Doireann Garrihy has stepped into a new chapter of her life. She’s married, she is a mother and she is moving into a new radio slot on 2FM.
With such a close-knit family, Doireann has plenty of advice on raising her daughter, Rosie.
We sat down with Doireann Garrihy to chat about this new chapter of her life…
Doireann, how are you keeping? And how’s your little family doing?
We are great, thank you! Life is busy but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
The Garrihy clan are tight! It must mean the world to you to have them all by your side?
Absolutely. I would be lost without them. I have always loved living close to my parents but my appreciation for them has increased tenfold since becoming a mom. Whether it’s a chicken and broccoli bake or a few words of wisdom, they are such a fantastic support to Mark and I. Aoibhin and Ailbhe are the best, too. I’m #blessed as the kids say.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from your parents?
So many things. Neither of them are afraid of hard work and I think that has been passed onto Aoibhin, Ailbhe and I. My dad has a very big heart… he is a big believer in giving everyone the benefit of the doubt, no matter what. That is something I try to implement all of the time. My mom has taught all three of us to be strong and independent. She has always encouraged us to do what we are passionate about, to use our talents and follow our dreams. I think she was born to be a mom of girls.
What words of wisdom did your parents impart as you moved into motherhood?
My mom leads the charge on this and always reminds me that motherhood has no handbook. That it is so important to trust my gut because when it comes to Rosie, I know best. She has that calmness that only comes with experience, so whenever I am worried or unsure, she is the person I call.
Tell us your favourite memory with your sisters.
We had an obsession with the movie Bring It On as kids. When I say we knew it off by heart, I mean it! We spent a full summer in Co. Clare reciting it, re-enacting the scenes and trying (failing) the cheerleading moves. As the youngest sibling I just adored being included in the craic that Aoibhin and Ailbhe had and for some reason, they really embraced me in the summer of 2000. I was in heaven.
Do you think parenthood has changed you and Mark?
Of course. We are more present than we’ve ever been before. Other parents tell you that the time goes so fast and it really does. We are soaking up every milestone. We have managed two date nights in six months and we are happy with that! Our priorities have shifted, all of our free-time is spent with Rosie and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
What type of childhood do you dream of creating for Rosie?
Are you trying to make me cry?! I guess in short, a childhood where she feels safe, happy and is surrounded with love and kindness is the dream. Now that she is at an age where she is laughing, I never want it to stop.
You’re off on tour this month, how are you feeling about getting back out on stage?
I am so excited. The Laughs Of Your Life Live is going to be the best craic. We are headed for Cork, Kerry, Mayo, Dublin and Limerick. It’s going to be busy but brilliant. I have amazing guests lined up and I am going to be doing some more time on stage on my own, too. I hate saying that out loud! But I am prepping something…I am challenging myself to try something new and am hoping it all pays off.
It’s your first nationwide tour, that’s a real milestone, isn’t it?
It is something I am hugely proud of. I started The Laughs Of Your Life podcast in 2019. Since then, I have had two sold out shows in Dublin’s Bord Gais Energy Theatre and two sold out shows in Cork Opera House. I could never have dreamed of that! We thought it was about time to take the show on the road. I am so thankful to have such a loyal podcast listenership and so cannot wait to see them all in person at the shows this May.
We’re dying to see you live, what can we expect?
Some live performance from me (I am so scared lol), amazing guests and ENDLESS laughs!
