TABOO
Welcome to TABOO, the podcast that dares to delve into the conversations often left unspoken. Join us as we create a safe space for open and transparent dialogue about the topics that evoke feelings of shame, fear, and discomfort. From mental health and relationships to abuse and sexuality, no subject is off-limits. Each episode aims to foster a sense of belonging, connection, and understanding within our community. Together, we’ll break down barriers, challenge stigma, and embrace vulnerability, inviting listeners to share their stories and find solace in the knowledge that they are not alone. Tune in and explore the beauty of honest conversations that transform our shared experiences into powerful connections.
Listen on:
Episodes
Tuesday Dec 23, 2025
Tuesday Dec 23, 2025
A warm, reflective episode shared the day before Christmas Eve exploring rest, connection, and the pressures of modern life. Fiona thanks frontline workers, describes simple holiday preparations, and reads a powerful post about maternal cognitive load — urging partners to help and mothers to rest. The episode closes with compassion for those grieving and a poignant poem honouring lost loved ones.
ABOUT THE HOST
Dr. Fiona Barry is a distinguished healthcare practitioner with over 3 decades of experience in both Western / Modern and Eastern / Traditional medicine. Holding a PhD in Pharmacology and a degree in biomedical sciences, she transitioned from cardiovascular research to the more holistic approach of Chinese medicine. She also supports people in their emotional and psychological challenges with the likes of Quantum Thinking Transformation (QTT) and coaching.
Fiona's integrative approach has supported several thousand people individually in navigating challenges in such areas as hormonal health, fertility, trauma and chronic pain, with tremendously positive feedback and results.
Throughout her clinical practice, Dr. Fiona regularly encounters clients burdened by shame and isolation, voicing sentiments like "I've never told anyone that before."
Recognising the profound need for open dialogue, Fiona launched this new podcast series "Taboo", where she aims to create a safe space for the exploration of topics that are often left unspoken, in order to foster connection and understanding on a broader scale. She is committed to amplifying voices and stories that often go unheard.
Fiona is available to work with people in a number of ways, including:
One-to-one in her clinic or online
For media and events, including corporate training in health and wellbeing
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_fionabarry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comharacupuncture
Website: https://fionabarry.ie/
Tuesday Dec 09, 2025
Tuesday Dec 09, 2025
Episode 15 of Taboo features Chinese herbalist and practitioner Kathleen Dowd discussing the COVID pandemic from a clinician’s perspective. Fiona and Kathleen recount early cases, lockdowns, and frontline experiences treating respiratory illness with herbal medicine.
The conversation covers contentious topics including early treatment options (like ivermectin), concerns about mRNA vaccines and manufacturing, censorship of dissenting scientists, and the ongoing physical and mental fallout such as long COVID, POTS, fertility and cardiovascular issues.
The episode urges open debate, critical thinking, and practical steps to support health—nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle—as listeners reflect on lessons learned and how to move forward.
ABOUT GUEST
Kathleen Dowd, a dedicated practitioner of Chinese Medicine since 2005, has transformed her personal health journey into a thriving career. Inspired by her own healing experiences, Kathleen established a busy clinic in Newcastle, Co Dublin, where she not only practices but also teaches postgraduate courses in acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine. With qualifications including a Diploma in Lic Acupuncture, a Graduate Diploma in Chinese Herbal Medicine, and several other specialties, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her patients and students alike.
Beyond her clinical work, Kathleen is the innovative mind behind a range of skin health creams and a translator of ancient Chinese medical texts, bridging the gap between historical wisdom and modern practice. Her passion for natural healthcare shines through in every aspect of her work, making her an inspiring voice in the field.
Website: https://www.woodlandshealthcentre.ie
Email: healthcentrewoodlands@gmail.com
Phone: + 353 87 109 6778
ABOUT THE HOST
Dr. Fiona Barry is a distinguished healthcare practitioner with over 3 decades of experience in both Western / Modern and Eastern / Traditional medicine. Holding a PhD in Pharmacology and a degree in biomedical sciences, she transitioned from cardiovascular research to the more holistic approach of Chinese medicine. She also supports people in their emotional and psychological challenges with the likes of Quantum Thinking Transformation (QTT) and coaching.
Fiona's integrative approach has supported several thousand people individually in navigating challenges in such areas as hormonal health, fertility, trauma and chronic pain, with tremendously positive feedback and results.
Throughout her clinical practice, Dr. Fiona regularly encounters clients burdened by shame and isolation, voicing sentiments like "I've never told anyone that before."
Recognising the profound need for open dialogue, Fiona launched this new podcast series "Taboo", where she aims to create a safe space for the exploration of topics that are often left unspoken, in order to foster connection and understanding on a broader scale. She is committed to amplifying voices and stories that often go unheard.
Fiona is available to work with people in a number of ways, including:
One-to-one in her clinic or online
For media and events, including corporate training in health and wellbeing
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_fionabarry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comharacupuncture
Website: https://fionabarry.ie/
Tuesday Nov 25, 2025
Tuesday Nov 25, 2025
Part two of Breda’s story follows her life after childhood sexual abuse and focuses on her experiences navigating medical care. She describes triggering encounters during hospital stays, physiotherapy and mammograms, and explains why healthcare must become trauma-informed so patients feel respected and safe.
Breda calls for mandatory trauma training for all healthcare staff, better communication and consent around touch, and a system that treats every patient with dignity. She also shares hope, recovery strategies and plans to build a survivor-led resource hub.
RESOURCES:
If you are a survivor or advocate and want to contact Breda her email address is:
teenytimbre@gmail.com
Sexual Assault Treatment Unit
Address: South Infirmary - Victoria University Hospital, Old Blackrock Road, Cork T12 X23H
Tel: 021-492 6297 (Within Working Hours)
085 8760578 (Outside Working Hours)
Email: Noonan.Margo@sivuh.ie
Website: https://sivuh.ie/
ABOUT THE HOST
Dr. Fiona Barry is a distinguished healthcare practitioner with over 3 decades of experience in both Western / Modern and Eastern / Traditional medicine. Holding a PhD in Pharmacology and a degree in biomedical sciences, she transitioned from cardiovascular research to the more holistic approach of Chinese medicine. She also supports people in their emotional and psychological challenges with the likes of Quantum Thinking Transformation (QTT) and coaching.
Fiona's integrative approach has supported several thousand people individually in navigating challenges in such areas as hormonal health, fertility, trauma and chronic pain, with tremendously positive feedback and results.
Throughout her clinical practice, Dr. Fiona regularly encounters clients burdened by shame and isolation, voicing sentiments like "I've never told anyone that before."
Recognising the profound need for open dialogue, Fiona launched this new podcast series "Taboo", where she aims to create a safe space for the exploration of topics that are often left unspoken, in order to foster connection and understanding on a broader scale. She is committed to amplifying voices and stories that often go unheard.
Fiona is available to work with people in a number of ways, including:
One-to-one in her clinic or online
For media and events, including corporate training in health and wellbeing
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_fionabarry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comharacupuncture
Website: https://fionabarry.ie/
Tuesday Nov 18, 2025
Tuesday Nov 18, 2025
To protect the identity of today's guest, we have altered her voice. This has been done in such a way as to not compromise the quality of the recording, nor the content of the recording.
This episode features Breda, who shares her harrowing experience of prolonged childhood sexual abuse by a family member, the family silence that followed, the long-term effects on her relationships and mental health, and her journey toward healing and resilience.
Part one focuses on her personal story and its aftermath; part two will examine gaps in education and healthcare practices and how services can become more trauma-informed to better support survivors.
RESOURCES:
If you are a survivor or advocate and want to contact Breda her email address is:
teenytimbre@gmail.com
Sexual Assault Treatment Unit
Address: South Infirmary - Victoria University Hospital, Old Blackrock Road, Cork T12 X23H
Tel: 021-492 6297 (Within Working Hours)
085 8760578 (Outside Working Hours)
Email: Noonan.Margo@sivuh.ie
Website: https://sivuh.ie/
ABOUT THE HOST
Dr. Fiona Barry is a distinguished healthcare practitioner with over 3 decades of experience in both Western / Modern and Eastern / Traditional medicine. Holding a PhD in Pharmacology and a degree in biomedical sciences, she transitioned from cardiovascular research to the more holistic approach of Chinese medicine. She also supports people in their emotional and psychological challenges with the likes of Quantum Thinking Transformation (QTT) and coaching.
Fiona's integrative approach has supported several thousand people individually in navigating challenges in such areas as hormonal health, fertility, trauma and chronic pain, with tremendously positive feedback and results.
Throughout her clinical practice, Dr. Fiona regularly encounters clients burdened by shame and isolation, voicing sentiments like "I've never told anyone that before."
Recognising the profound need for open dialogue, Fiona launched this new podcast series "Taboo", where she aims to create a safe space for the exploration of topics that are often left unspoken, in order to foster connection and understanding on a broader scale. She is committed to amplifying voices and stories that often go unheard.
Fiona is available to work with people in a number of ways, including:
One-to-one in her clinic or online
For media and events, including corporate training in health and wellbeing
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_fionabarry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comharacupuncture
Website: https://fionabarry.ie/
Tuesday Nov 04, 2025
Tuesday Nov 04, 2025
In this emotional episode Fiona speaks with breast cancer survivor Treasa and medical tattooist Aislinn about diagnosis, treatment, reconstruction, and the long path back to identity and confidence.
They explore practical supports—wigs, prosthetics, scar revision and areola tattooing—the role of family and counselling, and the transformative impact of compassionate, specialist care.
ABOUT GUEST
Aislinn Horgan is a registered nurse and internationally trained medical tattooist, specialising in restorative tattooing for people healing after surgery or trauma. Her clinic, By Aislinn Medical Micropigmentation studio, is the only dedicated medical tattoo clinic in Ireland. Through this clinic she provides 3D areola and nipple tattooing, scar and stretch mark revision, and eyebrow restoration for clients across Ireland.
With a background in oncology and surgery and over twenty years in healthcare, Aislinn brings a unique combination of clinical knowledge and artistry to her work. She is the only provider in Ireland approved by Laya Healthcare for areola tattooing, a recognition she personally advocated for to ensure this vital final step in breast reconstruction is accessible and respected. She is delighted that VHI have also recently approved this service for their members.
Aislinn’s work goes far beyond appearance. It’s about helping people reclaim their confidence, identity, and sense of self after deeply personal journeys of healing and life changing experiences. Her mission is simple but profound, to make people feel whole again.
Mobile: 0872239308
Instagram: @byaislinnastudio
Website: byaislinn.ie
Email: byaislinnstudio@gmail.com
ABOUT THE HOST
Dr. Fiona Barry is a distinguished healthcare practitioner with over 3 decades of experience in both Western / Modern and Eastern / Traditional medicine. Holding a PhD in Pharmacology and a degree in biomedical sciences, she transitioned from cardiovascular research to the more holistic approach of Chinese medicine. She also supports people in their emotional and psychological challenges with the likes of Quantum Thinking Transformation (QTT) and coaching.
Fiona's integrative approach has supported several thousand people individually in navigating challenges in such areas as hormonal health, fertility, trauma and chronic pain, with tremendously positive feedback and results.
Throughout her clinical practice, Dr. Fiona regularly encounters clients burdened by shame and isolation, voicing sentiments like "I've never told anyone that before."
Recognising the profound need for open dialogue, Fiona launched this new podcast series "Taboo", where she aims to create a safe space for the exploration of topics that are often left unspoken, in order to foster connection and understanding on a broader scale. She is committed to amplifying voices and stories that often go unheard.
Fiona is available to work with people in a number of ways, including:
One-to-one in her clinic or online
For media and events, including corporate training in health and wellbeing
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_fionabarry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comharacupuncture
Website: https://fionabarry.ie/
Tuesday Oct 21, 2025
Tuesday Oct 21, 2025
After taking time off to truly switch off and reset, Fiona returns for Episode 12 of Taboo with a deeply honest and uplifting conversation featuring Moira Geary, known as The Recombobulator.
Moira shares her powerful personal story — from years of anxiety, shame, and self-doubt to creating QTT (Quantum Thinking Transformation) and helping others reclaim their confidence and purpose. Together, Fiona and Moira explore the importance of self-awareness, emotional healing, and the courage it takes to face life’s darker moments.
This episode is a reminder that no matter how overwhelming life feels, nothing stays the same — change and hope are always possible.
ABOUT GUEST
A former nurse and midwife, Moira holds an MA in Psychotherapy and has 25 years’ experience working in the Personal Development space. In that 25 years she has developed and teaches unique techniques with a practical approach to support people find freedom within themselves resulting in transformational and lasting change.
Her signature techniques also offer seekers freedom from fear, worry, procrastination, self-sabotage and overwhelm that may be holding them back. Her trainings deliver unique, gentle and profoundly positive roadmaps to take you to freedom regardless of stage of life or circumstances.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moirageary_
Website: https://www.moirageary.com/
Email: support@moirageary.com
ABOUT THE HOST
Dr. Fiona Barry is a distinguished healthcare practitioner with over 3 decades of experience in both Western / Modern and Eastern / Traditional medicine. Holding a PhD in Pharmacology and a degree in biomedical sciences, she transitioned from cardiovascular research to the more holistic approach of Chinese medicine. She also supports people in their emotional and psychological challenges with the likes of Quantum Thinking Transformation (QTT) and coaching.
Fiona's integrative approach has supported several thousand people individually in navigating challenges in such areas as hormonal health, fertility, trauma and chronic pain, with tremendously positive feedback and results.
Throughout her clinical practice, Dr. Fiona regularly encounters clients burdened by shame and isolation, voicing sentiments like "I've never told anyone that before."
Recognising the profound need for open dialogue, Fiona launched this new podcast series "Taboo", where she aims to create a safe space for the exploration of topics that are often left unspoken, in order to foster connection and understanding on a broader scale. She is committed to amplifying voices and stories that often go unheard.
Fiona is available to work with people in a number of ways, including:
One-to-one in her clinic or online
For media and events, including corporate training in health and wellbeing
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_fionabarry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comharacupuncture
Website: https://fionabarry.ie/
Wednesday Oct 01, 2025
Wednesday Oct 01, 2025
This episode follows Michael’s candid account of losing his father to suicide at 16, stepping into a caretaker role, and finding support in friends and family while navigating grief.
He discusses his mixed experiences with professional help, how medication affected his creativity, and how these events shaped his identity, relationships and resilience.
Michael shares practical takeaways: grief changes but eases with time, lean on friends and chosen family, and be there for others when they need you.
ABOUT THE HOST
Dr. Fiona Barry is a distinguished healthcare practitioner with over 3 decades of experience in both Western / Modern and Eastern / Traditional medicine. Holding a PhD in Pharmacology and a degree in biomedical sciences, she transitioned from cardiovascular research to the more holistic approach of Chinese medicine. She also supports people in their emotional and psychological challenges with the likes of Quantum Thinking Transformation (QTT) and coaching.
Fiona's integrative approach has supported several thousand people individually in navigating challenges in such areas as hormonal health, fertility, trauma and chronic pain, with tremendously positive feedback and results.
Throughout her clinical practice, Dr. Fiona regularly encounters clients burdened by shame and isolation, voicing sentiments like "I've never told anyone that before."
Recognising the profound need for open dialogue, Fiona launched this new podcast series "Taboo", where she aims to create a safe space for the exploration of topics that are often left unspoken, in order to foster connection and understanding on a broader scale. She is committed to amplifying voices and stories that often go unheard.
Fiona is available to work with people in a number of ways, including:
One-to-one in her clinic or online
For media and events, including corporate training in health and wellbeing
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_fionabarry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comharacupuncture
Website: https://fionabarry.ie/
Tuesday Sep 23, 2025
Tuesday Sep 23, 2025
In this episode, Fiona and her nephew Michael recount the day Michael learned his father, John, had died by suicide and explore the profound impact on a family of five children.
They discuss the events leading up to the death, including economic and mental health struggles, the shock and fragmentation that followed, and how the family coped and found resilience over time.
ABOUT THE HOST
Dr. Fiona Barry is a distinguished healthcare practitioner with over 3 decades of experience in both Western / Modern and Eastern / Traditional medicine. Holding a PhD in Pharmacology and a degree in biomedical sciences, she transitioned from cardiovascular research to the more holistic approach of Chinese medicine. She also supports people in their emotional and psychological challenges with the likes of Quantum Thinking Transformation (QTT) and coaching.
Fiona's integrative approach has supported several thousand people individually in navigating challenges in such areas as hormonal health, fertility, trauma and chronic pain, with tremendously positive feedback and results.
Throughout her clinical practice, Dr. Fiona regularly encounters clients burdened by shame and isolation, voicing sentiments like "I've never told anyone that before."
Recognising the profound need for open dialogue, Fiona launched this new podcast series "Taboo", where she aims to create a safe space for the exploration of topics that are often left unspoken, in order to foster connection and understanding on a broader scale. She is committed to amplifying voices and stories that often go unheard.
Fiona is available to work with people in a number of ways, including:
One-to-one in her clinic or online
For media and events, including corporate training in health and wellbeing
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_fionabarry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comharacupuncture
Website: https://fionabarry.ie/
Tuesday Sep 09, 2025
Tuesday Sep 09, 2025
In this episode Nathalie Lennon shares her honest journey from social-media-fuelled fitness and aesthetic obsession to overtraining, injury and hypothalamic amenorrhea, and the long road back to recovery.
She discusses the mental-health impact of diet culture, the role of social media and family messages, and how she now coaches holistically to help clients prioritize long-term health over short-term looks.
ABOUT GUEST
Nathalie is an inspiring health and fitness enthusiast passionate about spreading an authentic message based on positive body image, a healthy sustainable lifestyle, establishing optimal mental wellness & building confidence.
As a personal trainer and qualified nutritional coach, she works to help others develop a positive relationship with fitness and food whilst still living their life to the fullest. She aims to showcase & help others find balance between extremes, enjoying all that life has to offer, whilst keeping on top of their physical and mental health.
She is eager to help others push their comfort zone boundaries, by continuing to share her journey as she pushes her own with training, travel & goal setting!
Link To Nathlie's Podcast "The Dating Games"
https://open.spotify.com/show/221tK7vSC5bDqgXW4ItQw2?si=a6147d99eb984d28
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathalielennon_
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nathalielennon
Website: https://www.nlf.ie/
Email: nattilly.fitness@gmail.com
ABOUT THE HOST
Dr. Fiona Barry is a distinguished healthcare practitioner with over 3 decades of experience in both Western / Modern and Eastern / Traditional medicine. Holding a PhD in Pharmacology and a degree in biomedical sciences, she transitioned from cardiovascular research to the more holistic approach of Chinese medicine. She also supports people in their emotional and psychological challenges with the likes of Quantum Thinking Transformation (QTT) and coaching.
Fiona's integrative approach has supported several thousand people individually in navigating challenges in such areas as hormonal health, fertility, trauma and chronic pain, with tremendously positive feedback and results.
Throughout her clinical practice, Dr. Fiona regularly encounters clients burdened by shame and isolation, voicing sentiments like "I've never told anyone that before."
Recognising the profound need for open dialogue, Fiona launched this new podcast series "Taboo", where she aims to create a safe space for the exploration of topics that are often left unspoken, in order to foster connection and understanding on a broader scale. She is committed to amplifying voices and stories that often go unheard.
Fiona is available to work with people in a number of ways, including:
One-to-one in her clinic or online
For media and events, including corporate training in health and wellbeing
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_fionabarry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comharacupuncture
Website: https://fionabarry.ie/
Tuesday Aug 26, 2025
Tuesday Aug 26, 2025
In this episode psychotherapist Paul O' Beirne joins Fiona to explore sexual health and intimacy across the lifespan, covering topics from phimosis and pornography's impact on teenagers to performance anxiety and reconnecting with your sexual self. They discuss practical tools like sensate focus, compassionate communication, and how to redefine sex beyond performance and penetration. Tune in for candid, judgment-free conversation and real strategies to rebuild closeness and sexual confidence.
ABOUT THE GUEST
Paul O'Beirne is a dedicated and fully accredited member of the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP) and a registered member of the College of Sex and Relationship Therapists (COSRT). With a solid academic foundation, Paul holds a Bachelor’s degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy from Middlesex University, complemented by a professional qualifying diploma in Sexology and Relationship Therapy from the Contemporary Institute of Clinical Sexology.
Currently, Paul is expanding his expertise by pursuing a Master of Science in Contemporary Adolescent Psychotherapy, further enhancing his ability to support young individuals through their mental health journeys. With a compassionate approach, he provides therapy both in person in Drogheda, County Louth, and online, making his services accessible to a broader audience.
Paul’s practice encompasses a range of therapeutic areas, including general psychotherapy, adolescent psychotherapy, and psychosexual therapy. He is committed to helping adults, adolescents, and intimate partners navigate their emotional and relational challenges, fostering personal growth and healing. Through his work, Paul strives to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals can explore their feelings, improve their relationships, and achieve greater overall well-being.
Email: udoutherapy@gmail.comPhone number: (01) 2676570 ext. 52Website: https://www.psychologytoday.com/ie/counselling/u-do-u-therapy-adults-adolescents-and-couples-drogheda-lh/1141855
ABOUT THE HOST
Dr. Fiona Barry is a distinguished healthcare practitioner with over 3 decades of experience in both Western / Modern and Eastern / Traditional medicine. Holding a PhD in Pharmacology and a degree in biomedical sciences, she transitioned from cardiovascular research to the more holistic approach of Chinese medicine. She also supports people in their emotional and psychological challenges with the likes of Quantum Thinking Transformation (QTT) and coaching.
Fiona's integrative approach has supported several thousand people individually in navigating challenges in such areas as hormonal health, fertility, trauma and chronic pain, with tremendously positive feedback and results.
Throughout her clinical practice, Dr. Fiona regularly encounters clients burdened by shame and isolation, voicing sentiments like "I've never told anyone that before."
Recognising the profound need for open dialogue, Fiona launched this new podcast series "Taboo", where she aims to create a safe space for the exploration of topics that are often left unspoken, in order to foster connection and understanding on a broader scale. She is committed to amplifying voices and stories that often go unheard.
Fiona is available to work with people in a number of ways, including:
One-to-one in her clinic or online
For media and events, including corporate training in health and wellbeing
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_fionabarry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comharacupuncture
Website: https://fionabarry.ie/