The Comeback with Brenda Dennehy

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.Sponsor: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.comTimestamps:00:00 – Intro01:16 – Childhood poverty & struggles03:31 – Alcohol triggers & marriage impact07:06 – Anxiety, paranoia & breakdown13:54 – Psychiatric hospital & recovery20:03 – Losing her mother26:23 – Rescuing animals & healing bond29:41 – Social media journey42:07 – Finding authenticity in her 40s44:20 – Cold water dips & gratitudeConnect With Me:Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbitsContact: 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!Connect With Me:Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbitsContact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger warning:This episode contains conversations about suicide and bereavement. Listener discretion is advised.Episode Description: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.”Timestamps:01:28 – Growing Up in Ballincollig05:03 – Meeting His Children06:06 – The Day Everything Changed09:48 – Living With the Knot of Grief14:26 – Favourite Memories of Shauna16:38 – Counselling and Peter House19:41 – Hitting Rock Bottom23:02 – Turning Point27:04 – Coping Mechanisms37:53 – Life Lessons From GriefConnect With Me:Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbitsContact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger Warning!This episode contains themes of suicide and mental health. Please listen with care.Episode DescriptionOn 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 atwww.lk.ieTimestamps:00:01:42 – Intro: Lorraine Jordan’s rescue story00:05:48 – Losing her father and spiralling into addiction00:09:30 – Daily blackout drinking while raising kids00:10:56 – Eldest daughter stepping into parenting role00:17:05 – The night of the river incident00:19:14 – Entering treatment and starting recovery00:20:31 – Life inside women’s rehab00:26:03 – Life transformation in sobriety00:28:25 – Regret in the water and gratitude to rescuer00:31:02 – Closing message of hopeHelplines & Support ServicesSamaritans – Call 116 123 (Freephone, 24/7)Pieta House – Call 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444 (24/7)Alcoholics Anonymous Ireland – Call 01 842 0700 or visit www.alcoholicsanonymous.ieConnect With Me:Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbitsContact: 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 sobrietyThis 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 LocalLiKE SustainableLiKE StyleCheck them out at www.lk.ieTimestamps:01:14 – Introduction01:49 – Early Life & First Drink04:31 – Discovering Radio07:54 – Life at 2FM13:54 – Losing Her Dream Job19:23 – Classic Hits & COVID24:55 – Homelessness & Rock Bottom35:07 – Turning Point40:27 – Recovery & Faith52:05 – Full CirclePhoto Credit: Jenny McCarthyConnect With Me:Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbitsContact: 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 aroundOn 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 bottomThe dark spiral of alcohol and addictionA near-suicide and the moment that changed everythingPrison life and discovering gym motivationBuilding a new life through fitness and disciplineTurning pain into purposeLiving with gratitude and staying soberThis 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 atwww.lk.ieTimestamps01:34 – Becoming a father and naming his son Janjo02:22 – Struggles with school and clashing with authority06:00 – First drink and early exposure to alcohol culture11:00 – Death of Joe and the start of serious addiction16:46 – Suicide attempt and being pulled from the bridge24:35 – Finding purpose through prison and fitness33:24 – Rock bottom: choosing drink over love35:13 – First AA meeting and a vision for change38:48 – Powerful mindset shift: owning his potential40:48 – “Hike with Mike” and raising funds through challengeConnect With Me:Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbitsContact: 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: @oldmillconfectionaryTimestamps[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 FamilyConnect With Me:Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbitsContact: 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.Timestamps00:00 – 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 + sobrietySupportIf 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. ❤️ConnectYou can follow Nicola here: orangenic_life_fun_foodInstagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbitsContact: 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.We talk about:- 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 coachDessie’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.comThis episode is proudly sponsored by Queen B AthleticsPremium 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.Timestamps[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 JourneyConnect With Me:Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbitsContact: 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:The early brain tumour symptoms in children that often go unnoticedWhy parental instinct can be life-savingRio’s journey through proton beam therapy, stem cell transplant, and countless MRI scansLife inside Crumlin Children’s Hospital and the strength required to keep goingThe emotional toll of chemo hair loss and the reality of pausing your life to support your childHow Melanie stood by Rio’s side through every test, treatment and sleepless nightThis 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 NowADHD 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.Timestamps[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 forwardConnect With Me:Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbitsContact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Comeback, I sit down with Andy Goulding - a champion marathon runner, devoted husband and son, and someone whose story of addiction and recovery will stay with you long after you’ve heard it.Five years ago, Andy’s life was turned upside down by a crippling cocaine addiction that nearly cost him his life. In a moment that can only be described as miraculous, he survived - and today, he shares his raw, honest, and powerful story of what it took to rebuild.Andy opens up about:* Spending over a decade in denial that his drug use was destroying his life* The terrifying moment he experienced psychosis* How his father had to step in, bail him out, and beg him to get help* The pain his addiction caused to those around him -especially his wife Sarah, who spent weeks alone during Covid while Andy sought treatment* His time in rehab at Cuan Mhuire and what true recovery looks likeNow clean and thriving, Andy’s story is one of strength, vulnerability, and the power of choosing to live.Whether you’ve struggled with addiction, depression, or simply want to hear an inspiring comeback, this episode is a must-listen.This episode is proudly sponsored by AND Hair & Co, a vibrant salon in Glanmire run by best friends Aoife McGrath and Donna Kelleher. With over 15 years of experience, they opened the salon they always dreamed of in 2019 after returning home from Australia.📲 Book via Instagram: @andhairnco or call +353 21 482 2545Timestamps[00:00:00] – Childhood, hurling, and identity[00:04:30] – Losing direction after leaving sport[00:07:45] – First experience with cocaine and early use[00:12:30] – Descent into addiction and financial struggles[00:17:10] – Relationship strain and denial of problem[00:21:50] – Suicide attempt and rescue in Limerick[00:28:00] – Entering psychiatric care and accepting help[00:32:40] – 20 weeks in treatment and early recovery[00:39:00] – Running, relapse fears, and building a new identity[00:44:50] – Reflections on rock bottom, gratitude, and final messageHelplines & Support ResourcesSamaritans Ireland – Free 24/7 emotional support📞 Call 116 123🌐 samaritans.ieDrugs.ie – Support, info & treatment options🌐 www.drugs.ie📧 Email: support@drugs.ieHSE Addiction Services – Find local treatment services🌐 www.hse.ie/services/addictionNarcotics Anonymous Ireland📞 Call 01 672 8000🌐 www.na-ireland.orgConnect With Me:Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbitsContact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I’m joined by Natasha O’Byrne, or as she’s fondly known, Tasha - a 25-year-old mum of two from Cork who is currently undergoing chemotherapy for bowel cancer.Tasha shares her powerful story of facing cancer as a young mother, after losing her own mum to cancer at just 46. She is now the third generation in her family to be diagnosed, and her courage and clarity shine through as she opens up about life in the midst of treatment.We talk about:* The early symptoms that were missed* Life with cancer as a young mum in her 20s* The physical and emotional toll of chemo side effects* The importance of mental health and staying strong* A family history of genetic cancer* Her incredible fundraising work for the Irish Cancer SocietyTasha has also organised the upcoming Concert for Hope, taking place at Cork City Hall on July 30, headlined by country star Nathan Carter - all in aid of the Irish Cancer Society.Tickets are available now at eventbrite.ie - just search “Concert for Hope Cork” or follow the link below.https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/concert-for-cancer-nathan-carter-tickets-1361732441389?aff=ebdsoporgprofile&keep_tld=1This episode is proudly sponsored by ADHD Now, the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland. ADHD Now empowers people by providing access to ADHD assessments, expert clinicians, and personalised support. If you’re looking for an ADHD assessment or seeking support, visit adhdnow.com today.Timestamps:[00:00:00] – Intro & Tasha’s powerful email[00:03:00] – Family cancer history & early exposure[00:07:00] – Losing her mum during COVID[00:12:00] – Diagnosis & hearing the word ‘cancer’[00:18:00] – Staying positive for her kids[00:24:00] – First scan results & mindset shift[00:29:00] – Gratitude & daily routines[00:33:00] – Chemo days & support on the ward[00:38:00] – Advice for the newly diagnosed[00:42:00] – Concert for Cancer & giving backConnect With Me:Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbitsEmail: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I sit down with Sophie Cole, a special education teacher from Carrigaline whose life changed overnight after a classroom assault left her with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) – one of the world’s most painful and incurable conditions.Sophie opens up about living with chronic nerve pain, the trauma of PTSD, and the many surgeries she’s endured – from spinal cord stimulators to discussions around amputation. Just nine weeks before her wedding, she underwent major surgery, spending her recovery in bed while preparing to walk down the aisle. Through it all, her husband Shane has been a rock of support.I’m in awe of Sophie’s strength and resilience – despite everything, she continues to push forward and advocate for change. She also shares how her Bernese Mountain Dog, Murphy, has helped her cope on the hardest days.Sophie speaks so openly about the isolation of dealing with an invisible illness, the lack of disability support, and the broken system around public sector sick leave and state benefits in Ireland.Her story is powerful, painful, and important - please give this one a listen and share.This episode is proudly sponsored by ADHD Now, the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland. ADHD Now empowers people by providing access to ADHD assessments, expert clinicians, and personalised support. If you’re looking for an ADHD assessment or seeking support, visit adhdnow.com today.Timestamps[00:00:00] – Intro & Sophie’s background[00:01:00] – Dream job & the classroom incident[00:04:00] – Perfect life before the injury[00:06:00] – Diagnosis: Complex Regional Pain Syndrome[00:10:00] – Realising it’s lifelong[00:12:00] – Financial shock & campaign begins[00:16:00] – Living with chronic pain[00:20:00] – Petition, politics & slow progress[00:24:00] – Treatment setbacks & pre-wedding crisis[00:30:00] – The wedding & resilience[00:33:00] – Career loss & grief[00:36:00] – Love, support & future hope[00:40:00] – Final message: you will get through itConnect:Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbitsContact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com👉 Follow Sophie at @special_education_muinteoir Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I sit down with Joe McCaul, who many of you will remember for representing Ireland in the 2005 Eurovision Song Contest alongside his sister Donna. Joe's journey took him nationwide after the song "You're a Star," but his life took unexpected turns, including his time in the spotlight and the challenges that followed. This is Joe’s very first podcast, as he’s shied away from the media following difficult times in his life.I was deeply moved by his story, especially when he shared how the media made a fool of him, how he was harassed, and even verbally abused while walking down the street. Joe opens up about one of his lowest moments while on tour with Westlife and how Caroline Flack came to his aid during that incredibly hard time. Joe is incredibly engaging, and we really hit it off - there were so many laughs, and I truly hope you enjoy this podcast as much as I did.This episode is proudly sponsored by ADHD Now, the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland. ADHD Now empowers people by providing access to ADHD assessments, expert clinicians, and personalised support. If you’re looking for an ADHD assessment or seeking support, visit adhdnow.com today.Timestamps:00:00 – Joe’s chaotic energy and why he finally said yes03:30 – Childhood in Athlone, fear of abandonment, and being HSP07:45 – Early suicidal thoughts and hiding his pain10:20 – Fame after You’re a Star and tour with Westlife13:40 – Verbal abuse in public and substance misuse16:00 – Emotional dysregulation, therapy, and DBT tools21:50 – Shame and trauma after The X Factor28:30 – Multiple sclerosis diagnosis and fighting back35:10 – Finding peace, love, and purpose as a teacher39:00 – Advice for anyone struggling with mental healthSupport ResourcesIf you’ve been affected by any of the topics discussed, you’re not alone. Please reach out:Pieta House – 24/7 Crisis Support📞 1800 247 247 | 📱 Text ‘HELP’ to 51444 | 🌐 pieta.ieSamaritans Ireland – 24/7 Listening Service📞 116 123 | 🌐 samaritans.org/irelandHSE YourMentalHealth – Mental health support and services🌐 yourmentalhealth.ieLGBT Ireland – Support for LGBTQ+ individuals📞 1800 929 539 | 🌐 lgbt.ieConnect With Me:Instagram: @brendasbitsEmail: thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Comeback with… Nicola FitzgeraldThis week, I sit down with the incredible Nicola Fitzgerald, also known as All Things Dogs and Home on Instagram. Nicola’s story is one of extraordinary resilience and transformation.At just 16, she rebelled, turning to drugs, and became a teen mother. Her journey led her to become addicted to heroin. Despite the hardships, Nicola’s amazing mother, Sally, never gave up on her, and her grandmother, Peggy, helped her wean off heroin to get into treatment.Now, a proud mother of 6, Nicola has dedicated her life to her kids. She is a qualified personal trainer, care assistant, and thriving content creator. She has been sober for 17 years and considers herself lucky, as she reflects on how many of the people she used to be with have sadly passed away.Nicola’s inspiring story is a testament to strength, determination, and the power of family.You can follow her journey on Instagram at @all_things_kids_dogs_and_home⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 – Nicola’s early life and teenage rebellion06:00 – Her descent into addiction and becoming a teen mum15:00 – Hitting rock bottom and losing custody25:00 – Treatment, relapse, and recovery35:00 – The turning point: a call to her grandmother40:00 – Life in Coolmine Recovery Centre47:00 – Life today: motherhood, sobriety, and purpose💛 You’re Not Alone:If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or mental health, here are some confidential support services in Ireland:Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Ireland📞 Phone: +353 1 842 0700🌐 Website: alcoholicsanonymous.ieNarcotics Anonymous (NA) Ireland📞 Helpline: 1800 624 262🌐 Website: na-ireland.orgPieta House – Suicide and self-harm support📞 24/7 Crisis Helpline: 1800 247 247📱 Text ‘HELP’ to: 51444🌐 Website: pieta.ieConnect With Me:Instagram: @brendasbitsContact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In todays epiosde:In this episode I’m joined by the incredible Ashling Thompson, a GAA camogie star with six All-Ireland titles and four All-Stars to her name. Ashling is one of the most accomplished athletes in the sport.In this conversation, Ashling opens up about her journey, including hitting rock bottom at just 19, experiencing coercive control, losing a close friend to suicide, and captaining Cork to an All-Ireland victory just a year after facing these challenges. Ashling also shares her personal story of facing rock bottom again in 2019 after an incident on a night out, and how she picked herself up to play the best camogie of her career at 35.This episode is a testament to Ashling’s unbreakable spirit. I left this conversation feeling on top of the world, and I’m sure you will too.Trigger warning: Death by suicide, grief and coercive control.Timestamps:[00:00:00] – Intro & childhood[00:03:00] – First rock bottom[00:06:00] – Abusive relationships[00:10:00] – Substance use & control[00:13:00] – Suicidal thoughts & escape[00:16:00] – Recovery through sport[00:19:00] – Partner’s suicide[00:23:00] – Support from Frankie[00:26:00] – Cork captaincy & media[00:30:00] – Mental health advocacy[00:34:00] – Second rock bottom[00:38:00] – Acceptance & forgiveness[00:41:00] – Social media break[00:44:00] – Comeback & focus[00:47:00] – Final reflections💛 Support & ResourcesIf you’ve been affected by any of the topics discussed in this episode — including abuse, mental health struggles, or suicidal thoughts — please know you’re not alone.You can reach out to Pieta for free, 24/7 support in Ireland:📞 Call 1800 247 247💬 Text HELP to 51444 (standard message rates apply)🌐 Visit www.pieta.ie for more informationPieta provides professional support for those in crisis and for anyone impacted by suicide.Connect With Me:Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbitsContact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In todays epiosde:Delighted to have Neil Prendeville as the very first person to feature on my podcast. For anyone who knows my story, you might guess why Neil was such an important choice. He gave me my first break in radio — and later, when I needed it most, a second chance.This episode sets the tone for The Comeback — sharing my story through an open, honest conversation with someone who’s played a key part in it. Neil brings a depth and warmth that captures what this podcast is all about.Timestamps:[00:00:00] – Intro[00:01:00] – Rock bottom & job loss[00:04:00] – Public relapse[00:08:00] – Childhood patterns[00:12:00] – Early recovery[00:20:00] – Career rebuild[00:24:00] – Relapse & denial[00:26:00] – Gratitude & mindset[00:30:00] – Running & sobriety[00:32:00] – Grief & resilience[00:36:00] – Family & independence[00:40:00] – Self-worth & closureConnect With Me:Instagram: @brendasbitsContact: thecomebackpod@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.