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In this episode, I’m joined by Sarah Benson, CEO of Women’s Aid, to have an open and vital conversation about gender-based abuse. We discuss the harsh realities of psychological and emotional abuse, physical and sexual abuse, and coercive control. We consider the societal norms that enable these issues, and the alarming rise in abuse during the holiday season.

Our discussion highlights the challenges faced by survivors, as Sarah sheds light on the complexities of post-separation abuse, including financial manipulation, and the urgent need for legislative reform to protect survivors. We also reflect on the case of Nikita Hand and the often harrowing court process for sexual abuse cases, emphasizing the need for systemic change. 

We explore the broader societal influences that contribute to gender-based abuse, from pornography to perceived gender roles, and the responsibility of both men and women in fostering change. This episode calls for awareness, action, and cultural shifts to create a safer, more equal society for everyone. Tune in for a thought-provoking and compassionate conversation.

This episode discusses sensitive topics, including domestic and sexual abuse, which some listeners may find distressing. If you or someone you know is affected by these issues, support is available. Please reach out to the Women’s Aid 24-hour National Freephone Helpline at 1800 341 900 or visit www.womensaid.ie for more resources. You are not alone.

This episode is sponsored by BURST Oral Care, the brand revolutionising oral care with fresh, fun, and effective products. Just in time for the holiday season, BURST’s PAP-powered whitening products are now available in Ireland at McCauley’s, Mulligan’s, and Adrian Dunne Pharmacies. Perfect for keeping your smile bright and fresh through all the festive celebrations.

Their latest innovation, Teeth Whitening Breath Strips, dissolve on your teeth to whiten up to 2.5 shades while freshening your breath with a polar mint kick. Say goodbye to red wine stains and stale breath this holiday season—these strips are your new secret weapon for a dazzling smile! Follow @burstoralcare on Instagram for updates and offers, or grab yours in-store today.

Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations.

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In this episode, I chat with TJ Hegarty, founder and CEO of Breakthrough Maths, about the challenges and opportunities in making maths education more accessible and engaging. TJ shares his innovative approach, including small class sizes and personalised progress tracking, to help students build confidence and succeed in maths.

We discuss why girls' performance in maths is declining, exploring the role of societal stereotypes, math anxiety, and the lingering impact of COVID-19 on education. TJ highlights the differences between Asian and European approaches to maths education, and shares why foundational skills and parental support are crucial for long-term success.

We also explore the role of grinds schools in helping students prepare for state exams and how maths can equip young people for careers in a rapidly changing, AI-driven world. Packed with practical tips for study habits and exam preparation, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of education. Tune in for an insightful conversation!

This episode is sponsored by BURST Oral Care, the brand revolutionising oral care with fresh, fun, and effective products. Just in time for the holiday season, BURST’s PAP-powered whitening products are now available in Ireland at McCauley’s, Mulligan’s, and Adrian Dunne Pharmacies. Perfect for keeping your smile bright and fresh through all the festive celebrations.

Their latest innovation, Teeth Whitening Breath Strips, dissolve on your teeth to whiten up to 2.5 shades while freshening your breath with a polar mint kick. Say goodbye to red wine stains and stale breath this holiday season—these strips are your new secret weapon for a dazzling smile! Follow @burstoralcare on Instagram for updates and offers, or grab yours in-store today.

Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations.

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In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Brendan Daugherty, a child psychiatrist with a unique approach to mental health. Brendan shares his personal story of overcoming psoriasis through psychodynamic therapy, showing the powerful link between mental and physical health.

We explore how mental health issues like anxiety and ADHD present differently in boys and girls, with Brendan offering practical advice for parents to support their children’s mental wellness.

Our conversation also delves into topics including parent blame, holistic approaches to mental health, and the potential of psychedelic microdosing. Brendan discusses the emotional toll of working in mental health and the importance of self-care practices like yoga. This episode is packed with insights for anyone interested in mental wellness, personal growth, or parenting. Tune in for a thoughtful and inspiring chat!

This episode is sponsored by Ayu Cosmetics, the Irish luxury makeup brand that’s all about quality and elegance. Their products are vegan, cruelty-free, and designed to make you feel amazing—not just with stunning results but with the whole Ayu Experience. From top-notch customer service to special perks like discounts and early product access, Ayu goes above and beyond to make every customer feel special.

With Christmas just around the corner, their beautifully packaged gift sets are the perfect way to treat someone you love (or yourself!). Head over to AyuCosmetics.com to explore their luxurious collection and give the gift of the Ayu Experience this Christmas.

Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations.

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In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Orla Ní Mhuircheartaigh, a consultant rheumatologist with experience spanning from the Mayo Clinic to acute medicine in London. Dr. Ní Mhuircheartaigh shares her insights on women’s bone health, the critical role of estrogen, and how Hormone Replacement Therapy can help prevent osteoporosis.

We explore how diagnostics like DEXA scans and FRAX scores are used to assess fracture risk, alongside treatment options like bisphosphonates and biologics for autoimmune arthritis. Dr. Ní Mhuircheartaigh also clears up misconceptions about fibromyalgia and highlights the importance of self-care during the perinatal period to avoid long-term mechanical issues.

Our conversation also dives into balancing motherhood with a demanding career in medicine, with personal stories and practical advice. From effective exercise tips, like Pilates, to sustainable strategies for managing pain, this episode is packed with insights to empower women at every stage of life.

This episode is sponsored by Ayu Cosmetics, the luxury Irish makeup brand whose Black Friday deals are now LIVE! Enjoy 30% off site-wide with free shipping—perfect for stocking up on favourites. Looking for recommendations? Their undereye concealer is like sleep in a bottle, their Kajal liners make smoky eyes fool proof, and their lip gloss adds the perfect finishing touch while keeping lips moisturised for winter. Shop now at AyuCosmetics.com to grab these deals before they're gone, and maybe even win a Golden Ticket!

Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations.

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In this episode, we’re joined by dietitian Josh Percival, to explore how to move beyond diet culture and shift the focus from weight loss to health gain. Josh shares how family mealtimes can support better nutrition and why it’s time to drop labels like “sin” from food choices. We also introduce continuum thinking to help create more sustainable eating habits.

Josh offers practical tips for balancing protein, carbs, and fats in everyday meals, along with advice on managing cholesterol and the unique needs of those over 65. We dive into building positive food relationships, especially for women dealing with societal pressures during menopause.

From intuitive eating to help make guilt-free choices to managing picky eating in children, this episode is packed with actionable tips. Josh also highlights the role of human connections in fostering healthier habits and finding purpose through food and family. Tune in for practical advice and a fresh take on nutrition!

This episode is sponsored by AYU Cosmetics, the Irish makeup brand redefining elegance with their luxury essentials. Known for their beautifully curated basics—like a capsule wardrobe for your makeup bag—AYU products are 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and crafted to perfection.

This Black Friday, AYU is offering 30% off site-wide with free shipping from 25th November to 2nd December. It’s the perfect chance to stock up on their must-haves, like the flawless, all-day concealer I’m obsessed with! Visit ayucosmetics.com and follow @ayumakeupireland on Instagram for updates and offers.

Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations.

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In this episode, we’re joined by Keith Barry, the world-famous hypnotist and mentalist, to explore the mindset behind his incredible career and his new book, Sleep Hacks. Keith shares how he uses brain hacking not only to wow audiences but also to help people grow in life and work. From taking news detoxes to the importance of quality sleep, Keith’s insights offer a fresh take on making real changes to improve wellness.

We dive into the effects of modern life on our sleep—how screens, stress, and substances like alcohol and cannabis can disrupt our rest. Keith shares practical tips from his work in magic, hypnosis, and psychology to help both professionals and athletes improve their sleep and well-being.

For parents, Keith has great advice on raising balanced kids in the digital age. From managing social media pressures to encouraging real-life connections through sports and hobbies, he reminds us that life’s too short to take too seriously. Tune in for Keith’s practical tips and a unique perspective on finding joy and balance!

This episode is sponsored by AYU Cosmetics, the Irish makeup brand redefining elegance with their luxury essentials. Known for their beautifully curated basics—like a capsule wardrobe for your makeup bag—AYU products are 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and crafted to perfection.

This Black Friday, AYU is offering 30% off site-wide with free shipping from 25th November to 2nd December. It’s the perfect chance to stock up on their must-haves, like the flawless, all-day concealer I’m obsessed with! Visit ayucosmetics.com and follow @ayumakeupireland on Instagram for updates and offers.

Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations.

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In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Orla Conlon, an expert in obstetrics and gynaecology, who brings over 25 years of experience to our conversation. We discuss the often-overlooked psychological impact of conditions like PMS and PMDD, and Dr. Conlon shares why empathy and understanding are so important in women’s healthcare.

We dive into the struggles young women face with heavy and painful periods, exploring when symptoms may signal conditions like endometriosis. Dr. Conlon explains various treatment options—from pain relief to contraceptives like the Kyleena coil—stressing the importance of early diagnosis to protect fertility and ensure the right care.

Our chat also covers the role of societal pressures, trauma, and modern gynaecological treatments in shaping women’s health. We touch on psychosexual health, cervical care, postnatal recovery, and the benefits of less invasive procedures like the Mirena coil and endometrial ablation. Plus, we discuss the role of HRT in supporting well-being. Join us as we aim to open up these vital conversations, making sure women feel empowered to seek the care and support they need.

This episode is sponsored by AYU Cosmetics, the Irish makeup brand redefining elegance with their luxury essentials. Known for their beautifully curated basics—like a capsule wardrobe for your makeup bag—AYU products are 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and crafted to perfection.

This Black Friday, AYU is offering 30% off site-wide with free shipping from 25th November to 2nd December. It’s the perfect chance to stock up on their must-haves, like the flawless, all-day concealer I’m obsessed with! Visit ayucosmetics.com and follow @ayumakeupireland on Instagram for updates and offers.

Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations.

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In this episode, I’m joined by Suzie O’Neill, founder of AYU Cosmetics, who shares her journey from makeup artist and educator, to CEO. Suzie opens up about the ups and downs of building her brand, from recovering after a failed partnership to juggling work, family, and self-care.

We chat about the self-care habits that boost confidence, especially for busy women—whether it’s putting on a bit of makeup, running marathons, or horse-riding with her kids. Suzie and I also discuss the role of diet and exercise in keeping a balanced, healthy life and the positive ripple effect it has on mental and physical well-being.

Suzie gives us a peek behind the scenes of AYU’s growth, from online consultations to global expansion, all while staying customer-focused. She’s honest about the challenges of funding her business and competing in a tough market. Whether you’re into beauty or business, this episode is packed with insights on resilience, self-belief, and staying true to your vision.

This episode is brought to you by fabÜ SKIN GLOW. Designed to promote radiant and healthy hair and skin, fabÜ SKIN GLOW is a unique blend of Reishi mushroom, amino acids, essential vitamins like Vitamin C, A and E, niacinamide, and zinc. Available on fabuwellness.com, and in pharmacies and health stores nationwide.

Also, Viva La Vulva is back! Join me and my esteemed panel of guests in the National Concert Hall, Dublin on 1st March 2025, for an evening dedicated to women’s health. With honest conversations on topics like pelvic floor health, sexual wellness, peri and menopause, and HRT, the event will be fun, informative, and empowering. Each €75 ticket includes a goodie bag worth over €100, ensuring you leave feeling pampered. Buy your tickets at nch.ie so you don't miss out!

Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations.

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In this episode, we’re joined by Albert Kehoe, a physiotherapist, who shares how movement can improve your health and well-being. With years of experience, Albert talks about helping people recover from injuries, manage pain, and stay mobile, while showing the long-term benefits of exercise.

We chat about how modern life has changed our activity levels and what we can do to stay fit. Albert gives practical tips for starting a fitness journey,  highlighting the benefits of resistance training for building strength, muscle, and bone health, plus easy ways to add more movement to your day, like quick “exercise snacks” anyone can do.

We also explore ideas from John J. Ratey's book Spark on how exercise can transform the brain and kids’ health, including a look at physical education in schools and how exercise habits start in childhood. Tune in for practical advice on making movement a part of everyday life—for all ages!

This episode is sponsored by BURST Oral Care, the brand revolutionising oral care. Now available in Ireland exclusively at McCauley’s Pharmacies, BURST’s PAP-powered whitening products are a game changer for keeping smiles bright.

Later this month, BURST are launching Teeth Whitening Breath Strips that dissolve on your teeth, whitening up to 2.5 shades and freshening your breath with an icy mint kick! Follow @burstoralcare on Instagram for updates and offers, or visit their website here.

Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations.

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In this episode, we chat with Dr. Paddy Barrett, a top cardiologist, about how small changes to your daily routine—like exercise, diet, sleep, and managing stress—can help lower your risk of heart disease. He shares handy tips on slowing down plaque build-up, inspired by centenarians who live longer, healthier lives.

We also clear up some common myths about cholesterol, statins, and heart health, and ask if midlife women should be thinking about taking HRT to protect their hearts. Plus, we talk about the importance of living true to yourself and taking charge of your well-being. Tune in to find out how a few small changes can make a big difference to your heart health!

This episode is sponsored by BURST Oral Care, the brand revolutionising oral care. Now available in Ireland exclusively at McCauley’s Pharmacies, BURST’s PAP-powered whitening products are a game changer for keeping smiles bright.

Later this month, BURST are launching Teeth Whitening Breath Strips that dissolve on your teeth, whitening up to 2.5 shades and freshening your breath with an icy mint kick! Follow @burstoralcare on Instagram for updates and offers, or visit their website here.

Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations.