Joe Diver. Derry Midfielder. Alcoholic. Fighting back for life episode artwork

EPISODE · Jun 24, 2025 · 1H 23M

Joe Diver. Derry Midfielder. Alcoholic. Fighting back for life

from The GAA Social · host BBC Radio Ulster

This is a remarkable podcast. Joe Diver had the world at his feet. A beautiful wife, family, talented footballer, successful job and drinking a bottle of whiskey at 10am in the morning. Wild. Ultimately, alcoholism could have cost Joe his life. He turned it around, returned to University and is a mental health counsellor. He doesn't drink anymore and hasn't for some time. Helping people is what he wants to do. Addiction is a growing problem and what Joe is finding out, people are presenting with the condition at a younger age. Teenagers! This is an incredible story into alcohol. Two nice cars, lovely home and a good job can mask what's going on inside. Being gracious is important and can be a reassuring tool into happiness. What comes across is the love Joe has for his wife Michaela, her love for him and his devotion to his family. Cuan Mhuire rehab facility played its part. "Stick with the winners" and the moment his eldest girl spoke to her daddy. Really powerful. Perhaps more than anything, Joe comes across as a brilliant human being, honest, authentic and deeply strong. Well done Joe Diver

This is a remarkable podcast. Joe Diver had the world at his feet. A beautiful wife, family, talented footballer, successful job and drinking a bottle of whiskey at 10am in the morning. Wild. Ultimately, alcoholism could have cost Joe his life. He turned it around, returned to University and is a mental health counsellor. He doesn't drink anymore and hasn't for some time. Helping people is what he wants to do. Addiction is a growing problem and what Joe is finding out, people are presenting with the condition at a younger age. Teenagers! This is an incredible story into alcohol. Two nice cars, lovely home and a good job can mask what's going on inside. Being gracious is important and can be a reassuring tool into happiness. What comes across is the love Joe has for his wife Michaela, her love for him and his devotion to his family. Cuan Mhuire rehab facility played its part. "Stick with the winners" and the moment his eldest girl spoke to her daddy. Really powerful. Perhaps more than anything, Joe comes across as a brilliant human being, honest, authentic and deeply strong. Well done Joe Diver

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Joe Diver. Derry Midfielder. Alcoholic. Fighting back for life

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This episode was published on June 24, 2025.

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This is a remarkable podcast. Joe Diver had the world at his feet. A beautiful wife, family, talented footballer, successful job and drinking a bottle of whiskey at 10am in the morning. Wild. Ultimately, alcoholism could have cost Joe his life. He...

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