Magnumlady's Podcast

The Glasshouse in Sligo town is one of the sponsors of my blog. In this episode of the podcast, I chat to Vanessa about The Glasshouse Hotel, she tells me about the rooms, and we talk about their food offerings, events, and some of the things that the hotel offers.Vanessa also talks about her favourite place in Sligo - Coney Island. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lucy and I are just back from a flying visit to London. You can hear all about our adventures, including our visit to Jeff Wayne's War of the Worlds Immersive Experience, and Come Alive! the show inspired by The Greatest Showman. Happy listening. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cathal plays Drew in the Pop-up Theatres production of Rock of Ages.The show runs at the Hawk's Well Theatre, Sligo, from Wed 1 April - Sun 5 April, 2026, 8pmTickets: https://www.hawkswell.com/whats-on/shows/rock-of-ages Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Leitrim Women Through Time Pop-Up Museum is on at the Leitrim Sculpture Centre for the month of February. Here from Donna and Assumpta all about the Leitrim Women Through Time Project, and about the North Leitrim Women's Centre. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Applications are now open for the April 2026 intake of the National Digital Marketing Apprenticeship, delivered by Mayo College of Further Education and Training at the Swinford Apprenticeship Hub. This two-year, fully funded Level 6 apprenticeship allows apprentices to earn a salary while gaining hands-on industry experience, offering a practical pathway into one of Ireland’s fastest-growing sectors. The Swinford Hub also delivers the Sales and Accounting Technician Apprenticeships, positioning Mayo at the forefront of skills and talent development in Ireland. Designed by industry, for industry, the Digital Marketing Apprenticeship combines on-the- job learning (65%) with classroom and online training (35%), including weekly online sessions and in-person classes every 6–8 weeks. Apprentices work on live digital campaigns and real business projects, building practical, job-ready skills in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Fully Funded — Plus €4,000 Government Grant Per Apprentice No tuition fees for apprentices or employers  €4,000 government grant available per apprentice  QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Digital Marketing  Apprentices remain in full-time paid employment  Open to new hires, existing employees, and career changers  Suitable for employers across all sectors, large and small Industry-Focused Course ContentMore information: https://mayocollege.ie/course/digital-marketing-appr/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

SO Funny Sligo takes place from the 9th - 14th February 2026, with a host of comedians and events. Buy tickets here: https://sofunnysligo.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nowhere in Ireland will you see a show like Scruffy Duffy’s.With over 30 years’ experience in the entertainment business, he has established himself as one of the most influential and respected entertainers of his profession.We talk about his work, his passion for Sligo, and much more. https://scruffyentertainment.ie/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode I chat to Ronan from The Woollen Market, to find out more about their luxury products, including Inis Aran. You can visit their website to find out more: https://thewoollenmarket.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you are looking for a wonderful day out, Knockvicar Alpacas is the place. Just a short drive from Sligo, Boyle, and Carrick on Shannon, and something of interest for all the family. Book via their website: https://knockvicar.ie/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Treasa tells me all about The Rabbit's Riot Theatre Company, and their brand new place Homesick, which will be at the Dublin Fringe Festival from Sept. 6th - 12th.Find out all about the theatre company on their website: https://www.therabbitsriottheatrecompany.com/ Photo credit Cat Bonner. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sligo Folk Park is a trip down memory lane, and introduces visitors to Irish history, heritage and rural life. With loads of space, this top tourist destination is a great family day out, and wet weather activity.Nadine, the manager from Sligo Folk Park tells me more about the park and what visitors can expect. We also talk about Riverstown Village, and some of the events that take place in Sligo Folk Park. Visit their website to find out more: https://sligofolkpark.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Founded by Karen Kearney in 2021, when she saw a need for a more natural approach to self-care rituals. Karen noticed that when her son spent time surfing in the Atlantic ocean it made a remarkable difference on the appearance of his hair and skin, but more importantly his overall mental wellbeing improved. He was joyful, calmer and more content.Influenced by the therapeutic benefits of the sea and organic herbs from her Soak garden, each scent range was developed to help with sleep, anxiety, mood and energy levels, as well as treating the skin.“I am very passionate that my Soak products have a holistic approach, that leaves your body revitalised and your mind enriched.” Bedtime Bliss helps with your sleep and anxiety, Joy Connects helps uplift your mood, Breathe Deep is fantastic to help you heal. Soak is passionate about helping your community and donates €1 to a mental health charity for every bath soak sold. Check out below about Liquid Therapy, the charity Soak is supporting this year.Find out more: https://www.soakbathsalts.com/store Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Elspeth and Paul Stockwell moved to Leitrim from the UK. I met with them to find out more about their lives, their art, and their new self catering accommodation in Leitrim. https://www.blackpiglodge.ie/#bookingFind out more about their art here: https://www.theblackpigstudio.com/ Read more on my blog: https://magnumlady.com/2025/07/08/introducing-the-black-pig-lodge-in-leitrim/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Inspired by the creative energy of Ireland’s Northwest, Cairde Sligo Arts Festival is a unique coming together of artists and audiences. It is a celebration of imagination and shared experience that welcomes all.The 2025 festival takes place from the 5th - 12th of July, and on this podcast Tara McGowan, the director of the festival tells me more about the idea behind the festival. Find out more: https://www.cairdefestival.com/2025 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Local author Martha Higgins has just published her debut novel; Hiding From The Heart is available from local bookshops and online from Buy the Book. Martha talks to me about he self-publishing journey and gives advice for people who are thinking of publishing a book. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode I chat to Brid Graham from Splash Swim School, and Splash Pool.Brid employs 75 people, and runs swimming lessons all over Ireland. She's recently opened the Splash Pool in Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon. We talk about the pool, the swimming lessons, water safety, and Brid has some interesting advice for people thinking about starting a business - "Say Yes!" Find out more about Splash here: https://www.splashswim.ie/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The New Ballagh is a community centre in the idyllic area of Rossinver in North County Leitrim. Situated in a restored former Church of Ireland Chapel, we have a place of serenity and beauty where we offer a vast range of services to the local community and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Malcolm Hamilton from the Hamilton Gallery in Sligo tells me about the Yeats Day Challenge and how people can get involved, we also talk about Joanna Lumley visiting Sligo on Yeats Day 2015. Check out the full listings for the festival here: https://www.yeatssociety.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I visited the Solas Art Gallery in Ballinamore, Co. Leitrim, and spoke to artists Maria Mollohan https://www.instagram.com/mariamollohanartist/ and Paul Stockwell https://www.instagram.com/theblackpigstudio/ You can hear about some of the inspiration behind their work. Manorhamilton Print Studio is mentioned, and you can find them here: https://www.facebook.com/TheManorhamiltonPrintGroup/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I had a wonderful chat with Maeve Pudney from Outcrop Design and Pop Out Projects. Maeve, and her husband Aran make beautiful 3D maps. They also make pop out projects, including weaving kits, forest animals, and more.There's a big emphasis on sustainabilty in everything they do, and they products are gorgeous.Find them in the Made in Sligo shop, and also online: Outcrop Maps: https://www.outcrop.ie/ Pop Out Projects: https://www.popoutprojects.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brendan Tierney is some man for one man. He's a driving instructor, he runs a marketing company, he is also the presenter of The Sligo Show, and he does so much to promote Sligo. It was a pleasure to chat to him on the show. You can find his tiktok videos about driving here: https://www.tiktok.com/@learntodriveonlinesligo Find his marketing company on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/foxsligo/Check out The Sligo Show on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSligoShow Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I had a lovely chat with Camilla Galbiati. We spoke about her debut novel - Beatrice's Fate. We also talked about her move from Italy to Ireland, her favourite places in Sligo. Camilla also told me about her language business, she teaches Italian and English online. You can find Camilla on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/camilla.g.author/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The So Funny Sligo Comedy Festival promises 6 days of Laughs across venues around the town and county. There is something for all ages with nightly stand up gigs, a family comedy magic show, comedy quiz, the Ha Ha Hawk’s Well award night for new talent, an Art Exhibition + more!The 'So Funny' Sligo Comedy Festival returns for its 5th year! Running from Feb 10-15th, there are bundle of gigs across the town and county!Over 20 Acts, 10+ shows, 7 Venues, 6 Days 7 Nights…….The 'So Funny Sligo Comedy Festival' is back and kicks off on Monday Feb 10th at The Dunes Bar in Strandhill.With headliners such as Karl Spain, David McSavage, Shane Daniel Byrne, Aideen McQueen, Martin Angolo, The Kendy & Raybo Podcast, Eddie Mullarkey and more, it promises to bring lots of laughs! Watch out also for the many support slots filled by Sligo’s finest fresh new talent from the Sligo Comedy Club.There will be gigs in Strandhill, Grange and Sligo Town. Some nightly gig highlights to note are Karl Spain’s “World Tour of Sligo” over 3 nights, The Craic Den Comedy Club from Dublin coming down on tour for 2 nights in the The Garavogue Bar, Local Podcast fan favourites “Kendy & Raybo” have their live podcast with guests including MEP Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan and Mayo Podcaster Alan Clarke in the Hawk’s Well and the man who was the highlight of last years festival for many, Eddie Mullarkey, will appear across a number of gigs, including a solo show in Lillies Bar on the Thursday.Festival Organiser, Brendan Tierney said "5 years is a great landmark to get to. It is extremely difficult running events early in the year so I am hoping the people of Sligo get those tickets early so I reduce the pre festival stress! As always, I'm delighted to have a diverse range of gigs in multiple venues. More gigs mean more workload, and with minimal funding, it is a tricky balancing act to make it work. The festival supports so many acts, venues, staff, crew and local businesses, so any support is greatly appreciated. Even for people to share events on social media or Whatsapp groups etc is a massive help when you have a tiny budget. As well as the nightly comedy gigs, we have a family magic show on Saturday afternoon with Colm Dawson in the Hawk’s Well and even a comedy Quiz at The Belfry Bar on the Wednesday".After its debut in 2024, the ‘Ha Ha’ Hawk’s Well Comedy Award returns, bigger and better than last year. Last year's event showcased 8 fresh Irish comedy talents battling it out for the biggest prize in Irish Comedy of €1000 + the stunning trophy. “This year, we have added 5 heats around the country in Sligo, Dublin, Cork, Galway and Derry. The 5 winners will each get a slot on the night and our final place will be drawn from our online entries”, said Brendan. “Terry Markey has been doing a huge amount of work to bring this award around the country and last year's winner, Shannon Basso Gaule will return to perform on the night also” , said Brendan.The festival is only weeks away so be sure to get your tickets from the Hawk’s Well Theatre Box Office (in person) or online at www.sofunnysligo.com . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bríd Festival Sligo Jan 29th – Feb 3rd 2025 ‘Bríd Festival Sligo’ a creative arts festival celebrating St Brigid, her energy, spirt and ingenuity. A forward thinker ahead of her time, St Brigid’s creativity, enterprise, mysticism, and links to ecology are the influences behind this years Festival. The Bríd Festival Sligo is funded and supported by Sligo County Council Arts Service & Creative Ireland (Sligo).Find out more about the festival and how you can book a place at any of the free events on Facebook, and Instagram. Blog post to follow on my blog. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Siobhan O'Farrell is a nutritional therapist based in Sligo, in this podcast she'll tell you more about what she does, and how she can help people.You can find Siobhan on her website: https://www.siobhanofarrellnutrition.com/sofnutrition-homeSiobhan was a huge help to me when I was struggling with my mental health. I found her advice very helpful. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A catch-up and a look back on my year. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jame Murphy from Sligo Rovers In The Community tells me more about the work they are doing for inclusion, diversity and sustainability through football. Email [email protected] and look up Sligo Rovers in the Community on social media to find out more and get involved. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paul has such a similar background to me - it was a pleasure to chat to him. He is running smartphone photo safaris in Sligo and Roscommon, and it's a great way to learn how to get the most from your phone camera. Find Paul here: https://www.jetblacksquares.com/sligo-smartphone-photography-workshops Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this interview you'll hear all about Strokestown Park, the Victorian Christmas, The National Famine Museum and more.Check out their website here: https://strokestownpark.ie/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a very honest and open chat, about how art helped Lisa with her recovery from a sudden and severe episode of psychosis. Lisa has set up Expressive Minds - Creative Arts for WellbeingSupported by Creative Ireland Creative Communities Sligo and Leitrim in late 2024 we will facilitate creative art workshops with two groups of participants who are outpatient service users in the Sligo Leitrim Mental Health Service. The project will be run in collaboration with the Mental Health Service. The purpose of these workshops will be to bring the participants together to engage in process led creative art activities with a focus on calming, fun and collaborative projects. Find out more on the website: https://www.expressive-minds.org/Follow Expressive Minds on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/expressivemindsireland/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

All Things Natural is Sligo’s only Zero Waste Refill Shop and Eco Store. Edel, who owns the shop, has always been passionate about helping the environment and was using eco friendly products in her home, when having her own business was only a dream.Edel talks about her business on the podcast. You can find All Things Natural in Wine Street, Sligo, and visit her website: https://allthingsnatural.ie/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this interview I talked to Elaine Conroy from Rathcroghan Visitor Centre in Roscommon. Elaine tells me some of the history and heritage connected to the area, we also talk about Samhain (Halloween) and some of the folklore assocaited with the season. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode I speak to Sharlene Kemple Ceramics about the inspiration behind her business, her favourite pieces and the support she's had along the way.Find Sharlene's work on her website: https://www.sharlenekempleceramics.com/shop Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mamta has recently started her own business - Marketing with Mamta. In this podcast we chat about all things social media related and Mamta will talk about how she can help your business with marketing. From social media and website audits to brand logos to social media training and management. You can get in touch with Mamta on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marketingwithmamta/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A catch-up with my little world. Talk of the book, the Taste of Sligo Festival, Lucy's birthday, anti-social media, Cafe Rua, Sligo Women in Business, being involved in an animal rescue calendar, and so much more.You can read the blog post to go along with the podcast here: https://magnumlady.com/2024/09/29/sunday-thoughts-97/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wild Ireland is a must visit if you are in Ireland. On this podcast you will hear more about the animal sanctuary and their work. You will also hear about their family of Barbary Macaque Monkeys. You can find out more about Wild Ireland on the website. https://wildireland.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A round-up of my week, including a visit to Wild Ireland, news on the book, a lost bird, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In 2023 I took part in the Hands of Sligo Project. I met 50 people, aged 65+ across County Sligo, and I took photos of their hands. Some people recorded short pieces with me, and I'll upload them to the podcast.The ‘Hands of Sligo Project’ was part of the Creativity in Older Age project run by Sligo County Council, Healthy Sligo, supported by the Creative Ireland Fund 2023. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Marleen runs Angel and Gift World in Sligo town. She also teaches Reiki, and so much more. Find out more about the shop on the website. https://www.angelworld.ie/Read more on my blog:https://magnumlady.com/2024/08/28/my-interview-with-marleen-from-angel-and-gift-world-in-sligo/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Made in Sligo collective represent the best design and craftsmanship Sligo has to offer, promoting high-end craft to national and international audiences. The Made in Sligo work is imagined, designed, and of course, made in Sligo. The shop is also home to a curated collection of art and craft from other selected Irish makers. In this episode of the podcast I chat to Rachel Quinn about the shop, and the people involved in Made in Sligo. Find them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MadeInSligo I also talk to Rachel about the ceramic classes she hosts, and you can follow her on Facebook to find out more: https://www.facebook.com/rachelquinnceramics.net Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Vivid Studio Gallery is on John Street, Sligo. In this episode of the podcast, I chat to Graham and Ruth, who are two of the artists based at the gallery. They tell me more about their work and also about the other two artists who are part of the collective.Find them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vividstudiogallery You can call into them at 84 John Street. 11:00 till 5:30 - Tuesday - Saturday Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most weeks I write a Sunday Thoughts blog post. This week I decided to record a podcast to go along with the blog. It's more or less a round-up of my week. I hope you enjoy listening. Check out the blog here: https://magnumlady.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this podcast I speak to Anthony Gray to find out more about the Taste of Sligo Food Festival, which take place on September 21st and 22nd in Sligo town. You can read more about the festival on my blog: https://magnumlady.com/2024/08/01/theres-a-brand-new-food-festival-taking-place-in-sligo-town/ Anthony also talks about the Taste of Sligo Food Tour: https://tasteofsligo.ie/I ask Anthony about his favourite place in Sligo, and also his favourite dish. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The moment you step through the bright yellow door of Pasta Fresca!, you will get a sense of being in Italy, and we are lucky to have such a wonderful shop in Sligo town. Check out their website here: https://pastafrescasligo.com/ Find the shop on Grattan Street, Sligo. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I was delighted to chat to Johnnie Lawson about his art and what inspires him. Johnnie is based in Leitrim and became an internet sensation with millions of views on his stunning videos of Leitrim and the West and North West of Ireland. I recommend that you check out his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@johnnielawson Johnnie talks about his latest work, a 7 foot (2.1m) long mosaic snake made from shards of broken crockery, you can see it on his Facebook page. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In 2023 I took part in the Hands of Sligo Project. I met 50 people, aged 65+ across County Sligo, and I took photos of their hands. Some people recorded short pieces with me, and I'll upload them to the podcast. The ‘Hands of Sligo Project’ was part of the Creativity in Older Age project run by Sligo County Council, Healthy Sligo, supported by the Creative Ireland Fund 2023. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anna Robertson from Una Bhan tells me all about some events of interest in Boyle. Hear about the Boyle Craft Shop and shop online here: https://boylecraftshop.com/Find out about the Walking Tour of Boyle, Culture Friday, The Courtyard Market, and Anna's favourite places in Boyle and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paddy Faherty is a personal trainer based in Sligo, his aim is to support people through personalised exercise and nutrition plans, providing compassionate support and expert guidance every step of the way. This interview speaks about suicide and mental health issues including addiction. Please excuse the echo in the room. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rob Cross is an Author, Artist, Architectural Designer, and author of #TheColourOfIreland books.Rob talks to me about his work, and about The Colour of Sligo exhibition that's on in The Canopy, Sligo until September, 2024.Find Rob online:https://www.thecolourofireland.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.