CNME Connects

The Power of Coaching: Listening Deeply, Guiding Thoughtfully

Episode Overview
In this episode of CNME Connects, Selene, Dennis and Ken explore the power of coaching conversations and how deep listening and thoughtful guidance can support personal growth, professional development and wellbeing.
The discussion explores what coaching is, how it differs from mentoring or counselling, and how reflective conversations can help individuals gain clarity, build confidence and navigate challenges.
The episode also reflects on self-awareness, emotional regulation and reflective practice, particularly for healthcare professionals working in busy clinical environments.
Key Themes in This Episode
What coaching is and how it differs from advice-giving
The importance of deep listening
Guiding rather than directing conversations
The role of reflection in personal and professional growth
Coaching as a tool for leadership and wellbeing
Asking thoughtful questions that support insight and change
Resources Mentioned
HSE Coaching Supports
Healthcare staff in Ireland can access confidential coaching through the HSE.
HSE National Coaching ServiceCoaching supports are available to HSE staff and Section 38 organisations. Coaching can support leadership development, career progression, confidence building and navigating workplace challenges.
https://healthservice.hse.ie/staff/training-and-development/coaching/
 
Authors and Influences Mentioned
Brené Brown
Researcher and author exploring vulnerability, courage, empathy and leadership.
Recommended reading
Dare to Lead
Atlas of the Heart
The Gifts of Imperfection
Websitehttps://brenebrown.com
Anne Lamott
Writer known for thoughtful reflections on spirituality, compassion and personal growth.
Recommended reading
Bird by Bird
Help, Thanks, Wow
Websitehttps://annelamott.com
Iyanla Vanzant
Spiritual teacher and author who speaks about emotional healing, self-awareness and spiritual hygiene.
Recommended reading
Acts of Faith
In the Meantime
Peace from Broken Pieces
Websitehttps://iyanlavanzant.com
Why Coaching Matters in Healthcare
Coaching skills can strengthen communication and leadership in healthcare settings by helping professionals:
listen more effectively
support colleagues through reflection rather than advice
encourage psychological safety
develop insight and self-awareness
improve teamwork and decision-making
Even simple coaching skills such as curiosity, listening and thoughtful questioning can transform everyday conversations.
Reflection Question for Listeners
As you listen to this episode, consider:
When was the last time someone truly listened to you without trying to solve the problem?
And equally:
How often do we offer that same quality of listening to others?

January Blues: Navigating the New Year Gently

January can be one of the toughest months of the year.After the pace and pressure of Christmas, many people are left feeling tired, flat, overwhelmed, or out of rhythm — just when it can seem like everyone else is “back to normal” and full of plans.
In this episode of CNME Connects, Selene Daly Tarpey is joined by Dennis O’Brien and Ken Hogan for an honest and compassionate conversation about the January Blues. Together, they explore the new year in a realistic, grounded way — without pressure, guilt, or unrealistic expectations.
The discussion looks at:
Why January can feel emotionally and physically heavy
Reflecting on the new year without falling into comparison or self-criticism
Setting goals that don’t overwhelm or exhaust
Navigating post-Christmas challenges such as fatigue, low mood, financial stress, and loss of routine
Practical, achievable ways to create a positive start to the year
Building healthy routines that feel supportive rather than restrictive
Embracing change gently, at a pace that works for you
This is an informative and reassuring episode for anyone who finds this time of year difficult, confusing, or draining. There is no pressure to feel motivated, optimistic, or “fixed”. Instead, this conversation offers permission to pause, reflect, and take small, meaningful steps forward — one day at a time.
If this episode resonates with you, you’re not alone. Support and resources are available, and a selection is linked below:
HSE Health & WellbeingPractical information and supports on mental health, wellbeing, and coping strategies:👉 www.yourmentalhealth.ie
Samaritans Ireland Free, confidential listening support, available 24/7:👉 www.samaritans.org
SpunOut (for young people and young adults)Trusted mental health information and signposting to supports:👉 www.spunout.ie

Bedwetting Uncovered: Understanding, Supporting & Empowering Children and Teens

Welcome to CNME Connects, a podcast sharing stories that inspire, educate, and connect those working across healthcare.
In this episode, Fiola Murphy and Gertrude Doddy open a thoughtful and down-to-earth discussion on bedwetting in children, tweens, and teens — a topic that’s often whispered about, yet deeply impacts family life.
🎙️ What We Explore in This Episode
Why bedwetting happensDevelopment, genetics, bladder maturity, sleep patterns — and why it’s rarely “their fault.”
💡 The bowel–bladder connectionHow constipation and stool retention can directly affect night-time wetting, and why recognising patterns early matters.
💬 Emotional impactSupporting children with kindness, reducing shame, and helping them stay engaged socially and academically.
🛏️ Practical management tipsHydration, routines, bladder training, bedtime strategies, and small environmental tweaks that make a big difference.
⏰ Bedwetting alarmsWhen they work, how to introduce them, and the common pitfalls parents can avoid.
✔️ Do’s and Don’tsClear guidance to help families manage the condition without stress or blame.
🎙️ This conversation brings empathy, reassurance, and clarity — helping parents feel less alone and giving healthcare staff practical insights to support them.
📚 Resources Mentioned
          Leaflet for Parents:
https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/2/primarycare/community-funded-schemes/continence/healthcare-professionals/leaflet-bedwetting-in-children.pdfERIC Assossiation
https://eric.org.uk/childrens-bladders/bedwetting/
         Bristol Stool Chart for Children
https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/2/primarycare/community-funded-schemes/continence/public/poo-passport-part-2-pdf-for-the-parent-and-child-.pdf
 

Trauma, Trust, and Transformation: Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences with Donna McGee & Ken Hogan

Welcome to CNME Connects, the podcast that shares stories to inspire, educate, and connect those working across healthcare.
In this episode, Ken Hogan sits down with Donna McGee, Addiction Services Lead for Social Inclusion in the North West, for a powerful and heartfelt conversation about Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and trauma-informed practice.
Donna brings warmth, honesty, and deep professional insight as she explores:
What adverse childhood experiences are and why they matter;
How early adversity can shape lifelong health and wellbeing;
The meaning of trauma-informed care and how we can bring it into everyday practice;
Why compassion, trust, and understanding are the foundation of healing.
It’s a wonderful conversation — both reflective and practical — reminding us that trauma is not just about what happened to someone, but also about what didn’t happen: safety, connection, and belonging.
Support Resources
If this episode brings up any difficult emotions for you, please remember support is available:
HSE Employee Assistance Programme (EAP):Free and confidential wellbeing support for all HSE staff.📞 1800 409 388 | 🌐 HSE EAP Support
Samaritans Ireland:Free 24/7 listening service for anyone in distress or struggling to cope.📞 116 123 | 🌐 www.samaritans.ie
Pieta:Professional therapy and crisis support for those experiencing suicidal thoughts or self-harm.📞 1800 247 247 | 📱 Text HELP to 51444
🎙️ Produced by CNME Sligo–Leitrim–West Cavan💡 Empowering healthcare professionals to connect, reflect, and grow.

Stories that Heal: Children’s Anxiety, CBT and EMDR

Welcome to CNME Connects, a podcast sharing stories that inspire, educate, and connect those working across healthcare.
In this episode, Ken and James continue the important conversation on childhood anxiety, following on from James’ earlier podcast on “August Anxiety.” Together, they explore the power of storytelling—how children can use stories to make sense of their worries and express feelings that may otherwise feel overwhelming.
The discussion also introduces Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), explaining how these evidence-based approaches can support children and families. Practical insights and compassionate perspectives are shared, offering tools that can make a real difference.
Supports & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling:
Samaritans Ireland: Call 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org/ireland
Information on CBT:https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/
Information on EMDR:https://emdrireland.org/

Hold Me Close: Breastfeeding, Bonding and Skin-to-Skin with Lynn

In this special episode for HSE National Breastfeeding Awareness Week, we welcome Lynn, Clinical Nurse Specialist in Infant Feeding and Lactation at Sligo University Hospital. An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), Lynn’s dedication to supporting mothers and babies has been recognised through national healthcare awards and nominations. She reflects on the power of breastfeeding, the difference that timely help and encouragement can make for mothers, and the vital role of midwives and nurses in supporting and sustaining breastfeeding journeys. This conversation highlights the impact of skin-to-skin contact, the progress made in increasing breastfeeding rates in Sligo’s maternity services, and the compassion and commitment that drive positive change for families. For more information on Breastfeeding supports in your area, please visit the dedicated HSE page here: https://tinyurl.com/mtum72w6

The Power of Pause: Emotional Regulation & Silence in Practice

In this episode of CNME Connects, we delve into “The Power of Pause” — exploring how emotional regulation, self-awareness, and purposeful silence can transform communication. Drawing on real-world examples from healthcare settings, we discuss how taking a moment before responding can reduce reactive decisions, enhance empathy, and create safer, more compassionate interactions for patients and colleagues alike.
Listeners will gain insights into:
Why the pause matters
How self-awareness and emotional regulation improve decision-making
Practical tips to use silence as an active tool for connection and understanding
If you’ve listened to this episode and it has raised questions about your own mental health, please speak to your GP or a trusted health professional. Support is also available 24/7 from:
Samaritans Ireland – freephone 116 123 | www.samaritans.ie
Pieta House – www.pieta.ie
HSE YourMentalHealth – www.yourmentalhealth.ie
Taking care of yourself is as important as caring for others — and sometimes, the first step is pausing

Walking Beside Patients: Brian and Mary on Hospital Chaplaincy

In this episode of CNME Connects, Mary Durkin sits down with Fr. Brian Conlon, Hospital Chaplain in an acute hospital in the northwest of Ireland, to explore what a typical day in chaplaincy looks like.  Brian reflects on the importance of human connection, compassion, and presence—especially at times when patients and families are at their most vulnerable. He shares how the chaplain’s role offers reassurance, a listening ear, and a reminder that no one is alone in their moments of need.
The conversation also touches on themes of attention, healing, hope, and resilience, with Brian drawing inspiration from a number of books, including:
Stolen Focus: Why You Can’t Pay Attention by Johann Hari
Getting Better by Michael Rosen
Dancing at Lughnasa by Brian Friel
The Signs of Happiness by Brendan Kelly
Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan
A powerful reference in the conversation is the moving https://youtu.be/eKToIrezxPw  highlighting the lifelong impact of care, encouragement, and belief in another person.
This episode is both heartfelt and thought-provoking, offering insight into the unique role of hospital chaplaincy and reminding us of the profound value of listening, compassion, and human connection in healthcare.

Intellectual Disability Nursing: At the Heart of Care, a Conversation with Stephanie Carolan and Donna McCabe

In this episode of CNME Connects, Donna McCabe sits down with Stephanie Carlin, an Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Intellectual Disability Nursing who specialises in chronic illness management for adults.
Stephanie offers a fascinating insight into her unique role, one that is deeply rooted in patient-centred care. Her journey reflects a lifetime commitment to placing the person at the very heart of nursing practice. Through her story, we see not only the impact of advanced practice nursing in intellectual disability but also the power of compassion, dignity, and professional dedication.
This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the true meaning of nursing—whether you are a nurse yourself, someone working in healthcare, or simply looking for motivation and inspiration in your work. Stephanie’s story is a powerful reminder of why nursing matters, and why the values of care and compassion continue to guide us all.

Beyond the Uniform: Anna Burke, A Story of Courage Recovery and Renewal

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Anna Burke, Assistant Director of Nursing at Sligo University Hospital, to hear the remarkable story of her 40-year career in nursing. From her early training days to working in theatre, Anna shares her insights, wisdom, and the lessons she has gathered over decades of caring for others.
But Anna’s story goes far beyond her professional journey. She also opens up about a serious accident that changed her life, and the long road of rehabilitation that followed. With honesty and courage, Anna reflects on the resilience, strength, and determination that carried her through recovery — offering hope and encouragement to anyone facing challenges of their own.
This episode is a celebration of nursing, of human strength, and of the power of perseverance.