Trauma, Trust, and Transformation: Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences with Donna McGee & Ken Hogan
Welcome to CNME Connects, the podcast that shares stories to inspire, educate, and connect those working across healthcare.
In this episode, Ken Hogan sits down with Donna McGee, Addiction Services Lead for Social Inclusion in the North West, for a powerful and heartfelt conversation about Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and trauma-informed practice.
Donna brings warmth, honesty, and deep professional insight as she explores:
What adverse childhood experiences are and why they matter;
How early adversity can shape lifelong health and wellbeing;
The meaning of trauma-informed care and how we can bring it into everyday practice;
Why compassion, trust, and understanding are the foundation of healing.
It’s a wonderful conversation — both reflective and practical — reminding us that trauma is not just about what happened to someone, but also about what didn’t happen: safety, connection, and belonging.
Support Resources
If this episode brings up any difficult emotions for you, please remember support is available:
HSE Employee Assistance Programme (EAP):
Free and confidential wellbeing support for all HSE staff.
📞 1800 409 388 | 🌐 www.samaritans.ie
Pieta:
Professional therapy and crisis support for those experiencing suicidal thoughts or self-harm.
📞 1800 247 247 | 📱 Text HELP to 51444
🎙️ Produced by CNME Sligo–Leitrim–West Cavan
💡 Empowering healthcare professionals to connect, reflect, and grow.
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Stories that Heal: Children’s Anxiety, CBT and EMDR
Welcome to CNME Connects, a podcast sharing stories that inspire, educate, and connect those working across healthcare.
In this episode, Ken and James continue the important conversation on childhood anxiety, following on from James’ earlier podcast on “August Anxiety.” Together, they explore the power of storytelling—how children can use stories to make sense of their worries and express feelings that may otherwise feel overwhelming.
The discussion also introduces Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), explaining how these evidence-based approaches can support children and families. Practical insights and compassionate perspectives are shared, offering tools that can make a real difference.
Supports & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling:
Samaritans Ireland: Call 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org/ireland
Information on CBT:https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/
Information on EMDR:https://emdrireland.org/
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Hold Me Close: Breastfeeding, Bonding and Skin-to-Skin with Lynn
In this special episode for HSE National Breastfeeding Awareness Week, we welcome Lynn, Clinical Nurse Specialist in Infant Feeding and Lactation at Sligo University Hospital. An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), Lynn’s dedication to supporting mothers and babies has been recognised through national healthcare awards and nominations. She reflects on the power of breastfeeding, the difference that timely help and encouragement can make for mothers, and the vital role of midwives and nurses in supporting and sustaining breastfeeding journeys. This conversation highlights the impact of skin-to-skin contact, the progress made in increasing breastfeeding rates in Sligo’s maternity services, and the compassion and commitment that drive positive change for families. For more information on Breastfeeding supports in your area, please visit the dedicated HSE page here: https://tinyurl.com/mtum72w6
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The Power of Pause: Emotional Regulation & Silence in Practice
In this episode of CNME Connects, we delve into “The Power of Pause” — exploring how emotional regulation, self-awareness, and purposeful silence can transform communication. Drawing on real-world examples from healthcare settings, we discuss how taking a moment before responding can reduce reactive decisions, enhance empathy, and create safer, more compassionate interactions for patients and colleagues alike.
Listeners will gain insights into:
Why the pause matters
How self-awareness and emotional regulation improve decision-making
Practical tips to use silence as an active tool for connection and understanding
If you’ve listened to this episode and it has raised questions about your own mental health, please speak to your GP or a trusted health professional. Support is also available 24/7 from:
Samaritans Ireland – freephone 116 123 | www.samaritans.ie
Pieta House – www.pieta.ie
HSE YourMentalHealth – www.yourmentalhealth.ie
Taking care of yourself is as important as caring for others — and sometimes, the first step is pausing
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Walking Beside Patients: Brian and Mary on Hospital Chaplaincy
In this episode of CNME Connects, Mary Durkin sits down with Fr. Brian Conlon, Hospital Chaplain in an acute hospital in the northwest of Ireland, to explore what a typical day in chaplaincy looks like. Brian reflects on the importance of human connection, compassion, and presence—especially at times when patients and families are at their most vulnerable. He shares how the chaplain’s role offers reassurance, a listening ear, and a reminder that no one is alone in their moments of need.
The conversation also touches on themes of attention, healing, hope, and resilience, with Brian drawing inspiration from a number of books, including:
Stolen Focus: Why You Can’t Pay Attention by Johann Hari
Getting Better by Michael Rosen
Dancing at Lughnasa by Brian Friel
The Signs of Happiness by Brendan Kelly
Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan
A powerful reference in the conversation is the moving https://youtu.be/eKToIrezxPw highlighting the lifelong impact of care, encouragement, and belief in another person.
This episode is both heartfelt and thought-provoking, offering insight into the unique role of hospital chaplaincy and reminding us of the profound value of listening, compassion, and human connection in healthcare.
Welcome to ”CNME Connects,” the podcast series that delves into the multifaceted world of healthcare. I’m your host, Selene Daly Tarpey, and in each episode, we will explore a wide range of topics—from inspiring patient journeys to spotlighting the dedicated staff who make a difference every day in healthcare settings. Join us as we provide informative discussions on all things related to health and nursing, including insights into undergraduate nursing education and continuing professional development for nurses. Whether you’re a student, a seasoned professional, or simply interested in healthcare, this podcast aims to connect you with valuable knowledge and stories that inspire and educate.
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