Changing Times - The Allenwood Conversations

A preview of Mary McAleese and Mary Kennedy in a candid and compelling conversation with renowned RTÉ broadcaster Miriam O’Callaghan and Kerry GAA great Dara Ó Cinnéide, recorded live at The Meadowlands Hotel in Tralee.Full episodes coming soon! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This special episode of Changing Times – The Allenwood Conversations was recorded live in front of an audience at the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee.Producer Enda Grace steps out from behind the scenes to introduce the story of how the podcast came to life, from a simple idea to a conversation-led series that has resonated with listeners across Ireland and beyond.On stage, Mary McAleese and Mary Kennedy chat to Enda and reflect on what the podcast means to them, what they’ve discovered through the conversations, and why sitting down to truly listen still matters. They also share their personal connections to County Kerry and revisit some of the most meaningful — and at times surprising — highlights of their respective careers. There’s warmth. There’s honesty. There’s laughter. And there’s that special energy that only comes from a live room.If you’ve ever wondered how Changing Times began, or what happens when two remarkable women reflect openly on their journey, this is an episode not to miss. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To close off season two of Changing Times - The Allenwood Conversations, we bring you a compilation of some pieces you didn't hear from Mary Kennedy, Mary McAleese, Sharon Shannon, Diarmuid Gavin, Heather Humphreys and Marty Morrissey.Produced by Enda Grace at Dundara Television and Media.Proudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Part 2 of this very special podcast, Mary McAleese opens up to her friend and host Mary Kennedy with honesty, warmth, and wit. From her complex relationship with the Catholic Church to intimate stories of family life in the west of Ireland, she reflects on her daughter’s wedding, her son coming out to her, knitting, her passion for shopping, and the joys and challenges of everyday living. With characteristic insight, she shares her hopes for the future of Belfast and reminds us all that life is too short not to live it fully. A powerful, personal, and often humorous conversation with one of Ireland’s most compelling voices.Produced by Enda Grace at Dundara Television and Media.Proudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part one this very special two part episode, Mary Kennedy chats to her co-host and former President of Ireland Mary McAleese. In this powerful and deeply personal episode, we journey through the formative years of a remarkable woman who would go on to become one of Ireland’s most respected voices. Set against the turbulent backdrop of Northern Ireland during the Troubles, she shares vivid memories of a childhood shaped by conflict — from a devastating car bomb attack on her father's pub to terrifying assaults on her family home, including a harrowing incident that forced them to leave everything behind.She recalls the fear etched into her younger sister’s face during one violent episode — and the protective instinct that saw the siblings stand up for each other in the face of danger. Bricks smashed through windows, bullets fired into their home, and friends drawn into the web of the IRA — all part of a reality few could imagine.Told she could never be a lawyer by a priest, she defied expectations and broke barriers. This episode also explores the love story that began when she met her husband, Martin, and the lifelong friendship they formed with rugby legend Moss Keane.She speaks candidly about her difficult years working in RTÉ, her deep admiration for John Hume, and what ultimately drove her to step into public life and run for President.Raw, honest, and unforgettable — this is a story of courage, conviction, and the quiet strength behind the public figure.Produced by Enda Grace at Dundara Television & Media.Proudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this remarkable episode, Mary McAleese & Mary Kennedy sit with Garda Commissioner Drew Harris for a rare and powerful & deeply personal conversation. As he prepares to step down from his role, Drew reflects on a career shaped by profound personal tragedy, public service, his reaction to a no confidence vote in him and a steady commitment to leading with courage and conviction. From growing up during The Troubles in Northern Ireland to leading An Garda Síochána through complex reforms and challenges, his story is one of resilience, integrity, and unwavering duty. With moving candour, he shares how his father’s murder shaped his worldview, the philosophy that has guided his leadership, and the toll — and fulfilment — of a life lived in service.In this episode, we discuss:His childhood in Belfast and Lisburn and the early influence of his father’s policing career.The trauma of his father’s assassination by the IRA and the impact it had on his life and career.How he found the strength to stay in policing and lead without bitterness.His move from the PSNI to becoming the first Garda Commissioner from outside the force.The sweeping reforms he implemented across Garda Síochána, from technology to welfare.Building trust within communities and strengthening international policing cooperation.The rise of far-right extremism and public disorder — and how the force is responding.His reaction to the historic vote of no confidence and why he chose not to resign.What leadership under pressure really means, and what he hopes his legacy will be. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Micheál Martin running for president? He tells us more. Speaking rights, the opposition, Donald Trump, tariffs, dealing with world leaders, family life, personal loss and tragedy, the impact of grief, childhood and political influences, Conor McGregor and the GAA - including who will win this years All Irelands, all areas up for discussion with Mary McAleese and Mary Kennedy in this special episode.Produced by Enda Grace at Dundara Television& Media.Proudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel Tralee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fair City made him a household name, but George McMahon’s story goes far beyond Carrigstown—charting a path through the highs and challenges of an ever-evolving acting career in Ireland.From growing up in Clondalkin to stepping onto the set of Fair City as a teenager, the good humoured and charming George McMahon has spent most of his life in front of the camera. But his journey hasn’t been without its twists—navigating the unpredictable world of acting, embracing new creative challenges, and balancing life in the public eye.In this episode he chats to Mary McAleese and Mary Kennedy about life and change including:Family life growing upHow it "wasn't always going to be acting"His parents ambitions for himGetting the acting break at 13Winning a BAFTA and the "Cigar" experienceAn education regret and his interest in lawHis shyness going into Fair City and his first ever scene"Blowing Up Mondo"On set disasterDealing with dark storylinesMondo and KiraPhotographic memoryMirroring real life in fictionThe process of filming an episode of Fair CityStage to screenHis relationship with the fansPeoples attitude to Fair City How he met his wife RachelRunning a stage school with RachelBeing three months into a new mortgage when the shut down of Fair City and their stage school happened with CovidHis two small children Frankie and KodyHow fatherhood has changed himWhat his children think about him being on TVThe insecurity of being an actor An actors wageClimbing EverestVisiting CalcuttaHis views on religion and spiritualityAn emotional experience "eventually I just started crying"The world todayA unique answer to the question "If you could change anything what would it be?"Produced by Enda Grace at Dundara Television and MediaProudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jack Charlton called him Noel for four years until he scored in Italia 90. He was at the coalface of the Saipan affair between Roy Keane and Mick McCarthy in 2002. He played for Arsenal, Manchester City, and Sunderland, and earned 92 caps for the Republic of Ireland.In this second part of a very special podcast to commemorate 35 years since the glory days of Italia 90, Niall Quinn chats with the two Marys about all of this and also:Leaving Arsenal to ensure Jack Charlton would take him to the World CupThe excitement of Italia 90Jacks ruthlessness when it came to dropping playersA harsh Jack moment in Sardinia AirportHow Jack revealed to him that he was starting against the DutchThe homecomingHow he is not proud of anything that happened in Saipan - "mortified that it happened".The kit not arriving and fake factsHis relationship with his fatherHis mother still living on her own at 94Now working with his daughter Aisling and where is son Mikey is nowHis wife Gillian currently studyingThe politics of sport and fundingHis annoyance at the government department dealing with sportCork City and Niall's input thereWhy he thinks the current Irish Mens team is performing the way they have beenThe solutionAnnoyance with the betting levyThe FAI working with crumbsHow a resolution doesn't fit between the four year election cycleWhy the current team can't be as good as their team of the 90'sDonating his 1.5 million testimonial money to charity and Jack Charltons opinion of it"I didn't think I deserved a testimonial"Receiving an MBEProduced by Enda Grace at Dundara Television & Media.Proudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel in Tralee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Niall Quinn is a national hero. From the hallowed turf of Lansdowne Road to the boardrooms of Irish football, his impact on the beautiful game is nothing short of legendary. A towering presence on and off the pitch, Niall’s journey from goal-scoring hero to visionary football executive is a story of passion, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the sport.In this first part of a very special podcast to commemorate 35 years since the glory days of Italia 90, Niall chats with the two Marys about:The move from GAA to soccerHis first big game and goalHis Dad's rather colourful view of his first time watching Niall play in EnglandGoing back to education later in lifeHow he met his wife GillianThe very tough days after retiring from playingFootballers and divorceHis first punditry gig with SKY and Gillians adviceHaving a privileged life and somewhat abusing itThe effect of alcoholThe call up from "ruthless" Jack CharltonProduced by Enda Grace at Dundara Television & MediaProudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Minister for Children and Youth Affairs in Ireland, Katherine Zappone played a key role in the country's marriage equality referendum. In this emotional yet uplifting episode, Katherine talks frankly to Mary and Mary about many issues including her controversial appointment as a UN Special Envoy and the political fallout that followed. Katherine also openly discusses the heartbreak of losing her beloved wife Anne Louise soon after the groundbreaking marriage equality referendum and makes an exclusive revelation about a future project.Produced by Enda Grace at Dundara Television & Media.Proudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a simply fascinating story. Diarmuid talks to Mary McAleese and Mary Kennedy about: His absolute misery in and hatred for school, Being told he was a dunce and would never amount to anything, Being painfully shy until he was 40, Dealing with the loss of his little brother Conor in an accident when he was just 5 and his parents being misinformed that it was him, Having items repossessed and having to leave his apartment because he was broke,Building a garden at the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show but having no money to eat,The moment that changed everything and his big television break with Alan Titchmarch,His adoration for his mother in law Terry Keane and how he feels that her story hasn't been told properly,The Strictly Come Dancing experience,Presenting Top Of The Pops,The public controversy over his "Sky Garden",Opening his house to Ukrainian guests.Produced by Enda Grace at Dundara Television and Media.Proudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Presidental possibilities? Why did she decide to retire from politics? How did she deal with her daughters horrific car accident? Would she like to see a united Ireland? Cross border smuggling stories. The one piece of advice Leo Varadkar offered her! How she was treated as a woman in politics. Former Minister Heather Humphreys reveals all to Mary McAleese and Mary Kennedy.Changing Times - The Allenwood Conversations is proudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this very special episode, former President of Ireland Mary McAleese interviews her co-host Mary Kennedy. One of Ireland’s most beloved broadcasters, Mary Kennedy is renowned for her warmth, depth, and decades of experience in Irish media. In a wide ranging discussion, she opens up about a range of topics including her upbringing, her journey into broadcasting, presenting Eurovision and handling a drunk adjudicator, the turmoil of her marriage ending and her mothers fears for her career choice.Changing Times - The Allenwood Conversations is proudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Who actually is the “Galway Girl”? We were surprised to learn! Poignant, funny and very revealing, Sharon Shannon chats to Mary McAleese about her life, glittering career, personal traumas including the death of her beloved partner Leo and reveals who the "Galway Girl" actually is! Sharon Shannon is a true icon of Irish music, renowned for her vibrant and genre-defying accordion playing. She has played with numerous greats including Steve Earle and Bono. Her energy and enthusiasm for music keep her engaged with audiences worldwide. Changing Times - The Allenwood Conversations is proudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Changing Times - The Allenwood Conversations is proudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Broadcaster Marty Morrissey is not short of an opinion here on the future of the GAA, the managerial merry-go-round, why managers should stick to their own clubs and counties, why the Ireland Finals should be moved back to September and why he should have won Dancing With The Stars!He also chats to the Mary’s about the loss of his mother in a tragic accident in 2021, studying medicine, teaching, taking three years to break into RTÉ, how a nun was instrumental in his early GAA days and his relationship with Cindy Crawford!!!”Changing Times - The Allenwood Conversations” is proudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this bite-size bonus episode, our legendary hosts Mary McAleese and Mary Kennedy head for the RTE Late Late Show Studios to officially launch season two and chat with Patrick Kielty about how “Changing Times” originated, their Electric Picnic experience, the former president’s addiction to Tunnocks tea cakes, and where their friendship began. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are back for season two! In this very special episode recorded live in front of a huge enthusiastic Electric Picnic audience, producer Enda Grace introduces Mary McAleese and Mary Kennedy for a quick chat before introducing our guest, Paris Olympic rowing medalist Philip Doyle.Season two is proudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee, Co. Kerry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Regrettably, not everything can be included in our podcast episodes initially. However we have delved into the treasure trove of interviews to bring you a compilation of additional conversational gems that Mary McAleese and Mary Kennedy had with some of our guests including Dermot Kennedy, Daniel O'Donnell, Kathryn Thomas and Phil Coulter. We hope you enjoy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dive into the life of Bertie Ahern, Ireland’s shrewd and enigmatic leader. Uncover the secrets behind his political maneuvers and personal triumphs. Join us as we navigate the highs and lows of his remarkable career. Tune in to discover the man who reshaped modern Ireland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nóirín O'Sullivan is a former member of An Garda Síochána, who served as Garda Commissioner from 2014 to 2017. Nóirín was the 20th appointed Garda Commissioner and the first woman to lead the Gardaí in its 92-year history. She announced her retirement from the organisation, on the 10th September 2017, amidst a flurry of controversies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What do you do when faced with death in Papua New Guinea? Even worse ,what do you do when 007 walks in on you when you're on the toilet?? How do you deal with nasty comments online? What do you do when a juggernaut like Operation Transformation finishes?Kathryn Thomas, one of the most talented, successful and hardworking TV and radio presenters in Ireland comes to Allenwood and tells all to Mary and Mary. She also tells why she set up a new business, what her thoughts are on television in Ireland today and why she had ten bridesmaids! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The extraordinary story of Don Mescall, an Irish singer and songwriter whose songs have over 16 million hits on YouTube and have been recorded by Rascal Flatts, The Backstreet Boys, Lonestar, Geri Halliwell, Ronan Keating, Sir Cliff Richard, Nathan Carter, MacKenzie Porter, triple platinum singer songwriter Marina Kaye, Sharon Corr, Aslan and many more.Don speaks with honesty and candour about his career, the sudden loss of his Dad at a hurling match when Don was just ten, his battle with drugs and alcohol and the special role he played in the later months of Christy Dignams life.Don also talks to Mary McAleese and Mary Kennedy about his relationship with current partner Morah Ryan, ex-wife of the late Gerry Ryan.And he also gives us a very special performance of one of his songs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An emotionally charged, poignant and uplifting conversation with one of life's true gentlemen. The public knows Noel Cunningham as the Donegal man who always has a smile on his face and warmth in his heart. But behind his smile is a man who has endured heartbreak, unimaginable loss and discrimination.This podcast explores some sensitive themes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl is an Irish Fianna Fáil politician who has served as the Ceann Comhairle of Dáil Éireann since March 2016.Here we have a very open and frank chat with Mary and Mary about a range of subjects including:The economic crash Israel and Irelands position What he would love to change The homeless crisis The changing face of politics Immigration in Ireland Will he take his Dáil seat after the next election? His recent cancer battle His relationship with Micheal Martin Welcoming Joe Biden to Dáil Éireann Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Seán Boylan is a unique character, demonstrated in the fact he is the only person to hold the title ‘Freeman of Meath'.Having played hurling for Meath, Sean then went on to spend 23 years as the manager of the Meath Gaelic football team, during which time they won four All-Ireland Championships. He also won three National Football League titles and eight Leinster Senior Football Championships. He is one of the most successful county managers in the history of Gaelic football. Here he chats to the Marys about:His thoughts on football todayHow preparations have changed dramaticallyHis first love of hurlingBeing the only freeman of MeathHis father's republican membership and being on the runHow he dealt with a cancer diagnosisHis wife Tina's previous life as a nunHis herbalist career Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eileen Dunne is our presenter Mary Kennedy's best friend!! She has seen and done it all in her broadcasting career.She presented the main RTE television news programmes Six One News, Nine O'Clock News andOne O'Clock News as well as other news bulletins on both radio and television from 1980 to 2022.Over her career with RTE, Eileen covered some of the biggest stories of the past four decades, includingmultiple General Elections, historic referendum campaigns, the talks leading to the Good FridayAgreement, and Queen Elizabeth’s visit to Ireland.Here is Eileen like you've never heard her before. She chats about her life, career, Dancing with the Stars, how she almost retired early because she was cross and her thoughts on the RTE of today, Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special bonus episode, Rory talks about how Rory's Stories all began, his love for the GAA and about his experience captaining the Meath minor football team. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rory O’Connor is a comedian and mental health advocate who has amassed over 1.2 million followers and 2 billion video views across his social media channels, Rory’s Stories.Nobody thought he would make it – written off as ‘thick’ at school he struggled to find a career he felt he could succeed in. When a hot tip led to a win on the horses it was the beginning of a dangerousspiral into a gambling addiction that gnawed away at his self-esteem even further and sent him into the depths of depression. But the man who thought he had nothing to live for, went on to become a stand-up comedian selling out venues around Ireland and reaching millions of people through his social media platforms.Rory has sold out theatres throughout Ireland, the USA and Australia.This podcast explores some sensitive topics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Daniel O'Donnell is a true Irish legend. He has performed at iconic venues around the globe, from The Point (3Arena) in Dublin to London’s Royal Albert Hall, Sydney’s Opera House and New York’s Carnegie Hall. Daniel has had more albums in the British charts than any other recording artist – and Prince Charles presented him with an MBE for his services to music and charity.In this podcast he speaks about a variety of topics including growing up in Donegal, meeting his wife Majella through her parents, what his mother said to King Charles, his views on the same sex marriage referendum, the 'Strictly' experience and breaking into a building aided by Mary McAleese. It all wraps up with a special surprise ending.Proudly supported by Kildare County Council. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The wonderful Roz Purcell talks openly and candidly about growing up on a farm in Tipperary, Miss Universe, modelling and how she dealt with the more unpleasant aspects of the business, her struggles with an eating disorder, hiking, baking, writing an award winning book and reveals all about her recent engagement and wedding plans!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special bonus podcast, Phil Coulter talks about his exciting experiences at the BBC's Top Of The Pops while working with Cliff Richard, Sandy Shaw and The Bay City Rollers. He also talks about his worldwide number ones and the young artist he has now taken under his wing. Phil also speaks about his Dad being a policeman in the RUC. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

in an exclusive and rare deep personal insight, Phil Coulter opens up to the two Mary’s about his extraordinary life including his phenomenal career success, family life including with his sons diagnosis of Downs Syndrome, two almost identical personal tragedies, the state of Eurovision, his love for rally driving and the divisive Irish rugby anthem ‘Irelands Call’ which he wrote.Phil Coulter has amassed 23 platinum discs, 39 gold discs, 52 silver discs, and is one of the biggest record sellers in the island of Ireland with millions of record sales. His well-known compositions include "The Town I Loved So Well", "Puppet on a String", "Congratulations", “The Old Man” and the Elvis Presley hit “My Boy”. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special bonus podcast segment, Anne Doyle tells of the only time she ever saw her mother afraid. She speaks beautifully about the financial challenges she and her family faced when she was young and tells us about the many occasions she was hung upside down over a well to retrieve water! And in speaking about Annes love of poetry, former president Mary McAleese utters an unparliamentary word. :) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special five and a half minute bonus podcast, Dermot Kennedy talks about songwriting, self belief and how his first songs had no chorus! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefanie is an award-winning writer for screen and stage, author, director and actor based in Dublin. She was diagnosed with Autism in 2022, at the age of 34. Stefanie speaks openly to the two Mary's about her life, career and her experiences with multiple miscarriage, pregnancy and motherhood. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former professional rugby player Damian Browne became the first person to row a boat across the Atlantic from New York City to Galway Ireland, completing his trip on 4 October 2022 after 112 days at sea. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Come on a journey behind the news desk image and meet the real Anne Doyle. Find out what's she's doing now, how she handled some very difficult moments, what she'd like to change about her life and why she was suspended from RTE three times! With her iconic poise, unwavering professionalism, and distinctive voice, Anne has been a beloved figure in Irish broadcasting for decades. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An extremely open Keith Barry sits down to talk about many personal experiences including the horrific car crash that nearly lost him his leg, his forthright opinion on how the Gardai handled the death of his grandfather after a break in, his incredible career and how our online habits are affecting us.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Renowned for her historic moment at the Oscars, where she became the first female conductor to lead the orchestra during the prestigious ceremony, Galway woman Eimear Noone's journey is one of resilience, triumph, and profound emotion.Beyond her groundbreaking achievements, this trailblazing figure courageously fought and won a landmark court case, paving the way for the rights of pregnant women in Hollywood. Yet, amidst her professional triumphs, Eimear shares with raw honesty some heart-wrenching experiences, revealing the depth of her humanity and the resilience that defines her spirit.She is also a highly accomplished composer whose work spans across various mediums, including film and video games (World of Warcraft being just one). She has conducted numerous orchestras and ensembles, including the prestigious Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and has been recognised for her groundbreaking contributions to the field.Join us as we explore the remarkable story of Eimear Noone, a true pioneer whose voice resonates far beyond the notes she conducts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a revealing insight, new president of the GAA Jarlath Burns chats to Mary McAleese and Mary Kennedy about a range of topics including his vision for the GAA, a united Ireland, his love of hurling, amateurism, growing up in South Armagh and the importance of the GAA in Northern Ireland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A revealing and insightful conversation with music superstar Dermot Kennedy. Dermot delves deep into his life, offering perspectives on various aspects including the music industry, what he would like to be if he wasn't a singer and his candid thoughts on social media. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A short teaser for the exciting new podcast "Changing Times - The Allenwood Conversations". This weekly series will be presented by former president of Ireland Mary McAleese and broadcasting icon Mary Kennedy.Each episode sees these two iconic presenters chatting with a guest with the subject of change to the fore. But as you can imagine with these two ladies, the conversations head off in many different directions. The podcast is produced by Enda Grace at Dundara Television and Media. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.