Podcasts about Ireland

Island in north-west Europe divided into the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland

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    Weird Darkness: Stories of the Paranormal, Supernatural, Legends, Lore, Mysterious, Macabre, Unsolved
    Two Strangers, One Face: The 1903 Case That Made Fingerprints the Gold Standard

    Weird Darkness: Stories of the Paranormal, Supernatural, Legends, Lore, Mysterious, Macabre, Unsolved

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 2, 2026 49:45 Transcription Available


    In 1903, a man arrived at Leavenworth Prison claiming he'd never been there before — but the staff found his exact double already serving a life sentence inside.READ MY DEEP-DIVE ARTICLE ON THIS STORY: https://weirddarkness.com/williamwest/In May 1903, a convict named Will West arrived at Leavenworth Prison in Kansas. The intake clerk was certain he'd seen this man before — and a search of prison records turned up a card for William West, a convicted murderer whose measurements and photograph were a near-perfect match. The problem? William West was already locked up inside Leavenworth, serving a life sentence. The two men had never met, weren't related, and had no idea the other existed. Their extraordinary resemblance would expose a fatal flaw in the world's leading criminal identification system — and help launch the forensic technique we still rely on today.IN THIS EPISODE: How do you convince people you are innocent of a crime committed by someone who looks exactly like you and even shares your name? It's the strange story of William West and… William West. (Will The Real William West Please Step Forward) *** In November 1638, Dorothy Talby killed her three-year-old daughter. She admitted so when first arrested. But then she refused to say anything when brought before a judge. But then, what would you expect from a woman, which we all know is more easily persuaded by Satan to sin – and women were much more likely to be seduced by witchcraft. At least, that's what people believed in the 17th century. (The Case of Dorothy Talbye) *** It's understood and agreed to by most that while it is a lot of fun to think about, time travel is simply not possible – and will probably never be seeing as we've never met any time travelers. Or… maybe we have? (True Time-Travel Moments) *** Stories of shapeshifters seem to be told worldwide – and the Celtic nations are no different. We'll look at a few shape-changing creatures from Ireland, Wales and Scotland. (Shape-Shifters Of The Celts)CHAPTERS & TIME STAMPS (All Times Approximate)…00:00:00.000 = The Leavenworth Lookalikes00:01:59.171 = Show Intro00:04:01.126 = Two Strangers, One Face: Will The Real William West Please Step Forward00:18:16.969 = ***A Mother, A Murder, A Mental Illness, and Justice in 17th-Century New England00:25:32.536 = Who Sent Messages Dated Decades Ahead of Time? And How Did They Send Them?00:35:00.004 = Cold Hands00:39:21.083 = *** When Gods Became Beasts: Shapeshifting in Celtic Myth00:47:59.748 = Show Close*** = Begins immediately after inserted ad breakSOURCES and RESOURCES – and/or --- PRINT VERSION to READ or SHARE:“Will The Real William West Please Step Forward?” by Dean Jobb for Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine (https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/5y8wybsa), Martin Chalakoski for The Vintage News (https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/th4ujesh), and Lee Ferran for ABC News (https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/sa66vcwf)“A Mother, A Murder, A Mental Illness, and Justice in 17th-Century New England” by Romeo Vitelli for Providentia: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/yu54cyn8“Who Sent Messages Dated Decades Ahead of Time? And How Did They Send Them?” posted at Earth-Chronicles.com: https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/hh8tbwcr“When Gods Became Beasts: Shapeshifting in Celtic Myth” by Zteve T. Evans for FolkloreThursday.com:https://weirddarkness.tiny.us/3m53e2h8=====(Over time links may become invalid, disappear, or have different content. I always make sure to give authors credit for the material I use whenever possible. If I somehow overlooked doing so for a story, or if a credit is incorrect, please let me know and I will rectify it in these show notes immediately. Some links included above may benefit me financially through qualifying purchases.)= = = = ="I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness." — John 12:46= = = = =WeirdDarkness® is a registered trademark. Copyright ©2026, Weird Darkness.=====Originally aired: May 12, 2021EPISODE PAGE (includes sources): https://weirddarkness.com/TwoMenOneFaceABOUT WEIRD DARKNESS: Weird Darkness is a true crime and paranormal podcast narrated by professional award-winning voice actor, Darren Marlar. Seven days per week, Weird Darkness focuses on all things strange and macabre such as haunted locations, unsolved mysteries, true ghost stories, supernatural manifestations, urban legends, unsolved or cold cases, conspiracy theories, and more. Weird Darkness has been named one of the “20 Best Storytellers in Podcasting” by Podcast Business Journal. Listeners have described the show as a blend of “Coast to Coast AM”, “The Twilight Zone”, “Unsolved Mysteries”, and “In Search Of”.DISCLAIMER: Stories and content in Weird Darkness can be disturbing for some listeners and intended for mature audiences only. Parental discretion is strongly advised.#WeirdDarkness, #TrueCrime, #ForensicScience, #CriminalHistory, #Doppelganger, #Fingerprints, #MysteryStory, #HistoricalMystery, #ColdCase, #TrueCrimeStory

    Rob Beckett and Josh Widdicombe's Lockdown Parenting Hell

    Joining us this episode to discuss the highs and lows of parenting (and life) is the brilliant comedian and presenter - Russell Howard Russell Howard tours his brand-new stand-up show Don't Tell The Algorithm across the UK & Ireland from 22nd January to 29th November, including six dates at the London Palladium Russell Howard's Five Brilliant Things podcast episodes are released weekly on Wednesdays and are available on all major podcast platforms. Parenting Hell is a Spotify Podcast, available everywhere every Tuesday and Friday. Please subscribe and leave a rating and review you filthy street dogs... xx If you want to get in touch with the show with any correspondence, kids intro audio clips, small business shout outs, and more.... here's how: EMAIL: Hello@lockdownparenting.co.uk Follow us on instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@parentinghell⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ A 'Keep It Light Media' Production  Sales, advertising, and general enquiries: hello@keepitlightmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Irish and Celtic Music Podcast
    Best Celtic Music 2025 – Fan Voted Top 20 #740

    Irish and Celtic Music Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2026 104:12


    These are the songs you loved most in 2025. The votes are in. The stories are written. From powerful folk anthems to driving reels and unforgettable voices, these tracks defined the year in Irish & Celtic music. Welcome to the Top 20 Irish & Celtic Songs and Tunes of 2025 as chosen by fans, fueled by community, and celebrating Celtic culture through music on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #740  -  -  Subscribe now! Kinnfolk, Niamh Dunne, Natalie Padilla, Socks in the Frying Pan, Scottish Fish, Kyle Carey, The Drowsy Lads, Heather Dale, Sheridan Rúitín, The Ciderhouse Rebellion with Molly Donnery, The Gothard Sisters, Screaming Orphans, Doolin', Fialla, Jigjam, Eimear Arkins, Austral, Ed Miller, Arise & Go, Willowgreen GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what's happening with Celtic music and culture online. Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now! You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 - 3 weeks. THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC 0:12 - Kinnfolk "The Triple Crown Set" from Star Above The Mountain 5:10 - WELCOME 10:08 - Niamh Dunne "Ballyneety's Walls" from Portraits 13:27 - Natalie Padilla "Balsamroot" from Montana Wildflower 17:25 - Socks in the Frying Pan "Irelands Struggle" from Waiting for Inspiration 21:47 - Scottish Fish "Annie's" from Currently 26:37 - FEEDBACK 30:35 - Kyle Carey "Nach Muladach, Muladach Duine Leis Fhèin" from The Last Bough 33:32 - The Drowsy Lads "Lost and Found Hooley" from Time Flies 38:56 - Heather Dale "Weaver" from The Green Knight 42:20 - Sheridan Rúitín "Dean McLeod" from Only Savage 45:52 - The Ciderhouse Rebellion with Molly Donnery "Murphy's Running Dog" from A Little Bit Slanted 50:43 - FEEDBACK 53:47 - The Gothard Sisters "Adventurer" from Moment in Time 56:56 - Screaming Orphans "This Is the Life" from Paper Daisies 59:31 - Doolin' "Mary's Jigs" from Doolin' 1:03:56 - Fialla "The Road to Drumleman" from A Rare Thing 1:08:48 - THANKS 1:11:53 - Jigjam "Red Paddy on the Ridge" from Phoenix 1:16:30 - Eimear Arkins "Téir Abhaile Riú (Song)" from Here & There 1:20:03 - Austral "Woodford Nights" from Thylacine 1:26:55 - Ed Miller "The Wide Rio Grand" from Many's The Fine Tale 1:31:26 - Arise & Go "The Dirty Bee: La Grondeuse / Mutt's Favourite / Break Yer Bass Drone / The Dirty Bee" from Meeting Place 1:36:36 - CLOSING 1:38:25 - Willowgreen "Walking on the Waves" from Sheila's Brush 1:42:40 - CREDITS Support for this program comes from International speaker, Joseph Dumond, teaching the ancient roots of the Gaelic people. Learn more about their origins at Sightedmoon.com Support for this program comes from Cascadia Cross Border Law Group, Creating Transparent Borders for more than twenty five years, serving Alaska and the world. Find out more at   www.CascadiaLawAlaska.com Support for this program comes from Hank Woodward. Support for this program comes from Dr. Annie Lorkowski of Centennial Animal Hospital in Corona, California. The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You'll find links to all of the artists played in this episode. Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you'll get 7 weekly news items about what's happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage. Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor. Finally, remember. Clean energy isn't just good for the planet, it's good for your wallet. Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. But too many politicians would rather protect billionaires than help working families save on their bills. Real change starts when we stop allowing the ultra - rich to write our energy policy and run our government. Let's choose affordable, renewable power. Clean energy means lower costs, more freedom, and a planet that can actually breathe. Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/. WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST * Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic musician and also host of Pub Songs & Stories. Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters. Discover the stories behind the songs from the heart of the Celtic pub scene. This podcast is for fans of all kinds of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast. Musicians depend on your generosity to release new music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon. You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com. Email follow@bestcelticmusic to learn how to subscribe to the podcast and you will get a free music - only episode. You'll also learn how to get your band played on the podcast. Bands don't need to send in music, and you will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music. It's 100% free. Again email follow@bestcelticmusic IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODFEST Today's show is brought to you by Irish & Celtic Music PodFest. Our first ever festival will feature three Celtic bands, including yours truly, Marc Gunn. It's happening Sunday, March 8, 2026 at The Lost Druid Brewery in Avondale Estates, GA. Follow our event page on Facebook for more details. Or even better, Follow us for Free on our Patreon page. While you're there, you'll also find out about the Kickstarter we're launching for an album of the Best Celtic Music of 2025. And you can find out how You can get involved. ALBUM PINS ARE CHANGING THE WAY WE HEAR CELTIC MUSIC I got an email from Discmakers, my CD manufacturer, saying they were forced to raise their prices because of tariffs by our president. This is a tax on Americans. So if you love CDs, remember that the prices will go up. So please support those higher priced CDs. But there is an option for those who don't want to buy CDs and for those who want a better alternative for the environment. It's the Album Pin. Album Pins are lapel pins themed to a particular album. You get a digital download of the album. Then you can wear your album. All of my latest Album Pins are wood - burned and locally produced. This makes them better for the environment. And they are fun and fashionable. If you want to learn more about Album Pins, you can read more about them on my celtfather.Substack.com or just buy one at magerecords.com THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST! Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week. Your support doesn't just fund the show—it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers. Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes: audio engineering, stunning graphics, weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine, show promotion, and—most importantly—buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists. And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get: Early access to episodes Music - only editions Free MP3 downloads Exclusive stories and artist interviews A vote in the Celtic Top 20 Join us today and help keep the music alive, vibrant, and independent.

    Truth, Lies and Workplace Culture
    263. The Expert Predictions for 2026 (Part 2): Hybrid work, unionisation and more of the same?

    Truth, Lies and Workplace Culture

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2026 47:45


    Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work. This is part two of our Predictions 2026 series, where we ask leaders, researchers and thinkers what they believe is coming our way next year. If part one was warm and reflective, part two brings the heat!

    The David McWilliams Podcast
    What If 2026 Is the Year America Leaves Us Behind?

    The David McWilliams Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2026 41:48


    It's 2026, and Ireland is skating on a thin economic edge. With the US retreating from Europe, American industry is stalling here, no new labs, no new factories. Our entire model of tax-light, job-rich multinational growth might be reaching its sell-by date. The housing crisis rages, younger people emigrate, and a risk-averse political class hides behind admin. We break down the "known knowns" for Ireland's year ahead, from capacity crunches to a society shaped by contentment, not ambition. And what if Troy Parrott brings us to the World Cup, could football give us the only real growth story this year? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    There It Is
    A New Year's Episode 2026 (No. 419)

    There It Is

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2026 11:30


    In our 2026 edition of "A New Year's Episode," host Jason Farr reflects on the highlights and memorable moments of the podcast in 2025. Jason discusses the amazing guests we've had, including some of Jason's friends as well as new friends of the pod like Ophira Eisenberg, Beth Newell, Sydney Duncan, and Brooke White! He also celebrates our 400th episode milestone and special episodes from Ireland and California. Jason shares his insights on personal growth, how great it feels to complete a big personal projects, and encourages listeners to keep pursuing goals. We look forward to 2026 and hope that our reflections here help you find inspiration! Instagram: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics  Threads: @ThereItIsPod, @JasonFarrPics Facebook: @ThereItIsPod  Subscribe to our comedy newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/e22defd4dee2/thereitis

    Léargas: A Podcast by Gerry Adams
    Happy New Year one and all - 2026 - Bliain Úr faoi Mhaise Daoibhse | Eyes On The Prize. | ‘I'm so scared, please come'

    Léargas: A Podcast by Gerry Adams

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2026 14:55


    2026 - Bliain Úr faoi Mhaise DaoibhseA very happy New Year to all readers of this column, to the staff of the Belfast Media Group and The Irish Echo. And to you good readers who have stayed with me over the years.None of us know what 2026 will bring but we can be sure it will be interesting. May it also be good to you all and to your families. Beirigí bua. Eyes On The Prize. 2025 was a good year for Irish Unity. All of those advocating for a new Ireland, including Sinn Féin's Commission on the Future of Ireland, worked hard and effectively promoting the message that Irish Unity will be good for the people of the island of Ireland. Crucially, both houses of the Oireachtas, the Dáil and the Seanad, passed motions calling on the Irish government to begin the process of planning and preparing for Unity referendums. These include The Oireachtas Good Friday Agreement Committee. This is the only all-Ireland committee in Leinster House. It is unique in that Members of Parliament from the north join TDs and Senators to work on issues relating to the implementation of the Good Friday Agreement.The Good Friday Agreement remains the basis for relations on the island of Ireland and between the islands of Ireland and Britain. However, its implementation has been challenged, principally by indifference from London and a lack of consistent and positive leadership from Dublin.‘I'm so scared, please come'For as long as I have been a republican activist I have been reading and writing about the impact of British colonialism on peoples around the world. As the largest empire in human history Britain's conquests and exploitation of other places resulted in untold misery, death and hardship for those living under British rule - not least here in Ireland. To maintain its domination, the British Empire used violence and dehumanised the peoples it sought to exploit. Behind its claim of being a guardian of the ‘rule of law' Britain stole land and property, exploited mineral resources and reduced native peoples to little more than slaves.Among those many locations was Palestine. British policy is largely responsible for the decades of war that have plighted that land for a hundred years. Current British government policy is facilitating the genocide of the Palestinian people by the Israeli apartheid regime.I have visited Palestine and Israel on at least four occasions, including the Gaza Strip in 2009. I walked along the ‘separation wall' – a monstrous perversion designed to imprison Palestinians into smaller and smaller ghettoes.

    RTÉ - News at One Podcast
    A hundred years of Irish radio

    RTÉ - News at One Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2026 5:14


    100 years ago Ireland's first radio station, 2RN, made its first broadcast.

    Do you really know?
    What's the best time of day to have sex?

    Do you really know?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2026 4:14


    Over the years, many surveys have looked into what time of day people say they most enjoy having sex, but the findings have varied drastically. For instance, one run by CBD brand Naturecan in 2023 found that the most satisfying time was 7:30 a.m., with two-thirds of the Brits surveyed preferring morning sex to night-time sex. But more recently, lingerie brand Pour Moi pinpointed 10:09pm on Saturday as the “sexiest time of the week”, after surveying 2,000 sexually active adults from the UK, Ireland, Canada and the USA. Why do the results vary so much? What's so good about morning sex then? What about days of the week, is there one that's best for having sex? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here: ⁠⁠How can you revitalise your relationship with 3 expert sex tips?⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Why do we get the post-sex blues?⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Does sex help us to sleep better?⁠⁠ A podcast written and realised by Josh Chance First Broadcast: 20/9/2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Story Radio Podcast
    Interview with Dr Miles Leeson editor of Poems from an Attic by Iris Murdoch

    Story Radio Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2026 35:59 Transcription Available


    Long hidden in an attic, vivid and revelatory poems shine a new light on the life and loves of Iris Murdoch.In the dusty attic of Iris Murdoch's Oxford home lay a battered, black chest. In 2016, when the chest was finally opened, Murdoch's life in poems was revealed. Renowned for her fiercely intelligent novels and groundbreaking philosophy, Murdoch was one of the great writers of the twentieth century. Yet she is also known for her equally radical life – intense friendships, relationships with both men and women, and an open marriage – about which much has, often controversially, been written. Now, her tightly wrought and vivid poems reveal a new, deeply personal account in Murdoch's own voice. They range over the preoccupations closest to her heart, from the state of Ireland to memories of a first love lost in the Second World War.We speak to Dr Miles Leeson, one of the editors of Poems from an Attic by Iris Murdoch, to learn more about this exciting discovery and how it adds to our understanding of the work of the famous philosopher and novelist. Dr Leeson also reads three poems from the book, 'Reverie in Winchester Cathedral', 'I find that honesty is a hard thing', and 'Macaw in the Snow'. Dr Miles Leeson is Director of the Iris Murdoch Research Centre at the University of Chichester and Visiting Research Fellow at Kingston University. He is Lead Editor of the Iris Murdoch Review, Series Editor of Iris Murdoch Today with Palgrave Macmillan, host of the Iris Murdoch Podcast, and has published widely on Murdoch's work. He published Iris Murdoch: Philosophical Novelist in 2010, the edited collection Incest in Contemporary Literature (2018), the festschrift Iris Murdoch: A Centenary Celebration (2019), the co-edited collections Iris Murdoch and the Literary Imagination (2022) and Iris Murdoch and the Western Theological Imagination (2025), co-edited her selected poetry Poems from an Attic: Selected Poems 1936-1995 (2025), and is currently writing Visiting Mrs Bayley and Other Essays (2026) Iris Murdoch and Feminism and editing The Oxford Handbook of Iris Murdoch (2028).You can find out more about him and his work here:https://www.chi.ac.uk/people/miles-leeson/Iris MurdochIris Murdoch was born in Dublin in 1919. After working in the Treasury and in the UN, she discovered philosophy, eventually becoming Fellow at St Anne's College, Oxford. Her philosophical concerns are at the heart of the 25 novels for which she became famous, gaining the Whitbread Prize for The Sacred and Profane Love Machine and the Booker Prize for The Sea, The Sea. Until her death in 1999, she lived in Oxford with her husband, the academic and critic, John Bayley. She wrote poetry all her life.The Iris Murdoch SocietyBuy the book: https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/470920/poems-from-an-attic-by-murdoch-iris/9781784746124Music: “The Silver Swan” (O. Gibbons), performed by Denis Carpenter, Clara IMSLP (CC BY 3.0): https://clara.imslp.org/work/51148 —

    The Story of London
    Chapter 179- The Spectre of Perkin Warbeck (1493-1487)

    The Story of London

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 52:09


    The events and odd circumstances regarding the strange royal pretender to the throne of England, Perkin Warbeck, are often overlooked, and dismissed, rightfully, as a minor footnote in the grand saga of the Tudor dynasty. However at the time, it reveals a regime in crisis- a crisis that was to force London to have a front row seat, and which started many themes that are going to repeat themselves in the cities story to come… the rise of the use of spies, Tudor entanglement in Ireland, complicated trade situations and above all, the Tudors using their family for political purposes, all really begin now in these few years, as London continued to annoy King Henry VII.Cover shows detail of ‘Saint Sebastian' by Lorenzo Costa, c.1490's

    Notnerd Podcast: Tech Better
    Ep. 525: Christmas downed and Vegas bound - Tech news and more

    Notnerd Podcast: Tech Better

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 57:46


    We're recovering from Christmas, ending the year, and getting ready to head to CES in Vegas next week. We have tech news to catch up on and so much more, all to help you get out there and tech better! Watch on YouTube! - Notnerd.com and Notpicks.com INTRO (00:00) We're heading to CES (04:40) MAIN TOPIC: Gift guide results & Christmas (12:15) DAVE'S PRO-TIP OF THE WEEK: Track Flights Directly via Messages and Spotlight (24:00) JUST THE HEADLINES: (28:20) AI minted more than 50 new billionaires in 2025 Ireland's Diarmuid Early wins world Microsoft Excel championships Some of the DOJ's careful redactions can be defeated with copy and paste Breach forces Ubisoft to take "Rainbow Six Siege" offline New York to require social media platforms to display mental health warnings New NASA boss Isaacman says U.S. will return to the moon within Trump's term Russia plans a nuclear power plant on the moon within a decade TAKES: YouTube shuts down channels using AI to create fake movie trailer watched by millions (32:00) ChatGPT launches a year-end review like Spotify Wrapped (36:00) Spotify music library scraped by pirate activist group (37:30) BONUS ODD TAKE: Floor 796 Project (39:00) PICKS OF THE WEEK:  Dave: NEEWER Magnetic RGB Camera Light, 360° Full Color RGB61 Small LED Panel Video Light with 3 Cold Shoe Mounts/CRI 97+/20 Scene Modes/2500K-8500K/2000mAh Portable Recording Photography Selfie Lighting (45:30) Nate: Camping Table Folding Portable Camp Side Table Aluminum Lightweight Carry Bag Beach Outdoor Hiking Picnics BBQ Cooking Dining Kitchen Black Medium (49:15) RAMAZON PURCHASE OF THE WEEK (52:40) https://notpicks.com/2025-gadget-gift-guide-for-geeks/

    Tim M London's AA + Al-Anon Talks
    Tim M for CA Zoom164 Step 04-02 Page 67 and fear

    Tim M London's AA + Al-Anon Talks

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 82:56


    From a sequence starting in 2025. You can join, live, each Tuesday, 7.30 p.m. Ireland time (the same as UK time)! Information about the sequence can be found here: https://first164.blogspot.com/p/zoom164.html

    New Books Network
    Dejan Djokić, "A Concise History of Serbia" (Cambridge UP, 2023)

    New Books Network

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 72:09


    Dejan Djokić's book A Concise History of Serbia (Cambridge UP, 2023) covers the full span of Serbia's history – from the sixth-century Slav migrations through until the present day – in an effort to understand the country's position at the crossroads of east and west. The book traces key developments surrounding the medieval and modern polities associated with Serbs, offering fresh interpretations and revealing a fascinating history of entanglements and communication between southeastern and wider Europe, which often had global implications. In structuring his inquiry around several recurring themes including migration, shifting borders, and the fate of small nations, Djokic challenges some of the prevailing stereotypes about Serbia and reveals the vitality of Serbian identity through the centuries. Dejan Djokić is Professor of Modern and Contemporary History and Founding Director of the Centre for the Study of the Balkans at Goldsmiths College, University of London. In June 2023, he will join the National University of Ireland, Maynooth, as Professor of History. Djokic's research brings together three main strands of inquiry: the Yugoslav war; the global and cultural history of the Cold War; and the history of Southeastern Europe since the Middle Ages. His publications include Nikola Pašić and Ante Trumbić: The Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (2010) and Elusive Compromise: A History of Interwar Yugoslavia (2007), as well as contributions to numerous edited volumes, including New Perspectives on Yugoslavia: Key Issues and Controversies (2011). Iva Glisic is a historian and art historian specialising in modern Russia and the Balkans. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

    New Books in History
    Dejan Djokić, "A Concise History of Serbia" (Cambridge UP, 2023)

    New Books in History

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 72:09


    Dejan Djokić's book A Concise History of Serbia (Cambridge UP, 2023) covers the full span of Serbia's history – from the sixth-century Slav migrations through until the present day – in an effort to understand the country's position at the crossroads of east and west. The book traces key developments surrounding the medieval and modern polities associated with Serbs, offering fresh interpretations and revealing a fascinating history of entanglements and communication between southeastern and wider Europe, which often had global implications. In structuring his inquiry around several recurring themes including migration, shifting borders, and the fate of small nations, Djokic challenges some of the prevailing stereotypes about Serbia and reveals the vitality of Serbian identity through the centuries. Dejan Djokić is Professor of Modern and Contemporary History and Founding Director of the Centre for the Study of the Balkans at Goldsmiths College, University of London. In June 2023, he will join the National University of Ireland, Maynooth, as Professor of History. Djokic's research brings together three main strands of inquiry: the Yugoslav war; the global and cultural history of the Cold War; and the history of Southeastern Europe since the Middle Ages. His publications include Nikola Pašić and Ante Trumbić: The Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (2010) and Elusive Compromise: A History of Interwar Yugoslavia (2007), as well as contributions to numerous edited volumes, including New Perspectives on Yugoslavia: Key Issues and Controversies (2011). Iva Glisic is a historian and art historian specialising in modern Russia and the Balkans. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

    East Anchorage Book Club with Andrew Gray
    LOOKING BACK AT 2025: Hollis French, Jubilee Underwood, Josh Revak, Mara Kimmel, JJ Harrier, Zack Fields, Dan O'Neill, Aaron Poe, Margaret Stock, Les Gara, Amanda Metivier, & Tali Stone

    East Anchorage Book Club with Andrew Gray

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 49:11


    Send us a textToday, New Year's Eve 2025, I thought I'd take a look back at a few episodes from the last year. I am in my 5th year of the East Anchorage Book Club podcast and last year I released 78 episodes. This podcast is extremely meaningful to me as both as a legislator and as a person: I learn about issues that I am unfamiliar with, I create relationships with unexpected people, and it really is through editing the conversations that I internalize them and come out of them changed. Alaska needs foster families. Click here to learn how to become one.Today's episodes includes excerpts from the following interviews:Hollis French: former AK Senate Minority Leader, gubernatorial candidate, and AOGCC CommissionerRep. Jubilee Underwood (R-Wasilla): Former President of the MatSu School BoardJosh Revak: Former Alaska State Senator & Iraq war veteranMara Kimmel: Director of the ACLU of Alaska discusses ICE detainees held at the Anchorage Correctional ComplexPRIDE 2025: JJ Harrier, Chair of the Anchorage Pride ParadeRep. Zack Fields (D-Anchorage) discusses the US Congressional Budget Reconciliation Act of 2025AK MEDIA: Dan O'Neill: Fairbanks Daily News-Miner Columnist 1998-2002LEAVING AMERICA: Aaron Poe on relocating his family to Ireland in 2025Margaret Stock: Immigration attorney, MacArthur Genius Grant recipient, & 2016 AK US Senate CandidateLes Gara & Amanda Metivier: Audit of the Office of Children's ServicesFoster Care in Alaska 2025: Deko Harbi, Shannon Smith, & Tali Stone

    State of Ukraine
    Looking Back: Uncovering the Secrets of an Irish Home for Unwed Mothers

    State of Ukraine

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 15:09


    As we look back at our international reporters' most memorable stories of the last year, we revisit a story about families from Ireland learning their full history. There, the Catholic Church once ran homes for unwed mothers. Until recently the church dominated life in Ireland and pregnancy outside marriage was considered shameful. Behind one of these homes a ghastly discovery has recently been made. It was a secret most people in the town knew about, but no one took any action until recently. And through reporting the story, our correspondent learned of a personal connection to this history.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    RTÉ - News at One Podcast
    2026 World Cup: can Ireland qualify, and can fans afford the tickets?

    RTÉ - News at One Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 9:12


    Does Ireland stand a chance at the 2026 World Cup? And even if we do get there, will fans be priced out of tickets by FIFA? We discussed the chances and the logistics of it all with RTÉ Sport's John Kenny and Ken Early, Irish Times Soccer writer and Second Captains podcast co-host.

    A Created Life - with Amanda St John
    EP 137: What I'm Leaving Behind in 2025

    A Created Life - with Amanda St John

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 33:53


    What are you leaving behind in 2025 in to make space for more of what is in full alignment for you in 2026?In this episode Amanda gives you inspiration by sharing what she is leaving behind and what she s calling in to make 2026 her most fulfilling, abundant year yet.WORK WITH AMANDA:ALIGN & THRIVE 1 Day Goal Setting Event 11th Jan 2025:https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/align-thrive-tickets-1968808125101?JOIN The High Vibe Tribe Monthly Membership NOW:A Mindset & Manifesting Community for High Achieving Heart and Soul Centred Women.https://amandastjohn.lpages.co/high-vibe-tribe-monthly-womens-membership/**1:1 COACHING - Transformational support to achieve a business or personal goalBook in for 1:1 Coaching - https://amandastjohn.lpages.co/transformational-11-coaching/Other ways of WORKING with Me:https://linktr.ee/acreatedlife_coachAmanda St John/A Created Life is a professional Singer-Songwriter, Music Mentor, Motivational Coach & TEDx Speaker from Ireland. She has coached/mentored for over 15 years as well as having a successful music career with 2 albums, UK/Irish & USA tours, worldwide airplay (including BBC Radio 6 and RTE Radio 1) and she even sang for the US President in Washington DC. But she only committed to her music career in her mid 30's after a near death experience in a car accident inspired her to reassess her life and finally follow her dreams.Email: acreatedlifecoach@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Boot Boy Ska Show
    Episode 7494: C Ireland show 33 Thurs 25th Dec.2025 On www.bootboyradio.co.uk

    Boot Boy Ska Show

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 60:21


    C Ireland show 33 Thurs 25th Dec.2025 On www.bootboyradio.co.uk Please Play, Like, Comment, Follow, Download & Share.

    RTÉ - Drivetime
    Pension Auto-Enrolment

    RTÉ - Drivetime

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 7:57


    Pauk Kenny, Programme Leader at the Retirement Planning Council of Ireland

    Netflix vs Cinema
    301. Zootropolis 2 VS Irish Blood; Silent Night Deadly Night VS Relay; Best and Worst of 2025

    Netflix vs Cinema

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 45:06


    In the final episode of 2025, the team gathers to debate the future of the industry: with rumors of Netflix potentially acquiring Warner Bros, is there still value in the cinematic experience? Tosin, Sean, and a house-bound Holly break down the week's biggest releases on the big screen and the big stream, before revealing their top movie picks of the year. In This Episode: Zootropolis 2 (Cinema): Tosin heads to the cinema for the highly anticipated animated sequel Zootropolis 2 (Zootopia 2). Does the introduction of reptiles and the heavy focus on "zoning law" politics hold up to the original? Featuring a voice cast including Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Idris Elba, Ke Huy Quan, and Fortune Feimster. Irish Blood (Netflix): Holly reviews Alicia Silverstone's comeback in the Netflix mystery-drama Irish Blood . We discuss Silverstone's performance as an LA lawyer following a trail of clues to Wexford, Ireland. Silent Night, Deadly Night (Cinema): Sean reviews the slasher Silent Night, Deadly Night , featuring a killer Santa, "Garbage Day" vibes, and a convoluted plot involving an old people's home. Stream of the Week: Sean recommends Relay on Amazon Prime, a thriller starring Riz Ahmed and Lily James, directed by David Mackenzie. Best Films of 2025: The hosts share their standout films of the year, including: Sinners Weapons The Fantastic Four I'm Still Here September 5 Hosts: Tosin (Bromsgrove) Sean Harris (World Cup Bound) Holly Nesling (London Correspondent) Keywords: Zootropolis 2 Review, Irish Blood Netflix, Alicia Silverstone, Zootopia 2, Riz Ahmed, Relay Amazon Prime, Best Movies of 2025, Film Reviews, Netflix vs Cinema Podcast. Is Netflix killing cinemas? Each week we weigh up what we've seen in cinemas with what we've watched online at home and figure out which provided the best time. At least, we did before COVID jumped in and declared Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney + and friends the winner. Listen and subscribe on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/netflix-vs-cinema/id1448277363 Listen and subscribe on Youtube Music https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8xPMfsDQIDjM70v1Tah6BiKV4E3UQbaK Listen on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6beXVeSImcgHLsPB22BgE3?si=wdoNI6E0SNqNfoqg4qnw4Q Support Netflix vs Cinema by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/netflixvscinema Find out more at https://netflixvscinema.com This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

    Exchanges: A Cambridge UP Podcast
    Dejan Djokić, "A Concise History of Serbia" (Cambridge UP, 2023)

    Exchanges: A Cambridge UP Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 72:09


    Dejan Djokić's book A Concise History of Serbia (Cambridge UP, 2023) covers the full span of Serbia's history – from the sixth-century Slav migrations through until the present day – in an effort to understand the country's position at the crossroads of east and west. The book traces key developments surrounding the medieval and modern polities associated with Serbs, offering fresh interpretations and revealing a fascinating history of entanglements and communication between southeastern and wider Europe, which often had global implications. In structuring his inquiry around several recurring themes including migration, shifting borders, and the fate of small nations, Djokic challenges some of the prevailing stereotypes about Serbia and reveals the vitality of Serbian identity through the centuries. Dejan Djokić is Professor of Modern and Contemporary History and Founding Director of the Centre for the Study of the Balkans at Goldsmiths College, University of London. In June 2023, he will join the National University of Ireland, Maynooth, as Professor of History. Djokic's research brings together three main strands of inquiry: the Yugoslav war; the global and cultural history of the Cold War; and the history of Southeastern Europe since the Middle Ages. His publications include Nikola Pašić and Ante Trumbić: The Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (2010) and Elusive Compromise: A History of Interwar Yugoslavia (2007), as well as contributions to numerous edited volumes, including New Perspectives on Yugoslavia: Key Issues and Controversies (2011). Iva Glisic is a historian and art historian specialising in modern Russia and the Balkans.

    The Patrick Madrid Show
    The Patrick Madrid Show: December 30, 2025 - Hour 3

    The Patrick Madrid Show

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 51:23


    Patrick opens with playful Taco Tuesday banter before answering listener questions about Catholic wedding protocols, the real story behind Saint Patrick’s sainthood, and the significance of post-Vatican II changes to church architecture and liturgy. He fields tough situations: guiding a godfather on how to lovingly challenge a drifting family member, addressing concerns over boundaries at the parish, and supporting a grandmother grappling with her granddaughter’s leap to Anglicanism. Amid the laughter and heartfelt dilemmas, Patrick shares a convert’s gratitude for the Eucharist, letting honest conversation and practical wisdom steer the day. Anthony (email) – My 22-year-old nephew and his fiancé asked me to officiate their wedding ceremony. I was honored to be asked, but I'm a bit hesitant. I've never been asked to do this before. Should I accept? If not, how do I decline? (01:560) Marie - I was in Ireland recently. St. Patrick’s Church was Anglican instead of Catholic. I was told St. Patrick was never Catholic, just 'Christian', because he came before canonization. (09:47) Richard - Why did the Catholic Church change the altar around in the 60s? (21:18) Mary - My friend has a crush on a priest. What should I do? Should I let the Pastor know? (30:56) Carol - I was invited to my granddaughter’s Anglican Church confirmation, and I need advice about going to a non-Catholic service. (38:19) Andrea - This is the month of the Eucharist. I am a convert and went 58 years without it. I am full of gratitude. (45:59) Originally aired on 06/03/25

    Traveling in Ireland
    Europe Beyond the Crowds (2026 Travel Tips)

    Traveling in Ireland

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 4:59


    It's almost the end of 2025 – and you know what that means! 2026 trip planning is getting underway and the Ireland Travel Compass is available for presale! Learn more here and get on the presale list at IrelandFamilyVacations.com/compass 2026 Traveling in Ireland Podcast Preview I also have so many amazing podcast episodes lined up for the new year, including • 2026 travel tips – my annual New Year episode with up-to-date advice, plus dates you might want to avoid• Live “from Ireland” episodes – in April & May• Skellig Michael with archaeologist Neil Jackman• Cliffs of Moher cliff walk updates with Ollie Gleeson• What's new at Westport Estate with Biddy Hughes• Why Abbeyleix, County Laois, makes a brilliant base with Ross McDonald• Dark Tourism in Ireland with Lusia Golz Europe Beyond the Crowds Join me at the DIY Trip Summit January 13-15, 2026. The DIY Trip Summit is a free 3-day event and this year's topic is ‘Europe Beyond the Crowds'. Register at : https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/DIYTRIP I will, of course, be sharing Ireland tips including The busiest spots in Ireland How to avoid the worst crowds in popular spots Lesser-known spots to visit in 2026 that deliver craic, charm & cead mile failte Three experiences I think every visitor should have in Ireland But you'll also hear from 30+ trusted travel pros sharing their insider knowledge about Europe beyond the crowds, as well as real-world strategies for finding better flights, stays, and experiences – without overpaying or relying on package tours. Your completely free access includes Expert-led sessions to help you plan confidently and avoid rookie mistakes Practical guidance for finding hidden gems and creating meaningful itineraries Daily live Q&A calls with seasoned travelers Access to a pop-up Facebook group for connection and support A free virtual gift bag filled with travel tools, resources, and exclusive discounts Free tickets include 48-hour viewing access for each session. If you want to rewatch later – or catch every presentation at your own pace – there's an optional First Class Pass upgrade with lifetime access and $700 + in bonuses. Look for the special offer after you register. Check it out and register today at https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/DIYTRIP I hope you'll join me there – and I'll be back next week to kick off the new year with the advice you need to keep in mind when planning an Ireland trip in 2026! Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 319 The post Europe Beyond the Crowds (2026 Travel Tips) appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

    Booknotes+
    Ep. 251 Frank McCourt on Angela's Ashes: Pulitzer Prize–Winning Memoir

    Booknotes+

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 62:24


    Irish American writer Frank McCourt wrote a book in 1996 that was on the New York Times bestseller list for over 100 weeks. Over the next 20 years, "Angela's Ashes" sold close to 10 million copies worldwide. It was translated into 24 languages. McCourt was born in New York City, but moved with his family to Limerick, Ireland, for his childhood years. Frank McCourt died at age 78 in 2009 of melanoma cancer. He was a guest on the Booknotes television program on September 19th, 1996. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    C-SPAN Bookshelf
    BN+: Frank McCourt on Angela's Ashes: Pulitzer Prize–Winning Memoir

    C-SPAN Bookshelf

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 62:24


    Irish American writer Frank McCourt wrote a book in 1996 that was on the New York Times bestseller list for over 100 weeks. Over the next 20 years, "Angela's Ashes" sold close to 10 million copies worldwide. It was translated into 24 languages. McCourt was born in New York City, but moved with his family to Limerick, Ireland, for his childhood years. Frank McCourt died at age 78 in 2009 of melanoma cancer. He was a guest on the Booknotes television program on September 19th, 1996. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Sunshine Travelers Podcast
    Episode 153 - What We Learned Through Travel in 2025: Key Experiences, Lessons, and What's Next

    Sunshine Travelers Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 42:28


    As 2025 comes to a close, we're stepping back from individual destinations to reflect on how we traveled this year, and how that is starting to shift everything for us. From revisiting familiar places in new ways to discovering hidden regions, connecting deeply with locals, and saying yes to moments we almost skipped, this episode is about travel moments and experiences that stay with you long after the trip ends. Instead of chasing checklists, we focused on connection, curiosity, and slowing down, and those choices led to some of our most meaningful travel moments yet. Some links are affiliate links. See our disclosure. Help Support the Podcast by Buying us a Coffee ☕️ What You'll Discover in this Episode: How we Revisited Familiar Places but Differently Alaska: Experiencing it by cruise after a previous road trip, flying over glaciers, landing at a remote lodge, and enjoying unrushed family time London: Staying at a bucket-list hotel, exploring new neighborhoods, using a city pass to try experiences we'd never done before, and learning to say yes to spontaneity Berlin & Hong Kong: Seeing cities through the lens of major political change—and how perspective shifts over time How we Connected Through Food & Locals A sangria-making class in Barcelona that completely changed what we thought sangria was Why booking small-group tours—and inviting guides to eat with you—can unlock the most authentic experiences Unforgettable food moments in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Ireland, where meals became conversations, cultural lessons, and memories New Regions & Hidden Gems Iceland stopover: Northern Lights, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and letting the landscape—not the clock—set the pace Northern Ireland & Donegal: Slowing down, renting a car, and discovering areas that surprised us the most Why going beyond the “must-see” list often delivers the richest travel experiences New Ways of Traveling Walking through Umbria, Italy, town to town—luggage transported, senses fully engaged Why walking (and cycling) travel changed how we connect with landscapes and people Two very different cruises that reshaped how we think about cruise travel Lessons That Changed How We Travel Book tours with locals (smaller is better) Learn culture through food Be willing to miss something in order to go deeper Remember: destinations aren't designed to make you comfortable—they're home to someone else Moments We Almost Missed, but Didn't Whale watching in Eden, Australia Extending an Alaska trip to Denali Saying yes to Ireland at the last minute Volunteering abroad—and how it reshaped future travel plans 2025 Milestones & Looking Ahead to 2026 Reaching 6 out of 7 continents (with the final one coming soon!) Counting countries—and debating what “counts.” Why we've barely scratched the surface What's coming in 2026: Antarctica, safari, and more Our Takeaways from 2025 What mattered most this year wasn't how far we went or how many places we saw; it was how intentional we became. The shared meals, quiet moments, and unplanned detours reminded us why we travel in the first place. As we head into 2026, our mission remains the same: to help you travel more and better. Stay Connected with Us Have questions or thoughts, or need help planning your next trip?

    Shipwrecks and Sea Dogs
    Rewind: The Empress of Ireland - Canada's Titanic

    Shipwrecks and Sea Dogs

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 46:08


    This episode originally was published on November 22, 2022. The Empress of Ireland was a luxurious and beautiful steamship of the early 20th century, carrying passengers across the North Atlantic between Quebec City and Liverpool. She and her sister ship, the Empress of Britain, were an important cog during the peak of Canadian immigration. In the early morning hours of 29 May, 1914, the Empress of Ireland collided with the Norwegian ship Storstad in dense fog on the St. Lawrence River. Over 1000 people on the Empress of Ireland perished, and more passengers died than on the Titanic just two years prior. Because of the massive loss of life, she has been called "Canada's Titanic." Dan Conlin, Curator of the Canadian Immigration Museum at Pier 21 in Halifax, Nova Scotia joins me as my guest. Written, edited, and produced by Rich Napolitano. All episodes can be found at ⁠https://www.shipwrecksandseadogs.com⁠. Original theme music by ⁠Sean Sigfried⁠. Listen Ad-Free, get exclusive bonus episodes, and free Shipwrecks and Sea Dogs merchandise by subscribing at patreon.com/shipwreckspod. Three tiers available! Listen ad-free on Apple Podcasts! Just find Shipwrecks and Sea Dogs in Apple Podcasts, and click the banner to subscribe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Farming Today
    30/12/25 The Luck Penny

    Farming Today

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 13:47


    Farmers at Rathfriland market in County Down still practise an old tradition when livestock changes hands. Farmers selling their animals hand money back to the buyer, to seal the deal. It's known as the luck penny and is a way of wishing the customer success with the stock and building up a trustworthy business relationship. At the old fairs, a couple of coins would be handed over - today it could be a £20 note. The tradition, said to have originated in Ireland and lives on in modern insurance policies covering livestock after sale. And in Rathfriland, it is celebrated with a sculpture of a giant bronze penny in the town square.Produced and presented by Kathleen Carragher.

    RTÉ - Morning Ireland
    Organ transplant numbers down over 25% year on year

    RTÉ - Morning Ireland

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 6:16


    The year marked a significant drop in the number of organ transplants in Ireland. We were joined for a breakdown by Colin White, national advocacy manager with the Irish Kidney Association.

    RTÉ - Morning Ireland
    Why are fewer tourists coming to Ireland?

    RTÉ - Morning Ireland

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 5:05


    The number of tourists visiting Ireland fell 6% compared with 2024, to an estimated total of 6.16 million this year. Eoghan O'Mara Walsh, CEO of the Irish Tourism Industry Confederation, joined the show to explain the reasons behind the drop.

    Free State with Joe Brolly and Dion Fanning
    Best of Free State - How AI colonised the planet. With Karen Hao

    Free State with Joe Brolly and Dion Fanning

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 59:41


    There are those who believe Artificial Intelligence will lead to the extinction of mankind. There are those who believe AI will save the world.On Free State today, journalist and author of the Empire of AI Karen Hao explains why AI is an imperialist project and how the colonising is already taking place. She says why she believes the doomer vs boomer debate is a distraction and how Ireland is on the frontline of this imperialist project. Water and energy resources will be drained as empires are built while humans will be expendable.Karen also tells us why the term Artificial Intelligence was a marketing term in the first place which set the technology on a destructive path.This episode first aired on June 28th 2025 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Lung Cancer Considered
    Lung Cancer Considered -- Immunotherapy Toxicity: Myths & Pearls

    Lung Cancer Considered

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 18:48


    Since the first immunotherapy agent for lung cancer was approved in 2015, this class of drugs has captured the imagination and the narrative for the treatment of driver negative lung cancer. Immunotherapy is now the standard of care for most patients with lung cancer in some form. And while not all patients benefit, those that do, have the chance for transformative benefit. In today's episode, we focus not on the benefit of immunotherapy, which can be massive, but on the toxicity of immunotherapy. Guest: Dr. Jarushka Naidoo, a consultant medical oncologist at Beaumont Hospital Dublin and a Professor in the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. She currently serves as national lung cancer lead for Cancer Trials Ireland and serves on several international guideline panels including ASCO and SITC

    WWL First News with Tommy Tucker
    Hour 3: How Charlie Smyth has succeeded at American football & big tourism wins for New Orleans

    WWL First News with Tommy Tucker

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 22:33


    * It was a huge year for tourism for New Orleans. We'll go over the top 10 accomplishments * With Charlie Smyth's success with the Saints, American football is growing even more popular in Ireland

    WWL First News with Tommy Tucker
    Charlie Smyth's kicking coach details his success, skills, and rise to fame

    WWL First News with Tommy Tucker

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 12:08


    Darragh Leader, from Leader Kicking in Ireland, is one of Charlie Smyth's kicking coaches; and he took part in the NFL International Player Program along with Charlie. We talk with Darragh about Smyth's success and rise to fame and the growing popularity of American football in Ireland.

    The Voice of Leadership
    Susan Ireland: From Boeing to Start-Up to Her Own Business (Episode # 476F) 

    The Voice of Leadership

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 62:17


    Susan Ireland spent 30 years in business operations leadership roles at The Boeing Company. She was on the original leadership team that built and established a new digital aviation business for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. After Boeing, Susan played a strategic role in a start-up company that developed, manufactured, and installed hydrogen systems on diesel engines. … The post Susan Ireland: From Boeing to Start-Up to Her Own Business (Episode # 476F)  first appeared on TRANSLEADERSHIP, INC®.

    Clare FM - Podcasts
    Clare-Based Retail Excellence Ireland CEO Slams "Out-Of-Touch" Commercial Rates Increase

    Clare FM - Podcasts

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 6:56


    The Clare-based CEO of Retail Excellence Ireland has slammed a recent commercial rates increase an an "out-of-touch move" as businesses look ahead to 2026. A decision taken by Clare's local elected representatives in November to hike the local property tax on businesses by 8% has been widely condemned by traders. It comes at a time when many small and medium businesses are concerned about mounting costs like pension auto-enrolment which is set to kick in on January 1st. Jean McCabe of Willow in Ennis says the rates increase couldn't have come at a worse time for businesses in the county town.

    The Rocky Road
    Wayne McCullough - WBC World Bantamweight Champion

    The Rocky Road

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 62:19


    Thirty (and a bit) years on from winning the WBC world bantamweight in Japan, Wayne McCullough sits down for a Christmas chat with The Rocky Road. We go back to his breakthrough as a teenager in Belfast, sparring with pros at the Eastwood Gym, his two Olympic Games which culminated in a silver medal at Barcelona 92 and moving to the US to train under the legendary Eddie Futch. What made his mentor tick? And how did they plot his route to championship glory? Wayne then recalls the night itself, how he leapfrogged the various tricks the home crew tried to play on him, and why he wants to return to the Land of the Rising Sun for a reunion with the champion he toppled, Yasuei Yakushiji, who never fought again following their July 1995 bout. Wayne acknowledges Kieran Joyce's role in giving him his Pocket Rocket nickname, pays tribute to his old Ireland team-mates and explains why he wants a role in the future of Irish boxing after Zaur Antia announced his retirement as IABA high performance head coach earlier this year. Plus Wayne also details his struggles with mental health, which he spoke about at the time when such topics were rarely discussed, and he tells us that every day's a battle on The Rocky Road to happiness. We love a Legends interview over the Christmas period, so enjoy this conversation with one of the Irish boxing GOATs. And Merry Christmas, to all our listeners, from Kev and Simon at the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Thoughts on the Market
    Special Encore: Who's Disrupting — and Funding — the AI Boom

    Thoughts on the Market

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 14:51


    Original Release Date: November 13, 2025Live from Morgan Stanley's European Tech, Media and Telecom Conference in Barcelona, our roundtable of analysts discusses tech disruptions and datacenter growth, and how Europe factors in.Read more insights from Morgan Stanley.----- Transcript -----Paul Walsh: Welcome to Thoughts on the Market. I'm Paul Walsh, Morgan Stanley's European Head of Research Product. Today we return to my conversation with Adam Wood. Head of European Technology and Payments, Emmet Kelly, Head of European Telco and Data Centers, and Lee Simpson, Head of European Technology. We were live on stage at Morgan Stanley's 25th TMT Europe conference. We had so much to discuss around the themes of AI enablers, semiconductors, and telcos. So, we are back with a concluding episode on tech disruption and data center investments. It's Thursday the 13th of November at 8am in Barcelona. After speaking with the panel about the U.S. being overweight AI enablers, and the pockets of opportunity in Europe, I wanted to ask them about AI disruption, which has been a key theme here in Europe. I started by asking Adam how he was thinking about this theme. Adam Wood: It's fascinating to see this year how we've gone in most of those sectors to how positive can GenAI be for these companies? How well are they going to monetize the opportunities? How much are they going to take advantage internally to take their own margins up? To flipping in the second half of the year, mainly to, how disruptive are they going to be? And how on earth are they going to fend off these challenges? Paul Walsh: And I think that speaks to the extent to which, as a theme, this has really, you know, built momentum. Adam Wood: Absolutely. And I mean, look, I think the first point, you know, that you made is absolutely correct – that it's very difficult to disprove this. It's going to take time for that to happen. It's impossible to do in the short term. I think the other issue is that what we've seen is – if we look at the revenues of some of the companies, you know, and huge investments going in there. And investors can clearly see the benefit of GenAI. And so investors are right to ask the question, well, where's the revenue for these businesses? You know, where are we seeing it in info services or in IT services, or in enterprise software. And the reality is today, you know, we're not seeing it. And it's hard for analysts to point to evidence that – well, no, here's the revenue base, here's the benefit that's coming through. And so, investors naturally flip to, well, if there's no benefit, then surely, we should focus on the risk. So, I think we totally understand, you know, why people are focused on the negative side of things today. I think there are differences between the sub-sectors. I mean, I think if we look, you know, at IT services, first of all, from an investor point of view, I think that's been pretty well placed in the losers' buckets and people are most concerned about that sub-sector… Paul Walsh: Something you and the global team have written a lot about. Adam Wood: Yeah, we've written about, you know, the risk of disruption in that space, the need for those companies to invest, and then the challenges they face. But I mean, if we just keep it very, very simplistic. If Gen AI is a technology that, you know, displaces labor to any extent – companies that have played labor arbitrage and provide labor for the last 20 - 25 years, you know, they're going to have to make changes to their business model. So, I think that's understandable. And they're going to have to demonstrate how they can change and invest and produce a business model that addresses those concerns. I'd probably put info services in the middle. But the challenge in that space is you have real identifiable companies that have emerged, that have a revenue base and that are challenging a subset of the products of those businesses. So again, it's perfectly understandable that investors would worry. In that context, it's not a potential threat on the horizon. It's a real threat that exists today against certainly their businesses. I think software is probably the most interesting. I'd put it in the kind of final bucket where I actually believe… Well, I think first of all, we certainly wouldn't take the view that there's no risk of disruption and things aren't going to change. Clearly that is going to be the case. I think what we'd want to do though is we'd want to continue to use frameworks that we've used historically to think about how software companies differentiate themselves, what the barriers to entry are. We don't think we need to throw all of those things away just because we have GenAI, this new set of capabilities. And I think investors will come back most easily to that space. Paul Walsh: Emmet, you talked a little bit there before about the fact that you haven't seen a huge amount of progress or additional insight from the telco space around AI; how AI is diffusing across the space. Do you get any discussions around disruption as it relates to telco space? Emmet Kelly: Very, very little. I think the biggest threat that telcos do see is – it is from the hyperscalers. So, if I look at and separate the B2C market out from the B2B, the telcos are still extremely dominant in the B2C space, clearly. But on the B2B space, the hyperscalers have come in on the cloud side, and if you look at their market share, they're very, very dominant in cloud – certainly from a wholesale perspective. So, if you look at the cloud market shares of the big three hyperscalers in Europe, this number is courtesy of my colleague George Webb. He said it's roughly 85 percent; that's how much they have of the cloud space today. The telcos, what they're doing is they're actually reselling the hyperscale service under the telco brand name. But we don't see much really in terms of the pure kind of AI disruption, but there are concerns definitely within the telco space that the hyperscalers might try and move from the B2B space into the B2C space at some stage. And whether it's through virtual networks, cloudified networks, to try and get into the B2C space that way. Paul Walsh: Understood. And Lee maybe less about disruption, but certainly adoption, some insights from your side around adoption across the tech hardware space? Lee Simpson: Sure. I think, you know, it's always seen that are enabling the AI move, but, but there is adoption inside semis companies as well, and I think I'd point to design flow. So, if you look at the design guys, they're embracing the agentic system thing really quickly and they're putting forward this capability of an agent engineer, so like a digital engineer. And it – I guess we've got to get this right. It is going to enable a faster time to market for the design flow on a chip. So, if you have that design flow time, that time to market. So, you're creating double the value there for the client. Do you share that 50-50 with them? So, the challenge is going to be exactly as Adam was saying, how do you monetize this stuff? So, this is kind of the struggle that we're seeing in adoption. Paul Walsh: And Emmet, let's move to you on data centers. I mean, there are just some incredible numbers that we've seen emerging, as it relates to the hyperscaler investment that we're seeing in building out the infrastructure. I know data centers is something that you have focused tremendously on in your research, bringing our global perspectives together. Obviously, Europe sits within that. And there is a market here in Europe that might be more challenged. But I'm interested to understand how you're thinking about framing the whole data center story? Implications for Europe. Do European companies feed off some of that U.S. hyperscaler CapEx? How should we be thinking about that through the European lens? Emmet Kelly: Yeah, absolutely. So, big question, Paul. What… Paul Walsh: We've got a few minutes! Emmet Kelly: We've got a few minutes. What I would say is there was a great paper that came out from Harvard just two weeks ago, and they were looking at the scale of data center investments in the United States. And clearly the U.S. economy is ticking along very, very nicely at the moment. But this Harvard paper concluded that if you take out data center investments, U.S. economic growth today is actually zero. Paul Walsh: Wow. Emmet Kelly: That is how big the data center investments are. And what we've said in our research very clearly is if you want to build a megawatt of data center capacity that's going to cost you roughly $35 million today. Let's put that number out there. 35 million. Roughly, I'd say 25… Well, 20 to 25 million of that goes into the chips. But what's really interesting is the other remaining $10 million per megawatt, and I like to call that the picks and shovels of data centers; and I'm very convinced there is no bubble in that area whatsoever.So, what's in that area? Firstly, the first building block of a data center is finding a powered land bank. And this is a big thing that private equity is doing at the moment. So, find some real estate that's close to a mass population that's got a good fiber connection. Probably needs a little bit of water, but most importantly needs some power. And the demand for that is still infinite at the moment. Then beyond that, you've got the construction angle and there's a very big shortage of labor today to build the shells of these data centers. Then the third layer is the likes of capital goods, and there are serious supply bottlenecks there as well.And I could go on and on, but roughly that first $10 million, there's no bubble there. I'm very, very sure of that. Paul Walsh: And we conducted some extensive survey work recently as part of your analysis into the global data center market. You've sort of touched on a few of the gating factors that the industry has to contend with. That survey work was done on the operators and the supply chain, as it relates to data center build out. What were the key conclusions from that? Emmet Kelly: Well, the key conclusion was there is a shortage of power for these data centers, and… Paul Walsh: Which I think… Which is a sort of known-known, to some extent. Emmet Kelly: it is a known-known, but it's not just about the availability of power, it's the availability of green power. And it's also the price of power is a very big factor as well because energy is roughly 40 to 45 percent of the operating cost of running a data center. So, it's very, very important. And of course, that's another area where Europe doesn't screen very well.I was looking at statistics just last week on the countries that have got the highest power prices in the world. And unsurprisingly, it came out as UK, Ireland, Germany, and that's three of our big five data center markets. But when I looked at our data center stats at the beginning of the year, to put a bit of context into where we are…Paul Walsh: In Europe… Emmet Kelly: In Europe versus the rest. So, at the end of [20]24, the U.S. data center market had 35 gigawatts of data center capacity. But that grew last year at a clip of 30 percent. China had a data center bank of roughly 22 gigawatts, but that had grown at a rate of just 10 percent. And that was because of the chip issue. And then Europe has capacity, or had capacity at the end of last year, roughly 7 to 8 gigawatts, and that had grown at a rate of 10 percent. Now, the reason for that is because the three big data center markets in Europe are called FLAP-D. So, it's Frankfurt, London, Amsterdam, Paris, and Dublin. We had to put an acronym on it. So, Flap-D. Good news. I'm sitting with the tech guys. They've got even more acronyms than I do, in their sector, so well done them. Lee Simpson: Nothing beats FLAP-D. Paul Walsh: Yes. Emmet Kelly: It's quite an achievement. But what is interesting is three of the big five markets in Europe are constrained. So, Frankfurt, post the Ukraine conflict. Ireland, because in Ireland, an incredible statistic is data centers are using 25 percent of the Irish power grid. Compared to a global average of 3 percent.Now I'm from Dublin, and data centers are running into conflict with industry, with housing estates. Data centers are using 45 percent of the Dublin grid, 45. So, there's a moratorium in building data centers there. And then Amsterdam has the classic semi moratorium space because it's a small country with a very high population. So, three of our five markets are constrained in Europe. What is interesting is it started with the former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. The UK has made great strides at attracting data center money and AI capital into the UK and the current Prime Minister continues to do that. So, the UK has definitely gone; moved from the middle lane into the fast lane. And then Macron in France. He hosted an AI summit back in February and he attracted over a 100 billion euros of AI and data center commitments. Paul Walsh: And I think if we added up, as per the research that we published a few months ago, Europe's announced over 350 billion euros, in proposed investments around AI. Emmet Kelly: Yeah, absolutely. It's a good stat. Now where people can get a little bit cynical is they can say a couple of things. Firstly, it's now over a year since the Mario Draghi report came out. And what's changed since? Absolutely nothing, unfortunately. And secondly, when I look at powering AI, I like to compare Europe to what's happening in the United States. I mean, the U.S. is giving access to nuclear power to AI. It started with the three Mile Island… Paul Walsh: Yeah. The nuclear renaissance is… Emmet Kelly: Nuclear Renaissance is absolutely huge. Now, what's underappreciated is actually Europe has got a massive nuclear power bank. It's right up there. But unfortunately, we're decommissioning some of our nuclear power around Europe, so we're going the wrong way from that perspective. Whereas President Trump is opening up the nuclear power to AI tech companies and data centers. Then over in the States we also have gas and turbines. That's a very, very big growth area and we're not quite on top of that here in Europe. So, looking at this year, I have a feeling that the Americans will probably increase their data center capacity somewhere between – it's incredible – somewhere between 35 and 50 percent. And I think in Europe we're probably looking at something like 10 percent again. Paul Walsh: Okay. Understood. Emmet Kelly: So, we're growing in Europe, but we're way, way behind as a starting point. And it feels like the others are pulling away. The other big change I'd highlight is the Chinese are really going to accelerate their data center growth this year as well. They've got their act together and you'll see them heading probably towards 30 gigs of capacity by the end of next year. Paul Walsh: Alright, we're out of time. The TMT Edge is alive and kicking in Europe. I want to thank Emmett, Lee and Adam for their time and I just want to wish everybody a great day today. Thank you.(Applause) That was my conversation with Adam, Emmett and Lee. Many thanks again to them. Many thanks again to them for telling us about the latest in their areas of research and to the live audience for hearing us out. And a thanks to you as well for listening. Let us know what you think about this and other episodes by living us a review wherever you get your podcasts. And if you enjoy listening to Thoughts on the Market, please tell a friend or colleague about the podcast today.

    UFO Chronicles Podcast
    Ep.200 The Cloud Forest (Throwback)

    UFO Chronicles Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 69:06 Transcription Available


    Throwbacks are where I re-release old episodes from the archives. So don't worry if you have heard it already, as 'New episodes' will continue to come out on Sundays. To get some of the old episodes heard.~~~We start this episode with a witness submission from Sergio in Portugal, and the Vision he had on the morning of September 11th 2001. Then we hear from Mimtea in Australia, about her paranormal experiences on her travels in Colombia, Ireland, China, and Australia.More information on this episode on the podcast website:https://ufochroniclespodcast.com/ep-200-the-cloud-forest/SHADOWS WALKINGhttps://www.mimtea.net/buy-books/shadows-walkingWant to share your encounter on the show?Email: UFOChronicles@gmail.comOr Fill out Guest Form:https://forms.gle/uGQ8PTVRkcjy4nxS7Podcast Merchandise:https://www.teepublic.com/user/ufo-chronicles-podcastHelp Support UFO CHRONICLES by becoming a Patron:https://patreon.com/UFOChroniclespodcastX: https://twitter.com/UFOchronpodcastThank you for listening!Like share and subscribe it really helps me when people share the show on social media, it means we can reach more people and more witnesses and without your amazing support, it wouldn't be possible.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ufo-chronicles-podcast--3395068/support.

    Mason & Ireland
    HR 3: High School Coaches

    Mason & Ireland

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 59:18


    Fast Track! Ireland and Andy Kamenetzky look at the story of a high school basketball coach being fired for cursing. Game of Games! The crew walk you up to Rams MNF coverage! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Mason & Ireland
    HR 2: Trojans vs Horned Frogs

    Mason & Ireland

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 51:41


    Time for Sports Graffiti! Ireland and Andy Kamenetzky dive into USC Football ahead of their bowl game! The guys are joined by Ryan Abraham of USCFootball.com to preview the Trojans in the Alamo Bowl! The crew turned to some stories out of the NFL. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Mason & Ireland
    HR 1: Entertainment Product

    Mason & Ireland

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 51:52


    Ireland is joined by Andy Kamenetzky today in the studio! The guys dive into the great week of NFL games! How great were the primetime games this week? Ireland and AK turn to Lakers basketball! What is the current state of this Lakers team? Fantasy Football is nearing its end! What happened in the NBA on Saturday that Ireland can't stand? Ice Breakers! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Strange Animals Podcast
    Episode 465: The Mermaid

    Strange Animals Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 9:35


    Thanks to Holly for suggesting this week’s topic! Further reading: Mermaids: Myth, Kith and Kin [this article is not for children] Feejee Mermaid A manatee: A female grey seal, looking winsome: A drawing of the “original” Fiji (or Feejee) mermaid: Show transcript: Welcome to Strange Animals Podcast. I'm your host, Kate Shaw. Let's close out the year 2025 with a mystery episode! Holly suggested we talk about mermaids! Mermaids are creatures of folklore who are supposed to look like humans, but instead of legs they have fish tails. These days mermaids are usually depicted with a single tail, but it was common in older artwork for a mermaid to be shown with two tails, which replaced both legs. Not all mermaids were girls, either. Mermen were just as common. Cultures from around the world have stories about mermaid-like individuals. Sometimes they're gods or goddesses, like the Syrian story of a goddess so beautiful that when she transformed into a fish, only her legs changed, because her upper half was too beautiful to alter, or the Greek god Triton, who is usually depicted as a man with two fish tails for legs. Sometimes they're monsters who cause storms, curse ships, or lure sailors to their doom. Sometimes they can transform into humans, like the story from Madagascar about a fisherman who catches a mermaid in his net. She transforms into a human woman and they get married, but when he breaks a promise to her, she turns back into a mermaid and swims away. In 2012, a TV special aired on Animal Planet that claimed that mermaids were real, and a lot of people believed it. It imitated the kind of real documentaries that Animal Planet often ran, and the only disclaimer was in the credits. I remember how upset a lot of people were about it, especially teachers and scientists. So just to be clear, mermaids aren't real. Many researchers think at least some mermaid stories might be based on real animals. The explorer Christopher Columbus reported seeing three mermaids in 1493, but said they weren't as beautiful as he'd heard. Most researchers think he actually saw manatees. A few centuries later, a mermaid was captured and killed off the coast of Brazil by European scientists, and the careful drawings we still have of the mermaid's hand bones correspond exactly to the bones of a manatee's flipper. Female manatees are larger than males on average, and a really big female can grow over 15 feet long, or 4.6 meters. Most manatees are between 9 and 10 feet long, or a little less than 3 meters. Its body is elongated like a whale's, but unlike a whale it's slow, usually only swimming about as fast as a human can swim. Its skin is gray or brown although often it has algae growing on it that helps camouflage it. The end of the manatee's tail looks like a rounded paddle, and it has front flippers but no rear limbs. Its face is rounded with a prehensile upper lip covered with bristly whiskers, which it uses to find and gather water plants. The manatee doesn't look a lot like a person, but it looks more like a person than most water animals. It has a neck and can turn its head like a person, its flippers are fairly long and resemble arms, and females have a pair of teats that are near their armpits, if a manatee had armpits, which it does not. But that's close enough for Christopher Columbus to decide he was seeing a mermaid. Seals may have also contributed to mermaid stories. In Scottish folklore, the selkie is a seal that can transform into human shape, usually by taking off its skin. There are lots of stories of people who steal the selkie's skin and hide it so that the selkie will marry the person—because selkies are beautiful in their human form. Eventually the selkie finds the hidden skin and returns to the sea. Similar seal-folk legends are found in other parts of northern Europe, including Sweden, Iceland, Norway, and Ireland. Many of the stories overlap with mermaid stories. Seals do have appealing human-like faces, have clawed front flippers that sort of resemble arms, and have rear flippers that are fused to act like a tail, even if it doesn't look much like a fish tail. The grey seal is a common animal off the coast of northern Europe, and a big male can grow almost 11 feet long, or 3.3 meters, although 9 feet is more common, or 2.7 meters. It has a large snout and no external ear flaps. Males are dark grey or brown, females are more silvery in color. It mainly eats fish, but will also eat other animals, including crustaceans, octopuses, other seals, and even porpoises. While I don't think it has anything to do with the mermaid or selkie legends, it is interesting to note that seals are good at imitating human voices. We learned about this in episode 225, about talking mammals. For instance, Hoover the talking seal, a harbor seal from Maine who was raised by a human after his mother died. Imagine if you were walking along the shore and a seal said this to you: [Hoover the talking seal saying “Hey get over here!”] Let's finish with the Japanese legend of the ningyo and a weird taxidermy creature called the Feejee mermaid. The ningyo is a being of folklore that dates back to at least the 7th century. It was a fish with a head like a person, usually found in the ocean but sometimes in freshwater. If someone found a ningyo washed up on shore, it was supposed to be a bad omen, foretelling war and other disasters. If you remember the big fish episode a few weeks ago, if an oarfish is found near the surface of the ocean around Japan, it's supposed to foretell an earthquake. The oarfish has a red fin that runs from its head down its spine, like a mane or a comb, and the ningyo was also supposed to have a red comb on its head, like a rooster's comb, or sometimes red hair. Some people think the ningyo is based on the oarfish. The oarfish is a deep-sea fish so it's rare, usually only seen near the surface when it's dying, and it has a flat face that looks more like a human face than most fish, if you squint and really want to believe you're seeing a mythical creature. These days, artwork of the ningyo usually looks a lot more like mermaids of European legend, but the earliest paintings don't usually have arms, just a human head on a fish body. But by the late 18th century, a weird type of artwork had become popular among Japanese fishermen, a type of crude but inventive taxidermy that created what looked like small, creepy mermaids. They looked like dried-out monkeys from the waist up, with a dried-out fish tail instead of legs. That's because that's exactly what they were. Japanese fishermen made these mermaids along with lots of other monsters, and sold them to travelers for high prices. The fishermen told tall tales about how they'd found the monster, killed it, and preserved it, and pretended to be reluctant to sell it, and of course that meant the traveler would offer even more money for it. The most famous of these fake monsters was called the Fiji Mermaid, and it got famous because P.T. Barnum displayed it in his museum in 1842 and said it had been caught near the Fiji Islands, in the South Pacific. It was about three feet along, or 91 cm, and was probably made from a young monkey and a salmon. The original Fiji mermaid was probably destroyed in a fire at some point, but it was such a popular exhibit that other wannabe showmen either bought or made replicas, some of which are still around today. People still sometimes make similar monsters, but they use craft materials instead of dead animals. They're still creepy-looking, though, which is part of the fun. You can find Strange Animals Podcast at strangeanimalspodcast.blubrry.net. That's blueberry without any E's. If you have questions, comments, corrections, or suggestions, email us at strangeanimalspodcast@gmail.com. Thanks for listening!

    Trip Tales
    Trip Tales Replay: Marco Island, FL - The #1 Most-Listened Episode of 2025! (My Complete Guide)

    Trip Tales

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 48:33


    This was my #1 most listened to episode of 2025! If you're planning a trip to Marco Island, Florida (or hoping to soon) this is your complete start-to-finish guide.I'm sharing exactly where to stay, where to eat, what to do, and the little details that make a Marco trip feel so special. I also break down my favorite sunset spots, family-friendly activities, and cost-saving tips.If you'd like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.comBuy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygravesFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_gravesFollow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygravesJoin us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879Mentioned in this episode:- Episode 1: Marco Island, FL - Staying at the Hilton with Nicole's Family of 5- Episode 7: Marcos Island, FL - The Iconic JW Marriott Marco Island Had Jenni's Family of 4 Feeling Like They Had Left the U.S.- Fort Myers Airport - Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW)- Punta Gorda Airport (PGD)- JW Marriott Marco Island (10K Alley Arcarde) and Paradise by Sirene Rooms- Marriott Crystal Shores- Hilton Marco Island- Calusa Spirit via Marco Island Water Sports (Dolphins!)- Keewaydin Island- Pirates of Marco Island, Marco Golf & Garden, Mackle Park- Doreen's Cup of Joe, Cocomo's "U Hook It, We Cook It!", Joey's Pizza, Snook Inn (and Milton the Manatee), Oyster Society, Tesoro, Fin Bistro, Sweet Annie's- Isle of Capri: Island Gypsy and Capri Fish HouseTrip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal's Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.

    Irish Stew Podcast
    Two Shores, Many Crises: 2025 Politics in America and Ireland with Ted Smyth

    Irish Stew Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 39:58


    In this end of years politics episode, Martin Nutty sits down with Ted Smyth, former Irish diplomat and president of the advisory board at Glucksman Ireland House, NYU, to discuss the political landscape on both sides of the Atlantic.Smyth offers stark assessments of Trump's second term, characterizing it as an assault on American democracy with unchecked executive power. However, he finds hope in recent Democratic victories, particularly Zohran Mamdani's New York City mayoral win and gubernatorial races in Virginia and New Jersey, suggesting voters are experiencing "buyer's remorse" and seeking balance.The conversation explores affordability as the defining issue for upcoming elections, with both American and Irish middle classes struggling with housing costs and basic expenses. Smyth criticizes Ireland's failure to address its housing crisis despite available resources, and discusses coordinated campaigns by right-wing media to destabilize Ireland and the EU.On Ireland-Israel relations, Smyth advocates for focusing on a two-state solution rather than symbolic gestures, drawing parallels to Northern Ireland's peace process. He addresses concerns about Ireland's defense spending and the need for a more proactive public relations strategy to counter negative narratives in publications like the oped pages of the Wall Street Journal.Smyth concludes with an optimistic call to action: support local communities, businesses, and cultural institutions. Whether in Dublin or New York, he argues that strength comes from grassroots engagement and maintaining democratic values during challenging times.Ted Smyth LinksWebsiteGlucksman Ireland HouseUCD Clinton InstituteLinkedInBlueSkyXIrish Stew LinksWebsiteInstagramLinkedInMedia Partner: IrishCentralEpisode Details: Season 7, Episode 39; Total Episode Count: 142

    Books with Betsy
    Episode 86 - Best of 2025 Part 1

    Books with Betsy

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 95:18


    On this episode, past guests of Books with Betsy and I share our favorite books of 2025! Listen to hear about lots of great 2025 books and the excellent backlist we got to this year.    Books mentioned in this episode:    Betsy's Best Categorically (books that…):  Shocked me:  It's Not the End of the World by Jonathan Parks-Ramage Sky Full of Elephants by Cebo Campbell  Made me Cry: The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai  Are You Happy? By Lori Ostlund  Underrated: Fundamentally by Noussaibah Younis  What Kind of Paradise by Janelle Brown  Recommend Widely: There is No Place For Us: Working and Homeless in America by Brian Goldstone  Isola by Allegra Goodman  Hard to Recommend:  King of Ashes by S.A. Cosby  Flesh by David Szalay  Made me Think About my Life Differently: Uzumaki by Junji Ito  Hunchback by Saou Ichikawa    Books Highlighted by Guests: Deedi Brown:  The Everlasting by Alix E. Harrow Telephone by Percival Everett  Searches: Selfhood in the Digital Age by Vauhini Vara  Francisco Rafael Peralta-Cerda:  Grace and Henry's Holiday Movie Marathon by Matthew Norman  Displacement by Kiku Hughes  Yellowface by R.F. Kuang  Chloe Waryan:  The Buffalo Hunter Hunter by Stephen Graham Jones  The Secret History by Donna Tartt  Woodworking by Emily St. James  Poor Things by Alasdair Gray Jess Abra Sandy:  How to Sell a Haunted House by Grady Hendrix  Don't Let the Forest In by C.G. Drews Soft Science & Other Poems by Franny Choi  Time is a Mother by Ocean Vuong  Shakia Perry:  Issac's Song by Daniel Black  King of Ashes by S.A. Cosby  Zeal by Morgan Jerkins  Can't Get Enough by Kennedy Ryan  Chelsey Stone:  The Princes of Ireland by Edward Rutherfurd Creatures of Passage by Morowa Yejidé Deirdre Harrison:  Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer  Motherhood: Facing and Finding Yourself by Lisa Marchiano  The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley  Chirri & Chirra: The Snowy Day by Kaya Doi & Yuki Kaneko  The Red Fruit by Lee Gee Eun  Red Sled by Lita Judge  Jordan Hernandez:  This is Your Mother by Erika J. Simpson  The Girls Who Grew Big by Leila Mottley  Loca by Alejandro Heredia  Liv Hoselton:  Everything is Tuberculosis: The History and Persistence of Our Deadliest Infection by John Green  A Noble Madness: The Dark Side of Collecting from Antiquity to Now by James Delbourgo  Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton Frankenstein by Mary Shelly  A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens  Leah Rachel von Essen:  And the Band Played On: Politics, People, and the AIDS Epidemic by Randy Shilts  Get a Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert  One Day Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This by Omar El Akkad A Day of Fallen Night by Samantha Shannon