‘Love should feel safe’ – The Women’s Aid podcast is vital for relationship education

The Too Into You podcast by Women’s Aid launched this week, becoming Ireland’s first dedicated podcast aimed at helping young people navigate relationships.

Hosted by Too Into You Coordinator Mary Hayes, the podcast responds to growing concerns about relationship health and education among young people in Ireland.

The first season opens powerfully with Keelin Moncrieff and Jody Duggan, who share their experiences, lessons, and insights into what a healthy relationship should look like.

While their perspectives differ, recurring themes link them, such as self-doubt, the healing power of sharing, and the importance of education and a strong support system.

This podcast enters the audio space to educate listeners of all ages, genders, and backgrounds on what healthy love should look and feel like, as well as aiming to remove stigma and shame for survivors of intimate abuse and keeping the conversation open.

"We’re conditioned to be the easy, breezy, very easygoing girlfriend, just go along with things."

The first episode with Keelin delves into social attitudes toward victims and the complexities of abusive relationships.

It also explores dating terms such as love bombing and the red flags young people should be aware of when navigating dating and new relationships.

"The social commentary around these things really has to change because shaming victims into being like, ‘Why did you stay? Why did you get with them?’… It’s not a crime to be a stupid woman or to be meek or docile or to be strong or loud. It’s a crime to be abusive to someone."

Keelin Moncrieff, Too Into You Podcast

Keelin also opens up about her healing journey, sharing how learning and reflection have strengthened her relationship with herself and changed how she receives love.

She encourages listeners to confide in loved ones during relationship struggles, whether romantic or platonic.

The episode also explores the pressure (and potential risks) of the 'Cool Girl' trope, the importance of building self-worth, and the value of recognising and embracing green flags in relationships.

This conversation is relatable, important, and informative, encouraging listeners to open up about their relationship struggles and explore topics often kept internal.

"Having people around you is incredibly important"

Episode 2 of the Too Into You Podcast features a survivor’s firsthand account of an abusive relationship, shared in the hope of helping others in similar situations.

Jody Duggan bravely opens up about the long-term effects of relationship trauma on her self-esteem and how it continues to shape the way she navigates relationships.

Between the ages of 17 and 19, Jody was abused by her now-convicted ex-partner.

Today, as an ambassador for the Too Into You campaign, she shares her story to help other women and girls feel less alone.

After finding the strength to report her ex-partner, Jody chose to waive her anonymity, determined to shed light on the victim’s experience in court, something she speaks about on the podcast.

"I always said I had the choice to keep my name private, but if I did that, so was his. And I just thought to myself, from the people around me, I thought, 'Well, I've nothing to be embarrassed about. They all know it.'

"I've said it from day one, if it helps one woman or young girl, that's my job done. And it's definitely healing me because I've come to accept what's happened."

Jody Duggan, Too Into You

This episode highlights the complex duality of abusive relationships, challenges the stigma surrounding victims, raises awareness of red flags to watch for, and emphasises the importance of fully supporting survivors.

It highlights the importance of believing survivors, exposes issues within the Irish court system, and offers hope for healing and resilience after relationship abuse.

Jody's story is a powerful lesson in recognising red flags and the importance of speaking up when something feels wrong.

The Too Into You podcast is a space for learning, growth, connection, support, and empowerment, guided by Mary Hayes' insightful and well-researched questions.

Mary's patience and warmth create an environment where guests feel safe to explore and open up, even when the conversation is uncomfortable but vital for educating the next generation.

The Too Into You Podcast is available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major streaming platforms

Women’s Aid urges people to tune in, spread the word, and be part of a movement that champions safe and respectful relationships.  

You can take the Too Into You relationship quiz here.

If you're worried about your own relationship or even a friend's relationship, you can call the Women's Age 24-hour National Free Phone Helpline on 1800-341-900, or visit toointoyou.ie or information and support.