The Irish Occupational Therapy Podcast is an engaging show developed by Occupational Therapists Jen Trzeciak and Aideen Ruttledge. However, it is now hosted by Jen and Dr Áine O’Dea. Together, they bring fresh perspectives and in-depth conversations that explore the diverse world of Occupational Therapy and how it can benefit people of all ages and abilities.
The goal of the Irish Occupational Therapy Podcast is to share valuable insights, practical knowledge, and professional experiences with a wide audience. Not only do we aim to inform occupational therapists and healthcare professionals, but we also strive to reach service users, students, and anyone with an interest in the field. Whether you’re new to Occupational Therapy or a seasoned professional, the podcast offers something for everyone.
Each episode features interviews with leading experts and practitioners from across the healthcare spectrum. We explore a wide range of topics, from cutting-edge research and innovative therapeutic practices to real-life case studies and the evolving role of OT in various settings. In addition, we address the current challenges facing Occupational Therapy in Ireland, and discuss opportunities for growth, collaboration, and systemic change.
Furthermore, we highlight the voices of those with lived experience, ensuring that the perspectives of clients and service users remain central to the conversation. By doing so, we hope to strengthen connections between professionals and the people they support.
Episodes of the Irish Occupational Therapy Podcast are available on all major platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Amazon Music.
We invite you to tune in, subscribe, and join us in celebrating the depth, diversity, and importance of Occupational Therapy.
- In this episode, Sharon Leahy shares her extensive experience in neurorehabilitation, from her work in the National Rehabilitation Hospital to her current role with Acquired Brain Injury Ireland in the West of Ireland.We explore the lifelong impact of acquired brain injury in children and young people from the invisible cognitivechallenges and fatigue to the emotional […]
- In this episode, we speak with Ciara Duffy, founder of Enable OT NI, about her journey from NHS neurorehabilitation toprivate practice. Ciara shares powerful insights into working with adults following stroke, brain injury, concussion, and Functional Neurological Disorder (FND).We explore the real impact of occupational therapy in neurological rehabilitation from fatigue management and return to […]
- Dr. Íde O’Shaughnessy shares her journey fromclinical practice to academia, specialising in older person rehabilitation and emergency department care. We discuss the development and evaluation of Frailty Intervention Teams, as well as the evidence supporting OT-led models in acutesettings.Íde speaks passionately about challenging ageism in healthcare and reframing older adults as “the purpose, not the […]
- Martina Tierney reflects on more than 40 yearsin occupational therapy and on her journey to founding Seating Matters. She shares the evolution from bespoke garage-built seating solutions to an internationally recognised specialist service.This episode explores creativity in practice, the importance of listening to both clients and carers, and how innovationgrows from real clinical need. Martina […]
- In this deeply moving conversation, Jack Kavanagh shares his journey following a life-changing spinal cord injury. From grief and identity loss to rediscovering adventure and independence, Jack reflects on resilience, creativity, and the power of trying again.We explore assistive technology, adaptive innovation, and the importance of listening deeply to clients. Jack offers a compelling message […]