The Parting Glass

This week I am delighted to have Top of the Profs Professor Luke O'Neill, renowned immunologist, author, and all-around legend, joining us for a conversation that goes well beyond the lab. We dive into everything from the classic thrills of Jaws and favourite films to the lasting impact of The Beatles, and even explore topics like cannabis and the parallels of Luke's life to Breaking Bad's Walter White. Luke’s curiosity and wit make for an incredibly fun and thought-provoking episode. So tune in as we cover science, pop culture, and everything in between with the one and only Luke O'Neill! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You must be jokin .....It's Willia White! I could listen to him all day , what an amazing person.In this episode of The Parting Glass, I sit down with actor and comedian Willa White, who shares his extraordinary journey from growing up in Ballymun to becoming one of Dublin’s most beloved comedians. Willa opens up about his tough upbringing in a violent home, his battle with addiction that started at the age of nine, and how he turned his life around, finding sobriety in 2001. He talks about the influence of Des Bishop in kickstarting his career, his comedy success with two sell-out shows at Liberty Hall, and SOLD OUT headline gigs at both the Olympia & Gaiety Theatre. Willa's humor, resilience, and authenticity shine throughout this episode, making it one you won't want to miss.Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share The Parting Glass Podcast for more inspiring stories from extraordinary Dubliners!WATCH THE VIDEO HERE https://youtu.be/DaQGnhMjjRU Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Parting Glass, we sit down with the incredibly inspiring and gorgeous Carla Piera Fitzgerald, also known as "Half of Carla. Carla shares her powerful journey from battling food addiction and an eating disorder since childhood, to transforming her life after a pivotal decision in July 2019. Through sheer determination and commitment, Carla lost 180 pounds in a year, and now she’s on a mission to help others do the same by ‘Showing Up For Yourself.’Carla opens up about her personal struggles, growing up in a food-focused family that owned a bakery, and the difficult relationship she developed with food early on. Her story of resilience, mental health, and body transformation has touched thousands, and today she shares her insights on self-discovery, healing, and the importance of supporting others on their own journeys.Tune in for an episode filled with vulnerability, strength, and inspiration as Carla discusses how she overcame her toughest battles and now uses her platform to guide others to take control of their lives. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The episode features John Boland, a 54-year-old father of two from Finglas. John is a dedicated member of Suicide Awareness D15, an organisation he credits with saving his life. After a devastating work accident, John spiraled into depression, hitting rock bottom and planning to take his life.His turning point came when a friend’s daughter, intervened and urged him to seek help, which led him on the path to recovery.John found healing in the outdoors, becoming an avid hill walker and sea swimmer, and even climbed Everest Base Camp.Today, he travels around Ireland giving mental health presentations and organising fundraisers for suicide prevention. His story is a powerful testament to the importance of reaching out for help and the role of community in mental health recovery. John now dedicates his life to raising awareness and preventing suicide, inspiring others to do the same.This episode features an extract of the poem "Suicide on a Bridge" from The Lookout Post - The Gallery Press by Kevin GrahamThe Lookout Post, includes harrowing accounts of illness, a suicide, and joyous celebrations of fatherhood and family life. If you or anyone you know is struggling, consider these resources:Samaritans Ireland – Available 24/7 to provide emotional support and a listening ear for those in distress.Phone: 116 123Website: www.samaritans.org/irelandPieta House – Offers free therapy to those engaging in self-harm, feeling suicidal, or bereaved by suicide.Phone: 1800 247 247Website: www.pieta.ieAware – Supports individuals and families affected by depression and bipolar disorder through free support services.Phone: 1800 80 48 48Website: www.aware.ieSuicide Awareness D15 – The organisation that saved John's life, based in the Dublin 15 area, providing local community support.Text 50808 – A free, anonymous 24/7 text-based support serviceMental Health Ireland – www.mentalhealthireland.ie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Pratt never imagined that one night out would set him on a mission to change the law. Last Christmas, like thousands of young people in their 20's, he had walked into a bar with friends, expecting laughter, music, and the usual joy of an evening well spent. Instead, his world was turned upside down. His drink was spiked, and what followed was a blur—waking up disoriented, confused, his face covered in blood and robbed of his phone. It was a nightmare that no one should endure.But David isnt just another statistic. Armed with two law degrees, he refused to let his experience fade into the background of Dublin's nightlife. What happened to him needed to stop happening to others. And he knew exactly how to fight back—through the law. Determined to turn his trauma into action, David began drafting new legislation that would hold perpetrators accountable and change the way Ireland dealt with the crime of spiking.Working closely with the Oireachtas, David’s expertise and relentless drive led to the creation of a proposed bill aimed at tackling this insidious crime head-on. His legislation aims to improve victim support, and implement preventative measures across the country’s bars and clubs. Now, David’s hope is that this bill will be passed, forever altering the legal landscape in Ireland and ensuring that no one else has to endure what he did.David is here on The Parting Glass to share his story, his journey through recovery, and his hopes for a safer future with stronger laws in place. This is a conversation you won’t want to miss ! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we speak with Jenni Parry, one of the country's well respected and leading cybersecurity experts. Jenni shares her story from living alone at 14, dealing with her mother's alcoholism, leaving school at 16, being a single mother on benefits to becoming a leading voice in Cyber, all while balancing motherhood and completing a Cybersecurity Master's Degree with First Class Honours!Tune in to hear her insights on resilience and carving out a successful career from "the ashes" Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Parting Glass, we sit down with Mark Reddy, who proves you can take the man out of Dolphins Barn, but you can't take Dolphins Barn out of the man! Mark shares stories of his days dodging Dublin's drug problems in the late '70s, escaping the madness for a career in insurance, and still managing to sing a few Irish ballads along the way. Mark also opens up about the personal philosophy that’s guided his life: “Don’t let where you come from define what you become.”Tune in for a candid conversation filled with nostalgia, wisdom, and a reminder that your origins don’t determine your future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mick Hayden, a plumber from Goatstown, shares his journey, from his early life and struggles with dyslexia to his career in plumbing and building his own house, Mick's story is one of determination and overcoming challenges. The tragic loss of his mother and the impact it had on his mental health is also explored, highlighting the importance of seeking support and celebrating small victories. Mick shares how he navigates through a series of life-altering events, including a car accident and his daughter's battle with cancer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Irene O'Brien, a vintage stylist and advocate for sustainable fashion, shares her journey and passion for vintage fashion. Irene discusses her early life, her love for fashion, and her experiences in the fashion industry. She also talks about her time working in AA Roadwatch and her travels in South America, where she met her husband. She shares her admiration for Dolly Parton and her iconic style, and emphasizes the need to be authentic and embrace one's own personal style. Irene also opens up about her ADHD diagnosis and the challenges she faces in juggling her job and family life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Caio Benicio, a Brazilian immigrant living in Dublin, shares a remarkable story of bravery and resilience. Caio recounts the day he witnessed a knife attack on Parnell Street on 23rd November 2023, and used his bike helmet to disarm the attacker, helping to save the life of a little girl. Despite his heroic act, Caio remains humble and insists he is not a hero. He discusses his journey from Brazil to Dublin, including the challenges he faced as a restaurant owner and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Caio also talks about his involvement in local politics and his love for Dublin's food and culture. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.