Irish Thoracic Society Podcast Productions

In this episode Professor Eddie Maloney, consultant respiratory and sleep physician and President of the Irish Thoracic Society speaks about the career path that led him into respiratory medicine. They discuss fellowships, intensive care exposure, society leadership, advocacy priorities, and why tennis and regular exercise have been a constant throughout his working life. In This Episode - A career path through respiratory and sleep medicine, with training and leadership experience across Ireland and the UK. - The appeal of respiratory medicine as a specialty that combines acute care, chronic disease management, procedures, physiology, and imaging. - The value of fellowships and international experience in strengthening clinical judgement, adaptability, and problem-solving. - The role of the Irish Thoracic Society in supporting professional development, membership growth, and annual scientific meetings. - Current advocacy priorities in respiratory health, including air quality, climate- related impacts, vaping, and World Lung Day. - Practical advice for trainees on publications, case reports, and building an academic profile alongside clinical work. Guest Professor Eddie Moloney is a Consultant Respiratory and Sleep Physician at Tallaght University Hospital and Beacon Hospital, with over 20 years’ experience in respiratory, sleep and general internal medicine. He has held senior clinical and leadership roles in Ireland and the UK, including as current president of the Irish Thoracic Society and has made significant contributions to respiratory and sleep medicine through research, education and professional leadership. Outside of medicine, Eddie is a passionate tennis player and advocate for an active lifestyle. Hosts: Dr Margaret Higgins is a third year respiratory trainee at the Mater Hospital. A graduate of University College Dublin, she is currently completing a Master's at University College Cork. She is the current ITS education co-officer with a keen interest in Medical Education. Her research interests include Pulmonary Hypertension and Interstitial Lung Disease.  Dr Sandra Green is an Irish-trained respiratory fellow with a strong track record in climate advocacy and multidisciplinary sustainable initiatives, as co-founder of Irish Doctors for the Environment. She has an MSc in Leadership and Innovation in Healthcare at the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (2023–2025). With Marisssa, she co-founded the Irish Thoracic Society Podcast Productions, launching the platform in 2024 to share knowledge, insights, and innovations in respiratory care. Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/dr-sandra-green-2a9536199 Email: edofficer@irishthoracicsociety.com Chapters 00:00 - Welcome to Inspire and what the podcast aims to cover 00:57 - Professor Eddie Maloney’s clinical background and leadership roles 02:23 - How respiratory medicine became the right fit 03:49 - Intensive care exposure and the Brompton fellowship 05:35 - Why a fellowship abroad can change the way you think 06:34 - Whether fellowships still matter for trainees today 07:27 - Why he joined the Irish Thoracic Society 08:48 - How the society’s committee pathway works 09:35 - Growing membership across the respiratory MDT 10:29 - Respiratory Health of the Nation and the annual scientific meeting 12:20 - Current advocacy priorities: air quality, vaping, and World Lung Day 14:09 - Tennis, fitness, and staying active through a busy career 15:33 - Fitting exercise into early starts and full clinical days 16:26 - Publication advice for trainees and early career doctors 18:21 - Why finishing papers and handling review matters 19:14 - Case reports as a practical starting point for research 20:02 - Closing remarks and the next episode topic Resources and Links: - Irish Thoracic Society https://irishthoracicsociety.com/ - Respiratory Health of the Nation report 2018 https://irishthoracicsociety.com/respiratory-health-of-the-nation-2018/

This episode features insights from healthcare communication expert Sarah Geraghty, who shares proven frameworks and practical tips on crafting clear agendas, managing time effectively, and delivering purposeful meetings. Her insights help professionals across sectors elevate their meetings to be most effective. If you’re committed to making your meetings matter—or simply want to reclaim time, reduce stress, and foster a culture of clarity—this episode is essential listening. In this episode: The crucial role of purpose and clear objectives for every gathering How to craft and circulate agendas in advance to prep participants effectively Strategies for keeping meetings on track—even when personalities and time pressures threaten to derail progress Techniques to empower less confident voices and build inclusive, psychologically safe environments The importance of ending with clear actions, owners, and timelines—so nothing slips through the cracks Guest Sarah Geraghty is Head of Careers at the Communications Clinics, specialising in preparing for high-stakes interviews and career transitions. A seasoned communication trainer and coach, she combines practical storytelling and leadership development to help candidates articulate their value. With a rich background in journalism and editorial work—including contributions to the Irish Times and The Journal, and experience as Assistant Editor of Gloss Magazine—she brings real-world insight into how healthcare professionals can perform under pressure. Hosts Marissa O’Callaghan is an Irish trained Respiratory fellow currently undertaking a post-doc fellow working in Erasmus MC Rotterdam in the Netherlands. She finished her Irish respiratory and Internal medicine training and Phd in 2025. Her areas of interest are interstitial and rare lung diseases. She enjoys clinical research, Med Ed, and dreaming up new medical innovations. Together with cohost Sandra Green, she founded the ITS podcast series in June 2024. Sandra Green is an Irish-trained respiratory doctor with a strong track record in climate advocacy and multidisciplinary sustainable initiatives, as co-founder of Irish Doctors for the Environment. She has an MSc in Leadership and Innovation in Healthcare at the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (2023–2025. With Marisssa, she co-founded the Irish Thoracic Society Podcast Productions, launching a platform in 2024 to share knowledge, insights, and innovations in respiratory care. Chapters 0:04 Introduction to Breathwork 0:37 Importance of Meetings in Healthcare 1:06 Effective Meeting Communication 1:28 Rapid Fire Tips for Meetings 1:56 Listening vs. Speaking in Meetings 2:25 Purpose and Objectives of Meetings 3:41 Structured vs. Informal Meetings 5:32 Role of the Chair in Meetings 7:28 Time Management in Meetings 9:48 Encouraging Participation 11:43 Setting the Meeting Culture 13:29 Challenges of Meeting Overruns 15:24 Engaging Junior Members 17:41 Psychological Safety in Meetings 19:37 Final Tips for Effective Meetings 26:37 Closing and Future Plans 27:26 Credits and Contact Information Resources & Links: Sarah Geraghty - LinkedIn https://ie.linkedin.com/in/sarah-geraghty-comms The Communication Clinic https://www.communicationsclinic.ie/

In this episode, communication expert Sarah Geraghty uncovers the hidden impact of email habits on healthcare efficiency and patient safety. Discover how precise, purpose-driven emails can save time, reduce stress, and enhance collaboration. Learn practical strategies like the ‘BLUF’ framework and effective subject line structuring to transform your inbox chaos into streamlined communication. Perfect for clinicians and administrators eager to improve their email etiquette and workflow. In this episode: The ‘BLUF’ (Bottom Line Up Front) framework that ensures your emails are clear and effective, no matter the audience How to structure subject lines and content for maximum impact—without coming across as too formal or too casual The essential mindset shift: treating emails as strategic tools that require dedicated focus, not ongoing background noise Practical methods to manage post-holiday inboxes, follow-ups, and group emails The environmental and legal considerations around storing and sending emails—and why fewer, more meaningful messages are better for everyone Guest Sarah Geraghty is Head of Careers at the Communications Clinics, specialising in preparing for high-stakes interviews and career transitions. A seasoned communication trainer and coach, she combines practical storytelling and leadership development to help candidates articulate their value. With a rich background in journalism and editorial work—including contributions to the Irish Times and The Journal, and experience as Assistant Editor of Gloss Magazine—she brings real- world insight into how healthcare professionals can perform under pressure. Hosts Marissa O’Callaghan is an Irish trained Respiratory fellow currently undertaking a post-doc fellow working in Erasmus MC Rotterdam in the Netherlands. She finished her Irish respiratory and Internal medicine training and Phd in 2025. Her areas of interest are interstitial and rare lung diseases. She enjoys clinical research, Med Ed, and dreaming up new medical innovations. Together with cohost Sandra Green, she founded the ITS podcast series in June 2024. Sandra Green is an Irish-trained respiratory doctor with a strong track record in climate advocacy and multidisciplinary sustainable initiatives, as co-founder of Irish Doctors for the Environment. She has an MSc in Leadership and Innovation in Healthcare at the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (2023–2025. With Marisssa, she co-founded the Irish Thoracic Society Podcast Productions, launching a platform in 2024 to share knowledge, insights, and innovations in respiratory care. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction: Overview of email's role in healthcare 00:28 – Email Overload: The impact of email volume on clinicians 01:21 – Communication Challenges: How poor email practices affect patient safety 01:50 – Rapid Fire Tips: Quick advice on email efficiency 02:42 – When to Call: Choosing between email and phone communication 03:10 – Post-Holiday Inbox: Strategies for managing a full inbox 04:22 – Email Anxiety: Dealing with email-related stress 06:37 – Global Email Statistics: The scale of email communication worldwide 07:31 – Why Emails Matter: The importance of email in healthcare 08:57 – Effective Use: Making emails impactful and efficient 09:54 – Miscommunication Risks: How misunderstandings affect patient care 10:52 – Managing Tasks: Balancing email with other responsibilities 12:12 – Dedicated Email Time: Setting aside time for email management 14:21 – Email Length: Finding the right balance between brevity and detail 17:11 – BLUF Framework: Using the Bottom Line Up Front approach 19:33 – Subject Lines: Writing effective email subjects 21:20 – Tone and Formality: Maintaining the right tone in emails 25:09 – CC Challenges: Managing CC chains effectively 29:17 – Follow-Up Emails: Best practices for follow-ups 32:59 – Email Storage: Challenges of storing emails in healthcare 35:21 – Environmental Impact: The carbon footprint of email 37:58 – Conclusion: Key takeaways Resources & Links Sarah Geraghty (LinkedIn): https://ie.linkedin.com/in/sarah-geraghty-comms The Communication Clinic: https://www.communicationsclinic.ie/ Richard Saul Wurman's Information Anxiety (1989). New York: Doubleday. Nordrum, O.L. and Malone, C. (2022). "The Carbon Footprint of Digital Communication Within the Healthcare Service." Irish Medical Journal, 115(8), p. 663. Available: https://imj.ie/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/The-Carbon-Footprint-of-Digital-Communication-Within-the-Healthcare-Service.pdf (accessed 7 June 2026).

In this episode, with Professor Edward McKone, we dive deep into the essentials of cystic fibrosis, exploring its underlying mechanisms, diagnostic challenges, and the revolutionary impact of CFTR modulators. Led by expert insights, this discussion highlights how evolving treatments are transforming patient outcomes and what lies ahead in CF care. In this episode - The genetics and pathophysiology of CF, including CFTR function and the impact on lungs and other organs - Advances in diagnosis, especially the role of newborn screening, sweat tests, and genetic sequencing - How CFTR modulators are changing the management landscape and their long-term effects - The future of CF treatment: reducing treatment burden and personalised medicine - The importance of holistic, multidisciplinary care and transition from paediatric to adult services Guest Professor Edward McKone is a leading respiratory physician and clinical professor based in Dublin, specialising in cystic fibrosis and respiratory disease. As a Consultant at St. Vincent’s University Hospital, he works at Ireland’s National Referral Centre for Adult Cystic Fibrosis, combining frontline care with clinical trials research. He has played a pivotal role in advancing cystic fibrosis treatment both in Ireland and internationally, including leadership roles with the Cystic Fibrosis Registry of Ireland and the European CF Registry. Alongside his clinical and research work, Professor McKone is deeply committed to medical education, currently serving as Dean of the Institute of Medicine and Co-Director of the Irish Clinician Educator Track. Hosts Email: edofficer@irishthoracicsociety.com Dr Barry Harnedy is a respiratory specialist trainee in Ireland. He graduated from National University of Ireland Galway. He is the current Irish Thoracic Society co Educational Officer. He is passionate about digital innovation and airways assessment. Sandra Green is an Irish-trained respiratory fellow with a strong track record in climate advocacy and multidisciplinary sustainable initiatives, as co-founder of Irish Doctors for the Environment. She has an MSc in Leadership and Innovation in Healthcare at the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (2023–2025). With Marisssa, she co-founded the Irish Thoracic Society Podcast Productions, launching the platform in 2024 to share knowledge, insights, and innovations in respiratory care. LinkdIn - linkedin.com/in/dr-sandra-green-2a9536199 Chapters 0:00 - Introduction 0:30 - Rapid Fire Round on cystic fibrosis. 6:02 - Cystic Fibrosis Pathophysiology 9:20 - Discussion on newborn screening and diagnostic steps. 11: 42 - Sweat test procedure 13:37 - Milder cases in adulthood and associated symptoms. 15:29 - CF in non-Caucasian populations and genetic testing. 17:25 - Referral to CF Centres 18.25 – Transition from Paediatric to Adult Care 22:13 - Overview of the mainstays of management and treatment within CF. 26:16 - Impact of CFTR Modulators 31:28 - The future challenges and management of aging CF patients. 38:57 - How socioeconomic status impacts CF outcomes in the era of modulators. 41:43 - Key message for clinicians and patients. 42:56 - Episode wrap-up and acknowledgments. Resource Links 1. Irish Cystic Fibrosis Society Website 2. Newborn Screening Information 3. Cystic Fibrosis Foundation 4. European Cystic Fibrosis Society 5. Genetic Testing for CF 6. CFTR Modulators Information 7. Transitioning from Pediatric to Adult Care

In this episode of Inspire, we are joined by Professor Edward McKone, Consultant Respiratory Physician at St. Vincent’s University Hospital and a leading figure in cystic fibrosis care. Drawing on his experience of clinical medicine, research, and leadership, he reflects on the evolution of CF management and the breakthroughs that have transformed patient outcomes. Alongside this, he shares insights from a dynamic career spanning clinical medicine, clinical trials, and the advancement of medical education. In this episode: Discover Professor McKone's path to specialising in respiratory medicine and cystic fibrosis. Explore the role of registries in improving patient outcomes and advancing standards. Learn about the challenges and successes in advocating for cystic fibrosis treatments. Understand the importance of medical education and the development of the Irish Clinical Educator Training program. Gain insights into the future of postgraduate medical training in Ireland. Hear Professor McKone's reflections on his career and advice for aspiring medical professionals. Guest: Professor Edward McKone is a leading respiratory physician and clinical professor based in Dublin, specialising in cystic fibrosis and respiratory disease. As a Consultant at St. Vincent’s University Hospital, he works at Ireland’s National Referral Centre for Adult Cystic Fibrosis, combining frontline care with clinical trials research. He has played a pivotal role in advancing cystic fibrosis treatment both in Ireland and internationally, including leadership roles with the Cystic Fibrosis Registry of Ireland and the European CF Registry. Alongside his clinical and research work, Professor McKone is deeply committed to medical education, currently serving as Dean of the Institute of Medicine and Co-Director of the Irish Clinician Educator Track. Hosts: Dr Barry Harnedy is a respiratory specialist trainee in Ireland. He graduated from National University of Ireland Galway. He is the current Irish Thoracic Society co Educational Officer. He is passionate about digital innovation and airways assessment. Sandra Green is an Irish-trained respiratory fellow with a strong track record in climate advocacy and multidisciplinary sustainable initiatives, as co-founder of Irish Doctors for the Environment. She has an MSc in Leadership and Innovation in Healthcare at the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (2023–2025). With Marisssa, she co-founded the Irish Thoracic Society Podcast Productions, launching the platform in 2024 to share knowledge, insights, and innovations in respiratory care. LinkdIn linkedin.com/in/dr-sandra-green-2a9536199 Email - edofficer@irishthoracicsociety.com Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Guest Overview Overview of CF episode and Professor McKone’s background 02:15 – The Night That Changed a Career First on-call experience → choosing respiratory medicine 05:30 – Accidental Entry into Cystic FibrosisFrom “not knowing CF” to lifelong focus 09:00 – Medical Education & Leadership Pathways Role of National Specialty Director & training structures 11:30 – Rethinking Postgraduate Training in IrelandChallenges in BST → move toward broader exposure 17:00 – Building the Clinician-Educator (ICET Programme) Why medical education needs formal training pathways 23:00 – The Power of Registries From epidemiology → benchmarking → pharmacovigilance 27:30 – Registries as Regulatory Tools Landmark shift: EMA recognising CF registries for Phase IV studies 30:00 – How to Build a Registry (Practical Insights) Buy-in, minimal datasets, sustainability 32:15 – CFTR Modulators: Cost vs Value Clinical promise vs health economics reality 33:30 – The Sweat Chloride Moment (Key Turning Point) Why modulators changed everything 34:50 – Career Advice and reflections Career advice: focus, mentorship, and collaboration 36:30 – Closing Reflections References: O’Connor A. OPTIMISE: Optimisation and Progression of Training in Internal Medicine – In Search of Excellence (Interim Report). Dublin: Royal College of Physicians of Ireland; 2023. Corey M, McLaughlin FJ, Williams M, Levison H. A comparison of survival, growth, and pulmonary function in patients with cystic fibrosis in Boston and Toronto. J Clin Epidemiol. 1988;41(6):583-91. doi: 10.1016/0895-4356(88)90063-7. PMID: 3260274. Ramsey, B. W., et al. (1999). Intermittent administration of inhaled tobramycin in patients with cystic fibrosis. New England Journal of Medicine.

In this episode, we explore the complex and often overlooked world of refractory chronic cough—a condition that can significantly impact patients’ quality of life, yet is frequently misunderstood or underdiagnosed. Featuring insights from leading respiratory specialists in Ireland and the United States, we examine the latest approaches to diagnosis, management, and emerging treatments aimed at improving patient outcomes and supporting clinicians in navigating this challenging area of respiratory medicine. Our guests, Professor Lorcan McGarvey and Professor Brendan Canning—both internationally recognised leaders in respiratory medicine and cough research—share their expertise on the neurobiology of chronic cough, the substantial morbidity experienced by patients, and strategies for more effective diagnostic investigation. We also discuss current treatment options and promising therapies on the horizon, as chronic cough increasingly gains recognition as a disease in its own right rather than merely a symptom. Whether you are a clinician, researcher, or simply interested in advances in respiratory medicine, this episode offers valuable insights into a condition that is finally receiving the attention it deserves. -- Guests Professor Lorcan McGarvey Professor of Respiratory Medicine at the University of Belfast, with a focus on the neurobiology of cough. His research has significantly advanced understanding of cough hypersensitivity syndrome and contributed to the development of new therapeutic strategies. He is widely respected for his collaborative work and dedication to improving respiratory health. Professor Brendan Canning Distinguished researcher at Johns Hopkins University, specialising in the mechanisms of cough and airway diseases. His pioneering studies on neural pathways and receptor targets have helped pave the way for novel treatments in refractory chronic cough. He is recognised as a key figure in efforts to redefine chronic cough management. Hosts Dr Marissa O’Callaghan Irish-trained respiratory fellow currently undertaking a postdoctoral fellowship at Erasmus MC Rotterdam in the Netherlands. She completed her training in Respiratory and Internal Medicine, along with her PhD, in 2025. Her interests include interstitial and rare lung diseases, as well as clinical research, medical education, and innovation. She co-founded the ITS Podcast Series in June 2024 alongside Sandra Green. Dr Sandra Green Irish-trained respiratory fellow with a strong background in climate advocacy and multidisciplinary sustainability initiatives. She is co-founder of Irish Doctors for the Environment and completed an MSc in Leadership and Innovation in Healthcare at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (2023–2025). Alongside Marissa O’Callaghan, she co-founded Irish Thoracic Society Podcast Productions in 2024 to share knowledge and innovation in respiratory care.

This episode explores Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency, focusing on diagnosis, pathophysiology, and evolving treatments. Professor Gerry McElvaney discusses prevalence in Ireland, the impact on lung and liver disease, and why early detection significantly improves outcomes. Key topics include: Prevalence and genotypes (ZZ, MZ, SZ) Lung and liver disease, plus manifestations like panniculitis and vasculitis Diagnostic challenges: levels vs genotype/phenotype and need for multimodal testing Importance of early detection, smoking cessation, and targeted intervention Emerging therapies: RNA editing, gene silencing, and potential cures Screening strategies, including newborn screening and cost-benefit considerations Role of polymers in disease progression Gaps in treatment access and need for healthcare reform Professor Gerry McElvaney is a global leader in Alpha-1 research, founder of the Alpha-1 Foundation of Ireland, and Director of the Cystic Fibrosis Unit at Beaumont Hospital. His work has positioned Ireland at the forefront of Alpha-1 detection and research. Hosts: Dr Barry Harnedy – Respiratory trainee, Irish Thoracic Society Educational Officer Sandra Green – Respiratory fellow, co-founder of Irish Doctors for the Environment and ITS Podcast Productions Contact: edofficer@irishthoracicsociety.com Chapters (highlights): 00:05 Intro | 01:00 Vaping & inflammation | 02:00 Diagnosis pitfalls 03:20 Future therapies | 04:50 Screening importance | 07:00 Treatment advances 10:00 Genetics explained | 12:00 Smoking impact | 13:40 Newborn screening 16:00 Gene therapies | 17:30 Key takeaways Key message: Test comprehensively, detect early, intervene early, and remain optimistic about emerging therapies. References: Fraughen DD, et al. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2023;208:964–974. McElvaney NG, et al. Lancet Respir Med. 2017;5:51–60. Molloy K, et al. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2014;189:419–427. Franciosi AN, et al. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2020;202:73–82. Leacy EJ, et al. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2025;211:2408–2410. McElvaney OJ, et al. Med (N Y). 2022;3:233–248. Franciosi AN, et al. COPD. 2021;18:76–82.

In this episode, we explore the remarkable career of Professor Gerry McElvaney, a world-leading figure in Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency research and translational medicine. Gerry shares his journey from clinical medicine to pioneering discovery science, revealing how curiosity, perseverance, and strategic thinking can drive real-world clinical breakthroughs. From building a research laboratory from scratch to establishing Ireland’s first national targeted detection programmes, Gerry reflects on the challenges of advocacy, diagnostics, and innovation. He discusses pioneering therapeutic development, lessons from high-profile research failures, and how unexpected influences—such as Dolly the sheep—shaped scientific understanding of protein therapies and treatment design. The conversation spans early detection, personalised medicine, gene editing, and the future of genetic lung disease, while also highlighting the human side of science: mentorship, multidisciplinary teamwork, patient-centred foundations, and the power of listening to clinical questions as the spark for transformative research. This episode is a masterclass in translational medicine—connecting bedside observations to laboratory discovery and back again—offering invaluable insight for clinicians, researchers, and early-career innovators. • Transition from clinical medicine to translational research • Establishing Ireland’s first Alpha-1 diagnostic and detection programmes • Advocacy with hospitals and government agencies • Lessons from gene therapy and research setbacks • Dolly the sheep and protein half-life discoveries • Funding strategies and research sustainability • Multidisciplinary team building • Patient foundations and community engagement • Future visions: early detection, AI, and gene editing • Translating ward-round questions into research breakthroughs Professor Gerry McElvaney is a world-renowned expert in Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. He founded the Alpha-1 Foundation of Ireland and established Europe’s first national targeted detection programme. He is Director of the Cystic Fibrosis Unit at Beaumont Hospital, where his work spans cystic fibrosis, Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, infection, and immunity. His leadership has transformed Ireland into a global hub for Alpha-1 research and patient care. Dr Barry Harnedy – Respiratory specialist trainee, digital innovation advocate, and current co-Educational Officer of the Irish Thoracic Society. Sandra Green – Irish-trained respiratory fellow, climate advocate, co-founder of Irish Doctors for the Environment, MSc in Leadership & Innovation in Healthcare at Royal College of Surgeons Ireland, and co-founder of Irish Thoracic Society Podcast Productions. 00:00 Welcome & introduction 05:46 National detection & screening journey 09:34 Dolly the sheep & protein research 12:30 Translational research in action 17:21 Gender differences in CF outcomes 27:05 Alpha-1 Foundation & community impact 30:30 Future visions: AI & gene editing 33:23 Advice for early-career clinicians

In this episode, Sarah Geraghty shares clear, practical strategies for healthcare professionals who want to advance their careers with intention. From defining your personal brand to building meaningful networks, this conversation focuses on reflection, self-awareness, and strategic action as the foundations of sustainable growth in a demanding field. In this episode, we explore: -The most common mistake in healthcare career planning: an unclear personal brand. -How to define and communicate your professional brand effectively - The importance of self-awareness and aligning your actions with your brand - Practical steps to assess and close gaps between how you're perceived and how you want to be seen - Balancing technical expertise with communication skills for career progression - Customising your brand for different stakeholders and career stages - Building meaningful, high-quality relationships over superficial connections - The role of reflection and goal-setting in strategic career planning - Staying authentic while adapting your persona to different professional contexts Guest Sarah Geraghty is Head of Careers at The Communications Clinics, specialising in high-stakes interview preparation and career transitions. A seasoned communication trainer and coach, she blends practical storytelling with leadership development to help professionals articulate their value clearly and confidently. With a background in journalism and editorial work, including contributions to The Irish Times and The Journal, and experience as Assistant Editor of Gloss Magazine, Sarah brings real-world insight into performing under pressure in healthcare and beyond. Hosts Marissa O’Callaghan is an Irish-trained Respiratory Fellow currently undertaking a post-doc fellowship at Erasmus MC Rotterdam in the Netherlands. She completed Irish respiratory and internal medicine training and her PhD in 2025. Her interests include interstitial and rare lung diseases, clinical research, medical education, and medical innovation. Together with co-host Sandra Green, she founded the ITS podcast series in June 2024. Sandra Green is an Irish-trained respiratory doctor and climate advocate, and co-founder of Irish Doctors for the Environment. She holds an MSc in Leadership and Innovation in Healthcare from the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (2023–2025). With Marissa, she co-founded the Irish Thoracic Society Podcast Productions in 2024 to share knowledge, insights, and innovation in respiratory care. Chapters: 00:00 – Navigating Career Development in Healthcare 01:56 – Understanding Professional Branding 09:37 – The Importance of Communication Skills 11:52 – Practical Steps for Building and Demonstrating Your Brand 14:19 – Communicating Technical Skills and Intentional Self-Promotion 18:23 – Staying Authentic While Adapting Your Brand 21:42 – Actionable Steps for Career Advancement Resources & Links - Sarah Geraghty – LinkedIn: https://ie.linkedin.com/in/sarah-geraghty-comms - The Communication Clinic: https://www.communicationsclinic.ie/

Whether you’re preparing for a specialty registrar or consultant post—or are part of the wider respiratory multidisciplinary team—excelling in healthcare interviews requires clarity, authenticity, and strategic storytelling. In this episode, career and communication expert Sarah Geraghty shares practical guidance on standout interview preparation, avoiding common pitfalls, and clearly demonstrating your value. Prioritise evidence-based answers over generic statements Use the STAR framework (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure responses Practice speaking answers out loud rather than memorising scripts Address gaps or perceived weaknesses honestly and positively Align your unique experiences with the specific needs of the role Stay composed when faced with unfamiliar or unexpected questions Understand interviewer priorities and tailor responses accordingly Deliver a strong closing statement to reinforce suitability Leverage informal meetings and networking strategically Build a consistent professional brand and story bank for long-term success Sarah Geraghty Head of Careers at The Communications Clinic, specialising in high-stakes interview preparation and career transitions. A communication trainer and coach with a background in journalism and editorial work (Irish Times, The Journal, Assistant Editor of Gloss Magazine), Sarah brings real-world insight into performing under pressure and articulating professional value. Marissa O’Callaghan Irish-trained respiratory fellow and postdoctoral researcher at Erasmus MC, Rotterdam. Completed Irish respiratory and internal medicine training and a PhD in 2025. Interests include interstitial and rare lung diseases, clinical research, medical education, and healthcare innovation. Co-founder of the ITS Podcast Series (2024). Sandra Green Irish-trained respiratory doctor and climate advocate; co-founder of Irish Doctors for the Environment. Holds an MSc in Leadership and Innovation in Healthcare (RCSI, 2023–2025). Co-founder of Irish Thoracic Society Podcast Productions (2024). 00:00 – Introduction and episode overview 02:25 – Why speaking answers out loud matters 04:20 – Evidence over experience: thinking like an interviewer 06:15 – Building a targeted story bank 08:35 – Avoiding scripts and improving fluency 10:22 – Answering “Tell me about yourself” 13:09 – Structuring competency and scenario responses 18:03 – Addressing gaps and unfamiliar topics 24:23 – What to do when you don’t know an answer 27:49 – Demonstrating leadership and management skills 32:45 – Closing with impact 36:14 – Interview prep realities in busy clinical roles 56:55 – Differences in prep for SpR vs consultant roles 61:08 – Networking and informal meetings 63:43 – Crafting your professional brand Sarah Geraghty (LinkedIn): https://ie.linkedin.com/in/sarah-geraghty-comms The Communications Clinic: https://www.communicationsclinic.ie/ STAR Method: https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/careers-advice/interview-advice/the-star-method

This episode features an evidence-based dialogue with Professor Luke Clancy on contemporary tobacco control. The discussion critically analyses tobacco's disease burden, cessation knowledge gaps in respiratory medicine, industry evolution toward novel nicotine products, adolescent neurodevelopmental risks of nicotine addiction, and missed opportunities in tobacco control during COVID-19. Listen to learn: The key health impacts of tobacco every respiratory MDT member must know. How the tobacco industry is using tech, AI, and synthetic nicotine to addict a new generation. Why framing e-cigarettes as "95% safer" was a public health disaster. The sobering lesson COVID-19 taught us about our priorities in tobacco control. Professor Clancy's one key message for making a difference in Ireland and beyond. Guest: Professor Luke Clancy, Director General of the TobaccoFree Research Institute Ireland, and a leading figure in Irish public health policy. Hosts: Margaret Higgins & Sandra Green Chapters: 00:00 - 01:32 | Introduction & Rapid-Fire Round 01:32 - 07:09 | Framing the harms of tobacco use 07:09 - 15:10 | The Formidable Tobacco Industry: Evolution & Tactics 15:10 - 20:31 | The Problem of Nicotine Addiction: E-Cigarettes & Harm Framing 20:31 - 25:07 | The COVID-19 Wake-Up Call & Missed Opportunities 25:07 - 27:02 | Conclusion & One Key Message Show Notes: ESPAD (European School Survey Project on Alcohol and Other Drugs): The long-running study tracking substance use in Irish and European youth. HSE Smoking Cessation Service: Praised by Clancy for doing "a great job, better than in many countries." TobaccoFree Research Institute Ireland (TFRI): Professor Clancy's institute. Irish Thoracic Society: Supporters of the Breathwork podcast. This episode is sponsored by AstraZeneca with no involvement in the input or content discussed. Produced with the support of the Irish Thoracic Society. For more, or to get involved, please use the links in the podcast description.

Join hosts Dr Margaret Higgins and Dr Marissa O’Callaghan as they sit down with respiratory physiology expert Ciarán Heatley to explore the science and clinical value of Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing (CPET). Moving beyond static resting tests, this episode highlights how CPET provides dynamic, real-time insight into integrated cardiopulmonary, metabolic, and muscular responses to exercise. Ciarán, who leads the Respiratory Physiology Laboratory at Mater University Hospital Dublin, draws on over a decade of experience to explain what CPET truly measures and how it is applied in modern respiratory and cardiovascular care. The discussion covers CPET’s role in diagnosing unexplained dyspnoea, preoperative risk stratification, transplant assessment, pulmonary hypertension management, and personalised rehabilitation planning. Key Topics Covered 1. What CPET Really Measures CPET is more than a stress test—it evaluates ventilatory, cardiovascular, metabolic, and muscular responses during exercise. Core parameters discussed include VO₂ max, metabolic threshold (VT1), and respiratory compensation point (VT2), with emphasis on the distinction between aerobic capacity and functional capacity. 2. Clinical Applications CPET is valuable for: Investigating unexplained breathlessness Preoperative risk assessment for major surgery Heart and lung transplant evaluation Monitoring treatment response in pulmonary arterial hypertension Assessing pregnancy risk in congenital disease Individualised pulmonary rehabilitation planning 3. What the Test Involves A full CPET takes approximately 90 minutes, including setup, an 8–12 minute exercise phase, and interpretation. Bike ergometry is preferred clinically. Equipment includes ECG, spirometry, a metabolic mask, and continuous blood pressure monitoring. Safety protocols require two physiologists and one doctor present. 4. Interpreting CPET Data The episode breaks down: VT1 and VT2 identification Ventilatory efficiency (V̇E/V̇CO₂) Detection of V/Q mismatch and pulmonary hypertensionChronotropic incompetence and heart rate reserveVentilatory limitation vs maximum voluntary ventilationThe impact of obesity on interpretation 5. Referral Considerations Good referrals clearly state the clinical question, relevant comorbidities, and medications (especially beta-blockers). Contraindications include acute illness, recent MI, severe cognitive or mobility impairment, and significant claustrophobia. 6. CPET in Ireland CPET remains underutilised compared to the NHS, largely due to resource, training, and education gaps. However, there is growing recognition of respiratory physiology’s role within Irish healthcare. Educational Chapters 00:00 Introduction & disclaimer 03:28 What is CPET? 05:54 CPET procedure 09:32 Data interpretation 18:14 Clinical indications 22:51 Practical referrals 25:20 CPET in Ireland 29:32 Closing thoughts Further Learning ARTP CPET Course ERS Clinical Exercise Testing Course Cambridge CPET Course ATS/ACCP CPET Guidelines Wasserman’s Principles of Exercise Testing and Interpretation Guest: Ciarán Heatley, Chief II Respiratory Physiologist, Mater University Hospital Dublin Hosts: Dr Margaret Higgins & Dr Marissa O’Callaghan Disclaimer: Sponsored by AstraZeneca. Sponsor had no input into content. Always follow local clinical guidance.

Professor Luke Clancy, Director General of the Tobacco Free Research Institute Ireland and Professor at Technological University Dublin, describes how clinical observation, focused research and coalition‑building translated into major public‑health wins — the 1990 Dublin smoky‑coal ban and Ireland’s 2004 Public Health (Tobacco) Act. He reflects on the science behind excess winter mortality and air pollution, clinical innovations (bronchoscopy, COPD outreach, lung‑cancer MDTs), tobacco control advocacy, implementation lessons and leadership advice for clinicians to influence policy. Chapters 00:00 — Introduction & guest bio 01:12 — Why clinicians should turn observation into research 01:41 — Early training, influences and clinical work 04:38 — Dublin smog: excess winter mortality & particle debate 08:01 — Publishing the evidence & getting external support 08:58 — Politics & the path to the Smoky Coal ban 11:09 — Why national rollout took decades 15:36 — Tobacco control: forming ASH & building strategy 20:04 — Coalition building, unions & the 2004 Public Health (Tobacco) Act 23:21 — International influence & lessons 24:42 — Clinical innovations: bronchoscopy, COPD, lung cancer services 27:30 — Leadership lessons for clinician‑advocates 28:46 — Wrap up & next episode preview 28:56 — End Show notes • Kelly, I., Clancy, L. et al., 1984. Mortality in a general hospital and urban air pollution. ResearchGate. [online] (Accessed 14 December 2025) • Tobacco Free Research Institute Ireland (TFRI) https://www.tri.ie/ • Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) Ireland https://ash.ie/ • Framework Convention on Tobacco Control https://fctc.who.int/convention

In this episode, Irish respiratory fellows Barry and Sandra sit down with Professor Richard Costello to explore the rapidly evolving world of digital asthma care. From eosinophils and T2 inflammation to the future of smart inhalers and precision monitoring, this conversation dives deep into how technology is reshaping diagnosis, adherence, and long-term management. Professor Richard Costello discusses the challenges of diagnosing a highly variable disease, the limitations of symptom-based tools like the ACT, and why biomarkers and digital home spirometry are essential in modern asthma practice. They cover how digital devices can reveal patient behaviour, uncover hidden comorbidities, and distinguish difficult-to-treat asthma from true severe asthma. The episode also explores the emerging potential of closed-loop smart inhalers, real-time lung function monitoring, and how personalised dosing may soon become a reality. Along the way, the team unpacks overlooked side effects of chronic inhaled steroids, the importance of steroid stewardship, and how Ireland can move toward a more decentralised, digitally enabled model of asthma care. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 00:31 – Episode Overview 01:15 – Rapid-Fire Round: True or False 03:45 – The Importance of Eosinophils & T2 InflammationDr. Costello explains why identifying T2 inflammation is central to diagnosing and managing asthma. 06:15 – Challenges in Diagnosing AsthmaVariability, biomarkers, bronchial responsiveness, and why asthma remains difficult to diagnose in 2025. 09:40 – The Role of Home SpirometryHow home monitoring helps differentiate asthma from mimics and guides treatment decisions. 12:10 – Differentiating Difficult-to-Treat vs Severe AsthmaUsing digital adherence data to distinguish true severity from difficult to treat asthma. 14:20 – The Future: Smart, Closed-Loop InhalersHow inhalers may soon auto-dose based on real-time airflow and physiology. 17:00 – Understanding the User, Not Just the DeviceDigital data reveals patient behaviour patterns and barriers to adherence. 20:10 – When Symptoms Aren’t AsthmaReflux, deconditioning, cardiac disease, and other asthma mimics uncovered through monitoring. 22:20 – Hidden Side Effects of High-Dose SteroidsAdrenal suppression, cataracts, diabetes, and why symptom-based escalation can lead to elevated steroid exposure. 25:00 – The Limitations of the ACT & Symptom ScoresWhy subjective questionnaires fall short in a multimorbid population. 27:10 – Ireland’s Future: Digital Home Monitoring & Decentralised CareHow integrated hubs and digital platforms could streamline diagnosis and management. 30:00 – Looking Ahead 31:29 – Closing Remarks Guest: Professor Richard Costello Professor Richard Costello is a professor of respiratory medicine at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and a consultant at Beaumont Hospital, Dublin. He trained at RCSI, Beaumont, and Johns Hopkins University. A leading researcher in airways disease and digital respiratory health, he has published over 200 papers, holds several health innovation patents, and founded a company focused on inhaler adherence. He has served as Vice President of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland and chaired the European Respiratory Society Educational Council, receiving the ERS Educational Award for his contributions to respiratory medicine. Hosts: Dr Barry Harnedy & Dr Sandra Green Dr Barry Harnedy is a respiratory specialist trainee in Ireland. He graduated from National University of Ireland Galway. He is the current Irish Thoracic Society co Educational Officer. He is passionate about digital innovation and airways assessment. Dr Sandra Green is a respiratory specialist trainee in Ireland. She is the current Irish Thoracic Society Sustainability Officer. As a founder of Irish Doctors for the Environment she is interested in healthcare sustainability and planetary health.

We’re back in the studio with Professor Richard Costello, exploring his vision for the future of digital health and what it takes to set up a medical device to life. He discusses how his experience in digital monitoring led him to a deeper understanding of human behaviour. 00:00 Intro and episode overview 00:41 Introduction to Professor Richard Costello 02:13 Developing an interest in digital health 04:49 Developing patents in digital health 08:37 Maintaining motivation 10:17 Challenges setting up a medical device 13:24 Vision for digital health 16:26 Restructuring healthcare to be more inclusive using digital technology 16:49 Data ownership in digital health 17:33 Portals of communication and the electronic healthcare record 19:44 GDPR in digital health 21:29 Funding structures for digital subscriptions and online platforms 23:19 Inequality and inclusion in the digital era 23:59 The carbon footprint of digital health Guest - Professor Richard Costello Professor Richard Costello is a professor of respiratory medicine at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and a consultant at Beaumont Hospital, Dublin. He trained at RCSI, Beaumont, and Johns Hopkins University. A leading researcher in airways disease and digital respiratory health, he has published over 200 papers, holds several health innovation patents, and founded a company focused on inhaler adherence. He has served as Vice President of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland and chaired the European Respiratory Society Educational Council, receiving the ERS Educational Award for his contributions to respiratory medicine. Hosts - Dr Barry Harnedy & Dr Sandra Green Dr Barry Harnedy is a respiratory specialist trainee in Ireland. He graduated from National University of Ireland Galway. He is the current Irish Thoracic Society co Educational Officer. He is passionate about digital innovation and airways assessment. Dr Sandra Green is a respiratory specialist trainee in Ireland. She is the current Irish Thoracic Society Sustainability Officer. As a founder of Irish Doctors for the Environment she is interested in healthcare sustainability and planetary health.

In this episode, Dr Marissa O’Callaghan and Dr Sandra Green host Dr. Augusta Beach and Dr. Laura Fabbri, both Early Career Representatives of the European Respiratory Society. They discuss their journeys to becoming representatives, the responsibilities of their roles, and the importance of networking and engagement within the society. This conversation also focuses on the upcoming Congress, including key sessions, tips for poster presentations, and social events, emphasizing the value of participation and proactive involvement for early career members. Keywords European Respiratory Society, Early Career Representatives, Networking, Congress, ILD, COPD, Research, Eosinophils, Asthma, Clinical Trials

In this episode, Dr Marissa O'Callaghan and Dr Sandra Green host Dr. Margaret Higgins and Dr. Barry Harnedy, the new Educational Officers of the Irish Thoracic Society, to discuss the upcoming ERS Congress in Amsterdam. They share insights on how to strategies to get the most out of your conference attendance, the importance of networking, and opportunities for pursuing fellowships. The conversation also includes a fun quiz about the ERS Congress and practical tips for first-time attendees. Keyword / Tags ERS Congress, networking, fellowship, pulmonology, education, conference tips, respiratory health, international collaboration, poster sessions, early career

In this episode, Aisling McGowan takes us through the full journey of lung function testing — from referral to patient walkthrough — covering contraindications, the patient experience, and interpretation using the new GLI Guidelines.

Join us in this interview with Aisling McGowan, Chief 2 Physiologist at Connolly Hospital, Dublin, whose 34-year career in respiratory and sleep diagnostics has combined clinical expertise, education, and leadership. We explore the role of a respiratory physiologist, the varied training paths into the profession, career progression, opportunities in education and leadership, and the challenges and rewards of a career in respiratory physiology in Ireland. 01:10 Describing the role of the respiratory physiologist 03:13 The training pathway for respiratory physiology 06:32 Specialising in respiratory physiology 08:10 Postgraduate entry to respiratory physiology 08:50 Career progression; staff grade to senior to chief one and chief two 12:10 Advanced practice in respiratory physiology 13:53 Changes to the role if advanced practice came into effect 14:45 Opportunities abroad for Irish trainees 15:50 The pathway for internationally trained respiratory physiologists 16:20 Popularity of respiratory physiology degree courses 17:09 Challenges in recruitment and retention 17:50 Additional postgraduate training opportunities: Master of Science 20:10 Staff shortages and workloads 21:45 The impact of integrated community care hubs on tertiary care staffing 22:26 Vision for lung function diagnostics in the integrated care hub 27:18 What keeps you engaged?

This week, we speak to Dr. Laura Gleeson again—this time about pleural effusions. Our conversation covers all the pleural effusion basics, plus the nuances of radiology, when to insert a chest drain, and how to monitor it once it’s in place. Chapters: 01:05 – Rapid fire round 04:23 – Pleural effusion intro 05:30 – Symptoms at presentation with pleural effusion 06:40 – Interpreting a white-out on CXR 07:20 – When to do further radiology/imaging 08:35 – CT pre or post chest drain insertion? 10:25 – Light’s criteria – can it always be trusted? 12:00 – What tests to send on your pleural fluid sample 14:15 – Chest drain indications 16:35 – Monitoring your chest drain 21:00 – Flushing the chest drain 22:20 – How much fluid to drain 25:00 – Removing the chest drain 27:10 – Empyema management 30:10 – Fibrinolysis 31:55 – Following up your pleural patients 34:10 – Take-home points Show notes & resources: Light’s criteria – MDCalc calculator | CHEST Clinics article MIST trials – MIST2 – NEJM | MIST3 – ATS Journals