03. Creating Space for Connection

On today’s episode I speak with Ian Power, who is the CEO of Spunout.ie - Ireland’s youth information website,  inclusive of a free 24/7 text service called “Text 50808”, which provides support for people going through mental health or emotional crisis - big or small. 

Ian and I had an incredibly rich conversation on the very important topic of 'Creating Space for Connection' and practical ways in which we can use emotional intelligence to foster more inclusive spaces. Specifically, we discuss the role of empathy and self-awareness and how these two emotional skills enable us to deepen the connection with ourselves and others.

This episode is part of a larger series of conversations discussion Mental health and Wellbeing. Creating space for connection is a central part of proactively managing our wellbeing, as connection is rooted in our need for love and belonging. Science has shown that connection to aids our mental health in many different ways: reducing our levels of anxiety and depression, regulating our emotions, and improving our self-esteem (to name a few).

But beyond mental health, another reason why I felt this episode was contextually relevant is because if you look at many of the global news headlines - whether that be on racial injustice, growing inequality, or grossly skewed political views, they all emphasize fragmentation and disconnection within our communities. This conversation addresses practical ways we might better come to understand one another, so that we may evolve as a human collective.