To a life that hums

This episode is an important one for me as it delves a little deeper into the thinking around what it means to build a life that hums, the tensions and struggles and blockers that might stop us from doing so. In this episode of 'To a life that hums', I speak with Dr Dale Whelehan about themes of time, performance, and the human experience. Dale shares his journey from a performance-driven mindset to a more holistic understanding of success and well-being. We get into the impact of societal systems on our perception of time, the importance of belonging, and the need for deeper conversations about our relationship with time. Together, we explore the themes of belonging, connection, and the distinction between labour and meaningful work. This chat really emphasises the need for community and purpose, highlighting how individuals can influence broader societal change through personal journeys.Guest name: Dr. Dale WhelehanGuest links: Connect with Dale: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dale-whelehan/ Keywords: Time management, human experience, performance, well-being, success, self-discovery, belonging, achievement, societal systems, productivity belonging, connection, labour vs work, regenerative work, psychological resilience, societal change, personal growth, influence, community, purpose Chapters00:00 Introduction to a Life That Hums02:13 Exploring the Human Experience and Time06:30 Redefining Success and Performance10:56 The Journey of Self-Discovery13:08 Reflections on Time and Aging17:15 The Impact of Systems on Time Perception20:25 Belonging and Achievement in Modern Society22:14 The Dichotomy of Labor and Work24:52 The Tipping Point of Regenerative Work27:51 Navigating Change and Influence30:11 Personal Growth and Psychological Resilience35:07 Creating a Sense of Belonging38:25 A Life of Purpose and ConnectionAbout the music: Song used in this podcase is "Brushstrokes" by Muirġen - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://muirgen.bandcamp.com/album/loinnir⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to the ⁠⁠full track on ⁠⁠⁠spotify⁠⁠ ⁠here. This song is extremely meaningful to me personally and I was absolutely thrilled when Muirġen gave me permission to use it in my podcast. It beautifully captures the essence of that point in life when you are moving from where you are to where you really want to be, embracing the fear and doing it anyway.About the artist: Irish-fusion artist Muirġen announced her debut EP Loinnir, in early 2026 alongside the release of the first single ‘Brushstrokes’.Written in ⁠⁠Hotpress⁠⁠:Muirġen’s music style combines Irish tradition with experimental electronic music. ‘Brushstrokes’ is a powerful track that plays with textured harmonies and a distinctive sensible Irish sound, defined by Muirġen's deep captivating voice and melismatic lines.‘Brushstrokes’ was written by Muirġen (Muirgen O’Mahony),Cian Sweeney and Laura Elizabeth Hughes, and produced by Sweeney, and Philip Marsden. It incorporates elements like the sound of rain and experimental drum compositions.“The song captures a moment of suspension - the spacebetween who you’ve been and who you’re becoming,” said Muirġen.

Summary:In this inspiring interview, Zanya Dahl shares her journey from the fast-paced corporate world to a fulfilling life as an artist and creative facilitator. Discover how slowing down, listening to your inner voice, and embracing change can lead to a life that truly hums. Guest name:  Zanya DahlGuest links: See Zanya’s artwork here: https://www.artworkarchive.com/profile/zanyahttps://newirishart.com/irish-artists/zanya-dahl-artist.htmConnect with Zanya on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zanya/Listen to other Podcasts Zanya has been on: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/zanya-dahl-the-art-of-letting-go/id1797499167?i=1000736046258Keywords: creativity, life transformation, art, entrepreneurship,mindfulness, personal growth, Dublin, artistic journey, self-discovery Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Zanya's Journey03:13 Transition from Corporate to Creative Freedom06:12 The Tipping Point: Leaving the Agency Behind09:15 Embracing the Artist Within12:20 Navigating the Art World15:21 Finding Balance in Creativity18:15 Overcoming Loneliness in the Creative Process19:28 The Journey of Authentic Expression22:14 Facing Rejection and Building Resilience24:58 Balancing Art and Workshops25:27 Finding Peace and Aliveness in Creativity28:19 Celebrating Creative Energy32:41 Taking the First Step Towards Creativity Song used in this podcase is "Brushstrokes" byMuirġen - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://muirgen.bandcamp.com/album/loinnir⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to the ⁠⁠full track on ⁠⁠spotify⁠⁠ here. This song is extremely meaningful to me personally and I wasabsolutely thrilled when Muirġen gave me permission to use it in my podcast. It beautifully captures the essence of that point in life when you are moving from where you are to where you really want to be, embracing the fear and doing it anyway.About the artist: Irish-fusion artist Muirġen announced her debut EP Loinnir, in early 2026 alongside the release of the first single‘Brushstrokes’.Written in ⁠⁠Hotpress⁠⁠:Muirġen’s music style combines Irish tradition withexperimental electronic music. ‘Brushstrokes’ is a powerful track that plays with textured harmonies and a distinctive sensible Irish sound, defined by Muirġen's deep captivating voice and melismatic lines.‘Brushstrokes’ was written by Muirġen (Muirgen O’Mahony),Cian Sweeney and Laura Elizabeth Hughes, and produced by Sweeney, and Philip Marsden. It incorporates elements like the sound of rain and experimental drum compositions.“The song captures a moment of suspension - the spacebetween who you’ve been and who you’re becoming,” said Muirġen. 

This episode is an especially soulful one. Denise Wogan joins me to share her journey from corporate success to a fulfilling life rooted in self-connection, healing, and slow living. Discover how her soul work, starting in nutrition, took her on a path that led to a career in therapy which now fosters authenticity, balance, and meaningful impact in her life.Guest name:Denise WoganGuest links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denise-wogan-wellbeing-therapy/Read Denise's newsletter here: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/denise-wogan-wellbeing-7460244854527229952/Chapters00:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery05:37 Transitioning from Corporate to Wellness11:07 Finding Identity Beyond Motherhood13:33 Redefining Success17:20 The Reality Behind the Scenes20:50 Protecting Energy in Healing Work22:18 Unlearning and Focusing on Action23:33 Embracing Playfulness in Life25:50 Moments of Connection and Wisdom27:49 The Comfort of Uncertainty29:27 The Power of Human Connection31:42 Advice for Those Seeking ChangeSong used in this podcase is "Brushstrokes" by Muirġen - ⁠⁠⁠https://muirgen.bandcamp.com/album/loinnir⁠⁠⁠ Listen to the ⁠⁠full track on ⁠spotify⁠ here⁠⁠This song is extremely meaningful to me personally and I was absolutely thrilled when Muirġen gave me permission to use it in my podcast. It beautifully captures the essence of that point in life when you are moving from where you are to where you really want to be, embracing the fear and doing it anyway.About the artist: Irish-fusion artist Muirġen announced her debut EP Loinnir, in early 2026 alongside the release of the first single ‘Brushstrokes’.Written in ⁠⁠Hotpress⁠⁠:Muirġen’s music style combines Irish tradition with experimental electronic music. ‘Brushstrokes’ is a powerful track that plays with textured harmonies and a distinctive sensible Irish sound, defined by Muirġen's deep captivating voice and melismatic lines.‘Brushstrokes’ was written by Muirġen (Muirgen O’Mahony), Cian Sweeney and Laura Elizabeth Hughes, and produced by Sweeney, and Philip Marsden. It incorporates elements like the sound of rain and experimental drum compositions.“The song captures a moment of suspension - the space between who you’ve been and who you’re becoming,” said Muirġen.

This week's episode I chat to an old pal of mine, Brian Lynch, where he shares his journey from college days to building a successful, freedom-filled career in storytelling and media production in Australia. Discover insights on embracing risk, the importance of passion, and how to create a life that truly hums.Guest name:Brian LynchGuest Links:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianlynchmedia/Website - www.loveyourwork.ioChapters00:00 Introduction to Love Your Work02:03 The Meaning of Loving Your Work04:50 Transitioning from Employment to Entrepreneurship09:31 The Reality of Going Solo12:53 Balancing Passion and Responsibility17:09 Current Projects and Creative Fulfillment20:04 The Freedom of Freelancing22:59 Celebrating Personal Achievements26:00 Redefining Success29:04 A Life That Hums32:00 Encouragement for Aspiring CreativesSong used in this podcase is "Brushstrokes" by Muirġen - ⁠⁠https://muirgen.bandcamp.com/album/loinnir⁠⁠ Listen to the ⁠⁠full track on spotify here⁠⁠This song is extremely meaningful to me personally and I was absolutely thrilled when Muirġen gave me permission to use it in my podcast. It beautifully captures the essence of that point in life when you are moving from where you are to where you really want to be, embracing the fear and doing it anyway.About the artist: Irish-fusion artist Muirġen announced her debut EP Loinnir, in early 2026 alongside the release of the first single ‘Brushstrokes’.Written in ⁠⁠Hotpress⁠⁠:Muirġen’s music style combines Irish tradition with experimental electronic music. ‘Brushstrokes’ is a powerful track that plays with textured harmonies and a distinctive sensible Irish sound, defined by Muirġen's deep captivating voice and melismatic lines.‘Brushstrokes’ was written by Muirġen (Muirgen O’Mahony), Cian Sweeney and Laura Elizabeth Hughes, and produced by Sweeney, and Philip Marsden. It incorporates elements like the sound of rain and experimental drum compositions.“The song captures a moment of suspension - the space between who you’ve been and who you’re becoming,” said Muirġen.

In this bonus episode of To A Life That Hums, I share a little more about why I started the podcast and the thinking behind it.For me, “a life that hums” is about finding a way of living and working that feels sustainable, meaningful, and true to who we are.So this episode is a little insight into the heart behind the podcast… and the kinds of stories we’ll be exploring together.

In this inspiring conversation, Gillian French shares her journey through liminal space, the creation of Liminalscape, and how embracing uncertainty can lead to a more meaningful and vibrant life. Discover insights on navigating transition, the power of community, and the importance of slowing down to find your true rhythm and lead you closer to a life that hums.Guest name: Gillian FrenchGuest links: https://liminalscape.org/https://www.linkedin.com/in/gillianfrench/ Keywords: Liminal Space, Personal Growth, Transition, Community, Work-Life Balance, Self-Discovery, Mindfulness, Leadership, Change Management, Inner PeaceChapters:00:00 Introduction to Liminal Scape02:43 The Journey of Self-Discovery05:47 Creating Liminal Scape09:07 Building Community and Support12:03 Navigating Midlife Transitions15:00 Bridging the Gap Between Business and Nature18:43 The Interconnectedness of Personal Growth20:25 The Ripple Effect of Change21:27 Finding Meaning in Mentorship22:27 The Importance of Community24:25 The Need for Tech Detox26:30 Living Life to the Fullest28:09 Recognizing Hidden Talents28:41 Defining a Life that Hums30:38 Rediscovering Ancient Ways32:09 Embracing the In-Between Space36:37 Introduction to a Life That Hums37:04 NEWCHAPTERSong used in this podcase is "Brushstrokes" by Muirġen - https://muirgen.bandcamp.com/album/loinnir Listen to the full track on spotify hereThis song is extremely meaningful to me personally and I was absolutely thrilled when Muirġen gave me permission to use it in my podcast. It beautifully captures the essence of that point in life when you are moving from where you are to where you really want to be, embracing the fear and doing it anyway.About the artist:Irish-fusion artist Muirġen announced her debut EP Loinnir, in early 2026 alongside the release of the first single ‘Brushstrokes’.Written in Hotpress:Muirġen’s music style combines Irish tradition with experimental electronic music. ‘Brushstrokes’ is a powerful track that plays with textured harmonies and a distinctive sensible Irish sound, defined by Muirġen's deep captivating voice and melismatic lines.‘Brushstrokes’ was written by Muirġen (Muirgen O’Mahony), Cian Sweeney and Laura Elizabeth Hughes, and produced by Sweeney, and Philip Marsden. It incorporates elements like the sound of rain and experimental drum compositions.“The song captures a moment of suspension - the space between who you’ve been and who you’re becoming,” said Muirġen.

In this episode, Stephen Smith shares his journey from a college idea to launching a product that transforms golf experiences. He discusses balancing personal growth, embracing uncertainty, and the rewards of entrepreneurship.Guest name: Stephen SmithGuest links: Produce website: ⁠⁠https://soleinone1.com/⁠⁠Find him on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-smith52/⁠⁠Chapters00:00  Introduction to Soul in One and Stephen's Journey03:34  Finding Balance in Life and Work06:31  The Birth of an Idea: From Concept to Reality09:12  The Transition from Employment to Entrepreneurship12:01  Navigating Uncertainty and Financial Stress14:45  The Rewards Beyond Money17:35  Defining a Successful Day20:21  Celebrating Personal Growth and Resilience23:09  The Importance of Mindset and Self-Talk26:01  What a Life That Hums Looks Like28:40  Advice for Aspiring EntrepreneursKeywords: entrepreneurship, personal development, golf innovation, balancing life, starting a businessSong used in this podcase is "Brushstrokes" by Muirġen - ⁠https://muirgen.bandcamp.com/album/loinnir⁠ Listen to the ⁠full track on spotify here⁠This song is extremely meaningful to me personally and I was absolutely thrilled when Muirġen gave me permission to use it in my podcast. It beautifully captures the essence of that point in life when you are moving from where you are to where you really want to be, embracing the fear and doing it anyway.About the artist:Irish-fusion artist Muirġen announced her debut EP Loinnir, in early 2026 alongside the release of the first single ‘Brushstrokes’.Written in ⁠Hotpress⁠:Muirġen’s music style combines Irish tradition with experimental electronic music. ‘Brushstrokes’ is a powerful track that plays with textured harmonies and a distinctive sensible Irish sound, defined by Muirġen's deep captivating voice and melismatic lines.‘Brushstrokes’ was written by Muirġen (Muirgen O’Mahony), Cian Sweeney and Laura Elizabeth Hughes, and produced by Sweeney, and Philip Marsden. It incorporates elements like the sound of rain and experimental drum compositions.“The song captures a moment of suspension - the space between who you’ve been and who you’re becoming,” said Muirġen.

Join me as I chat with Emma Duffy, founder of My Forever Tooth Fairy, about following her passion, building a meaningful business, and the magic of self-worth. Discover insights on entrepreneurship, authenticity, and the power of community.** this is my second podcast recording. As with all new ventures I am still figuring out the audio recording side of things. You will notice a little bit of 'stitching' of audio pieces as we lost some of our recording at the beginning (not sure what happened) so there is a change of audio quality. I will ask for your forgiveness at this stage... Hopefully third time lucky I will get it in one take :) The conversation is wonderful so please enjoy. Emma is a complete inspiration.Keywordsentrepreneurship, self-worth, passion, community, creativity, business growth, authenticity, mental health, childhood, magicKey topicsFollowing your passion and intuitionBuilding a meaningful and authentic businessThe importance of community and support networksGuest nameEmma DuffyChapters00:00 The Journey Begins: Embracing Change07:37 Finding Purpose: The Birth of a Business14:36 Overcoming Challenges: The Reality of Entrepreneurship20:40 Building Community: The Power of Support25:39 Celebrating Resilience: Personal Growth and Reflection29:40 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Nurturing Your IdeasGuest linksMy forever Tooth Fairy - https://myforevertoothfairy.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmacreweduffy/Song used in this podcase is "Brushstrokes" by Muirġen - ⁠https://muirgen.bandcamp.com/album/loinnir⁠ Listen to the ⁠full track on spotify here⁠This song is extremely meaningful to me personally and I was absolutely thrilled when Muirġen gave me permission to use it in my podcast. It beautifully captures the essence of that point in life when you are moving from where you are to where you really want to be, embracing the fear and doing it anyway.About the artist:Irish-fusion artist Muirġen announced her debut EP Loinnir, in early 2026 alongside the release of the first single ‘Brushstrokes’.Written in ⁠Hotpress⁠:Muirġen’s music style combines Irish tradition with experimental electronic music. ‘Brushstrokes’ is a powerful track that plays with textured harmonies and a distinctive sensible Irish sound, defined by Muirġen's deep captivating voice and melismatic lines.‘Brushstrokes’ was written by Muirġen (Muirgen O’Mahony), Cian Sweeney and Laura Elizabeth Hughes, and produced by Sweeney, and Philip Marsden. It incorporates elements like the sound of rain and experimental drum compositions.“The song captures a moment of suspension - the space between who you’ve been and who you’re becoming,” said Muirġen.

Introducing a new podcast series - To a life that hums - hosted by Sadhbh O'Flaherty.A soulful podcast exploring the heart of solo-entrepreneurs and creatives - all about the emotional and spiritual labour of building a life around passion rather than a 9-to-5. This podcast explores what it looks and feels like to step away from the expected… and build something your own, driven by a grá or passion with the intention of creating a life that hums.(Grá is the Irish word for Love.)About me:My name is Sadhbh O'Flaherty and this podcast has been sitting with me for a while now, a quiet idea I keep coming back to and one day recently (after a little spark of inspiration) I decided I had follow this thread and see where it took me.My WHY is to use my passion, knowledge and experience of human behaviour so that it can build a more respectful, inclusive and healthy environment for us all to work and live in. An accomplished culture, change and engagement professional, I am dedicated to fostering respectful, inclusive, and healthy work environments and have a keen passion for all things People and Change. I pride myself on being skilled at building strong, trusting connections with clients and colleagues alike and I hope to bring this skill to interviews with my 'hummingbirds' on this podcast. I have a masters degree in Work and Organisational Behaviours where I focused my research on Workplace Incivility (subtle disrespect in the workplace) and its impact on individuals, teams and organisations as a whole. I am a Mental Health First Aider and strong advocate for minding your mental health. In addition to all that "worky" stuff... I am a Mum, a Wife, an artist and a movie lover and I drink a lot of coffee (and more recently cacao).I hope you enjoy my podcast and that the conversations inspire you towards a life that hums. Thank you for listening.Sadhbh xxx

This is the very first episode of To A Life That Hums - a soulful podcast exploring the heart of solo-entrepreneurs and creatives. Each conversation speaks to the emotional and spiritual labour of building a life around passion rather than a 9-to-5.Today’s conversation is a really special one to start with. My first hummingbird, Emma Ahern, is someone who lives and breathes her passion every day. Though she started on a traditional Speech and Language therapy path, her grá (the Irish word for Love) and passion for supporting neurodivergent humans has led her down a different direction of curiosity, discovery and novelty in how she is planning to change the face of language around emotions. Episode Summary:Emma Ahern shares her journey from traditional speech therapy to a more authentic, creative practice that emphasizes community, self-identity, and personal growth. Discover how letting go of expectations and embracing vulnerability can lead to a more fulfilling professional and personal life.About Emma: Emma Ahern is a speech and language therapist, registered with the HCPC, RCSLT and ASLTIP, who has extensive experience in working across the fields of neurodiversity including: autism, ADHD, acquired/traumatic brain injury and childhood trauma. Emma has worked in specialist schools for students with autism. She has also worked in brain rehabilitation working at The Children’s Trust, working with children and teenagers with acquired/traumatic brain injury. Emma later worked in specialist schools for young children with social communication and language difficulties before starting work in the youth justice services where she continued to develop her understanding and skills in the assessment and intervention of childhood trauma and neurodiversity. Keywords:speech therapy, neurodivergent support, authenticity, community, professional growth, self-identity, creative practice, mental health, therapy innovationKey topics:Emma's transition from traditional to creative therapyThe importance of community and peer supportAuthenticity and self-identity in professional practiceChapters:00:00 Introduction to a Life That Hums01:11 The Journey of Authenticity05:27 From Traditional to Creative Therapy10:13 Finding Community and Support15:17 The Rewards of Connection19:52 Celebrating Identity and Self-Compassion24:08 Advice for Taking the LeapGuest links:Check out her website here: https://www.zeebratherapy.co.uk/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/zeebratherapy/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-ahern Song used in this podcase is "Brushstrokes" by Muirġen - ⁠https://muirgen.bandcamp.com/album/loinnir⁠ Listen to the ⁠full track on spotify here⁠This song is extremely meaningful to me personally and I was absolutely thrilled when Muirġen gave me permission to use it in my podcast. It beautifully captures the essence of that point in life when you are moving from where you are to where you really want to be, embracing the fear and doing it anyway.About the artist:Irish-fusion artist Muirġen announced her debut EP Loinnir, in early 2026 alongside the release of the first single ‘Brushstrokes’.Written in ⁠Hotpress⁠:Muirġen’s music style combines Irish tradition with experimental electronic music. ‘Brushstrokes’ is a powerful track that plays with textured harmonies and a distinctive sensible Irish sound, defined by Muirġen's deep captivating voice and melismatic lines.‘Brushstrokes’ was written by Muirġen (Muirgen O’Mahony), Cian Sweeney and Laura Elizabeth Hughes, and produced by Sweeney, and Philip Marsden. It incorporates elements like the sound of rain and experimental drum compositions.“The song captures a moment of suspension - the space between who you’ve been and who you’re becoming,” said Muirġen.