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. From hormone health and gut health to mental wellbeing, preventative care, and healthy habits, The Wellness Script cuts through misinformation and puts evidence first. Whether you're looking to understand your health better, build sustainable habits, or simply feel more informed and empowered, this podcast is your trusted source of truth. New episodes weekly.

الحلقات

  1. قبل يومين

    6. How to Beat the Sunday Scaries + Find Work That Fits You with Career Consultant Angela Burke

    We talk about health all the time - but we don’t talk enough about the thing that can shape our wellbeing most: our careers. This week on The Wellness Script, I’m joined by career consultant Angela Burke for a practical, honest career wellbeing check-in. We explore why recurring Sunday Scaries aren’t something you should just “put up with,” how work stress can ripple into your sleep, mood and relationships, and why chasing “success on paper” can still leave you feeling flat. Angela shares the questions she uses to help clients declutter the noise (conditioning, fear, other people’s expectations) and get clear on what they actually want — plus how to take low-risk steps to start getting your spark back, even if you can’t make a big change right now. We also unpack why sometimes you don’t need a whole new career… you might just need a new environment. As always, huge thanks to Sona Vitamins for sponsoring today’s episode. Show notes  In this episode, we cover: Why your career is one of the biggest drivers of overall wellbeingRecurring Sunday Scaries vs “situational stress”Success on paper vs success that feels rightAngela’s “declutter the shelves” approach to career clarityHow family expectations and “well-meaning advice” can limit youPivoting without feeling like you’ve “failed” or “wasted” your experienceThe difference between the right career in the wrong workplaceHow to get your spark back with low-risk, 1% stepsMoving from Point A → Point B: what’s in your career toolkit, what’s missing, and how to bridge the gapAngela’s personal story: ambition, stress, burnout, and redefining what a fulfilling career can look like Listener journal prompts, from the episode: What do I want “success” to look like - and feel like - in my life right now?When did I start losing my spark? What changed around that time?What’s the cost of staying where I am (health, relationships, confidence, energy)?If I lifted the limits for 60 seconds, what would I choose?What’s one low-risk step I can take this week to move 1% forward?Am I in the wrong career… or just the wrong environment/culture? Our Sponsor This episode is proudly sponsored by Sona Vitamins, Ireland's longest-established nutritional supplement producer with over 40 years of science-led expertise. You can learn more and explore their full product range here: https://bit.ly/49nFkuv   Connect with Angela Burke Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelaburke.ie?igsh=MTZ3MXNoajB6enI2NA==Website: https://angelaburke.ie/  Follow / support the show Follow @wellnessscriptpod on socials:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wellnessscriptpod?igsh=eGxreDBpMHd3MzZ6TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wellnessscriptpod?_r=1&_t=ZN-93oetSlZ4j8Subscribe + leave a 5-star review (it genuinely helps the show grow)! Disclaimer This podcast is for education and does not replace personalised medical or professional advice.

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  2. 5. Hair Thinning, Shedding, Dandruff: A Complete Hair Health Guide with Trichologist Claire Fulham

    ٤ فبراير

    5. Hair Thinning, Shedding, Dandruff: A Complete Hair Health Guide with Trichologist Claire Fulham

    In this episode, pharmacist and host Lauren O'Reilly is joined by trichologist and founder of Trua Clinic and Remi Scalp Care, Claire Fulham. After losing 90% of her hair to alopecia areata, Claire turned her experience into expertise, now helping thousands with hair loss, thinning, dandruff, and scalp inflammation. You'll learn why scalp exfoliation matters, how often you actually need to wash your hair (and why "training" an oily scalp can backfire), the difference between dandruff and dryness, and what to do if you're noticing shedding, widening parting, or early recession. Claire also shares how to think about hair supplements strategically (hint: bloods first), what's worth spending money on, and why hair loss is never "just vanity." Our Sponsor This episode is proudly sponsored by Sona Vitamins, Ireland's longest-established nutritional supplement producer with over 40 years of science-led expertise. You can learn more and explore their full product range here: https://bit.ly/49nFkuv   Show notes  Why scalp exfoliation is Claire's #1 habit (and why chemical exfoliants beat harsh physical scrubs) The "flower bed" analogy: clearing buildup so hair and treatments can do their job Dandruff vs dry scalp: how to tell the difference, and why dandruff is usually an oily/inflammatory issue How often should you wash your hair? Listen to your scalp (and why oily scalps often need more frequent washing) Fine hair vs textured hair: why follicle density can mean more sebaceous glands (and more oil) The myth of "repair shampoo" and what's actually worth investing in (masks/conditioning vs marketing) Shop for the scalp you have (shampoo), and the hair you want (conditioner/mask/leave-ins) Hair basics: why hair fibre is "dead" once it emerges, and what that means for oils/serums Hair loss categories explained: alopecia areata, androgenetic alopecia, postpartum shedding, inflammatory scalp conditions Androgenetic hair loss: what it looks like in men vs women, and why early intervention matters Hair transplants: what they can (and can't) do, and why ongoing scalp care still matters Postpartum shedding: why you don't "grow more hair" in pregnancy, you just shed less Supplements: why "hit and hope" rarely works, and when bloods + targeted nutrients can help The emotional reality of hair loss: shame, identity, stress signals, and getting proper support Links & Resources Trua Clinic (consultations, scalp + hair loss support): https://truaclinic.com/  Remi Scalp Care (scalp-focused products): https://remiscalp.com/  Follow Claire on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/claire_balding?igsh=MTJ4anE3Nm13YXp5cg==  Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational, educational and entertainment purposes only. It should never substitute medical advice, or advice from an appropriate healthcare professional.

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  3. 4. Therapy 101: Choosing the Right Therapist, Overcoming Everyday Worry, and CBT Explained

    ٢٨ يناير

    4. Therapy 101: Choosing the Right Therapist, Overcoming Everyday Worry, and CBT Explained

    In this episode of The Wellness Script, host Lauren O'Reilly sits down with Alice O'Brien, a psychotherapist specialising in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) with additional training in EMDR, to break down what therapy really is, and how to know if it's the right step for you. Alice explains what to expect from your first session, how to choose a therapist who's properly qualified and the right fit, and why you don't need a diagnosis or a "big trauma" to benefit from support. The conversation covers practical CBT foundations, like why thoughts aren't facts and how to tell the difference between a worry vs a problem, alongside nervous system insights on anxiety, avoidance, and graded exposure. You'll also hear how Alice integrates her ongoing MSc studies in mindfulness-based wellness into her work, including realistic mindfulness tools you can use in everyday life (even when your mind won't switch off). If you've been therapy-curious, stuck in overthinking loops, or want evidence-based strategies for emotional wellbeing, this is a grounded place to start. Show Notes Why therapy isn't just for crisis, and how it helps with patterns, beliefs, and feeling "stuck." What to expect from session 1 (assessment first; the real work often starts session 2-3). How to find the right psychotherapist: ask about qualifications, fit, and whether your issue matches their speciality. CBT explained: the link between situation, thoughts, emotions, body sensations, and behaviours. "Thoughts aren't facts": how to stop treating every thought as truth. "Worry vs problem": the simple distinction that reduces rumination fast. Anxiety as an "inner alarm": why you can't eliminate it—and what helps instead. Avoidance keeps anxiety strong; graded exposure helps rebuild confidence safely. EMDR (in some cases): how trauma can get "stuck" and why bilateral stimulation may help processing. Mindfulness in real life (not perfect silence): how Alice integrates her MSc studies in mindfulness-based wellness into practice.   Our Sponsor This episode is proudly sponsored by Sona Vitamins, Ireland's longest-established nutritional supplement producer with over 40 years of science-led expertise. You can learn more and explore their full product range here: https://bit.ly/49nFkuv   Links & Resources Alice O'Brien Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.mindhealth.hub?igsh=MTR4YXF4engyMXd4cg==  Finding a qualified therapist (Ireland): Your GP (often the best first point of call for vetted referrals) Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapists: https://iacp.ie/

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  4. 3. Stop Restricting in January: Ciara McNulty's 'Abundance' Approach

    ٢١ يناير

    3. Stop Restricting in January: Ciara McNulty's 'Abundance' Approach

    In this episode of The Wellness Script, host Lauren O'Reilly sits down with Ciara McNulty, Registered Dietitian (RD), to cut through the January noise around detoxes, restriction, and "reset" culture. Ciara shares a calmer, evidence-based approach: shift your focus from what you should cut out to what you can add in: more protein, more fibre, more colour, and more variety, so you feel fuller for longer, more energised, and more stable in your mood and concentration. They also unpack practical strategies for real life: how to shop smarter without obsessing over ingredients, how to build balanced meals while travelling or relying on convenience foods, what "good gut health" actually looks like, and when supplements like probiotics may (or may not) be worth it. The conversation also explores intermittent fasting, the risks of under-fuelling (especially for active women), and why losing your menstrual cycle is a sign your body needs support - not more discipline. Season 1 Sponsor: This episode is proudly supported by Sona Vitamins, Ireland's longest-established nutritional supplement producer with over 40 years of science-led expertise. You can learn more and explore their full product range here: https://bit.ly/49nFkuv  Show Notes In this episode, we cover: 🔥 Why January shouldn't be about restriction - and how "abundance" is a better starting point 🥩 Protein + fibre + whole grains: building meals that keep you full and energised 🌈 Gut health made simple: why variety matters, and the "30 plants a week" idea (made realistic) 🛒 Shopping smarter: planning before you go in (or online shopping to avoid impulse buys) 🧾 Food labels without the overwhelm: what's worth noticing (high added sugar, salt, saturated fat) - and what isn't 🍵 Detox culture: why your body already detoxes (and why detox teas/juices can be misleading) ⏳ Intermittent fasting: who it may suit, who it doesn't, and why it's just one tool reflects appetite + lifestyle 🏋️‍♀️ Fuelling for training: why performance and recovery depend on eating enough (and not just "being disciplined") ⚠️ Under-fuelling & hormone health: low energy availability, missed periods, and why it matters beyond fertility 🩺 Missed periods: when to check in with your GP, and how diet + stress + training can play a role 🧠 Nutrition for work performance: why carbs matter for concentration, and why wholegrains help steady energy 🐟 Omega-3s: food-first options + algae-based alternatives for those who don't eat fish 🥣 Probiotics: why they're strain- and dose-specific, when to consider them (e.g., post-antibiotics), and food-first options 🥫 Convenience foods without guilt: the "ready meal + bag of rocket" rule for easy upgrades 🍽️ Eating well while travelling: the simple "balanced plate" template + the restaurant side-veg hack 🔗 Links & Resources Ciara McNulty (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/ciaramcnultyrd?igsh=YzJpcTV5dXF2bjc=  Sona Vitamins (Sponsor): https://sona.ie

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  5. 2. The Year of Prevention: Dr. Sonja Bobart's Head-to-Toe Health Checklist

    ١٤ يناير

    2. The Year of Prevention: Dr. Sonja Bobart's Head-to-Toe Health Checklist

    In this episode of The Wellness Script, Pharmacist and host Lauren O'Reilly sits down with Dr Sonja Bobart, GP and founder of D4 Medical, to unpack what it really means to prioritise prevention over cure. From building a simple annual "baseline" with your GP to understanding silent risks like high blood pressure, cholesterol changes, diabetes and kidney disease, Dr Sonja shares a practical roadmap for screening across life stages. The conversation also dives into metabolic syndrome, gut health, and the real-world role of GLP-1 weight-loss medications - including who they're for, how they're monitored, and why stigma has to go. You'll also hear Dr Sonja's clear, compassionate guidance on perimenopause and HRT, why blood tests can still matter, and how to advocate for yourself confidently in the consultation room. Season 1 Sponsor: This episode is proudly supported by Sona Vitamins, Ireland's longest-established nutritional supplement producer with over 40 years of science-led expertise. You can learn more and explore their full product range here: https://bit.ly/49nFkuv  Show Notes In this episode, we cover: Why prevention gives you autonomy - and can reduce long-term complications and costs The "silent" conditions worth checking regularly (BP, cholesterol, diabetes risk, kidney health/urine) Why trends matter: comparing results year-on-year, not just one-off "normal" ranges What a proper annual check-up can look like from 40+ (a head-to-toe approach) Metabolic syndrome explained: the cluster of markers to watch (including BP around 130/80, waist circumference, HDL, fasting sugars, triglycerides) "Know your numbers" - and why fasting measures can add context beyond longer-term averages GLP-1/GIP medications: how they come up in clinic, who they're suitable for, contraindications, and follow-up frequency Gut health: what "healthy gut" looks like, symptoms to listen to, and why food-first still matters The power of a symptom diary (and how it helps distinguish stress-driven patterns) Probiotics basics: strain variety, CFU ranges, and why it can get worse before it gets better Eye health after 40: sunlight risk, macular degeneration, and protective habits (including good sunglasses) Perimenopause: surprising symptoms (including joint pain/frozen shoulder) + why bloods can help rule out other causes HRT explained: body-identical oestrogen/progesterone, timeline to effect, Mirena as part of HRT + contraception Genitourinary syndrome & vaginal oestrogen: why systemic HRT may not solve local symptoms How to prep for a GP appointment: write a list, prioritise top 3, book a double appointment, take notes, and don't be embarrassed Links & resources (mentioned in the episode) D4 Medical: https://www.d4medical.net/  Dr Sonja Bobart: https://www.instagram.com/d4medgp/?hl=en  Cervical screening (Ireland): https://apps.cervicalcheck.ie/check-eligibility/check-eligibility.596.checkeligibilityv2.html  Sexual health screening (Ireland): SH:24 - https://sh24.ie/

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  6. 1. Stronger, Not Smaller: Emma Dowling on Women's Strength, Longevity and Letting Go of Diet Culture

    ٧ يناير

    1. Stronger, Not Smaller: Emma Dowling on Women's Strength, Longevity and Letting Go of Diet Culture

    In this episode of The Wellness Script, host Lauren O'Reilly, pharmacist and evidence-based wellness advocate, sits down with Emma Dowling, founder of Empowered Movement and specialist female strength coach. If you've ever felt like you're "doing everything right" with training and nutrition but nothing is changing, Emma unpacks why that happens - and how to fix it. From under-fuelling and all-or-nothing workouts to strength training in pregnancy, prolapse, diastasis and the crucial muscle-building years between 35–45, she shares a practical, compassionate roadmap to feeling stronger at every stage of life. This isn't about shrinking your body; it's about building one that carries you well into your 70s, 80s and 90s. Season 1 Sponsor: This episode is proudly supported by Sona Vitamins, Ireland's longest-established nutritional supplement producer with over 40 years of science-led expertise. You can learn more and explore their full product range here: https://bit.ly/49nFkuv  Show Notes  In this episode, we cover: Why "I'm doing everything right" often isn't the full story How to set your goals (not Instagram's): strength, energy, weight loss, confidence Under-fuelling, evening/weekend overeating and how to break the cycle Diastasis & prolapse explained in simple terms – and how training can help The latest thinking on strength training in pregnancy and postnatally How much training is "enough" – and why 3 x 30–35 mins/week can be plenty Simple, non-intimidating nutrition principles: protein, colour, fibre and adding more in Why muscle is your "health pension" between ages 35–45 Building your village: asking for help so your health isn't last on the list Links & Resources Emma Dowling – Empowered Movement Website: https://www.empoweredmovement.ie/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empowered_movement.ie/

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حول

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. From hormone health and gut health to mental wellbeing, preventative care, and healthy habits, The Wellness Script cuts through misinformation and puts evidence first. Whether you're looking to understand your health better, build sustainable habits, or simply feel more informed and empowered, this podcast is your trusted source of truth. New episodes weekly.

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