How does one navigate the tumultuous journey from a long-term relationship to personal independence? Tracy O'Keefe from Dunamid shares her transformative life story, from her vibrant childhood in Kilbarrick to the emotional challenges of separating in her early 40s. Tracy opens up about her upbringing, her early marriage, and the complex feelings surrounding her separation, offering an honest look at emotional numbness, guilt, and the impact of life's transitions on personal growth.

Tracy’s candid reflections reveal the emotional and mental hurdles she faced while rediscovering her identity post-separation. We discuss the influence of menopause on mental health, the struggle for self-discovery, and how stepping out of a dependent relationship led to newfound confidence and self-awareness. Tracy’s journey is a testament to the resilience it takes to find one's own voice and preferences, highlighting the importance of personal growth and the strength that emerges from adversity.

Finally, we dive into practical insights on navigating divorce, shedding light on avoiding unnecessary legal expenses, managing child custody, and the intricacies of removing a name from a mortgage. Tracy also shares her expertise in helping others through DIY divorces, aiming to facilitate smoother transitions for those seeking a fresh start. Join us as we explore the resilience and strength of modern women who refuse to settle for less, celebrating their courage to advocate for better lives and more equitable treatment.

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

What does it take to remain resilient amidst life's toughest challenges? Our guest, Shauna Rice from Ballyferma, has experienced more than her fair share of trials, and her story is nothing short of inspiring. Through laughter and memories, Shauna opens up about her childhood filled with warmth and the unbreakable bond with her mother and sisters. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of family dynamics and the power of community connections.

When faced with a cancer diagnosis, how do you juggle the demands of motherhood and personal health? Shauna takes us through her emotional journey of managing everyday life while battling breast cancer, first witnessing her mother's struggle and later facing her own diagnosis while pregnant. She shares the difficult decisions she had to make, the strength she found in her family, and the poignant moments that defined her resilience. From the fear of losing her mother to the heartbreak of her own diagnosis, Shauna's narrative is a testament to human strength and the importance of a supportive network.

Recovery is not just a physical journey, but an emotional one as well. Shauna opens up about the complexities of post-surgery family dynamics, the ongoing treatment decisions, and her aspirations of returning to the performing arts. Despite the hurdles of chemotherapy and the exhaustion of caring for her children, she remains hopeful for the future. With plans for reconstructive surgery and dreams of gracing the stage once again, Shauna's journey is a powerful reminder of the enduring hope that fuels us through life's trials. Join us for an episode that celebrates resilience, family support, and the pursuit of joy amidst adversity.

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

What happens when your childhood is shaped by both Egyptian and Irish cultures and then disrupted by a sudden move across borders? Join us, Sherin and Rachel, as we share the candid and emotional stories of our upbringing, family separation due to religious conflict, and the profound bonds that have shaped our lives. Our reflections on growing up with strong maternal figures, navigating the loss of a parent, and confronting the bittersweet nature of lost friendships offer a heartfelt look into the resilience required to overcome life's challenges.

Imagine the chaos of a family emergency abroad, compounded by communication barriers and outdated passports. We recount the harrowing experience of navigating these obstacles, the overwhelming grief of losing a loved one far from home, and the emotional journey of repatriation. These experiences, both personal and communal, highlight the deep bonds within our family and our commitment to creating supportive spaces for women. We also delve into the creation of Sister Sheds, a community-driven initiative that has transformed lives through the power of shared experiences and unwavering support.

Our story is rooted in resilience and empowerment. We discuss the challenges of securing funding, ensuring inclusivity, and the joy of seeing women form lasting friendships and support networks through Sister Sheds. Our journey is one of healing, community connection, and the ongoing exploration of our spiritual gifts. Tune in to hear how our past has shaped our present and inspired the creation of a community that champions the strength of togetherness and the healing power of shared stories.

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

What happens when life's challenges seem insurmountable, yet you find the strength to keep moving forward? Join us for an intimate conversation with Niamh O'Shaughnessy as she shares her deeply personal journey of resilience and hope. Growing up in the tight-knit community of Darndale, Niamh opens up about the strict household rules, childhood trauma, and mental health struggles that shaped her adolescence. From experiencing OCD and substance experimentation to the pain of psychiatric admission, Niamh's story is a testament to the power of maintaining a positive outlook amidst life's adversities.

Navigating the complexities of toxic relationships, Niamh sheds light on the emotional strain of raising children with developmental concerns. Her candid discussion about single parenting a child with severe medical needs, including Ollie's diagnosis of multiple brain abnormalities and cerebral palsy, offers a raw and unfiltered look at the physical and emotional toll it takes. Despite these hardships, Niamh's determination to create a stable environment for her children shines through, as she advocates for systemic support and dreams of establishing a specialized care facility for children with disabilities.

Through each chapter of our conversation, Niamh's unwavering faith and resilience become evident. From the harrowing night of Ollie's seizure to the ongoing battle for a mold-free home, she remains steadfast in her belief in kindness, perseverance, and the strength to face whatever comes her way. Tune in to hear Niamh's inspiring journey, filled with grace, joy, and a relentless pursuit of a better future for her children and others facing similar challenges. This episode is a heartfelt reminder of the importance of faith and the power of hope.

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

Have you ever wondered what it takes to leave a stable job and chase your dreams? Robyn, an emerging influencer, shares her incredible journey of leaving her ten-year career at the HSE to pursue her passion full-time. With the support of her best friend Dean and her loyal French bulldog George, Robyn navigates the emotional and financial challenges of this life-changing decision. Get ready to be inspired by her story of resilience and determination that breaks free from societal expectations.

This episode takes you through Robyn's transformation from a transient lifestyle in Monastery to finding solace in a family home in Newcastle. Hear about the emotional healing that comes with feeling safe and stable, and the joy of reconnecting with family. Robyn also opens up about her experiences with weight management medications like Saxenda and Ozempic, and the emotional impact of sharing her health journey on social media. It's a powerful narrative of personal growth, healing, and the pursuit of happiness.

We also explore the highs and lows of Robyn's new career as an influencer, from securing brand partnerships to planning a unique van podcast. Discover the behind-the-scenes realities of content creation, financial planning, and the ethics of sharing personal stories online. Robyn's journey is a reminder that success comes with its own set of challenges, but with courage and support, it's possible to transform your life and achieve your dreams. Listen in for heartfelt moments and valuable insights into navigating life's changes.

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

Ever found yourself reminiscing about those good old days when life was less about deadlines and more about the next laugh? Well, pull up a chair, because on our latest episode, we're catching up with Hughie Legget, the man who took the leap from Coolock to New Hampshire, and our delightful guest Natalie, straight from the courts. We're tearing open the scrapbook of our youth, reliving the trials of twinhood, the comedy of our schoolyard antics, and the intricacies of navigating friendships across continents.

As the evening rolls on, we're bringing the past alive with stories that'll have you clutching your sides – from developer conferences that took unexpected detours to wild nights at Republica club that ended with caring for strangers and losing phones. We'll revisit the hilarious mix-ups (a DJ and a weatherman, really?), and take you through the narrow streets of Montfaucon, where every corner turned led to another escapade.

But it's not all laughter; some memories tug at the heartstrings. We'll share the solemn pact between friends, the remarkable tale of a sister who became a guardian too soon, and the emotional journeys that unfold when life throws its curveballs. Join Hughie, Natalie, and me for an episode that's as much about cherishing the bonds we've built as it is about the sheer unpredictability of where life takes us.

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

Facing the unimaginable, Erica Tierney of Rathcoole, Dublin, opens up about her poignant journey through pregnancy while battling cancer. Her vivid recollection transports us into the heart of a small village where childhood memories intertwine with the resilience required to confront life's harshest trials. The laughter of Dublin's quirky traditions and the unwavering support of a close-knit community lay the foundation for Erica's extraordinary narrative—a testament to the human spirit in the face of adversity.

As the conversation unfolds, Erica's candidness reveals the stark contrast between the anticipation of new life and the daunting reality of a cancer diagnosis. Her story takes a deeper, more personal turn as she shares the intricacies of navigating a mastectomy, early chemotherapy, and the emotional turmoil of welcoming a child amidst personal health uncertainties. The resilience of a woman balancing the joy of motherhood with the resolve to fight for her life is nothing short of inspiring, offering listeners a raw glimpse into the strength found within the bonds of family and community.

Beyond her personal battle, Erica steps into the realm of advocacy, highlighting her fight for legislative reform to extend maternity leave for women facing similar plights. Her passion for change and her relentless campaign for compassionate policies serve as a beacon of hope and a clarion call to action. Through her journey, we not only embrace the challenges and triumphs of her experience but also recognize the power of one voice to ignite a movement for the betterment of many. Join us as we carry the torch lit by Erica's story, advocating for a world where the fight against cancer includes the pursuit of dignity and change.

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

Have you ever walked through the streets of your hometown and felt the weight of a thousand stories pressing in around you? Our guest Shauna Finnegan knows this sensation intimately, sharing with us his journey from the humble beginnings in Tallaght to overcoming the obstacles of family life marred by addiction. Her stories of local landmarks, the trials of reuniting with separated siblings, and the resilience required to face a parent's substance abuse offer a raw, unfiltered glimpse into the reality many face behind closed doors.

Motherhood is a rollercoaster, perhaps even more so when it arrives in the unexpected form of teenage pregnancy. Through laughter and tears, our guests recount instances of comedic pregnancy reveals turned family conflicts, the fears of preeclampsia, and the strength found in the shared experience of simultaneous pregnancies. As they navigate medical complications and premature births, their stories of hope and endurance paint a vibrant picture of the challenges and miracles that come with bringing new life into this world.

Finally, we hold space for the heartrending tales of loss and the bittersweet process of healing. In the intimate recollections of a stillbirth and the silent struggle with grief, Shauna opens up about finding ways to remember and honor their lost children. We explore the life-changing impacts of these experiences, from the paths to recovery to the joy and anxiety of pregnancy after loss. Join us for an episode that transcends mere conversation, becoming a tribute to the power of human connection and the unwavering spirit of those who have weathered life's fiercest storms.

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