The Comeback with....Nicola Guilfoyle
This week, I’m joined by Nicola Guilfoyle, a 40-year-old mum of three from Clonmel who’s lived through more than most - addiction in the family, the loss of her mother, brother, and father, and her own struggles with grief, mental health, and struggling with her weight.
We talk about childhood trauma, losing her brother just weeks before giving birth, and saying goodbye to her dad - her best friend - after he died from sepsis.
Nicola shares what it’s like to raise a child with autism, lose nearly 13 stone, and train for two marathons - all while navigating deep loss.
This episode is about bereavement, autism, addiction, weight loss, and finding your way through the darkest days.
This week’s sponsor is AutismCare — an Irish organisation offering neuroaffirming assessments and lifelong supports, co-designed with Autistic individuals. Their team is grounded in lived experience, compassion, and genuine inclusion. You can visit them at autismcare.ie.
Timestamps00:00 – Intro: grief, addiction, autism
01:15 – Brother’s addiction
03:15 – Mum’s cancer diagnosis
06:30 – Christmas family conflict
09:25 – Brother’s death
14:00 – Autism diagnosis journey
19:30 – Dad’s sudden illness
25:50 – Coping with loss
30:10 – Marathon training
32:00 – Weight loss + sobriety
SupportIf you're struggling with grief, addiction, mental health, or family trauma, here are some trusted Irish support services you can contact:
- **Pieta House** – Support for suicide, self-harm, and bereavement
📞 1800 247 247 (24/7)
🌐 [www.pieta.ie](https://www.pieta.ie)
- **HSE Drugs & Alcohol Helpline** – Free, confidential advice and support
📞 1800 459 459
📧 helpline@hse.ie
🌐 [www.drugs.ie](https://www.drugs.ie)
- **Samaritans Ireland** – 24/7 emotional support for anyone in distress
📞 116 123 (Free)
🌐 [www.samaritans.ie](https://www.samaritans.ie)
- **Aware** – Support for depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder
📞 1800 80 48 48
🌐 [www.aware.ie](https://www.aware.ie)
- **Family Carers Ireland** – Support for people caring for loved ones
📞 1800 24 07 24
🌐 [www.familycarers.ie](https://www.familycarers.ie)
Please don’t hesitate to reach out. Help is always available. ❤️
ConnectYou can follow Nicola here: orangenic_life_fun_food
Instagram: @thecomebackwithbrenda @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.
- No. of episodes: 19
- Latest episode: 2025-09-15
- Education Health & Fitness Self-Improvement Mental Health
Where can you listen?
