Every single thing in his life I've had to fight for." These words cut to the heart of Jodie's experience raising Caelan, her five-year-old son with autism and developmental delays. In this raw conversation, Jodie takes us through her journey from a complicated pregnancy at 19 to her current desperate search for a school placement for her son.

The system's failings become painfully clear as Jodie recounts the endless waiting lists, denied services, and bureaucratic obstacles that have defined her family's experience. Despite a formal autism diagnosis, Caelan has received virtually no public speech therapy or occupational therapy. Now, after applying to 18 different schools with autism classes, they've been rejected from nearly all - joining a growing community of families with nowhere to send their children come September.

What makes this conversation so powerful is Jodie's unflinching honesty about both the joys and struggles of raising Caelan. She describes the sleepless nights that finally improved with melatonin, the meltdowns she couldn't understand because her son couldn't communicate what was wrong, and the beautiful moments of connection that make everything worthwhile. Through tears and determined advocacy, she reveals how parents are forced to become experts, fighters, and researchers when the systems meant to help them fail.

This isn't just one family's story - it represents a national crisis affecting hundreds of children with autism across Ireland. As Jodie puts it: "It's constantly going around in circles." Join us for this essential conversation about what happens when children with special needs fall through the cracks, and the parents who refuse to let them be forgotten.

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Raw honesty hits like a thunderbolt when Brenda Dennehy opens up about the relentless washing machine of anxiety that spun in her head since childhood. Her journey from a loving Cork family to the depths of addiction offers profound insights into how mental health struggles can silently shape our lives long before we understand what's happening.

Brenda's story shatters the stereotype of alcoholism only affecting older men, revealing how at just 25, she was secretly battling withdrawal symptoms while maintaining the façade of a promising media career. The heart-wrenching moment she finally whispered "I need help" to her mother after a public breakdown at an All-Ireland Final marks just the beginning of a recovery path filled with unexpected turns.

What makes this conversation extraordinary isn't just Brenda's unflinching account of her two rock bottoms – it's watching her remarkable resilience bloom into genuine self-love. After years of hating herself, losing dream jobs, and overdosing on prescription medication, she fought back with unwavering determination, ultimately manifesting her long-held dream of working in London television. The transformation from someone who couldn't go grocery shopping without crippling anxiety to a woman who proudly declares "I'm my own best friend" offers hope that's both realistic and deeply inspiring.

Whether you've faced addiction yourself, supported someone who has, or simply want to understand the complex relationship between mental health and substance dependency, this conversation will change how you think about recovery. Brenda's powerful testament to staying sober through her father's sudden death reminds us that our greatest achievements aren't always visible to others – sometimes they're the quiet victories we win every single day when we choose to keep going.

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Raw, resilient, and refreshingly real – Stephanie Simons opens up for the first time about the extraordinary journey that shaped the woman behind Bowie Stacks beauty empire.

From her first breaths, born into homelessness with a teenage mother battling addiction, Stephanie's path was never going to be ordinary. The Ballybough Flats provided a backdrop of community amid poverty, where childhood games existed alongside the harsh realities of Dublin's drug epidemic. With unflinching honesty, she reveals the physical and mental abuse she endured as a child, stepping into a parental role for her younger sister while still a child herself.

Dancing became her escape – until bullying shattered that dream when her hair began falling out from stress. But as Stephanie's story unfolds, we witness the remarkable resilience that would define her life. From beauty college to running "nixers" door-to-door, she built her first salon by age 20. Even as motherhood and pandemic challenges arose, she persevered, performing treatments with a newborn in a carry cot beside her.

Perhaps most powerful is Stephanie's candid discussion of the online controversy that nearly destroyed her – when a treatment complication went viral and unleashed a torrent of trolling. Yet through faith, determination and unwavering focus, she transformed that visibility into business growth, now operating multiple locations across Ireland.

This conversation goes beyond beauty treatments (though we do learn about salmon DNA injections and other innovations). It's about a woman who refused to be defined by her circumstances, who breaks generational cycles for her children, and who stands tall despite persistent challenges.

Have you ever wondered what truly builds strength? Listen as Stephanie shares her powerful message: "No matter what cards you're dealt, it's how you play them."

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Rising from the Ashes tells the incredible story of Louise’s journey from hardship to a life of purpose and hope. Growing up surrounded by addiction, violence, and loss, she endured unimaginable challenges, including the devastating impact of losing her partner to drugs and navigating life as a young mother. Yet, against all odds, she made the courageous decision to turn her life around.

Now, driven by a deep determination to help others, Louise works tirelessly within her community to inspire change, provide unwavering support, and advocate for a better future. In this podcast, she shares her personal story of resilience, the challenges her daughter faces following a late cerebral palsy diagnosis, and the extraordinary strength it takes to keep moving forward.

Join Louise as she opens up about her journey of survival, healing, and the transformative power of giving back.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Join Jackie and her eldest son Oisin Power as they reminisce about childhood, family bonds, and the chaos of growing up in Crumlin and Fatima Mansions. Their candid conversation covers everything from the challenges of raising kids to the impact of social media on their lives. They share laughs over viral video challenges and reveal the special mother-son connection that makes their story relatable and heartwarming. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who cherishes family dynamics and the humor that comes with it.

We also tackle the serious topics of personal struggles and mental health, delving into the emotional toll of living with a partner's gambling addiction and overcoming such hurdles. The strength of support systems and the importance of self-love are highlighted through various anecdotes, including the heart-wrenching account of Richie’s mental health crisis. As we navigate themes of fitness, parenting, and the therapeutic nature of podcasting, we invite you to join our journey of humor, reflection, and inspiration.

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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.

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