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
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E165: Lisa Doolan - Relationships, Recovery & Real Connection
I’m joined by my sister, Lisa Doolan, a well-being specialist, to explore how recovery transforms our relationships. We talk about codependency, building healthier connections with family, friends, and partners, and how the more we work on ourselves, the stronger our relationships become.We also share the uplifting experience of seeing Robbie Williams sober, and the practical tools Lisa uses to keep well-being and balance at the center of life.This is a conversation about healing, connection, and creating relationships that truly last.
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E164: Derek Sherry - Sobriety, Running and Resilience
Today I’m joined by my very good friend, Derek Sherry — a man with one of the best tans in Ireland and a story that’s even brighter. Derek’s journey is one of transformation, resilience, and community. In the 80s and 90s, he was a familiar face on Dublin’s nightlife scene — but behind the music and mayhem, he was battling trauma, addiction, and depression. A few years ago, a crippling back injury nearly left him unable to move, yet today he’s training for his second Dublin Marathon. Derek is now three years sober, a proud member of Portmarnock’s Shelters Running Club, and a regular sea swimmer. In this episode, he shares how running, swimming, and the incredible community at The Shelters have played a vital role in his sobriety and in rebuilding a life full of purpose and healing
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
Ireland