HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing

In this podcast episode, host Fergal Fox leads a heartfelt discussion on cultural diversity within the Health Service Executive (HSE) from a staffing perspective. Joined by Christopher Ibanga, a Public Health Protection Nurse, and Abbie Alcorn, a Senior Speech and Language Therapist, the conversation delves into personal experiences of bias and the importance of the HSE Cultural Diversity Network....

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Fergal Fox speaks with experts Rosemary Kavanagh (Speech and Language Therapist), Niamh Garavin (Occupational Therapist), and Muireann Treacy (Clinical Psychologist) about the intricacies of adolescent development, with a particular focus on anxiety. Their discussion addresses the swift changes teenagers experience, the effects...

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, Dr. Niamh Clarke, Principal Psychologist Manager and Programme Presenter, and Dr. Aleisha Clarke, National Programme Manager for Mental Health and Wellbeing, joins host Noreen Turley to introduce the new Balancing Stress programme, which is a free, easy-to-access, evidence-based online course in stress management, developed in partne...

Listen to the latest episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, featuring Moira Germaine, Education and Training Manager with the Sexual Health Programme. Moira tells us about the Making the ‘Big Talk’ many small talks resources, which support conversations between parents and their children about relationships and sexuality. Find out all about the research and rationale behind the n...

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we talk about parkrun, a free, volunteer-led, 5k and 2k events that take place in open spaces every weekend around Ireland. This HSE supported initiative encourages people of all ages to come together to run, walk and talk.   We talk about the origins of parkrun and how it has gone from strength to strength, with over 14,000 particip...

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we explore how strong, supportive relationships between parents and children are one of the most effective protectors against online harm. Creating a safe space for open, age-appropriate conversations helps build empathy, promotes healthy values, and supports children to navigate an increasingly complex digital world with confidence....

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we discuss Palliative Care with Jacinta Kelly, Director of Nursing, North West Hospice, Sligo and Dr. Feargal Twomey, Consultant in Palliative Medicine, Milford Hospice in HSE Mid West and the HSE Clinical Lead for Palliative Care. The discussion demystifies palliative care, emphasising its role beyond end-of-life scenarios and its a...

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Fergal Fox chats with Rachael Treanor, Manager of the National Youth Health Programme at the National Youth Council of Ireland. They delve into the programme's mission to enhance youth health and wellbeing through the dedicated efforts of youth workers. Rachael highlights the importance of creating safe spaces, fostering social...

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing podcast, host Fergal Fox discusses the crucial role of Family Resource Centres (FRCs) with Fergal Landy, CEO of the National Family Resource Centre Forum, and Shauna Diamond, National Programme Lead. They explore how FRCs support health and wellbeing in communities by offering services like parenting, family support, mental health initiatives...

With more options and activities freely available across Ireland, there has never been a better time to get physically active. In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we explore the positive developments and initiatives happening to encourage everyone to get active. Host Eamon Keogh speaks with Louise Burke, Director of Participation, Sport Ireland, the national state agen...

The way we experience healthcare is changing, and technology is at the heart of this transformation. In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we explore the impact of digital transformation on Ireland’s healthcare system. Host Noreen Turley speaks with Damien McCallion, Deputy HSE CEO and Chief Technology and Transformation Officer, about how technology is starting to revol...

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we explore the challenges young people face when navigating alcohol in Ireland today. Martina Byrne, Manager of Cross Care Ronanstown Youth Service, and Sive Brennan, a Leaving Cert student and junior youth worker, join us for an insightful discussion on peer pressure, societal attitudes, and the impact of alcohol on young people. Ma...

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Fergal Fox speaks with Catherine McGuigan, Chief Officer of Age Friendly Ireland, as they discuss the organisation's mission to create inclusive environments for older people in Ireland. Catherine highlights the importance of local government collaboration and proactive initiatives like Healthy Age Friendly Homes, which support...

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Noreen Turley is joined by Peadar Maxwell,  Senior Psychologist in the HSE. They explore the concept of "mind clutter"; those overwhelming thoughts and distractions that often lead to stress, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating. Peadar shares valuable insights on the symptoms of mind clutter and how it can impact mental clarit...

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, Dr Anne O’Neill, Oral Health Lead, HSE, talks about the importance of dental check-ups and the significant connection between oral health and overall well-being.   Dr. O'Neill provides practical tips on brushing and flossing, highlighting the impact of diet on dental health, providing tips for parents when it comes to their children’...

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, the discussion features insights from Dr. Breeda Neville, Public Health Specialist and Dr. Sheila Gilheany, CEO of Alcohol Action Ireland. The conversation centred around the significant public health issues associated with alcohol use, particularly its links to cancer. We discuss the new alcohol labelling laws which aim to provide c...

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we have a discussion on the "You, Me and HIV" campaign, focusing on HIV awareness and stigma reduction. Guests include Dr. Robbie Lawler and Veda Lady, both HIV activists and co-hosts of the Poz Vibe podcast, who share their personal experiences and highlight the importance of community support. Professor Fiona Lyons, HSE Clinical Le...

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we discuss Farmer Wellbeing with Dr. John McNamara from Teagasc, and Finola Colgan from Mental Health Ireland. They explore the unique mental health challenges farmers face, the importance of health and safety, and initiatives to support their wellbeing. Key topics include the difficulty of accessing mental health services in rural a...

In this episode, we speak to John Wall, a dedicated healthcare campaigner, about his personal journey as a patient advocate. From overcoming challenges to building trust and fostering collaboration, John highlights the significance of Patient Partnership in healthcare decision-making. He discusses his role on the local Programme Improvement Board, the growing inclusion of patient voices, and the i...

In the first 2025 episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, host Fergal Fox, along with Health Promotion and Improvement colleagues Sean Conneely and Nollaig Ní Chárthaigh, discuss strategies for a Healthy New Year. They emphasise the importance of New Year's resolutions, behavior change, and community support in achieving health goals. Key topics include setting realistic goals, me...

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, hosts Fergal Fox, Noreen Turley and Eamon Keogh reflect on the podcast's achievements in 2024. They discuss the diverse range of topics covered, such as obesity, menopause, health equity, and LGBTQ+ issues, and highlight specific impactful episodes. The hosts emphasise the importance of providing a platform for healthcare professiona...

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we discuss Heart Health with Janis Morrissey, Director of Health Promotion Information and Training at the Irish Heart Foundation, delving into the causes and risk factors of heart disease and stroke. Janis emphasises the importance of both individual lifestyle changes and systemic policy interventions to improve heart health. She hi...

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, Dr. Rory Nee, Consultant Physician in Geriatric Medicine and Integrated Care Program for Older People (ICPOP), and Aoife Quinn, Clinical Nurse Manager (ICPOP), discuss essential strategies to help older adults stay healthy and well during the winter season. Rory and Aoife share practical tips for maintaining health and well-being suc...

In this episode of HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we explore the important role of community engagement in preventing cervical cancer and the importance of collaboration in work together towards an Ireland where cervical cancer is rare in every community. Joining the discussion are Dr Caroline Mason Mohan, Director of Public Health for the National Screening Service, and Catherine Heane...

In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we discuss Diabetes with Dr. Kate Gajewska, Clinical Manager for Advocacy and Research, Diabetes Ireland and Dr. Cathy Breen, Interim Dietetic Lead – HSE, National Clinical Programme for Diabetes about Diabetes. They discuss the different types of diabetes—Type 1, Type 2, and gestational—highlighting their symptoms and different risk...