TABOO

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/

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/

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/
 
 

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/

In this impactful episode of Taboo, host Fiona invites renowned sex and intimacy coach Sarah Rose Bright to delve into a revolutionary conversation about the need to redefine societal attitudes towards sex. Sarah shares her journey from fear and shame around sex to empowerment and fulfillment, highlighting how she now guides individuals and couples in transforming their sexual experiences into profound and pleasurable connections.
Tune in as they explore the pervasive conservative attitudes towards sex, the impact of past religious teachings, and the legacy of misinformation and stigma in countries like Ireland. With an emphasis on open discussions, the duo underscores the importance of talking about consent, boundaries, and sexual health to diminish anxiety and create healthier perspectives for future generations.
They also touch upon the shifting perspectives of sex through different life phases, particularly during menopause, and emphasize the vital role of communication and self-exploration in fostering satisfying sexual and intimate relationships. Join the conversation as Sarah and Fiona dissect various myths and untruths surrounding sex, while advocating for a sensual, holistic, and open-minded approach to intimacy that embraces growth, curiosity, and profound connections.
 
ABOUT THE GUEST
Sarah Rose Bright is a Love, Sex & Intimacy Coach and an authorized teacher of The Making Love Retreats®. She specializes in guiding women and committed couples who feel stuck in their intimate lives, helping them reconnect with their feminine bodies, sensuality, and power. Sarah transforms the experience of sex into profound lovemaking, fostering deep intimacy and expansive pleasure. Residing in Somerset, UK, with her fiancé and co-teacher, Graeme Waterfield, she enjoys exploring the countryside, laughing, and embracing adventure. As the host of the Sex, Love, and Intimacy podcast, Sarah works with clients worldwide, facilitating workshops and retreats, and co-teaching courses focused on intimacy and sexual energy mastery. At 51, she has never been happier, finding joy in her work and deepening her relationships.
 
Email: sarah@sarahrosebright.co.uk
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahrosebright
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarahrosebrightsexcoach/
 
Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/sarahrosebright
 
Website: www.sarahrosebright.co.uk
 
 
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/

Welcome back to part two of 'When Love Hurts: Understanding Toxic Family Dynamics'. Join us as Fiona and guest Katie McKenna delve into how historical and cultural influences have shaped family relationships in Ireland. Explore the profound impact of past traumas on current dynamics, and the journey of awareness and healing. Through insightful conversation, they uncover the path to recognizing dysfunctional patterns, the process of reparenting oneself, and finding safety in healthy relationships. Listen in to this deeply resonating discussion that has touched the hearts of many.

In this episode of the Taboo podcast, we delve into the complex and often unspoken dynamics of family relationships with special guest Katie McKenna. Host Fiona is joined by Katie, an insightful voice in understanding family toxicity, to explore the deeply rooted cultural and religious values in Ireland that can perpetuate less-than-ideal family dynamics.
Together, they discuss the central role family plays in Irish culture, emphasizing loyalty and togetherness, and how these values can sometimes uphold toxic relationships. Katie sheds light on the challenges faced by adult children who grow up in such environments, including role reversals, guilt, shame, and the difficulty of setting boundaries.
This in-depth conversation is not only an eye-opener but a necessary exploration of how family loyalty can sometimes mean accepting dysfunction. The episode is split into two parts, offering listeners a thorough understanding of the issues at play, and equipping them with insights to recognize and address these challenges in their own lives.
 
ABOUT THE GUEST
Katie McKenna is an accredited psychotherapist with a focus on parentification and emotional abuse. She provides guidance on recognising common communication patterns and behaviours associated with toxicity or narcissism, particularly within family settings.
Katie hosts the weekly podcast 'Beyond Survival - The Therapy Podcast' and is the co-author of the international bestseller 'You're Not The Problem'.
 
Email: katiemckenna@live.ie
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiemckennapsychotherapist/?hl=en#
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KatieMcKennaTherapy/
Website: www.katiemckenna.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/

In this powerful episode of the "Taboo" podcast, we delve into a deeply personal story that exposes the complexities and challenges of navigating the fertility industry. Our guest shares her six-year-long journey through fertility treatments, highlighting the emotional and financial toll of dealing with clinics that often prioritize profits over patient care. With voice alteration to protect her identity, she candidly discusses key issues such as the lack of comprehensive support from clinics, the need for self-advocacy, and the importance of conducting personal research.
The episode sheds light on the often-overlooked aspects of fertility treatment, including the inadequate testing practices and the emphasis placed on female patients, while male factors are frequently ignored. It challenges the industry's accountability, questioning how clinics can better serve those in vulnerable positions seeking help to conceive. Our guest's story underscores a significant societal issue, with her experiences serving as a cautionary tale for others embarking on their fertility journey.
Join us as we explore how individuals and couples can advocate for themselves and ensure they receive the care and guidance necessary to navigate this complex and emotionally charged industry.
 
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/

In this episode, we welcome Virginia Foley, a strategic visionary and business coach dedicated to female empowerment. Virginia shares her journey of overcoming generational trauma, focusing on how digging into her past revealed unforeseen strengths and insights. As the founder of Up She Rises, she blends business strategy with spirituality, supporting women globally in finding balance between career ambitions and personal fulfillment. Along with discussing the impact of generational beliefs, she highlights the importance of self-acceptance, self-trust, and how these elements have influenced her life and relationships. Her story is one of resilience and empowerment, providing a blueprint for others to discover their own gold amidst life's challenges.
 
ABOUT GUEST
Virginia Foley is a strategic visionary and business coach dedicated to female empowerment. As the founder of Up She Rises, she helps women navigate the challenges of balancing motherhood and career ambitions. After breaking free from a soul-sucking nine-to-five job, Virginia crafted a life that harmonizes financial success and personal fulfillment, all while coaching clients globally from her home in Cork.Virginia’s approach goes beyond standard tactics, focusing on core beliefs, mindset, and brand identity, blending business strategy with spirituality for holistic growth. With decades of PR and marketing expertise, she delivers tailored guidance to ensure her clients thrive.Through UpSheRises.ie, Virginia creates a supportive community for women building brands and growing businesses, offering educational events and online programs. An advocate for continuous learning, she also mentors in the Master's program at CIT and the Start Up Lab at UCC.In this episode we explore Virginia's personal journey of overcoming generational trauma and her mission to empower women to find their own “gold.”
Resources:
Email: virginia@upsherises.ie
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upsherises.ie/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/foleyvirginia
Website: https://www.upsherises.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/

Welcome to another deeply moving episode of Taboo. Today, we dive into an intimate conversation between a mother and daughter, exploring the sensitive journey of parental separation and divorce. Join us as Lena Sharkey, a bright and insightful arts student, shares her personal experiences and profound insights navigating her parents' divorce from the age of 13.
Together, they unpack complex emotions and discuss the unspoken dynamics that often accompany family tension, shedding light on the impact it has on children. Discover how honest communication and understanding fears can foster resilience and personal growth in the face of change.
Throughout the discussion, they touch on themes of self-worth, the legacy of marital expectations, and practical advice for families going through similar experiences. If you're ready to explore the transformative power of vulnerability and connect through shared stories, this episode promises to be a heartwarming and enlightening journey.
Listener discretion is advised due to the sensitive nature of the topics discussed in this episode.
 
ABOUT GUEST
Lena Sharkey is a bright and inspiring second-year student at the National University of Galway, where she is passionately pursuing a four-year arts degree with a focus on Spanish and Geography. At just 20, Lena embodies a unique blend of youthful curiosity and profound insight that captivates everyone around her.An avid reader, Lena is often found with her head buried in a book, exploring new worlds and ideas that fuel her love for literature. Not only does she relish the written word, but she also expresses herself beautifully through her own writing, sharing her thoughts and reflections with those fortunate enough to read them.Lena is a deep thinker who isn't afraid to ask thought-provoking questions that challenge conventional perspectives and inspire meaningful conversations. Her unique take on life showcases an impressive depth of understanding that belies her age.In this episode, we will delve into Lena's experiences navigating her parents' separation and divorce, offering a heartfelt glimpse into what it’s like to be the child of divorced parents. This conversation promises to be both thought-provoking and emotionally powerful, particularly as we explore it from the unique perspective of my daughter, revealing the profound insights and lessons that come from her journey.
 
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://www.fionabarry.ie