Afternoons with Helen Farmer

It's the latest health trend to go global, largely thanks to social media. But is off-label use of weight loss drugs actually effective or advisible? Metabolics expert Ali Hashemi is on hand with the answers.

Meanwhile, as a post about the realities of dating in Dubai sparks conversation on Facebook, we talk break-ups, get-togethers and everything in between with psychologist Charlotte Spurway. And Conde Nast Traveller's Selena Denman joins Helen to talk travel - and the rise of the last minute long haul break...

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

65% of workers in the Middle East say they get anxious about taking annual leave, while 54% admit they check emails on holiday. So, what is behind the annual leave anxiety leaving so many of us unable to switch off? We ask the experts.

Plus, one neurodiverse teen explains why inclusion means including more voices like his. And Dr T is on hand with help and advice for navigating the holidays - and the reality of living in very close proximity with your loved ones…

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re often told we are what we eat – but could Tik Tok’s latest obsession, fibremaxxing, actually make sense for anxiety sufferers? Clinical dietician Mitun De Sarkar has the answers.

On the family front, ever parent wants their childs’ abilities to be recognised – but is labelling children as ‘gifted’ placing them under undue pressure at too young an age? Helen asks The Family Hub’s Hanan Ezzeldin. Meanwhile, as our kids spend more time on screens in summer, The Cyber Cop Susan McLean talks safety.

And with Dubai’s rental market busy with families looking to relocate for the school year. Jake Walton, Leasing Director at Haus & Haus is on hand with all the info renters need…

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re taking you behind the scenes—to discover why those burgers, shakes, or pancakes look more enticing on your social media feeds and on those billboards. Food stylist Henriett spills the beans

Global pioneer in contemporary Latin cuisine Chef Richard Sandoval joins Helen live in the studio to share his journey from Mexico City to the world, and how he managed to open over 60 restaurants across four continents.

We're travelling with you to Peru from Dubai, without really ever leaving the emirate with Chef Andree Nuñez of La Mar at Atlantis Dubai

With Dubai's competitive dining scene, what really goes into launching a hit, from the first idea to opening day? Josh Craddock shares details from experience

We continue to fill you with options on where to bring your kids (and yourselves) for a productive summer—starting with sewing and crocheting if you want to clear your mind and create something useful with ThreadWerk and we switch to football for girls with Banaat FC.

And do you want something free? Yes, here in Dubai there are still lots of things and activities you can enjoy without paying a penny. Find out here.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A recent UAE report reveals a 14% jump in emotional check-ins and a fourfold increase in severe risk cases among students. So what’s behind the rise in anxiety and low mood, and what can be done? Joining us today are two leading voices in school wellbeing: Dr Louise Lambert, Director of Happiness and Wellbeing Programs at HappinessMatters!, and Laura Tristram, former teacher and co-founder of Lumii.me – an AI-powered tool giving students a daily way to share how they really feel.

With more international schools in the UAE than almost anywhere else on the planet, parents are spoilt for choice – any curriculum, any fee point, any specialism. But are schools truly delivering on their promises of “premium” education? David Harkin, CEO of 8billionideas, joins us to unpack the shiny brochures and talk about what really matters.

And this week, Barbie has made headlines by launching its first-ever doll with Type 1 diabetes and a glucose monitor– a huge step forward for representation in children's toys. But for families living with the condition, the daily reality is far from plastic-perfect. We're joined by Abby Lyons, mum of a young boy with Type 1 diabetes and the author behind What Is Diabetes Anyway?, a children’s book that helps young readers understand this often-misunderstood condition. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There is no off switch when it comes to bullying and abuse nowadays as our kids, though not in school during the break, are still out for camps and are almost always online. So what can we as adults do to protect them with the best way we can? Safeguarding expert Priya Mitchell tells us what we need to keep in mind.

We are also joined by a survivor of bullying— but instead of being silenced, she’s become a voice for millions of children. Seher Pahade is the Lead Child Warrior at CACTUS Foundation, she doesn’t just speak to other kids, she’s training the adults: educators, parents, and school leaders on how to create safe, responsive environments for children. 

We're also looking at the social cost of divorce — how stigma, isolation, and shifting identities can leave lasting marks on those going through it, with Licensed psychologist Dr. Sarah Rasmi from Thrive Wellbeing Centre.

A growing scandal around The Salt Path memoir has rocked the publishing world, raising questions about truth in storytelling. Plus, we’re asking: what makes a great summer read, and how do you go from idea to published book? Best-selling author, journalist, and book lover, Annabel Kantaria gives her take on the subject

And with Dubai’s dry climate, air conditioning, and long screen hours, studies show approximately 62.6% of residents in the emirate report symptoms of dry eye disease, and nearly 42% of those cases are classified as severe. Dr Marta Calatayud, Ophthalmologist at Barraquer UAE, is here to help.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A degree from the US or UK is no longer the automatic goal for UAE-based students. With rising costs, safety concerns, and competitive job markets, more students are looking to countries like Finland, the Netherlands, and Germany for top-tier education. We're joined by students who’ve taken alternative paths: Arjun Menon, who chose Finland over NYU, and Abhinav Chamoli, who turned down the US for TU Delft in the Netherlands and Varun Jain from UniHawk – an educational consultancy helping students navigate this changing landscape.

UAE doctors are sounding the alarm as more patients under 45 suffer sudden cardiac arrests, and it’s not just genetics to blame. Dr. Ibrahim Riza, Consultant Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon at Genesis Healthcare Center, unpacks what’s really going on and how travel can add to that risk too.

And with rising drowning cases across the UAE and new municipal rules now in place for private pool owners, the message is clear: water safety is non-negotiable. Chris Lawrenson, Head of Operations at Hamilton Training, discusses the must-knows around supervision, swimwear, flotation devices, and why swimming skills are just the beginning.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Teenagers sleeping past noon might look like laziness, but science says otherwise. But how much is too much? And should we be waking them up during the holidays? Sleep consultant Julie Mallon from Nurture2Sleep gives us the answers.

Since ChatGPT’s debut in November 2022, UK entry-level jobs have dropped by nearly a third across retail, IT, and finance, mirroring a global shake-up in the career ladder. Meanwhile, the UAE faces its own challenge: a glut of mid- and senior-skilled professionals vying for fewer roles. Career coach and recruiter Hamza Zaouali joins us to explore how both entry-level hopefuls and seasoned pros can harness AI, without being sidelined in the process.

As AI tools like ChatGPT become part of everyday workflows, many employees are turning to them to save time and draft documents. But what are the legal boundaries of using these tools at work? Media & FitnTech Associate at BSA Law Marina El Hachem joins Helen live in the studio.

Whether it’s puberty, grief, illness, or just a change in the family dynamic, children often sense something is happening, even if no one’s told them. So how do we talk to our kids honestly, without overwhelming them? Parenting coach Aysha Mohammed explains why sharing age-appropriate information isn’t just helpful but essential for emotional safety.

And haus & haus' Harrison Rackham-Beadle updates us with the latest information on Dubai's First Time Home Buyer Program.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

He's one of the world’s most respected chefs - a powerhouse with Michelin-starred restaurants across the globe. But for those of us in the UAE, Chef Jason is the man behind Row on 45, Dubai’s immersive fine dining experience that now proudly holds two Michelin stars. 

We're celebrating World Chocolate Day on the Dubai Eye studio with Martin van Almsick, the man behind Al Nassma camel milk chocolates

From steaming bowls of rich tonkotsu to perfectly chewy noodles made fresh daily, Ichiryu Ramen House has carved out a loyal following since opening its doors two years ago. What started as a passion project between three brothers has quickly become a must-visit for ramen lovers in Dubai - and now, they’re getting ready to open a second branch in Dubai Marina this summer.

And from kids to teens and families, we've got you covered for all your summer camp needs!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

2025 marks a milestone for millions - with an estimated 50 to 55 million women turning 40 this year. Once seen as the gateway to midlife decline, this decade is now being reclaimed as a powerful, pivotal chapter. But what does it really mean to be 40-something today? The Midlife Mentors James and Claire Davis join Helen 

As schools break up for summer, most children feel excited - but for many neurodivergent kids, this season can bring uncertainty, anxiety, and overwhelm. Inclusion expert Louise Dawson joins us to explore how parents can help ease the transition and why a little planning can go a long way.

A travel simulation for children with autism was held at Dubai Airports. We get the details from Fatma Taher. 

And how should parents talk to their kids so they will listen? Siog Moore has all the advices ready for you.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.