In this unmissable episode, Dublin tour guide and storyteller Helena Murphy brings the Irish roots of Halloween vividly to life; from the Wheel of the Year and sacred fires on the Hill of Ward to divination, extra places set at the table, and the genuinely creepy turnip 'Jack o’ Lanterns'. We hear how dressing up began as a way to fool wandering spirits; why Irish hospitality extends to the dead; and how these traditions still pulse through modern festivals.

It's a lovely episode, full of surprises; you will never look at Halloween the same way again.

If you would like to know more about Helena’s tours, visit Original Dublin here and you can check out Helena on Instagram here; and if you would like details on the Púca Festival, head to pucafestival.com

A huge thank you to Helena for joining me for this episode.

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In our conversation, Warren also shares the story of the woman who “died twice”, a forgotten Wimbledon champion, and a soldier who carried a musket ball from Waterloo in his chest for 34 years.

These are the lesser-known legacies brought to life in his acclaimed book So Once Was I: Forgotten Tales from Glasnevin Cemetery.

So Once Was I is a wonderful record of some of the many interesting stories and its a must for anyone who has an interest in Dublin, in Ireland, or simply in the stories that connect us all. The book is available through Merrion Press here or indeed if you'd like to support an independent bookshop who have been a huge encouragement to Warren, you can check out the book at thebookshop.ie here

So Once was I is also available at Chapters Bookstore here and also at Books Upstairs here too.

A huge thank you to Warren for joining me on this episode for a chat full of history, intrigue, and humanity, one that might just change how you see cemeteries, and the remarkable lives remembered within them.

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But in truth, these ceremonies are built around stories, memories, and meaning. They’re about creating space for love, comfort, and connection, in a way that feels right for the person at the centre of it all.

This episode is a look at the choices families have, the rituals that matter, and why the ‘good funeral’ is about more than tradition.

Make sure to let me know your thoughts. Feel free to get in touch with me on Instagram @conorclearcelebrant

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With so much darkness in the world right now, it can be easy to lose sight of hope. But this episode is a reminder of the strength that lives in culture; in memory, in food, in music, in story. Together, we explore Palestinian traditions around weddings, food, and family; from the joyful energy of the zaffa, to the slow-cooked idra shared at celebrations, to the regional variations of kanafa.

We also talk about hakawati, the tradition of storytelling that keeps history alive, and how it finds resonance with the Irish seanchaí.

Throughout the conversation, there’s a lovely resilience in every story shared; a sense of holding onto identity, even in the face of immense challenge.

This episode is about more than celebration. It’s about connection. It’s about spirit.

The sincerest thank you to everyone at the Embassy of Palestine for being so welcoming. Shukran.

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In this episode, I’m joined by end-of-life planner and founder of Living Legacy, Jennifer McConnell to discuss the idea of leaving a lasting legacy.

I’m delighted that Jennifer has joined me for this episode as she is a guiding force in helping people navigate this profound journey, ensuring that their values, stories, and dreams endure with grace and purpose.

You can find out more about Jennifer and Living Legacy online on livinglegacy.ie; and on Instagram here. You can also connect with Living Legacy on Threads too.

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Seosamh sadly passed away on 30th October 2022, and this episode of the podcast celebrates the wonderful legacy Seosamh has left for the people of Inchicore and beyond. I'm joined by Michael Flanagan, Deirdre Farrell, Áine Dé Cleir, and Gerri English to pay tribute to Seosamh and celebrate his impact on the area.

The Halla Conradh Na Gaeilge in Inchicore continues to be a big part of the community and you can keep up to date with their events on Twitter / X here

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The language the Vatican uses when talking about LGBTQI+ people can often be so upsetting and hurtful, and this episode discusses a way forward for people of faith who are made feel 'less than' by the Church. Hopefully the main takeaway from this episode for anyone who has a faith and who feels excluded from the Church, is that they know there is a wonderful community of Celebrants across Ireland and further afield who want to celebrate them while also including their faith and beliefs.

If you want to get involved in the conversation you can get in touch via The Celebration Sessions on Instagram

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I'm joined by writer broadcaster and presenter Andrea Hayes, and award winning wedding expert Sara Kennedy as they share some of the highlights we can expect at Ireland's largest wedding show, this September at the RDS.

Make sure to keep up to date with the latest on the show on socials @weddub You can check out Instagram here and Tik Tok here.

A huge thank to the organisers for sharing a discount code so when you're booking your tickets, use code CONOR20

And finally make sure to check out Sara on irishweddingblog.ie and Sara's super podcast Real Weddings with Sara

Enjoy the episode and more importantly, get yourself to the RDS this September 2nd and 3rd.

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I'm joined by tour guide Victoria Catta who shares stories of military heroes, religious leaders, and a tragic love story of legendary proportions.

A huge thank you to Victoria for sharing her time and joining me on the podcast. While this is not an ad and there are no affiliations, I'd love to mention that Victoria is a wonderful guide with Buenos Aires Free Walks and being apart of her tour was really super.

I loved learning about these iconic Argentinians and I hope you enjoy the episode.

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Luciano shares his journey from Chile to life as an Antarctic expedition guide; the pioneering explorers who inspired him; and the beauty of wedding ceremonies in the Antarctic.

A huge thank you and lots of gratitude to Luciano who took time out of his time off on board to join me. Its important to say that this episode is not affiliated with Hurtigruten in any way; it is not an advertisement; and Luciano joined me in his own capacity. Muchos gracias Luciano.

Enjoy the episode.

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As we unpack this episode, hopefully we’ll demystify the person behind the role of the Funeral professional, and perhaps pay homage to the wonderful work they do every day with bereaved families. 

A huge thank you to Brian Doyle for sharing his time with me on this episode. To get in touch with Brian and his colleagues, they're online at jenningsfuneralhomes.ie

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Sincere thanks to Tasneem for joining me for this episode. I really enjoyed learning about Eid, Ramadan and my favourite subject, food! While Tasneem joined me on this podcast in an independent capacity, I met Tasneem while at the Chester Beatty Library in Dublin. Chester Beatty is a wonderful museum in Dublin sharing beautiful artefacts and insights into world cultures from across Europe, the Middle East, North Africa and Asia; so I'd love to share this link to the Chester Beatty Library and encourage listeners to check out this beautiful and fascinating treasure trove in Dublin.

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In this episode, activist and founding member of Under the Rainbow Philippa Ryder joins me as we chat about where we're at in Ireland in the quest for trans visibility, equality, representation, inclusion; and what the cisgender community can do to support our trans friends.

Under The Rainbow is an award winning inclusive Social Enterprise advocating for human rights, equality, and a world where people can be their true selves. You can find out more about Philippa and Under the Rainbow online at www.undertherainbow.ie

Philippa's wonderful memoir is available in all good book shops and also through Mercier Press online here Its a powerful book in which Philippa offers answers to many questions people ask, genuinely, to understand what it means to be transgender.

We also mention TENI who do wonderful work creating a world where all people, regardless of gender identity or expression, enjoy full acceptance, equality and human rights. You can find out more about TENI at teni.ie

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A heartfelt thank you to Sudhansh Verma for chatting with me. You can find out more about the Vedic Hindu Cultural Centre of Ireland in Ballymount, and their Holi events, online at hindu.ie

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I'm joined by Chairperson of the Irish Ethical Celebrants Society Yvonne Cassidy who facilitates Death Cafes, and Celebrant Derbhile Graham to discuss this interesting phenomenon, and the beauty that can come from talking about death. In this episode we unpack the 'what, when, and why' of Death Cafes, cultural differences in the funeral landscape, and final song choices!

Thank you so much to Derbhile and Yvonne for joining me for this lovely chat.

You can find out more about Derbhile online at celebrantderv.ie, through Instagram here, and on Facebook here.

If you'd like to get in touch with Yvonne Cassidy, you can head online to yvonnecassidyweddings.com, through Instagram here, and through Facebook here.

And for more information about the Irish Ethical Celebrants Society, all you need to know is on their website here

Enjoy the episode and do let me know your thoughts.

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A big thank you to Caroline for joining me, and if you want to find out more about Caroline and Serendipity Celebrants you can check out their website here. You can also keep up to date with Serendipity Celebrants on Instagram here.

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A heartfelt thank you and arigato to Karen Lee Tawarayama for joining me for this episode. You can find out more about Karen and the wonderful team of Kyoto based writers who make up 'Writers in Kyoto' online at https://www.writersinkyoto.com/

For anyone who would like explore their creative side, Writers in Kyoto are running their seventh Annual Kyoto Writing Competition. Its open to entrants from all over the world with some fantastic prizes up for grabs. You can get information about the competition here Its an opportunity not to be missed.

Also, Writers in Kyoto published an anthology called Structures of Kyoto which explores the physical, spiritual, and artistic elements of Japan’s ancient capital and beckons one to “step through the gate” to interact with them. Its available through Amazon but you can find out more about it here.

Enjoy this episode and, as always, don't forget to rate and review the podcast.

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A huge thank you to Claire Murrihy for joining me for this episode. You can find Claire on Instagram here.

Wherever you're listening to this from, enjoy this last episode of The Celebration Sessions for 2021. Have a happy, safe, and healthy Christmas.

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A massive thank you to Lisa Goldberg for joining me from Australia and sharing some top tips for the best Latkes, Sufganiyot and Challah bread. #gratitude

Make sure to check out The Monday Morning Club on Instagram here. You can check out their books on their website where they also have lots of other wonderful resources, classes and cook-alongs. And you can keep up to date with the MMCC news on their Twitter page here.

Enjoy the episode and don't forget to like, subscribe, rate and review the podcast.

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These ceremonies focus primarily on children who may not be participating in First Communion or Confirmation ceremonies, and in this episode we explore the choice available to parents and families; the benefits of involving the children in the occasions; and the importance of celebrating and encouraging children who many not want to take part in religious rites.

You can get in touch with Clara on the Coastal Ceremonies Instagram page, or through their website. You can contact Dermott through his website lovecelebrant.ie

And indeed the Irish Ethical Celebrants Society have celebrants all over the country, so you can check out your nearest celebrant offering these ceremonies here.

As always, I want to hear from you. You can get in touch with the Celebration Sessions Podcast via Instagram here.

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We hear about Katie and Luke’s adventures through the Holi festival, also known as the Festival of colour in Hampi; the ‘passionate’ and elaborate border closing ceremony between India and Pakistan; and the nightly ceremony in the Golden Temple in Amritsar, the spiritual home of Sikhism, in which their holy book is ‘put to bed’ and tucked in.

All of Ungracefulguide’s stories and experiences are still on their Instagram as highlights so make sure to check out their Instagram here. And their website is www.theungracefulguide.com

It was so lovely to record this episode. I really enjoyed our chats. Thank you so much to Katie and Luke for sharing their wonderful travel stories and adventures.

I’m looking forward to hearing from listeners so please do get involved in the conversation over at Instagram.

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Simon is quite 'the romantic', and his love story includes musical theatre, synchronicity, support and friendship, and 'Who Wants to be a Millionaire'

A massive thank you to Simon for joining me for this episode and sharing his and Lisa's love story.

You can keep up to date with Simon and his latest projects on Twitter here and on Instagram here.

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Psychologist and author Elaine Kasket joins me for this episode to share her wisdom on the potential issues that we're walking into, and what we might be able to do to live a healthier online life.

Elaine's wonderful book 'All the ghosts in the machine' is available widely through independent book shops in Ireland and around the world, and for UK listeners the book can be picked up through bookshop.org here.

For more information on Elaine's podcast Still Spoken, you can check out Elaine on Twitter here, or through her website here.

As always, I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts on this episode. You can get in touch through The Celebration Sessions Podcast Instagram page.

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Life can be such a strange rollercoaster that takes us into situations that we may never have imagined we'd be in, but there are some mind blowing life skills that can come from exploring the world of improv. If you've ever seen Whose Line Is It Anyway, you'll know its all about making it up as you go along. In improv, when you're on stage with a scene partner, there's one golden rule... you always say 'Yes And'. Applying that rule to your every day life can have a profound effect on your life. Not only can it provide the mental agility to alleviate stresses and anxieties, it can bring you to exciting places you may never have thought you'd be; especially if you feel that life may not be going your way.

Enjoy this episode and the opportunity to learn form John and his wisdom.

You can find out more about John and his creative services on johndawsonwrites.com

Check out his Twitter page here, and he's on Linkedin here.

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A big thank you to Clara and Michael for joining me for this episode. Make sure to check out Clara and Coastal Ceremonies through their Instagram here, and they have lots of wedding inspiration on their website here.

You can get to know Michael through his Instagram here, and you can get in touch with Michael via his website here.

And for more information about the Irish Ethical Celebrants Society and the ceremonies they offer, you can find their website here and you can keep up to date with IECS news on their Insta here

Enjoy the episode, and make sure to rate and review on your podcast platform.

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A big thank you to Sudhansh Verma who is also co-founder of Hindu Cultural Centre Ireland, the first Hindu temple in Ireland. You can find out more about VHCCI at www.hindu.ie

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We talk about how the meditation industry is marketed; men and mindfulness; and his wonderful new book 'This Is It'

You can find out more about Conor and his teachings on his website meditatingwithconor.com

He shares wonderful content on his Instagram page here

Conor's book This Is It is published by Gill Books, and its available through your local independent book shop, or also Easons, Dubray, and The Book Depository.

As always, I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts.

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You can find out more about Ariana through her website here. Check out her Instagram here, and not forgetting the Irish Country Magazine if you want to check out her column.

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In a fascinating chat, we weigh up changing rituals, making the effort to 'be there' for grieving friends, and finding closure while we're still in lockdown.

A big thank you to Pat and Caroline for joining me. You can get in touch with Caroline through the Serendipity Celebrants website, or through their Instagram page.

Indeed, if you are grieving in these already difficult times, there are many resources available to reach out to online, one of which we discussed off air; The Hospice Foundation.

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I'm joined by Hilary Abrahamson who is Chair of the Dublin City Interfaith Forum, and Chair of Rites and Practices with the Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation. We had a great chat about the history of Bar Mitzvah, how it is celebrated, and just how good Challah bread tastes!!

To find out more about Jewish history in Dublin you can check out The Irish Jewish Museum here. And you can stay up to date with the museum through their Twitter page.

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Bob and The Gutter Bookshop team have been keeping the show on the road through lockdown with deliveries so you can check out the wonderful books available to keep you entertained here and make sure to keep up to date with the Gutter Bookshop on their Twitter page, and their Instagram page.

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You can find out more about Tanya Bryan at atimetogather.ie and I encourage listeners to visit her site to read her beautiful and fascinating lamentations.

During this episode we discuss different aspects of the journey to acceptance, and in the course of the conversation we mention Death Cafes which you can find out more about through deathcafe.org. And Tanya is also part of a doula collective, the website for which is in the process of being built but it will be accessible through deathdoula.ie

Please do check out those links and enjoy the episode.

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Bibi's gorgeous book 'The Happy Book' is available on her website. You can also find out more information about Bibi's Facebook group here. Two lovely websites worth checking out.

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Its worth noting that this episode was recorded before level 5 restrictions, within the then guidelines, and we were kept caffeinated by the gorgeous coffee from the team at Container Coffee on Thomas Street in Dublin.

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In this episode, Dr John Troyer shares his knowledge on the history of the memorial tattoo, his advice to anyone thinking about getting one, and we discuss the language and icons of the memorial tattoo.

Dr Troyer is director of the Centre for Death and Society, an RCUK Research Fellow, and Lecturer in the Department of Social and Policy Sciences at the University of Bath. John's book, The Technologies of the Human Corpse is available online across many book retailers through https://mitpress.mit.edu/books/technologies-human-corpse

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You can find out more about Yvonne and her wedding services on her website yvonnecassidyweddings.com

Indeed, for more info about the Irish Ethical Celebrants Society, and to search through their directory of wonderful celebrants, you can check out their website

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You can find out more about Andrea, her meditations, and her wonderful books on her website andreahayes.ie

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You can find out more about Aoibheann and Get up and Glow on Instagram at @getupandglow2020

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In this episode, I talk to fellow Funeral Celebrant Pat Fenlon as we pick through this topic to discover, how do the Irish embrace the finality of death.

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In the first episode I spoke to the wonderful Barbara Scully about the positive things happing in the word right now, despite the 'circus of horrors' that was 2020. As we settle into 2021, there is so much hope.

To catch Barbara and her Twitter series 'How to stay sane during a pandemic', you can find Barbara on Twitter at @barbarascully

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