Show Notes
In this episode of the Rooted Soul podcast Brian Clarke interviews Alan McDonald, who takes the mic to share his life story — from a carefree childhood and a high-pressure banking career to chronic insomnia, buried childhood trauma, and a personal collapse that forced change. Alan describes his struggle with sleeplessness, isolation, therapy, medication, and the people who carried him through the darkest times. He explains how writing poetry became a way to process grief and reclaim a sense of self, leading to his first collection and plans for more work and live shows. The conversation closes on recovery, self-forgiveness, and hope: Alan is now steadier, creatively driven, and focused on passing on the support he received while pursuing new projects and a more grounded life.
More from The Rooted Soul Podcast
Alan explores the cultural contrasts and surprising similarities between Ireland and the United States, reflecting on immigration, emigration, and how literature and music shaped both nations.He reads poems and passages from writers like Joyce, Boland, Lazarus, and Ginsberg, shares personal memories of the open road and hidden city life, and welcomes a growing American audience while announcing upcoming live events.
Alan MacDonald guides listeners through a reflective episode about making amends, picking battles, and choosing kindness. He reads several new and recent poems — including Stoking Aces, Departures, Friend Zone, Labels, Measuring Our Dreams, Acceptance, and King for All Days — while exploring themes of regret, forgiveness, and acceptance.The episode also notes a special offer on his first poetry collection, upcoming live shows, and ways to connect via TheRootedSoulBooks.com and [email protected].
In this special episode of The Rooted Soul Podcast, Alan McDonald take listeners inside the cave for an exclusive preview of his forthcoming poetry collection, The Rooted Soul: Acceptance of Joy, due for release next month. Rather than reading from the entire book, Alan selects seven poems that best capture its themes and spirit. Together they explore self-reflection, community, false saviours, friendship, late-night conversations, enduring love, and the culture and characters that have shaped his writing.
Alan McDonald on why its important to listen more than speak and slow down.