The stakes are high, and the outcome of the consultation on the cost of disability could have a significant impact on my household, writes JULIE HELEN. 

EMMA CONNOLLY chats to Kinsale woman, Jodie O’Donoghue who decided to leave the corporate sector after almost a decade, and pursue her creative interests by becoming a full-time artist.

Having spent years honing her skills in hospitality and in the kitchen, working at Le Cordon Bleu, Adare Manor, and Goldie, Cork woman Anna Darling Hevers is embarking on a new venture. KATE RYAN finds out more.

You would be surprised how many people do not know the importance of including their neck in their skin regime, writes EMER O'CALLAGHAN. 

Cork woman Marie O’Regan is no stranger to facing into recovery, having previously battled serious illness. Six months ago, she was faced with a new challenge when she ruptured her Achilles tendon. Here she talks about rehabilitating and finding an unexpected purpose.

Sheila Barrett first opened her practice in Cork 30 years ago and in that time has witnessed not only changes in her business, but in the reasons why people seek out physio. She reflects on three decades of her business in conversation with MARGARET DONNELLAN.

I think women like Jessie Buckley and men like Paul Mescal are paving the way for true and real equality, writes JULIE HELEN. 

LISA SALMON speaks with GP Dr Nighat Arif about common health problems that concern parents, red flags to look out for, and when to call for medical help.

Think you are past it in midlife?  DR CATHERINE CONLON takes a look at new research which suggests that overall mental functioning may peak later than we originally thought.

Susan O’Callaghan, Advocacy Officer with the Cork Deaf Association tells us about her career and her advice to anyone looking to work in a similar role. 

Dr Louise Collins first began experiencing symptoms of endometriosis when she was a teen, but it wasn’t until ten years ago that she was diagnosed with the condition. She tells DEIRDRE MCARDLE about her diagnosis and why she believes it is so important to raise awareness of endometriosis.

The awards aim to celebrate women in Cork 'choosing to rise beyond fear, limits and old stories'

MARGARET DONNELLAN talks to Lorraine Gavigan, the first woman to be appointed general manager of Cork’s Imperial Hotel in its 210 year history.

I hadn’t it all figured out in my early twenties, just as I don’t have it all figured out at 41 either, but now, I am alright with it, I roll with it, literally, in my wheelchair, writes JULIE HELEN. 

Mary G O’Brien was drawn to music at an early age and knew that teaching music was her calling soon after she started secondary school. She chats to COLETTE SHERIDAN about her love for opera, growing up in a musical family, and the upcoming production of L’Orfeo at MTU Cork School of Music.

Ellen O’Mahony was just 15 when her mum Muireann passed away. Ellen says the Irish Cancer Society’s Night Nurses were a great support in her mum’s final weeks, and tells EMMA CONNOLLY why she’s encouraging people to support Daffodil Day this Friday.

Tamsin O’Callaghan, Associate Solicitor tells us how she decided to pursue a postgraduate law qualification after completing her commerce degree. 

With the concept of ‘fibremaxxing’ trending, KATE RYAN finds out more about the concept, and chats to Dr Jens Walter about whether it could be beneficial.

Features, sparkles and florals also made an appearance at the 98th Academy Awards. 

To celebrate Mother’s Day, EMER HARRINGTON hears from women in Cork about the wisdom passed onto them by their mothers.

This week Emer is sharing her answers to some of the common questions she is asked at this time of year. 

Cork author LEONA FORDE reflects on International Women’s Day, her own path to becoming an author, and the women who have had a lasting impact on her life.

Avril Coleman, GP Liaison, Mater Private Network Cork tells us about her career. 

The frugal chic approach to fashion can introduce some useful cost-saving habits, writes SARA KEENAN.

Part of my March reset is to be mindful of cutting the cloth to measure; maybe the amount of cloth is changing more drastically now, writes JULIE HELEN. 

In this month’s WOW Bites, KATE RYAN heads to Ballinspittle to meet ‘accidental’ grocer Steph Ayres and finds out about her novel Gather venture.

As International Women’s Day approached this year, JUDY HOPKINS found herself thinking about her mother, Mary Hopkins, who passed away in September. Here, she remembers her and reflects on the legacy she has left behind.

The beauty industry is flooded with products, no generation has ever had as much choice as to what we can put on our faces and skin, but if you ask me, three-quarters of what is on the market is not worth buying, says EMER O'CALLAGHAN. 

While women may tend to have better health than men, there are some issues that they should be particularly aware of, writes DR CATHERINE CONLON.

When I was growing up with a developmental disability of cerebral palsy, consultants would say that I might not be able to walk by 30 years of age or possibly even stand by 40, writes JULIE HELEN. 

A special event in City Hall last week put the spotlight on the wealth of community groups, services, and organisations supporting women in Cork. MARY CORCORAN went along and spoke with Lady Mayoress Karen Brennan about the inspiration behind the gathering.

Ahead of International Women’s Day, we asked women in Cork what the event really means to them. Here, we share some of these responses.

The special event is being hosted this week by Network Ireland Cork, the Local Enterprise Office Cork City and the Local Enterprise Officer South Cork. 

I am a very proud Cork lady, but to be honest, I am really leaning into loving my breaks away and out of Cork now as I get older, writes Emer O'Callaghan

At one point in her career, Cork artist Monica Jones thought she’d have to stop painting. Now, she’s launching a new studio space, not just for herself but to share with others looking to get away from the busyness of life, she tells EMMA CONNOLLY.

Cork woman Jade Flynn-Hurley first discovered mixed-gender wheelchair rugby 13 years ago, and today is the only female player on the national team. She tells EMMA CONNOLLY how finding rugby changed her life.

The theme of this year’s event is #GiveToGain, with organisers calling on participants to help forge gender equality through abundant giving.

Christine Duff says she is continually inspired in life by people like carers, SNAs and moms, and says it’s important that ordinary women are recognised. She chats to EMMA CONNOLLY about celebrating women, manifesting, and finding love.

I cannot imagine the worry if we couldn’t afford to be warm enough, so I want to get behind anyone who endures more pain than necessary or has to run medical equipment or choose more expensive convenience foods to be able to manage independently, writes JULIE HELEN. 

A UCC graduate is on a mission to transform a long vacant former hotel off the coast of Ireland into a cultural centre celebrating Irish language, arts, and heritage. EMMA CONNOLLY finds out more about the ambitious project.

Lynda Di Blasi, Image Consultant, tells us about her career journey and the free online course she will be delivering as part of Local Enterprise Week. 

When Cork-based technology expert Shama Chilakwad had difficulty sketching designs for her artwork, she decided to use her skills to find a solution. Now, Shama has launched the Easel Club where, with the help of a robotic arm, she turns people’s photos into sketches. EMER HARRINGTON finds out more.

Could embracing the ‘admin night’ TikTok trend help you stay on top of your finances? PRUDENCE WADE chats to personal finance expert, Laura Suter about the potential benefits.

If you are a parent, there are all manner of things likely to add to your concerns for your children, but how worried should you be about AI? ELLA WALKER asks the experts.

Lowry O’Mahony, Chartered Physiotherapist and business owner tells us about her career journey in WoW. 

I feel I should settle into the deliberate decision to be at home and do the things that make our home the lovely environment it is, writes JULIE HELEN. 

A snowy Irish landscape became the backdrop for a special photoshoot last month by a Cork-based photographer and model to capture designs by Alice Halliday. AISLING MEATH finds out more about the project.

Cork violinist and artistic director of the Ortús Chamber Music Festival, Mairead Hickey chats to COLETTE SHERIDAN about the realities of her working life, and why the festival is so special to her.

This is the week of love - it’s Valentine’s Day this Saturday, and I always loved it for its feelgood factor, but also because it just brings the bit of mischief out in me too, writes EMER O'CALLAGHAN. 

When Edel Marples began to feel more isolated in her personal life, she decided to set up a walking group for like-minded women. She tells MARGARET DONNELLAN how the group flourished and has given women in Cork a new space to meet and make friends.

Designed to support women in “stepping into their power and confidently communicating their message”, the event will explore how to build presence, visibility, and influence in both professional and personal settings.

With Valentine’s Day approaching, relationship expert Carmel Wynne chats to COLETTE SHERIDAN about the importance of couples working on their relationship throughout their lives and not just at the start.

Carrigaline woman Aisling Claffey Healion has taken up the role of Chief Commissioner with the Irish Girl Guides. She tells CHRIS DUNNE how joining the guides as a shy child gave her a sense of belonging and helped shape her to be the person she is today.

Cork racing broadcaster and former jockey, Jane Mangan had a full circle moment when she became part of Royal Ascot broadcasting history last year. She told attendees at The Echo Women in Sport awards that she never even imagined that ‘the girl from Conna’ would get the chance to have such an opportunity. 

Flicky Howe, Farmer Florist, tells us about her career journey. 

Julie Helen and her family will appear in an episode of Ear to the Ground this week as Julie's mum, Katherine, shares her story of her experience of cancer. 

Terri O’Callaghan, Professional Organiser at Decluttered by Terri tells WoW about her career. 

While many may not visibly see the dirt, trust me, we skin experts have studied it under magnifying lamps and in labs.

Cork’s Emily Hayes is on a mission to help mums find their spark and feel like themselves again. She chats to CHRIS DUNNE about creating her new online business, which is connecting women around the world.

Cork doctor, Niamh Lynch found herself sharing advice on social media at the beginning of the pandemic and quickly garnered a huge following. She chats to EMER HARRINGTON about why she feels a duty to maintain an online presence, and publishing her first book.

Theatre director Julie Kelleher is back in her native Cork where she is directing Infinity as part of the events to mark the 50th anniversary of Cork Arts Theatre. She chats to COLETTE SHERIDAN about why the play resonated with her, working with an all female creative team, and what it is like to be back freelancing.

Cork woman Ali Honour is on a mission to change how we think about beans. She’s just published a new pulse-powered cookbook, Bean, filled with recipes you might not expect. Ali chats to KATE RYAN about the book and removing the stigma behind bean consumption.

Plus, Network Ireland names President and Vice President for 2026. 

Looking to add some more exercises to your routine, without needing to buy any gym equipment? Tara Reilly shares five short-burst exercises you can weave into your routine, with CAMILLA FOSTER.

The event aims to bring women from across Cork together, and promises to be a vibrant celebration of women’s voices, achievements, and support networks across the city.

As women, we do so much for so many every day - chief cook and bottle washer - but where do we put our own self-care and time for us, asks EMER O'CALLAGHAN. 

JULIE HELEN reflects on her son Ricky's stage debut. 

Thousands of students from around the country are set to descend on the RDS next week for I Wish. EMMA CONNOLLY spoke with I Wish co-founders Gillian Keating and Caroline O’Driscoll about the event and their advice to teens considering a career in STEM. She also heard from two I Wish alumni from Cork about how the event impacted their career choices.

Julianne Sullivan, Audit Partner at Xeinadin tells us about her career. 

Cork’s Elaine Kelly will be among the shining stars from the music world descending on Los Angeles this weekend for the 2026 Grammys. She chats to COLETTE SHERIDAN about the glamour of the awards and the joy of being nominated. 

Sonya Keogh gained recognition internationally for her work with ARTlifeCULTURE and at one point was doing nine Japanese tours a year. However, behind the scenes she was facing challenges. The Cork woman had to ‘relearn everything’ after major surgery for a brain aneurysm. Sonya chats to LINDA KENNY about how the experience changed her life, and opening up to find love again.

Climate change will be key on the agenda at a special event in Cork this weekend featuring female podcasters. COLETTE SHERIDAN chats to Shirley Gallagher and Conach Gibson-Feinblum ahead of the event to find out about their fascinating work in this area.

Continuing our WoW Reset series, DR CATHERINE CONLON takes a look at 6 simple steps we can embrace to help live a healthy life.

Davina Murphy, Accommodation Manager at the Cork International Hotel, first started working in hospitality more than 20 years ago and has been in her current role for just over seven years. 

At the end of the day, it’s a personal choice what exercise you enjoy, it is entirely up to you, but exercise should be part of your daily life, says EMER O'CALLAGHAN. 

Cork cousins Dr Mary O’Riordan and Lisa O’Riordan came together during the pandemic to create PPE from thistles. The endeavour proved a success and now, they are looking at expanding their business further. DEIRDRE McARDLE finds out more.

Julie and her son Ricky have been enjoying the outdoors in recent weeks, thanks to a simple new addition. 

The new network brings together the combined memberships of the organisations.

MARGARET DONNELLAN chats to women in Cork about their postpartum recovery and hears from experts about taking the time to reset and look after yourself after having a baby.

Cork Deaf Association Advocacy Officer, Susan O’Callaghan, has been recognised for her contribution to the deaf community over the past 25 years. She tells EMER HARRINGTON that while a lot has been achieved in that time, there is still more to do.

It’s a brilliant time to reset and detox mind, body and soul, and most importantly, to be grateful to be alive to see another year, writes EMER O'CALLAGHAN. 

Two Cork changemakers are among 21 people taking part in a bootcamp for activists this week. COLETTE SHERIDAN finds out more.

JULIE HELEN said she typed all the information she knows about her cerebral palsy into an AI app...here's what she learned 

Cork wellness coach and nutritionist, Lorna O’Regan, says older adults can be forgotten when it comes to wellness events. She chats to EMMA CONNOLLY about her hopes to change this and shares some simple advice for over 60s.

Nicola Flynn, TV Researcher with Today on how she got her first break in TV and her advice to people looking to get into the industry. 

Cork woman Pamela Deasy celebrated being five years free from cancer by embarking on a 771km long Camino journey. She tells CHRIS DUNNE about the 38 day challenge and why it was so important to her.

The first meeting of the year of the Network Ireland Cork branch took place last week and the Network Ireland West Cork branch will meet on Thursday. 

Silence is something which many of us don’t experience as much these days, but are there benefits in including quiet time in your day? DR CATHERINE CONLON looks at the latest research.

LARA OWEN chats to celebrity stylist Ellis Ranson about the biggest style shifts predicted for the new year.

I love a new year, I feel very grateful to be alive and well, and lucky enough to be experiencing 2026, writes EMER O'CALLAGHAN. 

LARA OWEN chats to Parisian luxury stylist, Elsa Boutaric about how to reset your wardrobe and find your signature style in 2026.

Looking to try something new for January? Choreographer and teacher Inma Pavon will host a series of drawing and wellbeing classes in Cork. She chats to EMER HARRINGTON about what’s involved.

It is reasonable to worry about the people we have to guide in the world and to worry about serious illness when it is at our door. The rest is just small stuff, says JULIE HELEN. 

In this month’s WOW Bites!, KATE RYAN chats to Sofia Kalfa from Fzin Coffee about her pivot into the industry and her ambition to change how we use coffee pods.

As part of our WoW Reset!, EMER HARRINGTON chats to Cork sisters Edel and Lauren Marples about the benefits of vision boarding and simple ways to make your very own.