TABOO

By Dr. Fiona Barry PhD

Welcome to TABOO, the podcast that dares to delve into the conversations often left unspoken. Join us as we create a safe space for open and transparent dialogue about the topics that evoke feelings o... more

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FAQs about TABOO:

How many episodes does TABOO have?

The podcast currently has 24 episodes available.

TABOO episodes:

March 27, 2026Episode 19. When The Stars Align - The Fertility Industry
In this episode Fiona welcomes back Aisling to continue her fertility story after multiple IVF cycles and difficult clinic experiences. They recap earlier treatments, the discovery of lupus anticoagulant and endometrial infection, and Aisling’s move to slower, holistic support—acupuncture, herbs, immune modulation and a QTT session—to reset both body and mind.
They discuss PGT testing of frozen embryos, the emotional rollercoaster of the two-week wait, and how advocacy, taking breaks, and broader testing helped change the outcome. The episode ends on a hopeful note: Aisling is five months pregnant with a baby boy, and she shares practical advice for others on the fertility journey.

ABOUT THE HOST
Dr. Fiona Barry is a distinguished healthcare practitioner with over 3 decades of experience in both Western / Modern and Eastern / Traditional medicine. Holding a PhD in Pharmacology and a degree in biomedical sciences, she transitioned from cardiovascular research to the more holistic approach of Chinese medicine. She also supports people in their emotional and psychological challenges with the likes of Quantum Thinking Transformation (QTT) and coaching.

Fiona's integrative approach has supported several thousand people individually in navigating challenges in such areas as hormonal health, fertility, trauma and chronic pain, with tremendously positive feedback and results.

Throughout her clinical practice, Dr. Fiona regularly encounters clients burdened by shame and isolation, voicing sentiments like "I've never told anyone that before."

Recognising the profound need for open dialogue, Fiona launched this new podcast series "Taboo", where she aims to create a safe space for the exploration of topics that are often left unspoken, in order to foster connection and understanding on a broader scale. She is committed to amplifying voices and stories that often go unheard.

Fiona is available to work with people in a number of ways, including:
One-to-one in her clinic or online
For media and events, including corporate training in health and wellbeing

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_fionabarry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comharacupuncture
Website: https://fionabarry.ie/
...more
57min
March 10, 2026Episode 18 Part 2. Ciaran Hourican: From Heartbreak To Healing - The Complex Journey Of Separation and Divorce
In this episode Fiona and Ciarán share their personal journeys through separation and divorce, exploring stigma, gendered assumptions, and the failures of the legal system. They discuss practical choices—co-parenting, solicitor interactions—and how communication and support can reshape outcomes for families.
Both parties reflect on the emotional work of letting go, finding compassion, and rebuilding life with hope, offering candid insight and encouragement for anyone navigating a breakup.

ABOUT GUEST
Ciaran is the Managing Director of H-Training and operates as an Executive Coach, Corporate trainer and Strategic Consultant. Ciarán has extensive experience of Leadership and Coaching interventions and is very active across Ireland with a host of SMEs and in Tech, Manufacturing and Digital Marketing. He has ask worked with an elite list of multinationals include Google, Netapp, Twitter & McAfee. Ciaran’s approach is to build honest relationships that support real conversations and build cultures of accountability. He is a gifted storyteller and uses his unique lived experiences and passion as a voracious reader to both inspire and challenge. Having coached several CEOs to date he has facilitated impactful change within both their organisations and lives. And while Ciarán is a passionate guardian of ambition, he is also deeply committed to the wellbeing of business owners and advocates a balanced approach to life and its many forms of success where practical.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ciaranhourican/
Website: https://htraining.net/
Email: [email protected]

ABOUT THE HOST
Dr. Fiona Barry is a distinguished healthcare practitioner with over 3 decades of experience in both Western / Modern and Eastern / Traditional medicine. Holding a PhD in Pharmacology and a degree in biomedical sciences, she transitioned from cardiovascular research to the more holistic approach of Chinese medicine. She also supports people in their emotional and psychological challenges with the likes of Quantum Thinking Transformation (QTT) and coaching.

Fiona's integrative approach has supported several thousand people individually in navigating challenges in such areas as hormonal health, fertility, trauma and chronic pain, with tremendously positive feedback and results.

Throughout her clinical practice, Dr. Fiona regularly encounters clients burdened by shame and isolation, voicing sentiments like "I've never told anyone that before."

Recognising the profound need for open dialogue, Fiona launched this new podcast series "Taboo", where she aims to create a safe space for the exploration of topics that are often left unspoken, in order to foster connection and understanding on a broader scale. She is committed to amplifying voices and stories that often go unheard.

Fiona is available to work with people in a number of ways, including:
One-to-one in her clinic or online
For media and events, including corporate training in health and wellbeing

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_fionabarry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comharacupuncture
Website: https://fionabarry.ie/
...more
50min
March 03, 2026Episode 18 Part 1. Ciaran Hourican: From Heartbreak To Healing - The Complex Journey Of Separation and Divorce
In this candid conversation, Fiona and Ciaran share their personal journeys through separation and divorce, exploring the grief, the hard decisions, and the impact on children and family life.
They discuss the role of support, the work of healing and self-discovery, and offer honest reassurance that, despite the pain, life can be rebuilt into a happier and healthier next chapter.

ABOUT GUEST
Ciaran is the Managing Director of H-Training and operates as an Executive Coach, Corporate trainer and Strategic Consultant. Ciarán has extensive experience of Leadership and Coaching interventions and is very active across Ireland with a host of SMEs and in Tech, Manufacturing and Digital Marketing. He has ask worked with an elite list of multinationals include Google, Netapp, Twitter & McAfee. Ciaran’s approach is to build honest relationships that support real conversations and build cultures of accountability. He is a gifted storyteller and uses his unique lived experiences and passion as a voracious reader to both inspire and challenge. Having coached several CEOs to date he has facilitated impactful change within both their organisations and lives. And while Ciarán is a passionate guardian of ambition, he is also deeply committed to the wellbeing of business owners and advocates a balanced approach to life and its many forms of success where practical.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ciaranhourican/
Website: https://htraining.net/
Email: [email protected]

ABOUT THE HOST
Dr. Fiona Barry is a distinguished healthcare practitioner with over 3 decades of experience in both Western / Modern and Eastern / Traditional medicine. Holding a PhD in Pharmacology and a degree in biomedical sciences, she transitioned from cardiovascular research to the more holistic approach of Chinese medicine. She also supports people in their emotional and psychological challenges with the likes of Quantum Thinking Transformation (QTT) and coaching.

Fiona's integrative approach has supported several thousand people individually in navigating challenges in such areas as hormonal health, fertility, trauma and chronic pain, with tremendously positive feedback and results.

Throughout her clinical practice, Dr. Fiona regularly encounters clients burdened by shame and isolation, voicing sentiments like "I've never told anyone that before."

Recognising the profound need for open dialogue, Fiona launched this new podcast series "Taboo", where she aims to create a safe space for the exploration of topics that are often left unspoken, in order to foster connection and understanding on a broader scale. She is committed to amplifying voices and stories that often go unheard.

Fiona is available to work with people in a number of ways, including:
One-to-one in her clinic or online
For media and events, including corporate training in health and wellbeing

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_fionabarry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comharacupuncture
Website: https://fionabarry.ie/
...more
55min
February 17, 2026Episode 17. Aidan Murray: Blessed Beginnings - Reflections On A Catholic Upbringing
An intimate episode tracing one man’s path from a Catholic childhood to atheism, reflecting on his mother’s faith, family trauma, and the influence of the Church in Ireland.
The conversation covers school experience, clergy abuse, gender roles, the comfort religion can bring, and how modern life fills spiritual gaps. Fiona finishes up by inviting listeners to reflect and suggest future topics.

ABOUT THE HOST
Dr. Fiona Barry is a distinguished healthcare practitioner with over 3 decades of experience in both Western / Modern and Eastern / Traditional medicine. Holding a PhD in Pharmacology and a degree in biomedical sciences, she transitioned from cardiovascular research to the more holistic approach of Chinese medicine. She also supports people in their emotional and psychological challenges with the likes of Quantum Thinking Transformation (QTT) and coaching.

Fiona's integrative approach has supported several thousand people individually in navigating challenges in such areas as hormonal health, fertility, trauma and chronic pain, with tremendously positive feedback and results.

Throughout her clinical practice, Dr. Fiona regularly encounters clients burdened by shame and isolation, voicing sentiments like "I've never told anyone that before."

Recognising the profound need for open dialogue, Fiona launched this new podcast series "Taboo", where she aims to create a safe space for the exploration of topics that are often left unspoken, in order to foster connection and understanding on a broader scale. She is committed to amplifying voices and stories that often go unheard.

Fiona is available to work with people in a number of ways, including:
One-to-one in her clinic or online
For media and events, including corporate training in health and wellbeing

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_fionabarry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comharacupuncture
Website: https://fionabarry.ie/
...more
1h 15min
December 23, 2025Episode 16. Fiona Barry: Words Of Reflection & Being A Mother In 2025
A warm, reflective episode shared the day before Christmas Eve exploring rest, connection, and the pressures of modern life. Fiona thanks frontline workers, describes simple holiday preparations, and reads a powerful post about maternal cognitive load — urging partners to help and mothers to rest. The episode closes with compassion for those grieving and a poignant poem honouring lost loved ones.

ABOUT THE HOST
Dr. Fiona Barry is a distinguished healthcare practitioner with over 3 decades of experience in both Western / Modern and Eastern / Traditional medicine. Holding a PhD in Pharmacology and a degree in biomedical sciences, she transitioned from cardiovascular research to the more holistic approach of Chinese medicine. She also supports people in their emotional and psychological challenges with the likes of Quantum Thinking Transformation (QTT) and coaching.

Fiona's integrative approach has supported several thousand people individually in navigating challenges in such areas as hormonal health, fertility, trauma and chronic pain, with tremendously positive feedback and results.

Throughout her clinical practice, Dr. Fiona regularly encounters clients burdened by shame and isolation, voicing sentiments like "I've never told anyone that before."

Recognising the profound need for open dialogue, Fiona launched this new podcast series "Taboo", where she aims to create a safe space for the exploration of topics that are often left unspoken, in order to foster connection and understanding on a broader scale. She is committed to amplifying voices and stories that often go unheard.

Fiona is available to work with people in a number of ways, including:
One-to-one in her clinic or online
For media and events, including corporate training in health and wellbeing

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_fionabarry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comharacupuncture
Website: https://fionabarry.ie/
...more
15min
December 09, 2025Episode 15. Kathleen Dowd: Lockdown Legacies - Unpacking The Ongoing Fallout Of COVD-19
Episode 15 of Taboo features Chinese herbalist and practitioner Kathleen Dowd discussing the COVID pandemic from a clinician’s perspective. Fiona and Kathleen recount early cases, lockdowns, and frontline experiences treating respiratory illness with herbal medicine.
The conversation covers contentious topics including early treatment options (like ivermectin), concerns about mRNA vaccines and manufacturing, censorship of dissenting scientists, and the ongoing physical and mental fallout such as long COVID, POTS, fertility and cardiovascular issues.
The episode urges open debate, critical thinking, and practical steps to support health—nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle—as listeners reflect on lessons learned and how to move forward.

ABOUT GUEST
Kathleen Dowd, a dedicated practitioner of Chinese Medicine since 2005, has transformed her personal health journey into a thriving career. Inspired by her own healing experiences, Kathleen established a busy clinic in Newcastle, Co Dublin, where she not only practices but also teaches postgraduate courses in acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine. With qualifications including a Diploma in Lic Acupuncture, a Graduate Diploma in Chinese Herbal Medicine, and several other specialties, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her patients and students alike.
Beyond her clinical work, Kathleen is the innovative mind behind a range of skin health creams and a translator of ancient Chinese medical texts, bridging the gap between historical wisdom and modern practice. Her passion for natural healthcare shines through in every aspect of her work, making her an inspiring voice in the field.

Website: https://www.woodlandshealthcentre.ie
Email: [email protected]
Phone: + 353 87 109 6778

ABOUT THE HOST
Dr. Fiona Barry is a distinguished healthcare practitioner with over 3 decades of experience in both Western / Modern and Eastern / Traditional medicine. Holding a PhD in Pharmacology and a degree in biomedical sciences, she transitioned from cardiovascular research to the more holistic approach of Chinese medicine. She also supports people in their emotional and psychological challenges with the likes of Quantum Thinking Transformation (QTT) and coaching.

Fiona's integrative approach has supported several thousand people individually in navigating challenges in such areas as hormonal health, fertility, trauma and chronic pain, with tremendously positive feedback and results.

Throughout her clinical practice, Dr. Fiona regularly encounters clients burdened by shame and isolation, voicing sentiments like "I've never told anyone that before."

Recognising the profound need for open dialogue, Fiona launched this new podcast series "Taboo", where she aims to create a safe space for the exploration of topics that are often left unspoken, in order to foster connection and understanding on a broader scale. She is committed to amplifying voices and stories that often go unheard.

Fiona is available to work with people in a number of ways, including:
One-to-one in her clinic or online
For media and events, including corporate training in health and wellbeing

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_fionabarry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comharacupuncture
Website: https://fionabarry.ie/
...more
1h 10min
November 25, 2025Episode 14 Part 2: Breda: A Childhood Stolen - One Women's Story Of Sexual Abuse and Survival
Part two of Breda’s story follows her life after childhood sexual abuse and focuses on her experiences navigating medical care. She describes triggering encounters during hospital stays, physiotherapy and mammograms, and explains why healthcare must become trauma-informed so patients feel respected and safe.
Breda calls for mandatory trauma training for all healthcare staff, better communication and consent around touch, and a system that treats every patient with dignity. She also shares hope, recovery strategies and plans to build a survivor-led resource hub.

RESOURCES:
If you are a survivor or advocate and want to contact Breda her email address is:
[email protected]
Sexual Assault Treatment Unit
Address: South Infirmary - Victoria University Hospital, Old Blackrock Road, Cork T12 X23H
Tel: 021-492 6297 (Within Working Hours)
085 8760578 (Outside Working Hours)
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://sivuh.ie/

ABOUT THE HOST
Dr. Fiona Barry is a distinguished healthcare practitioner with over 3 decades of experience in both Western / Modern and Eastern / Traditional medicine. Holding a PhD in Pharmacology and a degree in biomedical sciences, she transitioned from cardiovascular research to the more holistic approach of Chinese medicine. She also supports people in their emotional and psychological challenges with the likes of Quantum Thinking Transformation (QTT) and coaching.

Fiona's integrative approach has supported several thousand people individually in navigating challenges in such areas as hormonal health, fertility, trauma and chronic pain, with tremendously positive feedback and results.

Throughout her clinical practice, Dr. Fiona regularly encounters clients burdened by shame and isolation, voicing sentiments like "I've never told anyone that before."

Recognising the profound need for open dialogue, Fiona launched this new podcast series "Taboo", where she aims to create a safe space for the exploration of topics that are often left unspoken, in order to foster connection and understanding on a broader scale. She is committed to amplifying voices and stories that often go unheard.

Fiona is available to work with people in a number of ways, including:
One-to-one in her clinic or online
For media and events, including corporate training in health and wellbeing

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_fionabarry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comharacupuncture
Website: https://fionabarry.ie/
...more
1h 7min
November 18, 2025Episode 14 Part 1: Breda: A Childhood Stolen - One Woman’s Story of Sexual Abuse and Survival
To protect the identity of today's guest, we have altered her voice. This has been done in such a way as to not compromise the quality of the recording, nor the content of the recording.
This episode features Breda, who shares her harrowing experience of prolonged childhood sexual abuse by a family member, the family silence that followed, the long-term effects on her relationships and mental health, and her journey toward healing and resilience.
Part one focuses on her personal story and its aftermath; part two will examine gaps in education and healthcare practices and how services can become more trauma-informed to better support survivors.

RESOURCES:
If you are a survivor or advocate and want to contact Breda her email address is:
[email protected]
Sexual Assault Treatment Unit
Address: South Infirmary - Victoria University Hospital, Old Blackrock Road, Cork T12 X23H
Tel: 021-492 6297 (Within Working Hours)
085 8760578 (Outside Working Hours)
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://sivuh.ie/

ABOUT THE HOST
Dr. Fiona Barry is a distinguished healthcare practitioner with over 3 decades of experience in both Western / Modern and Eastern / Traditional medicine. Holding a PhD in Pharmacology and a degree in biomedical sciences, she transitioned from cardiovascular research to the more holistic approach of Chinese medicine. She also supports people in their emotional and psychological challenges with the likes of Quantum Thinking Transformation (QTT) and coaching.

Fiona's integrative approach has supported several thousand people individually in navigating challenges in such areas as hormonal health, fertility, trauma and chronic pain, with tremendously positive feedback and results.

Throughout her clinical practice, Dr. Fiona regularly encounters clients burdened by shame and isolation, voicing sentiments like "I've never told anyone that before."

Recognising the profound need for open dialogue, Fiona launched this new podcast series "Taboo", where she aims to create a safe space for the exploration of topics that are often left unspoken, in order to foster connection and understanding on a broader scale. She is committed to amplifying voices and stories that often go unheard.

Fiona is available to work with people in a number of ways, including:
One-to-one in her clinic or online
For media and events, including corporate training in health and wellbeing

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_fionabarry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comharacupuncture
Website: https://fionabarry.ie/
...more
1h 0min
November 04, 2025Episode 13. Aislinn Horgan & Treasa Dempsey: Tattoos of Triumph - A Journey To Wholeness
In this emotional episode Fiona speaks with breast cancer survivor Treasa and medical tattooist Aislinn about diagnosis, treatment, reconstruction, and the long path back to identity and confidence.
They explore practical supports—wigs, prosthetics, scar revision and areola tattooing—the role of family and counselling, and the transformative impact of compassionate, specialist care.

ABOUT GUEST
Aislinn Horgan is a registered nurse and internationally trained medical tattooist, specialising in restorative tattooing for people healing after surgery or trauma. Her clinic, By Aislinn Medical Micropigmentation studio, is the only dedicated medical tattoo clinic in Ireland. Through this clinic she provides 3D areola and nipple tattooing, scar and stretch mark revision, and eyebrow restoration for clients across Ireland.
With a background in oncology and surgery and over twenty years in healthcare, Aislinn brings a unique combination of clinical knowledge and artistry to her work. She is the only provider in Ireland approved by Laya Healthcare for areola tattooing, a recognition she personally advocated for to ensure this vital final step in breast reconstruction is accessible and respected. She is delighted that VHI have also recently approved this service for their members.
Aislinn’s work goes far beyond appearance. It’s about helping people reclaim their confidence, identity, and sense of self after deeply personal journeys of healing and life changing experiences. Her mission is simple but profound, to make people feel whole again.

Mobile: 0872239308
Instagram: @byaislinnastudio
Website: byaislinn.ie
Email: [email protected]

ABOUT THE HOST
Dr. Fiona Barry is a distinguished healthcare practitioner with over 3 decades of experience in both Western / Modern and Eastern / Traditional medicine. Holding a PhD in Pharmacology and a degree in biomedical sciences, she transitioned from cardiovascular research to the more holistic approach of Chinese medicine. She also supports people in their emotional and psychological challenges with the likes of Quantum Thinking Transformation (QTT) and coaching.

Fiona's integrative approach has supported several thousand people individually in navigating challenges in such areas as hormonal health, fertility, trauma and chronic pain, with tremendously positive feedback and results.

Throughout her clinical practice, Dr. Fiona regularly encounters clients burdened by shame and isolation, voicing sentiments like "I've never told anyone that before."

Recognising the profound need for open dialogue, Fiona launched this new podcast series "Taboo", where she aims to create a safe space for the exploration of topics that are often left unspoken, in order to foster connection and understanding on a broader scale. She is committed to amplifying voices and stories that often go unheard.

Fiona is available to work with people in a number of ways, including:
One-to-one in her clinic or online
For media and events, including corporate training in health and wellbeing

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_fionabarry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comharacupuncture
Website: https://fionabarry.ie/
...more
1h 16min
October 21, 2025Episode 12. Moira Geary: Anchored Within - Mastering Your Mind Amid Life's Chaos
After taking time off to truly switch off and reset, Fiona returns for Episode 12 of Taboo with a deeply honest and uplifting conversation featuring Moira Geary, known as The Recombobulator.
Moira shares her powerful personal story — from years of anxiety, shame, and self-doubt to creating QTT (Quantum Thinking Transformation) and helping others reclaim their confidence and purpose. Together, Fiona and Moira explore the importance of self-awareness, emotional healing, and the courage it takes to face life’s darker moments.
This episode is a reminder that no matter how overwhelming life feels, nothing stays the same — change and hope are always possible.

ABOUT GUEST
A former nurse and midwife, Moira holds an MA in Psychotherapy and has 25 years’ experience working in the Personal Development space.
In that 25 years she has developed and teaches unique techniques with a practical approach to support people find freedom within themselves resulting in transformational and lasting change.
Her signature techniques also offer seekers freedom from fear, worry, procrastination, self-sabotage and overwhelm that may be holding them back.

Her trainings deliver unique, gentle and profoundly positive roadmaps to take you to freedom regardless of stage of life or circumstances.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moirageary_
Website: https://www.moirageary.com/
Email: [email protected]

ABOUT THE HOST
Dr. Fiona Barry is a distinguished healthcare practitioner with over 3 decades of experience in both Western / Modern and Eastern / Traditional medicine. Holding a PhD in Pharmacology and a degree in biomedical sciences, she transitioned from cardiovascular research to the more holistic approach of Chinese medicine. She also supports people in their emotional and psychological challenges with the likes of Quantum Thinking Transformation (QTT) and coaching.

Fiona's integrative approach has supported several thousand people individually in navigating challenges in such areas as hormonal health, fertility, trauma and chronic pain, with tremendously positive feedback and results.

Throughout her clinical practice, Dr. Fiona regularly encounters clients burdened by shame and isolation, voicing sentiments like "I've never told anyone that before."

Recognising the profound need for open dialogue, Fiona launched this new podcast series "Taboo", where she aims to create a safe space for the exploration of topics that are often left unspoken, in order to foster connection and understanding on a broader scale. She is committed to amplifying voices and stories that often go unheard.

Fiona is available to work with people in a number of ways, including:
One-to-one in her clinic or online
For media and events, including corporate training in health and wellbeing

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_fionabarry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comharacupuncture
Website: https://fionabarry.ie/
...more
1h 35min

FAQs about TABOO:

How many episodes does TABOO have?

The podcast currently has 24 episodes available.