In this deeply honest and moving episode, I’m joined by Tom Fitzsimons. Author, inspirational speaker and a man whose life has been transformed through recovery, resilience and human connection.

Tom shares the story of losing his dad when he was just 13 years old, and how that loss shaped the years that followed. He speaks with incredible openness about his struggles with alcohol addiction, the impact it had on his life, and the long road towards sobriety. Now many years sober, Tom dedicates his life to helping others, using his own experiences to inspire hope and show that change is always possible.

We also explore the healing power of movement and connection. Tom talks about discovering running, the profound effect it had on his mental health, and the extraordinary endurance challenges he has gone on to complete. His story is one of courage, determination and the reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is always a path forwards.

I was deeply moved by Tom’s honesty throughout this conversation, but it’s what he shares in the closing moments that truly stayed with me. It reduced me to tears, and I hope you’ll stay with us until the very end, you’ll understand why.

This episode contains open conversations about grief, bereavement, alcohol addiction, recovery, death and dying. If these topics feel tender for you right now, please listen gently and take care of yourself.

I’d love to hear what resonates with you after listening. Please do leave a review, share the episode with someone who might need it, and let us know your thoughts.

You’ll find Tom’s links below. Please do give him a follow, explore his work, and if his story connects with you, I’d highly recommend reading his book.

Tom Fitzsimons |

LinkedInInstagram

https://www.tiktok.com/@thesoberbard?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

© 2026 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.

This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal, or medical advice.

In this episode of Dying for a Cuppa®, I’m joined by Lisa Rainier, a healthcare chaplain with over 15 years’ experience supporting people at the bedside through some of life’s most profound moments.

Lisa and I first met at the hospice where I used to work, and she now continues her incredible work as a chaplain within a leading cancer hospital.

This is a conversation full of warmth, honesty and compassion. Together we explore what chaplaincy really is, the role it plays at the end of life, and why conversations around faith matter so much. We also unpack the important differences between faith, religion and spirituality, and how these can each offer comfort, meaning and connection in very different ways.

What I admire most about Lisa is her ability to meet people exactly where they are. Whatever someone’s beliefs, or none at all, she creates a space where they feel seen, heard and supported without judgement.

I’m so grateful to Lisa for sharing her own experiences, reflections and beliefs with such openness. It’s exactly what this series is all about: creating honest conversations that help us better understand ourselves, each other, and what it means to be human.

© 2026 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.

This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal, or medical advice.

A little hello from me as I step into my 44th year!

Before the next instalment of Dying for a Cuppa® officially begins next week, I wanted to sit down, reconnect and share a few thoughts, reflections and little birthday ramblings with you.

No guest, no big topic, just me and a moment to pause before we begin the next chapter.

Thank you for being here, for listening, and for continuing these important conversations with me.

The first full episode lands Monday 13th, and I can’t wait to share what’s coming! (Sorry folks, new episode will be now 20th July!!)

© 2026 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.

This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal, or medical advice.