What’s the Story? Podcast

Hilary McGann is back! And so is the chaos of the global news cycle... well, that never really went away did it? We catch up with Hil on all we can cram into an hour - from life as a new mum and the return of her Booked In podcast to the deepening instability in U.S. and Israeli politics, this episode covers a lot of ground. We dig into Trump, polarisation in politics and society, media pressure, religion in the corridors of power, and why so much of the world right now feels like history unfolding in real time.

This week we welcomed People Before Profit–Solidarity TD Richard Boyd Barrett back to WTSpod. We spoke about returning to public life after cancer treatment, the reality of going through Ireland’s public health system, and why better access to cancer care still matters. We also get into the Cherrywood arena controversy, public spending priorities, Ireland’s neutrality, Trump, and the growing impact of toxic online culture on real-world violence.

This week we're joined by Alex Brock and Niamh Foley — two humanitarians who have worked in conflict zones such as Ukraine, Palestine, Yemen, and Iran. Niamh joins us from Kyiv, where air-raid sirens, power cuts, and sub-zero winters are part of daily life. But, thanks to amazing human resiliance, so are packed cafés, opera nights, and almond lattes. Alex shares his experience of having recently returned to Ireland. We talk about what living through a war actually feels like and the emotional toll it takes... not just on those there, but on the families watching from home. We also get into the strange, brilliant side story of how Alex, Niamh, and a small group of Irish expats in Kyiv set up a GAA club in the middle of it all.

Just us this week as we catch up on the pearl-clutching over Bad Bunny at the Super Bowl and rant about billionaires being generally awful people.

We're back! And so is Donnycarney's greatest export - Philip O'Connor. Reporting from the arse-end of the Alps at the Winter Olympics, Phil gives us food for thought on the biathlon (skiing and shooting, because of course), Olympic logistics, Irish identity abroad, journalism, fatherhood, music, America's decline, and why standing up (even in Dublin Airport duty-free) still matters. It's weird, wild, and wonderful. What else would you expect?

We haven’t gone away, you know… We may be part-timers these days, but we were never going to let this Christmas tradition quietly fall by the wayside. In true WTS Christmas fashion, we’re joined by Botswanan icon and New York Times favourite Gary Mackle, alongside his sidekick — best-selling author, award-winning journalist, TV writer, comedy genius, man of the people, etc. etc. — Paul Howard. Get comfortable, we have a two-hour magical mystery tour that winds and weaves from silly to serious, satire to scandal, with a special Christmas recipe you’ll absolutely want to try. Enjoy it. From all of us to all of you — Happy Christmas, and may 2026 be your best year yet. XoXo

Disability rights activist Bernard Mulvany joins us to talk access, action, and accountability. From broken lifts to broken promises, he lays out how a system still locks people out — and how Access for All Ireland is pulling campaigners together into one loud voice. We get into the collapse of the “Green Paper,” what real consultation should mean, the brutal rise in poverty among disabled people, and why the Justice for Harvey march must be a turning point, not a one-off. Bernard also speaks honestly about burnout in activism, the strength of lived experience (including that of his daughter, trailblazer Sophia), and the simple truth: when you design for those with the greatest needs, everyone benefits.

This week the lads bring it on down while chatting about what some might say were the best concerts in Croke Park history.

Friend of the show, Elaine Burke is back! Elaine is the host of For Tech's Sake Podcast and is a regular national media journalist and commentator on all things science and technology. This week she helps us dive into AI hype, deepfakes, online culture and the fragile state of modern media.

Summer holidays are over, and we're back for our latest batch of episodes! This week we're joined by comedian, impressionist, and broadcaster Al Foran. We chat with Al about what he has been up to recently, including trips to Washington D.C. and Saudi Arabia, the greatest Irish sportspeople of all time, will this year be better for Man Utd, and going behind the curtain on Netflix's new show WWE Unreal. *We're working on fixing Mero's audio and will have it sorted soon!

Writer and wrestling analyst Brandon Thurston joins us to break down the ongoing legal saga surrounding Vince McMahon. From shocking allegations and NDAs to shareholder lawsuits and potential fallout for WWE. This is arguably the biggest story to ever hit the world of wrestling, and its impact has changed the business forever. On this episode, Brandon brings us through: — The Janel Grant lawsuit and McMahon's resignation — John Laurinaitis flipping sides — The Ring Boy case — WWE’s reputation, locker room silence, and the “cult” of Vince — What comes next, and why arbitration could keep it all quiet

This week we're joined by two-time Paralympian Colin Judge. Colin represents Ireland at Table Tennis and has set his sights on a third Paralympic Games in LA 2028. Colin talked about his approach to the sport and the issues with classification in disability sport, coming up against his hero at the Paris games and, overcoming setbacks.

Colleen Dulle is associate editor of America Magazine and host of the Inside the Vatican Podcast. She also contributes to ABC News in the US. Her book, "Struck Down Not Destroyed — Keeping the Faith as a Vatican Reporter," will be released later this summer. With the white smoke cleared, Colleen joins us live from Rome to chat about the new Pope, conclave drama, the Church’s power struggles, and why she’s still hanging on to her faith — despite seeing all the chaos of the church up close. We also chat about her upcoming book, Vatican finances (they’re broke-ish), sex scandals, drones at the Sistine Chapel, and what a “collaborative pope” might look like.

Philip O’Connor is back — and still allergic to bullsh*t. From trans rights in sport to media responsibility, fascism creeping into society, and what Sweden gets right (and wrong), this is one of those episodes when we sit back and enjoy the ride Phil takes us on!

We're back from a few weeks off to discuss Danny becoming a Da, the Pope passing away, and the madness of Papal history. We also catch up on League of Ireland football and what desserts the lads are scoffing after this episode.

Dublin, drink, and debauchery 🍻 Historian and host of the amazing Three Castles Burning, Donal Fallon is back for a great chat about the story of the Irish pub and Dublin’s early houses. We also chat about Dev, the Monto’s wild past of guns and sex for sale, and, as always, Donal shares some great nuggets from Irish history.

This week the lads have a quick catch up as Danny recovers from the plague and braces himself for fatherhood. Mero is obsessed with M&S sweet treats and is baffled by the bowl of shamrock circus act in Washington.

Movie buff and TV guru Brian Lloyd is back to chat about the recent Oscars and if the Academy Awards actually mean anything to the average movie fan. We chat a little bit about nepobabies, must see TV, John Cena is a bad guy, and lots more. WTSpod is available in all your podcasty places and we're on Instagram @WTSpod.

Award-winning journalist and best-selling author Aoife Moore is back— talking truths, trolls, and trends in media. After a stint with the BBC, she’s taken the leap into freelance journalism, swapping the newsroom for her passion for investigative documentaries. In this chat, Aoife talks about the big decision to go solo, her love for storytelling, and why she’ll never miss Twitter. Plus, the story behind her number-one bestseller, the wild world of Irish dating apps, and how journalism (and the country) is in a bit of a state.

John Ludden's back! We last spoke to John two years ago. Now, the relentless author behind Walking Down Warwick Road, and countless other football stories, joins us to chat about his latest book exploring Man United’s iconic 60s era – from the Busby Babes to European glory. ⚽ On the episode: John tells us why his United books are flooding the charts. Behind the scenes: Researching football history and forgotten stories. Thoughts on United’s future under Ruben Amorim. Remembering the golden days of Denis Law, the tragedy and triumph behind Munich memories, Sir Matt Busby’s legacy, and lots more.

We're back! After a quiet January and short winter hibernation, WTSpod has returned. This week, our guest is journalist and broadcaster Dion Fanning. Dion is one half of the Free State podcast alongside Joe Brolly. He will be familiar to many from his work with Ireland Unfiltered, The Currency, Sunday Independent, and lots more.

The annual WTS Christmas Special with Paul Howard and Gary Mackle is back – live from Paul's kitchen. This year the lads grill Mero over his affiliation to football hooligans. Gary has a new adult store partnership. Paul shares a special Christmas recipe. And Danny buys presents in a petrol station. Thanks for listening in 2024, a very Happy Christmas and we hope 2025 is your best one yet. x

This week we're joined by retired Irish Army Captain, Senator Tom Clonan. Tom is a fully Independent Senator - with no links to any political party. He is seeking re-election in the upcoming Seanad election, hoping to continue holding the government accountable. Tom has been a tireless campaigner for the Rights of others - as an Army Whistleblower on Gender-Based Violence and as a Parent campaigning for the rights of Disabled Children, Adults, and the Elderly. Tom is a strong advocate for Irish Military Neutrality. In this episode, we talk about Tom’s first term in Leinster House, his advocacy for people with disabilities, and we ask him to put on his military analyst hat to discuss the global security picture.

This Week We dive into the murky world of fame and power with podcaster and media contributor Cassie Delaney, uncovering Sean 'Diddy' Combs' controversies and crimes — from white parties to freak-offs, abuse allegations, and much more. ✨ Plus: 🤯 Reddit rabbit holes & clam chowder forum feuds. 📺 How The Creep Dive predicts Netflix’s next big hits. 👻 Ouija boards and OAPs. 🌍 It’s internet chaos and we all love it. 🎧 Don’t miss this one! Subscribe to hear all of our new episodes free and first and head over to Instagram and X (Twitter) where you'll find us - @WTSpod

Subscribe to hear all of our new episodes free and first and head over to Instagram and X (Twitter) where you'll find us - @WTSpod This week, Hilary McGann returns to chat with us about the 2024 US Presidential Election results, surprises, fallout, and more! 🐾 Pup-date: We get the all-important update on Brie, Hilary’s puppy, and the real star of the show! 📊 Election Reflections: Hilary gives an inside look at how Americans are reacting post-election, discussing key trends and voter sentiment. 🎤 Media on the Move: We dive into how podcasts have become the go-to space for political campaigning, changing the game for media. 📚 History Deep Dives: Hilary teases an upcoming conversation with author Ben Macintyre about his book The Siege, on the 1980 Iranian Embassy hostage crisis. Follow @newsbyhil on Instagram, X, and Patreon to get more from Hilary!

This week, we caught up with the amazing Elaine Burke — tech journalist, host with the brilliant For Tech Sake podcast, and regular contributor to national media. In this episode, we get into: 🚗 Adventures in Autonomous Cars: Elaine tells us what it's like to ride in a driverless taxi and how it could change the future of travel. 🤖 Robots Among Us: From medical marvels with Robotics to stock-taking bots in supermarkets, we explore how automation is changing everyday life. 🧠 AI: Beyond the Buzz: We separate fact from fiction in the world of artificial intelligence and discuss its true potential and pitfalls. 💬 Battling Online Misinformation: As the world nervously looks to the US presidential election on November 5th, we talk about algorithms, the spread of conspiracy theories, and the importance of keeping conversations respectful. All of this and lots more!

This week we sat down with the multi-talented Ross Browne —comedian, actor, writer, radio host, and even wrestler. Ross tells us about starting in stand-up comedy and wrestling adventures, being part of the amazing Young Offenders, and finding his love for radio. In this episode, we dive into: 🤼‍♂️ Wrestling Antics: Ross shares unbelievable tales from his days in professional wrestling, including keeping kayfabe and some wild backstage stories. 🎤 Comedy Journey: We explore how Ross transitioned into stand-up comedy, his inspirations, and his most memorable performances. 🎬 Behind the Scenes of The Young Offenders: An inside look at writing for the hit show and how Ross overcame imposter syndrome. 📻 Radio Revelations: The fun and challenges of hosting a morning radio show, building chemistry with co-hosts, and laughing with listeners. You can catch Ross on stage this October at the Civic Theatre in Tallaght and the Roisin Dubh in Galway. Check out his Social Media for more details.

Subscribe to hear all of our new episodes free and first and head over to Instagram and X (Twitter) where you'll find us - @WTSpod ♿ This week we're joined by Paralympic Champion Mark Rohan! 🏅 From embracing life in sunny Portugal to sharing insights on the challenges within para-cycling 🚴, Mark opens up about his journey, the impact of athlete classifications in disability sports, why Ireland is getting it wrong, and supporting emerging talents 🌱. Plus, hear the remarkable story of a Palestinian cyclist who, having lost his leg after being shot by an Israeli sniper, overcame incredible odds and will compete at the Para-Cycling World Championships in Zurich.

Subscribe to hear all of our new episodes free and first and head over to Instagram and X (Twitter) where you'll find us - @WTSpod This week we're talking Paris 2024 Olympics with journalist Philip O'Connor who joins us after two weeks in the French capital. 🎙️✈️ We talk about the highs and lows of the games, from unforgettable victories to the controversies that captured the world's attention. 🏅🔥 What sparks the culture wars at an international event like the Olympics? How do athletes and fans navigate the complex web of polarizing issues? Philip shares firsthand insights that go beyond the headlines including telling us about his encounter with the Dutch Olympic Team and their reluctance to answer questions regarding the inclusion of paedophile volleyball player Steven van de Velde, who was convicted of raping a 12-year-old British girl in 2016. 🎧 Listen now to get the full story

Subscribe to hear all of our new episodes free and first and head over to Instagram and X (Twitter) where you'll find us - @WTSpod 🎙️ New Episode: US Election Drama with Hilary McGann! 🇺🇸 We chat with journalist Hilary McGann (News By Hil) about the latest US Presidential Election twists: Biden withdraws 🇺🇸 ➡️ Kamala Harris becomes the Democratic Nominee VP picks 🔍 Importance of swing states 🎯 How Trump captivates audiences like no one else 📣 Get the inside scoop on one of the most unpredictable elections in history! 🗳️✨

Subscribe to hear all of our new episodes free and first and head over to Instagram and X (Twitter) where you'll find us - @WTSpod This week we're joined by Dr Colm Kearns from DCU to discuss his work with Tackling Online Hate in Football (TOHIF) which explores social media abuse, particularly in football. Colm tells us about his research alongside colleagues in TOHIF and some of the fascinating details behind football fans darker online posts. To learn more about TOHIF and the research they are doing, you can visit tohif.com Also on this episode: Mero gushes over Rovers in Europe and the lads react to the gunshot heard around the world.

Subscribe to hear all of our new episodes free and first and head over to Instagram and X (Twitter) where you'll find us - @WTSpod A week for the lads to catch up and right wrongs but mostly wrong rights. 👃Mero has the sniffles 😷 Danny's done with Covid 🎸 20 years since Oxegen 🛫 WTF is rawdogging and why are lads bragging? 🦷 Ireland Men's National Team has a new Dentist / Manager 🇳🇱 Cheering on the Netherlands 🤦‍♂️(and now Spain)

Subscribe to hear all of our new episodes free and first and head over to Instagram and X (Twitter) where you'll find us - @WTSpod This week our ol' pal Fergal Devitt - otherwise known as WWE Superstar Finn Bálor - is back on the podcast to catch us up on all that's been happening since we last spoke. Celebrating his 10th year with WWE, Finn talks to us about the highs and lows of his decade with the company - including his current run as a World Tag Team Champion alongside his former student and fellow Bray man, JD McDonagh (Jordan Devlin.) We talk about his rivalry with WWE Hall of Famer Edge and the infamous 14 staples incident, his dream matches, the nuance of storytelling, and we hear about the art of making it all come together in front of a live audience and millions watching on TV.

In 2015 Danny & Mero spent an afternoon chatting to the great Mícheál O'Muircheartaigh. Following the sad news of Mícheál's passing, we are republishing this episode from way back when. Mícheál is, was, and always be a true great of broadcasting. He'll be remembered fondly and missed deeply. Shine On, Mícheál O'Muircheartaigh The two lads sat down with Micheál and heard all about his time growing up in Kerry, the history of Gaelic Games, stories across seven decades of sport from golf legend Peter Allis to the greatest hurler of all time Christy Ring. From Henry Shefflin to the great Dublin Kerry rivalry of years gone by. It's not often the two lads are stuck for words but in the presence of greatness, and with a man who loves Ireland as much as Ireland loves him, you sit forward and listen to every word. In his unmistakable Kerry accent, Micheál kept millions of people company on Sunday afternoons and shared in some of the greatest moments of Irish sport ever witnessed, this week, he shared that with WTSpod.

Subscribe to hear all of our new episodes free and first and head over to Instagram and X (Twitter) where you'll find us - @WTSpod Our guest for this episode is the brilliant Jane Casey who is sharing some of the weird and wonderful tidbits that make Ireland such an interesting place. From secret tombs to origin stories and much more, Jane has been shedding light on some of Dublin and Ireland's lesser known history. You can follow Jane on Instagram and Tik Tok by searching for @janecasey.ie

Subscribe to hear all of our new episodes free and first and head over to Instagram and X (Twitter) where you'll find us - @WTSpod On this week's episode... 🖥️ What did you want to be when you grew up? 🍑💨 Roland the Farter and the world of professional flatulists 🏆 United win the FA Cup 🤦‍♂️ Leinster comes up shy, again.

Subscribe to hear all of our new episodes free and first and head over to Instagram and X (Twitter) where you'll find us - @WTSpod The man of a million voices, comedian, and podcaster Al Foran is back on WTSpod. Al joined us to talk about what he's been up to lately and, as it is FA Cup Final weekend, we talk about Manchester United Football Club and the Erik Ten Hag saga.

Subscribe to hear all of our new episodes free and first and head over to Instagram and X (Twitter) where you'll find us - @WTSpod This week the lads catch up on life and what's going on with Bruce Springsteen, The Dublin Portal and why we can't have nice things, the urge to procrastinate, and lots more besides.

This week we're joined by Susan Dennehy – an award-winning documentary maker and radio producer. Her latest radio documentary Last One on the Train is a 6-part series (airing on RTÉ Radio One and available online) that brings a personal perspective to life for physically disabled people in Ireland. Episode five of the series features our very own Graham Merrigan. Susan chats to us about making the series, the people behind the stories, and how her daughter Grace drives her to bring these stories to life. While you're here, why not hit the subscribe button and leave a little review? You can check us out on Instagram and X (Twitter) - @WTSpod.

This week we're joined by author Richy Craven who recently released his first book – Spirit Level. Spirit Level tells the story of a directionless 20-something-year-old named Danny Hook who, after his best friend dies in a drunk driving accident, discovers he can see ghosts... but only when pissed. We chat with Richy about the book, how it came together, and what might happen next.

This week we're all about movies and TV as Movies Editor with Entertainment.ie Brian Lloyd joins us for a chat. We chat about big-screen and small-screen favourites, cast a critical eye toward the Oscars, and ask why do they reboot movies that were never any good in the first place?

This week we're joined by Irish Paralympian Kerrie Leonard. Kerrie represented Ireland at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics which, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, were held in 2021. Kerrie tells us about her experience in those historic, pandemic games and what it was like for athletes at the events. Kerrie tells us what brought her to Archery and how it helped her with mental health struggles while studying at college. Having never really intended to go to the pinnacle of para-sports, she narrowly missed out on qualifying for Rio 2016 but that left her ready and poised to take on Tokyo. With the Paris games on the horizon, we discuss qualification hopes for this year's games. And, away from archery and competing in World Championships and Paralympics, we talk a little about her other passions including being a keen horse breeder and racing fan.

This week Paul Micheau joins us from the Is it Worth It channel on social media. Paul talks about creating videos and reviewing food as an ordinary Joe. He has travelled around Ireland giving honest reviews of everything from the humble but iconic breakfast roll to Michelin Star restaurants. Paul's "Is it worth it" review is based on price, taste, and experience with Paul emphasizing the importance of always keeping it real with his audience and how this has led to some interesting encounters with restaurant owners and lovers after reviews. You can follow Paul and the Is it Worth It channel on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

For almost two years singer song-writer and activist Martin Leahy has been holding a weekly protest outside Dail Eireann to highlight Ireland's housing crisis. Drawing on his personal experience, every Thursday for over 90 weeks and counting, Martin travels from Cork to Leinster House in Dublin to sing his song "Everyone should have a home". We chat to Martin about his protest and how he feels about being called an activist. His life as a musician and his reaction to Christy Moore covering his song Snowflakes.

We're back and this week we're joined by journalist and broadcaster Brianna Parkins. In our first podcast of 2024, we take tangent talks to the next level. Our chat with Brianna starts with financial advice and ends with mullets and pornstar moustaches. There's some love for Joe Duffy, a chat about culture wars, and we hear how Australia is tackling housing very differently from Ireland.

The annual WTS Christmas Special is back and this year we have a surprise guest joining us! As the tradition goes, Paul Howard and Gary Mackle are on hand to steer us through this festive frenzy before our dynamic duo becomes a triple threat thanks to the one and only Al Foran! Merry Christmas to you and yours, we'll see you in the new year.

Subscribe to hear all of our new episodes free and first and head over to Twitter where you'll find us - @WTSpod Friend of the show, Our Man in Stockholm, Philip O'Connor returns to WTSpod to help right the wrongs in our world. Philip is a journalist and podcaster originally from Dublin and is now based in Stockholm, Sweden. Following the recent mayhem in Ireland's capital, Philip talks to us about the importance of community and why love must win over hate.

Subscribe to hear all of our new episodes free and first and head over to Twitter where you'll find us - @WTSpod This week we are joined by Irish actor, writer, poet, and performer Stephen Jones. Stephen has been performing on stage and on screen for over a decade and will be familiar to people from his roles in Red Rock, Love Hate, and most recently his TG4 drama Northern Lights.