The Comeback with Brenda Dennehy

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.Timestamps00:00 – 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 Connect With Me:Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbitsContact: 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.Timestamps00:02:15 — 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 HopeConnect With Me:Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbitsContact: 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.Timestamps00:00 – Intro & Setting the Scene01:00 – Early Life & Family08:23 – Cancer Diagnosis & Chemotherapy Journey10:24 – Medical Menopause & Infertility11:46 – Egg Donation & Divorce12:21 – Family Court & Misogyny in the Irish System15:44 – Journaling, Fundraising & Finding Purpose17:54 – Meeting Luke25:26 – Ghosting, Boundaries & Self-Worth29:05 – Motherhood, Regret & Reflection31:08 – Irish Family Courts & Lockdown Impact33:14 – Cancer Awareness & Getting Checked35:31 – Life Before & After Cancer37:00 – The Little Things & Love with Luke38:28 – The Three Questions Finale39:33 – Closing & Sign-OffConnect With Me:Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbitsContact: 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 recoveryOvercoming gambling addiction and shameThe loneliness epidemic and why men need connectionHow fitness, community, and mindset shifts can transform your lifeFrom 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.Timestamps00:00 – 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 PurposeConnect With Me:Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbitsContact: 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.🎟️ Exciting news!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 | 📧therecoveryroomtrr@gmail.comTimestamps01:50 – 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 messageConnect With Me:Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbitsContact: 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 validationThis 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/Timestamps3:55 – Farming roots in Cork & Tipperary8:40 – Losing his sister and grief13:17 – Comfort eating and weight gain18:32 – Returning to the gym23:57 – From lecturer to coaching in Dubai29:47 – Creating The Lifestyle Blueprint35:22 – Life after quitting alcohol42:10 – Self-love and validation50:30 – Lessons from loss and growthConnect With Me:Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbitsContact: 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.Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction to Kim’s story and sudden loss03:15 – The day everything changed: receiving the devastating call07:40 – First panic attack experience during the funeral12:25 – Explaining death to young children in an honest way18:50 – Facing guilt and the “what ifs” after suicide24:30 – Realising there were no clear signs beforehand30:05 – Coping with grief during COVID restrictions36:20 – Choosing resilience: deciding to keep living fully42:10 – The shift in mindset: stopping people-pleasing48:35 – Looking ahead: parenting, career change, and life after lossNeed Support? Helplines & ResourcesSamaritans Ireland – Free, confidential support, 24/7📞 116 123🌐 www.samaritans.iePieta House – Suicide and self-harm crisis support📞 1800 247 247📱 Text HELP to 51444🌐 www.pieta.ieAware – Support for depression, anxiety, and mood-related issues📞 1800 80 48 48🌐 www.aware.ieConnect With Me:Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbitsContact: 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.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.