The Blindboy Podcast

Laura Coleman, a psychotherapist and death doula, specializes in helping individuals navigate their death journey within hospices. She discusses the profound need for open conversations about death and the common regrets people face at life's end. The importance of play therapy in trauma healing is highlighted, emphasizing creativity's role in personal growth. Coleman also reflects on cultural practices surrounding death, illustrating how communal rituals honor the deceased and shape relationships with mortality, urging a gentle approach in end-of-life care.

Explore the tumultuous history of Jaffa Cakes, from their surprising legal classification to the cultural anecdotes surrounding them. Delve into the legacy of oranges as symbols of wealth and their transformation through globalization. The podcast cleverly contrasts seasonal traditions against climate change, reflecting on the challenges of celebrating holidays in warmer climates. With a mix of humor and personal stories, it captures the complex ties between food, culture, and colonial history—making you rethink your favorite treats.

Dr. Kevin Mitchell, an Associate Professor of Genetics and Neuroscience at Trinity College Dublin and author of "Innate", dives into the fascinating intersection of brain function and creativity. He discusses neuroplasticity and how our experiences shape identity in the digital age. The conversation also touches on language acquisition, contrasting human learning with AI, and emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and sleep for creativity. Additionally, Mitchell sheds light on neurodiversity, reflecting on autism and unique cognitive conditions, highlighting the beauty of diverse perceptions.

The podcast dives into nostalgic reflections on life before the internet, contrasted with the disillusionment of the American Dream. It humorously explores the absurdity of modern urban landscapes and shares a quirky short story about a character who eats slugs. Personal anecdotes highlight a deep emotional connection to music and memories amid societal changes. The journey of Jupe Holahan adds layers of loneliness and transformation, intertwining humor with heartfelt insights. Listeners are invited to ponder the past while enjoying clever storytelling.

I chat with Cork actor Cillian Murphy about his new film "Small things like these" Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dive into the eerie evolution of Halloween, from its rich Irish pagan roots to its modern-day consumer frenzy. Reflect on childhood memories of mischief and the dark side of cheap costumes tied to global labor issues. Explore how hyper-capitalism has overshadowed the holiday's true significance, transforming festive creativity into a commercial machine. Discover the importance of keeping genuine discussions alive, free from the influence of advertisers, all while appreciating the history lurking beneath the spooky decor.

Join a relaxed stroll through Limerick City, uncovering its Viking history and a memorable conversation by the Shannon River. Delve into the Normans' arrival and the impact of tyranny on today's laws. Explore the city’s medieval roots and links to colonial themes, alongside reflections on local landmarks. Discover the transformation of a historic site from public executions to a creative hub. Plus, hear about the balancing act between content creation and personal downtime, sprinkled with excitement for upcoming performances.

Explore childhood fears and quirky tales about earwigs and vacuums! Delve into cultural folklore, superstitions, and the ecological impact of dwindling insect populations. Discover a whimsical journey from mental health discussions to embracing creativity inspired by earwigs. Uncover the symbolism of earwigs as protectors of treasures, while critiquing society's neglect of nature for conspiracy theories. This blend of humor, personal stories, and insightful commentary invites listeners to reflect on the natural world.

David McWilliams, an accomplished economist and author of 'Money: A Story of Humanity,' shares captivating insights into the history and significance of money. He recounts personal struggles with traditional economics education and how storytelling can transform understanding. The conversation dives into money's evolution, from ancient civilizations to digital currencies, highlighting key historical events and cultural impacts. With humor and reflection, McWilliams emphasizes the profound role money plays in shaping human civilization, sparking intriguing thoughts on its future.

The discussion kicks off with an insight into the challenges of quitting vaping, highlighting emotional resilience over distraction. It shifts to the moral implications of military actions, particularly examining Israel and Hezbollah's conflict and its impact on civilians. The interplay of media narratives and war accountability reveals how sensationalism distorts reality. Moreover, it explores the connections between fashion, ancestry, and colonialism, revealing how historical actions resonate in today's geopolitics.