The Echo Chamber Podcast

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The Irish independent news, politics and culture podcast that doesn't take itself too seriously. Join hosts Tony Groves and Martin McMahon and a wide range of guests as the tackle everything from twitter to the Taoiseach. There will be shenanigans! Cover art by @Ciaraioch

Tortoise Shack Media

Ireland


    • Jun 12, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 38m AVG DURATION
    • 1,127 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from The Echo Chamber Podcast

    We Don’t Need a Rainy Day Fund When it’s Already Pouring Down

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2026 42:59


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Time and time again, the disabled and carer community are left behind. When the Government found over 700m for the fuel protests, while saying they couldn't pay out an emergency 145m cost of disability payment the message was loud and clear; you don't matter enough in our economic model. Joining us on the podcast to discuss the inherent unfairness of our divide and rule system, which means people compete for resources, are Head of Advocacy with the Irish Wheelchair Association, Joan Carthy and cofounder of Access for All, Bernard Mulvany. We need solidarity. We need to join the dots and to take action. Elaine Crory in Belfast podcast:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-160833001 Liam Cunningham podcast is here:https://www.patreon.com/tortoiseshack/posts/patron-exclusive-159915188 Support Ionad Hind Rajab:https://www.ionadhindrajab.org/

    The Societal Cost of Ireland’s Data Centre Boom

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 39:25


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack This Reboot Republic Podcast, is a deep dive into the environmental and societal impacts of data centres and AI development in Ireland. Rory and Dr Ciaran O'Carroll analyse the rapid expansion of data centre infrastructure, its economic benefits (if any?), and the urgent need for sustainable and equitable strategies. This podcast outlines the finance chaos of Data Centres and why the bill for them keeps falling on the public to pay. Mikey Cullen from the Gaza Flotilla podcast:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-160504651 Support the Hind Rajab Centre:https://www.ionadhindrajab.org/

    ‘We Just Ran’ – Mohammad’s Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 24:57


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Mohammad AlTurk is a young English Translator in Gaza. He joins us from Gaza City to discuss the current situation on the ground and to tell his story of the past two and a half years. He also shares his hope for the future. Mikey Cullen from the Gaza Flotilla podcast:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-160504651 Support the Hind Rajab Centre:https://www.ionadhindrajab.org/

    ‘Sinn Féin’s Left Wing Politics Are Not Up For Debate’

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 7, 2026 41:54


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack It's been a testing time for the broad left and the vote-left-transfer-left movement, and with the speculation swirling around about internal disputes within Sinn Féin, it was the perfect time to be joined by their party spokesperson for health, David Cullinane. We discuss the state of left unity, leadership speculation, and the tell-all book about the party, and we delve into their positions on immigration and the perception that they pivoted to the right after the Dublin riots. What are Sinn Féin's values? Here are some answers. The Societal Cost of Data Centres Pod:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-160229493 The Liam Cunningham pod:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-159915188

    So Jeremy Corbyn, Mary Lou McDonald and Roddy Doyle walk into a festival

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Longtime listeners would be well aware of the annual left-a-palooza that is the Robert Tressell Festival. This year, it's going bigger by moving to the RDS. Joining me to talk all about the events and why this political and cultural space matters are two of the organisers, Trade Unionist, Claire O'Connor and Filmmaker Graham Seely. Tickets and details:https://tressellfestival.ie/ Liam Cunningham Ep 1600 Podcast:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-159915188 Sinn Féin's Left Unity Podcast:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-160123801 Support the Hind Rajab Centre:https://www.ionadhindrajab.org/

    The Trump Regime, Cuba’s Collapse, World Cup of Uncertainty and Colombia’s New Hope

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2026 43:25


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack The Cuba humanitarian crisis shames the world. Yet not even their allies or nearest neighbours are helping in any meaningful way. Joining me to discuss this is Nicholas Dale Leal, a Mexico-based Colombian journalist with El País. We also have some potentially good news in Colombia, some eye-raising news about the CIA operating in Mexico in the lead up to the World Cup. The Liam Cunningham Ep 1600 is out now exclusively:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-159915188 Latest from on the ground in Gaza:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-159971072 Support the Hind Rajab Centre:https://www.ionadhindrajab.org/

    King Charles, Peter Mandelson and a Tyrone Goldmine

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2026


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Longtime listeners will be well aware of the environmental disaster that is Lough Neagh and the work of journalist and returning guest Tommy Greene in exposing it. Tommy talks us through the latest Lough updates and then tells us about a story that links a US mining company, King Charles, Peter Mandelson and a goldmine in the foothills of the Sperrin Mountains of Tyrone. A real eye opener. The Cost of Disability Podcast:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-159811258 Michael Taft podcast:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-158316794 More on the Sperrin's:https://thedetail.tv/articles/royal-family-make-millions-sperrins-gold-mine-dalradian-inquiry Preorder Tommy's book here:https://www.irishacademicpress.ie/product/troubled-waters/

    Gaza: My Students Keep Me Going – A Teacher Speaks

    Play Episode Listen Later May 30, 2026 45:25


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Palestinian teacher, academic and plain-talker, Arwa Alzraiy was a PhD Student in Durham before October 7th. She had returned to Gaza to collect data as part of her studies just before the genocide began. She joins us now from Gaza to talk truthfully about the reality of the current situation, the plight of the students she teaches and how even the subjects discussed in the makeshift classrooms are controlled by Israel. This is a must-listen episode with a young woman who knows right from wrong in a world gone very wrong. The King Charles - Sperrin Mountains pod is here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-158877807 Support the Hind Rajab Centre:https://www.ionadhindrajab.org/

    Adam SpiceBag Doyle – You Can’t Let Apathy Win

    Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2026 16:50


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Activist, artist and creator, Adam SpiceBag Doyle, has made waves in Irish media and politics. But his biggest challenge is building and sustaining a centre for displaced children in Gaza, Ionad Hind Rajab. He joined me to discuss the latest Sumud Flotilla, his journey from fundraising to becoming the Director of a school in Gaza and more. The latest on Lough Neagh podcast:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-158877807 For more visit:https://www.ionadhindrajab.org

    The bye-bye, By-Elections Special-ish

    Play Episode Listen Later May 25, 2026 36:25


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Tá an ghrian ag scoilteadh na gcloch, so of course we're inside looking at what just happened in Dublin Central and Galway West. And to do so, I am delighted to be joined by Mr irishelectionprojections.com Harry McEvansoneya and Data and Digital Rights expert, solicitor, Simon McGarr, to dig into the results, the data, the party positions and what can (and won't) be learned from the outcomes. This is a bumper podcast with two of the best guests and one very underwhelming host. New Cost of Living podcast:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-158316794 The SpiceBag Podcast is here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-158702753 Support the Hind Rajab Centre:https://www.ionadhindrajab.org/

    On Violence and Justice for Yves Sakila

    Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2026 44:21


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Journalist in Stockholm, Philip O'Connor, is a long-time Brazilian Jiujitsu practitioner. So when he wrote his piece below, On Violence, and outlined the hard reality of what took place on Henry Street, we decided we'd have a wider conversation about it all. Philip ties together all of the strands from policing, to security, to media framing and to systemic racism. Do listen. Philip's piece:https://philipoconnor.com/on-violence/ The SpiceBag Podcast:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-158702753

    James Leonard – Building Community from the Bottom Up and Getting a Seat at the Table

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2026 50:37


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack James Leonard is no stranger to the tortoise shack. Yet this is his first-ever appearance in the shack, and it is, like the man himself, really great. We talk about his post 2 Norries work, including collaborating internationally to raise awareness about the carceral experience, his work in Cork in building life-long learning initiatives and his work in Local Govt where he sees the friction between politics and community development. Thanks for the chat, James. The SpiceBag podcast is out here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-158702753 #JusticeForYvesSakila podcast:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-158808490

    Being a Father is My Most Important Role

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2026


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Hussam Tannera is a teacher, father and a survivor of the Gaza genocide. He shares his experience taking care of his two children while trying to live as best a life is possible in Gaza today. He tells us an uplifting and ingenious story about starting a coffee brand despite the lack of coffee beans. Many of us take eating meat for granted, but Hussam tells us an entirely different personal story during a prolonged period of starvation. Tune in for full details. James Leonard podcast here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-158043146 Mohammed Isdodi in Gaza:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-157949546

    The Byelection Special-ish

    Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2026


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack As promised, Mr irishelectionprojections.com Harry McEvansoneya is back to make sense of the Galway West and Dublin Central by-elections. Sense (from Groves) is maybe a bit of a stretch. Will Fine Gael's Ray McAdam get Soc Dem's Dan Ennis elected or will Gerry Hutch's transfers turn everything upside down? Will Labour pull of a shock in Galway? Enjoy or endure. There is no in between. Read the latest Projections here:https://irishelectionprojections.com/2026/05/19/dublin-central-and-galway-west-by-election-poll-analysis/ James Leonard podcast here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-158043146 Mohammed Isdodi in Gaza:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-157949546

    Starmer, Burnham, the Hapless Horserace and the Need for a New Recipe

    Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2026 40:19


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack It's been another clown-show in UK politics over the last couple of weeks. Re-joining me to wade through the mud is Prof Richard Murphy. He analyses the recent Local Elections and the state of the Labour Party. We discuss the attacks on the Green's Zack Polanski and explore the need for a vision beyond the politics of mediocrity. This is a great example of Richard's ability to cut through the bullshit and it's why he's a listener favourite. Don't miss it. The By-election Special Podcast is out now here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-158481974 James Leonard podcast here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-158043146

    Time to Cut Taxes?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2026 42:20


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this episode we dive into the "Cut Taxes" narrative that is dominating our economic and political media at the moment with NERI Economist, Ciaran Nugent. We dig into Ireland's topsy-turvy fiscal policies, the reality of our personal tax system, Ireland's tax (avoidance) system, the housing crisis, our weak energy transition, and the impact of international policies on Ireland's future. We also look at the current prominent economic debates, tired old government strategies, and the importance of resilient planning for sustainable growth. There's also some patreon-only predictions at the end... James Leonard on Building Community interview:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-158043146 Mohammed Isdodi in Gaza report:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-157949546

    You Were Elected, Now Do Your Job

    Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2026


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Writer, columnist and political commentator Elaine Crory rejoined me on the tortoise shack to talk Stormont and the mood music of a managed decline. She breaks down why the politicians MUST stay the course and not betray their constituents and the reasons for the latest opinion poll data that shows a 60%+ lead for the Irish unity with EU membership question. This is a belter of a chat with a great voice we need to hear from. The Hope, Courage and Community podcast is here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-157607730 James Leonard in the Shack podcast:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-158043146

    The First Draft of History

    Play Episode Listen Later May 10, 2026


    Malak Hijazi is an English Literature graduate, writer, historian of displacement and journalist from Gaza. She joins us from Gaza City to share her story, describe life under the ongoing genocide and explain why she is compelled to record what is happening to her people despite the danger to herself. A remarkable young woman. Don't miss it. Stormont on the Brink pod:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-157551108 The Hope, Courage and Community podcast is here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-157607730

    One Million Homes

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2026


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this tortoise shack special episode, Tony speaks with community development expert and big ideas guy, Rob Cass, about Ireland's housing crisis, the data-driven solutions, and the importance of measuring and implementing effective and proven policies to build a sustainable future for young people and communities. It's not Urban vs Rural - it's old locking out the young. For more see:https://onemillionhomes.ie/ Stormont on the Brink pod:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-157551108 Journalist Malak Hijazi on the ground in Gaza:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-157428448

    Journalism, Boxing, Daniel Kinahan and Why Everything is Upside Down

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2026 27:01


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack It's 2026, Gerry Hutch has left his second home of Lanzarote to run as a candidate in the upcoming Dublin Central byelection and Daniel Kinahan is in a Dubai prison cell fighting not to be sent back to Ireland to face justice. Irish sports legend Katie Taylor is looking to book her swansong fight in Croke Park. all the while the Regency shooting hangs like a cloud over everything. It's all a bit surreal. Joining me on the shack to discuss it all is sports journalist Kieran Cunningham. There's no doubt in my mind that if it wasn't for the work of Kieran, Daniel Kinahan's rise and rise in the sport of boxing would have continued and things would be very different. May you live in interesting times. The Tax Cuts podcast is out now here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/tax-cuts-157332004 The Hind Rajab jersey for Dignity for Palestine is available here: https://spicebagmerch.com/

    What Sierra Leone tells us about DOGE, Trump and Overseas Aid

    Play Episode Listen Later May 3, 2026


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Infectious disease expert, UCC's Prof Adjunct and Hospital Consultant, Niall Conroy, recently returned from his second home of Sierra Leone, where he witnessed first-hand the impact of the cuts by the likes of Trump, Musk and others are having on some of the most vulnerable people in the world. This is both a necessary eye-opening conversation about epidemics, pandemic prevention and why we might be sleepwalking into more problems. Niall's children malnutrition ward fundraiser is here:https://www.gofundme.com/f/childrens-malnutrition-ward-bo-govt-hospital-sierra-leone Kieran Cunningham on Daniel Kinahan's arrest podcast:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-156664295 The Hind Rajab jersey for Dignity for Palestine is available here: https://spicebagmerch.com/

    I think I should call the President

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2026


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this episode, Tony and Mr Judge Street Journal, Timmy Facciola, explore the first 100 days of Zoran Mamdani's NYC mayoralty, political strategies, and the evolving landscape of New York City politics. Timmy also breaks down his phone call with President Trump. They also touch on international issues, sports (NBA briefly), and personal passions (Timmy's fishing), providing current affairs and personal stories that get a little loose. We'll have to redial the President on the shack soon ;) The One Million Homes Project: https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-156658656 The Hind Rajab jersey for Dignity for Palestine is available here: https://spicebagmerch.com/

    Gaza bleeds as the world looks away

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2026


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Khaled Al-Qershali is a writer and journalist from Gaza, focusing on personal narratives and reporting on the humanitarian impact of conflict. He has published articles and essays in outlets such as The Electronic Intifada, The Washington Report of Middle East Affairs, and The Independent. His work highlights stories of resilience, survival, and the lived experiences of civilians under occupation. He joins us from Gaza City to share his story and his hopes for the future. The case for Community Wealth Building Podcast:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-156362917 NERI's Tom McDonnell on the Energy Crisis and Solutions Pod:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-156099307 The Hind Rajab jersey for Dignity for Palestine is available here: https://spicebagmerch.com/

    Barry Heneghan – A Deal With the Devil or Right for the Country?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2026


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Independent (Govt) TD Barry Heneghan came over to the tortoise shack to discuss his decision to vote confidence in the government, his reasons and redlines for what he deems government stability and why he believes that his voters will understand his position even as the cost of living crisis continues to worsen. Editors Note: Recorded for members 17th April The case for Community Wealth Building Podcast:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-156362917 NERI's Tom McDonnell on the Energy Crisis and Solutions Pod:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-156099307 The Hind Rajab jersey for Dignity for Palestine is available here: https://spicebagmerch.com/

    Suspended for Seeking Pay Parity – We Don’t Care About Carers

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2026


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Sonia Borwick has worked caring for people in their homes for over two decades. Now, like many of her Section 39 colleagues, she is paid less than she was almost 20 years ago. Worse still, she's been suspended from her workplace because, in my opinion, she has continued to raise the issue. She joined me in the tortoise shack to talk about her experience and need for workers to stand together. NERI's Tom McDonnell on the Energy Crisis and Solutions Pod:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-156099307 Barry Heneghan Debate pod:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-155860288 Khaled Al-Qershali with the latest from Gaza:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-156249499 The Hind Rajab jersey for Dignity for Palestine is available here: https://spicebagmerch.com/

    My Brother Was Food For Wild Dogs

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2026 25:01


    Please join me at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Editor's note: This podcast contains details that you might find upsetting. Amira Attiya, a writer and a student of translation from Gaza, tells the story of how she lost her three siblings—one of them was kidnapped, killed, and even fed to dogs—and that of her father, who was burned with white phosphorus during the Cast Lead operation. Amira was displaced 12 times, and has spent the past two years in a tent. Despite this, she is about to graduate from her translation department and she has five offers to study abroad. Tune in for the full story. Barry Heneghan Debate pod:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-155860288 The Energy Crisis with NERI's Tom McDonnell:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-156099307 The Hind Rajab jersey for Dignity for Palestine is available here: https://spicebagmerch.com/

    Societal Resilience in a Wartime Economy

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2026


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this in-depth conversation, Tony talks with listener favourite, Professor Richard Murphy, about the stark reality of the global energy crisis and the lack of political courage in the era of Trump madness. They explore the current global economic crisis, energy shortages, food security, and the failures of governments to build resilience. They also analyse the impact of geopolitical tensions, market failures, and the urgent need for systemic change to build a sustainable future. Barry Heneghan Debate pod:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-155860288 Poet Mikey Cullen on the Gaza Flotilla:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-155844130 The Hind Rajab jersey for Dignity for Palestine is available here: https://spicebagmerch.com/

    The Fuel Protests – Real Concerns Are Turned Into Anger and Hate with Saoirse McHugh

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2026


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Despite knowing everything about everything, I decided to ask for another opinion on the fuel protests. So here's an in-depth interview with the wonderful Saoirse McHugh, who discusses the recent protests, the systemic issues in agriculture, energy, and social policy, and explores potential solutions for a sustainable future. The conversation highlights the influence of powerful (shady) interest groups, EU policies, and the urgent need for systemic change. Barry Heneghan on that Government confidence vote:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-155860288 Mikey Cullen on the Gaza Flotilla:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-155844130 Run for Teddy: https://www.patreon.com/posts/short-message-155503232 The Hind Rajab jersey for Dignity for Palestine is available here: https://spicebagmerch.com/ Conor McCabe's piece:https://www.irishexaminer.com/opinion/commentanalysis/arid-41826395.html Simon's Gist:The Gist:https://www.thegist.ie/the-gist-a-denial-of-service-attack/

    Displaced in Gaza – Bernadette Devlin McAliskey

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2026


    For More Please visit AFSC.org The Occupation Killed My Grandchildren and Dispersed My Family is written by Yusra Salem Abu Awad and narrated by Bernadette Devlin McAliskey "Where is the United Nations? Where are the world's nations? Where are those who stand with us? I raise my voice with all Palestinians. My scattered children, I hope to meet them safely soon." Bernadette Devlin is a lifelong civil rights activist and leader. We are very grateful for her contribution to this audiobook. To purchase Displaced in Gaza click:https://www.haymarketbooks.org/books/2620-displaced-in-gaza All proceeds go to We Are Not Numbers in Gaza. Production by Tony Groves @ the tortoise shack

    Gaza Has Shown The World The Truth – Iran and Lebanon is Just a Continuation

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2026 52:55


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Dr. Belal Alakhras is a lecturer at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) who was born and raised in Gaza. His research focuses on settler colonial studies, conflict resolution, and the geopolitical dynamics of the Middle East and Southeast Asia and the escalating war on Iran. In this episode, he talks about his experience watching the genocide unfold in Gaza from afar and how it feels heavier than he'd imagined. He also offers his expert perspective on geopolitics in the Middle East and the impact of the ongoing war and the centrality of Gaza in this equation. Tune in for more details. Rory Hearne on joining the dots from the Fuel Protests to the Cost of Living Crisis:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-155282335 Run for Teddy:https://www.patreon.com/posts/short-message-155503232 The Hind Rajab jersey for Dignity for Palestine is available here:https://spicebagmerch.com/

    New York Mayor Mamdani and the Mad King Trump

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2026


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Timmy Facciola is a freelance journalist who worked previously with the New York Times and Politico. He now covers the new Mayor Zohran Mamdani from his excellent substack https://judgestreetjournal.substack.com/ He made his first ever podcast appearance on the shack earlier and we discussed his work, the mad king Trump, the Jewish communities feelings towards Mayor Mamdani and why local journalism is so important in this global news obsessed era. Rory Hearne on joining the dots from the Fuel Protests to the Cost of Living Crisis:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-155282335 Run for Teddy:https://www.patreon.com/posts/short-message-155503232 The Hind Rajab jersey for Dignity for Palestine is available here:https://spicebagmerch.com/

    Ireland’s Meta Money, Meta Problems

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2026


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Solicitor and Digital Rights expert, Simon McGarr re-joins me to discuss the recent legal woes for Big Tech, the novel legal argument that challenges their business model, the Government's attempts to improve online safety and why what Ireland is planning to do with its EU Presidency is at odds with tackling online disinformation and misinformation. Spoiler: It's deeply ironic that we're arguing for less Big Tech regulation, while complaining that the streets are blocked up by people who were "radicalised online." Rory Hearne on joining the dots from the Fuel Protests to the Cost of Living Crisis:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-155282335 New York journalist Timmy Facciola on Mamadani and Trump is here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-155024173 The Hind Rajab jersey for Dignity for Palestine is available here:https://spicebagmerch.com/

    Fuel Protests – ‘Send In The Army’ and it’s Not Left vs Right

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2026 22:07


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Editors Note: Contains strong language from a part of the protest The fuel protests have caused havoc to people's travel plans and made many turn on the protests. But Dublin City Councillor, Conor Reddy went along twice and despite what you see in the video at the start, he was able to find common ground with many there and engage in civil debate and conversations even with those of whom he disagreed. We have many crises facing this country and if we don't show up to support and offer solutions, another side will and they'll be peddling division and misinformation. It is not Left vs Right; it's Have's vs Have Not's. I'm glad Conor and Paul showed up. New York journalist Timmy Facciola on Mamadani and Trump is here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-155024173 The Hind Rajab jersey for Dignity for Palestine is available here:https://spicebagmerch.com/

    Displaced in Gaza: My Mother Returned Home to Die

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2026 12:31


    Please visit AFSC.org "We cried with my mother every time. She cried from pain and agony, and we cried from our helplessness and inability to provide assistance, medication, or relieve her pain. My mother suffered all the time, and our hearts were crushed with pain. This is our mother whom we love dearly, whom we do not want to lose, and who loves life and wants to continue it with us in good health." My Mother Returned Home to Die: The Injustices against Elderly Patients in the Gaza Strip is written by Ali Al Owisi and narrated by Irish Parliamentarian and lifelong Palestinian Rights Activist, Richard Boyd Barrett. To purchase Displaced in Gaza click:https://www.haymarketbooks.org/books/2620-displaced-in-gaza All proceeds go to We Are Not Numbers in Gaza. Production by Tony Groves @ the tortoise shack

    Gaza, The Daily Reality As The World Looks Away

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2026 31:02


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Editor's note: I'd recommend watching this episode as Noor shares some glimpses of Gaza now. Noor Alhinnawi is a Palestinian writer from Gaza. She is graduating this semester and planning to start her career. After multiple displacements and attempts to cross to the south, she now lives in her relatives home after their own home was destroyed by Israel. She shares stories of displacement and surging death with us. Tune in for the full story. Simon McGarr on Meta and Google's legal losses:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-154840735 The ShedSit Pod with Sustainable Urbanism expert Phil Lawton:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-154676562 The YouTube stuff:https://www.youtube.com/@tortoiseshack9314

    Iran and the Global Economic Crisis

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2026 54:58


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Rejoining me on the shack to delve into Iran, the US, Big Tech, the interlinked global financial system and the economic troubles ahead is author of Tax Haven Ireland and editor of the Irish Marxist Review, Dr Brian O'Boyle. This is a deep dive into the economics of this idiotic war, shadow banking, tax avoidance and the long-term geopolitical game behind the game. Simon McGarr on Meta and Google's legal losses:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-154840735 The ShedSit Pod with Sustainable Urbanism expert Phil Lawton:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-154676562 The YouTube stuff:https://www.youtube.com/@tortoiseshack9314

    This Feels Like a World War

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2026


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack CEO of Emergency Logistics Team, Will Holden has spent years in some of the most dangerous places in the world. From Yemen to Syria and the then ISIS run Iraq, he's seen a lot. He joined me from Erbil, Kurdistan to talk about the current situation, the supply chain issues created by the war and why this situation has him more concerned than anything he's encountered previously. Iran, Shadow Banking, Shadow Fleets and the two week war podcast:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-154596249 Song by Cabin proceeds to Ionad Hind Rajab:https://cabin-music.bandcamp.com/album/live-from-the-ivy-house Support the Hind Rajab Centre here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/quick-thank-you-152402329 SpiceBag Hind Jajab Centre Jersey:https://spicebagmerch.com/

    Access to Justice – Planning to Fail

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2026


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack The Government has sought to limit Access to Justice via their public consultation on the regulation of costs payable in matters prescribed on foot of section 294 of the Planning and Development Act 2024 (Scale of Fees). But it turns out that the public are overwhelmingly (98%) opposed. So what now for the planning eejitry? Solicitor Fred Logue joins me to talk about the report that has given the government the results it did not want and what the implications might and might not be for planning, climate action, bohs jerseys and access to justice. I made up the bohs jersey bit, but would support a bill to ban them. The Report is here:https://assets.gov.ie/static/documents/c168d034/Report_Summary_-_Scale_of_Fees_Submissions.pdf Will Holden joins us from Ebril, Kurdistan, Iraq:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-154305070 Song by Cabin proceeds to Ionad Hind Rajab:https://cabin-music.bandcamp.com/album/live-from-the-ivy-house Support the Hind Rajab Centre here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/quick-thank-you-152402329 SpiceBag Hind Jajab Centre Jersey:https://spicebagmerch.com/

    Chasing My Dream

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2026 23:20


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Shahd Ismail Mahmoud Miqdad , is a PhD student from Gaza, who dreams of a life beyond the genocide where she will complete her education and life a an independent life safe, far from anything that hurts or touches her or her loved ones. Will Holden joins us from Ebril, Kurdistan, Iraq:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-154305070 Song by Cabin proceeds to Ionad Hind Rajab:https://cabin-music.bandcamp.com/album/live-from-the-ivy-house Support the Hind Rajab Centre here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/quick-thank-you-152402329 SpiceBag Hind Jajab Centre Jersey:https://spicebagmerch.com/

    Does Cuba Have Any Allies?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2026


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this episode journalist with El Pais in Latin America, Nicholas Dale Leal talks Cuba and the impossible choice facing its citizens, the Trump regime's mafia style bullying of its neighbours and the lack of support for Cuba from her traditional allies. We also discuss the US-Ecuador attacks on “narco-terrorists” that killed innocent dairy farmers and what is happening in the Colombian presidential election. Will Holden joins us from Ebril, Kurdistan, Iraq:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-154305070 Song by Cabin proceeds to Ionad Hind Rajab:https://cabin-music.bandcamp.com/album/live-from-the-ivy-house Support the Hind Rajab Centre here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/quick-thank-you-152402329

    Boots on the Ground in Iran? – Former US Green Beret, Anthony Aguilar

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 28, 2026 27:25


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack Former US Green Beret and Gaza Humanitarian Foundation whistleblower and now US Senate candidate, Anthony Aguilar rejoined me to discuss the current situation in Cuba, Iran and the US. He outlines the military situation and, not to be all doomer, gives a stark assessment of where things are heading. A must listen/watch Vijay Prashad podcast:https://www.patreon.com/posts/jwe-iran-crisis-153857539 Lynn Boylan MEP Pod:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-153100794

    Evictions Up 41% – A National Emergency

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2026


    Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack This Reboot Republic again delves into Ireland's housing crisis, government policies, and the influence of international investment on the economy. Rory and Tony analyse the systemic issues, the role of private sector interests, the government fund festival vs the mass evictions that are occuring and the potential solutions for sustainable, green and public owned development. Cuba podcast with El Pais journalist in Latin America, Nicholas Leal here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-153943715 Former US Green Beret, Anthony Aguilar podcast here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-153986148 Song by Cabin proceeds to Ionad Hind Rajab:https://cabin-music.bandcamp.com/album/live-from-the-ivy-house Support the Hind Rajab Centre here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/quick-thank-you-152402329

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