

The Laura Dowling Experience
Laura Dowling
Conversations about health, science, wellness, life, love, sex and everything in-between. Laura is a Pharmacist who loves to talk to interesting people about their unique life and work experiences. See @fabulouspharmacist on instagram for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 13, 2025 • 1h 29min
Joint Replacements: What to Expect, Recovery, & Protecting Your Mobility with Maurice Neligan #111
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.

Mar 6, 2025 • 1h 16min
Conquering Addiction: Childhood Trauma, Neuroscience, & Transformation with Dr. Brian Pennie #110
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.

Feb 27, 2025 • 1h 41min
Healing Through Comedy: Sobriety, Womanhood, & Self-Acceptance with Kyla Cobbler #045 (Rerelease)
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.

Feb 20, 2025 • 1h 43min
Beauty in Reinvention: Narcissistic Abuse, Ozempic, Changing Career Paths & ADHD with Nikki Dwyer #109
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.

Feb 13, 2025 • 2h 1min
Women in Media: Intimate Image Abuse, Online Safety Laws & Media Ethics with Alexandra Ryan #108
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.

Feb 6, 2025 • 1h 14min
Childhood Obesity: Bone Health, Movement, and Support for Families with Dr Grace O’Malley #107
Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Dr. Grace O'Malley, a leading expert in childhood obesity, to explore the complex realities faced by children living in larger bodies. We discuss the societal prejudices they encounter, the challenges their families navigate, and the impact of food poverty. Dr O'Malley shares how obesity affects children's bone health and movement, reflecting on her journey into this field after noticing increased injuries and longer healing times in young patients.We dive into the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, moving beyond traditional sports science to a model involving physiotherapists, dietitians, and psychologists. Dr O'Malley highlights the physiological differences between children and adults, the long-term effects of childhood obesity, and why supportive, non-judgemental healthcare environments are crucial.Our conversation also explores broader environmental and nutritional influences, from early sugar exposure to historical lessons from Romanian orphanages. We wrap up with practical insights on fostering a healthy body image and mindset, reinforcing the deep connection between mental and physical well-being. Tune in for an insightful and compassionate conversation!Ladies, Viva La Vulva is back! Join me on Saturday, 1st March 2025, at the National Concert Hall, Dublin, for an afternoon of real talk, laughter, and expert insights on women’s health. We’ll be diving into peri & menopause, pelvic floor health, HRT, incontinence, sex, and more - no topic is off-limits! Last year’s tour was a sell-out, and evening tickets are already sold out. We’ve added a 1pm matinee show to make it easier for those travelling outside Dublin, tickets are just €65 and include our legendary goodie bag worth over €100! Don’t miss this unmissable event! Grab your tickets now at www.nch.ie. 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.

Jan 30, 2025 • 1h 7min
Understanding Obesity: Brain Science, Medication Breakthroughs, and Stigma with Prof. Carel Le Roux #106
Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Professor Carel Le Roux, a leading obesity expert, to explore the science of obesity as a brain disease rather than a matter of willpower. We challenge the outdated "eat less, move more" mindset and discuss revolutionary treatments, including medications that are transforming how obesity is managed.We dive into the societal stigmas surrounding obesity, the impact of medication shortages, and how these treatments can help prevent conditions like diabetes. Professor Le Roux also shares insights on reducing "food noise," the journey toward bariatric surgery, and fostering empathy and support for those facing weight management challenges.Finally, we shift the focus from weight loss to health gains, offering a compassionate perspective on achieving sustainable wellness. With a focus on individualised care, realistic expectations, and kindness, this episode is a powerful conversation about rethinking obesity and supporting holistic health.Ladies, Viva La Vulva is back! Join me on Saturday, 1st March 2025, at the National Concert Hall, Dublin, for an afternoon of real talk, laughter, and expert insights on women’s health. We’ll be diving into peri & menopause, pelvic floor health, HRT, incontinence, sex, and more - no topic is off-limits! Last year’s tour was a sell-out, and evening tickets are already sold out. We’ve added a 1pm matinee show to make it easier for those travelling outside Dublin, tickets are just €65 and include our legendary goodie bag worth over €100! Don’t miss this unmissable event! Grab your tickets now at www.nch.ie. 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.

Jan 23, 2025 • 1h 10min
Building BURST: Leadership, Innovation, & Balancing Business and Family with Brittany Stewart #105
Send us a textIn this episode, I chat with Brittany Stewart, co-founder and COO of BURST Oral Care, about the journey behind the brand’s incredible success. From launching BURST in the Irish market to growing a community of over 40,000 dental professionals in the US, Brittany shares insights into leadership, innovation, and staying true to her vision.We also explore her personal story, from her days studying at UCLA to balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship during the pandemic. Brittany opens up about navigating male-dominated industries, the power of mentorship, and the importance of aligning business goals with personal values. This episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice for entrepreneurship and beyond!This episode is brought to you by fabÜ SHROOMS MENO & PERI, the multi-award-winning supplement created by yours truly, the Fabulous Pharmacist. Designed to support peri and menopausal women, this blend is all about treating yourself—mind, body, and soul. Think of it as that little luxury that makes you feel more like yourself again. Check out the glowing reviews from women just like you on fabuwellness.com. Available online 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.

Jan 16, 2025 • 1h 11min
Very Irish People: Media, Motherhood, and Navigating Perimenopause with VIP Editor Bianca Luykx #104
Send us a textIn this episode, I chat with Bianca Luykx, the editor of VIP Magazine, about her incredible journey in the media industry. With nearly two decades of experience at one of Ireland’s leading magazines, Bianca shares her insights into navigating an ever-evolving industry, including memorable moments like interviewing Beyoncé and Justin Timberlake. She also opens up about her early TV career, sharing her experience of harassment in the workplace and the resilience it took to overcome it.But it’s not all about career highlights. Bianca opens up about the emotional challenges of motherhood, the realities of perimenopause, and how she’s adapting as her teen children grow into independence. Her candid insights, infused with Irish humour, offer a refreshing take on balancing work, family, and personal growth.We also explore the art of storytelling, staying authentic in the era of AI, and how emotional intelligence shapes her work. This is a conversation packed with inspiration, resilience, and plenty of laughs—don’t miss it!This episode is brought to you by fabÜ SHROOMS MENO & PERI, the multi-award-winning supplement created by yours truly, the Fabulous Pharmacist. Designed to support peri and menopausal women, this blend is all about treating yourself—mind, body, and soul. Think of it as that little luxury that makes you feel more like yourself again. Check out the glowing reviews from women just like you on fabuwellness.com. Available online 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.

Jan 9, 2025 • 1h 53min
All Things Menopause: Mood Changes, Weight Gain, HRT Myths, and More with Dr. Deirdre Lundy #072 (Rerelease)
Send us a textThis week we’re revisiting our most popular episode from February 2024, with Dr. Deirdre Lundy, a specialist in women’s health and menopause, and author of The Menopause. Dr. Lundy shares her expertise on the physical and emotional changes of menopause, offering practical tips for managing symptoms like hot flushes, mood changes, weight gain, and vaginal health.We also tackle myths about treatment options for women post-cancer or with a family history of cancer, and highlight solutions for those unable to use HRT. Whether you’re navigating menopause yourself or supporting a loved one, this episode is packed with understanding and empowering guidance. Tune in to revisit this open and honest conversation!This episode is brought to you by Viva La Vulva at the National Concert Hall. Join me and my esteemed guests on March 1st for open, honest conversations on women's health. Topics include pelvic floor health, sexual wellness, peri & menopause, and longevity, with expert advice to empower and inform. Tickets available at nch.ie!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.


