The Tides That Tie

Send us Fan MailOn a cold, wind-driven Saturday at Rannagh Park, it’s easy to mistake what’s happening on Arranmore for just another football match. It isn’t. In this episode of The Tides That Tie, we trace the story of Arranmore United—a club built not just to compete, but to help hold a community together.From its beginnings in 1987—when three rival island teams set aside differences to form one side for one island—to the present day, where players travel hours and cross open water just to make kickoff, this is a story about commitment, identity, and belonging.You’ll hear from past and present voices of the club, including:Founders who helped bring the team into existence Players from the 1989–90 era that set the standard early Current players navigating emigration, distance, and modern challenges Young voices hoping to carry the club forward At the center of the episode is a powerful moment from 2019—a cup final that captures everything the club represents: pride, loss, community, and resilience. This isn’t just about football. It’s about what happens when a place decides it needs something to rally around—and refuses to let it disappear.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Tides That Tie, Ron Gregg brings us into a time when life on Beaver Island was shaped entirely by Lake Michigan—its rhythms, its risks, and its rewards.From the height of the 19th-century fishing era to the quiet work of winter, this story captures what it meant to live in constant relationship with the water. Guided by the distant lights of Whiskey Point and Skillagalee, we follow the early crossings between Beaver Island and the mainland—journeys made by sail, skill, and experience alone.More than a story of travel, this is a portrait of island life—of resilience, adaptation, and the enduring connection between people and the water that defined their world.Links:Skillagalee Lighthouse and Chart: Skillagalee IslandWoods Hole Historical Museum: Tools for Harvesting the IceGreat Lakes Fisheries Heritage Trail: A Good Boat - The Mackinaw - Great Lakes Fisheries Heritage Tr

Send us Fan MailThis bonus episode is an interview with Jerry Early and John Gallagher on their song, "I'll Go",  which tells the story of the Arranmore RNLI rescue of the Dutch steamer Stolwijk. The interview discusses the songwriting process and the importance of keeping the story alive. 

Send us Fan MailThe Tides That Tie – The Arranmore LifeboatFor more than a century, the lifeboat crew on Arranmore have answered the call when someone is in danger at sea.In this episode of The Tides That Tie, we hear from Nora Flanagan, Ciaran O’Donnell, and John McCafferty about the history and mission of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution station on Arranmore.From early lifeboats powered by oars and sails to today’s modern rescue vessel, the story of the RNLI is one of volunteers, community support, and generations of islanders committed to saving lives along the rugged Donegal coast.Their message is simple: when the pager goes off, they go.Learn More or Support the RNLIThe RNLI is a charity that relies on public donations to operate its lifeboats and train its volunteer crews.If you’d like to learn more or support their lifesaving work, visit: https://rnli.orgFeatured in This EpisodeNora Flanagan Kieran O’Donnell John McCafferty To learn more about the Beaver Island Irish Heritage Group, visit:https://www.biihg.com/ 

Send us Fan MailIn the heart of Lake Michigan lies Beaver Island, a place steeped in history and culture, closely linked to Arranmore County in Donegal, Ireland. This podcast episode of "The Tides That Tie" takes listeners on a journey through the significant role of the Beaver Island Historical Society in preserving the island’s rich heritage. With insights from original founders and local historians, the conversation highlights the dedication and passion that have kept the island’s history alive.

Send us Fan MailWhy has Ireland been so outspoken about Palestine?In this episode of The Tides That Tie, guest host Micaela Cole of Beaver Island is joined by Brian Proctor and Fiona Ní Ghlóinn of Arranmore to explore why this issue resonates so deeply in Ireland.Rather than advocating a position, this conversation focuses on context — how Irish history, colonial experience, displacement, and control of narrative continue to shape empathy and response today. Drawing on island life, generational memory, and lived experience, the episode offers American listeners insight into why many Irish people see familiar patterns when they look at Palestine.This is a conversation about history, understanding, and how the past continues to inform how communities respond to the world around them.

Send us Fan MailA Live presentation of the annual "Home for the Holidays" showcase on Beaver Island, recorded at the BIC Center on December 6, 2025. Featuring Holiday Carols and stories about Christmas past on the Island. #TheTidesThatTie #HomeForTheHolidays #StoriesAndSongs #BeaverIsland #ChristmasOnTheIsland

Send us Fan MailA live recording of Songs and Stories about Arranmore by Jerry Early, John Gallagher, Anne Connaghan and John Flanagan, recorded live at the 2025 Emerald Isle Irish Féile. Songs include:Loch Tay Boat SongThe Souls of Old FishermanNeilie EoghanThe Molleigh Jimmy WardIsland FishermanEddie Greene's HighlandLittle BirdI'll Go 

Send us Fan MailSummaryThis episode of The Tides That Tie explores the deep connections between Beaver Island and Arranmore through the lens of boat building, specifically focusing on the Irish Currach. The conversation highlights the history, craftsmanship, and community spirit surrounding the Currach Club on Beaver Island, featuring insights from local builders and rowers. The episode emphasizes the importance of cultural preservation and the role of storytelling in maintaining the heritage of these islands.

Send us Fan MailA look at Arranmore after the Beaver Island Migration in verse and song.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Ron and Kevin explore the cultural significance of the Emerald Isle Irish Féile and the Beaver Island Irish Heritage Group in preserving the island's Irish roots. They discuss the festival's role in celebrating Irish heritage through music, dancing, and community connections. The episode features interviews with Kitty McNamara, the Féile director, and Paul Cole, chair of the Beaver Island Irish Heritage Group. They share insights into the origins of the Féile, the work behind the scenes, and the group's long-term vision. The hosts also highlight memorable moments, such as the Arranmore Pipe Band's performance, and emphasize the importance of community and tradition in keeping the island's culture alive.Contact Information:Email: [email protected]

Send us Fan MailThis episode Introduces the Podcast and features a full length version of our theme song;  Two Islands, One Soul followed by an interview with the songwriters.