Let Me Explain with Seán Defoe

After the election of Pope Leo XIV we're taking a look at some of his worst predecessors in office. From the Popes who used the Vatican like a brothel to the leader of the church who put the rotting corpse of his predecessor on trial, some Popes have been far from saints.

This week introduces the first Newstalk Insider Poll talking to TDs, Senators, advisors and political correspondents to get a sense of how the Government is performing 100 days in. We ask who the best and worst performing party leaders and Ministers are, what's likely to dominate the Dáil agenda this year and who they think will end up being the next President of Ireland.

In this episode of "Let Me Explain," Sean Defoe dives into the significant transition within the Catholic Church following the passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday. Join us as we explore the legacy of Francis, who has often been hailed for his progressive stance, yet faced criticism over the Church's handling of past abuses. As the Vatican braces for the upcoming conclave, we break down the complex voting process and introduce potential successors. From Italian frontrunners like Pietro Parolin to the prospect of an Asian or African Pope, the field is diverse and dynamic. Tune in to discover the intricate world of papal elections and the profound impact they have on billions worldwide.

To mark bowel cancer awareness month we discuss the disease, the warning signs and the importance of screening in identifying it early.Sean speaks with Galway man Joe Grogan who faced his own cancer battle after a routine screen warned him something was wrong. And consultant Dr Alan Smith from the HSE national screening service discusses plans to expand screening and the concerning rise in bowel cancer in young people which doctors have yet to find the cause of.

In this week's episode, Jamie O Hara explores the intricacies of court reporting with Newstalk's Courts Correspondent Frank Greaney to understand why the public can't always know everything said in court. Also, how the Justice Minister is exploring ways to potentially inform people about their partner's past.

You've heard the name bandied about on every news bulletin for weeks but what exactly are tariffs? How do they work? Who do they hurt? And what will Donald Trump's latest announcements mean for the Irish economy?

In this episode of "Let Me Explain," host Seán Defoe sits down with Paul Johnston, the British Ambassador to Ireland, for an insightful discussion on the evolving landscape of UK-Irish relations. From the impact of Brexit to the recent positive shift marked by a high-profile summit, they dive into the complexities of diplomacy and what the future holds for both nations. Join Seán and Ambassador Johnston as they explore how past political shifts influenced their roles, the ongoing challenges of legacy issues in Northern Ireland, and the critical need for cooperation in areas like climate change and security. Discover the ambassador's take on navigating these intricate relationships while maintaining optimism for a collaborative future.

On this episode Seán Defoe breaks down why Conor McGregor's political ambitions are dust in the wind and analyses who might actually win the Irish Presidency later this year.From a hotly contested battle for the Fine Gael nomination to the ghost of Bertie Ahern plaguing Fianna Fáil, Sinn Féin's difficult position and a potential unity candidate on the left Seán looks through the runners and riders ahead of #PE25

In this episode of "Let Me Explain," host Sean Defoe takes you right into the chaos of a momentous press conference between Taoiseach Micheál Martin and former President Donald Trump. With so much on the table—from trade wars and tariffs to housing crises—Sean breaks down the highlights of a 50-minute exchange that sparked more than a few eyebrows. Join us as we dissect Trump's bold claims about Ireland capitalizing on the U.S., the complexities surrounding the pharmaceutical industry, and Martin's responses to Trump's confrontational style. Did Micheál Martin manage to hold his ground, or did he fold under pressure?

In this week's episode of "Let Me Explain," host Sean Defoe tackles the pressing question: How do you approach a problem like Donald Trump? With Taoiseach Micheál Martin set to meet the US President at the White House, the stakes have never been higher. Join us as Sean delves into the press conferences of world leaders—Emmanuel Macron, Keir Starmer, and Volodymyr Zelensky—to dissect their strategies when facing Trump. From Macron's diplomatic flattery to Starmer's subtle nudges, we analyze what worked and what didn't. But when it comes to Zelensky, his direct confrontations with Trump flipped the script of diplomatic decorum, leading to a tense exchange. As Micheál Martin prepares for his own high-stakes meeting, we offer insights on striking the right balance. Is it all about bending the knee? Tune in for a comprehensive breakdown of how to navigate this complex political dynamic and hear what Martin might need to keep in his back pocket when the cameras start rolling. Don't miss out on Sean's first-hand reports from the upcoming trip to the US, with all the latest updates straight from the Oval Office!

In this week's episode, we're rolling out the red carpet and diving into the glitz and glamour of the Oscars. With the awards show just around the corner, we're asking the critical question: Who really decides who wins? Join Sean Defoe as he chats with John Fardy, host of Screen Time on Newstalk, to uncover the intricacies behind the famed Academy Awards. From the diverse membership of over 10,000 voters to the secretive voting process, we break down how nominations and winners are determined each year. We'll also discuss the impact of glitzy PR campaigns, the buzz around this year's contenders, and make some predictions for the big night. With performances from beloved films and the ever-present drama of Hollywood, there's plenty to talk about. Tune in for an insider's take on the Oscars.

In this episode we're deep diving back to the 1970s when Jack Lynch's Government drew up plans for a nuclear power station which was defeated by...rock? Let Me Explain

This week - in the wake of Donald Trump's pronouncements on Gaza, should the Government be having a party with him in March?

With 30 second ad spots costing as much as eight million dollars do they work and what are some of the most famous ads in Superbowl history?

This week we get into the weeds on organic food with Colman Power as we discuss whether it's actually any better for you

From the capital of the USA Sean reports from the inauguration of Donald J Trump.

The programme for Government has been released this afternoon - but what's actually been promised?

This week we're delving into the most difficult to understand elections held in Ireland - the race to the Seanad.

This week, just where did Santa come from anyway?

This week we're looking at the controversy surrounding new TD Eoin Hayes and the shares he held in Palantir Enterprises.

On this episode we're looking back on the outcome of election 2024 and what it means for all the main parties

On this episode we're looking at what's made it into the Sinn Féin manifesto

On this episode we're looking at what's made it into the Fine Gael manifesto

With all the focus on WHO to vote for in the past few weeks on this episode we go into HOW to vote. How do you fill out the ballot correctly and avoid a spoiled vote?

On this episode Peadar Toibin of Aontu chats about reducing the cost of a pint, holding Ministers accountable and making cider in his bathtub.

On this episode we sit down with Tánaiste and Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin to discuss his party's plans, housing and his perfect breakfast.

On this episode we're joined by the Labour leader Ivana Bacik to run through her party's policies, why she thinks people should choose them over similar parties and the one thing you didn't know about Ivana Bacik....her karaoke song!

Katie Deegan from Women for Election joins the show today to run through the implications of the 40% gender quota in this year's election

We continue our election series looking at what the Green Party is promising as it tries to seek another term in Government and how the party is likely to fare across the country.

Starting a new series running through the detail of all the main party manifestos as we head into this general election campaign and asking how each party is likely to perform. This episode is Fianna Fáil, the first out of the traps to release its manifesto.

This week Sean is joined by Tim Carey from the Electoral Commission with a warning about the time you have left to register to vote and who can apply for a postal vote.

This week Jamie O'Hara runs through some of the things once indispensable to life that have faded into non existence

This week we're going bonkers for conkers as we examine the revelation which threw the committee for competitive conkering into chaos this week. If you can't trust conkers what can you trust?

This week we're breaking out the crystal ball to have a look at some of the toughest Dáil constituencies to predict ahead of the general election

This week Emma Tyrell brings us on a tour of Dublin's animalistic highlights

This week we ruminate on the biggest budget in the history of the State and whether it means an election is imminent

This week we're asking whether the $177bn supplements industry is actually necessary or whether people are popping pills they don't need

This week we've been hitting up the pre-Dáil party think-ins to get the skinny on the general election date

This week for Sepsis Awareness Day we're speaking to a number of families who've been tragically affected by sepsis and discussing how to spot the signs

This week we're marking International Overdose Awareness Day by talking about a medicine which can temporarily stop an overdose. The injection or nasal spray can buy people precious time to allow an ambulance to arrive or treatment to be given. Let Me Explain.

This year marks three decades since the IRA ceasefire of 1994 - a pivotal moment on the path to peace in Northern Ireland. Eamonn Torsney remembers life in Northern Ireland during the Troubles.

This week we take a look at the South American city that banned salt shakers from restaurant tables in a bid to tackle excess sodium intake and the range of health problems it brings