Afternoons with Helen Farmer

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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