The Comeback with… Nicola Fitzgerald

The Comeback with Brenda Dennehy · 2025-06-02

52:08

This week, I sit down with the incredible Nicola Fitzgerald, also known as All Things Dogs and Home on Instagram. Nicola’s story is one of extraordinary resilience and transformation.

At just 16, she rebelled, turning to drugs, and became a teen mother. Her journey led her to become addicted to heroin. Despite the hardships, Nicola’s amazing mother, Sally, never gave up on her, and her grandmother, Peggy, helped her wean off heroin to get into treatment.

Now, a proud mother of 6, Nicola has dedicated her life to her kids. She is a qualified personal trainer, care assistant, and thriving content creator. She has been sober for 17 years and considers herself lucky, as she reflects on how many of the people she used to be with have sadly passed away.

Nicola’s inspiring story is a testament to strength, determination, and the power of family.

You can follow her journey on Instagram at @all_things_kids_dogs_and_home

⏱️ Timestamps:

00:00 – Nicola’s early life and teenage rebellion

06:00 – Her descent into addiction and becoming a teen mum

15:00 – Hitting rock bottom and losing custody

25:00 – Treatment, relapse, and recovery

35:00 – The turning point: a call to her grandmother

40:00 – Life in Coolmine Recovery Centre

47:00 – Life today: motherhood, sobriety, and purpose

💛 You’re Not Alone:

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or mental health, here are some confidential support services in Ireland:

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Ireland

📞 Phone: +353 1 842 0700

🌐 Website: alcoholicsanonymous.ie

Narcotics Anonymous (NA) Ireland

📞 Helpline: 1800 624 262

🌐 Website: na-ireland.org

Pieta House – Suicide and self-harm support

📞 24/7 Crisis Helpline: 1800 247 247

📱 Text ‘HELP’ to: 51444

🌐 Website: pieta.ie

Connect With Me:

Instagram: @brendasbits

Contact: Thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Comeback with Brenda Dennehy

The Comeback with Brenda Dennehy is a powerful podcast that delves into the most inspiring stories of resilience, transformation, and triumph. Hosted by Brenda Dennehy, the podcast shares the journeys of real people who have faced some of life’s toughest challenges—hitting rock bottom, navigating through personal battles, and emerging stronger than ever.

Every episode brings an honest and raw conversation about turning adversity into strength, showing that it's not just about bouncing back, but about thriving after hardship. Through heartfelt interviews, Brenda uncovers the moments that changed lives and the lessons learned along the way.

From overcoming addiction to achieving personal breakthroughs, The Comeback explores the human capacity for resilience and how people tap into their inner strength to rebuild their lives. Each guest offers a unique perspective, leaving listeners with hope, inspiration, and the belief that, no matter the obstacles, a powerful comeback is always possible.

Whether you’re seeking motivation or simply want to hear incredible stories of perseverance, The Comeback is a must-listen.

Tune in for your dose of inspiration.

Follow Brenda on Instagram: @brendasbits

Contact: thecomebackwithbrenda@gmail.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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