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.

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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.

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As the embers of a campfire illuminate the faces of a family bound by song and story, Sharyn Ward steps forward to share a melody that has echoed through generations of her Traveller heritage. In our latest episode, Sharyn, a beacon of hope from the Traveller community, lets us into her world, revealing the strength and beauty of her culture, the resilience required to face societal challenges, and the profound power of music in her life.

The heart of this conversation beats to the rhythm of Sharon's transformative experiences, from the cherished echoes of her grandfather's tales to the trials and triumphs of school days marked by a sense of otherness. We traverse the complex terrain of family dynamics amidst mental illness and divorce, finding solace in the sanctuary of marriage and the joys of life within a Traveller camp. Sharyn's narrative is a rich tapestry, woven with the roles and expectations of Traveller women, the undying love for her children, and the irreplaceable value of community support groups like Preparing for Life (PFL).

Our journey crescendos with Sharyn's leap into the spotlight on "Ireland's Got Talent," an anthem of inspiration that sings to the courage of showcasing one's talents against the backdrop of adversity. As Sharyn voices her dreams and the identity of her people, we're reminded of the universal quest for acceptance and the pursuit of joy. Her story doesn't just echo; it resonates with the power of hope as she navigates cultural heritage, personal grief, and the unwavering determination to uplift through music. Join us and let Sharyn's journey resonate with you, and perhaps, just maybe, encourage you to step into the light of your own dreams.

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When the echoes of a childhood steeped in music blend with tales of stage and screen, you get the captivating story of Johnny Ward. From the streets of Walkinstown, Dublin, Johnny has danced through life's highest highs and its lowest lows, all while maintaining a tune that's uniquely his own. This episode promises an emotional symphony as we explore Johnny's beginnings in a home vibrating with the sounds of Beethoven, the silence that followed his father's passing, and the thrill of his first steps onto the stage.

Feel the rush and the vulnerability as Johnny recounts the vibrant days of his youth, performing in 'Les Misérables', navigating the boy band craze, and later, the tremors of anxiety that shook his world on the precipice of adulthood. The acting industry, with all its glitter and grime, comes alive through his stories of stage fright, the betrayal of trust within the industry, and the familial bonds that provided an anchor amidst the storm. Johnny's journey is a testament to the resilience required in the world of performance and the scars left behind when the lights dim.

As we pull back the curtain on Johnny's varied career, he shares the laughter, the tears, and the sheer determination that colors his work, from the pantomime antics to grappling with complex characters on TV. Even as family crises loom and personal trials threaten to overshadow his craft, Johnny's narrative is a beacon of hope for anyone touched by the arts. Join us for a conversation that's as profound as it is entertaining, and walk away inspired by the life of a man whose every role is played with heart and soul.

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As the strains of a troubled marriage echo through the threads of Paula Johnston's life story, we're reminded that the journey to healing is as complex as the heart itself. In an episode layered with raw emotion, Paula peels back the layers of her past, revealing the resilience forged in the Strand Flats of North Strand and the fierce love of a widowed mother in 1960s Catholic Ireland. Through her eyes, we witness the transformative power of vulnerability as she navigates the silent battles of postnatal depression and the courage it takes to seek help.

Encounters with faith and acceptance are often unexpected, arriving in the depths of our struggles. Paula's narrative eloquently guides us through her transformative experiences, from the pangs of single parenthood and confronting her own mental health to the boundless love that carried her through family trauma and addiction. Her testimony stands as a beacon of hope, illuminating the significance of support networks and spiritual communities that have been instrumental in her journey toward inner peace and joy amidst life's tumultuous waves.

As we sit with Paula, every chapter of her life unfolds like the pages of an intimate diary, each one brimming with lessons on love, respect, and the relentless quest for self-acceptance. Her stories transcend mere anecdotes, serving as powerful affirmations of the human spirit's capacity to overcome and flourish. With each tale of parenting, setting boundaries, and helping others, we're invited to reflect on our own lives, relationships, and the intricate dance of giving and receiving love that shapes our world. Join us for this heartwarming exploration, and discover how Paula's pathway to joy and gratitude enriches not just her own life, but the lives of her cherished friends and family.

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Finding 'home' can often be a journey paved with trials and self-discovery. Shauna's tale takes us from the winding streets of Drimnagh to the cozy nooks of Kingswood in Tally, where the echoes of her past, marked by bullying and the ongoing quest for self-identity, collide with her present. She bravely opens up about the scars left by her childhood bullies and how these experiences shaped her mental landscape, inviting us to reflect on our own stories of resilience.

As a parent, few things weigh as heavily as the happiness and well-being of our children. I share the tightrope act of nurturing kindness and addressing the specter of bullying that looms over my children's schoolyard encounters. From my son's growing understanding of bullies to my daughter's brave navigation of dyslexia and a new school environment, their experiences are a microcosm of the broader fabric of childhood social dynamics. Together with our guests, we peel back the layers of both celebration and sorrow in life's journey, from wedding bells to the solemn corridors of the funeral industry, examining how each moment shapes our human experience.

The poignant and at times mysterious world of molar pregnancies takes center stage as we hear from Shauna. Her harrowing odyssey through uncertainty and the fear of loss brings an often-overlooked medical condition to light. We traverse the emotional landscape of her recovery, from weekly blood tests to the threat of chemotherapy, culminating in a story of miraculous resilience. Shauna's experience underscores the power of community and the importance of support networks for women navigating similar challenges, reminding us that even in our darkest times, we are not alone.

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When the screen turns against you, where do you turn? Our courageous guest, Paloma from Peer Street, opens up about the dark side of social media. She recounts the whirlwind of online trolling that ensued after posting a simple gym video, revealing the emotional toll such unexpected backlash can take. Through her story, we peel back the curtain on the all-too-real impacts of cyber harassment, exploring both the struggles and the steadfast perseverance needed to push forward in the face of adversity.

This episode isn't just about the battle with digital demons; it's a saga of true resilience. Together, we journey with Paloma through the gritty realities of overcoming personal trauma, addiction, and the relentless fight to keep a business afloat amidst a sea of online hostility. The conversation turns to tales of redemption, with Paloma sharing raw, vulnerable accounts of her own recovery and the invaluable role of community support—and the remarkable fortitude of Dublin women—in finding stability and strength.

As we draw to a close, we reflect on the complex path of battling inner demons and the triumphant power of hope and faith in addiction recovery. Our guest's transformation, from the depths of despair to the pinnacle of health and wellness through nutrition and fitness, is a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Join us as we celebrate the unwavering belief that change is always within reach, and the incredible impact that a supportive community, solid faith, and a journey toward health can have on those brave enough to walk the road to redemption.

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When we extend a hand of friendship, we can unintentionally become a lifeline. Our latest episode features a raw and moving conversation with Caitlin, who bravely shares her journey of escaping the shadows of domestic violence and childhood trauma. Our talk begins with a chance encounter that flourished into an alliance, offering Caitlin a sanctuary of support and understanding as she navigated her harrowing past. Through her story, we witness the painful realities of grooming and abuse—a chilling reminder of the hidden battles many endure in silence.

Peeling back the layers of an abusive relationship, Caitlin's vulnerability illuminates the cyclical nature of manipulation and control. As she recounts the emotional and physical suffering she faced, her narrative serves as a sobering testament to the complexities of domestic abuse. Caitlin's courage in voicing her experiences provides a beacon of hope to listeners in similar situations, demonstrating that escape is not only possible but that there is life after trauma, ripe with potential for renewal and self-discovery.

The episode culminates in a powerful discussion on healing and reclaiming one's identity. From the therapeutic outlet of journaling to finding joy in the art of makeup, Caitlin's path to recovery is fraught with challenges, including anxiety and the intricacies of co-parenting with her abuser. Her resilience is an inspiration, and her insights offer guidance to those embarking on their journey of personal growth. Join us for this intimate exploration of resilience, healing, and empowerment, as Caitlin's narrative offers a message of strength to all who listen.

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Rebecca x

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