In this thought-provoking episode, psychologist and author Allison Keating explores the concept of "psychological disruption" and the urgent need for a "soft revolution" in how we approach mental health and self-care. Keating sheds light on the overwhelming impact of chronic anxiety and constant information overload, which affect our mental health and overall well-being. She challenges societal pressures that prize productivity over rest, urging listeners to prioritise self-care, acknowledge their limits, and embrace small moments of joy—or "glimmers"—to counteract anxiety.

Throughout the conversation, Keating dives into the unique impact of anxiety on women, who often carry a disproportionate mental and emotional load. She discusses practical strategies for moving from survival mode to a sense of safety, such as practicing somatic exercises, nurturing self-compassion, and letting go of perfectionism and people-pleasing habits. Keating also touches on the importance of integrating mental and physical health and the value of curiosity in managing anxiety. Listeners will gain insight into the systemic factors contributing to stress and the importance of recognising and regulating emotions. With practical tips and relatable advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to break free from survival mode and foster a healthier, more balanced life.

Tune in to learn more about managing anxiety, embracing self-care, and finding joy amidst life’s challenges.

The Natter Podcast is brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we sit down with Irish funeral director and author, David McGowan, as he sheds light on the often-taboo subject of death and the profound role funeral directors play in supporting those who grieve. David shares heartfelt stories from his career, from unexplained events hinting at a spiritual presence to heartwarming moments of animals sensing loss, such as a dog’s farewell to its owner.

He emphasizes how pets can provide unmatched solace to those experiencing grief and the importance of including all family members in funeral arrangements to honor the deceased fully.

David discusses the qualities essential to being a compassionate funeral director, including empathy, common sense, honesty, and confidentiality. Reflecting on his own mortality, he finds comfort in his belief in the afterlife, inspiring listeners to embrace gratitude and peace in life.

Tune in for a powerful discussion on breaking the silence around death, the significance of animals in the grieving process, and a look into David’s book, *A Life Among the Dead*, where he offers deeper insights into his journey in the funeral industry and his mission to bring dignity to those who have passed.

The Natter Podcast is brought to you in association with Bookstation.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this heartwarming episode, Natter hosts Kate and Michelle sit down with the beloved author Roisin Meaney, who has written over 20 novels and is known for her captivating storytelling. Roisin shares her deep love for both reading and writing, offering a glimpse into her current reading list and exciting plans for future books.

Listeners will be inspired by her journey from teaching in Dublin to becoming an internationally published author.

Roisin reflects on her time as a teacher and how it has shaped her storytelling. She highlights the power of kindness and the joy that can be found in life’s simple pleasures—recurring themes in her novels.

Aspiring writers will especially appreciate her thoughtful advice and the two opening sentences from novels she admires.

Tune in to hear Roisin’s inspiring story, her passion for writing, and her reflections on a career that has spanned continents, languages, and audiences around the world.

This podcast is brought to you in association with Bookstation Ireland!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this engaging episode, hosts Kate and Michelle sit down with bestselling writer Sam Blake to dive deep into her world of storytelling, mentorship, and literary success.

They kick things off by swapping book recommendations and discussing what’s currently on their reading lists.

Sam opens up about her role as a mentor to aspiring authors, her involvement in the popular writing resource Writing.ie, and how she balances writing, mentoring, and her duties as the chair of the Society of Authors—advocating for fair pay and support for writers everywhere.

The conversation takes a thrilling turn as Sam shares eerie experiences from staying in a haunted hotel and the exciting details of her young adult novels. Fans of crime fiction won’t want to miss Sam’s sneak peek into her upcoming adult novel.

Finally, they discuss the highly anticipated Murder One Crime Writing Festival and the path to achieving success in the literary world, where Sam emphasises the importance of seizing opportunities and creating them when necessary.

Tune in for a fascinating episode packed with bookish insights, practical writing tips, and a behind-the-scenes look at the world of crime writing!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this insightful podcast, acclaimed Irish author Christine Dwyer Hickey, winner of multiple literary awards, delves into her latest novel, Our London Lives, offering listeners a glimpse into the profound connection between her life experiences and her literary work. Christine shares her deep affection for the city of London, where she spent formative years as a young woman, and discusses how living and working there influenced her narrative style and creative process. She reflects on her journey as a writer, starting from her childhood, and how growing up in a literary household shaped her craft. Her father’s close friendships with renowned writers, combined with the atmosphere of her upbringing, fostered her passion for literature and storytelling.

Christine emphasises the critical role that reading has played in her evolution as a writer, discussing the immense influence of classic authors such as James Joyce on her work. She elaborates on how Joyce’s exploration of the human condition and his stylistic innovations inspired her to weave themes of memory, identity, and the complexity of human nature into her own novels and short stories. Christine also touches upon the importance of chance encounters and serendipity in shaping the lives of her characters, as well as in real life.

In the latter part of the conversation, she provides an update on her current projects, including a new play and poetry, revealing her versatility across different forms of writing. To conclude, she talks about the simple yet profound joy of losing oneself in a great book, underscoring the transformative power of literature in understanding the world and ourselves.

This episode is a must-listen for literary enthusiasts, aspiring writers, and fans of Christine Dwyer Hickey, offering valuable insights into the mind of one of Ireland’s most respected contemporary authors.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Kate and Michelle as they dive into a captivating conversation with Lynda La Plante CBE, the legendary crime writer behind the acclaimed 'Prime Suspect' series. In this episode, Lynda opens up about her memoir 'Getting Away with Murder', her dual career as both an actress and a writer, and the meticulous research that fuels her gripping stories.

Lynda shares fascinating anecdotes from her life, revealing the inspirations behind her bestselling books. The discussion also highlights the power of women supporting women, the significance of love and kindness, and Lynda’s deep passion for animals. Additionally, she offers valuable insights into the importance of protecting writers' rights and the creative freedom she cherishes in her novel-writing.

Tune in for an engaging and lively discussion with one of crime writing's most influential voices.

The Natter Podcast is brought to you in association with Bookstation!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Natter, Kate and Michelle interview Kitty Murphy, author of the Dublin Drag Mystery series. Kitty shares her love for crime and Agatha Christie novels, as well as her introduction to the world of drag.

She discusses the impact of drag on her life and how it inspired her writing. The conversation also touches on homosexuality in Ireland.

Throughout the episode, the importance of celebrating and accepting people for who they are is emphasized. In this conversation, we discuss various topics related to life, love, and writing. They appreciate the blessings in life and the importance of gratitude.

They also discuss the joy of connecting with readers and the impact of closing a story. The conversation concludes with a celebration of dogs and a reminder to cherish life's moments.

All natter and no notions! Join best selling writer Michelle McDonagh and writer and broadcaster Kate Durrant as they chat books, life and lots more with Irish and international authors.

Books, Irish Author, Literature

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Kate and Michelle are joined by author Siobhan MacGowan where we discuss:

• Siobhan's upbringing & childhood
• Siobhan's Novels "The Trial of Lotta Rae" and "The Graces"
• Her career in copywriting, journalism & music
• The Pogues
• Her late brother & music Legend, Shane MacGowan

All natter and no notions! Join best selling writer Michelle McDonagh and writer and broadcaster Kate Durrant as they chat books, life and lots more with Irish and international authors.

Books, Irish Author, Literature

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.