Optimizing the Location of Ronald McDonald House at Entrance of New…
was Diarmuid Donal. My father’s dad was Donal, so when I arrived, I had to be called Donal to keep the family peace. Brendan is just a random second name that I happen to like.
Where is your favorite place in Ireland?
Between Inchydoney and Kenmare. I love them both equally. Kenmare holds special memories from my childhood, as we used to visit often and have family roots there. Inchydoney, on the other hand, is rugged and on the west coast, with amazing waves that I can’t get enough of.
Describe yourself in three words.
Dogged. Ambitious. Empathetic.
When did you last get angry?
Just yesterday, actually. The positioning of Ronald McDonald House at the entrance to the new children’s hospital really got to me. Seeing brand management for McDonald’s right outside a children’s hospital, especially considering our obesity epidemic driven by processed foods, is something I can’t shake off.
What have you lost that you would like to have back?
All our kids’ home movies and plays from when they were aged two to 11. Those memories are irreplaceable.
What’s your strongest childhood memory?
I used to get carsick as a kid, and my dad would blow smoke into the back seat to help me feel better. Looking back now, I realize how much we didn’t know about health and safety back then!
Where do you come in your family’s birth order, and has this defined you?
I’m the middle of three siblings, and I definitely embody the traits of a classic middle child. Growing up, I could see the differences in treatment compared to my older and younger siblings.
What do you expect to happen when you die?
I believe there was something before I was here, so it’s likely there will be something after I’m gone. Life, in some form, continues beyond what we can see and understand.
When were you happiest?
I find happiness in the present moment. It’s something I’ve been consciously working on. Reflecting on missed opportunities from the past can be challenging, but I strive to appreciate the now as much as I can.
Which actor would play you in a biopic about your life?
If I had a choice, it would be Steve Martin. I’m a big fan of his. But my wife would probably prefer Colin Firth, and she might even want to play herself in the movie!
What’s your biggest career/personal regret?
I regret not being able to address suggestions around combating obesity at a population level. It’s something that weighs on me, knowing there’s more work to be done in that area.
Do you have any psychological quirks?
I have this irrational compulsion when near balconies or ledges to either throw myself off or fall off. It’s a strange psychological quirk that I can’t explain, but I’m aware of it.
