Dads Don't Cry

Épisodes

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  Episode 27: Listeners Questions 13.07.2026 28min

  After a short break, Peter returns with a solo episode to share what's been happening behind the scenes, including the exciting news of a special summer series for Dads Don't Cry.He opens up about returning to Slane Church for the christening of his daughter Réiltín, the first time back since saying goodbye to Aodhla, and reflects on how grief and joy can exist side by side.Peter also answers listener questions on some of the biggest topics facing bereaved parents: deciding whether to have another child after loss, living with the complexities of parenting a rainbow baby, feeling "okay" while grieving, the changing support of family and friends, and finding community as a bereaved parent.An honest, personal episode about carrying hope without leaving your child behind, remembering those we love, and why every grief journey is different.
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  Episode 26: Ría 22.06.2026 1h 32min

  In this episode of Dads Don’t Cry, Peter sits down with Mark to share the story of his daughter, Ría, who died due to a Fetal-maternal hemorrhage (FMH). Per the pathologist, it happens rarely, is not predictable or preventable. Sadly one of those tragic, unfortunate, events.Mark speaks with remarkable honesty about the excitement of pregnancy, the fears that surfaced along the way, and the devastating moment he and his wife learned that Ría's heart had stopped beating. He takes us through the unimaginable reality that followed, telling their children, preparing for Ría's birth, creating precious memories in the limited time they had with her, and facing the heartbreak of planning a funeral for a child they had longed to meet.Together, Peter and Mark explore what happens after the condolences fade: how grief affects relationships, work, mental health, and family life. They reflect on the different ways men and women grieve, the importance of seeking support, and how children often teach us some of grief's most valuable lessons through their honesty and innocence.This is a conversation about loss, but also about love, resilience, fatherhood, and finding ways to keep a child's memory alive. Through stories of kindness, remembrance, and enduring connection, Mark shows how Ría remains an irreplaceable part of his family's life.A powerful and heartfelt episode that will resonate with bereaved parents, families, and anyone seeking to better understand life after the loss of a child.
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  Episode 25: Frankie 15.06.2026 1h 27min

  In this episode of Dads Don’t Cry, host Peter is joined by Sinead, Frankie’s mammy, to share the story of her beloved son and the profound impact his loss has had on her life and family.Sinead opens up about her pregnancy, the concerns she felt weren’t being heard, and the devastating events that led to Frankie’s brief life and her own near-death experience. With remarkable honesty, she reflects on the days and weeks that followed, from leaving the hospital without her baby to planning Frankie’s funeral and learning to navigate the overwhelming reality of grief.Together, Peter and Sinead explore the lasting impact of child loss, the challenges of coping with insensitive comments, family dynamics, unanswered questions, and the anger that can remain when seeking accountability. They also discuss the different ways people grieve, the importance of support networks, and how sharing stories can bring comfort, understanding, and connection to those facing loss.Sinead shares how Frankie’s memory continues to shape her family’s life, inspiring meaningful fundraising efforts in his memory and a determination to keep his legacy alive.This is a powerful conversation about love, loss, resilience, and the enduring bond between a parent and child. A heartfelt episode that will resonate with anyone who has experienced grief, supported someone through loss, or is seeking hope in the stories of others.
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  Episode 24: Finn 08.06.2026 1h 55min

  This week on Dads Don’t Cry, Peter is joined by Chloe, Finn’s mam, for a deeply moving conversation about love, hope, resilience, and loss.Chloe shares her journey through pregnancy, receiving Finn’s diagnosis of Down syndrome, and the many challenges that followed after his birth. She opens up about the long hospital stays, moments of uncertainty, the search for answers, and the strength it took to keep believing in brighter days for her son.Together, Peter and Chloe discuss Finn’s complex health challenges, the precious memories created along the way, and the reality of navigating life when hope and heartbreak exist side by side. Chloe reflects on bringing Finn home, saying goodbye, and the lasting impact he continues to have on her family.The conversation also explores grief, therapy, humour, relationships, and the different ways people cope with loss. Chloe shares how she keeps Finn’s memory alive through art and advocacy, ensuring his legacy continues to make a difference.This is an honest, powerful, and inspiring episode about parenthood, courage, and the enduring bond between a mother and her child.
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  Episode 23: Georgia "Sesame" 25.05.2026 1h 34min

  In this deeply honest episode of Dads Don’t Cry, Peter is joined by Finlay to share the emotional story of pregnancy loss, grief, healing, and hope. Finlay opens up about the excitement of expecting a baby, the devastation of discovering there was no heartbeat at the 12-week scan, and the traumatic experience that followed.Together, they explore the realities of miscarriage, the isolation many parents feel, and why phrases like “only” can unintentionally minimise grief. Finlay reflects on the importance of partner support, therapy, memorial tattoos, and finding ways to honour baby Georgia “Sesame” through remembrance, advocacy, and openness.The conversation also touches on pregnancy after loss, navigating anxiety, improving support systems in hospitals and workplaces, and the power of speaking openly so others feel less alone.A heartfelt and important discussion about parenthood, loss, resilience, and remembering the babies who leave too soon.
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  Episode 22: Róisín 18.05.2026 1h 59min

  In this deeply moving episode of Dads Don’t Cry, host Peter is joined by Lynda, Róisín’s mam and co-founder of Fairy Footprints, to share her powerful story of love, loss, and resilience.Lynda reflects on her early journey into motherhood, including the heartbreak of miscarriage before the joy of welcoming her daughter, Róisín. She paints a vivid picture of Róisín’s bright, spirited personality and the devastating day her life was suddenly cut short.The conversation explores the immediate aftermath of Róisín’s passing, navigating the hospital, facing the unimaginable task of returning home, and telling her son Killian that his sister was gone. Lynda speaks candidly about the rawness of grief, the silence that often surrounds it, and the struggle to find ways to cope.She shares how her family honours Róisín, and the small signs that brought comfort in the darkest moments. Lynda also opens up about subsequent miscarriages, the birth of her daughter Anna, and the difficult but important conversations about Róisín that continue within their family.As her family grew with the arrival of Brody, Lynda reflects on the evolving dynamics of grief, love, and parenting after loss. A key part of her journey has been transforming pain into purpose; creating memory boxes and advocating for better hospital bereavement support through the Fairy Footprints initiative.Throughout the episode, Lynda highlights the importance of supporting grieving siblings, keeping Róisín’s memory alive, and building a lasting legacy that helps other families facing similar heartbreak.The episode closes with a discussion on how others can support Fairy Footprints and contribute to a more compassionate approach to grief and loss.
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  Episode 21: Robyn-Grace 11.05.2026 2h 28min

  In this episode of Dads Don’t Cry, Peter is joined by Michelle to share the powerful story of her daughter, Robyn-Grace. After early scans revealed serious concerns, Michelle received the devastating diagnosis of a rare and fatal condition. With limited options in Ireland at the time, the difficult decision was made to travel abroad for a medical termination, facing logistical challenges and societal judgment along the way.Michelle reflects on Robyn-Grace’s passing and birth in Liverpool, where she was able to spend precious time with her. She speaks about the complex mix of grief, guilt, and relief that followed, and the difficulty of returning home and coping with loss.The conversation also explores ongoing grief, miscarriages, and the emotional toll of hidden sorrow, alongside Michelle’s advocacy during the Repeal the 8th campaign for greater compassion and choice. The episode closes with her journey toward hope, including a subsequent pregnancy and the birth of her daughter Bonnie Grace, held alongside the lasting presence of grief and a commitment to supporting others.
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  Episode 20: The Journey Initiative 27.04.2026 1h 35min

  In this episode of Dads Don’t Cry, host Peter sits down with Jane Dalrymple, Clinical Midwife Specialist in Fetal Medicine at the Rotunda Hospital, to explore the compassionate, often unseen work of supporting families through pregnancy loss.Jane shares how listening to parents shaped the creation of the Journey Initiative, a thoughtful approach to bereavement care that prioritises dignity, connection, and meaningful support. From soft memory bunnies and storybooks to sun catchers and memorial gardens, she explains how small, human touches can make an immeasurable difference during unimaginable grief.The conversation highlights the vital importance of clear communication after loss, creating safe spaces for follow-up care, and supporting families through subsequent pregnancies with dedicated resources. Jane also speaks candidly about bridging cultural gaps in grief, guiding siblings through difficult moments, and how her own role as a midwife evolved from “fixing” problems to simply being present with families in their darkest hours.This episode is a reminder of the enduring need for compassionate, person-centred grief support, and the quiet heroes who provide it.
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  Episode 19: Layla 20.04.2026 1h 10min

  Nine years after losing his first child at birth, Nathan joins host Peter to share the story of Layla’s pregnancy and the devastating loss that followed when he was just 21 years old. He reflects on the insensitivity he and his family faced in hospital, how he coped with grief at such a young age, and the ways he has kept Layla’s memory alive ever since.Nathan also speaks candidly about the darkest period that followed, revealing how, just months after Layla’s death, an altercation on his way home one night left him overwhelmed and he came close to taking his own life.He opens up about the long-term effects of unprocessed trauma, how grief strained relationships, and the support he wishes he’d had at the time. Nathan also talks about navigating awkward social moments, including the painful question, “How many kids do you have?”The conversation turns to later chapters of his life, including Carter’s pregnancy, honouring Layla through charity football matches and remembrance, and learning to carry both grief and gratitude forward.
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  Episode 18: Elsie 13.04.2026 1h 31min

  In this episode of Dads Don’t Cry, host Peter is joined by Vanessa, Elsie’s mam, who shares her family’s powerful and heartbreaking story. What begins as the joy of a surprise twin pregnancy soon becomes a high-risk journey when serious heart defects are discovered in one twin, Elsie. Vanessa and her husband navigate hope, fear, and anticipation as they prepare for complex surgery after birth, only to face the devastating loss of Elsie at 34 weeks.Vanessa opens up about the emotional whiplash of welcoming one healthy twin, Riley, while grieving the loss of her identical sister. She speaks about planning a child’s funeral, surviving the early days of profound grief, and the lasting impact of raising a twin without her other half. The conversation explores milestones, isolation, and the challenge of holding both joy and sorrow at once.Through community support, including time at Barretstown, Vanessa begins to find connection and purpose, learning that grief is deeply personal and cannot be compared. This episode is a raw and honest reflection on loss, resilience, and keeping Elsie’s memory alive while answering life’s hardest questions, especially for the children growing up with her story.
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  Episode 17: Willow 04.03.2026 2h 12min

  In Episode 17 of Dads Don’t Cry, host Peter sits down with Elaine to share the story of her daughter, Willow - a story that begins with hope and love, and unfolds into unimaginable heartbreak.Elaine speaks openly about Willow’s earliest days and the quiet, persistent instinct that something wasn’t right. Reassured it was “first-time mother syndrome,” she tried to trust the professionals. Willow was diagnosed with silent reflux - but deep down, Elaine’s worry never left.What was meant to be a family trip to Tenerife became a medical emergency. In a hospital far from home, Elaine and her partner Ross were given devastating news: their baby girl had a tumour. Soon after came the words no parent should ever hear - Stage 4 cancer.In this raw and powerful conversation, Elaine shares what it meant to fight for Willow, and then, heartbreakingly, what it meant to shift from fighting to comforting. She speaks about grief, maternal instinct, anger, faith, and the sacred tenderness of Willow’s final days.She also reflects on life after loss - the anxiety and sleepless nights, carrying Willow’s ashes, mourning the milestones that will never come, and finding connection with other bereaved parents who truly understand.Above all, this episode is a tribute to Willow, a little girl whose life, though heartbreakingly short, continues to guide her family every day.
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  Episode 16: Paddy 25.02.2026 1h 22min

  This week, we’re doing something different.While Dads Don’t Cry usually explores the impact of losing a child, this episode gently turns the lens the other way, asking what it means to lose a parent, especially as a young adult.Old enough to understand the weight of what’s gone…But often still young enough to feel completely unanchored without them.In this deeply personal conversation, Donna joins us to speak about her dad, Paddy. We explore the unique shape of parental loss, anticipatory grief, addiction, dementia, nursing home care, funeral arrangements, and the sudden shift of becoming “the strong one.”We talk about mental health crises, signs and symbolism, tattoos and memorials, and the long road of grief eight years on.We also gently acknowledge something that can be difficult to say out loud: losing a child and losing a parent are not the same. Both are devastating, but they shape us in different ways. And understanding those differences matters if we truly want to support one another.This is a one-off episode - something I wanted to try. And depending on the feedback, it might become something we revisit every 10/15 episodes.A space to open a different conversation about grief, identity, responsibility, and how loss shapes the kind of person you become.Grief doesn’t follow a rulebook.And it doesn’t only show up in one form.If this conversation resonates, you can reach me here on Instagram @dadsdontcrypodcast or by email at dadsdontcrypodcast@gmail.com 
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  Episode 15: Indie Mai 18.02.2026 1h 29min

  In this deeply vulnerable conversation, Caroline shares the beautiful life and radiant personality of her daughter, Indie Mai, a joyful, loving child who touched everyone around her. She reflects on Indie’s final weekend, the heartbreaking moment everything changed, and the desperate efforts to save her.Caroline speaks openly about the reality of child loss and suicide, the shock, the unanswered questions, and the silent weight of guilt so many grieving parents carry. She shares her experience of the hospital, bringing Indie home, and how the loss profoundly affected their entire family.As both a mother and a nurse, Caroline also opens up about navigating grief and how support from community groups and the HUGG charity became a lifeline during the darkest days.By honoring Indie with a remembrance 3K run for what would have been her 13th birthday this March, finding comfort in signs, and holding onto hope, Caroline reflects on enduring love, resilience, and the strength it takes to keep going.
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  Episode 14: Izzy 02.02.2026 1h 33min

  On this episode of Dads Don’t Cry, Peter is joined by Izzy’s mam, Lauren, during a week that should have been filled with joy celebrating Izzy’s second birthday. Instead, Lauren bravely shares the unimaginable story of losing her daughter.Together, they walk through the frantic attempts to save Izzy, and the devastating moments that followed - from the ambulance ride to the hospital, to hearing the words no parent should ever have to hear. Lauren opens up about navigating post-mortem decisions, explaining Izzy’s death to her siblings, and the heartbreaking choices around her funeral and cremation.The conversation also explores the raw reality of grief: the trauma, the isolation, the suicidal thoughts, and the vital role of mental health support and healing during Lauren’s time in a psychiatric ward. Lauren reflects on receiving Izzy’s SIDS diagnosis, the intensified pain that comes with the second year of loss, and how grief continues to evolve.At its heart, this episode is about love, remembrance, and legacy. Through cherished memories and honest reflection, Lauren keeps Izzy’s spirit alive, showing that even in the deepest sorrow, a child’s impact never fades.
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  Episode 13: Penelope 26.01.2026 1h 20min

  In this deeply moving episode of Dads Don’t Cry, Peter sits down with Kim to honour the life and loss of her daughter, Penelope—a bright, unapologetically herself child who filled every room with her spirit. Kim tenderly introduces us to Penelope, sharing who she was beyond the tragedy, before recounting the sudden phone call in September 2025 that shattered her world. What began as an ordinary moment became the unthinkable truth no parent is ever prepared to face: Penelope was gone.Together, Peter and Kim walk through the raw terrain of grief, returning home to a world that keeps moving while yours has stopped, the isolation of carrying invisible trauma, and the shock of learning that Penelope’s death was caused by an undiagnosed intestinal malrotation and volvulus. Four months on, Kim reflects on how her family is surviving the unimaginable, how grief reshapes everything, and how love, memory, and hope quietly coexist with pain. This episode is a gentle, honest space for tears, remembrance, and the reminder that even in the darkest moments, no parent has to grieve alone.
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  Episode 12: Jack 19.01.2026 1h 21min

  In this episode of Dads Don’t Cry, host Peter is joined by Conor, Jack’s dad, who shares the story of a journey that began with an unexpected and  smooth pregnancy, before taking a devastating turn. Conor also reflects on how this loss intersected with earlier grief in his life, having lost his sister to stillbirth at just 13 years old, and, eight years ago, his sister-in-law, experiences that shaped how he understood loss long before becoming a father himself.Conor recounts the sudden medical emergency that led to the heartbreaking loss of his son, Jack, and the surreal, bittersweet experience of Jack’s birth. He speaks powerfully about the overwhelming support from family, the precious moments they were able to share, and how tools like the cuddle cot allowed them to cherish time with Jack and begin building his legacy.The conversation explores what it was like bringing Jack home, how grief reshaped Conor’s outlook on life, and the challenges men often face when navigating loss. Conor opens up about seeking therapy, leaning on support networks, and dealing with anger and emotional outbursts that ultimately strengthened his relationship through shared grief.Peter and Conor also discuss the profound impact of a subsequent miscarriage, highlighting how compounded loss can reopen wounds while deepening understanding of grief. The episode closes with Conor explaining how sharing Jack’s story has brought comfort, connection, and a sense of hope, both for himself and for others walking a similar path.An honest conversation about fatherhood, cumulative grief, love, and the importance of giving dads space to grieve.
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  Episode 11: Liam 12.01.2026 56min

  In this deeply moving episode of Dads Don’t Cry, Pat, Liam’s dad, shares the story of love, loss, and lasting connection that began with the excitement of expecting their third child and was forever changed by a devastating diagnosis. Pat speaks tenderly about Liam’s peaceful passing, the raw days that followed, and the challenge of learning how to live with grief.The conversation explores how finding support for the first time helped Pat feel less alone, and how shared understanding within bereavement groups eventually led him to support other parents in their own journeys. Pat reflects on imagining who Liam might have become, the ache of lost possibilities, and the comfort found in treasured keepsakes and family traditions that keep Liam’s memory close.Pat also shares how Liam’s life shaped his older brothers, revisited grief through later revelations, and ultimately made him a more empathetic, open-hearted person. With honesty and warmth, he speaks about the importance of sharing his story, and allowing space for fathers to grieve. A heartfelt episode about carrying love forward, even in the face of unimaginable loss.
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  Episode 10: Luca 05.01.2026 1h 24min

  In this emotional episode of Dads Don’t Cry, Craig shares the story of his son Luca, a deeply loved third child who changed their family forever.What began with hope and excitement became a journey shaped by love, courage, and unimaginable heartbreak. Craig reflects on the precious moments spent with Luca, the joy of family visits, and the quiet memories that now mean everything.He opens up about grief as a father, the dreams that never came to be, the weight of the “what ifs,” and what it means to love your child when time is heartbreakingly short.Through family, community, sport, and remembrance, Luca’s presence continues to shape Craig’s life.A gentle, honest reminder that love never leaves - and that no matter how short the time, the bond between a father and his son is forever. 🤍The song that see's out this episode is called "Safe with the Stars", written by a friend of Craigs for Luca.
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  Episode 9: Peter Hanlon, Bereavement Therapist 22.12.2025 1h 4min

  “Be strong.”“Hold it together.”“Don’t cry.”For many fathers, grief is something they’re expected to carry in silence.In this episode of Dads Don’t Cry, I’m joined by bereavement therapist Peter Hanlon for a raw and compassionate conversation about loss, fatherhood, and what happens when pain can’t be fixed.We explore how dads truly cope with grief, how to support grieving children with honesty, how relationships are impacted after the loss of a child, why community matters, and why healing doesn’t mean forgetting or moving on.If you’re grieving, feeling numb, or simply trying to get through the day, this episode is for you.Peter closes out the episode with a piece he wrote for the Little Lifetime Foundation Christmas Remembrance Mass.The piano piece at the very end of the episode was created in Aodhla’s memory by friend and listener Elizabeth Henry.
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  Episode 8: Oscar 15.12.2025 1h 15min

  In this powerful episode of Dads Don’t Cry, Lar shares his son Oscar’s story, from the joy of early childhood to the subtle signs that led to a devastating DIPG diagnosis. He reflects on protecting Oscar’s innocence, creating magical memories, and facing the crushing silence that followed. From unimaginable grief came purpose: the creation of Oscar’s Kids, a charity to honour Oscars’s spirit and bring comfort, hope, and support to families walking a similar path. This episode is a heartfelt reflection on love, loss, resilience, and the enduring legacy of one extraordinary little boy.