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Healing Gals Podcast

Molly Smyth

Welcome to Healing Gals, the podcast where we reconnect to who were were before society got its hands on us! Each episode is a conversation about healing with women who are brave enough to be vulnerable and share the lessons they learned on their individual healing journey. We have a bit of craic along the way and we know we are never finished learning or healing. We cover topics such as feminism and the patriarchy, boundaries, gender based violence, self-love, being a single gal, being a mam, shame and listening to our bodies. We talk about all of these things through the lens of growth, learning and healing.

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

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  • 21 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 1 hr 24 min
  • English

Episodes 21

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  • S6 · E11
    August 27 · 1 hr 31 min

    S6 Ep 11: What If It's Not Your Personality? Trauma, Survival & the Wounded Healer with psychotherapist Katie McKenna

    This is Part 2 of my conversation with accredited psychotherapist and co-author of You're Not the Problem, Katie McKenna—and it's also the final episode of Season 6 of the Healing Gals Podcast! In Part 1, Katie and I explored the wounded healer: the person who may be drawn towards a caring profession because of experiences in childhood that taught them to become highly attuned to other people's needs. In this episode, we take that conversation further. We explore why wounded healers can struggle with boundaries, rest and asking for help. We talk about hypervigilance, the fear of being "in trouble", rejection, learning to identify a safe person and what healthy relationships can teach us about healing. We also explore the saviour complex, the difference between helping and rescuing, and one of the biggest questions of the episode: What if something you think is your personality is actually a trauma response? At the beginning of the episode, I also speak about my experience working in mainstream residential care, the state of our social care and juvenile justice systems, and the recent concerns around young people engaging in dangerous behaviour for social media attention. This opens up a wider conversation about patriarchy, the systems we create and how we can begin bringing more nurturing, relational and community-centred values into our own lives. • Wounded healers and boundaries • Why rest can be difficult • Struggling to ask for help • Learning to receive • Hypervigilance • Fear of being "in trouble" • Fear of rejection • Identifying a safe person • Healthy relationships and healing • The saviour complex • Helping vs rescuing • Your personality vs your trauma responses • Patriarchy and our social systems • Young people, belonging and social media • What a more nurturing culture could look like This conversation is particularly personal for me because I worked in mainstream residential care for 12 years and identify as a recovering wounded healer. Perhaps healing isn't about becoming less caring. Perhaps it's about learning that you can care deeply for other people without abandoning yourself. Katie is an accredited psychotherapist and co-author of You're Not the Problem. She specialises in parentification, emotional abuse and breaking generational trauma. You can find Katie and take her nervous system quiz at: www.katiemckenna.ie If you have gotten anything helpful from Season 6 of the podcast, and you feel you'd like to send a few euro as thanks on my Buy Me A Coffee Link you can do so here: buymeacoffee.com/Healinggalspodcast Thank you so much! Season 6 is proudly sponsored by DARA Mats — luxury yoga mats designed to support your wellness journey both on and off the mat. Visit www.daramats.com and follow @daramats on Instagram. Don't forget to use the exclusive Healing Gals listener discount shared during the episode. Healing Gals Podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, therapy or mental health support. If this episode brings up anything difficult for you, please reach out to a qualified healthcare professional or trusted support service. Ireland Support Services: Samaritans — 116 123 Pieta — 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444 Text About It — text HELLO to 50808 HSE Mental Health Services And that's a wrap on Season 6. ❤️ Thank you for listening, sharing, supporting and being part of Healing Gals. Remember, you are good enough exactly as you are.

  • S6 · E10
    August 12 · 1 hr 3 min

    S6 EP10: Working in Caring Professions: "The Wounded Healer" with Katie McKenna

    This week I'm joined by accredited psychotherapist and co-author of the international bestselling book You're Not the Problem, Katie McKenna, to explore the concept of the wounded healer. This conversation is particularly personal for me. I worked in mainstream residential care for 12 years and identify as with this role. Looking back, I can see how some of my own childhood experiences and unmet needs influenced the way I showed up in caring roles. Katie and I explore the kinds of childhood experiences that can lead someone towards caring professions such as social care, social work, nursing and psychotherapy, and how we can become so attuned to other people's needs that we lose touch with our own. We talk about the "empath", growing up with a narcissistic parent, identifying our own needs, the difference between helping and rescuing, and what happens when being needed becomes part of our identity. We also discuss the nervous system and Katie's quiz, available on her website, which can help you identify your number and understand more about how your nervous system is functioning. Find Katie & take the quiz: www.katiemckenna.ie • The wounded healer • Childhood and caring professions • Unmet needs and adult careers • Social care, social work and nursing • The "empath" • Narcissistic parents • Identifying our own needs • Helping vs rescuing • The nervous system • Being needed as an identity • Molly's 12 years in residential care • Evolving away from that role of the wounded healer • Learning to care without abandoning yourself. Season 6 of the Healing Gals Podcast is proudly sponsored byDARA Mats — luxury yoga mats designed to support your wellness journey both onand off the mat. You can explore the full collection at ⁠www.daramats.com⁠and follow along on Instagram at @daramats for wellness inspiration, newlaunches, and more. There’s also a special discount code exclusively forHealing Gals listeners shared in every episode. Healing Gals Podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, therapy or mental health support. If this episode brings up anything difficult for you, please reach out to a qualified healthcare professional or trusted support service. Remember, you are good enough exactly as you are. 💛

  • S6 · E9
    August 5 · 1 hr 10 min

    S6 Ep 9: The Stories Women Inherit | Breaking Generational Patterns with Caoimhe Gibney

    This week is Part 2 of my conversation with The Mindful Physio, Caoimhe Gibney. In Part 1, we explored the science of intergenerational trauma and epigenetics. This week, we turn our attention to the stories passed down through generations that shape what women believe about themselves, relationships, motherhood, ageing and belonging. Together we discuss inherited beliefs about womanhood, honouring older women, calling people in instead of calling them out, the Maiden, Mother and Crone archetypes, embodiment as resistance, weight gain, healthy masculinity, lessons from nature and much more. Season 6 of the Healing Gals Podcast is proudly sponsored by DARA Mats. Visit www.daramats.com to explore their luxury yoga mats and don't forget the exclusive listener discount shared at the end of Episode 1. Healing Gals Podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, therapy or mental health support. If this episode brings up anything difficult for you, please reach out to a qualified healthcare professional or trusted support service. Ireland Support Services • Samaritans – 116 123 • Pieta – 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444 • Text About It – Text HELLO to 50808 • HSE Mental Health Services Remember, you are good enough exactly as you are.

  • S6 · E8
    July 29 · 1 hr 22 min

    S6 Ep 8: How Intergenerational Trauma Lives in the Body (Part 1) | With Caoimhe Gibney

    Can trauma be inherited? In this episode of the Healing Gals Podcast, Molly sits down with somatic specialist physiotherapist Caoimhe Gibney to explore how intergenerational trauma shapes our bodies, relationships and everyday lives—and how we can begin to heal. Together they discuss what somatics really is, why our nervous systems hold onto stress long after danger has passed, and why so many women struggle with over-giving, people pleasing, asking for help and setting boundaries. Molly also reflects on the legacy of Ireland's Mother and Baby Homes, including Bessborough and Tuam, and the profound impact these institutions continue to have on generations of Irish women. Topics include: • Intergenerational trauma • Somatics • Trauma stored in the body • Nervous system regulation • Healthy anger • Boundaries • Women's resilience • Being judged • Breaking generational cycles • Caoimhe's journey into somatic healing At the end of the episode Molly recommends the RTÉ documentaries Missing Children and Testimony for anyone wishing to understand more about Ireland's institutional trauma and its lasting impact. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a rating and share it with someone who would benefit from the conversation. Season 6 of the Healing Gals Podcast is proudly sponsored byDARA Mats — luxury yoga mats designed to support your wellness journey both onand off the mat. You can explore the full collection at ⁠www.daramats.com⁠and follow along on Instagram at @daramats for wellness inspiration, newlaunches, and more. There’s also a special discount code exclusively forHealing Gals listeners shared at the end of Episode 1. Healing Gals Podcast is intended for entertainment andinformational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medicaladvice, diagnosis, therapy, or mental health support. If this episode brings upanything difficult for you, please reach out to a qualified healthcareprofessional or trusted support service. Ireland Support Services: • Samaritans – Call 116 123 (24/7support) • Pieta – Call 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444 • Text About It –Free text HELLO to 50808 • HSE Mental Health Supports: ⁠HSEMental Health Services⁠ Remember, you are good enough exactly as you are.

  • S6 · E6
    July 22 · 1 hr 26 min

    S6 Ep 7: Sophia Wren: The Truth About Being a Female Comedian

    Award-winning Irish comedian Sophia Wren joins Molly for a funny, honest and heartwarming conversation about life on and off the stage. From winning Show Me The Funny within two years of starting stand-up to becoming a finalist in So You Think You're Funny?, Sophia shares how she found comedy, the challenges of being a woman in the industry, dealing with hecklers, and why therapy and living according to your values have shaped both her career and her life. The conversation also explores motherhood, postnatal depression, protecting your children's privacy while using personal stories in your work, and the lessons Sophia wishes she'd learned sooner. Naturally, there's plenty of laughter along the way, finishing with some fun quick-fire questions. • How Molly and Sophia met • Getting started in stand-up comedy • Female comedians and misogyny • Therapy and personal growth • Values-based decision making • Handling hecklers • Comedy audience etiquette • Young motherhood • Postnatal depression • Margot's Got Money Problems • Sharing personal stories while respecting family privacy • Advice for aspiring female comedians • Quick-fire questions 🎟️ Sophia's new stand-up show, The Luckiest Girl in the World, is on sale now. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a rating and share it with a friend—it really helps more people discover the show. Season 6 of the Healing Gals Podcast is proudly sponsored byDARA Mats — luxury yoga mats designed to support your wellness journey both onand off the mat. You can explore the full collection at ⁠www.daramats.com⁠and follow along on Instagram at @daramats for wellness inspiration, newlaunches, and more. There’s also a special discount code exclusively forHealing Gals listeners shared at the end of Episode 1. Healing Gals Podcast is intended for entertainment andinformational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medicaladvice, diagnosis, therapy, or mental health support. If this episode brings upanything difficult for you, please reach out to a qualified healthcareprofessional or trusted support service. Ireland Support Services: • Samaritans – Call 116 123 (24/7support) • Pieta – Call 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444 • Text About It –Free text HELLO to 50808 • HSE Mental Health Supports: ⁠HSEMental Health Services⁠ Remember, you are good enough exactly as you are.

  • S6 · E6
    July 15 · 1 hr 21 min

    Make More Complaints: The Hidden Cost of Workplace Misogyny | Karen Sugrue (Part 2)

    Part two of Molly's conversation with psychotherapist, sociology lecturer and accidental activist Karen Sugrue explores one question that affects thousands of women every year: What happens when women complain? Karen shares the research behind When Women Complain, a University of Limerick project investigating workplace misogyny, sexism, harassment and the way complaints procedures often retraumatise the very people they're meant to protect. Together, Molly and Karen discuss why speaking up can come at such a personal cost, how patriarchy continues to shape workplaces, and why making complaints is one of the most important forms of activism available to women. In this episode we discuss: The When Women Complain research project Workplace misogyny, sexism and harassment Bullying and toxic workplace cultures How complaints procedures can become another form of abuse The impact of workplace discrimination on women's health Why women experience higher levels of retaliation after speaking up The Women of Honour movement How patriarchy divides women The role of activism in creating change Beauty standards and rejecting impossible expectations Books and ideas from Sarah Ahmed and Caitlin Moran Karen's message is simple: "Make more complaints." If you have experience you'd like to contribute to the research, you can contact Karen at: 📧 whenwomencomplain@gmail.com If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a rating and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Season 6 of the Healing Gals Podcast is proudly sponsored byDARA Mats — luxury yoga mats designed to support your wellness journey both onand off the mat. You can explore the full collection at ⁠⁠www.daramats.com⁠⁠and follow along on Instagram at @daramats for wellness inspiration, newlaunches, and more. There’s also a special discount code exclusively forHealing Gals listeners shared at the end of Episode 1. Healing Gals Podcast is intended for entertainment andinformational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medicaladvice, diagnosis, therapy, or mental health support. If this episode brings upanything difficult for you, please reach out to a qualified healthcareprofessional or trusted support service. Ireland Support Services: • Samaritans – Call 116 123 (24/7support) • Pieta – Call 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444 • Text About It –Free text HELLO to 50808 • HSE Mental Health Supports: ⁠⁠HSEMental Health Services⁠⁠ Remember, you are good enough exactly as you are.

  • S6 · E5
    July 8 · 1 hr 20 min

    Karen Sugrue on Trans Rights, Reproductive Rights and Feminism

    In this powerful episode of Healing Gals Podcast, I’m joined by psychotherapist, sociology lecturer, and accidental activist Karen Sugrue for a deeply honest conversation about motherhood, feminism, activism, and the urgent fight for trans rights and reproductive justice in Ireland. Karen shares her experience as co-chair of Mammies for Trans Rights alongside Claire Flynn, speaking candidly about the fears many parents carry when raising trans children, the harmful pressures around “passing,” and why protecting trans lives and dignity matters now more than ever. We also talk about Karen’s activism in the fight for reproductive rights through Together for Safety, and the campaign for safe access zones with voices like Evie Murphy, Jan O’Sullivan, and Annie Hoey helping to push this work forward. This conversation goes far beyond policy. We explore the emotional and social realities women are carrying right now — from the devastating impact of Covid, to the unequal burden of care placed on women, to the importance of honouring our bodies, trusting ourselves, and believing other women. We also unpack the rise of the far right, the power of speaking up, and why, as Karen says, the act of complaining can be an act of power. We touch on the work and writing of feminist thinkers including Mona Eltahawy, Kimberlé Crenshaw, bell hooks, and Sarah Ahmed, and discuss the links between misogyny, racism, dehumanisation, and the violence women continue to face online and offline. This is a conversation about courage, care, resistance, and what it means to keep showing up for each other. In this episode, we discuss: Karen’s work as a psychotherapist, sociology lecturer, and activist Parenting, fear, and advocacy when your child is trans Mammies for Trans Rights and the fight for trans safety and dignity The pressure and politics of “passing” The rise of far-right narratives and anti-trans rhetoric Reproductive rights activism and the campaign for safe access zones The unequal burden women carried during Covid Care work, emotional labour, and honouring our bodies Believing ourselves and believing other women Feminist texts and thinkers shaping this work Racism, dehumanisation, and violence against women in digital spaces If this episode resonated with you, please share it, rate the podcast, and send it to someone who needs to hear it. Season 6 of the Healing Gals Podcast is proudly sponsored byDARA Mats — luxury yoga mats designed to support your wellness journey both onand off the mat. You can explore the full collection at ⁠www.daramats.com⁠and follow along on Instagram at @daramats for wellness inspiration, newlaunches, and more. There’s also a special discount code exclusively forHealing Gals listeners shared at the end of Episode 1. Healing Gals Podcast is intended for entertainment andinformational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medicaladvice, diagnosis, therapy, or mental health support. If this episode brings upanything difficult for you, please reach out to a qualified healthcareprofessional or trusted support service. Ireland Support Services: • Samaritans – Call 116 123 (24/7support) • Pieta – Call 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444 • Text About It –Free text HELLO to 50808 • HSE Mental Health Supports: ⁠HSEMental Health Services⁠ Remember, you are good enough exactly as you are.

  • S6 · E4
    July 1 · 1 hr 32 min

    Behind The Glitter: The Truth About Stripping, Burlesque & Shame

    What is it really like to work as a stripper? And how do you let go of the shame society places on women who own their sexuality? In this episode of Healing Gals Podcast, I sit down with Daria Decollette—former stripper, burlesque performer, and founder of All That Glitters—to talk about her journey from dancer to stripping, and ultimately finding purpose, confidence, and creative freedom through burlesque. Daria shares the realities of working in the stripping industry, including financial exploitation, the lack of protections for sex workers, and the stigma that often follows women long after they leave the industry. She also opens up about body confidence, embracing her sexuality without shame, and how being rejected from her dream opportunities ultimately led her to a life that felt far more aligned. This is an honest conversation about resilience, self-acceptance, healing, and learning that sometimes life's biggest setbacks become our greatest redirections. ✨ In this episode, we discuss: From dancer to stripper to burlesque performer Body confidence and self-acceptance Owning your sexuality without shame The realities of stripping and sex work Financial exploitation and lack of workplace protections Releasing shame from your past Rejection as redirection Finding purpose through unexpected opportunities Building All That Glitters, a burlesque cabaret in Drogheda If this conversation resonates with you, don't forget to like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs this reminder: your past doesn't define your future. 💛 Subscribe for more conversations on healing, authenticity, and reconnecting with the woman beneath society's conditioning. Season 6 of the Healing Gals Podcast is proudly sponsored byDARA Mats — luxury yoga mats designed to support your wellness journey both onand off the mat. You can explore the full collection at ⁠www.daramats.com⁠and follow along on Instagram at @daramats for wellness inspiration, newlaunches, and more. There’s also a special discount code exclusively forHealing Gals listeners shared at the end of Episode 1. Healing Gals Podcast is intended for entertainment andinformational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medicaladvice, diagnosis, therapy, or mental health support. If this episode brings upanything difficult for you, please reach out to a qualified healthcareprofessional or trusted support service. Ireland Support Services: • Samaritans – Call 116 123 (24/7support) • Pieta – Call 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444 • Text About It –Free text HELLO to 50808 • HSE Mental Health Supports: ⁠HSEMental Health Services⁠ Remember, you are good enough exactly as you are. #HealingGalsPodcast #BodyConfidence #Burlesque #SelfAcceptance #SexWork #HealingJourney #FemaleEmpowerment #Confidence #PersonalGrowth #MentalHealth #WomenSupportingWomen #Authenticity

  • S6 · E3
    June 24 · 54 min

    S6 Ep 3: Festival Mná, Blended Families, What's online? and Healthy Anger

    Molly chats about her experience of Festival Mná and why every woman in Ireland could go there and enjoy such a powerful, special day! In honor of Father's Day, Molly discusses blending families and how she navigated this. Molly introduces a new segment called "What's Online?", where she discusses some reels/TikToks she has seen online that raise important points for the gals. Then Molly explores how one of the Love Island contestants seems to be suppressing healthy anger. Molly talks about how she manages her anger and ensures she expresses it and takes care of her health in this regard. Season 6 of the Healing Gals Podcast is proudly sponsored byDARA Mats — luxury yoga mats designed to support your wellness journey both on and off the mat. You can explore the full collection at ⁠⁠www.daramats.com⁠⁠ and follow along on Instagram at @daramats for wellness inspiration, newlaunches, and more. There’s also a special discount code exclusively for Healing Gals listeners shared at the end of Episode 1. Healing Gals Podcast is intended for entertainment andinformational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, therapy, or mental health support. If this episode brings upanything difficult for you, please reach out to a qualified healthcare professional or trusted support service. Ireland Support Services: • Samaritans – Call 116 123 (24/7support) • Pieta – Call 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444 • Text About It –Free text HELLO to 50808 • HSE Mental Health Supports: ⁠⁠HSEMental Health Services⁠⁠ Remember, you are good enough exactly as you are.

  • S6 · E2
    June 17 · 1 hr 47 min

    S6 Ep 2: Healing Our Politics with Dee Makofane

    Molly sits down with political commentator, podcaster andqueen, Dee Makofane. Dee has her own podcast about the Irish Political system and her insights and commentary are super! Topics covered: How the Irish political system works Impact of Trump on Irish/world politics Irish parties (left and right) Feminism &Intersectional Feminism Saying "I don't know" when you don't know! Who benefits from the current policies made by IrishGovernment Living at home as adults Out of Touch politicians Ruth Coppinger Zohran Mamdani Catch Up with Louise McSharry Holly Cairns Getting into Politics Season 6 of the Healing Gals Podcast is proudly sponsored byDARA Mats — luxury yoga mats designed to support your wellness journey both onand off the mat. You can explore the full collection at ⁠⁠www.daramats.com⁠⁠and follow along on Instagram at @daramats for wellness inspiration, newlaunches, and more. There’s also a special discount code exclusively forHealing Gals listeners shared at the end of Episode 1. Healing Gals Podcast is intended for entertainment andinformational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medicaladvice, diagnosis, therapy, or mental health support. If this episode brings up anything difficult for you, please reach out to a qualified healthcareprofessional or trusted support service. Ireland Support Services: • Samaritans – Call 116 123 (24/7support) • Pieta – Call 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444 • Text About It –Free text HELLO to 50808 • HSE Mental Health Supports: ⁠⁠HSEMental Health Services⁠⁠ Remember, you are good enough exactly as you are.

  • S6 · E1
    June 10 · 1 hr 40 min

    S6 Ep1: From Garda to Grounded: Leaving Burnout Behind

    Welcome back to Season 6 of Healing Gals Podcast! In this episode, Molly discusses perimenopause and her new business, Evertold (which may include a discount for Healing Gals Podcast listeners). Molly then sits down with Laura Martyn, founder of DARA MATS to discuss: -Sponsoring Healing Gals Podcast -Her career in An Garda Siochana and her reasons for leaving. -Her experiences as a member of An Garda Siochana and how difficult it was at times working for that organisation. -Laura shares her experience of overcoming burnout and creating a new career for herself. -How DARA MATS was born and why she chose to make luxury yoga mats that you will not find anywhere else. -The process of design and business building. Season 6 of the Healing Gals Podcast is proudly sponsored by DARA Mats — luxury yoga mats designed to support your wellness journey both on and off the mat. You can explore the full collection at www.daramats.com and follow along on Instagram at @daramats for wellness inspiration, new launches, and more. There’s also a special discount code exclusively for Healing Gals listeners shared at the end of Episode 1. Healing Gals Podcast is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, therapy, or mental health support. If this episode brings up anything difficult for you, please reach out to a qualified healthcare professional or trusted support service. Ireland Support Services: • Samaritans – Call 116 123 (24/7 support) • Pieta – Call 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444 • Text About It – Free text HELLO to 50808 • HSE Mental Health Supports: HSE Mental Health Services Remember, you are good enough exactly as you are.

  • S5 · E12
    April 6 · 56 min

    Bonus Episode: Let's Talk about What I Got Wrong

    In preparation for season 6, Molly sits down in her first-ever video podcast to discuss the things she got wrong. Which includes but is not limited to: -Recommending Dax Shepard and his podcast Armchair Expert -Being controlling about her then boyfriend, now husband, keeping in touch on nights out -Expecting perfect behaviour from hurt people -Thinking men doing therapy is enough, it's not -Saying "I don't expect a Matriarchy", spoiler alert, she does! -Thinking she will have to settle for a mediocre man This list is not exhaustive, although it can be exhausting lol! If you enjoy the episode and want to support Molly to keep bringing these episodes, you can buy her a coffee on the link below: buymeacoffee.com/Healinggalspodcast Just a little reminder—this podcast is here to share stories, perspectives, and experiences, not to replace therapy or professional advice You can find a list of support services in Ireland on the following website: https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/supports-services/#:~:text=Pieta,Website:%20textaboutit.ie

  • January 14 · 1 hr 42 min

    S5 Ep11 The Gals, The Patriarchy, & The Dilemma

    S5 Ep11 — The Gals, The Patriarchy, & The Dilemma For the Season 5 finale, Molly sits down with Aisling for an honest, wide-ranging end-of-season chat. From the small things that quietly improve our lives to the big systems that shape us, this episode blends humour, vulnerability, and reflection in true Healing Gals style. Topics Covered Small changes that improved our lives Gubby Soap Company (Discount code: HEALING15) Aisling’s experience of harassment Dinner with the Enemy Growing up in strict religion Patriarchy & religion The male loneliness epidemic Increasing fruit intake Lily’s album & book + a new take on David Harbour Listener’s Dilemma A thoughtful, funny, and heartfelt conversation to close out Season 5. Support the Podcast The Healing Gals Podcast is a one-woman show. If this episode resonated, support the podcast by buying Molly a coffee: buymeacoffee.com/Healinggalspodcast Connect Have a dilemma or topic you’d like discussed? healinggalspodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • January 7 · 45 min

    S5 Ep 10 What We Are Bringing into 2026, Capsule Conversations

    This week's episode is a solo episode where Molly discusses things she is leaving behind in 2025 and things she is bringing into 2026. Molly shares a very exciting opportunity for her listeners, her new legacy service, Capsule Conversations. Capsule Conversations is a guided legacy service that gently records the voice, stories, and memories of someone you love, or of yourself. Through a professionally held conversation, we create an audio time capsule that families can return to for years to come — a voice preserved, a presence kept close. This is not a rushed recording or a scripted interview. It’s a calm, thoughtful conversation, held with care, emotional intelligence, and deep respect for the person sharing their story. Each Capsule Conversation is delivered as a beautifully packaged keepsake. This work is especially for families with older or unwell loved ones — but it’s also for anyone who values memory, connection, and legacy. Capsule Conversations is launching in Ireland in 2026. Follow on Instagram for updates. Support the Podcast The Healing Gals Podcast is a one-woman show — Molly records, edits, and promotes every episode herself. If you’ve received something meaningful from this conversation, consider supporting the show by buying Molly a coffee: buymeacoffee.com/Healinggalspodcast Your support helps keep these heartfelt, healing conversations coming. Connect with Molly Have a dilemma or topic you’d love to hear discussed on the podcast? Email Molly at healinggalspodcast@gmail.com — she’d love to hear from you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Dec 31, 2025 · 2 hr 3 min

    S5 Ep9 Reconnecting to Myself, Giving up Alcohol, Grief.

    This week, Molly is joined by the gorgeous Stephen (aka Annie Queeries / Mannie Queeries) for a deeply moving, funny, and heart-opening conversation. Stephen is a drag performer, podcaster, content creator, and all-round angel. Together, they explore what it’s like to grow up outside of the narrow “box” men are expected to fit into, and the profound impact of being rejected by society for simply being yourself. Stephen shares honestly about his formative years, homophobia, identity, and the long-term effects of emotional disconnection. This episode also tenderly holds space for grief, as Stephen speaks about the very recent passing of his mam, how giving up alcohol changed his life, and what healthy love looks like when you finally believe you deserve it. You are going to laugh, cry, and feel so seen listening to this one, gals. Topics We Cover Stephen’s hilarious TikTok videos Growing up queer and experiencing homophobia Reclaiming and unpacking “the F word” Exploring identity outside rigid gender norms The impact of societal rejection on self-worth The magic of female friendships Alok Vaid-Menon and gender expansiveness The conditioning men receive under patriarchy How emotional disconnection leads to long-term health issues Finding sexuality confusing and unsafe in a rigid world The powerful “I deserve” tool Giving up alcohol and choosing self-respect Changing career paths later in life Redefining healthy love Losing a mam to cancer Grief, funerals, and honouring life after loss Support the Podcast The Healing Gals Podcast is a one-woman show — Molly records, edits, and promotes every episode herself. If you’ve received something meaningful from this conversation, consider supporting the show by buying Molly a coffee: buymeacoffee.com/Healinggalspodcast Your support helps keep these heartfelt, healing conversations coming. Connect with Molly Have a dilemma or topic you’d love to hear discussed on the podcast? Email Molly at healinggalspodcast@gmail.com — she’d love to hear from you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Dec 24, 2025 · 1 hr 43 min

    S5 Ep 8: VALUES; Don't Betray Yourself

    Season 5, Episode 8 – VALUES; Don’t Betray Yourself features gorgeous conversation between Molly and Katelyn Divilly, the only female Traitor from The Traitors Ireland Season One. Katelyn is an Organisational Development Consultant who works closely with teams to improve leadership, culture, and performance. In this episode, she brings both her professional insight and personal experience to a deep, honest exploration of values — how to identify them, live by them, and what happens when we betray them. At the very start of the episode, Molly also shares grounded, compassionate tips for navigating the Christmas season when you’re surrounded by dysfunctional family dynamics. Together, Molly and Katelyn unpack why values are foundational to living a good life, making aligned decisions, and maintaining self-trust — especially in environments shaped by misogyny, poor leadership, or limiting beliefs. Drawing on psychology, real-life examples, and moments of humour and reflection, the conversation moves through identity, rest, nature, and relationships, asking what it really means to perform well as an individual and as part of a team. They also explore whether shared values are essential in romantic partnerships, how bad management can erode personal integrity, and why slowing down — through rest, walking, or even the Camino — is not optional but essential. Topics covered: Tips for surviving the Christmas season with dysfunctional family members Having “special energy” and protecting it The Aileen Wuornos serial killer documentary on Netflix Misogyny and its impact on women The Traitors Ireland: impact and lived experience Limiting beliefs and negative vs positive self-talk We are nature, not separate from it VALUES: how to identify them and why they matter The Peter Principle in leadership Martin Seligman and Values in Action Meeting a partner: do they need the same values as you? Core values vs secondary values Bad managers and managers who compromise your values Tattoos as identity and meaning This Is Not a Self-Help Book, But It Might Just Help You by Mark Mehigan Rest as essential Walking the Camino and slowing down. Support the Podcast The Healing Gals Podcast is a one-woman show — Molly records, edits, and promotes every episode herself. If you’ve received something meaningful from this conversation, consider supporting the show by buying Molly a coffee: buymeacoffee.com/Healinggalspodcast Your support helps keep these heartfelt, healing conversations coming. Connect with Molly Have a dilemma or topic you’d love to hear discussed on the podcast? Email Molly at healinggalspodcast@gmail.com — she’d love to hear from you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Dec 19, 2025 · 48 min

    BONUS EPISODE with Festival Mná Founder Lorraine Hogan

    In this episode, Molly sits down with Lorraine Hogan, founder of Festival Mná. Lorraine shares her personal journey to creating Festival Mná and the vision behind a space devoted to celebrating women in all stages of life. ✨ Topics Covered: Lorraine’s path to creating Festival Mná Perimenopause & menopause as rites of passage Women as a collective and the power of gathering What to expect from Festival Mná The 2025 theme: REBIRTH Remembering how special women truly are What holds women back from stepping fully into themselves Self-advocacy: where to start and how to grow For more information go to festival mná go to @festivalmná on all socials, visit https://festivalmna.com/ or go to https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/festival-mna-2026-tickets-1401554630629 for tickets. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Dec 17, 2025 · 1 hr 4 min

    S5 Ep6 Women, Safety & The Law

    In this important and necessary episode of Healing Gals Podcast, Molly sits down with well-known Irish solicitor Terry Gorry to discuss how women are impacted by and navigate the Irish justice system after experiencing abuse. This conversation offers both legal insight and cultural context, shedding light on the realities women face when seeking safety, protection, and justice. Terry explains the different legal protections available to women, including barring orders, protection orders and safety orders, outlining what each means and when they may apply. He speaks openly about the challenges women encounter when engaging with the courts and the emotional and practical barriers that often exist when attempting to leave abusive situations. The conversation also explores wider societal issues, including the rise of the manosphere and increasing male violence, and how these cultural shifts are influencing attitudes towards women. Terry reflects on how becoming a father to daughters deepened his awareness of women’s lived experiences and shaped his understanding of gendered harm. Molly and Terry discuss sexual harassment, including harassment in the workplace, and Terry shares his experience taking cases on behalf of women who have been sexually harassed. They also delve into divorce and separation, highlighting what women need to consider, how the courts approach access, the reality of so-called deadbeat dads, maintenance obligations, and whether men can be legally compelled to pay maintenance. The episode also touches on Jenny’s Law and the case of Jason Poole, and why these issues matter for women’s safety and legal reform in Ireland. Following the interview, Molly reflects on how the government’s current housing policies are keeping women trapped in unsafe and abusive situations, challenging the narrative that women can simply leave. She highlights how lack of housing options continues to force women to choose between homelessness and harm, and why systemic change is urgently needed. This episode is essential listening for women navigating abuse, separation, or the Irish legal system, and for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of how patriarchy, policy and justice intersect in women’s lives. Support the Podcast The Healing Gals Podcast is a one-woman show — Molly records, edits, and promotes every episode herself. If you’ve received something meaningful from this conversation, consider supporting the show by buying Molly a coffee: buymeacoffee.com/Healinggalspodcast Your support helps keep these heartfelt, healing conversations coming. Connect with Molly Have a dilemma or topic you’d love to hear discussed on the podcast? Email Molly at healinggalspodcast@gmail.com — she’d love to hear from you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Dec 10, 2025 · 1 hr 57 min

    S5 Ep5 Break Ups are Hard & Ex's Emails

    In this powerful and surprisingly hilarious episode of Healing Gals Podcast, host Molly Smyth sits down with breakup coach, retreat facilitator, women’s circle leader, and celebrant Kelly Hunt. Together, they explore what it really looks like to reclaim yourself after heartbreak, betrayal, or the quiet unraveling of a relationship that was never aligned with your soul. Kelly opens up about her own divorce journey—including why she threw a divorce party to celebrate closing a chapter that no longer served her and stepping boldly into the life she was meant to live. She shares how her personal healing led her to her purpose: guiding women through breakups, transitions, and deep self-rediscovery. And then… things take a turn in the best way. Molly revisits emails sent by a former boyfriend—the same boyfriend whose cheating she unpacked in Season 1, Episode 1 (“Shame”). With new clarity and a lot more humor, Molly and Kelly break down the manipulation, gaslighting, and emotional gymnastics hiding in plain sight within those old messages. What once felt confusing or painful is now unmistakable—and honestly, pretty funny—when viewed through a healed lens. This episode is equal parts empowerment, catharsis, sisterhood, and comedic relief. If you’ve ever doubted your intuition, ignored red flags, or felt ashamed for trusting the wrong person… this one is for you. Topics covered: Kelly’s divorce journey and why she chose to celebrate it How she became a breakup coach, retreat facilitator, and celebrant The power of community, women’s circles, and ritual during life transitions What healing looks like when you finally choose you Molly’s past experience with infidelity and the emotional chaos of not knowing Live reactions to real emails from Molly’s ex—featuring gaslighting, manipulation, and accidental comedy How hindsight turns pain into clarity… and sometimes into laughter Reframing shame after being cheated on Why reclaiming your story is one of the most liberating parts of healing If You Enjoyed This Episode… Please follow, rate, and leave a review—it helps the Healing Gals community grow and supports conversations that help women reconnect to who they were before the world got its hands on them. Support the Podcast The Healing Gals Podcast is a one-woman show — Molly records, edits, and promotes every episode herself. If you’ve received something meaningful from this conversation, consider supporting the show by buying Molly a coffee: buymeacoffee.com/Healinggalspodcast Your support helps keep these heartfelt, healing conversations coming. Connect with Molly Have a dilemma or topic you’d love to hear discussed on the podcast? Email Molly at healinggalspodcast@gmail.com — she’d love to hear from you. Remember, You're good enough exactly as you are Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • Dec 3, 2025 · 1 hr 37 min

    S5 Ep4 Is my parent a narcissist?

    S5 Ep4: Is My Parent A Narcissist? with Accredited Psychotherapist Kaite McKenna In this powerful episode of Healing Gals Podcast, I’m joined by accredited psychotherapist, podcaster, and author Katie McKenna—host of the acclaimed podcast Beyond Survival and co-author of International Best Selling book You’re Not the Problem. Together, we dive deep into the complex dynamics of growing up with a narcissistic parent and how this differs from being raised by an emotionally immature parent. Katie breaks down the core traits of narcissistic parenting and the subtle—but profoundly damaging—patterns that can show up in families affected by this dynamic. We explore: What truly defines a narcissistic parent How narcissism differs from emotional immaturity The impact this parenting style has on the entire family system The roles siblings often fall into—and why they compete, clash, or disconnect Common dysfunctional family behaviours that keep the cycle going The roles children adopt to survive: the hero, the scapegoat, the lost child, the peacemaker, and more Katie shares countless real-life examples throughout our conversation, making it easier for listeners to identify if they have experienced—or are currently experiencing—these patterns in their own families. This episode is validating, eye-opening, and deeply empowering for anyone on a healing journey from childhood dysfunction. Support the Podcast The Healing Gals Podcast is a one-woman show — Molly records, edits, and promotes every episode herself. If you’ve received something meaningful from this conversation, consider supporting the show by buying Molly a coffee: buymeacoffee.com/Healinggalspodcast Your support helps keep these heartfelt, healing conversations coming. Connect with Molly Have a dilemma or topic you’d love to hear discussed on the podcast? Email Molly at healinggalspodcast@gmail.com — she’d love to hear from you. Remember, You're good enough exactly as you are Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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