MSLETB Get Lit!

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 | LinkedInGet 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: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠samaritans.ie⁠⁠⁠Pieta House     Freephone 1800247 247 or Text HELP to51444    - Support for people in suicidaldistress, self-harm, and those bereaved by suicide.  Email: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠pieta.ie⁠⁠⁠Text About It   Text HELLO to 50808(anytime) - 24/7anonymous messaging service for emotional or mental healthcrisis. Website: ⁠⁠⁠textaboutit.ie⁠⁠⁠Your Mental Health Information Line (HSE) - Freephone1800 111 888AWARE 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: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠mentalhealthireland.ie⁠⁠⁠ MSLETB (Mayo,Sligo, Leitrim Education and TrainingBoard) Office (Quay Street, Sligo)Phone: 071 9194800 www.msletb.ieSligo Adult Educational Guidance ServiceAddress: MSLETB Quay Street, Sligo, F91 XH96Phone: 071913 8411 | 085 877 7002Email: [email protected] Adult Literacy MSLETB CoursesFor reading, writing, numeracy, digital skills; free andconfidential. National Organisations & SupportsAdult Literacy for Life (ALL) Strategy Information & resources to find support nationwide www.adultliteracyforlife.ieNational Adult Literacy Agency (NALA)Freephone: 1800 20 20 65Help with reading, writing, spelling, everyday maths, usingtechnology www.NALA.ieDyslexia IrelandSupporting children & adults with dyslexiawww.dyslexia.ieRegional Literacy Co-ordinator Mayo, Sligo & LeitrimETBName: Roisin Egan Phone: 086 834 0612 Email: [email protected] 

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 | LinkedInCheck out Breda Mc Cague here: Breda McCague For more information on any other information about this programme or others like this contact [email protected] out www.msletb.ie for more information on other learning in your area.For support around literacy and further learning check out www.adultliteracyforlife.ieFor any comments and information on how this podcast can help you or your organisation contact Regional Literacy Coordinator [email protected]

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: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠samaritans.ie⁠⁠Pieta House     Freephone 1800247 247 or Text HELP to51444    - Support for people in suicidaldistress, self-harm, and those bereaved by suicide.  Email: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠pieta.ie⁠⁠Text About It   Text HELLO to 50808(anytime) - 24/7anonymous messaging service for emotional or mental healthcrisis. Website: ⁠⁠textaboutit.ie⁠⁠Your Mental Health Information Line (HSE) - Freephone1800 111 888AWARE 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: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠mentalhealthireland.ie⁠⁠ MSLETB (Mayo,Sligo, Leitrim Education and TrainingBoard) Office (Quay Street, Sligo)Phone: 071 9194800 www.msletb.ieSligo Adult Educational Guidance ServiceAddress: MSLETB Quay Street, Sligo, F91 XH96Phone: 071913 8411 | 085 877 7002Email: [email protected] Adult Literacy MSLETB CoursesFor reading, writing, numeracy, digital skills; free andconfidential. National Organisations & SupportsAdult Literacy for Life (ALL) Strategy Information & resources to find support nationwide www.adultliteracyforlife.ieNational Adult Literacy Agency (NALA)Freephone: 1800 20 20 65Help with reading, writing, spelling, everyday maths, usingtechnology www.NALA.ieDyslexia IrelandSupporting children & adults with dyslexiawww.dyslexia.ieYouthReach Sligo:⁠YouthreachSligo |⁠Contact infoYouthreach Unit 10, Cleveragh BusinessCentre, Sligo, Postal code : F91 FY68, Ireland.Telephone: +353 71 91 44248 E-mail: ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠ContactUs | YouthReach Sligo Office Contact DetailsYouthreach Sligo⁠Regional Literacy Co-ordinator Mayo, Sligo & LeitrimETBName: Roisin Egan Phone: 086 834 0612 Email: [email protected] 

'The Reasons Why-Learner Voices Unlock the Wider Benefits of LearningGet Lit Podcast – Episode 5, Part 1In Episode 5, Part 1 of the Get Lit podcast, we explore the powerful impact of adult education and further education and training (FET) through expert insight and real learner voices.This episode features interviews with Fergus Craddock (ETBI) and Dr. Aisling McElearney, who introduce and discuss the new Wider Benefits of Learning tool, highlighting how learning reaches far beyond qualifications to influence wellbeing, confidence, and community connection.We also begin Part 1 of a two-part series of learner stories. Michael, a literacy learner from Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim ETB, shares his lifelong journey to adult education and reflects on the transformative, positive impact learning has had on his life. The episode also includes an interview with Reuben, who speaks openly about how FET supported him through his learning journey while experiencing addiction, and how Youthreach Sligo played a crucial role in his progress. His story underlines the vital importance of accessible education services and their lasting impact on future learning and life opportunities.Part 1 sets the scene for deeper learner stories to come in Episode 5, Part 2, celebrating resilience, support, and the wider benefits of learning.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      Freephone 116 123     -  24/7confidential, non-judgmental support via phone. Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠ Website: ⁠samaritans.ie⁠Pieta House     Freephone 1800 247 247 or Text HELP to51444    - Support for people in suicidal distress, self-harm, and those bereaved by suicide.  Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠ Website: ⁠pieta.ie⁠Text About It   Text HELLO to 50808 (anytime) - 24/7anonymous messaging service for emotional or mental health crisis. Website: ⁠textaboutit.ie⁠Your Mental Health Information Line (HSE) - Freephone 1800 111 888AWARE 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 1166⁠ A network of regional volunteers and community groups that offer community-based mental health support Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠ Website: ⁠mentalhealthireland.ie⁠ MSLETB (Mayo,Sligo, Leitrim Education and Training Board) Office (Quay Street, Sligo)Phone: 071 9194800 www.msletb.ieSligo Adult Educational Guidance ServiceAddress: MSLETB Quay Street, Sligo, F91 XH96Phone: 071913 8411 | 085 877 7002Email: [email protected] Adult Literacy MSLETB CoursesFor reading, writing, numeracy, digital skills; free and confidential. National Organisations & SupportsAdult Literacy for Life (ALL) Strategy Information & resources to find support nationwide www.adultliteracyforlife.ieNational Adult Literacy Agency (NALA)Freephone: 1800 20 20 65Help with reading, writing, spelling, everyday maths, using technology www.NALA.ieDyslexia IrelandSupporting children & adults with dyslexiawww.dyslexia.ieYouthReach Sligo:Youthreach Sligo |Contact infoYouthreachUnit 10, Cleveragh Business Centre, Sligo,Postal code : F91 FY68, Ireland.Telephone: +353 71 91 44248E-mail: [email protected] Us | YouthReach Sligo Office Contact DetailsYouthreach Sligo📞 National Helplines (Free & Confidential)HSE Drugs & Alcohol Helpline📞 1800 459 459⏰ Monday–Friday, 9.30am–5.30pmAlcoholics Anonymous (AA) Ireland Helpline📞 01 842 0700⏰ 10am–10pm, 7 days a weekAl-Anon Family Support (for families & friends)📞 01 873 2699 Services for Young PeopleJigsaw – Youth Mental Health📞 1800 544 729 (ages 12–25)Free mental health support, including issues related to substance use.Regional Literacy Co-ordinator Mayo, Sligo & Leitrim ETBName: Roisin Egan Phone: 086 834 0612 Email: [email protected]

Welcome to a special Christmas edition podcast with MABS — the Money, Advice and Budgeting Service.In this episode, we dive into the realities of surviving the festive season financially: the pressure to spend, the “scary” numbers we avoid, and the emotional weight that can come with Christmas budgeting.Together with the expert Gwen Harris from MABS, we unpack practical tips, honest conversations and reassuring guidance to help you take control of your Christmas costs — without the stress, guilt, or overwhelm.Whether you’re trying to stretch your budget, plan ahead, or simply want to feel less alone in the financial chaos of the holidays and everyday life, this episode is here to support you every step of the way._______________________________________________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:National Organisations & SupportsPodcast Host & Regional Literacy Co-ordinator for Mayo, Sligo & LeitrimRoisin Egan- [email protected]: 086 8340612MABS-Money, Advice & Budgeting Service Ireland0818 07 2000The 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.ieAdult Literacy for Life (ALL) Strategy Website — information & resources to find support nationwide www.adultliteracyforlife.ieMSLETB (Mayo,Sligo, Leitrim Education and Training Board) Office (Quay Street, Sligo)Phone: 071 9194800 www.msletb.ieSligo Adult Educational Guidance ServiceAddress: MSLETB Quay Street, Sligo, F91 XH96Phone: 071913 8411 | 085 877 7002Email: [email protected] Adult Literacy MSLETB CoursesFor reading,writing, numeracy, digital skills; free and confidential. www.msletb.ieWhat 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.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Donald Ewing and Aisling O’Leary from Dyslexia Ireland to reflect on Dyslexia Awareness Month — and have a real, honest conversation about saying the “D word” and breaking the stigma around dyslexia.We explore:💬 Why naming dyslexia matters — and how releasing the stigma empowers students and adults alike.📚 The vital campaign for extra time in state exams to ensure a level playing field for all learners.🏛️ The importance of policy, awareness, and training to meet dyslexia needs across education and society.🧠 The psychology of dyslexia — understanding the lived experience beyond labels.It’s a no-holds-barred discussion about how far Ireland has come — and how far we still have to go — when it comes to truly supporting people with dyslexia.If you care about inclusion, education, or understanding the real impact of dyslexia, this is a must-listen.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:Dyslexia Ireland: Dyslexia Ireland | Supporting Children & Adults with DyslexiaDyslexia Ireland National OfficePostal Address:  Dyslexia Ireland, 107-110 The Windmill, Windmill Lane, Dublin 2, D02E170.Telephone:  01 877 6001Email:  [email protected]:  www.dyslexia.ieNational Organisations & SupportsAdult Literacy for Life (ALL) Strategy Website — information & resources to find support nationwide www.adultliteracyforlife.ieMSLETB (Mayo,Sligo, Leitrim Education and Training Board) Office (Quay Street, Sligo)Phone: 071 9194800 www.msletb.ieSligo Adult Educational Guidance ServiceAddress: MSLETB Quay Street, Sligo, F91 XH96Phone: 071913 8411 | 085 877 7002Email: [email protected] Adult Literacy MSLETB CoursesFor reading,writing, numeracy, digital skills; free and confidential. www.msletb.ie________________________________________National Adult Literacy Agency (NALA)Freephone: 1800 20 20 65They offer help with reading, writing, spelling, everyday maths, using technology etc.www.NALA.ieDyslexia IrelandSupporting children & adults with dyslexia, assessments, classes, and emotional wellbeing support www.dyslexia.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.

In this powerful episode, Kevin “Boxer” Moran- Minister of State and long-serving public representative shares his deeply personal journey with dyslexia. From leaving school at 14 to serving at the highest levels of government, Boxer speaks candidly about stigma, hidden struggles and mental health battles, but also about resilience, empathy and the strength that shaped his path. A story of hope, perseverance, and the power of speaking out.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:SamaritansIreland      Freephone 116 123     -  24/7confidential, non-judgmental support via phone. Email: [email protected] Website: samaritans.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: [email protected] Website: pieta.ie_____________________________________________Text About It   Text HELLO to 50808 (anytime) - 24/7anonymous 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) formild–moderate anxiety, depression. Also runs support groups, self-helpresources._____________________________________________MentalHealth Ireland Phone: 01 284 1166 A network of regional volunteers andcommunity groups that offer community-based mental health support Email: [email protected] Website: mentalhealthireland.ie_____________________________________________ MSLETB (Mayo,Sligo, Leitrim Education and Training Board) Office (Quay Street, Sligo)Phone: 071 9194800 www.msletb.ieSligo Adult Educational Guidance ServiceAddress: MSLETB Quay Street, Sligo, F91 XH96Phone: 071913 8411 | 085 877 7002Email: [email protected] Adult Literacy MSLETB CoursesFor reading, writing, numeracy, digital skills; free and confidential. www.msletb.ie________________________________________National Organisations & SupportsAdult Literacy for Life (ALL) Strategy Website — information & resources to find support nationwide www.adultliteracyforlife.ieNational Adult Literacy Agency (NALA)Freephone: 1800 20 20 65They offer help with reading, writing, spelling, everyday maths, using technology etc.www.NALA.ieDyslexia IrelandSupporting children & adults with dyslexia, assessments, classes, and emotional wellbeing support www.dyslexia.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.

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:MSLETB (Mayo,Sligo, Leitrim Education and Training Board) Office (Quay Street, Sligo)Phone: 071 9194800 www.msletb.ieSligo Adult Educational Guidance ServiceAddress: MSLETB Quay Street, Sligo, F91 XH96Phone: 071913 8411 | 085 877 7002Email: [email protected] Adult Literacy MSLETB CoursesFor reading,writing, numeracy, digital skills; free and confidential. www.msletb.ie________________________________________NationalOrganisations & SupportsAdult Literacy for Life (ALL) Strategy Website — information & resources to find support nationwide www.adultliteracyforlife.ieNational Adult Literacy Agency (NALA)Freephone: 1800 20 20 65They offer help with reading, writing, spelling, everyday maths, using technology etc.www.NALA.ieDyslexia IrelandSupporting children & adults with dyslexia, assessments, classes, and emotional wellbeing support www.dyslexia.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.