Afternoons with Helen Farmer

We get that from Dr Thoraiya Kanafani as we discuss celebrating pacing your peaks and trusting your own path. Dubai Health's Dr Sara Kazim shares what's in place to ensure safety of crowds celebrating New Year's Eve in the city. We also discuss how common heart diseases and cardiac arrest are among teens following the tragic death of a 17-year-old student in Sharjah. Hollie Mayes guides us on how to declutter properly, especially when emotions are hindering you. And are experiential gifts better presents for kids?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As we look ahead to 2026, a lot of parents are quietly asking the same question: is gentle parenting still working, or have we misunderstood it altogether? Our kids are growing up in one of the safest places in the world, but travel can quickly expose them to very different realities. Today we’re talking child safety beyond screens, from airports and hotels to public spaces and unfamiliar cultures. ADHD diagnoses are rising worldwide, particularly among adults who are only now realising there may be a reason life has always felt harder than it should. But with that rise comes confusion, misinformation, and sometimes backlash. We look at what ADHD really is, when a diagnosis helps, and where responsibility still matter.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Helen explores how our mouth health is connected with other parts of the body more than we think, with Dr David Roze. ​Can the current flu vaccine protect you from the new flu variant? Dr Howard Podolsky has the answers And discussing men's mental health with Scott Armstrong of Mentl.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Away from Dubai’s 5-star kitchens, what can food teach us about culture and community? Helen asks superstar chef, TV host and UN Food Security Advocate Andrew Zimmern. Plus, we find out who’s eating at Neighbourhood Food Hall (hint, he’s got a beard and you’d better be nice), and we talk festive desserts with Bateel Bakery.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New research from McKinsey and Lean In has found women “want promotions less”, meanwhile, Zoe Ball is making headlines for leaning out to spend time with her family. Do we need to reframe how we view female ambition? Helen asks Anushka Kalyanpur DeLuca of Nannies & More and leadership expert Constanze Munz. Meanwhile, as new data from Betterhomes shows nearly 60 percent of UAE residents now plan to stay for over a decade, KCA’s Alex Elander-Phoenix explains how to foster a sense of belonging for our kids, their schools and our communities. Plus, Principal Lisa is on hand for an early-years parenting clinic…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From working on leave and carrying over holidays, to the impact of AI and job security into 2026, HR consultant Rohini Bhalla-Gill joins Helen for an end of year HR temperature check…Plus, kids are off school, excitement levels are high – but disagreements can ruin the festive vibes. So, how do you keep all your kids happy and off each other’s backs during the winter break? Leilani Rooks, Wildflower Family Coaching, joins Helen with some expert advice.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

So, your kid wants devices, and you want to go old school? We get a Adam the OT’s advice on how to navigate kids’ festive requests – and how to keep them occupied during the holidays too… Meanwhile, it’s often billed as the most joyous time of the year – but when there’s an empty seat at the table, grief can hit hard. So, how can we navigate the festive season while grieving? Helen asks Tanya Dharamshi, the clinical psychologist who leads Lighthouse Arabia’s Raymee Grief Centre. Plus, with rain forecast, Motor Mania’s Damien Reid is on hand with all the info you need to navigate the roads safely.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ADHD is one of the most talked about diagnoses right now, yet many still associate it only with distraction or disruption. Today we are flipping that narrative and asking how ADHD can actually work for you, not against you, with Nadia Mankani & Angela Marson, Certified ADHD coaches and co-founders of ADHD 360. Plus, with 6-7 named ‘word’ of the year, we ask Dr Sarah Rasmi what it tells us about communal experience in 2025 – and we’ve got your expat legal clinic too.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From the Mexican restaurant prizing authenticity to a sneaker/snack crossover, Helen meets the foodies changing the scene in Dubai this week. Plus, we go behind the scenes at Expo Dubai’s festive season, pop backstage with Magic Phil, and chat festive films and new releases with William Mullally.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

82-year-old Mick Jagger’s extreme workout regime has gone viral for testing the fittest 20-somethings. It’s proof that exercise isn’t only for the young – but how do we adapt our movement to changing limitations as we age? Helen asks adaptive athlete Henry Dunn and Roland Roth, a Dubai-based retiree who started dancing at 62. Plus, we talk education, from sustainable teaching in the UAE's nurseries to meeting the founder of the UK's fastest growing school... which has no classrooms, walls or timetables.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

He conquered self-doubt to become F1's world champion in Abu Dhabi - but what can the rest of us learn from Lando Norris' lessons in psychology? Helen meets sports psychologist Dr Scott Whitfield. Plus, we meet the doctor stopping diseases before we happen, and learn how community is supporting the UAE's small businesses this winter...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's long been viewed negatively - but if dyslexia impacts one in three entrepreneurs, are we thinking about it all wrong? We meet a creator who says yes. Meanwhile, on the health front, we talk weight loss jab downsides, and examine calls for blood pressure testing in schools. Plus, it's visiting relatives season - Dr Thoriya has all the advice you need to get through the holiday season smiling.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New research says elder millennials could be about to fall off an ageing cliff, with data suggesting age 44 marks a significant health decline for many. So, what can we do about it? Helen asks Dr Nas of DNA Health. Meanwhile, as we broadcast live from Abu Dhabi’s Bridge Summit, we talk tech, media, phones for kids and more - and meet YouTuber Crazy XYZ to ask what it’s like to have your every move followed by more than 35 million people.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The weather is perfect in Dubai, so if you’re dreaming of your next long lunch or golden-hour dinner, there’s a new spot by the sea that’s already turning heads. Canary Club, the JLT favourite known for its West Coast energy, has just opened a beachfront sister on Palm Jumeirah. We speak with husband and wife and co-founders of Rosy Hospitality Ziad and Rowan Kamel about the new chapter of their entrepreneurial life as they exited one brand they helped create. With over 10 million guests expected to pass through DXB between now and the end of the month, many of us - whether flying out or staying put - may feel the ripple effect. We ask Emily Jenkins what these numbers really mean for travellers and Dubai residents alike. Staying with travel, but closer to home - in Ras Al Khaimah. Jebel Jais has unveiled its programme for this winter season, running from now through until April 2026. Talking F1 and sport tourism with ES Sport as we near this weekend’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix And we get exclusive updates on all things Wicked before it goes to Dubai Opera from THE Helen Farmer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From smash spaces, filled with old TVs, washing machines and crockery, to primal scream sessions and rage therapy, facilities that offer an outlet for anger are seeing huge demand from women who want a safe, structured way to let off steam. But why do we need it? And where is all that rage coming from? We get the take and advices of The Family Hub's Hanan Ezzeldin, who has very recently ran workshops for parents precisely around emotion regulation and anger management.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The team at MoneyFarm has uncovered a steep jump in the cost of raising a child, to an average of AED 1.2 million BEFORE you include school fees. That bill has risen by more than 10% in just two years, with researchers citing rising costs for childcare, teenage grooming, tech and the everyday essentials. Finance coach Carol Glynn joins us to unpack what it means for parents trying to plan, budget and stay afloat. December, though a month full of parties and celebrations, often leads to heightened emotions - too much comparison, the pressure to create the perfect holiday. And when expectations don’t meet reality, tensions surface fast - It’s no coincidence that UK family law body Resolution reports a 25 to 30% rise in divorce enquiries every January. So, how do we avoid becoming a part of those statistics? Is there a real difference between vet-approved diets and supermarket pet food? Dr Joana Porto from Modern Vet guides us. And the first-ever World Triathlon Women’s Cup is taking place in Dubai this weekend and is set to bring some of the world's top female athletes here to compete, including Samantha Ivy Keet, South African multi-sport athlete and a cancer survivor who ran a half-marathon during chemotherapy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Eid Al Etihad, Helen meets Emirati entrepreneur, founder and athlete Asmah Hilal Lootah to talk 20 years in business in the UAE, and talks one expat celebrating a significant anniversary of her own – 50 years in the country…Plus, with winter travels approaching, we talk skincare and allergy management abroad with Dr Faheem Lateef, and if you’re experiencing end of year burnout, you’re not alone – executive coach Noona Nafoosi explains why high performers often struggle during the holidays - and what you can do about it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From hot new restaurants and celebrating chefs, to insider food tours and a behind the scenes glimpse at the Coca-Cola Arena, Helen has all the intel you need to end the year on a high…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new law means non-Emiratis can now foster children here in the UAE. So, what does it mean for families - and what is the reality of building a family through fostering and adoption here? Helen meets adoptive mums Laura-Jane Hall & Vicki Galloway-Place. Meanwhile, this winter sees a longer school holiday coming after a packed – and for many people, stressful – term of tests, exams and sports. So, how can you use the next four weeks to help your child, tween or teen decompress and relax? Psychologist Maha Cooper has all the advice you need.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's an issue it can be hard to discuss, but the festive season and problem drinking go hand in hand. Helen meets the experts providing rehabilitation here in the UAE and asks, how do you navigate all those parties if you're struggling with an addiction? We also learn how teaching your kids about money NOW can help ensure a financially free future - and we delved into new research about the impact of ultra processed foods too.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new skincare line aimed at kids as young as three has been making global headlines. Its makers say it lets kids play grown-up safely. Its critics say it’s harmful messaging. But what do parents need to know? Helen asks Dr Natalia Spierings.Plus, we talk the rise and rise of the over-50s divorce with therapist Dr Tanya Dharamshi, and Alex from House of Social is on hand for a small business clinic.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s gone from a viral Instagram account to a global survey, examining the public’s answer to the question “if you could own any artwork in the world, what would it be and why”. Now, the votes are in… Helen meets Erin-Atlanta Argun from My Art Broker.We also discuss the rise of teen gambling – and what you should do if your child is at risk – and we have all the info you need before buying any new tech for teens and tweens this Christmas.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, the cast of WICKED the musical arrived in the Middle East to begin rehearsals before their opening night at Dubai Opera in January. Helen is joined in studio by Rebekah Lowings and Eve Shanu-Wilson, who play Elphaba and Glinda respectively, to hear what it's like to step into those iconic green and pink shoes. Plus, it’s Friday, which means all things food…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s social season, sports season, school end of term, and the demands are endless. But could you say ‘no’ to more engagements without losing friends and professional connections? Katy Holmes from the British Chamber of Commerce tells Helen how she’s making it work. Plus, as new research finds screens are replacing storytime, MC Grammar joins us to explain how rapping is making reading fun again…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From sleep to shift work, jetlag to stress, Helen gets the lowdown from Dr. Kristen Holmes, Global Head of Human Performance at WHOOP. Plus, we talk specialist vet care, meet the 10-year old author navigating diabetes at primary school, and as the world marks Women's Entrepreneurship Day, we ask why it's still harder to find funding for female run businesses.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Burnout, stress and overwhelm are rife - so why do we all feel the need to pretend we’re “fine”? Helen asks Dr Thoriya. Plus, we meet the dad helping dozens of other fathers navigating life as solo parents in the UAE…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From misdiagnosis to the new companions apeing human connection, tech companies are coming for our most private interactions. But what are the potential benefits and pitfalls to algorithmic care? Jen asks Dr Anna Machin, author and doctor of evolutionary anthropology at Oxford University. Plus, we find out what parents and doctors in the UAE’s NICUs want you to know this World Prematurity Day, and we discuss changes to employment law aimed at boosting work/life balance in the UAE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From family fun to ladies day, we get the lowdown on everything golfing going on this weekend. Plus, we're joined by chef Richard Sandoval, we talk music for movement, we learn about chocolate shortages, and William Mullally talks bad reviews - and Kim Kardashian..See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Children now spend nearly five hours a day on screens outside school, yet almost half of teens say their parents don’t understand their online world. So what would they tell you if they didn’t fear the consequences? Helen speaks to cyberpsychology expert Catherine Knibbs.Plus, we discuss that gut brain connection with world-renowned naturopath Dr Jason Mitchell.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the NYT headline that sparked a thousand others – but what does that viral question tell us about workplace relations in 2025? Helen asks recruiter David Mackenzie and workplace culture consultant Lucy D’Abo.Plus, Hunt Etheridge joins us to discuss the internet’s latest dating ick – men who don’t ask questions – and Madeleine Mendy talks us through UAE law for women who want to give birth as single mums…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From David Beckham to Bradley Cooper, a host of famous men have stepped out with remarkably different faces lately. So why are men now getting more tweakments than women – and what are their options when they go wrong? Helen asks Dr Dany Touma from Skin Experts. Plus, we learn about the new network aiming to help Dubai’s professionals make real, tangible connections, and we learn about the work of the Dubai’s only mental health facility dedicated to play therapy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A ground-breaking case in Abu Dhabi could see a man awarded maintenance by his ex-wife in a historic first. Lawyer Byron James has the lowdown. Plus, we talk accent development – and the role of YouTube in your child’s vocabulary with speech therapist Sarah Wedel, and Harrison from Haus & Haus joins us to talk apartment investment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In an age of influencers, is there still a place for anonymous expert food commentary? Helen asks Dubai’s OG influencer, Foodiva.Plus, we learn about a new breakfast collab, meet the chef behind a Bab Al Shams pop up, and ask how a cup of chai can help create community…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s shifted from the playground to phones and online platforms, but the impact of bullying remains huge. So, how do you help your child, tween or teen recover after bullying? Helen meets Maha Cooper, the Counselling psychologist behind a new course to help kids help themselves. Plus, if you’re facing an annual review this month, expert Dr Oudi is on hand to teach us how to give – and receive – feedback well.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You’re not new to Dubai - but you’re out of work and you can’t find a job. What do you do? Recruiter Mollie Powell has all the answers you need. Plus, we talk men's mental health and the remaining barriers to therapy, we learn about the early signs of heart disease, and it's pets and vets day too! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

According to the new Motherhood & Ambition in the UAE study, 73% of mothers are still working in some capacity – but nearly a third say they feel much more isolated since becoming parents. So, what’s going wrong? Helen is joined by Anushka Kalyanpur DeLuca, founder of Nannies & More, & Constanze Munz, culture and leadership expert. Plus, we talk prostate cancer screening with a patient and doctor on a mission to raise screening rates this Movember, and as a host of celebrities speak up on postnatal depression, we ask if their openness could finally end the stigma around maternal mental health…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Employees in the UAE face a contraction in salaries this year as a flood of new residents comes to the country, according to new data. So, how do you avoid a crunch? David MacKenzie has the answers.Meanwhile, we meet the handwriting expert who says she can tell if you’re working – and coupling up – with the right people, Dr Shef is on hand to discuss resistance training for kids, and we talk renovation projects with Haus & Haus too…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s Friday, which means food and fun. Helen learns about a new tabletop gaming tournament headed for Dubai, discusses a year of UAE award wins with chef Bjorn Frantzen, learns about healthy eating in our city, and What’s On editor Liam is on hand with all your Halloween picks...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The average worker has spent almost 50% of their paycheque within 48 hours of being paid. So, how do you stretch your funds further when costs keep rising. Helen asks Carol Glynn of Conscious Finance Coaching. We also find out how the British Council in Dubai is helping the UAE harness the power of its young population - and we're joined by Cognita Education to learn a bit more about the realities of introducing AI to the nation's classrooms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lily Allen’s new album has gone viral for its unfiltered honesty about heartbreak and betrayal. But when does emotional expression cross into revenge – and when does revenge make a bad situation worse? Helen asks Dr T. Plus, we learn about a new course for young drivers, and talk executive function with Adam the OT…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask your friends how they’re doing right now, and the chances are the word overwhelm will feature. But how does that differ from stress - and when does a busy life become a problem? Helen is joined by Bobby Qureshi, CMM Institute of Natural Health and Janelle Houston from Tree of Hope. Meanwhile, more and more businesses are cottoning on to the potential of the menopause market. But are women being exploited by a hormone gold rush that’s more about capitalism than care? We ask the experts. And with school assessment season upon us, we ask one educator when tutoring becomes counterproductive?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Digital addiction is fast becoming one of the world’s biggest mental health challenges. Now, one globally-renowned expert says the problem isn’t games - it’s what’s driving us to escape into them. Helen is joined by Dr Alok Kanojia.Meanwhile, we meet the entrepreneur homeschooling her kids to boost her family’s flexibility, we answer you questions on crypto law in the UAE and Haus & Haus are on hand talking commercial propertySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.