E170: Ciarán McIvor – A Journey of Growth, Healing & Perspective
Today I sit down with my good friend Ciarán McIvor, the creator of Boxing Bants. Ciarán spent six years travelling around Ireland covering professional boxing, before stepping away to focus on a much deeper journey of self-discovery. In this episode, we talk openly about mental health, ADHD, and the challenges of understanding yourself later in life. Ciarán shares how plant medicine shifted his entire perspective, how social media shaped his identity, and what it’s been like trying to find inner peace in a noisy world. We also touch on his role as chairperson of the Deirdre Gogarty Statue Committee, how purpose can change a person, and why connection and community matter now more than ever.
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E169: Andrew “Mo” Mowat - Embracing Nature & Finding Balance with
In this episode of The Sober Mess Podcast, I sit down with mindset coach Andrew “Mo” Mowat for an honest chat about nature, balance, and the simple habits that support our mental health. Mo talks about the power of getting outdoors, embracing Ireland’s elements, and how practising gratitude helped him through tougher moments.We also dive into reconnecting with your inner child, bringing more play into life, and learning to be kinder to yourself. It’s a conversation about slowing down, finding joy in the small things, and building consistency with the practices that keep us well.Find Andrew on Instagram:instagram.com/andrewmowattcoach
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E168: Paul Whelan – Music, Sobriety & Finding Strength Again
In this episode of The Sober Mess Podcast, I’m joined by my longtime friend Paul Whelan, a talented singer-songwriter from Dublin. Paul opens up about his journey from the streets of Ringsend to the stage, sharing his struggles with anxiety, addiction, and how embracing sobriety has transformed his life.Paul is also an avid sea dipper and an active member of Blue Balls Ireland, a men’s mental-health and cold-water community that has played a huge part in his recovery. Through open and heartfelt conversation, he reflects on the role of music, community connection, and cold-water therapy in helping him rebuild his life and rediscover his true self.This episode is a powerful reminder of resilience, second chances, and the strength that comes from vulnerability, creativity, and surrounding yourself with the right people.Find Paul on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/musicpaulwhelan---Men’s Mental-Health Support LinksBlue Balls Irelandhttps://www.instagram.com/blueballsireland(Men’s mental health and cold-water dipping community)HSE – Men’s Mental Health Supports (Ireland)https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/services-support/menSpunOut – Men’s Mental Health Supports in Irelandhttps://spunout.ie/mental-health/getting-help/mental-health-supports-for-men-in-irelandMen’s Development Network (MDN)https://mensnetwork.ie/counsellingMen’s Health Forum in Ireland (MHFI)https://www.mhfi.org/resources/mental-health.html
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E167: Jason Byrne - Rise Above It: The Power of Community in Recovery
In this episode of The Sober Mess Podcast, I’m joined by my good friend Jason Byrne, founder of Ballymun Running Club and Rise Above It. Jason’s journey from addiction to sobriety is nothing short of inspiring, and he now uses his experiences to uplift others.We explore the ripple effect of recovery — how sobriety transforms not only individuals but whole communities. From the challenges and triumphs of staying sober to the importance of mental health and the joy of unlocking untapped potential, this conversation is a powerful reminder of the strength we find in community.Find Jason here: https://www.instagram.com/jason_byrne1989?igsh=MTB0Z2dwd2sweHcwcg==
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E166: Dean Davis – How Triathlon and Sobriety Transformed My Life
In this episode of The Sober Mess Podcast, I’m joined by my good friend Dean Davis, a remarkable triathlete, coach, and endurance athlete. Dean has completed several full-distance Ironman races, achieved the incredible milestone of going sub-9.30 hours, and continues to inspire others through his dedication to sport and sobriety. We dive into his journey of overcoming personal challenges, discovering the power of endurance sports in recovery, and the role of community support in achieving extraordinary goals. Dean’s story is one of resilience, inspiration, and transformation — both on the course and in life. Follow Dean on Instagram: @dtricoaching
A few years ago, I hit rock bottom—drinking to escape and struggling with my mental health. A final cry for help led me to a new way of life. Now, 12 years sober at 34, I host an award-winning podcast sharing powerful conversations with incredible people. We dive into the sober tools that heal and connect us—nature, hiking, sea swimming, and the outdoors. Real talk, real journeys.
Connect: https://bit.ly/3w66W3Q