Alongsider meets Richard J Roberts who he confides originally wanted to be a marine biologist. However, despite a fear of blood, he became a doctor and GP before adding Psychotherapy to his skillset. He shares about his recently published book on the remarkable life of St Patrick and Ireland. Kidnapped by pirates and taken as slave to the Emerald Isle, he managed to escape with some divine help and returned home. He felt a call to the priesthood, became a Bishop and returned to Ireland conquering the hearts of some 40 out of 150 tribal leaders. No mean feat in a culture where foreigners were not treated with kindness. Richard is an accomplished alongsider as spiritual accompanier and academic. This is a great open and informed conversation with someone of great passion and quiet energy. He says St Patrick's Alongsiider attributes would include - honesty, integrity and reliability - something he clearly shares with Richard himself.