The week that really was

Sarah's big American trip

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 12:15:07 +0000

This week, Sarah tells listeners all about her big White House trip; what it was like in the room with Donald Trump, and how the Taoiseach did. Also: A bulldozed house in Meath; Fringe migrant crime ladies; and Ireland's forbidden oil wealth

The St Patrick's Day Wallet Massacre

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 12:24:56 +0000

This week John faces a personal crisis: An empty home heating oil tank as prices have risen 65%. Also: The man here for two years illegally now accused of serious crimes; The UCD rape case; Drag Queens at the Zoo, and Emiratis in Shannon.

War, what is it good for?

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 12:19:42 +0000

John and Sarah discuss a great week for Irish politicians, as a new war in the Middle East stopped them from having to do any Irish politics. Also: Fuel taxes, Burkes in Jail, Stephen Kerr arrested, and a quiet start for Catherine Connolly:

The Apology Industrial Complex

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 12:20:32 +0000

This week John and Sarah ask: When do the state apologies for historic abuse end? Why is Ireland welcoming NATO into Irish waters? Has Aontú had a bad week? Should we all be Petro-Masculinists? And is Fionnán Sheahan a monster for wearing ashes on his forehead?

Angry White Female

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 12:09:18 +0000

Should we want our young boys to be gay so they don't harm women? The Irish Times says yes, Sarah says no. Also in the podcast this week: Macron's fertility drive, Culleton's PR disaster, Ireland's tax crisis, and Mary Lou's White House snub:

Overstaying your visa is a crime

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 12:36:28 +0000

John and Sarah dive into the Seamus Culleton case and if Ireland looks hypocritical on immigration; discuss the Dublin Central by-election; the media's warped coverage of a Canadian school shooting; and whether Nigel Farage is right on working from home.

The Enoch and Epstein files

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 12:52:39 +0000

John and Sarah delve into the big stories of the week, including: A big win for Enoch Burke? Are conspiracists vindicated over Epstein? Is "stolen land" real? And should politicians go to jail for telling lies?

Flooded with nonsense

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 05:06:16 +0000

John and Sarah turn their attention wholly to the state of Ireland this week: Flooding, Housebuilding, Scrambler Bikes, Opinion polls, and Saint Brigid the Patron Goddess of Purple Haired Feminism.

The Irish Council for Civil Fiberties

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 09:31:06 +0000

After driving away listeners with 8 mins of Beckham chat, John & Sarah rip into the big story: Misinformation circulated by the ICCL and other state-funded agencies. Also: Gráinne Seoige's call for new laws, smartphones for kids, and the usual row over Trump:

Immigration, and Customs enforcement

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 03:47:19 +0000

John and Sarah start this week with analysis of the Government's immigration bill: Step forward, or too little too late? Also: Heated debate over that ICE shooting in America, analysis of Sinead Gibney's plan to nationalise X, and Mary McAleese's war on baptism:

The Climate Cost Crisis

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 11:18:42 +0000

John and Sarah open 2026 with a detailed discussion on how Climate policy drives the enormous cost of living in Ireland and Europe; and how Europe is the only place on earth where Governments seek to make things more expensive. Also: Musk's AI porn, Mercosur, and God-Emperor Trump:

Another ride around the Sun

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 02 Jan 2026 14:49:02 +0000

With John still away, Sarah is joined by Keith Redmond (aka Mr. Sarah) to reflect on the turmoil of 2025 and the challenges facing Irish politicians in 2026:

Pathologising normal

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 13:00:26 +0000

Sarah returns for the final podcast of 2025, as she and John tuck into the Micheál Martin controversy, the rise of Candace Owens, and why society seems to pathologise normal male sexuality:

Climate, Drones, and migration

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 11:40:06 +0000

With Sarah absent for a second week, John is joined by CORMAC LUCEY, who fills an entertaining episode with discussion on the great Climate Climbdown, the Government's panic on defence, why we need to be much tougher on migration, and why politics is broken:

Abandoned by the left

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 11:21:56 +0000

With Sarah off, John is joined by barrister and campaigner Laoise de Brún, and the conversation covers loads: Immigration, surrogacy, religion, hunger strikes, and why Laoise - a life long leftie - now calls herself a conservative:

Tax slaves

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 28 Nov 2025 14:00:29 +0000

This week John and Sarah discuss the crisis in the rental market and how government makes it worse, the crisis in hospitals and how tax makes it worse, Jim O'Callaghan's new immigration laws, Conor McGregor finding God, and Sarah's personal dating "icks".

Simon's Folly

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 11:50:14 +0000

"A catastrophic mistake": John and Sarah discuss the departure of Paschal Donohoe and Simon Harris's decision to make himself finance minister. Also: , Enoch Burke goes back to jail, and Sarah is outraged by the tale of a Mayo Children's hospice:

The Crooked Media

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 11:08:42 +0000

John and Sarah discuss the BBC's awful week, and RTE's relentless bias here in Ireland. Also: Are boyfriends out of fashion? Fianna Fáil's awful communications, Denis O'Brien's warning, and a big fight about Trump/Epstein:

One of us

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 11:57:27 +0000

In this week's edition, John and Sarah reflect on Simon Harris's newfound conversion to "far right" views on immigration, the demise of Ivan Yates, the miserable state of the health service, and the latest opinion poll trends.

00:00 The Departure of Ivan Yates

11:58 The State of the Health Service

25:03 Government's Shift on Immigration

28:03 Courage in Politics

29:11 Debate on Immigration

30:38 Political Integrity and Morality

32:05 Encouraging Political Change

35:27 The Rise of Zohran Mamdani

37:19 The Left's New Leadership

42:11 Irish Political Landscape

46:07 Public Discontent and Political Competence

52:31 The Future of Political Parties

Fallout

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 11:45:47 +0000

This week's podcast covers all the fallout to the great spoiled vote of 2025: Simon Harris's migration u-turn, Micheál Martin's jeopardy, the Galway West by-election, and the state of Ireland's right wing politics.

Click here to watch a video of this episode.
https://youtu.be/BIFEpzGDBiE

00:00 Introduction and Personal Reflections

02:00 Post-Election Fallout in Ireland

07:01 The Impact of Spoiled Votes

15:50 Leadership Challenges in Fianna Fáil

19:23 Government Performance and Legislative Initiatives

28:20 Emerging Voices in Fianna Fáil

30:39 Immigration Discourse and Political Responsibility

36:39 Media Dynamics and Political Debate

42:06 The Challenge of Left-Wing Politics

46:33 Reflections on Political Engagement and Voter Sentiment

Missi-CityWest Burning

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 08:36:13 +0100

John and Sarah break down the two biggest stories of the week, discussing all aspects of the Citywest sexual assault and subsequent riots, and then examining the myriad ways that Fine Gael managed to blow the Presidential Election.

00:00 Introduction to Current Events in Ireland

03:25 The Disturbing Incident in Citywest

12:08 Failures of TUSLA and Child Protection

18:02 Cultural Context of Immigration and Crime

26:16 Political Reactions and Media Coverage

35:38 The Presidential Election Dynamics

58:21 Predictions and Final Thoughts on the Election

Martin Nolan Country

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 06:37:25 +0100

John and Sarah ask: Is Judge Martin Nolan unfairly maligned or justly criticised? Also, Independent Ireland backs Simon Harris; The Deposit Return Scheme humiliates voters; and Fine Gael flounders towards humiliation.

00:00 Overview of Current Events in Politics
02:42 The Motion of Confidence in Simon Harris
11:15 The Deposit Return Scheme Controversy
20:14 Discussion on the Gender Recognition Act
29:22 Donald Trump's Recent Peace Deal
30:52 Judicial Sentencing and Child Abuse Cases
41:35 Presidential Election Predictions

Wally Brolly; Budget Folly

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 12:16:04 +0100

John and Sarah discuss Joe Brolly's latest descent into awfulness, debate Catherine Connolly's eventful week, and discuss a budget that was described as "prudent" yet ended up as anything but.

EMERGENCY EPISODE: Jimless wonders

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 12:13:12 +0100

John and Sarah react to the Jim Gavin news: His scandal, Fianna Fáil's incompetence, what it does to Micheál Martin, and why the civil service will be laughing.

00:00 The Fallout of Jim Gavin's Withdrawal
02:54 Political Implications for Fianna Fáil
05:32 The State of the Presidential Race
08:28 Voter Sentiment and Political Cynicism
10:57 The Role of Media and Public Perception
13:58 Consequences for Micheál Martin
16:36 Financial Mismanagement and Political Accountability
19:22 The Future of Irish Politics
22:18 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Gaza Gaza Gaza

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 12:47:23 +0100

This week John & Sarah turn their attention to the most popular topic with Irish pols and media and ask: What's with the Gaza obsession? Also, reflections on Barbie Kardashian and ten years of Gender Recognition. And the latest from the boring boring election:

Balls of Steen

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 11:30:18 +0100

John and Sarah bring you the inside account of the last days of the Steen campaign, and chew the fat about what the three-candidate race says about Irish democracy. Also: Some thoughts on saying whatever the F**k you want on RTE.

Becoming Tom Robinson

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 12:12:13 +0100

In an action-packed episode, John and Sarah recap the case of Daniel Aruebose, discuss John and Eoin Hayes' blackface scandals, analyse the Joe Brolly wars and attempts to murder David Quinn, and dissect the Maria Steen nomination fight.

The worst week

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 13:33:30 +0100

John and Sarah spend most of this week's episode talking about the murder of Charlie Kirk, the pathology of those cheering it, and where we go from here.

Mommy's Home

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 05 Sep 2025 12:51:53 +0100

Sarah returns to her chair this week, and shares her tale of accident and emergency horror. Also: Why she's not high on Jim Gavin's chances, the media's double standard on Graham Linehan, and reflections on the great flag wars.

It's a love story

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 13:57:48 +0100

With Sarah still sadly indisposed, John and Laura discuss the stories of the week: The big engagement in America, the controversy around Dr. Umar Al Qadri, the CSO migration numbers.. and that Sunday Indo article about how the nation loves Michael D.

Droning on

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 11:26:10 +0100

With Sarah away, Laura Perrins joins John and gives him a thorough education in why his support for delivery drones is wrong. They also discuss crime in Dublin, Maria Steen's Presidential prospects, and Laura goes off on Kneecap and Sally Rooney.

Kayfabe

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 10:40:03 +0100

John and Sarah react to big news in the Presidential race, assess Gareth Sheridan's first week campaigning, talk free contraception. And also: Why Simon Harris's personal brand may never recover from breaking "Kayfabe".

Avoidable death

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 13:36:40 +0100

Sarah re-joins the podcast this week from her Cretan retreat, and she and John discuss topics ranging from the tragic - the death of Harvey Sherrat - to the controversies around assisted suicide and the Mise Eire event, to the love lives of Pamela Anderson and Bonnie Blue.

Disunited Kingdom

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 12:44:54 +0100

With Sarah away, John is joined by Laura Perrins. They discuss the state of Britain, where immigration has become the defining political issue, as well as the Dublin Stabbing, the Tuam nuns, the progressive war on western history, and Laura's occasional desire to just keep walking.

Infidelity: Marital and Political

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 12:11:04 +0100

John and Sarah discuss the ethics of marital infidelity, the government breaking promises to themselves on spending, Tony Holohan's Presidential bid, and Molly Malone's bronze boobies.

Prancing Princes

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 12:49:42 +0100

This week's podcast begins pretty serenely with a discussion of the Presidential election, before John absolutely loses it over the state of the country. When Sarah calms him back down, they discuss the Tuam babies.

Nonsense and Nonsensibility

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 11:06:07 +0100

John and Sarah start the podcast talking about Jeffrey Epstein, and proceed to have an enormous row about conspiracy theories. Also: Javier Milei's progress in Argentina, re-running referendums, and prickly cyclists.

Bad Kitty

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 11:09:22 +0100

The settlement between Ryan Casey and the BBC on foot of comments by Kitty Holland dominates this week's podcast. Also: The state of the parties, the Presidential sweepstakes, and are school summer holidays too long?

Simon Harris's Statement-itis

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 12:19:42 +0100

John and Sarah ask if the Irish Government is addicted to pointless statements on the middle east, discuss the ubiquity of the Pride Flag, and ask why RTE's current affairs shows are so poor. Also: Sarah's favourite new Netflix show is revealed:

Getting up after midday

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 12:12:12 +0100

John and Sarah discuss the Puska family's living arrangements and lifestyle, the free money Irish artists will keep getting, Paul Reid's new job, and the UK officials who still have jobs after the grooming gangs.

Bodily Fluids

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 09:03:44 +0100

In a packed episode, John and Sarah discuss the case of the Luas "bodily fluids" incident; the Ballymena riots; the French war on Pornhub; an Irish Times' Editor's views on Media Bias; Noisy Drones; and the folly of rent caps.

I hear you're a racist now, father

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 11:53:46 +0100

John and Sarah debate the vexxed question of whether John is a racist, as Ruth Coppinger claims. Also: The power of NGOs; are Irish people homogenous; and is the Macron marriage just plain weird?

I'm 35 and I don't have a house

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 30 May 2025 12:14:07 +0100

John and Sarah devote most of this week's episode to the cost of living, and the various ways Irish families are feeling financial pressure. Also: Nick Delehanty runs for President; Cathal Crowe defends the Brits; and the Children's Hospital remains a disaster.

The Michael Gaine mystery

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 23 May 2025 10:30:22 +0100

John and Sarah ask if Gardai have questions to answer over the Michael Gaine investigation, discuss whether commemorating Normans is appropriate, ask if John's TDS is cured, and talk about the newest Bonnie Blue copycat.

Sinn Fein's Orwell moment

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 16 May 2025 10:39:27 +0100

John and Sarah discuss the UK's sharp shift right on immigration, Sinn Fein's George Orwell moment on transgender issues, Sinead Gibney's painted nails, and the role of porn in the Hawes family murders.

Skort Nation

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 09 May 2025 12:12:15 +0100

John and Sarah discuss People before Profit's anti-Gript stance, the big political bunfight about what Camogie players should wear on the pitch, and Sarah offers interesting views on the "sex for rent" bill.

The €4.4bn Migrant Hotel Racket

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 02 May 2025 10:44:18 +0100

John and Sarah look in detail at the €4.4billion awarded to often obscure companies in Ireland to house migrants; examine Sinn Fein's hypocrisy in Carrickmacross, and discuss Regina Doherty's renewed confusion over men and women.

The best Catholics in the world

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 09:29:37 +0100

John and Sarah discuss the media's slightly unhinged coverage of the Papal interregnum, dissect Conor McGregor's relevance after that Tucker interview, and argue over women's right to know everything about their partner. Also: Are Paedophile hunters good or bad?

Old fashioned women

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 10:58:40 +0100

John returns to the podcast as he and Sarah discuss this week's various triumphs for old-fashioned women: The UK transgender ruling, Katy Perry in space, Mary Lou's poll boost, and so on. Also: Are lots of us pretending to have fake medical conditions?

00:00 Introduction and Context
01:14 The UK Court Ruling on Gender Identity
03:39 The Impact of the Ruling on Women and Society
12:03 The Broader Implications for Trans Rights
18:09 Political Landscape in Ireland
20:17 Government Performance and Public Sentiment
30:03 The Identity Crisis of Finna Gael
33:33 Leadership Changes and Political Dynamics
35:37 Public Perception and Political Competence
39:51 The Role of Communication in Politics
42:46 Violence and Political Narratives
51:09 ADHD

Sex, drugs, and Enoch Burke

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 13:10:47 +0100

Sarah Ryan, minus her usual whipping boy, is joined instead by her husband Keith on this week's episode. They discuss Trump's tariffs, Ireland's exposure to economic ruin, and then for fun they debate whether libertarianism has any merit whatsoever.

The many perils of cleavage

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 12:45:49 +0100

John and Sarah discuss Dublin City Council's move to protect the Molly Malone statue from boob-gropers, discuss Donald Trump's cleavage of the western economy with tariffs, and laugh quite openly at RTE's new campaign to tackle "fake news and misinformation".

Toxic Femininity

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 14:02:50 +0000

John and Sarah ask why nobody ever talks about toxic femininity; discuss the great speaking rights row in the Dáil, and the new transgender controversy engulfing Irish scouting.

Toxic Masculinity and Vaccine Wars

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 05:31:00 +0000

John and Sarah discuss Conor McGregor, Fine Gael's new war on "toxic masculinity", look back on covid five years on, and have a good old fashioned row about the covid vaccines.

Cheers Pal

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 05:00:29 +0000

John and Sarah discuss the white house shindig, foreigners buying homes in Ireland, migrant crime figures from the UK, and the celebrity cheating scandal that has women up in arms.

Tradwives and Lenin

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 04:21:18 +0000

John and Sarah discuss "a week where decades happened", debating whether America is a falling Empire or recovering its greatness, discussing Micheál Martin's upcoming visit, and asking: Does the Irish opposition suck? Also, tradwives, NGOs, and assisted dying.

The female of the species

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 07:20:36 +0000

John and Sarah debate - are females more gullible? And also: Why do paedophiles keep getting away with it? Why don't the public care about wasteful spending? And why does the Government want to make some people homeless?

The Bonnie Blue Line

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 13:03:39 +0000

John and Sarah discuss Garda invasions of privacy, Jim O'Callaghan's start in Justice, the latest stabbing in Dublin, Pregnant Porn stars, and the latest horrors from Gaza.

00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Week's Events
02:53 The Controversial Garda Incident
05:52 Media's Role in Political Narratives
09:06 Justice Minister's Performance and Challenges
11:57 Reflections on the Gaza Conflict
15:07 Dublin Stabbing Incident and Immigration Issues
38:10 The Changing Landscape of Dublin
42:59 Cultural Commentary and Controversial Figures
52:09 Trump's Influence and Political Commentary

The Migrant Crime Weekly

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:14:14 +0000

In a week dominated by crimes committed at home and abroad, John and Sarah tackle the issue of migrant crime head on. Also: How should men comport themselves on Valentine's Day; why does Micheál Martin love one Senator so much; and why do women love alternative medicine?

00:00 Valentine's Day and Gender Dynamics
05:20 Migrant Crime and Public Safety
10:51 State Responsibility and Immigration Laws
16:58 Public Sentiment and Political Accountability
25:32 Political Conduct and Personal Responsibility
28:18 The Impact of Alcohol on Behavior
29:57 Political Accountability and Public Perception
31:42 The Hypocrisy of Political Morality
35:40 Sexual Misconduct in Politics
39:00 The Culture of Silence in Political Misconduct
40:32 Media Influence in Politics
42:11 Public Understanding of Political Processes
44:55 Critique of Political Nominations
48:02 Trump's Recent Political Moves
52:08 Exposing Government Spending and Ideological Issues

Sad Teacher

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 12:15:03 +0000

With Sarah away due to a bereavement, John is joined by Laura Perrins. They discuss Donald Trump's big week, argue over who should pay for rural electricity, and is Irish politics blind to the suffering of teachers?

Powerless

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 14:05:21 +0000

On this week's podcast, viewers can watch John be wrong and Sarah be right about the Seanad election in real time. Also, reflections on Storm Eowyn, and a heated argument about Robert F Kennedy, Jnr.

New Government, New President, New Era?

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 13:16:11 +0000

John and Sarah discuss the new Irish Government, the New Irish President, why the new Minister for Immigration is the worst job in Irish politics, whether the US is savable, and why Sarah thinks a certain person is a "f**king niffnuff".

24 hours in A&E

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 09:23:20 +0000

John and Sarah on Biden's exit, the new programme for Government, what it's like to need a hospital in Ireland today, and the heroic achievement of Bonnie Blue.

New Year, Same Us

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 11:05:42 +0000

As 2025 opens, John and Sarah lay out some predictions for the year, ask why so many "bright young thing" liberals fail, and discuss the ongoing fallout around grooming gangs in the UK.

03:49 Predictions for 2025
10:01 The Rise and Fall of Liberal Leaders
17:59 Ireland's Political Landscape and International Relations
24:37 The Role of Leadership in Crisis Management
25:33 Political Predictions and Their Implications
26:56 The Grooming Gang Scandal and Its Fallout
28:17 Elon Musk's Influence on Politics
30:11 Transparency in Political Interference
33:02 Cultural and Racial Dynamics in Crime
34:51 Victimhood and Feminism: A Double Standard
39:10 The Value of Victims in Society
46:30 The Institutional Failures in Protecting Victims

Another year over

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 15:47:20 +0000

John and Sarah review the year by reviewing John's good and terrible predictions that he made in January. But before that: The lawyer who traded pictures for money on twitter, and the Taoiseach who traded Ceann Comhairles for power.

Saying no to Ho Ho Ho

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 00:50:59 +0000

John and Sarah discuss the exertions of porn star Lily Phillips, the merits of keeping kids in the dark about Santa Claus, the return of Katherine Zappone, the exit of Eoin Hayes, and some stuff about transgenders.

Five more years baby

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 08:55:05 +0000

John and Sarah review the election, look forward to five more years of Micheál Martin, look at the strength of "vote left transfer left", and also muse on the Toy Show, Hunter Biden, and the tragic case in New Ross.

Election Day Musings

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 29 Nov 2024 12:22:06 +0000

John and Sarah attempt (poorly) to predict the election, and also discuss Dee Devlin's statement on Conor McGregor, Assisted Dying in the UK, and should dirty jokes from 17 years ago get you suspended?

Everything falls apart

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 14:30:13 +0000

John and Sarah bid farewell to a beloved colleague, and then turn their attention to the wheels falling off the Fine Gael bus. What went wrong - and could politicians across all parties get punished for an utterly insipid campaign?

The McGregor Trial: A postmortem

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Sun, 24 Nov 2024 01:05:34 +0000

John McGuirk is joined by Gript Media's Fatima Gunning, who sat through nearly all of the McGregor trial, and Laura Perrins, former criminal barrister, to talk through the evidence and verdict in the the civil case that captivated the nation.

Voting our way through WW3

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 13:15:29 +0000

John and Sarah talk the latest twists in Russia and Israel, Blindboy's new RTE documentary, and the latest twists in the very, very, very unexciting general election.

Campaign Roundup: The debate from hell

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 13:24:51 +0000

"Derek Blighe should have been in that debate" - John and Sarah discuss the RTE debate, and the campaign where all the parties agree and are having fake rows about nothing of importance.

No awards for us

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 13:00:59 +0000

John and Sarah bemoan their lack of recognition at the national media awards, review another boring few days in the greatest election of our age, Donald Trump's cabinet nominees, and why John is not a fan of Micheál Martin.

00:00 Introduction to the General Election Landscape
02:40 Media and Political Awards
03:36 The Hutch's Candidacy: Implications for Dublin Central
07:28 Sinn Féin's Vulnerability: Polling and Leadership Concerns
10:01 Sinn Féin's Policy Stagnation: A Critical Analysis
19:46 Fianna Fáil's Campaign: A Lack of Substance
24:10 The Rise of the Social Democrats: A New Hope?
26:37 Micheál Martin's Political Legacy
32:18 Election Dynamics and Candidate Insights
38:04 Trump's Cabinet and Political Change
43:43 Political Strategies and Public Perception
45:56 Climate Change and Political Posturing

Campaign Roundup 1

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 15:44:00 +0000

With the election campaign underway, John and Sarah review the major issues of the first few days. Which appear to be Michael O'Leary, and whether the country wants new energy or change.

Orange Man Good

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 08 Nov 2024 11:51:54 +0000

John gets a deserved spanking from Sarah over his Trump Derangement Syndrome, The US election gets thoroughly analysed, and a look forward at the very short three weeks campaign to come here in Ireland.

02:55 The Shift in Voter Sentiment
06:14 The Impact of Campaign Messaging
08:56 Reactions from the Media and Political Pundits
12:00 The Future of American Politics
15:09 Reflections on Trump's Second Term
17:53 Cultural Reactions and Public Sentiment
20:53 Final Thoughts on Political Dynamics
34:05 Election Chaos and Cynicism
39:58 Political Punditry and Voter Apathy
45:09 The Need for Robust Political Discourse
54:18 Anger in Politics and the Power of Voting

Trump v Harris: Karl Rove predicts the election

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 11:07:34 +0000

"I've never seen a race like this" - John McGuirk talks to legendary Republican strategist Karl Rove about what to expect tonight as the Harris/Trump votes come in, and what key counties to watch in Georgia, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania.

Small lies like these

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 13:02:36 +0000

John and Sarah discuss the new Cillian Murphy "Ireland was awful" movie and it's predictable acclaim; offer final thoughts on the Trump/Harris campaign, and discuss issues that won't come up in Ireland's general election:

03:13 Cultural Reflections on Ireland's Past
06:02 Critique of Modern Cultural Narratives
08:51 The Impact of Historical Narratives on Society
12:03 Contemporary Issues and Social Pressures
14:54 Transgender Issues in Society
18:10 Political Implications of Gender Discussions
21:02 Election Predictions and Political Landscape
30:06 The TikTok Political Experiment
33:44 The Dynamics of Trump and Harris Supporters
37:33 The State of American Politics
40:42 Retail Politics and Candidate Effectiveness
43:36 Cultural Consequences of the Election
46:17 The Irish Political Landscape
57:12 The Impact of U.S. Elections on Ireland

All this stuff is normal

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 12:37:33 +0100

John and Sarah discuss the latest developments in sex ed, the passage of the hate crime bill, the government clearing the decks for an election, and why John has full blown Trump derangement syndrome, god love him.

Nonsenseland

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 15:25:41 +0100

With an election due to be called any day now, John and Sarah review the state of the opposition. Also: Councils ban Bibi, Roderic escapes scrutiny, and tragedy in Argentina.

Bad Teacher

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 13:29:39 +0100

Sarah and John discuss the spy in the Oireachtas, Sinn Fein forgetting how to do politics, Scary Movies, Scarier Sex Education, and the Government buying the media in a packed podcast this week.

One angry man

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 11:09:07 +0100

John and Sarah walk through the budget, John's row with an unfortunate Fine Gael canvasser, the latest celeb muck from Philip Schofield and P. Diddy, and the horrifying case of the woman allegedly tortured in Dublin.

00:00 Budget Week Insights
05:54 Child Welfare and Family Support
12:09 Critique of Government Spending
17:45 Opposition Response and Political Dynamics
23:48 Vice Presidential Debate Analysis
29:52 Celebrity Controversies and Accountability
35:46 Rising Violence in Society
51:48 Concluding Thoughts on Current Events

We can hate who we want, now

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 11:57:17 +0100

In the aftermath of the defeat of the hate speech legislation, John and @sarahcatryan unleash a torrent of what some might consider hate speech towards the bike shed, the children's hospital, various members of the Government, and President Higgins.

The voters, the fools

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 12:53:26 +0100

John and Sarah examine the contradiction between Fine Gael's standing in the polls and the state of Scoliosis treatment for children. Also: Simeon Burke and the law library, Micheal Martin's endless leadership, and did Israel blunder in Lebanon?

02:45 Political Landscape and Opinion Polls
05:47 Fine Gael's Momentum and Election Strategy
09:01 Health Care Crisis: Scoliosis Case Discussion
12:05 Government Accountability and Public Health
14:50 Contraception for 16-Year-Olds: A Controversial Policy
21:01 Israeli Operations and Ethical Considerations
23:49 Final Thoughts and Reflections

They're eating the dogs

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 11:58:32 +0100

The big debate in America; The big windfall at home; Another clue about the election date; and Ireland's useless opposition misses again - John and Sarah round up the week.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Week
01:22 Analysis of the US Presidential Debate
12:57 Political Landscape in Ireland: Dáil Returns
16:50 Sinn Féin's Challenges and Opportunities
28:04 The Role of Immigration in Irish Politics
40:12 Discussion on the 13 Billion from Apple
51:14 Accountability in Government Spending

A new frontier for nonsense

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 11:18:37 +0100

John and Sarah discuss the SPHE book that set tongues wagging; the world's most expensive bike shelter; what may be the world's most expensive sex abuse enquiry; and why some stories impact you emotionally more than others.

00:00 Introduction and Discussion of Topics
02:18 Controversy Over Depiction of Irish Culture
09:32 Emotional Impact of the Middle East Hostage Situation
19:24 Concerns About the Abuse Scandal in Catholic Schools
29:25 Balancing Believing Victims and Presumption of Innocence
29:53 Presumption of Innocence in Sexual Abuse Cases
40:07 The Controversy Over the Cost of a Bike Shelter
53:24 Government Involvement in Regulating Ticket Prices for Concerts

Back to School

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 12:21:59 +0100

John and Sarah discuss the latest developments in the Enoch Burke case, the nude cyclists and the Mayor of Cork, Kamala Harris finally agreeing to an interview, and the latest revival of the hate speech bill.

00:00 Introduction and Back to School Week
01:00 Enoch Burke's Return to School and Stance on Pronouns
09:58 Discussion on the Stabbing Incident in Galway
16:54 Proposed Ban on Smoking in Beer Gardens
24:55 Critique of the Naked Cycling Event in Cork
27:47 Inconsistent Enforcement of Public Indecency Laws
28:41 Cycling in the Nude and Boundaries
31:03 The Pavel Durov Case
35:10 The Proposed Hate Speech Bill in Ireland
45:20 Changes in Childcare Subsidies
47:10 The US Election and Constructive Criticism

Beauty pageants

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 11:06:56 +0100

John and Sarah discuss beauty contests this week: The upcoming election, during which politicians will flash their ankles. The Democratic Convention, which attempted to entice us to Kamala, and the Rose of Tralee, which has nothing to do with beauty at all:

00:00 Apologies and Introduction
01:22 Minor Public Spat and Election Speculation
04:05 Fine Gael's Advantage and Fianna Fáil's Risk
06:03 Navigating the Election Campaign
11:37 Potential Government Formation Scenarios
13:43 Cynicism and Promises in Politics
17:03 The Need for Substance in the Campaign
21:28 Facing Fines for Climate Targets
22:56 The Challenges of Meeting Climate Change Targets
33:30 Critiquing the Democratic National Convention
42:29 The Rose of Tralee: Defining Irishness

Raygunism Revived

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 08:03:31 +0100

Sarah and John review a week that featured big revelations about government spending, plans to abolish same sex schools, a big love island breakup, and a disagreement over olympic breakdancing.

00:00 Introduction and Weather
00:55 Government Spending and Lack of Discussion
01:48 Media Coverage and Lack of Challenge
03:08 Lack of Hard Conversations in Irish Politics
13:19 Issues with Single-Sex Schools
26:28 Prison Overcrowding and Drug Use
30:04 Overcrowded Prisons
31:42 Government's Focus on NGOs and Charities
33:40 Passport Issues at Dublin Airport
38:03 The Public's Obsession with Celebrity Breakups
52:30 The Emergence of Citizen Journalism

Silly Season Delayed

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 09 Aug 2024 12:05:26 +0100

In what should be silly season, John and Sarah discuss a surprisingly busy week: Riots in the UK, an anti-media rebellion for Kellie Harrington, a new VP nominee for Kamala Harris, and Simon Harris goes to war with Elon Musk.

00:00 Introduction and Discussion of Recent Events
01:07 Hypocrisy in Media and Politics: The Treatment of Athletes
06:32 Dismissive Attitude Towards the Concerns of the Working Class
14:37 Biased Coverage of Protests and Riots
18:09 The Potential Impact of Social Media Regulation
25:15 Elon Musk's Controversial Tweets
29:22 Kamala Harris' Choice of Running Mate
30:18 The Electoral College System
33:06 Cooperation vs. Co-option in Politics
39:38 Unity Between Orange and Green in Belfast
44:27 The Upcoming General Election in Ireland

Hot summer of discontent

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 09:51:03 +0100

John and Sarah discuss the controversy around the Olympic games, the riots in Southport, the death of Edna O'Brien, and ask whether it's time to revisit the way the state engages with Travellers after the Dooley murder in Kerry.

00:00 Introduction and Discussion of the Olympic Opening Ceremony

13:10 Tragedy in Southport and Societal Issues

16:46 Frustration with the Government's Handling of Immigration

24:06 The Need for a Reasonable and Informed Discussion on Immigration

26:21 Misrepresentation of Edna O'Brien's Books

36:40 The Presence of Irish Troops in Lebanon

41:03 The Need for Conversations about Traveler Culture

49:14 The Controversy Surrounding Kamala Harris

Gaslight nation

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 26 Jul 2024 11:06:47 +0100

John and Sarah discuss Sinn Fein's new immigration policy, the fantasy of "public service broadcasting", Catherine Martin's bad press conference, and the pitfalls of the Trump versus Kamala Harris election.

The battle of Coolock

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 19 Jul 2024 12:23:48 +0100

John and Sarah discuss events in Coolock, which has John "f*cking livid", as well as the attempt on Donald Trump's life, why Sarah adores JD Vance, and why Sinn Fein's apology to its voters likely won't work.

Technical difficulties

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 14:57:58 +0100

John and Sarah discuss a week of implosions, including the implosion of Independent Ireland, the disintegration of Joe Biden's campaign, and yet more lenient sentences in our mess of a justice system. Unfortunately, technical difficulties mean this week's audio is sub-par: We apologise.

The baby bust

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 05 Jul 2024 00:28:23 +0100

John and Sarah discuss the fallout from the Biden debate debacle; Independent Ireland's woke turn; the rise to power of Ebun Joseph, and the many many people who simply aren't having children.

Burn it all down

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 09:08:24 +0100

John is on holiday; Sarah is taking refuge in the loving arms of Taylor Swift; and both are in absolute despair at the events of the week in the Oireachtas ranging from standing ovations to baby finance ministers.

Far Right flying

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 09:50:28 +0100

John and Sarah react to the Cathal Crotty case, and Fine Gael's continued claims to be the party of law and order. Also: Eamon Ryan's departure, Michael O'Leary is far right now, and Micheál Martin is feeling left out.

Licking her wounds

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 09:38:04 +0100

John McGuirk talks to co-host Sarah Ryan about what it was like to spend 3 days at the RDS, only to come out on the losing side; what the elections might mean for the future of a "right" in Ireland; and why Holly Cairns has something to be sorry for.

Predicting the elections

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 10:06:46 +0100

As voters cast their ballots, John and Sarah review the election campaign, and stick their necks on the line with predictions for each of the Euro constituencies, and the local elections.

A backpack of invisible privileges

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 31 May 2024 11:29:19 +0100

Title: A backpack of invisible privileges

Blurb: John and Sarah discuss the implications of the surrogacy bill; The slow motion car-crash that is the children's hospital; Michael D. Higgins' continued abuse of his office; and the very very bad verdict on Sinn Fein from the doorsteps

Stick up your posters and see what happens

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 24 May 2024 10:07:55 +0100

With two weeks until polling day, John and Sarah take stock of the state of the EU and local election campaign. Also: Will recognising palestine help the Government? And Sarah argues that young women are in "a crisis".

Nobody hates you like somebody who loved you

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 17 May 2024 10:36:25 +0100

PODCAST: Are Sinn Fein irretrievably done for with working class voters who feel betrayed? Did we over-react to the Dublin Portal hijinks? And Sarah explains why she'd always prefer a man to a bear.

Doomsday Views

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 10 May 2024 10:28:42 +0100

John and Sarah discuss whether there's merit in chemical castration for paedophiles; What to make of Bambie Thug and Eurovision; Javier Millei's astonishing success in Argentina; and general European and Local election chat.

Perfidious Albion

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 03 May 2024 09:47:31 +0100

John and Sarah review the week, including Ireland's renewed - if conveniently timed - war with Britain on immigration; reflections on the battle of Newtownmountkennedy; whether the polls are to be believed; and is the cost of living being ignored?

The Elephant in the Room

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 10:08:39 +0100

Sarah Ryan explains to John McGuirk why she has decided to manage Niall Boylan's EU election campaign. Also, they talk about events at the Oireachtas committee on immigration, Helen McEntee's bad week, and are smartphones the new "microchipping"?

The Cass Report, with Helen Joyce

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 08:59:17 +0100

Bestselling author, Journalist, and now campaigner Helen Joyce joins John and Sarah to explain the contents of the Cass Review into the treatment of "transgender" children, and the wider implications of transgender ideology on western society.

Satan Lives

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 10:34:02 +0100

John and Sarah discuss Simon Harris's cowardly reshuffle, the desired return of Kate O'Connell to frontline politics, the Cass Review, and the state of abortion politics, stateside.

Two stuttering wafflers who say nothing

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 09:21:16 +0100

John and Sarah talk JK Rowling's defiance of the Scottish Government, The Government's incestuous relationships with journovisors, the costs of a United Ireland, Sinn Fein's loss of "middle finger status", and checking in on Trump v Biden.

Identity Crisis

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 29 Mar 2024 08:57:16 +0000

John and Sarah discuss how the week-long debate on the Hate Speech Bill underlines the identity crisis facing Ireland's politicians; The possibly permanent loss of Sinn Fein's mojo; and why Assisted Suicide absolutely is a slippery slope, and one that cannot be escaped.

The Harris ascendancy

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 09:52:10 +0000

The fall of the House of Varadkar is set to leave the country in the hands of Simon Harris, at 37, the youngest Taoiseach Ireland has ever had. John and Sarah talk through Varadkar's legacy, and are divided on the prospects for Harris as leader.

Tent City

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 11:14:00 +0000

John and Sarah discuss the tent city on Mount Street and the collapse of Irish immigration policy, as well as the Taoiseach's comments on Saint Patrick, Dylan Mulvaney's hot new music video, and the sudden decline of the Late Late Show.

You're not alone

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Sun, 10 Mar 2024 13:24:43 +0000

In a special reaction episode, John and Sarah analyse the Government's crushing defeat in the referendums on the 39th and 40th amendments. Their takeaway? "A lot of people who felt very alone now know that they're not the ones in the minority at all".

Driven two Spirits

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 08:40:07 +0000

John and Sarah discuss the Government's new sex education reforms, including the new gingerbread person. Also: Final referendum predictions, Sinn Fein's continuing woes, and the Government, if it will do nothing else for us, will at least kill us off before the end.

Double Standards

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 09:55:37 +0000

John and Sarah talk about an epidemic of double standards in Ireland: The lack of any concern about the attack on Carol Nolan's office, as opposed to the horror at the NWCI receiving mean tweets. Also: FF's selection mess, crazy cat killing women, and the perils of canvassing.

The Taoiseach takes flight

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 08:22:05 +0000

John and Sarah recap an eventful week, from the Taoiseach's flight and fight attitude to Gript, the continuing chaos of the referendum campaigns, a sausage festival in Belfast, and the competing scandals in a Limerick hospital.

Verifiable lies and boiled tits

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 08:37:01 +0000

In this week's edition, John and Sarah discuss being male, pale, and stale, per an FG MEP, as well as the mounting Children's hospital disaster, Simon Harris's latest bright idea, and Michael McDowell's palpable fury over Government misinformation in the referendum campaign.

Expensive women and fast czars

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 09 Feb 2024 09:02:07 +0000

John and Sarah discuss the funding of the National Women’s Council of Ireland, which Sarah insists doesn’t represent her. Also: The Sinn Fein polling slump is real, Euthanasia breaks new frontiers in Holland, and Joe Biden is now talking to the dead.

Crime and no punishment

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 09:27:32 +0000

John and Sarah review some of the sentences from the Irish courts in January, and conclude that it’s a good time to be a criminal in Ireland. Also: Is politics putting women off dating, and are Sinn Fein in serious decline?

A carnival of nonsense

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 08:58:06 +0000

A dumb new RTÉ funding plan, a stupid controversy over the Oscars, confusion from the electoral commission, and a covid enquiry that won’t blame anybody: The week was a carnival of nonsense, says Sarah Ryan, and John finds it hard to disagree.

The things you’re supposed to think

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 19 Jan 2024 10:07:27 +0000

John and Sarah discuss Javier Millei and the World Economic Forum, and how Argentina’s President is confounding expectations. Also, Roderic O’Gorman and Throuples, Roscrea’s community hotel, and Jordan Petersen’s re-education.

Unvetted

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 10:15:07 +0000

John and Sarah discuss the latest developments in Ireland’s widening immigration debate, including the vexxed question of whether it’s justified to be worried about “unvetted migrant men”. Also: a heated debate about whether historic sex crime trials can ever be fair.

New Year, Same old us

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 05 Jan 2024 10:22:20 +0000

John and Sarah discuss how Ozempic has made new years resolutions moot for both of them, and also, share their predictions for the year ahead, featuring plenty of misery for the Irish Government.

Reviewing the Year

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 08:30:56 +0000

“The hate speech bill was when the tide began to turn” – Sarah and John look back on a year that may be remembered, in decades to come, as one of the most politically eventful in Irish history.

Unspoken Qualms

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 11:50:21 +0000

With surrogacy on the political agenda this week, John and Sarah have a frank discussion about the issues involved, and why they both have deep concerns about surrogacy for money. But first: Aodhan O’Riordain’s flip-flops, and a very predictable last minute COP deal.

The mental load

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 08 Dec 2023 10:09:13 +0000

John and Sarah discuss Helen McEntee’s very broad definition of “far right”, why they’re both voting NO twice on March 8th, and why men are so useless at domestic chores. Also: Paschal Donohoe’s future, and the increase in domestic violence.

Oh look, an elephant

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 12:00:44 +0000

John and Sarah discuss the week that really was, including the background to Gript’s deleted story, and the wider ongoing coverage and cultural concerns around events in Dublin over the past week.

Dublin on fire

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 24 Nov 2023 13:45:20 +0000

“They cannot figure out that it is not the “far right” fuelling anti-immigration sentiment in Ireland, it is anti-immigration sentiment fuelling the “far right”. John and Sarah discuss yesterday’s events, and the week that led up to them.

Were they stoned when they wrote it

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 10:08:08 +0000

John and Sarah discuss RTE’s doom documentary from the future, the broadcaster’s big bailout, Tubridy’s new gig, and why Sarah thinks the new Independent Ireland party is going places.

Justice served

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 11:03:06 +0000

JUSTICE SERVED: John and Sarah react to the Ashling Murphy murder trial verdict, and discuss other legal matters of the week: Was Maria Bailey vindicated? Is Chris Andrews TD right to sue a journalist? And is Russia trying to rig Irish elections?

The ongoing covid hangover

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 09:40:42 +0000

Businesses suffering, marriages failed, faith in vaccines undermined: John and Sarah discuss the ongoing hangover from lockdown, the reasons nobody will accept any blame, and the lack of an enquiry. Also, how kids should play.

The Far Correct

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 10:18:05 +0100

On Immigration, it turns out that the far right was… the far correct? John and Sarah are joined this week by Laura Perrins of @theconwom to discuss that, as well as conflicting UK/Irish narratives on Gaza, and whether Mary McAleese would make a good priest.

1:06 Intro

1:37 Laura Perrins : There has been a change in tone of coverage following Gaza attack.

5:30 - Context is crucial

9:10 - Irish Journalists

9:33 - There are eyebrows being raised in the US at the Irish position on Israel.

19:07 - It has long been a far right talking point that Ireland is full.

27:53 - Economic migration is the most devastating kind for the climate.

32:00 - Far Right

34:35 - People use terms like Nazi to shut down debate on issues like immigration.

37:28 - Laura Perrins disagrees with Mary McAleese that women should have priests.

Hit me Paddy one more time

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 10:49:07 +0100

This week’s podcast covers Paddy Cosgrave’s sudden fall from grace, the disturbing revelations in Britney Spears’ new book, and asks: What’s become of us that we want to teach Irish children that they’re privileged for being white, or male, or Irish?

0:02:06 - Israeli State Visit and Misconceptions

0:08:20 - Paddy Cosgrave

0:11:13 - Social Media's Impact on Reputation

0:14:36 - Irish Media's Influence on Pro-Palestine

0:19:00 - Britney Spears

0:25:57 - Trauma

0:33:38 - Norma Foley

0:35:00 - White privilege

0:35:50 - Minister of Education's Lack of Accountability

0:44:43 - Perpetuating Victimhood and Mental Health Disparity

0:48:30 - Talent problem

0:51:00 - Voting Culture

0:53:25 - Demands and Discouragement in Politics

Hatikvah

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 13:06:55 +0100

The budget and the war: Two topics dominate this week’s podcast, after a very depressing week. Do Irish politicians lack imagination? And is there any prospect at all of peace in the Middle East? John and Sarah discuss:

Despatches from the Seanad

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 06 Oct 2023 10:21:29 +0100

John and Sarah are joined from the Seanad by Senator Ronan Mullen, in an episode that covers Colette Colfer’s stand against her university’s new gender policy, an update on the hate speech bill, and a question about whether the Seanad is a more hostile place than it used to be.

00:00 - Intro

00:58 - Senator Ronan Mullen

01:35 - Colette Colfer

06:45 - Hate Speech

08:00 - Gender Equality

09:24 - Roderic O’Gorman

10:40 - Workplace Relations Commission

14:49 - Gender Identity, Pronouns, and Mandating Speech

21:06 - Gender Dysphoria

22:35 - Helen Joyce

23:45 - Children's Exposure Concerns

31:10 - Hate Speech Bill

41:26 - Media Bias and Censorship in Ireland

55:08 - Political Environment and Consequences of Hate Speech Legislation

01:00:20 - End

Carlow Teachers redux

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 11:05:43 +0100

Does the case of the “racist gymnast coach” resemble the Carlow Teachers scandal? John and Sarah discuss that, the Laurence Fox scandal, and the latest opinion poll in this week’s episode.

Giving Both Barrels to the Brand

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 09:48:24 +0100

John and Sarah talk through the protest at Kildare Street, it’s likely consequences, media double standards, and what we should think about Russell Brand.

Anger and Rage

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 10:17:24 +0100

Paul Murphy’s doxxing disgrace, RTE’s 80k photographer, Micheal Martin’s infection warning, and dumb new speed limits: It was a week to raise the hackles of the most placid person. John and Sarah are no exceptions:

Available on Spotify & iTunes

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7kOPNDrvsxqXv8uicOotvP

iTunes
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-week-that-really-was/id1653091194?uo=4

Up the Ra, Down with Cars

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 09:46:43 +0100

John and Sarah discuss a packed week in Stradbally which started with Up the Ra chants at the Electric Picnic and ends with Ukrainians about to move into the site on an emergency basis. Also: Speed limits, American Mommy bloggers going to jail, and why Sarah’s a tough parent herself.

#gript

Did the earth move for you?

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 09:43:31 +0100

Having survived an earthquake in Greece, and listened to three hours of Andrew Tate on her holidays, Sarah returns to an Ireland transformed by new constituency boundaries, and the dramatic fall from grace of singer Roisin Murphy.

More deadly than the male

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 10:17:29 +0100

John is joined by Irish writer Conor Fitzgerald (@fitzfromdublin) to discuss the question of whether Ireland, and western society at large, is increasingly divided politically along gender lines, and why cultural institutions sometimes seem to hate their own audiences.

Seducing the Queen of Lydia

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 11:27:46 +0100

According to the government democracy is where the government pays billions of dollars to one side and jails the other.

Mad as hell and not going to take it any more

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 09:18:59 +0100

In the sorry absence of Sarah Ryan, John is joined by NIAMH UI BHRIAN to discuss Gerard Craughwell’s one-man crusade against Gender Self-ID, Helen McEntee as the victim of misogyny, and the prospects for the new Farmer’s Alliance.

City of (no) God

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 11:52:44 +0100

In this week’s episode, Sarah tells John all about the Lizzo banana scandal, which leads to a chat about the unfashionability of normal boring old sex, and a question: Has the fall of traditional religion and the rise of a new religiosity led to a fall in contentment?

Infertile Ground

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 09:16:48 +0100

John and Sarah talk about the issues of the week, ranging from gold heists to climate worries, crime, and Sinead O’Connor. But also, as the Government introduces free IVF for some couples, the growing challenge of infertility:

Capital Projects

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 08:52:00 +0100

In this week’s episode, the story of a missing American woman leads John and Sarah into a chat about gender quotas, victimhood, the state of Dublin, the Children’s Hospital and how the media can’t stop terrifying the population with scary stories of crisis.

The Far Wrong

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 14 Jul 2023 10:09:22 +0100

John and Sarah are joined by William Campbell of the @hereshowpodcast to tell them – as respectfully as possible – why they’re wrong about most things, and why Ireland is in fact one of the most successful countries in the world.

Bring back the Old Leo

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 08:39:29 +0100

“Justin Trudeau with fancier socks” – That’s Keith Redmond’s verdict on Leo Varadkar as he joins John and Sarah to talk hate speech, Helen McEntee’s illiberalism, RTE’s implosion, and the public finances careening out of control:

Anatomy of a scandal

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 10:02:28 +0100

RTÉ dominates this week’s podcast, as John and Sarah wonder whether the state broadcaster has even a shred of credibility left; Also: Is Dublin a crime-ridden dump, and who is to blame?

Sorry, but we’re knackered

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 09:35:30 +0100

Is the tide of public opinion turning on the transgender agenda? John and Sarah are joined by women’s rights campaigner Laoise DeBrun to discuss the Hate Speech Bill, Ryan Tubridy, Lost Submarines, and Laoise’s drafting of a new bill to keep men out of women’s prisons.

Truth to Power

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 08:05:56 +0100

“it’s almost like a tea party”: Gript’s own Ben Scallan joins John to talk about his journey from political candidate to Government press conferences, the pitfalls of Ireland’s political system, and how impending fatherhood changes a man.

Neither head nor tail on it

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 09 Jun 2023 10:21:18 +0100

“It’s like being governed by a divorced mum and dad” – John and Sarah discuss the growing sense that Ireland just doesn’t have a leader, and also reflect on the terror in France, and the Labour Party’s call for a “NPHET style” approach to immigration.

A lot of dry tinder

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 02 Jun 2023 09:36:16 +0100

“Very few are willing to speak openly and honestly” - John and Sarah are joined by columnist Cormac Lucey to discuss the state of the nation, including Ministerial competence, abortion, tax cuts, and the hate speech bill:

The competence deficit

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Thu, 25 May 2023 22:34:03 +0100

Does Irish politics suffer from a major deficit of…. ability? That’s the question John and Sarah take on this week in the wake of a farcical health proposal, an aborted tax cut, and the entry of a new contender to replace Joe Biden.

Inch-ing towards disaster

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 19 May 2023 09:22:28 +0100

"A TD told me he actually believed what he'd said and I was shocked because that's so rare" - John and Sarah discuss the political response to Inch, as well as sunburn, AI, and bullying in schools.

Orange Peril

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 12 May 2023 10:31:16 +0100

In this week's podcast Sarah reacts to the news that fake tan might be racist; and wonders why women are so consistently in the firing line of modern cultural outrages:

Baby Killing Pronoun W*nkers

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 05 May 2023 13:23:51 +0100

John and Sarah discuss Leo Varadkar's bizarre explanation of the hate speech bill, the Labour Party's new badges, and Sarah's life-long love of Coronation Chicken.

Corruption versus incompetence

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 12:01:51 +0100

In a week dominated by the Niall Collins scandal, John and Sarah debate whether Ireland has a corruption problem, disagree about Niall Collins, and reflect on the Eurovision scandal that rocked the internet.

Life in the wilderness

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 10:55:02 +0100

Kevin Myers joins John and Sarah to talk about what it is like to be cancelled, the culture of fear in Ireland, and why he remains trenchantly opposed to Sinn Fein.

Knick Knack, Paddywhack, read for Joe a poem

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 11:42:32 +0100

John and Sarah discuss the Biden visit and our national love of being loved, as well as reviewing the state of the parties after THAT poll last weekend.

Off their heads

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 07 Apr 2023 08:25:36 +0100

John and Sarah discuss what possessed the state to promote a sexually explicit book in schools, the fall of Nicola Sturgeon - and since the world has gone mad, are joined by Mr. Sarah Ryan - Keith Redmond - to discuss legalising drugs.

How to punch yourself in the face

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 10:09:08 +0100

Joined by financial analyst KARL DEETER, John and Sarah discuss how a Newstalk host ended up punching himself, not Katie Harrington - and why Government Housing policy so consistently backfires.

In a Barbie world

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 24 Mar 2023 11:26:45 +0000

John and Sarah talk through the massive public reaction to the Barbie Kardashian story, ask what's the problem with Martin Nolan, and talk the politics of the eviction ban.

Paddy's Day PolyAmory

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 09:15:45 +0000

As St. Patrick's Day dawns, John and Sarah discuss the evolution of the Late Late Show from consensus breaker to preacher's pulpit, the President's latest intervention, and the attraction of polyamory

"Get busy living, or Get busy Crying"

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 12:57:15 +0000

In an episode abbreviated by an untimely power cut, John and Sarah discuss a week in which Irish politics, and Ireland's President, drifted ever further away from normal people.

The dangerous Mary Kenny

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 03 Mar 2023 13:18:37 +0000

"The conversation University of Limerick thought was too dangerous for students to hear: John and Sarah sit down with Mary Kenny to discuss the state of modern feminism"

Better than the slap of a wet fish?

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 24 Feb 2023 12:53:01 +0000

John and Sarah discuss the cost of living package, the growing unaffordability of life in Ireland, as well as Katharine Zappone's Poetry and Roald Dahl's dangerous books:

Greetings, and fond farewells

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 10:50:37 +0000

Sarah Ryan makes her debut as the John's new co-host this week, as they ask: Why are Irish Politicians so afraid to say what they really think?

The madness of Martin Nolan's sentencing

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 11:31:47 +0000

Gript's own Fatima Gunning joins John to discuss Martin Nolan's banner week, her experience of Dublin after four years in Seoul, and what it was like observing Enoch Burke in court.

The 5,000 undocumented

Gript — Fri, 03 Feb 2023 12:04:21 +0000

John and David discuss the news that 5,000 people arrived in Ireland with no documents last year, and whether St Patrick's Day is now about anything except Irishness.

Pascal Donohue, sex ed and Enoch Burke

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 27 Jan 2023 12:53:09 +0000

John McGuirk, David Quinn and Alan Hynes of the Catholic Education Partnership discuss Pascal Donohue's SIPO troubles, why parents are pushing back against new sex education proposals, and the latest on Enoch Burke.

The Countess fights back

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 20 Jan 2023 12:57:27 +0000

In the absence of David Quinn this week, John is joined by Laoise Uí Aodha DeBrún, founder and CEO of @thecountessIE, to discuss the growing impact of the transgender debate on Irish women.

The health service - a black hole for money

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 13 Jan 2023 13:24:36 +0000

CORMAC LUCEY joins John and David to discuss the unfixable Irish health service, the resignation of Damien English, and the "shift in the national mood" over immigration.

The death of a pope, plus 50 years in the EU

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 06 Jan 2023 12:37:28 +0000

David Quinn and leading EU critic, former diplomat, Ray Bassett, discuss the 50th anniversary of Irish membership of the EU, plus the chasm between Pope Benedict’s harsh image in the media and the humble, courteous, gentle person he really was. Gary Kavanagh of Gript Media stands in for John McGuirk this week.

The Great Rathkeale Christmas Bash

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Thu, 22 Dec 2022 12:57:17 +0000

As Christmas approaches, John and David run, or in John's case rant, through the final stories of the year, from the climate bill, to the twitter files, and the hangover to end them all in Rathkeale.

De-Amplifying the News

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 12:07:27 +0000

In Episode Nine, John and David look at how twitter's practice of "de amplifying" some news is replicated wholesale in the Irish media - from Brussels corruption scandals, to Leo Varadkar, to the East Wall protests.

Animal Hard

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 11:59:30 +0000

Peadar Toíbín joins John and David to discuss post covid excess deaths, immigration, hate speech, the anniversary of the free state, and the "animal hard" job of leading a new party.

And I will always love EU

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 02 Dec 2022 13:10:56 +0000

Jason O'Mahony joins John and David to discuss Ireland's love affair with all things EU, and what it might take for a new party to break Irish politics wide open.

The Battle of East Wall

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 25 Nov 2022 12:56:17 +0000

What's broken in Irish politics? In the aftermath of the East Wall dispute, former PD advisor CORMAC LUCEY joins John and David to discuss immigration, economics, and the growing gap between establishment and people

Sharon Keoghan discusses the hostile atmosphere in Leinster House

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 18 Nov 2022 13:03:04 +0000

Senator Sharon Keoghan talks to John McGuirk and David Quinn about the worsening atmosphere in Leinster House towards those with non-consensus views. They also discuss the latest coverage of clerical abuse, and a call to suppress all the religious orders.

The open air lunatic asylum that is Mastodon

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 13:09:15 +0000

The Republicans wrestle with Abortion; Micheál Martin tries to save the world at COP 27; and McGuirk goes on a rant about the lunatic asylum called Mastodon.

Father Sheehy versus the world

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 04 Nov 2022 13:29:26 +0000

In Episode 3 of The Week that Really was: Father Sheehy versus the world; Why "Reeling in the Years" isn't so much beloved TV show as dangerous misinformation, and David Quinn's shocking 1983 secret. Available now where you get your podcasts.

Hate Speech

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 14:37:31 +0100

In episode 2 of "The week that really was", John McGuirk and David Quinn discuss hate speech laws, and an opinion poll that shows more than half the country holds the "far right" view that we should limit the number of Ukrainian refugees

Episode 01

John McGuirk, Sarah Ryan — Fri, 21 Oct 2022 16:59:02 +0100

The first of hopefully many episodes of the week that really was with David Quinn and John McGuirk.