The Comeback with Brenda Dennehy

The Comeback with Dr. Brian Pennie 30.05.2026 47min

In this powerful conversation, Brian Pennie opens up about trauma, addiction, hitting rock bottom and the remarkable journey that took him from using heroin during his Leaving Cert to becoming Dr Brian Pennie, neuroscientist and author.He speaks honestly about being €50,000 in debt, falling asleep at work because his body was shutting down, suffering a violent seizure during detox, and the moment he realised he could not continue living the way he was.But more than anything, this episode is about hope. It's about resilience, healing and proving that no matter how broken someone feels, there is always a way back.If this episode resonates with you, please follow, rate and share it. Your support helps these important stories reach more people.🎧 This episode is proudly sponsored by ADHD Now, the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland, If you are seeking an ADHD assessment or support, visit: Adhdnow.com today. 

The Comeback with Eleanor Doyle 24.05.2026 39min

⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussion of domestic abuse, coercive control and violence.In this deeply emotional, Brenda sits down with Eleanor Doyle, a woman many people will recognise from her positive, funny and uplifting social media presence.But behind the smile is a story very few knew.Eleanor opens up about years of domestic abuse, coercive control, fear and survival while trying to protect her three young children. She shares the reality of living in an abusive relationship, from physical violence and threats, to believing she was “nothing” and would never cope alone.In this episode, Eleanor speaks about:• Living with domestic abuse and coercive control• Fear, court proceedings and raising children through trauma• Her nine year old son trying to protect her during violence at home• Feeling broken, isolated and unable to see a future• Rebuilding her confidence and finding strength again• Life after abuse and helping others who may be strugglingThis conversation is raw, heartbreaking and at times difficult to listen to, but above all, it is a story of survival, resilience and hope.If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, support is available:Women’s Aid 24hr National Freephone Helpline: 1800 341 900Text service: 087 959 7980In an emergency, call 999 or 112.If this episode resonates with you, please follow, rate and share it. Your support helps these important stories reach more people.🎧 This episode is proudly sponsored by ADHD Now, the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland, If you are seeking an ADHD assessment or support, visit: Adhdnow.com today. 

The Comeback with Jennifer McCarthy 17.05.2026 57min

Jennifer McCarthy spent years working in high pressure environments as a trauma nurse and later in response policing, supporting others through their darkest moments.But behind the uniform, Jennifer was facing battles of her own.Divorce. Betrayal. Critical illness. Medical retirement. Losing her identity. Becoming a single parent. And surviving moments where she genuinely believed she might die.In this episode, Jennifer speaks openly about losing everything she thought defined her, and the resilience it took to rebuild.This is a powerful conversation about burnout, survival, identity loss and finding yourself again after life changes forever.Jennifer is now passionate about resilience, health and wellbeing, and uses her lived experience to support others through change and rebuilding. You can follow her on Instagram @thehealthandwellbeingadvocate to see some of the amazing work she’s doing.If this episode resonates with you, please follow, rate and share the podcast.🎧 This episode is proudly sponsored by ADHD Now, the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland. If you are seeking an ADHD assessment or support, visit adhdnow.com today.

Comeback Confidential with Psychotherapist Lauren Golden 13.05.2026 38min

Welcome to the first Comeback Confidential, a bonus episode of The Comeback with Brenda Dennehy, where anonymous listener stories are shared in a safe and supportive space.In this episode, Brenda is joined by Psychotherapist Lauren Golden to explore the reality of loving someone with addiction.We hear from one woman who survived years of abuse while living with an addict, and another who is currently navigating relapse, heartbreak, and the emotional toll on her family.Together, they unpack the complexity of addiction, the impact on partners and children, and the balance between compassion and accountability.A raw and honest conversation about life on the other side of addiction.🎧 This episode is proudly sponsored by ADHD Now, the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland. If you are seeking an ADHD assessment or support, visit adhdnow.com today.If you’d like to share your story anonymously, emailthecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com

The Comeback with Mags Harty 10.05.2026 40min

This week Brenda is joined by Mags Harty for a deeply moving and powerful conversation.Mags opens up about the heartbreak of eight miscarriages, losing her mum at the same time, and the toll it took on her mentally, physically and emotionally.There were moments she felt she couldn’t go on, but she kept fighting.And after everything, Mags got her miracle baby, Isla.A raw and honest story of loss, resilience and never giving up.Please note: there are some minor sound issues in parts of this episode, but we hope you stay with it as Mags’ story is incredibly powerful.🎧 This episode is proudly sponsored by ADHD Now, the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland.For more information, visit adhdnow.com.

The Comeback with Eimear Coffey 04.05.2026 48min

From the outside, Eimear Coffey had the kind of life people dream of - until everything came crashing down.A young mum at 23, she grew up alongside her son Daniel, building a life that looked full of love and promise. Years later, with the arrival of her second son Ollie in 2018, everything seemed complete.But behind closed doors, her world was falling apart.Betrayal. Narcissistic abuse. The fear of her child facing life-changing disabilities.And then, in the middle of it all - a breast cancer diagnosis.This is a raw and powerful story of heartbreak, survival, and finding strength when you have nothing left.If this episode resonates with you, please leave a comment and hit subscribe, it really helps.🎧 This episode is proudly sponsored by ADHD Now, the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland. If you are seeking an ADHD assessment or support, visit adhdnow.com today.

The Comeback with Ciarán O’Driscoll 27.04.2026 48min

Ciarán O’Driscoll’s story is one of pain, loss, and ultimately, redemption.Sober since 2002, he opens up about growing up in a home shaped by alcoholism, and the devastating loss of his brothers, who were twins.From his first drink as a young teenager, to drug use, prison sentences, and deep self-hatred, his life spiralled quickly. In and out of Cork Prison, Mountjoy, and other institutions, addiction took nearly everything from him.But this is not where his story ends.Now a father of four, Ciarán speaks about the impact of his children on his life, especially his youngest, Elsie May, who was born in May 2020 during a worldwide pandemic.This is a story about turning a life around, finding faith and purpose, and taking full responsibility.A raw and powerful conversation about addiction, grief, and the possibility of a comeback, no matter how far you’ve fallen.🎧 This episode is proudly sponsored by ADHD Now, the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland. If you are seeking an ADHD assessment or support, visit adhdnow.com today.

The Comeback with Leona Macken 19.04.2026 54min

Leona Macken’s story will stop you in your tracks.A young mum of two, she trusted the system. She had two smear tests, in 2016 and 2020, both reported as normal. But they should not have been. That delay led to a cervical cancer diagnosis in 2023.After major surgery and intensive treatment, Leona was told in 2025 that her cancer had returned and progressed to stage four.In this episode, she speaks about the moment everything changed, the heartbreak, and the reality of living with a diagnosis that should never have happened.Now on a trial drug that is already showing signs of working, her story is one of strength, resilience, and hope.🎧 This episode is proudly sponsored by ADHD Now, the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland. If you are seeking an ADHD assessment or support, visit adhdnow.com today.

Behind the Scenes on The Neil Prendeville Show 14.04.2026 35min

Have you ever wondered what actually happens behind the scenes on one of the biggest radio talk shows in the country?As a bonus episode this week, myself and producer Seamus, who I’ve been working alongside over the past few weeks, bring you inside The Neil Prendeville Show and how it all comes together.We chat about behind-the-scenes secrets, how Seamus may or may not have thrown me under the bus whilst on air, and what Neil is really like to work with day to day.Hope you enjoy!

The Comeback with Daragh Fleming 12.04.2026 44min

Cork poet and writer Daragh Fleming joins Brenda for the first episode of the new series of The Comeback.In this episode, he shares his journey into writing, from a young age to putting his work out into the world. He also reads two of his most powerful pieces, If I Ever Have Boys and If I Ever Have Girls.Daragh speaks openly about living with depression without realising it, describing a time when he felt completely numb and thought that was normal.A deeply emotional part of the conversation focuses on the loss of his best friend, Erbie, and how that moment changed his life, becoming a turning point that led him to speak more openly about mental health through his writing.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a comment, it really helps.🎧 This episode is proudly sponsored by ADHD Now, the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland.Visit adhdnow.com for more.

A Small Break, A Big Thank You 23.03.2026

After an incredible live show at the Cork Podcast Festival, I’m taking a short break.Thank you so much for all the support, it truly means everything. This podcast would not exist without you.I’ll be back very soon with some amazing guests.

The Comeback with Richie Herlihy 15.03.2026 47min

Cork TikTok creator Richie Herlihy (Richie’s Food and Nature) joins Brenda for a powerful and honest conversation about the reality behind his viral food reviews.Richie opens up about the recent devastating loss of his close friend Ryan Dunphy, learning about his death while he himself was in hospital. He also clears up online rumours about his health and explains what really happened.Richie also speaks openly about his gambling addiction, the impact it had on his life, and the road to recovery.We also revisit the controversy around his Electric Picnic food truck and the realities of running a food business at major festivals.A raw, emotional and eye opening episode that reveals the real Richie behind the viral videos.The Comeback Live comes to the Cork Podcast Festival, March 21st at St Luke’s. Limited tickets available here https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/the-comeback-with-brenda-dennehy-tickets-1977022103331🎧 Sponsored by ADHD Now, the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland. Visit adhdnow.com.

The Comeback with Helena Brosnan 09.03.2026 42min

On this week’s episode, I’m joined by Kerry fashion blogger and influencer Helena Brosnan, known to many as Super Betty.Last year, Helena received a shock diagnosis of cervical cancer after attending a routine smear test, despite having no symptoms at all.Throughout her treatment, she shared her journey openly with her followers, bringing honesty, positivity, and encouragement to thousands of women.Now she’s using her platform to spread one very important message: don’t fear the smear.Helena joins me to talk about the moment she got the news, how she stayed strong through treatment, and why something that takes just a few minutes could truly save your life.And just a reminder, The Comeback Live comes to the Cork Podcast Festival on March 21st at St Luke’s. Tickets are available here: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/the-comeback-with-brenda-dennehy-tickets-1977022103331🎧 This episode is proudly sponsored by ADHD Now, the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland. If you are seeking an ADHD assessment or support, visit adhdnow.com today.

The Comeback with Danny Buckley 02.03.2026 41min

This week, I sit down with Danny Buckley for a powerful and honest conversation about grief, addiction and recovery.Raised in Knocknaheeny on Cork’s northside, Danny shares the unimaginable loss of his wife Simone, his childhood sweetheart, and how her final words changed the way he lives his life today.From heartbreak came purpose, leading Danny to understand his own ADHD and create ADHD Now, helping others access the support he once struggled to find.A story of loss, resilience and learning how to live again.The Comeback Live comes to the Cork Podcast Festival on March 21st at St Luke’s. Tickets available here: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/the-comeback-with-brenda-dennehy-tickets-1977022103331.🎧 This episode is proudly sponsored by ADHD Now, the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland. If you are seeking an ADHD assessment or support, visit adhdnow.com today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Comeback with Sian Horn 23.02.2026 1h 37min

Trigger warning: This episode contains discussion of domestic abuse, miscarriage, and medical abortion. Please take care while listening.This week Brenda sits down with Sian Horn, a podcaster, Pilates instructor, and business consultant who advocates for women, wellbeing, and small businesses while sharing her own powerful healing journey.In this deeply honest conversation, Sian speaks openly about surviving domestic abuse, experiencing the heartbreak of seven miscarriages, and navigating grief, trauma, and emotional recovery. She shares what resilience truly looks like, how healing evolves over time, and how she rebuilt her life with intention after profound personal loss.Together, they explore mental health, trauma recovery, women’s resilience, personal growth, and finding strength after adversity. This is a raw yet hopeful episode about healing, transformation, and the possibility of a comeback, even after life’s darkest chapters.The Comeback Live comes to the Cork Podcast Festival on March 21st at St Luke’s. Tickets are available here https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/the-comeback-with-brenda-dennehy-tickets-1977022103331🎧 This episode is proudly sponsored by ADHD Now, the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland. If you are seeking an ADHD assessment or support, visit adhdnow.com today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I Had No Idea I Was Pregnant Until I Gave Birth 6 Hours Later 19.02.2026 31min

This week’s bonus episode tells an extraordinary story that unfolds in a matter of hours.Eimir Burke had no idea she was pregnant until the day she gave birth. Having previously been told she had polycystic ovaries, she believed having children might not be possible. There were no obvious signs, and everything felt completely normal, until sudden pain led to a scan that changed everything.By the end of that same day, her life had completely changed.Eimir sat down with me in London to share a raw and emotional account of shock, disbelief, and becoming a mum overnight to her daughter Harriett.🎟️ The Comeback Live comes to the Cork Podcast Festival on March 21st at St Luke’s. Tickets are available now on Eventbrite.🎧 This episode is proudly sponsored by ADHD Now, the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland. If you are seeking an ADHD assessment or support, visit adhdnow.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Comeback with Micheál Costello 16.02.2026 55min

In this episode, I sit down with Kerry native Micheál Costello for a powerful and honest conversation.What began as a search for control through exercise slowly spiralled into anorexia and depression. Diagnosed in October 2020, Micheál’s illness carried deep family history, with his aunt having died from anorexia years earlier.We talk about stigma, especially for men, the danger of waiting lists, and the silence that surrounds eating disorders.From the depths of illness to qualifying for the Irish triathlon team and competing in several Ironmans, Micheál’s journey is a remarkable comeback and a reminder that recovery is possible.🎟️ The Comeback Live comes to the Cork Podcast Festival on March 21st at St Luke’s. Tickets are available here https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/the-comeback-with-brenda-dennehy-tickets-1977022103331.🎧 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.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Comeback with Stephen Cowboy Kelly 09.02.2026 54min

In this episode I sit down with Irish comedian Stephen “Cowboy” Kelly for a powerful and honest conversation.Best known for his comedy, online sketches, and appearances on Hardy Bucks, Stephen has built a strong following across stand-up, live shows, and social media. In this episode, he goes beyond the laughs to share a much deeper story.Stephen speaks openly about nearly dying three times, including suffering a heart attack in his twenties and collapsing with a bleed to the brain. He reflects on being rushed to ICU, being medically dead, and the moments that forced him to reassess his life and priorities.This episode explores survival, resilience, and the mindset required to come back when everything is on the line.A very big thank you to Legacy Studios for hosting the recording of this episode.🎧 Proudly sponsored by ADHD Now. For ADHD assessment and support across Ireland, visit adhdnow.com.🎟️ The Comeback Live comes to the Cork Podcast Festival on March 21st at St Luke’s. You can buy tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/the-comeback-with-brenda-dennehy-tickets-1977022103331 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Comeback with Julie Burke @juliesrulesirl 02.02.2026 39min

This week, I am joined by Julie Burke, also known as @julesrulesirl on social media, for a conversation every woman who has ever felt underestimated needs to hear. Julie worked her way from retail to General Manager through grit, confidence, and backing herself when no one else did. Nothing was handed to her.We talk confidence, knowing your worth, navigating social media, and why personality will take you further than any job title.Julie’s message is simple and powerful. Stop waiting for permission. It is not coming. Give it to yourself.🎤 The Comeback Live is coming to the Cork Podcast Festival on March 21st at St Luke’s - you can get tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/the-comeback-with-brenda-dennehy-tickets-1977022103331✨ This week’s sponsor is Dazzled Venus, jewellery that truly moves with you. Waterproof, non-tarnish, 18-karat gold plated, and proudly Irish owned 🇮🇪 💛 Enjoy 40 percent off sitewide for a limited time. Check out their site here: dazzledvenus.ie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Comeback with Jason Byrne 26.01.2026 33min

This week on The Comeback, I sit down with Jason Byrne.Jason grew up in Ballymun, Dublin, and first encountered drugs at 16. What began as curiosity escalated and shaped many years of his life. Now almost three years sober, he reflects honestly on addiction, recovery, and change.Jason is the founder of Rise Above It, a community built around movement, connection, and support through running, hiking, and sea dips. We talk about why recovery is something you do together, not alone.Despite the seriousness of the topic, there is warmth, humour, and real joy throughout this episode.The Comeback Live comes to the Cork Podcast Festival on March 21st at St Luke’s. Tickets are available here: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/the-comeback-with-brenda-dennehy-tickets-1977022103331This episode is proudly sponsored by ADHD Now, the online clinic transforming ADHD assessment and care across Ireland. If you are seeking an ADHD assessment or support, visit adhdnow.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.