Driven by its4women

Ep 8 Driven by its4women: 'Belles of Belfast' Author Lucy McMullan on Self-Love & Great Storytelling

In this episode of the Driven by its4women podcast, host Kim Kelly welcomes up-and-coming author Lucy McMullan from Portadown, who recently published her debut novel "Belles of Belfast." Described as a mix between "Sex and the City" and "Bridget Jones," the book delivers a compelling story of self-love and independence set against the backdrop of modern Belfast's vibrant culture. Lucy shares insights into her inspiration, writing process, and the themes of her novel. She also discusses her background as a long-time writer, entrepreneur, and social media influencer, offering valuable advice to aspiring authors and emphasising the role of social media in today's literary world. Lucy highlights the importance of authenticity in storytelling and hints at the potential for "Belles of Belfast" to become a TV series.
 
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* Views and opinions expressed are those of the individual and not those of its4women.

Ep 7: Olivia's Haven Founder Olivia Burns Building a Global Fragrance Brand from the North Coast

In this episode of the Driven by its4women podcast, host Kim Kelly interviews Olivia Burns, founder of Olivia's Haven, a high-end luxury home fragrance brand based on the Causeway Coast in Northern Ireland. Olivia shares her journey of transforming a personal passion into a global business amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Highlighting the power of storytelling and personal connections in building a brand, with Olivia reflecting on balancing her business ambitions with future motherhood. Olivia's journey offers valuable insights and inspiration for aspiring female entrepreneurs to follow their passion and make their unique mark.

Ep 6: Empowering Women Through Hair with Bridgeen King

In the world of hair styling, Bridgeen King stands as a beacon of excellence, earning recognition and accolades through her unparalleled skill and creativity, she has become a true trailblazer in the industry.
 
Bridgeen specialises in hair loss, addressing the often shameful, embarrassing, and hurtful topic that many women struggle to talk about. From alopecia, stress and even menopause, she aims to treat not only their hair but the person. 
Known for her personalised approach and attention to detail, she has built a loyal clientele who trust her not only to bring their hair dreams to life but to bring their confidence back to life also.
 
 Please welcome to the Driven by its4women podcast, the incomparable Bridgeen King.

Ep 5: The Wholefood Hero, Edel Owens

We explore the transformative power of holistic health with The Wholefood Hero, Edel Owens. Having endured 45 antibiotics over 15 years, Edel ditched the meds and embraced a journey of gut health and mindset mastery, paving the way for a thriving life.
 
Join Edel as she shares her inspiring story and empowers listeners to reclaim their health and vitality. Through her work with individuals and forward-thinking organizations deeply invested in nutrition, Edel catalyzes a shift in mindset towards optimal health.
 
Discover how Edel helps individuals make informed dietary choices while unraveling years of unhealthy conditioning and habits. Through strategic mindset practices, she equips us with the tools to visualise and actualise the healthy, vibrant life we all yearn for.
 
Tune in to "Driven by its4women" for actionable insights, expert guidance, and transformative stories that will propel you towards your wellness goals.

Ep 4: Let's Talk About Menopause With Siobhan Kearney & Geraldine McAleenan

Join host Kim Kelly on The Driven by itss4women podcast as she delves into the transformative topic of menopause alongside esteemed guests Siobhan Kearney and Geraldine McAleenan. In this insightful episode, Siobhan and Geraldine candidly share their personal journeys through menopause, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs they encountered along the way.
 
From navigating perimenopause symptoms to the profound impact on professional lives, listeners will gain valuable insights into the multifaceted dimensions of menopause. Discover how workplace awareness and support can make a tangible difference in empowering women during this significant life stage. Tune in to explore practical strategies, success stories, and the evolving conversation around menopause in both personal and professional spheres.
 
 
About Our Guests: 
Siobhan Kearney : has spent over 25 years working in senior leadership roles across the community and voluntary sector in Northern Ireland.  Due to the increasing demand for menopause awareness, she then went on to establish Menopause NI in 2022. 
 
Siobhan has recently carried out research into women’s experiences of the menopause and developed the first NI Menopause Manifesto, bringing a strategic vision to the development of services, support and awareness of the menopause to people across NI.
 
Geraldine McAleenan : a certified menopause specialist and fitness coach dedicated to empowering peri- and menopausal women. Founder of @gmacgfit, Geraldine offers online strength workouts tailored to menopause. With numerous awards, including Menopause Personal Trainer of the Year and Best Small Gym, she's committed to transforming lives through lifestyle changes.
 
 
Key Takeaways: 
- Siobhan's journey into menopause awareness was sparked by her own challenging experiences with perimenopause symptoms.
- Geraldine struggled with brain fog and memory loss during perimenopause, which affected her career as a fitness instructor.
- Menopause can significantly impact women in the workplace, affecting both their physical and mental health, and leading to decreased confidence and performance.
- A significant number of women leave their jobs due to menopause-related issues, highlighting the need for greater workplace support.
- Geraldine discovered she was experiencing perimenopause during COVID, leading to lifestyle changes including strength training and Pilates.
- Siobhan emphasises the importance of awareness and support for menopause in workplaces, sharing her early onset menopause experience at 48.
- Geraldine now coaches women through perimenopause and post menopause, focusing on lifestyle changes and understanding the body's rhythms.
- Cortisol levels are highest in the morning, making it the best time for exercise for perimenopausal and postmenopausal women.
- Younger women are experiencing menopausal symptoms earlier, necessitating tailored beginner's exercise programs.
- Online exercise programs focusing on bone health, mobility, and cardiovascular health have become popular among self-conscious women.
- Exercise has improved mental and physical well-being for many women, enhancing relationships, confidence, and overall quality of life.
- The "Let's Talk about Menopause in the Workplace" event aims to raise awareness and provide support for menopausal women in professional settings.
- Practical workplace support for menopausal women includes access to facilities, temperature control, and fostering open conversations.
- Men's involvement and understanding of menopause are crucial in supporting women during this life stage.
- Success stories highlight the positive impact of raising awareness and fostering understanding in personal and professional relationships.
- A client's success story after a heart attack during menopause emphasises the importance of lifestyle changes for health and well-being.
- Ongoing work is needed to normalise menopause conversations in Northern Ireland workplaces, with a focus on awareness and support.
 
Disclaimer: the contents and views expressed by individuals in the Driven by its4women podcast are their own and do not necessarily present the views the company they work for or its4women.

Ep 3: Gym Guru Natasha Daryaie Get's Mothers Moving

In this episode of the Driven by its4women podcast our host Kim Kelly chats with Gym Guru Natasha Daryaie on how her early love of sport has helped her with discipline, why she decided to “workout” a new way to motivate mums to get moving with their children and how good things in life come to those who “weight.” Tune in and listen now. 
Disclaimer: the contents and views expressed by individuals in the Driven by its4women podcast are their own and do not necessarily present the views the company they work for or its4women.

Ep 2: Keeping Up With Local Designer Niamh McCarthy

In this episode of the Driven by its4women podcast our host Kim Kelly chats with local business woman, designer and artist Niamh McCarthy.  
Niamh and her all female team at Niamh Designs, specialise in custom embroidered leather jackets but it was one LA order who really put this small business on the map. 
How does Niamh plan to “Keep Up” with such a bright business? Tune in to find out. 
Disclaimer: the contents and views expressed by individuals in the Driven by its4women podcast are their own and do not necessarily present the views the company they work for or its4women.

Ep 1: Pamela Brady Took Action Against Cancer

In this episode of the Driven by its4women podcast our host Kim Kelly spoke to Action Cancers Advanced Practice Radiographer Donna McKearnan and Action Cancer ambassador and breast cancer survivor Pamela Brady.
Discussing how Action Cancers great work and early breast screening service saved Pamela’s life and the lives of hundreds of women each year. 
Tune in to hear a humbling story on how life can change in an instant. 
 
Disclaimer: the contents and views expressed by individuals in the Driven by its4women podcast are their own and do not necessarily present the views the company they work for or its4women.