HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing

Epizode

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  #151 Compassionate Cultures in Health Care 08.07.2026 32min

  In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Noreen Turley is joined by Professor Michael West to explore how organisational culture shapes the wellbeing of staff and the quality of care across our health services. Drawing on his decades of research and experience with health systems, Michael discusses what compassionate leadership looks like in practice and how it can help create healthier, more supportive cultures for staff, patients and service users.   They talk about the realities and pressures facing healthcare staff across many organisations and health systems, how cultures develop and change over time, and the growing evidence for more compassionate, inclusive and partnership-based approaches to leadership that work with staff, patients and service users as genuine partners in care. Michael shares practical, everyday actions – such as listening with real attention, supporting teams, and prioritising staff wellbeing – that can help shift organisational culture and sustain people working in complex, high-demand environments.   Whether you are a senior manager, a team lead or working on the frontline, this conversation offers insight, encouragement and very practical ideas to support healthier, more compassionate organisational cultures across our health services.   Core behaviours of our culture organisationalculturegroup@hse.ie   Produced by GKMedia.ie
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  #150 Promoting Wellbeing through Equity 01.07.2026 48min

  In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we're taken inside the 30th Annual Health Promotion Conference at the University of Galway, where experts from across Ireland and beyond gathered to explore health equity and reflect on 40 years since the Ottawa Charter. Keynote speakers, researchers, and practitioners shared insights on tackling structural inequalities, empowering communities, and building cross-sector partnerships. Topics ranged from tobacco control and dementia prevention to youth vaping and the community walking programme, Ireland Lights Up—all united by a commitment to making health promotion more equitable, inclusive, and impactful for everyone.   Produced by GKMedia.ie
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  #149 Dangers of Sunbeds 24.06.2026 41min

  In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Well-Being podcast, we speak with Selene Daly Tarpey, Nurse Tutor HSE Centre for Nursing and Midwifery Education Sligo Leitrim West Cavan, about the serious health risks of sunbed use and the importance of skin cancer prevention. Selene draws on her dermatology experience to debunk common tanning myths, including the idea that sunbeds boost vitamin D or provide a "safe base tan". She highlights the SunSmart 5 S’s, encourages fake tan as a safer alternative, and addresses social media's influence on tanning culture.   Produced by GKMedia.ie
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  #148 Men’s Health in the Pharmacy 17.06.2026 27min

  In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, we are joined by pharmacists Greg Cleary and Tom Murray to explore men's health in the pharmacy setting. The conversation covers a range of important topics, including blood pressure monitoring, smoking cessation, erectile dysfunction, sexual health, cardiovascular health, vaccinations, and mental wellbeing. The pharmacists highlight how pharmacies serve as accessible, confidential, and non-judgmental spaces where men can proactively address their health concerns, encouraging men to take charge of their wellbeing with the support of their local pharmacist.   Produced by GKMedia.ie
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  #147 Men’s Mental Health 10.06.2026 32min

  In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, we welcome award-winning writer, poet, and mental health advocate, Daragh Fleming, for an open and thoughtful conversation about men's mental health and healthy masculinity. Daragh shares his personal journey through depression, grief, and unhealthy coping mechanisms, exploring how poetry helped him reconnect with his emotions. He challenges rigid ideas of masculinity, encourages men to break away from traditional ideas of what it means to be a man, and highlights the value of creativity in emotional wellbeing. The episode highlights the free counselling and mental health supports available for men through the HSE,  insightful for anyone interested in or concerned about men's mental health. For more information on men’s mental health supports go to: https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/men/?gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23016926794&gbraid=0AAAAADtFcVUGKeuTc4JdAQvcaIZs3cuxF&gclid=Cj0KCQjw0JnRBhDJARIsALobnXawgt7h3mY8ectUZR8PnRhwNqscV6UsscJdn0EG1LkP0wgXqHtPqiQaAvO2EALw_wcB#connect-counsellings-phone-service-for-men   Produced by GKMedia.ie
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  #146 Eczema: Practical Support 03.06.2026 31min

  In this episode of HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing, host Noreen Turley is joined by Louise Carolan, Registered Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Dermatology at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda, to explain what eczema is, why it flares, and what really helps. Living with eczema can feel overwhelming, but there are lots of practical ways to get it under control and improve day‑to‑day life. Louise explains the difference between eczema and dermatitis, the most common symptoms in children and adults, and why consistent moisturising and repairing the skin barrier are so important. She shares down‑to‑earth advice on bathing, using emollients and topical steroids safely, managing night‑time itching, navigating sports, school and exams, and when it’s time to see your GP or be referred to dermatology. The episode also highlights trusted supports like hse.ie, the Irish Skin Foundation nurse line and resources, and eczema‑specific online tools to help families and adults feel less alone and more confident in managing this long‑term skin condition   Find trusted eczema information and support at hse.ie, irishskin.ie, Irish Skin Foundation nurse line (01) 486 6280  and the British Skin Foundation and Eczema Care Online    Produced by GKMedia.ie
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  #145 Skin Cancer Prevention: Be SunSmart 27.05.2026 40min

  In this podcast episode, Specialist in Public Health Dr. Breeda Neville and skin cancer prevention advocate Bernie Rice join us to discuss the SunSmart campaign and the critical importance of skin protection to prevent skin cancer in Ireland. They are working tirelessly to increase awareness of the steps you and your family can take to protect your skin from the sun and reduce your risk of skin cancer. Dr. Neville details the SunSmart campaign and the fight against skin cancer, the protective measures that can be taken and the need for increased awareness in Ireland. Bernie shares her poignant story of losing her daughter Sharon to melanoma skin cancer, reinforcing the campaign's significance. The episode covers the dangers of unregulated tanning products, the special vulnerability of children to UV damage, and strategies for promoting sun safety among outdoor workers. The conversation underscores the value of early detection, education, and personal advocacy in combating skin cancer. More information available at https://www.hse.ie/sunsmart/ To get in touch with the podcast email Healthandwellbeing.communications@hse.ie   Produced by GKMedia.ie
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  #144 Understanding Endometriosis in young people 20.05.2026 40min

  In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Noreen Turley speaks with Kathleen King, HSE National Endometriosis Education Lead, and Cate O’Connor, HSE National Endometriosis Education Officer, who have developed an educational programme educating young people in school and clubs about periods, pelvic pain and the impact of endometriosis and adenomyosis. They explore how severe menstrual symptoms can affect school, college, work, sport, friendships as well as mental health, and why it is vital to distinguish typical period discomfort from distressing symptoms that regularly disrupt daily activities. Kathleen explains that endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition, predominantly found in the pelvis, linked with severe cyclical pain, bowel and bladder problems, fatigue and migraine, and that it can be difficult to diagnose. The guests put a real emphasise on the importance of tracking menstrual symptoms over several months, noticing patterns, and bringing concrete information to GP appointments. They introduce MISE, the HSE menstrual health and endometriosis education programme for schools, workplaces and sports clubs, adapted from a long‑running New Zealand initiative. MISE aims to normalise conversations about menstrual health, empower young people to understand their bodies, and help parents and teachers recognise when to seek medical advice. The episode also outlines how GPs can use HSE clinical guidance to make a presumptive diagnosis and start treatment, and highlights trusted information sources, including MISE Ireland and HSE.ie   Produced by GKMedia.ie
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  #143 Tobacco End Game 06.05.2026 36min

  In this episode of HSE Talk and Health and Wellbeing, host Noreen speaks with Dr. Paul Kavanagh, a public health consultant and adviser to HSE Tobacco Free Ireland. Drawing on personal experience and expert knowledge, Dr. Kavanagh explores Ireland's tobacco endgame - the goal of eliminating tobacco harm entirely by 2035. He discusses the ongoing impact of smoking on Irish society, the tobacco industry's influence on policy, and bold strategies such as a tobacco-free generation policy and nicotine reduction in cigarettes. The discussion includes a call to action for public support to eliminate tobacco’s influence and highlights the stop smoking supports available both online and in person for those seeking support to quit.   Produced by GKMedia.ie
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  #142 How Alcohol Affects Your Brain 29.04.2026 28min

  In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Noreen Turley talks to Dr Sean O’Dowd, Consultant Neurologist and Clinical Lead for HSE National Dementia Services, and Dr Claire Neill, Consultant in Public Health Medicine with the National Health Improvement Team.   They discuss how alcohol affects the brain in the short and long term, including its impact on mood, sleep and mental health. They also explore alcohol use among young people, why there is no safe level of alcohol for health, and how population-level measures like pricing, availability and marketing restrictions can reduce harm.   Drinking alcohol, especially at higher levels over time, can damage brain cells and is linked to a higher risk of dementia. This makes changing your drinking an important way to protect your brain health. Claire and Sean share practical advice on how cutting down on alcohol can improve your sleep, mood, energy and thinking, and how the brain can recover when people reduce or stop drinking.   They also highlight supports available if you’re concerned about your drinking. Your GP can help by offering advice, carrying out a brief assessment and, if needed, referring you to HSE drug and alcohol services or counselling.   You can also contact the HSE Drugs and Alcohol Helpline on 1800 459 459 or visit Ask About Alcohol for clear, trusted information and support: www.dementia.ie www.askaboutalcohol.ie    Produced by GKMedia.ie
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  #141 Baby Talk: Stories, Songs and Support 22.04.2026 31min

  In this HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing episode, host Noreen Turley talks to neonatal speech and language therapist and SPARK HSCP National Innovation Fellow, Deirdre Bradley, about how reading, talking and singing to babies from day one can shape their brains, support bonding and boost long‑term language and literacy. Drawing on powerful research and her 20 years’ experience in neonatal care, Deirdre explains how Baby Talk started in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda, and now offer supports and resources to all neonatal units with the support of HSE Spark Innovation, HSE library  and community library partners. Baby Talk is a simple idea transforming care for some of Ireland’s tiniest patients – premature and vulnerable babies in neonatal units. Listeners will hear moving stories of parents, grandparents and staff using books, baby-friendly “Tonie Boxes” and simple songs to comfort babies through long hospital stays and separation, while also easing parental anxiety and supporting mental health. Deirdre shares how this initiative, available to all neonatal units in Ireland, supports the brain and language development of premature and vulnerable babies by encouraging parents to read, sing, and talk to their little ones from the earliest days. From specially selected books and multilingual resources to voice-recording devices that keep families connected, Baby Talk is transforming neonatal care. Deidre also highlights practical, realistic tips that any parent or carer can start today, reading one short book to a baby demonstrates how everyday moments and familiar voices can add up to over a million words of language exposure before school.    Produced by GKMedia.ie
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  #140 Digital Mental Health support for young people 15.04.2026 24min

  In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, we speak with Joseph Morning, Head of Learning and Curriculum at spunout, about digital mental health resources for young people. Joseph introduces Navigator, which is a free, anonymous online tool helping 16–25-year-olds find tailored mental health support in Ireland and explains how real young people shaped its development.  We also explore spunout's Safer Conversations Online course, which guides users in discussing sensitive topics like suicide and self-harm responsibly on social media. Overall the episode offers a warm, insightful conversation about empowering young people through trusted digital resources. For more detail on spunout’s resources check out: Navigator: https://spunout.ie/navigator/ Safer Conversations Online: https://spunout.ie/academy/course/view.php?id=24   Produced by GKMedia.ie
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  #139 Fostering: Opening your Heart, Opening your Home 08.04.2026 37min

  This episode of HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing explores the real experiences of fostering in Ireland, Noreen Turley is joined Noeleen O'Reilly, foster parent who has welcomed many children into her family home over the last 20 years and Jacqueline Smyth, Tusla’s national lead for Foster Care. Together they explore what fostering really looks like day to day. Listeners will hear honest reflections on the emotional ups and downs, the impact of trauma, and the difference a safe, stable home can make in a child’s life. The conversation looks at the supports available for foster carers, the importance of working together across services and with birth families and clarifies some of the most common misconceptions about fostering and who is eligible to foster children in Ireland. Whether you are simply curious or actively considering fostering, this episode offers clear, accessible information and signposts on how to find out more about fostering in your area.   To talk to Tusla about fostering as an option - visit fostering.ie, call freephone 1800 226 771 or email tusla.fostering@tusla.ie.   Produced by GKMedia.ie
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  #138 Mental Health Recovery 01.04.2026 28min

  In this episode of HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing, we speak with Michael Ryan, Head of Mental Health Engagement and Recovery at the HSE. Together, they explore the evolution of mental health services in Ireland, highlighting the shift towards recovery-oriented, person-centred care. Michael shares his personal journey and emphasises the value of lived experience, peer support, and recovery education. The conversation encourages listeners to embrace hope, empowerment, and collaboration in mental health, and invites everyone to view recovery as a shared, ongoing journey.   Produced by GKMedia.ie
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  #137 Exam Calm for Parents 25.03.2026 38min

  This episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, hosted by Noreen Turley and joined by Dr. Jean Sorohan, Senior Clinical Psychologist, offers practical support for parents and carers helping a young person through exam season. Jean shares down-to-earth advice on how to stay calm, ease pressure, build healthy routines, and encourage mindful coping at home. The conversation also touches on neurodivergent inclusion and trusted supports, along with the reminder that one exam does not define you. It is a reassuring conversation for any parent or carer who wants to feel more confident in supporting their young. For supports and further information, visit https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/camhs/ or https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/primary-care-psychology/   Produced by GKMedia.ie
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  #136 Radon Awareness 18.03.2026 19min

  In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Fergal Fox is joined by Dr. Mary O’Mahony to discuss radon; a naturally occurring radioactive gas and the leading source of radiation exposure in Ireland. They explore radon’s health risks, especially its link to lung cancer, and highlight the importance of testing homes and using radon-proof membranes in new builds. The episode also covers government efforts, prevention strategies, and available resources, while encouraging listeners to take proactive steps to protect themselves and their families from radon exposure. They highlight the increased risk to smokers and also point to HSE Stop Smoking services available on https://www2.hse.ie/living-well/quit-smoking/. For more on Radon go to HSE National Cancer Control Programme website.   Produced by GKMedia.ie
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  #135 Screen Time & Young People 11.03.2026 52min

  In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Fergal Fox discusses the impact of screen time on young children with Dr. Gillian Doyle and Dr. Anne-Marie Casey, Senior Clinical Psychologists. They explore how screen time affects health and wellbeing, emphasising the need for mindful use of devices and advice for family conversations about screen habits. The experts highlight the importance of balancing screen time with other developmental activities and suggest guidelines tailored to children's ages and needs. They also discuss the role of parents in modelling healthy behaviours and creating screen-free times to foster better social and emotional development. For more go to: https://www2.hse.ie/babies-children/play/screen-time/ If you would like to get in touch with the podcast or join the HSE Health and Wellbeing mailing list, email Healthandwellbeing.communications@hse.ie.   Produced by GKMedia.ie
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  #134 International Women’s Day: women balancing work & life in the HSE 04.03.2026 34min

  This International Women’s Day episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast shines a light on the realities of women balancing work, life and care responsibilities across our health service. Host Noreen Turley is joined by Una Rogers, National Nursing and Midwifery SPARK Innovation Fellow and Midwifery Officer with the Department of Health, and Gillian Ledwidge Dunne, Regional Director of People for HSE Dublin and North East.   Together, they share honest and relatable experiences of shift work, “Mom Guilt,” career breaks and leadership, as well as the practical supports that helped them along the way, offering genuine insights and reassurance for anyone trying to "do it all". The key message is simple; reach out early. Talk to your manager or a trusted colleague, and explore the wide range of internal supports available across the HSE, including the confidential Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). Remember, you do not have to wait until you are in crisis to look for support.    Some of the key messages for health service staff include whether you are juggling shift work, caring for others, or simply feeling overwhelmed, there are confidential services, policies and people ready to help you make work and life more sustainable.   For guidance or support, contact diversity.HR@hse.ie, or visit work place Health and Wellbeing.   Produced by GKMedia.ie
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  #133 Little People Big Feelings 25.02.2026 36min

  In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Fergal Fox and guests Melissa Vindigni (Senior Occupational Therapist), Muireann Treacy (Senior Clinical Psychologist) and Rosemary Kavanagh (Senior Speech and Language Therapist) discuss the emotional experiences of young children under the theme "Little People, Big Feelings." They explore the normalcy of intense emotions in children, the developmental stages of emotional regulation, and the critical role of co-regulation, where parents help children manage their emotions. The episode emphasises the importance of parental calmness, understanding sensory triggers, and using simple communication to support children's emotional growth. The speakers also highlight the challenges parents face and the need for self-compassion and realistic expectations. To access more support and information on parenting, see: https://www2.hse.ie/babies-children/parenting-advice/services-supports/getting-support/ To get in touch with the podcast, email Healthandwellbeing.communications@hse.ie   Produced by GKMedia.ie
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  #132 Staying Active: During & After Pregnancy 18.02.2026 37min

  In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, Eamon Keogh is joined by Dr Aisling McGrath and HSE physiotherapist Ailish Cleary to explore Ireland's new physical activity guidelines for pregnant and postpartum women. The discussion covers the benefits of staying active during and after pregnancy, addresses common fears and misconceptions, and provides practical advice for women at all fitness levels. The guests highlight the importance of pelvic floor training and discuss the role of healthcare professionals in supporting women to move safely. Here are some helpful links for further information: HSE Exercise Videos: https://www.hse.ie/ Rotunda Hospital Resources: https://www.rotunda.ie/ Active Pregnancy (UK): https://www.activepregnancyfoundation.org/ To get in touch with the podcast email Healthandwellbeing.communications@hse.ie   Produced by GKMedia.ie