Shows
Still I Rise PodcastRebuilding, Representation and Finding What MattersIn 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 mat...
2026-01-2949 min
Creating The CurveE39: How Inclusion Creates Better Teams, Better Decisions, and Better Results with Orla McKeatingIn this episode of Creating the Curve, Anna is joined by Inclusion Educator, writer, and speaker Orla McKeating, founder of Still I Rise Stories. Together, they explore what inclusion actually looks like in practice, beyond policies, buzzwords, and tick-box exercises. Orla shares how storytelling creates safer, more human spaces for difficult conversations, particularly around race, neurodiversity, identity, disability, and belonging. The conversation moves from childhood and education into workplaces and entrepreneurship, unpacking why culture is so hard to define, why psychological safety matters more than perks, and how founders and leaders can unintentionally exclude people...
2026-01-251h 08
Still I Rise PodcastWhat’s Still Missing in Children’s Books…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 chil...
2025-12-1156 min
Still I Rise PodcastEpisode 15 Ian Eagleton - Storytelling, Resilience & RepresentationIntroduction: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 publicat...
2025-11-2154 min
Still I Rise PodcastEpisode 14 - Tura Artura(1)🇮🇪 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 🌍 T...
2025-10-2954 min
Still I Rise PodcastLeon Diop - Episode 13(1)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 evo...
2025-09-2557 minStill I Rise PodcastEpisode 12 - 🌸 Burnout, Motherhood & Resilience 🌸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 🧩 build...
2025-09-1041 minStill I Rise PodcastTeaching, Racism & Risk: A Conversation with Baisat Alawiye from Minority Teachers Ireland🎙️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 ins...
2025-08-2754 min
Still I Rise PodcastEpisode 10 - Jay Chambers: Poetry, Legacy, and Restorative JusticeEpisode 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.
2025-08-1348 min
Still I Rise PodcastEpisode 9: Live Streamed Novena, Irresponsible Parenting & Spreadsheet DopamineIn 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...
2025-07-3038 minStill I Rise PodcastEpisode 6: Gerry Moran: Surviving Ireland’s Industrial SchoolsIn 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 hi...
2025-07-1159 minStill I Rise PodcastEpisode 6: Irish Black Heroes, Unpopular Opinion & Wakes (with Elliot)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...
2025-06-2354 minStill I Rise PodcastEpisode 6: Punchlines & Pride: Tommy McCarthy on Comedy, Culture & the RingIn 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...
2025-06-0453 minStill I Rise PodcastEpisode 5: Single-Parenting, Holidays and BusinessIn 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.
2025-05-2150 minStill I Rise PodcastEpisode 4: Small town boy, Hollywood Dreams. Love, Shame & Role Models with GERRY LAVZ
2025-05-0750 min2025-04-251h 03Still I Rise PodcastEpisode 2: Raising Boys & Survival of the Friendliest with Uju AsikaStorytelling, 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.
2025-04-1051 minStill I Rise PodcastEpisode 1: Identity, Irishness & Storytelling – with ElliotEpisode 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.
2025-03-2658 min
Chik ChatRace Equality In Northern IrelandThis week on the Chik Chat Podcast, I was joined by Orla and had an amazing conversation about Race Equality in Northern Ireland and the world in general.Orla McKeating, whose pronouns are she/her, is an EDI (Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) Leader, Entrepreneur, and Speaker from Belfast, Northern Ireland.In 2019, Orla founded Still I Rise Diversity Storytelling, an initiative focused on providing learning through storytelling sessions and workshops for children and young people, as well as training for adults and educators. The platform addresses important issues often absent from traditional storybooks...
2024-09-0549 min
Every L PodcastEp 48 | Hair, Heritage, and Healing: The Power of Representation & Allyship feat. Orla McKeatingI welcome back the fantastic and passionate Orla McKeating as today’s guest. Together, we delve into Orla's experiences and discuss topics that shed light on the importance of representation, allyship, and the challenges faced by single parents. Here are three interesting topics covered in this episode:
The Power of Representation
Allyship and Speaking Up
Navigating the Challenges of Mixed-Race Hair
I hope that today's conversation inspires you to reflect on the power of representation, the importance of embracing our unique identities, and to take action as an ally in creating a more inclusive world
...
2023-07-2457 min
Every L PodcastEp 48 | TRAILER | Hair, Heritage, and Healing: The Power of Representation & Allyship feat. Orla McKeatingFull episode goes live on Monday 24th July 2023 7am BST
If you want to connect and see exclusive content follow me on IG, Tiktok, Twitter and FB: @EveryLPodcast. If you would also like to show your support please follow, comment, review and share this podcast as it will help others to hear some of these amazing stories
2023-07-2102 min
The #DiverseEd PodcastEpisode 3 – Orla McKeatingIn this episode, Nick Kitchener-Bentley and Yamina Bibi talk to Orla McKeating about the protected characteristic of Religion and Belief. Series 1 of the #DiverseEd Podcast has 10 episodes. In each episode, our co-hosts will interview 1 contributor from each of the 10 chapters of Diverse Educators: A Manifesto. Each conversation will:Reflect on how they have found and used their voiceDiscuss how their identity shapes them as an educatorShare the challenges they have had to navigate on their journeyIdentify the changes they would like to see in the school systemVisit DiverseEducators.co.uk for more.
2022-09-2725 min
Every L PodcastEp 13 | Breaking Down Taboos and Finding Support after Miscarriage feat. Orla McKeating
In this episode of Every L Podcast, Orla shares her story of loss and grief. As a single mother who was in a committed relationship, Orla's plans for the future were shattered when her partner left and she experienced a miscarriage. Orla shares her experience of feeling isolated and unsupported, but ultimately finding comfort in therapy and developing healthy coping mechanisms. This poignant episode shines a light on the need for normalising therapy and the power of storytelling. Don't forget to leave a review and follow the podcast on your preferred platform!
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2022-08-2956 min
AJ Bell Money MattersHow to start saving for kidsOn this episode of the Money Matters podcast Danni and Laura are talking kids and money. Many people want to give their children a savings cushion, to help them with everything from education costs to buying a car or house. Laura catches up with Charlene Young, AJ Bell’s pensions and savings expert, about how to navigate all the options from ISAs to pensions, and how investing little and often can really add up by their 18th birthday.
They also talk about how to help children develop a healthy relationship with money whatever their age and Danni ch...
2022-08-0847 min
DEEP SH!TDEEPSH!T - VIRGINIAMENDEZI was joined by the co-founder of THE FEMINIST SHOP Virginia Mendez Meson and we chat about her upbringing in Madrid, why she started The Feminist Shop, how she spreads the F Word and what her future holds!
2020-05-1647 min
DEEP SH!TDEEPSH!T - BoundariesWelcome back to my isolation series where today Im talking about Setting & Keeping Boundaries to build trusted and valuable relationships and live your life in a safe, respectful way! Enjoy!
2020-05-0809 min
Men Are NutsOrla McKeating TedX Speaker, Diversity & Anti Racism Campaigner talks about racism and equalityOrla mcKeating is a anti racism campaigner she is also training for international accreditation life coaching specialising in coaching women from the BAME community. She is also a mum bringing up her son of colour in a country that is predominately white. After leaving Belgium and coming back to Belfast Northern Ireland she found that racism was rife amongst the community. She also felt that she would be frowned upon for being a single parent. Orla was struggling mentally to cope with work/life. She suddenly found herself on the verge of a breakdown. Listen to her empowering story
2020-04-2954 minDEEP SH!TDEEPSH!T - SingleParentLockdownWelcome back to my isolation series and today I'm sharing my 6 tips on Coping as a Single Parent during Lockdown!
2020-04-2412 minDEEP SH!TDEEP SH!T - Coping with UncertaintyI share 6 tips on Coping with Uncertinty during these challenging times.
While we are faced with uncertainty in so many areas of life - is it the only really constant after all - I offer some guidance on developing the tools to cope with uncertainty today and in the future!
2020-04-1509 minDEEP SH!TDEEP SH!T - Anxiety in IsolationI check in with my own thoughts on anxiety in isolation for my isolation series and share 6 tips on what has helped me and others during this Global Pandemic and isolation.
2020-04-0809 min
Rebel with a CauseDear White People with Orla McKeatingHear from Orla McKeating, TEDx speaker, Entrepreneur, Coach and super mum to address all things race, white privilege and being a rebel. Authentic, passionate and un-filtered conversation.
2020-04-0827 minDEEP SH!TDEEP SH!T - White PrivilegeThe second podcast in the Isolation Series and I share 6 ways we can show up and using our White Privilege to work towards true equality and racial justice.
This starts with us. The time is now.
2020-04-0210 minDEEP SH!TDEEP SH!T- Self BeliefWelcome to the new DEEP SH!T Isolation Series where I'm sharing musing and tips on personal hurdles I've overcome!
Today - first in the series - SELF BELIEF!
2020-03-2510 min
DEEP SH!TDEEPSH!T - JordanAdetunji20 year old Jordan Adetunji is Belfast based, London born Irish Hip Hop artist who raises the volumes on every day challenges, celebrates purpose, passion and his own journey! As seen at Electric Picnic, Stendhal Festival, BBC, RTE, Dazed, Finalist in the BBC Music Prize 2019, Urban Music Awards ‘One to Watch’ and now DEEP SH!T podcast! Plus raising the volume on Irish Hip Hop in Belfast!
We chat about ambition, goals, focus, purpose, role models, polyester pillows and ALOT of Kanye West!
2019-11-0843 min
DEEP SH!TDEEPSH!T - AnnaLeckeyFINALLY got my amazingly inspiring friend and activist Anna Leckey on to DEEP SH!T … this is such an important conversation for the climate we’re in right now in Northern Ireland!
We talk about women’s rights, the Repeal movement in the South, pro-choice, anti-choice views and why human rights are starting to happen in our awesome country!
All the chats as well on making NI more a more plastic free and eco friendly place one sustainable step at a time and my FAV pastime (after porn star martini’s & talking) HOT YOGA!
Keep your eyes peeled for Anna’s s...
2019-08-1600 minDEEP SH!TDEEPSH!T - NadiaSayersI am joined by Mental Health Advoate, Miss Universe Finalist, Blogger and all round amazing person Nadia Sayers.
She walks us through her mental health journey, her struggles with an eating disorder and how she how she uses her platform as a successful blogger and model to raise awareness in mental health issues and her own work in suicide prevention.
2019-08-0600 minDEEP SH!TDEEP SH!T - Episode 6 - Bybit AreketaBybit Areketa - founder of the Mental and Emotional Wellness Trust Zimbabwe shares her story of family love and values, over coming challenges, male influence and chats about her documentary!
"Let's learn together, let's heal together!"
2019-07-2200 minDEEP SH!TDEEPSH!T - VictoriaMcCallumVictoria McCallum, self confessed gladiator of careers chats about her own journey, imposter syndrome, social expectations, failure and saying no!
2019-07-1500 minDEEP SH!TDEEP SH!T - Episode 9 - Astra McNichollI chat to Astra McNicholl co-founder of Itty Bitty Book Co about her experiences growing up moving around the world, practising empathy and compassion and how she got there and setting up her business with her husband Al!
2019-07-0800 minDEEP SH!TDEEP SH!T - Episode 7 - Vivian McKinnonCatching up with Vivian from HydroEase Flotation Centre in Belfast. We chat flotation therapy, addiction, rejection and connection
2019-06-1700 minDEEP SH!TDEEP SH!T - Episode 3 - Johnny RinaldoDEEP SH!T - Episode 3 - Johnny Rinaldo by Orla McKeating
2019-02-2500 minDEEP SH!TDEEP SH!T - Episode 5 - Gemma Fitzner HuttonDEEP SH!T - Episode 5 - Gemma Fitzner Hutton by Orla McKeating
2019-01-1400 minDEEP SH!TDEEP SH!T - Episode 4 - Barbara WheartyDEEP SH!T - Episode 4 - Barbara Whearty by Orla McKeating
2018-12-1600 minDEEP SH!TDEEP SH!T - Episode 5 - Matt CavanWe chat with Matthew Cavan about living with HIV, his Drag Life with Cherry OnTop and his experience growing up in Northern Ireland!
2018-12-0100 minDEEP SH!TDEEP SH!T - Episode 2 - Rebecca WattersonRebecca is founder and head Melter at HappyIs.co!
We chat all about finding our version of happiness, being kind to ourselves & each other and being connected. She hosts events, seminars, one to ones and more!
2018-11-2100 min2018-11-2100 min