The Jimmy Jests Podcast

Ever wondered what it's like to live on an island of the coast of Ireland? Well in this podcast I speak with Diane Flaherty who is a native of Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands. Diane gives us a unique insight into the beauty of the island, the joy of growing up in a tight knit community and also the challenges of island life. We even converse as Gaeilge (I make a decent attempt) and share some life experiences in a very informative chat which will entertain and inform the listener. Thanks you Diane and we will be listening to you on Radio na Life 106.4FM.

With the weather improving in Ireland it can only mean one thing, the turf machines are on the move!! In this episode I chat about the cutting of turf through the years, what it means to rural Ireland, how it's done, why it's done and the hardship that's involved. Come with me on this journey and listen out for my version of the Johnny Cash song "Ring of Fire".

In the week when the Stardust Fire Inquest delivered its' verdict on the cause of death of the 48 victims, I remember each of them by name and play some musical tributes to their memory. Songs by Christy Moore and Ray Heffernan & The Grand Canal Band give us a poignant reflection on what is still one of the worst tragedies in Irish living memory. Let us never forget the 48 children that never came home.

In this episode I talk about the reaction of Americans to the recent solar eclipse or as they called it the "Totality". I also take a look at other BIG reactions by Americans to world events including the OJ chase, hurling, Tayto sandwiches, Donald Trump, our 40 shades of green and much more. You just gotta love America!

With the All-Ireland football championship getting underway this weekend, I preview the entire season and predict the overall winners of the Sam Maguire and the Tailteann Cups. Following on from the dramatic climax to the Allianz Leagues, there has never been as much excitement surrounding the football championship season. But who will come out victorious this July? You might agree or disagree with some or all of my predictions but isn't that the beauty of the GAA!

In this episode I look back at a week that saw the resignation of Leo Varadkar as Taoiseach of Ireland. I play a few funny political songs and discuss the changing attitude towards the highest political post in Ireland. I also look back at previous holders of the role since the first election of WT Cosgrove in 1922. Is the role watered down by the current establishment?

For the week that's in it, this episode is about all that's good about Ireland and being Irish. I play loads of clips from music to comedy to sport to politics and reminisce about many iconic moments in our our past and share memories that will take us back. We have so much good in our wonderful country and I hope this helps you to enjoy all that's positive and none of the negative stuff that is trying to take over!

In this episode I chat with Shane Moran, disability advocate and wheelchair user, about life with cerebral palsy and his work with Lough Ree Access For All. The Lough Ree Access For All boat based in Ballyleague/Lanesborough provides an adapted integrated water based experience for people with disabilities for the very first time. Shane gives us first hand information about this fantastic non-profit project which he hopes can be rolled out nationwide. This episode is sponsored by E Broadband, for all you fibre broadband needs.

In this latest episode I discuss the recent goings on in RTE and pose the question "would we miss it if it was gone?". I reminisce on the shows of my youth, a time when we could relate more to the shows and the presenters. Or was it because we had no other options? Are the current presenters worth the money? Listen and maybe you will agree with me and then again maybe you won't!!

In this episode I sit down with Philip Stewart AKA "Farmer Phil" and talk about his rise to fame, his legendary YouTube and social media channels with 100's of videos showing real life on a busy working farm in South Longford. We delve into his personal life, his marriage to Liv, his relationship with Father & Mother Phil (Derek & Diane) and memories of his late Uncle Ian. Phil discusses everything from Massey Fergussons to Pumpkins, from GoPros to Goats and from Tinder to Tinsel. We also hear about the exciting new projects that are in the pipeline and how he likes to spend his very scarce spare time. This episode was sponsored by E Broadband.

In this episode I chat with Ray Dolan and get a fascinating insight into his music career spanning over four decades. From the early days of his legendary Uncle Joe Dolan right up to his families current tour (including 90 year old Ben) where they pay tribute to Joe and his music. We also hear all about the renowned "Bus Sessions" which is now running for over 1,400 consecutive days and the "12 Bongs Show" which come live from the tour bus which Joe travelled in many times. Plenty of other stories about Ray's charity work, family life and an upcoming gig in Vicar Street.

In this episode I caught up with Chicken War World Champion, Brendan Fanning, the man behind "Feichin Fresh Eggs". Brendan and his hens are based in Termonfeckin, Co. Louth and he gives us the ultimate guide to everything you ever wanted to know about chickens and hens but were afraid to ask. Which came first, the chicken or the egg? Why did the chicken cross the road? How do roosters do their dirty deed? - We now have all the answers to those questions and we find out about skiing while live on TikTok. This is a hentastic interview and it is so eggciting that you will be eggstremely entertained!! https://www.instagram.com/fechinfresheggs/ https://www.tiktok.com/discover/Fechin-fresh-eggs https://www.facebook.com/fechinfresheggs/

In this episode I have the privilege of chatting to internet sensation Shane Gallagher AKA "The Digger Dad". We chat about everything from growing up in Daingean, Co. Offaly to life in Brisbane via London and Tinder. We discuss family life, work life, social life, his music and his plans for the future including his homecoming show in Tullamore this June. A man with a clear pathway and a very important message for everyone.

In this episode I talk about the need for women to use the power they have in numbers to empower themselves in sport and politics as they do in many other walks of life. I crunch the numbers and discover some very interesting facts.

In this episode I talk about young people who have made an impact on society at a very young age. It is influenced by the performance of 16 year old Luke Littler in the World Darts Championship and I discuss everyone from Joan of Arc to Ivan The Terrible, from Dana and Cora Staunton and from King Tut to David Clifford!!

In this episode I have a listen back to some of my favourite Jimmy Jests content from throughout the year that was 2023. I play the audio from the videos and give some background on the making of them and the subjects contained therein. Enjoy and happy New Year.

In this episode I talk about the following: 1. Differing attitudes of parents towards their kids playing sports. 2. I give my review of the movie "Leave The World Behind. 3. My experience doing the Big Shop at Christmas. I hope you enjoy it and I would appreciate it if you could subscribe and spread the word to your friends

In this episode I discuss the JP McManus money; hurling club semifinals; darts; Liverpool v Man Utd; Eileen Gleason; A hotel burns down and more….. please subscribe, this will get better 👌

Hi all, so I’m taking the next step in my Jimmy Jests journey and starting a podcast. I hope to begin in the New Year but for now I want to hear your suggestions on what topics I should discuss and where I should travel to. All suggestions would be appreciated so get in touch, please!