Healthy Rhythms Podcast

Mark Dunwoody

What if thriving as a leader wasn’t about doing more, but about living with healthier rhythms? The Healthy Rhythms Podcast, hosted by Dr. Mark Dunwoody—founder of Healthy Rhythms Coaching and a much-in-demand global coach—equips leaders to grow in resilience, clarity, and purpose. With decades of experience mentoring leaders across cultures, Mark blends storytelling, practical tools, and deep empathy to help you sustain impact, lead with confidence, and flourish in today’s complex world. Connect with Mark Dunwoody: https://healthyrhythms.org/ Instagram: @markdunwoody

  1. 12/01/2025

    When AI Meets Coaching: Hope, Loneliness, and the Future of Human Growth

    In this episode of the Healthy Rhythms Podcast, Mark sits down with his friend and colleague Doug to explore one of the most important conversations happening right now: the intersection of AI and coaching. Together, they unpack how AI is already reshaping the coaching world — from supporting reflective practice to strengthening coaching competencies — and why leaders can’t afford to ignore what’s coming. But the episode also goes much deeper. Mark and Doug talk honestly about the growing epidemic of loneliness and the surprising fact that the number one use of AI today is companionship, therapy, and meaningful conversation. They discuss what this means for coaches, leaders, and for a world struggling to find connection amid so much noise. This is a grounded, hopeful, and practical conversation about the future of human growth. It’s about what AI can do, what it shouldn’t do, and why the heart of coaching will always remain profoundly human. In this episode:• Why AI is becoming central to the coaching conversation• The loneliness epidemic and the rise of AI companionship• How AI can support and improve coaching competencies• The lines we need to guard to keep coaching genuinely human• What the future of coaching might look like If you’re a coach, a leader, or just someone curious about where all this is heading, this episode will give you plenty to think about — and maybe even a wee bit of hope.

    32 min
  2. 03/12/2025

    Unshakable Hope/ Living Fully with Dementia.

    In today’s episode, I have the privilege of speaking with Allison and Julie, both members of Dementia NI, along with Karen Kerr, the Head of Engagement at Dementia NI. This episode is part of a global initiative created by Podcasthon, which seeks to shine a light on and highlight the work of charities worldwide. Over 1,600 podcasts are participating, and I’m honored to share this powerful story from Northern Ireland. Together, Allison, Julie, and Karen share their unique perspectives on living with a diagnosis of dementia and how hope has played a central role in their journey. Allison and Julie open up about their personal experiences with the early signs of dementia, offering a glimpse into the changes they noticed in their lives. They reflect on the emotional impact these changes had and discuss how it’s possible to navigate the challenges of dementia while maintaining a sense of purpose and joy. We also dive into the crucial issue of societal perceptions of dementia. Allison and Julie share their thoughts on how people sometimes treat them differently because of their diagnosis and what they wish others understood about supporting those with dementia. They highlight that with the right support and understanding, individuals living with dementia can still lead meaningful, connected lives. Hope and resilience shine through as Allison and Julie discuss the activities that help them feel at peace and maintain their well-being. They share personal strategies for staying connected to their identities and passions despite the challenges dementia may bring. We also discuss some common myths and misconceptions about dementia, offering clarity and important insights to help others better understand the reality of living with the condition. Lastly, they offer heartfelt advice for anyone recently diagnosed with dementia, as well as for their family members. This conversation is a beautiful reminder that it is entirely possible to live fruitful and purposeful lives after a dementia diagnosis. For more information on living well with dementia, please visit Dementia NI at ⁠dementiani.org⁠. Did you know that an estimated 10 million people are diagnosed with dementia worldwide each year? This includes various types of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, and others. We must continue to raise awareness, fight stigma, and dedicate ourselves to better understanding dementia because, together, we can create a world where everyone living with dementia can thrive.

    39 min
  3. 02/18/2025

    Unlocking Young Minds: Storytelling & Critical Thinking with Dr. Kitty O'Reilly

    Exploring Early Critical Thinking with Dr. Catherine "Kitty" O'Reilly Guest: Dr. Catherine "Kitty" O'Reilly (@kittyoreilly71)Contact:oreilc31@tcd.ie In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of early critical thinking development in young children with Dr. Catherine "Kitty" O'Reilly. Kitty is currently designing an educational intervention project focused on fostering critical thinking skills in children aged 3-5. Her project, Storytelling for Critical Thinking (SCT), is a Design-Based Research Educational Intervention that helps young learners make sense of stories, reason, and problem-solve. Children gather on a story mat as their educator tells a traditional oral story using only voice, tone, and gesture—without text, visuals, or props. This step focuses on building connections between the storyteller and the listeners, using expressive language and eye contact to capture imagination and engagement. Through an inquiry-based approach, children are encouraged to think deeply about the story. Educators prompt discussion with open-ended questions (e.g., Why did the Little Red Hen not share her corn? ), allowing children to explore alternative perspectives, challenge assumptions, and problem-solve. Children represent their understanding of the story through drawing. This step provides a second opportunity for children to express their thoughts—especially those who may not have participated in the group discussion. Once their drawings are complete, they verbalize their reflections, offering further insight into their interpretation and reasoning. Encourages early problem-solving skills Supports cognitive and emotional development Enhances communication and reasoning abilities Strengthens the connection between storytelling and critical thinking LearningALOUD is a communication platform dedicated to discussions on Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC). We explore how education can and should evolve during the early years (birth to six), emphasizing innovative and evidence-based approaches to learning. Follow & Connect: Guest Instagram:@kittyoreilly71 Contact Kitty:oreilc31@tcd.ie **Learn more about SCT and early childhood education through **learningaloud.ie

    59 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

What if thriving as a leader wasn’t about doing more, but about living with healthier rhythms? The Healthy Rhythms Podcast, hosted by Dr. Mark Dunwoody—founder of Healthy Rhythms Coaching and a much-in-demand global coach—equips leaders to grow in resilience, clarity, and purpose. With decades of experience mentoring leaders across cultures, Mark blends storytelling, practical tools, and deep empathy to help you sustain impact, lead with confidence, and flourish in today’s complex world. Connect with Mark Dunwoody: https://healthyrhythms.org/ Instagram: @markdunwoody