The Relationship Special

This has been one of our favourite programmes to present and we hope to present more like this in the future!  Don't forget we are now live on Sunday from 12pm to 1pm and the show is now repeated from 1pm to 2 pm on Monday.

While chatting in the studio the day Laura started with us, we discussed how relationships are changing in Ireland.  Keeping this in mind, we asked 3 different people to speak to us about issues facing modern couples and the situations they now find themselves in.

Firstly, we spoke to Lisa O'Hara from Marriage and Relationship Counselling Services, which offers therapy and counselling for couples.  We had so many questions for Lisa, but instead ended up discussing most of the main issues that couples face, mainly problems with communication and lack of understanding.  We also spoke about changing perceptions to divorce and separation in this country and how the expectation level for men to talk about their feelings has risen dramatically.  Log onto their website to find out more information about their services on http://www.mrcs.ie/  or by contacting the service on 1890 380 380.  We hope to have Lisa back on the show again in the future to maybe interact with the listeners more about relationship issues so keep an eye out for her!!

For the second interview we spoke with Rory O'Neill, better know to everyone as Panti about the important issue of the Civil Partnership bill.  As you all may know, the bill to provide social welfare and tax breaks for those living together as partners was passed by the Dail and by the Senate.  Unfortunately, the bill has now been referred to the Supreme Court to check its constitutionality and will hopefully be passed.  However, as far as gay and lesbian rights go, Panti pointed that the bill has not gone far enough, not making any provisions for children resulting from gay relationships and not going far enough on the issue of recognising the rights for gay people to marry.  We also discussed the pickets outside the Dail and impact religion has had on the politics of this country.  Panti runs the infamous bar on Capel Street, call in for a drink!!!

Last but not least, we spoke to Stephen Nolan from Kama Lifestyles about Relationship Coaching.  It was never going to be easy going up against 4 women to discuss relationships but Stephen took us on!  He spoke a little about how the coaching works, the workshops and how to perfect the technique of dating.  People who are interested will go through a dating consultation initially and if required a fashion consultation.  Stephen also spoke about changes in dating and relationships in Ireland and something that Lisa also spoke to us about previously, the pressure on men to make the first move.  If you are interested, log onto the website on http://www.kamalifestyles.com/

During the showbiz section, we spoke with Niamh Sherlock about becoming this years Dublin Rose (big congrats!!). Niamh will be competing for the Rose of Tralee the weekend of the 23rd and 24th of August.  We hope to speak to Niamh again after the event to find out what it is really like behind the  and scenes and we of course wish her the best of luck.

Live on Sunday and repeated on Monday no excuse not to tune into GirlsTalkBack on 103.2FM

The live show on Sunday from 12pm - 1pm went really well for the GTB team and thanks so much to all the guests who joined us on the show and in the studio. If you didn't manage to catch the show or the repeat today from 1pm then we are giving you the chance to read everything you missed....We know we are far too good to you...ENJOY

 For all you ladies out there who love to shop but are not to sure what to buy to make that perfect outfit... Girls Talk Back have found the answer. We were lucky to be joined by Julie Cobbe professional Style Coach and genious behind Stylefish.ie. What i stylefish.ie??? I hear you say... Stylefish.ie is every girls dream. Stylefish.ie is a seven week Fashion School that teaches us how to find that perfect look. The course is catered to meet each individuals needs by offering fashion advice like how to dress to suit your shape and fill your closets with clothes perfect for you, to makeup and hair tips. It is a fun seven week course and each student will leave with their own folder jam packed with tips and advice. Courses will start running in September on both the north and southiside of the city. For more information check out http://www.stylefish.ie/ or email julie@stylefish.ie.

GTB got to speak with Irish jewellery designer David Robinson who specialises in Diamond Jewellery and provides unique individual jewellery which is also made to order. Since the age of 17 David became involved with creating jewellery and works very closely with each client to create exquisite jewellery as desired. His designs reflect the romance of authentic handcrafted jewellery and David uses a wide range of materials from platinum, white gold, gold, silver, and diamonds to name but a few.

Although David has seen the effects of the recession when it comes to jewellery he mentioned how women tend to want something that holds its value and that can be passed down from generation to generation not current trends like in fashion so people are still willing to invest in his pieces. So GTB think if you are looking for that special piece, a one of a kind which will bring you fond memories then David is your guy!!!

David spoke to GTB about how he set up his company around 5 years ago and that it is going from strength to strength. Any young entrepreneurs who want to follow in David’s footsteps and open there own business should look into ‘feasibility grants’ which the government are offering and also get in contact with the crafts council http://www.ccoi.ie/  for advice on any questions you might need answered.

If you would like to check out any of the amazing work from David just check out his website http://www.davidrobinsonjewls.com/  or check out his facebook page on www.facebook.com/davidrobinsonjewles

Big thank you to David for taking part in the interview and GTB look forward to hearing more from the designer in the future. Make sure to call David Robinson Design Jeweller, and make an appointment to experience their unique, personal service in jewellery design.

We also spoke to the wonderful Patricia McKenna in studio about the Know Your Neighbour weekend on the 24th and 25th of July.  This is a fantastic event set up by Macra na Feirme and sponsered by ESB.  The programme is in its 5th year and the purpose is to literally get to know your own neighbour.  You can do this by starting off with your own organiser pack and can go on to organise any event to get your neighbours involved from tea parties to bbq.  Please do get involved as this is a wonderful cause.  In the modern era we are losing this wonderful sense of community that used to be so evident in Ireland.

You can find out more about the event on http://www.knowyourneighbour.ie/  and if you have any questions regarding the weekend contact info@knowyourneighbour.ie   There is also a text number in order to get an organiser pack, simply text KYN to 51444 and be directed from there. 

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!! And make sure to tune in again next Sunday from 12pm on 103.2 Dublin City Fm

Monday 5th of July

If you didn't tune in yesterday, this is what you missed!!

We were very excited to have Rachel Solon in studio to discuss the WOW programme, which is basically trying to get more women involved in Watersports.  She spoke to us about the event which will run on the 11th of July.  The National Yacht Club in partnership with the Irish Sailing Association would like to invite women of all ages and all levels of sailing and other water sports to come sailing on Sunday 11th July from 13.00 - 17.00 hrs. This is a great opportunity to join fellow female sailors for an enjoyable afternoon of sailing... in the Irish Sailing Association's fleet of eight J80s, beautiful 8 metre long one-design racing sailboats. They hope to get as many women as possible out sailing on 11th July, followed by a few drinks up in the bar afterwards. Each J80 will have 4 or 5 crew on board of whom 2 will be experienced crew who will explain all to those guests on board.  Lifejackets or buoyancy aids will be supplied and are mandatory for all participants on the water.  Rachel told us that you do not have to be experienced to be on the water and they welcome all levels.  The ISA also runs several training programmes which are detailed on their website www.sailing.ie which you can undertake if you are interested.  So come along and get involved!!  You can also join their facebook page which will have details of the event...
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?v=wall&ref=ts&gid=118648197643


We also spoke to the wonderful Jennifer Rothwell about the upcoming Norway's Next Top Model event happening in Dublin.  All proceeds go to the Baby Max Fund which is run by Darina Ni Chuinngain who we spoke with last week.  Jennifer is going to be judging at the event and the lucky winner will get to wear some of Jennifer's collection down the catwalk on the night.  Jennifer explained how important this event is for exposure in Ireland.  She also spoke to us about how women in these tough times are buying clothes that they are investing in and will last.  Jennifer also has a children's line.  She has also explained to us that her clothes are now price adjusted to the times we live in and are extrememly reasonable..  The event takes place on the 16th of July in the Guinness Storehouse.  Log onto their facebook page to get more ticket details!!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/jennifer-Rothwell/93193237152?ref=ts&v=wall#!/pages/jennifer-Rothwell/93193237152

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=114142051965663&ref=mf

We were also joined by Christina Riordan, General Manager at Down Syndrome Ireland. Down Syndrome Ireland is made up of people with Down syndrome and their parents and families. It has over 3000 member families and 25 branches nationwide. With the help of donations and fundraising Down Syndrom Ireland work hard to support both people with Down Syndrome and their families, by offering councelling, support and an understanding of Down Syndrome and much more. Down Syndrome Ireland is always looking for volunteers and people to organise funraisers such as the HP icecream fun day which is currenlty running at the moment. For mor information on how to get involved check out http://www.downsyndrome.ie/ or or low call  1890 374 374.

Don't forget we will now be on Sunday's from 12pm-1pm and also mondays at the usual time of 1pm-2pm so tune in guys :) xxxx

GirlsTalkBack

Another great show this Monday with GirlsTalkBack who got to speak with Irish female golfer Mary Dowling of New Ross golf club about her career and her recent Close championship win. Also talking to us today was Darina Ni Chuinneagain founder and director of 'Baby Max - Wings of Love Fund'

Darina and her husband Declan took something tragic from their own lives and turned it into something positive for other families by helping and saving the lives of other children nationwide. Their son Max 9 years ago died from Meningitis B and Meningococcal Septicaemia and now Darina and Declan make it their goal to supply essential equipment to hospitals nationwide.


As a result the 'BABY MAX-Wings of Love Fund' has to date purchased over €1million worth of all types of necessary medical equipment for Hospitals/Hospices in Dublin, Mullingar, Sligo, Galway, Cork, Kerry, Limerick & Waterford to name but a few.

‘Baby Max - Wings of Love Fund’ announced that a high profile fashion show will take place at the Guinness Storehouse on Friday 16th July 2010. This event will be filmed for a Dublin-based episode of Norway’s Top Model TV show. The programme, which will air on Norwegian TV, follows the same format as America’s Next Top Model!! The proceeds of this event will go to the ‘Baby Max – Wings of love fund’ where every single penny goes towards essential medical equipment. Darina spoke about how every hospital has a wish list and how they contact her to see if she can help out in any way possible and Darina and her husband spend every waking moment of there day finding funding to buy this equipment so that hospitals have the resources to save lives.
This is a very exciting event and a marvellous achievement for both Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland, as the filming of this episode will showcase both Dublin city a vibrant modern city, the Guinness Storehouse and the Irish fashion scene to a Norwegian audience.

If you would like to be a part of this event and help raise money for a great cause while enjoying an excellent night out well this is your chance!! To buy tickets simply call 086 4053184 or contact info@babymax.ie

All donations are greatly appreciated and to find out more about ‘Baby Max – Wings of Love Fund’ simply log onto http://www.babymax.ie/
VENUE: Concourse Area & Arrol Suite, Guinness Storehouse, Dublin 8
DATE: Friday, 16th July, 2010
TIME: 7.30pm
TICKETS: €50 and are available from Tel: 086 4053184
Can also pay by visa
PLEASE LEAVE A MESSAGE with your contact detail if you get answering machine.

GirlsTalkBACK would like to say a big well done to Darina and her husband Declan for all the amazing hard work they put into this fund and we wish you all the luck in the future and hope the money just keeps coming and coming.

We also spoke to Mary Dowling, the Irish Ladies' Close Championship winner, about her career and golf in general in Ireland. Mary began playing golf at 10 years of age and even though she had played other sports in school, discovered she had a talent and began to train on the golf course.


Mary is a member of the New Ross Golf Club.  Her achievements include Irish Close Runner Up 2009, Midland Ladies Runner Up, 2009, Irish Senior Cup Winners 2009 and Munster Girls Winner 2005.  Although women's sport tends to get overlooked in the media, Dowling tells us that attitudes are starting to change, particularly due to the involvement of the Maguire twins, one of which she defeated in the final of Women's Close Championship.  Mary also is included in the Leinster Ladies Team.

Mary is a Lecturer in Physiotherapy on a full time basis and plays golf part time.  We spoke about aspects of funding in Irish sport and that this too is starting to make a change, with golf enjoying a lot of attention at the moment.  Mary's advice to young and aspiring golfers was to get out on the course, try all the different types of the game that you can and find your niche.  And of course, keep practicing!

The WAG's

Then GTB decided we would have a discussion about a very interesting aspect of the World Cup, the WAGs, an intricate part of English squad. Apparently WAGS have been around for a while, since 1960's in fact when Bobby Moore and his wife Tina were considered the golden couple. But how did they become such a media draw in 2006? We at GTB reckon they are a bit of a distraction from the game and for the players, and if they are distracting us, then realistically they must be distracting them also! But then again these sports stars are payed millions because of their talent so surely they should be able to deal with whatever comes there way!!!

Roy Keane claimed that the English side had lost the hunger for the game in 2006 and had become too involved with their wealth and material aspects of their fame. WAG fever is now spreading into other areas of the British media, we now have the RAGs Royals and Girlfriends and of course the WWAGs Wimbledon Wives and Girlfriends, among others. Really, really ladies??? WHAT DO YOU DO? And why do the Media put so much emphasis on what you are doing and wearing? Do you think maybe if the media stopped caring then the public would to????




Another great week for GirlsTalkBack, hope you enjoyed the show as much as we did and talk to you same time next week,

GTB xx

It’s a Women’s world

As you all know GirlsTalkBack is a show that is concerned with women and women’s issues. On this week’s show all of our interviews focused on women who work in areas that are largely male dominated. We wanted to discuss how they became involved in their professions, the obstacles that they face and their work on a daily basis.

Rebecca Moynihan, Councillor for Dublin South Central joined us to discuss women in politics and how she became involved with the Labour Party.

Rebecca got involved in politics at the early age of 16 and hasn’t looked back since. She believes that the government and politics need the young generation of Ireland to become more involved and find new and current ways of changing our country for the better. Only 13% of the Dail is made up of women and Rebecca believes that this too must change! Women in politics need to get together and encourage other women to get involved in what they believe in and what they stand for. If you think you have something important to say or want to make a change in Irish politics, it is never too late. Join a political party that is right for you and be heard!! If we have said it once we have said it a thousand times here on GTB women need to encourage, believe and support one another. Don’t just complain about what is happening in politics in Ireland at the moment, get up and do something about it!

The Theatre is BACK and is just as popular now as it was the first time it came to town. Since the big ‘R’ people have needed escapism, a place to take them away from the everyday worries of life and the Theatre is where the people of Dublin are heading.

GirlsTalkBack got to speak with Laura Dowdall from the Trappo Theatre Company who is Directing a production of ‘One Flew over the Cuckoo’s nest’ in the Helix Theatre. The play is similar to the well known film starring ‘Jack Nicolson’ but also has a few surprises that will keep the audience on the edge of their seats. Laura spoke to us about how acting on stage takes a certain type of character, someone who can be in the moment and be the person they are portraying and she believes leading man who plays Mac Murphy (Andrew Murray) is outstanding.

It is never too late to get involved in Theatre and if you think you have what it takes then all you have to do is contact the Drama League of Ireland and they will put you in touch with your local theatre. ‘One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest’ has its opening night on the 30th of June and will be running for two weeks, tickets are recession friendly and it is so important to support your local theatre and Irish talent, so instead of paying to go see a film, change it up and go to the Theatre!!! To find out more about ‘one flew over the Cuckoo’d Nest’ and any other production that is taking place at the Helix just log onto http://www.helix.ie/  . GTB are definitely going to check this out…might see you there opening night!

Last but by no means least we spoke to the fabulous Mo Kelly, artist and DJ about some of the obstacles facing women in the music business. Mo puts her success down to hard work, love of music and the encouragement of all her male friends who were in the business before her!! Mo suggested perhaps it is due to lack of confidence or the unknown behind why there are very few well known female DJ’s around put thinks that things are finally changing and looking up. Mo does feel that being female can sometimes stand against you in the industry as you have to prove yourself even more but if you are good enough and passionate about what you do then nothing will stand in your way! Mo is known for being a lady for the after parties and has dj’d for huge bands like Groove Armada and U2!! Art is also a huge passion for Mo and her inspiration behind her paintings would be very much intertwined with her djing career. She feels very lucky to be successful in both industries that she has such a love for and we here at GTB think that this is because she is just so bloody good at it…..(not jealous at all we swear)!!

And here’s a bit of trivia for you….Guess who Mo’s father in-law is…….Mr Mike Murphy, how cool is that!!!
If you want to find out more about Mo just check her out on http://www.mokelly.com/


Showbiz News

Keith Barry 'Deception'

Do you believe in magicians, hypnotists etc? Well Irish man Keith Barry has made a successfully career out of it and has just launched his new Discovery channel show ‘Deception’ which he was promoting in The Old Jameson Distillery. Irish Celebs like Glenda Gilson from Xpose attended to show their support.

Keith has a seriously impressive career happening with shows like ‘Deal or no Deal’ ‘Asylum’ …This Guy is one to watch!!






Pink performs at the RDS

Pink came to Dublin over the weekend and performed at the RDS in Ballsbridge. Her shows are a;ways so impressive. She does the most amazing acrobats with ropes hanging from the ceiling etc. It is a really fun show to go to and the girl can seriously sing!! She performed to a full crowd which is no surprise and GTB just hope she comes back soon!!

Laura Whitmore face of Roc HYDRA +
Bray beauty Laura Whitmore who is the young face of MTB Digs was back on her home shores to promote being the ‘Fresh Face Look’ with the new Roc HYDRA + 24hr comfort nourishing cream. This girl is hot property at the moment, not only is she the new face of Roc and graces us with her presence every day on MTV UK but don’t forget she was also the face of a clothing range for Awear!! Laura has spoken about wanting to break America – with her personality and looks GTB don’t see why it won’t happen, Keep up the great work Laura!!




Hope you enjoyed this weeks show, make sure to tune in next Monday @ 1pm on 103.2 Dublin City FM.

but for now ciao, GTB xxx

'ThePinkRibbonWalk' in aid of Breast Cancer Aware


First up on today’s show we had the wonderful Penny McGowan from ‘The Pink Ribbon Walk’. Penny is the chairperson of the organisation and spoke to GTB about the charity which is in aid of ‘Action Breast Cancer’. The Pink Ribbon Walk began in Kells, Co Meath in 2009. A committee of local women, some of whom had been affected by breast cancer themselves. These brave women decided to establish a sponsored walk to raise money for breast cancer support. The first Walk attracted over 600 walkers and raised €100,000 and GTB are hoping that this year even more people will get involved.

 

If you would like to take part in the walk it is not to late just follow the link to http://www.pinkribbonwalk.ie/  or you can contact them on +353 (0)46 924 0055.

There is also a fantastic event after you complete the walk including a BBQ so you can relax and enjoy the rest of the evening. The site will answer any questions you might have and also give you tips on how to fundraise for the charity!! Ladies if we don’t help each other out who will…sign up today!!!

Absolute School of Modelling

On the show we were joined by the lovely Anne Morgan, Director of Absolute School of modelling. Absolute School Of Modelling teach and guide girls in the business of modelling to help them pursue a career in modelling through one day work shops.

At these work shops they teach you everything from fashion tips to healthy eating to getting an agency, fitness and much much more. At the class you also will get your hair and make up done and leave with some photos taken by the fantastic photographer to put in your portfolio.

Being a model herself Anne knows exactly how the industry works and hopes to guide many more Irish girls and help them succeed in the industry. However this course is also aimed at people who maybe would not like to be models but who would like to work on their confidence.

Class sizes are small and are limited to ten people per class so this means there is high demand so make sure to book in quick. You must be over 16 to take part and classes only take places once or sometimes twice a month. For more info on booking your place you can log onto http://www.asmdublin.com/



'Network Dublin'

Finally on ‘GirlsTalkBack’ we had the president of ‘Network Dublin’ Mary Eastwood on the line to discuss this incredible support group which is set up to help women starting in business, the professions and the Arts. ‘Network Dublin’ allows a woman to develop and pool their individual skills through interaction with other women in a supportive environment. This setting offers training, mentoring and an opportunity for women who call on other women with specialist expertise for help.

This organisation aims to help develop and encourage members to their full professional and personal capacity through networking. If you feel this type of group could help you reach your goals and succeed then visit their website at http://www.networkdublin.com/networkdublin/Main/Home.htm

It could be just the support you need!

Hope you enjoyed this weeks show and make sure to tune in next week at the same time of 1pm on 103.2fm to hear all the latest!!!

Talk Soon
GTB xxx

The show on 24th May ;)

 If you didn't have time to catch us on Monday, this is what you missed.

We spoke to Maureen Noone of www.nothingtowear.ie, a consultancy service and a body-image resource for women surviving cancer, and for their caregivers and healthcare providers.  Maureen provides consultations for survivors on a one to one basis, advising on body shape, hair, make-up, accessories and will even help plan your wardrobe!  Nothing to wear also provides a personal shopping service.  Maureen can be contacted to help with special events or if you feel too tired to work on your wardrobe yourself.  Patients recovering from cancer often find their old wardrobe inappropiate, Nothing to Wear can provide assistance in a friendly and relaxed manner.  With over 20 years experience in the retail industry Maureen, she is also a qualified beautician.  She has been recognised by Social Entrepreneurs Ireland for her work.

http://www.nothingtowear.ie/

We were delighted to welcome Emma Olohan of Woman's World to talk to us about the event in the RDS from the 4th to the 6th of June.  Woman's World is the largest retail exhibition event for women in Ireland with 4 different key areas, fashion, health, beauty and food and drink.  Get down to the event for your free health check! There are goody bags everywhere with free samples.  Pamper yourself with mini manicures, facials and massages! Go to www.womansworldshow.com for a chance to get free tickets online. AND stay tuned to the show for details on how to win more free tickets ;)

http://www.womansworldshow.com/

Last but not least, we spoke to Elizabeth Greehy of stylebible.ie, personally one of our favourite websites!  Stylebible was set up by Elizabeth in order to provide Ireland with a one stop shop for everything you need to know about fashion.  Stylebible.ie takes the form of an online magazine.  You can read about all the latest trends and tips on beauty in one fabulously informative location!  They also have a FREE events directory on site and want to highlight all fashion and beauty related events going on around the country - big or small. So if you have a national event or indeed a small local charity event that you would like to see highlighted on stylebible.ie, then e-mail them with all the details, at info@stylebible.ie.  Stylebible are at present setting up The Stylebible Professionals Directory which will lists professionals working in all areas of the industry.  Email info@stylebible.ie for more details.  Elizabeth also spoke to us about the importance of the fashion industry in Ireland and how our support is needed for our homegrown designers.  If you are interested in becoming a fashion journalist you could blog for Stylebible by getting in touch with the Editor, a fantastic opportunity for anyone interested in pursuing this career.

Like every week, we finished the show on our showbiz news, Emma's excitemement about the TV Now awards and my unending love for Ray D'Arcy!!!

Hope to catch you all next week,

Stay tuned,

GTB xxxx