Afternoons with Helen Farmer

As the UAE opens its doors to retirees, the country faces an urgent question: do we have the capacity to care for an ageing population, particularly those facing degenerative brain conditions like dementia? Helen finds out about the care options currently being put in place with Jackie Hoi Man Chan of Dubai’s University of Wollongong and Consultant Neurologist Dr Derk Krieger. Meanwhile, there’s more to a successful neighbourhood than buildings. But can you build for community - and if so, how? Jessica Voorn, Principal Urban Planner at Atkins Realis, explains. Haus and Haus are on hand discussing property investment for women. And we delve into the realities of teaching in the UAE…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We asked you, and What’s On editor Liam Joyce, while Pitfire Pizza founder Michele Johnson – who garnered quite a few votes – joined Helen to announce an exciting new opening.We also learned about Abu Dhabi’s new community awards, discussed a theatrical new opening in Dubai, and found out how to eat your way to a better night’s sleep…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Emirati Women’s Day isn’t just a celebration - it’s also about telling the stories of what it means to be a woman in the UAE today. Helen meets two local role models whose work is giving a global voice to local women. Plus, we’re joined by the business coach teaching kids across the UAE about entrepreneurship, finance and thinking like a boss….See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From credit cards and car loans to family expectations back home, getting into debt in Dubai can be easier than getting out of it. Helen hears one worker’s debt story – and gets advice from the experts. Meanwhile, as a new survey finds 45% of Gen Z workers want a job with more social interaction, has the appeal of remote working waned? And if you’re finding it challenging to get your kids to pull their weight at home, we discuss weaponised incompetence – and how to rid your home of it…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Multiple European countries have now enshrined children’s rights to digital privacy in law. But what does the law in the UAE say? Lawyer Dino Wilkinson and digital educator Philippa Wraithmell advise. Plus, we discuss those robot womb hoax posts, Serena Williams’ new campaign for weight loss jabs, and Dr T is on hand to discuss the emergence of a ‘new’ personality type.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feeling like the holiday buzz just won’t fade? Is the quiet house making you wonder where your kids—and your energy—went? Join Jen Crichton as she unravels whether what you're experiencing is just seasonal slump—or a sign it’s time for a deeper life reset. Shazia Bharuchi, Career Guidance Practitioner, and Rhiannon Downie‑Hurst, business coach, break down how to return to routine without letting those “post-holiday blues” spiral into something more. Rhian Lindley, The Positive Divorce Coach, dives into the complex emotions of empty nest syndrome—why this new chapter can bring both grief and freedom, and how to support your children even as you find your own footing. Julie Mallon, sleep expert from Nurture To Sleep, shares practical insights on how recalibrating sleep habits can transform mornings, and Clementine Munro from Haus & Haus discusses how navigating traffic and the school run can even influence where you choose to live.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From movies and TV to live music and, of course, the city's best food, Helen has everything you need to know as we head into Dubai's busiest season...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Quiet quitting made headlines, but now there’s a more worrying workplace trend– quiet cracking. It’s the breaking point employees reach when financial pressure means they can’t walk away, and HR expert Rohini Gill says it’s on the rise… Plus, Adam the OT has all the advice you need for navigating back to school anxieties.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s hard to see how arguing could save your marriage, but one lawyer is so convinced it could, he’s written a whole book about it – called If You're in My Office, It's Already Too Late. So, what can it teach us? Sarah Rasmi from Thrive Wellbeing Centre and family lawyer Madeleine Mendy weigh in. Plus, we discuss Denzel Washington’s blast on cancel culture, and the Dubai Hair Doctor is with us for a hair loss clinic…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From world-changing kids to pastel-colored debt to a culture stuck on refresh—this episode of Afternoons with Helen Farmer dives into the contradictions shaping 2025. We begin with AlDhabi AlMheiri, the 11-year-old Emirati changemaker behind the world’s first AI academy for kids. Her mission? To make tech ethical, inclusive, and accessible—especially for girls. Next: why is debt now wrapped in soft colors and influencer aesthetics? We unpack the hidden risks of Buy Now, Pay Later culture with financial planner Michele Carby, and hear from Mei, a Filipina expat navigating the fallout of a 7,000 AED loan. Finally, we ask: what happens when a summer has no defining vibe? No anthem, no blockbuster—just vibes and brain rot. Is it a cultural crisis, or a break from the hype machine? We hear from Afroz Nawaf, Film Lecturer at Middlesex University Dubai, and Amanda Hoover, the Business Insider journalist who coined the term "Summer Brain Rot."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Jen Crichton for a compelling conversation on caring across generations and borders. Discover what’s behind the rise in eating disorders among UAE children (as young as eight) and how experts like Aisling Oslizlok and Liam Kelly are responding. Then, explore the emotional challenges expats face when supporting ageing parents from afar with therapeutic coach Anne Jackson and finance coach Jay Adrian Tolentino. We’ll also unpack the pressures of overexercise culture with trainer Rory Brown, and debunk the biggest myths Dubai property investors need to know featuring insights from Haus & Haus Sales Director Tom Poulson.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chef Alexandros Sperxos joins Jen Crichton to share what it’s like to lead The Dish, one of twelve unique concepts at Culinara Social Dining, perched 100 metres above the city in the world’s highest food hall. On the ground, Mazlum Topcu, co-founder of The Banc, explains how the new Mini Bancer weight-loss–friendly menu offers high-protein, smaller portions to accommodate changing appetites. Meanwhile, the trailer for Season Two of the Netflix show With Love, Meghan was just released. And it’s the moment revealing that Prince Harry doesn’t like lobster that’s really getting people talking. So, on the show, we delve on the topic of fussy eating with occupational therapist Tara Connolly. Plus, we explore eco-fashion initiatives with Jennifer Sault of Thrift For Good, and learn about environmentally friendly floristry from Kat Legaspi, founder of Raya Flora.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The UAE job market is buzzing with opportunities, but standing out takes more than just a polished CV. Join us as Mollie Powell, Founder & Managing Director of Pink Camel Recruitment, shares insider tips to get noticed in a competitive job market. We also sit down with Mark Samways, Director of Wellbeing & Counselling Psychologist at The Free Spirit Collective, to explore how schools abroad are successfully teaching empathy, the surprising benefits for academic performance and social skills, and practical ways parents can nurture empathy at home.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why do we still fall for toxic leaders, and what does that say about how we see the world? A new study reveals how our worldview might shape the leaders we choose, and how happy we are at work. The lead author of the research Christine Nguyen joins us live from Columbia Business School, with leadership consultant Paul Littlejohn in studio. Then: “Summer shading” has been dubbed the worst dating trend of 2025. But could pressing pause on love during the heat of the season actually teach us something deeper about relationships? Relationship expert Nicola Beer weighs in. And finally, would you take a job that exposes you to the internet’s darkest content, daily? We go behind the scenes with a person who protects your feed. Hear the story of a content moderator from one of the world's biggest social media platforms, plus expert insight from Dr. Kirin Hillier and Prof. Talal Abdul Ghani Shaikh.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today’s episode of Afternoons, Jen Crichton unravels why so many of us delay sleep—staying up late to reclaim “me time.” Is it a nightly rebellion or a sneaky sabotage of our well‑being? We then dive into the Y2K trend and nostalgia resurgence, exploring how brands and media use memory as a marketing weapon and a bridge to our emotions. Finally, we examine the rise of therapy‑speak in everyday talk. Words like “gaslighting” and “boundaries” have crossed into casual conversation, but are we using them wisely, or diluting their meaning?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Jennifer Crichton as she explores what it truly means to feel good about yourself—starting with the pressures teens face today, from beauty standards to social media. We’ll hear from body image coach Victoria Henry and makeup educator Nitasha Saxena, who share empowering strategies for building self-esteem. Next, we shift to travel—cooler destinations are booming among UAE families. Now, with the new Unified School Calendar—how might this shift your travel plans? Emily Jenkins from DW Travel breaks down what it means for your next getaway. We also delve into groundbreaking advances in personalized cancer care. Join Dr. Anwar Baban as we uncover how genetic testing is reshaping treatments to be more effective and kinder in the UAE. And finally, in a market full of property agents - how do you choose the right one? Harrison Rackham Beadle of Haus & Haus has the answer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sustainability and locality has amplified hugely here in Dubai in recent years but despite that, true farm to table dining remains very rare here in the UAE. We speak to one restaurant that does chef-farmer collaborations and seasonally-curated menus. We also look at 21Grams team’s newest opening in Alserkal focusing on pies. Food writer extraordinaire Courtney Brandt fills us with the weird and wonderful headlines from the world of food. William Mullally gives us updates on the biggest events to look forward to in the UAE and of course, about his recent interview with the one and only Lindsay Lohan. And we meet the drums teacher taking Dubai's kids viral.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A recent study by the British Heart Foundation found nine out of 10 British adults had abandoned at least one hobby they pursued as children. 40 per cent from the figure say the last time they engaged in a childhood hobby was over 10 years ago. So, why do so many of us step away from creative pursuits in adult life and what's stopping us getting back to them? Jennifer shares her own story as she's joined by three people who would very much love to change the picture- Craig Arnolds, dancer and coach at Studio Republik, Tiffany Schultz, Co-founder of The Courtyard Playhouse and Eli Sibua, vocal coach & UAE National Director of the World Championships of Performing Arts. A new research by Yahoo Finance has shone fresh light on the gender gap when it comes to finance. Now of course, we know that there is still a gender pay gap - women earn roughly 85 per cent of what men do in developed nations. But what's surprising about this research is that it’s less to do with money than about confidence, support, and openness to risk. We unpack it with Beth Clay from Financed Well. And do we have too much health data now? Dr Shefali Verma, Integrative Medicine Doctor at The Flow Space, tells us if it's doing more harm than good.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mankeeping is the new term for a common trend in which women feel they need to actively manage their male partners' emotional and social lives for them. So, is it a sign of shifting gender dynamics or emotional labour gone too far? We ask a man- and international dating and relationship coach Hunt Ethridge. Experts in the UAE are warning that emotional venting online can lead to serious legal consequences especially under strict defamation and privacy laws. So, what's permitted and when does badmouthing an ex become a legal issue? We speak with lawyers Devanand Mahadeva and Byron James. Access to menopause education, care and medication is increasingly affecting everybody. Misinformation about what perimenopause and menopause care is not just costing women their health, it's also costing our businesses and our economy. So, why is the right care and medication so hard to come by? We're joined by Sophie Smith, Founder and CEO of Nabta Health and Dr Jasmine Malek, Consultant Family Medicine at HealthBay. And how does education change when the whole world is your classroom? Amanda Ashworth, Founder of Worldschooling Hub Goa shares her story. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whether it's biology, or the traditional, capitalist norm of the mum as a carer and dad as a breadwinner, it's easy to think of fathers as the secondary parent. However, it is scientifically provable that more involved dads create huge value for our kids, and for society as a whole. Jennifer gets more information from Dr Anna Machin, a doctor of evolutionary anthropology, author of the book The Life of Dad: The Making of the Modern Father, and a world-renowned pioneer in the field of fatherhood science. This week a new experimental male contraceptive pill has passed its first human safety trials. So, after decades of hope for an alternative to the traditional female contraceptive pill, are we actually, finally, getting somewhere? Dr Luciano Nardo, a Consultant in Reproductive Medicine & Infertility and Dr Samina Dornan, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist give their take. And as more young people turn to TikTok for news, around 39 per cent of under thirties, according to the latest research, it also found that many of them don't know how to separate fact from fiction online. So, how concerned should we be about the potential for misinformation to be spread as fact? And what does this tell us about the need to train our kids - and ourselves - about how to navigate a new media landscape? Sociologist and senior lecturer in journalism Dr Ruta Vaidya joins Jennifer live in the studio.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you've been driving between Abu Dhabi and Dubai at all this summer, you'll likely have noticed the billboards promoting Abu Dhabi's Safe Summer campaign. The capital has put a huge focus on keeping kids secure on the roads including the importance of seatbelt and car seat use. But what are the penalties for motorists who ignore those rules? There is also another joint initiative in the capital promoting a culture of positive and immediate response when it comes to giving way for emergency vehicles. How can motorists develop empathy and responsible decision-making on the roads? Dr Mustafa Aldah from MA-TC Traffic Consulting has all the updates Experts are sounding the alarm over a troubling trend - a rise in vaping among teenagers, and for the first time in a decade, an accompanying rise in youth smoking. What are the long-term health risks associated with nicotine use starting in adolescence? Does it make a difference if teens use vapes or cigarettes? We ask Consultant Pulmonologist Dr Rachel Kaminski And a new type of skin cancer screening has been created in France, with the help of AI. So, could it change the game? Dr. Akreti Sobti, dermatologist and co-founder of Athena Dermatology gives her take.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

That's only one of lots of food news we have for you today on Afternoons as Jennifer speaks with writer and editor Devina Divecha How reliable are vitamin patches? It's the latest wellness trend to dominate social media feeds that claim to deliver nutrients straight through the skin and bypass the need for pills or gummies. But do they actually work? We find out from Dr Fiji Antony, Chief Clinical Dietician at NMC Specialty Hospital, Al Nahda, Dubai How can restaurants make or break your hotel experience? We hear from Chef Prabhash of Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah William Mullally is back for more entertainment updates For the first time ever, the UAE is sending a national team of organ transplant recipients to compete in the World Transplant Games in Germany this month. We have kidney transplant recipients/ athletes Fatima and Omar in the studio And there's a new route on the running map for marathoners... you will be surprised.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A recent study found nearly a quarter of UAE residents are expected to spend more than AED 10,000 per person on travel this summer. And that's a choice, of course, but with ticket prices on popular routes up to 300 per cent higher this year, many families are finding an annual holiday is now something that requires some serious financial planning. So, do you need a holiday? Are there ways to cut costs? Financial independence coach Steve Cronin has the advices you need England became the champions of Europe once again in the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 final, defeating world champions Spain on Sunday. We often assume tournaments are won by the most-skilled, but it seems, here and in many other sporting events, the answer might be breathwork. We speak with life coach and breathwork teacher Sam Adams who has worked on resilience and stress management with a host of local, national and top flight football clubs in the UK. We also turn our attention on the new permit for social media influencers-- what will it mean for your feed? House of Social's Alex Maia talks us through the current rules and how big a change this is. And a new research by Sapien Labs found that children spending more than seven hours a day on screens show higher rates of anxiety, depression and disrupted sleep. To break down what this means for our kids and for us, Jen is joined by Dr Alison Burrows, Professor of Education and Childhood Studies at Middlesex University Dubai. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We were discussing the role of degrees in job seeking and hiring this week and we had a question from one person who said he was struggling to get interviews despite 30 years of experience. So we ask: What are the rules around ageism here in the UAE when it comes to getting a job? Lawyer Thenji Moyo joins Jennifer to shed light on this Researchers say we live in an age where loneliness is affecting people of all ages, genders and nationalities and it's a particular issue here in the UAE, where working days are long and relationships can feel transient. And now, it seems, this lack of close relationships is being worsened by a rise in ghosting - when a friend leaves your life with no warning and no explanation. So, why is ghosting on the rise and what does it mean for how we form friendships? We find out from Clinical Psychologist Dr Asha Dullabh. And a new UNICEF‐led UN study has found that nearly 60% of young people have experienced secondary trauma from consuming media content featuring graphic images of conflict online. Dr. Aseel Takshe, Acting Dean of the School of Health Sciences and Psychology at Canadian University Dubai tells us what it means about our online environment and what parents and young adults need to know.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In many workplaces, urgency culture has become the norm: every email, meeting, or task is treated like a crisis, triggering a constant state of hyper-vigilance. According to recent research right here in the GCC, this steady pressure is fueling anxiety, exhaustion, and widespread burnout among professionals. But why? And how do we switch off if your company's culture is on and on and on? Dr Thoraiya Kanafani from the Human Resources Institute and Clinics helps us unpack how urgency culture pushes people over the edge and what it means for mental health. This month, a new study by Times Higher Education has highlighted that many students admit to using AI in ways universities never anticipated, prompting not just a raft of summer resits but also prompting urgent calls to redefine what ‘cheating’ means in the age of AI. We explore what that means for exam policy, student behaviour, and academic integrity with Dr Zeenath Reza Khan, Founding president of the Centre for Academic Integrity in the UAE. Why are you buying what you're buying? Jen discusses the psychology of shopping with Kate Hardcastle, AKA The Customer Whisperer and author of The Science of Shopping.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The UAE's Ministry of Education has announced a new unified school calendar for 2025-2026 for all private and public schools across the whole country. It's aimed at bringing some consistency across the board and across age groups, and it could mean big changes for some families, especially when it comes to holidays. We discuss this with John Bell, the Founding and Current Principal of Bloom World Academy and Jenny Mollon, Senior Editor from Which School Advisor. Men’s magazine GQ attracted some very polarised opinions when it wrote a piece encouraging men to capitalise on their wives' friendships by befriending their husbands. The comments raised a couple of key questions - why do women seemingly find it easier to make and maintain friendships as adults? And do men really need their wives to make friends for them? Monarch Health Centers' Ali Ilyas is here to help A new research involving a host of different recruiters across the UAE suggests that in some industries, the name on your diploma matters less than the skills you bring to the table. According to some recruiters, a mid-tier graduate could outearn an academic star because of the roles they choose, how fast they adapt, and the value they deliver. But is that actually the case in reality? Jennifer talks to experts David MacKenzie, Group Managing Director at MacKenzie Jones and Rohini Ballah Gill, Senior HR & Management Consultant.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Farmer’s Kitchen, Jen Crichton serves up a feast of global flavors and adventurous escapes. We dive into the bold new opening of 3FILS Abu Dhabi with Chef Jhovani Manalo, and explore how Baoli is redefining luxury beach dining—with Executive Chef Omar Basiony live in studio. Then it’s game on as we uncover the booming world of sports tourism, from World Cups to unexpected global sporting adventures—with expert insights from Stuart Kirkham of ES Sports. Finally, we wrap with what’s trending in Dubai’s food scene with James Pemberton, and team behind The Workshop Dubai, where café culture meets creativity. Food, travel, and everything in between—this episode is not to be missed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're discussing how to keep the kids entertained and productive this summer while giving them the confidence to build out their ideas and learn about business with Alex of House of Social and Charlotte DeSouza of Blah Blah Blah How are the summer holidays going for you? If you’re a parent, the hours the kids are at home are longer so it might mean too as: climbing the walls, more siblings fight. That’s apart from minding camps and extended family visiting. So how can you manage without getting drained this season? Principal Lisa is here to help And one recent US study found people who maintain clear boundaries report 60% higher life satisfaction, while researchers found the practice could also reduce anxiety by up to 40%. But, increasingly, experts fear the idea of protecting our own peace is also leaving us less able to handle tension, to compromise, or even to persevere in relationships. So, when is stepping away healthy and when does it become about disconnection? Jennifer is joined by Thrive Wellbeing Centre's Dr Sarah Rasmi to discuss.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It sounds extreme — but 43% of Americans say they would. What does that say about love, loyalty, and financial pressure in today’s relationships? Psychologist Tanya Dharamshi joins Helen with the info. Meanwhile, as a new survey finds 34% of Gen Z jobseekers have indulged in professional ghosting – accepting a job then not showing up – we explore the reality of work for young adults with Dr Kirin Hillier of Heriot Watt University Dubai. And we talk holiday health – from trying new forms of exercise to why so many of us get sick the minute our OOO goes on…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The latest Dubai property market figures suggest an increasing number of residents are going from renting to buying. But what are the key challenges to renovating here – and why do so many struggle to keep costs down? Helen gets some expert advice. Meanwhile, do you know the true cost of university? Carol Glynn talks tactics when it comes to saving, while Unihawk’s Varun James has the scoop on which schools offer the best value. Plus, we get the lowdown on the link between artificial sweeteners and early puberty from Dr Nandu Thalange.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The CEO of Astronomer has quit after being caught on Coldplay’s kiss cam with his head of HR. But is that grounds for divorce? What are the rules? And when does a personal scandal become a professional risk? Thenji Moyo and Madeleine Mendy are on hand. Meanwhile, the Women’s Euros tournament is ongoing with the prize pot up 156% - STILL around a ninth of the men’s prize. But does one groundbreaking club have the answer to equality in football? Helen chats to Karen Dobres, former director of Lewes FC & author of Pitch Invasion. Plus, Haus & Haus is on hand with the latest from Dubai’s property market.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s Friday, it’s summer time, and the days when that meant a lazy weekend was mandatory are long gone. The UAE is as busy as ever this summer, as Helen finds out from a host of top restaurateurs, chefs and food industry experts. Plus we talk movies, Emmys nominations and AI in film with two industry insiders…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you relish a chance to chat – or prefer to hide in the corner at professional events? If the latter, it might be time for a rethink, argues Professor Ben Hardy. Meanwhile, Helen get the lowdown on Roblox’ new teen safeguards from the platform’s new head of Parental Advocacy, Dr. Elizabeth Milovidov. and talks how to implement them with digital education expert Philippa Wraithmell. And as more and more people seek to retire in the UAE, we discuss the realities of life as an elder Dubai resident, from healthcare to social engagements and more…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's the latest health trend to go global, largely thanks to social media. But is off-label use of weight loss drugs actually effective or advisible? Metabolics expert Ali Hashemi is on hand with the answers. Meanwhile, as a post about the realities of dating in Dubai sparks conversation on Facebook, we talk break-ups, get-togethers and everything in between with psychologist Charlotte Spurway. And Conde Nast Traveller's Selena Denman joins Helen to talk travel - and the rise of the last minute long haul break...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

65% of workers in the Middle East say they get anxious about taking annual leave, while 54% admit they check emails on holiday. So, what is behind the annual leave anxiety leaving so many of us unable to switch off? We ask the experts. Plus, one neurodiverse teen explains why inclusion means including more voices like his. And Dr T is on hand with help and advice for navigating the holidays - and the reality of living in very close proximity with your loved ones…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re often told we are what we eat – but could Tik Tok’s latest obsession, fibremaxxing, actually make sense for anxiety sufferers? Clinical dietician Mitun De Sarkar has the answers. On the family front, ever parent wants their childs’ abilities to be recognised – but is labelling children as ‘gifted’ placing them under undue pressure at too young an age? Helen asks The Family Hub’s Hanan Ezzeldin. Meanwhile, as our kids spend more time on screens in summer, The Cyber Cop Susan McLean talks safety. And with Dubai’s rental market busy with families looking to relocate for the school year. Jake Walton, Leasing Director at Haus & Haus is on hand with all the info renters need…See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re taking you behind the scenes—to discover why those burgers, shakes, or pancakes look more enticing on your social media feeds and on those billboards. Food stylist Henriett spills the beans Global pioneer in contemporary Latin cuisine Chef Richard Sandoval joins Helen live in the studio to share his journey from Mexico City to the world, and how he managed to open over 60 restaurants across four continents. We're travelling with you to Peru from Dubai, without really ever leaving the emirate with Chef Andree Nuñez of La Mar at Atlantis Dubai With Dubai's competitive dining scene, what really goes into launching a hit, from the first idea to opening day? Josh Craddock shares details from experience We continue to fill you with options on where to bring your kids (and yourselves) for a productive summer—starting with sewing and crocheting if you want to clear your mind and create something useful with ThreadWerk and we switch to football for girls with Banaat FC. And do you want something free? Yes, here in Dubai there are still lots of things and activities you can enjoy without paying a penny. Find out here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A recent UAE report reveals a 14% jump in emotional check-ins and a fourfold increase in severe risk cases among students. So what’s behind the rise in anxiety and low mood, and what can be done? Joining us today are two leading voices in school wellbeing: Dr Louise Lambert, Director of Happiness and Wellbeing Programs at HappinessMatters!, and Laura Tristram, former teacher and co-founder of Lumii.me – an AI-powered tool giving students a daily way to share how they really feel. With more international schools in the UAE than almost anywhere else on the planet, parents are spoilt for choice – any curriculum, any fee point, any specialism. But are schools truly delivering on their promises of “premium” education? David Harkin, CEO of 8billionideas, joins us to unpack the shiny brochures and talk about what really matters. And this week, Barbie has made headlines by launching its first-ever doll with Type 1 diabetes and a glucose monitor– a huge step forward for representation in children's toys. But for families living with the condition, the daily reality is far from plastic-perfect. We're joined by Abby Lyons, mum of a young boy with Type 1 diabetes and the author behind What Is Diabetes Anyway?, a children’s book that helps young readers understand this often-misunderstood condition. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There is no off switch when it comes to bullying and abuse nowadays as our kids, though not in school during the break, are still out for camps and are almost always online. So what can we as adults do to protect them with the best way we can? Safeguarding expert Priya Mitchell tells us what we need to keep in mind. We are also joined by a survivor of bullying— but instead of being silenced, she’s become a voice for millions of children. Seher Pahade is the Lead Child Warrior at CACTUS Foundation, she doesn’t just speak to other kids, she’s training the adults: educators, parents, and school leaders on how to create safe, responsive environments for children. We're also looking at the social cost of divorce — how stigma, isolation, and shifting identities can leave lasting marks on those going through it, with Licensed psychologist Dr. Sarah Rasmi from Thrive Wellbeing Centre. A growing scandal around The Salt Path memoir has rocked the publishing world, raising questions about truth in storytelling. Plus, we’re asking: what makes a great summer read, and how do you go from idea to published book? Best-selling author, journalist, and book lover, Annabel Kantaria gives her take on the subject And with Dubai’s dry climate, air conditioning, and long screen hours, studies show approximately 62.6% of residents in the emirate report symptoms of dry eye disease, and nearly 42% of those cases are classified as severe. Dr Marta Calatayud, Ophthalmologist at Barraquer UAE, is here to help.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A degree from the US or UK is no longer the automatic goal for UAE-based students. With rising costs, safety concerns, and competitive job markets, more students are looking to countries like Finland, the Netherlands, and Germany for top-tier education. We're joined by students who’ve taken alternative paths: Arjun Menon, who chose Finland over NYU, and Abhinav Chamoli, who turned down the US for TU Delft in the Netherlands and Varun Jain from UniHawk – an educational consultancy helping students navigate this changing landscape. UAE doctors are sounding the alarm as more patients under 45 suffer sudden cardiac arrests, and it’s not just genetics to blame. Dr. Ibrahim Riza, Consultant Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon at Genesis Healthcare Center, unpacks what’s really going on and how travel can add to that risk too. And with rising drowning cases across the UAE and new municipal rules now in place for private pool owners, the message is clear: water safety is non-negotiable. Chris Lawrenson, Head of Operations at Hamilton Training, discusses the must-knows around supervision, swimwear, flotation devices, and why swimming skills are just the beginning.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Teenagers sleeping past noon might look like laziness, but science says otherwise. But how much is too much? And should we be waking them up during the holidays? Sleep consultant Julie Mallon from Nurture2Sleep gives us the answers. Since ChatGPT’s debut in November 2022, UK entry-level jobs have dropped by nearly a third across retail, IT, and finance, mirroring a global shake-up in the career ladder. Meanwhile, the UAE faces its own challenge: a glut of mid- and senior-skilled professionals vying for fewer roles. Career coach and recruiter Hamza Zaouali joins us to explore how both entry-level hopefuls and seasoned pros can harness AI, without being sidelined in the process. As AI tools like ChatGPT become part of everyday workflows, many employees are turning to them to save time and draft documents. But what are the legal boundaries of using these tools at work? Media & FitnTech Associate at BSA Law Marina El Hachem joins Helen live in the studio. Whether it’s puberty, grief, illness, or just a change in the family dynamic, children often sense something is happening, even if no one’s told them. So how do we talk to our kids honestly, without overwhelming them? Parenting coach Aysha Mohammed explains why sharing age-appropriate information isn’t just helpful but essential for emotional safety. And haus & haus' Harrison Rackham-Beadle updates us with the latest information on Dubai's First Time Home Buyer Program. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

He's one of the world’s most respected chefs - a powerhouse with Michelin-starred restaurants across the globe. But for those of us in the UAE, Chef Jason is the man behind Row on 45, Dubai’s immersive fine dining experience that now proudly holds two Michelin stars. We're celebrating World Chocolate Day on the Dubai Eye studio with Martin van Almsick, the man behind Al Nassma camel milk chocolates From steaming bowls of rich tonkotsu to perfectly chewy noodles made fresh daily, Ichiryu Ramen House has carved out a loyal following since opening its doors two years ago. What started as a passion project between three brothers has quickly become a must-visit for ramen lovers in Dubai - and now, they’re getting ready to open a second branch in Dubai Marina this summer. And from kids to teens and families, we've got you covered for all your summer camp needs!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.