Still I Rise Podcast

In this deeply reflective episode of the Still I Rise Podcast, Orla returns to the studio to talk honestly about rebuilding after loss, the hidden grief we don’t always name, and how moments of crisis force us to re-evaluate what truly matters. From experiencing a house fire just before Christmas, to reflections on safety, community, parenting, legacy, and representation, this conversation explores resilience without romanticising it - and progress without demanding perfection. What You Will Learn:How loss can show up beyond death - including grief for homes, routines, and safety Why community and connection matter most in moments of crisis How experiences of trauma can shift our relationship with fear, legacy, and purpose Why progress in representation (like the autistic Barbie) doesn’t need to be perfect to be meaningfulHow to hold space for nuance, discomfort, and growth in conversations about inclusion Reflections on parenting, identity, and navigating change as children grow Who This Video Is For:Parents, educators, and caregivers navigating change, loss, or uncertainty Anyone reflecting on purpose, legacy, and what really mattersPeople interested in inclusion, neurodiversity, and representationThose working with children and young people in education or community settings Anyone seeking thoughtful, honest conversations about resilience, grief, and progressAbout Still I Rise Stories: Still I Rise Stories delivers workshops, training, and storytelling designed to amplify diverse voices and promote inclusion. Our mission is to support individuals and communities in creating environments where every child feels valued, heard, and respected. Stay Connected: 🌐 www.stillirisestories.org 📬 Join our community mailing list 🎧 SUBSCRIBE to Still I Rise Stories wherever you get your podcasts 📱 Follow us on social platforms @stillirise.voices👤 Follow Orla: @orlamckeating 🌈 For collaborations, workshops, or bookings, visit www.stillirisestories.org 📧 For podcast partnerships or speaking opportunities: [email protected] 🔔 Subscribe for weekly conversations, learning sessions, and resources

This week we are joined by Sam Langley Swain, award-winning children’s author and founder of Owlet Press, to explore representation, inclusive publishing, and the power of storytelling to create change. Sam shares his journey from a working-class background to becoming a self-published author, publisher, and advocate for inclusive children’s literature. Together, Orla and Sam discuss why representation matters in books for children, the barriers faced by LGBTQ+ authors and marginalised voices in publishing, and how small independent publishers are often the ones taking the biggest creative risks. This episode dives into:Inclusive children’s books and why representation mattersLGBTQ+ visibility in publishing and educationNeurodiversity, adoption, single-parent families, and belongingWriting from lived experience and authentic storytellingClimate themes in children’s literatureThe realities of running a purpose-led publishing houseBook bans, censorship, and the future of inclusive publishingSam also speaks candidly about his much-loved book Where Björn Belongs, writing autistic and neurodivergent characters with care, and how children’s books can foster empathy, understanding, and belonging in classrooms and homes. This conversation is essential listening for:Educators • Parents • Writers • Publishers • Diversity & inclusion practitioners • Anyone passionate about children’s books, storytelling, and social impact. 🎧 Listen now and be part of the conversation.📚 Support independent publishers by buying books directly or from your local bookshop.🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review to support the podcast.

Introduction:In this episode, Orla chats with children’s author Ian Eagleton about his journey from primary school teacher to bestselling author, the stories that shaped him, and why representation matters. We talk about The Woodcutter and the Snow Prince, Glitter Boy, Nana and the Lonely Fisherman, and more , how Ian’s books centre LGBTQ+ inclusion , how writing became a way to process grief, and the unforgettable (and hilarious) Mariah Carey campaign that helpe dput Glitter Boy on the map. Along the way, Ian shares honest reflections on childhood bullying, adoption and fatherhood , the long road to publication, and the urgent need to protect diverse voices in children’s publishing.What You Will Learn:🌪️ Ian’s path into writing: teaching children, eight years of rejections, and the breakthrough with Violet’s Tempest.🏰 How inclusive storytelling - two-dad families, queer characters, non-traditional fairy tales - help children see themselves and can be life-changing.💌 Writing as therapy: how grief and family memories find their way into stories like The Boy Who Cried Ghost.🎭 Practical examples of representation in action — from World Book Day photos of kids dressing as Glitter Boy to parents saying books “saved” their child.🚫 The realities facing inclusive authors today: worries about book bans, publishers’ commercial pressures, and why small presses give us hope.🌟 Ian’s advice for young people struggling with identity: stubbornness, finding community , and never giving up.Who This Video Is For:Parents, educators, librarians, youth workers, children’s book lovers, aspiring authors, and anyone interested in representation in children’s literature. It’s especially relevant for people who want to understand how stories support identity, challenge bullying, and build belonging for diverse families.Why This Topic Matters:Children’s books are mirrors and windows - they comfort, validate, and expand a child’s sense of possibility. Ian’s work shows how representation in picture books and middle-grade fiction can literally change lives: giving LGBTQ+ kids, adopted children, and those who feel different a language to belong. With growing pressure on publishers and troubling cultural attacks on inclusive books, conversations like this make the stakes clear — and remind us why we must champion brave stories and the small presses that publish them. About Still I Rise Voices:Still I Rise Voices is the podcast from Still I Rise Diversity Storytelling. We amplify diverse voices, explore identity and belonging through story, and support parents, teachers, and communities to create inclusive spaces where every child feels seen and valued. Through honest conversations, storytelling,  and practical resources, we aim to foster empathy and lasting change.Stay Connected:🌐 www.stillirisestories.org📬 Join our community mailing listSUBSCRIBE to Still I Rise Stories wherever you get your podcasts.📱 Follow us on social platforms @stillirise.voicesFollow Orla: @orlamckeating🌈 For collaborations, workshops, or bookings, visit www.stillirisestories.org📧 For podcast partnerships or speaking opportunities: [email protected]🔔 Subscribe for weekly conversations, learning sessions, and resourcesSupport the Channel:Please like, comment, share, and subscribe to help us grow this learning community. Support the Channel:Please like, comment, subscribe, and share ❤️.Your support helps us continue providing accessible learning resources

🇮🇪 Orla’s back after a whirlwind few weeks (and a couple of cancelled guests 🤧), but it was worth the wait because this week she’s chatting to the incredible Tura Arutura — actor, speaker, dancer, and all-round legend. 🇮🇪🌍 They dive into Irishness, identity, belonging, and what it really means to show up with pride, courage and joy. Tura shares stories about family, culture, and finding connection in unexpected places — while Orla fangirls (just a little) over the wisdom, humour, and heart he brings to every answer. This one’s full of laughs, learning, and that Still I Rise sparkle 🌍 This episode is a celebration of humanity, storytelling, and the beauty of belonging. You don’t want to miss it!🎧 SUBSCRIBE to Still I Rise Stories wherever you get your podcasts. Follow us @stillirise.voices on Instagram & TikTokFollow Orla @orla_mckeatingFollow Tura @tura_aruturaJoin Orla McKeating, founder of Still I Rise Diversity Storytelling, for bi-weekly chats that blend heart, humour, and honest conversation about inclusion, culture, and identity. Still I Rise Stories shares real conversations with inspiring people who are shaping a more compassionate, connected world — one story at a time. 🌈 For collaborations, workshops, or bookings, visit www.stillirisestories.orgFor podcast partnerships or speaking opportunities, email [email protected]

Episode 13: Leon Diop – Being Mates with the President, Adopting Seals & Black Irish IdentityIn this episode of the Still I Rise Podcast, I sit down with Leon Diop, co-author of Black and Irish, to explore the richness and complexity of Black Irish identity, racism in Ireland, and the joy of Black culture in Irish life.Leon shares his personal journey growing up Black in Ireland, reflecting on identity, intersectionality, and internalised sectarianism. We discuss how the landscape of racism and anti-racism in Ireland is evolving and the powerful impact of the Black and Irish book in amplifying underrepresented voices.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in race, culture, and identity in Ireland, as well as those seeking to understand what it means to be Black and Irish today.🎧 Listen now and join the conversation about representation, inclusion, and belonging in Irish society.

In this empowering solo episode of Still I Rise, host Orla McKeating 🌿 opens up about her personal journey through burnout 😓, motherhood 🤱, and perimenopause 🌸 while balancing the demands of career 💼 and family life ❤️. Set against the busy back-to-school season 🎒, Orla shares the realities of supporting a teenager’s education 📚 while prioritizing her own mental health 🧘‍♀️ and wellbeing.She reflects on the importance of community 🤝, resilience 💪, and sustainable activism 🌍, drawing on her work with Still I Rise workshops that champion diversity ✨, inclusion 🌈, and amplifying underrepresented voices 🗣️. With honesty and warmth, Orla explores meaningful conversations on;✊🏾 racial justice📖 anti-racism training , and 🧩 building supportive networks  in today’s complex social climate!This episode offers:💭 Heartfelt stories  of motherhood, identity, and navigating change🪷 Practical self-care tips  for managing burnout and perimenopause🎓 Insights into inclusive education and anti-racist practices 🌱 A powerful reminder of resilience, belonging , and collective growth 🎧 Tune in if you’re seeking inspiration ✨, solidarity 💜, and strategies for thriving through life’s challenge

🎙️Teaching, Racism & Risk: A Conversation with Baisat Alawiye from Minority Teachers Ireland 🎙️In this episode of the Still I Rise Podcast, I sit down with Baisat Alawiye, educator, activist, and founder of Minority Teachers Ireland. Minority Teachers Ireland is a grassroots initiative working to increase representation in teaching, amplify minority voices, and create pathways for more Black, Brown, and migrant educators to thrive in Irish classrooms.This episode is a raw, honest, and necessary conversation about education, racism, and belonging in Ireland. Baisat shares candid insights on risk, accountability, Islamophobia, and the double standards that persist in both schools and wider society. Together, we explore what it really takes to build a more inclusive future for children and communities.🔗 Learn more about Minority Teachers Ireland: https://www.instagram.com/minorityteachersireland/?hl=en🔗 Follow Still I Rise Diversity Storytelling: www.stillirisestories.org#StillIRisePodcast #Education #Inclusion #MinorityTeachersIreland #AntiRacism

Episode 10 – Jay Chambers: Poetry, Legacy, and Restorative JusticeIn this powerful conversation, Orla is joined by poet, dub artist, and musician Jay Chambers. Jay shares his current work with a Manchester institution confronting its historical ties to the enslavement of African people, and how Black creatives are shaping projects on reparation and restorative justice.Together, they explore the intersections of art, identity, legacy, and purpose — from the deep influence of family and ancestors to the ways creativity can drive healing and change.

In this week’s episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Elliot for a wide-ranging conversation full of laughter, reflection, and unexpected delights.We explore:🕯️ The very modern experience of a live-streamed novena🚇 Being a tourist vs. belonging in London🌍 The language of “immigrant” and “expat”👶 Honest chats about parenting moments📊 The pure joy (and chaos) of colour-coded spreadsheets If you’ve ever found comfort in a well-organised Excel doc or wondered why words like “expat” carry certain weight—this one's for you. 💬 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, leave a comment, and ring the bell so you never miss a new episode! ✨ Let’s keep building a community where stories matter and voices rise. 🌐 Learn more at www.stillirisestories.org!

In this powerful episode of the Still I Rise Podcast, we sit down with Gerry Moran, a survivor of Ireland’s brutal industrial school system, to hear his courageous and deeply moving story.Gerry shares his lived experience as a child in an institutional system marked by abuse, neglect, and silence — and how he found healing, voice, and purpose in the aftermath. His testimony is both heartbreaking and hopeful, offering an important look at Ireland’s hidden history and the resilience of those who endured it. If you're interested in Irish history, survivor stories, institutional abuse, healing from trauma, or social justice in Ireland, this episode is essential listening.Topics we explore in this episode:Life inside an Irish industrial schoolThe legacy of abuse and institutional silenceMental health, trauma, and resilienceThe power of storytelling and speaking truthIreland’s reckoning with its past📢 This conversation is a call to listen, learn, and take action toward justice and truth.🔔 Subscribe to the Still I Rise Podcast for more real, raw, and relevant conversations that amplify diverse voices and lived experiences.

In this special episode, I'm joined by my son Elliot for an honest, funny, and thoughtful conversation that spans identity, history, and tradition. We dive into the untold stories of Irish Black heroes, share an unpopular opinion or two (get ready!), and chat about the fascinating world of Irish wakes—what they are, why they matter, and what we think about them.It’s a mix of generational perspectives, deep pride, and a few laughs along the way. Whether you're here for the history, the banter, or the bold opinions, you’re in for a treat.🎧 Tune in, share with a friend, and let us know your thoughts!

In this funny, touching and deeply honest episode, we sit down with the brilliant Tommy McCarthy—comedian, boxer, and proud son of West Belfast 🥊🎤. From growing up amidst the raw realities of racism to navigating identity and legacy, Tommy shares stories that are as hilarious as they are heartfelt.We dive into the art of comedy, the power of representation, and what it means to stand tall in and out of the ring. Expect laughs, truth bombs, and moments that’ll make you stop and reflect.A powerful conversation about belonging, culture, and how humour can heal ❤️✨🎧 Listen now & laugh, learn, and feel something real.

In this candid solo episode, We join Luke and Sean to reflect on the beautiful chaos of solo parenting while building a purpose-driven business—and our new Pope.From finance to strategic planning, emotional overwhelm to unexpected inspiration, this episode offers a raw and honest glimpse into the behind-the-scenes of balancing it all. I share the highs, the lows, and the lessons I’m learning along the way, reminding us that while the juggle is real, so is the joy, purpose, and power of rising—one story at a time.

Storytelling, Raising Boys & Survival of the Friendliest Orla has her first guest multi-award nominated blogger, Mother and acclaimed author of A World for Me and You, Bringing Up Race and Raising Boys Who Do Better Uju Asika. We talk about storytelling, the inspiration and impact of her work globally, the rise of toxic masculinity and how all of us have a responsibility to the next generation.

 Episode 1: Identity, Irishness & Storytelling – with Elliot In this heartfelt first episode, I’m joined by my amazing son, Elliot, for an unexpected and deeply real conversation. We explore our identity, what it means to be Irish, and the power of family and storytelling. Raw, honest, and beautifully surprising—this is a glimpse into our lives.