The Headway Podcast

Headway Ireland

At The Headway Podcast, we understand the complexities and uncertainties that come with brain injury. We're here to illuminate the path to recovery, offering a wealth of information, unwavering support, and invaluable insights on a wide array of topics directly connected to brain injury and the journey to recovery. Whether you're a survivor, a caregiver, a healthcare professional, or anyone interested in understanding this critical aspect of life, our podcast is a valuable resource for all. Crafted, produced and led by Shane Fitzgerald alongside co-host Rachel Coyle. read less
Society & CultureSociety & Culture

Episodes

The Headway Podcast: Episode 7 - Anger, Irritability, and Mood Swings
Yesterday
The Headway Podcast: Episode 7 - Anger, Irritability, and Mood Swings
In today's episode, we explore anger, irritability, and mood swings after a brain injury. Hosts Shane and Rachel are joined by Hazel, Aaron, and Stephen, who share their experiences and advice. Hazel starts the discussion, sharing her personal experience with a brain injury and offering insights on recognising and managing intense emotions. Aaron follows with practical techniques and mindful approaches to cope with these emotions, based on his own journey. Stephen wraps up by discussing the impact of anger and mood swings on relationships, providing advice on maintaining healthy relationships. Join us as we navigate these emotional challenges and seek strategies for building healthier, more fulfilling relationships post-brain injury. Disclaimer: Thank you for tuning in to the Headway Podcast. While we're excited to engage in conversations with you, it's important to clarify that the services, products, or topics discussed may not be universally accessible. Our discussions often involve various services, organisations, and products, including those provided by Headway and others. Individual access and eligibility for these services are subject to specific assessments and criteria. Listeners should recognise that the information shared on the podcast is for general purposes only and should not be construed as personalised advice. All opinions expressed belong to the participants and do not necessarily reflect the views of Headway (Ireland) clg. They are not intended to substitute advice from qualified medical professionals. The availability of services, eligibility criteria, and related factors can vary widely and are determined on an individual basis. Before making any decisions based on the information provided, we strongly recommend conducting your own research and, if needed, seeking professional advice. The podcast hosts, guests, or Headway are not liable for any consequences resulting from actions taken based on the podcast content. Thank you for your understanding, and we encourage you to enjoy the podcast responsibly. The Headway podcast has been crafted and produced by Shane Fitzgerald, a dedicated professional committed to delivering insightful and engaging content. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Inside You by lemonmusicstudio Inside You Music - Pixabay Inside You - lemonmusicstudio | No Copyright Background Music for Video ... Download : https://pixabay.com/th/music/inside-y... Inside You - lemonmusicstudio | No Copyright Background Music for Video (youtube.com)
The Headway Podcast: Episode 6 - Fatigue and Sleep
27-06-2024
The Headway Podcast: Episode 6 - Fatigue and Sleep
Today's episode focuses on fatigue and sleep, crucial topics for those living with brain injuries. Our guests, John, Peter, and Des, share their insights and strategies. - 2:35: John explains the complexities of fatigue and sleep disorders, providing valuable information on recognising and addressing these issues. - 5:24: Peter offers practical tips for better sleep, drawing from his research and personal experiences to improve sleep quality. - 9:52: Des discusses the impact of fatigue on daily life and shares strategies for managing it effectively. Hosts Shane Fitzgerald and Rachel Coyle guide you through these insights. Join us on this journey to better sleep and renewed energy. Disclaimer: Thank you for tuning in to the Headway Podcast. While we're excited to engage in conversations with you, it's important to clarify that the services, products, or topics discussed may not be universally accessible. Our discussions often involve various services, organisations, and products, including those provided by Headway and others. Individual access and eligibility for these services are subject to specific assessments and criteria. Listeners should recognise that the information shared on the podcast is for general purposes only and should not be construed as personalised advice. All opinions expressed belong to the participants and do not necessarily reflect the views of Headway (Ireland) clg. They are not intended to substitute advice from qualified medical professionals. The availability of services, eligibility criteria, and related factors can vary widely and are determined on an individual basis. Before making any decisions based on the information provided, we strongly recommend conducting your own research and, if needed, seeking professional advice. The podcast hosts, guests, or Headway are not liable for any consequences resulting from actions taken based on the podcast content. Thank you for your understanding, and we encourage you to enjoy the podcast responsibly. The Headway podcast has been crafted and produced by Shane Fitzgerald, a dedicated professional committed to delivering insightful and engaging content. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Inside You by lemonmusicstudio Inside You Music - Pixabay Inside You - lemonmusicstudio | No Copyright Background Music for Video ... Download : https://pixabay.com/th/music/inside-y... Inside You - lemonmusicstudio | No Copyright Background Music for Video (youtube.com)
The Headway Podcast: Episode 5 - Living with Changes with your Memory
20-06-2024
The Headway Podcast: Episode 5 - Living with Changes with your Memory
Welcome back to the Headway Podcast! Today, we're delving into a topic that touches us all: memory. Join us as we navigate the labyrinth of memory and its profound impact on our daily lives. Our guests for this episode are David O'Hara, Stephen Carroll Short, and Josephine Gilchrist. Together, they offer invaluable insights and strategies for understanding and coping with changes in memory. At 2:05 David O'Hara kicks off the discussion by sharing his personal journey with memory challenges and the profound ways it has shaped his daily life. He provides a candid look into the struggles and triumphs of navigating memory changes, emphasising the importance of resilience and seeking support. At 15:44 Stephen offers a deep understanding of the neurological mechanisms behind memory changes. He breaks down complex concepts into accessible insights, empowering listeners to comprehend the intricacies of memory and its fluctuations. At 25:45 Josephine rounds out the discussion with practical coping strategies for managing memory changes. Drawing from her own experiences, she offers tips for enhancing memory function and maintaining cognitive well-being. At 32:22, all three guests come together to share their collective wisdom and advice for listeners grappling with memory challenges. Their words of encouragement and guidance serve as a beacon of hope for anyone navigating the unpredictable terrain of memory loss. Join hosts Shane Fitzgerald & Rachel Coyle on this illuminating journey as we explore the impact of memory on our lives and uncover valuable strategies for resilience and adaptation. Remember, in the face of memory's twists and turns, there's always a path forward. Disclaimer: Thank you for tuning in to the Headway Podcast. While we're excited to engage in conversations with you, it's important to clarify that the services, products, or topics discussed may not be universally accessible. Our discussions often involve various services, organisations, and products, including those provided by Headway and others. Individual access and eligibility for these services are subject to specific assessments and criteria. Listeners should recognise that the information shared on the podcast is for general purposes only and should not be construed as personalised advice. All opinions expressed belong to the participants and do not necessarily reflect the views of Headway (Ireland) clg. They are not intended to substitute advice from qualified medical professionals. The availability of services, eligibility criteria, and related factors can vary widely and are determined on an individual basis. Before making any decisions based on the information provided, we strongly recommend conducting your own research and, if needed, seeking professional advice. The podcast hosts, guests, or Headway are not liable for any consequences resulting from actions taken based on the podcast content. Thank you for your understanding, and we encourage you to enjoy the podcast responsibly. The Headway podcast has been crafted and produced by Shane Fitzgerald, a dedicated professional committed to delivering insightful and engaging content. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Inside You by lemonmusicstudio Inside You Music - Pixabay Inside You - lemonmusicstudio | No Copyright Background Music for Video ... Download : https://pixabay.com/th/music/inside-y... Inside You - lemonmusicstudio | No Copyright Background Music for Video (youtube.com)
The Headway Podcast: Episode 4 - Living with Changes in Your Planning & Organising Skills
13-06-2024
The Headway Podcast: Episode 4 - Living with Changes in Your Planning & Organising Skills
Welcome back to the Headway Podcast! Today, we're diving into the intricate challenges of living with changes in attention and concentration after a brain injury. Our guests include Sharon Fitzharris, Stephen Owens, Susanne Mahon, and Peter Maybury, each sharing their remarkable experiences and strategies for navigating these difficulties.Sharon provides insights into her journey of coping with attention and concentration changes post-brain injury, emphasising the significance of seeking support and maintaining a positive mindset to overcome obstacles.Stephen shares his personal insights into the impact of attention and concentration changes on daily life, discussing practical strategies for adapting and staying organised amidst challenges.Susanne reflects on her experiences with navigating changes in attention and concentration, offering valuable tips.Peter brings a unique perspective to the discussion, sharing his strategies for managing changes in attention and concentration and highlighting the importance of self-awareness and patience in the recovery process.Join us as we explore the multifaceted aspects of living with changes in attention and concentration after a brain injury, and uncover valuable insights and strategies for resilience and adaptation.Stay tuned as we delve deeper into these crucial topics with our insightful guests. And remember, resilience is not just about bouncing back; it's about moving forward with strength and determination.Disclaimer: Thank you for tuning in to the Headway Podcast. While we're excited to engage in conversations with you, it's important to clarify that the services, products, or topics discussed may not be universally accessible. Our discussions often involve various services, organisations, and products, including those provided by Headway and others. Individual access and eligibility for these services are subject to specific assessments and criteria. Listeners should recognise that the information shared on the podcast is for general purposes only and should not be construed as personalised advice. All opinions expressed belong to the participants and do not necessarily reflect the views of Headway (Ireland) clg. They are not intended to substitute advice from qualified medical professionals. The availability of services, eligibility criteria, and related factors can vary widely and are determined on an individual basis. Before making any decisions based on the information provided, we strongly recommend conducting your own research and, if needed, seeking professional advice. The podcast hosts, guests, or Headway are not liable for any consequences resulting from actions taken based on the podcast content. Thank you for your understanding, and we encourage you to enjoy the podcast responsibly.The Headway podcast has been crafted and produced by Shane Fitzgerald, a dedicated professional committed to delivering insightful and engaging content.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Inside You by lemonmusicstudio Inside You Music - Pixabay Inside You - lemonmusicstudio | No Copyright Background Music for Video ... Download : https://pixabay.com/th/music/inside-y... Inside You - lemonmusicstudio | No Copyright Background Music for Video (youtube.com)
The Headway Podcast: Episode 3 - Living with Changes in your Attention & Concentration
06-06-2024
The Headway Podcast: Episode 3 - Living with Changes in your Attention & Concentration
Welcome back to the Headway Podcast! Today, we're discussing the challenges of living with changes in attention and concentration after a brain injury. Our guests include Peter K, Linda, Hazel and Peter M each sharing their unique experiences and strategies for navigating these difficulties. Peter Kavanagh recounts his struggles with attention and concentration after his brain injury, emphasising the importance of seeking help and pursuing interests to overcome academic challenges. His journey serves as a reminder of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Linda reflects on the long road to acceptance of her changed abilities post-brain injury, highlighting the importance of seeking support and pursuing interests to regain confidence. Peter discusses his coping mechanisms, including reminders and checklists, to manage memory issues and prioritise tasks. Hazel shares her struggles with maintaining focus and social interactions post-injury, emphasising the importance of self-compassion and setting achievable goals to mitigate feelings of anxiety and self-doubt. Peter M, five and a half years ago experienced a severe accident resulting in a fractured skull and multiple bleeds in his frontal and temporal lobes, profoundly impacting his life and ability to manage changes in attention and concentration. These stories underscore the complexity of life after a brain injury and the ongoing journey of adaptation and resilience. Stay tuned as we continue to explore coping strategies and resilience in the face of adversity. Topics 03:54: Education with Peter K 14:15: Coping Strategies with Linda 21:40: Hazels Personal Story 31:29: Identifying Changes with Peter M 51:00: Advice to the listeners Disclaimer: Thank you for tuning in to the Headway Podcast. While we're excited to engage in conversations with you, it's important to clarify that the services, products, or topics discussed may not be universally accessible. Our discussions often involve various services, organisations, and products, including those provided by Headway and others. Individual access and eligibility for these services are subject to specific assessments and criteria. Listeners should recognise that the information shared on the podcast is for general purposes only and should not be construed as personalised advice. All opinions expressed belong to the participants and do not necessarily reflect the views of Headway (Ireland) clg. They are not intended to substitute advice from qualified medical professionals. The availability of services, eligibility criteria, and related factors can vary widely and are determined on an individual basis. Before making any decisions based on the information provided, we strongly recommend conducting your own research and, if needed, seeking professional advice. The podcast hosts, guests, or Headway are not liable for any consequences resulting from actions taken based on the podcast content. Thank you for your understanding, and we encourage you to enjoy the podcast responsibly. Crafted, produced and hosted by Shane Fitzgerald ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Inside You by lemonmusicstudio Inside You Music - Pixabay Inside You - lemonmusicstudio | No Copyright Background Music for Video ... Download : https://pixabay.com/th/music/inside-y... Inside You - lemonmusicstudio | No Copyright Background Music for Video (youtube.com)
The Headway Podcast: Episode 2 - The Brain & Brain Injury
30-05-2024
The Headway Podcast: Episode 2 - The Brain & Brain Injury
Welcome back to the Headway Podcast! Join hosts Shane Fitzgerald and Rachel Coyle, as we embark on a profound exploration into the heart of our mission—the intricacies of the brain and the profound impact of brain injuries. In this episode, we delve into the stories of resilience and rediscovery shared by our guests. Linda, 42 years post-injury, guides us through her journey of navigating life with a right frontal lobe atrophy. John, 16 years after a life-altering car crash, candidly opens about the challenges, the impact on family dynamics, and the importance of understanding hidden struggles. Des, a survivor of a rare condition triggered by radiation treatment, takes us on his battle against brain tumours, unexpected setbacks, and the pursuit of a new purpose. Des also shares his consultation with the SMART clinic in the US, revealing that he has a condition called SMART—Stroke-like Migraine Attack following Radiation Treatment into the brain, a condition affecting only a hundred people in the world. Their stories illuminate the often-invisible struggles faced by those with brain injuries. Linda's artistic journey through welding, John's unfiltered honesty about his challenges, and Des's unique battle against a rare condition showcase the resilience of the human spirit. Our guests courageously share their personal journeys of resilience and recovery after experiencing brain injuries. Eimear recounts the sudden and severe stroke she faced, highlighting the life-altering impact on her senses, mobility, and daily life. Seamus reveals his experience with a cavernoma on the brainstem, emphasising the challenges of misdiagnosis and the emotional toll it took. Throughout, our guests touch on sensory challenges, support systems, medical interventions, and the gradual process of regaining physical and cognitive abilities. The psychological aspects of recovery, from recurring dreams to challenges with medication, are explored, offering valuable insights and advice. This episode provides a profound glimpse into the resilience, strength, and diverse experiences of individuals navigating life after brain injuries. The Headway podcast has been crafted and produced by Shane Fitzgerald, a dedicated professional committed to delivering insightful and engaging content. Topics 02:48: Linda's Story 07:25: Johns Story 14:35: Des's Story 25:37: Eimear's Story 32:48: Seamus's Story Disclaimer: Thank you for tuning in to the Headway Podcast. While we're excited to engage in conversations with you, it's important to clarify that the services, products, or topics discussed may not be universally accessible. Our discussions often involve various services, organisations, and products, including those provided by Headway and others. Individual access and eligibility for these services are subject to specific assessments and criteria. Listeners should recognise that the information shared on the podcast is for general purposes only and should not be construed as personalised advice. All opinions expressed belong to the participants and do not necessarily reflect the views of Headway (Ireland) clg. They are not intended to substitute advice from qualified medical professionals. The availability of services, eligibility criteria, and related factors can vary widely and are determined on an individual basis. Before making any decisions based on the information provided, we strongly recommend conducting your own research and, if needed, seeking professional advice. The podcast hosts, guests, or Headway are not liable for any consequences resulting from actions taken based on the podcast content. Thank you for your understanding, and we encourage you to enjoy the podcast responsibly. SOLO ACOUSTIC GUITAR by Jason Shaw http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jason_Shaw Creative Commons — Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported— CC BY-SA 3.0 Free Download / Stream: https://bit.ly/_solo-acoustic-guitar Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/4M9Puanhdac
The Headway Podcast: Episode 1 - Introduction to The Headway Podcast
23-05-2024
The Headway Podcast: Episode 1 - Introduction to The Headway Podcast
Welcome to the Headway Podcast – your go-to destination for narratives, strategies, and support tailored for individuals navigating life with brain injuries. Hosted by Shane Fitzgerald and Rachel Coyle from Headway, a service that transcends being merely a service; it's a vital lifeline that forms a community for those touched by brain injuries. Immerse yourself in our episodes, delving into tales of triumph, effective strategies, and the steadfast support that Headway extends. Whether you're directly impacted or a caregiver seeking guidance, consider this podcast as your exclusive haven. In this inaugural episode, we not only unveil the podcast's purpose but also bring forth four remarkable guests, Peter Maybury, Seamus Carroll, Josephine Gilchrist, and Mary Mangan, each with unique life experiences. They delve into their personal journeys of discovering Headway and reflect on the pivotal role it plays in their lives. Generously offering advice and emphasising the importance of building a robust support network, our guests provide valuable insights. Embark with us on an exciting preview of the journey ahead! 🚀 Look forward to insightful conversations covering coping mechanisms, healthcare insights, personal triumphs, and a diverse range of perspectives from individuals living life with a brain injury, as well as expert insights. Topics in this episode 10:15: Discovering Headway with Josephine Gilchrist 22:36: Role of Headway in our lives with Peter Maybury 28:35: Advice for others and building a support Network with Seamus Carroll 45:49: Why did you do this Podcast with Mary Mangan New episodes will be released each week. Get ready for captivating and interactive features headed your way! 🎉🌐 Your support is invaluable to us as we embark on this meaningful journey together! 🌍💙 #HeadwayPodcast #BrainInjuryAwareness #CommunitySupport 🧠✨ The Headway podcast has been meticulously crafted and produced by Shane Fitzgerald, a dedicated professional committed to delivering insightful and engaging content. With a wealth of expertise and a passion for creating meaningful discussions, Shane ensures that each episode maintains a high standard of quality for our discerning audience. Disclaimer: Thank you for tuning in to the Headway Podcast. While we're excited to engage in conversations with you, it's important to clarify that the services, products, or topics discussed may not be universally accessible. Our discussions often involve various services, organisations, and products, including those provided by Headway and others. Individual access and eligibility for these services are subject to specific assessments and criteria. Listeners should recognise that the information shared on the podcast is for general purposes only and should not be construed as personalised advice. All opinions expressed belong to the participants and do not necessarily reflect the views of Headway (Ireland) clg. They are not intended to substitute advice from qualified medical professionals. The availability of services, eligibility criteria, and related factors can vary widely and are determined on an individual basis. Before making any decisions based on the information provided, we strongly recommend conducting your own research and, if needed, seeking professional advice. The podcast hosts, guests, or Headway are not liable for any consequences resulting from actions taken based on the podcast content. Thank you for your understanding, and we encourage you to enjoy the podcast responsibly. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SOLO ACOUSTIC GUITAR by Jason Shaw http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jason_Shaw Creative Commons — Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported— CC BY-SA 3.0 Free Download / Stream: https://bit.ly/_solo-acoustic-guitar Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/4M9Puanhdac