The Sharon Fitzmaurice Podcast

This week on The Sharon Fitzmaurice Podcast I am joined by the amazing Carol Look - a psychotherapist, Founding EFT Master, best-selling author international speaker and the creator of The Yes Code, her signature coaching method. She combines her traditional training as a psychotherapist with clinical hypnosis and advanced applications of EFT for unprecedented results with her clients. Such a wonderful conversation with Carol, her enthusiastic energy and vitality for life and her work is palpable, even through the screen. We spoke about how as practitioners, having a laser-like focus helps us to become better listeners, and in turn offer our clients the best strategies in helping to empower them to be their best selves. We spoke about how we sabotage our success and why. What EFT is and how it works. Why someone may resist practises that help them move forward. Carol is a world-renowned presenter who has taught at The Omega Institute, Kripalu, The Eden Energy Fest, and the energy field's primary teaching conference. She has taught workshops all over the world and is a regularly featured energy medicine expert on leading global tele-summits. Her new book - The Yes Code - is a practical guide for those seeking to transform their lives one step at a time. Get access to the free video: The #1 Mistake People Make That Keeps Them STUCK! Along with powerful weekly abundance tips to make sure that you keep moving forward at https://www.carollook.com/Find her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carollook_eft/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carol-look-6066692/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CarolLookEFT This podcast is proudly partnered with: https://intothewestadventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sharonfitzmaurice.substack.com

Rachel Crowder joins me on The Sharon Fitzmaurice Podcast this week. She is a qualified Nutrition and Health Coach with a deeply personal mission: to help women reclaim their energy, reduce chronic symptoms, and feel in control of their health—through gut-focused, whole-body nutrition. Her passion for this work is rooted in lived experience. Growing up as a young carer for her mother, who battled rheumatoid arthritis and related health challenges, Rachel saw first-hand how chronic illness can affect every part of a woman's life—and ripple through her family. With a long history of autoimmune conditions, heart disease, cancer, and stroke in her family, prevention and vitality became more than a passion—it became her purpose. After 20 years in the retail industry, Rachel retrained in nutrition and health coaching. Her journey deepened when her husband endured over a decade of unresolved digestive issues. It wasn't until Rachel discovered the power of gut health that everything changed. Through functional nutrition principles and root-cause strategies, his symptoms were finally resolved. Today, Rachel helps women—especially those navigating arthritis, autoimmune conditions, and hormone shifts—take back their health using practical, personalised nutrition and lifestyle changes. She believes that chronic illness doesn't have to be your story—and your body has more healing potential than you think. Rachel also gives you the top 5 foods that will benefit you each day, simple yet effective additions that will benefit your mind and body. Rachel is trying to not only educate her clients through her 12 week program, but also the medical profession who can help to support your well-being alongside conventional medicine. She will also be speaking to the Irish Nursing Association on nutrition and gut health. To find out more about Rachel, please visit her website: https://www.rachelcrowdernutrition.com/ Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelcrowdernutrition/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-crowder-nutrition/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554638722856 This podcast is proudly partnered with: https://intothewestadventures.com/ For more information on Sharon's work as a Wellness Coach, please visit her website: https://www.sharonfitzmauricemindfulness.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sharonfitzmaurice.substack.com

A wonderful conversation on my podcast today with Eoghan Roe from Claremorris, Co. Mayo in the West of Ireland. Eoghan is a teacher, fitness coach and breathwork facilitator in training. He founded Run, Walk, Talk which is a free social event aimed at combating loneliness by bringing people together. Eoghan shared how even though he is only 28, he had found himself feeling isolated from others in the past and struggled with a sense of connection. He realised the importance of connection to our overall well-being. He feels there is a real need for authentic connection in our communities and being able to communicate in a safe and supportive space. Stepping into the unknown can be uncomfortable, but once you do, you realise you have the courage to do new things - exactly what Eoghan did when he created his first event a few months ago. Eoghan has learned through breathwork training that he can anchor himself into the present moment and honour his emotions without getting stuck in them which showed up as tension in his body. He has a deep passion for deepening his connection to himself and others through the practise, and offering support to others in the future. Join Eoghan in his next RUN, WALK, TALK event: Sunday - 22nd June at 9.30am in The Land of the Giants, Claremorris. Everyone is welcome. You can find out more and connect with Eoghan: https://www.instagram.com/eoghanroecoaching/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eoghan-roe-43718b294/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eoghanroecoaching TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@eoghanroecoaching This is a special episode as it is Men's Health Week - helping to raise awareness about men's mental health issues and encourage them to prioritise their well-being. For more information please go to https://mhfi.org/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sharonfitzmaurice.substack.com

Mohan Ranga Rao joined me this week on the podcast to share a beautiful conversation about how his life was forever changed by the birth and loss of his daughter, Yogita. He talks about how his life before Yogita's arrival and the moment he knew She was blind at only 4 days old, his life shattered. Mohan began a not just a medical journey but an emotional and existential one. He had to unlearn everything he thought he knew about strength, masculinity, and in the raw, unfiltered love of a Father who could not 'fix' his child. His first book: Inner Trek: A reluctant Pilgrim's Journey to Tibet was born of an unexpected calling. What began as a physical journey - a trek through the Himalayas, became a profound spiritual reckoning. The book is a reflection of that awakening, resonating with readers searching for meaning beyond the material world. His new book: Myopia: A Father's Journey into Love, Loss and Sight Beyond Vision, is not just a story of grief - it is a meditation on love stripped of all conditions, on pain as a force of transformation, on the kind of sight that only comes when the world as you know it disappears. Myopia does not offer easy resolutions or cliches about healing. It is raw, unflinching and honest about what it means to love deeply and lose completely. Mohan founded Amopia - a philosophy and community that helps individuals see suffering not as an enemy, but as a guide. Amopia blends science, spirituality and personal resilience into a framework for growth, offering courses, workshops and a community for those ready to engage with suffering as a path to wisdom. Find out more here: https://www.amopia.co/community Find Mohan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohanrangarao/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mohan.rangarao.39 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mohan_ranga_rao/ This podcast is proudly partnered with https://intothewestadventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sharonfitzmaurice.substack.com

Joining me on The Sharon Fitzmaurice Podcast this week is Tracy Holmes, Mother of three and wife to Andrew, who live in Co. Wicklow, Ireland. In her book - Raising Resilience, Tracy shares her profound journey through the trials of motherhood, matrescence, and the mental health challenges She faced when her twin boys were separated during their first year. In this beautiful conversation, Tracy shares openly about the premature birth of her twins and the diagnosis of Down Syndrome for one of the boys affected her. Through her raw, honest and emotionally charged memoir published by Orla Kelly Publishing, Tracy reveals the profound emotional depth of personal growth she experienced by redefining motherhood and discovering resilience by embracing vulnerabilities. This conversation and her book offer valuable insights for other women facing similar challenges, providing inspiration and support in their journeys. You can connect to Tracy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/threebrosandme/ You can buy her book from: https://www.buythebook.ie/product/raising-resilience/ This podcast is proudly partnered with https://intothewestadventures.com/ To connect with Sharon or find out more about her own books and work please visit her website: https://sharonfitzmauricemindfulness.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sharonfitzmaurice.substack.com

In this deeply moving episode, Charlie Ryder shares his powerful journey of healing from a chaotic childhood shaped by his father's alcoholism. As he sought understanding and forgiveness, Charlie found strength in a community of young people affected by similar experiences. He opens up about caring for his mother in her final years, how her unconditional love shaped the man he is today, and how creativity—through writing, poetry, and song—became a path to healing. Charlie also speaks about his time in prison following an anti-racism protest and how that experience led him to support others in custody, offering hope and the possibility of forgiveness. His story is one of resilience, transformation, and the enduring power of love. Connect with Charlie through: https://www.instagram.com/windsweptandinteresting1/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-ryder-41198130/ https://www.facebook.com/charlie.ryder.585 We are proudly partnered with https://intothewestadventures.com/ Find out more about Sharon & her work: https://sharonfitzmauricemindfulness.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sharonfitzmaurice.substack.com

Jade Horton joins me this week in a deeply emotional episode - please note that issues we discuss may be triggering - such as Child loss, domestic abuse & sexual violence. Jade shares the trauma of a terrible fire that took place in her home on the 10th December 2020 when She lost both her children, Sienna 7 and Isaac 3. As a result of jumping 30 feet from the burning house, Jade endured horrific injuries that led to her a near death experience. In hospital, She was told She would never walk again and She underwent several operations and spent 4 week in intensive care. Jade didn't accept this and went onto to help her body heal holistically and She took her first steps after just 12 weeks. Everything She did to heal was to honour her beautiful children and She now helps other bereaved parents through her beautiful work. To find out more about Jade, you can connect with her through: https://www.instagram.com/merkaba_holistics/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093417107223 https://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@MerkabaHolistics⁩ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jade-horton-2b6490105/ This podcast is proudly partnered with https://intothewestadventures.com/ https://www.sharonfitzmauricemindfulness.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sharonfitzmaurice.substack.com

This week I sit down with Byddi Lee - Author, Screenwriter & Playwright from Armagh in Ireland. Byddi just launched her latest book - Barren - the story of a grieving woman who communicates with her miscarried child's spirit to uncover an Ancient Irish woman's struggle to survive during a climate catastrophe. In writing this book, Byddi has drawn on her own personal experience with baby loss and infertility, as well as her academic background in Environmental Biology. The historical narrative is based on the scientifically documented Hekla 4 Icelandic volcanic eruption in 2354 BC, which She studied while working in the Paleoecology Department in Queen's University in Belfast. With its dual timeline and sharp social commentary - Barren explores the complexities of identify and family roles entangled with motherhood and legacy, critiquing how we live and our relationship with the earth. It combines intimate, personal struggles with sweeping narratives of societal change to shed light on and hold a mirror to ancient and modern environmental crises. It gives a voice to women who aren't mothers for whatever reason, a growing population yet a silent and underrepresented community in today's society and literature in general. Byddi says "Writing the book has helped me on my healing journey and I hope that it also helps others to heal too" Join her for her Dublin Book Launch on 14th May in the https://irishwriterscentre.ie/ Check out her latest book and all her other work through her website: https://byddilee.com/ or https://www.buythebook.ie/product/barren/ Find her on social media: https://www.instagram.com/byddilee/ https://www.facebook.com/byddi https://www.linkedin.com/in/byddilee/ A special mention to Frances McKenna's artwork for the cover of Barren, find more about her work here https://www.francesmckennairishart.com/ This podcast is proudly partnered with https://intothewestadventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sharonfitzmaurice.substack.com

Caolan Kelly joins me this week to share his story of feeling stuck and unfulfilled in his life and work. I loved Caolan's passion and energy for how he is living his life now and helping others to reach their full potential. He has faced his own challenges in life, but through them he has become even more resilient and even took on the challenge of walking along across Europe - over 1600km to raise awareness for a Mental Health and the supports that are available to all. After earning his MSc in BioEngineering and spending years in the corporate world, He realised he was chasing the wrong dream. He took a leap - ditching the 9-5 to build his own personal brand. In just 10 months he built an engaged audience of 15K across platforms using the power of storytelling. Now he helps businesses to master the untapped potential through his StorySelling framework - teaching you how to turn your story into your most powerful asset, build industry authority and win clients. He is on a mission to help 500 plus businesses capitalise on this rare window of opportunity. How can your origin story connect? What is our why? What was the defining moment you created or started your business? How can you inspire others? Are you ready to step out of your comfort zone? What is your vision? How can you connect with your audience on a deeper level? Thanks for listening to Sharon's podcast. Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.Let Caolan guide you - Contact him today! https://www.instagram.com/kelly_caolan/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/caolankelly55/ https://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@CaolanKelly⁩ This podcast is proudly partnered with https://intothewestadventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sharonfitzmaurice.substack.com

Find out more about AlisonIn this inspiring episode, I'm joined by the high-energy and deeply insightful Alison Kelly — affectionately known as The Enter-Trainer — whose mission is to help people create careers that align with their values, aspirations, and authentic selves. With a rich background in Human Resources, recruitment, and quality management… This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sharonfitzmaurice.substack.com

A beautiful conversation with my guest this week Eilish O'Rourke, like many of us, Eilish had experienced anxiety throughout her life. She started to look after herself and it led her to mindfulness and Reiki, she is now offering the same to others in a harmonious fusion to elevate self-awareness and foster profound healing. Her mission is to support ladies who are ready to break the cycle of only existing, allowing them to feel love, joy, fun and peace in their hearts and minds. The peace certainly flows from Eilish's energy as we share our experiences. She has taken a new step in her career direction and has recently taken to the stage to speak, she offers classes in person and online, as well as Reiki sessions in person and distantly. You can find Eilish onFacebook Sensing Moments MindfulnessInstagram Sensing_Moments Eilish O'Rourke | LinkedInThis podcast is proudly partnered with https://www.intothewestadventures.comTo connect with Sharon or find out about her upcoming events please go to https://www.linktr.ee/SharonFitzmaurice This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sharonfitzmaurice.substack.com

My guest this week is Brenda Cormican, a business coach who empowers wellness professionals to build thriving, scalable businesses with purpose and impact. After spending over a decade in the hospitality industry, a career she eventually outgrew, she found herself feeling stuck and uncertain about her next steps. The birth of her first child in 2021 became a turning point, inspiring her to create a business that aligned with her passion and values. Now Brenda helps others do the same - through her signature ELEVATE program - turning their expertise and passion into profitable, fullfilling business. Through her strategic, hands-on-coaching, she guides wellness entrepreneurs to gain clarity, build confidence, and implement the right structures for long-term success. You can find out more about her work through her website https://brendacormicanbusinesscoach.comThis podcast is proudly partnered with https://www.intothewestadventures.comTo connect with Sharon or find out more about her upcoming events go to https://www.linktr.ee/SharonFitzmaurice This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sharonfitzmaurice.substack.com

My guest this week is Gina Dermody - Director of Adolessence, a beyond Psychotherapy clinic that specialises in support adolescents and families. As a child, Adolescent & Family Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor, Gina leads a team of three therapists who provide therapy to adolescents, parents, adults and couples. Established in 2011,the clinic is located in Tuam, Co. Galway, and serves the local community, surrounding schools, the greater Connacht region, and offers online services to clients in other areas. In this episode Gina talks about what anxiety is and how it may show up in our children's lives and what we can do about it as parents. Anxiety is something to be understood. The development of the adolescent's brain and the changes in their behaviours that parents can understand what is normal and what is temporary. The impact of social media on our young people and how as parents we need to be the gatekeepers of their safety by keeping the lines of communication open. To learn more about Gina's work and the Conference she has organised on the 8th April in Galway for parents and professionals to help you understand your teenagers more, please visit her website: https://www.adolessence.ie Connect with Gina on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adolessenceandbeyond/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adolessenceandbeyond/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AdolessencetuamThis podcast is partnered with https://www.intothewestadventures.comTo find out more about Sharon's work please visit her website : https://www.sharonfitzmauricemindfulness.com

In this deeply moving and inspiring episode, I sit down with the incredible Ruth Owen, a woman whose life has been woven with experiences of adoption, adventure, loss, and transformation. I first connected with Ruth through a heartfelt LinkedIn post she shared about the devastating loss of her 22-year-old daughter, Charlotte, just six months ago. Her words resonated with over 141,000 people, reflecting a universal longing for community, connection, and belonging.Ruth's journey began with adoption at just 16 days old, shaping the trajectory of her life in ways she could never have imagined. From working in radio and television, an expedition to Antarctica, becoming a certified Mindvalley trainer, and coaching others in confidence and personal growth, Ruth has embraced life with an adventurous spirit. But alongside the highs, she has faced deep sorrow and needed time to reconnect with herself. Now, she returns with renewed purpose, ready to bring more magic into the world.Ruth's infectious enthusiasm and wisdom will leave you feeling uplifted, motivated, and reminded that even in life's darkest moments, there is always the potential for new beginnings.Tune in for a conversation filled with heart, hope, and the power of true connection. To connect with Ruth: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthowenspeaker/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ruthowen.coachInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthowen.coach/This podcast is proudly partnered with https://www.intothewestadventures.comTo connect with Sharon please visit : https://www.sharonfitzmauricemindfulness.com

In this episode, I'm joined by the incredible Calodagh McCumiskey from Wexford, Ireland. We first connected through LinkedIn and immediately resonated with each other on both a personal and professional level.Calodagh has lived a truly global life, growing up in different countries before dedicating 14 years to aid work, leading teams and managing projects in high-stress environments following man-made and natural disasters. Her time in crisis zones shaped her practical, results-driven approach to wellbeing, but the transition back to everyday life was not immediate.After returning to Ireland, it took her several years to process everything she had experienced during her aid work across the world. To reconnect with herself, she turned to meditation, mindfulness, and the power of being present, allowing her to grow deeper roots and find acceptance. This journey led her into the field of personal development, where she now integrates the 12 key pillars of wellbeing—physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, creative, financial, community, relationships, work, digital, purpose, and environment—ensuring a holistic and impactful experience tailored to each person's needs.This deep understanding of whole-person wellbeing is why Calodagh and I felt so aligned, and together, we have created a transformative programme:

My guest this week is Trevor O'Donoghue from Killarney in County Kerry, Ireland -Photographer & co- founder of Focus on Happiness. Trevor talks about growing up under the fear of his life being cut short due to his cystic fibrosis - which had taken his Sister Karen when She was only 12 years of age. He grew up in a family that were grieving and believed the same fate awaited him. He speaks about his anxiety and fear as a child, not being able to focus at school and he didn't form friendships very easily. Discovering photography changed his life and he found ways to express his creativity, look at life from a different perspective and saying yes to every opportunity. Trevor created a life where is present, fully alive and exploring new ways to be creative in his life and in his work as a photographer. One of those ways is in his community - Focus on Happiness which he and his fiancee Ciara started together and it grew in huge numbers during the pandemic. They now have a growing global community that offers picture challenges, mindful check ins, workshops, a supportive community plus online and offline meetups. The community focuses on:Growth and reflecting in fun and creative ways. Use picture-taking as a simple mindfulness & meditation practise. Use social media & smart devices in healthier ways.Join a tribe of like-minded people with positive intentions. Trevor says "photography is not just about cameras, it is art, psychology, light, composition and storytelling."To find out more about Trevor please connect to him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-o-donoghue/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/focusonhappiness.ie/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fohap/Website: https://www.focusonhappiness.ieThank you to our sponsorship partners https://www.intothewestadventures.comIf you would like to find out more about Sharon and her work please go to https://www.linktr.ee/SharonFitzmaurice

In this powerful episode, I sit down with 43 year old Sean Blake from Dublin, Ireland, as he bravely shares his lived experience of recovering from anorexia. Sean takes us through his journey—how it all began with running, strict food choices, and pushing himself to the limits, both physically and mentally. Trapped in a cycle of self-punishment, he eventually opened up to his wife, Edel, leading him to seek support from his GP, therapist, and eventually St. Patrick's Mental Health Services.Sean speaks openly about his time as an inpatient, the surrender of control, and the deep realisation that he was not alone. He found healing through group therapy, where he learned to cultivate self-compassion and understand that his eating disorder was a symptom of deeper struggles, dating back to childhood anxiety and low self-worth.Today, Sean is a passionate advocate for mental health and eating disorder awareness. He has shared his story through the RTÉ documentary "Anorexia, My Family and Me", social media, and various mental health platforms, including Shine See Change, Voice Platform, BodyWhys Media Panel, and St. Patrick's SUAS Council. His mission is clear: to fight stigma, normalise conversations around mental health, and remind others that recovery is possible.Join us for this honest, insightful, and deeply inspiring conversation.

Another powerful and open conversation this week with my guest Daragh Fleming from Cork in Ireland. Daragh lost his best friend through suicide at the age of 17 and he shares how he got lost in himself, not being able to feel any emotion. He started to heal through writing and connected back to his vulnerability and truth. In doing so, he wrote his first book - Lonely Boy which in turn would help him to connect to others and become an advocate for breaking the stigma of mental health.Daragh has gone onto to write another book - A Brief Inhalation which is available to pre-order from the 31st March and is being launched in Waterstones in Cork on the 15th April. Pre-Order his book here: https://www.brokensleepbooks.com/product-page/daragh-fleming-a-brief-inhalationDaragh has been recognised for his work appearing in several literary magazines including Southword, Crannog, Stand and Gutter. He was highly commended for both the Patrick Kavanagh Award and the Fool for Poetry Prize in 2023 and shortlisted for the Alpine Fellowship Poetry Prize in 2024. He won the From The Well Competition in 2021 and the Ducairn Flash Competition in 2024. Daragh was also recently shortlisted for two Mental Health Media Awards for his TEDx Talk on using Creativity to enhance and maintain our mental health. Check his website for more information https://www.Thoughtstoobig.ieWatch his Tedx Talk https://youtu.be/1G91FndfqvI?si=bWk1Q4mkC1dhAdynFollow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daraghfleming/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daragh-fleming/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DaraghFlemTo connect to Sharon or find out more about her work please go to her website https://www.sharonfitzmauricemindfulness.com

This week, I'm joined by the inspiring Lucy Cronly, a life coach and author of The Right Shoes – A Journey of Self-Discovery and Meaningful Connections. Lucy's story is one of resilience, transformation, and the power of meaningful connections.

This week, I sit down with Cormac Noonan, a transpersonal therapist, men's work facilitator, and author of two books for young men: Discover Your Destination and Craft Your Character.

My guest this week is the remarkable Conor Nolan, a 26 year old from Co. Cavan in Ireland who was diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa when he was just 12 years of age. Conor speaks so openly about how his interest in sport and exercise led him to comparing himself to older sports people and as a child believed if he worked harder, lost weight that he would feel or perform better. He shares how counselling helped him and he went on to later write his own story in detail - his book 'Normal' was published in 2020. He now is an advocate for mental health and speaks regularly to young people in schools and colleges about normal mental health wellbeing. Along with his business partier Tiernan Harris, they are co-funded by the European Commission through the European Solidarity Corps for a year long project during which they collect surveys from students to gather their outlooks on mental health both before and after their talks. Conor's story is one of lived experiences and he shares tips and tools that have worked for him in his recovery. Please check out his work through their website: www.normalmentalwellbeing.com You can find Conor on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/conor_n7/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/conor-nolan-a4946717a/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/conor.nolan.3954 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@conor_n7 This episode is brought to you by https://www.instagram.com/retreats_ireland/ If you would like to be a guest on the show or sponsor an episode please contact Sharon direct through her website: https:www.sharonfitzmauricemindfulness.com

My guest Dr. Andrea LaFountain joins me this week as we discuss the deeper questions about our connection to God. We discuss how neuroscience, theology and behaviour are combined in her work and in her life. We discuss spirituality and the soul. Returning to love Free will and choice Finding answers to our questions Andrea always had a desire to help people understand themselves and went onto earn her PhD in Neuroscience and completed her Masters in Theology. She recently came back to her roots in the Catholic Faith after 36 years of Protestantism. She is the founder of Truth First, a non profit group purposed to prosper sanctification in believers and leadership excellence in the church. She writes and speaks on a variety of Christian issues that get to the heart, soul and mind of the matter. https://www.truth-first-ministry.com/ This podcast is in association with https://www.instagram.com/retreats_ireland/ To connect with Sharon or find out about her work/upcoming events please go to https://www.linktr.ee/SharonFitzmaurice

Danielle Serpico is the founder of The BlackBelt MasterMind ACADEMY (est. 2011) Danielle started her entrepreneurial journey at 16yrs of age and by 19 she had already established her first of three Restaurants. In 2009 life threw her a curveball and she pivoted with it deep into self development and mastering the art of self sovereignty - studying hypnosis, psychology, Neuro - Linguistic Programming (NLP) and the influence and affect that subconscious communication has on us, on others, our business and our lives. As a BlackBelt and European Champion Martial Artist, Danielle knows what it means to focus, have tenacity and succeed -  and her favourite quote “A blackbelt is simply a white belt that never gave up,” was the inspiration for the foundation of The BBMM ACADEMY. Over the past 15 years she has helped countless start-ups establish themselves, businesses to grow and individuals to thrive. She is a seasoned Radio Broadcaster and had her own shows Radio MasterMind on Charity Radio and MindMatters on 103.2 FM for many years. Danielle's passion is in words and communication so it is no surprise that she has also studied Script Writing with the Gaiety Theatre as well as being the Author of two books - the acclaimed self development book‘The BlackBelt MasterMind', and recently this year, the Number 1 Best Seller 'TerraNova' a young adult fantasy novel.And as founder of "The BlackBeltMasterMind ACADEMY" thousands of students have trained and qualified under her guidance and tutelage, becoming Certified NLP Practitioners and MasterMind Coaches and discovering how when we know how and where to direct our energy, focus and words … our world can truly expand.Now its your turn to learn from the best in the field of Psychology, Hypnosis and Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP)! To find out more about Danielle's amazing work please go to https://courses.theblackbeltmastermind.com/ This podcast is brought to you in association with https://www.instagram.com/retreats_ireland/ For more information on upcoming events or to connect with Sharon please go to https://www.linktr.ee/SharonFitzmaurice

My guest this week is South African born Janine Schuller - a Sangoma (African Medicine Women) & Prophet, initiated traditionally in the townships of Cape Town, by both the Zulu and Xhosa Tribes. Although she lives in Ireland with her Irish husband, she returns to the townships most years to meet her Tata (African Father) and enter into ceremony with her Ancestors. Janine shares how She was called to be a Sangoma and the ceremonies that took place in the townships were not always welcoming, but She formed a new family and tribe. She also shares her personal challenges through miscarriages and how accepting She would not be a Mother has brought her peace in her life now. Janine is most passionate about helping people build a relationship with themselves (to trust their intuition); their Ancestors (to know where their messages are coming from and trust them) and with others (to be of service in their own unique way).  She shares her own experiences in hope that those listening find their own inner Gentle Warrior and lead their own way. Janine is qualified as a Creative Mindfulness Kids Practitioner, has a Major Award in Early Childhood and Care Education and is currently upgrading her Special Needs Assistance training.  Although she isn't 100% sure where this training is taking her and the additional training she may be taking on, she is confident she is stepping firmly into an Advocator Role. Find out more about her work and offerings through her website https://www.yourgentlewarrior.com This episode is in association with https://www.instagram.com/retreats_ireland/ If you would like to sponsor an episode of this podcast or find out more about Sharon's upcoming evens, please go to https://www.sharonfitzmauricemindfulness.com

My guest today is the amazing talented Julie Burke or known on social media as JulesRulesIrl. A social media sensation with over 40k followers across facebook, Instagram and TikTok, in just 4 years Julie has taken the digital world by storm, selling out speaking events, mentoring women in business growth, and even headlining her own stand up gigs. In this episode Julie talks about showing up as yourself and standing out in your own unique way. Finding an outlet for your creativity to share joy and insights that we can all relate to. Being mindful of your own needs as a Mother. Accepting accolades as women and being proud of your achievements. Moving into your forties with confidence. Share what you know and stop letting perfection be a thief of your dreams and goals. Women supporting women. Finding a balance in your role as a Mother in your career and home. Such a wonderful conversation with Julie and She has so much wisdom to share. Please follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julesrulesirl/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julie.mcbride.58760 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@julesrulesirl Connect to Sharon Fitzmaurice https://www.linktr.ee/SharonFitzmaurice

The last episode of 2024 and in this episode I share with you a little bit more about my work, the people I have had the honour of working with and how we can all support and encourage each other to build connections, relationships and communities whilst honouring what we value about ourselves, our time and energy. I will also bring you on a guided self-awareness practice using breath, mindfulness and inquiry into your current values and self-perception. I want to thank all my guests that have shared so much of themselves on my show and to you the listeners who make every moment of it so worthwhile. Thank you for your support this year. I look forward to sharing more inspirational stories in 2025 Spotlighting West of Ireland business Wildlands.ie today - Wildlands is a premier adventure destination just outside Galway, offering a wide range of outdoor and indoor activities for all ages. Outdoors, experience the thrill of Zip ‘N' Trek, Off-Road Adventure, Archery, Frisbee Golf, Fairy Trails, and Orienteering. Indoors, challenge yourself on the Ninja Warrior Course, Fun Walls, or immerse in our Celtic-themed Challenge Rooms. Perfect for families, groups, and corporate events, Wildlands also features luxury cabin stays and the Olive Tree Kitchen for a truly memorable getaway. Find them on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube & LinkedIn.

My guest this week is Jan Brierton, a mam, a fashion stylist, and a poet. Her first collection What Day Is It? Who Gives a F*ck was published in 2021 after Jan's first ever poem went viral during lockdown. Everybody Is a Poem: Midlife in Rhymes is Jan's second collection published by New Island. In this pocket-sized book Jan riffs on menopause, midlife, the mental load, friendships, relationships, loss, and self-acceptance. On its release, Jan's second collection made the top 10 paperback non-fiction book charts. Plain-speaking and completely relatable, each of these 52 poems are served with Jan's signature combination of humour, wit, and poignancy. This is poetry for everybody.   Since the publication of her debut book, Jan has appeared on RTE Nationwide, TV3's Six O Clock show, RTE Radio 1's Brendan O Connor Show, Ray Darcy Show, 2Fm, 98FM, The Irish Times Women's podcast and Mamia & Me with Amy Huberman. Jan's poems have been shared on social media by Jo Whiley and Emma Barnett (BBC Women's Hour) with over 30K views. Jan is the resident poet on the Ray Darcy Show on RTE Radio 1.   With her passion for keeping poetry accessible, Jan's poems come to life with her engaging live performances. In May 2024 Jan opened with her hero Dr John Cooper Clark in Dublin's 3Olympia Theatre, where she debuted her homage to his world famous ‘I Wanna Be Yours' with her modern love poem ‘You'll Always Be For Me'   She has read her poems on The Word and Manifesto stages at Electric Picnic, The London Irish Centre, The Mutiny Theatre, St Annes Park Rose Festival, Five Lamps Arts Festival, Drogheda Arts Festival, Dublin City Libraries and the Liberties Festival. Jan's poems ‘But' and ‘Sound Body' have featured in both of Aoibhin Garrihy's poetry anthologies. Jan brought her live show Wild Words to Dublin's Ambassador Theatre in November 2024, celebrating the power of poetry and prose with Donna Ashworth, PJ Gallagher and Emmet Kirwan. 2025 will see Jan open for John Cooper Clark in The London Palladium, The Nottingham Royal Concert Hall and the Manchester Co-Op Arena. Jan continues to write and perform alongside her mam duties and her career as a creative director and fashion stylist.   Instagram : @jbgoodtome    Literary Agent: Faith O Grady at Lisa Richards faith@lisarichards.ie Live:  Eavan Kenny at Lisa Richards  eavan@lisarichards.ie Our business sponsor this week is Infinite Wellbeing. Offering In Person & Online: Systematic Kinesiology, Reiki, Coaching, Mentoring, Workshops, Talks, Communications Training, Indian Head Massage (in person only)Based: Limerick Website: www.infinitewellbeing.ie Social Media links: FB https://www.facebook.com/kinesiologywithhelena  Instagram: @infinitewellbeing1 Helena is offering a discount to my podcast listeners. €10 discount off first kinesiology session  - quote SFPODCAST10 when booking. If you would like to be a guest on the show or sponsor an episode of this podcast please contact Sharon through her website www.sharonfitzmauricemindfulness.com

Empowering voices against Sexual Violence - TRIGGER WARNING Please follow & Share - Thank you for listening. My guest this week is Annie O'Dea, a model and content creator from the west of Ireland.   Annie has built an impressive career, with features in British Vogue and collaborations with numerous Irish brands. She was the second runner-up in Miss Universe Ireland But Annie's journey goes far beyond fashion and beauty.  She entered Miss Universe with a powerful purpose: to raise awareness about sexual assault and advocate for survivors.  As someone who lives with PTSD, she understands first hand the importance of openly discussing these experiences, the triggers that can arise, and the lasting effects that follow. Annie's passion is to support those affected by trauma and help educate others on these crucial issues.  Her ultimate goal is to create safe spaces for survivors to share their stories, fostering understanding and empathy in communities everywhere. To follow Annie ⁠https://www.instagram.com/annieodea123/⁠ If you or someone you know has been affected by any of the things we spoke about today please contact your local ⁠Rape Crisis Centre ⁠ Sharon Fitzmaurice is a Holistic Wellness Coach, Author & Podcast host, if you would like to be featured on the show or sponsor an episode to promote your business please contact her through ⁠https://www.sharonfitzmauricemindfulness.com⁠ This episode is sponsored by  www.rachelwebbceramics.ie Full Christmas collection available now online. Rachel is preparing for her annual trip to “Gifted” crafts and design fair at the RDS Dublin. 4th-8th December. Stand 136 and putting the finishing touches to a lot of new work and old favourites this week.  Follow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rachelwebbceramics/ Rachel Webb is a ceramic artist based in the West of Ireland. A graduate of Fine Art in Ceramics, she applies her knowledge & skill to create unique, contemporary pieces and sculptures.  Rachel's elegant work is hand-built & crafted in her studio in Galway City. Her passion is showcasing the beauty and purity of porcelain through her work. She loves the nature of porcelain with it's fragility and permanence, and ability to capture moments in time. Attention to detail during each stage of the making process ensures a high end finish. Her intention and ethos is to make each and every piece a work of art in it's own right.  From her ever popular Connemara Raindrop photo holders, delicate tea light holders and impactful sculptural vases, to her seasonal Christmas ornaments, her work represents & reflects a respect for the material and a unique sense of design & craftsmanship.

The why of anything you do is the question we keep coming back to when we are struggling or feeling challenged whether that is in our relationships, careers or businesses. My guest this week is Samantha Kelly an Award Winning Twitter(X) and LinkedIn Expert, Social Media Trainer, Author & Tedx Speaker. Samantha shares very honestly the reason She started out on her own entrepreneurial journey with an appearance on Dragon's Den and how She wanted something better for herself and her daughters. She has suffered with alcohol addiction, marriage breakdown and finding it hard to make ends meet financially, She wanted more and She found a way to make it happen. This was the start of an amazing journey into who Samantha is today and the thousands of people She helps globally online and in person. She offers so much to others and I have seen proof of that not only in the years knowing her online but even on my podcast today, She continues to inspire and support small businesses with valuable and real tips to help and support others reach their full potential. She has many programmes, masterclasses, training events online and in person that can help you find your why and put yourself out there so that others know who you are and what you are offering. Find out more on https://www.tweetinggoddess.com https://youtu.be/NUPLc0sayx4?si=8bxq0WfAAvW9lgf4 Featured in Forbes Named as 50 Top Social Medial Marketing Influencers 2018 Named as one of the Top 37 Social Medial Influencers to follow in 2019 International Women's Day – Top 100 Influencers on Gender Equality and Diversity 2019 Top 100 B2B Thought Leaders and Influencers by Thinkers360 150 Women B2B Thought Leaders you should follow in 2023 Top 20 Social Media Influencers in 2020 Sharon Fitzmaurice is a Holistic Wellness Coach, Author & Podcast host from the West of Ireland. If you would like to find out more about her work or to be guest on her podcast please see https://www.sharonfitzmauricemindfulness.com

An innate capacity to stay alive and to stay safe during huge devastation. My guest this week Rachel Gotto has come through some of the worst experiences in her life, her instinct for survival took over in those moments to keep her safe and functioning. Rachel lost her husband Nick in a diving accident when She was only 29 and 6 months pregnant with her daughter. Becoming a sole parent, to battling a brain tumour that left her temporarily paralysed. Her journey of recovery is a testament to the power of resilience and a strong mindset. Now She inspires others to overcome their own obstacles and build unshakeable resilience in their lives and workplaces through her work as a Crisis Coach, Transformational Speaker, Best selling Author, TEDx Speaker and Radio Guest. You can contact Rachel through her website https://www.rachelgotto.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelgotto/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelvgotto/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RachelGottoOfficial Sharon Fitzmaurice is a Holistic Wellness Coach, Author & Podcast Host based in Co. Galway, Ireland. If you would like to be a guest on the show or find out more about her work, please visit https://www.sharonfitzmauricemindfulness.com

A powerful conversation with my guest this week. We talked about Checking in with yourself What is important to you What your values are Having a beginner mind Having empathy with action Realising that your inner wisdom is always available to you if you take the time to listen and learn to trust yourself. Hilary Connor is a Spiritual Well-Being Coach and Author. A natural intuitive with a depth of expertise in coaching and mindfulness teaching, Hilary combines her skills to help her clients awaken awareness of their own natural intelligence and live a life of meaning, purpose and flourishing. She opened her Wellbeing practice in 1999 in Gorey, Co Wexford and has built an international client base. In addition to one-to-one spiritual therapy and coaching sessions, Hilary regularly teaches the MBSR programme, mindfulness classes and spiritual development groups online and in person. In the community, she also shares her skills to help people build sustainable wellbeing practices into the fibre their lives through partnerships with the Irish Cancer Society, corporate organisations and in her teaching role with the education and training boards across Dublin and Wexford. Hilary holds an MSc in Mindfulness-based well-being and an H Dip in Coaching Psychology, both from UCC. She is highly trained in building Workplace Well-Being through mindfulness and coaching interventions. Hilary is also a Certified Hypnotherapist and has qualifications in counselling and neuroscience.  https://www.linkedin.com/in/hilary-connor-065a8a97/ www.mindconsultancy.ie https://www.instagram.com/mindconsultancyhilaryconnor/ https://www.facebook.com/mindconsultancywithhilaryconnor Sharon Fitzmaurice is a holistic wellness Coach, Author & Podcast host based in the West of Ireland. If you would like to be a guest on the show or find out more about Sharon's work please see details below https://www.linktr.ee/SharonFitzmaurice

Did you ever think of writing your book? Well my next guest will help you every step of the way. Orla Kelly, an accomplished Irish book publisher and founder of Orla Kelly Publishing, has guided hundreds of clients through the self-publishing journey over the past 10 years, helping them craft professional, high-quality books that resonate with their readers. Orla's passion for her work and personalised approach ensures that every book she publishes reflects the unique voice and vision of its author, making her a trusted ally for anyone considering writing and publishing their book. Whether looking to share your message to attract more clients and grow your business, or have your book as a memoir, sharing your story and leaving  a lasting legacy, Orla has your back. Through her innovative programs, including 1:1 support, Orla publishes books that make a real difference in people's lives.   Orla is my publisher and has helped me to get my message out to the world in 3 of published books. Don't hesitate and contact her today for a free consultation call and explore your ideas with her, I promise you won't be disappointed. Orla has kindly offered a discount on her one to one or 10 week program starting in January 2025 for anyone that tells her they have come through my recommendation. Use this LINK Check her out today https://www.orlakellypublishing.com LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/orlakellyselfpublishing/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/orlakellypublishing Instagram https://www.instagram.com/orlakellypublishing/ Sharon Fitzmaurice is a holistic wellness coach, author and podcast host based in the west of Ireland. If you would like to be a guest on her podcast, or find out more about her work or books please check out link below https://www.linktr.ee/SharonFitzmaurice

Week 4 in my Irish Abroad series and my guest this week is Sinead Naughton from New Inn, Co. Galway who has lived in New York for the past 30 years. Sinead is a retired History teacher who now operates bars restaurants in NYC and NJ with her husband Scott.  Sinead is involved with various networks in NYC and is a long time volunteer with Concern Worldwide.   This was a wonderful chat and a chance to reconnect, as myself and Sinead had been school mates from 1983 to 1988 in the Mercy Convent in Tuam, Co. Galway, this is the first time we have spoken since then! We shared memories of our time in secondary school and the teachers that had an impact on us growing up and in later years as adults. Sinead shared how her family in Ireland are such a big part of her life and the memories of her late Father still flow through her words today. Sinead shared how the pandemic changed so much in the hospitality industry and how businesses have had to adapt since then. We also spoke about creating opportunities for ourselves and sometimes that is by putting ourselves out there, even when we feel like we are out of our comfort zones. Sinéad and Scott enjoy traveling, exploring the outdoors, and having fun with their lovely English bulldog. Sinéad gets back to Ireland pretty often and treasures spending time with her family and young nieces and nephews. You can connect to Sinead through LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sinead-naughton-2072b7b/ Sharon Fitzmaurice is a Holistic Wellness Coach, Author and Podcast Host based in Co Galway. If you would like to be a guest on her podcast or contact her regarding any of the topics discussed on the show please do so through her website https://www.sharonfitzmauricemindfulness.com

Week 3 of my Irish Abroad series and this week my guest is David Ryan, originally from Mayo in the West of Ireland and now living in Canada. From the decision to immigrate to Canada, David and his Fiancee Shauna were hit by obstacles that were out of their control, but that didn't stop them from moving forward and setting up life in Canada. Once there, David shared how they went from having all their belongings stolen to a near fatal car accident, PTSD and severe online abuse followed but they never gave up. I told David that their story would make for a great movie! Now David works as a mortgage broker and his intention is to help fellow Irish in Canada with educating and guiding them in mortgages and home ownership in Canada. An inspirational story, David leans into the challenges as he learns more about himself and that you can change direction anytime you wish to follow your goals. To connect to David please follow him on Instagram on https://www.instagram.com/david.mortgagesandmotors/ on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-ryan-948b98a7/ Email Davidryanmortgages@outlook.com If you would like to be a guest on this show please contact Sharon through her website https://www.sharonfitzmauricemindfulness.com

This is the second in my series of Irish Abroad and my guest this week is Katie Boyle an Irish Comedian in New York City who is originally from Kildare. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree in Visual Arts from Dun Laoighaire Institute of Art, Design & Technology, after graduation She moved to New York city where She began to perform her stand up comedy acts. She now performs all across America and Ireland. In this episode Katies shares how stand up is a form of therapy, as you get to say what you want without anyone interrupting you! Katie did actual therapy for over a year in America and it helped her to understand and identify what was conditioning from her childhood and where She was projecting her negative patterns in her life, friendships and relationships. A great chat with this amazing young lady who in July 2023 was named a JFL International New Face at the largest international comedy festival in the world, which is called Just For Laughs in Montreal. Katie has headlined clubs across the United States and Ireland, and brought her hour to Dublin and Cork earlier this year to sold-out shows. She has featured in the Hollywood Reporter, Irish Independent and The Irish Times and her work has featured in Laughing Skull, Women in Comedy, Kansas City Irish Fest and on SiriusXM. Katie also hosts The Shift Podcast which She and guests discuss sex and dating from an Irish perspective. She is currently touring her new hour Terapy and will play Liberty Hall in Dublin on the 18th October. You can find out more about Katie through her website www.katieboylecomic.com Follow her on Instagram Katie Boyle (@katieboylecomic) • Instagram photos and videos Facebook Katie Boyle Comedian YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@katieboylecomic If you would like to be a guest on this show please contact Sharon on https://www.sharonfitzmauricemindfulness.com

So lovely to connect with my guest Paulyne Brown again in our chat on this week's episode. We chat about connecting years ago at a James Van Praagh training week in Dublin and how we were eased out of our comfort zones in demonstrating in front of crowd. Paulyne shares how her faith bonded her family in life and in death through the loss of her brother over 30 years ago. She shares how her daughter starting sensing Spirit when She was quite young and Paulyne found herself learning more and awakening her connection to Spirit and leading her on a path that finds her working and demonstrating the connection of life after physical death. We actually spoke so much about our own personal experiences of standing in the power, trusting and allowing and remembering that we are always being guided. Paulyne Brown is a naturally gifted psychic medium and has worked for the spiritual world for over 20+ years. She has over the years been trained and tested for her gift and holds high award certifications for her abilities from one of the most prestigious organisations in the movement of spiritualism - the Spiritualist National Union. As her mission is to bring healing and comfort to those who have had loss in their life and also to help those who wish to follow in her footsteps as psychic mediums so to train others to share their gift at a high standard and to this she has traveled extensively to help bring that comfort and evidence of survival after death to many via one to one readings, workshops in various countries ie America, Norway, Scotland, England to name a few. Pauline is no stranger also to helping those who have not had closure on their loved ones passing ie, missing people, cold cases with great insights and success. Also she is a fully qualified Clinical hypnotherapist and studied with the London College of Clinical Hypnosis and obtained her Diploma & Practitioner's Certificate. She is also a member of the British Society of Clinical Hypnosis for over 20+ years. Her passion is to help those who need healing to self-heal both mentally and physically through her hypnotherapy practice of hypnosis. She has worked with many clients for physical illnesses with great success, weight loss, menopause, bruxism,  You can contact Paulyne through her website www.paulynebrown.com Follow her over on Instagram & Facebook

What a beautiful conversation with Orlaith Sheill in this episode as we discuss grief and loss. Orlaith is a registered clinical counsellor and accredited supervisor in Sydney, Australia with over 20 years of experience inclusive of group facilitation, education and speaking. Orlaith is originally from Ireland and shares why She loves working and living in Australia now. Seeking adventure Orlaith went there as a backpacker and loves the lifestyle and opportunities. She now works a lot with the Irish in Australia through the many transitions we all experience in life. We chat about what Grief and Loss means and that it is not just about the physical loss of our loved ones, but also the loss of relationships, loss of identify, children leaving home and living in a different way after the loss of anything or anyone in your life. Orlaith shares how the loss of her brother in her twenties affected her and how it has helped her to empathise with her clients in holding space for all feelings. We also spoke about The importance of speaking about our loss and grief Life after loss Being heard Support & Counselling Our identity after loss Continued bonds Opening the conversation around death while you are alive As a trained Family Systems Therapist and Specialist in Grief, Fertility and Perinatal work, Orlaith supports individuals, couples and families. Her career spans across a variety of settings such as Not for Profit, private practice, education, corporate, and with fertility clinics. Orlaith has extensive experience in grief, loss, and trauma having worked in Post Adoption, grieving sudden unexpected death in babies and children, stillbirth, pregnancy loss, termination and neonatal death. Orlaith provides support in perinatal period, and the adjustment to parenthood. Orlaith has a strong academic and clinical background, is an experienced educator, teaching for many years in the field of counselling. To connect with Orlaith please do so through her website Follow Orlaith on Instagram & LinkedIn If you would like to find out more about Sharon's work or to be a guest on her podcast please contact her through her website

My guest this week is Vanessa Mooney from Tullamore in Co. Offaly in Ireland. Vanessa was diagnosed with breast cancer aged 40, only two months after her Sister Veronica's diagnosis, and around the same time their brother was diagnosed with a terminal illness. They had already lost their Mother to cancer in 2015. Vanessa felt very isolated during her treatment and it not only affected her physical health, but also her mental health, which She speaks openly about in our chat. The changes to her body, her femininity and how She saw or felt about herself has dramatically changed. She is learning to love herself again and is very mindful of listening to her body and her own needs. As a result of the rollercoaster of emotions She experienced during her diagnosis and treatment, Vanessa is developing an app called Someone Like Me to create a supportive space for cancer patients, survivors, friends and families. This app is aimed at helping others navigate resources which connects users by age and location, allowing them to share experiences, join private chats, and access resources like Marie Keating Foundation and the Irish Cancer Society. It offers tools such as local meetups, live podcasts and information on services like physiotherapy, yoga, fitness classes, diet and nutrition, wig specialists and many more supports. The app also includes a separate section for spouses, family and friends of cancer patients, offering guidance on how to provide support. Vanessa shared that it was difficult to talk about her feelings with loved ones during her treatment, and she frequently turned to the internet, which often worsened her anxiety. Her goal is to offer a trusted space for others going through similar experiences. She emphasised that the app is part of her healing journey, and her mission is to ease the struggle of others. To keep the app free, Vanessa is seeking donations to cover development costs. Businesses interested in sponsorship or advertising can contact her direct via her website www.someonelikeme.ie Please DONATE whatever you can to Someone Like me! A Mobile App to help support, inform and connect Cancer Patients and Survivors | Crowdfunding Page (idonate.ie) https://www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/VanessaMooney to help keep the app free You can follow Vanessa on Instagram If you would like to be a guest on my podcast please contact me through www.sharonfitzmauricemindfulness.com

Trigger Warning: In this episode we talk about sexual assault/violence - if you have been affected by any of these please contact your local Rape Crisis Centre Anna Slattery shares with us a traumatic event that She endured at only 18 years of age whilst in college in Galway and how She found the courage to survive the attack and move forward with the support of family, friends and the Galway Rape Crisis Centre. Anna volunteered with RCC for many years fundraising and went on to train as a crisis counsellor to help others in similar situations. I had worked with Anna in 2016 when She attended as my client and She says this was the start of her healing process. She went onto further her own development and recovery through other modalities and is now a practitioner in Reiki, IET, Rahanni, Crystal Healing & Cacao ceremonies. Having a background in Art, Anna teaches classes and combines her creative mindfulness practices and is currently studying Forest School Leadership for Children. A bubbly and passionate soul, Anna shows that letting go, finding forgiveness and being aware of her own needs has helped her to move through other challenges that She has faced in life, including the passing of her Dad and the loss of Willow to miscarriage. She embraces life with a smile and a willingness to help others. You can follow or contact Anna directly through Willow and Soul Instagram or Facebook To find out more about Sharon's work or to contact her directly please go to her website

My guest this week is Celine O'Donovan who is a native of Galway city on the West coast of Ireland. Following an international career in marketing, her life was transformed after a diagnosis of breast cancer in 2016. Celine shares how she fell apart, broke down and opened to awakening the energy of her being and how She showed up for herself in her own life. Celine is a published author of 2 books, a qualified life coach, Reiki Master, now a Podcaster and feels like the adventure is only beginning. Contact Celine directly through her website www.celineodonovan.com / www.linktr.ee/celineodonovan If you would like to be a guest on this podcast please contact Sharon directly on www.sharonfitzmauricemindfulness.com

It's been awhile! So happy to be back sharing amazing stories of resilience and this time I have the most wonderful guest - my husband John Fitzmaurice. John was diagnosed with an aggressive cancer in June 2023 and today he shares his journey to date in the hope of raising awareness. We are all so proud of him. Please do SHARE this episode with everyone you know - it may save their lives.

Guided visualisation to connect with Goddess Brigid for healing, inspiration and wisdom. Guided by Sharon Fitzmaurice --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sharonfitzmaurice/message

What a passionate guest this week, Patricia Lohan - Feng Shui expert, speaker & author was born and bred in Galway in the West of Ireland and is now living her dream travelling and working all over the world. Patricia is the creator of Powerhouse Feng Shui and Author of 'The Happy Home - A guide to creating a happy, healthy, wealthy life and become a business powerhouse using Feng Shui'. Patricia helps people all over the globe to embrace Feng Shui which creates lasting changes within your life, relationships, business and home. Patricia has featured in media all around the world and her passion is helping others to live better and fuller lives. You can find her on www.patricialohan.com or on Instagram or join her Free community group on Facebook In this episode we spoke about Where it all started The passion of creating the life you want Finding true love Creating changes can help bring flow and movement into your life. How colour can help or hinder us Your home has a personality too! Time to clear our the knicker drawer A fun filled and informative chat with Patricia today, I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Until next time. www.sharonfitzmauricemindfulness.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sharonfitzmaurice/message

Episode 101 and my wonderful guest is Jennifer Woodward who holds a Masters of Science in Integrated Nutrition and is a certified Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner, She is also a board certified Functional Wellness Coach. Jennifer is the Executive Director of the Association of Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Professionals, where She is mentored by Reed Davis - another of my former guests. Jennifer is the creator of the acclaimed FDN Business School and She loves helping new FDNs thrive professionally. She also completed a 3 month long internship with Dr. Kryin Dunston getting hands on training in women's hormones. In this episode we spoke about What is perimenopause and the hallmark symptoms Mood disturbances -heightened anxiety & depression Nutrition & re-balancing your mind and body Mineral deficiencies & tracking your food intake Role of estrogen & progesterone in our bodies Essential proteins Weight issues & how to stop cravings Are you running on an empty tank? Practical & Actionable steps to self-care What lessons can we learn from our great-great-great Grandmothers? Download Jennifer's free guide to 3 recipes for balancing core hormones through her website www.jenniferwoodwardnutrition.com Follow Jennifer on Instagram & Facebook To contact Sharon Fitzmaurice please go to www.sharonfitzmauricemindfulness.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sharonfitzmaurice/message

Episode 100 and my guest this week is Nicolas Rion, a personal and professional relationship coach, who supports individuals to build strong, healthy and sustainable relationships. He started coaching in 2017 and has trained with one of the world's leading coaching schools - The Co-Active Training Institute, accredited by the International Coaching Foundation. Nicolas is also trained in Non violent communication - a framework for resolving conflict through empathy, honesty, strength and compassion. In this episode we spoke about Growing up in France How the loss of a parent shapes your life Depression opens the door to finding your true self The mechanisms we use can be helping or hurting you Values and building a relationship with yourself Making hard choices Strengthening your boundaries Non Violent Communication Listening to your needs The positive benefits in our life lessons You can connect to Nicolas through his website www.nicolasrion.com or through LinkedIn --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sharonfitzmaurice/message

Episode 99 and my guest today is Machiel Klerk, author of Dream Guidance, connecting to the soul through dream incubation. Machiel is the founder of the organisation Jung Platform which focuses on providing quality programs for personal development from a soul-centred perspective. He is an internationally recognised and gifted dream-worker and also a mental health therapist, speaker and author. You can check out more of Machiel's work through his website www.machielklerk.com In this episode we spoke about Learning from local cultures and traditions Our dream world is just as important as our waking world We all have gifts to share Creating a sense of curiosity Our dreams help us become unstuck and offer us support Healing through our dreams Listening to your soul's guidance Remembering the joy of life Guidance and Wisdom is always available How a dream became a life vision You can connect to Machiel on Instagram Facebook LinkedIn To connect to Sharon please go to her website www.sharonfitzmauricemindfulness.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sharonfitzmaurice/message

Episode 98 and my guest is Ryan McDaid - creator and host of The Infinite Creators Podcast. Ryan grew up in a small rural town in Ireland, feeling insecure and caring what others thought. Unsure how to love himself and being part of generational trauma put Ryan on a path of seeking external validation. He found success in business only to realise he was poorer and still unable to find happiness, this sent Ryan on an internal journey that led to connecting to his true self. He found peace, joy, happiness, direction and love - something that was and is always there. Follow Ryan over on Instagram In this episode we spoke about What we believe brings us happiness Soul connection Allowing space to be curious Seeking validation Supressing our shadow Claiming your power Owning your truth within the darkness Plant medicine and seeing our infinite potential Trusting the process Acknowledging the transformations Priorities --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sharonfitzmaurice/message

Episode 97 and my guest is Natasha Whelehan - a life and career coach for cancer survivors. Prior to becoming a coach and setting up her own practice, she worked for over 10 years as a corporate recruiter plus did a stint in HR in Australia and Northern Ireland. In 2017 Natasha was diagnosed with breast cancer as a young Mum to 2 kids (4 and 17 months at the time) she was just 39. Her treatment plan included 3 surgeries, chemo and 6 weeks of radiotherapy. Natasha's cancer was hormone driver so she is currently on hormone therapy and will continue to take these drugs for another 5 years. Natasha has experienced first hand the emotional and physical impact of a cancer diagnosis and is passionate about supporting her clients in their journey as they navigate life after cancer. She works with cancer survivors in a number of ways through general life coaching supporting clients as they discover what is important to them now, what they want to bring forward in to their life after cancer and what they want to leave behind. She supports clients as they create a vision for their life after cancer and help them put in place actionable steps towards this 'new normal'. Career coaching draws on her extensive experience as a recruiter and can include job search, managing work boundaries, interview preparation right through to supporting someone as they step towards recovery. Natasha is offering a Summer special 90 minute focused coaching session for just 50 euro for the month of June. In this episode we spoke about the impact and ripple effect of cancer and its treatment. Listening to your body. How it effects you, your life, your relationships and the support you need whilst going through it. Natasha shared how her values changed during and after the treatment and how she followed her passion and is now helping others in her coaching practice. She really shares the real life issues of surviving cancer and that is does get messy but you can get through it. You can find out more to Natasha on www.natashawhelehan.com or follow her on Instagram @natasha_coachingafter.cancer --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sharonfitzmaurice/message

Episode 96 and my guest this week is Rob Dudgeon. A personal trainer, mental health and wellbeing coach living in Dublin but haling from Galway. His passion for wellbeing stemmed from his own painful struggles and adversity for over 3 decades. His purpose is now to use his experiences and education to help others. In this episode we spoke about Childhood experiences & learned behaviours Struggling with life Being a product of your environment The simple goals can still be hard when struggling with anxiety New love and old patterns Self-Reflection and Choices No-one is coming to save you Holding a mirror up to yourself Finding tools that help you Looking at your lifestyle for realistic progress Self-Compassion & Somatic practices Feeling safe within yourself Showing up for yourself & others You can connect to Rob through Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rob.wellbeingcoach/ To connect to Sharon Fitzmaurice please go to https:www.sharonfitzmauricemindfulness.com - Join her online holistic healing online community --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sharonfitzmaurice/message

Episode 95 and my guest this week is Cathy O'Byrne who is an experienced and accredited Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist and Play Therapist, now specialising in Compassionate and Empowering Parent Support. Cathy has worked as a primary school teacher, trainer and facilitator and psychotherapist in various settings. She works from a systemic integrative and humanistic perspective, using creative approaches to resource and empower parents towards great awareness, confidence, knowledge and presence in their parenting. Cathy has designed and delivered training and workshops for primary and secondary school communities as trauma informed ways of teaching, relating to and supporting young people who have experienced trauma and childhood adversity. Cathy advocates very strongly for the power of the relationship when working with young people and their families. She also lectures part-time on the Masters of Humanistic and Integrative Psychotherapy and Play Therapy at Children's Centre in Limerick. In this episode we spoke about Feeling the feelings Real life parenting Children mirror us Stay connected to your values Anxiety & emotional overwhelm as a parent Having a support network Having compassion for yourself Being honest with yourself & your children Quality time Parenting Pods - sharing and supporting Triggers & Fears Well-being & emotional awareness The power of acceptance You can connect to Cathy through her website www.theswallowstrail.com Follow her on Instagram Facebook & LinkedIn --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sharonfitzmaurice/message

This is a recording of a live talk I did online as part of Mental Health Awareness Month. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sharonfitzmaurice/message