Best Irish Times Off Topic Podcasts (2024)

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2024 Shameless Burning Man Show 1:37:04

9h ago1:37:04

1:37:04

The Hotdog Shot! Does that have your attention? It's one of many genuinely terribly playa-cocktails we sample -- so you don't have to! -- in our latest Shameless Burning Man Special. Wondering why Burning Man has been a little weird lately? BUCK DOWN HAS ANSWERS! We also dive into the history of "Farmer's Coke," which is the rich southern tradition…

1
#275 Should Irish Be Compulsory For All Students Regardless Of Nationality? 1:49:52

4h ago1:49:52

1:49:52

In this episode, Niall explores the debate around whether the Irish language should be compulsory for all students, regardless of their nationality. The discussion was sparked by the Taoiseach's comments suggesting that fewer students are choosing Irish for the Leaving Certificate because many come from families around the world and may not be in a…

1
#274 Is It Time To Ban Drinking Alcohol On Planes And In Airports? 1:31:48

3h ago1:31:48

1:31:48

In this episode, Niall asks the question: Is it time to ban drinking alcohol on planes and in airports? This debate has been sparked by recent comments from Ryanair's chief executive, Michael O'Leary, who called for alcohol limits to tackle a rise in disorderly and violent behavior during flights. O'Leary suggests restricting passengers to two drin…

1
#273 Who Should Be Responsible For Keeping Children Off Social Media? 1:43:58

3h ago1:43:58

1:43:58

In this episode, Niall asks the pressing question: Who should be responsible for keeping children off social media? With the Health Minister proposing to challenge social media companies to limit access for under-16s, the debate continues over whether this responsibility should fall on the government, tech companies, or parents. Some callers argue …

1
#272 Should There Be Any Restrictions On Speech? 1:41:12

2h ago1:41:12

1:41:12

In this episode, Niall asks the complex question surrounding freedom of speech, especially in light of Telegram CEO Pavel Durov's arrest and the increasing scrutiny on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) by governments. With accusations that Telegram facilitates criminal activities due to its commitment to user privacy and encryption, the debate ar…

1
#271 Would You Intervene If Someone was Being Attacked? 1:35:25

7h ago1:35:25

1:35:25

In this episode, Niall asks the crucial question: Would you intervene if you saw someone being attacked? With the increasing reports of violence, it's a situation more people may find themselves in, and the responses are divided. Some callers believe it's essential to step in and help. They argue that as human beings, we have a responsibility to pr…

1
#270 Is It Time To Scrap School Uniforms? 1:28:45

8d ago1:28:45

1:28:45

In this episode, Niall asks whether it's time to scrap school uniforms, as many parents express frustration over the rising costs of back-to-school expenses. The debate centers on whether uniforms are an unnecessary financial burden or a valuable tool for promoting equality among students. Some callers believe that school uniforms are outdated and …

1
Over 200 Children Have Died In State Care (With Peadar Tóibín) 21:04

7d ago21:04

21:04

In this episode of the Niall Boylan Podcast, Niall is joined by Peadar Tóibín, leader of the Aontú party, to discuss critical issues surrounding the Irish care system, particularly its failings in protecting the country's most vulnerable children. The conversation begins with a deep dive into alarming findings from Freedom of Information documents,…

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#269 Should Personal Protection Items Be Legalised? 1:38:36

12d ago1:38:36

1:38:36

In this episode, Niall asks whether personal protection items, such as pepper spray, should be made legal in Ireland, especially as concerns grow over street safety, particularly for women. Senator Keogan's recent proposal has sparked debate: should individuals have the right to carry such items for self-defense? Some callers argue against legalizi…

1
#268 Immigration And Housing Chaos: How Would You Fix The Problems? 1:42:18

8h ago1:42:18

1:42:18

In this episode, Niall explores the pressing issues of immigration and housing in Ireland, asking listeners how they would solve these intertwined crises. While it's easy to point out the problems, Niall challenges listeners to propose real solutions. Some callers suggest that stricter immigration controls are necessary to alleviate the pressure on…

1
Episode 130: Jump That Pommel Horse, Dodge That Bird Poop, and Let's All Hang With Snoop! 56:07

8d ago56:07

56:07

Are you trying hard not to buy Halloween candy before October? Do you wish there was a boycott on walnuts in brownies? Well, we feel your stuggles and are here to help, so just turn this one up and all will be right with the world!By Total Sidebar from the Ladies of Total Sidebar

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#267 Thornton Hall: Out Of Sight Out Of Mind? 1:37:43

3h ago1:37:43

1:37:43

In this episode, Niall discusses the controversial plan to use larger, remote reception centers, like Thornton Hall, to accommodate the growing number of refugees in Ireland. As the nation grapples with the influx, questions arise about the feasibility and morality of placing these centers far from urban areas. Some callers argue that it doesn’t ma…

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#266 Swearing in Public: Should It Cost You a F***ing Fortune? 1:21:27

18d ago1:21:27

1:21:27

In this episode, Niall discusses a controversial new rule from Thanet District Council, which imposes a £100 fine for swearing in public. The measure has sparked heated debate, with some seeing it as a necessary step to curb antisocial behavior, while others argue it’s an infringement on free speech and an unrealistic, overly strict enforcement. So…

1
#265 Same Sex Schools Vs Mixed Schools Which Is Better? 1:26:02

3h ago1:26:02

1:26:02

In this episode, Niall explores the debate over whether same-sex or mixed schools provide a better educational experience for students. The discussion is sparked by recent comments from Higher Education Minister Patrick O'Donovan, who advocates for a co-educational learning model to promote integration and reduce gender-based violence. Some callers…

1
#264 Are Bad Laws Made To Be Broken? 1:44:21

24h ago1:44:21

1:44:21

In this episode, Niall asks, "Are Bad Laws Made To Be Broken?" This discussion is sparked by the case of Brendan McDonagh, a father facing possible imprisonment for building a small log cabin on his family's land after being denied state housing assistance. Despite his attempts to follow regulations, Brendan’s home is set to be demolished by Octobe…

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Ireland’s Housing Hypocrisy: A Father Facing Prison for Building a Home 23:15

4d ago23:15

23:15

In this emotionally charged episode of The Niall Boylan Podcast, we explore the heartbreaking story of Brendan McDonagh, a father of two facing the possibility of imprisonment simply for trying to provide a home for his family. Brendan’s struggle highlights the deep hypocrisy and unfairness within the Irish housing system. Brendan, a hardworking ma…

1
#263 Is Boxing A Female Sport? 1:49:35

17d ago1:49:35

1:49:35

In this episode, Niall asks, "Is Boxing A Female Sport?" This topic arises in light of Kellie Harrington winning her second gold medal. A listener's message sparked the discussion: a mother expressed concern about her 8-year-old daughter wanting to join a boxing club, calling female boxing barbaric. Some callers think boxing is a fantastic sport fo…

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#262 Elon Musk's Civil War Comments: Incitement or Insight? 1:57:45

14d ago1:57:45

1:57:45

In this episode, Niall discusses whether Elon Musk's comments about an inevitable civil war are incitement or simply his opinion. Both the Irish Taoiseach and the UK Prime Minister are demanding a crackdown on online commentary around immigration and riots, condemning Musk's remarks. No 10 has criticized Musk for his post under a video of violent r…

1
Trump vs Harris (John McGuirk and Michale Walsh) 42:44

8d ago42:44

42:44

In this episode of the Niall Boylan Podcast, Niall is joined by John McGuirk, Senior Editor at Gript Media, and Michael Walsh, a political commentator and author. Together, they explore the intricate dynamics of the American presidential race, weighing the prospects of Donald Trump and Kamala Harris in a conversation that is both insightful and con…

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#261 Riots: Who Is At Fault The Government Or The People? 1:13:42

10d ago1:13:42

1:13:42

In this episode, Niall asks: Riots: Who Is At Fault, The Government Or The People? Amid ongoing protests and escalating violence across the UK and Ireland due to immigration and controversial policies, this episode delves into the root causes of the unrest. Are the government’s policies to blame, or do the protesters bear responsibility for the vio…

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#260 Why Are World Leaders Ignoring It's Citizens? 1:34:31

1M ago1:34:31

1:34:31

In this episode, Niall asks: Why Are World Leaders Ignoring Their Citizens? In the wake of the tragic events in Southport, ongoing riots in the UK, and widespread protests and unrest in Ireland and Europe related to migration, this question has become more pressing. Niall, joined by John McGurk, delves into the reasons behind this disconnect betwee…

1
#259 Are Children Getting Dumber? 1:25:11

1M ago1:25:11

1:25:11

In this episode, Niall is asking: Are Children Getting Dumber? Recent research suggests a concerning trend: IQ scores are dropping among younger generations, reversing the previous pattern of rising intelligence known as the “Flynn Effect.” The study found that people born in 1991 scored about five points lower on IQ tests than those born in 1975, …

1
#258 Should We Bring Back The Death Penalty? 1:50:28

1M ago1:50:28

1:50:28

In this episode, Niall is asking: Should We Bring Back The Death Penalty? The discussion co eurmes in the wake of the horrifying Southport stabbings, where a 17-year-old boy allegedly attacked a children's dance class, resulting in the deaths of two children and critical injuries to several others. The brutal incident has sparked a debate on whethe…

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#257 Olympic Games Opening: Freedom Of Expression Or Blaspheme? 1:30:32

1M ago1:30:32

1:30:32

In this episode, Niall is asking: Was the Olympic Games Opening: Freedom of Expression or Blasphemy? The discussion stems from a recent controversy during the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympics. The segment, which parodied Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper with drag queens, a transgender model, and a singer made up as the Greek god of wi…

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#256 Ukrainian Welfare To Be Reduced: Is It Fair? 1:35:28

1M ago1:35:28

1:35:28

In this episode, Niall asks, "Is it fair to reduce Ukrainian welfare coming into Ireland from €236 to €38?" This discussion stems from the recent Cabinet decision to reduce welfare allowances for Ukrainian refugees living in State-provided, full-board accommodation. The payments, which previously stood at €232 per week, will be reduced to €38.80 pe…

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#255 Is It Time To Excommunicate The Catholic Church From Ireland? 1:43:25

1M ago1:43:25

1:43:25

In this episode, Niall is asking, "Is It Time To Excommunicate The Catholic Church From Ireland?" The discussion is sparked by recent revelations and long-standing issues of clerical sex abuse within the Catholic Church. The debate centers on whether the Church's historical and ongoing failures to address abuse justify severing its influence in Ire…

1
#254 Should Puberty Blockers Be Banned Worldwide? 1:49:43

1M ago1:49:43

1:49:43

In this episode, Niall is asking, "Should Puberty Blockers Be Banned Worldwide?" The discussion is sparked by a recent interview between Elon Musk and psychologist Jordan Peterson. Musk shared his emotional experience with his transgender child, Vivian Jenna Wilson, and his regrets over signing documents for puberty blockers during the COVID-19 pan…

1
#253 Coolock Vs The Government: Who Is Going To Back Down First? 1:39:30

1M ago1:39:30

1:39:30

In this episode, Niall is asking, "Who Is Going To Back Down First?" With the ongoing protests in Coolock, it seems to be the people versus the government. Recent events have heightened tensions, including multiple fires at the former Crown Paints factory, clashes between protesters and Gardaí, and injuries among law enforcement. The Taoiseach has …

1
Episode 129: Chug That Syrup, Slow Dance To That Fast Song, and Let's All Drink Irish Car Bombs! 1:07:26

24d ago1:07:26

1:07:26

Are you wishing you could win free meatballs for life? Do you still struggle to figure out the difference between an ottoman and a hassock? Well, go ahead and put your feet up because we're going to solve these major problems together!By Total Sidebar from the Ladies of Total Sidebar

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#252 Who Are The Right Wing? 1:35:39

2M ago1:35:39

1:35:39

In this episode of the show, host Niall Boylan engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Ian O'Doherty, a journalist from the Irish Independent, and Ben Scallan from Gript Media, about the contentious labeling of political commentators and protestors in Coolock as far right. This conversation arises amidst recent death threats received by poli…

1
#251 Day 2 Coolock: Does Protesting Work? 1:12:20

2M ago1:12:20

1:12:20

In this episode, Niall asks: Day 2 Coolock: Does protesting work? The question arises amidst the backdrop of recent unrest in Coolock, where Gardaí moved to facilitate the development of a site for hundreds of asylum seekers. The government is currently looking at more than 30 large buildings to accommodate migrants claiming asylum, moving away fro…

1
Why I won't Condemn The Coolock Riots With John McGuirk 30:32

2M ago30:32

30:32

In this episode, Niall Boylan speaks with John McGuirk from Gript Media about the recent riots in Coolock. The government is planning to convert the old Crown Paints factory into an accommodation center for asylum seekers, leading to significant unrest in the area. John McGuirk explains why he won't condemn the riots, emphasizing the government's f…

1
#250 Can You Be A Practicing Catholic And Support Abortion? 1:37:48

2M ago1:37:48

1:37:48

In this episode, Niall asks: Can you be a practicing Catholic and support abortion? The topic arises from a recent news story involving TD for Cork North-Central, Colm Burke, who was denied communion by Father Gabriel Burke due to his stance on abortion. This incident, which occurred during a funeral in Whitechurch, Co Cork, has sparked a significa…

1
#248 Donald Trump Survives Assassination Attempt 1:04:38

2M ago1:04:38

1:04:38

In this episode, Niall discusses the recent assassination attempt on Donald Trump during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The assailant, Thomas Matthew Crooks, opened fire, resulting in one death and two critical injuries. Trump was struck by a bullet but is fine after receiving medical attention. The incident has raised concerns about sec…

1
Will Geddes Donald Trump Assassination Attempt Failure In Security 18:25

2M ago18:25

18:25

In this episode, Niall discusses the recent assassination attempt on Donald Trump with international security specialist Will Geddes. They analyze the significant security lapses that allowed the attacker, Thomas Matthew Crooks, to get dangerously close to Trump during a rally. Geddes provides detailed insight into the failures of the Secret Servic…

1
#249 Coolock Accommodation Protest Accelerates 32:53

2M ago32:53

32:53

Niall kicks things off by speaking with Robbie Kane, a reporter from Dublin Live, who gives us the latest developments on the ground. The protest centres around the use of the old Crown Paints factory, which is being repurposed to accommodate hundreds of refugees. Local residents are up in arms, claiming the government has failed to communicate wit…

1
#247 Snitches Get Stitches 1:31:52

2M ago1:31:52

1:31:52

In this episode, Niall asks: Would you report bad driving or reckless behavior on the roads? Gardai will soon be asking the public to report drivers speeding, driving poorly, or acting recklessly. Would you participate, or would you never report other drivers? The topic arises from an article about road users who capture video evidence of road traf…

1
Is Recording The Nationality Of Criminals Relevant? Episode 246 1:17:11

2M ago1:17:11

1:17:11

In this episode, Niall asks the question: Is recording the nationality of criminals relevant? This topic stems from a viral video posted by Alex Phillips, a British journalist and TV presenter, where she discusses the rise in migrant crime and shares her own experiences of being followed home by migrant men. Alex Phillips joins Niall to talk about …

1
Are Prisons An Outdated Concept? Episode 245 1:30:26

2M ago1:30:26

1:30:26

In this episode, Niall asks the question: Are prisons an outdated concept? With the government's recent decision to release prisoners early to alleviate overcrowding, is it time to reconsider how we handle non-violent offenders? Should we be using community service more as an alternative to incarceration? The discussion is prompted by recent news a…

1
#244 Not No So Proud Of Pride. 1:48:40

2M ago1:48:40

1:48:40

In this episode, Niall discusses a provocative email from a listener who, as a gay man, expressed relief that Pride Month is over. He finds the flamboyant and stereotypical celebrations humiliating rather than empowering. Niall asks listeners: Do you agree? Is Pride Month's flamboyance necessary for visibility and celebration, or does it sometimes …

1
#243 Pinocchio Politicians Breaking Election Promises 1:43:10

2M ago1:43:10

1:43:10

In this episode, Niall is asking: Should a politician who breaks an election promise or lies lose their position, or is that just part and parcel of politics? With election seasons often filled with grand promises and bold statements, the reality of governance can sometimes lead to unfulfilled commitments and changed stances. But where should the l…

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#242 Welfare A Better Deal than Working 1:41:27

2M ago1:41:27

1:41:27

In this episode, Niall is asking: Is it time to get tough on people on welfare payments who are not trying to get a job? The topic arises from an analysis by the Parliamentary Budget Office (PBO) of the Oireachtas, which found that people not in the workforce are seeing their real incomes increase more than employees, with public servants seeing ju…

1
#241 Are We Loosing Our Irish Identity? 1:35:02

2M ago1:35:02

1:35:02

In this episode, Niall is asking: Are we losing our Irishness or identity, or is that just old-fashioned people like me who won’t accept the world is now a global village? The topic is based on a tweet from David Quinn: "The State is about to ditch the aim of 'fostering a sense of Irish identity' from the primary school curriculum, which prompts th…

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#240 1 In 6 Pregnancies End In Abortion 1:40:22

2M ago1:40:22

1:40:22

In this episode, Niall is asking: If The Abortion Referendum Was Run Again, Would You Vote The Same? The latest abortion figures released by the Government reveal that 10,033 abortions took place in Ireland in 2023, meaning 1 in 6 pregnancies end in abortion. Niall opens up the lines to callers to discuss whether they would change their vote if the…

1
Politicians Are Not Naturally Courageous With Rónán Mullen 27:15

2M ago27:15

27:15

In this episode Niall sits down with Senator Rónán Mullen to discuss some of the most pressing issues in Irish politics. The conversation begins with the recent approval of international surrogacy plans, including both retrospective and future arrangements. Senator Mullen, who has been a strong opponent of the legislation, expresses his concerns ab…

1
#239 Does the EU Migration Pact benefit Ireland? 1:41:54

2M ago1:41:54

1:41:54

In this episode, Niall delves into whether the EU Migration Pact benefits Ireland. The legislation recently passed in the Dáil by a narrow margin, with 79 TDs voting in favor and 72 against. The government argues that the pact will enhance Ireland’s asylum system, but opposition TDs have raised concerns about potential erosion of sovereignty and th…

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#238 Should Illegal Economic Migrants Be Allowed To Stay In Ireland? 1:20:13

2M ago1:20:13

1:20:13

In this episode, Niall explores the question: Should Illegal Economic Migrants Be Allowed To Stay In Ireland? The discussion stems from a piece in Gript Media reporting on Irish Times journalist Kitty Holland's comments that many NGO staff working with asylum seekers are aware that significant numbers of economic migrants are deliberately posing as…

1
#237 Is It Okay to Discipline Someone Else's Child? 1:35:40

2M ago1:35:40

1:35:40

In this episode, Niall asks, "Is It Okay to Discipline Someone Else's Child?" The discussion stems from a listener's dilemma about whether it was appropriate to intervene and discipline another child who was bullying their own child at school. Niall opens up the lines to callers, sparking a lively debate. Some callers strongly believe it's acceptab…

1
Episode 128: Fly Off Of That Hammock, Pickle Those Cucumbers, and Let's All Wear Olympic Condoms! 1:01:21

2M ago1:01:21

1:01:21

Are you sick of people speaking Pig Latin? Would you roll in poison ivy if it made you rich? If both your answers are yes, then turn this one up because we are right there with you!By Total Sidebar from the Ladies of Total Sidebar

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#263 Do You Support The Aer Lingus Strike? 1:22:27

2M ago1:22:27

1:22:27

In this episode, Niall asks, "Do You Support The Aer Lingus Strike?" The discussion revolves around the ongoing industrial action by Aer Lingus pilots demanding a 24% pay increase to offset inflation since their last raise in 2019. The strike has already begun affecting flights, with more disruptions expected soon. The Irish Airline Pilots' Associa…

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