Afternoons with Helen Farmer

Episodes

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  Mental health awareness through physical activity 05.11.2026 1h 2m

  “Nobody should have to carry it alone.” That’s the powerful message Nick, Siriol and Jonny hope to highlight through Carry the Load. It is a 24-hr physical and mental endurance challenge aimed at the importance of supporting one another.Plus, Charlotte Borghesi of Kidzink shares the secret science of success with chocolate! We explore how humour, creativity and storytelling can  transform the learning experience as stand-up comedian and education facilitator Danny O’Brien shares his insights.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  From comedy scene to classroom struggles 04.11.2026 51m

  The comedy scene in the UAE is thriving! Following the success of the Dubai Comedy Festival and with the Abu Dhabi Comedy Season in full swing, there’s certainly no shortage of laughter and entertainment. What happens when children struggle to thrive at school despite their best efforts? We explore the pressures faced by both parents and students, and whether changing schools could be the fresh start they need. And to wrap things up, we tackle an important question: Why are women still being left out of financial decisions?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  Is ChatGPT the third wheel in your marriage? 03.11.2026 1h 1m

  From being unusually flexible to the emotional challenges of breastfeeding, we explore the surprising ways our bodies affect our lives. We also discuss the trauma and heartbreak that can accompany infertility, and ask whether ChatGPT is becoming the third person in our relationships. Four honest conversations about health, motherhood, love and the challenges we don't always see.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  Could a common painkiller hold the key to dementia prevention? 02.11.2026 1h 10m

  A common painkiller taken by millions could potentially reduce the risk of dementia by as much as 70%. Could this be a step towards personalised dementia prevention? And more importantly, how do we know whether our everyday forgetfulness is normal or something to worry about? A recent survey of more than 2,500 US parents found that 57% had used AI tools to research colleges for their children. So we’re not just asking teachers and careers advisers anymore, we’re asking technology to help us make these decisions. So how do we filter the noise? And we speak to YouTube about how children and teens are using the platform today and its responsibility for protecting younger audiences.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  FOOD, BAKING, MUSIC & COMMUNITY 30.10.2026 1h 22m

  We meet Joanna Mendonca, founder of Girls Offline Club, on the importance of real-life friendships; architect-turned-baker Monica Makram on the realities, challenges and rewards of running a small business; and Fadi Hachicho on the new Highlander Summit Series bringing adventure seekers to Ras Al Khaimah. Plus, singer-songwriter and practicing lawyer Gemma Spence joins us to chat about balancing two careers, finding creative freedom and the release of her debut EP, Gold.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  Resilience and Tutoring 29.10.2026 46m

  From overcoming life-changing injuries to navigating the world of tutoring and AI in education, this episode explores how we can better support children and empower individuals to reach their potential. We speak to Dr Catherine O’Farrell about resilience and inclusion, Giorgia Barnes about when children may need extra academic support, and education consultant Kara Kiernan about the opportunities and challenges of AI-powered learning.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  Safety, health and weatlh 28.10.2026 1h 21m

  We’re tackling the conversations that matter most, from keeping our children safe at school and supporting families affected by breast cancer, to taking control of our financial futures. We explore what parents need to know about safeguarding, how to show up for loved ones through life’s toughest challenges, and why earning well does not always mean building wealth. Three important conversations, packed with expert insight and practical advice to help you protect, support and plan for the people who matter most.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  Potty Training, ADHD, and Parent-Teacher Meetings 27.10.2026 1h 18m

  From potty training and toddler milestones to ADHD, screen time and parent-teacher meetings, we’re tackling the real challenges of raising children in today’s world. Tune in for honest conversations, practical advice and simple strategies to ease parenting pressures, support your child’s development and help your whole family thrive. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  NARCISSISTIC RELATIONSHIPS, STROKE RECOVERY, INCLUSION 27.10.2026 1h 28m

  This episode explores five important topics shaping our wellbeing, from navigating narcissistic abuse and divorce to the emotional journey of stroke recovery and rebuilding life after trauma. We also dive into creating more inclusive and accessible workplaces, before consulting Dr. Deena Ahmed on osteoporosis, bone health, and whether a simple sneeze really can break your spine.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  Food and film 24.10.2026 1h 29m

  From marine conservation and regional food traditions to the latest entertainment headlines, we explore the stories shaping the UAE’s cultural scene. Discover Parisian cabaret in Dubai, where cinema meets cuisine, and the Halloween experiences bringing autumn to life. From turtles to theatre, food to film, there’s something for everyone in today's showSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  Health First 23.10.2026 44m

  This episode sheds light on the importance of getting mammograms and having a friend by your side for support. We also explore the power of inclusion through ASICS and Included & Perfectly Different’s community run for Down Syndrome Awareness Month, before discussing Dubai’s higher education landscape, DMU’s new strategy, block teaching and the role of collaboration in preparing students for future careersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  Health & Wealth 21.10.2026 1h 11m

  This week, we shine a light on the realities of raising a neurodivergent child, the emotional journey of breast cancer from diagnosis to survivorship, and the money habits that help us save smarter without sacrificing life's little pleasures. Honest conversations, powerful stories and practical perspectives to help us feel informed, supported and empowered.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  Health, Home & Relationships 20.10.2026 1h 13m

  From dental innovation and hidden household hazards to baby loss and the complexities of long-term marriage, we explore the health, relationships and life experiences that shape us. Honest conversations, expert insights and practical advice to help us live healthier, more informed lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  Money, Mind & Life 19.10.2026 1h 30m

  We explore the realities of money, mental health and care in our everyday lives, from menopause’s impact on women’s financial futures to the emotional toll of caring for a loved one with cancer. We ask whether money can really buy happiness, unpack the role of resilience and privilege, and break down the latest UAE employment law changes so you can better understand your rights and protect your future.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  FOOD, BRUNCH, GAMING 19.10.2026 1h 45m

  From finding your people around a tabletop to tackling food waste, championing healthier kitchens, discovering the art of comedy and celebrating ten years of Dubai brunch culture, this episode explores the people and passions shaping life in the UAE. Expect inspiring stories, practical insights and plenty of reasons to connect, create and see everyday experiences a little differently.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  Light for Life: A daughter's and a mother's breast cancer stories 15.10.2026 1h 22m

  October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and while we often talk about the statistics, the screenings and the treatments, today we focus on the people behind those diagnoses. Mary Patten and her mum, Jane Gosling, share their very different breast cancer journeys, exploring the challenges of diagnosis, treatment and facing cancer together as two generations.  Who would look after your children when you pass away if their grandparents and wider family are thousands of miles away? It's our Wills Clinic today with Jazmine Stevenson from Stevenson Bernard Law Associates And the brilliant comedian Zarna Garg joins us to answer Helen’s questions, sharing her humour, insights and unique take on life.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  The other side of baby loss 14.10.2026 1h 32m

  October is Baby Loss Awareness Month, and today we're talking about how we support families through something so devastating. What role do healthcare professionals play? Why do so many people still feel unable to talk about their experiences? When we talk about pregnancy and baby loss, understandably much of the conversation centres on mothers. But what about dads? We're also exploring raising children who understand that their boundaries matter, and so do other people’s.   And on our Money Matters hour, we ask: When does living somewhere become financially unsustainable? How do you know whether you need to change your spending, increase your income, or seriously consider whether you can afford to stay?  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  Michelin in the spotlight 09.10.2026 1h 39m

  Dubai’s latest Michelin Guide has plenty to celebrate: 19 new entries, and a second star for homegrown favourite Orfali Bros. But alongside the congratulations, there’s a practical question: what happens when a restaurant recommended by the guide isn’t currently open?  We speak to a food business that's continuing to expand even during uncertain times. After 13 years, Frying Pan Adventures of Arva and Farida that has taken residents and visitors through Old Dubai’s streets, is making its last walking tour. William Mullally fills us in with movies to consider watching this weekend. From the big screen, we also bring you to the Dubai stage adaptation of Perfect Strangers. And a new winter festival has been announced for Dubai, with plans to bring more than 150 food and retail vendors to the waterfront beside Dubai Festival City Mall. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  Beyond the diagnosis 08.10.2026 35m

  A cancer diagnosis comes with appointments, scans, treatment plans and an entirely new medical vocabulary. But what happens inside your head while all of that is happening?  We also turn our attention to health as we talk about rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, particularly the joints. We speak with Molly, whose journey to a diagnosis took around two years despite knowing that something wasn't right and the doctor who helped her get the answers and support she needed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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  Human connection wins! 07.10.2026 1h 4m

  Fresh from the glamour of the fifth Dubai edition Michelin Guide ceremony, Courtney Brandt shares which restaurants gained a star, and the ones we should keep our eyes out for! We also sit down with Luca Allam for tips on how to make every conversation impactful as we live in AI-driven world, then delve into Money Matters with Natalie Walsh to unpack the common financial mistakes expats make, and how to avoid them.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.