In the heartfelt finale of "Moose on the Loose," I, Paul, along with the return of Mary McHugh, whom you'll remember from our first episode, dive deep into a journey of reflection, sharing the raw and emotional roller coaster that has characterised this podcast series.

Mary's presence brings a sense of full circle, as we revisit the themes and learnings from the beginning and explore how they've evolved over the course of the series. This episode isn't just a conclusion but a revisitation and a deeper analysis of the paths we've taken, both individually and together.

Mary's role is pivotal as she acts not only as a guest but as a mirror and guide, helping me to unpack the series' profound moments and the personal transformations they've engendered. Our dialogue, steeped in warmth and understanding, cuts to the core of the podcast's journey, examining the challenges, vulnerabilities, and unexpected turns it took. Each episode, especially those touching on identity, addiction, and growth, peeled back layers of my own story, revealing the complexities of listening, understanding, and the immense energy it demands.

The essence of our discussion highlights the significance of acceptance, understanding, and the pursuit of self-awareness. Through exploring the nuances of podcasting, which starkly contrasts with the controlled narrative of social media, to facing my own internal battles and revelations, this episode stands as a testament to personal growth. It's about embracing the journey, acknowledging the struggles, and moving towards a place of acceptance. The series, in essence, was not just about sharing with an audience but about my own voyage towards understanding and coming to terms with who I am beyond the labels and expectations.

Mary's insights, drawn from both professional expertise and compassionate understanding, guide me through this exploration, offering clarity and challenging me to see beyond the surface. This dialogue transcends the typical bounds of a podcast episode, becoming a moment of genuine connection and revelation. It underscores the importance of self-acceptance, the power of being present, and the ongoing process of self-discovery.

As the series concludes, I am left with a profound sense of gratitude and a clearer perspective on my path. The lessons learned, the emotions shared, and the connections made, all contribute to a deeper understanding of myself and the world around me. This episode, and the series as a whole, serves as a reminder of the complexities of human experience and the transformative power of open, heartfelt dialogue.

WATCH NOW! Full episode available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/1ZYDYmrr7WQ

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Host: Paul Stenson

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Guest: Mary McHugh

https://www.counsellingonline.ie/

Produced by White Moose Media in collaboration with Graco Studios

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hey there, my lovely listeners and accidental audience members! Welcome aboard a special episode of the Moose on the Loose podcast. It’s your friendly neighbourhood social media enthusiast, Paul, taking the reins this time, but with a twist—I’m the one in the hot seat, and my sister Elaine’s playing host. Let’s dive into the delightful chaos that ensued, shall we?

Kicking things off, Elaine, in her infinite wisdom, decided it was high time I got a taste of my own medicine. Interviewed on my podcast? Well, why not! It’s a bit like being asked to cook in your own restaurant on your day off, but I was game. After all, who better to uncover the layers of my social media shenanigans than the sister who’s seen me at my most unfiltered?

We took a stroll down memory lane, reminiscing about our childhood adventures—from our less-than-holy attempts at playing mass (yes, Brennan’s bread was indeed the body of Christ in our house) to my fleeting consideration of joining the priesthood. Spoiler: the local school’s belt-wielding priests quickly squashed that idea.

Elaine, with her knack for steering conversations into uncharted waters, quizzed me about my career aspirations. Ah, the days of idolizing Pat Kenny and dreaming of the spotlight, only to find my calling in the unpredictable world of hospitality and social media. Who knew a mishap involving a Garth Brooks concert would catapult me into viral fame? Trolls, you have my thanks (and my sarcasm).

Our chat took a turn into the more personal as we discussed my tranquil life in Achill—my sanctuary from the madness of the online world. Sure, it’s not the bustling social scene one might dream of, but it’s where I’ve found peace, happiness, and the occasional internet connection to poke the bear that is social media.

The heart and soul of our talk, though, were my four-legged companions. Our family’s furry members have brought us endless joy, and the story of our beloved Renko touched a chord. Losing him was a reminder of the deep connections we forge with our pets, and yes, I’m the guy who’ll choose dog sitters as carefully as one might select a babysitter for a child.

Elaine couldn’t resist diving into my future plans, teasing out dreams and schemes, from skydiving aspirations to potential sauna expansions. But let’s be real—what’s on my bucket list today might be replaced by a new adventure tomorrow. That’s the beauty of living a life as unpredictable as the social media algorithms I’ve come to know all too well.

Wrapping up, we exchanged our virtual goodbyes with a promise of more shenanigans to come. It was an episode filled with laughter, a few tears, and the kind of sibling banter that could only come from years of shared experiences.

To all who’ve made it this far, thanks for sticking with us through this whirlwind episode. Whether you’re here by happy accident or genuine interest, I’m glad we could share these moments together. Here’s to many more episodes, adventures, and unexpected turns on this wild ride called life. Cheers!

WATCH NOW! Full episode available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/GTXifMTruww

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Host: Paul Stenson

https://www.instagram.com/paulvstenson/

Guest: Elaine Stenson

https://www.instagram.com/elainestenson/

Produced by White Moose Media in collaboration with Graco Studios

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello, listeners! It's Paul from "Moose on the Loose." Today's special episode features Richie's moving story of resilience and recovery. Richie candidly shares his struggle with addiction, rooted in the pain of childhood trauma, including the deep scars of sexual abuse.

His descent into addiction, fueled by a desire to escape haunting memories, spirals into a relentless dependency on cocaine. Richie's journey, however, finds a turning point on Achill Island. This beautiful, remote place becomes a sanctuary for introspection and healing.

As Richie recounts his initial days on the island, he describes how the overwhelming isolation eventually gives way to a profound connection with the land, the community, and himself. From comedic attempts at manual labor to therapeutic walks along the rugged coastline, Richie's narrative is a vivid portrayal of his path to recovery.

This episode is more than a story; it's a testament to the power of human spirit and the capacity for change. Richie's transformation, supported by the people of Achill, offers hope to anyone facing their own challenges. It's a celebration of finding peace and a new beginning in the embrace of nature and community.

Richie, thank you for your bravery and for reminding us that vulnerability is a strength. To all who are listening, keep fighting and loving, and remember, you are not alone. We are united in this journey of life.

WATCH NOW! Full episode available on YouTube:

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Host: Paul Stenson

https://www.instagram.com/paulvstenson/

Guest: Richie Molloy

https://www.instagram.com/richiemolloy/

Produced by White Moose Media in collaboration with Graco Studios

#AchillIsland #JourneyOfHealing #OvercomingAddiction #SurvivorStories #HumanResilience #PathToRecovery #HealingNature #CommunitySupport #BreakingTheChains #HopeAndRenewal #MentalHealthAwareness #SpeakYourTruth #AddictionRecovery #StrengthInVulnerability #NewBeginnings

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Hey there, my dear listeners! Welcome back to another heart-warming episode of "Moose on the Loose." Today, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with the magnificent Davina Devine, who, aside from being an absolute queen on stage, decided to grace us with her presence while enjoying a little Chardonnay because, hey, it's thirsty Thursday after all!

Our conversation started off on a light note, reminiscing about how we first met in a somewhat less-than-glamorous state, thanks to a fun night out. It's incredible thinking about how time flies and how those moments of spontaneity can lead to lifelong friendships.

Davina shared her journey into the world of drag, which started more as a laugh with friends and blossomed into a passion that's lasted over two decades. It's funny how life throws these curveballs, isn't it? One minute you're joking around, and the next, you've found your calling.

One of the more poignant moments of our chat was when Davina opened up about her coming out story. It wasn't easy, filled with its share of drama and heartache, but it's shaped her into the powerhouse she is today. It's a reminder that sometimes, the hardest paths lead to the most beautiful destinations.

We also dived into how the social scene has evolved over the years, especially with the advent of apps like Grindr. It's interesting to see how technology has changed the way we connect, but also a bit sad to think about the communal spaces that have lost their spark.

Amidst all the laughter and nostalgic trips down memory lane, Davina touched on a subject close to her heart: the importance of Pride and being true to oneself. Her message was clear and beautiful—take your time, be gentle with yourself, and let life unfold at its own pace.

Ending our conversation, I couldn't help but feel inspired by Davina's resilience, humour, and warmth. As we said our goodbyes, I was reminded of the power of sharing stories and the strength found in community and friendship.

So, to all my listeners out there, whether you're finding your way or just enjoying the journey, remember, life is a beautiful, messy, and utterly divine adventure. Thank you for tuning in to "Moose on the Loose," and don't forget to like and subscribe for more heart-to-heart chats.

WATCH NOW! Full episode available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/AsFU2XndbpM

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Host: Paul Stenson

https://www.instagram.com/paulvstenson/

Guest: Davina Devine

https://www.instagram.com/davina.devine/

Produced by White Moose Media in collaboration with Graco Studios

#DavinaDevine #DragQueenLife #LGBTQPlus #GayPride #DragQueenMagic #ComingOutJourney #QueerCulture #PrideMonth #QueerPride #DragMakeup #GenderExpression #LoveIsLove #BeYourself #QueerJoy #DragWisdom #SupportLGBTQ #QueerVisibility #InclusivityMatters #DiversityInDrag #SelfLove #LGBTQAdvocacy #QueerStories #CelebratingDiversity #LGBTQCommunity #RainbowLove

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In today's episode of the "Moose on the Loose" podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Seán Lennon, whose journey has led him to co-found My Companion, a service dedicated to providing dignified end-of-life care for pets. This topic resonated deeply with me, having experienced the loss of my dear friend, Renko, in April. Renko was not just a dog; he was my best buddy, a constant companion for 12 years of my life.

Seán shared his personal experience of losing a pet, which paved the way for the inception of My Companion. He recounted his transition from finance to social care and eventually to creating a service that offers a respectful farewell to our furry family members. This struck a chord with me, as the lack of options when Renko passed left me feeling lost and numb, a sentiment Seán understood all too well.

We also had the opportunity to meet Riley, Sean's Cavachon, who, despite his antics before we started recording, fell asleep as soon as we were on air. It was a light-hearted moment that illustrated the unpredictable joy pets bring into our lives.

Seán detailed the services My Companion offers, from door-to-door collection to providing families with willow caskets and the chance for a private farewell, much like a wake. This service fills a void many pet owners face when it's time to say goodbye to their pets, offering a sense of closure and respect for the bond shared with their pet.

We laughed over some of the unexpected moments Seán has encountered in his line of work, including mix-ups with pet sizes and the wide variety of animals they've cared for, from hamsters to Great Danes. It was a reminder of the diverse ways in which pets touch our lives, regardless of their size or species.

Reflecting on the grief of losing Renko brought back a wave of emotions, and talking to Seán offered a sense of solace, knowing services like My Companion exist. The discussion about the importance of acknowledging the loss, allowing other pets to say goodbye, and the role pets play in our grieving process was incredibly moving.

Seán's compassion and dedication to providing a dignified farewell for pets was very evident. It made me wish I had known about My Companion when Renko passed. The work Seán and his team are doing not only honours the memory of our pets but also supports pet owners through one of the toughest times.

I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to shed light on such an important service. For anyone facing the loss of a pet, knowing there are options like My Companion can make all the difference in the world. Seán's journey from finance to social care and now to supporting pet owners in their time of need is a testament to the impact one can make by following a passion for helping others, both two and four-legged.

WATCH NOW! Full episode available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h8aU-qutHaM

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Host: Paul Stenson

https://www.instagram.com/paulvstenson/

Guest: Seán Lennon

https://mycompanion.ie/

https://www.instagram.com/mycompanion.ie/

Produced by White Moose Media in collaboration with Graco Studios

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this heart-warming episode of "Moose on the Loose," I invite you to join me and Jason as we journey down memory lane, revisiting the serendipitous twists and turns that led us from a simple online match to the proud co-owners of The White Moose Cafe.

It all began in the most unexpected way, through an online dating platform. Who knew that this chance encounter would not only ignite a beautiful relationship but also lead to the creation of our thriving business, The White Moose Cafe? This story is a testament to how love and entrepreneurship can intertwine in the most fascinating ways.

We chat about the laughter-filled anecdotes and those quirky moments that define me and Jason. From our first date blunders to the daily chuckles, these experiences were not just the bedrock of our relationship but also the soul of the business we crafted together.

We dive into the story behind the White Moose Cafe. A tale infused with creativity, whimsy, and a whole lot of heart. How we came up with the name, the unique design of our space, and the journey of turning our vision into a reality. From a fledgling idea to a bustling local hotspot, we talk about our daring marketing tactics, the wonderful dynamics within our team, and, most importantly, how Jason's insights and unwavering dedication were pivotal to our success.

Speaking of Jason, I want to take a moment here to acknowledge his immense contributions. Our partnership was a harmony of strengths, where each of us brought something unique to the table.

We look back at our journey through social media fame, which was a mix of highs and lows, and how we navigated through criticism and controversy, learning invaluable lessons about resilience, public perception, and personal growth. Snapchat was a game-changer for us. Embracing this platform did not just alter the course of our business; it reshaped the identity of our cafe in Ireland. It's a powerful story about the influence of social media and the deep connection we forged with our community.

Notably, we share the personal side of living a public life. The impact it had on our mental well-being and the intricate balance we had to maintain between our private and public personas. It's a candid glimpse into the sacrifices and adjustments that were part of our journey.

Reflecting on our time at The White Moose Cafe, it's been a rollercoaster of emotions. I can't help but feel a wave of warmth and gratitude wash over me. It's moments like these, sitting here and sharing our story, that remind me of the beauty in life's unexpected turns.

To everyone who's walked through the doors of The White Moose Cafe, to those who've laughed with us, and even to those who've criticised us, thank you. This journey was more than just building a business; it was a tapestry of memories, connections, and experiences that have profoundly enriched our lives.

I hope our story inspires you to embrace the unexpected, to find joy in the journey, and to cherish the connections you make along the way. Life is an unpredictable, beautiful adventure, and sometimes the most wonderful things arise from the most unlikely beginnings.

WATCH NOW! Full episode available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/347xaMgSdBc

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Host: Paul Stenson

https://www.instagram.com/paulvstenson/

Guest: Jason Kidd

https://www.instagram.com/jasonaustinkidd/

Produced by White Moose Media in collaboration with Graco Studios

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this heartfelt episode of "Moose on the Loose," I have the pleasure of bringing on someone very special to me—my sister Elaine. Right from the start, we reminisce about old childhood nicknames and the countless memories we've shared growing up together on Greenmount Road. Our playful teasing sets the stage for a deeper conversation on a topic close to our hearts: our experience of being adopted.

Elaine and I delved into the quirks of our family life, sharing stories that painted a vivid picture of our unique family dynamics and how they shaped us into who we are today. It wasn't long before Elaine, with her innate journalistic curiosity, brought up the moment that changed our understanding of our identity. She recounts finding our adoption documents in the attic, a discovery that led us to confront our feelings about adoption, identity, and where we belong.

One of the most poignant moments in our conversation came when I shared a letter from the adoption agency, revealing details about my birth mother's life and the circumstances surrounding my adoption. This was a moment of vulnerability for me, highlighting the complex emotions tied to being adopted—from curiosity about my origins to the pang of regret for not seeking out my birth mother sooner. In sharing my regret and the reasons behind it, I aimed to highlight the importance of seizing moments of connection before they slip away and the continued internal conflicts around meeting my living birth siblings.

Despite the occasional tear and laughter, this episode is more than just a casual chat; it is a deep dive into the themes of family, identity, and the search for connection. Elaine and I explore the idea that family isn't just about blood relations; it's about the bonds we choose to form and the people who stand by us through thick and thin.

Through "Moose on the Loose," my aim is to share not just my own story, but also to open up a conversation on adoption, to normalise it, and to address the stigma it often carries. This episode is a blend of humour and heartfelt moments, hopefully reminding us all that life's unexpected journeys are what make our stories unique. And at the end of the day, it's the love and support of family—whether by birth or by choice—that truly defines us.

WATCH NOW! Full episode available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/2FoxUvyni1s

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Host: Paul Stenson

https://www.instagram.com/paulvstenson/

Guest: Elain Stenson

https://www.instagram.com/elainestenson/

Produced by White Moose Media in collaboration with Graco Studios

#Adoption #Addiction #ComingOut #MentalHealthAwareness #LGBTQJourney #OnlineTherapy #IdentityExploration #HealingJourney #MindfulnessPractice #PersonalGrowth #PsychotherapyInsights #OvercomingTrauma #SelfAcceptance #MooseOnTheLoose

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In the first episode of "Moose on the Loose," I, Paul, embark on a deeply personal journey, sharing my experiences with the world. This podcast, set against the stunning backdrop of Achill Island, where the serene beauty of nature meets the wildness of the Atlantic, is my platform to explore the intricate dance of life's highs and lows. Joined by Mary McHugh, a seasoned psychotherapist, we dive into topics close to my heart—my struggles with identity, the path to self-acceptance, and the battles against the demons of addiction.

Mary and I discuss the transformative power of therapy, especially the innovative approach of online counseling, which has been a beacon of hope for many who find traditional therapy inaccessible. We delve into the nuances of mental health support in the digital age, recognizing the importance of meeting people where they are, in their moment of need.

As the conversation unfolds, I open up about my own life's narrative—my adoption, my journey through addiction, and my quest for acceptance, both from the world and, importantly, from myself. We touch upon the challenges of coming out, the societal pressures that shape our self-perception, and the deep-seated need for connection and understanding.

This episode is not just an introduction to the podcast but a window into my soul. It's a call to anyone who's ever felt lost, misunderstood, or on the fringe, offering a message of hope, resilience, and the undeniable power of human connection. Through "Moose on the Loose," I aim to build a community where stories of pain, joy, struggle, and triumph are shared and celebrated, reminding us all that, no matter the journey, we are never truly alone.

WATCH NOW! Full episode available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6TERBE8dnYU

Follow:

Host: Paul Stenson

https://www.instagram.com/paulvstenson/

Guest: Mary McHugh

https://www.counsellingonline.ie/

Produced by White Moose Media in collaboration with Graco Studios

#Adoption #Addiction #ComingOut #MentalHealthAwareness #LGBTQJourney #OnlineTherapy #IdentityExploration #HealingJourney #MindfulnessPractice #NatureTherapy #PersonalGrowth #PsychotherapyInsights #OvercomingTrauma #SelfAcceptance #MooseOnTheLoose

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