To a life that hums

On a recent episode of To a life that hums, Niamh McElwain turned the mic on me and asked me all about the significance of the word HUM and why I called my podcast it's name... It was off the cuff but I think I managed to capture it well... (phew, no pressure)

And I felt it was better to include the video for this one 😂

In this episode, Kevin Egan shares his journey from Dublin to becoming a prominent sports broadcaster in America, the importance of positivity, purpose, and resilience in his career and personal life, and how he balances his passion for sports with his passion for his wife, kids and family life.

Guest Name:

Kevin Egan

Guest Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-egan-029ba035/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevin_Patrick_Egan

Key wordsSports broadcasting, resilience, positivity, career journey, family life, purpose, adaptation, leadership, storytellingkey topics

• Kevin's career journey from Dublin to America
• The importance of positivity and reframing challenges
• Building a positive culture in broadcasting
• Balancing family life with a demanding career
• Lessons in resilience and persistence
• The role of purpose in a fulfilling life
• Storytelling as a key skill in media
• The impact of mentorship and giving back
• Adapting to different cultural environments
• The significance of authenticity and identity

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Kevin Egan's Career in Sports Broadcasting

02:00 Kevin's Journey from Dublin to America

04:05 Early Career and Breakthrough Moments

06:59 The Role of Positivity and Culture in Success

13:06 Taking Risks and Embracing Opportunities

20:03 Balancing Passion for Sports with Family Life

25:57 Lessons in Resilience and Persistence

35:04 The Power of Storytelling in Media

39:57 Living in the Present and Planning for the Future

42:00 What a Life That Hums Means to Kevin

About the music: 

Song used in this podcase is "Brushstrokes" byMuirġen - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://muirgen.bandcamp.com/album/loinnir⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the ⁠⁠full track on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠ ⁠⁠here.

This song is extremely meaningful to me personally and I wasabsolutely thrilled when Muirġen gave me permission to use it in my podcast. It beautifully captures the essence of that point in life when you are moving from where you are to where you really want to be, embracing the fear and doing itanyway.

About the artist:

Irish-fusion artist Muirġen announced her debutEP 'Loinnir', in early 2026 alongside the release of the first single ‘Brushstrokes’.

Written in ⁠⁠Hotpress⁠⁠:

Muirġen’s music style combines Irish tradition withexperimental electronic music. ‘Brushstrokes’ is a powerful track that plays with textured harmonies and a distinctive sensible Irish sound, defined by Muirġen's deep captivating voice and melismatic lines.

‘Brushstrokes’ was written by Muirġen (Muirgen O’Mahony), Cian Sweeney and Laura Elizabeth Hughes, and produced by Sweeney, and Philip Marsden. It incorporates elements like the sound of rain and experimental drum compositions.

“The song captures a moment of suspension - the spacebetween who you’ve been and who you’re becoming,” said Muirġen.

Listening for What Resonates

- The life we once fought desperately to achieve doesn't have to be the life we keep choosing.

In this episode, Ciaran shares his journey from Dublin to the US, his career in oncology research, and the importance of authenticity, mentorship, and community in living a fulfilling life. He reflects on culturalshifts, personal growth, and the pursuit of a life that truly hums.

Note: This episode includes an open and honest conversation about mental health and suicide. Please take care while listening if this is something that may be difficult for you. If you or someone you know isstruggling, please consider reaching out to someone you trust or to an appropriate professional or support service in your area.

Guest Links:

https://sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/public_health/faculty-staff/fairman_ciaran.phphttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ciaran-fairman-phd-ba3b0956https://www.exerciseoncologylab.com/team

Keywords

personal growth, mentorship, Irish diaspora, oncology, research, authenticity, community, career transition, life balance

Key topics

• Ciaran's journey from Dublin to the US on a soccer scholarship
• His career in oncology research and impact on patient care
• The importance of mentorship and community in personal growth
• Cultural shifts and identity in academic and professional spaces
• The concept of a life that hums and living authentically
• Reflections on Irish culture, education, and societal values
• The challenges of academic career progression and mental health
• The role of authenticity and self-awareness in life decisions

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and guest background

01:47 Ciaran's career in oncology research

04:12 Journey from Dublin to the US on a soccer scholarship

07:06 Cultural shock and adaptation in Kentucky and Georgia

08:47 Personal challenges: family health and academicpressures

11:49 Mentorship and its impact on Ciaran’s life

14:58 Reflections on Irish education and cultural identity

18:04 The importance of relevance and fun in learning

20:49 Living authentically and overcoming insecurities

25:01 Career pressures, mental health, and resilience

30:01 Returning to Ireland and the sense of community

35:59 What a life that hums means to Ciaran

47:07 Advice for those feeling stuck and seekingauthenticity

48:58 Closing thoughts and gratitude for the conversation

About the music: 

Song used in this podcase is "Brushstrokes" byMuirġen - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://muirgen.bandcamp.com/album/loinnir⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the ⁠⁠full track on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠here.

This song is extremely meaningful to me personally and I wasabsolutely thrilled when Muirġen gave me permission to use it in my podcast. Itbeautifully captures the essence of that point in life when you are moving fromwhere you are to where you really want to be, embracing the fear and doing itanyway.

About the artist:

Irish-fusion artist Muirġen announced her debutEP 'Loinnir', in early 2026 alongside the release of the first single‘Brushstrokes’.

Written in ⁠⁠Hotpress⁠⁠:

Muirġen’s music style combines Irish tradition withexperimental electronic music. ‘Brushstrokes’ is a powerful track that playswith textured harmonies and a distinctive sensible Irish sound, defined byMuirġen's deep captivating voice and melismatic lines.

‘Brushstrokes’ was written by Muirġen (Muirgen O’Mahony), CianSweeney and Laura Elizabeth Hughes, and produced by Sweeney, and PhilipMarsden. It incorporates elements like the sound of rain and experimental drumcompositions.

“The song captures a moment of suspension - the spacebetween who you’ve been and who you’re becoming,” said Muirġen.

Niamh McElwain shares her journey of living internationally, building a life aligned with authenticity, and exploring the concept of a life that hums. She discusses the importance of courage, energy management, neurodivergence, and the power of listening to one's body.

Guest links

LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/niamh-mcelwain/⁠

Website - ⁠https://www.thecourageproject.ie/⁠

Website - ⁠http://www.thehybridway.com/⁠

Keywords

authenticity, courage, neurodivergence, energy management,life balance, international living, self-discovery, personal growth,mindfulness, neurodiversity

Key topics

• Living internationally and embracing multiple perspectives
• The concept of a life that hums and finding balance
• The role of courage in personal and professional growth
• Understanding neurodivergence and its impact on life andwork
• Energy management and recognizing signals from the body
• The importance of authenticity and self-awareness
• Building a life aligned with personal values
• The journey of self-discovery through travel and livingabroad
• The significance of quiet courage in everyday life
• Strategies for reducing stress and avoiding burnout

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Niamh's background

02:25 Growing up internationally and embracing multiple perspectives

04:26 Living in France and creating La Vie en Rose

05:58 The significance of humming and building a life that hums

11:29 Niamh's experience with neurodivergence and self-awareness

19:28 The journey of building a business with her husband and overcoming challenges

28:50 The importance of courage and managing fear

36:56 Recognizing signals from the body and energy management

44:50 Living authentically and the power of self-awareness

49:55 Final reflections and embracing a life that hums

About the music: 

Song used in this podcase is "Brushstrokes" byMuirġen - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://muirgen.bandcamp.com/album/loinnir⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the ⁠⁠full track on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠here.

This song is extremely meaningful to me personally and I wasabsolutely thrilled when Muirġen gave me permission to use it in my podcast. Itbeautifully captures the essence of that point in life when you are moving fromwhere you are to where you really want to be, embracing the fear and doing itanyway.

About the artist:

Irish-fusion artist Muirġen announced her debutEP 'Loinnir', in early 2026 alongside the release of the first single‘Brushstrokes’.

Written in ⁠⁠Hotpress⁠⁠:

Muirġen’s music style combines Irish tradition withexperimental electronic music. ‘Brushstrokes’ is a powerful track that playswith textured harmonies and a distinctive sensible Irish sound, defined byMuirġen's deep captivating voice and melismatic lines.

‘Brushstrokes’ was written by Muirġen (Muirgen O’Mahony), CianSweeney and Laura Elizabeth Hughes, and produced by Sweeney, and PhilipMarsden. It incorporates elements like the sound of rain and experimental drumcompositions.

“The song captures a moment of suspension - the spacebetween who you’ve been and who you’re becoming,” said Muirġen.

In this episode, Filip Novakovski shares his journey from corporate leadership to founding his own Muay Thai gym, exploring themes of identity, purpose, and personal growth. We discuss the challenges of entrepreneurship, the impact of support systems, and the meaning of a life that hums.

Guest links

Links: ⁠www.oitofight.com⁠

⁠https://organisations.oitofight.com⁠

And Instagram: @oitofight

LinkedIn - ⁠https://linkedin.com/in/filipnovakovski⁠

Keywords

personal growth, entrepreneurship, Muay Thai, leadership,identity, purpose, mental health, business, fatherhood, self-awareness

Key topics

Transition from corporate to entrepreneurship

The role of support systems in personal growth

The impact of fatherhood on life and business

The importance of self-awareness and self-love

Creating a safe space for personal development

Chapters

00:00 Season Two Kick-off and Introduction

04:44 Exploring Identity and Purpose

14:25 Transitioning from Stability to Entrepreneurship

24:46 Celebrating Milestones and Building Confidence

34:50 Redefining Success and Embracing Change

39:32 The Journey into Fatherhood

45:41 Finding a Life that Hums

About the music: 

Song used in this podcase is "Brushstrokes" byMuirġen - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://muirgen.bandcamp.com/album/loinnir⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the ⁠⁠full track on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠here.

This song is extremely meaningful to me personally and I wasabsolutely thrilled when Muirġen gave me permission to use it in my podcast. Itbeautifully captures the essence of that point in life when you are moving fromwhere you are to where you really want to be, embracing the fear and doing itanyway.

About the artist:

Irish-fusion artist Muirġen announced her debutEP 'Loinnir', in early 2026 alongside the release of the first single‘Brushstrokes’.

Written in ⁠⁠Hotpress⁠⁠:

Muirġen’s music style combines Irish tradition withexperimental electronic music. ‘Brushstrokes’ is a powerful track that playswith textured harmonies and a distinctive sensible Irish sound, defined byMuirġen's deep captivating voice and melismatic lines.

‘Brushstrokes’ was written by Muirġen (Muirgen O’Mahony), CianSweeney and Laura Elizabeth Hughes, and produced by Sweeney, and PhilipMarsden. It incorporates elements like the sound of rain and experimental drumcompositions.

“The song captures a moment of suspension - the spacebetween who you’ve been and who you’re becoming,” said Muirġen.

In this episode of A Life That Hums, I sit down with Janette Penny, founder of Inner Strength Pilates.

Janette's journey is not one of dramatic reinvention, but of gradually building a life that feels more aligned, more balanced and more fulfilling. After beginning her career in a busy corporate environment, she followed a growing curiosity around movement, wellbeing and helping others, eventually creating a career centred around Pilates, education and human connection.

Together we explore what it means to slow down in a world that constantly asks us to speed up, the difference between physical and emotional strength, and how reconnecting with our bodies can help us reconnect with ourselves.

We also talk about changing definitions of success, backing yourself when life takes an unexpected turn, and the importance of creating space for the people, experiences and work that truly matter.

This is a gentle and grounded conversation about balance, fulfilment and finding a pace of life that feels right for you.

If this conversation resonates with you, I'd love to hear what a Life That Hums means to you.

Follow, subscribe and share with someone who might enjoy slowing down for a little while.

Guest name:

Janette Penney

Guest links:

Visit Janette's website: https://www.innerstrengthpilates.ie/

About the music: 

Song used in this podcase is "Brushstrokes" by Muirġen - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://muirgen.bandcamp.com/album/loinnir⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the ⁠⁠full track on ⁠⁠⁠spotify⁠⁠ ⁠here.

This song is extremely meaningful to me personally and I was absolutely thrilled when Muirġen gave me permission to use it in my podcast. It beautifully captures the essence of that point in life when you are moving from where you are to where you really want to be, embracing the fear and doing it anyway.

About the artist:

Irish-fusion artist Muirġen announced her debut EP 'Loinnir', in early 2026 alongside the release of the first single ‘Brushstrokes’.

Written in ⁠⁠Hotpress⁠⁠:

Muirġen’s music style combines Irish tradition with experimental electronic music. ‘Brushstrokes’ is a powerful track that plays with textured harmonies and a distinctive sensible Irish sound, defined by Muirġen's deep captivating voice and melismatic lines.

‘Brushstrokes’ was written by Muirġen (Muirgen O’Mahony),Cian Sweeney and Laura Elizabeth Hughes, and produced by Sweeney, and Philip Marsden. It incorporates elements like the sound of rain and experimental drum compositions.

“The song captures a moment of suspension - the space between who you’ve been and who you’re becoming,” said Muirġen.

In this episode, Muirgen O'Mahony shares her journey from classical training to becoming a solo artist, overcoming anxiety, and embracing her Irish roots through music. Discover how she navigates the challenges of the industry and stays true to her creative vision.

Muirgen is the artist behind the music used for this podcast "Brushstrokes" by Muirġen - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://muirgen.bandcamp.com/album/loinnir⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the ⁠⁠full track on ⁠⁠⁠spotify⁠⁠ ⁠here.

This song is extremely meaningful to me personally and I was absolutely thrilled when Muirġen gave me permission to use it in my podcast. It beautifully captures the essence of that point in life when you are moving from where you are to where you really want to be, embracing the fear and doing it anyway.

As an Irish-fusion artist, Muirġen announced her debut EP Loinnir, in early 2026 alongside the release of the first single ‘Brushstrokes’. Her musical style combines Irish tradition with experimental electronic music. ‘Brushstrokes’ is a powerful track that plays with textured harmonies and a distinctive sensible Irish sound, defined by Muirġen's deep captivating voice and melismatic lines.

‘Brushstrokes’ was written by Muirġen (Muirgen O’Mahony), Cian Sweeney and Laura Elizabeth Hughes, and produced by Sweeney, and Philip Marsden. It incorporates elements like the sound of rain and experimental drum compositions.

“The song captures a moment of suspension - the space between who you’ve been and who you’re becoming,” said Muirġen.

Guest name:

Muirgen O'Mahony

Keywords

music career, Irish culture, personal growth, anxiety, songwriting, Celtic music, solo artist, creative process

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Muirgen O'Mahony

02:28 The Journey of a Musician

06:18 Transitioning to Solo Artist

12:25 The Celtic Woman Experience

18:30 Navigating Anxiety and Performance

24:32 Embracing Personal Artistry

25:40 The Power of Supportive Relationships

29:23 Connection to Irish Heritage and Culture

31:25 Celebrating Creative Processes

35:52 Embracing the Journey of Creation

This episode is an important one for me as it delves a little deeper into the thinking around what it means to build a life that hums, the tensions and struggles and blockers that might stop us from doing so.

In this episode of 'To a life that hums', I speak with Dr Dale Whelehan about themes of time, performance, and the human experience. Dale shares his journey from a performance-driven mindset to a more holistic understanding of success and well-being. We get into the impact of societal systems on our perception of time, the importance of belonging, and the need for deeper conversations about our relationship with time. Together, we explore the themes of belonging, connection, and the distinction between labour and meaningful work.

This chat really emphasises the need for community and purpose, highlighting how individuals can influence broader societal change through personal journeys.

Guest name:

Dr. Dale Whelehan

Guest links:

Connect with Dale: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dale-whelehan/

Keywords:

Time management, human experience, performance, well-being, success, self-discovery, belonging, achievement, societal systems, productivity belonging, connection, labour vs work, regenerative work, psychological resilience, societal change, personal growth, influence, community, purpose

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to a Life That Hums

02:13 Exploring the Human Experience and Time

06:30 Redefining Success and Performance

10:56 The Journey of Self-Discovery

13:08 Reflections on Time and Aging

17:15 The Impact of Systems on Time Perception

20:25 Belonging and Achievement in Modern Society

22:14 The Dichotomy of Labor and Work

24:52 The Tipping Point of Regenerative Work

27:51 Navigating Change and Influence

30:11 Personal Growth and Psychological Resilience

35:07 Creating a Sense of Belonging

38:25 A Life of Purpose and Connection

About the music: 

Song used in this podcase is "Brushstrokes" by Muirġen - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://muirgen.bandcamp.com/album/loinnir⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the ⁠⁠full track on ⁠⁠⁠spotify⁠⁠ ⁠here.

This song is extremely meaningful to me personally and I was absolutely thrilled when Muirġen gave me permission to use it in my podcast. It beautifully captures the essence of that point in life when you are moving from where you are to where you really want to be, embracing the fear and doing it anyway.

About the artist:

Irish-fusion artist Muirġen announced her debut EP Loinnir, in early 2026 alongside the release of the first single ‘Brushstrokes’.

Written in ⁠⁠Hotpress⁠⁠:

Muirġen’s music style combines Irish tradition with experimental electronic music. ‘Brushstrokes’ is a powerful track that plays with textured harmonies and a distinctive sensible Irish sound, defined by Muirġen's deep captivating voice and melismatic lines.

‘Brushstrokes’ was written by Muirġen (Muirgen O’Mahony),Cian Sweeney and Laura Elizabeth Hughes, and produced by Sweeney, and Philip Marsden. It incorporates elements like the sound of rain and experimental drum compositions.

“The song captures a moment of suspension - the spacebetween who you’ve been and who you’re becoming,” said Muirġen.

Summary:In this inspiring interview, Zanya Dahl shares her journey from the fast-paced corporate world to a fulfilling life as an artist and creative facilitator. Discover how slowing down, listening to your inner voice, and embracing change can lead to a life that truly hums.

Guest name:

 Zanya Dahl

Guest links:

See Zanya’s artwork here:

https://www.artworkarchive.com/profile/zanya

https://newirishart.com/irish-artists/zanya-dahl-artist.htm

Connect with Zanya on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zanya/

Listen to other Podcasts Zanya has been on: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/zanya-dahl-the-art-of-letting-go/id1797499167?i=1000736046258

Keywords:

creativity, life transformation, art, entrepreneurship,mindfulness, personal growth, Dublin, artistic journey, self-discovery

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Zanya's Journey

03:13 Transition from Corporate to Creative Freedom

06:12 The Tipping Point: Leaving the Agency Behind

09:15 Embracing the Artist Within

12:20 Navigating the Art World

15:21 Finding Balance in Creativity

18:15 Overcoming Loneliness in the Creative Process

19:28 The Journey of Authentic Expression

22:14 Facing Rejection and Building Resilience

24:58 Balancing Art and Workshops

25:27 Finding Peace and Aliveness in Creativity

28:19 Celebrating Creative Energy

32:41 Taking the First Step Towards Creativity

Song used in this podcase is "Brushstrokes" byMuirġen - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://muirgen.bandcamp.com/album/loinnir⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the ⁠⁠full track on ⁠⁠spotify⁠⁠ here.

This song is extremely meaningful to me personally and I wasabsolutely thrilled when Muirġen gave me permission to use it in my podcast. It beautifully captures the essence of that point in life when you are moving from where you are to where you really want to be, embracing the fear and doing it anyway.

About the artist:

Irish-fusion artist Muirġen announced her debut EP Loinnir, in early 2026 alongside the release of the first single‘Brushstrokes’.

Written in ⁠⁠Hotpress⁠⁠:

Muirġen’s music style combines Irish tradition withexperimental electronic music. ‘Brushstrokes’ is a powerful track that plays with textured harmonies and a distinctive sensible Irish sound, defined by Muirġen's deep captivating voice and melismatic lines.

‘Brushstrokes’ was written by Muirġen (Muirgen O’Mahony),Cian Sweeney and Laura Elizabeth Hughes, and produced by Sweeney, and Philip Marsden. It incorporates elements like the sound of rain and experimental drum compositions.

“The song captures a moment of suspension - the spacebetween who you’ve been and who you’re becoming,” said Muirġen.

This episode is an especially soulful one. Denise Wogan joins me to share her journey from corporate success to a fulfilling life rooted in self-connection, healing, and slow living. Discover how her soul work, starting in nutrition, took her on a path that led to a career in therapy which now fosters authenticity, balance, and meaningful impact in her life.

Guest name:

Denise Wogan

Guest links:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denise-wogan-wellbeing-therapy/

Read Denise's newsletter here: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/denise-wogan-wellbeing-7460244854527229952/

Chapters

00:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery

05:37 Transitioning from Corporate to Wellness

11:07 Finding Identity Beyond Motherhood

13:33 Redefining Success

17:20 The Reality Behind the Scenes

20:50 Protecting Energy in Healing Work

22:18 Unlearning and Focusing on Action

23:33 Embracing Playfulness in Life

25:50 Moments of Connection and Wisdom

27:49 The Comfort of Uncertainty

29:27 The Power of Human Connection

31:42 Advice for Those Seeking Change

Song used in this podcase is "Brushstrokes" by Muirġen - ⁠⁠⁠https://muirgen.bandcamp.com/album/loinnir⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the ⁠⁠full track on ⁠spotify⁠ here⁠⁠

This song is extremely meaningful to me personally and I was absolutely thrilled when Muirġen gave me permission to use it in my podcast. It beautifully captures the essence of that point in life when you are moving from where you are to where you really want to be, embracing the fear and doing it anyway.

About the artist:

Irish-fusion artist Muirġen announced her debut EP Loinnir, in early 2026 alongside the release of the first single ‘Brushstrokes’.

Written in ⁠⁠Hotpress⁠⁠:

Muirġen’s music style combines Irish tradition with experimental electronic music. ‘Brushstrokes’ is a powerful track that plays with textured harmonies and a distinctive sensible Irish sound, defined by Muirġen's deep captivating voice and melismatic lines.

‘Brushstrokes’ was written by Muirġen (Muirgen O’Mahony), Cian Sweeney and Laura Elizabeth Hughes, and produced by Sweeney, and Philip Marsden. It incorporates elements like the sound of rain and experimental drum compositions.

“The song captures a moment of suspension - the space between who you’ve been and who you’re becoming,” said Muirġen.