Talking Bollox Podcast

We've spoken so much on this podcast about our experiences with the Guards, but it's hard to know who to go to if you want to have your voice heard by someone who can make actual change.The Policing and Community Safety Authority sit down with the Commissioner and with senior gardaí on a regular basis to discuss how policing resources are being used and their CEO Helen Hall joined us this week. Helen spoke about why it's so important that the there is oversight watching what the Guards are doing, and what the difference is between a police force and a police service.If you want to take part in the survey Helen mentioned and have your voice heard, here's the link: https://pcsa.prioritysimulator.com/Our biggest live show to date is taking place in the Bord Gais on 11th July - Get your tickets before they're gone: https://www.ticketmaster.ie/talking-bollox-live-tickets/artist/5381757This episode was sponsored by Rightstyle Furniture - RIGHT PRICE, RIGHT STYLE, RIGHT NOW. Visit rightstyle.ie

We have a special bonus bonus for you all this week thanks to our pals at Tesco ,Can't Argue With That and things get hilariously heated as the boys get into their own arguments trying to settle yours. Is bean juice ketchup? What is the definition of a hot-dog? The 'big shop' vs 'the 'quick shop' debate and is a door 'on' when it's open or closed?It'll ALL make sense when you listen...well kinda.Thanks again to Tesco for their support. The value provided by Tesco through their Aldi price match and Clubcard Prices? Can't argue with that.

It's a mad bundle of questions this week, and we can't take the blame for that.Calvin rages against Terry and toxic masculinity, and there's the claim a famous stretch of Dublin doesn't actually exist.We're worrying about ghosts in the garden and giddy at the potential for a Talking Bollox haunting.We accept that Roy Keane wouldn't tolerate Terence (or Calvin), while Terence alleges he was forced to buy the car, and we're picking trends to send into oblivion.Send all of your questions and comments to talkingbollox@goloudnow.com

This week's episode sees the return of one of Terry and Calvin's favourite guests, the inspirational Gerry Hussey.Gerry is back to share his inspiring perspective on overcoming personal obstacles and pushing past self-doubt. From motivating himself out of depression to transforming challenges into triumphs, Gerry emphasizes the importance of choices and accountability in shaping our lives.He also discusses his new book, focusing on how our internal narrative can drive positive change and empower us to live fully and he reveals his plans on competing for Ireland as a sprinter!With Gerry you're always guaranteed a captivating discussion filled with insights on mental health, resilience, and the commitment to rise above adversity and as ever he doesn't disappoint.Tickets available to our biggest live show to date in the Bord Gais Energy Theatre on July 11th here: https://www.ticketmaster.ie/talking-bollox-live-tickets/artist/5381757

One listener comes to us with a demand for an apology to Terence, and Eoin and Calvin are getting caught in the crossfire.There's a chance at living a Groundhog Day, and Terry finds the perfect 24 hours to re-live.Calvin makes the case for the greatness of the octopus, but Terry has a problem with the lack of effort and commitment shown by the animals in the zoo, and he's offering sly digs as show of his love.Send all of your questions and comments to talkingbollox@goloudnow.com

Fiona Taaffe and her daughter Karinann Cosgrave joined us this week and opened up about how Fiona's struggle with drug addiction affected their family.Fiona never realised she had a problem with drugs, but Karinann told us how she knew what was happening in their home, waking up to parties, putting her own mother to bed and finding drugs in her pockets. When Karinann was taken out of the home, Fiona was free to do as she pleased and her addiction grew. It was only when her family intervened that she realised the scale of her problem and got the help she needed.The mother and daughter told us how they have had to work on a lot of issues together, including recovery and overcoming resentment, but they have a great relationship now and go out running together, keeping each other motivated.Tickets available to our biggest live show to date in the Bord Gais Energy Theatre on July 11th here: https://www.ticketmaster.ie/talking-bollox-live-tickets/artist/5381757

In this special bonus episode of Talking Bollox, Terry and Calvin are coming to you live from TU Dublin – proudly sponsored by the National Tertiary Office.They're diving into the transformative Tertiary Bachelor's Degree Programme, a game-changing initiative that's making higher education accessible and affordable for all. You don't need points and you won't pay college fees for the first one to two years while you study locally at your nearest Education and Training Board (ETB).Hear inspiring real-life stories from guests Maria, Grace, and Tracey, who share their powerful journeys through the programme – overcoming challenges, chasing ambitions, and proving that there's more than one path to a fully recognised degree.With nearly 40 career-focused Bachelors' Degree courses available across the country for the 2025/26 academic year, this programme is unlocking opportunities for students who may have felt left out in the past. Smaller class sizes, local learning, and full access to college supports from day one – graduating with the same degree as anyone who followed the traditional points route.If you or someone you know is exploring college options, this episode is a must-listen. Learn more at www.nto.ie

If Terry and Calvin think they can pull the Leitrim wool over the listener's ears, they were proven VERY wrong this week.Having both claimed to never having been to the fair county in last week's bonus, listeners were quick to point out these outrageous lies and a grovelling apology is duly issued.Calvin 'Sherlock' O'Brien blows Terry's mind by guessing his middle name and as ever they tackle the tough questions like how long can you live in your car and we hear about how Terry got on in his driver theory test. Send all of your questions to talkingbollox@goloudnow.com

In the first half of this episode, we heard all about Sam's upbringing in the north, joining the IRA, and his brutal treatment in the H Blocks. But that's not the end of Sam's story, after being released from prison he headed off to the US where he undertook one of the biggest thefts in US history - Robbing $7.4 million!Sam told us about his decision to steal the money after seeing it laying all around the Brinks and how they had to unload millions from their van before making their escape after it was too weighed down with cash to start. He also told us about getting a priest involved, how they got caught and how they avoided life in prison.Tickets available to our biggest live show to date in the Bord Gais Energy Theatre on July 11th here: https://www.ticketmaster.ie/talking-bollox-live-tickets/artist/5381757

If you listened to Part 1 of our interview with Sam Millar, you know that we first heard his story from our producer Eoin, who was working on a documentary called Unusual Suspects. That series won Silver at the New York Festival Radio Awards and we think it's worth giving you all a chance to listen to it before the rest of the interview is out tomorrow so here it is!**On an icy night in January, 1993, masked gunmen walk into a Brinks vault in Rochester, New York. They leave with $7.4m in cash and a hostage. It was one of the largest heists in American history. But was this the work of criminal masterminds, or something very different? As police arrive on the scene they find some interesting clues, and an early hunch for investigators could prove critical.**Listen to more of Unusual Suspects now: https://link.goloudplayer.com/s/sGRWX45FDGAP

We went all the way to Belfast for this episode and nearly missed our train home because we couldn't stop talking to Sam. Sam Millar is a former member of the IRA, having joined when he was just 15 after Bloody Sunday and seeing the brutal murder of his best friend for being Catholic. Sam spent 8 years in the H Blocks on the blanket and no wash protests and he told us what it was like to live those conditions and why he didn't want to come off the protest in the end. The torture Sam endured at the hands of the prison guards was horrific and it's hard to understand why he kept fighting until you hear him explain it.Sam's story doesn't stop there though, after his time in prison, Sam snuck into the US where he was involved in one of the biggest heists in US history, stealing nearly $8 million. We'll get into all that later this week!Tickets available to our biggest live show to date in the Bord Gais Energy Theatre on July 11th here: https://www.ticketmaster.ie/talking-bollox-live-tickets/artist/5381757

We've made a trip outside Dublin to record a podcast for the first time ever and it's gone very well. So well we weren't back in time to send it to you at the usual time. BUT fear not! To make up for it we bring you next week's bonus episode early so sit back and enjoy Calvin's game changing revelation about traffic lights.We hear their Spice Girl names and if you're listening in Leitrim, you might want to take a comfortable seat for the fact they are about to drop.

Things get competitive as Terence announces he will never, and could never, lose a spelling bee – and is quickly forced into backing up his big talk. We end up in a sudden death spelling scenario, with deceptions, threats and ice cream.Calvin has been waving at gardai – or maybe it was the other way around – but either way Terry isn't letting him away with it.Terry wears out his battery while out on the road with the rest of the TB team, as the excitement of a big day out proves too much for him to handle.And we ask if life would be better lived permanently stinking, or permanently revolted by the odour of the world.Send all of your questions to talkingbollox@goloudnow.com

Comedian and self proclaimed 'culchie' Tom O'Mahoney joined us this week for a few laughs. We got distracted right off the bat by Tom's moustache and Terence's concern that his wet jacket was a result of a leak rather than the rain he'd been outside in.Tom told us about his experience in the world of posh Dub's, having both famously played one on hit show Damo and Ivor and marring a woman from Dalkey. Tom's comedy journey started with a burst blood vessel and has led him to opening for the 2 Johnnies, Tom Green and shows of his own. And he told us about the funniest moments he's had on stage, and why people shouldn't get offended at comedy.Sponsored by FBT Gyms

We have a special bonus episode for you this week, with a lot of it recorded from the stage in Vicar Street as we prepared to begin our live show on Sunday.There's a lot of chaos around us as we try to answer a few listener questions, from superstitions to trademarked catchphrases and an unfortunate fall.We then bring some unreleased classics from the archives, including the options of supreme intelligence or global respect.Send all of your questions and comments to talkingbollox@goloudnow.com

This week, we sit down with Mike Perez, a Cuban cruiserweight boxer whose journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Mike reveals the harsh realities of his upbringing in Cuba, sharing heart-wrenching stories of survival and resilience. He takes us through his incredible journey from being bullied in the orphanage to embarking on a perilous escape from Cuba involving the Mexican cartel. With tales of his past fights in boxing, his battles with addiction and his determination to make it back into the boxing world, Mike's honesty and humor punch through. He shares insights about his upcoming fight and why age is just a number in the fight game. Theres even a suprise cameo from the Rodfather himself!Sponsored by FBT Gyms

Terry comes out swinging, demanding some competitive quizzing – but he may have bitten off more than he can chew, and is soon tripping over questions about German car manufacturers and the various colours of a popular sweet.We have a story about sticking to a bet at a funeral, and Calvin completely loses his composure over the game of golf.And he's left deeply wounded by the news that Calvin got the invite he's spent years waiting for.Send all of your questions to talkingbollox@goloudnow.com

Dermot Whelan, author of Busy and Wrecked, and formerly of Dermot & Dave joined us this week - And Calvin only called him Dave by accident once which is a win!Dermot explained how he went from being an altar boy to dreaming of being Indiana Jones, to where he is now. For years, Dermot suffered with anxiety and didn't understand it - But he didn't let it stop him from getting on stage for stand up or presenting shows like Republic of Telly. He told us how meditation helped him transform his anxiety from something that held him back to a superpower and how he uses comedy to pass on the same tools. Sponsored by FBT Gyms

The bizarre and fascinating world of mobile cinemas enters the Talking Bollox universe this week, as a listener's questions sends us into a whole new world, and has us ringing around every culchie we know as we hunt down more info on this peculiar beast of Irish rural entertainment. We also ask what's the best invention ever, and we ask if you can put in the miles for self-improvement if you're waking up in silk sheets. Send all of your questions to talkingbollox@goloudnow.com

Kyla Cobbler is not her real name, but what is real are the laughs we had with her in this episode. She told us how lying to Italian men on dating apps led to her new name and how she went from hating school to getting head hunted by Dolce & Gabbana and is now living the dream now working as a comedian. It's a chaotic episode that goes from Azealia Banks to Coolio's demands for sparkling water to colourful farts all before we could get the introduction done.Kyla's a fan of swimming in the nip and almost has Calvin convinced until she admits she'd never do it at home in Ireland.We spoke about emigrating and how living as an Irish person abroad changes your perspective. And Kyla opened up on her realisation that she was drinking too much and how she's changed her relationship with alcohol.Sponsored by FBT Gyms.

We enter a world of twists and deception this week, as the caterpillar saga grows legs. Terry gets a tip off that he thinks has him closer to discovering the identity of his anonymous tormentor, but has he just dug himself into a deeper hole?Calvin wonders if we've entered a story more layered that Shutter Island, or more treacherous than The Departed, and we find out that the one true ban in the Talking Bollox universe is the ban on revealing the identity of the caterpillar leaker.Besides all of that, the lads wonder how they'd fare in the celibate life, or with Terry living in a monastery.And we have a whole new level of threat, as Calvin warns Terry might start calling listeners to give them a piece of his mind.Send all of your questions and comments (and anonymous tips) to talkingbollox@goloudnow.com

On Valentine's Day, 1981, 48 young people died tragically in a fire that broke out in the Stardust nightclub in North Dublin. Emergency exits were blocked, the furnishings were highly flammable and the fire spread rapidly.Selina McDermott lost 3 of her siblings in the tragedy, Willie, George and Marcella. Her family was never the same again. She told us about her memories of that night, the chaos that broke out, and the long lasting impact it had on her and her community.The first investigation into the fire found that the cause of the fire was probable arson, a blow to the grieving families who felt the blame was being placed on the victims themselves. For years, the families and survivors have campaigned to get the truth. Last April, the families' efforts resulted in a new finding that all 48 young people who died in the Stardust were unlawfully killed. Selina told us where they got the strength to keep fighting and what this result means for them.Proudly sponsored by FBT Gyms.

The listeners come for Calvin and his rules of the road, and we're left with very few co-hosts who could pass a theory test.The risk of an unexpected dig is on offer for a cash reward, and a fate worse than Lucan awaits Calvin - while Terry's life on Manor Street takes on the feel of a sitcom.We have some sphere puns that inadvertently outrage Calvin, and strange beasts hidden in a shed.There's a new topic ban up for consideration and Terry is already sick of questions about his new car.Send your questions to talkingbollox@goloudnow.com

Dara Ó Briain is one of Ireland's most successful comedians.Things get off to a rocky start as Terence arrives late, and Dara makes him pay for it. Once we have that out of the way Dara shares his journey from science to stand-up, revealing how he stumbled into comedy and how he knew instantly he was hooked. We delve into the nuances of heckling and the experiences that shape a comedian's approach to audience interaction. Plus, Dara opens up about his incredible adoption story, his quest to find his birth family and the insight it gives into a dark and shocking chapter in irish history. Sponsored by FBT Gyms.For more info on how we're going premium with TBX go to www.goloudplayer.com/comingsoon

We obliterate our own ban on animal content this week, as Terence questions the point of science and at the same time claims he can see heat. We ask AI for its opinion on Talking Bollox and we find ChatGPT coming for the producers of the podcast.Terence has a big problem with the naming of the Las Vegas Sphere, and the Pyramids, but he's blown away by the Square in Tallaght.And a listener's plea for advice backfires spectacularly and leads to a heated debate about what counts as being waterproof.Send all of your questions and comments to talkingbollox@goloudnow.com

Mick Moran is a former Garda who works tirelessly to protect children from sexual abuse, both with the Guards, and Interpol and now as CEO of Hotline.ie. Mick explained where this child sexual abuse material is coming from and why he cares more about finding the child than the abuser.There's a serious debate about the potential to rehabilitate a sexual offender and Mick gives his take on seemingly ‘lenient' sentences for those caught with this content. He also tells us why deleting child abuse images is the worst thing you can do if you come across them, and explained what you should do instead.It's a heavy topic, but we've never shied away from those before and it's important to discuss this issue so we can all protect kids better and know what needs to be done to make the world a safer place. Sponsored by FBT Gyms.For more info on how we're going premium with TBX go to www.goloudplayer.com/comingsoon

In a sign of booming times, Terence has made a major purchase without working out every single angle – or any angles.There's concerns about being kidnappable, we learn C is for Savage, Calvin rages against a recent trend among young men in Dublin, and we get a heartfelt and touching message from a listener overseas.Send all of your questions and comments to talkingbollox@goloudnow.com

Comedian Justine Stafford came into us this week and quickly derailed the entire episode with talk of Banshee Bones, Joe Dolan and incels.She told us about her journey into comedy and attending two college courses at once, which makes sense when you consider how many points she got in her leaving cert. Her time at college did her no harm and gave her some much needed real life experience to avoid mishaps with tampons, bus drivers and ATMs.Phil Mitchell gets a lot of love in this episode and we're still not sure why, you'll just have to listen to find out.Sponsored by FBT Gyms.

Calvin shows great mercy towards his subjects when granted god-like powers, and it inadvertently puts Terry in another surprisingly awkward spot.We hear about fake careers invented to impress a stranger and We get a surprisingly easy choice between a subbed toe and life on loudspeaker,Terence reveals the most cutting insult that could have been thrown at someone as a child, and Calvin gives a breakdown of the necessary criteria for picking the right kind of area to live in.Send all of your questions and comments to talkingbollox@goloudnow.com

Psychotherapist Richard Hogan joined us this week for a chat about growing up in a dysfunctional household and how the stories we tell children about themselves shape who they become.He also explained how his own negative childhood experience with psychotherapy led him to where he is now and why he has a problem with over-diagnosis of anti-depressants for children.There are a lot of challenges to parents today, especially around technology and pornography, that Richard offers guidance on and he explains why young kids need to be protected more online.Sponsored by FBT Gyms.

We play number games with little success, and Terry almost slips up in the caterpillar cover up. We hear vigorous arguments about the geographic locations of tracksuit hotspots, funeral traditions outside Dublin, and the spiritual home of eggs. And the attic stories are back with a vengeance as one listener terrifies us with tales from the third floor. Calvin thinks a helpful ghost may not be the worst, but he's still thinking of calling a priest for backup. Send all of your comments and questions to talkingbollox@goloudnow.com

Shane Todd, podcaster and comedian joined us for a chat about everything from nights out with Theo Von to how he could take a bear in a fight (if it's ill). And if his stories from the soccer pitch are anything to go by – Shane takes no survivors. With dreams of one day hosting Saturday Night Live, Shane has expanded his career to include acting, taking on impressive roles like the main part in a zombie film that uses kung fu to tackle division in the North.And he confuses everyone with an invitation to Nandos – But only if you go as far as Dun Laoghaire.Sponsored by FBT Gyms.

The chaos, terror and absolute joy of collecting for Halloween comes flooding back for the lads this week, as a question sparks a trip through the memory banks and draws them back to one particularly notorious spot.Terry gets surprisingly uncomfortable around a couple of questions and inadvertently gives away how to spot when he's lying.Calvin makes a vigorous defence of calling out people who don't wash their hands after going to the toilet, and we do an impromptu survey of postmen to find out if “No Junk Mail” signs have any effect at all.And there's some airing of agonizing lifelong memories of saying the wrong thing at the wrong time.Send all of your questions and comments to talkingbollox@goloudnow.com

Ahead of their sold-out show at the 3Arena, Belters Only snuck away into the studio to chat with us. They told us about what performing at one of the country's biggest venues means to them and gave us a look ahead to the show on Saturday night. While it's a testament to the lads to be able to perform at the 3Arena, they also spoke about the need for more night life in Ireland to nurture new talent, places like Sin or Wrights (R.I.P) where the two of them first got started. Belters Only have had huge success with songs at the top of the charts and collaborating with amazing artists like Dizzee Rascal, but it hasn't always been easy for them to manage their new lives. Especially not for Robbie G who sadly lost his mam. He opened up about his grief and how she inspired him to keep fighting for his dreams. Proudly supported by FBT Gyms

Terry forgets what day it is but insists he has his priorities straight as he goes missing for the weekend to live a life of pure leisure.There's a discussion on enjoying the challenge, mental and physical, on the reality living with a wild goat in the gaff, with your new housemate interrupting everything from your breakfast to loading the dishwasher.Listeners' nicknames return and we have a bizarre live show disaster scenario.Send all of your comments and questions to talkingbollox@goloudnow.com

Sean Noble is a World Record holder for his age group in Hyrox and is one of Ireland's most exciting prospects in the sport. And seeing as you can't open Instagram without seeing something about Hyrox, we wanted to hear more about it from someone performing at the elite level.Sean's father had a big influence on him growing up, especially when it comes to fitness. He took him on half marathons when he was just 12 years old and would make him keep active during rounds of Call of Duty by squatting. When he passed away, Sean threw himself into Hyrox as a way to deal with his grief. Looking back, he recognises that he was using exercise to cope, similarly to how some people use drugs or alcohol, it was an extreme reaction. While he doesn't train as hard now, he does still push himself and has serious goals including World Champion one day. Sean told us all about his training and competitions, where he gets his motivation, and why he won't let an injury hold him back.If you want to get into Hyrox, our sponsor FBT Gyms are the best in the business.

Terry has been doing some detective work to track down the listener who has outed him as a caterpillar collector. His hunt leads to some introspection and a phone call that goes very badly.We learn about the CIA's use of Westlife music in torture, and we get a guest appearance from Terence's brothers.There's wild ideas for live shows thrown out and backed down from very quickly - as both of the lads admit they're feeling the pressure over big promises made about the next time they get on stage.Send all of your questions and comments to talkingbollox@goloudnow.com

In this week's episode, we dive into the extraordinary journey of MMA fighter Ryan Curtis—a story of resilience, determination, and the unbreakable human spirit. Ryan's career in mixed martial arts was on a meteoric rise, marked by his relentless work ethic and passion for the sport. But in 2023, his life took a disastrous turn when a tragic accident left him with a broken neck, threatening not just his career, but his ability to move from the neck down. What followed was nothing short of astonishing. Through sheer willpower, an unwavering support system, and an indomitable mindset, Ryan defied the odds, embarking on a recovery journey that has inspired countless people around the world. Today, he joins us to share his story—the highs, the lows, and the lessons learned along the way. From the cage to the comeback, this is Ryan Curtis, raw and unfiltered.Just don't call it a miracle!Proudly sponsored by FBT Gyms.

We have some big news about our return to the stage as we announce our next live show.To register for pre-sale for tickets go to: https://www.goloudnow.com/eventsTerence is ratted on by a witness from the past who comes to us with a startling revelation about Terry's past habit of collecting caterpillars in the dump.Calvin finds himself explaining some mysterious garbled text messages, and recalls the one memory he never wants to let go.Terence shows no remorse over his habit of gifting live show tickets to everyone he meets on his travels around town – even if it means there's no ticket left to give to Calvin's ma.And there's a request in for Terry to unveil his now famous cartwheel on the stage, and maybe throw in a little tumble too.Send all of your questions to talkingbollox@goloudnow.com

Comedian Fred Cooke joined us on the podcast and had us in stiches from the start between his Louth accent impression and his uncanny musical knowledge.He told us about the steep learning curve between watching and performing standup. And Calvin shared his own story of nearly getting kicked out of one of his gigs.Fred might be best known for his work with Tommy Tiernan, from supporting his tour to mc'ing his TV show. He told us how Tommy taught him to breathe, and we're glad he did because we wouldn't have gotten a word in otherwise.And there might even be a big announcement... Proudly sponsored by FBT Gyms.

We begin this week with Terence flirting with the chance to become a Baron (or Lord), if the price is right.The big debate about white versus black pudding takes a twist as we (somehow) end up debating pigs' ankles and horses' knees.Terence is, literally, cartwheeling around the studio, and Calvin is making the case for an internet free way of life.We also have an update on the big listener dilemma of the past few weeks.Send your questions and comments to talkingbollox@goloudnow.com

Carla Piera FitzGerald lost half her body weight in 14 months – An incredible loss of 13 stone or 83 kilos. She told us about her unhealthy relationship with food which began with hiding sweets aged 5 and continued through to her 30s. She tried every diet going but it was only when Carla sorted her head out, that she began to see substantial changes in her body.Carla's story is so inspiring, especially for anyone looking for a fresh start this January, and it just goes to show what we can do when we're consistent and when we put our minds to something. Carla spoke openly about Ozempic and Gastric bands which are seen as ‘quick and easy' fixes, and she shared all the unexpected ways weight loss has improved her life from making flying easier, to making her taller!Carla's new podcast The Imperfectionist is out now!