Afternoons with Helen Farmer

Following a viral article about post-divorce realisations, we’re exploring heartbreak, accountability and what both parties can learn from the end of a marriage with Karen Sutherland, family-law mediator and solicitor, and Of Counsel at Ibrahim Alserkal Advocates and Legal Consultants. An exceptional ruling from the Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court has placed a 12-year-old expatriate boy in the full custody of his maternal aunt. We learn the details from Byron James is Head of the Expatriate Law team in the UAE, an international family-law expert and author of The Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court Practice. Having bigger thighs has been linked to a longer life, but before we all reach for the tape measure, what does that actually tell us about our health? Helen was joined by Dr. Shefali Verma integrative medical doctor at The Flow Space, with a particular interest in functional medicine and the importance of sport for children. “Wash your face in the morning and you’ll age faster." We're debunking skincare myths with Consultant dermatologist Dr. Natalia Spierings.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It might be so busy on a weekend, but what do you do from Monday? We have top tips for restaurant operators on how to distinguish between a temporary squeeze and a business model that isn't working. We also meet the man behind a pizza place who is so confident in opening during COVID and during more uncertain times. We fill you with lots of foodie talk from hand rolls to new restaurants opening in September. Goin' for donuts? We're sharing a hidden gem with you. And more camps for your little ones and teens are ready be it in a theatre or on the golf course. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dubai is an amazing place to raise kids, but when five-star hotels, holidays, brunches, deliveries and household help are just part of everyday life, how do we teach our children to appreciate more what they have? And probably the remaining weeks of summer break is your time to declutter... the help you need is here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Porter Airlines flight, which was preparing to depart from Victoria to Toronto had to return to the terminal as a "young child was standing in their seat and would not secure their seat belt". The delay meant the flight could not depart before the runway closed after midnight so passengers had to be rebooked on a flight the following day. Discussing travel etiquette, cruises and itineraries with travel journalist Sarah Hedley-Hymers. After years of bigger, flashier and more Instagrammable, are the ultimate status symbols now things we can’t buy in a boutique: time, privacy, access and the ability to properly switch off? We have more camp info for you and your kids that involves actual wood, actual tools and something they've made themselves to bring home. And we tell you why you should smile at your dog more often.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you graduated from a university in the UK, what happened to your student loan? Have you finished paying it off, or is it still hanging over you 17 years later? Sending children to private schools here in the UAE takes a huge chunk out of our budget. So, how much do we actually need to spend to give our kids a good education? A new report suggests that, for many women, the problem isn’t whether they have health insurance, but what happens when they actually try to use it. Two women are on a mission to create a solution. And while we’re getting our kids ready for back-to-school, it’s not just about the uniforms, new shoes, and haircuts, we also need to think about the life skills they’ll need.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many experienced women are finding it hard to find employment nowadays. What does ageism in recruitment actually look like? Dubai Police have joined us to talk about Hemaya International Centre and how 1,402 students from 31 nationalities graduated through its 2026 Summer Student Programme. We meet a teenager who has lived with more than 50 severe food allergies since infancy. Thousands of people across 15 US states have reportedly become ill during an outbreak of Cyclospora linked to recalled iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico. Hundreds have been hospitalised and two deaths have been reported. We discuss parasitic illness on the show today. And we're giving you more info on camps from crocheting to barista workshop. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Homegrown favourites under one roof in Mirdif, staycays, Dubai’s heaviest chicken sandwich – we’ve got more on the list! From the kitchens of some of India’s most celebrated hotels to 15 years helping turn Dishoom into a household name in the UK, Chef Naved Nasir has spent much of his career telling stories through Indian food. Open kitchen, no delivery. What’s in a restaurant to have this confidence? We ask the husband-and-wife chefs of LahKee. Earlier this week a text came into the show asking for a little help. Best friends Ayesha and Yaseen have poured their savings, time and probably quite a lot of tastings into Buttrd, the sandwich business they launched from a cloud kitchen in Business Bay six months ago. The business is trying to survive. They were hoping for a shout-out, we’re giving them a platform. What can AED 10 buy you in Dubai these days? Well, this summer, potentially a very good lunch or dinner. Plus, we help you plan the perfect night in with the best movies and shows this weekend.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Doctors here in the UAE say they see a noticeable rise in cases during the hottest months, with dehydration the major culprit. So who is most vulnerable, what should we be looking out for, and how quickly can a stone actually form? New research suggests half of Gen Z say the cost of going out and meeting new people is getting in the way of their financial goals, while another study found 51 percent are spending absolutely nothing on dates. Meet the community helping People of Determination develop more skills, confidence, independence and connection through arts. And more summer camps for you, at the museum, and one with pets.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friendship can look like something that just happens naturally in childhood, you find someone in the playground, start playing and off you go. But those relationships are actually where children learn some of their most important life skills. So what happens when making friends doesn’t come easily? Breastfeeding may be natural, but that doesn’t mean it always comes naturally. We've got expert advices for mums and mums-to-be. If you're confused where to bring your kids for camp this summer, we've got you covered from indoor experiences to teaching them about business. And we share another Dubai success story, one camel milk soap at a time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’ve all done it. You pop into the supermarket for milk and somehow leave with chocolate, crisps and a “buy one, get one free” you never planned to buy. There's an explanation for that. One person's diagnosis can help protect brothers, sisters, children and even cousins by prompting earlier screening and potentially life-saving treatment. Today we talk about genetics and hereditary illnesses with a geneticist and with someone who's lived this reality. And what role do our earliest relationships play in shaping how we connect with others? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From wearable technology and preventative healthcare to reducing food waste and building confidence through comedy, we look at how small changes and practical habits can improve everyday wellbeing, communication and quality of life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How much of what feels like forgetfulness is actually an overloaded brain, and can learning new skills help build resilience as we age? Plus, new pathways for Emirati orchestral musicians, and how playing in a band can build confidence in children.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's not just screen time affecting children's eyesight, with more children developing short-sightedness at a younger age. Plus, the new rules of digital etiquette, how social sport is helping adults make new friends, the rise of women's football in the UAE and a mid-year personal finance check-up, with practical advice on managing and paying off debt.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Could your years of experience open the door to a new way of working? The show explores the rise of fractional leadership and why it could offer a fresh career path for experienced professionals. Plus, tips on dressing for the job you want, the latest Instagram features aimed at Gen Z and an update on Meta's smart glasses. And in the Legal Hour, freelancing after leaving a job, debt, missed mortgage payments and why you really should read the fine print before signing a contract.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From hidden gems to global ambitions, we're serving up the best of Dubai's food scene. Zeena meets the chefs and founders redefining Mexican, Lebanese, Japanese and Filipino dining, while uncovering the stories behind the city's most-loved restaurants. Expect big flavours, bold ideas and plenty of recommendations to add to your must-visit list.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Family vacations are meant for slowing down and staying in the moment, but what if work and emails are keeping you pressured? Psychologist Hiba Salem from Sage Clinics explains how our brain and behavior work. We also have Orchids Roy in the studio to share why etiquette should be learned by kids early on. Plus, our Motor Mania team Damien and Naz take us on a ride in choosing a great multi-functional family car. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Egypt fans are left devastated after their loss to Argentina, which prompted Helen to ask - how do we teach our children to bounce back after a major loss? This doesn't only apply to sports but also to our daily life. Ex-athlete Alicia Tillman and executive coach Megan Johnson share their thoughts. Plus, fancy joining a singing community? Helen learns more about One Day Choir, founded by David Conway. And finally, how can you improve your voice to sound more powerful/ Voice architect Kim Page has some tipsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

That's the question Helen put to Dr. Sonia Ben Jaafar of the Al Ghurair Foundation. HR expert Avtar Gill weighs in on today's graduates and employees who are technically excellent - but have a poor attitude. Dr. Thoraiya and Helen do a deep dive into life as an expat - and what lessons we can learn by being away from home. Plus, husband and wife Sarah and Ahmed tell us the story behind Chill Me Worlds, a community that wants to see genuine friendships form in the UAE. And finally, Rhiannon Downie Hurst of Bride Club ME shares some wedding trends this season.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We bring Lego bricks in the studio, not just because it's Helen's favourite, but to talk about its benefits in the workplace. We speak to YouTube about their new supervised kid accounts in the region. WhatsApp has parental controls now, we get the details from Cyber Fareedah. Why are shingles cases rising? If you are still thinking of where to go this summer break, we've got you covered. And we meet a man treating delivery riders in the emirate. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Helen Farmer for a special live broadcast from Abu Dhabi to talk all things food and hospitality.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For years, women have been told that menopause is just something to get through. But our guest today thinks it's time we change that conversation and she's on a mission to help women feel informed rather than frightened. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We discuss how to recognise burnout before your body and mind force you to stop. Job seekers need to stop thinking like employees and start thinking like business developers selling their own skills, says executive search recruiter Hamza Zaouali, discussing more ways for people to land their dream job. Are smart glasses really going mainstream? How much is too much when it comes to screen time? Discussing childhood myopia with Dr Sandra Fiorentini And we share more reasons how Dubai is becoming more accessible to people of determination.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new immunotherapy drug doesn't cure type 1 diabetes, but for people identified in the very earliest stage of the disease, it can delay the need for insulin by an average of almost three years. Does overpraising kids create more harm than good? How's your netiquette? Yes, internet etiquette. And university acceptance rates are falling, but why?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Children have around 620 hours of free time over the summer so how will you keep them busy and still learning during the holidays? Find out here. Why do performing arts doesn't always translate to social confidence? What can you do about it? And we also have the check list for you when it comes to house repairs and keeping your homes safe while you're away. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We've got your weekend covered with everything delicious— from freshly baked bread, pizza, coffee, and chocolates to comforting ramen, mushrooms, and edible flowers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When children leave home, what happens to the parents? We discuss the challenges of empty nesting, what parents can do to adapt to this new chapter and find purpose beyond parenting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Studies have shown women are more likely to experience delayed diagnoses, dismissed symptoms and gaps in care. Today we're asking why that happened, what it means for women in the UAE, and how we start closing those gaps. It might not be just dry skin... find out when it's already chronic dermatitis. And why do the World Cup affect us so deeply?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sharing a bed has long been a symbol of a healthy relationship, but why do more and more couples choose to sleep apart? Limiting technology use in the classroom is what we discussed with Paul Gardner from Ambassador International Academy Mankool. How can hearing loss be linked to dementia? We ask Dr Zemer Wang. We meet gymnastics coach Sarah and inspiring athlete, a person of determination, Laila Labib. And yes, we know when it's over... so why do we stay? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Summer can be a strange time in recruitment, with some companies slowing down while others use the quieter months to hire strategically. We look at what's really happening in the jobs market, where the opportunities are, and how to make sure you're not wasting the next few months. The UAE is set to ban social media access for children under 15. But do bans actually work? We also turn our attention to organ transplants and met a lady called Sonye, who was into motor racing but eventually had to struggle taking a shower or climbing stairs... until she got a second chance in life after a lung transplant. Why is father-friendly workplace support becoming such an important national conversation in the UAE today? And on our Legal Clinic today, we answer your questions from wages to your employment contract.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chef Jason Atherton talks about how fatherhood has influenced his kitchens, and what the future holds for his restaurant empire. Lifestyle journalist Rob Chilton tells us where to take dad for Father's Day. How does a recipe get developed? The team at EAT X takes us through the journey. Mina Liccione and Ali Al Sayed celebrate the 18th year of Dubomedy, and drop a few dad jokes! Love cheese? Get to know this hidden gem in Dubai - The Cheeseroom, where hundreds of cheeses are on offer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fouzia and Kashaf want their father to live with dignity and less suffering following a devastating life-limiting diagnosis, and found it through Dr. Paul Coulter, who heads up the palliative care service at NMC Healthcare in Dubai.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're getting valuable insights from Dr. Alison Burrows, technology and wellbeing consultant, and Yasmin Carey, an influencer and content creator - they're on opposite ends of the argument. Plus - we're getting to know the communities that you could join if you need a safe space:UNMUTE for mothers, Living Room Theatre, and The Expression Lab. And finally, would you let AI choose your life partner? Sara Al Madani and Mohamed Amine Belarby have created a platform called Soulsearch.ai - which they're calling "Love is Blind" in an app. They've also created LoveHelp.ai - an AI therapist platform.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Psychologist and "mindhacker Hiba Balfaqih tell us about the four money mindsets and how to address them. Injeel Moti tell us why she created "Brown Girls Invest", a platform that address the cultural roots of many South Asian women towards money. She is joined by Gulnoor Issabek, finance coach. Will you let your teenagers work in Dubai? We've got working students Alia and Roshan sharing their stories, and employer Riyaz Sutterwalla of View Emirates to share their experience. Audrey Hametner, Founder and CEO of The Bedrock Programme, also joins us to tell us why the "working student" culture hasn't taken off in the UAE. And finally, are you the main caregiver and sole breadwinner in the family? Who's looking after you?Dr. Ritu Gupta, clinical psychologist, addresses the issues that arise with being the "responsible one".See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ahmad Ali, the man behind the food blog Emirati Food Geeks, gives is recommendations for the best Emirati food in the UAE. Supper Club myths, debunked by Chef Fizah and Chef Tala. What's On Miles tells us the latest around town, from food to movies. Thrift your way to refreshed wardrobe with stylist Gaynor Turner. This weekend, check your child's screen time - Dr. Arif Khan says our kids are spending way too much time on the screen. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do we help children fall in love with reading in the age of smartphones, tablets and endless scrolling?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Does your brain work differently during your menopausal years? Monica Mathijs, founder of EQ Brains, explains. Menopause coach Sharon James has tips on exercising and eating well, too. Plus - are you sick of parenting admin hell? Nazia Jawwad, Pareasy, a Dubai-based app designed to reduce the mental load of family life. And is weight loss good for society? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three Dubai-based men share their stories and insight into what it means to be a strong man today. Scott Armstrong, Founder and CEO of Mentl Mark Samways, Counselling Psychologist, Director of Wellbeing at Alkalma Manny Djornor, founder of Mentality Plus: 16-year-old Rylen Anil hacked into two Indian exam boards to expose their vulnerabilities, hoping to become an ethical hacker someday. AI has allowed students to use different devices to cheat in exams. Ayo Olatoye, CEO of Saqr Academy, says it happens more often that we think. Allsop & Allsop's Clementine Munro gives us a roundup of all things property. And finally, what's behind female anger? Dr. Tanya Dharamshi dives deep into women's wrath. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Shireen Marzouk, Paediatrician at Circle Care Clinic, has seen many patients suffering from e-scooter-related accidents. So what are the rules around e-scooter use? Dr Mustafa Aldah - Safety Educator and Founder of RoadHeroAcademy.com, explains. Plus: If getting your child to practise handwriting feels like a daily battle, you're not alone. Adam Griffin, Medical Director at Hakkini Clinics, created PencilQuest, a new approach designed to make handwriting practice more engaging and motivating for children. And how do you ensure you and your nanny See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Farmer's Kitchen is live from The Beam by Nick Alvis with the people shaping Dubai’s food and entertainment scene. Hear from Chef Nick Alvis, Courtney Brandt, William Mullally and Chef Sperxos Pavlopoulos on what to eat, watch and experience right now, from chef-led dining and viral food trends to cinema picks, streaming recommendations and AI-powered cafés.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is your credit card safe from your kids? Edfundo's Simon Wing chats to Helen about financial literacy for kids. Leah Nicholls of Impulse Defence highlights the importance of teaching our girls self-defence skills before they go travelling. Anthony White from Level Up gives us the lowdown on why strength training is a non-negotiable if you're on the weight loss jab. The Mean Girl Syndrome: Why are girls so mean to each other, over skincare? Educators Nitasha Saxena and Natalie Herbert. And finally, social media addiction is leading to mental disorders, according to Karen Hayre, a Dubai-based psychologist and licensed psychotherapist at The Psychiatry and Therapy Centre.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In an exclusive conversation on Dubai Eye 103.8, Helen asks Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation, about her role in government and what motherhood means during challenging times. Catch the full interview on Dubai Eye 103.8's YouTube channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Helen chats to Georgie Ricks, the woman behind the community It's A PCOS Party, and Dr. OBGYN Dr. Nana Wyberg of Health Bay Clinic. Can you reverse your biological age? Dr. Mishkat Shehata of OMICS Clinic explains. Transguard is the first huge organisation to announce adoption and guardianship leave for its employees. Nick Beer and Rachel Tutungi tell Helen how they planned for it. Rejoin's Mandy Sanger tells us why her group is on a mission to educate mothers returning to work, with a focus on teaching them about AI. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.