Irish Thoracic Society Podcast Productions

This episode looks at obstructive sleep apnea and why diagnosis and management need scalable models of care. Professor Eddie Maloney speaks about how home sleep studies, hospital-based polysomnography, smartwatches, and remote pathways fit together in real clinical practice. The discussion includes when home testing is enough, when a full sleep lab study is still needed, and how treatment is evolving beyond CPAP to include positional devices, mandibular advancement devices, weight loss therapies, and future oral agents.

In This Episode

- The clinical definition of obstructive sleep apnea and why its true prevalence is likely substantially underrecognised

- The key symptom profile and collateral history that should raise pre-test probability, including snoring, witnessed apneas, daytime sleepiness, nocturnal choking, and drowsy driving

- Where home sleep testing is appropriate, and why a negative result does not always exclude OSA when clinical suspicion remains high

- The limitations of home studies versus in-laboratory polysomnography for assessing sleep architecture, complex comorbidity, central sleep apnea, and non-respiratory sleep disorders

- The evolving treatment landscape, including CPAP, positional therapy, mandibular advancement devices, hypoglossal nerve stimulation, and emerging obesity-targeted therapies

- The move toward scalable, remote, and AI-supported sleep care pathways, with ongoing emphasis on adherence monitoring and individualized follow-up

Guest:

Professor Eddie Moloney is a Consultant Respiratory and Sleep Physician at Tallaght University Hospital and Beacon Hospital, with over 20 years’ experience in respiratory, sleep and general internal medicine. He has held senior clinical and leadership roles in Ireland and the UK, including as current president of the Irish Thoracic Society and has made significant contributions to respiratory and sleep medicine through research, education and professional leadership.

Outside of medicine, Eddie is a passionate tennis player and advocate for an active lifestyle.

Hosts:

Dr Margaret Higgins is a third year respiratory trainee at the Mater Hospital. A graduate of University College Dublin, she is currently completing a Masters at University College Cork. She is the current ITS education co-officer with a keen interest in Medical Education. Her research interests include Pulmonary Hypertension and Interstitial Lung Disease. 

Dr Sandra Green is an Irish-trained respiratory fellow with a strong track record in climate advocacy and multidisciplinary sustainable initiatives, as co-founder of Irish Doctors for the Environment. She has an MSc in Leadership and Innovation in Healthcare at the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (2023–2025). With Marisssa, she co-founded the Irish Thoracic Society Podcast Productions, launching the platform in 2024 to share knowledge, insights, and innovations in respiratory care.

LinkdIn - linkedin.com/in/dr-sandra-green-2a9536199

Email - [email protected]

Chapters

00:00 - Welcome to Breathwork and why respiratory updates matter

00:34 - Introducing Professor Eddie Maloney and the focus on scalable OSA care

01:03 - Rapid-fire round

02:57 – The definition of obstructive sleep apnea

03:22 - How common OSA is globally and in Ireland

03:51 - Typical symptoms and how patients get referred

05:19 - Why so many cases remain undiagnosed

06:55 - What smartwatches can and cannot do yet

08:51 - Why a negative home study does not always rule out OSA

09:45 - Key history points, including bed partner collateral

10:40 - Home testing versus hospital sleep lab investigations

12:05 - When to bring patients in for full polysomnography

13:02 - What patients wear during in-lab sleep studies

14:01 - Peripheral arterial tonometry and WatchPAT-style testing

15:21 - How sleep data are interpreted in the home setting

16:16 - The problem of making lifelong decisions from a one-night study

17:39 - Remote referral, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up pathways

18:36 - TALA pathway setup and questionnaire-based triage

19:28 - CPAP as the main treatment and virtual follow-up

20:26 - AI and the future of sleep study interpretation

20:55 - Treatment options beyond CPAP

22:20 - GLP-1 and GIP therapies and the SURMOUNT trial results

23:43 - When to repeat a study after significant weight loss

25:10 - How mandibular advancement devices work

26:14 - What personalised treatment means in sleep apnea

27:06 - Explaining the diagnosis with patient-friendly resources

27:47 - Improving CPAP adherence in practice

28:43 - Traffic-light monitoring for CPAP compliance

29:38 - How pressure settings and mask choice affect tolerance

30:56 - Device lifespan and replacing masks and tubing

31:26 - Follow-up schedules for stable patients

32:20 - Sustainability and recycling of CPAP devices

33:18 - Final take-home message and society meeting reminder

Resources & Links:

https://irishthoracicsociety.com/asm-2026/ Irish Thoracic Society ASM 19 th & 20 th November: Abstract Deadline 1 st September 2026, Case study forum deadline 18th September 2026

Irish Sleep Society https://irishsleepsociety.ie/

American Academy of Sleep https://aasm.org/clinical-resources/patient-info/

References:

- Malhotra A, Grunstein RR, Fietze I, et al.; SURMOUNT-OSA Investigators. Tirzepatide for the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Obesity. New England Journal of Medicine. 2024;391(13):1193–1205.

doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2404881. PMID: 38912654.

- Ryan S, Keane S, Nolan G, Purcell E, Cormican L, Irish Sleep Society

Committee. Practice Guidelines for Standards of Adult Sleep Medicine

Services. Irish Medical Journal. 2018;111(3):721.

In this episode Professor Eddie Maloney, consultant respiratory and sleep physician and President of the Irish Thoracic Society speaks about the career path that led him into respiratory medicine. They discuss fellowships, intensive care exposure, society leadership, advocacy priorities, and why tennis and regular exercise have been a constant throughout his working life.

In This Episode

- A career path through respiratory and sleep medicine, with training and leadership experience across Ireland and the UK.

- The appeal of respiratory medicine as a specialty that combines acute care, chronic disease management, procedures, physiology, and imaging.

- The value of fellowships and international experience in strengthening clinical judgement, adaptability, and problem-solving.

- The role of the Irish Thoracic Society in supporting professional development, membership growth, and annual scientific meetings.

- Current advocacy priorities in respiratory health, including air quality, climate- related impacts, vaping, and World Lung Day.

- Practical advice for trainees on publications, case reports, and building an academic profile alongside clinical work.

Guest

Professor Eddie Moloney is a Consultant Respiratory and Sleep Physician at Tallaght University Hospital and Beacon Hospital, with over 20 years’ experience in respiratory, sleep and general internal medicine. He has held senior clinical and leadership roles in Ireland and the UK, including as current president of the Irish Thoracic Society and has made significant contributions to respiratory and sleep medicine through research, education and professional leadership. Outside of medicine, Eddie is a passionate tennis player and advocate for an active lifestyle.

Hosts:

Dr Margaret Higgins is a third year respiratory trainee at the Mater Hospital. A graduate of University College Dublin, she is currently completing a Master's at University College Cork. She is the current ITS education co-officer with a keen interest in Medical Education. Her research interests include Pulmonary Hypertension and Interstitial Lung Disease. 

Dr Sandra Green is an Irish-trained respiratory fellow with a strong track record in climate advocacy and multidisciplinary sustainable initiatives, as co-founder of Irish Doctors for the Environment. She has an MSc in Leadership and Innovation in Healthcare at the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (2023–2025). With Marisssa, she co-founded the Irish Thoracic Society Podcast Productions, launching the platform in 2024 to share knowledge, insights, and innovations in respiratory care.

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/dr-sandra-green-2a9536199

Email: [email protected]

Chapters

00:00 - Welcome to Inspire and what the podcast aims to cover

00:57 - Professor Eddie Maloney’s clinical background and leadership roles

02:23 - How respiratory medicine became the right fit

03:49 - Intensive care exposure and the Brompton fellowship

05:35 - Why a fellowship abroad can change the way you think

06:34 - Whether fellowships still matter for trainees today

07:27 - Why he joined the Irish Thoracic Society

08:48 - How the society’s committee pathway works

09:35 - Growing membership across the respiratory MDT

10:29 - Respiratory Health of the Nation and the annual scientific meeting

12:20 - Current advocacy priorities: air quality, vaping, and World Lung Day

14:09 - Tennis, fitness, and staying active through a busy career

15:33 - Fitting exercise into early starts and full clinical days

16:26 - Publication advice for trainees and early career doctors

18:21 - Why finishing papers and handling review matters

19:14 - Case reports as a practical starting point for research

20:02 - Closing remarks and the next episode topic

Resources and Links:

- Irish Thoracic Society https://irishthoracicsociety.com/

- Respiratory Health of the Nation report 2018

https://irishthoracicsociety.com/respiratory-health-of-the-nation-2018/

This episode features insights from healthcare communication expert Sarah Geraghty, who shares proven frameworks and practical tips on crafting clear agendas, managing time effectively, and delivering purposeful meetings. Her insights help professionals across sectors elevate their meetings to be most effective. If you’re committed to making your meetings matter—or simply want to reclaim time, reduce stress, and foster a culture of clarity—this episode is essential listening.

In this episode:

The crucial role of purpose and clear objectives for every gathering

How to craft and circulate agendas in advance to prep participants effectively

Strategies for keeping meetings on track—even when personalities and time pressures threaten to derail progress

Techniques to empower less confident voices and build inclusive, psychologically safe environments

The importance of ending with clear actions, owners, and timelines—so nothing slips through the cracks

Guest

Sarah Geraghty is Head of Careers at the Communications Clinics, specialising in preparing for high-stakes interviews and career transitions. A seasoned communication trainer and coach, she combines practical storytelling and leadership development to help candidates articulate their value. With a rich background in journalism and editorial work—including contributions to the Irish Times and The Journal, and experience as Assistant Editor of Gloss Magazine—she brings real-world insight into how healthcare professionals can perform under pressure.

Hosts

Marissa O’Callaghan is an Irish trained Respiratory fellow currently undertaking a post-doc fellow working in Erasmus MC Rotterdam in the Netherlands. She finished her Irish respiratory and Internal medicine training and Phd in 2025. Her areas of interest are interstitial and rare lung diseases. She enjoys clinical research, Med Ed, and dreaming up new medical innovations. Together with cohost Sandra Green, she founded the ITS podcast series in June 2024.

Sandra Green is an Irish-trained respiratory doctor with a strong track record in climate advocacy and multidisciplinary sustainable initiatives, as co-founder of Irish Doctors for the Environment. She has an MSc in Leadership and Innovation in Healthcare at the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (2023–2025. With Marisssa, she co-founded the Irish Thoracic Society Podcast Productions, launching a platform in 2024 to share knowledge, insights, and innovations in respiratory care.

Chapters

0:04 Introduction to Breathwork

0:37 Importance of Meetings in Healthcare

1:06 Effective Meeting Communication

1:28 Rapid Fire Tips for Meetings

1:56 Listening vs. Speaking in Meetings

2:25 Purpose and Objectives of Meetings

3:41 Structured vs. Informal Meetings

5:32 Role of the Chair in Meetings

7:28 Time Management in Meetings

9:48 Encouraging Participation

11:43 Setting the Meeting Culture

13:29 Challenges of Meeting Overruns

15:24 Engaging Junior Members

17:41 Psychological Safety in Meetings

19:37 Final Tips for Effective Meetings

26:37 Closing and Future Plans

27:26 Credits and Contact Information

Resources & Links:

Sarah Geraghty - LinkedIn https://ie.linkedin.com/in/sarah-geraghty-comms

The Communication Clinic https://www.communicationsclinic.ie/

In this episode, communication expert Sarah Geraghty uncovers the hidden impact of email habits on healthcare efficiency and patient safety. Discover how precise, purpose-driven emails can save time, reduce stress, and enhance collaboration. Learn practical strategies like the ‘BLUF’ framework and effective subject line structuring to transform your inbox chaos into streamlined communication. Perfect for clinicians and administrators eager to improve their email etiquette and workflow.

In this episode:

The ‘BLUF’ (Bottom Line Up Front) framework that ensures your emails are clear and effective, no matter the audience

How to structure subject lines and content for maximum impact—without coming across as too formal or too casual

The essential mindset shift: treating emails as strategic tools that require dedicated focus, not ongoing background noise

Practical methods to manage post-holiday inboxes, follow-ups, and group emails

The environmental and legal considerations around storing and sending emails—and why fewer, more meaningful messages are better for everyone

Guest

Sarah Geraghty is Head of Careers at the Communications Clinics, specialising in preparing for high-stakes interviews and career transitions. A seasoned communication trainer and coach, she combines practical storytelling and leadership development to help candidates articulate their value. With a rich background in journalism and editorial work—including contributions to the Irish Times and The Journal, and experience as Assistant Editor of Gloss Magazine—she brings real- world insight into how healthcare professionals can perform under pressure.

Hosts

Marissa O’Callaghan is an Irish trained Respiratory fellow currently undertaking a post-doc fellow working in Erasmus MC Rotterdam in the Netherlands. She finished her Irish respiratory and Internal medicine training and Phd in 2025. Her areas of interest are interstitial and rare lung diseases. She enjoys clinical research, Med Ed, and dreaming up new medical innovations. Together with cohost Sandra Green, she founded the ITS podcast series in June 2024.

Sandra Green is an Irish-trained respiratory doctor with a strong track record in climate advocacy and multidisciplinary sustainable initiatives, as co-founder of Irish Doctors for the Environment. She has an MSc in Leadership and Innovation in Healthcare at the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (2023–2025. With Marisssa, she co-founded the Irish Thoracic Society Podcast Productions, launching a platform in 2024 to share knowledge, insights, and innovations in respiratory care.

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction: Overview of email's role in healthcare

Resources & Links

Sarah Geraghty (LinkedIn): https://ie.linkedin.com/in/sarah-geraghty-comms

In this episode, with Professor Edward McKone, we dive deep into the essentials of cystic fibrosis, exploring its underlying mechanisms, diagnostic challenges, and the revolutionary impact of CFTR modulators. Led by expert insights, this discussion highlights how evolving treatments are transforming patient outcomes and what lies ahead in CF care.

In this episode

- The genetics and pathophysiology of CF, including CFTR function and the impact on lungs and other organs

- Advances in diagnosis, especially the role of newborn screening, sweat tests, and genetic sequencing

- How CFTR modulators are changing the management landscape and their long-term effects

- The future of CF treatment: reducing treatment burden and personalised medicine

- The importance of holistic, multidisciplinary care and transition from paediatric to adult services

Guest

Professor Edward McKone is a leading respiratory physician and clinical professor based in Dublin, specialising in cystic fibrosis and respiratory disease. As a Consultant at St. Vincent’s University Hospital, he works at Ireland’s National Referral Centre for Adult Cystic Fibrosis, combining frontline care with clinical trials research. He has played a pivotal role in advancing cystic fibrosis treatment both in Ireland and internationally, including leadership roles with the Cystic Fibrosis Registry of Ireland and the European CF Registry. Alongside his clinical and research work, Professor McKone is deeply committed to medical education, currently serving as Dean of the Institute of Medicine and Co-Director of the Irish Clinician Educator Track.

Hosts

Email: [email protected]

Dr Barry Harnedy is a respiratory specialist trainee in Ireland. He graduated from National University of Ireland Galway. He is the current Irish Thoracic Society co Educational Officer. He is passionate about digital innovation and airways assessment.

Sandra Green is an Irish-trained respiratory fellow with a strong track record in climate advocacy and multidisciplinary sustainable initiatives, as co-founder of Irish Doctors for the Environment. She has an MSc in Leadership and Innovation in Healthcare at the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (2023–2025). With Marisssa, she co-founded the Irish Thoracic Society Podcast Productions, launching the platform in 2024 to share knowledge, insights, and innovations in respiratory care.

LinkdIn - linkedin.com/in/dr-sandra-green-2a9536199

Chapters

0:00 - Introduction

0:30 - Rapid Fire Round on cystic fibrosis.

6:02 - Cystic Fibrosis Pathophysiology

9:20 - Discussion on newborn screening and diagnostic steps.

11: 42 - Sweat test procedure

13:37 - Milder cases in adulthood and associated symptoms.

15:29 - CF in non-Caucasian populations and genetic testing.

17:25 - Referral to CF Centres

18.25 – Transition from Paediatric to Adult Care

22:13 - Overview of the mainstays of management and treatment within CF.

26:16 - Impact of CFTR Modulators

31:28 - The future challenges and management of aging CF patients.

38:57 - How socioeconomic status impacts CF outcomes in the era of modulators.

41:43 - Key message for clinicians and patients.

42:56 - Episode wrap-up and acknowledgments.

Resource Links

1. Irish Cystic Fibrosis Society Website

2. Newborn Screening Information

3. Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

4. European Cystic Fibrosis Society

5. Genetic Testing for CF

6. CFTR Modulators Information

7. Transitioning from Pediatric to Adult Care

In this episode of Inspire, we are joined by Professor Edward McKone, Consultant Respiratory Physician at St. Vincent’s University Hospital and a leading figure in cystic fibrosis care. Drawing on his experience of clinical medicine, research, and leadership, he reflects on the evolution of CF management and the breakthroughs that have transformed patient outcomes. Alongside this, he shares insights from a dynamic career spanning clinical medicine, clinical trials, and the advancement of medical education.

In this episode:

Discover Professor McKone's path to specialising in respiratory medicine and cystic fibrosis.

Explore the role of registries in improving patient outcomes and advancing standards.

Learn about the challenges and successes in advocating for cystic fibrosis treatments.

Understand the importance of medical education and the development of the Irish Clinical Educator Training program.

Gain insights into the future of postgraduate medical training in Ireland.

Hear Professor McKone's reflections on his career and advice for aspiring medical professionals.

Guest:

Professor Edward McKone is a leading respiratory physician and clinical professor based in Dublin, specialising in cystic fibrosis and respiratory disease. As a Consultant at St. Vincent’s University Hospital, he works at Ireland’s National Referral Centre for Adult Cystic Fibrosis, combining frontline care with clinical trials research.

He has played a pivotal role in advancing cystic fibrosis treatment both in Ireland and internationally, including leadership roles with the Cystic Fibrosis Registry of Ireland and the European CF Registry. Alongside his clinical and research work, Professor McKone is deeply committed to medical education, currently serving as Dean of the Institute of Medicine and Co-Director of the Irish Clinician Educator Track.

Hosts:

Dr Barry Harnedy is a respiratory specialist trainee in Ireland. He graduated from National University of Ireland Galway. He is the current Irish Thoracic Society co Educational Officer. He is passionate about digital innovation and airways assessment.

Sandra Green is an Irish-trained respiratory fellow with a strong track record in climate advocacy and multidisciplinary sustainable initiatives, as co-founder of Irish Doctors for the Environment. She has an MSc in Leadership and Innovation in Healthcare at the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (2023–2025). With Marisssa, she co-founded the Irish Thoracic Society Podcast Productions, launching the platform in 2024 to share knowledge, insights, and innovations in respiratory care.

LinkdIn linkedin.com/in/dr-sandra-green-2a9536199

Email - [email protected]

Chapters

00:00 – Intro & Guest Overview Overview of CF episode and Professor McKone’s background

02:15 – The Night That Changed a Career First on-call experience → choosing respiratory medicine

05:30 – Accidental Entry into Cystic FibrosisFrom “not knowing CF” to lifelong focus

09:00 – Medical Education & Leadership Pathways Role of National Specialty Director & training structures

11:30 – Rethinking Postgraduate Training in IrelandChallenges in BST → move toward broader exposure

17:00 – Building the Clinician-Educator (ICET Programme) Why medical education needs formal training pathways

23:00 – The Power of Registries From epidemiology → benchmarking → pharmacovigilance

27:30 – Registries as Regulatory Tools Landmark shift: EMA recognising CF registries for Phase IV studies

30:00 – How to Build a Registry (Practical Insights) Buy-in, minimal datasets, sustainability

32:15 – CFTR Modulators: Cost vs Value Clinical promise vs health economics reality

33:30 – The Sweat Chloride Moment (Key Turning Point) Why modulators changed everything

34:50 – Career Advice and reflections Career advice: focus, mentorship, and collaboration

36:30 – Closing Reflections

References:

O’Connor A. OPTIMISE: Optimisation and Progression of Training in Internal Medicine – In Search of Excellence (Interim Report). Dublin: Royal College of Physicians of Ireland; 2023.

Corey M, McLaughlin FJ, Williams M, Levison H. A comparison of survival, growth, and pulmonary function in patients with cystic fibrosis in Boston and Toronto. J Clin Epidemiol. 1988;41(6):583-91. doi: 10.1016/0895-4356(88)90063-7. PMID: 3260274.

Ramsey, B. W., et al. (1999). Intermittent administration of inhaled tobramycin in patients with cystic fibrosis. New England Journal of Medicine.

In this episode, we explore the complex and often overlooked world of refractory chronic cough—a condition that can significantly impact patients’ quality of life, yet is frequently misunderstood or underdiagnosed. Featuring insights from leading respiratory specialists in Ireland and the United States, we examine the latest approaches to diagnosis, management, and emerging treatments aimed at improving patient outcomes and supporting clinicians in navigating this challenging area of respiratory medicine.

Our guests, Professor Lorcan McGarvey and Professor Brendan Canning—both internationally recognised leaders in respiratory medicine and cough research—share their expertise on the neurobiology of chronic cough, the substantial morbidity experienced by patients, and strategies for more effective diagnostic investigation. We also discuss current treatment options and promising therapies on the horizon, as chronic cough increasingly gains recognition as a disease in its own right rather than merely a symptom. Whether you are a clinician, researcher, or simply interested in advances in respiratory medicine, this episode offers valuable insights into a condition that is finally receiving the attention it deserves.

--

Professor Lorcan McGarvey

Professor Brendan Canning

Dr Sandra Green

This episode explores Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency, focusing on diagnosis, pathophysiology, and evolving treatments. Professor Gerry McElvaney discusses prevalence in Ireland, the impact on lung and liver disease, and why early detection significantly improves outcomes.

Key topics include:

Prevalence and genotypes (ZZ, MZ, SZ)

Lung and liver disease, plus manifestations like panniculitis and vasculitis

Diagnostic challenges: levels vs genotype/phenotype and need for multimodal testing

Importance of early detection, smoking cessation, and targeted intervention

Emerging therapies: RNA editing, gene silencing, and potential cures

Screening strategies, including newborn screening and cost-benefit considerations

Role of polymers in disease progression

Gaps in treatment access and need for healthcare reform

Professor Gerry McElvaney is a global leader in Alpha-1 research, founder of the Alpha-1 Foundation of Ireland, and Director of the Cystic Fibrosis Unit at Beaumont Hospital. His work has positioned Ireland at the forefront of Alpha-1 detection and research.

Hosts:

Dr Barry Harnedy – Respiratory trainee, Irish Thoracic Society Educational Officer

Sandra Green – Respiratory fellow, co-founder of Irish Doctors for the Environment and ITS Podcast Productions

Contact: [email protected]

Chapters (highlights):

00:05 Intro | 01:00 Vaping & inflammation | 02:00 Diagnosis pitfalls

03:20 Future therapies | 04:50 Screening importance | 07:00 Treatment advances

10:00 Genetics explained | 12:00 Smoking impact | 13:40 Newborn screening

16:00 Gene therapies | 17:30 Key takeaways

Key message: Test comprehensively, detect early, intervene early, and remain optimistic about emerging therapies.

References:

Fraughen DD, et al. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2023;208:964–974.

McElvaney NG, et al. Lancet Respir Med. 2017;5:51–60.

Molloy K, et al. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2014;189:419–427.

Franciosi AN, et al. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2020;202:73–82.

Leacy EJ, et al. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2025;211:2408–2410.

McElvaney OJ, et al. Med (N Y). 2022;3:233–248.

Franciosi AN, et al. COPD. 2021;18:76–82.

In this episode, we explore the remarkable career of Professor Gerry McElvaney, a world-leading figure in Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency research and translational medicine. Gerry shares his journey from clinical medicine to pioneering discovery science, revealing how curiosity, perseverance, and strategic thinking can drive real-world clinical breakthroughs.

From building a research laboratory from scratch to establishing Ireland’s first national targeted detection programmes, Gerry reflects on the challenges of advocacy, diagnostics, and innovation. He discusses pioneering therapeutic development, lessons from high-profile research failures, and how unexpected influences—such as Dolly the sheep—shaped scientific understanding of protein therapies and treatment design.

The conversation spans early detection, personalised medicine, gene editing, and the future of genetic lung disease, while also highlighting the human side of science: mentorship, multidisciplinary teamwork, patient-centred foundations, and the power of listening to clinical questions as the spark for transformative research.

This episode is a masterclass in translational medicine—connecting bedside observations to laboratory discovery and back again—offering invaluable insight for clinicians, researchers, and early-career innovators.

• Transition from clinical medicine to translational research

Professor Gerry McElvaney is a world-renowned expert in Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. He founded the Alpha-1 Foundation of Ireland and established Europe’s first national targeted detection programme. He is Director of the Cystic Fibrosis Unit at Beaumont Hospital, where his work spans cystic fibrosis, Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, infection, and immunity. His leadership has transformed Ireland into a global hub for Alpha-1 research and patient care.

Dr Barry Harnedy – Respiratory specialist trainee, digital innovation advocate, and current co-Educational Officer of the Irish Thoracic Society.

Sandra Green – Irish-trained respiratory fellow, climate advocate, co-founder of Irish Doctors for the Environment, MSc in Leadership & Innovation in Healthcare at Royal College of Surgeons Ireland, and co-founder of Irish Thoracic Society Podcast Productions.

00:00 Welcome & introduction

In this episode, Sarah Geraghty shares clear, practical strategies for healthcare professionals who want to advance their careers with intention. From defining your personal brand to building meaningful networks, this conversation focuses on reflection, self-awareness, and strategic action as the foundations of sustainable growth in a demanding field.

In this episode, we explore:

-The most common mistake in healthcare career planning: an unclear personal brand.

-How to define and communicate your professional brand effectively

- The importance of self-awareness and aligning your actions with your brand

- Practical steps to assess and close gaps between how you're perceived and how you want to be seen

- Balancing technical expertise with communication skills for career progression

- Customising your brand for different stakeholders and career stages

- Building meaningful, high-quality relationships over superficial connections

- The role of reflection and goal-setting in strategic career planning

- Staying authentic while adapting your persona to different professional contexts

Guest

Sarah Geraghty is Head of Careers at The Communications Clinics, specialising in high-stakes interview preparation and career transitions. A seasoned communication trainer and coach, she blends practical storytelling with leadership development to help professionals articulate their value clearly and confidently.

With a background in journalism and editorial work, including contributions to The Irish Times and The Journal, and experience as Assistant Editor of Gloss Magazine, Sarah brings real-world insight into performing under pressure in healthcare and beyond.

Hosts

Marissa O’Callaghan is an Irish-trained Respiratory Fellow currently undertaking a post-doc fellowship at Erasmus MC Rotterdam in the Netherlands. She completed Irish respiratory and internal medicine training and her PhD in 2025. Her interests include interstitial and rare lung diseases, clinical research, medical education, and medical innovation. Together with co-host Sandra Green, she founded the ITS podcast series in June 2024.

Sandra Green is an Irish-trained respiratory doctor and climate advocate, and co-founder of Irish Doctors for the Environment. She holds an MSc in Leadership and Innovation in Healthcare from the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (2023–2025). With Marissa, she co-founded the Irish Thoracic Society Podcast Productions in 2024 to share knowledge, insights, and innovation in respiratory care.

Chapters:

00:00 – Navigating Career Development in Healthcare

01:56 – Understanding Professional Branding

09:37 – The Importance of Communication Skills

11:52 – Practical Steps for Building and Demonstrating Your Brand

14:19 – Communicating Technical Skills and Intentional Self-Promotion

18:23 – Staying Authentic While Adapting Your Brand

21:42 – Actionable Steps for Career Advancement

Resources & Links

- Sarah Geraghty – LinkedIn: https://ie.linkedin.com/in/sarah-geraghty-comms

- The Communication Clinic: https://www.communicationsclinic.ie/