In this episode, I sit down with Karolina, a fitness trainer who has made Boyle her home. Originally from Poland, she shares her early years growing up in a city before moving to a remote village with just one shop, where food deliveries were a rare event and life was tough. At 18, she returned to the city, eager to experience more of the world, before making the life-changing decision to move to Ireland in 2005.

Arriving in Athlone with her three-year-old daughter to join her partner, Karolina found herself in the middle of the Celtic Tiger boom, when many Polish people were coming to Ireland in search of work and a better life. She spent 17 years there, working in retail—including behind deli counters and at Dealz—while raising her daughter, who quickly adapted to life in Ireland. But Karolina always had a passion for health and fitness. She knew she wanted to do more, so she took the leap, studied, and transitioned into a career helping people feel strong, confident, and comfortable in what can often be an intimidating space—the gym. She’s a trainer for the everyday person, making fitness accessible to all.

After her long-term relationship came to an end, Karolina was ready for a fresh start, and Boyle became her new home. At first, she felt like an outsider—she laughs about the moment she and her daughter walked into SuperValu and felt like all eyes were on them. But with the support of people like Darren at Results Gym and a close friend from Athlone, she found her place.

Now, 1.5 years later, she’s thriving, running her own small group fitness classes and personal training sessions in Results Gym, helping both men and women on their own fitness journeys. She has embraced Boyle’s sense of community and kindness, and she’s proud to call it home.

Enjoy this episode as Karolina shares her inspiring story, and if you’re looking to start your own fitness journey, don’t hesitate to reach out to her. A big thanks to Karolina for her time!