This week I am delighted to have Top of the Profs Professor Luke O'Neill, renowned immunologist, author, and all-around legend, joining us for a conversation that goes well beyond the lab. We dive into everything from the classic thrills of Jaws and favourite films to the lasting impact of The Beatles, and even explore topics like cannabis and the parallels of Luke's life to Breaking Bad's Walter White. Luke’s curiosity and wit make for an incredibly fun and thought-provoking episode. So...

You must be jokin .....It's Willia White! I could listen to him all day , what an amazing person. In this episode of The Parting Glass, I sit down with actor and comedian Willa White, who shares his extraordinary journey from growing up in Ballymun to becoming one of Dublin’s most beloved comedians. Willa opens up about his tough upbringing in a violent home, his battle with addiction that started at the age of nine, and how he turned his life around, finding sobriety in 2001. He talks about...

In this episode of The Parting Glass, we sit down with the incredibly inspiring and gorgeous Carla Piera Fitzgerald, also known as "Half of Carla. Carla shares her powerful journey from battling food addiction and an eating disorder since childhood, to transforming her life after a pivotal decision in July 2019. Through sheer determination and commitment, Carla lost 180 pounds in a year, and now she’s on a mission to help others do the same by ‘Showing Up For Yourself.’ Carla opens up about...

The episode features John Boland, a 54-year-old father of two from Finglas. John is a dedicated member of Suicide Awareness D15, an organisation he credits with saving his life. After a devastating work accident, John spiraled into depression, hitting rock bottom and planning to take his life. His turning point came when a friend’s daughter, intervened and urged him to seek help, which led him on the path to recovery. John found healing in the outdoors, becoming an avid hill walker and sea...

David Pratt never imagined that one night out would set him on a mission to change the law. Last Christmas, like thousands of young people in their 20's, he had walked into a bar with friends, expecting laughter, music, and the usual joy of an evening well spent. Instead, his world was turned upside down. His drink was spiked, and what followed was a blur—waking up disoriented, confused, his face covered in blood and robbed of his phone. It was a nightmare that no one should endure. But...

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

In this episode of The Parting Glass, we sit down with Mark Reddy, who proves you can take the man out of Dolphins Barn, but you can't take Dolphins Barn out of the man! Mark shares stories of his days dodging Dublin's drug problems in the late '70s, escaping the madness for a career in insurance, and still managing to sing a few Irish ballads along the way. Mark also opens up about the personal philosophy that’s guided his life: “Don’t let where you come from define what you become.” Tune in...

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

Irene O'Brien, a vintage stylist and advocate for sustainable fashion, shares her journey and passion for vintage fashion. Irene discusses her early life, her love for fashion, and her experiences in the fashion industry. She also talks about her time working in AA Roadwatch and her travels in South America, where she met her husband. She shares her admiration for Dolly Parton and her iconic style, and emphasizes the need to be authentic and embrace one's own personal style. Irene also opens...

Caio Benicio, a Brazilian immigrant living in Dublin, shares a remarkable story of bravery and resilience. Caio recounts the day he witnessed a knife attack on Parnell Street on 23rd November 2023, and used his bike helmet to disarm the attacker, helping to save the life of a little girl. Despite his heroic act, Caio remains humble and insists he is not a hero. He discusses his journey from Brazil to Dublin, including the challenges he faced as a restaurant owner and the impact of the...