The Laura Dowling Experience

Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Dr. Martin Rourke, a Dublin-based GP specialising in men’s health, for a wide-ranging and eye-opening conversation about testosterone, heart health, sleep, and the often-overlooked warning signs men ignore until it’s too late. From erectile dysfunction to fatigue and low motivation, Dr. Rourke explains how many of the symptoms men brush off could actually be pointing to something more serious — and why early action matters.We talk about testosterone replacement therapy and why it’s so misunderstood, the benefits of low-dose daily Cialis (and how it differs from traditional ED treatments like Viagra), and how erectile dysfunction can signal early cardiovascular disease. Dr. Rourke also dives into prostate health and the importance of getting both blood tests and digital rectal exams, the link between undiagnosed sleep apnoea and high blood pressure, and how hair loss can have a real impact on men’s mental wellbeing.Whether you’re a man noticing changes in your own health or someone who loves one, this episode is packed with insight, honesty, and practical advice around the four key pillars of men’s health: diet, exercise, quality sleep, and stress reduction. A must-listen for anyone who wants to feel better, live longer, and take charge of their health!Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with fitness coach, nutritionist, bestselling author and podcast host Brian Keane to explore how stress, hormones, and mindset play a huge role in overall wellbeing—particularly for women going through perimenopause and beyond. Brian breaks down what cortisol actually does in the body, how it’s often misunderstood, and why short bursts of physical stress—like lifting weights, cold exposure, or high-intensity training—can help lower chronic stress and support long-term health.We talk about the challenges so many women face around weight gain, body composition, and fatigue in midlife, and why the usual advice of eating less and doing more cardio just doesn’t cut it. Brian shares simple but effective strategies for building strength, fuelling your body with enough protein and healthy fats, and finding an approach that works for your lifestyle and stage of life. We also dive into mindset—how to break the cycle of all-or-nothing thinking, deal with emotional eating, and stop pressing the “f*ck-it button” when things don’t go to plan.He also opens up about his own journey from unfulfilled teacher to leading voice in health and fitness, and the mindset shifts that helped him create a new path. Whether you’re feeling stuck in your health goals, overwhelmed by stress, or just need a reset to feel better in yourself, this episode is full of real talk and practical tools to help you move forward!This episode is brought to you by fabÜ SHROOMS ANDROPAUSE FOR MEN, the latest addition to the fabÜ range. As men move into their 40s, testosterone levels naturally begin to decline—often leading to dips in energy, drive, mood and vitality. Some describe it as though the colour has drained from the TV—everything feels a little bit flat. ANDROPAUSE FOR MEN is a powerful, targeted blend created to support men through this transition and help them feel more like themselves again.With Shilajit resin, Lion’s Mane mushroom, and a full spectrum of carefully chosen vitamins and minerals, ANDROPAUSE FOR MEN is designed to support testosterone levels, cognitive and muscle function, protein synthesis, energy, and even hair health. It’s all about bringing back clarity, strength, and that vital spark—with more pep in your step. Available now on fabuwellness.com and in pharmacies and health food stores nationwide.Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us a textIn this episode, I’m joined by freediver, author, and speaker Claire Walsh for a powerful and vulnerable conversation about fertility, identity, and the emotional toll of IVF. Claire shares her deeply personal experience of going through seven IVF cycles that didn’t lead to pregnancy, opening up about the physical side effects, financial burden, and emotional rollercoaster that so many women silently endure.We explore how infertility can seep into every part of life—from friendships and family dynamics to self-worth and future plans—and why conversations around failed fertility treatments are still so rare. Claire also speaks about how she found unexpected resilience and a sense of control through freediving, reconnecting with her body after years of medical intervention. This is a raw, brave, and beautifully honest episode that will stay with you long after you listen.This episode is brought to you by fabÜ SKIN-HAIR-NAILS GLOW, the supplement I created for strong, healthy, and radiant beauty from within. If you’re dealing with hair thinning, dull skin, fine lines, or weak nails, this is for you. Packed with 12 powerhouse ingredients, this blend is designed to support fuller, thicker hair, glowing skin, and strong nails. At the heart of the formula is Reishi mushroom, bursting with antioxidants and beta glucans, alongside five amino acids to build collagen, plus vitamins C, A, E, zinc, and niacinamide for all-round nourishment.The results speak for themselves—women post-pregnancy and going through peri and menopause have seen incredible transformations, from stronger nails in weeks to revived hair growth in months. But consistency is key—take two capsules daily, give your body time, and watch the transformation unfold. Available on fabuwellness.com and in pharmacies and health stores nationwide.Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Dympna Little, the brilliantly sharp and darkly hilarious voice behind some of social media’s most honest conversations about grief, cancer, and humour as a coping mechanism. Dympna shares her mother’s battle with peritoneal cancer, highlighting the repeated misdiagnoses that delayed treatment and the raw realities of navigating end-of-life care. She also challenges common narratives around loss, discussing why being present for a loved one’s final moments isn’t always the peaceful experience people imagine.We also dive into her fight to reform Ireland’s cancer wig grant system, exposing how some providers overcharge women for low-quality wigs and why she’s campaigning to have the grant paid directly to patients. Dympna reflects on how making comedy videos to cheer up her mother during treatment became the foundation of her social media success, and why she believes we should all trust our instincts when it comes to health. This conversation is a rollercoaster of emotions—raw, real, and unexpectedly funny. Tune in for an episode that will challenge how you think about grief, loss, and the power of humour in the darkest times.This episode is brought to you by fabÜ SKIN-HAIR-NAILS GLOW, the supplement I created for strong, healthy, and radiant beauty from within. If you’re dealing with hair thinning, dull skin, fine lines, or weak nails, this is for you. Packed with 12 powerhouse ingredients, this blend is designed to support fuller, thicker hair, glowing skin, and strong nails. At the heart of the formula is Reishi mushroom, bursting with antioxidants and beta glucans, alongside five amino acids to build collagen, plus vitamins C, A, E, zinc, and niacinamide for all-round nourishment.The results speak for themselves—women post-pregnancy and going through peri and menopause have seen incredible transformations, from stronger nails in weeks to revived hair growth in months. But consistency is key—take two capsules daily, give your body time, and watch the transformation unfold. Available on fabuwellness.com and in pharmacies and health stores nationwide.Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Prof. Robert Kelly, a leading consultant cardiologist, to explore how small lifestyle changes can have a massive impact on heart health. We break away from the traditional approach to heart care, looking at nutrition, stress management, and mindset shifts that can help prevent and manage cardiovascular disease. Prof. Kelly shares insights on the Mediterranean diet, how visualising yourself as healthy can improve long-term outcomes, and why taking an active role in your own healthcare is key to success.We also discuss the hidden impact of stress and poor sleep on heart health, the role of supplements and medications, and how personalised health coaching can help people take control of their wellbeing. Whether you're looking to improve your heart health, make lasting changes, or just gain a better understanding of how lifestyle affects overall wellness, this episode is packed with expert knowledge and practical advice. Tune in for a fascinating conversation on how to take charge of your heart health—starting today!Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Maurice Neligan, a leading orthopaedic surgeon, to explore everything from knee pain and joint preservation to the latest advancements in joint replacement surgery. We break down what actually happens during surgery, how modern materials are improving outcomes, and the critical role of prehabilitation in setting patients up for success.Maurice shares expert insights on managing joint health, including physiotherapy strategies, lifestyle modifications, and alternative treatments that could help delay or even avoid surgery. We also discuss recovery timelines, realistic expectations after joint replacement, and the importance of patient education in making informed decisions about treatment.Whether you're dealing with joint pain, considering surgery, or just want to better understand how to protect your joints as you age, this episode is packed with practical advice and expert knowledge to help you stay active and pain-free. Tune in for an insightful conversation on keeping your joints – and overall mobility – in the best shape possible!Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Dr. Brian Pennie, an Irish neuroscientist, author, and resilience specialist, to explore his extraordinary journey from heroin addiction to academic success. Brian opens up about his 15-year struggle with addiction, the hidden battles he faced, and the pivotal seizure that became his turning point toward recovery. His story is a powerful testament to resilience, proving that transformation is possible at any stage of life.We also discuss the lasting effects of childhood trauma, how it shaped Brian’s early struggles with anxiety and addiction, and the societal perceptions that keep so many trapped in destructive cycles. Brian shares the tools that helped him rebuild his life, from aligning decisions with core values to using controlled breathing, social connection, and purpose-driven living as key pillars of resilience. He also reflects on how education gave him a new sense of direction, helping him replace self-destruction with growth.Beyond addiction, this episode explores mental well-being, managing stress, and the pursuit of fulfilment. Brian offers practical strategies for navigating anxiety, making value-based decisions, and finding meaning through love, connection, and service to others. Whether you’re facing personal struggles or seeking tools for a more balanced life, this conversation is filled with wisdom, encouragement, and inspiration.This episode is brought to you by fabÜ FOCUS BRAIN, the supplement I created to help you stay sharp, focused, and ready to take on the day. Featuring a unique blend of Lion’s Mane mushroom, L-Tyrosine, Choline, Alpha-Lipoic Acid, and B vitamins, it’s designed to support cognitive function, mental performance, and reduce tiredness and fatigue. Whether you need to power through work, study, or just keep up with a busy life, these easy-to-swallow capsules are brain health in a bottle!I poured my heart into formulating fabÜ FOCUS BRAIN because I believe thriving isn’t just about getting by—it’s about unlocking your full potential with clarity and confidence. Don’t just take my word for it—check out the incredible reviews from people just like you on fabuwellness.com. Available online and in pharmacies and health food stores nationwide. Give your brain the support it deserves!Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us a textThis week we’re revisiting one of our most popular episodes from August 2023, with comedian Kyla Cobbler for an honest and powerful conversation about life, love, and healing. Kyla shares her journey to sobriety, the struggles she faced along the way, and how comedy became a lifeline in navigating challenges. We discuss the realities of dating while sober, the societal expectations placed on women, and the importance of open conversations about women's health.Kyla’s story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and embracing life on her own terms. She reflects on the role of self-love, the impact of community, and why laughter is one of the best tools for healing. We also chat about our upcoming event Viva La Vulva, a unique blend of comedy and education tackling topics often ignored in women’s health. This is a powerful episode filled with humour, honesty, and deep insights into personal growth. Tune in for a conversation that is as entertaining as it is inspiring!If you’ve been affected by sexual violence or abuse, support is available. Women’s Aid offers a 24/7 Freephone Helpline at 1800 341 900 or visit womensaid.ie. You are not alone. This episode is brought to you by fabÜ FOCUS BRAIN, the supplement I created to help you stay sharp, focused, and ready to take on the day. Featuring a unique blend of Lion’s Mane mushroom, L-Tyrosine, Choline, Alpha-Lipoic Acid, and B vitamins, it’s designed to support cognitive function, mental performance, and reduce tiredness and fatigue. Whether you need to power through work, study, or just keep up with a busy life, these easy-to-swallow capsules are brain health in a bottle!I poured my heart into formulating fabÜ FOCUS BRAIN because I believe thriving isn’t just about getting by—it’s about unlocking your full potential with clarity and confidence. Don’t just take my word for it—check out the incredible reviews from people just like you on fabuwellness.com. Available online and in pharmacies and health food stores nationwide. Give your brain the support it deserves!Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Nikki Dwyer, CEO of Future Beauty, to hear her powerful story of reinvention and resilience. Nikki opens up about breaking free from a toxic relationship, the emotional toll of narcissistic abuse, and how Ozempic reshaped her relationship with food, weight, and wellness. She also highlights the challenges of accessing weight-loss treatments and the stigma surrounding them.We dive into fertility struggles and innovative treatments, including the pioneering work of Dr. Lyuda Shkrobot at UNQLIFE, who is using immunotherapy to help prevent miscarriages. Nikki shares the hurdles women in Ireland face with IVF and the emotional and financial strain of fertility treatment. She also reflects on leaving behind a legal career to carve out a new path in the beauty and wellness industry, moving into men’s health entrepreneurship and working with urologists on supplement development.Finally, we explore mental and physical health, touching on ADHD, disordered eating, sexual assault, and gender bias. Nikki reflects on the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people and finding strength through adversity. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on transformation, health, and reclaiming your power.If you’ve been affected by narcissistic abuse, domestic abuse, or sexual violence, support is available. Women’s Aid offers a 24/7 Freephone Helpline at 1800 341 900 or visit womensaid.ie. You are not alone.This episode is brought to you by fabÜ SKIN-HAIR-NAILS GLOW, the supplement I created for strong, healthy, and radiant beauty from within. If you’re dealing with hair thinning, dull skin, fine lines, or weak nails, this is for you. Packed with 12 powerhouse ingredients, this blend is designed to support fuller, thicker hair, glowing skin, and strong nails. At the heart of the formula is Reishi mushroom, bursting with antioxidants and beta glucans, alongside five amino acids to build collagen, plus vitamins C, A, E, zinc, and niacinamide for all-round nourishment.The results speak for themselves—women post-pregnancy and going through peri and menopause have seen incredible transformations, from stronger nails in weeks to revived hair growth in months. But consistency is key—take two capsules daily, give your body time, and watch the transformation unfold. Available on fabuwellness.com and in pharmacies and health stores nationwide.Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Alexandra Ryan, founder and CEO of Goss.ie, for an eye-opening conversation about media, advocacy, and resilience. Alexandra shares her personal experience as a victim of non-consensual intimate image sharing and how it led her to speak out and advocate for change, playing a role in the introduction of Coco’s Law, Ireland’s legislation against online harassment and intimate image abuse. She reflects on the betrayal of trust, the emotional toll on victims, and the societal norms that continue to shame women instead of holding perpetrators accountable.We also explore the evolving landscape of media ethics, the legal gaps that once left victims unprotected, and the importance of responsible journalism in the digital age. With a law degree alongside her media career, Alexandra shares her unique perspective on the intersection of law, media, and ethics, highlighting the moral dilemmas faced in reporting, the challenges of female entrepreneurship, and the scrutiny women in media face when balancing ambition and integrity.Beyond the headlines, we discuss resilience, mental health, and the power of community support in recovery. Alexandra’s story is a powerful reminder that real change comes from standing up, speaking out, and pushing for a society that values justice over judgment. Tune in for a thought-provoking and inspiring conversation!If you’ve been affected by any of the topics discussed in this episode, support is available. Women’s Aid offers free, confidential help—call 1800 341 900 (24/7 in Ireland) or visit womensaid.ie. You can also report online abuse and find resources at hotline.ie. Please know you’re not alone. This episode is brought to you by fabÜ SKIN-HAIR-NAILS GLOW, the supplement I created for strong, healthy, and radiant beauty from within. If you’re dealing with hair thinning, dull skin, fine lines, or weak nails, this is for you. Packed with 12 powerhouse ingredients, this blend is designed to support fuller, thicker hair, glowing skin, and strong nails. At the heart of the formula is Reishi mushroom, bursting with antioxidants and beta glucans, alongside five amino acids to build collagen, plus vitamins C, A, E, zinc, and niacinamide for all-round nourishment.The results speak for themselves—women post-pregnancy and going through peri and menopause have seen incredible transformations, from stronger nails in weeks to revived hair growth in months. But consistency is key—take two capsules daily, give your body time, and watch the transformation unfold. Available on fabuwellness.com and in pharmacies and health stores nationwide.Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Thanks for listening! You can watch the full episode on YouTube here. Don’t forget to follow The Laura Dowling Experience podcast on Instagram @lauradowlingexperience for updates and more information. You can also follow our host, Laura Dowling, @fabulouspharmacist for more insights and tips. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review—it really helps us out! Stay tuned for more great conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.