Afternoons with Helen Farmer

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.

2025 marks a milestone for millions - with an estimated 50 to 55 million women turning 40 this year. Once seen as the gateway to midlife decline, this decade is now being reclaimed as a powerful, pivotal chapter. But what does it really mean to be 40-something today? The Midlife Mentors James and Claire Davis join Helen As schools break up for summer, most children feel excited - but for many neurodivergent kids, this season can bring uncertainty, anxiety, and overwhelm. Inclusion expert Louise Dawson joins us to explore how parents can help ease the transition and why a little planning can go a long way. A travel simulation for children with autism was held at Dubai Airports. We get the details from Fatma Taher. And how should parents talk to their kids so they will listen? Siog Moore has all the advices ready for you. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the rise of ChatGPT and as end-of-term rolls around, many parents are questioning how much of that glowing paragraph about resilience and curiosity was actually penned by a human. Joining us is Zaineb Mahdi, Cluster Lead for Digital Technology and Innovation at GEMS Education, to talk AI, authenticity, and what the future of school feedback might look like. We’re also exploring the rise of the ‘good‑enough job’ with career guidance practitioner Shazia Bharuchi, why it works for some, when it becomes a trap for others, and how to know if it’s serving your goals or silently stalling your growth. Is it true that cheese gives you nightmares? And are we all a little bit dairy intolerant whether we know it or not? From bloating to bedtime bellyaches, we’re tackling the gut-related myths doing the rounds online with Dr. Mazin Rasool Aljabiri, Consultant Physician and Gastroenterologist at Mediclinic. And are weighted vests worth the hype? Keith O’Malley Farrell, personal trainer and co-founder of The Training Room and The Physical Training Company, joins Helen live in studio – weighted vest in hand – to separate the muscle from the myth.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're talking about a trending mental health tool known as a dopamine menu – a simple yet science-backed way to reset your brain, refocus your attention, and feel good doing it. Our guests Dani Hakim, a fierce neurodiversity advocate living with ADHD, and Anna Kaminski, founder of NeuroKinds, are here to unpack how tools like this are shifting the conversation around productivity, energy, and mental wellbeing – not just for those who are neurodivergent, but for everyone. We speak with Anna Pollock, Founder of Conscious Travel about responsible travel and if the problem when it comes to overtourism is just too many people or the model of tourism itself. How are rising costs and climate concerns reshaping summer trips for UAE residents? Travel Counsellor Louise Wrankmore is on hand to assist. And on our Psychology Hour, we're exploring the science behind hope, how it differs from blind optimism, and why cultivating it might be one of the most powerful tools for mental wellbeing with Dr Thoraiya Kanafani from the Human Relations Institute and Clinics. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We know mental health and money are linked-- but it's not always the way you think. We're joined by finance coach Beth Clay and clinical psychologist Ali Ilyas. Illegal room partitions are being dismantled across Dubai, but what exactly counts as an illegal partition? Lawyer Devanand Mahadeva tells us what the law says, and he answers your questions on our property law clinic. A new UK-developed test is offering fresh hope to women experiencing the heartbreak of recurrent miscarriage. OB Gynaecologist Dr Samina Dornan is on hand to explain. And Haus & Haus' Sarah King discusses women and property investment in the UAE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.