A Good Kind of Scary

A Good Kind of Scary explores the positive ways we can challenge fears. My name is Saoirse Rafferty and I want to chat about the messiness of being human. I believe vulnerability can be our greatest strength so ask guests to open up about their struggles. No sugarcoating. I am qualified in Creative Writing & Psychological Studies. Read more at: agoodkindofscary.com Follow @agoodkindofscary on Instagram

EP 78: 2024 Reflection 12/30/2024

EP 78: 2024 Reflection On this episode, I read out a letter I wrote to the version of me at the start of 2024 filling them in on what's happened since. This was a new way to reflect on the year and was surprisingly therapeutic. Listen in for a vulnerable journal entry. Best wishes to all of you in this coming year! /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/34653915

EP 77: Behaviour, attachment styles & staying motivated 12/01/2024

EP 77: Behaviour, attachment styles & staying motivated This episode explores how we can encourage/discourage behaviours and the reason why some people find it more challenging to stay motivated than others. I chat about the different ways our body keeps the score and why particular painful experiences can leave wounds. I also cover how attachment styles impact our romantic relationships. I'll share some helpful words of wisdom for staying motivated when developing new habits or making personal development changes! Check out @ for more /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/34215020

EP 76: What is freedom? 11/22/2024

EP 76: What is freedom? On this week's podcast episode, I explore the meaning of 'freedom'. What is the difference between individual freedom VS collective freedom? Are people more likely to fight for freedom when something has been taken from them? Is freedom something we have to fight for or is it all about letting go? Is it about chasing dreams or is it about detaching? Listen in to hear more! Message me @ to let me know your thoughts on 'freedom'. /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/34104536

EP 75: Take yourself on a date 11/12/2024

EP 75: Take yourself on a date Today's episode is all about the benefits of taking yourself on dates. I chat about the beauty of learning to spend time on your own and how to romanticize your daily life. I give suggestions for easing yourself into trying new things and doing things solo. Fear, discomfort and uncertainty are all a part of the process. Listen to this episode for more! Share your thoughts on Instragrm @ /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/33903257

EP 74: Healing Through Art 11/07/2024

EP 74: Healing Through Art On today's episode I talk about how consuming art can be helpful for: -Healing painful experiences -Nurturing parts of yourself -Calming emotions -Feeling less alone -Personal growth I foucs on books, tv series, movies, music & other art forms. I share my personal experience of how art has helped me throughout life. I also reflect on why words can only help so much during difficult times. Share your own experiences of healing through art with me @ /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/33827077

EP 73: James Lindsay on being diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder 10/31/2024

EP 73: James Lindsay on being diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder Today I'm talking to James Lindsay all about his experience of being diagnosed as 'schizoaffective'. He explains more about his own experience of having a psychotic episode as well as what it was like recovering afterwards. James has a lovely way of looking at his painful experiences and explains how they have changed his life in a positive way. He is passionate about breaking mental health stigmas and he has also written a book ''! We talk about how creativity can be healing but also the importance of having a balance in all areas of life. Follow James @ on Instagram Message me @ with any feedback on today's episode. /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/33702822

EP 72: The Shadow Self 10/08/2024

EP 72: The Shadow Self On today's episode I chat about the 'shadow self'. Many of us shame the unwanted parts of ourselves into the shadows. I discuss an activity I did at a workshop recently to explore and have fun with these neglected parts of who we are. Many of us are oblivious to our 'shadows', but once you become aware of them, you can start healing them through love, compassion and acceptance. Listen for more! /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/33372097

EP 71: Imposter Syndrome 09/16/2024

EP 71: Imposter Syndrome On this week's podcast, we confront imposter syndrome. Have you ever felt like no matter what you do, your efforts are never 'enough'? Do you struggle to take credit or accept help? Then you might be familiar with the feeling of 'imposter syndrome'. There are five sub-categories which came as a surprise to me. I give a run down on each and chat about how I can relate to some. Follow @ for more. /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/33076877

EP 70: Becoming a Reluctant Astrologer with CaitríonaAstro 08/21/2024

EP 70: Becoming a Reluctant Astrologer with CaitríonaAstro On today's episode, I welcome someone who gave me a lot of guidance when I won a free birth chart reading. Caitríona (@) and I sat down to chat more about astrology and her own personal story. She works as a teacher during the day and a karmic astrologer in her free time. She is a nature-lover with a hiking page (@) and also has an MA of Fine Arts in Creative Writing. We talk about what it’s like to choose an unconventional path in life, the stigmas linked to spirituality, and the fear that comes alongside sharing online & offline Check out Caitríona's website: Message me at @ with any feedback on today's show. /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/32684172

EP 69: Putting People on Pedestals 07/30/2024

EP 69: Putting People on Pedestals Today I chat about some of the harmful impacts of putting people on pedestals and how we can navigate this tendency. I have been becoming more aware recently of my own tendency to put particular people on pedestals and exploring where this emerged from. Here's a breakdown of some topics covered: Romanticizing partners Glorifying celebrities and politicians Putting high expectations on ourselves Separating who people are from what they do Figuring out what you value in people and in yourself Societal influence of how we view the world If you enjoyed today's episode, you can support the show through buying a cup of coffee . Never any pressure as you are already doing a lot by listening 🌻 Thank you! Follow @ for more. /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/32345032

EP 68: Taking the first step with Orla Bredin 07/11/2024

EP 68: Taking the first step with Orla Bredin On this week's episode, I'm chatting with Orla Bredin. Orla is a cofounder of @. She is passionate about traveling and trying new things but also values where she comes from and the Irish culture. We chat about her love of being in nature and how healing this can be. Something else we kept coming back to was the power of the story we tell ourselves and how important it is to push past our limiting beliefs and just take the first step. I had the joy of going to school with Orla so we were like giddy teenagers again throughout this episode. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did! Sign up to the guided Himalayas Yoga & Trek Retreat to Nepal Oct 2024 /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/32102432

EP 67: Becoming a Morning Person 06/14/2024

EP 67: Becoming a Morning Person In this week's episode, I chat about how you can make your mornings more enjoyable. I delve into some habits I found useful for motivating me to wake earlier. I explain the benefits of waking up early and having space to yourself in the morning. If you have any questions or feedback please message me @ Thank you for listening! /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/31752047

EP 66: Oversharing vs Living a Private Life 06/07/2024

EP 66: Oversharing vs Living a Private Life Welcome back! After a bit of time away from podcasting, I explore the difference between expressing from a place of creativity & authenticity vs sharing for validation and a need to fit in. I also talk about a range of random stuff in between. Enjoy! Message me @ for more. /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/31657367

EP 65: Meditation: what's it all about? 05/12/2024

EP 65: Meditation: what's it all about? In this week's episode, I talk about how meditating regularly has transformed my life. I give different examples of what meditation means to me and discuss the benefits of it. I compare what we believe meditation should be VS what it actually is. Message me @ with any feedback or quesitons around this topic. If you enjoyed today's episode, you can support the show through buying a cup of coffee . Never any pressure as you are already contributing a lot by listening 🌻 Thank you! /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/31250797

EP 64: Brave People Feel Fear 05/02/2024

EP 64: Brave People Feel Fear This week's episode is all about being brave. I take a look at what many of us are raised to believe 'bravery' is and how some beliefs can be toxic/unhelpful. I explain my own personal defintion of bravery while examining others'. I also question if we ever really 'overcome' fears and I talk about why feeling nervous can be a good thing. If you enjoyed today's episode, you can support the show through buying a cup of coffee . No pressure as you are already doing a lot by listening 🌻 Thank you! Follow @ for more. /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/31092753

EP 63: Leaning into the love in your life 04/24/2024

EP 63: Leaning into the love in your life In today's episode, we are talking about love. Not just romantic love, but how you can let yourself feel more love in your everyday life. Last weekend was super sunny and I find the Irish are great at soaking in the good weather when it's here - the shift in mood is very obvious and understandable! But I also discuss ways we can find more sunshine in our life without just relying on the weather. I also talk about birthdays (considering mine has just passed), my experience at the 'Where Is My Mind' live podcast, & the power of letting go. If you enjoyed today's episode, you can support the show through buying a cup of coffee . No pressure as you are already doing a lot by listening 🌻 Thank you! Follow @ for more. /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/30963908

EP 62: Finding Freedom Within Yourself with Ciara Meere (SAOR) 04/16/2024

EP 62: Finding Freedom Within Yourself with Ciara Meere (SAOR) In today's episode, I am joined by Ciara Meere, the founder of SAOR. SAOR is a wellness community that creates a space for people to feel free within themselves. Ciara and I discuss anything and everything including: - What it's like to create a new community - The low points on the road to success and why it's important to speak about setbacks when trying new things - Pushing past the need to be liked and learning to show up as your authentic self instead - The benefits of sea swimming - Setting boundaries as a people pleaser - Overcoming the fear of failure by embracing risk-taking! - The September SAOR weekend retreat that I'll be taking part in Check out @ to hear more from Ciara, upcoming saor events or to book onto the September retreat! **Note: apologies that my sound system isn't up to scratch. My usual high quality microphone wasn't working, but you will be able to hear Ciara's lovely voice clearly! Promise it's worth sticking with. /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/30852113

EP 61: Adjusting back to life at home 04/12/2024

EP 61: Adjusting back to life at home In this episode, I share some challenges that have come up while adjusting back home to Ireland after living abroad and how I have faced them. I also chat about the pressure to be constantly living it up in this fast-paced yolo world & why it's okay to feel this and not follow what everyone else is doing. We may feel a need to be doing more with our lives than what we already are, but sometimes just being here is enough. If you enjoyed today's episode, you can support the show through buying a cup of coffee . Never any pressure as you are already doing a lot by listening 🌻 Thank you! Follow @ for more. /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/30797853

EP 60: When all you need is a good cry 04/03/2024

EP 60: When all you need is a good cry In this episode, I talk about crying. Ever wonder why one friend cries easily and will openly share their problems, then another friend will never tell you what they are feeling let alone show it? There's a bit of a social shame and awkwardness attached to crying, especially in situations that feel 'unsafe' like social gatherings. I chat about the benefits of crying, alongside how each of our individual upbringings can shape how comfortable this feels. I also delve into how discouraging men from crying can lead to internal struggles. If you enjoyed today's episode, you can support the show through buying a cup of coffee . Never any pressure as you are already doing a lot by listening 🌻 Thank you! Follow @ for more. /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/30659478

EP 59: Q&A - Childhood Games, Importance of Play & lessons from the BFG 03/23/2024

EP 59: Q&A - Childhood Games, Importance of Play & lessons from the BFG Today's episode was a go with the flow Q&A. Topics Include: - Is the obsession with needing to turn hobbies and interests into careers/business healthy - Playing for the sake of playing VS always just doing and producing - How I played as a child as well as joyful childhood memories/ambitions - Taking pictures for showing off what you are doing VS capturing moments for the memories - The year I won so many raffles I began to dread entering competitions - Feeling like a little kid trying Muay Thai, but learning more about myself after the session - Revelations I had in Thailand - Times where I felt proud - Using your pain to help others - Lessons we can learn from the BFG - Shibby the cat and his new girlfriend If you enjoyed today's episode, you can support the show through buying a cup of coffee . Never any pressure as you are already doing a lot by continuing to listen 🌻 Thank you! /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/30512228

Ep 58: What Is a Teacher? 03/13/2024

Ep 58: What Is a Teacher? In this episode, I delve into what being a 'teacher' means: the textbook definition of a teacher VS my definition of a teacher. The expectations placed on teachers in classrooms to be a superhuman parent and how there is always more than one teacher in every child's life. I talk about how teaching has impacted my own life and how I believe you don't just have to work in a school to be a teacher. Let me know your thoughts on this @ /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/30354568

EP 57: Irish & Proud 02/29/2024

EP 57: Irish & Proud I recorded this week's episode over ONE YEAR ago when I was living at home in Ireland. I am currently living abroad & this episode reminded me of things I love about home. The episode focuses on things I appreciate about Ireland and includes some ridiculous impersonations as well as anecdotes. If you want to listen to a casual chat about all things Irish, this one is for you. Follow @a for more /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/30162613

EP 56: Grounding & Gratitude Meditation 02/28/2024

EP 56: Grounding & Gratitude Meditation This week's episode is a visualization meditation I wrote to help you feel grounded and embrace gratitude in your life. Follow @ for more. /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/30147043

EP 55: My Relationship with Alcohol 02/20/2024

EP 55: My Relationship with Alcohol This episode left me feeling like an insecure teenager all over again! I chat about what it was like being socially anxious as a teen in Ireland and why alcohol was a convenient normalized social crutch. I explore my relationship with alcohol: the rebellious teenage years, college nights, the bad hangovers, and how my relationship with alcohol has changed throughout the years. What was most difficult while recording this was sharing how much I used to isolate and criticize myself after a night of drinking. Please let me know if you find this episode useful, helpful, or relatable. Always open to feedback at @ or email Heads up: the episode, like many of my others, is personal and touches on topics like death, grief, and anxiety. /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/30029948

EP 54: How Can We Navigate Social Media? 02/15/2024

EP 54: How Can We Navigate Social Media? Social media is a tool used to share stories: stories of our personal lives, stories of the world around us, stories of what can benefit and harm us. What story is your social media sharing? Or do you use it to consume stories rather than create stories? And is the story you are portraying accurate to the life you are living? In today's episode, I talk about how what we use social media for has changed in many ways and stayed the same in other ways. I explore the impact on our mental health. I chat about the power of visualisation meditation and taking time away from your phone, sharing why I never go on social media in the moring. I also discuss how social media has saved my life in many ways: how it can be used as a comfort when the world around you is bleak. But why is it now becoming the responsibility of everyday humans to share the truth and can this be a good thing? The world is waking up to the corruption of governments and the horror of what's happening in Palestine because we are seeing footage on our social media. Message me with any thoughts, ideas or comments on Instagram @agoodkindofscary /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/29962368

EP 53: Moving Abroad: Why I Travel & How I Travel 02/06/2024

EP 53: Moving Abroad: Why I Travel & How I Travel In this episode, I start off by reflecting on my upbringing and question if the way we are raised can influence our ability to spend time alone and travel. Further into the episode, I chat about why I like to solo travel, what I do and don't like doing when I travel & how I make it affordable. I also give some personal tips on what you can do to ease yourself into solo traveling if it's new to you. As well as this, I speculate: Are we attracted to people who have the traits we desire for ourselves? Do we need to tick off a to-do list and see every part of a city to truly experience it? I'd love to hear your opinions on this. Send me a message on Instagram @agoodkindofscary or email Thank you for listening! /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/29815703

EP 52: Kit de Waal: It's never too late to tell your story. 01/31/2024

EP 52: Kit de Waal: It's never too late to tell your story. I am so excited to share today’s discussion with award-winning writer Kit De Waal. Kit shares what it was like growing up in Birmingham with an Irish mother and an African-Caribbean father, and the process of rewriting her story in a memoir. We discuss the struggles of being from a working-class background when pursuing a career as a writer and how a key component to wellbeing is having someone believe in you and your ambitions. We chat about the multiple ways that stories can be told aside from writing and how snobbery to this is what prevents people from ever trying. How do you find the persistence to keep going when there’s no guarantee of being published? Are you willing to start over, let go of a novel that isn’t working and try something new? We talk about all of the above and more in today’s episode. Check out her website & books Follow Kit on Instagram Follow Kit on Twitter /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/29730658

EP 51: Boy Friends with Michael Pedersen 01/16/2024

EP 51: Boy Friends with Michael Pedersen In this week's episode, I chat with Michael Pedersen about his memoir 'Boy Friends'. We discuss the importance of having close friendships in life and why he chose to write about this in his book. We also delve into how to find a balance between solitude & socialising, particularly when you are a writer. This conversation flowed in many directions so I hope you enjoy it! Check out Michael's website . Follow him on Instagram . /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/29504488

EP 50: Taking the road less traveled with MaryRose Shanahan 01/11/2024

EP 50: Taking the road less traveled with MaryRose Shanahan Today’s episode is with spiritual coach, podcaster, and blogger MaryRose Shanahan. Mary Rose is passionate about bridging the gap between self-help and spirituality. She left a high-paying career & relationship to travel afar and connect more with herself. We chat about what it’s like to step outside your comfort zone, using your gut as a compass for where to go next, and how to figure out who you are outside of everyone around you. (Also - happy 50th anniversary to the podcast!!) Check out Mary's Instagram page @ /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/29435258

EP 49: Speeding Up or Slowing Down? Speaking Out or Staying Silent? 01/04/2024

EP 49: Speeding Up or Slowing Down? Speaking Out or Staying Silent? In the first episode of 2024, I question the commercialised 'new year, new me' mentality. I chat about the benefits of slowing down VS speeding up, when we can find value from each and how they've both benefited me in my life. I also touch on how we can navigate when it's worth staying stilent VS speaking up. You can follow @ for more. Sign up for a free life coaching discovery call Sign up to my 'writing for wellbeing' course /episode/index/show/12e4ec13-598c-47bd-880e-f37ae2211214/id/29337693

A Good Kind of Scary

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