Rugby Players Ireland in partnership with Zurich and the Z Zurich foundation are launching a new ‘Tackle Your Feelings Podcast’ with Irish international rugby players, James Lowe and Laura Feely among their first guests.

Comprising of seven episodes, the ‘Tackle Your Feelings Podcast’ encourages listeners to rethink their approach to positive mental well-being by hearing from some of Ireland’s best-known rugby players who will share their methods of maintaining strong, positive mental health.

Listeners can expect to hear a range of insights, including tips for managing stress, coping with setbacks and injury, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Hosted by Dr. Hannah McCormack, TYF campaign manager, the podcast series features a range of guests including interviews with current and former international rugby stars from across the provinces such as Andrew Trimble, Joey Carbery and Eimear Considine, each sharing their personal insights into taking control of their own mental health whilst balancing the demands of elite sport.

The first episode features Irish international rugby players Hannah O’Connor and Laura Feely who speak openly about their rugby careers to date, sharing the various challenges and setbacks that have shaped their journey and relationship with their own mental health.

Episode 2 sees former Ulster Rugby and Ireland star, Andrew Trimble discuss how the pursuit of perfection can carry many pitfalls.

In Episode 3 released later this week, in-form Irish Rugby star James Lowe opens up about his experiences in dealing with challenges on and off the rugby field throughout his career.

Released every Thursday, the Podcast is available to listen across all platforms or can be watched on the Tackle Your Feelings YouTube Channel.

“I’m thrilled to be part of the new Tackle Your Feelings podcast and lend my support to helping raise awareness of positive mental health well-being in Ireland,” said Lowe launching the series.

“As players, we often face a lot of pressure on and off the pitch, so I believe it is important to have these open conversations about the strategies we use to stay mentally fit. I hope by sharing our stories to a wider audience, we can help others who may be struggling and let them know that they are not alone and there are useful tools out there to help them.”

“The podcast represents a vehicle for an open conversation; a safe space to speak and listen to the various experiences and journeys that rugby players across Ireland have had,” added Feely.

“By having these open and honest discussions, we can continue to work together to break down the stigma surrounding mental health and help others to start taking control of their own mental well-being.”