In this episode, we’re joined by Keith Barry, the world-famous hypnotist and mentalist, to explore the mindset behind his incredible career and his new book, Sleep Hacks. Keith shares how he uses brain hacking not only to wow audiences but also to help people grow in life and work. From taking news detoxes to the importance of quality sleep, Keith’s insights offer a fresh take on making real changes to improve wellness.We dive into the effects of modern life on our sleep—how screens, stress, ...

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Orla Conlon, an expert in obstetrics and gynaecology, who brings over 25 years of experience to our conversation. We discuss the often-overlooked psychological impact of conditions like PMS and PMDD, and Dr. Conlon shares why empathy and understanding are so important in women’s healthcare.We dive into the struggles young women face with heavy and painful periods, exploring when symptoms may signal conditions like endometriosis. Dr. Conlon explains various...

In this episode, I’m joined by Suzie O’Neill, founder of AYU Cosmetics, who shares her journey from makeup artist and educator, to CEO. Suzie opens up about the ups and downs of building her brand, from recovering after a failed partnership to juggling work, family, and self-care.We chat about the self-care habits that boost confidence, especially for busy women—whether it’s putting on a bit of makeup, running marathons, or horse-riding with her kids. Suzie and I also discuss the role of diet...

In this episode, we’re joined by Albert Kehoe, a physiotherapist, who shares how movement can improve your health and well-being. With years of experience, Albert talks about helping people recover from injuries, manage pain, and stay mobile, while showing the long-term benefits of exercise.We chat about how modern life has changed our activity levels and what we can do to stay fit. Albert gives practical tips for starting a fitness journey, highlighting the benefits of resistance train...

In this episode, we chat with Dr. Paddy Barrett, a top cardiologist, about how small changes to your daily routine—like exercise, diet, sleep, and managing stress—can help lower your risk of heart disease. He shares handy tips on slowing down plaque build-up, inspired by centenarians who live longer, healthier lives.We also clear up some common myths about cholesterol, statins, and heart health, and ask if midlife women should be thinking about taking HRT to protect their hearts. Plus, we tal...

In this episode, we chat with Dr. Sarah Carty about navigating ADHD, drawing from her experiences as both a mother and an expert in the field.Dr. Carty discusses how ADHD isn’t about a lack of attention but an overload, and why girls are often diagnosed later than boys. She breaks down how stimulant medications work to bring order to the chaos, and the challenges children with ADHD face in school.We explore the testing process for ADHD, including the QB test and other assessments. Dr. Carty a...

In this episode, we chat with Paul Scanlon, a personal growth and leadership coach, about how to improve your communication by being more authentic and relatable. Paul explains how simplifying what you say and cutting out confusing language can help you connect better with others. He also talks about how small daily habits can boost your confidence and self-awareness over time.We dive into the dangers of trying to please everyone, understanding what drives you, and why it’s important to ...

In this episode, we chat with Eavanna Breen, a leading facialist with over 30 years in the aesthetics industry. Eavanna shares her journey from beauty school to owning a top salon on Leeson Street, navigating challenges like the 2008 recession and the pandemic.She also opens up about discovering pre-cancerous cells, the decision to have surgery, and how this changed her approach to health. Alongside this, Eavanna talks about supporting her teenage daughter through ADHD, depression, and anxiet...

Ever wondered what it takes to build a successful international brand while juggling family life and moving around the world? Join us for a chat with Gary Lavin, the founder of VITHIT, an Irish vitamin drink company making waves in the beverage industry. Gary shares his journey, including a move to Dubai to give his kids a richer cultural experience and how playing sports shaped his leadership skills.Listen to gripping stories of how Gary defended VITHIT against copycats and get insights into...

Join me on The Laura Dowling Experience as I chat with Dr. Lisa Cunningham, a consultant in emergency medicine, about the critical differences in pre-hospital care between Ireland and the UK. Dr. Cunningham draws from her UK experience and highlights the urgent need for similar advanced care in Ireland.We explore the challenges faced by emergency services, the life-saving role of physician-led teams, and the pressing changes required to improve Ireland’s critical care system. With real-world ...

Wondering how age impacts fertility and what emotional challenges couples face on their IVF journey? Join us as we chat with Dr. John Kennedy from Therapy Fertility about everything from the IVF process—like ovarian stimulation and embryo transfers—to the ups and downs of fertility treatments. We’ll break down the effects of age on fertility, success rates, and what really affects egg quality (spoiler: it’s not supplements!). Dr. Kennedy also shares insights on male infertility, acupuncture, ...

Unlock the secrets to understanding and managing sarcoidosis with renowned consultant respiratory physician, Professor Seamus Donnelly. We dive deep into this often-overlooked disease that primarily affects young adults. From the distressing symptoms of extreme fatigue to shortness of breath and persistent inflammation, Professor Donnelly offers a comprehensive look. With 70-80% of patients experiencing spontaneous improvement within two to three years, there is hope, but it’s crucial to get ...

Unlock the secrets to optimizing your health and longevity with our expert guest, Sean Kinane, a personal trainer and sports performance specialist. Ever wondered how to exercise smarter, not harder? This episode promises to demystify VO2 Max testing and reveal its benefits for everyone, from seasoned athletes to those just starting their fitness journey. Sean shares his invaluable insights on metabolic testing and its growing accessibility, ensuring you have the tools to achieve your fitness...

Are we on the brink of a healthcare revolution? Join us as we sit down with Ireland's Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly, who unveils his ambitious blueprint for transforming women's healthcare in the country. From the pioneering introduction of free Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) to tackling historical inequalities in health services, Donnelly’s vision is nothing short of transformative. Discover how his deep commitment to public health is driving systemic changes that will ensure wome...

TV Producer and Podcast host of the Left On Read Podcast Brenda Dennehy, joins me to talk about her story with addiction and recovery. How after five years of recovery now feels ready to share and open up about her journey in depth discussing rehab at a young age, relapsing and how to cope. Through our discussion Brenda bravely shared her story with loss, only losing her father to which they had a close relationship, she now has to deal with the rollercoaster of grief and how to survive after...

Solo Parent to CEO: Building a Business Against All Odds with Sinead CrowtherSinead Crowther is the Founder and CEO of the children’s soothing lollipops Tonstix.We spoke about building a business from the ground up as a lone parent of 4 with no money and how her son's near death experience pushed her to fulfil her dream of a better life for her and her children. We discussed difficulties and hardships that separated, lone parents face and how the family court system is not fit for purpose.

An in-depth discussion about STI’s such as genital herpes, warts, chlamydia, HPV and the importance of regular STI testing. We also spoke about bacterial vaginosis (BV) and how many women who think that they have recurrent thrush or chronic candida don’t actually have it at all. Dr Aisling Loy is a consultant in genitourinary medicine in Saint James’s Hospital Guide Clinic and Himerus Health.Listen to this podcast ladies, you’re going to learn a lot! Connect with Laura Do...

Clodagh is a journalist, writer and collector of stories. We spoke about the Irish woman who made history but who were written out of the history books and Clodagh's quest to bring their stories back to life.

Dr. Sinead Kane has 5% vision and is legally blind, she qualified as the first visually impaired solicitor in Ireland in 2009. She holds two PhD doctorates, lectures in UCC and she is also an athlete who holds two Guinness world records for running. She is an international keynote speaker on resilience, mindset and teamwork. She is an absolute tonic. You are going to love this podcast! This podcast is sponsored by Boyne Valley Honey. Spreading sunshine across the country for genera...

Dr. William Kinsella and Laura discuss the importance of the entire family being involved in post-partum care and how the Australian model of care after a baby is born inspired him to set up @nest.familyirl . They also discuss anxiety in children and teenagers and William’s thoughts on general practice in Ireland.This episode is brought to you by Boyne Valley Honey. Boyne Valley Honey is excited to announce that they have partnered with Pieta House to officially become the​ 2024 Breakfa...

Prolapse, incontinence, UTIs and mesh surgeries with Dr Breffni Anglim O’ReganDr Breffni Anglim O’Regan is a urogynaecologist and an expert in pelvic floor health. We discussed pelvic floor reconstructive surgery, including the controversial mesh surgeries, and why Dr Breffni would like to see them reintroduced back into Ireland. We also discussed pessary rings, Botox , vaginal estrogen and Bulkamid and their role in incontinence, prolapse and recurring UTIs. This episode is...

Helen is a consultant surgeon at St Vincent’s Hospital in Dublin and has co-authored 60 publications in peer-reviewed journals and has written 5 book chapters on the topics of bariatric and endocrine surgery. Prof. Helen Heneghan, bariatric surgeon, discusses obesity, bariatric surgery, its success rates, costs, side effects and waiting lists. This is a powerful podcast and a must-listen. Helen and her colleagues have seen a dramatic increase in people coming to them with ma...

Founder and CEO of Cocoa Brown and Carter Beauty Cosmetics , the OG tan QUEEN  Marissa Carter talks about building her business , juggling motherhood and what drives her to succeed.  This episode is brought to you by Boyne Valley Honey. This year, Boyne Valley Honey is excited to announce that they have partnered with Pieta House to officially become the​ 2024 Breakfast Partner of Darkness Into Light​. Pick up a limited edition Darkness into Light Squeezy Boyne Valley Honey in stores...

Dr Caroline, a Sex & Intimacy and Sexual Violence Educator, joins Laura for an insightful conversation on different kind of Kinks, Dublin's Red Light District, Consent, Porn, Dating & Sexual Violence. Connect with Dr Caroline on https://iamcarolinewest.com/ This podcast has been sponsored by https://www.boynevalley.com/brands/boyne-valley-honey, Irelands favourite honey brand. Are you ready for the last ever Viva La Vulva 2.0 Show in...