ISESA Podcast

Everest: The Journey Begins

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

In this super episode podcast, Bruce speaks with Adam Sweeney, a 22-year-old adventurer from Waterford. Adam is preparing to begin a two-month expedition with the objective of becoming the youngest Irish person to summit Mount Everest.

The discussion tracks his progression through increasingly demanding high-altitude environments, analyzing his experiences on Aconcagua in Argentina (6,961m) and the technically formidable Ama Dablam in Nepal (6,812m). We detail the physiological realities of acclimatization, the acute effects of hypoxia, and his specific strategies for managing nutrition and hydration when performing at altitude. Plus Bruce and Adam discuss the the psychological resilience required to navigate objective hazards like the Khumbu Icefall and the physiological breakdown that occurs within the "Death Zone" above 8,000m.

You can follow Adam's progress via his social media channels:

Adam on Instagram

Adam on TikTok

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How to Fund a Sport Science Postgrad in the USA

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Bruce sits down with Jonny McKenna, a recent South East Technological University (SETU) graduate who crossed the Atlantic to complete his MSc in Mental Performance at Ithaca College, New York. Jonny & Bruce go for a deep dive into the realities of pursuing graduate studies and building a sport science career in the USA.

Serving as a natural follow-up to our previous discussions on US graduate studies (season 02 episode 02), Jonny shares the proactive steps he took to secure his dual roles as a Teaching Assistant and Strength & Conditioning Coach which are funding his Masters. He proves that putting yourself out there, leveraging your network, and simply "asking the question" can unlock incredible career opportunities.

So, whether you are an undergraduate mapping out your future, a recent graduate looking for international opportunities, or a practitioner interested in the intersection of S&C and sport psychology, this episode is packed with highly relevant, actionable advice.

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2026 Conference Update

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 10:29:28 GMT

Preparations for the 2026 ISESA conference are well underway and today, Ciara Sinnott-O'Connor, e chair of this year's conference team brings us an update what we can expect and look forward to. Ciara outlines the shift in focus for this year's event, teasing us with potential keynotes on AI in sport, performing under pressure, and "bad science," while emphasizing that discipline-specific content will come from the attendees through symposia, workshops, and panel discussions. We also discuss opportunities for early-career researchers and students to present their work, the importance of networking events like the social evening at Sean's Bar, and encourage listeners to submit their proposals before the March 4th deadline.

https://isesa.ie/2026-conference

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The Exercise Effect: Closing the 20-Year Mortality Gap in Mental Health

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

People with severe mental illness face a staggering 15–20 year life expectancy gap compared to the general population. This is a scandal of inequality, largely driven by preventable physical health issues.

In this episode, Bruce sits down with Dr. Evan Matthews, researcher at SETU Waterford and co-author of the recent Lancet Psychiatry Commission report on lifestyle interventions in mental health care. They discuss the evidence behind the "Exercise Effect" pilot—a project integrating physical activity directly into mental health services—and how recent TU Rise funding is helping to drive this impactful research forward.

We are also joined by Sarah Dempsey, an Integrated Exercise Practitioner working on the ground in Wexford. Sarah shares the reality of helping service users take that first, daunting step into a gym, the strategy behind her staff "Lunch Crunch" classes, and the transformative effect the program has on lives.

Including powerful testimonials from service users Dylan, Sheila, and Shirley, this episode is a moving testament to the power of bridging the gap between physical and mental healthcare.

Topics:

The "Scandal" of the 15–20 year mortality gap.
Why the "Exercise Effect" integrates practitioners into clinical teams.
The difference between "Intrinsic" and "Autonomous" motivation.
Real-world success stories from Wexford.

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12hrs. 37mins. 100miles

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Most of us would struggle to drive a car for 12.5 hours without losing concentration. Caitriona Jennings ran for that long—averaging a blistering 7:34/mile pace to shatter the 100-mile World Record. In this episode, Bruce sits down with the 2012 Olympian and new ISESA board member to discuss one of the most remarkable feats in Irish endurance history. We explore how she balances her C Suite role (Vice President in Aircraft Trading) with elite ultra-running, often flying straight from a race finish line back to the office. We also revisit the heartbreak of London 2012, discussing how finishing last on a stress fracture became the foundation for the mental steel required to excel in the ultra-running world.

Key Topics Discussed:

The World Record: Breaking down the 12:37:04 run at Tunnel Hill—pacing strategy, fueling with high-carb gels, and the mental battle of the "figure of eight" course
The "Dual Career": How Caitriona manages 100-mile training weeks while holding down a high-pressure corporate role in aviation leasing
Resilience: Why the trauma of London 2012 ultimately prolonged her career and prepared her for the pain cave of ultra-running
Training Philosophy: How a mature athlete manages volume, avoids injury, and uses the weekend for "compounding" long runs
What's Next: The hunt for the "Green Number" at the Comrades Marathon 2026.

Links & Resources:

ISESA Website

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Beyond 20/20: Why "Perfect" Vision isn't Enough in Elite Sport

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

We spend hours training the heart and the muscles, but what about the primary sensor that drives every decision an athlete makes? In this episode, Bruce is joined by Dr. Fraser Horn, Professor at Pacific University College of Optometry and a world-renowned expert in Sports Vision. Having worked with Nike and collegiate athletics, Fraser challenges the idea that "20/20" is the gold standard, explaining why elite athletes often operate at 20/15 or better and why 20/20 might actually mean you react slower on the pitch

We discuss the difference between "hardware" and "software," the critical role of contrast sensitivity when tracking a sliotar against a grey Irish sky, and how nutrition acts as "internal sunglasses" for performance. Fraser also breaks down concussion management, explaining why a "blown pupil" is a myth and how to use "resistance training for the brain" to improve anticipation.

Key Topics Discussed:

The 20/20 Myth: Why 20/20 is just "average" and how better visual acuity buys you reaction time
The Sliotar in the Sky: Understanding why contrast sensitivity is key for Irish field sports
Resistance Training for the Brain: How stroboscopic glasses force the brain to anticipate movement, and how to mimic this using simple tennis ball or bean bag drills
Concussion & Baselines: Why every athlete needs a baseline eye exam (pupils & tracking) and the prevalence of visual symptoms post-concussion
Travel & Screen Fatigue: Why athletes should consider "Comfort Readers" or specific contact lenses to reduce stress during travel and film review
Nutrition: The role of carotenoid supplements (Lutein/Zeaxanthin) in improving processing speed and contrast

Links & Resources:

Dr. Fraser Horn’s Profile
Sports Vision Pros: https://www.sportsvisionpros.com/
Nutritional Research Centre Ireland (NRCI)

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Sport Science 3.0: The Return of Heart Rate

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT

With the 2025 season approaching, Bruce chats with Dr. Shane Malone (TU Dublin) about all things pre-season for the team sports. We discuss Shane’s brand new research (co-authored with Martin Buchheit) which suggests we may have become too reliant on GPS, marking the return of heart rate as a critical monitoring tool. Shane reveals why the traditional aerobic slog might be working for your midfielders but failing your explosive corner-forwards due to diminishing returns. Also discussed:

The New Rules: How the "solo-and-go" and the 2-point arc might spike high-speed running demands this year
Sport Science 3.0: Why combining Internal Load (Heart Rate) with External Load (GPS) is the future
The Research: A breakdown of the 2025 "Dose-Response" paper—Endurance vs. Hybrid vs. Speed profiles
Practical Coaching: How to stop the "January Spike" in injuries and why you need to treat your speed merchants differently

References:

Malone, S. & Buchheit, M. (2025). Dose-Response of Heart Rate Load and Performance in Gaelic Football.

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More Than Just a Kickabout: Transforming Men's Health via Social Football

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode, we explore the powerful intersection of social enterprise, sport and exercise science and health promotion. Steve O'Connell, founder of The Football Cooperative, and Dr. Paula Carroll, Senior Lecturer at SETU and Principal Researcher on the Football Co-operative projects join me in studio to chat about their amazing collaboration. We discuss how a simple game of pick up football has evolved into an award-winning social enterprise. We dig into the reality of recreational football as a tool for physical and mental health and Paula breaks down the incredible data behind it, including the staggering €17.60 social return on investment for every €1 spent.

Our talking point include:

Where it all began: How Steve turned a personal need for flexible football into a nationwide movement
The research: Paula explains how they measure "social value" and validate the impact of community sport
Wide ranging benefits: not just for men's health, but family, relationships and the wider community
Scaling and developing: how the research has helped secure funding and scale a grassroots idea into a national project

You can find out more here:

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Science Week 2025: Why Choose Sport and Exercise Science?

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 12:23:09 GMT

This episode is a re-release from last year to coincide with Science Week 2025. Our vision at the Irish Sport and Exercise Science Association is to enhance the health, well-being and performance of individuals through sport and exercise sciences. With that vision in mind and looking to the future, we thought it would be a good idea to put out an episode aimed at anyone who might want to know more about studying sport and exercise science - from current secondary students, to parents, teachers and guidance counselors or someone considering a return to 3rd level education - this is the episode for you. In this short form episode, we will give you the broad strokes of what studying sport and exercise science at 3rd level is all about, what the university experience might entail and importantly, what career opportunities are out there for graduates.

Sharing this episode is particularly important. We would love to reach as many schools, guidance counsellors, teachers, students and parents as possible, so please send this episode to anyone you think might be interested!

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Standing in the Hall of Fame

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Lynne Cantwell is inductee number 174 in to the World Rugby Hall of Fame. With 86 appearances in green, Lynne is still Ireland's most-capped women's rugby player. In an international career that spanned 13 years, she appeared at no less than four Rugby World Cups and one Rugby Sevens World Cup. As a player, Lynne was integral to Ireland’s most iconic achievements, including their 2013 Six Nations Grand Slam and their magnificent victory over New Zealand at the 2014 Women’s Rugby World Cup. Now working as the Head of Women’s Strategy for the IRFU, Lynne continues to be a guiding light in the Women's Game.

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Racing Ahead: My Career Fast Track

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Niamh O’Brien is the Lead Performance Analyst for the Irish Para Swimming Team. She has just returned from working at the World Para Swimming Championships in Singapore where the Irish Team secured an astonishing 7 medals. Niamh is a really interesting guest - she is a relative newcomer in the world of high performance sport and only recently graduated from her undergrad in Sport Science and Health in TUD. This hasn't stopped her from making a strong impression on those around her which has resulted in her capitalizing on all opportunities and becoming somewhat of a trailblazer in her own career. In this episode we discuss the work of a performance analyst and Niamh's impressive career trajectory, making it of particular interest to current undergraduate and postgraduate students who are wondering how to get a foothold in their own career.

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Getting Marathon Ready with DCU

Sun, 28 Sep 2025 04:00:00 GMT

In this episode, expert from DCU's School of Health and Human Performance present their take on how best to prepare for the Dublin Marathon. Dr. Brendan Egan discusses nutrition Dr. David Nolan extolls the virtues of strength & conditioning for runners, Dr. Aoife Bourke chats about injury prevention when training for a marathon and Dr. Anna Donnla O'Hagan talks about Psychology when Racing.

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Elite Athlete Panel

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 18:47:04 GMT

In our latest episode, we bring you our elite athlete discussion panel from the 2025 ISESA Conference, held in SETU Waterford. Tiarnán O'Donnell (Paralympic Rowing), Laura Treacy (Cork Camogie) and Tom Barr (Athletics) share stories and insights which highlight the impact sport & exercise science has had on their career. This session was really well received by the conference delegates so if you weren't able to attend or just want to hear it again, make sure to tune in now!

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Bitesize: The ISESA Conference Update

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT

The Past, Present and Future of Sport & Exercise Sciences Research and Applied Practice in Ireland.

Pillars of the conference programme content:

Empowering athlete populations
The realities of theory to applied practice
Shaping Careers and Innovation in Contemporary Sport and Exercise

What to expect:

Reflective presentations from world renowned keynote speakers, with actionable take home messages
Topic specific panel discussions with academics, coaches, high performance leaders, athletes
Opportunities for students and professionals to present their research
Networking opportunities including planned social activity
Awards for presentations and recognition of contribution to our sport science community

Location:

SETU Main Campus, Cork Road Campus, Cork Road, Waterford, X91 K0EK

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Athletic Therapy in Ireland

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT

In the latest episode we bring you a double feature into the world of Athletic Rehabilitation Therapy in Ireland (ARTI). First, we have a chat with the President of ARTI to discuss the organization's crucial role in shaping the professional standards for athletic therapists in Ireland, how practitioners gain accreditation, and the future of the profession in Ireland. Then, we have a fascinating, in-depth conversation with ARTI certified athletic therapist Ryan Alexander, who works at the renowned Sports Surgery Clinic (SSC) under Professor Brian Devitt. He provides a awe inspiring glimpse into the daily application of athletic therapy in a high-performance environment, offering practical insights into assessment, rehabilitation, and the collaborative work within a leading sports medicine facility.

ARTI Website

World Congress Website

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Jenny Coe: The Athlete's Alchemist

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 04:00:00 GMT

In this episode I catch up with Jenny Coe who is the Performance and Well-Being Lead for the women’s professional football leagues in the UK. This includes to two top tiers - the Barclays Women’s Super league & Barclays Women’s Championship. Over the last five years, women’s football has grown in popularity, visibility, recognition and financial success. Average match attendance in the top women’s football league in the UK has tripled in the last three seasons bringing with it increased sponsorship, media investment and unique experience for the professional players. Jenny’s role helps to ensure that the clubs involved have the knowledge, tools and personnel to support the players holistically, allowing them to reach peak performance on the pitch. Jenny’s own journey has been far from linear, but she has combined all her personal, professional, education and sporting experience into a special skillset that uniquely qualifies her for this role.

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Stop feeling S.H.I.T.

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Sleep and recovery with Peter Tierney

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Bitesize - Rugby Injury Surveillance PhD

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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Digital Health and Hockey: The Dual Careers of Alison Keogh

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Alison Keogh is an Assistant Professor in Digital HealthCare Innovation at Trinity College Dublin where she is enjoying a very successful and productive career as an academic researcher. In parallel to this, Alison has also risen through the ranks in hockey officiating and is also an International Hockey Umpire, who has taken charge at hundreds of matches at the highest level, including the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Tune into the episode to hear fascinating insights into Alison's dual careers!

Find us online:

Irish Sport & Exercise Association: LinkedIn and Instagram

Bruce: LinkedIn and Instagram

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Míde and the Women in Sport and Exercise Conference

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode we bring you with us to the Inaugural Women in Sport and Exercise Science Conference that was held in Glasson Lakehouse in Athlone at the end of January. The event was organized by Míde

Research is an all-island, cross-institute consortium set up to conduct high-quality interdisciplinary research to ultimately improve the health, wellbeing, participation and performance of women and girls in and through, sport, exercise, and physical activity. It was a really fantastic event, with an enthusiastic audience, excellent speakers and a real buzz of energy and opportunity in the space. Tune in to find out more!

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Bitesize: The ISESA Conference

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Tune into this bitesize episode to hear the exciting news about the inaugural Irish Sport and Exercise Science Association Annual Conference. Bringing together the entire sport and exercise science community in Ireland and with content and sessions aimed at undergrads, postgrads, practitioners and academics there is something for everyone and not to be missed!

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A Knockout Decision: How Quitting Rugby Led To A Boxing Comeback

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 05:00:00 GMT

At just 25 years of age, Judy Bobbett has a phenomenal sporting CV; junior and senior county football for Meath, rugby for Leinster and Ireland and now boxing for Ireland. Rugby was her number one sport and she rose quickly through the ranks to make her international debut. However, the pressure of a playing team sport at an elite level, coupled with a global pandemic brought with it significant bouts of anxiety and depression for Judy. Prioritizing her mental health, Judy quit rugby and sought help. Her story is incredible - tune now to hear it in her own words.

If you are affected by any of the issues in this episode, help is available:

Aware (under 18s) 1800 66 66 66

Aware (over 18s) 1800 80 48 48

This support line is a free service available to anyone seeking support and information about anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder – for themselves or a loved one. The service is available 7 days a week from 10am to 10pm

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Bitesize: Research Assistant

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 12:10:26 GMT

Professor Ian Kenny and Dr. Brendan O'Keefe from the Department of Physical Education and Sport Science at the University of Limerick are recruiting a research assistant. The successful candidate will work within 2 research centers (Sport and Human Performance Research Centre (SHPRC) and Physical Education, Physical Activity and Youth Sport (PEPAYS) Ireland) gaining valuable experience in multiple professional domains. This role would suit a recent graduate with some project experience, however there is plenty of scope for someone to learn on the job. This role would be an ideal springboard for someone looking to progress their research or academic career.

Closing date for applications: 15-Jan-2025 12:00

Click here for advertisement / application details

Contact: ian.kenny@ul.ie / brendan.okeeffe@ul.ie

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In Too Deep: Swimming in Extremes

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 05:00:45 GMT

Nuala Moore is a world-renowned extreme swimmer, adventurer, and advocate for cold-water swimming. Hailing from Dingle in Co Kerry, Nuala has achieved feats that most of us can barely imagine. In 2006 Nuala was part of a 6 person relay team who swam 1330km over 56 days to circumnavigate Ireland. In 2013 Nuala was part of another relay team, this time traversing the Bering Straits, swimming from Russia to Alaska. In 2018 Nuala was the first swimmer in the world to swim from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean in the Drake Passage, one of the most notorious and treacherous stretches of water on the planet. And in between all this Nuala competed in multiple ice swimming competitions, becoming the first Irish person and only the 3rd woman in the world to swim 1000m in 0deg water.

In this episode, I chat with Nuala about these accomplishments and explore the science of cold water immersion and learn about the physical and mental preparation that was required. So whether you are a swimmer, a scientist or just looking for a healthy dose of inspiration, you are in for a treat!

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Pathways to Para Sport

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 05:00:18 GMT

In the latest episode of the ISESA Podcast I meet Cliona Horan, Network Manager with Paralympics Ireland. Cliona is passionate about getting people with disabilities into sport and has extensive experience working in various development and sports inclusion disability officer roles with multiple NGBs and sports partnerships around the country. This year, Cliona was responsible for delivering the Permanent TSB Next Gen Community series around Ireland. More than just a “come and try” event, the PTSB NextGen Community Series focuses on empowering individuals with disabilities to explore Para sports in their area and aims to inspire the next generation of Irish Paralympians and provide a pathway for skill development and participation in inclusive sports. With the final event happening Dublin at the weekend, I took the opportunity to show up with my trusty recorder to capture the stories of those in attendance.

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I Chose Sport and Exercise Science - Graduate Voices

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 11:21:25 GMT

To follow up on our previous episode, I chatted with 3 graduates who chose sport and exercise science courses and are now working in the health and sport sectors. Karen Peacock is a clinical exercise physiologist working with UPMC Sports Medicine in Waterford. Darragh Whelan and Jamie Blanchfield have both recently returned from the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games where they worked with the Irish Cycling Squad. This is particularly impressive for Darragh who only graduated last October! They share their education stories and relate it back to where they are now in their careers - inspiring and motivational stuff for any potential sport & exercise science students!

If you would like to get in touch with any of my guests - drop me an email at bruce.wardrop@setu.ie and I'll hook you up!

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Why Choose Sport and Exercise Science?

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 05:00:08 GMT

Our vision at the Irish Sport and Exercise Science Association is to enhance the health, well-being and performance of individuals through sport and exercise sciences. With that vision in mind and looking to the future, we thought it would be a good idea to put out an episode aimed at anyone who might want to know more about studying sport and exercise science - from current secondary students, to parents, teachers and guidance counselors or someone considering a return to 3rd level education - this is the episode for you. In this short form episode, we will give you the broad strokes of what studying sport and exercise science at 3rd level is all about, what the university experience might entail and importantly, what career opportunities are out there for graduates.

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Graduate Studies in the USA

Sun, 27 Oct 2024 05:00:42 GMT

This episode is essential listening for any student considering postgraduate study. There are so many amazing, funded opportunities for potential Masters and PhD candidates in the USA - you just have to know how to find them! Ciaran Fairman is an Assistant Professor of Exercise Science at the University of South Carolina. Having completed all of his 3rd level education in the States, he has an excellent understanding of the graduate education landscape over there and was keen to share his knowledge with Irish students. I also took the opportunity to reach out to Grace McKenzie and Conor Cantwell, two Irish post grads who are current out in the United States. My 3 guests did not know each other, yet there shared experiences reinforce the story that is being told of how these postgraduate opportunities come about and work out for Irish students!

You can contact my guests with questions!

Ciarán Fairman

Grace McKenzie

Conor Cantwell

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Performance Psychology - Mastering the Mental Game

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 04:00:09 GMT

Season 02 kicks off with an amazing guest, Dr. Ciara Losty. Ciara is an accredited Sports Psychologist with the Sport Ireland Institute and has supported a huge variety of Irish athletes from London 2012 through to Paris 2024. Alongside this, Ciara also works closely with Horse Racing Ireland where she helps Irish jockey through practical hands work and with her ongoing academic research. Speaking of academics - Ciara is also a lecturer in the South East Technological University where she is the Program Lead for their MSc in Sport & Exercise Psychology. I managed to grab an hour online with Ciara where we had a really engaging, entertaining and informative chat about all things sport psychology. Ciara shares loads of simple, practical advice on techniques she uses with athletes that anyone can leverage in their daily lives. It is not to be missed!

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Paralympics 2024: Spirit in Motion

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 04:00:08 GMT

The Paris 2024 Olympics will finish on the 11th August and will immediately be followed by the mammoth task of resetting and rebranding the city for the World's second largest sporting event - the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Organized and hosted in PARALELL to the Olympic Games, the Paralympic Games allows athletes who belong to 6 different disability groups to achieve sporting excellence and to inspire and excite the world.

Ireland has historically competed well at the Olympic Games, with many of our athletes becoming household names. Leading the team to Paris 2024 is Team Ireland Chef de Mission, Neasa Russell who joins me in this episode to fill me in on all things Team Ireland for the Paralympic Games.

Follow Paralympics Ireland online to keep up to date with all the latest news:

Instagram: @paralympics_ireland

LinkedIn: @paralympics_ireland

X: @paralympicsIRE

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Paris 2024: The Final Countdown

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 04:00:21 GMT

In this episode we hear from Team Ireland's Paris 2024 Chef de Mission, Gavin Noble who fills us in on all of the work that goes in behind the scenes to get Irish athletes to the Olympic Games.

As an Olympian himself, Gavin has an intimate understanding of what the Olympics is all about and is passionate about making the Olympic experience unforgettable for Team Ireland. With his keen performance focus, no stone is left unturned in the mission to maximize Ireland's potential in Paris 2024.

Follow Team Ireland online to get all of the latest updates!

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The ISESA Undergraduate Conference and the All Ireland Postgraduate Conference

Mon, 27 May 2024 04:00:15 GMT

We were back on the road this week with the 8th All Ireland Postgraduate Conference being held in ATU Galway, followed by the inaugural ISESA Undergraduate Poster Presentation Day in UL. I attended both with my trusty portable recorder and this episode aims to provide you with flavor of both events, bringing you the voices and sounds of those in attendance.

There is also an interview with Kieran O'Dowd from TUS Athlone and keynote speaker from the PG event at the end of the episode - stay tuned for that!

If you enjoy this episode, please leave our show a quick review where ever you are listening and make sure to follow us online!

5aa8881a8ca984967775d56a43ac377494d37247

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ISESA Bitesize: CycleSync PhD in Female Health, Sport Science, Wearable Tech and AI

Mon, 20 May 2024 14:47:34 GMT

In this bitesize episode, Dr Sinead Holden from the UCD School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sport Science tells us about the exciting PhD studentship she has advertised - an interdisciplinary project involving female health, sport science, wearable tech and AI.

Contact Sinead: sinead.holden@ucd.ie

Link to advertisement

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CHAMPS Program: Exercise and Adolescent Oncology

Mon, 13 May 2024 04:00:50 GMT

The ISESA podcast went on the road for this episode, travelling to Navan to meet Cillian Maguire, a teenager who is participating in a research trial investigating the efficacy of personalized exercise classes on cancer related fatigue. The trial is being run by PhD student Jenny Fitzpatrick from TUS Athlone who has worked with Cillian and his mum Tracy-Ann to bring the CHAMPS program from idea to reality, all while remaining patient and family focused.

Jenny's work is really impactful and important - tune in to hear how it is transforming the lives of young cancer survivors.

Find our more about the program from Jenny on Instagram

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In Pursuit of the Olympic Dream

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 04:00:42 GMT

The Irish Women's Team Pursuit Squad have just made history by securing a first ever Olympic Qualification slot for Paris 2024. Mia Griffin has been a member of this squad from the very beginning after finding her way from intercounty camogie to cycling via a talent transfer program.

In 7 short years, Mia has gone from learning to ride a track bike at the velodrome to being on the cusp of selection for the Olympic Squad. In this episode we hear all about this journey with plenty of fascinating stories and laughs along the way.

Follow Mia on her journey via Instagram and Cycling Ireland for all other news.

If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to subscribe and leave us a review!

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ISESA Bitesize: 12 PhDs on the THRIVE Program

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 09:12:22 GMT

ATU are recruiting multiple candidates for fully funded PhD opportunities here in Atlantic Technological University via the Translational Health Research Innovation preVention & Equity (THRIVE) program.

This program offers 12 PhD research scholarships to commence in 2024. Each project will include an enterprise placement of minimum 12 weeks duration.

The closing date for receipt of applications is 5pm, (GMT) Monday 29th April, 2024. All application forms / Terms and Conditions can be obtained on the website: https://www.atu.ie/TU-RISE

Contact Dr. Lisa Ryan: Lisa.Ryan@atu.ie

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Physical Activity for Health Officers

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 04:00:59 GMT

In this live, in person episode I get to sit down and chat with Sinéad Brannigan and Ben Hunt who are both Physical Activity for Health Officers, employed by the Waterford and Wexford Sports Partnerships. Six Physical Activity for Health Officers roles were created around the country as part of a pilot scheme aimed at helping people living in the community with a chronic health condition who want to engage or perhaps re-engage with physical activity. Tune in to find out more about this superb initiative and how it is impacting people across the Island of Ireland.

To get in touch with either Sinéad or Ben, please use the following email:

sbrannigan@waterfordsportspartnership.ie

Ben.Hunt@wexfordcoco.ie

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ISESA Bitesize: Post Doc Researcher

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 15:55:18 GMT

Job Opportunity: Post Doctoral Researcher with the All Island Research Centre for Women in Sport

Full application details: shorturl.at/hmJTV.

Contact Aoife: Aoife.Lane@tus.ie

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Joint Ventures in Orthopedics: Surgical Dream Team

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 04:00:11 GMT

In this episode I enjoy a really wide ranging chat with Professor Brian Devitt, consultant orthopedic surgeon at the Sport Surgery Clinic in Santry and Chair of Orthopedics and Surgical Biomechanics at DCU. We start by discussing his work with patients needing joint replacement and the impact this can have on their health and quality of life. Next we move onto his work with athletes and the journey from surgery to return to play. Finally, we we compare the surgeon the athlete and discover how surgery is actually a team sport, with a squad of individuals required for success in the operating theatre.

You can find Brian online:

X: @devittbrian

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Bridging the Gender GAAp

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 05:00:41 GMT

In this episode I get to catch up with Dr Aoife Lane, Head of Department of Sport and Health Sciences in TUS Midlands Midwest and Cliodhna O’Connor, Lead Athlete Development Coach with Irish Women’s Hockey. We discuss the gender gap in sport and in sport, health and exercise research before moving on to hear about the phase 2 of the Female Coach Mentorship Program which has just been launched by the GAA.

Anyone interested in the program can contact Cliodhna on cliodhna.oconnor@gaa.ie

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ISESA Bitesize: PhD in Biomechanics of Super Sprint Spikes

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 05:00:11 GMT

Link to PhD advertisement: CLICK HERE

Contact Prof. Ian Kenny: ian.kenny@ul.ie

Closing date for applications is 17:00 (GMT) on the 28th March 2024

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ISESA Bitesize: PhD in Attentional Control in Ukrainian Athletes

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 10:19:36 GMT

Dr Marion Geary and Dr Amy Maguire share the details of their new PhD studentship investigating the the impact of multiple object tracking on attentional control in Ukrainian high performance athletes.

Link to PhD advertisement: CLICK HERE

Contact Dr. Marion Geary: marion.geary@tus.ie

Closing date for applications: 17:00 (GMT) on the 29th March 2024

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Sprinting, Building and Drifting

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 05:00:00 GMT

In our latest episode, Ireland's 400m hurdles record holder and double Olympian Thomas Barr talks about his athletic career, building his own house, drifting in his BMW and that time he met a very famous athlete.

You can find us all online

Tom: @tombarr247

Bruce: @b_wardrop

ISESA: @irishSESA

Visit isesa.ie and be sure to sign up to our "stay in the loop" form to be kept up to date with all the latest important developments at the Irish Sport & Exercise Science Association.

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Public Health: People Before Projects

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 05:00:17 GMT

In our latest episode I get to chat with not one, but two eminent professors of public health research. Together Niamh Murphy and Marie Murphy have decades of experience, are leaders in their field and are also great fun! Throughout this engaging and entertaining chat, they discuss how meaningful public health research with real world impact stems from social connection and the community. We also hear how Niamh ended up with a black eye, courtesy of Marie!

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ISESA Bitesize: Funded PhD in Exercise Physiology & Weightloss

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 10:12:27 GMT

In this bitesize episode Dr Mark Hutson from Ulster University discusses their PhD study investigating the effects of exercise timing and intensity on energy compensation and weight loss in over weight and obesity

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Rethinking Obesity: New Approaches to Treatment and Prevention

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 05:00:16 GMT

In our latest episode Professor Donal O'Shea and Aoife Hearne discuss how our understanding of obesity has changed in recent years. No longer considered a lifestyle illness, current evidence classifies obesity as a chronic disease and has influenced our approach to treatment and prevention. We were also joined later in the day by leading experts in the field of obesity research and treatment - you can watch their content by following the links below:

Professor Donal O'Shea Video

Dr Michael Crotty Video

Dr Andy Grannell Video

Aveen Bannon RN Video

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Professor Giles Warrington: The PracAdemic

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 05:00:30 GMT

Giles Warrington is a Professor of Human Performance and Innovation in the Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences at the University of Limerick. In his recent inaugural Professorial lecture Giles charted his career over 30 years working as a Performance Physiologist and Sports Scientist in high performance sport, including 6 Olympic Games and his his transition into academia. In this podcast, I catch up with Giles to chat about his career to date, what he has learned and what the future holds. We also hear from some of Giles' friends and colleagues as we celebrate his achievements.

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ISESA Bitesize: MSc in Nutrition & Sport Science

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 10:41:05 GMT

In this bitesize episode I have quick chat with Dr Lisa Ryan and Dr Ed Daly about their exciting Masters research project investigating the potential of omega-3 fatty acids to alleviate concussion symptoms.

This project will give the successful candidate the opportunity to be based in the Sport Ireland Institute and work alongside Ireland high performance boxing and judo athletes, developing their practical and academic skills simultaneously.

Full details of the project, including application information can be found here.

Contact the supervisors:

Dr Lisa Ryan - lisa.ryan@atu.ie

Dr Ed Daly - ed.daly@atu.ie

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Sport Science in International Rugby

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 05:00:34 GMT

I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to speak with Munster, Ireland and Lions legend Paul O'Connell. In this episode Paul discusses how sport and exercise science influenced his career as both a player and now as a coach. This is not one to be missed!

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ISESA Bitesize: Funded PhD in Sport Science

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 06:00:06 GMT

Professor Kate Pumpa (UCD) and Dr. Alison O'Riordan (Paralympics Ireland) tells us about the amazing PhD studentship they has on offer in the area of talent ID in para-athletics.

The closing date for applications is Sunday the 21st of January 2024.

If you are interested in applying, you should contact Prof. Pumpa via email (kate.pumpa@ucd.ie) to obtain an expression of interest form.

Full details of the project are available via this link.

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Exercise as Medicine: Marie's stroke and subsequent recovery

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 05:00:25 GMT

In this episode, Annalouise Muldoon (Lecturer in exercise science; SETU Waterford) and Marie O'Connor (client) discuss their experiences running and taking part in the ExWell and Active Aging exercise programs run in the SETU Arena. Marie tells us the amazing story of how she progressed from having a stroke in a Pilates class to becoming a self-confessed gym bunny!!

If you would like to find our more about ExWell programs in your area, check out ExWell.ie

If you would like to get in touch about anything else you can find us online @irishSESA or @b_wardrop

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ISESA Bitesize: Exercise Science (Oncology) PhD

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 14:02:12 GMT

Dr Patricia Sheehan from SETU Waterford tells us about the fantastic PhD studentship she has available in the area of exercise oncology.

Closing date for applications is Weds 3rd Jan at 4pm Irish Time

Full details are available on the SETU Waterford website

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Prepping for Paris 2024

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 05:00:16 GMT

In this episode I am excited to catch up with Ciara Sinnott-O'Connor and Ellen Keane. Ciara is the Head of Performance Physiology at the Sport Ireland Institute and Ellen is a member of Ireland's Paralympic Swimming Squad. Both have taken time out of their Paris 2024 preparations to chat with me about all things sport science!

You can hear Ciara chat with me on the Win Win Podcast here. In that episode we dive into the details of her work at the Sport Ireland Institute, her PhD and Tokyo 2020 prep for Irish athletes.

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ISESA Launch Event

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 15:53:22 GMT

Welcome to the first full episode of the Irish Sport and Exercise Science Association Podcast. In this episode Tom Comyns and Sarahjane Cullen, Chair and Vice Chair of the ISESA discuss how the association came into being and what they hope it will achieve in the near future. We also have voices from the launch event, telling us why the ISESA is important to them.

We welcome any feedback or suggestions you may have, so feel free to find us online @irishSESA or you can contact Bruce @b_wardrop

Thanks for listening!

P.S we got it on take 4!!

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ISESA Promo

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 11:13:18 GMT

Welcome to the podcast of the Irish Sport and Exercise Science Association. We look forward to bringing you great new content following our official launch on November 8th. Make sure to subscribe now so that you don't miss out!

You can also find us on Instagram and X (formerly known as Twitter) under @irishSESA

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