The Indo Daily

The death of Ian Bailey leaves many unanswered questions in the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier. Irish Independent journalists Senan Molony and Ralph Riegel share their meetings and stories with Ian Bailey over the past 27 years. Host: Fionnán Sheahan Guests: Senan Molony & Ralph Riegel See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many will remember the shocking case of Josef Fritzl and his “house of horrors”. Austrian sex offender locked his daughter in a cellar for 24 years, fathering seven children with her. Now 88 and suffering from dementia, the depraved rapist is up for parole and may be moved to a care home as a psychiatric expert said he no longer poses a risk. Host: Fionnán Sheahan. Guest: Ellen Coyne. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The ruthless godfather John Gilligan is credited with ushering in a new era of organised crime and the modern narcotics trade in Ireland. The Indo Daily looks at the life and lies of Ireland’s most notorious criminal boss. First broadcast September 2023. Host: Fionnán Sheahan Guest: Paul WilliamsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

He’s the king of renovation-themed television, but Dermot Bannon is under fire as the RTÉ star opted to build first and ask later in the latest episode of Room to Improve. Is the system to blame? And where does Housing Minister Darragh O’Brien fit in to this puzzle? Host: Ellen Coyne. Guests: Fionnán Sheahan & Amy MolloySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s that time of year again when billionaires, prostitutes and world leaders converge on the isolated, snowy Swiss town of Davos. We go behind the scenes of the World Economic Forum and ask who Ireland’s wealthiest billionaires are. Host: Kevin Doyle, Guest: Adrian Weckler See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In January 2023 the Doomsday Clock, a symbolic representation of global peril, plummeted to a mere 90 seconds from midnight. As the 2024 unveiling approaches next week, have we slipped even closer to global annihilation? Host; Tabitha Monahan, Guest; SJ Beard. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Born in England into immense wealth and luxury, Rose Dugdale turned her back on riches to become a bombmaker, a thief and a terrorist. But why did she abandon her life of privilege for the IRA? Host: Fionnán Sheahan, Guest: Liam Collins See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Son of legendary footballer George, Calum Best is known for making headlines, but it’s been a long time since we have seen the celebrity socialite’s name in the news. In recent days that changed, as the reality TV star faced a grilling in a Spanish court over sexual assault charges stemming from an alleged incident in 2022. Host: Ellen Coyne, Guest: Jenn Gannon See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Described as one of the biggest miscarriages of justice in UK history, between 1999 and 2015 over 700 postmasters and postmistresses were wrongly accused of stealing money from their branches. Some were bankrupted, losing their houses, livelihoods and life savings, and others served prison sentences. It was later revealed the missing money was due to a fault in a computer program. Today’s episode of The Indo Daily comes courtesy of our sister podcast the BelTel. This was originally published on January 10th 2024. Host: Ciarán Dunbar Guest: Kurtis Reid See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Arson attacks, inner party revolt and a lucky escape for 14 migrants in Rosslare. Almost every day now we are seeing the immigration crisis from a different angle. As the issue continues to occupy the headlines and political debate, we look at its potential to shape this year's upcoming elections. Host; Kevin Doyle, Guest; Phillip Ryan See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Royalty, presidents, and Hollywood stars have been named in previously sealed documents relating to Jeffrey Epstein and his alleged abuse of young girls. Who was mentioned and what does this mean for them and the investigation into the former financier? Host: Denise Calnan Guest: Darragh Nolan See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the fallout from the Christmas Eve shootings in Blanchardstown continue, this week, Jason Hennessy Snr’s funeral will take place with a heightened Garda presence. We look at the possible repercussions and the origins of the ever-growing Corduff feud. Host; Tabitha Monahan, Guest; Robin Schiller See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the story of three long-lost siblings, all abandoned in mysterious circumstances in different Irish towns who unbelievably found their way back to each other many years later. But there could be a fourth ‘foundling’ and they need your help to find them… Host: Kevin Doyle Guests: Catherine Fegan, Helen Ward & David McBride 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.

Nicknamed the Blade Runner, Oscar Pistorius, the South African athlete was lauded for his sporting achievements the world over. But he would soon become a fallen hero following the killing of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp on Valentine's Day in 2013. After being released from prison on parole this week, The Indo Daily looks back on where it all went wrong for one of the world’s biggest athletic stars. Host: Siobhán Maguire. Guest: John Carlin This podcast was originally published on September 4th 2022.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In February 2005, 25-year-old Lisa Dorrian went missing from a caravan park in Co Down and has never been seen again. Almost two decades on, her family and the PSNI are still searching for her body in the hope for answers and justice. They have only one suspect in mind as to who killed Lisa, and her sister Joanne reveals she has even spoken to him. This episode of the Indo Daily comes from our sister podcast The BelTel and was first published on Aug. 23, 2022. Host: Niamh Campbell Guest: Joanne Dorrian and Ciaran Barnes See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 1972, 37-year-old widow, Jean McConville was dragged from her West Belfast flat by the IRA. She was shot and buried. Her children have never stopping seeking justice for Jean. Today's Indo Daily hears more about the mystery of what happened to Jean McConville. Host: Siobhán Maguire. Guest: Catherine Fegan. First Published: 26th July 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Killed in their kitchen on a cold winter’s night, the mysterious double murder that has all but been forgotten - until now. Host: Fionnán Sheahan. Guest: Liam Collins. First Published : Wednesday 22nd November 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 1999 Jill Dando was the ‘golden girl’ of British television. The 37-year-old's murder on her front doorstep shocked the world. Despite an intensive investigation and eventual arrest and conviction, the mysterious culprit remains at large to this day. As a new Netflix documentary shines a light on the case, we speak to Dando's friend and colleague Jennie Bond about the shocking events. Host: Kevin Doyle. Guest: Jennie Bond. First Published : Monday October 2nd 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A compelling new documentary ‘Lost Boys - Belfast’s Missing Children’ has shed new light on the mysterious disappearance of five children at the height of the Troubles. Only one body was ever recovered. All these tragic cases remain unsolved and unresolved. Were these cases linked? Today’s episode of the Indo Daily comes from our sister podcast The BelTel. This episode was first published on Nov. 3rd 2023. Host: Sharon O'Neill. Guests: Des Henderson and Anne Spence See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Irene White was brutally stabbed to death at her home in Dundalk, Co Louth, in 2005. Following an investigation that led to Australia, we look at the new developments that have seen the Gardai recommend that the mastermind behind the attack be charged with Irene’s murder. Host: Fionnán Sheahan. Guest: Robin Schiller. First Published: July 14th 2023 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Johnny ‘Mad Dog’ Adair was on the top of his game. He was feared by nationalists and ruled the Shankill. Then he lost it all and was forced to flee by his former comrades. Our Sister podcast – The BelTel – explores the story of how Adair lost his power and was banished from Belfast. This podcast was originally published in October 2022. This episode was first published on April 14th 2023. Host: Ciaran Dunbar. Guest: Ciaran Barnes. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Johnny Adair’s name is well known, his face instantly recognizable, his voice familiar but he’s not a famous actor or singer, he’s a ‘celebrity terrorist’. He was the pumped-up skinhead hardman who led a bloody loyalist faction in carrying out over 40 murders – most of his victims were entirely innocent Catholics. Our Sister podcast, The BelTel, explores the story of how Adair rose to power in the lower Shankill. This episode was first published on April 13th 2023. Host: Ciaran Dunbar. Guest: Ciaran Barnes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the noughties, he was all pervasive; from MTV, Channel 4 and BBC, to the biggest comedy venues across the UK and Ireland and even Hollywood. That changed in 2023 in the wake of a joint investigation from Channel 4 and The Sunday Times. In September, Brand, was accused of rape, assault and emotional abuse between 2006 and 2013. This episode of the Indo Daily was originally published on September 19th of 2023. Host: Tabitha Monahan. Guests: Allison Morris and Dee Molumby.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is the next generation coming to unsettle the tech giants of today? Blackberry, once the number one smartphone in the world, disappeared overnight. Should Apple and Android be taking notes? Host: Adrian Weckler Guest: Sean Silcoff First Published: October 19th 2023 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At the height of his fame, John Leslie was one of the most recognisable faces on UK television. All that changed in an instant when Leslie was linked to a shocking rape allegation on live tv. Despite never being charged or found guilty of any crimes, John Leslie would not make a return to our screens. Why was that and what exactly happened to tv’s golden boy? Host: Kevin Doyle. Guest: Sarah Caden. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With a peak valuation of 47 billion dollars, Adam Neumann's WeWork was once a global empire. But his vision for the company didn't stop there - he even had his sights set on Mars. Once a tech unicorn, the company has now filed for bankruptcy. We look at how it all came crashing down to earth. This podcast was originally published on November 6th 2023. Host: Tabitha Monahan Guest: Adrian Weckler See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Upon his death in 2018 reclusive millionaire William Hampton left the vast majority of his estate to Sinn Féin, despite there being little to link him to the party. Today, a small, derelict house in Carlow is the centre of intense political scrutiny. So who was the man Leo Varadkar called the “vagabond who lived in a caravan” and why did he choose an Irish political party as the main beneficiary of his will? What does his generosity mean for Sinn Féin, the housing crisis and political donations in Ireland? Host: Ellen Coyne, Guest: Fionnán Sheahan First published Sept. 20th, 2023See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Edgar Graham was murdered in broad daylight at Queen’s University on 7 December 1983. A law lecturer and unionist politician, Sam McBride examines his life and legacy and tracks down the colleague accused of setting Edgar up for the IRA. This episode of The Indo Daily comes from our sister podcast The BelTel. First Published: Wednesday Dec 6th. Host: Sam McBride. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Edgar Graham was just 29 years old when the IRA gunned him down at Queen’s University in Belfast. The young law lecturer and unionist politician was widely believed to be a future leader of the Ulster Unionist Party. Forty years later, Sam McBride investigates why the IRA targeted him, whether he was set up by a colleague, and where this lost leader of unionism might have led Northern Ireland. This episode of The Indo Daily comes from our sister podcast The BelTel. First Published: Monday Dec 4th. Host: Sam McBride. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As 2023 draws to a close, we look back at some of the more extraordinary moments to take place inside Leinster House and beyond. From international diplomacy bloopers to Oireachtas screaming matches, 2023 was another headline grabbing year for politicians across the country. The Irish Independents political team looks at the major winners and losers of the last 12 months, some of the best spats to have graced our screens, and most important which political figure has the most rizz. Host: Kevin Doyle Guests: Gabija Gataveckaite, Hugh O'Connell and Phillip Ryan. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From gangland cases in the Special Criminal Court, to RTE's drastic fall from grace during this summer's payments scandal, 2023 has been a remarkable period for Irish news. In a special edition of The Indo Daily, Group Head Of News at Mediahuis Ireland Kevin Doyle, is joined in studio by his podcast co-hosts Ellen Coyne, Tabitha Monihan and Fionnán Sheahan to talk through this years biggest and most controversial stories. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

December is drawing to a close, so it’s time for some seasonal escapism as we consider the humble festive art form that is... the Christmas movie. From heartwarming family classics, terrible turkeys to the downright weird and questionable, there truly is something for everyone on the big and small screen. But are the days of the family gathering around the TV and going through the schedule gone for good?Dee Molumby and Dave Hanratty to get into the Christmas spirit, and take you through their festive watchlist, and what movies to avoid this December. Host: Fionnán Sheahan, Guests: Dave Hanratty and Dee MolumbySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

JP McManus is donating an incredible €1million to every GAA county board. This episode, first broadcast in July 2022, profiles the Limerick billionaire. From humble beginnings, JP McManus has become the billionaire that Irish people love to love, and celebrities love to be associated with. Host: Kevin Doyle. Guest: Liam Collins. First Published: July 14, 2022See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Many faces of Frank Kilbride. How a former Fine Gael councillor, and titan of the Irish country music scene, landed himself in the middle of a high-profile legal case. McBride is accused of laundering over €2.6 million, but is this the final straw for the man who proudly wears the moniker “The Comeback Kid”? Host: Denise Calnan, Guests: Liam Cosgrove & Gabija GataveckaiteSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is Richi Sunak’s attempts to “stop the boats” sinking his premiership and why is Ireland now changing its immigration policy towards Ukrainian refugees? Host: Kevin Doyle Guests: Enda Brady & Hugh O’ConnellSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From humble beginnings as a school teacher, to one of Irelands most well-known and vocal entrepreneurs, the David and Goliath story of Pat McDonagh’s Supermacs, has at times made the Galway man a controversial figure. He has battled through controversy over workers uniforms, and covid payments, but will a ransom demand for 2 million euro over a planning application be enough to falter his fast-food empire? Host: Ellen Coyne Guest: Fionnan SheahanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From sparring partners to courtroom adversaries, Conor McGregor and former friend and teammate Artem Lobov have come to legal blows over the UFC fighter's lucrative whiskey brand, Proper 12. Lobov claims he came up with the initial concept for the venture, which sold to Proximo spirits for 600 million dollars in 2021. Will these ongoing courtroom battles dampen Conor McGregor’s ambitions to become the next Irish president? Guests: Conor McKeon and Hugh O’ConnellSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary is no stranger to controversy. Since 1994 he has grown the airline from strength to strength despite his turbulent and outspoken manner. Now, an expensive legal battle with rival Booking.com is underway, but will it dampen the tone of one of Irelands most controversial businessmen? Host: Tabitha Monahan. Guests: John Mulligan and Kevin DoyleSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joe Biden's son Hunter has been rocked by a litany of personal and professional scandals, including an affair with his late brother's wife. X-rated videos, gun charges and drug addiction makes Hunter easy prey for Trump supporters. The Indo Daily profiles the Oval Office problem child. Host: Kevin Doyle Guest: Gina London Fist published August 9, 2023.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A fractious week for Mary Lou Macdonald saw her party fail to oust Justice Minister Helen McEntee while the Dáil debate brought fresh questions around Sinn Féin's historic and recent records on law and order. Do recent opinion polls spell trouble for the opposition party or is this just a blip on their way to power? Host: Fionnán Sheahan | Guests: Gabija Gataveckaite and Paul WilliamsSee 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 actually watching their content? Has the growing industry around alpha male life coaching in Ireland contributed to the rise of toxic masculinity? Host: Tabitha Monahan | Guests: Darragh Nolan and Rory TevlinSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A dramatic 24 Hours in North Carolina, saw Molly Martens and her father on the brink of release. How did this happen? Host: Ellen Coyne. Guest: Ralph RiegelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The murder of Brandon Ledwidge in Finglas last week was remarkable in that it was the first such killing of the year. His funeral heard about a man who wasn't without a big fat joint in his mouth and a hammer in his pocket and there were violent scenes afterwards, sparking fears of an uptick in gangland feuding. What led to Brandon Ledwidge's killing and could there be more violence to come? Host: Kevin Doyle. Guest: Ken FoySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Ireland, we are at war…there is a grave danger upon us….make change, or make way.” The tweets from Conor McGregor’s during the Dublin riots have brought him to the attention of the authorities, leading many to ask if he is moving from prize-fighter to far right political influencer? Host: Fionnán Sheahan Guest: Ellen CoyneSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why did the IRA split in two, into the Provisionals and the Officials? The so-called ‘Stickies’ abandoned their armed campaign but never their guns – could the Official IRA still exist? Who were the personalities involved in the split and what became of the Workers’ Party? Ciarán Dunbar from our award-winning sister podcast The BelTel, spoke to Dr Brian Hanley, co-author of ‘The Lost Revolution: The Story of the Official IRA and the Workers Party’. Host: Ciarán Dunbar Guest: Dr. Brian Hanley See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Ukraine’s spymaster Kyrylo Budanov is a hate figure in Russia. To date, he claims no less than 10 assassination attempts have been made against him. Now his wife Marianna Budanova, a significant Ukrainian political figure in her own right, is in hospital after a suspected poisoning at their island home. So how and why might Marianna have been targeted?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From a poetry-fuelled middle class upbringing to the chaotic UK punk scene, Shane MacGowan was an innovator who wrote his own rulebook, before tearing it apart. We look back at the life of the iconic front man of The Pogues. Host: Fionnan Sheean. Guest: John MeagherSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Not so long ago, Hugh and Greg Kavanagh were emerging as the post Celtic tiger big boys in the property world. The siblings headed up a series of businesses worth millions, but a family feud has now brought them to loggerheads in the High Court. Host: Kevin Doyle | Guest: Shane PhelanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scenes of jubilation as 9-year-old Irish Israeli Emily Hand was finally reunited with her family after 50 days of being held hostage in Gaza. But how did one tweet from the Taoiseach plunge the event into an international scandal? Host: Ellen Coyne, Guest: Philip Ryan See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.