The Wellness Script

Lauren O'Reilly

The Wellness Script is a health and wellness podcast grounded in evidence, not trends. Hosted by pharmacist and media contributor Lauren O'Reilly, the show brings you clear, practical conversations with leading experts across health, nutrition, psychology, medicine, and lifestyle — helping you make informed decisions about your wellbeing without the overwhelm. Each episode breaks down complex topics into accessible, science-backed insights you can actually apply to everyday life. New episodes weekly. Download your free wellness guides & episode summaries here: https://wellnessscriptpod.com

  1. −5 d

    25. From Six-Figure Debt to Financial Security: Kel Galavan's Financial Wellbeing Special

    Money might not be the first thing that comes to mind when we talk about wellness, but financial stress can affect our sleep, relationships, mental health and even how stress presents physically in the body. In this episode of The Wellness Script, pharmacist and host Lauren O’Reilly is joined by Kel Galavan, qualified financial adviser, author of Mindful Money and founder of Mrs Smart Money. This is a practical, judgment-free guide to taking control of your finances, regardless of where you are starting. Kel explains how to complete a simple money audit, spend without guilt, build financial breathing space, understand your pension and begin thinking about long-term investing without becoming overwhelmed. This episode is brought to you in partnership with two incredible sponsors: Otosan - a trusted range of natural solutions for the whole family, across nose, throat and ear care. From seasonal support for hay fever and travel to the wider family range, Otosan is available in health stores and pharmacies nationwide. Explore the full range at ⁠https://https://www.naturalmedicine.ie/stockist-locator⁠ Elave - gentle, fragrance-free skincare developed for sensitive skin, made in Ireland by the Gardiner Family Apothecary. Discover the full range at ⁠www.elaveskincare.com⁠ and use code WELLNESS for 20% off your order. Show Notes In this episode, Lauren and Kel discuss: 💶 How Kel went from six figures of debt to financial security 🏠 Buying a house before the financial crash and watching it lose half its value 👩‍👧‍👦 The school collection moment that made Kel reconsider how she was living and working 📉 Why reaching a net worth of zero can be an enormous financial milestone 🛍️ How Kel’s no-spend year reduced her family’s outgoings by more than €27,000 🚦 The simple green, amber and red money audit you can complete using one bank statement 💚 How to spend money on what genuinely matters to you without guilt 🧠 The link between financial stress, anxiety and physical wellbeing 📱 How social comparison creates pressure to look richer and more successful than we feel 🗣️ Why Kel believes we should remove the word “should” from conversations about money 📚 Why money management is a skill that anyone can learn 👩 The financial confidence gap and why women often retire with smaller pensions 🤱 The long-term financial impact of caring responsibilities and time away from work 🏥 How to review your health insurance based on the benefits you will actually use 💼 Why your pension should be viewed as your future income and a source of independence 📈 The five main ways people build wealth and why you do not need to pursue all of them 🛟 The financial “life jacket” to put in place before beginning to invest ⏳ Why successful long-term investing should feel more like watching paint dry than gambling 🕊️ How good financial foundations can move you from making difficult decisions to having genuine choices Resources & Links 🌐 Visit Mrs Smart Money Kel’s financial education, coaching and investing resources. 📖 Explore Mindful Money by Kel Galavan A practical Irish guide to building healthier money habits and greater financial security. 📱 Follow Kel on Instagram 💼 Connect with Kel on LinkedIn 🧾 CCPC Budgeting Resources Budgeting tools, spending calculators and information on managing debt and savings. 🏥 Health Insurance Authority Comparison Tool Compare Irish health insurance plans based on the cover that matters to you. 🏦 CCPC Guide to Starting a Pension 💰 Revenue Information on Pension Tax Relief 📊 CCPC Guide to Investing 📥 Download the Free Wellness Script Episode Guide Find the key takeaways, expert insights and practical exercises from every episode. 🎙️ Enjoyed this episode? Follow The Wellness Script with Lauren O’Reilly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube, and share it with someone who wants to feel more confident and in control of their money.

  2. 8 juli

    24. The Sensitive Skin Episode: Eczema, SPF, Retinol & Skin Barrier Advice with Joanna & Tom Gardiner

    In this episode of The Wellness Script, pharmacist and host Lauren O’Reilly sits down with Joanna Gardiner and Tom Gardiner of Elave Skincare, the mother-and-son duo behind one of Ireland’s most trusted family skincare brands. The Gardiner family skincare story began in 1934, when Joanna’s grandfather opened Ireland’s first family skincare apothecary. Over 90 years later, Elave remains a family-run Irish brand, developed and manufactured in Dundalk, and trusted by generations of Irish households for sensitive, reactive, eczema-prone and dry skin. In this conversation, Joanna and Tom explain why sensitive skin is not just a beauty issue — it is a wellness issue. They break down what actually damages the skin barrier, why so many people are reacting to products, how trends like over-exfoliation and young people using retinol can cause problems, and what to look for when choosing gentle skincare and SPF. Lauren also shares why, as a pharmacist, she has been proud to recommend Elave and Ovelle products for years, and why working with a brand rooted in pharmacy, formulation and Irish family heritage means so much. If you have sensitive skin, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, dry skin, irritated hands, reactive skin, or you simply want to simplify your skincare routine and protect your skin barrier, this episode is for you. This episode is brought to you in partnership with two incredible sponsors: Otosan - a trusted range of natural solutions for the whole family, across nose, throat and ear care. From seasonal support for hay fever and travel to the wider family range, Otosan is available in health stores and pharmacies nationwide. Explore the full range at https://https://www.naturalmedicine.ie/stockist-locator Elave - gentle, fragrance-free skincare developed for sensitive skin, made in Ireland by the Gardiner Family Apothecary. Discover the full range at www.elaveskincare.com and use code WELLNESS for 20% off your order. 🎧 Show Notes: In this episode, we cover: 🧴 Why sensitive skin is a wellness issue, not just a beauty concern🌿 The 90-year Gardiner family skincare story behind Elave and Ovelle🧼 Why sulfates, soaps, perfume and harsh products can worsen sensitive skin🚿 The shower and shampoo mistakes that may be irritating your skin barrier🧒 Why children and young people do not need anti-ageing actives like retinol🔥 How overusing actives can trigger irritation, redness and barrier damage☀️ What to look for in an SPF if you have sensitive or reactive skin💧 Why “less is more” is often the best skincare advice👐 How to care for dry, cracked hands and dermatitis-prone skin🧠 The emotional impact of eczema, psoriasis, rosacea and chronic skin conditions🏭 How Elave develops and manufactures its products in Dundalk🌎 What B Corp certification means for the future of the brand👩‍⚕️ Why pharmacy advice still matters when it comes to choosing skincare 💬 “When your skin feels better, you feel better.” - Joanna Gardiner 📌 Resources & Links: 🛍️ Explore Elave Skincare: https://elaveskincare.com/📱 Follow Elave Skincare on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elaveskincare/🎙️ Follow The Wellness Script for more evidence-based health and wellness conversations: https://www.instagram.com/wellnessscriptpod/💌 Download your free episode guide at wellnessscriptpod.com

  3. 1 juli

    23. What New Parents Really Need to Know with Consultant Neonatologist Afif El-Khuffash

    In this episode of The Wellness Script, host and pharmacist Lauren O’Reilly sits down with Professor Afif El-Khuffash, Consultant Neonatologist at The Rotunda, Clinical Professor of Paediatrics at RCSI, lactation consultant and co-host of The Baby Tribe podcast. With over 20 years of experience caring for babies and families, and more than 180 peer-reviewed publications, Afif brings a deeply compassionate, practical and evidence-based lens to one of the most overwhelming stages of life: early parenthood. This conversation explores what new parents actually need to know, from breastfeeding, formula feeding and the mother-baby dyad, to colic, reflux, newborn crying, safe decision-making, dad guilt, maternal guilt, misinformation online and the pressure to do everything “right.” Afif also shares what wellness looks like when you work in emotionally demanding healthcare, why sleep advice can sometimes create more stress, and why parents need reassurance as much as they need information. If you are a new parent, preparing for parenthood, supporting someone with a newborn, or simply want to better understand the realities of the fourth trimester, this episode is full of calm, practical guidance. This episode is brought to you in partnership with two incredible sponsors: Otosan - a trusted range of natural solutions for the whole family, across nose, throat and ear care. From seasonal support for hay fever and travel to the wider family range, Otosan is available in health stores and pharmacies nationwide. Explore the full range at https://https://www.naturalmedicine.ie/stockist-locator Elave - gentle, fragrance-free skincare developed for sensitive skin, made in Ireland by the Gardiner Family Apothecary. Discover the full range at www.elaveskincare.com and use code WELLNESS for 20% off your order. Show Notes: In this episode, we cover: 🍼 What new parents really need to know about the early weeks with a baby 🤱 Breastfeeding, formula feeding and combination feeding - and why feeding decisions should support both baby and mother 👩‍🍼 The mother-baby dyad and why you cannot care for one without considering the other 😢 Maternal guilt - why so many mothers blame themselves when something goes wrong, and how healthcare professionals can better support them 🚩 Colic vs red flags - how to think about crying, feeding, nappies, weight gain, alertness, breathing and when to seek help 👨‍👩‍👧 The father/partner role in early parenthood, including postnatal anxiety, depression and feeling “spare” in the newborn stage 🧠 Why “normal” baby behaviour can still feel extremely hard - and why reassurance matters 💬 How couples can communicate in the fourth trimester, especially when the load is not always 50/50 📱 Parenting misinformation online and how social media has changed the experience of becoming a parent 🏠 Home birth, natural birth and informed choice - what nuance often gets lost online 🩺 What it’s like working in neonatal care, communicating with worried parents and protecting your own wellbeing as a healthcare professional 🏋️‍♂️ Wellness in different seasons of life - why you do not have to optimise everything all the time “Normal doesn’t mean easy.” Professor Afif El-Khuffash Resources & Links 🎙️ Listen to The Baby Tribe Podcast: https://headstuffpodcasts.com/show/the-baby-tribe/ 👨‍⚕️ Follow Professor Afif El-Khuffash: https://www.instagram.com/afif.elkhuffash/?hl=en Check out Afif's Art: https://www.hastudios.eu/ Book a private consultation at the Rotunda Hospital with Afif: https://rotundaprivate.ie/dr-afif-el-khuffash/ 📥 Download the free episode guide at wellnessscriptpod.com 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to The Wellness Script for more evidence-based conversations on health, wellness and the information you can actually trust. As always, this episode is not a replacement for personalised medical advice. Speak to your doctor regarding any health concerns you have.

  4. 24 juni

    22. How to Simplify Your Skincare Routine and Finally Understand Your Skin with Sherna Malone

    In this episode of The Wellness Script, Lauren O’Reilly sits down with Sherna Malone, skin health specialist, facialist, beauty expert on RTÉ Today and host of Sherna Talks Beauty. Sherna helps people cut through the endless noise around skincare, understand their own skin properly, and build simple routines that actually support long-term skin health. From the biggest mistakes people make with acids, vitamin C and overcomplicated routines, to why sunscreen, consistency and patience matter more than the latest trend, this conversation is a practical guide to looking after your skin without feeling overwhelmed. Lauren and Sherna also discuss the connection between skin, lifestyle, stress, sleep, gut health and self-care, as well as when it might be time to see a professional for concerns like acne, rosacea, eczema, pigmentation or barrier damage. If you’ve ever felt confused by skincare advice online, bought products because someone else recommended them, or wondered what your skin really needs, this episode will help you simplify your routine, protect your skin barrier, and make more confident choices for your skin long term. This episode is brought to you in partnership with two incredible sponsors: Elave - gentle, fragrance-free skincare developed for sensitive skin, made in Ireland by the Gardiner Family Apothecary. Discover the full range at ⁠www.elaveskincare.com⁠ and use code WELLNESS for 20% off your order.Otosan - a trusted range of natural solutions for the whole family, across nose, throat and ear care. From seasonal support for hay fever and travel to the wider family range, Otosan is available in health stores and pharmacies nationwide. Explore the full range at https://https://www.naturalmedicine.ie/stockist-locator Show Notes: In this episode, we cover: ✨ Why skincare has become so confusing and how to simplify your routine🧴 The three basics Sherna believes most people should start with: cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen☀️ Why daily SPF is one of the most important steps for future-proofing your skin🧬 What skin scans can reveal about pigmentation, redness and long-term UV exposure🔥 The signs your cleanser, acids or active ingredients may be damaging your skin barrier🍊 Why vitamin C is not essential for everyone and what ingredients Sherna often prefers instead💧 How niacinamide, ceramides, peptides and retinoids can support skin health when used correctly🧖‍♀️ When advanced treatments like microneedling can help, and why homecare still comes first🩺 When skin concerns need a GP, dermatologist or specialist referral🌿 The role of sleep, stress, gut health, movement and self-care in healthy skin💛 Sherna’s own wellness routine, from morning walks and yoga to strength training and simple daily rituals The best skincare routine is not the longest one. It is the one that is right for your skin, supports your skin barrier, and that you can use consistently over time. Follow Sherna Malone on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shernamalone.ie?igsh=YWZibHRmdnBiZDg1 Visit Sherna’s website / book a consultation: shernamalone.ieListen to Sherna Talks Beauty: https://www.instagram.com/shernamalone.ie?igsh=YWZibHRmdnBiZDg1

  5. 17 juni

    21. Trying to Conceive? The Nutrition, Supplement & Lifestyle Advice That Actually Matters with Jess Willow, Dietitian

    In this episode of The Wellness Script, pharmacist Lauren O’Reilly sits down with Jess Willow, registered dietitian, certified fertility dietitian and intuitive eating counsellor, to unpack the connection between nutrition, fertility, PMOS - formerly PCOS - and women’s long-term health. Jess shares her own experience of being diagnosed with PCOS at 19, the outdated advice she was given, and why the recent name change to PMOS better reflects the hormonal, metabolic and ovarian nature of the condition. Together, Lauren and Jess explore why fertility is not just a “female issue”, how sperm health can be influenced in as little as a few months, and why nutrition should be seen as one part of a much bigger health puzzle. This is a practical, compassionate and evidence-led conversation for anyone thinking about trying to conceive, navigating PMOS, coming off the pill, supporting hormone health, or simply wanting to understand their body better. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by fertility advice, confused by supplement claims, or unsure where to start with nutrition, this episode will help you cut through the noise and focus on what actually matters. This episode is brought to you in partnership with two incredible sponsors: Otosan - a trusted range of natural solutions for the whole family, across nose, throat and ear care. From seasonal support for hay fever and travel to the wider family range, Otosan is available in health stores and pharmacies nationwide. Explore the full range at https://https://www.naturalmedicine.ie/stockist-locator Elave - gentle, fragrance-free skincare developed for sensitive skin, made in Ireland by the Gardiner Family Apothecary. Discover the full range at www.elaveskincare.com and use code WELLNESS for 20% off your order. Show Notes In this episode, Lauren and Jess cover: Jess’s journey from clinical dietetics to fertility nutrition, intuitive eating and women’s health. Why PCOS has recently been renamed PMOS, and what the new name tells us about hormones, metabolism and ovarian health. The role of insulin resistance in PMOS, including its impact on cravings, energy, hormones and long-term health. Why women with PMOS need more support than simply being told to “lose weight”. How regular meals, protein, fibre-rich carbohydrates and healthy fats can support blood sugar stability. The rise of GLP-1 weight loss medications, and why nutrition support matters before, during and after treatment. Why fertility is a couple’s health journey — and why sperm health deserves more attention. How nutrition, alcohol, smoking, vaping, sleep and lifestyle can affect male fertility. The supplement mistakes Jess sees most often, from taking nothing at all to taking too much. Why high-dose antioxidants, CoQ10, zinc and selenium should not be taken blindly. What to consider when coming off the contraceptive pill, including nutrient status, cycle tracking and blood testing. Jess’s advice for anyone thinking about trying to conceive: get support early, look at both partners, and focus on what you can add in rather than what you need to restrict. :::PMOS is the updated name Jess discusses for what was previously PCOS, and the episode also explores fertility nutrition, GLP-1s, supplements, sleep and male fertility. Resources & Links 🌐 Willow Nutrition — Jess Willow’s online nutrition clinic for women’s health, fertility, pregnancy and intuitive eating: https://willownutrition.ie/📱 Follow Jess Willow on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/willow_nutrition/👩‍⚕️ Find a Registered Dietitian — Irish Nutrition & Dietetic Institute directory: https://www.indi.ie/find-a-dietitian.html Disclaimer This episode is for general information and education only and is not a substitute for personalised medical, dietetic or fertility advice. If you have concerns about your hormones, menstrual cycle, fertility, PMOS/PCOS, medication or supplements, please speak with your GP, pharmacist, registered dietitian or fertility specialist.

  6. 10 juni

    20. Pelvic Health 101: What Every Woman Should Know About Leaking, Pain, Prolapse & Pregnancy with Shalini Wiseman

    In this episode of The Wellness Script, pharmacist and host Lauren O’Reilly sits down with Shalini Wiseman, pelvic health physiotherapist, for a practical, eye-opening conversation about the part of women’s health so many of us were never properly taught: the pelvic floor. From leaking when you laugh, run or jump, to painful sex, recurrent UTIs, prolapse, pregnancy preparation and menopause-related changes, Shalini explains why pelvic health is not just a “post-baby” issue - and why the answer is not always more Kegels. This episode will help you understand what your pelvic floor actually does, when to seek help, what happens at a pelvic health physio appointment, and how breathing, posture, sport, childbirth and hormones can all affect pelvic health over time. If you’ve ever wondered whether leaking is “normal”, whether painful sex is something you just have to put up with, or what you should do before and after pregnancy to support your body, this conversation is for you. This episode is brought to you in partnership with two incredible sponsors: Elave - gentle, fragrance-free skincare developed for sensitive skin, made in Ireland by the Gardiner Family Apothecary. Discover the full range at ⁠www.elaveskincare.com⁠ and use code WELLNESS for 20% off your order. Otosan - a trusted range of natural solutions for the whole family, across nose, throat and ear care. From seasonal support for hay fever and travel to the wider family range, Otosan is available in health stores and pharmacies nationwide. Explore the full range at https://https://www.naturalmedicine.ie/stockist-locator In this episode, Lauren and Shalini cover: 🔥 Why pelvic health physiotherapy is still under-discussed, even among healthcare professionals 🏃‍♀️ How sport, gymnastics, ballet, GAA and constant “core engagement” can contribute to pelvic floor tightness 💨 The connection between breathing, the diaphragm and the pelvic floor - and why relaxation matters as much as strength 🚽 What incontinence can look like, from leaking with sneezing or running to urgency and bowel symptoms 🤰 Why Shalini recommends thinking about pelvic health before pregnancy, not just after birth 🧘‍♀️ The role of perineal massage, pelvic floor relaxation and birth preparation from around 35 weeks 👩‍⚕️ What actually happens at a pelvic health physio appointment, including why an internal assessment can be so helpful 💬 Why painful sex is not something women should simply accept or push through 🔄 How prolapse, pessaries and structural support can help women stay active — from CrossFit to running to farming 🌸 How perimenopause and menopause can affect pelvic tissue, recurrent UTIs, incontinence and prolapse Disclaimer: This episode is for informational and educational purposes only and does not replace personalised medical advice. Always seek the advice of a healthcare professional if you have a health concern. 📌 Resources & Links Guest: Shalini WisemanProfession: Pelvic Health PhysiotherapistInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pelvic_health_programs/ Find a pelvic health physiotherapist in Ireland: https://www.iscp.ie/find-a-physio Mentioned in this episode:YES Organic Lubricants — good quality lubricant options discussed in the context of painful sex and menopause.AniBall / Epi-No — birth preparation tools discussed alongside perineal massage.Vaginal oestrogen/local oestrogen — discussed for menopausal tissue changes, recurrent UTIs and pelvic health; speak to your GP, pharmacist or menopause specialist.Pessaries — discussed as structural support for prolapse, leaking and high-impact activity; assessment and fitting are important.

  7. 3 juni

    19. Grace Alice Ó Sé: The Sex Education We All Should Have Had

    In this episode of The Wellness Script, Host & Pharmacist Lauren O’Reilly sits down with Grace Alice Ó Sé, sex and intimacy educator, author and podcaster, for a deeply honest, shame-free conversation about sex, desire, pleasure and the education so many of us never received. Grace shares how her own experience with vaginismus, limited sex education and feeling “broken” led her into the world of sex education - first working with young people in schools, and later supporting adults and couples to build healthier, happier intimate lives. Together, Lauren and Grace explore why so many people feel alone in their sex lives, why libido is far more complex than a quick fix or supplement, and how desire can be responsive rather than spontaneous. They also discuss pain with sex, communication in relationships, the pleasure gap, body image, menopause, STIs, shame, and why sexual wellbeing deserves to be treated as part of our overall health. This is a conversation for anyone who has ever wondered if they are “normal”, struggled to talk about sex, felt disconnected from their body, or simply wants to understand themselves better. This episode is brought to you in partnership with two incredible sponsors: Otosan - a trusted range of natural solutions for the whole family, across nose, throat and ear care. From seasonal support for hay fever and travel to the wider family range, Otosan is available in health stores and pharmacies nationwide. Explore the full range at https://https://www.naturalmedicine.ie/stockist-locator Elave - gentle, fragrance-free skincare developed for sensitive skin, made in Ireland by the Gardiner Family Apothecary. Discover the full range at www.elaveskincare.com and use code WELLNESS for 20% off your order. Show Notes In this episode, Lauren and Grace discuss: 🔥 Why so many adults feel they never received proper sex education 🧠 Grace’s personal experience with vaginismus and how it shaped her work 💬 Why shame keeps people from seeking support for sexual health concerns ❤️ The importance of your sexual relationship with yourself 📉 Why libido can drop, and why it does not mean you are broken ✨ The difference between spontaneous desire and responsive desire 🧩 Why desire is affected by stress, body image, relationship dynamics, communication and pleasure 🛏️ Why sex should feel “worth your while” emotionally, physically and mentally ⚖️ How gendered ideas about sex harm both women and men 🗣️ How to start better conversations with your partner about intimacy 💋 Why kissing, flirting and non-goal-focused intimacy matter ⛔ Why a temporary “sex ban” can sometimes help remove pressure 🌿 Why pain with sex is common but should never be dismissed as “normal” 🧴 The role of lube, arousal, foreplay and understanding how the body works 🌙 Menopause, sexual confidence and investing in your future sexual wellbeing 🧡 STIs, rejection, confidence and remembering that you are still worthy and desirable 📚 Grace’s book Sex Educated and the resources she recommends for learning more Resources & Links 📖 Grace Alice Ó Sé’s book: Sex Educated: https://sexualhealthwest.ie/product/sex-educated-by-grace-alice-oshea/ 🌐 Grace Alice Ó Sé: Grace Alice website: https://gracealice.com/ 📱 Follow Grace: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grace_alice_oshea/reels/ 🎧 Grace’s podcast: The G Spot with Grace Alice: https://gracealice.com/graces-work/podcasts/ 📚 Book mentioned: Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski 🎓 Grace’s courses: Libido Unlocked: https://gracealice.com/libido-unlocked/ 🎙️ Follow The Wellness Script on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wellnessscriptpod/ 📩 Download the free episode guide: wellnessscriptpod.com

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The Wellness Script is a health and wellness podcast grounded in evidence, not trends. Hosted by pharmacist and media contributor Lauren O'Reilly, the show brings you clear, practical conversations with leading experts across health, nutrition, psychology, medicine, and lifestyle — helping you make informed decisions about your wellbeing without the overwhelm. Each episode breaks down complex topics into accessible, science-backed insights you can actually apply to everyday life. New episodes weekly. Download your free wellness guides & episode summaries here: https://wellnessscriptpod.com

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