The Irish Occupational Therapy Podcast

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  Living With Invisible Illness, Chronic Pain & Redefining Identity 31.05.2026 38分

  In this deeply honest and powerful episode of the Irish Occupational Therapy Podcast, we are joined by Michele Roys, author, podcast host, and advocate, to discuss her experience of living with trigeminal neuralgia, fibromyalgia, Lyme disease, and chronic pain.Michele shares the profound impact that invisible illnesscan have on identity, daily life, relationships, work, and emotional well-being. From being a highly driven, ambitious, and independent person to navigating severe chronic pain, fatigue, grief, and uncertainty, Michele speaks openly about the psychological and practical realities of rebuilding life afterillness.Together, we explore:·      Living with invisible illness and chronic pain·      Trigeminal neuralgia and fibromyalgia·      The emotional impact of life-changing diagnoses·      Occupational loss, identity, and redefiningpurpose·      Pacing, fatigue management, and “spoon theory”·      Self-compassion, boundaries, and adaptingexpectations·      Navigating healthcare systems and advocating foryourself·      The importance of validation and being believed·      Holistic approaches to wellbeing and healingThe role of Occupational Therapy in supporting everydayparticipation and adjustmentMichele also discusses the inspiration behind her book ButYou Look Fine and her own podcast, where she shares conversations around resilience, healing, mindset, and navigating life when circumstances changeunexpectedly.This episode is an important conversation about the hiddenrealities of chronic illness and the strength it takes to rebuild identity, meaning, and participation in everyday life. It offers insight not only for healthcare professionals, but for anyone living with chronic illness, supporting a loved one, or trying to better understand the lived experience ofinvisible disability. Link to purchase Michele's book https://www.omahonys.ie/but-you-look-just-fine-my-journey-to-rediscover-joy-amidst-chronic-pain-and-invisible-illness-p-10614055.html
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  Balancing Risk and Autonomy: Neurorehabilitation and Medico-Legal Practice in Focus 19.04.2026 30分

  Mary McCarron, Director of ConnectNeurotherapy Services, shares her expertise in complex neurological rehabilitation and medical-legal practice. We explore working with individuals with brain injury, neurobehavioural presentations, and the challenges ofbalancing autonomy with risk.Mary speaks about vocational rehabilitation, meaningful occupation, and the profound impact of helping clients rediscover their capabilities and identities. She also offers guidance for OTs considering a career in neuro, emphasising supervision, confidence, and lifelong learning.An insightful episode highlighting the transformative power of occupation in neurological recovery.Website Connect Neurotherapy Services
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  Small Tech, Big Difference: Assistive Technology After Brain Injury and for Life! 12.04.2026 33分

  In this episode, Sharon Leahy shares her extensive experience in neurorehabilitation, from her work in the National Rehabilitation Hospital to her current role with Acquired Brain Injury Ireland in the West of Ireland.We explore the lifelong impact of acquired brain injury in children and young people from the invisible cognitivechallenges and fatigue to the emotional adjustment experienced by families.Sharon speaks candidly about the need for community-based rehabilitation and the importance of supporting the whole family system following brain injury.A central theme of this conversation is assistive technology. Sharon demystifies what assistive technology really meanshighlighting simple, accessible tools like dictation, read-aloud features, calendar apps, and voice assistants, alongside higher-tech solutions such as environmental control systems and alternative access methods. She emphasises that technology doesn’t need to be futuristic or expensive to be powerful, sometimes the smallest adaptations can make the biggest difference.This episode is a practical and hopeful reminder that when we apply our OT lens creatively, assistive technology can enable participation, reduce cognitive fatigue, and support independence across school, work, and everyday life.
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  What Matters To You? FND, Concussion and the Power of OT 05.04.2026 35分

  In this episode, we speak with Ciara Duffy, founder of Enable OT NI, about her journey from NHS neurorehabilitation toprivate practice. Ciara shares powerful insights into working with adults following stroke, brain injury, concussion, and Functional Neurological Disorder (FND).We explore the real impact of occupational therapy in neurological rehabilitation from fatigue management and return to work, to graded goal-setting and positive risk-taking. Ciara reflects on supporting a public figure with FND and how occupational therapy helped restore confidence, independence, and identity.This episode highlights the depth of OT’s holistic approach asking not “What’s the matter?” but “What matters to you?”https://enableotni.com/
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  Dr Íde O' Shaughnessy on Aging, Ageism and Emergency Department Care 29.03.2026 32分

  Dr. Íde O’Shaughnessy shares her journey fromclinical practice to academia, specialising in older person rehabilitation and emergency department care. We discuss the development and evaluation of Frailty Intervention Teams, as well as the evidence supporting OT-led models in acutesettings.Íde speaks passionately about challenging ageism in healthcare and reframing older adults as “the purpose, not the problem.” We explore hospital-associated deconditioning, positive risk-taking, and the unique value occupational therapists bring to preserving function andquality of life.An episode that reinforces OT’s essential role in shaping evidence-based policy and compassionate care for older adults.GoogleScholar Profile & articles
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  Innovation, Seating and the Power of OT with Martina Tierney 22.03.2026 35分

  Martina Tierney reflects on more than 40 yearsin occupational therapy and on her journey to founding Seating Matters. She shares the evolution from bespoke garage-built seating solutions to an internationally recognised specialist service.This episode explores creativity in practice, the importance of listening to both clients and carers, and how innovationgrows from real clinical need. Martina also discusses her book The Power of OT, and her mission to inspire confidence and leadership within the profession.A conversation about courage, entrepreneurship, and standing proudly as an occupational therapist.Linktree tosocialsMartinaTierney PodcastThe Powerof OT
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  Adventure, Autonomy and Occupational Possibility with Jack Kavanagh 15.03.2026 50分

  In this deeply moving conversation, Jack Kavanagh shares his journey following a life-changing spinal cord injury. From grief and identity loss to rediscovering adventure and independence, Jack reflects on resilience, creativity, and the power of trying again.We explore assistive technology, adaptive innovation, and the importance of listening deeply to clients. Jack offers a compelling message for occupational therapists: move beyond prescriptive approaches and embrace curiosity, co-creation, and meaningful risk.A powerful reminder that occupational therapy is about enabling possibility, not defining limitation.Jack's Bio:In 2012, Jack Kavanagh’s life changed forever when he sustained a spinal cord injury, leaving him with just15% muscle function. Rather than letting this define his limits, Jack has since redefined what’s possible, proving that resilience, ambition, and courage can push boundaries beyond expectation. Jack has taken the stage at TEDx with his powerful talk, "Fearless Like a Child: Overcoming Adversity." His impact has been widely recognized, he was honored as oneof the Ten Outstanding Young People of the Year in 2019, has received multiple international awards for his documentary Breaking Boundaries, and was awarded as a selectnumber of Alumni Of The Year for Trinity College in 2023. Jack is a force for change. He runs Move The Needle, a consultancy focused on high-impact projects. He alsoserves on the board of the National Disability Authority and leadership development organization Common Purpose Ireland. His expertise has led him to collaborate with the World Health Organization on digital and assistive technologies, and he is currently pioneering accessibility advancements in aviation through the AeroFix Project. Yet, through it all, one thing has remained a constant, Jack’s passion for adventure. Whether hand-cycling, sailing, or mastering the art of sit-skiing, he refuses to let limitationsstand in his way. This September, he set himself a formidable challenge, cycling 380km along the Danube river to raise funds for Spinal Injuries Ireland. Completing this goal stands as one of his proudest personal achievements in recent years.Contact: https://jack-kavanagh.com/
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  Taming the Imposter Monster! A conversation about how to feel good enough. 26.10.2025 29分

  In this episode, Dr. Áine O Dea and Jen Trzeciak delve into the complexities of imposter syndrome, particularly within the context of occupational therapy. They explore how imposter syndrome manifests, its psychological underpinnings, and its impact on professionals despite evidence of success. The discussion highlights the importance of organisational support, cognitive reappraisal, and the role of coaching and supervision in managing these feelings. They also touch on the broader implications of imposter syndrome as a symptom of systemic issues like burnout and compassion fatigue.If you are interested in finding out more about the upcoming 'How to set up in private practice' course, please follow this link: https://radianceconsultinghub.com/courses-events/
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  Occupation, Identity and the Burn In Model: Rethinking Occupational Therapy with Rhiannon Crispe 19.10.2025 29分

  In this episode, we’re delighted to welcome Rhiannon Crispe, occupational therapist, coach, speaker, and founder of the OT Lifestyle Movement. Based in Australia, Rhiannon has become widely recognised for her work in advocating for occupation as lifestyle medicine and for supporting OTs across the world to reconnect with their professional identity, values, and purpose.Rhiannon shares her personal journey of stepping into private practice, the challenges she faced with burnout and misalignment, and how she rediscovered her passion for occupational therapy. We explore her documentary work, her conversations with some of the giants of our profession, and her drive to strengthen our collective voice by reclaiming the language of occupation.A highlight of this conversation is Rhiannon’s introduction of the Burn-In Model a powerful, visual framework co-created with Michelle Lukan to help OTs and other professionals move from burnout towards “burning in”: living and working in alignment, reigniting their flame, and embracing the meaningful occupations that light them up.This is an inspiring conversation about identity, resilience, and the future of occupational therapy one that will encourage you to reflect on your own flame, your gifts, and what it means to truly live and practice in alignment.About - The OT Lifestyle Movement
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  OT Meets Tech: Jessica Kennedy on empowering teachers online 12.10.2025 29分

  In this episode, Jen Trzeciak and Dr Áine O’Dea are joined by Jessica Kennedy, an innovative occupational therapist, entrepreneur, and businesswoman who has reshaped howtherapy can reach families, schools, and communities.Jessica’s career has taken her from working with children and young people in Australia and Ireland to founding My OT & Me. Building on this success, Jessica co-founded Gabadoo, apioneering telehealth service that provides timely, tailored occupational therapy and speech and language therapy consultations for parents and teachers. Through Gabadoo, Jessica and her team are reimagining how we support schools, teachers, and families by offering coaching, consultation, and practical, individualised strategies that can be implemented in real time. In this conversation, Jessica shares her journey into entrepreneurship, the evolution from hands-on home andschool-based practice to innovative telehealth models, and the lessons she’s learned along the way about participation, sustainability, and building capacity for those who support children every day. Join us as we explore how Jessica is using creativity, technology, and occupational therapy values to drive meaningful change in practice.Bringing therapy home: Exploring parents’ experiences of telehealth for children with developmental coordination disorderGabadoo - Access to Occupational Therapy & Speech Therapy within hourshttps://myotandme.com
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  Speak Up! Jill Martin on mental health, advocacy and changing the conversation 04.10.2025 37分

  In this episode, we’re joined by Jill Martin, a UK-based occupational therapist with a career spanning over three decades in mental health. From her early days in NHS psychiatry to delivering a powerful TEDx talk on the hidden magic of OT, Jill has been a passionate advocate for the profession and its unique role in supporting recovery.After experiencing burnout within the NHS, Jill retrained in coaching and psychology but soon returned to her OT roots, realising the depth, regulation, and holistic impact of occupational therapy was what people really needed. In 2020, alongside her business partner Nikki Green, she co-founded Purpose People, a thriving independent practice now home to a 30-strong team of OTs and OT assistants, supporting adults with mental health needs across London.In this conversation, Jill shares her journey of stepping outside the traditional boundaries of OT, the challenges and rewards of building a private practice, and the importance of standing tall as occupational therapists in a world that often overlooks our value. Her passion for community, creativity, and clinical integrity shines through, offering both inspiration and practical insights for OTs everywhere.Ted Talk - The hidden Magic of Occupational Therapy
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  Press Record: Jane Browne on the power of podcasting 28.09.2025 31分

  Today, we welcome Jane Brown from Jane Assists, who speaks about her journey from an emergency nurse to podcast production. Jane discusses the benefits of podcasting, highlighting how it supports clinicians in practiceby sharing information and knowledge with clients, as well as creating social media content. She shares how her services have helped to take the pain out of podcasting for busy health professionals or those who are nervous aboutstarting.  To find out more about Jane, check out the links below. ⁠https://janeassists.com/⁠
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  From Canada With Courage! Carlyn Neek's path to empowering others 21.09.2025 34分

  In today’s episode, we’re joined by the inspiring Carlyn Neek, an occupational therapist, coach, and host of The Brave OT Podcast. Carlyn is the founder of Balance Works, whereshe helps OTs and other helping professionals rediscover joy, purpose, and balance in their work and life. With over two decades of experience, she blends her clinical expertise with coaching strategies to support those who may be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or burned out in their careers.In our conversation, Carlyn shares openly about her own brave step, thinking beyond the OT world and exploring how occupational therapy perspectives can reach the wider public. We dive into how OTs can own what we know, translate our professional wisdom into practical, meaningfulstrategies for everyday living, and start conversations about thriving without the hustle.Whether you’re an OT seeking inspiration in your own practice or simply curious about how occupational therapy thinking can transform wellbeing, this episode is full of encouragement and ideas. So grab a cup of tea and join us as we chat with Carlyn about bravery, balance, and bringing OT wisdom to the world.The Brave OT PodcastOT Personal & Professional Development Coach | Carlyn Neek | Balance Works | Home
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  Pages of Possibility: Sarah Gannon on Disability, Family and Writing Books 14.09.2025 33分

  In this episode of the Irish Occupational Therapy Podcast, we welcome Sarah Gannon Governey, a Senior Occupational Therapist. Sarah shares her journey of becoming an author. She has always been passionate about reducing ableism in the disability sector. Over seven years ago, her first child, Ciara, was born with a rare genetic condition called CHARGE syndrome. Sarah discusses her journey parenting a child with a disability and navigating health services. She describes the impact of dual sensory loss as Ciara is Deaf-Blind, and how in Ireland, dual sensory loss (deaf-blindness) is not currently recognised as a disability. More importantly, she tells us about the new books that she has just published with her daughter, Ciara. The book “Just See Me” is a beautifully engaging picture book that aims to promote inclusion and break down barriers to understanding disability. The book is available from all major bookstores. ⁠Just See Me ⁠The Anne Sullivan Centre for people who are deafblind⁠⁠Donate a book⁠Private Practitioner Networking Summit
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  Therapist to Trailblazer, a conversation with Kim Barthel 06.09.2025 44分

  In this episode of the Irish Occupational Therapy Podcast, we are honoured to welcome internationally renowned occupational therapist, teacher, speaker, and author Kim Barthel. With over 40 years of experience, Kim is celebrated worldwide for her pioneering work in blending neuroscience, trauma-informed practice, and occupational therapy. Her mission is to support the healing of people and communities by deepening our understanding of the brain, behaviour, and the power of human connection.In our conversation, Kim shares her journey from clinician to international educator and business owner, a path marked not by rigid planning but by courage, intuition, and trust in her calling. We discuss the evolution of private practice, the challenges and the learning that come with stepping outside traditional models, and the importance of cultural sensitivity when working across countries and contexts. Kim reflects on the role of resilience, fierce love, and relational approaches in Irish occupational therapy, offering encouragement for Occupational Therapists to embrace their values and approach their work with curiosity and compassion. This inspiring dialogue serves as a reminder of how our profession can evolve when we ground ourselves in being, doing, belonging, and becoming, both for our clients and for ourselves. https://www.kimbarthel.ca/Kim's workshop in CorkPrivate Practitioner Networking Summit
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  Welcome to Season 5: Innovation in Occupational Therapy 31.08.2025 5分

  Welcome to Season 5! Your hosts Jen Trzeciak and Dr. Áine O Dea are delighted to introduce the fifth season of the Irish Occupational Therapy Podcast, focusing on innovation, pushing boundaries and global perspectives, within the field of occupational therapy. We have an exciting lineup of guests, including occupational therapists and other professionals from Ireland and abroad. So please tune in every Sunday for the next 8 weeks!
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  A Fare Well and a Fáilte 30.03.2025 28分

  In this sneaky extra episode of the Irish Occupational Therapy podcast, hosts Jen Trzeciak and Aideen Ruttledge discuss Aideen's decision to step back from the podcast after four successful seasons. >tearful sobs from Jen!!!< We reflect on our journey, the growth of the podcast, and the importance of community within the occupational therapy field. Aideen shares her reasons for leaving, emphasising the need for work-life balance and the desire to pass the baton to Dr. Aine O'Dea, who will continue the podcast's mission. The conversation highlights the significance of support, collaboration, and the evolving landscape of occupational therapy in Ireland. Thank you and Fare Well to Aideen and Fáilte (welcome) to Áine (pronounced AwwnYa)!Get in touch at [email protected]
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  Executive Functioning Tools for Teens with OT Michelle Murray 26.03.2025 28分

  Today we interview Michelle Murray from Anchor Therapy, who discusses the importance of executive functioning skills in young people, particularly those facing mental health challenges and neurodiversity. The conversation covers various aspects of executive functioning, including assessment methods, strategies for supporting transitions, emotional management, and the social challenges faced by young people. Michelle emphasises the need for compassionate understanding of executive functioning difficulties and the importance of creating supportive educational environments. Practical strategies for organisation and focus are also shared, making this episode a valuable resource for parents and professionals alike.
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  Living with and supporting others with PDA: a conversation with Sorcha Rice 09.03.2025 36分

  In this conversation, Sorcha Rice, an autistic occupational therapist, shares her insights on Pathological Demand Avoidance / Persistent Drive for Autonomy (PDA) from a neuroaffirmative perspective. She discusses her personal experiences growing up with PDA, the impact of environmental factors on neurodivergent individuals, and the importance of understanding and supporting children with PDA in educational settings. Sorcha emphasises the need for a shift in parenting and teaching strategies to accommodate neurodivergent needs, advocating for a focus on autonomy and reducing demands. She also provides practical tips and resources for parents and educators to better support children with PDA.
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  Young People and Gender Identity: Insights with Niall Kirrane 23.02.2025 37分

  In this episode of the Irish Occupational Therapy podcast, hosts Jen Trzeciak and Aideen Ruttledge interview Niall Kirrane, a clinical specialist in occupational therapy within Ireland's National Gender Service. Niall discusses the multidisciplinary approach to transgender healthcare, the role of occupational therapy in supporting individuals exploring their gender identity, and the challenges faced by young people in this journey. The conversation also covers key terms related to gender identity, common myths and misconceptions, and practical tips for supporting young people and their families.