The Ireland Podcast

Jonathan Kemp joins The Ireland Podcast to discuss his extraordinary 4,200km Finding Peace of Mind Walk 2026 - a journey across the UK and Ireland in support of mental health awareness and recovery.Starting in the Shetland Islands on January 1st and finishing in Galway later this year, Jonathan shares the deeply personal experiences that led him to undertake the walk, including his lifelong struggles with bipolar disorder, depression, dyslexia, addiction, and suicidal ideation during COVID.Jonathan speaks openly about diagnosis, medication, recovery, neurodiversity, addiction, and the importance of seeking help. He also reflects on the physical and emotional realities of walking thousands of kilometres while raising funds and awareness for mental health charities across Scotland, England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Ireland.This is Leg 1, Part 1 of an ongoing series following Jonathan’s journey toward Galway.Relevant Linkshttps://www.gofundme.com/f/Jonathansupporting4mentalhealthcharitieshttps://linktr.ee/jonathankemplondon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Part 2 of conversation with Steve Mack of That Petrol Emotion.In this episode, Steve goes deep on what really makes a great record - not just what you hear, but the space between the notes. From the genius of the Stayin' Alive to the importance of restraint in music, this is a masterclass in listening differently.We also explore the evolution of That Petrol Emotion - how Brendan Kelly joined the band, the albums that defined their sound, and ultimately how the band began to come apart after years of getting close without breaking through to that next level. It’s an honest look at ambition, pressure, and the reality behind life in a band.Along the way, Steve shares stories about fans, legacy, and the unexpected ways music travels through generations - including the moment he discovered his biological father was connected to Dion and the Belmonts.This is a conversation about music, identity, and the ripple effect of songs that never really go away.Relevant Linkshttps://linktr.ee/smack206https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7lEmb06zxltC0M1TMDfLXd?si=179a45e302864e50 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A wide-ranging and thoughtful conversation with the lead singer of one of Ireland’s most seminal bands, looking back on origins, identity, and the winding path of a life in music. He reflects on early influences, the experience of being adopted, and the sense of instinct that shaped both his voice and his direction.There are vivid stories from Belfast - including the surreal reality of playing gigs while staying in the Europa Hotel, known as the most bombed hotel in Europe - alongside moments that capture both the humour and tension of the time. Throughout, he returns to a simple but firm belief: that the song always comes first.The conversation moves through the highs and the missteps - from early promise to periods where production and expectation began to overshadow the music itself. There’s an honest look at the excesses of 80s sound, and a clear philosophy that great songs should stand on their own, without being buried under layers of production.It’s also a story of rediscovery - of finding the groove again, reconnecting with what matters, and trusting instinct over noise. Along the way, he shares insights into creativity, influence, and the fine line between sound and substance, offering a candid perspective on what it really means to make music that lasts.Relevant Linkshttps://linktr.ee/smack206https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7lEmb06zxltC0M1TMDfLXd?si=179a45e302864e50 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Ireland Podcast, writer Graham Linehan joins for a wide-ranging, long-form conversation.The discussion covers a career in comedy, including the creation of Father Ted, along with how life and work have evolved in recent years. Broader cultural and societal topics are also explored, including the role of media and institutions, and the challenges of discussing difficult issues in today’s climate.This is Part 2 of a two-part conversation.The Ireland Podcast aims to create space for open, respectful dialogue and to present a range of perspectives, allowing listeners to make up their own minds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Part 1 of a long-form conversation with Graham Linehan on The Ireland Podcast.The conversation moves quickly into the activism and controversies that have come to define Graham Linehan’s public life in recent years, before touching at points on his career - from Father Ted, Black Books and The IT Crowd.The discussion covers public backlash, media narratives, free speech, Gaza, comedy, the early internet, and the personal and professional consequences of speaking out.A wide-ranging and, at times, unpredictable conversation on one of the most contested areas in public life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this long-form conversation, producer and musician Bill Laswell reflects on the making of Album, the 1986 record by Public Image Ltd.Laswell discusses how the project came together in New York, recording early tracks with legendary drummer Tony Williams, and later bringing in musicians including Ginger Baker, Steve Vai, Bernie Worrell, and Ryuichi Sakamoto.He describes the recording process, the use of first takes, and the production philosophy behind the album’s distinctive sound. The conversation also explores how the music was constructed, the role of improvisation in the studio, and how different musicians helped shape the final record.Laswell also addresses a long-circulating story that Miles Davis once appeared at the sessions. In the interview he explains that the visitor was actually Ornette Coleman, who briefly stopped by the studio but did not record. The anecdote has circulated in different forms over the years, and John Lydon also revisits the story in his memoir Anger Is an Energy: My Life Uncensored, where he reflects on the same period from his own perspective.The result is a detailed look at one of the most unusual recording sessions of the 1980s and the creative decisions that shaped the album. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Steve Vai returns for Part Two of this special conversation marking the 40th anniversary of Public Image Ltd’s Album. Because we don’t have a licence to play the record in the episode itself, listeners are encouraged to line up their own copy of Album and press play at the countdowns as Steve and Fender listen through the tracks in real time. Vai reflects on what he played, how the sessions unfolded from inside the control room, and why Album remains one of the most enjoyable and creatively free guest projects he ever jumped into - minimal direction, total space, and a sound that still feels unique forty years on. Along the way, he recalls dinner with John Lydon, being asked about joining PiL, and the gear he used at the time: Guitar: Charvel Custom (“The Green Meanie”)Amp: Carvin X100B (“ice pick” sharp tone)Delay: Roland SDE-3000 rack delaySetup: two SDE-3000s - one for mono delay, one used as chorus via chainingOverdrive: amp set with drive + a kick-in pedal for solosSitar: Choral sitar (electric)Play-along track cues and full notes are included below.00:40 - Track 1: FFF (countdown and play)06:15 - Track 2: Rise12:20 - Track 3: Fishing17:39 - Track 4: Round28:40 - Side Two begins - Bags (countdown and play)34:11 - Track 6: Home40:03 - Track 7: EaseThanks / credit:Shout-out and thanks to Ned Evett for connecting the conversation and for the Galway link-up. Honourable mention to drummer, Colin McMahon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode forms part of a short series marking the 40th anniversary of Album by Public Image Ltd. Steve Vai’s contribution spans two episodes - this is Part 1.Steve Vai - Part 1In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, Steve Vai talks about the musical influences and ideas that shaped him long before his career took form.The discussion centres on Frank Zappa - how Vai first encountered his music, the discipline of transcribing it in detail, and what working with Zappa taught him about composition, attention, and intent. From there, he reflects more broadly on improvisation and artistic evolution, drawing parallels with musicians such as Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Jeff Beck.Vai also discusses the pressures of virtuosity and self-criticism, and how his relationship with the guitar has changed over time, touching on his early career years and the gradual shift from pure intensity towards melody, phrasing, and expression. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The concluding part of an interview with Jane O’Leary, her first since being honoured with the prestigious National Concert Hall Lifetime Achievement Award.For more than 50 years, Jane O’Leary has been breaking new musical ground in Ireland. We catch up with her to learn more about her life and musical style.Conversation includes: setting up the Concorde Contemporary Music Group; punk music; the evolution of contemporary music since the the late 70s; composer Ed Bennett; Rick Beato; the simplification and lack of bridges of popular music today; Nick Cave; AI; composing with a pencil vs. composing with a mouse; receiving her Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Concert Hall; Triptych for string quartet and orchestra performed by the ConTempo Quartet and the National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland (NSOI), conducted by Kensho Watanabe; working with Kensho; Hans Zimmer and Interstellar; Jane’s upcoming orchestral fanfare for RTÉ Concert Orchestra to celebrate the centenary of the RTÉ; Gladiator Soundtrack featuring Lisa Gerrard; Paul Muldoon; breadcrumbs and other topics.Photo by Dara Mac DónaillLinkshttps://janesoleary.com/Additional Linkshttps://musicforgalway.ie/http://www.concorde.cmc.ie/http://theirelandpodcast.com/latest-podcast/episode/6b2f8545/203-jane-oleary-musician-part-1https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0xwtb9A1rIER90qCAS6VHs?si=7b42b99a1e1943eb Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For more than 50 years, Jane O’Leary has been breaking new musical ground in Ireland. We catch up with her to learn more about her life and musical style.Conversation includes: Jane the musician (listening, performing and composing); Milton Babbitt; early life in Connecticut; getting into music; studying in Vassar College, New York State; the importance of good teachers; being the second woman to get a Phd in composition from Princeton and being one of Ireland’s first female composers; meeting Patrick O’Leary in Princeton (where he was studying on a Fulbright grant); moving to Galway, Ireland; starting out as a music teacher including the art of listening; Titanic soundtrack; Music For Galway; Erica Casey; Angela O’Keefe; funding; teaching in Dublin College of Music (TU Dublin Conservatoire); National Symphony Orchestra Ireland; contemporary music; 12 tone method; classical music in the late 1970’s; Phil Coulter and ‘Scorn Not His Simplicity’; free flowing; patterns; nature; music as a journey on water; Niagara Falls, and other topics.Photo by Dara Mac Dónaill.Linkshttps://janesoleary.com/Additional Linkshttps://musicforgalway.ie/http://www.concorde.cmc.ie/https://www.theirelandpodcast.com/latest-podcast/episode/57d8333d/204-jane-oleary-musician-part-2Spotify Playlist for this Episode Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jah Wobble’s Invaders of the Heart chat with Fender Jackson after their gig in Róisín Dubh, Galway on Wed 3rd December 2025.Conversation includes: interviews with the band; Keith Levene’s guitar and guitar playing; the Soundman; the complications of performing this album; Dave Kane; Ruby Wood; the evolution of the tracks; Siouxsie & The Banshees; making ‘Metal Box - Rebuilt In Dub'; Yamaha 2100 guitar; John McGeoch; Steve Jones & Johnny Thunders; New York Dolls; punk guitars and amps; this show vs. legacy tours; Paul Schütze; Fangoria; Ken Boothe; Horace Andy; Neville Murray; Nathan Maverick; ‘Trout Mask Replica’ by Captain Beefheart; Keith Levene’s metal Veleno guitar; Steve Howe; Liverpool FC; Henry Kelly; Going For Gold; Hans Zimmer; The Bill and other topics.Special thanks to Martin Chung, Jon Klein, Marc Layton-Bennett & George King.Linkshttps://www.instagram.com/real_jah_wobble/?hl=enhttps://open.spotify.com/album/5n0fOludLc0ifBaeFG8ACp?si=yvlLKHEzTe6v0Ijr0EXbMghttps://www.facebook.com/Jah.Wobble.MusicAdditional Linkshttps://www.instagram.com/chungulation/?hl=enhttps://www.instagram.com/iamjonklein/?hl=enhttps://www.instagram.com/marclaytonbennett/?hl=enhttps://www.instagram.com/_georgekingmusic/?hl=en Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Conversation includes: the (non-existent) comedy scene in Ireland in the 1970s and 80s; leprosy and space-travel; Ardal O’Hanlon; The Bogey Boys; Billy Roche; Young Ones; Tommy Tiernan; pioneering the comedy scene; Myles na Gopaleen; Hal Roche; setting up the Comedy Cellar above The International Bar on Wicklow Street, Dublin in the late 1980s with Mr Trellis, Barry Murphy, Kevin Gildea, Dermot Carmody; Dylan Moran; Jason Byrne and Dara Ó Briain; teabags and fireplaces; ‘The Young Ones’ on BBC 2; WC Fields and Laurel & Hardy; Peter Sellers and Woody Allen; Monty Python; Paul Whitehouse & The Fast Show; The Goons; Brendan Balfe; Shelley Berman; Frank Hall & Hall’s Pictorial Weekly; Scrap Saturday; the hard cultural border in Ireland; Tim McGarry & The Hole In The Wall Gang; the guts of the young Patrick Kielty; Jackie Hamilton; Alex Hormozi; Tommy, Be-Bop & Eddie Izzard; Edinburgh Comedy Festival; writing for BBC including The Mahaffys with Pauline McGlynn and Mario Rosenstock; Morgan Jones and Here’s Johnny; screenplays and development hell; The Tyrone Guthrie Centre at Annaghmakerrig, Co. Monaghan; Rick Ruben, Paul McCartney and McCartney 3,2,1; Culture Night; Fail Again, Fail Even Better; Frank McNally at Irish Times; Minnie Riperton, Rhea Perlman and Maya Rudolph; Gershwin & Cole Porter; James Joyce, Nora Barnacle & The Nora Barnacle Museum; AE Russell; Instagram; being in it to win it; McDermott vs. MacDermott; chiselling gravestones; AI, Climate Change and deluded optimism and other topics.Linkshttps://www.karlmacdermott.com/https://www.youtube.com/@failevenbetter/shortsAdditional Linkshttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/6X10SbhtXCFouvclB0Ndin?si=41ad25ec08bf4f36 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special milestone episode of The Ireland Podcast, Fender sits down with his own children for a heartfelt discussion about interviewing his parents. Together, they explore why capturing family stories matters, how to approach these conversations with sensitivity, and what it means to preserve memories for the next generation.Fender also offers thoughtful advice for anyone considering interviewing their own loved ones - parents, grandparents, or elders in their community. And for listeners whose family members have already passed, he gently suggests seeking out those who knew them, ensuring their voices and stories are not lost to time.Below you’ll find links to helpful documents designed to guide you through interviewing your own loved ones, as well as a link to Salthill Media’s Record Your Life Story - a resource for anyone who wants to preserve personal or family histories in a meaningful way.A touching, reflective episode that celebrates connection, heritage, and the power of conversation.Thank you to everyone who has supported us over the last 200 episodes - we truly appreciate each and every one of you. Please continue to help us grow by sharing the podcast with your family and friends, leaving a positive review, and subscribing on your preferred platform. Your support means the world to us.Relevant LinksInterview QuestionsFamily Tree Dochttps://www.salthillmedia.com/liferecordings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Born in Ennis, County Clare, Fr. Bernárd’s journey began in the traditional Ireland of the 1940s, shaped by school, family, and faith. But his path soon led him far from the familiar - from the seminary in Dromantine, Newry, to ordination in Newry Cathedral, and then on to the missionaries in Africa and the turbulent streets of New York in the 1970s, where he found both his calling and his true self.In a conversation with Fender Jackson, they talk about forgiveness, angels, and the arrogance of certainty. Fr. Bernárd explores his belief that Catholicism is the last pagan religion in the West, and his sharp critique of Bible bingo interpretations of Leviticus.Fr. Bernárd speaks candidly about discovering he was gay, ministering to the AIDS community at the height of the crisis, and facing the crushing pressures of faith, sexuality, and truth - including false allegations, expulsion from New York, and eventually becoming the first Catholic priest in the world to have a same-sex marriage.It’s a story of defiance, compassion, and perhaps, time travel - an extraordinary conversation with one of Ireland’s most fearless and fascinating priests.Linkshttps://www.frbernardlynch.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bass legend Gerry McAvoy takes us through a track-by-track journey of Photo-Finish, Rory Gallagher’s powerhouse 1978 album. In this wide-ranging conversation, Gerry shares insights into the sessions, the scrapped album, and the raw energy that defined Rory’s late-’70s sound.Along the way, we talk Sex Pistols, click tracks and metronomes, Ted McKenna’s drumming, Status Quo, and the aftermath of the accident. Gerry also reflects on Carol Kaye’s influence, cropdusting adventures, and how tracks like “Only the Lonely”, “Memphis Hip Shake” (The Cult), and “Donegal Express” (Shane MacGowan) connect through spirit and groove.Plus: tales from playing with Joe Bonamassa and plenty more behind-the-scenes stories from a life in rock ’n’ roll.Relevant Linkshttp://www.bandoffriends.eu/https://songwhip.com/bandoffriendshttps://www.rorygallagher.com/Additional LinksFuel To The Fire (Instrumental) - Band Of FriendsCarol Kaye grooving the metronome Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

While recording Episode 122 with Swinford’s own Breege Rowley, the editor-turned-documentary maker suggested to Fender that he speak with Nora McBurney - the voice behind her film ‘All Our Yesterdays’. So that’s exactly what he did.Conversation includes: introductions; update on the movie ‘All Our Yesterdays’ by Breege Rowley; Swinford and Foxford, County Mayo; tracing Nora’s grandparents move from Swinford and Derryherbert, County Mayo to Pittsburgh, PA; competing in Irish dancing; soft shoe vs. hard shoe; Dan Rooney & The Pittsburgh Steelers; Croke Park; Michael Bublé; studying in Ireland; Trim Castle; Cnoc Suain, County Galway; having an Irish American identity; yinzers, yousens and Scots language; John Williams and Solace; Reverie Road; the Irish American connection; the nosiness of the Irish; the real estate industry in USA today; working from home; buying vs. renting property; Rory Sutherland’s view on the increase of property over the last few decades; recording the Voiceover for ‘All Our Yesterdays’ and other topics.Linkshttps://www.instagram.com/theirishyinzerhttps://www.facebook.com/theirishyinzer/Additional Linkshttps://breegerowleyeditor.com/https://linktr.ee/theirelandpodcastEpisode 122. Breege Rowley: Cinema & Television Editor Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fender Jackson recently took part in celebrating the 70th anniversary of the London Irish Centre, marking seven decades of cultural connection and community spirit. The event paid tribute to the Centre’s rich legacy as a home for Irish arts, music, and heritage in London, while also highlighting its ongoing role in supporting the Irish diaspora. Fender’s coverage captured the atmosphere of pride and nostalgia, showcasing performances, speeches, and stories that reflected both the history and the enduring vibrancy of the Irish community in Britain.Special thanks to the following contributors:Deirdre Fraser - Volunteer, London Irish CentreMark Paul - London Correspondent, Irish TimesFionnuala Carr - Irish DancerJennifer Hegarty - Trustee, London Irish CentreHelen - Volunteer, London Irish CentreLeah - London Irish Centre visitorDarren - Security & Events, London Irish CentreKatie Doyle - Survivors Integrated Service ManagerRosie - Irish Dancer & MusicianSarah - Irish Dancer Eva - Future founder of the London Korean CentreSusan - Irish DancerSheena Vallely - Fiddle PlayerBradon Smith - Fiddler PlayerPaul Kerins - Banjo PlayerHannah Pender - Director of Programme & EventsSéamus MacCormaic - CEO of the London Irish Centre Performance of John Leary’s by Rosie (Tin Whistle) and Fender (Drums, Bass, Guitars, Percussion, Banjo, and Accordion)Linkshttps://londonirishcentre.org/https://londonirishcentre.org/our-services/community-development/survivorservice/https://thesunnybanks.com/www.theirelandpodcast.comhttps://linktr.ee/theirelandpodcastEp. 181. London Irish Centre: Community CaféAdditional Linkshttps://www.coventryirishsociety.com/help-support/irish-survivorshttps://frea.org.uk/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Good Friday Agreement, signed in 1998, brought peace to Northern Ireland after decades of conflict by establishing a power-sharing government and ensuring that any constitutional change would happen only by consent. Alastair Campbell, then Tony Blair’s Director of Communications and Strategy, played a key role in the negotiations, helping to shape the messaging, diplomacy, and relationships that made the agreement possible. He shared his reflections and behind-the-scenes stories with The Ireland Podcast when Fender Jackson visited him at his home in London on Thursday, 25 September 2025.Conversation includes: Scotty Parker and Burnley F.C.; Tony Blair & Jonathan Powell’s optimism; the moment of realisation that the Northern Ireland problem could actually be solved; David Trimble, John Taylor & Ken Maginnis; The Irish Diaries; Bill Clinton & George Mitchell; Martin McGuinness, John Hume, Mo Mowlem & David Ervine; Bríd Rogers; sleep; Dennis Murray; the alignment with John Hume; Seamus Mallon; the hand of history; feeling the encouragement from the streets; the growing media pack; Alastair’s day-to-day role; John Holmes; social media and today’s political landscape; Bertie Ahern; the main stumbling blocks before the GFA was signed; Blair’s skills of constructive ambiguity; ‘The Chuckle Brothers’ (McGuinness and Paisley); Máirtín Ó Muilleoir; the other side to Paisley; Greenifying vs. Trimblification; Martin Ferris & Gerry Kelly; the legacy bill; London Irish Centre; Orla McBreen; Hilary Benn; Gaza and the Middle East; Nick Matthews, the Garden Girls and other topics.Linkshttps://alastaircampbell.org/book/the-irish-diaries/www.theirelandpodcast.comhttps://linktr.ee/theirelandpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

While in Belfast, Fender Jackson had the opportunity to meet Máirtín Ó Muilleoir, widely recognised as a tireless booster for the city and a respected civic leader. Known for his energy, optimism, and commitment to showcasing Belfast on the global stage, Máirtín has played a central role in promoting its culture, business, and community spirit. Their meeting offered a chance to reflect on how individual leadership and passion can help shape a city’s story.Conversation includes: early life; growing up in the war; learning gaelic; not getting involved in the troubles; school; venturing to South Belfast for the second time (despite having visited England, Dublin as well as holidays in Ballycastle and Irish college in Donegal); Patrick Crawford; Jim McCarron; Martha & Patrick Crawford; Máirtín’s mother starting up a peace movement; H-Block; landing the job of being the first journalist in the Andersonstown News; Hunger Strikes; acquiring the Anderstonstown News; Bernard O’Hagan, Bernard Davey; Sheena Campbell; Alex Maskey; Alan Lundy; Bobby Lavery and his son; judges; Sammy Douglas; Frank and James Millar in The Loup, Co. Derry; LGBTQ community; the gulf between the catholic and protestant communities today; Mo Mowlem; David Trimble; Paul Haller; Connla McCann; Presidents Michael D. Higgins and Mary McAleese; Rev. Ian Paisley & Martin McGuinness; Fr. Gerry Reynolds from Clonard; Peace Walls; Bertie Ahern, Bill Clinton & Tony Blair; Gaza; being the Lord Mayor; Buddhism; Van Morrison’s Bright Side Of The Road; Royal British Legion; the unionist community; plans for the future; religion; St. Vincent de Paul and other topics.Linkshttps://belfastmedia.comAdditional Linkshttps://belfastmedia.com/coroner-rules-that-patrick-crawford-15-was-shot-dead-by-british-soldierhttps://cain.ulster.ac.uk/victims/humanface/chron/1980.htmlhttps://belfastmedia.com/appeal-for-info-on-1975-rvh-killinghttps://cain.ulster.ac.uk/sutton/alpha/O.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rónán Ó Dochartaigh concludes his chat during the height of the season in Oideas Gael which is the Scoil Samhraidh (Language and Culture Summer School). Also a fitting tribute to the excellent work of Liam Ó Cuinneagáin and Seosamh Watson, the founders of Oideas Gael.Conversation includes: the beauty and archeology of the Glencolmcille area; Silver Strand; Slieve League; St. Colmcille, history in the area, recommended clothing; transport to Glencolmcille; accessibility; getting in touch; the shop; An Coimín, in Gleann Fhinne; Tory Island; Liam Ó Cuinneagáin agus Seosamh Watson; winter activities and other topics.Linkswww.oideasgael.comhttps://www.siopagaeilge.ie/191. Rónán Ó Dochartaigh: Oideas Gael Course Manager - Part 1 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Máirtín Ó Muilleoir encouraged Fender to share a selection of episodes on Irish Echo and Andersonstown News, showcasing the generosity of everyone who contributed their time and stories. These narratives form a mosaic of Ireland: its past, its present, and the living connections that stretch across the globe.We thought it would be good to put together an episode that crystallises what The Ireland Podcast is as well as its origin story.. which dates back more than 100 years!Sincere thanks to Máirtín for this opportunity.Relevant Linkshttps://belfastmedia.com/atownhttps://www.irishecho.com/https://www.ria.ie/collections/archival-collections/heron-papers/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A continuation of the celebration of Oideas Gael: Rónán Ó Dochartaigh, Course Manager of Oideas Gael, chats about its offerings, the rise of Irish language learning, and the unique culture of Glencolmcille, touching on immersion, Gaeltacht life, and the growing appeal of Gaeilge today.Conversation includes: introductions; activated parts of brain; Scoil Samhraidh (Language and Culture Summer School) and some of the lessons therein; the growing popularity of Oideas Gael over the years; Rónán’s journey to his current position; the impact of Covid; Gaeilge sa bhaile (Irish at home); fág an bealach (get out of the way); Gaeltacht definition and their places in Ireland; Ráth Chairn and Baile Ghib in Meath; Slaughtneil and West Belfast; pop up Gaeltachts; Údarás na Gaeltachta; different levels of the courses; tumadh (immersion); the types of people who do the course; the Glencolmcille area; the different dialects of Irish; Michael Healy-Rae vs. Jim McGuinness; the influence of the Normans; teacher; (2025) prices; accommodation; getting here and other topics.Linkswww.oideasgael.comhttps://www.siopagaeilge.ie193. Rónán Ó Dochartaigh: Oideas Gael Course Manager - Part 2 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

190. Eibhlis Farrell agus Ray McManusRay McManus (piano) and Eibhlis Farrell (fiddle) take us on a bilingual musical journey around Ireland, presenting a vibrant mix of tunes and songs from some of the counties across the island. The evening begins with an introduction by Rónán Ó Dochartaigh.This performance was part of the entertainment programme for the Irish Language Summer Course 2025, recorded on Tuesday, 29 July 2025.Counties and music featured:1. Corcaigh (Cork): Carolan's Draught2. Tiobraid Árann (Tipperary): Sliabh na mBan3. Fear Manach, Ard Mhacha, Liatroim (Fermanagh, Armagh agus Leitrim): Planxty Maguire: Planxty Maguire / O’Rourke’s Feast4. Tír Eoghain (Tyrone):The Mountains Of Pomeroy5. Luimneach (Limerick):Slán Le Máigh6. Baile Átha Cliath / An Dún (Dublin / Down):The Foggy Dew7. Port Láirge (Waterford)Sliabh Geal gCua8. CasablancaÓ Lá Go Lá (As Time Goes By)9. Loch Garman (Wexford)Boolavogue10. An Dún (Down):In Onóir Naomh Bronagh (Eibhlis Farrell)11. Sligeach (Sligo):Planxty Loftus Jones Special thanks to Ray, Eibhlis and all at Oideas Gael for making this episode possible.Linkswww.oideasgael.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former teacher and Oideas Gael founder Liam Ó Cuinneagáin shares the story of how he grew the Irish language and cultural learning centre into one of the most successful and well-attended institutions in any of Ireland’s Gaeltacht regions. This is the concluding and second part. Conversation includes: starting up the first Irish language courses with Seosamh Watson; Liam being separated physically from the Troubles in the six counties; the first people on the early courses; Fr. McDyer’s Irish levels; John Heron; Downings; the immersive system of learning; the structure of the day; Milwaukee Irish Fest; World Trade Center Bombing 1993; Patrick Campbell; why people are attracted to coming to Oideas Gael; the quality of the teaching staff; Siobhán Ní Churraighín; Rónán Ó Dochartaigh; the topography of the west of Ireland; Brendan Lyons and the International Fund for Ireland; acquiring the land on which to build the school; Máire Brennan; Mary McAleese attending the course during her presidency; Ray McManus; Foras Na Gaeilge; Daniel O’Donnell and Mary McAleese breaking and entering into Oideas Gael; dealing with banks; Broca's area; Enjoy Irish! by Eithne Ní Ghallchobhair; Gael Linn and other topics.Music in the background from Eibhlis Farrell and Ray McManus in rehearsal as well as the sean-nós singing class of Gearóidín Breathnach which were happening in two classrooms concurrently.Recorded on Tuesday 29th July 2025 - 2 days after Donegal competed against Kerry in the All-Ireland football final.Linkshttp://www.oideas-gael.com188. Liam Ó Cuinneagáin: Oideas Gael - Part 1 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former teacher and Oideas Gael founder Liam Ó Cuinneagáin shares the story of how he grew the Irish language and cultural learning centre into one of the most successful and well-attended institutions in any of Ireland’s Gaeltacht regions. Part one centres largely around the amazing partnership between Fr. McDyer and Liam’s father Willie Ó Cuinneagáin formed which transformed the area. Conversation includes: introductions; early life; education; studying psychology in UCD; Máirtín Ó Muilleoir; Seosamh Watson; connecting his Uncle Mickey and other family members in USA; Prof. Breandán MacSuibhne; Gleann Cholm Cille; Fr. James McDyer; Tory Island; McDyer bringing a weaving market into the area in 1950s; Willie Ó Cuinneagáin; Glencolmcille Folk Village; debating teams; Mansholt Plan; The Ireland House; Tom O’Donnell; Dean Charles Gray-Stack; Michael John Sweetman; Irish Press vs. Irish Independent; Éamon de Valera and other topics.Music in the background from Eibhlis Farrell and Ray McManus in rehearsal as well as the sean-nós singing class of Gearóidín Breathnach which were happening in two classrooms concurrently.Recorded on Tuesday 29th July 2025 - 2 days after Donegal competed against Kerry in the All-Ireland football final.Relevant Linkshttp://www.oideas-gael.com/189. Liam Ó Cuinneagáin: Oideas Gael - Part 2Additional Linkshttps://www.dib.ie/biography/mcdyer-james-daniel-a5652https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Fr+McDyer%2C+Glencolmkille+Folk+Village Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 187 Painter Erin Lawlor chats with Fender Jackson in Galway on Monday 4th August when her exhibition divining was presented at the Printworks Gallery in Galway as part of the Galway International Arts Festival, running from July 14 to 27, 2025. This was a Highlanes Gallery National Tour curated by Aoife Ruane.Conversation includes: introductions; painter vs. artist; divining; Aoife Ruane; Highlanes Gallery, Drogheda; Source Arts Centre, Tipperary; curating the Drogheda municipal collection; Eddie Lawlor and Tullow, County Carlow; the complications of being brought up Anglo-Irish; moving to France; her father’s work with Co-operation North and John Hume; Peter Lawlor and The Lawlor Foundation; Irish Youth Foundation; Irish artistic identity; Roderic O’Conor; Jon Benington; Mary and Alan Hobart; Mainie Jellett; Evie Hone; Micheal Farrell; Isaac Newton; Sheela na gig; a deep dive into Erin’s techniques; David Bowie; portraits vs. landscapes; Philip Guston; Frank Auerbach; metapainting; German radical painting; Dr. Seuss vs. Caravaggio; background music; Beckett; Joyce; ‘Guernica’ by Picasso; Seamus Heaney; Kate Bush; writing; plans for the future; Irish With Mollie as well as other topics.LinksErin Lawlor websitehttps://www.erinlawlor.com Highlanes Galleryhttps://highlanes.ie/exhibition/divining-erin-lawlor/https://highlanes.ie/exhibition/a-sense-of-place-erin-lawlor-selects-drogheda-municipal-collection/ GIAF https://www.giaf.ie/festival/event/erin-lawlor The Source, Thurles https://www.thesourceartscentre.ie/whats-on/visual-arts/erin-lawlor-divining  Irish Youth Foundation https://www.iyf.org.ukCooperation Ireland https://cooperationireland.orgEp. 187 Spotify Playlisthttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/6olI2b5OcSjeO5MXabvkO1?si=37b1eb6114f34006 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 185 European Medicines Agency Executive Director Emer Cooke chats with Fender Jackson in Amsterdam on Wednesday 9th July 2025.Conversation includes: introductions; early life; being drawn to medicine; family and friends’ understanding; career and educational path; a comparison of the cultures between WHO and EMA; European and International harmonisation; being the Chair of International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA); politics vs. science; EMA responsibilities; EMA’s work with animals; antimicrobial resistance; maximum residue limits; the medicine journey from bench to bedside; the challenges of the pandemic; lessons learnt from the pandemic; AI; preparedness for the next pandemic; Health Threats Plan; pressures from pharmaceuticals and governments; conflicts of interests; public trust and misinformation; European public assessment reports; communicating; how being Irish affects Emer’s methods of working; unwinding; ‘Small Things Like These’ by Claire Keegan, and other topics.Relevant Linkshttps://www.ema.europa.euhttps://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/what-we-publish-medicines-when/european-public-assessment-reports-background-context Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The concluding part of a conversation centred around advice for any visitors to Galway Racecourse. Recorded in Galway on Tuesday, 20th May 2025 - pre-recorded to coincide with the lead-up to this year’s Galway Races, which begin on Monday, 28th July 2025.Conversation includes: what to expect on a day out at Galway Races; a break down of the different days; transport advice; advice for mobility issues; racing vs. Formula 1 and Bernie Ecclestone; jockeys as sports stars; Davy Russell; Patrick Mullins; the challenges of racing today; the racetrack itself including maintenance; the sponsors; Horse Racing Ireland and the prize money; the animal welfare; Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB) vets; the Galway Racecourse team; the training involved; plans for the future; and other topics.Relevant Linkswww.galwayraces.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The second part of a conversation exploring the evolution of Galway Racecourse. Recorded in Galway on Tuesday, 20th May 2025 - pre-recorded to coincide with the lead-up to this year’s Galway Races, which begin on Monday, 28th July 2025.The history of the racecourse; other non-racing events at the racecourse; Elf Town Galway; Classic Fest vintage car show; the spirit of the Galway Races; Ballinrobe Racecourse; being part of the Galway Festival calendar; breast cancer research day; being part of and giving back to the community and having pride in the area; a look back over 40 years and looking forwards; Galway as a city of festivals and innovation; Moses Rowen; Gary, Rob and the Monroe family; Gerry Broderick; Michael O’Sullivan as well as other topics.Relevant Linkswww.galwayraces.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 183 Singer, Songwriter and Broadcaster Malachi Cush chats with Fender Jackson from his home in County Tyrone on Tuesday 1st July 2025.Conversation includes: introductions; Tyrone’s chances after beating Dublin; Armagh & Kerry; the new GAA rules; Malachi’s house as a ceilidh house (a house where people gathered for an evening of craic); a performance of ‘On Raglan Road’; Luke Kelly and other influences; Phil Coulter; early life; Fame Academy; Pam Sheyne and Carrie Grant; talent shows in mid-2020’s compared to 20 years previous; playing in Thailand; a performance of ‘Under A Moon Of Gold’; grief and parental love; God’s guiding light; recording with Phil Coulter; ‘The Town I Loved So Well’; ‘A City Dreaming’; Ukraine; Elvis and Phil; ‘Blessed Be The One’ and Joanne Cash; Rosemary McConaghie and Mark Scullion; Johnny Cash; The First Nashville Cowboy Church; the uncertainty of artists today; Conor Grimes and other topics.Relevant Linkswww.malachicush.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recorded in Galway on Tuesday, 20th May 2025 - pre-recorded to coincide with the lead-up to this year’s Galway Races, which begin on Monday, 28th July 2025.In the first of a three-part special, Galway Racecourse CEO Michael Moloney joins Fender Jackson for a wide-ranging conversation that charts both his personal career path and the recent evolution of one of Ireland’s most iconic sporting venues. Michael reflects on how the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic became a catalyst for modernisation and change at Ballybrit.Conversation includes: introductions; early life including education; working for horse racing Ireland; Plumpton Racecourse; Covid; comparison between Plumpton and Galway racecourses; the improvements made; how Michael prioritises the workload; implementing a culture of change; The Galway Plate; Knowledge Management; peer assists and other topics.Relevant Linkwww.galwayraces.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 181 Fender Jackson visits the Lunch Club in the Kennedy Hall of the London Irish Centre on Fri 20th June 2025 and chats with Finola Marriott, Maeve Heath and Maria Connolly. This is a special year for the London Irish Centre as it marks its 70th anniversary.In this special episode, Fender Jackson drops in to the Lunch Club at the London Irish Centre in Camden, London - a warm, vibrant hub for generations of the Irish diaspora. Set against a backdrop of laughter, tea, and stories, Fender chats with attendees and staff to explore the sense of community, identity, and belonging that the Centre fosters. From recollections of emigration and hard work to lighter tales of dances and reunions, the voices in this episode reflect a living thread that connects Ireland to London.Sincere thanks to Finola, Maeve and Maria for their contributions and all at the London Irish Centre who have helped make this episode possible.Relevant Linkshttps://londonirishcentre.org/https://londonirishcentre.org/our-services/community-development/community-cafe/Ep. 196. London Irish Centre - 70th Anniversary Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 180 Fine Artist Kathryn Callaghan chats with Fender Jackson from her home in County Down on Thursday 26th June 2025.Conversation includes: introductions; Kathryn’s journey towards being an artist; Outscape; Yard Gallery; Holywood, Co. Down; Gerard Byrne; Guggi; studying Fine Art HND; understanding Kathryn’s motivation as an artist; Daoirí Farrell; confidence; Kathryn’s pouring technique of painting; Jackson Pollock; Kathryn’s influence’s including Rothko; capturing the feeling; knowing when the piece is finished; John Cage and 4’33; less is more; working off an image; musical preferences; choosing colours; John and Killarney Falconry; illustration board; framing; Pete Fowler; the customers; Ciara O’Neill; current exhibition in Bushmills Inn; pricing paintings; making it as an artist; gallery commission; social media; accidents; Brian Eno and the Oblique Strategies; Colin Davidson; plans for the future; the Wild Atlantic Music Tours; Fender's freebies and other topics.Relevant Linkshttps://www.kathryncallaghan.co.ukhttps://www.instagram.com/kcfineartSpotify PlaylistFender's Freebieshttps://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/3m17hxnoyar4wyrcplyj8/Family-Tree.pdf?rlkey=5f9zlsr1nguqxx29a6b8e0pcb&dl=0https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/cd88sp4ruaa4cvjru89bd/Life-Story-Interview-Questions.pdf?rlkey=f5x469lj1uhke2wirmj7f2nvt&st=cwqpuvkx&dl=0 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 179. Wayne McCullough, Ireland's first and only Irish male boxer in history to ever win a WBC world title, chats with Fender Jackson from his base in Las Vegas on Monday 30th June 2025.Conversation includes: introductions; titles; Albert Foundry Gym; Highfield Estate, Shankill, Belfast; early life; Shankill, Belfast; the normality of the Troubles of Northern Ireland; flags and national anthems; fighting for N.Ireland and Ireland; bring the IRA and the UVF together; carrying the Irish flag for the opening of the 1988 Olympics and the N. Ireland flag for the Commonwealth Games in 1990; training under the legendary Eddie Futch; Joe Louis; Henry Armstrong; leaving Belfast; how an 83 year old man trains a young up and coming professional; receiving an endorsement letter from Eddie Futch; his professional journey to the WBC title; winning a fight with one hand; getting married 3 days after a fight; jet lag; running after flights; cold temperatures; controlling anger and using it as a fuel; winning the NABF bantamweight title; learning a lot from the Rabanales fight; not having his defence perfected; Joe Rogan, Bono and his best friend Guggi; the motivation after a fight; winning the world title in Japan; being a trainer; Camp With The Champ; Wayne’s daughter singer Wy Mac; Wayne’s ambition to train World Champions; Mathew Kindale; favourite boxing movie; Matthew Tyndall; Mickey Ward; how Wayne would like to be remembered; the knowledge Wayne has of Eddie Futch and other topics.Relevant Linkswww.campwiththechamp.comAdditional Linkswww.thewymac.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How did it come to pass that Gary Lineker - former England football captain, Match of the Day presenter, and co-founder of one of the UK’s biggest podcast production companies - would give his first interview since leaving the BBC… on The Ireland Podcast? In a twist full of irony and charm, the English sporting icon found himself chatting on a train platform with Irish host Fender Jackson, just hours after Jackson had interviewed Lord Chris Patten. The result? An impromptu and revealing conversation about podcasting, the media, and life after the BBC - all delivered not to a British broadcaster, but to an independent Irish podcast!Fender shares every moment before and after the recording with Anna, a young adolescent footballer, who joins him for the duration of the show. In the second half, Fender interviews Anna about her own footballing journey, and the challenges facing young female athletes today - giving the episode a fresh, intergenerational twist.Special thanks to Anna and to Gary for this episode.Relevant Linkshttps://www.goalhanger.comAdditional Linkshttps://www.theirelandpodcast.com/latest-podcast/episode/9cea2b64/177-lord-chris-patten-the-patten-reporthttps://www.theirelandpodcast.com/latest-podcast/episode/1f55ffb3/117-paul-connolly-tv-producer-part-2 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lord Patten chats with Fender Jackson in his London home on Wednesday 18th June 2025.Lord Patten has held several prominent roles, including Governor of Hong Kong, European Commissioner for External Relations, Chairman of the BBC Trust, and Chancellor of the University of Oxford, but he tells Fender that overseeing the reform of the N. Ireland police service remains his proudest political achievement.Conversation includes: introductions; previous roles; early life; synopsis of Patten’s life; identity politics; Boyle, Roscommon; Phil Richardson Band; Heavitree Brewery; Mo Mowlam offering the policing reform job; importance of character; Dr. Paisley impersonations; recent unrest in Ballymena, Antrim; Trump and Putin; Peter Mandelson; the near impossible task of Police Reform in N. Ireland post Good Friday Agreement (GFA); legislating the Patten Report; Unionist objections; Gerry Adams; the IRA list; being a N. Ireland Junior Minister for Margaret Thatcher; London bomb attacks; Airey Neave; Jim Pryor; police bodyguards; Peter Smith QC; public meetings; Rosemary Nelson; Israel and Palestine; Maurice Hayes; early prisoner releases as part of GFA; kneecappings; Norman Tebbit; Brighton bomb; Tony Blair, John Major and Bertie Ahern; regrets of not keeping a diary during his time as being European Commissioner; why he is so proud of the report; other countries using the report; “Minister of Treachery”; social media; strong leadership; MAGA; “soft power”; Adlai Stevenson; Brexit and the Conservative Party; ‘things have to change in order to remain the same’; Abraham Lincoln; being an octogenarian; the Troubles as a war; how Britain cack-handedly handled Ireland in the past; heroes; kindness; Bobby MacDonnagh and more.Relevant Linkshttps://cain.ulster.ac.uk/issues/police/patten/patten99.pdf Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 176 Musician Daoirí Farrell chats with Fender Jackson in Galway when he was performing as part of the Galway Folk Festival on 7th June 2025.Conversation includes: a performance of 'Foggy Dew'; introductions; Derry Tangney and the Tangney family from County Kerry; early life; Dessie Farrell; Caitriona O'Connor; favourite music acts; John Mooney; entry into music; first music lessons; being an electrician; Joe Foley and O'Donoghue’s; Brian Hickey’; studying Ceoltóir in Ballyfermot in 2008; Paul McGrattan, Pat Daly, Niamh Parsons and Brian Ó hUiginn; arranging ‘The Creggan White Hare’; Fender’s friend Declan Doherty aka ShakyHorse; rawness and honesty; arranging songs; Andy Irvine; Seamus Molloy and his son in the Hill of The O’Neill in Dungannon, Tyrone; Mark Knopfler; Donal Lunny and Liam Óg O Flynn; Liam Weldon; the parallels of being a musician and an electrician; Andy Tobin’s Bouzouki; a performance of 'The Creggan White Hare' and other topics.Relevant Linkshttps://daoiri.com/Ep. 176 PlaylistAdditional Linkshttps://galwayfolkfestival.com/https://tobininstruments.co.uk/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep. 175 is almost a Bloomsday 2025 Part Two episode as Fender Jackson recorded a jovial jigsaw of Joycean jabber from outside Davy Byrne's Bar, 21 Duke St, Dublin, D02 K380 on Bloomsday, Monday 16th June, 2025 just after recording a special marriage of two of Ireland’s cultural icons: James Joyce and Croke Park for Episode 174.Sincere thanks to all contributors: you are Bloomsday!Frank Corcoran, Lecturer in TU DublinA Professor in Trinity CollegeJames Anthony Kelly, PoetSon of poet, Máire Áine Nic Gearailt‘If My Heart Was A Sweet Song’ by James A. Kelly‘Cnoc an Fhómhair (Hill Of The Slaughter)’ by James A. Kelly‘I Believe In Free Love’ by James A. Kelly‘Plain Mortals’ by James A. KellyQuentin Candil, Tour Guide from SpainJonathan Rylander, Writer and Professor from Minnesota, USARachel O’Connell, DEI and Joyce readerMattress Mick, Mattress SellerSusan Boland, NutritionistJames Joyce, Deceased WriterJohn O’Reilly, Retired Defence ForcesMatt Cahill, Retired Civil ServantJohn O’Carroll, Retired Teacher‘Love's Old Sweet Song (Just A Song At Twilight)’ performed by John O’Reilly, Matt Cahill and John O’CarrollDeclan Roche, Dublin Tour GuideJames McMahon, online journalist and member of Parnassus Arts GroupKatherine Lynch, Comedian, Grandneice of Patrick Kavanagh and cousin of Ché GuevaraTammy Tiernan and Mary Crumlish, EditorRelevant Linksdavybyrnes.comjamesjoyce.iewww.joyceproject.comwww.rte.ie/culture/2025/0527/1…ames-joyce-podcast/Additional Linkswww.kennys.ie/shop/The-Poems-of-…lly-James-A-Kelly-www.facebook.com/groups/5865960386/www.instagram.com/katherinelynchofficial/https://www.theirelandpodcast.com/latest-podcast/episode/9cf82454/174-bloomsday-special-croke-park-skyline-tour Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 174 is a marriage of two of Ireland’s cultural icons: James Joyce and Croke Park. Recorded on Bloomsday 2025, Fender speaks with Croke Park’s Gerry McGarry and Joycean tour guides Jerome Corby and Sinéad Murphy - from the rooftop of Ireland’s most famous stadium. Bloomsday, celebrated on June 16th each year, marks the events of Joyce’s novel Ulysses, all of which unfold over the course of a single day in 1904. Special thanks to all the other contributors and to all at Croke Park for making this episode happen.Episode features:Jerome Corby singing ‘Oh! Oh! Antonio!’Jerome Corby interview‘The Citizen’ excerpt from ‘Ulysses’ read by Sinead Murphy and Jerome CorbySinead Murphy singing ‘Invisibility’Gerry McGarry interview‘Yes!’ excerpt from ‘Ulysses’ read by Sinead MurphySinead Murphy singing ‘Just A Song At Twilight’Sinead Murphy interviewMichelle Hughes interviewDeirdre Corby interviewJerome Corby interviewRelevant Linkshttps://crokepark.ie/https://crokepark.ie/skylineAdditional Linkshttp://m.joyceproject.com/https://jamesjoyce.ie/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 173 Chelsea Hoy and Mark Howard from Trinity Irish Dance Company chat with Fender Jackson from Chicago, USA on Monday 9th June 2025.Conversation includes: introductions; formation of Trinity Irish Dance Company; Trinity breaking all of the world championship records for Irish Dance beginning the World Irish Dance Championships in 1987; appearing on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson; Riverdance; appearing in New York City’s Joyce Theater, Chicago’s Auditorium Theatre and Tokyo’s Orchard Hall; appearing in Jacob’s Pillow for the first time; being a repertoire company; Brenoshea; ‘The Sash’; Stephanie Martinez; composer Kevin Sharkey from Derry; The Undertones; Paul Marshall; ‘Brokeback Mountain’; Eva Birthistle; empowering women; building bridges to the future; Michelle Dorrance; the creative process of choreography; balancing the spectacle with high art; feeling blessed to have lived an art-driven life, and other topics.TIDC's six performances from 10 - 13th July 2025 will mark the first time Jacob’s Pillow, a National Historic Landmark and recipient of the National Medal of Arts, has presented a full program of Irish dance on the Ted Shawn Theatre stage. You can find out more information and buy tickets in the links below.Relevant Linkshttps://trinityirishdancecompany.com/https://www.jacobspillow.org/events/trinity-irish-dance-company/Additional Linkshttps://www.instagram.com/trinityirishdancecompany/https://www.facebook.com/trinityirishdancecompany/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 172 Galway Tour Guide, Artist, Writer and Joycean scholar Jim Ward chats with Fender Jackson in Galway on 7th June 2025. They discuss James Joyce and his particular connection with Galway.Conversation includes: (re)introductions; Joyce’s background; Joyce and Galway; ‘Dubliners’ and ‘The Dead’; ‘Ulysses’; ‘Finnegan’s Wake’; Aedín Moloney and her solo performance of ‘YES! Reflections Of Molly Bloom’; President Michael D. Higgins unveiling a plaque to Michael ‘Sonny’ Bodkin in Rahoon Cemetery, Galway in 2024; a recital of Joyce’s poem ‘She Weeps Over Rahoon’; the Nora Barnacle Museum; Joyce’s travels in Europe; ‘Bicycle Duty’; Ernest Hemingway; Paul Léon Furniture; Josh Newman, Darina Gallagher and James Joyce Centre; Buffalo University; Joyce’s death; Harriet Shaw Weaver; President Eamon de Valera and Dr. Vogt the eye surgeon; ‘The Eyes Have it’; 2025 Ireland; Giambattista Vico the Italian Philosopher; Joyce the contrarian and mimic; the first Bloomsday; corner boys; Declan Varney from Galway Advertiser; advice to new readers to Joyce; reading groups; Samuel Beckett; Flann O’Brien/Myles na gCopaleen; Jim’s novel ‘No Ordinary Bread’ and other topics.Relevant Linkshttps://jamesjoyce.ie/https://www.galwaytourism.ie/nora-barnacle-house/https://charliebyrne.ie/product/joyce-county-galway-and-james-joyce/Additional Linkshttps://www.theirelandpodcast.com/latest-podcast/episode/98ca552a/72-james-joyce-centre-a-tour-with-dr-josh-q-newmanhttps://www.theirelandpodcast.com/latest-podcast/episode/55a1bd63/74-bloomsday-2024-part-1-drumcondra-interviewshttps://www.theirelandpodcast.com/latest-podcast/episode/9d08fc8b/77-bloomsday-2024-part-2-drumcondra-performanceshttps://www.theirelandpodcast.com/latest-podcast/episode/2c7ef2ee/70-aedin-moloney-molly-bloom-james-joyce-and-paddy-moloneyhttps://www.theirelandpodcast.com/latest-podcast/episode/8c22d3be/71-prof-brian-arkins-james-joyce-and-aedin-moloneyhttps://www.theirelandpodcast.com/latest-podcast/episode/49105ca8/45-noel-ogrady-singer-and-raconteurJim’s Linkshttps://galwaytrails.ie/https://charliebyrne.ie/product/no-ordinary-bread/https://www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/JimWardPlay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 169 archeologist Dr. Kieran O’Conor chats with Fender Jackson in Galway on Thursday 22nd May 2025. This is part four - the final part.Conversation includes: who was Turlough O’Carolan; how he became blind; how he came to study the harp; the compositions of Denis O’Conor 1, Denis O’Conor 1, Charles O’Conor and Mrs. O’Conor; the harp having the “old madness in it” when O’Carolan was around the O’Conors; O’Carolan the teacher; O’Carolan the hellraising rock god; viewing the protestant element of the island as a positive thing; the Brian Boru harp; a performance of ‘Sí Bheag, Sí Mhór’ (‘Sheebeg, Sheemore’) and ‘An Gaoth Aneas’ (‘The South Wind’), as well as other topics.‘Sí Bheag, Sí Mhór’ - Arranged and performed by Fender Jackson All instruments and vocals by Fender Jackson: acoustic and electric guitars, fretless bass, drums, tambourine, shakers, organ, and vocals.Relevant Linkshttps://universityofgalway.academia.edu/KieranOConorhttps://pay.universityofgalway.ie/people/kierandoconor.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 170 archeologist Dr. Kieran O’Conor chats with Fender Jackson in Galway on Thursday 22nd May 2025. Part three of a four-part conversation.Conversation includes: working for the Archaeological Survey of Ireland in the 1990s; the difference in the East and West of Ireland; farm payments; favourite monuments; advice to people who think they have something interesting on their land; Historic Environment Viewer; advice on where to study Archeology; University of Galway; Galway’s medieval preservation; buildings which have been well preserved in Galway including King’s Head, Lynch’s Castle, Blake’s Tower, Tigh Neachtain; different window types in Galway; Heritage Ireland; Galway Civic Trust; tradition and modernity; Oxford and Cambridge; hitch-hiking as well as other topics.Favourite MonumentsLough Meelagh Crannog, Co. RoscommonRoscommon Abbey, Co. Roscommon Sligo Friary, Co. SligoKnockadoo-Brosna, Co. SligoTulsk, Co. RoscommonThe Moated Site at Cloonfree, Co. RoscommonRelevant Linkshttps://universityofgalway.academia.edu/KieranOConorhttps://pay.universityofgalway.ie/people/kierandoconor.htmlAdditional Linkshttps://www.archaeology.ie/https://www.archaeology.ie/advice-and-support/locate-a-monument-or-wreck/historic-environment-viewer/https://www.theirelandpodcast.com/latest-podcast/episode/7bacdea5/168-dr-kieran-oconor-the-oconoroconnor-namehttps://www.theirelandpodcast.com/latest-podcast/episode/b98c7cb2/169-dr-kieran-oconor-castles-and-ringforts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 169 is Part 2 of a conversation between archeologist Dr. Kieran O’Conor and Fender Jackson in Galway on Thursday 22nd May 2025.Conversation includes: (re)introductions; early life; being into history from a young age; working with Montgomery Castle with Jeremy Knight; hitchhiking to the Syrian border; doing his PhD in Wales; lecturing in University of Galway in Archeology; why archeology has been well preserved in the west of Ireland; ring forts; native Irish Gaelic settlements; Michelle Comer; how many of the 50,000 ring forts of Ireland would have looked; castle definition; castle classifications including motte and ringwork (earth and timber) castles, masonary and polygonal enclosure and hall-house castles, tower house castles, fortified house and strong house; Terry Barry; Roscommon Castle; the renaissance; Kieran’s favourite castles; Niall Brady; Tom McNeill; Desmond Castle (Kinsale) and other topics.Favourite CastlesRoscommon Castle, ConnaughtBallintober Castle, Connaught Dunamase Castle, LeinsterRindoon Castle, ConnaughtClonmacnoise Castle, ConnaughtCarrickfergus Castle, UlsterTomdeely Castle, MunsterRelevant Linkshttps://universityofgalway.academia.edu/KieranOConorhttps://pay.universityofgalway.ie/people/kierandoconor.htmlAdditional Linkshttps://www.theirelandpodcast.com/latest-podcast/episode/7bacdea5/168-dr-kieran-oconor-the-oconoroconnor-name Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Archeologist Kieran O’Connor chats with Fender Jackson in Galway on Thursday 22nd May 2025. This first part of the conversation is mostly centred around the name O’Conor/O’Connor.Conversation includes: introductions; Kieran being a collateral descendant of the last high king of Ireland; 18th Century penal laws; O’Conor Don; Irish genealogy; Charles O’Conor and The Catholic Association; the various O’Conors; Roderic O’Conor the artist; the origins of the Ó Conchubhair (O’Conor) name, Kieran’s father hunting with Basset Hounds and other topics.Relevant Linkshttps://universityofgalway.academia.edu/KieranOConorhttps://pay.universityofgalway.ie/people/kierandoconor.htmlAdditional Linksen.wikipedia.org/wiki/O%27Conor_dynastywww.youtube.com/watch?v=O4VxyDJHJOQ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 167 Galway Tour Guide, Artist and Writer Jim Ward chats with Fender Jackson on Wed 14th May 2025.Conversation includes: introductions; Galway Trails; early life; an overview of Galway in Jim’s lifetime; Dick Byrne, Tom Kenny and The Old Galway Diary podcast; Ciaran & Gerry Smith; Galway Bay Hotel; studying Engineering in UCG; ATU; Jim’s play ‘Just Guff’; starting off as a tour guide and Brian Nolan; Jim’s different tours including Irish language tours; Galway’s attraction as a tourist destination; Galway’s history of Trading with Spain and Portugal; Galway and music/culture; Galway International Arts Festival; Michael D. Higgins; Walter Macken; JFK’s visit to Galway; Galway Cathedral; Galway and Irish language; St. Nicholas Collegiate Church; the walled city; the nonacentennial anniversary; the Tribes of Galway; Battle of Knockdoe; Battle of Aughrim; Galway as a city of superlatives; Jim’s favourite place in Galway; Bertie The Heron; Galway traffic; Jim’s writings and artwork; Jim’s books ‘No Ordinary Bread’ and ‘Rednecks of Suburbia’; Jim’s memoire; Ireland’s neutrality; Jim’s views on Irish reunification; Wolfe Tone the protestant and other topics.Relevant Linkswww.galwaytrails.ieAdditional Linkscharliebyrne.ie/product/no-ordinary-bread/https://www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/JimWardPlaywww.instagram.com/jimwardbard/www.facebook.com/jim.ward.salthill Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 166 player and designer of the fretless glass-guitar Ned Evett chats with Fender Jackson on Mon 19th May 2025. This conversation takes place in advance of Ned opening forJoe Satriani and Steve Vai.Conversation includes: introductions; a performance of ‘The Electric Co’ by U2; fretless vs. fretted guitar; a performance of Ned’s track ‘Strange Kind Of Freedom’; Ned’s open E tuning (E B E G# B E); Ned’s fretless resonator guitar with a titanium neck; Paul Reed Smith and PRS guitars; Rick Vito, guitarist for Fleetwood Mac; Ned’s guitar being 25llbs/11.34kg; Ned’s clamp slider which he devised with Dunlop; a performance of ‘Search and Destroy’ by The Stooges; Ned’s ‘The Ned Special’ based on Brian May’s Red Special; Rory Gallagher’s influence on Brian May; a performance of the solo on ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ and ’Fat Bottomed Girls’; Aluminati, Ibanez and Morning Star guitars; taking frets out; Adrian Belew; playing with finger pads vs fingernails on the left hand; Public Image Limited’s ‘Metal Box’ featuring Keith Levene on a Travis Bean metal-necked guitar; Miles Davis; a performance of ‘Dublin Blues’ by Guy Clark; E minor tuning; the Nashville number system; Sting the cat leaning more into the metaphysical stuff; Mark Knopfler; The Edge; Rory Gallagher; the importance of the support act; Bela Fleck and other topics.Ned Evett Gigs in Ireland - June 2025June 3rd, Whelan’s, Dublin Ireland, 8pm, Get TicketsJune 6th, Voodoo, Belfast Northern Ireland, Doors 7pm, Show at 8pm. Get Tickets*June 7th, Róisín Dubh (Top Bar), Galway Ireland, 8pm. Free entry.*Featuring Fender Jackson on bass and (hopefully) someone from drumadore.comRelevant Linkswww.nedevett.comAdditional Linkswww.instagram.com/nedevett Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 165 MADRA (Mutts Anonymous Dog Rescue & Adoption) Co-Founder Marina Fiddler chats with Fender Jackson in Galway on Wed 14th May 2025.Conversation includes: introductions; how MADRA was founded; early life; dog wardens and rescue pounds; the amount of dogs in care; what has been learnt int he last 20 years; the demographics of people looking for dogs; the commitment involved in getting a dog; a description of the workload involved in pairing dog with new owner; matchmaking; Marina’s co-pilot Stella; Terri Hooley; scary encounters; legislation and black spots; statistics; microchipping; echo chambers; casual attitudes towards animals; cats as vermin; greyhounds as livestock; pigs; Sharon Shannon; heartwarming adoption stories; challenges facing MADRA; muzzles and a lack of education; lack of growth in the sector; liaising with other rescue organisations; the Covid effect; during at a petrol station; how to buy a puppy safely; living in a rescue bubble; the importance of doing the research; criminals moving into breeding; fostering; health and safety and insurance; how people can help; advice to people dealing with pet bereavement; plans for the future; the team and supporters; blue taggers; being global and other topics.Relevant Linkshttps://www.madra.ieAdditional Linkshttps://www.instagram.com/madradogrescuehttps://www.facebook.com/madradogrescue Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 164. Fender Jackson joins James Devlin and a host of talented local artists from South Derry to showcase their music in a special live session. Recorded at An Scioból (The Barn) at The Market Inn, Draperstown, County Derry, on Saturday 10th May 2025.Special thanks to Maurice Regan and all at The Market Inn for their generous support in making this recording possible.Dedicated to all with loved ones who have passed.Running Order1. The Martians Came (Devlin)James Devlin: vocal & guitar2. Old House (Bradley)James Bradley: vocal & guitarJames Devlin: guitar & vocal3. Live That Track Again (Devlin)Joe Devlin: vocal & guitarJames Devlin: guitar, harmonica & vocal4. Cup Of Kindness (Rocks)Joe Rocks: vocal & guitarJames Devlin: guitar & vocal5. Greek God (McGurk)Helen McGurk: vocalJames Devlin: guitar & vocal6. Laura Loves (Convery, Harkin & McEldowney)Donal Convery: vocalVincent Harkin: guitar & vocalFrankie McEldowney: guitar & vocalJames Devlin: harmonica & vocal7. One More Great Adventure (Devlin)James Devlin: vocal & guitarDonal Convery: vocalVincent Harkin: guitar & vocalFrankie McEldowney: banjo & vocalRelevant LinksJames Devlin (aka Harbour Annie)SpotifyYouTubeJames BradleySpotifyFacebookInstagramJoe RocksSpotifyFacebookInstagramHelen McGurkBandcampDonal Convery, Vincent Harkin, Frankie McEldowneySpotifyFacebookOne More Great AdventureSpotifyFacebookAdditional Linkshttps://www.facebook.com/@marketinn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep.163. Dubliner Content Creator and Designer Damien Broderick shares his story with Fender Jackson from his base in Washington State, USA on Monday 12th May 2025.Conversation includes: introductions; what Damien does; why is he popular; Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR); being Irish; being anti-Only Fans i.e. Damien puts his clothes on; Damien’s company Damazö Design; Marlon Brando; not believing our own hype; early life; playing for Shelbourne, Killester Donnycarney, St. Kevin’s Belvedere football clubs; Jeff Hendrick; Damien’s love of hurling; playing for Parnells; playing hurling in Washington state; making new friends in your 30s; recession; studying photography; taking selfies and posting on Instagram; Debenhams gifting him a suit; Emma Fitzpatrick; working in retail; Pennys offering €200 for a job; studying marketing and social media management in UCD; deciding to move from influencer to creating the campaigns; dressing up to work in a box room; dressing to get into the work mindset; being offering nine months salary for a job from Churchill Downs of the Kentucky Derby in 2023; Fender’s stilt walking; building a brand and turning work down; moving onto YouTube; Damien’s team; launching a perfume company; Drake and Team Kozen; ‘Let’s Get Dressed’ videos; batch-filming; authenticity; the rewards of a 13 year old kid tagging him on social media; David Gandy; Damien’s influences; Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly; masculinity; Paul Newman and Steve McQueen; self acceptance; Prince; vision vs. delusion; Tiger Woods; tattoos; being an inspiration; The Undertones; and other topics.Relevant Linkshttps://link.me/damienbroderickhttps://damazodesign.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.