MSLETB Get Lit!

Roisin Egan

A brand-new podcast about literacy, learning and confidence. Each episode shines a light on skills that help adults grow in reading, writing, numbers, and digital skills with stories from learners, tutors, and partners. In this first episode, Minister Marian Harkin, Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, and Dr. Yvonne McKenna, Director of Adult Literacy for Life at SOLAS, share how the Adult Literacy for Life strategy is changing Ireland’s culture around unmet literacy needs and how taking the first steps can unlock confidence.

  1. 4d ago

    Episode 12: Women Rising-Voices from the Collective

    In this special episode of Women Rising-Voices from the Collective, we hear the inspiring stories of women whose lives have been shaped by their involvement with The Women's Collective Ireland and Ronanstown Women's Collective. Host Róisín Egan sits down with Saoirse De Búrca, Fiona Dowd, and Margaret McLoughlin to explore themes of resilience, achievement, confidence, belonging, and the power of community. From finding your voice and taking your space in the world, to overcoming challenges and celebrating personal growth, their stories are both moving and empowering. The episode concludes with Sinéad Mahon, Coordinator of Ronanstown Women's Collective, who reflects on the transformative impact of collaboration, partnership, and supporting women to realise their full potential. These are honest conversations about courage, connection and what becomes possible when women support women. Please note: This episode contains discussion of sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised. Information on support services can be found below. Women's Collective Ronanstown: ronanstown@womenscollective.ie or call 087 398 1477 _______________________________________________________ Women's Collective Ireland Empowering grassroots women. Email: info@womenscollective.ie  Phone: 089 603 1656 Charity Number: CHY 16690 Registered Charities Number:  20060688 Company Number:  400554 Registered Office: Unit 12, Block 1, Weaver Court, Neilstown Road, Clondalkin, Co. Dublin _______________________________________________________ Fiona Dowd : @thelegacycoachireland Founder of The Legacy Way _________________________________________________________ Women's Aid National Freephone Helpline📞 1800 341 900 (24 hours, 7 days a week)🌐 www.womensaid.ieConfidential support and information for women experiencing domestic abuse and coercive control Domestic Abuse & Coercive Control ____________________________________________________ Safe Ireland📞 1800 341 900 (24 hours, 7 days a week)🌐 www.safeireland.ieNational network of domestic violence services and refuges across Ireland___________________________________________________________ Dublin Rape Crisis Centre National 24-Hour Helpline📞 1800 77 8888🌐 www.drcc.ieFree and confidential support for anyone affected by sexual violence, abuse, assault, or harassment. ___________________________________________________________ Samaritans Ireland      Freephone 116 123     -  24/7confidential, non-judgmental support via phone. Email: ⁠jo@samaritans.ie⁠ Website: ⁠samaritans.ie⁠ _____________________________________________Al-Anon Family Groups📞 01 873 2699🌐 www.al-anonuk.org.ukAlcoholics Anonymous (AA) Ireland📞 01 842 0700🌐 www.alcoholicsanonymous.ieHSE Drugs & Alcohol Helpline📞 1800 459 459🌐 www.drugs.ie Pieta House     Freephone 1800 247 247 or Text HELP to51444    - Support for people in suicidal distress, self-harm, and those bereaved by suicide.   Email: ⁠info@pieta.ie⁠ Website: ⁠pieta.ie⁠ _____________________________________________ Text About It   Text HELLO to 50808 (anytime) - 24/7 anonymous messaging service for emotional or mental health crisis. Website: ⁠textaboutit.ie⁠ _____________________________________________ Your Mental Health Information Line (HSE) - Freephone 1800 111 888 _____________________________________________ AWARE www.aware.ie  - Free talking therapy (CBT, counselling) _____________________________________________ Mental Health Ireland Phone: ⁠01 284 1166⁠ Email: ⁠info@mentalhealthireland.ie⁠ Website: ⁠mentalhealthireland.ie⁠ National Organisations & Supports Adult Literacy for Life (ALL) Strategy Website — information & resources to find support nationwide www.adultliteracyforlife.ie National Adult Literacy Agency (NALA) Freephone: 1800 20 20 65 They offer help with reading, writing, spelling, everyday maths, using technology etc.www.NALA.ie

  2. Sep 8

    Episode 11: Keeping it LIT-Making literacy everyone's business

    International Literacy Day Special | Get Lit Podcast Featuring Regional Literacy Co-ordinators: What does literacy really look like in today's world? Is itsimply about reading and writing, or is there much more to literacy than meetsthe eye? In this special International Literacy Day episode of the GetLit Podcast, host Róisín Egan, Regional Literacy Co-ordinator withAdult Literacy for Life (Mayo, Sligo & Leitrim ETB), is joined by fellowRegional Literacy Co-ordinators Ceinwen Fergus (Cavan & MonaghanETB) and Edel Finan (Waterford & Wexford ETB). Together, they unpack the reality of literacy in Irelandtoday, explore why literacy awareness matters and discuss the everydaychallenges that many adults experience when navigating information, servicesand learning opportunities. The conversation also examines what it means to bea literacy-friendly organisation and highlights the practical "babysteps" that workplaces, services, communities and individuals can take tocreate a more inclusive and literacy-friendly society. Whether you're an educator, community worker, employer,public service provider, or simply interested in making a difference, thisepisode offers valuable insights and practical actions that can help ensureeveryone has the opportunity to participate fully in society. 🎙️ Join theconversation this International Literacy Day and discover why literacy iseveryone's business. Listen now and be part of building a moreliteracy-friendly Ireland. 📚✨   National Organisations & Supports Adult Literacy for Life (ALL) Strategy Information & resources to find support nationwide www.adultliteracyforlife.ie Contact NALA : National Adult Literacy Agency (NALA) Sandford Lodge, Sandford Close, Ranelagh, Dublin 6, Ireland, D06 YF65. Phone: 01 4127900 | Freephone: 1 800 20 20 65 | Email ⁠info@nala.ie⁠ Dyslexia Ireland Supporting children & adults with dyslexia www.dyslexia.ie Regional Literacy Co-ordinator Mayo, Sligo & LeitrimETB & Podcast host Name: Roisin Egan Phone: 086 834 0612 Email: roisinegan@msletb.ie   #GetLitPodcast #NALA #AdultLiteracy #LiteracyMatters #MakingTheImpossiblePossible #LifelongLearning #EducationForAll #SocialImpact #GetLit #IrelandPodcast

  3. Jul 9

    Episode 10: Making the Impossible Possible: A conversation with NALA CEO Colleen Dube

    Making the Impossible Possible: A Conversation with Colleen Dube, CEO of NALA What does literacy have to do with health, employment, confidence, family life, social inclusion and opportunity? As it turns out-everything. In this episode of the Get Lit Podcast, Róisín Egan sits down with Colleen Dube, CEO of NALA (National Adult Literacy Agency), for an open, honest and inspiring conversation about the wider societal impact of literacy in Ireland today. This episode talks about the new financial literacy resource as well as a broader range of literacy challenges from NALA ‘A guide to money: managing it and keeping it safe’ was developed by the National Adult Literacy Agency (NALA) and funded by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) through the Adult Literacy for Life Strategy. Check out this resource here A guide to money: managing it and keeping it safe - NALA This is not an interview. It's a conversation. One that seeks to challenge assumptions, break down stigma and shine a light on the reality that 1 in 5 adults in Ireland struggles with literacy. Together, Róisín and Colleen explore the barriers that adults face, the transformative power of literacy support, and why literacy is not just an educational issue but a social justice issue that affects every aspect of our communities. They discuss the importance of creating inclusive opportunities for adult learners and the role we all play in making the impossible possible. Whether you work in education, community development, public services, leadership or simply care about building a more equitable society, this episode offers valuable insights, practical reflections and a renewed sense of hope. Join us as we continue to ignite the conversation around literacy and showcase the life-changing impact that learning can have. 🔥 Because when literacy grows, possibilities grow. Listen now and Get Lit. Contact NALA : National Adult Literacy Agency (NALA)Sandford Lodge, Sandford Close, Ranelagh, Dublin 6, Ireland, D06 YF65.Phone: 01 4127900 | Freephone: 1 800 20 20 65 | Email info@nala.ie National Organisations & Supports Adult Literacy for Life (ALL) Strategy Information & resources to find support nationwide www.adultliteracyforlife.ie Dyslexia Ireland Supporting children & adults with dyslexia www.dyslexia.ie Regional Literacy Co-ordinator Mayo, Sligo & LeitrimETB & Podcast host Name: Roisin Egan Phone: 086 834 0612 Email: roisinegan@msletb.ie   #GetLitPodcast #NALA #AdultLiteracy #LiteracyMatters #MakingTheImpossiblePossible #LifelongLearning #EducationForAll #SocialImpact #GetLit #IrelandPodcast

  4. Jun 12

    Episode 9: From Lit to Legit: Financially Ready, Set, Go

    Let's talk about financial literacy. Today, we are  talking about something that impacts every one of us - financial literacy and know-how. I am joined by Marcella Reilly from ATU Galway and Jesus Quaye Saya from ATU Sligo to explore the award winning Financial Readiness for Life programme-an ATU programme developed in partnership with MABS that equips people with the knowledge and confidence to manage their finances, make informed decisions and plan for the future. This programme was a  recent winner of the Dr Brendan McCormack Universal Design for Learning award. This programme is helping people build essential life skills for financial wellbeing. From being recognised as a case study in the national Toolkit for Evaluating Financial Education Initiatives by the CCPC, to featuring at the launch of the National Financial Literacy Strategy Annual Review and Action Plan 2026–2027 by Tánaiste and Minister for Finance Simon Harris, this work is having real national impact. Thank you for listening to this episode of Get Lit and be sure to check out the financial readiness for life programme online at freecourses.atu.ie Get skills. Get confidence. Get Lit! If you or someone you know are affected by any if the topics discussed in this podcast please look for support: MABS-Money, Advice & Budgeting Service Ireland 0818 07 2000 The MABS Helpline 0818 07 2000, Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm. Our Helpline Advisers can give you advice and support on many money management and debt issues, and can also provide you with MABS self-help materials free of charge. Our Helpline is confidential and you can remain anonymous. www.mabs.ie Podcast Host & Regional Literacy Co-ordinator for Mayo, Sligo & Leitrim Roisin Egan- roisinegan@msletb.ie Tel: 086 8340612 Adult Literacy for Life (ALL) Strategy Website — information & resources to find support nationwide www.adultliteracyforlife.ie MSLETB (Mayo,Sligo, Leitrim Education and Training Board) Office (Quay Street, Sligo) Phone: 071 9194800 www.msletb.ie Sligo Adult Educational Guidance Service Address: MSLETB Quay Street, Sligo, F91 XH96 Phone: 071913 8411 | 085 877 7002 Email: sligoadultguidance@msletb.ie Adult Literacy MSLETB Courses For reading,writing, numeracy, digital skills; free and confidential. www.msletb.ie What You Can Do: Reach out to your local Education and Training Board (ETB) to ask about courses and supports. Contact the Adult Educational Guidance Service in your local ETB -they are impartial and help you explore options.

  5. May 5

    Episode 8: Creating Futures Together: Live Reflections from the ETBI National FET Conference 2026

    In this special live edition of The Get Lit Podcast, we bring you on-the-spotreflections from attendees at the 5th Annual ETBI National FET Conference 2026, hosted on February 25–26 in the Slieve Russell Hotel, County Cavan. Recorded on the last day of the conference, this episode captures the collective energy behind the theme “FET - Creating Futures.” Hear honest, real-time insights from practitioners across Ireland’s 16 Education and TrainingBoards and beyond, exploring the role of Further Education and Training in communities, learner journeys and skills development. From innovation and alternative pathways into learning, to learner voice, technology, diverse learning styles, life experience, and workforce diversity. These reflections highlight the vital impact of FET and the enduring motivation sparked when people come together to share, collaborate and reimagine what’s possible. A celebration of connection, purpose and that unmistakable fire in the belly that carries back into daily practice across Further Education and Training in Ireland.

  6. Mar 8

    Episode 7: When The Spark Becomes A Step-Building Literacy Confidence with Breda Mc Cague

    In this powerful and uplifting episode of the GET LIT Podcast, we sit down with the inspiring Breda McCague to explore what real change truly looks like - not the dramatic leap, but the quiet courage of taking one small step at a time. We talk about building confidence, finding the right people to support you, shutting out negativity and giving yourself permission to grow. If you have ever struggled with literacy, learning, or self‑belief, this episode is a reminder that: You are not alone.And it is never too late. Adult literacy supports are confidential, free and designed around you. Whether you want to improve reading, writing, numbers, digital skills, return to education, or simply feel more confident there is help available to guide you through those first brave steps. Change isn’t easy - but with encouragement, support and small wins along the way, you can rewrite your story. If this episode inspires you, reach out to your local Adult Literacy Service or learn more about the Adult Literacy for Life Strategy- www.adultliteracyforlife.ie for a list of supports and contacts in your area and share this conversation with someone who might need it. 🔥 Stay inspired. Stay curious. And remember: the first step is always the bravest. To find out more about Breda Mc Cague and her work and services check out: Breda McCagueand follow her on Linked In here: Breda McCague, Global Motivational TED Speaker | LinkedIn Get skills. Get confidence. Get Lit! If you or someone you know are affected by any if the topics discussed in this podcast please look for support: Samaritans Ireland      Freephone116 123     -  24/7confidential, non-judgmental support via phone. Email: ⁠⁠⁠jo@samaritans.ie⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠samaritans.ie⁠⁠⁠ Pieta House     Freephone 1800247 247 or Text HELP to51444    - Support for people in suicidaldistress, self-harm, and those bereaved by suicide.   Email: ⁠⁠⁠info@pieta.ie⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠pieta.ie⁠⁠⁠ Text About It   Text HELLO to 50808(anytime) - 24/7anonymous messaging service for emotional or mental healthcrisis. Website: ⁠⁠⁠textaboutit.ie⁠⁠⁠ Your Mental Health Information Line (HSE) - Freephone1800 111 888 AWARE www.aware.ie  - Free talking therapy (CBT,counselling) for mild–moderate anxiety, depression. Also runs support groups,self-help resources. Mental Health Ireland Phone: ⁠⁠⁠01 284 1166⁠⁠⁠A network of regional volunteers and community groups that offercommunity-based mental health support Email: ⁠⁠⁠info@mentalhealthireland.ie⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠mentalhealthireland.ie⁠⁠⁠  MSLETB (Mayo,Sligo, Leitrim Education and TrainingBoard) Office (Quay Street, Sligo) Phone: 071 9194800 www.msletb.ie Sligo Adult Educational Guidance Service Address: MSLETB Quay Street, Sligo, F91 XH96 Phone: 071913 8411 | 085 877 7002 Email: sligoadultguidance@msletb.ie Adult Literacy MSLETB Courses For reading, writing, numeracy, digital skills; free andconfidential. National Organisations & Supports Adult Literacy for Life (ALL) Strategy Information & resources to find support nationwide www.adultliteracyforlife.ie National Adult Literacy Agency (NALA) Freephone: 1800 20 20 65 Help with reading, writing, spelling, everyday maths, usingtechnology www.NALA.ie Dyslexia Ireland Supporting children & adults with dyslexia www.dyslexia.ie Regional Literacy Co-ordinator Mayo, Sligo & LeitrimETB Name: Roisin Egan Phone: 086 834 0612 Email: roisinegan@msletb.ie

  7. Mar 6

    Episode 6: Women Who Lead-Finding Your Voice Through Learning

    In this special bonus episode of the MSLETB GET LIT Podcast, we sit down with Siobhán Magner to explore the brand‑new Women Who Lead programme -an exciting initiative designed to support, empower and elevate women. Facilitated by renowned leadership coach Breda McCague, Women Who Lead is a dynamic, transformational programme created to help women step confidently into leadership roles, build their brand and unlock their full potential. 💬 In this episode, Siobhán shares: Why the Women Who Lead programme was developedWhat participants can expect from Breda McCague’s unique facilitation styleThe skills, confidence and empowerment the programme offersWho the programme is for -and why nowHow to get involved and how to applyWhether you have been considering a leadership pathway, looking to develop your voice or simply seeking inspiration from strong female leaders, this episode gives you a full behind‑the‑scenes look at what Women Who Lead is all about. 🔥 Get ready to be inspired, motivated and maybe even a little bit braver. 📢 Find out everything you need to know about how to apply and what to expect from this exciting new MSLETB initiative. Follow the MSLETB Apprenticeship & Enterprise skills unit here MSLETB - Apprenticeship & Enterprise Skills Unit: Posts | LinkedIn Check out Breda Mc Cague here: Breda McCague For more information on any other information about this programme or others like this contact sarahrooney@msletb.ie Check out www.msletb.ie for more information on other learning in your area. For support around literacy and further learning check out www.adultliteracyforlife.ie For any comments and information on how this podcast can help you or your organisation contact Regional Literacy Coordinator roisinegan@msletb.ie

  8. Jan 28

    Episode 5: Part 2- 'The Reason's Why'-Learner Voices continue to unlock the Wider Benefits of Learning

    In this episode of Get Lit, the podcast from Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board, we continue our series “The Reasons Why”, exploring how learner experiences reveal the wider benefits of adult learning. Hosted by Roisín Egan,Regional Literacy Coordinator, this episode shines a light on the real-life impact of Further Education and Training. You’ll hear three powerful learner stories from adults who took that brave first step back into learning and how it transformed their lives in unexpected ways. Leonard shares how engaging in digital learning in Sligo helped build his confidence,independence and everyday life skills. Valentyna tells her story as a Ukrainian refugee learning English with Cork ETB, highlighting how language learning supports connection, belonging and new beginnings. Brian reflects on his journey with Carlow Kilkenny ETB, returning to learning as an adult with undiagnosed dyslexia and discovering confidence, understanding and new opportunities. Together, these learner voices show that adult learning is about much more than developing skills. It’s about confidence, identity, wellbeing and possibility and the powerful, lasting impact of Further Education and Training on people’s lives. Get skills. Get confidence. Get Lit! If you or someone you know are affected by any if the topicsdiscussed in this podcast please look for support: Samaritans Ireland      Freephone116 123     -  24/7confidential, non-judgmental support viaphone. Email: ⁠⁠jo@samaritans.ie⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠samaritans.ie⁠⁠ Pieta House     Freephone 1800247 247 or Text HELP to51444    - Support for people in suicidaldistress, self-harm, and those bereaved by suicide.   Email: ⁠⁠info@pieta.ie⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠pieta.ie⁠⁠ Text About It   Text HELLO to 50808(anytime) - 24/7anonymous messaging service for emotional or mental healthcrisis. Website: ⁠⁠textaboutit.ie⁠⁠ Your Mental Health Information Line (HSE) - Freephone1800 111 888 AWARE www.aware.ie  - Free talking therapy (CBT,counselling) for mild–moderate anxiety, depression. Also runs support groups,self-help resources. Mental Health Ireland Phone: ⁠⁠01 284 1166⁠⁠A network of regional volunteers and community groups that offercommunity-based mental health support Email: ⁠⁠info@mentalhealthireland.ie⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠mentalhealthireland.ie⁠⁠  MSLETB (Mayo,Sligo, Leitrim Education and TrainingBoard) Office (Quay Street, Sligo) Phone: 071 9194800 www.msletb.ie Sligo Adult Educational Guidance Service Address: MSLETB Quay Street, Sligo, F91 XH96 Phone: 071913 8411 | 085 877 7002 Email: sligoadultguidance@msletb.ie Adult Literacy MSLETB Courses For reading, writing, numeracy, digital skills; free andconfidential. National Organisations & Supports Adult Literacy for Life (ALL) Strategy Information & resources to find support nationwide www.adultliteracyforlife.ie National Adult Literacy Agency (NALA) Freephone: 1800 20 20 65 Help with reading, writing, spelling, everyday maths, usingtechnology www.NALA.ie Dyslexia Ireland Supporting children & adults with dyslexia www.dyslexia.ie YouthReach Sligo: ⁠YouthreachSligo |⁠ Contact infoYouthreach Unit 10, Cleveragh BusinessCentre, Sligo, Postal code : F91 FY68, Ireland. Telephone: +353 71 91 44248 E-mail: ⁠sligoyouthreach@msletb.ie⁠ ⁠ContactUs | YouthReach Sligo Office Contact DetailsYouthreach Sligo⁠ Regional Literacy Co-ordinator Mayo, Sligo & LeitrimETB Name: Roisin Egan Phone: 086 834 0612 Email: roisinegan@msletb.ie

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About

A brand-new podcast about literacy, learning and confidence. Each episode shines a light on skills that help adults grow in reading, writing, numbers, and digital skills with stories from learners, tutors, and partners. In this first episode, Minister Marian Harkin, Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, and Dr. Yvonne McKenna, Director of Adult Literacy for Life at SOLAS, share how the Adult Literacy for Life strategy is changing Ireland’s culture around unmet literacy needs and how taking the first steps can unlock confidence.

Information

  • Creator
    Roisin Egan
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Roisin Egan
  • Show Website
    MSLETB Get Lit!