Episode #3
"To a life that hums" with Ciaran Fairman
Listening for What Resonates - The life we once fought desperately to achieve doesn't have to be the life we keep choosing. In this episode, Ciaran shares his journey from Dublin to the US, his career in oncology research, and the importance of authenticity, mentorship, and community in living a fulfilling life. He reflects on culturalshifts, personal growth, and the pursuit of a life that truly hums. Note: This episode includes an open and honest conversation about mental health and suicide. Please take care while listening if this is something that may be difficult for you. If you or someone you know isstruggling, please consider reaching out to someone you trust or to an appropriate professional or support service in your area. Guest Links: https://sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/public_health/faculty-staff/fairman_ciaran.php https://www.linkedin.com/in/ciaran-fairman-phd-ba3b0956 https://www.exerciseoncologylab.com/team Keywords personal growth, mentorship, Irish diaspora, oncology, research, authenticity, community, career transition, life balance Key topics Ciaran's journey from Dublin to the US on a soccer scholarship His career in oncology research and impact on patient care The importance of mentorship and community in personal growth Cultural shifts and identity in academic and professional spaces The concept of a life that hums and living authentically Reflections on Irish culture, education, and societal values The challenges of academic career progression and mental health The role of authenticity and self-awareness in life decisions Chapters 00:00 Introduction and guest background 01:47 Ciaran's career in oncology research 04:12 Journey from Dublin to the US on a soccer scholarship 07:06 Cultural shock and adaptation in Kentucky and Georgia 08:47 Personal challenges: family health and academicpressures 11:49 Mentorship and its impact on Ciaran’s life 14:58 Reflections on Irish education and cultural identity 18:04 The importance of relevance and fun in learning 20:49 Living authentically and overcoming insecurities 25:01 Career pressures, mental health, and resilience 30:01 Returning to Ireland and the sense of community 35:59 What a life that hums means to Ciaran 47:07 Advice for those feeling stuck and seekingauthenticity 48:58 Closing thoughts and gratitude for the conversation About the music: Song used in this podcase is "Brushstrokes" byMuirġen - https://muirgen.bandcamp.com/album/loinnir Listen to the full track on Spotify here. This song is extremely meaningful to me personally and I wasabsolutely thrilled when Muirġen gave me permission to use it in my podcast. Itbeautifully captures the essence of that point in life when you are moving fromwhere you are to where you really want to be, embracing the fear and doing itanyway. About the artist: Irish-fusion artist Muirġen announced her debutEP 'Loinnir', in early 2026 alongside the release of the first single‘Brushstrokes’. Written in Hotpress: Muirġen’s music style combines Irish tradition withexperimental electronic music. ‘Brushstrokes’ is a powerful track that playswith textured harmonies and a distinctive sensible Irish sound, defined byMuirġen's deep captivating voice and melismatic lines. ‘Brushstrokes’ was written by Muirġen (Muirgen O’Mahony), CianSweeney and Laura Elizabeth Hughes, and produced by Sweeney, and PhilipMarsden. It incorporates elements like the sound of rain and experimental drumcompositions. “The song captures a moment of suspension - the spacebetween who you’ve been and who you’re becoming,” said Muirġen.