**This interview by Alan O'Mara was first published as part of The Players Voice series.**

Kerry GAA goalkeeper Martin Stackpoole joined host Alan O’Mara to open up in great detail about his gambling addiction and his recovery. Martin talks about his struggle to reach out for help, what he learned from spending time in a treatment centre and how much he is enjoying living life on his own terms again. 

The Players’ Voice is brought to you by the Gaelic Players Association in collaboration with Real Talks. The podcast series is part of BEO 360, a GPA programme that empowers inter-county players across 4 key areas - life skills, wellbeing, dual career and transitions. Please go to beo360.gaelicplayers.com to learn more.  

Each episode is hosted by Alan O’Mara, a former Cavan goalkeeper who now works as a Performance and Wellbeing consultant. To find out more about his work with sports and business leaders around the world, please go to www.RealTalks.ie.

Martin Stackpoole - The Players Voice

For this special Christmas episode of the Real Talks with SOSAD Ireland wellbeing series, we were joined by Stephen Lynch. 

Earlier in 2023, Stephen raised an incredible €70,000 for SOSAD Ireland and Mental Health Ireland by running the length of the island. It was a gruelling challenge of 563km, full of highs and lows, that tested him physically, mentally and emotionally. 

If you enjoy this episode, please donate if you can to SOSAD Ireland and Mental Health Ireland. They are two great organisations that work hard to support and empower the mental health of people and communities all over Ireland. You can help support their work by going to;

https://sosadireland.ie/donate/
https://www.mentalhealthireland.ie/donate/

We also wanted to remind you that SOSAD Ireland is here to support you and your mental health. If you are struggling in the coming weeks, please go to www.sosadireland.ie to learn more or call the 24/7 support line on 1800-901-909. SOSAD Ireland have trained volunteers on call for emergencies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for anyone who may be in distress and in need of professional help and support.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Stephen Lynch on raising €70,000 for mental health charities and running the length of Ireland

A message from Real Talks Founder Alan O'Mara!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. 

Alan

Merry Christmas, thank you and 2024 plans!

On the Real Talks podcast, we learn more about authentic people from sport, music, art and life.

We know that creating space for vulnerable discussions has empowered our community to live happier, healthier and more successful lives.

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