The Indo Daily

‘Downfall’ is the story of the rise and fall of some of the world's most extraordinary celebrity and political figures. You can expect deep dives on how Ellen DeGeneres lost her Queen of Daytime TV crown, how a costly tumble from a hotel swing got all of Ireland talking, and the murder trial involving a sports superstar that the whole world couldn't look away from.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

He conquered the fighting world, and now Conor McGregor is quietly constructing a property portfolio across Dubin that includes pubs and apartments worth millions. The former UFC Featherweight and Lightweight champion has declared his intention to construct his own personal empire – we look at how business is shaping up. Host: Fionnán Sheahan. Guests: Amy Molloy and Dave Hanratty. This episode was originally published in October 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Land Development Agency is turning vacant state land at Dundrum's Central Mental Hospital into a new housing development for over 850 houses, duplexes and apartments. Despite planning permission being granted, there is no construction taking place because “one single individual” is holding up the development, who happens to be a property developer himself. This episode of the Indo Daily was originally published on April 10th 2024. Host: Tabitha Monahan. Guest: Fionnán Sheahan See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The term ‘alpha male’ originally referred to the animal kingdom, but online, it's become a weaponised term. With the likes of Andrew Tate and Jordan Peterson gaining global followings, who is watching their content? And what happens at an alpha male seminar? We report back from one led by ‘life and executive coach’ David Meessen. Host: Tabitha Monahan. Guests: Darragh Nolan and Rory Tevlin. This episode was originally published in December 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Born into privilege, Michael Burke Jr comes from Irish business royalty, in a family worth hundreds of million euro. But how did the son of a major pharma tycoon become embroiled in an international crypto and money-laundering scam with a former Chinese takeaway shop worker? This episode of the Indo Daily was originally published on May 24th 2024. Host: Rory Tevlin. Guests: John Burns and Rory Mullholland See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Tramore Tennis Club's annual general meeting caused a major upheaval in the seaside town, resulting in broken friendships and legal disputes. And central to the rift, is a tennis coach convicted of theft in Australia. This episode of the Indo Daily was originally published on June 8th 2023. Host: Kevin Doyle. Guest: Mark Tighe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2023, convicted UK sex trafficker David Archer arrived in Ireland to start a new life after serving six years of a 13-year prison sentence for operating a multimillion-euro vice ring in the UK. Archer later went underground before resurfacing as a bogus tradesman in Dublin. With Archer on the run, we look at the desperate motivations of a man of many identities. Host: Fionnán Sheahan. Guest: Paul Williams. This episode was originally published in February 2024. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

West Belfast rap crew Kneecap have been in the headlines from day one, but their Sundance award-winning film has caused angered in some unionist circles because of its £1.6m funding from Northern Ireland Screen and BFI. Today’s episode of The Indo Daily is brought to you by our sister podcast, The BelTel and originally released in February 2024. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last month, 51-year-old James Kilroy was unanimously convicted of murdering his wife Valerie French and was sentenced to life in prison. ­ The Central Criminal Court heard she was “savagely slaughtered” by her husband when he returned home from a night out with friends. He claimed cannabis use spurred him to kill her, but a jury rejected his claim he was insane when he murdered her. ­ Now her brother David and his family are campaigning to introduce "Valerie’s Law" in a bid to change Ireland’s legal system and honour his sister’s legacy. ­ You can learn more about ‘Valerie’s law’ and view the petition here.  ­ Host: Ellen Coyne. Guest: David FrenchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What are the links between Irish far-right activists and anti-immigration protests in Belfast where people and property have been attacked? Host: Kevin Doyle, Guest: Allison MorrisSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The peculiar social happening that is the rise of the ‘trad wife’ has led to huge debate online and in public. At its core, it is a retrofitted throwback to a simpler time, where wholesome family values and old-school gender roles ruled the roost. Why are women signing up to this divisive lifestyle trend? And how has this culture shock found itself entwined in right-wing politics? Ellen Coyne is joined by Aoife Barry, author of ‘Social Capital: Life Online in the Shadow of Ireland’s Tech Boom’, as they put the trad wife phenomenon under the microscope. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Helen McEntee exclusively discusses the defining moments of her time as Minister for Justice, including her work on domestic violence, immigration and the bomb threat that saw her family evacuated from their home. Host: Ellen Coyne Guest: Helen McEnteeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Where were you in 2009 when news broke that Michael Jackson had died suddenly at the age of 50? 15 years on, should we feel more conflicted about celebrating his music? And what has happened to his doctor, music, and lucrative estate? Host: Ellen Coyne Guest: Dean Van Nguyen See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The INLA are suspected of receiving ‘dark money’ from the Russian State. T Public and vocal support of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has come from members of the IRSP, the political wing of the INLA. This week, Continuity IRA boss John Connolly was also seen supporting Russia from the British embassy in Dublin, calling the war in Ukraine ‘a proxy war’ funded by NATO. Olivia Peden is joined by Sunday Life’s John Toner. Today's episode of the Indo Daily is brought to you by our sister podcast the BelTel. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

RTÉ’s senior executives are earning more than most of their top 10 star presenters, as revealed exclusively by the Irish Independent. The news comes hot on the heels of the unveiling of the national broadcaster’s contentious €725m funding plan, which is set to substantially dent the public coffers. After sitting down with RTÉ director general Kevin Backhurst, Fionnán Sheahan discusses the beginning of a new era at the heavily scrutinised state broadcaster. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“You’re a big man now” was jeered at Thomas Dooley as he lay bleeding to death in a Kerry graveyard in October 2022. Savagely attacked by his own relatives, one of Dooley’s last words to his wife were “run, just run”. Host: Ellen Coyne. Guest: Ralph Riegel See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why has the 93-year-old billionaire Rupert Murdoch gone into battle with his children over the future of his media empire? And who are the potential winners and losers? Host: Fionnán Sheahan, Guest: Will Hutton See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Leon Bradley, brother of gangland figures Wayne and Alan ‘Fatpuss’ Bradley, has been banned from setting foot near the former Crown Paints factory in Coolock that witnessed unrest in recent weeks. Bradley has disputed the ban, stating that he has been “targeted” as Gardai seek to restore order on Irish streets. We look at the would-be politician and his controversial family. Host: Tabitha Monahan Guest: Ken Foy See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Boasting three generations of celebrity chefs, the Allen family represents one of Ireland’s most enduring dynasties. But, despite the successes of Myrtle, Darina, Rachel and the Ballymaloe brand the family are no strangers to unsavoury headlines. Host: Ellen Coyne | Guests: John Meagher and Shane PhelanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From a troubled childhood to global fame, Sinéad O’Connor’s unique voice, talent and personality captivated audiences across the world. This weekend we mark the first anniversary of the untimely death of the Irish singer, songwriter and storyteller. This podcast was originally published on the 28th of July 2023. Host: Fionnán Sheahan, Guest: John Meagher See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Twenty years ago, the decapitated body of a mother of two was found propped up against a tree next to the river near Piltown, Co Kilkenny. The victim was 25-year-old Paiche Unyolo Onyemaechi. Now gardaí are launching a renewed appeal for information about her death. We discuss who she was, what happened to her and why this case has remained Unsolved for so long. Host: Fionnán Sheahan | Guest: Ralph RiegelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When the Irish Olympic team set off for Rio de Janeiro in 2016, expectations were high. We had Katie Tayor in the boxing ring, the O’Donovan brothers Gary and Paul rowing forward and Annalise Murphy hoping to sail towards glory. But their Olympic dreams would be overshadowed by one of the biggest international scandals ever to hit the Games. Host: Kevin Doyle | Guests: Catherine Fegan and Paul WilliamsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Weekend entertainment powerhouse Strictly Come Dancing is reeling from a series of high-profile offstage allegations. Is the beloved series in genuine trouble, or are critics just happy to take shots at the BBC? Host: Fionnán Sheahan, Guest: Sophie Peachey See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joe Biden has stepped down from the US election race, following weeks of intense pressure. Kamala Harris has his official endorsement to run in his place, but is she the right candidate? And how will Donald Trump be affected by Biden’s bombshell? Host: Tabitha Monahan Guests: Gina London and Jeff Mason See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As immigration protests become more widespread across Irish communities, some agitators have decided they would rather take a match to a local building than see international protection applicants move in. But what if that "empty building" was actually your family home? Shannon Kincaid's tells Ellen Coyne about the fire that destroyed her home in Rosscahill, Co Galway. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A ‘Walter Mitty’ is someone who lies about, or exaggerates, their military service. Northern Ireland has its fair share of fantasists including one fake cop who even called his local police station for back-up. Why do they do it and can they get away with it? Host: Ciarán Dunbar Guests: Kurtis Reid, Olivia Peden and Neil Greenberg.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Intrigue, a real-estate deal gone awry and poison. This is not the stuff of fiction but a real-life tragedy which unfolded this week in Bangkok. How and why did six people end up dead from cyanide poisoning in a luxury hotel? Host: Kevin Doyle | Guest: Sarah Newey See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brazilian model Kat Torres once made headlines on the arm of Leonardo DiCaprio, graced magazine covers and even wrote a book. But ten years later the unfiltered reality of her online influence would become the subject of a shocking BBC investigation. How did a wellness guru become a human trafficker? And how were her victims lured in? Host: Ellen Coyne, Guest: Hannah PriceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nicknamed ‘The Butcher’, Estonian hitman-for-hire Imre Arakas was extradited to Lithuania last year after serving time in Portlaoise Prison for conspiring to murder Hutch associate James ‘Mago’ Gately. Arakas has now admitted his role in the murder of well-known MMA fighter, Remigijus Morkevicius. Cartel bosses now wonder if he will divulge his Kinahan ties as part of a plea bargain. Host: Rory Tevlin Guest: Niall DonaldSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the death toll on Irish roads this year surpasses 100, we speak to Susan Gray, who lost her husband Stephen in 2004 when he was knocked down by a learner driver. She has since dedicated her life to road safety. How do we reduce fatalities and fix this national emergency? Host: Tabitha Monahan Guests: Susan Gray and Ralph Riegel See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Donald Trump survives an assassination attempt, what does it mean for America's political landscape? We explore the aftermath and implications the shooting will have on both Donald Trump and Joe Biden’s bids to win the White House. Host: Ellen Coyne Guest: Lorcan Nyhan See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In January 2022, the bruised and battered corpse of John O’Keefe was found in a Boston snowbank. His freezing body was discovered just metres from the home where his friends had been drinking into the early hours. Was O’Keefe the victim of a fatal hit-and-run by his girlfriend, or was she the victim of a police conspiracy and framed for his murder? Host; Fionnán Sheahan; Guest; Rosanna Cavallaro See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dee Dee Blanchard was the doting mother to her seriously ill daughter, Gypsy Rose. But behind the smiles and laughter there was a terrifying secret, one that would shock a family and the world, and leave someone horrifically murdered. But what was it? Host: Fionnán Sheahan, Guest: Darragh Nolan See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The tragic death of eight-year-old Elizabeth Struhs in Brisbane, Australia, provoked both anguish and outrage in the local community and now on an international stage. At the center of the storm – a deeply devoted religious sect known as ‘The Saints’, 14 of whom include Elizabeth’s mother and father, are currently standing trial in connection with her death. Host: Fionnán Sheahan, Guest; Patrick Billings See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The town of Bushey in Hertfordshire is in a state of disbelief following a violent crossbow attack in which three women – a mother and her two daughters – were killed in their home. How did it happen and who is the suspect in police custody? Host: Denise Calnan Guest: Enda Brady See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Almost three years after cinematographer Halyna Hutchins' death on the New Mexico set of the Western film Rust, actor Alec Baldwin is facing trial for involuntary manslaughter. Here’s what you need to know. Host: Ellen Coyne Guest: Terry Sheridan See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The incredible story of how former male model Patrick Crinnion rose through the ranks of garda intelligence, only to join a network of MI6 spies designed to infiltrate the Irish State. Host: Fionnán Sheahan, Guest: David Burke See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Multiple female footballers have claimed they were subjected to unwanted or inappropriate sexual advances from FAI coaches in the 1990s. A number of women have spoken to a joint investigation by the Sunday Independent and RTÉ Investigates to outline a series of harrowing allegations. This second episode looks at the personal stories of these women. Presenter: Ellen Coyne. Guests: Mark Tighe and Marie Crowe. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Multiple female footballers have claimed they were subjected to unwanted or inappropriate sexual advances from FAI coaches in the 1990s. A number of women have spoken to a joint investigation by the Sunday Independent and RTÉ Investigates to outline a series of harrowing allegations. Presenter: Ellen Coyne. Guests: Mark Tighe and Marie Crowe. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Carrie Jade Williams”, aka Samantha Cookes, made global headlines as a serial fraudster operating in Ireland for almost a decade. Having been on the run, she resurfaced as a live-in au pair in Kildare. Where is she now? If you want to hear more about the scams committed by Samantha Cookes, check out our other podcast about her escapades in Ireland. https://www.independent.ie/podcasts/the-indo-daily/the-indo-daily-fraud-fake-identities-and-exploiting-vulnerable-families-the-samantha-cookes-story/42268070.html This podcast was originally published on March 25th 2024. Host: Tabitha Monahan, Guest: Mark TigheSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The votes are counted and Keir Starmer’s Labour party have scored a landslide victory against Rishi Sunak’s Conservatives. But are the real winners today Ireland and Nigel Farage’s Reform Party? Host: Ellen Coyne Guest: Fionnán SheahanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As EURO 2024 hits its final stages, Cristiano Ronaldo has overshadowed much of the tournament. With pitch invasions, selfie attempts and an emotional outburst felt around the world, has Ronaldo become too famous for football? And why are people so obsessed with him? Host: Denise Calnan Guests: Daniel McDonnell and Dave HanrattySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dessie O’Hare, aka ‘The Border Fox’, was one of the most notorious criminals to emerge from the violence of The Troubles. He was linked to a series of killing and attacks but left the IRA in the late 1970s as he was deemed too violent and erratic for the group. Now, O’Hare is a free man once again, having been released from prison for the third time. Host: Ellen Coyne. Guest: Paul Williams See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson will return to court in the autumn to formally answer historical sex offence charges. He and his wife Lady Eleanor appeared in Court in Newry on Wednesday morning. The number of charges he faces is now 18 - an increase of seven alleged offences since his last appearance in court. This extra podcast of ‘The Indo Daily’ comes from our sister podcast ‘The BelTel’. Ciarán Dunbar spoke to Liam Tunney and Allison Morris, who were in court in Newry. Host: Ciarán Dunbar Guests: Liam Tunney & Allison MorrisSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former White House strategist and long-time Donald Trump ally Steve Bannon has reported to prison in Connecticut. Bannon is set to serve a four-month sentence, something he publicly stated he is “proud” to do. But what does his incarceration mean for Trump’s second bid for the White House? And how did Bannon rise to power in the first place? Host: Rory Tevlin Guest: Terry SheridanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rishi Sunak and his Conservative government are expected to be swept aside by Keir Starmer’s Labour Party this Thursday as the UK heads to the polls for a general election. With the outcome widely expected, what does it all mean for Anglo-Irish relations? Host: Fionnán Sheahan. Guests: George Parker and John Downing See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In August 1980, a pastor, his wife and their three children went on a camping holiday that would change their lives forever and become one of the biggest stories in the world. “A dingo’s got my baby” were the words that divided Australia as Lynn Chamberlain was accused of a shocking crime. Host: Kevin Doyle Guest: Malcolm BrownSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

o celebrate Pride, the Indo Daily finds out how the global parade got started and why the fight for equality goes on for the LBGTQ+ community. Host: Siobhán Maguire Guest: Bill Hughes. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A self-styled "outlaw", Barton was known more for his problematic antics on and off the pitch than any footballing brilliance during his turbulent career. Now retired from playing, the former Man City, Newcastle and QPR midfielder has apologised and agreed to pay damages to broadcaster Jeremy Vine following a series of offensive tweets falsely alluding to him being a pedophile, in posts seen by millions of users. Host: Tanitha Monihan. Guest: Enda Brady See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Taylor Swift brings her Eras Tour to Ireland, we look at how her fans have made her a global success and created an army of followers - some of which have become a threatening force. Host: Ellen Coyne Guests: John Meagher & Clare MartinSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.