Mind Your Self - Four Swans

*This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health care, therapy, or medical advice.

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Four Swans Therapy.

If you are experiencing distress or need support, please seek help from a qualified mental health professional. If you are in crisis, contact your GP, local emergency services, or a crisis helpline in your area*.

Every life is also a story, and sharing our story can be a pathway to real freedom.

On this podcast, we hear from industry experts, experienced practitioners, and those with lived experience. We speak with people who have navigated deep challenges themselves, as well as those who dedicate their lives to helping others overcome difficulties.

We have asked them to share their insights and their experiences so that we can all learn how to better navigate our own struggles and find a way to mind ourselves.

Episodes

40 minutes ago

47 min

In this episode of Mind Your Self Podcast, we explore the powerful connection between physical fitness and mental wellbeing with Andrew Hageman from A & S Fitness.
Andrew shares his personal experiences with exercise, anxiety, self-sabotage and the pursuit of happiness, and how movement has become an important tool for clearing his mind and navigating difficult periods.
We explore the importance of finding your “why,” breaking self-sabotaging patterns and learning to respond differently to life’s challenges. Andrew also opens up about the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and why vulnerability and honest conversations are so important.
The conversation also introduces Andrew’s practical approach to wellbeing: his system of “non-negotiables” and “negotiables,” which helps him create structure while allowing flexibility and reducing unnecessary pressure.
A conversation about mental health, resilience, purpose, exercise and finding a new perspective even in our darkest moments.
 
Sometimes the thing that changes your life isn't a huge transformation. It's one small choice to do something differently.

40 minutes ago

47 min

7 days ago

29 min

Addiction is rarely just about substances.
Rachel Landers joins us to unpack the complex relationship between addiction and mental health, exploring what dual diagnosis really means and why compassion is essential.
They discuss stigma, recovery, supporting loved ones and why healing is always possible.
An informative and compassionate conversation that challenges many common myths surrounding addiction.
 
This episode of Mind Your Self is proudly sponsored by Kingsbridge Healthcare Group.
 
Kingsbridge is one of Northern Ireland’s largest private healthcare providers, offering consultations, diagnostics, treatments and surgery across a wide range of specialities.
People living in the Republic of Ireland may be able to access treatment through private health insurance, self-pay options or the Northern Ireland Planned Healthcare Scheme, with eligible patients able to apply for HSE reimbursement.
With hospitals in Belfast and Newry, specialist private healthcare could be closer than you think.
 
Some things are worth talking about.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

7 days ago

29 min

Behind the Badge

Oct 24, 2026

Oct 24, 2026

24 min

We are joined by Detective Superintendent Sé McCormack of An Garda Síochána to explore the emotional reality of policing. Drawing on over 30 years of service, Sé shares the unseen pressures Garda members face, how the culture around mental health has evolved, the importance of compassion, and why asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
 
We discuss trauma, resilience, stigma, public perception, and the vital role of wellbeing for those who dedicate their lives to protecting others.
 
An honest, thought-provoking conversation that offers insight not only for Gardaí, but for anyone interested in mental health, empathy, and the human side of public service.
 
This episode of Mind Your Self is proudly sponsored by Kingsbridge Healthcare Group.
 
Kingsbridge is one of Northern Ireland’s largest private healthcare providers, offering consultations, diagnostics, treatments and surgery across a wide range of specialities.
People living in the Republic of Ireland may be able to access treatment through private health insurance, self-pay options or the Northern Ireland Planned Healthcare Scheme, with eligible patients able to apply for HSE reimbursement.
With hospitals in Belfast and Newry, specialist private healthcare could be closer than you think.
 
Some things are worth talking about.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Oct 24, 2026

24 min

Oct 17, 2026

20 min

No parent imagines receiving difficult news about their child.
In this emotional episode, Vicky Fitzpatrick shares her family's journey after learning about her son Connor's disability.
Together, we explore grief, acceptance, resilience, maternal mental health and the unexpected joy that can emerge through life's greatest challenges.
This is an honest conversation for parents, carers and anyone navigating uncertainty.

Oct 17, 2026

20 min

Starting Over

Oct 10, 2026

Oct 10, 2026

34 min

Siobhain Rushe Gibbons, owner of Aibhilin Consulting, shares her journey through grief, redundancy, motherhood, identity and starting again. After losing her sister and later experiencing redundancy following maternity leave, Siobhain found herself questioning not only her career, but the identity she had built around it. She opens up about what it feels like when life doesn’t follow the plan you had imagined and how those unexpected chapters can ultimately create space for something new.
We talk about the different forms of grief, rebuilding confidence, balancing motherhood and career, taking the leap into business, and the pressure we put on ourselves to have everything figured out.
Siobhain also shares the importance of self-compassion, recognising that some days are about achieving and others are simply about getting through. A conversation about loss, resilience, identity, hope and the courage to begin again.

Oct 10, 2026

34 min

Oct 3, 2026

16 min

What happens when creativity becomes a lifeline?
 
In this episode of Mind Your Self, we sit down with Rebecca Griffin and Sophia Whelan, founders of Rock & Soul Sisters, to explore loneliness, friendship, grief and the healing power of creativity.
Together, they discuss why making friends as adults can feel so difficult, how creative spaces foster genuine connection, and why community has never been more important. Whether you've ever felt isolated, struggled to find your people, or simply need reminding that you're not alone, this conversation will leave you feeling hopeful.

Oct 3, 2026

16 min

The Waiting Game

Sep 29, 2026

Sep 29, 2026

39 min

Episode 35 The Waiting Game In this episode of Mind Your Self, we speak with Deirdre McKenny, GP Liaison Manager with Kingsbridge Private Hospital Group's Cross Border Healthcare Pathways, about the emotional impact of long healthcare waiting times.  Drawing from her own experience of cancer, career change, and recovery, Deirdre shares why knowing your options, advocating for yourself, and accessing timely care can make all the difference.  A powerful conversation about hope, resilience, and taking back control. This episode of Mind Your Self is proudly sponsored by Kingsbridge Healthcare Group.
Kingsbridge is one of Northern Ireland’s largest private healthcare providers, offering consultations, diagnostics, treatments and surgery across a wide range of specialities.
People living in the Republic of Ireland may be able to access treatment through private health insurance, self-pay options or the Northern Ireland Planned Healthcare Scheme, with eligible patients able to apply for HSE reimbursement.
With hospitals in Belfast and Newry, specialist private healthcare could be closer than you think. Some things are worth talking about.

Sep 29, 2026

39 min

The Healing Forest

Sep 26, 2026

Sep 26, 2026

44 min

In this episode of Mind Your Self, we chat with Nicoline C. Walsh, Transformation Coach, Energy Healing Practitioner and co-founder of The Healing Forest.
 
Nicoline shares her perspective on energy blocks, emotional wellbeing, and personal development, exploring how self-awareness and practices such as Reiki, nature connection and guided meditation can support people who feel stuck or overwhelmed. 
 
Together, we discuss healing, curiosity, and the importance of finding an approach that feels right for each individual.
 
Topics include energy healing, emotional wellbeing, personal growth, nature, self-awareness, and mindfulness.

Sep 26, 2026

44 min

Behind the Scenes

Sep 22, 2026

Sep 22, 2026

38 min

What does life as a creative really look like behind the scenes?
In this episode, we sit down with actor, writer, director and producer Baz Black to have an honest and open conversation about mental health in the creative industries.
Baz shares personal insights into navigating rejection, anxiety and the pressures of an industry where uncertainty and comparison can become part of everyday life.
We explore the reality behind the polished version of creative life often presented on social media, and why it's so important to remember that what we see online rarely tells the whole story.
We talk about resilience, self-worth, boundaries, and the importance of knowing that you are not alone, particularly during the difficult periods that aren't visible to the outside world.
A candid, relatable conversation for anyone working in, aspiring to work in, or simply passionate about the creative world.

Sep 22, 2026

38 min

Sep 19, 2026

39 min

Gambling addiction is often described as the hidden addiction, affecting not only finances but mental health, relationships and families. 
In this episode of Mind Your Self, psychotherapist Daniel Coulter shares his personal journey from gambling addiction to recovery, offering honest insight into the emotional impact of addiction, the power of seeking help, and why recovery is always possible.
A compassionate conversation filled with hope for anyone affected by gambling addiction.
 

Sep 19, 2026

39 min

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