The Bear Podcast

In this episode we talk with Nikella Holmes, Nikella was just 15 when she 
was a victim of sexual abuse from fire chief  ‘Gary Thompson’ in 2006. 

Nikella who is now 33, was assaulted by one time church youth leader Gary and was groomed for more than a year! 

Nikella talks about how the abuse started through playful but soon became flirty and sexual messages.

Nikella Holmes has chosen to  waive her right to anonymity to  share her story about the crimes committed by Gary Thompson, who was sentenced to eight 
months in jail after pleading...

Sheree Black was just 18 when her 14-week-old son, Cameron, was brutally murdered by his father, Ryan Leslie, in 2008. Now, as Leslie approaches parole eligibility after serving a minimum 17-year sentence, Sheree is reliving the trauma of her loss while fighting to ensure her son’s killer remains behind bars.

In this deeply personal podcast, Sheree shares her emotional journey, from confronting the judicial process to navigating the ongoing pain of losing her child. She reflects on the importance of victim impact statements, the lack of remorse from her son’s killer, and her hope to create a supp...

Edwina Thompson Clarke’s son was tragically k*lled on the M1 during a night out with friends, her world was shattered. Now, she faces the painful and costly fight to uncover the truth and seek justice.

In this emotional and eye-opening podcast, Edwina shares her journey of grief, resilience, and determination. Through heartfelt storytelling and interviews, she exposes systemic challenges and the lengths a mother will go to for answers.

Trigger Warning: This podcast discusses themes of loss and violence. Listener discretion is advised.

Cruse Bereavement Support
Cruse offers free and co...

In this episode Imedla O'Brien opens up about her journey through unimaginable tragedy and survival. After a recent fall from her 11th-story Bondi apartment, she reflects on the heartbreak of losing her teenage sister Lynsey in a cruise ship accident and the devastating impact it had on her family, including her father’s later suicide. A story of resilience, grief, and finding strength in the darkest moments.

In this episode, we delve into the inspiring story of a young Galway mother who overcame unimaginable challenges. After battling Stage 4 endometriosis and being misdiagnosed with PoTS syndrome, she found herself bedbound and facing an uncertain future.

Through determination and the support of CRY Ireland, a charity dedicated to preventing sudden cardiac deaths and supporting affected families, she defied the odds. Now, she has walked a world-famous trail, raising thousands for CRY Ireland, the organization that played a vital role in her journey to recovery.

Her story is a testament to resilience, gratitude, and the...

In this episode we are joined with Glen Smith where he tells his tale of paramilitary attacks, daring robberies, courtroom dramas and multiple prison escapes; Glen Smith takes you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions as he dodges the IRA punishment squads and cops on both sides of the border.

A tale of tragedy, domestic violence, addiction and recovery, all this, laced with humour, love and laughter. Glen's is a story you will never forget...

In this episode we delve into the heartbreaking story of Kelly, a young woman found dead in a canal under suspicious circumstances. Although her death was initially ruled a suicide, her mother, Julie Anne, is here to shed light on the unanswered questions and conflicting evidence that suggest otherwise. Julie Anne shares her journey, not only to seek justice for Kelly but to offer hope and guidance to other families facing similar tragedies. This episode is dedicated to Kelly.

Helpful Links:

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Resources for mental health support and advocacy.
Pa...

In this latest episode with Reginald Clark, he talks about how he journeyed from America to Saudi Arabia and then to Ireland, sharing his incredible life story. Reginald opens up about the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way, offering unique insights into the cultural shifts, personal growth, and unforgettable experiences that defined his path. Reginald’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and an unyielding spirit. Tune in to hear about his transformative adventures, the people who influenced his journey, and the lessons he's learned about embracing change and finding one's true calling. This episode is a te...

In this emotional episode, Dermot O'Kelly shares his son’s battle with autoimmune encephalitis, where the immune system attacks the brain. His son suffered severe seizures, dislocated shoulders, a fractured spine, and spent two months in the hospital, including 16 days in the ICU. The family faced saying goodbye as he was resuscitated.

His son experienced psychosis, violent outbursts, catatonia, and absence seizures. He lost the ability to read, write, and speak and had to be spoon-fed. Despite undergoing multiple treatments and facing complications like osteoporosis and a compressed spine, he is now home and making progress, though st...

In this powerful and emotional episode, we are joined by Chantelle Nicholls. Chantelle bravely shares her harrowing journey through the emotional and physical abuse inflicted by her ex-partner. Her story reaches a critical turning point during a trip abroad, a holiday she had hoped would be a much-needed respite.

 Please note: The content of this episode may be graphic and sensitive to some viewers. For more information and resources on supporting survivors of domestic abuse in the UK, please visit: Women's Aid: A leading organization working to end domestic abuse against women and children. Helpline: 0808 2000 247 National Domestic A...

WE ARE BACK! Catch up with us in this episode as we dive into Shauns previous summer holidays, sports days... And MUCH much more!

In this gripping episode, we sit down with Sharon Rocks, a courageous woman whose life took an unexpected turn after six years of marriage. Sharon shares her poignant story of discovering that the man she thought she knew so well had been living a double life. Not only did he have another child, but he was also engaged in multiple affairs. Sharon opens up about the emotional turmoil and betrayal she experienced, the moment of discovery, and the journey of rebuilding her life thereafter.

In this episode, we are joined by Joan Corrigan, who delves into her story. Joan details the events leading up to her whistleblowing on the NHS, an act that ultimately cost her, her job. Now, she is fighting for justice.

Step into an extraordinary episode as we sit down with Colm Cunningham, a courageous individual who shares his poignant journey. From encountering his abuser at the young age of 13, Colm's life took a harrowing turn, with his innocence stolen and "2/3 of his life" snatched away. As he fought for justice in court, the outcome - a mere one-year sentence for his abuser - prompts a sobering question: Is this justice?

Please note: The content of this episode may be graphic and sensitive to some viewers.

NHS Drug Addiction: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/drug-addiction-getting-help/<...

In this compelling episode, we're privileged to be joined by Sabrina Oprey, who bravely opens up about her journey, delving deep into the challenges of her upbringing marked by an abusive father. Sabrina shares candidly how these experiences have left lasting imprints not only on her life but also on the lives of her sisters. Sabrina recounts the tragic loss of her boyfriend to a senseless act of violence while they were enjoying a night out with friends at a nightclub.

Join us as Sabrina shares her story of resilience, offering insights into the profound impact of...

In this heartbreaking episode, we are honored to have Yvonne Maria share her courageous journey. She takes us through the emotional turmoil of living with an abusive partner, spanning continents from Australia to Ireland. Yvonne bravely confronts the awful tactics of gas-lighting, enduring emotional and mental abuse, and grappling with multiple challenges.

As she navigates the aftermath of their separation, Yvonne sheds light on the harrowing reality that the abuse has tragically extended to her children, casting a shadow over their lives.

Please note: The content of this episode may be graphic and sensitive to...

In this gripping episode, we're honored to host Malachy Turner, who courageously shares his harrowing journey of purchasing a restaurant filled with hope for a good future for himself and his family. However, his dreams were shattered when he encountered the terrifying reality of being threatened by paramilitaries...

Losing my father was the saddest and the happiest day of my life...

In this episode we are joined with Malachy Turner, Malachy delves into his emotional story from losing his father at 7 years of age, to growing up through the troubles and eventually venturing into starting his own businesses but things didn't go as planned...

In this episode we are delighted to welcome Mairtin Mac Gabhann, Mairtin delves into Dáithí's Law in honor of Mairtin's son Dáithí who has campaigned heavily alongside his family for the law change.

Dáithí Mac Gabhann has been on the waiting list for a heart transplant since 2018. During this time his family have worked tirelessly to campaign for a move towards soft opt-out law and to promote organ donation.

In this short episode we are delving into what our first ever LIVE SHOW with Grainne McCoy & Lisa McFarland will involve! (TICKETS ARE LIMITED)! 

If you haven't gotten your tickets yet, follow the link below to get them through EventBrite or call into the Glenavon House Hotel Cookstown, see you all soon!

Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bear-and-scully-live-tickets-813857257967

In this episode we are joined with Gayle Dunn, Gayle goes in-depth on her horrific journey from being abused by multiple ex's to actually being forced to attempt to traffic dr*gs from Mexico to London by the "Cartel"...

Please note: The content of this episode may be graphic and sensitive to some viewers.

For more information and resources on supporting survivors of domestic abuse in the UK, please visit:

Women's Aid: A leading organization working to end domestic abuse against women and children. Helpline: 0808 2000 247

National Domestic Abuse Helpline: Helpline: 0808 2000 247
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In this heartbreaking episode we are joined with Mary Gould, Mary goes in-depth on her sons tragic journey from being prescribed Finasteride to overdosing on multiple occasions with "nothing" being done from the NHS...

Helpful Links:

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI):
Website: https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Ill...
Phone: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

Anxiety and Depression Association:
Website: https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiet...
Phone: 240-485-1001

IntrusiveThoughts.org:
Website: https://www.intrusivethoughts.org/

Website: Samaritans UK
Phone: 116 123 (Free 24-hour helpline)

In this episode we are joined with Lee Maria Hughes. Lee Maria takes us through her heartbreaking story of how she lost her baby sister to the streets of Belfast...

Tickets to our LIVE SHOW in the Glenavon House Hotel Cookstown on the 6th April can be gotten here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bear-and-scully-live-tickets-813857257967 

Helpful Links: 

turning-point.co.uk

talktofrank.com

In this episode we are joined with Victoria Bryan, Victoria takes us through her childhood growing up with an alcoholic father that lost everything, from becoming distant to his loved ones to losing everything he owned. 

Join us as Victoria takes us through her journey and how shes dealing with it today... 

Helpful Links:
Cruse Bereavement Helpline
0116 288 4119 | https://www.cruse.org.uk/get-support

Adult Children of Alcoholics & Dysfunctional Families
https://www.adultchildrenofalcoholics.co.uk/

In this episode we are joined with Julian O’Regan. Julian takes us through his emotional and heartbreaking story of losing his baby Rue. Julian goes on to share not only the profound grief he and his partner experienced but also enlightens us on how he kept himself mentally strong.

Helpful Links:
Cruse Bereavement Helpline
0116 288 4119 | https://www.cruse.org.uk/get-support/helpline/

In tomorrow’s episode we are joined with Michelle Duffy. Michelle takes us through her heartbreaking childhood and what she went through from she was 4 to 16. Being abused by multiple men throughout her childhood and how she fought for justice.

Please note: The content of this episode may be graphic and sensitive to some viewers.

For more information and resources on supporting survivors of domestic abuse in the UK, please visit:

Women's Aid: A leading organization working to end domestic abuse against women and children. Helpline: 0808 2000 247

National Domestic Abuse Helpline: Helpline: 0808 2000 247

In this episode we are joined with none other than Damian Browne. An extraordinary man doing the “impossible”.

From rowing New York to Galway to completing the world’s TOUGHEST foot race and climbing Mount Everest he has done it ALL!

In this episode we are joined with Martin McCullough. Martin takes us through his heartbreaking story of losing his child to a fatal car accident. Martin not only shares the profound grief he experienced but also enlightens us on the unique methods he employed to navigate through the challenging terrain of his own mental health.

His heartfelt journey becomes a source of inspiration as he extends a compassionate hand to guide others on their path towards healing.

In this episode we are delighted to welcome the remarkable Colin Bell. Colin has helped many bereaved families repatriating the bodies of their loved one's who have died abroad in sudden or tragic circumstances, and bringing them home to their families.

The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust was founded out of a family tragedy when, in June 2013, Kevin Bell died suddenly in New York. Following an outpouring of support from Kevin’s friends, family and colleagues, a significant amount of funds were raised to repatriate his remains back to Ireland. As a permanent legacy to Kevin, the Bell fa...

This week we take you in depth into child birth with Anne Glover. Anne provides invaluable insights into the role of a doula, unraveling the intricacies of their support during childbirth. Discover the profound impact Anne has had on numerous families through her compassionate assistance.

Haileigh shares her heartbreaking story from her stepfathers s3xual abuse beginning at the age of 7/8 right through to she was 18! To then putting her stepfather behind bars...

Haileigh explains her process from going to the police to finally putting her stepfather behind bars, don't miss this inspiring survivor story.

Helpful Links: 
Website: https://rapecrisis.org.uk/
Rape Crisis provides support and information for women and girls who have experienced sexual violence. They offer online resources and a helpline.

Website: https://www.thesurvivorstrust.org/
The Survivors Trust is a UK-wide n...

In this episode we are joined with Kelly Harris. Kelly shares her story from her addiction to pain medication, breaking free from domestic abuse to the awful experience her and her partner went through and much more…

For more information and resources on supporting survivors of domestic abuse in the UK and battling drug addiction, please visit:

Women's Aid: A leading organization working to end domestic abuse against women and children. Helpline: 0808 2000 247

National Domestic Abuse Helpline: Helpline: 0808 2000 247

Refuge: Providing support and information for women and children experiencing domestic violence. Helpline: 0808 2000 247

In this episode we welcome Paul McCarroll. Paul shares his story, growing up battling OCD and intrusive thoughts, and how he’s overcoming it and helping others to do the same.

Paul's Social Media - www.instagram.com/befreefromocd

Helpful Links:

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI):
Website: https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Mental-Health-Conditions/Obsessive-compulsive-Disorder
Phone: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

Anxiety and Depression Association:
Website: https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd
Phone: 240-485-1001

IntrusiveThoughts.org:
Website: https://www.intrusivethoughts.org/

Website: Samaritans UK

Welcome to the Bear & Scully Christmas Special – in this episode we are diving into your questions, having a laugh, and reminisce about the wild ride this year has been! 

And we hear what Owen's "New Year's resolution's" are... 

Join us for a laid-back, heartwarming Christmas celebration with the Bear & Scully crew. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and the happiest of holidays! 

See you in 2024!

Join us in this episode with Thea Corry she shares her journey - from facing homelessness, dealing with "extremely toxic relationships", living in her car with her loyal companion 'Shadow,' to embarking on a successful venture on OnlyFans pregnant.

This episode covers IT ALL!

Helpful Links: 

Thea's Social Media:  www.instagram.com/_xawakenedaurasmodellingx_

Refuge - www.refuge.org.uk
National Domestic Abuse Helpline - www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk
Respect UK - www.respect.uk.net

If I was given an opportunity to go back to 2002 and not get into the car and see how far I can get in football. I have to get in the car…

Peter shares his remarkable story, transitioning from a career in professional football with Leeds, facing a life-changing event that confined him to a wheelchair, to discovering new passions in wheelchair basketball, scouting, and acting. Despite the unforeseen challenges, Peter's story is a testament to unwavering courage and the pursuit of new horizons beyond adversity.

Tonight, we have the honor of welcoming the extraordinary Deirdre Maguire. Deirdre courageously shares her compelling journey, from navigating the heartbreaking loss of her father to suicide, to bravely opting out of chemotherapy, and instead crafting her stress solution.

Her inspiring work involves empowering individuals to transform their thought patterns, fostering greater happiness and fulfillment in life.

Deirdre's Website: https://www.deirdremaguire.com

Helpful Links:

Samaritans: Confidential support and helplines for mental health challenges. 
https://www.samaritans.org/

Crisis : Free, confidential crisis support 
https://www.crisistextline.org/

In this episode its our Vegas Special!

Tune in with us for some laughs and hear how our "thought out plans" went downhill very fast! From meeting two Floyd Mayweather's to giving Chris Eubank Jr some friendly advice, we done it all!

In today's episode, we're joined by Eoin Collins, who bravely shares his journey from viewing gambling as a social pastime to the harrowing moments of using funds meant for a cat charity to fuel his bets. Eoin's  sheds light on the slippery slope of addiction and the startling transformation from leisure to obsession.

Remember, if you or someone you know needs support with gambling addiction, here are some helpful gambling addiction helplines and sites:

GamCare: Visit www.gamcare.org.uk or call the helpline at 0808 8020 133.
BeGambleAware: Access resources at www.begambleaware.org or call t...

In this episode, we are joined with Glenn Beattie, a prominent member of United Parental Action—a dedicated group staunchly opposed to what they perceive as the "radical" educational approaches infiltrating schools in 2024.

Glenn, offers his perspectives and convictions surrounding the transformative nature of the teachings and their potential impact on established cultural norms.

Join us as we delve deep into Glenn's compelling discourse on the evolving landscape of education and its implications for societal values.

https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/consultations/relationships-and-sexuality-education-rse-consultation