Some stories don’t just stay with you - they shift how you see the work we do.

I sat down with two incredible Occupational Therapists and lecturers at Ulster University: Anna O’Loughlin and Clare McMonagle (also an Equine Specialist OT) for a conversation that was equal parts science, soul, and lived experience.

We talked about real lives - about Ruby, whose journey with cerebral palsy took an unexpected turn the day she met a horse. About the moment when Anna’s Aunt Sarah was finally able to lift her head thanks to a gadget invented by the family.

This episode is about the moments that matter. The kind that remind you why you do this work in the first place.

🎧 Episode 7: A deep dive into purpose-driven practice - from early intervention to the power of movement, motivation, and meaningful connection.

If you work in therapy, education, or just care deeply about dignity and possibility - this one’s for you.

🎧 Watch / listen now:

🎥Also on YouTube: ⁠⁠https://youtu.be/AV9n8my-gnY

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I’d love to hear what you think — your feedback helps shape future episodes. And if you know a healthcare professional with a powerful story to share, I’d love to connect.

Drop me a email anytime at ⁠⁠martina.tierney@seatingmatters.com⁠⁠.

Thanks so much for tuning in and supporting the show!

⁠Martina

Recorded in early 2025, we learn about Norma Findlay's fascinating work in the medico-legal field and her passion for postural management.

“I have yet to find another profession that’s truly this holistic.” 💬

In this powerful moment from The Martina Tierney Podcast, Norma Jane Findlay reflects on the unique and vital role of Occupational Therapists — especially when it comes to understanding the whole person.

From home adaptations to energy conservation, from 24-hour care needs to what really brings joy and meaning to someone’s life — OTs go beyond tasks.

They ask:

🧠 “How can we help you preserve energy… so you still have some left for the things that matter most?”

💡 It's not just about what you can do, but how you live well doing it.

Watch the full episode now and rediscover the true power of OT.

Also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/tL58gQclUtU

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Look out for the Bonus Episode 6, Part 1 which is what happened when the cameras stopped rolling... or so they thought!

This special conversation between Martina and guest Norma Findlay, was after they had finished recording their podcast episode in early 2025. They both thought the cameras and mics had stopped filming and had a really relaxed chat.

They talked openly about their special connection, about vibrational energy and what they believe happens after a loved one passes from this life.

There were goosebump moments and tears of joy! We felt the conversation was too insightful not to publish, so we're really grateful to both of them for agreeing to share this private chat.

***

I’d love to hear what you think — your feedback helps shape future episodes. And if you know a healthcare professional with a powerful story to share, I’d love to connect.

Drop me a email anytime at ⁠⁠⁠martina.tierney@seatingmatters.com⁠⁠⁠.

Thanks so much for tuning in and supporting the show!

⁠⁠Martina

NOTE FROM THE EDITOR: This is what happened when the cameras stopped rolling... or so they thought!

This special conversation between Martina and guest Norma Findlay, was after they had finished recording their podcast episode in early 2025. They both thought the cameras and mics had stopped filming and had a really relaxed chat.

They talked openly about their special connection, about vibrational energy and what they believe happens after a loved one passes from this life.

There were goosebump moments and tears of joy! We felt the conversation was too insightful not to publish, so we're really grateful to both of them for agreeing to share this private chat.

Look out for Episode 6, Part 2 which is the main podcast recorded in early 2025, where we learn about Norma Findlay's fascinating work in the medico-legal field and her passion for postural management.

***

I’d love to hear what you think — your feedback helps shape future episodes. And if you know a healthcare professional with a powerful story to share, I’d love to connect.

Drop me a email anytime at ⁠⁠martina.tierney@seatingmatters.com⁠⁠.

Thanks so much for tuning in and supporting the show!

⁠Martina