Path to Power

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2024 is going to be the year of elections, in Ireland, the UK, US and the European Union. In Path to Power, experienced broadcasters Matt Cooper and Ivan Yates bring their individual points of view to a lively weekly discussion that sets the agenda and examines all the issues. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt Cooper & Ivan Yates


    • Feb 21, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 51m AVG DURATION
    • 114 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Path to Power

    Children and Babies and Providing for Them

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2026 57:29


    Matt is joined by Áine Kerr and Shane Coleman to discuss the importance of SNAs in our schools and our government's mishandling of potential changes. Why is the government finding it so hard to come up with ways of protecting our children from harmful social media? Outrage at the planning refusal for a new building for the Rotunda Hospital on Parnell Square, is there anything to be said in favour of the planning board's decision? Was Sinn Féin invited to the White House or not before it said it wasn't going?Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Banged Up Abroad

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 14, 2026 62:19


    Former Fine Gael TD John Deasy and Irish Daily Mail Columnist Brenda Power join Matt to discuss the wider implications for Irish emigrants to the US of the Seamus Culleton case. Why is Ireland soft on the murderous Iranian Regime? Sinn Féin's positions on Iran and Ukraine assessed. The rise of the Social Democrats: Is it sustainable and at whose expense? Michael Healy Rae and his Airbnb victory. Is the IFA biting off more than it can chew with its Bord Bia campaign? The latest Garda Scandal: Is there adequate justice for Margaret Loftus? Kier Starmer's survival. And where Ireland will play football against Israel.Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    The Rain Blame Game

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 7, 2026 50:11


    Danny McConnell and John Lee examine the consequences of Ireland's repeated failure to deliver flood defences and critical infrastructure. They ask whether the Social Democrats under Holly Cairns are emerging as a credible alternative to Sinn Féin on the left, assess the runners and riders in the upcoming Dublin by-election, the continued fallout from the government's ‘incoherent' stance on Mercosur, and the performance of social media executives at the Oireachtas.Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Get the Fliuch Out of Here

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 31, 2026 45:46


    As Storm Chandra wreaked havoc on the country, Shane Coleman and Lise Hand discuss who is really responsible for making sure appropriate weather warnings are given. Fianna Fáil's slump in the polls and the threat to Micheál Martin's leadership. Ivana Bacik's calls for the Taoiseach not to visit the White House on St. Patrick's Day. The soapbox politics of the Bord Bia and Brazilian beef situation. A salute to Mary Robinson and other leading Irish women for St. Brigid's Day. And the resurgence of protest songs in response to troubling world events.Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    A Bowl of Shamrock and a Billion Dollars for Trump

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 24, 2026 58:17


    As Donald Trump pushes his Board of Peace idea, would it be wise for Ireland to join and if we say no, could the squeeze be put on us? John Deasy and Brenda Power join Matt, and John outlines his personal dealings with the US President during his time as an Irish government envoy. Is Ireland ready for a 'MIGA' movement, and why would the US Ambassador to Ireland go to a fringe conference? Is the Mercosur European Parliament vote something that Trump would have wanted? The Board of Peace: Is it a Trump commercial venture for Gaza? Also, Gráinne Seoige's experience of fake photos on the internet, can her terrible experience lead to real action, or are we too scared of losing the Meta tax revenues? And finally, why is the M4 bus corridor not open?Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Naughty Micheál, Nudie Grok, & Paschal's Silence

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 17, 2026 69:51


    Matt is joined by Danny McConnell and John Lee to unpack the continuing Mercosur fallout inside the government and with the EU. The foreign challenges for Micheál Martin in 2026. All talk but what action about Grok AI? The politics and economics of the data centres. Paschal Donohoe, the World Bank, and the question of an additional €10 million. The merits of politicians reading books. Jim O'Callaghan's immigration crackdown. And the protection of sources by journalists from the courts.Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    The Guns of January

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 10, 2026 64:40


    Brenda Power and Larry Donnelly join Matt for a wide-ranging discussion starting with the Irish government's position on the Mercosur deal. What Micheál Martin was up to in China, and how the Chinese relationship will impact our existing relationships with the US and the EU. Why we need to worry about more people than Trump. What is our government going to do about Elon Musk's Grok and the 'nudification' of photos? Jim O'Callaghan's sneaky and dangerous attack on journalism. Political action on road safety. And finally, Mary Lou McDonald's interview about the place of trans people in Ireland, debated. Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Simon Harris & His Many Opinions

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 3, 2026 62:28


    Lise Hand and Shane Coleman join Matt to assess the many newspaper interviews given by Tánaiste and Fine Gael leader Simon Harris over the Christmas period. They discuss the threats to his family's safety, his likely tax and spend position as finance minister, the controversies caused by his comments on homelessness and migration, and his plans for a possible crackdown on social media anonymity. They look at MAGA monster Steve Bannon's threats to establish a political movement in Ireland, and they discuss foreign trips to China and other countries by Taoisigh and presidents.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Tally-Ho to 2025 & Tales of Trump

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 27, 2025 61:16


    Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, and Sinn Féin coalesce to save fox hunting. Danny McConnell and John Lee join Matt to discuss left unity and who Sinn Féin will really end up in government with. Also, what Simon Harris's replacement of Paschal Donohoe in Finance really means. The impact of tariffs and the IDA's success in still attracting investment to Ireland. Will the UK ever rejoin the European Union in a reverse Brexit? And John tells tales of a private dinner in Doonbeg with Donald Trump.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Teflon Taoiseach 2.0

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2025 45:51


    Danny McConnell and John Lee join Matt to discuss not the gang who couldn't shoot straight, but the gang who couldn't even get a shot off, and yet Micheál Martin is injured, but is it all self-inflicted because of his Jim Gavin gaffe?Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Blister Packs & Home Videos

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 13, 2025 47:26


    Brenda Power and Larry Donnelly join Matt to discuss the outrage caused by the videos of adults returning to live in their parents' homes, the politics of making people pay for their blister packs of medicines, entering the US if you have a social media history, Ireland and Jim O'Callaghan's position on changes at the European Convention on Human Rights, the long awaited Fianna Fáil presidential debacle report - has Micheál Martin timed it's release perfectly? And the continuing stand-off between Kenny Jacobs and the DAA.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Ireland is Angerland

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2025 55:04


    A rowdy gathering for our 100th episode as Matt, Lise Hand, and Shane Coleman dissect: RTÉ's Eurovision departure and Ireland's defence against anti-semitism. Defending Ireland while remaining neutral. The TDs who need to get a grip of themselves. How our tax revenues should be spent, and our vulnerability to losing the money. The Government's Accelerating Infrastructure plan. And the traffic nightmare and the M50 logjam.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Stay-At-Home Taoiseach

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 29, 2025 55:24


    Should Micheál Martin rein in the foreign travel? The Government's change of stance on immigration, why IPAS centres and work permits need to be treated separately. MetroLink: Do the objectors deserve any sympathy? The contentious suggestion to rename Dublin Airport, Verona Murphy's unwise photo op with Sinn Féin, and Gerry Hutch's developing political campaign.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    SpongeBob heads to Washington

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 22, 2025 53:50


    Paschal Donohoe's departure from government and his performance in office assessed, how badly will Fine Gael miss him? Has Simon Harris done the right thing in taking on Paschal's old job? Will Gerry Hutch run in the by-election, and what are his chances of winning? Ireland-U.S. relations: What should our government's approach be in the face of Trump's aggression?Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Bricks and Mortified

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 15, 2025 61:22


    Matt is joined by Newstalk Breakfast host and former political editor Shane Coleman, and by journalist and former Dáil correspondent Lise Hand to discuss the government's new housing initiative. They also reflect on President Connolly's inauguration, talk about Billy Kelleher's carefully worded internal dissent in Fianna Fáil, and the status of the inquiry into the Jim Gavin presidential debacle.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Micheál Walks the Plank

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 8, 2025 51:51


    Micheál Martin teetering on the edge as his leadership of Fianna Fáil comes up for debate, for how much longer can he hang on? Guests Danny McConnell and John Lee join Matt for a spirited debate about the Taoiseach's future and just who will move against him? And what are Jim O'Callaghan's credentials to replace him? Also, why the 'Future Forty' doesn't inspire confidence.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Spoilt For No Choice

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 1, 2025 52:12


    The impact of the high number of spoiled votes in the election for future politics assessed, and how it will impact on migration policy. Is the left primed for power? Micheál Martin's tenuous grip on Fianna Fáil appraised, and our first musings on Jim O'Callaghan's (and others') suitability to replace him.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Presidential Fallout

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 25, 2025 53:06


    Assessment of Catherine Connolly's (assumed) victory and how she did it, how Fine Gael fell down, why Heather Humphreys was a poor candidate, why so many people didn't vote, and why Micheál Martin's Jim Gavin disaster may prove fatal for his leadership. Also, Matt's idea for a new way to appoint the president, which Ivan derides.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Presidential Coronation

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 18, 2025 54:46


    Ivan as a footnote to presidential history, why Catherine Connolly is about to win and how heavily Heather Humphreys might lose. The likely fallout in Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil, and whether Sinn Féin has missed a trick. Paul Murphy's legal action assessed. And how the result of the election may reflect societal division and provoke real change.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Gavin Dropped & Budget Woes

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 11, 2025 52:36


    The circumstances of Jim Gavin's presidential exit examined, and the consequences for Micheál Martin's leadership of Fianna Fáil. When will Jim O'Callaghan seize the crown? The Budget: Why nothing for workers, and the overall expansion of government spending debated.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Budget Expectations & Gavin's Gaffes

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 4, 2025 50:34


    Our duo deliver a detailed pre-budget examination of what's likely to happen next Tuesday, from income tax measures to VAT on hospitality and apartments to the overall state of the government finances, changes to the tax treatment of ETFs and R&D for corporates, and the likely increases in social welfare. Also, the presidential race: who really won the first TV debate, Jim Gavin's social media gaffes, Catherine Connolly's convicted friend, and the presidential week analysed.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    The Big Interview: Leo Varadkar

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 27, 2025 62:29


    Matt and Ivan meet former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar for a wide-ranging discussion based on the publication of his book 'Speaking My Mind'.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Game Changer

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 20, 2025 51:58


    How Ivan bought into the Jarlath Burns for president rumour, what Heather Humphreys must surrender in her bid for the Áras, Jim Gavin and the farm gate, the failure of the independents to get on the ballot, the bizarre DAA situation with Kenny Jacobs, and Ivan's post Ploughing Championships briefing.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Threats and Assassinations

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2025 51:55


    As Matt and Ivan deplore political violence in the United States, they assess the seriousness of the threats to Simon Harris and others. The presidential updates - How Jim Gavin won the Fianna Fáil nod and finds that he's senior hurling now, plus news on the other candidates. Ivan bemoans our forestry failures. How Jeffrey Epstein has ended Peter Mandelson's career finally. And Ivan looks forward to pending changes in our planning laws to stop vexatious individuals. Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Teflon Bertie Finds the Mud Sticks

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 6, 2025 53:03


    Former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern can't escape his past and crashes out of the presidential race. Jim Gavin's advantage over Billy Kelleher for the Fianna Fáil nomination assessed. Does Heather Humphrey have a disability issue to overcome? Inside the Bob Geldof interest, and Ivan's surprise at weatherwoman Joanna Donnelly's presidential ambitions, more on Catherine Connolly and Alan Kelly, and the need for Sinn Féin to make a decision quickly. Also, the objections to Dublin's essential wastewater treatment plant, and Matt advocates for school secretaries and caretakers.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Shots Fired!

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 30, 2025 48:51


    Former army man and GAA legend Jim Gavin shoots for the presidency with Fianna Fáil, AK-47 Alan Kelly takes aim at Catherine Connolly, Sinn Féin appears to lack the ammunition if Mary Lou won't run, and some independents risk their feet. Also, a tribute to Pat Kenny's radio tenure.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    (What's the Story) Presidential Glory?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 23, 2025 54:53


    As the slow bicycle race gathers momentum, could the presidential election turn into a referendum on the performance of Simon Harris? Heather Humphreys' chances assessed, Mairead McGuinness' departure explained, and the prospects of all the other non-Fine Gael contenders are examined.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Arrested Development

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 16, 2025 57:29


    The job facing the new Garda Commissioner assessed, with retirements threatening to outnumber new recruits. The financial perils of running for president versus the rewards. How dependent are we on FDI? How we can make a mess of it and how we can do more to help our own businesses. Ivan laments the closure of Thurles racecourse and reports back on his visit to England and Wales.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Trump Exploits Europe's Weakness

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 9, 2025 54:46


    Trump's 15% tariffs and the extra dangers to our pharma and semiconductor exports, how the national finances and the forthcoming budget will be affected. And Dermot Desmond's views on abandoning the Metro are assessed. Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Scores on the Doors

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 2, 2025 58:19


    An assessment of the individual performances of The Taoiseach, The Tánaiste, and each Government Minister. Ivan picks out the best of the Juniors, and Matt & Ivan also take a look at the performance of the opposition parties.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Flatley Toots his Flute

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 26, 2025 62:16


    Dancer Michael Flatley, medic Tony Holohan, and academic Deirdre Heenan and their presidential prospects assessed. The Summer Economic Statement dissected: Should the hospitality sector get a VAT break? The National Development Plan broken down: Is it enough despite the hundreds of billions involved and will it actually get delivered? An example of why we are not really serious about solving our housing crisis, Michael O'Leary's Metro dismissal, and Ivan supports AIB's return to the office demand.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Recession Incoming

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 19, 2025 58:56


    Ivan reads the economic tea leaves and blames government pessimism for falling consumer confidence in spending, the disaster of the falling number of new home building starts, why a principled position on Palestine may become an economic problem for us, and more on Mary Lou for president and the chances of Catherine Connolly.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Mary Lou Can (win the Presidency)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 12, 2025 54:36


    Matt and Ivan have a spirited debate about the chances of Mary Lou McDonald appealing to enough voters to win the Presidency, they assess what the other parties can do in response. But before that, Jim O'Callaghan's legal damages welcome climedown, smaller apartment sizes and the Hines development at Clonliffe, and Trump's pharma tariffs. Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    No Such Thing As A Free College Education

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 5, 2025 53:10


    A lengthy debate on who should pay for third-level education and who gets the benefit. Ivan takes issue with Matt for enjoying the hospitality of the US Embassy, why insurance awards may be going up and who's to blame for higher insurance prices, the tears of Rachel Reeves and what caused them, and a tribute to Brother Kevin Crowley.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Trump Blows Up his Critics

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 28, 2025 50:14


    Ivan praises the political impact of Trump's Iran moves: Matt disagrees. Also, Dublin Airport update, the do-nothing government, the expansion of the Civil service, union boss Owen Reidy gets in touch, alcohol labelling is delayed, Ireland's position on Israel and Gaza, and Ivan's assessment of where Sinn Féin are at and its presidential position.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    PTP America | Bonus special - Trump's War and Peace

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2025 49:50


    In a Path to Power special, Matt is joined by veteran US-based Irish journalist Marion McKeone to discuss Donald Trump's gamble with his MAGA base by attacking Iran, why MAGA doesn't want American wars, and the influence of the Jewish lobby on political and military support for Israel. And, they go beyond politics to analyse the Jeff Bezos wedding in Venice, and talk about the Kennedy's because of the Ryan Murphy TV show about the death of JFK Jr, his wife Carolyn and her sister Lauren. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Will Trump Pull the Trigger?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2025 57:32


    Israel and Iran: Where Ireland and the EU stand, and where Trump stands with his MAGA base. How real is the National Economic Dialogue? Is Paul Murphy the Irish Greta Thunberg? Scandals and further investigations into nursing homes: the public vs. private battle. From health to planning: Paul Reid's new gig, and tributes to Journalist Phillip Molloy and Lord Henry Mount Charles.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Rent Pressure Moans

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 14, 2025 52:20


    After a detour to the Ballymena riots, Ivan and Matt return to the ongoing housing crisis and the government's Rent Pressure Zones initiative. The death of Evan Fitzgerald and the controversy over the 'controlled delivery' by the Gardaí of guns to him, reference to the Tina Satchwell and Michael Gaine murder investigations, and shoplifters get shirty.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    What does this Government actually control?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 7, 2025 54:08


    A discussion on whether the bail laws need to be changed, the further revelation undermining Children's Health Ireland, top civil servants with different interpretations of what can be done, more criticism of the planning process, and a debate on the ethics of fox hunting.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    The AI Tsunami

    Play Episode Listen Later May 30, 2025 53:30


    Ivan and Matt report on their travels and what they have learnt about AI and its impact on society, the Irish-American view of the world, the latest on Trump's tariffs, and why Irish Water is more important than RTÉ.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Renting and Raving

    Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2025 55:48


    Where we are going with Rent Pressure Zones, the Mayo-led boycott of second-home owners, what really happened in 2024's election voting, room to improve for TD's offices (and who wants a 'La-Z-Boy' chair), and the cover-up of Joe Biden's illness.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    In Sickness and in Health

    Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2025 53:22


    An assessment of 20 years of the HSE, the planned departure of the chief executive and what needs to be done. The failure to build hospitals and the incredible cost of the one that is being built. Judges and the planning process and the failure to build houses. Marital disharmony between Micheál and Simon, and more inside presidential gossip.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Who's The Most Powerful American Now?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 10, 2025 44:20


    Analysis of what the new Pope's election means, given that he's American and has criticised JD Vance and Donald Trump. What does the US/UK trade deal mean for Ireland? The Irish Government calls out Israel for war crimes, but what are the implications for us? Ruth Coppinger's Trump impression, Joe Duffy's retirement, his importance to public debate, and whether he could be a presidential candidate? RTÉ's latest financial troubles, and Ivan addresses the skorts.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    100 Days of Underperformance

    Play Episode Listen Later May 3, 2025 53:18


    The debacle of the failed Brendan McDonagh appointment to a new Housing Activation Office prompts Ivan and Matt to cut loose on the government's performance in its first 100 days. They also discuss the anti-immigration protests, empty prison cells at a time of overcrowding, and another RTÉ financial shocker.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    The Woke Pope

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 26, 2025 59:09


    The pope's legacy, the politics of the papacy, conservatism versus liberalism and did Francis fall in the middle? How the Irish State's relationship with Catholicism has changed in the last half-century, and Ivan's bet on who will be the next pope. Teacher burnout: how the nature of the job has changed and what needs to be done to have more teachers. And Matt defends himself on the downsizing of homes as people age and the size of family units begins to fall.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Drugs, Beef, and HRT

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 18, 2025 56:07


    Where Ireland stands with pharma and tech in the tariffs era, how will it impact the public finances, and could austerity return? The government doubles down on supporting business over workers, the price of beef and where our farmers face more potential competition, the politics and economics of free HRT, and the possibilities of a Fine Gael leadership heave.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468a/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Trump's Whiplash Week

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 12, 2025 54:47


    Matt and Ivan assess the implications of a traumatic week in financial markets and global politics. They then return to home to evaluate the implications for Ireland, the Government's response and the EU's too. Also, Ireland and the Chinese relationship, Ivan fulminates on sick leave, and an update on our housing targets.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468a/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Trump's Tariff Derangement Syndrome

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 5, 2025 56:48


    The American economic idiot goes to work - how will Ireland and the EU respond? Food and alcohol hit, but what next for pharma, tech, and financial services? Could Greenland make it worse? The Government's plans for Local Property Tax - does it take the loss of windfall corporate tax into account? And no housing supply solution until 2029?Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468a/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Two Fingers

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 29, 2025 56:31


    Michael Lowry as a lightning rod, Verona Murphy's future and Dáil decorum. Liberation day; how to deal with Trump's tariffs. Is Ireland joining a NATO 2.0, if there's going to be one? And RTÉ finally begins its financial restructuring.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468a/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    McGregor Menace and Trump's Tariff Turmoil

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 22, 2025 50:27


    From the Octagon to The Oval Office, Conor McGregor's potential disruption of the 2025 Áras race. A debate as to whether Simon Harris is right to suggest a Trump address to the Houses of the Oireachtas, the economic dangers of the Trump tariffs outlined, the latest on the speaking rights row in the Dáil, and Ivan's Leaving Certificate reform.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468a/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Boxing Clever

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 14, 2025 49:31


    How Taoiseach Micheál Martin emulated his late father by ducking and diving and throwing few punches when Donald Trump used him as a foil in the latest edition of the US President's daily political reality TV show. Also discussed - the senior Sinn Féin TD facing possible criminal charges, whether MetroLink should be built, Michael McDowell's presidential ambitions, and whether you should pay for your excess water?Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468a/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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