Episodes
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In today's episode, I am joined by Ciaran Mason, a dedicated health coach and ambassador for the charity Suicide or Survive. This year, Ciaran is undertaking the impressive challenge of running and cycling 500 kilometers to raise crucial funds for the charity, and he has already reached nearly half of his fundraising goal.
Ciaran shares his deeply personal journey, discussing his battles with mental health, the impact of losing his father at a young age, and his transformative experiences at an ayahuasca retreat. He also reflects on how therapy helped him overcome rock bottom moments. Now, Ciaran maintains his mental well-being through exercise and his commitment to helping others.
You can donate to Ciaran's fund raiser here:
https://donorbox.org/ciaran-mason-2024/fundraiser/ciaran-mason?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY4pp9CSBcwh10H-arflIap742KdckL0b-lMS7gROtbq9NiWu734qt04j4_aem_AVS-dsqA3bbNRl5vum_gHdkmcsEfP49RjWAYPrz93DDI5sydbFZ85PGWMztHRs9v4bJU6f_IMNdtO2Db4gcOkV6g -
In this episode, I chat with the incredible and hilarious Aideen McQueen. Aideen is a stand-up comedian, Gaeilgeoir, Irish Teacher and proud Kilkennian. Aideen shares her experiences growing up on a farm in Kilkenny with her teacher parents and discovering her love for comedy through the iconic Cat Laughs Comedy Festival going on to perform in venues such as Vicar street, Edinburgh comedy festival and many more. She speaks about her struggles with alcohol, recognizing her addiction, and the journey to sobriety. Aideen reveals how becoming alcohol-free has transformed her life and enhanced her comedy career.
You can find Aideen here:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comedymcqueen?igsh=MWhkYWRvYmNkOTIzNQ==
YouTube:
https://youtube.com/@aideenmcqueen5034
Stand-up Comedy Course: [email protected] -
Missing episodes?
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In this episode, I'm thrilled to be joined by Romano (Mano) O'Kane, a dynamic Entrepreneur, Public Speaker, and Co-Host of the immensely popular Podcast Lock Stock and Two Joking Addicts. Hailing from Sligo Town, Romano shares his remarkable journey from a past entangled in crime and addiction to a present filled with sobriety and newfound purpose.
With candid honesty, Romano recounts hitting rock bottom and the pivotal moment that led him to a path of recovery. He reflects on the profound impact of the supportive community he found in recovery meetings, where he forged lasting friendships that changed the trajectory of his life.
Now celebrating a year of sobriety, Romano expresses deep gratitude for his partner, son, and the invaluable connections he's made along his journey, including his podcast co-host, Dean. Through his story of resilience and transformation, Romano inspires listeners with his message of hope, resilience, and the power of finding gratitude in life's simplest pleasures.
Find the Lock Stock and Two Joking Addicts' Podcast here:
https://open.spotify.com/show/6b2VkRIAdcYoeVWFwO6jt4?si=xs9iH6wDQf2kXo9v85nojQ c
You can connect with Dean & Romano on Instagram here:
https://www.instagram.com/lockstockand2jokingaddicts?igsh=MW1qMHJjZDhvNnp5aw== -
In today's episode I sit down with the incredible Peter Priestley, the driving force behind Tigh 'N Alluis Sauna, the Irish Sweat House nestled amidst the breathtaking Wicklow mountains within Glencullen Adventure Park.
Peter wears many hats: Sauna Master, Yoga Instructor, and Breathwork Teacher. He shares his personal odyssey of how the age-old rituals of sauna and breathwork became transformative beacons in a dark period in his life, ultimately leading him to establish his own sauna sanctuary to guide others on their wellness journey.
Together, we delve into the profound realm of mental well-being, exploring the natural avenues such as exercise, breathwork, and cold therapy that pave the way to inner peace.
To book into a sauna or their upcoming retreats & festivals check out the Tigh 'N Alluis page here:
https://www.instagram.com/tighnalluis?igsh=emR3dHM1ZHNmbzF5
Website:
https://bookwhen.com/tigh-n-alluis?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaaSMJtPpR7TsqgAnNT_QBhCTkDr5UCYamNJ7EGrbiFFIewMGkJ-uqDLrpo_aem_AZxh835hQnGH1Re3ZNym9T-pscFsDvzzRtbgw9Ljw6L6dUbs4prbf9OU4E9CNDN8XUtkwV66Q-Wu0fWweXPvw8u9 -
In today's episode, I'm joined by Mary Hulgraine, the Kildare goalkeeper and Two-Time All Ireland winner, who shares her inspiring journey of overcoming mental health struggles and addiction.
As a certified Personal Trainer, Life Coach, and group facilitator in an addiction treatment center, Mary's authentic story resonates deeply.
From her challenging childhood to battling addiction while excelling in ladies GAA, Mary's candid discussion sheds light on her remarkable transformation and how her dog Bailey, Nature and AA meetings play a pivotal role in her recovery. Tune in as she shares invaluable life lessons and inspires others with her resilience.
You can find Mary here:
https://www.instagram.com/maryhulgraine?igsh=aGltcW5wYXRidWM0 -
In this episode, I sit down with Seanie Smyth, the Founder of Mindyourself365, to delve into his remarkable journey from building his yoga business from scratch to leading 200 individuals in yoga sessions on Portmarnock beach. We explore the origins of his passion for yoga, tracing back to his early life experiences and his transformative trek to India. From reminiscing about his rugby days to discussing profound topics like battling negative emotions, depression, and growing from his partying days and drug dealing. Seanie candidly shares how yoga became his guiding light, realising his purpose to help others through yoga.
You can find Seanie's socials here:
https://www.instagram.com/mindyourself365?igsh=MXNmMDd0OHg0bjE1dg== -
Today I was joined by Kate Taylor, a writer, author and podcaster. Kate, whose journey into sobriety not only reshaped her life but also redefined her creative process. Discover how embracing sobriety became the catalyst for unlocking new levels of creativity and authenticity in Kate's work. From navigating the challenges of addiction to harnessing newfound clarity and inspiration, Kate shares invaluable insights into the transformative power of sobriety for creatives. Tune in for an illuminating conversation on personal growth, artistic expression, and the profound impact of choosing sobriety.
You can find Kate here:
https://www.instagram.com/walking_the_straight_line?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== -
In today's episode, I'm joined by my friend Seamus Fox, a Mindset Coach, Mentor, Author, Human Behaviour Specialist and owner of SF Fitness in Derry, who also hosts the Seamus Fox Podcast.
Together, we delve into our personal sober journeys of overcoming the belief that alcohol enhanced our lives, when in reality, it served as an unhealthy coping mechanism, hindering our growth.
We explore the profound benefits of sobriety and reflect on how our lives have significantly improved since embracing the Sober life.
For more about Seamus and his upcoming events, visit his Instagram profile @seamusfox_81 and website here.
https://www.instagram.com/seamusfox_81?igsh=MWYwNzRra3dkZmlwMw==
https://linktr.ee/seamusfox?fbclid=PAAabqMtq7zWofxgXLzBUFfu9DKngEjt3990dCfE14j7dA6DmEC7AYlM010a8 -
Today, I had the pleasure of hosting my friend Mikey Power on the podcast. Mikey hails from Innishannon, known as the gateway to West Cork, and he's a proud Cork man (although born in the mighty Dublin!). Mikey tells his inspiring story of his struggles with addiction, being sentence to prison and the moment he turned his whole life around. Now, he serves as a coach and trainer, dedicating himself to helping others.
His remarkable journey includes raising nearly 20 thousand for the Special Olympics, with more charity fundraising events on the horizon including Munster Highest peaks challenge later this year.
Mikey shares his inspiring story of transformation, emphasizing how his passion for training and the ocean keeps him mentally strong. As he puts it, he's a "recovering addict with an exercise problem."
You can find Mikey here:
https://www.instagram.com/mikey_power_pt?igsh=ZmswdHllcms1M3A3 -
In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Gary Mairs, a former musician who has transitioned into a Sobriety Mentor and the creator behind SoberNSound, a thriving social sober community.
With over 9 years of sobriety under his belt, Gary shares insights into the transformative power of living alcohol-free and how it has positively impacted both his life and those around him.
We chat about the joys and benefits of embracing sobriety, and the profound changes it can bring to one's journey towards a fulfilling and enriching life.
You can find Gary & SoberNSound here:
https://www.instagram.com/sobernsound?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== -
In this episode, I'm thrilled to have my close friend Vinny Gough join me. Vinny, a former bodybuilding champion turned Men's Transformation Coach, shares his inspiring journey of overcoming addiction and celebrating six years of sobriety. We discuss his remarkable transformation and how he's now dedicated to helping others transform their lives. Vinny now lives the good life with his dog in Portugal.
You can find Vinny here:
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/VinnyGoughFitness
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/vinnygough_fitness?igsh=MXQ5ZG96cWhrcTdlZA== -
Today I'm joined by my good pal Sam Phillips. Sam is a cold water therapy enthusiast who has embraced sobriety and found the positive impacts of the sea. Having battled addiction since his youth as a means of coping with mental health struggles, Sam's journey took a positive turn when he realized the importance of connecting with others on the same path. Discover how the power of support not only helped Sam stay sober but also brought happiness into his life. Additionally, Sam shares the transformative impact of cold water therapy, leading him to start a local group that takes daily dips in the North Sea throughout the year.
Provided below are links for services offering additional
help and advice for Sam.
https://www.instagram.com/dare_to_dip/
https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/daretotalk/
www.drinkaware.co.uk/advice/alcohol-support-services
https://nacoa.org.uk/ -
In today's episode, I had the pleasure of chatting to a very close friend, John Byrne. John is a coach, mentor, entrepreneur, and purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, John and myself met on the mats of East Coast Jiu-Jitsu Academy, after numerous profound conversations and sparring sessions I persuaded John to join the Podcast, offering our listeners a glimpse into the inspiring energy and life perspective of this remarkable individual.
We talk about the transformative power of gratitude and the importance of cultivating a positive community. John shares his personal journey, highlighting how faith played a pivotal role in overcoming life's challenges, and how he embraces gratitude in his everyday daily practices. -
In this podcast episode, I had the privilege of hosting the amazing Sophia Murphy. She courageously shares her journey of overcoming abuse and addiction, emerging as an inspiration for others. Not only is Sophia a mother, but she's also a dedicated personal trainer.
In September 2019 she appeared on The Late Late Show' with Ryan Turbridy where she spoke about her own experience of abuse and urged other victims to come forward. In October of the same year Sophia took part in 'Finne' a TG4 documentary series where she shared how she (as one reporter wrote) 'triumphed over adversity and came to terms with her fathers' conviction
You can find Sophia here:
https://www.instagram.com/sophiamurphy85/
Trigger Warning'if you or someone you know has been affected by sexual abuse please remember the Dublin Rape
Crisis Centre 24-hour Helpline is open 1800 77 8888 -
Today I joined by my very good friend Conor Costello. Conor is an endurance athlete and Yoga Instructor having competed in many endurance events such as Ironman, Eco Trail, Wicklow 200, just to name a few.
Conor tells his story how he was once in the depths of addiction, having daily panic attacks, feeling utterly hopeless, to thriving his life around and going on to become an Ironman. He opens up about finding spirituality in treatment and how he discovers the power of perseverance, the role of sport in recovery, and what he does to maintain his Sobriety every day.
Find Conor here:
https://www.instagram.com/costello_lifestyle?igsh=dmFpeXRjcTljaXlh -
Today I was joined by my pal Mick McDermott. Mick is an Online Transformation Coach, Personal trainer and Podcaster. He tells how a breakdown on a tropical beach leds Him on a different direction in life and how he bought a van and went travelling around Ireland, where he records his podcast the Brilliant Mick McDermott Podcast. Mick is a keen world traveller and we get into places he has visited and what give him the urge to see some of the world. Lastly we discuss how Mick maintains a positive mindset and coping mechanisms to do so including Meditation.
Find Mick here:
https://www.instagram.com/mick_mcdermott?igsh=YTRkankxOXc4MXBp
The Mick McDermott Podcast:
https://open.spotify.com/show/5mmQrqGjuqbCAHrhxs2OGc?si=0FKWrHvVTN691I9nufJOwg
Find Mick and his Podcast here -
Today I was joined by my good friend Dylan Troy. Dyl is a Film Maker, Videographer and Creative Artist. Dyl tells his story how he was overcome with anxiety and panic attacks from a young age and how they impacted his life. When a panic attack led him to being hospitalized, he knew that he needed to make changes that life him on discovering a new life, including joining JiuJitsu, getting in the sea and giving up alcohol which led Dyl to a much happier and content life.
You can find Dyl here:
https://instagram.com/dyltroy?igshid=MzMyNGUyNmU2YQ==
https://www.spotlightstudios.ie/dylan-troy
https://www.dyltroy.com/ -
Today I spoke to Damian Browne (Auld_Stock), an extreme adventurer, peak performance endurance athlete, and International keynote speaker from Galway, Ireland. For the last 25 years Damian has pursued his human potential, relentlessly pushing his body & mind to their perceived limits; During a 16-year career as a professional rugby player, Damian donned the colours of some of rugby's European elite, including Northampton Saints & Leinster; where he won club rugby's biggest prize, The Heineken Cup.Since retirement from professional rugby, Damian has become one of the World's foremost extreme adventurers; undertaking some of the most demanding physical and mental challenges on the planet, including the 257km Sahara Desert ultra marathon, The Marathon des Sablesclimbed 5 of the 7 Summits, a renowned mountaineering feat & most recently created history by becoming the firstperson ever to row from New York City to Galway, taking 112 days and in the process become one of only a handful ofpeople to have rowed the Atlantic in both directions.Damian's drive to explore his physical & mental limits is not exclusive to ultra endurance events and he is a multi-timeIrish indoor rowing champion, holding all-time, all-category records for the 500m and 1000m distance.Damian's Website - https://www.damianbrowne.com/Damian's Instagram - https://instagram.com/auld_stock?igshid=MzMyNGUyNmU2YQ==Ironmind Institute - https://instagram.com/theironmindinstitute?igshid=MzMyNGUyNmU2YQ==
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Today I was joined by my great pal Adam Weafer. Adam is an actor, musician and writer, having appeared in a range of series in Ireland and abroad as well as performing at music gigs all over the country.
In this episode we talk about anxiety, panic attacks & the strategies we use to help manage this. Adam tells the story of how inspiration & hope can come from the most beautiful things in life. -
I was chuffed to welcome the amazing Cara Byrne on the Podcast this week. Cara has combined her love of hiking with her passion for psychotherapy & created Hike Psych, Ireland's only Hiking Psychotherapy Practice.
We discussed how Cara came up with the idea for Hike Psych, the benefits of therapy in the outdoors, things that can help our mental health and the things that can affect us negatively.
You can find Cara on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehikepsych?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
And get in touch with her via her website here https://www.hikepsych.ie/ - Show more
