242. Jonathan Kemp: 5 Million Steps for Mental Health | The Dublin Chapter

Nearly five million steps into an extraordinary journey, Jonathan Kemp has reached Dublin.

Jonathan set out from the Shetland Islands on 1 January 2026 and is walking approximately 4,200km through Scotland, England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland before finishing in Galway.

The walk is raising awareness and funds for four mental health charities - SAMH, Mind, AWARE NI and Aware - while creating opportunities for conversations about mental health, recovery and neurodiversity along the way.

In this latest chapter of The Ireland Podcast's ongoing record of Jonathan's journey, Fender Jackson joins him in Dublin.

Jonathan is welcomed to the city by Lord Mayor of Dublin Daryl Barron before Fender and Jonathan walk through Dublin together towards the headquarters of Aware. Along the way, they discuss the physical toll of months on the road, Jonathan's current foot injury, the people he has encountered and what occupies his mind during long days of walking.

At Aware, Jonathan is welcomed by the organisation and reflects on the journey so far. The episode also features contributions from British Ambassador to Ireland Kara Owen, Aware CEO Stephen Butterly, members of the Aware team and fellow walkers from ODEON Tours.

With Galway now approaching, Jonathan discusses what he hopes for from the final stage of the journey -including having people join him for the final steps.

Jonathan arrives in Galway on Sunday 18 October 2026.

Listeners are invited to join Jonathan for the final steps into the city.

A special event at The Ardilaun Hotel, Galway, follows on Monday 19 October, featuring an evening with Jonathan Kemp: stories, reflections and what comes next. Keep an eye on The Ireland Podcast's social accounts for upcoming details!