a futureThe Access Programme gave Andy a pathway into higher education.A childhood moment led to a scientific careerEarly curiosity about genetics sparked a lifelong interest in biology.The immune system shapes everyday healthIt regulates metabolism, tissue health, and overall balance - not just infection.Obesity and immune ageing are linkedObesity can accelerate immune decline and affect disease response.COVID-19 exposed immune vulnerabilitiesThe pandemic showed how differently populations respond to new threats.Medical research is opening new possibilitiesImmunology is unlocking new treatments for complex diseases.Vaccines protect communities, not just individualsThey play a key role in protecting the most vulnerable.📚 Mentioned in this EpisodeAccess Programme – Supports students from underrepresented backgrounds into higher education.Donal O’Shea – Endocrinologist focused on obesity and metabolic health.Fiona Walsh – Researcher in antibiotic resistance and global health.GLP-1 medications – Drugs that regulate appetite and blood sugar.NK cells & macrophages – Immune cells that destroy threats and clear debris.CAR-T therapy & CRISPR – Technologies advancing cancer treatment and gene editing.HPV – Virus linked to several cancers; preventable through vaccination.Spanish flu, SARS, MERS, H1N1 – Major outbreaks shaping our understanding of pandemics.⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Andy’s work in immunology01:30 – Obesity and immune health02:30 – GLP-1 therapies04:00 – Early life and biology06:00 – Access Programme10:30 – Finding immunology14:30 – Immune system basics18:30 – COVID-19 insights21:00 – Age and immune response24:00 – Vaccines28:00 – Future of medicineThanks 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 DescriptionOccupational therapist Martina Tierney joins the podcast to share how something as ordinary as a chair can profoundly shape a person’s health, independence and dignity.After witnessing older people being sold expensive but inappropriate equipment, Martina set out to change the system. What followed was the creation of Seating Matters, a company grounded in clinical evidence, compassion and respect. In this conversation, she explains how posture affects breathing, swallowing, pressure injuries, cognition and even a person’s sense of self.From the woman who could finally lift her head and make eye contact, to the man who believed he would die in bed until he was helped into a supportive chair and wheeled outside, this episode is a powerful reminder that dignity is often found in the smallest details.🔑 Key PointsFrom Frustration to InnovationMartina recognised that people were being sold expensive equipment without proper assessment, sparking the creation of Seating Matters.The Woman Who Could Finally Lift Her HeadA properly fitted chair restored eye contact, safety and dignity to someone previously slumped and disengaged.“I Thought I Was Going to Die in Bed”A hospice patient’s simple wish to sit outside highlighted how seating can transform end of life experience.The Psychological Power of Sitting UprightBeing out of bed shifts someone from passive patient to active participant in their own care.Reframing Dementia BehavioursWhat is labelled as aggression may be sensory disorientation. Understanding this changes how we respond.Health Consequences We OverlookPoor seating can contribute to pressure injuries, swallowing difficulties and recurrent urinary infections.Equity in EquipmentPeople of size deserve equipment that fits them properly and respectfully.Family, Loss and PerspectiveMartina reflects on building the business with her husband and the importance of not postponing life.📚 Mentioned in this EpisodeSeating Matters - A global seating and posture company founded by occupational therapist Martina Tierney, focused on improving dignity, independence and clinical outcomes through proper supportive seating.https://seatingmatters.com/gb-iePressure Injuries - National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (NPIAP) - Also known as bed sores, pressure injuries occur when prolonged pressure reduces blood flow to skin and underlying tissue, most commonly around bony areas such as the sacrum and coccyx.https://npiap.com/page/PressureInjuryStagesWorld Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT) - The international body representing occupational therapists worldwide, promoting the role of OT in enabling independence, participation and meaningful daily life.https://wfot.org/⏱️ Timestamps00:00 - From Frustrated OT to Founder06:00 - “What Matters to You?” The OT Philosophy12:00 - A Family Business Is Born15:10 - The Man Who Thought He Would Never See Outside Again18:45 - The Woman Who Could Finally Lift Her Head21:10 - Why Getting Out of Bed Changes Everything27:20 - Understanding Dementia Differently33:00 - Designing Chairs for People of Size40:45 - Losing James and Rethinking Work51:10 - What Really Matters in 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.

🎧 Episode DescriptionWhat does it really take for women to enter politics today?In this special edition from the European Parliament, Laura Dowling speaks with MEPs Kathleen Funchion and Cynthia Ní Mhurchú on International Women’s Day about their experiences of political life and the wider landscape for women entering leadership roles.Through personal stories and candid reflections, they discuss how they each found their way into politics and why there is no single blueprint for women who want to lead. The conversation explores the growing issue of online misogyny, the importance of representation in shaping policy on issues such as domestic violence, and the role Irish political parties must play in supporting more women to participate and progress into leadership positions.Together, they reflect on the resilience required to remain in public life and why creating a more inclusive political culture matters not only for women, but for democracy itself.🔑 Key PointsThe reality of online misogyny in politicsBoth guests speak openly about the misogynistic abuse female politicians face online and how social media harassment has become a serious barrier discouraging women from entering public life.There is no single path into politicsKathleen Funchion and Cynthia Ní Mhurchú reflect on their personal journeys into politics, showing that women often arrive through very different life experiences and career paths.Why representation in politics mattersThe conversation highlights how having more women in political leadership influences the issues that receive attention, including policies that directly affect women’s lives.The impact of abuse on families and future candidatesOnline harassment does not only affect politicians themselves - many women hesitate to run for office because they worry about the impact on their families and children.Turning experience into political actionRather than ignoring abuse, the guests discuss how they channel these experiences into advocacy and policy work aimed at addressing misogyny and harassment.The role of political parties in supporting womenIrish political parties, they argue, must do more to actively encourage and support women who want to enter politics and progress into leadership roles.Domestic violence and policy responsibilityThe discussion touches on how political representation can shape legislation and awareness around issues such as domestic violence and safety for women.Resilience in public lifeRemaining in politics often requires resilience and support networks, especially for women navigating hostility in public spaces.⏱️ Timestamps05:10 - Kathleen and Cynthia share how they first entered politics11:40 - Why there is no single blueprint for women entering political life14:10 - Confidence, opportunity, and why women hesitate to run19:20 - Online misogyny and the abuse women face on social media28:10 - The impact of online harassment on families and future candidates36:50 - The importance of representation in politics and policymaking49:00 - Domestic violence and the role of policy leadership55:00 - Encouraging more women to participate in political leadership59:20 - Resilience, public service, and the future of women in politicsThanks 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 DescriptionLaura sits down with comedian Aoife Dunne for an honest and humorous conversation about everything from grief and fear to the unexpected turns life can take.Aoife opens up about the sudden loss of her mum while she was backpacking in her early twenties - a moment that changed the course of her life. After spending time in therapy and trying to make sense of the fear she carried, she eventually travelled to Brazil and took part in an ayahuasca ceremony with the hope of letting go of something she felt was holding her back.Alongside moments of humour, Aoife speaks candidly about fear, self-doubt, and what can happen when we stop trying to control every step of the journey. She shares how her unusual route into comedy emerged from years of searching, reflection, and gradually learning to trust where life might lead her.🔑 Key PointsLosing her mum while travellingAoife reflects on receiving the news of her mother’s death while backpacking in her twenties and the shock of navigating grief far from home.Learning to live with lossAoife talks about how grief shaped her twenties and how it continued to influence the way she approached life and relationships.The fear that held her backAoife talks about the deep sense of fear she carried for many years - something she felt stopped her from fully pursuing the things she wanted in life.Travelling to Brazil for an ayahuasca ceremonyAoife explains why she eventually chose to take part in the ceremony and what she hoped to release.An unusual route into comedyAoife reflects on how she ended up performing comedy despite never initially seeing it as her path.A new perspective on what mattersAoife reflects on how grief and reflection helped her appreciate the deeper value of love, relationships and everyday life.📚 Mentioned in this EpisodeAoife Dunne – Official Website & Tour DatesFind Aoife’s upcoming shows, including her stand-up show Good Grief, and buy tickets here:https://aoifedunnecomedy.com/?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGncw1_OANO5trgzPuPL8lgOyBgmPgZt5OmJPMsxM0zj5P22v0kv5jsSqtynaw_aem_CrTmYABNtRBRDzzKsiU62gAoife Dunne on InstagramFollow Aoife for updates, clips and tour announcements:https://www.instagram.com/aoife_is_never_dunne/⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Introduction and meeting Aoife Dunne06:00 – Growing up, family stories and humour12:30 – “Aoife Dunne is a slut”18:40 – Losing her mum while travelling in South America27:00 – The lasting impact of grief33:10 – Argentinian men vs Irish men44:00 – Deciding to try ayahuasca in Brazil50:30 – The emotional experience during the ceremony58:20 – A new way of seeing her life01:11:40 – An unusual path into comedy01:28:00 – Not needing a perfect life plan01:45:30 – The pressure of expectations in your thirtiesThanks 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 DescriptionArriving in Ireland from Somalia as a child after years of displacement, Nadia grew up watching her mother sacrifice everything to create stability through education. That path led her into finance and onto a trading floor surrounded by high earners and high pressure — a version of success that looked impressive but never fully felt aligned.What began with selling her own 08 BMW after a disappointing dealer offer gradually turned into something bigger. From selling cars on her drive to leasing a yard just before the pandemic, Nadia shares the discipline, doubt, criticism and resilience behind building Ashford Motors.🔑 Key PointsDisplacement and DeterminationNadia shares how early instability and migration shaped her resilience.The Weight of ExpectationGrowing up with a mother who sacrificed everything created both pressure and motivation.Success That Didn’t Feel Like SuccessDespite qualifying as a stockbroker, something felt missing.An Accidental Entrepreneurial SparkSelling her own BMW revealed a different path.Building From Her Own DriveBefore Ashford Motors, she was learning, reinvesting, and doing everything herself.The Shock of the PandemicOpening a yard just before lockdown threatened the business before it had momentum.Visibility Through Social MediaTurning to TikTok became a lifeline when no one knew who she was.Choosing Belief Over ApprovalReceiving SIMI accreditation marked a turning point in confidence.📚 Mentioned in this EpisodeAshford Motors – Founded by Nadia, a luxury and premium car dealership.https://www.ashfordmotors.ie/Ashford Approved (AM Approved) – Nadia’s second garage, offering more affordable and accessible vehicles alongside her premium range.https://www.amapproved.ie/SIMI (Society of the Irish Motor Industry) – The official representative body for the motor industry in Ireland, providing accreditation and governance standards for dealerships and motor businesses.https://www.simi.ie/⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – From Somalia to Ireland06:30 – Education and the Path Into Finance13:00 – Inside the High-Pressure Trading Floor21:00 – Reselling the 08 BMW29:00 – Reinvesting Profits and Learning the Trade36:00 – Opening Ashford Motors41:00 – Lockdown Shock46:00 – Marketing Through Social Media54:00 – Reputation, Criticism and Credibility01:01:00 – SIMI Accreditation01:08:00 – Building a Business With DisciplineThanks 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 DescriptionEating disorders are complex, layered, and often hidden in plain sight. In this episode, psychiatric nurse Laura Casey helps us understand the difference between disordered eating and a clinically diagnosed eating disorder - and why that distinction matters.Drawing on years of frontline experience, Laura explores the psychological roots of anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, and ARFID. She explains how these illnesses are not about vanity, but instead are coping mechanisms linked to trauma, anxiety, perfectionism, grief, and the need for control. She also sheds light on the physical risks - from refeeding syndrome to bone density loss - and why early intervention dramatically improves the chances of full recovery.Alongside clinical insight, this episode gives voice to the lived experience of those struggling in silence. It addresses stigma within healthcare, the pressure of social media, the rise in cases during COVID, and the heartbreaking reality that Ireland currently has only three public adult inpatient beds.🔑 Key Points1. When Food Becomes an Internal BattleEating disorders often involve a powerful internal voice that overrides rational thinking and drives secrecy, rigidity, and isolation.2. ARFID and NeurodivergenceAvoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder is increasingly recognised, particularly in neurodivergent individuals, and deserves equal seriousness and support.3. The Role of Trauma and AnxietyExperiences such as grief, bullying, family breakdown, or suppressed emotions can contribute to the development of disordered eating behaviours.4. The Hidden Physical TollMalnourishment affects cognition, heart function, bone health, sleep, fertility, and digestion - and purging behaviours can cause serious internal damage.5. Why Families MatterFamily dynamics can influence recovery - both positively and negatively - and family therapy can play a crucial role in long-term progress.6. Relapse Is a Blip, Not a FailureRecovery can include setbacks. Early warning signs and relapse prevention planning are key to sustaining progress.7. Stigma Within HealthcareMany people feel dismissed or reduced to their diagnosis when seeking treatment - highlighting the need for holistic, compassionate care.📚 Mentioned in This EpisodeDSM-5 - Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental DisordersICD Codes - International Classification of DiseasesEating DisordersAnorexia nervosa/Bulimia nervosa/Binge Eating Disorder/Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder - ARFIDhttps://www2.hse.ie/conditions/anorexia-nervosa/Refeeding SyndromeCBT - Cognitive Behavioural TherapyDBT - Dialectical Behaviour TherapyBodywhys - The Eating Disorders Association of Irelandhttps://bodywhys.ie/+353 01 210 7906Samaritans [email protected]: 116 123Pieta HouseFreephone: 1800 247 2470818 111 126HSE Eating Disorder Teams (Public Health)1800 111 888(Referral must be made through GP)Lois Bridges (Private/Self pay/HSE funding)[email protected]+353 87 653 9747CARED Ireland(Caring About Recovery from an Eating Disorder)[email protected] [email protected] TherapistLana [email protected]⏱️ Timestamps03:00 – Disordered Eating vs Eating Disorders07:00 – ARFID and Sensory Restriction13:00 – Trauma, Perfectionism and Control18:30 – Medical Risks and Refeeding24:00 – Specialist Therapies and Medication29:30 – The Gap in Irish Services34:00 – What Parents and Friends Can Do40:00 – Relapse Prevention and WRAP Planning46:00 – Hope at Any Stage 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.

🎧 Episode DescriptionLiz Dwyer joins the podcast to discuss what life looks like when separation doesn’t bring closure. Still legally married six years on, she reflects on the gaps in Ireland’s divorce process and the contradictions of being asked to co-parent calmly while fighting legal battles behind the scenes.Beyond the courtroom, Liz talks about the coping tools that kept her going, from the books that helped her make sense of what she was living through to the unexpected fun of dating again.Liz also speaks about later marriage and family-building in Ireland, and her work on the Future Fertility Show, which focuses on education, access, and support around fertility and reproductive health. Key PointsHonest discussion about cosmetic and pelvic health treatments — what works and what doesn’tWhy pelvic floor strength matters more than cosmetic proceduresHow Ireland’s divorce system is slow, opaque, and outdatedThe emotional and financial toll of being stuck in long-term legal limboLack of transparency and consistency in family court decisionsBeing forced to co-parent while legally positioned as adversariesTotal absence of structured support for people going through divorceComparison with faster, more straightforward divorce systems abroadDating after separation as an unexpected source of healing and perspectiveThe need for real support networks around divorce, fertility, and family change📚 Mentioned in this EpisodeBroken Open – Elizabeth LesserA reflective book about how major life upheavals such as divorce, loss, or illness can break familiar structures and open the door to growth, meaning, and change. It explores resilience, identity, and rebuilding after rupture.Future Fertility ShowA fertility-focused event covering education, clinics, talks, and support services.📍 Location: RDS, Dublin📅 Dates: March 21–22🎟️ Tickets: https://www.futurefertilityshow.com/Future Beauty ShowA medical-led beauty and health event focused on hormones, wellbeing, and evidence-based education.📍 Location: RDS, Dublin📅 Dates: March 21–22🎟️ Tickets: https://futurebeautyshow.com/Future Men’s Health ShowAn event dedicated to men’s health, hormones, longevity, and wellbeing, developed in response to growing demand for accessible expert-led information.📍 Location: RDS, Dublin📅 Dates: March 21–22🎟️ Tickets: https://www.futuremenshealth.com/⏱️ Timestamps03:10 – Trying beauty treatments to give honest advice06:05 – Why divorce in Ireland is so difficult14:10 – Court delays and legal limbo17:45 – Co-parenting pressures26:30 – Psychological toll of uncertainty31:10 – Lack of support structures36:45 – Books and coping tools45:50 – Dating after separation50:40 – Future Fertility ShowThanks 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 DescriptionThis conversation brings together Eimear McCrann, Director EY Entrepreneur Of The Year and Anne Heraty, EOY Judge and Founder CPL Resourced, to unpack the realities of entrepreneurship from two deeply experienced perspectives – one from building and leading a business over decades, and the other from supporting hundreds of founders through every stage of growth.Anne reflects on the long arc of her entrepreneurial journey, from early beginnings to international expansion, public markets, and ultimately stepping back from the business she built. She shares honest insights into resilience, leadership under scrutiny, and the personal trade-offs that come with responsibility.Eimear shares what she has learned from working at the heart of the Entrepreneur of the Year programme, including why women often hesitate to put themselves forward despite strong businesses. Together, they explore how community, shared learning, and trusted relationships can make entrepreneurship more sustainable – especially during periods of uncertainty and change.🔑 Key PointsLeadership Requires Comfort With UncertaintyEntrepreneurs must make decisions without full information, learning to respond rather than react when things change.Building Through Cycles of ChangeBusinesses move through booms, crashes, and reinvention, requiring resilience and adaptability at every stage.Confidence Gaps Still Affect Female FoundersWomen tend to underestimate their readiness, particularly when recognition or visibility is involved.Peer Networks Accelerate Better DecisionsAccess to founders with lived experience helps entrepreneurs navigate challenges more effectively.Letting Go Is a Leadership SkillStepping back from a business requires trust, planning, and an identity shift, not just financial readiness.Entrepreneurship Is Ultimately About PeopleTeams, trust, and shared values shape sustainable businesses.📚 Mentioned in this EpisodeCPLFounded by Anne Heraty in 1990, CPL grew from a small recruitment firm into a large international recruitment and outsourcing group employing thousands of people across multiple countries.EY Entrepreneur of the YearIreland’s flagship entrepreneurship programme supporting founders through a year-long process focused on community, learning, and long-term impact.⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Introduction and Focus on Female Entrepreneurship03:10 – What the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Programme Really Is06:20 – Anne Heraty’s Early Business Beginnings10:15 – Scaling, Market Crashes, and Reinvention15:30 – Confidence, Timing, and Women Putting Themselves Forward20:10 – The Value of Entrepreneurial Community24:40 – Expanding Into New Markets and Cultural Differences29:30 – Leadership, Uncertainty, and Decision-Making33:45 – Letting Go of a Business and Life After Exit38:10 – Advice for Young People and Building Relationships42:30 – Reflections on Meaning, Legacy, and ImpactThanks 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 episode, Laura sits down with Síle Seoige to talk about a period in her early thirties when everything changed at once. Síle speaks about being diagnosed with thyroid cancer, the impact that had on her work and personal life, and how it forced her to stop and reassess in a way she hadn’t before.She talks about anxiety from the inside, not recognising it at the time, only later, and how listening to other people’s stories during the making of her documentaries made her re-examine her own experiences. The conversation also moves through parenting, work, and the practical decisions Síle has made around boundaries, time away from home, and what she will and won’t say yes to now.The discussion is closely tied to Síle’s new documentary series Séalaí le Síle, filmed over several months and exploring three major themes: parenting, anxiety, and bullying. The series airs on TG4 on Wednesday nights, beginning on Wednesday 11 February, with each episode focusing on one topic. Drawing on conversations with families, experts, and people sharing their own lived experiences in Ireland and abroad, Síle describes the project as an attempt to better understand why so many people are struggling in the world as it is now.🔑 Key PointsA year that changed everythingSíle speaks about a period when illness, work, and personal life collided, forcing her to stop and take stock in a way she hadn’t before.Living with anxiety without naming itShe describes experiencing anxiety for years without recognising it at the time, only understanding it later through hindsight and listening to others.Illness as a line in the sandA thyroid cancer diagnosis brought clarity about what mattered, what didn’t, and what could no longer be ignored.Parenting in a pressured systemThe conversation looks at how modern parenting is shaped by time, money, childcare, and expectation.Learning to set boundariesSíle talks about becoming more boundaried around work, travel, and time away from home, and why saying no has become necessary.Listening to other people’s experiencesMaking the documentaries prompted Síle to reconsider parts of her own life she hadn’t fully examined before.Bullying beyond childhoodBullying is discussed as something that affects adults too, particularly in workplaces and public-facing roles.Questioning what we call ‘normal’The episode repeatedly returns to the idea that many struggles make sense when placed in the context of modern life.⏱️ Timestamps04:20 – The documentaries and why these topics mattered06:30 – Parenting, pressure, and guilt08:10 – Parenting today and the pressure parents are under17:00 – Anxiety and missing language25:10 – Illness, shock, and being forced to stop37:20 – Parenting decisions and limits44:00 – Media exposure and public life52:10 – Identity and reflectionThanks 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 episode, Laura explores why dating so often feels exhausting, confusing, or discouraging, particularly when one person is ready for commitment and the other is not in the same place.Drawing on insight from Mairead the Matchmaker, the conversation looks at how timing, life stage, and emotional readiness shape modern relationships. It reflects on patterns that come up again and again, including men waiting until life feels secure before committing, women staying open to connection despite setbacks, and how early communication often sets the tone for what follows.Rather than offering quick fixes, this episode focuses on clarity and self understanding, recognising when a situation is not aligned with what you want, and trusting that dating should not require you to minimise yourself. It is a thoughtful, grounded conversation for anyone navigating modern dating with honesty and intention.🔑 Key PointsReadiness matters more than chemistryStrong attraction does not lead anywhere if two people are not emotionally or practically ready at the same time.Men and women often date differentlyMen often wait until life feels stable before committing, while women tend to stay open to connection.Communication sets the tone earlyHow someone communicates at the beginning usually reflects how they will communicate long term.Dating is a numbers game, without being unkindMeeting the right person requires consistency while still treating people with respect.Not every relationship should lastStaying in something unhealthy can be more damaging than leaving.The right relationship allows you to be yourselfA healthy partnership feels supportive rather than constraining.⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Introduction and why dating feels difficult03:30 – Why people are marrying later in Ireland08:00 – Readiness and timing12:00 – When one person is ready and the other is not16:00 – Using dating apps properly19:30 – Communication patterns and early red flags26:00 – Dating as a numbers game33:30 – Confidence built through action39:30 – How the wrong relationship affects wellbeing43:00 – Five questions to assess a relationship49:30 – Knowing when to walk away56:00 – Staying open without burnoutThanks 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 DescriptionLaura is joined by dental hygienist Eimear for a clear, practical conversation about oral health and why it connects to the rest of the body, not just your teeth. They talk about plaque, tartar and gum disease, what causes bleeding gums, and why brushing your teeth without brushing your gums misses half the problem.Eimear explains why interdental brushes work better than floss for most people, how electric toothbrushes remove far more plaque than manual ones, and why soft brushes are better than hard ones. She also talks about mouth breathing, tongue scraping, night guards for grinding, and what happens when plaque is left to harden under the gums.The conversation then moves into some of the less expected links between oral health and things like menopause, pregnancy, arthritis, diabetes and cancer treatment. Throughout it all, Eimear keeps coming back to prevention, showing how small, realistic habits can reduce risk and protect your teeth and gums over the long term.🔑 Key PointsMost people are not cleaning where it matters mostBacteria sits along the gumline and between the teeth, which is why brushing only the visible surfaces leaves disease behind.Plaque becomes harmful when it is left too longSoft plaque hardens into tartar and creates a protected space where more aggressive bacteria can grow and damage gums and bone.Tools matter more than people realiseElectric toothbrushes and interdental brushes remove far more bacteria than manual brushing and flossing.Saliva plays a major role in oral healthDry mouth, common during menopause, illness and medication use, changes the balance of bacteria and increases the risk of decay and gum disease.Gum disease is not just a mouth problemInflammation and bacteria are linked with conditions like diabetes, arthritis, pregnancy complications and Alzheimer’s.Grinding and clenching cause real damageNight-time grinding can shorten teeth, irritate gums and strain the jaw.Consistency beats perfectionRegular, simple habits protect the mouth better than occasional intense cleaning.⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Why gum disease is linked to Alzheimer’s01:00 – Porphyromonas gingivalis and how it damages the brain02:00 – The vicious cycle between Alzheimer’s and oral health03:00 – Why dentists avoid scaring patients with the 70% statistic17:00 – Diabetes, arthritis and bidirectional gum disease22:00 – Menopause, hormones and dry mouth26:00 – Teeth grinding, night guards and jaw damage28:00 – Mouth breathing and gingivitis30:00 – Tongue scraping and bad breath bacteria45:00 – Mouthwash, chlorhexidine and staining56:00 – Adapting dental care for people with extra needsThanks 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 episode of The Laura Dowling Experience, Laura is joined by Ciara Mangan, founder of Beyond Surviving. Ciara reflects on the gaps in long-term trauma support, the challenges survivors face once formal services fall away, and why survival is so often treated as the endpoint rather than the beginning of healing.She speaks about navigating the justice process, the emotional toll of prolonged legal proceedings, and the ways trauma can ripple through families and relationships. Ciara also explores post-traumatic growth, describing how meaning, connection, and purpose became possible over time - without minimising the pain that came before.This episode centres on healing beyond crisis, the importance of survivor-led support, and the understanding that recovery is deeply personal and looks different for everyone.🔑 Key PointsSurvival is often treated as the finish lineCiara reflects on how recovery is expected to be complete once immediate danger has passed, even though healing is only beginning for many survivors.The gap in long-term trauma supportShe speaks about feeling lost once formal services fell away, highlighting how many survivors are left without guidance or connection after crisis support ends.The emotional toll of the justice processCiara shares the impact of navigating prolonged legal proceedings and how systems intended to protect can sometimes retraumatise survivors.How trauma ripples through families and relationshipsThe conversation explores the long-term effects of trauma on trust, intimacy, and family dynamics.Post-traumatic growth without minimising painCiara discusses growth as something that can emerge slowly over time, without pressure to reframe trauma as a positive experience.The importance of being believedValidation from family, professionals, and the justice system is shown to be central to rebuilding self-worth and safety.Why survivor-led support mattersCiara explains the value of spaces shaped by lived experience, where understanding, safety, and choice are prioritised.Turning lived experience into purposeThe episode closes on Ciara’s decision to found Beyond Surviving, using her experience to support others navigating life after trauma.📚 Mentioned in this EpisodeBeyond Surviving – Survivor-led charity supporting healing beyond crisis. https://beyondsurviving.ie/ Beyond Surviving – Survivors Hub – Resources + community support. https://beyondsurviving.ie/survivors-hub/ Rape Crisis Ireland – 24-hour helpline + links to local support. https://www.rapecrisisireland.ie/ Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) – Support services and info. https://www.drcc.ie/ ⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Opening reflections on survival and recovery06:20 – Reaching the end of crisis support12:40 – Workplace response and social fallout18:00 – Telling her parents what happened25:40 – Deciding to pursue justice30:10 – The trial process35:50 – Being believed and legal validation38:40 – Why survivor-led spaces matter44:10 – The origins of Beyond Surviving45:20 – Exploring post-traumatic growth50:30 – Relationships and rebuilding self-worth57:00 – Closing reflections on healingThanks 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 DescriptionThis episode offers an unflinching look at the realities of Irish healthcare - especially child and adolescent mental health - through the eyes of someone who’s been on the front line for decades. Laura is joined by Martin Daly, a rural GP in County Galway and a TD (Teachta Dála), to explore what it feels like to advocate for children and families inside systems that are overstretched, slow, and often unresponsive.Martin shares a deeply affecting account of a nine-year-old boy experiencing severe OCD, including the barriers faced when trying to access CAMHS - from repeat assessments, to letters being returned, to referrals being deemed “not appropriate”, even as the child’s distress escalates. The story becomes a window into the human cost of rigid thresholds and administrative dysfunction, where families are left carrying fear and uncertainty while clinicians try to push against closing doors.From there, the conversation widens into the bigger picture: the lack of digitisation in the HSE and how basic inefficiencies create real harm; why housing insecurity and “stuck” young adults ripple into mental health and relationships; and what Martin believes Ireland needs to do differently if it wants to protect wellbeing, not just respond to crisis. It’s warm, candid, and grounded in lived reality - ending with a reflective final stretch on kindness, purpose, and what it means to live a good life.⸻🔑 Key PointsAdvocating for children inside broken systemsMartin describes the emotional and professional strain of repeatedly trying to secure care for children while working within rigid, under-resourced structures.When mental health support depends on thresholdsThe conversation explores how eligibility criteria can exclude children who are clearly distressed but not yet deemed to be in crisis.A nine-year-old living with severe OCDA real case highlights how delayed intervention intensifies suffering for both the child and their family.The hidden burden placed on parentsFamilies are left holding fear, responsibility, and risk while waiting for services that may never arrive.Housing insecurity and mental healthMartin connects the housing crisis to rising anxiety, stalled independence, and a growing sense of hopelessness among young people and families.HSE digitisation and administrative failureBasic inefficiencies - from paper-based systems to disconnected services - are shown to cause real harm and delay care when timing matters most.Moral injury in clinical practiceMartin reflects on the ethical toll of knowing what care is needed, but being unable to access it for patients.Social media and youth mental healthConstant exposure and online pressure are discussed as compounding factors in rising anxiety and distress.⸻📚 Mentioned in this EpisodeMartin Daly – Rural GP and TD (Teachta Dála), sharing frontline experience of Irish healthcareChild and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) – Referral pathways, thresholds, and access issuesObsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) – Childhood presentation and impact when left untreatedADHD – Diagnosis pathways and pressures on assessment servicesHealth Service Executive (HSE) – Structure, capacity issues, and lack of digitisationHousing crisis in Ireland – Links to anxiety, delayed independence, and mental wellbeingSocial media and youth mental health – Ongoing exposure and rising emotional distress⸻⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Martin’s opening reflections and background04:45 – Life as a rural GP on the frontline09:30 – Accessing child mental health services in Ireland15:10 – How CAMHS thresholds work in practice21:40 – A nine-year-old with severe OCD28:30 – Referrals returned and care denied35:20 – The emotional toll on families41:50 – HSE digitisation and systemic inefficiency48:10 – Housing insecurity and its impact on mental health54:30 – Social media, anxiety, and young people59:40 – Responsibility, kindness, and what a good life meansThanks 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 reflective episode, Laura sits down with Kathryn Thomas to talk about change - the kind you choose, the kind that’s forced upon you, and the kind that quietly reshapes you over time. Kathryn shares her journey through career transitions, from national broadcasting to creative independence, and what it’s like to make bold decisions in midlife while balancing motherhood, identity, and self-trust.Much of the conversation centres on health and how our understanding of it has evolved. Kathryn speaks openly about her years on Operation Transformation, the backlash she faced, and why she felt compelled to explore the science and controversy around GLP-1 medications and Ozempic through documentary work. Together, they unpack how the obesity conversation has shifted, including the role of biology, food environments, and access in shaping long-term health.The episode also moves into ageing, menopause, sleep, aesthetics, and longevity. Kathryn reflects honestly on contradiction - wanting to age well while questioning the systems that profit from fear - and on the small, practical changes that have made the biggest difference to her wellbeing. Grounded, thoughtful, and deeply human, this is a conversation about agency, perspective, and learning when to let go of certainty.🔑 Key PointsChoosing change later in lifeKathryn reflects on making major career decisions in her mid-40s and stepping outside long-established systems.The cost of visibilityPublic scrutiny, online criticism, and resilience are explored through Kathryn’s lived experience.Operation Transformation revisitedA nuanced look back at the show’s evolution, cultural impact, and the stigma that surrounded it.Rethinking obesityThe conversation moves beyond willpower, focusing on biology, metabolic adaptation, and prevention.Food deserts and ultra-processed foodsKathryn and Laura discuss how access, environment, and the dominance of ultra-processed food shape health outcomes, particularly for children, highlighting why individual choice alone is an incomplete explanation.GLP-1 medications and OzempicKathryn explains why open, responsible discussion around these treatments matters.Health, hormones, and sleepMenopause, exhaustion, and the underestimated power of routine and rest are discussed honestly.Ageing, aesthetics, and contradictionFrom Botox to longevity science, the episode holds space for complexity rather than judgement.⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Introductions and setting the tone03:00 – Career longevity and public visibility06:00 – Leaving RTÉ and taking a midlife leap09:30 – Operation Transformation and public scrutiny13:30 – How the weight conversation has changed18:00 – GLP-1 medications and Ozempic23:30 – Metabolic adaptation, food environments, and prevention30:30 – Food deserts, inequality, and access35:00 – Ageing, aesthetics, and contradiction40:00 – Longevity, medicine, and living well46:00 – Menopause, sleep, and routineThanks 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 DescriptionDonal O’Shea has spent a lifetime working at the sharp end of endocrinology- and in this conversation, he brings that perspective with clarity and honesty. Laura and Donal explore how dramatically medicine has changed, from early diabetes care rooted in fear and compliance to modern treatments that prioritise quality of life and long-term health.The discussion moves through hormones, obesity, and the rise of GLP-1 medications, examining how new treatments exposed long-held misconceptions about appetite, behaviour, and responsibility. Along the way, they confront stigma, access to care, and the cultural tendency to reduce complex conditions to willpower. Thoughtful and grounded, this episode invites a more humane way of thinking about health- one led by evidence, humility, and compassion.🔑 Key PointsHow diabetes care used to work - and why it didn’tDonal reflects on fear-based approaches from earlier in his career and contrasts them with today’s technology-driven, compassionate care.Hormones quietly run the showThe episode unpacks how chemical messengers regulate appetite, mood, energy, and long-term health.GLP-1s changed more than blood sugarOriginally developed for diabetes, these treatments revealed unexpected effects on appetite and behaviour.Why “eat less, move more” falls shortObesity is explored as a biologically regulated, chronic condition rather than a failure of willpower.When medicine collides with cultureLaura and Donal discuss how effective treatments risk being misunderstood in a thinness-obsessed world.Access isn’t equalCost and prescribing rules shape who receives care and who is left behind.Weight loss doesn’t erase identityThe psychological impact of changing bodies is often overlooked.📚 Mentioned in this EpisodeOSheaHoganLabs - Donal’s educational presence on TikTok and Instagram addressing medical misinformation⏱️ Timestamps00:00 - A lifetime inside changing medicine04:10 - Diabetes before technology07:30 - Why fear was never good healthcare12:00 - GLP-1 and a shift in understanding obesity17:45 - Appetite, behaviour, and biology23:30 - Stigma, thinness, and misuse of treatment30:15 - Identity after weight change36:40 - Menopause, hormones, and long-term thinking43:20 - Battling misinformation online50:00 - Who gets treatment - and who doesn’t57:00 - Looking to the next generationThanks 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 DescriptionThis conversation traces the path that brought Eoin Cluskey to where he is today- not only as the founder of Bread 41, but as someone who thinks deeply about community, responsibility, and the kind of impact a business can have. He talks openly about struggling through school, finding his footing in kitchens abroad, and eventually discovering purpose through business.Eoin also reflects on the parts of his story that don’t get talked about as often- the pressure of building something from nothing, the moment his partner told him the work was breaking their family, and the shift that followed. His stories from his work in prisons, schools, and the community show a consistent thread of noticing people who are often overlooked, and making small interventions that can have big impact.🔑 Key PointsSchool never fit, but it pushed him to think differentlyEoin explains how feeling behind in education stayed with him and later influenced how he approaches people who struggle in traditional systems.Finding belonging through craftFood became a place where he could build discipline, confidence, and a sense of identity.The personal cost of ambitionEoin names the moment he realised that relentless work was pulling him away from his family and needed to change.Understanding dignity through prison workHis experiences with incarcerated men opened his eyes to circumstance, accountability, and the meaning of opportunity.What teachers experience behind the scenesSpending time with educators gave him a clearer picture of the pressures and expectations they carry.Encouragement as a turning pointThe schoolboy who doubted his own ability shows how a few honest words can change someone’s trajectory.📚 Mentioned in this EpisodeBread 41 / Breaducation Programme⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Welcome & Eoin’s Background04:10 – Growing Up Outside the System08:20 – Finding Direction in Kitchens Abroad14:25 – Lessons from Ballymaloe18:40 – Starting Bread 41 from Scratch24:30 – A Family Wake-Up Call29:45 – Rethinking Ambition and Balance32:10 – Experiences Inside Mountjoy Prison42:30 – Teachers, Pressure & the Breaducation Programme48:25 – A Small Moment That Changed a Young Person’s Path54:10 – The Responsibility of Being a Business That “Sees” PeoplThanks 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 DescriptionThis episode is an emotionally rich, thoughtful exploration of motherhood, storytelling, friendship, and addiction. Sophie reflects on how her podcast began long before podcasting was popular- born out of frustration and a desire for honesty. Instead of curated perfection, she and co-host Jen offered chaos, humour, truth, and community and thousands of women saw themselves reflected, often for the first time.Sophie also shares deeply personal experiences with mental illness, alcoholism and self-loathing, describing how shame can follow us from childhood into adulthood until compassion interrupts the pattern. Through laughter, vulnerability, and storytelling, she shows how honesty can become a form of healing.⸻🔑 Key Points🎙 Podcasting with No Blueprint- A movement born from instinct, not strategy.👭 Friendship as Creative Foundation- Trust, humour, and emotional safety.👶 Motherhood Without Filters- Breaking away from curated Instagram motherhood.🧠 Postnatal Depression & Mental Health Struggles- Real emotional aftermath of motherhood.🍷 Addiction & The First Drink at 13- Relief, identity, and survival.✨ Compassion Through Seeing Children Clearly- Realising nothing was her fault.📢 Women’s Voices & The Power of Being Heard - Solidarity and storytelling.⸻📚 Mentioned in this EpisodeMother of Pod / Stop the Madness Podcast⸻⏱️ Timestamps00:00- How the podcast unexpectedly began05:10- “Be my pod wife” moment08:40- Building Patreon & creative freedom13:20- Irish storytelling culture18:10- Postnatal depression & emotional reality23:50- When listeners share their truth30:20- Addiction & first drink story33:00- Breastfeeding pressure & guilt40:00- Addiction, breakdown & survival52:30- Women’s safety & public space59:00- Parenting, screens & doing our bestThanks 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 DescriptionWhat started as a simple moment in Lidl — noticing the word “style” on a yogurt label — turned into a viral movement. In this heartfelt conversation, Sophie Morris shares how her honest, practical videos helped people understand not just what’s in their food, but how to shop with confidence, protect their health, and even support small producers.Sophie explains how clever swaps, label awareness, and small decisions can lead to powerful changes — physically, mentally, and emotionally. She shares real stories from families, teenagers, and everyday shoppers who say her content didn’t just change their eating habits, but changed how they feel. This is more than food education — it’s empowerment.⸻🔑 Key PointsFrom Local Coaching to Viral ImpactSophie began by helping confused shoppers understand food labels and trends.Greek vs. Greek-Style — The Moment Everything ChangedHer first viral video showed how one tiny word can change the whole meaning of a product.Clever Swaps, Not ShameShe believes in empowering people with realistic, often cheaper swaps — not food fear.Profit vs. NutritionBig companies aren’t evil, but operate in a system built for profit, not health.Food and Mental WellbeingPeople report better mood, clarity, and energy after reducing ultra-processed foods.Responding to CriticismSophie explains why she avoids ingredient fearmongering and never singles out additives.Consumer PowerHer audience helped small Irish producers thrive — proving demand drives change.⸻⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Greek-style yogurt and how it all began03:20 – When the videos went viral06:00 – Clever Swaps explained08:00 – Who really makes our food?10:40 – Criticism, trust, and staying independent15:00 – Why ingredient awareness matters19:00 – Real stories: food and mental health23:20 – KitKat, Activia & misleading marketing28:00 – Policy, labeling & regulation30:10 – The Sophie Effect: small brands rising31:40 – Why she refuses sponsorships40:00 – Protein hype and sugar sneaking48:20 – Food access and affordability49:50 – Where food awareness is headedThanks 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 deeply moving and human conversation, Tammy Darcy opens up about the defining experiences that shaped her life- from the powerful bond with her sister Shona, her traumatic teenage years, bullying, and becoming a single mother at 18, to transforming pain into purpose by founding The Shona Project. She shares how her sister’s brain tumour, family breakdown, and years of emotional isolation shaped her desire to create a community of support for young girls- one rooted in courage, authenticity, and belonging.With tenderness and honesty, Tammy reflects on self-worth, shame, resilience, and why young people don't just need motivation- they need community, compassion, and a strong sense of who they are. At its core, this episode is about showing up for one another, embracing vulnerability, and believing that our greatest pain may one day serve a greater purpose.🔑 Key PointsTrauma, Loss & a Sister’s LegacyTammy shares the life-changing impact of her sister’s brain tumour, the emotional fallout, and how the loss shaped her outlook on compassion, purpose, and human connection.Turning Pain into PurposeInstead of being defined by tragedy, Tammy built The Shona Project- a nationwide movement supporting young girls through workshops, festivals, and leadership programmes.Bullying and Its Lifelong EffectsShe describes years of bullying, hiding in school toilets, and losing trust in other girls, realising that relational harm can sometimes take longer to heal than trauma itself.Courage Over ConfidenceTammy explains why we should focus on building courage rather than confidence because courage is what allows us to act even when we're unsure.Why Values Matter More Than AchievementsShe explores how helping teenagers identify their personal values gives them a lasting compass for decision-making, identity, and self-worth.Authenticity as FreedomTammy reflects on how embracing her authentic self, rather than trying to be “perfect”, has been liberating and transformative in both life and leadership.Creating Safe, Supportive CommunitiesShe shares how The Shona Project helps girls recognise that they can both harm and heal and that change begins with accountability, compassion, and kindness.📚 Mentioned in this EpisodeThe Shona Project - https://shona.ie/Shine Festival - https://shinefestival.ie/500x500 campaign https://shona.ie/500x500/⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Introduction & Early Confidence08:10 – Shona’s Diagnosis & Family Breakdown13:00 – Trauma, Grief & Feeling Lost16:00 – Becoming Pregnant at 1823:00 – Bullying, Isolation & Self-Worth30:00 – How The Shona Project Was Born45:00 – 500 by 500 Vision & Community51:00 – Talking to Young People About Values57:00 – Feel the Fear and Do It AnywayThanks 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 and deeply human conversation, Breda O'Toole shares her extraordinary journey of trauma, survival, and ultimately, healing. Her life was marked by poverty, abuse, war-related family trauma, institutional mistreatment, and years of being misdiagnosed within psychiatric care. For 23 years, she was prescribed heavy medication, underwent 29 shock treatments, and spent time in psychiatric institutions — including being restrained in a straitjacket for 11 days. Yet none of it treated the real wound: trauma.Breda explains how no professional ever asked about her life or experiences — only symptoms. She felt unseen, unheard, and misunderstood. The turning point came when a priest told her: “Take back control of your life.” That moment sparked her recovery journey — off medication, back to herself, and finally into true healing.This episode is painful, inspiring, and illuminating — a moving reminder that trauma is not mental illness, and recovery is possible when we are truly seen, heard, and believed.🔑 Key PointsTrauma vs. Mental IllnessHer suffering was rooted in trauma, not a disorder.Misdiagnosis & OvermedicationShe lived under 8+ incorrect diagnoses and was on up to 15 tablets daily.Electric Shock Therapy (ECT)29 ECT sessions — each followed in her records by: “Still depressed.”The StraitjacketShe was involuntarily restrained for 11 days — until her father rescued her.Loss & GriefShe lost three baby boys — through negligence, miscarriage, and stillbirth.The Words That Changed Everything“Take back control of your life” — the moment her recovery truly began.Recovery Begins With Being HeardOne doctor finally asked: “What happened to you?” — not “What’s wrong with you?”📚 Mentioned in This Episode• Unseen — Breda’s memoir• St. Patrick’s Institution, St. Brigid’s, St. Vincent’s• Valium, Lithium, Optimax• Straitjacket institutional practices• Father Walsh, Father Pat• Tommy — Breda’s husband⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Introducing Breda & her story01:00 – Childhood trauma: war, poverty, abuse08:00 – First Valium prescription & addiction10:00 – Misdiagnosis & medication spiral13:00 – Shock therapy and lost identity16:00 – Being detained & rescued by her father24:00 – Loss of her babies & emotional impact33:00 – Straitjacket and institutional trauma40:00 – “What happened to you?” — turning point46:00 – Coming off medication & reclaiming life52:00 – Real recovery, healing, and hopeThanks 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 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.

Send us a textNiamh Tallon, founder of Her Sport, is on a mission to change how we see women in sport through media coverage, education, and challenging the gender gap that exists across all levels of sport.• One in five girls drop out of sport between primary and secondary school compared to one in twenty boys• 94% of women in executive managerial positions have a background in sport, showing the professional benefits of athletic participation• Body image concerns, period stigma, and lack of appropriate facilities are major barriers for female athletes• Female athletes face disproportionate focus on their appearance rather than their performance in media coverage• Her Sport has featured over 900 different female athletes, creating visibility and representation across all sports• Women's teams at all levels frequently receive less resources, poorer facilities, and fewer opportunities than male counterparts• The Her Sport Foundation provides workshops, grants, and advocacy to support female athletes from grassroots to high performanceOur vision is equal opportunity in sport, regardless of gender. Support female athletes by following Her Sport, joining our MVP platform, or getting in touch at [email protected] 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 textVicki Notaro shares her journey from leading magazine editor to successful novelist with two published books and a third on the way. She discusses how she always knew she wanted to be childless by choice and normalizing this decision for women.• Moving from journalism to fiction writing after experiencing burnout in the publishing industry• Finding medication helpful for managing anxiety and prioritizing mental health• Being offered a publishing deal from Penguin at the perfect moment after leaving her job• Drawing inspiration from growing up as an only child and her fascination with friendship dynamics• Creating characters in her novels who reflect aspects of her personality and experiences• Exploring the theme of being childless by choice in her debut novel "Reality Check"• Finding inspiration from authors like Marion Keys, Judy Blume, and Jackie Collins• How her second novel "Long Story" explores the complexities of long-term friendships• Valuing real connection over constant social media engagementIf you like this podcast and I know so many of you do, you could really help me out by giving it a nice rating, sharing it with your friends and subscribing to the podcast.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 textOphthalmic surgeon Dr. Micheál O'Rourke takes us through the fascinating world of eye health, sharing insights from cataracts and macular degeneration to aesthetic procedures and vision preservation.• Eyes constantly move and blink even during sleep, requiring high energy and thin skin for optimal function• Cataracts are an inevitable part of aging, involving protein misalignment in the lens requiring surgical removal and prosthetic lens replacement• Macular degeneration comes in dry (less treatable) and wet (treatable with injections) forms that affect central vision but preserve peripheral sight• Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) is becoming popular at younger ages, removing excess skin around the eyes for a refreshed appearance• Women experience a dramatic drop in tear production during menopause, making HRT one of the most effective treatments for menopausal dry eye• Increased screen time reduces our blink rate and contributes to vision problems including the evolutionary shift toward myopia in children• Thyroid eye disease primarily affects young women, causing protruding eyes and altered appearance that can be addressed with surgery• Eye floaters result from changes in the eye's jelly-like vitreous humor and should be evaluated if they suddenly increase or appear with flashing lights• The eye cannot be temporarily removed during surgery as once believed, as nerve tissue damage is permanentFor more eye health insights, follow proper eye protection practices, get regular check-ups, and be aware of symptoms that might indicate serious conditions.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.