The Comeback with Brenda Dennehy is a powerful podcast that delves into the most inspiring stories of resilience, transformation, and triumph. Hosted by Brenda Dennehy, the podcast shares the journeys of real people who have faced some of life’s toughest challenges—hitting rock bottom, navigating through personal battles, and emerging stronger than ever.
Every episode brings an honest and raw conversation about turning adversity into strength, showing that it's not just about bouncing back, but about thriving after hardship. Through heartfelt interviews, Brenda uncovers the moments that changed lives and the lessons learned along the way.
From overcoming addiction to achieving personal breakthroughs, The Comeback explores the human capacity for resilience and how people tap into their inner strength to rebuild their lives. Each guest offers a unique perspective, leaving listeners with hope, inspiration, and the belief that, no matter the obstacles, a powerful comeback is always possible.
Whether you’re seeking motivation or simply want to hear incredible stories of perseverance, The Comeback is a must-listen.
Tune in for your dose of inspiration.
Follow Brenda on Instagram: @brendasbits
Contact: thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Comeback with Brenda Dennehy is a powerful podcast that delves into the most inspiring stories of resilience, transformation, and triumph. Hosted by Brenda Dennehy, the podcast shares the journeys of real people who have faced some of life’s toughest challenges—hitting rock bottom, navigating through personal battles, and emerging stronger than ever.
Every episode brings an honest and raw conversation about turning adversity into strength, showing that it's not just about bouncing back, but about thriving after hardship. Through heartfelt interviews, Brenda uncovers the moments that changed lives and the lessons learned along the way.
From overcoming addiction to achieving personal breakthroughs, The Comeback explores the human capacity for resilience and how people tap into their inner strength to rebuild their lives. Each guest offers a unique perspective, leaving listeners with hope, inspiration, and the belief that, no matter the obstacles, a powerful comeback is always possible.
Whether you’re seeking motivation or simply want to hear incredible stories of perseverance, The Comeback is a must-listen.
Tune in for your dose of inspiration.
Follow Brenda on Instagram: @brendasbits
Contact: thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
From struggling with his weight as a teenager to trying his first drug at his own school debs, Eoin McGrath's story is one of addiction recovery, heartbreak, and hope.
He talks openly about his cocaine addiction, binge eating, and the moment his family discovered how bad things had become.
But this isn’t just a rehab story - it’s about grief and loss, mental health, and the sobriety journey that followed the love of his life, Carley, who died tragically.
Now one year sober, Eoin shares how he rebuilt his self-worth, overcame anxiety and depression, and learned the power of self-love, faith, and finding a higher power in recovery.
This is an inspirational recovery story about getting sober young, rediscovering who you are, and realising that it’s never too late to start again.
🎧 Proudly sponsored by ADHD Now - the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland. If you’re seeking an ADHD assessment or support, visit adhdnow.com today.
Inspiring story!
⏱️ 00:00:43 – Early Life and Family in Tipperary
⏱️ 00:05:19 – Struggles with Weight and Seeking Validation
⏱️ 00:07:57 – First Experience with Cocaine
⏱️ 00:12:59 – Isolation and Addiction Deepening
⏱️ 00:18:55 – Confrontation with Parents and Mounting Debt
⏱️ 00:23:57 – Hitting Rock Bottom and Family Intervention
⏱️ 00:26:55 – Decision to Go to Rehab
⏱️ 00:27:17 – Meeting Carly in Rehab
⏱️ 00:37:22 – Losing Carly to Overdose
⏱️ 00:46:38 – Turning Grief into Purpose and Finding Higher Power
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits
Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Natasha McCarthy lost her dad, Tommy, in a tragic car fire the day before her 30th birthday in April 2024. In this powerful and deeply moving episode, she opens up about her grief journey, coping with loss, and healing after trauma as a single mother. She speaks honestly about the waves of bereavement, family trauma, and the long process of rebuilding life after such unimaginable pain.
This is a story about love, resilience, and mental health awareness - about finding strength in the darkest moments and discovering hope again after loss. Above all, it’s a daughter’s mission to make sure her dad’s life is remembered not for tragedy, but for love.
🎧 This episode is sponsored by ADHD Now - the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland. If you’re seeking ADHD assessment or support, visit adhdnow.com today.
00:00 – Growing up in Mayfield
03:22 – Becoming a young mum
05:47 – Her dad’s reaction to the news
08:33 – Family loss and early grief
11:12 – The last day with her dad
13:42 – The call that changed everything
15:55 – After the car fire
20:28 – A funeral without a body
23:45 – The inquest and open verdict
28:17 – Living with grief
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits
Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For almost a decade, Steph lived in silence with depression, anxiety, and severe OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder).
Her life became smaller and smaller - until one day, she found herself confined to her room, unable to touch, eat, or even sit with the people she loved most.
In this episode, Steph opens up about the terrifying cycle of intrusive thoughts, hand-washing rituals, and anxiety disorder that controlled her every move. She talks about what it was really like to live with OCD, the breaking point that made her ask for help, and how she began her journey through therapy, to rebuild her life.
This is a story about survival, courage, and healing - and about a young woman who refused to let her illness define her.
We also speak about the impact on her family, how grief and caregiving for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease shaped her recovery, and what it truly means to find freedom after years of fear.
Steph’s comeback is one of the most honest, emotional, and inspiring stories we’ve ever shared.
This episode is sponsored by Pharma Plus - expert supplements created by Pharmacists. Evidence-based, science-backed, and made with only what your body truly needs. Follow @pharmaplusireland and visit pharmaplus.ie to learn more.
00:02:15 — Early Signs of OCD
00:05:40 — Intrusive Thoughts Take Over
00:10:25 — When Handwashing Became Compulsion
00:14:55 — Hitting Rock Bottom
00:19:30 — Finding Help Through CBT
00:24:10 — EMDR and Facing Trauma
00:30:05 — Living With Grief and Alzheimer’s
00:36:20 — Family Support and Recovery
00:41:50 — Returning to Work and Independence
00:47:15 — A Message of Hope
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits
Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This bonus episode is a little different.
After receiving a flood of messages about the women ghosting women phenomenon, I asked Lauren Golden, a psychotherapist, to join me in studio to unpack what’s really going on.
We dive into the psychology behind why women ghost each other - from friendships that suddenly end to connections that quietly fade away. We also touch on men ghosting women and women ghosting men, exploring the emotional dynamics behind it all.
Lauren is a total breath of fresh air and brings such compassion and insight to this conversation. I genuinely loved this chat and I think you will too.
If you’d like to check out Lauren and her work, you can follow her on Instagram at @laurengoldenpsychotherapy
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
At just 36, eight months married, Orlagh Winters was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer - with no lump, only pain in her breast. Her story is a powerful reminder to always get checked and trust your instincts when it comes to your health.
In this episode, Orlagh opens up about her breast cancer diagnosis, the gruelling rounds of chemotherapy and the side effects that came with it - from hair loss to being put into early menopause, which shattered her dreams of having a family. She also shares the emotional fallout of discovering her husband’s affair while grieving her dad, and how she eventually found strength and self-worth through it all.
Now married to the love of her life, Luke O’Hea, Orlagh talks about finding happiness again. She’s also raised thousands for charities and continues to be a voice for awareness, especially during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Orlagh says she lives by one motto that keeps her grounded:
“If they’re not in your head, or the heart of your bed - their opinion doesn’t matter.”
From coping with grief to finding hope after heartbreak, this is a story about courage, survival, and choosing to live life on your own terms.
This episode is proudly sponsored by ADHD Now - the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland. If you’re seeking an ADHD assessment or support, visit adhdnow.com today.
00:00 – Intro & Setting the Scene
01:00 – Early Life & Family
08:23 – Cancer Diagnosis & Chemotherapy Journey
10:24 – Medical Menopause & Infertility
11:46 – Egg Donation & Divorce
12:21 – Family Court & Misogyny in the Irish System
15:44 – Journaling, Fundraising & Finding Purpose
17:54 – Meeting Luke
25:26 – Ghosting, Boundaries & Self-Worth
29:05 – Motherhood, Regret & Reflection
31:08 – Irish Family Courts & Lockdown Impact
33:14 – Cancer Awareness & Getting Checked
35:31 – Life Before & After Cancer
37:00 – The Little Things & Love with Luke
38:28 – The Three Questions Finale
39:33 – Closing & Sign-Off
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits
Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
At seventeen, Andrew Desmond picked up his first drink - and from that moment, his life spiralled into years of alcohol addiction, problem gambling, and self-destruction. By his own words, he was a fall-down drunk, trapped in a cycle of chaos and shame.
But this is not a story about defeat. It’s about recovery, personal growth, and the courage to start again.
Now sixteen years sober, Andrew is a husband, a dad, and the founder of Be Undeniable - a movement helping men connect through functional fitness, cold-water therapy, and community. He’s building a new culture of men’s mental health in Ireland - one based on honesty, strength, and showing up.
In this raw and powerful conversation, we talk about:
Life before and after alcoholism recovery
Overcoming gambling addiction and shame
The loneliness epidemic and why men need connection
How fitness, community, and mindset shifts can transform your life
From rock bottom to recovery, Andrew shares how he rebuilt everything he lost - and why he now dedicates his life to helping other men do the same.
🎧 Sponsored by ADHD Now - the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care in Ireland. Access expert clinicians and personalised support, all from home. If you’re considering an ADHD assessment or need guidance, visit adhdnow.com
today.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
⚠️ Trigger warning: This episode contains discussion of eating disorders, suicidal ideation and self-harm. Please take care while listening.
Lauren Edwards’ story is one of struggle, survival, and ultimately, transformation. What began as a search to fit in led to years of addiction, self-destruction, and heartbreak - but also to recovery, healing, and purpose.
After reaching her lowest point, Lauren made the decision to fight for her life. Through treatment, courage, and sheer determination, she began the long road to sobriety and self-acceptance.
She also opens up about living with addiction, experiences of self-harm, the impact of an eating disorder, and how finding the right support helped her rebuild her confidence and her life.
Today, Lauren is a mum, a writer, and a life coach - navigating grief while embracing recovery and growth.
This is a conversation about survival, accountability, and hope - about what it means to rebuild your life and believe in the possibility of change.
This episode is proudly supported by Den Joe’s Family Restaurant - serving families for over 45 years.
00:00 – Introduction
01:25 – Early Life & Struggles
02:50 – First Drink at 12
06:00 – Chaos and Violence
10:20 – Escalating Addiction
14:34 – Trauma in Australia
19:00 – Seeking Help
25:00 – Relapse and Recovery
29:49 – Grief and Growth
40:35 – Healing and Purpose
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits
Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
⚠️ Trigger warning: This episode contains discussion of suicide and mental health struggles. Please take care while listening.
This week, I sit down with Aidan Loughnane to talk about his journey through anxiety, depression, crippling panic attacks, and the frightening panic attack symptoms that began in his teenage years. He opens up about living with an eating disorder that developed into bulimia, the intrusive thoughts that convinced him life wasn’t worth living, and the devastating grief and trauma of losing his brother.
Aidan shares honestly about his lowest points - and how faith, prayer, and running gave him a lifeline. Through courage, movement, and eventually therapy, he found purpose. Now, he speaks out on men’s mental health, suicide prevention, and the hidden struggles so many face.
Now preparing for fatherhood, Aidan reflects on how far he’s come - and how he found a way not just to survive, but to truly live. His story is raw, powerful, and full of hope - a reminder that even in the darkest times, healing is possible.
I’m bringing The Comeback Live to the Metropole Hotel, Cork on Saturday, November 22nd – my very first live podcast show! Tickets go on sale this Friday at 9am on Eventbrite. I can’t wait to see you there for what promises to be an unforgettable night.
This episode is proudly sponsored by The Recovery Room, Ballincollig - where physical recovery and mental clarity combine.
📞 083 335 2939 | 📧
01:50 – Introduction & Aidan’s story begins
06:25 – First panic attack on holiday
11:02 – Anxiety before pregnancy scan
17:38 – Panic attack symptoms & fear of dying
23:20 – Grief after losing his brother
35:10 – MDMA, cardiac arrest & survival
42:55 – Faith and prayer in recovery
53:60 – Therapy, trust, and accountability
1:07:30 – Porn, phones & loneliness in men
1:19:05 – Fatherhood, resilience & final message
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits
Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
When his sister Sarah died in a car accident in 2010, Dave Kennedy turned to food for comfort - food he describes as his poison. Grief pushed him into emotional eating and unhealthy habits until he decided to turn his life around, beginning a weight loss journey that saw him shed eight stone and rebuild his confidence.
Now a farmer and personal coach, Dave helps others find their own strength and resilience. But life tested him again when, just last December, his mother passed away suddenly. As Dave says, “the whole bond in the house is gone - your mother is the foundation of the home.”
In this raw and honest conversation on The Comeback, Dave talks about:
* His weight loss journey, gym transformation and nutrition coaching
* Grief and loss - coping with bereavement after losing a sibling and a parent
* Men’s mental health and why it’s so important to “do the work on yourself”
* Self-love, self-compassion and becoming your own best friend
* Mindset coaching, personal growth and building awareness through tough times
* How relationships change when you stop seeking outside validation
This episode is a powerful reminder that even through heartbreak, transformation is possible.
Sponsored by Cork Podcast Studio - Cork’s home for podcasting, film and photography. You can connect with them at www.corkpodcaststudio.ie/
3:55 – Farming roots in Cork & Tipperary
8:40 – Losing his sister and grief
13:17 – Comfort eating and weight gain
18:32 – Returning to the gym
23:57 – From lecturer to coaching in Dubai
29:47 – Creating The Lifestyle Blueprint
35:22 – Life after quitting alcohol
42:10 – Self-love and validation
50:30 – Lessons from loss and growth
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits
Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Trigger warning: This episode contains discussion of suicide and suicidal ideation. Please take care while listening.
Four years ago, Kim Nolan lost the love of her life, Thomas, to suicide. In an instant, her world was shattered. She was left to raise their children, Kaidyn and Aria, and faced the unbearable task of telling them their dad was gone - before having to break the same devastating news to Thomas’s mother, his brothers, and his sister.
As if that loss wasn’t enough, Kim was struck by another devastating tragedy when her mam died suddenly in her sleep at just 58. She describes the shock of telling her grandparents their daughter was gone and how it forced her to question everything she thought she knew about grief.
And yet, through all this pain, Kim has found a way to keep living. She speaks about the darkest moments, the panic attacks, the silence of grief - and how she has fought her way back to gratitude, holding on to the ten years of love she shared with Thomas.
This is a story of heartbreak, survival, and resilience.
✨ Thank you to our sponsor, Brow Bar Boutiques - your ultimate walk-in brow bars. Step in and experience the transformation for yourself, because when it comes to gorgeous brows, the proof is in the plucking! Find them on Instagram at @browbarboutiques.
Very moving!
Thanks for sharing!
Touched deeply
00:00 – Introduction to Kim’s story and sudden loss
03:15 – The day everything changed: receiving the devastating call
07:40 – First panic attack experience during the funeral
12:25 – Explaining death to young children in an honest way
18:50 – Facing guilt and the “what ifs” after suicide
24:30 – Realising there were no clear signs beforehand
30:05 – Coping with grief during COVID restrictions
36:20 – Choosing resilience: deciding to keep living fully
42:10 – The shift in mindset: stopping people-pleasing
48:35 – Looking ahead: parenting, career change, and life after loss
Samaritans Ireland – Free, confidential support, 24/7
📞 116 123
Pieta House – Suicide and self-harm crisis support
📞 1800 247 247
📱 Text HELP to 51444
Aware – Support for depression, anxiety, and mood-related issues
📞 1800 80 48 48
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits
Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Most people know her online as Crazy Caroline - full of energy and fun. But in this episode of The Comeback, Caroline Rushe reveals the woman behind the Instagram account.
She talks about growing up in poverty, being bullied at school and beaten at home, and how those experiences shaped her. Caroline shares with raw honesty her battles with grief, suicide, and mental health - and how she has found strength through therapy, support, and the love of her family.
Her husband Colm stood by her through the darkest days, while her two IVF sons, Callum and Cullen, gave her life new meaning. She also tells the story of Cassie, her rescue dog - a bond Caroline describes as two souls rescued, and finally loved.
This is a conversation about survival, resilience, and why it’s okay not to be okay. And yes, we even clear up the drama about why she never made it to my Opera House show - with a few laughs along the way.
This episode is kindly sponsored by The Howliday Inn – a purpose-built doggie daycare and boarding kennels with trampolines, couches, paddling pools and toys. A true haven for dogs of all sizes.📞 +353 87 334 5702📧 Howlidayinn1@gmail.com
00:00 – Intro
01:16 – Childhood poverty & struggles
03:31 – Alcohol triggers & marriage impact
07:06 – Anxiety, paranoia & breakdown
13:54 – Psychiatric hospital & recovery
20:03 – Losing her mother
26:23 – Rescuing animals & healing bond
29:41 – Social media journey
42:07 – Finding authenticity in her 40s
44:20 – Cold water dips & gratitude
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits
Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
After fifteen amazing episodes of The Comeback with Brenda Dennehy, I’m taking a little break. When I put out episode one just twelve weeks ago, I never thought it would reach and connect with so many of you.
I can’t thank you enough for all the love, messages, and support. Season Two is already recorded, and I’ll be back very soon - kicking off with an absolute banger!
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits
Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode contains conversations about suicide and bereavement. Listener discretion is advised.
On 8th May 2016, Damien Long’s life changed forever. That Sunday morning - usually spent with his 17-year-old daughter Shaunagh - ended with the knock at the door no parent ever wants to answer. Shaunagh had died by suicide.
In this raw and unflinching conversation, Damien shares the moment his world shattered, the grief that still lives in him every day, and the spiral that nearly consumed him. He speaks honestly about the anger, the questions, and the turning point where he knew he had to fight his way forward.
We also hear about the Shaunagh he remembers - her smile, her spark, her spirit - and how his love for her has fuelled a new mission. Today, Damien’s passion for fitness is helping others transform their lives, not just physically but mentally.
A story of loss, resilience, and the power of speaking out. As Damien says: “Walk in my shoes - see my pain.”
01:28 – Growing Up in Ballincollig
05:03 – Meeting His Children
06:06 – The Day Everything Changed
09:48 – Living With the Knot of Grief
14:26 – Favourite Memories of Shauna
16:38 – Counselling and Peter House
19:41 – Hitting Rock Bottom
23:02 – Turning Point
27:04 – Coping Mechanisms
37:53 – Life Lessons From Grief
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits
Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode contains themes of suicide and mental health. Please listen with care.
On this powerful episode of The Comeback, Lorraine Jordan shares the night she went into the River Lee in Cork - and how a stranger jumped in to help save her.
What followed was a long recovery journey through alcohol addiction, depression, and the struggle of rebuilding life as a single mother. Lorraine speaks openly about her experience in alcohol rehab, attending AA meetings, and the daily work of overcoming addiction.
This is one of those real and raw addiction recovery stories that touches on everything from relapse prevention and suicide prevention, to mental health recovery, rehab stories, and the ongoing need for mental health support.
With thanks to The Neil Prendeville Show on REDFM for allowing us to include audio from their November 2020 broadcast.
This episode is proudly sponsored by LiKE, Ireland’s go-to for unique hand-painted essentials.
A beautiful Irish brand born out of a love for Limerick and Ireland, LiKE prioritises sustainability - from personalised kidswear to oversized totes.
LiKE Local. LiKE Sustainable. LiKE Style.
Check them out at
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits
Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode Description:
In this episode I am joined by legendary Irish radio presenter Nikki Hayes - a voice many will remember from her days on RTÉ 2FM, Spin 1038, Classic Hits Radio, and now East Coast FM.
Nikki bravely opens up about her journey through alcohol addiction, mental health struggles, bulimia, and depression, and how it all spiralled during the pandemic while she was broadcasting from home.
She shares what it was like to go from national fame to becoming homeless in Dublin, losing her job, and fighting her way back with the help of Tiglin rehab and addiction support in Ireland. She speaks powerfully about the guilt she still feels as a mother, her ongoing healing, and how Christianity and the Bible have now become guiding forces in her recovery journey.
We also talk about:
- Life after the media storm around her court case
- Rebuilding self-worth and embracing sobriety
- How she's staying grounded after 18 months of sobriety
This is a raw, real, and inspiring recovery story - one that shows just how far you can come with support, faith, and relentless honesty.
This episode is proudly sponsored by LiKE, Ireland’s go-to for unique hand painted essentials. A beautiful Irish brand born out of a love for Limerick and Ireland, LiKE prioritises sustainability -from personalised Kidswear to Oversized totes.
LiKE Local
LiKE Sustainable
LiKE Style
Check them out at www.lk.ie
Timestamps:
01:14 – Introduction
01:49 – Early Life & First Drink
04:31 – Discovering Radio
07:54 – Life at 2FM
13:54 – Losing Her Dream Job
19:23 – Classic Hits & COVID
24:55 – Homelessness & Rock Bottom
35:07 – Turning Point
40:27 – Recovery & Faith
52:05 – Full Circle
Photo Credit: Jenny McCarthy
Connect With Me:
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits
Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode Description:
From prison to personal trainer: Mikey Power’s raw story of addiction, arrests, and turning it all around
On this week’s episode, I’m joined by Mikey Power, who shares the unfiltered truth about his addiction recovery, run-ins with the law, and the breakthrough moment that turned his life around.
From teenage drinking to prison and multiple arrests, Mikey opens up about how grief, anger, and self-destruction nearly consumed him - and how fitness and routine helped him rebuild everything from the ground up.
Now a successful personal trainer and gym owner, Mikey talks about taking full responsibility, rebuilding relationships, and finding a sense of peace and purpose he never thought possible.
Whether you're struggling with alcohol addiction, seeking self improvement, or just in need of a reminder that comebacks are real, this episode is for you.
Topics Covered:
Arrests, grief, and hitting rock bottom
The dark spiral of alcohol and addiction
A near-suicide and the moment that changed everything
Prison life and discovering gym motivation
Building a new life through fitness and discipline
Turning pain into purpose
Living with gratitude and staying sober
This episode is proudly sponsored by LiKE - a beautiful Irish brand born out of love for Limerick and Ireland. All products are handprinted in Ireland using sustainable materials, blending creativity with meaning.
Explore the collection at
Timestamps
01:34 – Becoming a father and naming his son Janjo
02:22 – Struggles with school and clashing with authority
06:00 – First drink and early exposure to alcohol culture
11:00 – Death of Joe and the start of serious addiction
16:46 – Suicide attempt and being pulled from the bridge
24:35 – Finding purpose through prison and fitness
33:24 – Rock bottom: choosing drink over love
35:13 – First AA meeting and a vision for change
38:48 – Powerful mindset shift: owning his potential
40:48 – “Hike with Mike” and raising funds through challenge
Connect With Me:
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits
Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week I am joined by Christine Kavanagh, a mother from Cork who has lived through the unimaginable - losing four sons, three of them to drug-related causes.
In January of this year, Christine lost two of her sons, Dillon and Damien, just fifteen days apart. They were laid to rest in a double funeral - one open coffin, one closed. Another son, Leon, died of a heroin overdose in 2021. Her pain is immeasurable, but Christine has chosen to speak out, not stay silent.
In this deeply emotional and powerful episode, Christine shares her story of grief, addiction, and resilience. She opens up about the devastating impact of heroin addiction, the lack of mental health support, and the urgent need for harm reduction services like supervised injection centres in Ireland - services she believes could have saved her sons.
We also talk about her ongoing strength: returning to work just three days after her sons' funeral, raising her grandchildren, and becoming an advocate for overdose prevention and addiction recovery.
Christine’s voice is one of love, pain, and fierce determination - and her story is one I will never forget.
This episode is dedicated to Dillon, Damien, Leon, and Ross.
This episode is proudly sponsored by Old Mill Confectionery - Handmade Irish cakes and treats, established in Cork over 40 years ago. Christine shared how their team went above and beyond while catering her sons’ funeral - a gesture she’ll never forget. You can find them on Instagram: @oldmillconfectionary
[00:00:28] – This Pain Will Never Leave Me
[00:01:26] – Why I Keep Going for My Family
[00:01:54] – Losing Ross to Epilepsy
[00:03:13] – Leon’s Struggle With Addiction
[00:08:34] – Campaigning for an Injection Centre
[00:25:06] – Two Sons Buried Together
[00:24:03] – They Were Sick, Not Bad
[00:21:27] – Helping a Stranger on the Street
[00:22:09] – Flashbacks and Street Advocacy
[00:30:01] – If I Can Save One Family
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits
Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, I’m joined by Nicola Guilfoyle, a 40-year-old mum of three from Clonmel who’s lived through more than most - addiction in the family, the loss of her mother, brother, and father, and her own struggles with grief, mental health, and struggling with her weight.
We talk about childhood trauma, losing her brother just weeks before giving birth, and saying goodbye to her dad - her best friend - after he died from sepsis.
Nicola shares what it’s like to raise a child with autism, lose nearly 13 stone, and train for two marathons - all while navigating deep loss.
This episode is about bereavement, autism, addiction, weight loss, and finding your way through the darkest days.
This week’s sponsor is AutismCare — an Irish organisation offering neuroaffirming assessments and lifelong supports, co-designed with Autistic individuals. Their team is grounded in lived experience, compassion, and genuine inclusion. You can visit them at autismcare.ie.
00:00 – Intro: grief, addiction, autism
01:15 – Brother’s addiction
03:15 – Mum’s cancer diagnosis
06:30 – Christmas family conflict
09:25 – Brother’s death
14:00 – Autism diagnosis journey
19:30 – Dad’s sudden illness
25:50 – Coping with loss
30:10 – Marathon training
32:00 – Weight loss + sobriety
If you're struggling with grief, addiction, mental health, or family trauma, here are some trusted Irish support services you can contact:
- **Pieta House** – Support for suicide, self-harm, and bereavement
📞 1800 247 247 (24/7)
🌐 [www.pieta.ie](https://www.pieta.ie)
- **HSE Drugs & Alcohol Helpline** – Free, confidential advice and support
📞 1800 459 459
📧 helpline@hse.ie
🌐 [www.drugs.ie](https://www.drugs.ie)
- **Samaritans Ireland** – 24/7 emotional support for anyone in distress
📞 116 123 (Free)
🌐 [www.samaritans.ie](https://www.samaritans.ie)
- **Aware** – Support for depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder
📞 1800 80 48 48
🌐 [www.aware.ie](https://www.aware.ie)
- **Family Carers Ireland** – Support for people caring for loved ones
📞 1800 24 07 24
🌐 [www.familycarers.ie](https://www.familycarers.ie)
Please don’t hesitate to reach out. Help is always available. ❤️
You can follow Nicola here: orangenic_life_fun_food
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits
Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, I’m joined by someone whose courage, honesty, and strength will stay with you long after the episode ends — Dessie Fitzgerald.
In 2011, Dessie’s world was turned upside down by a spinal cord injury, paralysis, and the loss of his brother. But instead of giving up, he chose to rebuild. Today, he’s a life coach, motivational speaker, and a powerful voice on resilience, healing, and purpose.
- Mental health and depression
- Life after a spinal cord injury
- Grief, trauma, and recovery
- Finding peace and post-traumatic growth
- How Dessie now supports others as a coach
Dessie’s story is full of honesty and hope - and a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is a way forward.
More about Dessie: dessiefitzgerald.com
This episode is proudly sponsored by Queen B Athletics
Premium sportswear for women.
A sustainable Cork brand and proud partners of Cork Camogie and Hockey Ireland.
Follow them on Instagram at @queenBathletics.
And if you ever need help or have a question, just drop them a message -
Customer service is their obsession, and they genuinely love to help.
[00:01:00] – Childhood & Hurling
[00:07:30] – Mike’s Death
[00:10:50] – Life-Changing Injury
[00:15:40] – First Signs of Movement
[00:20:30] – Wedding Goal
[00:25:30] – Depression & Struggle
[00:29:45] – James’ Death
[00:34:00] – Rock Bottom
[00:36:45] – Breakthrough Workshop
[00:41:00] – Coaching Journey
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits
Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week on the podcast, Rio Fennell’s incredible journey is told through the eyes of his amazing mother, Melanie O’Sullivan - a story of a 7-year-old boy’s fight against a brain tumour, and the love that carried them through it.
When Rio began showing symptoms, they were dismissed as “probably viral.” But Melanie’s instincts told her something more serious was going on. She trusted her gut, kept pushing for answers - and she was right.
In this powerful and emotional conversation, we talk about:
This is a powerful story about a mother’s love and instinct. A reminder that even when the odds feel overwhelming, determination, hope, and connection can shine through.
This episode is proudly sponsored by ADHD Now
ADHD Now is an online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland. They empower people with fast, affordable access to ADHD assessments, expert clinicians, and personalised support.
To learn more or to book your own assessment, visit adhdnow.com today.
[00:00:00] – Intro: Meet Mel & setting the context for Rio’s story
[00:02:00] – First symptoms: Rio’s headaches, vomiting & GP visits
[00:07:30] – Mel’s gut feeling & fears of a tumour
[00:12:00] – Hospital visit & pushing for further tests
[00:17:00] – The diagnosis: tumour detected on MRI
[00:22:00] – Emergency transfer to Dublin & worsening condition
[00:30:00] – Tumour type revealed & start of treatment plan
[00:36:00] – Chemotherapy, stem cells & surgery journey
[00:45:00] – Ringing the bell, coming home & epilepsy scare
[00:52:00] – Life after treatment: recovery, school, and moving forward
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits
Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.