Ulster Rugby Lad Podcast

From growing up in Zimbabwe to winning Premiership titles, a European Cup, and lifting trophies with Exeter Chiefs, Dave Ewers joins Stand Up: An Ulster Rugby Show to reflect on a remarkable rugby journey.Dave opens up on leaving home as a teenager, the rise of Exeter, life at Ulster, his spell with the Stormers, retirement struggles, and the possibility of one final chapter with Zimbabwe at the Rugby World Cup. Plus, plenty of stories from the changing room, the famous Exeter culture, and some quick-fire questions to finish.

Former Ulster and Ireland winger Craig Gilroy joins the Stand Up team to reflect on a career that brought unforgettable highs, devastating injuries, and some of the biggest moments in Ulster Rugby history.Craig opens up about retirement, life away from the game, the try at Thomond Park that still gets talked about today, and the move to Exeter that nearly happened.An honest, funny conversation with one of Ulster Rugby's most popular players.

Ireland international and former Ulster player Brittany Hogan joins the Stand Up Ulster Rugby Show live at the Waterfront Hall alongside Gareth Steenson.Brittany reflects on her journey from Ballynahinch RFC to representing Ireland on the international stage, discusses life at Sale Sharks, the growth of the women's game, Ireland's Six Nations campaign, beating New Zealand, and what the future holds for rugby in Ireland. She also opens up on the sacrifices required to reach the top level and the community that rugby has given her throughout her career.

The Stand Up Ulster Rugby Alternative Awards are here.Dan Humphreys joins Gareth and Peter to hand out some of the awards that really matter. From fan favourites and try of the season, to young player of the year, unsung heroes and some completely made-up categories that probably shouldn't exist.

his week, we're joined by former player Paddy McAllister to unpack Ulster's painful Challenge Cup final defeat in Bilbao.Was Montpellier simply too strong, or did Ulster miss an opportunity? We get into the reality of the conditions, the physical battle up front, the impact of missing key players, and whether this season should be viewed as progress or disappointment.We also look ahead to what comes next for Ulster — recruitment, squad depth, the challenge of competing financially, and why this young group could still be building towards something special.Plus, Paddy reflects on his own career, moving away from Ulster, and the lessons young players can learn from big-game experiences.If Ulster are to get back to the top table of European rugby, where does it start?

31,000 fans, three home wins, and a team full of confidence — Ireland Women's rugby feels like it's building something special.This week, we're joined by Ireland Women's coach Gareth Steenson and journalist Issy Todd to react to Ireland's emphatic win over Scotland, a record-breaking day at the Aviva Stadium, and what this Six Nations campaign says about the direction of the team.From the atmosphere created by 31,000 supporters and the rise of the ‘Green Wave' to standout performers, growing competition for places, and why this young squad feels different, we look at the momentum building around Ireland Women's rugby.We also get into what comes next — pathways, player development, the Celtic Challenge, growing crowds, and why this could just be the beginning for a side that looks ready to keep pushing forward.

Ulster are one game away from silverware. Ahead of a huge Challenge Cup final in Bilbao, we're joined by French rugby expert James Harrington to break down exactly what Ulster are up against when they face Montpellier.We react to Ulster's injury concerns heading into the final, the challenge Richie Murphy's side faces against one of France's form teams, and whether this young Ulster squad can rise to the occasion on the biggest stage.We also get the full Montpellier cheat sheet, from their huge, physical pack and brutal set-piece to the danger men Ulster fans need to know about, including Ali Price, Tom Banks and a side that has quietly become one of the most effective teams in France.Plus, James gives his verdict on where Montpellier are vulnerable, what Ulster need to do to win in Bilbao, and his prediction for the final.

Ulster's season comes down to one game. Ahead of a huge Challenge Cup final against Montpellier, former Ulster and Ireland centre Luke Marshall joins us to break down where this Ulster side really is, and where it could be heading.We react to Ulster's defeat to Glasgow, Richie Murphy's selection calls, and what the performance means heading into a massive showdown with Montpellier in Bilbao, with Luke giving his take on how Ulster can get the job done.We also get into the rise of Ulster's academy talent, why this current crop of young players feels different, and the impact players like Jude Postlethwaite, Zac Ward and Jack Murphy have had this season as the province looks to build something for the future.Plus, Luke reflects on his own Ulster career, life after rugby, the pressure of big European weeks, and what it was really like coming through the system at Ulster.

This week, we're joined by legendary rugby commentator Mark Robson for a deep dive into Ulster Rugby's season, the evolution under Richie Murphy, and whether this side can finally deliver silverware.From the dramatic Stormers finish and the Nathan Doak controversy to Ulster's new attacking identity, Jude Postlewaite's potential, Jack Murphy's development, and the challenge of balancing Europe with a huge URC run-in, this is a proper rugby conversation with one of the game's most recognisable voices.We also get into Mark's broadcasting career, frustrations with TMO and TV directors, why Ulster are simply more enjoyable to watch again, and what success this season could mean for the province moving forward.

On this episode we discuss the Stormers clash, with Angus Bell returning, squad depth being tested, and predictions for another huge night at Ravenhill.

This week, we sit down with the CEO of Ulster Rugby, Hugh McCaughey, for a deep dive into the province's future.From long-term squad development and building depth across every position to the realities of ticket pricing and competing in the URC, this is a rare look at how the club is run behind the scenes.We also get into the CEO's appointment, how the role evolved from interim to permanent, and the long-term vision — with plans that could take 4–5 years to fully embed.If Ulster are to return to the top end of the game, this is where it starts.Join us on Patreon for more content and exclusive access! patreon.com/thestandup 

The brand new Stand Up: Ulster Rugby Show launches today.I'm hosting it alongside Gareth Steenson, and for episode one we're joined by Ulster legend Alan O'Connor.We get stuck into Ulster's young side and their brave defeat to Munster Rugby, hear the opposition view from Munster man and journalist Pat McCarry, and look ahead to a season-defining semi-final against Exeter Chiefs this Saturday.We also catch up with Al on what he's up to now.If you're into Ulster rugby, this is for you.

New episode of the Red Hand Pod: Sorry for the delay on this one but better late than never!

Ulster beaten 26–19 at home to Connacht… not exactly what anyone had planned for a night at Ravenhill.Dan is joined by Fergus and Nathan to chat through it all. Where it got away from Ulster, the moments that swung it, and the bits that probably had everyone in the stands scratching their heads. There's a bit of frustration, a bit of perspective, and the usual honest chat on where things are at.

Ulster undone by Peel as Scarlets provide banana skin The Red Hand - The only Ulster Rugby podcast - is back and this time Dan is joined by Sunday Times Rugby correspondent, Peter O'Reilly

Ulster show true grit on a snowy night at Ravenhill. On this week's Red Hand Podcast, Peter Lockhart is joined by Fergus, Cal, Bill and debutant Issy to break down a dominant interpro win over Munster, delivered with real true grit in testing conditions.We discuss the performance, the atmosphere around Ravenhill, standout players, Ulster's improving attack and defence, and whether this team is finally clicking. There's also listener questions, a look ahead to the Cheetahs and Stade Français, and a wider chat about what success looks like for Ulster this season.

Dan sits down with Gavin Mairs, Chief Rugby Correspondent at The Daily Telegraph, for a wide-ranging and genuinely fascinating conversation. From the big-picture issues shaping the modern game to the stories behind the headlines, Gavin brings sharp insight, decades of experience and a few surprises along the way.And of course, there's a healthy dose of Ulster Rugby chat woven through it all.

The Red Hand Podcast is back.Dan's at the helm and he's joined by Jack and Fergus as they dive into all things Ulster Rugby.Cardiff reviewed. The road ahead previewed.Plenty of chat, plenty of craic.Tune in and enjoy. 

Welcome back to the Red Hand Podcast.Dan takes the reins this week as the lads dive into Ulster's huge win over Racing and look ahead to Cardiff and a busy festive stretch of inter-pro games.Enjoy!

The Red Hand Podcast is back this week, with Dan Humphreys steering the ship and Caolán and Cal joining the panel. The lads pick over Ulster's bonus-point win against Benetton, cast an eye towards Racing, and wander into all sorts of rugby chat along the way. Enjoy.

The Red Hand Podcast is joined by Brendan Fanning this week to discuss his new book “Touching Distance”.Dan has a great chat with him about all things Irish rugby of course with a heavy emphasis on Ulster.

Join Dan, Fergus and Jack for your weekly dose of Ulster and Ireland rugby chat. This week, the lads dig into Rory Best's new role and what it means for the province, break down the Lions fixture, and look at Ireland's latest run-out through an Ulster lens.Plenty of opinion and a healthy dose of craic.Stick the kettle on, plug in, and enjoy!

THE RED HAND PODCAST IS BACK, BABY!Peter's handed over the reins for the next wee while and Dan's in the hot seat, steering the ship with Nathan and Fergus as the lads chat through Ulster's undefeated start to the season. A bit of craic, a bit of analysis, and the usual segments including two good, two bad and the look ahead to the next game…It's good to be back. Stick the kettle on and enjoy.

Right, let's not sugarcoat it - Ulster Rugby's season was… not great, but we're gonna keep the chins up and have a chat about it anyway! Join us for the big send-off of the Red Hand Podcast, where me and the lads, Fergus and Ian, are joined by comedian and die-hard Ulster fan Ian Thompson and Ulster Rugby legend Stevie Ferris. We'll be yapping away, throwing out some half-decent takes, a few dodgy ones, and some craic to make you forget Ulster's shocker of a season and look ahead to hopefully brighter times. So, grab a cold one, stick the kettle on, or whatever you're into, and dive in for a bit of craic!

Join me on the latest episode of The Red Hand as we dissect Ulster Rugby's gut-wrenching loss to the Sharks, unpacking where it went wrong and what it means for the rebuild. I'm joined by Dan, Ian, the insightful Caolan Scully from Munster's Red Army Podcast, and former Ulster and Ireland star Ian Madigan, who brings his razor-sharp perspective. We dive into Richie Murphy's young squad and preview the crucial final games against Munster and Edinburgh—make-or-break moments for Ulster's season. Expect passion, laughs, and a hopeful look at how Ulster can rise again. Tune in on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your pods!

The Red Hand Pod is back to chat about the loss to Leinster at the weekend and look ahead to the home straight...

The Red Hand pod gang are back and are joined by South African rugby podcaster, Harry Jones, to discuss the win over Stormers and look ahead to the tricky final run-in.

The Red Hand Podcast is back to discuss all things Ulster Rugby including the game at the weekend and where Richie Murphy's men go from here.

Ulster are back and so is the Red Hand Podcast!Ian, Fergus, Dan and I chat about Ulster edging past Scarlets and what comes next for Richie Murphy's men.

To discuss Ulster's hammering of the Chiefs at Fortress Ravenhill I'm joined by Ian, Nathan and Dan.

We do our best to discuss everything apart from rugby but eventually do end up talking about what happened at the weekend. Nathan, Fergus, Dan and I were delighted to be joined by Ian Whitten - European Cup winner and two time premiership winner with Exeter as well as playing for Ulster and Ireland.

On this episode of the Red Hand Podcast I'm joined by former Ireland u-20s, Ulster, Highlanders and Ospreys second row Jack Regan. Jack took the road less travelled - from Leinster to Ulster's academy to New Zealand, Wales and Japan before taking early retirement stemming from health concerns - it's a story worth listening to. Dan and I really enjoyed chatting to Jack and we hope you enjoy listening.

Red Handers, it's good to be back! In this episode I'm joined by a class panel featuring Fergus, Bill, Deric and Nathan. We chat about Ulster's festive period, look ahead to the upcoming games and give a mid-season assessment of where Ulster are at. Enjoy!

Depending on who you ask last weekend was either full positives or the end of the world for Ulster fans. To help you decide how to feel about Ulster at the minute I'm joined by Jack, Ian, Dan and Maz McMillan - Bordeaux fan originally from Ulster - joins us on the pod. Enjoy!

This week's episode is a father and sons special. We try and avoid talking about the game but inevitably end up discussing the clash with Toulouse and where Ulster go from here.

On this episode Nathan, Dan, Fergus and I are joined by rugby expert and all round legend Brett Igoe. We talk about Ulster, Leinster, Ireland and everything else in between. Enjoy!

The Red Hand is back.This week we're joined by rugby expert analyst Jason Lear.Ian makes his glorious return after following an enforced return to podcasting protocol.Nathan explains Leinster will lose this weekend but only because they want to.And a whole lot more... Enjoy!

Ulster and Ireland legend, Chris Henry, and comedian and host of the Cork in the North podcast and Q Radio breakfast show join us on the Red Hand Podcast to discuss all things Ulster Rugby (and some other stuff too!) Enjoy.

In this episode I'm joined by Fergus, Dan and former Ulster player Mark Best as we discuss the win over Ospreys, look ahead to Cardiff and everything Ulster Rugby related in between.

On this week's Red Hand Podcast we discuss the Connacht clash, look forward to getting one over the Ospreys this weekend and chat all things Ulster Rugby. I'm joined by Fergus, Ian, Nathan and Dan. Enjoy.

A tough day at the office against the Bulls at the weekend, but the lads got the all important 'moral victory': a spirited performance from a young and inexperienced side against a team packed with Springboks. Can Richie's men bounce back this weekend against Connacht? The lads discuss this and more on the pod. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CkYXptY0fs4

We have a great episode in store for you this week. Legendary European cup and Premiership winning out-half Gareth Steenson joins the panel to talk about what he has been up to recently and gives his take on the Ulster 10 jersey. Always great to listen to Gareth. The lads discuss Ulster's game against the Lions last weekend, look ahead to the clash with the Bulls and go through the Red Hand Mailbox. Enjoy.

We're baaack! Richie Murphy's men pulled off the great escape against Glasgow and now face a tough tour to South Africa. The gang discuss all things Ulster Rugby and listen to the Red Hand's first ever poem - An ode to Marty Moore. Enjoy.

After the successful summer interview series, the gang are back and talking about the season ahead! I'm joined by Nathan, Fergus, Dan and special guest, former Ulster player and European Cup winner, Andy Park. We talk all things Ulster Rugby, pre-season, new signings, overall trajectory and predictions for the 24/25 campaign.

Really enjoyed chatting to Robert, David, Alan and Ian Whitten about their respective rugby careers and their time playing together in the same team for Instonians (which included a Senior Cup win and incredible unbeaten streak).

I am delighted to be joined on this episode by former Ulster and Ireland centre Kevin Maggs. Kevin was known for his hard hitting, physical style in defence and attack, making him a fan favourite for club and country. In this episode, Kevin charts his journey from taking up the game at a relatively late age to going from laying kerbs and playing for his local team on Saturday to playing alongside midfield partner Brian O'Driscoll. Was an absolute pleasure to speak to Kevin and I hope you enjoy listening.

Loved chatting to former Rainey, Ulster, Dragons and Wales hooker, Bradley Roberts, a while back for this episode which is being re-released following the announcement of his recent retirement. His story is like something from a far-fetched Hollywood script. From club rugby, to pro rugby to international rugby in less than a calendar year. Remarkable.

This is the first re-release of some of my favourite episodes. Sean Reidy is a very common answer when you ask Ulster fans for their favourite player of the modern era. Sean typified the 'fight for every inch' mantra. Despite not being born here, Sean always fought for the jersey for Ulster and Ireland and is very fondly remembered in the province. There have definitely been times recently when we've needed players in his mould and hopefully the man himself returns to these shores at some point in the future! Really enjoyed this chat with him.

After all the interviews I've done so far, this is one of my favourite episodes ever. Neil Best is an Ulster legend, fan favourite and one of the most abrasive and physical players who has ever played for the province. He's a big character and I know you'll love listening to our chat.

If, like me, you're still coming to terms with the end of Luke Marshall's playing days with Ulster, then you'll find comfort listening to this episode in which the legendary centre reflects on his time with the province. Luke has been a massive fan favourite over the years for good reason: he has always given his all and, despite injuries getting in the way at times, has had an unbelievable career with Ulster and Ireland. Dan and I really enjoyed chatting to Luke who, as well as being a very talented player, is also one of rugby's good guys. Enjoy listening.

What an honour to be joined by Ulster's most successful coach of the professional era, Harry Williams. Harry is the legendary coach of Ulster's 1999 European Cup winning squad who celebrated their achievement 25 years on this year. Loved speaking to Harry who is a brilliant leader, man manager and inspirational coach who will go down in history as the man who steered Ulster to their greatest day in the province's history.