Afternoons with Helen Farmer

If you're still scrambling for ideas on what to do and where to dine this long weekend, we've got you covered! From quality but affordable dishes, indoor experiences, staycations to movies and series to binge watch, this is what you need to have a relaxing and enjoyable Fri-Sat-Sun!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Research shows that kids can lose 20 to 30% of their academic progress over the summer months - something educators call the summer slide. Occupational therapist Adam Griffiths has 99 ideas to stop it – while three unique summer camps also tell us what they have to offer. Meanwhile, a new study has found a third of Americans are waking up already exhausted, leading to a productivity crisis in the workplace – and many wasted weekends. Heather Darwall-Smith, author of How To Be Awake So You Can Sleep Through the Night, tells us how to get more shut-eye.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From new roadside cameras to flashes above the carriageway, what are all these new tools on our roads capturing – and what could they be catching you at? Helen asks Emirati road safety consultant Dr Mustafa Aldah. Meanwhile, Microsoft’s 2025 work trend index report has found that many workers are grappling with a never off culture, interrupted by 270 notifications a day. Workplace culture experts Jessica Elom Ogbodo and Danielle Blizzard say there’s a better way. We also talk pet relocation with specialist Kirsty Kavanagh, and learn more about the UAE’s new early year’s Arabic programme with Amira Salem, Head of Curriculum at Jumeirah International Nurseries.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This weekend, Dubai will host RUNIT 02, the latest event in a controversial collision sport that's attracting headlines, safety concerns and viral popularity. Helen is joined by the event's Head of Delegation, Lou Sticca - and hears the safety concerns of Matthew Pewtner, a former Wales rugby international who retired at 26 due to a head injury. Elsewhere, with so many of us glued to our phones amid regional unrest, experts are warning of the risk of parental 'phubbing' - when we snub our kids and scroll instead. Dr Sarah Rasmi joins Helen with her advice on how to find a balance. And as new research shows women in the Middle East are helping drive a global surge in spending power, yet nearly half say brands just don’t get them. Financial experts Sophia Bhatti and Carol Glynn break it down in studio.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From a major passwords data breach to spying speakers, how do we stay safe when technology is in every corner of our lives? We ask The Kernal’s Rami Kayali and tech journalist Nick Rego. As for those appliances ticking over in an empty house, We Will Fix It’s Colin Thomson has all the info you need on how to prepare your property ahead of any travels. Meanwhile, Haus & Haus’s Clementine Munro is here to talk property renovation, and lawyer Madeleine Mendy answers all of your questions regarding travelling with kids, whether you’re married, separated or divorced…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Filipino food is bold, fun, packed with flavour, and now it’s finally getting the love it deserves in Dubai – largely thanks to the one man culinary campaign of Kooya's Chef JP Anglo. Plus, two of the city’s most inventive third-culture chefs, Hadrien Villedieu of Chez Wam & Solemann Haddad of Moonrise, tell us why they're joining forces. And Samantha Wood, AKA Foodiva, is on hand to talk all things 50 Best...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Researchers have released the most wide-ranging research to date about vaginal v C-section birth outcomes - but what can we learn from it? Helen is joined by Consultant OBGYN Dr. Samina Dornan. Meanwhile, in the last 24 hours, Meta, TikTok & Snap have ALL unveiled new policies aimed at making social media safer for teens here in the UAE. But what does it mean in reality – and what do parents need to know? Philippa Wraithmell from EdRuption has all the answers…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We know the increasing use of vapes among teens is an issue we should be concerned about. But when vapes first appeared on the scene, they were largely portrayed as being much safer than cigarettes and experts fear that may have led people to underestimate the risks they pose. Jennifer speaks with Dr Rania Ayat Hawayek, Specialist Paediatrician and the Medical Director at Circle Care Clinic to know the realities of those risks. Meanwhile, a new survey by recruitment firm Robert Walters has revealed a rise in employee turnover here in the UAE - with delays in salary hikes for professionals and white-collar employees cited as taking a toll on workforce stability. While over in the UK, a new government proposal to reduce pay inequality promises, or threatens, to force the publication of information about worker's salaries that would previously have been known only to managers. Does it help make work feel fairer for employees? Or can it also lead to internal conflict and limit flexibility for recruiters and managers? Toby Simpson, Managing Director, Global Head of Executive Search and Lucy D’Abo, Founder of Together workplace culture consultancy discuss. And the region's first Female Majlis on health equity will be aiming to shine a spotlight on a frightening truth: women are diagnosed with disease later, suffer for longer, but often remain unheard in the healthcare system. Jennifer is joined by the event's host, Christina Ioannidis.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As new research shows young men are more likely than women to have spent money on injectables and one in six parents say they support non-surgical procedures for teens, are we at risk of normalising extreme skincare procedures? Dermatologist Dr Natalia Spierings sorts the must-haves from the rip-offs. Meanwhile, from end of school year commitments to travel planning via current affairs and the wild contrast of our social media feeds, overwhelm is real right now. But when does it become a problem – and how do we deal with it? Helen asks Dr Thoriya of the Human Relations Institute. And from public holiday pay to annual leave entitlement via four-day weeks, we’re answering your pre-summer employment questions with Dentons’ Ali Al Assad.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s known as dumping season in the animal industry – but what do responsible pet owners need to know about choosing the right boarding or pet sitting business? Helen asks vets, boarding firms and pet owners how to find a safe care option. Also from the animal kingdom, we learn how Dubai is marking World Sea Turtle Day. Meanwhile, Genevieve Chenneour, a Bridgerton actress and trained boxer, has gone viral after CCTV showed her fighting back against a mugger and reclaiming her phone. But when is it right to defend yourself — and how? Helen asks defence coaches Taylor Hamilton and Leah Nichol. And Harrison from Haus & Haus is on hand to answer your property questions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You’ve gotten used to using it at work. But could a Dubai-founded food app make your home life easier too, by letting AI plan your meals? Arij Baidas, founder of YuFood, tells Helen how she’s aiming to solve our dinner dilemmas. Meanwhile, from tomato shortages in India to issues growing rice in Japan, climate change could be about to change what we view as staple foods. Dr Dhanush Dinesh, Founder of ClimEat, tells us how to prepare. On the entertainment front, Susanna Skelding, the Founder of Active Netball, tells us all about a brand new international female sports event, The UAE Netball Cup, taking place this weekend. And from the re-release of Jaws to Abu Dhabi’s hosting of the F1 premiere, via new TV shows and family movies, Entertainment Editor William Mullally is on hand today to address all your viewing needs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dancing with the Stars co-host Julianne Hough has revealed that she recently had her eggs frozen for the third time. With more women than ever choosing to freeze their eggs, how much do we really understand about the process, the costs, and the emotional toll? Cassie Destino – Founder, IVF Support UAE and Dr Bohaira El Geyoushi, Consultant Gynecologist at American Hospital Dubai, specialising in Reproductive Medicine and IVF join Helen to discuss.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez have reportedly signed an “ironclad” pre-nup which lawyers have described as more complex than a business merger. But is a pre-wedding agreement something ‘normal’ couples should be considering too? Helen askes Expat Law's Byron James. We also talk hustle culture, and the impact on male mental health, with Dubai's stressed men, and psychologist Joslin Gracias. And do your kids stick to screen limits appropriate to their age? Do you even know what they are? Vivamus Clinical Director, Dr. Marie Thompson, and Dr Alison Burrows, Professor of Education at Middlesex University Dubai, give us the facts...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Forty per cent of professionals aged 18 to 25 have already held three or more jobs early in their careers, according to 2025 MENA Salary Survey. But are they wrong to job hop – or are employers missing a trick when it comes to keeping new talent? Helen asks a recruiter – and some Gen Zers themselves. We also talk teen skincare, acne, and the dangers of taking your dermatological advice from TikTok with two leading dermatologists. And if you’re struggling with the mental health impacts of menopause, you’re not alone. We get the lowdown on the hormonal realities of transition with a specialist psychologist.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's a controversial topic - but with communal discipline still common in many cultures, does it truly take a village to raise a child? And if so, how do you establish the norms in your own community. Helen puts it to three parenting experts. Meanwhile, as a major oncology conference in the USA hears how cancer patients are now delaying or refusing treatment in favour of miracle diets, essential oils and advice from TikTok influencers with no medical qualifications, Helen factchecks some medical claims with breast cancer surgeon turned patient, Dr Liz O'Riordan. We get the facts on healthcare before travel, and vaccine catch-ups, with Dr Howard Podolsky, and Tom Poulson from Haus&Haus is also on hand to talk property buying mistakes, and how to avoid them. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Researchers say 69 per cent of workers believe their boss has as big an impact on their mental health as their partner. That's grand if your boss is great - not so helpful if your boss is a less supportive influence. But what does good and bad management really look like? And what can we do if our bosses are draining us more than they're empowering us? Paul Littlejohn, Founder of Wingman Executive Consulting and Lorna King, workplace culture consultant, join Jennifer Crichton to discuss.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Regulators in Europe have forced a ban on dangerous diet culture social media posts - but will it make a difference? Helen asks body image expert Florence Gillet. Plus, Dubai Police are on hand to update us on their efforts to curb E-crime, we discuss the power of women over 50 in the workplace, and as the Beckhams make headlines for all the wrong reasons, therapist Marissa Peer explores the sad realities of family estrangement…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new ‘sport’ based on rugby tackling without protective equipment has led to the death of a teen in New Zealand. So, what is RunIt Straight, why is it causing so much concern, and what do those behind it need to learn from rugby’s safety standards? We ask Scott Hastings and Apollo Perelini from UAE Rugby, and hear from parents and sports scientists too. Meanwhile, World No Tobacco Day 2025 took place over the weekend – but as new research reveals the UAE’s tobacco use still far exceeds the global average, are we still underestimating the risks to our health? Helen is joined by tobacco researcher Andrea Leinberger-Jabari, pulmonologist Dr Ana Catarina Moreira and family medicine specialist Dr Amna Khushnud. We also discuss defamation law in the UAE, and Haus & Haus are on hand to discuss the pros and cons of off-plan investment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From travel to feeding the family, we've got all the expert advice you need for the upcoming holiday. Plus, we explore the green changes afoot at the newest branch of Vietnamese foodies, meet the keen baker who turned her hobbie into one of Dubai's most successful dessert brands, and we learn how the UAE's supermarkets are navigating TikTok's ever-changing viral food trends. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You’ve seen the hype — Labubu figures selling out in minutes, only to resurface online for eye-watering prices. But what does this frenzy reveal about us? In this episode, we dive into the psychology of ‘drop culture’ with Dr. Sarah Rasmi, exploring how scarcity and social media fuel obsession and anxiety. Then we turn to the world of youth sports with Dr. Shefali Verma to ask: are we raising kids to chase wins instead of wellbeing? From collectibles to competitions, we unpack the pressure to keep up, and what it’s doing to our minds and bodies.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Afternoons is live from the Arab Media Summit – and taking your questions on how to make the digital world work for your business this summer. Helen is joined by entrepreneur Ahmad Alzamel, the influencer behind the globally viral Lazy Cat cake, and Alex Carvlalho from House of Social. Meanwhile, with four in five homes now boasting at least one smart device, tech journalist Nick Regos brings us up to speed on the rise of the robots. Dr Margaret Harris from the World Health Organisation talks antibiotic resistance, and Aalia Thobani, CEO at The Brain Accelerator, gives her tips for maintaining you attention span in a world of short, sharp dopamine hits.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re live from The Hotel Show, where everything from the bed you sleep in to the art you see on your next staycation will be decided. Helen chats to industry experts about what could be coming to a lobby near you soon. Plus, how much is too much to spend on a school trip? Teachers, parents and finance experts weigh in. And as a terrifying new thriller sheds a light on maternal OCD, we get expert advice on the risks from psychologist Aisling Prendergast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Forget beanbags and free snacks – jobseekers in 2025 are looking for fair pay, flexibility, and a sense of purpose. But as a new study shows 50% of companies are now struggling with staff retainment, are expectations and reality matching up? And what role are new arrivals playing in shifting job market trends? HR consultant Rohini Bhalla Gill and John Fitzpatrick, Managing Director at Emiratalent, join Helen. Plus Madeleine Mendy is on hand with the legal advice divorced parents need before travelling this summer, and we discuss the link between school run traffic and property prices in Dubai…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From the world’s first three star Indian restaurant to some record-breaking wins for Atlantis, we get all the goss from last night’s Michelin Dubai ceremony. Plus, how restaurateurs spot future stars, how culinary traditions travel across borders - and why we should all be celebrating World Bee Day.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From baristas at Starbucks to retail workers at Tiffany & Co, emotional performance is now part of the job description. But is mandating joy at work a way businesses can thrive – or just another path to employee burnout? Helen asks workplace culture psychologist Hajra Hussain and Mindvalley co-founder Ajit Nawalkha. Meanwhile, Dubai has made history, becoming the first Certified Autism Destination in the Eastern Hemisphere. But what does that really look like beyond airports and check-in counters? OT Adam Griffin explains, with the help of some parents...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Almost half of young people would prefer a world without internet, according to a new study. But why? And what’s it like to get caught out online? Helen is joined by Dr digital education expert Alison Burrows and Heather Harries, the mother of a teen extortion victim. Meanwhile, in today’s world of artificial intelligence, big data and analytics, it may seem that intuition has no place in decision-making. Psychologist Joslin Gracias explains why that's absolutely not the case. And as new research reveals men are twice as likely to die of ‘broken heart syndrome’, we ask life coach Chris Harrison and education consultant Claire Stancliffe how we can help our men, and boys, become more emotionally aware. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

20 May 2025. Dubai just made headlines by announcing it will accept crypto payments for government services. But what does that actually mean for you and me? Today, we're answering all the crypto questions you were to shy to ask, with Samir Safar-Aly, the Co-Chair of Policy & Regulations at the MENA FinTech Association, & Carol Glynn of Conscious Finance Coaching. Meanwhile, Joe Biden’s stage five cancer diagnosis has caused shock – but is it unusual? And what is the prognosis for patients like him in 2025? Patient Steve Ashby and oncologist Dr Deborah Mukherjee are on call. And as research suggests many long-term couples to struggle to stay engaged with each other's chat, Dr Thoriya sheds some light on what's healthy... and when communication issues signal a bigger issue.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More than 70% of drivers in the UAE admit to experiencing road rage, whether it’s tailgating, swerving, or shouting through the window. But what’s driving it? Helen asks traffic consultant Dr Mostafa Aldah and psychologist Mark Samways. Meanwhile, Haus & Haus are on hand to answer your property questions. Plus, we ask, would you forgive a cheat? What is being done to tackle financial exclusion in the Middle East? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this flavorful episode of Farmer’s Kitchen, Jen Crichton explores how food connects us to our roots — even when we’re far from home. Khalid Al Sabi of Barrad, Shaw Lash of Lila’s Taqueria, and Fay Economides of Mythos join Jen to reflect on the emotional power of food, inspired by the hit TV show No Place Like Home. Next, we tackle a heated topic: food allergies and the growing challenges they present for restaurants. Allergist Dr. Stuart Carr and allergy sufferers share their insights on navigating dining out safely. We wrap up with a cultural twist — it’s International Museum Day! Nada Badran shares how you can get involved, and food writer Simon Ritchie dishes out the latest in culinary news, from Michelin hopefuls to an unexpected olive oil controversy involving Sam Altman.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Netflix’ latest shock documentary follows the Liver King, a man who made millions selling supplements to followers of his raw meat diet. He calls it ancestral living – but is there any truth to his health claims? Helen asks Dr. Nas Al Jafari of DNA Health. Meanwhile, as new figures from Salik show a 9% rise in traffic on Dubai’s roads, engineering expert Christopher Seymour explains the infrastructure options. And after an unsupervised toddler caused untold damage to a Rothko in a Dutch gallery, should kids be banned from galleries? Curator Anna Seaman, consultant Myrna Ayad and Gareth Pyper from Repton Dubai talk it out…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s wedding season – but as new research suggests the costs are becoming too high for many guests, how can we RSVP no without creating upset? Bride Club ME’s Rhiannon Downie-Hurst, bride-to-be Ellis Horne and finance coach Carol Glynn share their thoughts. Plus, we explore ways to stay sane if sofa surfing with family this summer, and we meet some of the athletes and coaches heading to the World Transplant Games as part of the first ever team from the UAE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From hormones to tantrums, raising a teen is challenging for all involved - but could it also be impacting your relationship? A new book says yes, but that doesn’t have to be the case…Rachel Kelly, author of The Gift of Teenagers, joins Helen to discuss the upsides of adolescence. Meanwhile, with kids in Abu Dhabi getting their first device at an average age of 3, and new research suggesting child tracking apps could be doing more harm than good, is parenting getting too tech reliant? Sahar Zarringhalam of Blaura Wellness Center and Philippa Wraithmell of Edruption are on hand. And with even top journalists saying they’re suffering from news fatigue, Dr. Aseel Takshe from Canadian University Dubai explains how to stay engaged AND optimistic. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last month, Afternoons met Jessica, a new mum who leapt into action to help her 'agency' cleaner, after discovering she - and her colleagues - had been denied healthcare, visas and access to their passports. Having worked with Dubai Police to get the team's documents returned to them, Jessica set about helping them with their CVs to find them better employment - but as she explains to Helen today, she ended up hiring them instead. Plus, lawyer Dilini Loku joins us for an employment clinic, Dr Bisi Laniyan explains why stress is not a flex, we talk mole mapping for kids with dermatologist Dr Parul Thakur, and Haus & Haus' Harrison Rackham Beadle is on hand to handle your property questions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dubai Opera is cracking down on tardiness, warning latecomers will no longer be allowed to enter between curtain up and interval. Etiquette coach Ziying Zhou tells Helen why she's in favour, while the people of the UAE have their own say on the bad behaviours that drive them bananas. Emily Jenkins from DW travel is on hand to talk all things Disney - and the growth the megabrand's arrival could bring to the Middle East's tourism market. Meanwhile, we talking travelling for carbs with Birch Bakery's Kathy Johnston and Doughbai's Wadad Zarzour, learn about the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride Arabia from host Khan FM, discuss international expansion with Brunch & Cake's Chef Carmen Landsberg.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dubai Police have issued a behavior warning to football fans following unrest and a number of arrests at a match on Saturday. But what prompts disruption at sporting events - and how can it be successfully prevented? Helen puts that big question to two experts in the field - Professor of Afro-Eurasian Sport Simon Chadwick and Scott Armstrong, the founder of Mentl.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1000 new residents arrived in every day in the first quarter of this year, according to new statistics. So, what do they need to know? We asked two relocation and assimilation experts. Meanwhile, the experts tell us what new tariffs on non-American movies could mean for the film industry here, and Helen talks postnatal support with two professionals working to improve life for new mums.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's the news that's dividing parents - but is AI education really anything to be frightened of? Not at all, according to our experts. Helen gets the lowdown from Fortes Education's Dr. Neil Hopkin and Vasudha Kalhandeparkar, AI & Data Expert Lead at Grant Thornton. Meanwhile, we talk third culture divorce - and taboos - with the team behind FemFam Dubai, and author Heather Darwall-Smith lets us in on the secrets behind her new book How To Be Awake So You Can Sleep Through the Night. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A fitness influencer’s appearance in Dubai has gone viral after he brought his daughters on stage to show off their six-packs. But should kids ever be set appearance-driven physical goals – or is that a shortcut to body dysmorphia? Helen asks Florence Gillet of Beyond Body Image and PT Rory Brown. Plus, OT Adam Griffin and speech pathologist Tina Younes talk Speech, Language and Hearing Month, Anna Kaminski from NeuroKinds discusses new research on the impact of yelling at kids, and Charlie Bannan from Haus & Haus is on hand to answer your real estate questions...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Helen sits down with legendary chef Marco Pierre White today to discuss his collab with a food delivery service in Dubai, the relevance (or not) of Michelin, and why he hates a tasting menu. It seems everyone is collaborating in Dubai’s kitchens at the moment. But why? Chef Akmal Anuar and Chef Alessandro Salvatico let us in on the benefits of a four-hands dinner. And with one of Dubai’s hottest openings now under their belts, Johnny Tomazos, and Chef Praba Manickam of The Cullinan join Helen in the studio.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From new destinations to a new GCC Visa, Helen gets the expert lowdown on all things travel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Netflix’s star-studded new series The Four Seasons follows the fallout of a friendship group hit by divorce within its ranks. Helen asks mediator Karen Sutherland and lawyer Byron James how this dilemma tends to shake out in normal life. Meanwhile, as the UK unveils proposals for a social media curfew to keep kids safe online, and the US seeks to criminalise non-consensual image sharing, we ask education expert Dr Alison Burrows and Barry Lee Cummings of Beat the Cyber Bully how this could change the landscape? And as a shock new documentary raises concerns about the nutritional make-up of common baby and infant food pouches, parenting coach Sophie Jones and paediatric dietitian Aisling Oslizlok weigh in…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From parking to road tolls to school fees, prices are rising in the UAE. So, how do we respond? Helen gets expert advice from Beth Clay of Financed Well and financial coach Jay Adrien Tolentino. Meanwhile, the 2025 edition of the annual GCC Board Gender Index Report shows the UAE leading the way with 14.8% of board seats held by women. The experts break down why its important. And as George and Amal Clooney say they’ve NEVER had a row in 11 years of marriage, Dr Thoriaya of the Human Relations Institute explains why that's not necessarily a good thing... See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.