Humans Discuss Being

Femi Bankole, one of the co-creators and co-founders of the 'Black and Irish' social media page and movement joins me for great chats this week.

Femi talks about his experiences of racism growing up in Ireland, the catalyst for creating 'Black & Irish', the momentum of the 'Black & Irish' movement and how much he himself has grown and learned about race since starting 'Black & Irish'.

James White (aka 'Duck') is my terrific guest this week. James shares openly, honestly and generously about a difficult time in his life (when he experienced loneliness and aloneness)and what helped him through this: the help and support of friends and especially a men's group called 'woodsmen' which is a "facilitated men's circle where all men are welcomed to lean into their authentic selves at their own pace."

This was a really great and insightful chat. It's always lovely chatting with James, but this was a particular pleasure!

The very funny and extremely honest Julie Jay shares with us her experience of being pregnant and recently becoming a mother for the first time.

Julie talks about the anxieties she felt during this huge life transition, as well as changes to her identity and how all is going now in the world of caring for a tiny human!

My very special guest on the podcast this week is Teresa Coyne. Teresa talks openly and honestly about a variety of topics and issues in this episode, but mainly shares a story of a time she was very ill but didn't realise the severity of the situation. Thankfully, out of the kindness and consideration of others, she received the necessary help in time. 

Teresa and I also talk about some of our favourite topics: therapy & comedy! :) 

It's always a pleasure speaking with Teresa and this time was certainly special. Thank you Teresa!

Seamus Stackpoole is my very open, honest and generous guest this week. Seamus chats about his experience of losing weight, making healthier life choices, eating better and exercising more. We also try to answer the question: WHY is it SO DIFFICULT for adults to do what's best for themselves and their own health? What is it about us that causes us to make dreadful decisions? 

We also talk about the language and mentality around food, weight loss etc. 

This was a great chat. Thanks to Seamus for allowing us to discuss this issue. 

Please like and share the podcast... but above all, enjoy! :)

MJ Stokes is my great guest this week. This was a very special chat. MJ speaks so openly and honestly about some very difficult issues they have experienced.

Topics discussed include:

(please note TW: Trigger Warning of psychotic episode)

covid anxiety, alcoholism, getting sober, therapy, compassion, self-care, resilience, personal development, anxiety, depression, mania, psychotic episode, stand-up comedy, anti-depressants, medication side-effects, public health system in Ireland, class issues, independent living, comparing ourselves to others, inner critic, autism, choice and courage to change and do the difficult but necessary and extremely rewarding 'inner work'.

As I said, this is a very special chat. Thank you MJ for sharing so beautifully.

Part 2 of Simon's brilliant episode is out this week.

Here we talk about looking back, taking stock, stopping, reflecting on what has happened and taking meaningful and purposeful action necessary for progress.

We also touch on self-worth, creativity, goals, looking ahead and fatherhood.

It was a joy speaking with Simon. I hope you enjoy the podcast.

The comedy talent and force that is Simon King kindly and generously engages in a very open and honest conversation. This is part 1 of our 2 part chat (part 2 will be released next week).

Topics discussed in part 1 include: mental health, depression, dark times, creativity, existential chats, comedy, stand-up, performance, entertaining and self-acceptance.

Jessamyn, the gem, joins me for podcast chats this week. Jessamyn is truly wonderful and this was a very special, honest & moving conversation.

Jessamyn speaks very openly about her Father's passing 3 years ago from cancer and the 'journey of grief' that has ensued as a result.

A spectacularly honest, insightful and generous chat.

Part 2 of Marcello's great chat continues this week. There was a difference of two months between the initial recording and the added piece at the end, where Marcello shares some personal progress and an additional 'happiest memory'. Marcello also shares some affirming realisations. As always, it was a joy chatting with Marcello!