The Ireland Rugby Social Podcast

Gavin and Lindsay breakdown England’s 34th consecutive win as they chase an eighth straight Six Nations title and fifth consecutive Grand Slam. They discuss Erin King Ireland’s new captain, the set piece and so much more.

Gareth Steenson and co-host for the women's six nations, Lindsay Peat, join Gavin Andrews to look back on Gareth’s career from missing out on Ulster due to a certain Mr David Humphreys, to his successful career in England with Exeter Chiefs and his move back home. Gareth discusses his role within Ireland Women’s camp and their preparations for the upcoming Six Nations campaign.

Rugby is built on huge hits and powerful collisions — but at what cost? In this special episode, we dive into the toll of head injuries, the latest science behind concussions, and the innovations reshaping player safety. From tackle height to culture‑changing protocols, Gavin sits down with David Irwin, Luke Marshall and Kenny Hooks to discuss how the sport is fighting to protect its players and safeguard its future.

Stuart McCloskey 'Le Frigo Irlandais' joins Conor and Gav to look back on Ireland’s Six Nations Championship campaign from the player's perspective. One of Ireland’s standout performers of the tournament, Stuart talks us through the championship game by game — from the reaction inside camp after big results to some of his best moments in green. He also discusses the atmosphere within the squad, the standards set by Andy Farrell, and why this may have been his most enjoyable Six Nations yet. Plus, Stu looks ahead to the rest of the season with Ulster Rugby and the challenge of building momentum with a talented squad.

Intent was the buzz word as former Ireland internationals Conor Murray and Mike McCarthy break down Ireland’s Triple Crown sealing win over Scotland. Mike shows off all this stats from the game as Conor highlights his key performers in green. Gavin also grabs a word with Ulster’s Tom O’Toole.

Andrew Trimble joins Conor and Gavin to look ahead to Ireland’s final Six Nations clash with Scotland and reflect on a dramatic championship. The trio discuss whether Ireland are really there for the taking, Scotland’s threat heading to Dublin, and how momentum across the tournament has shifted perceptions on teams. They also review Ireland’s win over Wales, debate key selection calls, discuss Ireland’s kicking game and the wider conversation around it, and look at the championship permutations heading into the final weekend — before giving their predictions for both the match and the title.

Conor, Gavin and Mike breakdown a vital Irish win at the Aviva, discussing an impressive Wales performance, Ireland's tactics and who makes the cut for a huge Triple Crown decider next week against Scotland. We also hear from Head Coach Andy Farrell on Ulster scrum half Nathan Doak's first cap, and from Jamison Gibson Park on his 50th cap, and what they learnt from the win.

Former Wales and British & Irish Lions centre Jamie Roberts joins the podcast to share his thoughts ahead of Ireland’s clash with Wales. Drawing on his experience at the very highest level, he weighs in on Wales’ current transition, the challenge of maintaining standards during difficult periods, and why Ireland’s consistency has made them one of the most formidable sides in world rugby. He also reflects on midfield combinations, the psychology of Test week, and the mentality required to deliver when pressure and expectation are at their peak. Jamie offers honest insight into selection, leadership and what it truly takes to perform in the biggest international fixtures.

Ulster duo Zac and Bryn Ward join this week’s episode to reflect on their very different paths into professional rugby. Former 7s star Zac shares lessons from the Olympics, handling pressure, expectation, and social media criticism. Bryn opens up on his rapid rise this season and what it’s like being part of an Ireland camp. The brothers discuss Ulster’s ambitions, competition for places, and the dream of chasing Ireland caps together.

Conor, Gavin and Mike dissect a standout Irish performance, discussing the big moments and key players that guided Ireland to a record win at the home of English rugby. We also catch up with Stuart McCloskey and Tommy O'Brien who give their thoughts on a performance that's thrown the Six Nations wide open.