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.
New Year can be a difficult time.
In this special episode, I revisit the final three questions I ask every guest on the podcast. Not the polished answers, but the honest ones. The words shaped by grief, addiction, illness, loss, recovery, and survival.
This episode opens with a tribute to Natasha O’Byrne, who passed away last week. Natasha was one of the very first people to reach out when this podcast launched, and her words felt especially important to share at the start of a new year.
What follows are reflections from guests across the year, offering perspective, resilience, and hope. This episode is a reminder that no matter how heavy things feel, there is always a comeback.
This episode contains themes of mental health, addiction, suicide, and grief. Please listen with care.
This episode is proudly sponsored by ADHD Now, the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland. For ADHD assessment or support, visit
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode captures my live show, and quite honestly, the best night of my life.
As this final episode of 2025 goes out, I want to thank every single person who has supported the podcast over the past six months. What this show has become is beyond anything I could have imagined, and that is entirely down to you, the listeners, and the incredible guests who shared their stories so openly and the sponsors.
The live show took place in November and truly exceeded all expectations. Huge thanks to Nicola Fitzgerald, Joe McCaul, Nicola Guilfoyle, Andy Goulding, and our mystery guest Timmy Long for making it such a special night along with his brother Tommy.
My deepest thanks go to my mother, Nora. There would be no comeback without her.
A massive and heartfelt thank you as well to Autism Care, who so generously sponsored the show. This night simply could not have happened without their support. Autism Care is an Irish organisation offering neuroaffirming assessments and lifelong supports, co designed with Autistic individuals. Their work is grounded in lived experience, compassion, and genuine inclusion. You can find out more at autismcare.ie.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, I sit down with Timmy Long, whose story of addiction and recovery left the room in silence when he shared it at my live show in November.
Timmy grew up in poverty on the north side of Cork City and experienced trauma from a young age. Years later, he fell into addiction and soon after served time in prison. While incarcerated, he received devastating news that his mother had died, a moment that became the turning point in his recovery journey.
What followed were years of hard work and healing. Timmy learned to read and write in his thirties, committed to sobriety, and rebuilt his life. Today, he is a father, a husband, and a man deeply proud of who he has become.
This is a raw, honest conversation about addiction, trauma, prison, recovery, and hope.
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.
The Comeback Live returns on Saturday, March 21st, 2026 at St Luke’s following the success of my sold out show in November. It will be another night of honest conversations, powerful stories, and real hope.
Tickets are available via Eventbrite and the link in my social media bio.
01:44 - Welcome & The Impact of Timmy's Live Show Appearance
04:42 - Growing Up in Holly Hill: Poverty, Violence & No Father Figure
09:57 - The Moment I Emotionally Shut Down as a Child
11:37 - Wanting to Die at Six Years Old
15:45 - Finding Drugs & Alcohol: Feeling Alive for the First Time
23:15 - Relapse at 19 & Years of Chaotic Addiction
32:40 - My Mother's Death While I Was in Prison
38:52 - The Breakthrough: When I Stopped Fighting My Thoughts
46:16 - Learning to Read & Write in Prison at 36
58:58 - Final Questions: Advice for Anyone Who Feels They'll Never Make It Out
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits
Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Brenda sits down with her dear friend Joe Byrne for a raw and honest conversation about identity, addiction and healing. Joe talks about growing up gay, dealing with homophobia and Catholic guilt, and the long road toward self acceptance.
He opens up about his struggles with alcohol addiction and Xanax addiction, his journey through addiction recovery, and the resilience that helped him rebuild his life.
Joe also reflects on his decades of kindness. From giving free haircuts to the homeless to supporting struggling families in Cork, his compassion has touched countless lives and made him a pillar of the community.
A powerful story of courage, generosity and hope.
Sponsored by Fettle. Life gets messy, and Fettle makes getting support simple. Connect with accredited therapists online at fettle.ie.
19:48 — Joe Builds a Life in Cork & Finds Community
21:05 — The Party Years & Early Signs of Addiction
21:50 — Loneliness, Vodka & the Emotional Spiral
22:59 — Xanax Enters the Picture & the Secret Double Life
25:09 — Meeting Darren & the Rollercoaster of Early Love
26:53 — The Pain of Being Unreliable in the Relationship
27:42 — Hidden Drinking, Secret Bottles & Denial
28:54 — When Darren Begins to Struggle with Joe’s Drinking
29:52 — The Fall in Douglas & Nearly Losing His Life
31:10 — Choosing Help & Entering Rehab at St. John of God’s
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits
Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Most of you will know her as Sarah Burke, now Sarah O’Connor after marrying the love of her life, Keith. Her road to happiness was anything but simple.
In this episode, Sarah opens up about calling off her wedding six weeks before the date, going through IVF, and experiencing a devastating miscarriage. She also talks about the horrific trolling she faced and, for the first time, reads the threatening letter that was sent to her sister’s salon.
Sarah reflects on her mental health journey, counselling, grief after losing Nana Betty, and the fear that came with her father Kieran’s end of life heart failure diagnosis. Today, she is happily married and a mum to three beautiful children, including her miracle babies Isabella and Gabbie.
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.
Timestamps:
[00:00:00] – Introduction & first meeting Sarah on 96 FM
[00:01:40] – Weight loss journey & "Fat to Fab" Facebook page in Australia
[00:05:13] – How social media culture around weight has changed
[00:05:59] – Growing up on Cork's North side
[00:08:01] – Moving to Australia & ending long-term relationship
[00:10:49] – Learning self-worth through therapy
[00:13:27] – Falling pregnant with Luke & starting Slimming World business
[00:14:11] – Calling off wedding 6 weeks before the date
[00:17:54] – Meeting Keith on Tinder during lockdown
[00:21:52] – Online trolling & forum posts nearly ending relationship
[00:26:36] – Starting IVF journey for second child
[00:29:17] – Discovering miscarriage at 14-week scan
[00:30:48] – Losing baby Jack & burying him at Nanny Betty's grave
[00:35:10] – Dealing with cruel comments about miscarriage
[00:37:50] – D&C procedure leading to miracle pregnancy with Isabella
[00:41:22] – Pregnancy news leaked before telling family
[00:44:51] – Nanny Betty's final days in Marymount hospice
[00:49:29] – Getting married in Lanzarote with 101 guests
[00:51:10] – Receiving threatening letter 8 weeks before wedding
[00:59:45] – How Keith dealt with the harassment
[01:02:46] – Why giving up isn't an option (for the kids)
[01:03:21] – Surprise pregnancy with Gabby
[01:06:47] – Dad's cancer diagnosis & heart failure
[01:11:30] – Living with dad's end-of-life prognosis
[01:13:24] – Final reflections on happiness & self-worth
Connect With Me:
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits
Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Taking a tiny break this week… because my live show absolutely took over my life, in the best possible way. It turned out to be one of the greatest nights I have ever had - I am still floating. Thank you to everyone who showed up and supported me.
Missed it? The full live show episode lands before Christmas.
Back next Monday with an amazing guest.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
At just 20 years old, Lou Hibbert’s world changed forever. Her dad Barry, a man who had gone from growing up in a council estate to becoming the CEO of a major company, took his own life.
In this powerful conversation, Lou opens up about losing a parent to suicide, navigating bereavement, and how therapy and counselling helped her rebuild self-worth, self-love, and self-compassion.
This Movember, as we focus on men’s mental health and suicide prevention, Lou’s story is a reminder that behind every strong man, there can be silent struggles - and behind every loss, someone learning how to live again.
This week’s episode is sponsored by Damien Long Personal Training based in Glanmire, Cork. Damien helps people get stronger, fitter, and happier with a fun, balanced approach to training. He also featured on podcast earlier this year, sharing his own journey of grief, healing, and mental health awareness after the loss of his daughter Shauna. You can check him out @damienlongpersonaltraining.
00:00:00 — Introduction and how Lou and Brenda first met
00:01:30 — Growing up in Cookham Dean and school experiences
00:03:35 — Lou’s dad’s childhood, trauma and drive for success
00:06:26 — The first business collapse and early signs of strain
00:09:19 — 2022: escalating stress and emotional decline
00:12:33 — Subtle changes at home and early warning signs
00:16:01 — The day Lou was called out of work
00:17:58 — The moment she learned her dad had died
00:21:02 — Understanding “the surge” before suicide
00:38:15 — Starting therapy and confronting anger
00:46:21 — Life before and after grief: “living two lives”
00:49:24 — Hope, healing and Lou’s final reflections
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @brendasbits
Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
At just 20 years old, Harry Greaney was told he had synovial sarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer. He’s battled it not once, not twice, but three times. When doctors could no longer save his arm, Harry had to undergo an amputation - a life-changing moment that would break most people.
But not Harry. Just weeks after surgery, he was already back training and even preparing for a powerlifting competition. His story is one of courage, resilience, and perspective - from managing phantom limb pain to finding motivation through fitness, and showing that discipline beats comfort every time.
This is a powerful story about choosing gratitude, strength, and comeback energy - no matter what life throws your way.
This episode is proudly sponsored by ADHD Now - the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland. If you’re considering an ADHD assessment or need guidance, visit adhdnow.com today.
00:00 – Introduction & Harry’s Story
03:15 – First Symptoms and Cancer Diagnosis
07:40 – Facing Synovial Sarcoma & Life-Changing Decisions
12:25 – Radiation and Chemotherapy: Staying Active Through Treatment
17:10 – Choosing Amputation: How Harry Made the Call
21:45 – Recovery and Phantom Limb Pain
26:30 – Returning to Training with One Arm
32:05 – Powerlifting Goals and Adaptive Fitness
36:50 – Mental Health, Gratitude & Finding Purpose
41:20 – Advice for Anyone Going Through Hard Times
45:05 – Closing Thoughts & Where to Find Harry
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @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
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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.