Moncrieff
The daily dose of madness and intrigue from Sean Moncrieff and his rebel radio crew. It features conversation that counts, covering news, sport, analysis, and entertainment. The podcast is produced by Ireland's national independent talk station Newstalk.
Episodes
Celebrating National Teddy Bear Day!
In the United States, today is National Teddy Bear Day. What makes them so beloved, and why do some adults still have theirs from childhood?Amanda Middleditch, one of the Teddy Bear Ladies from ‘The Repair Shop’ on BBC joins Seán to discuss.
How Vincent Browne and Magill changed Irish journalism
Ireland in the 1970’s and 80’s could feel a bit grim, and the country could feel a bit stuck - and the media was often too nervous to push against the norm. That is, of course, an exception with the publication Magill and Journalist Vincent Browne, who helped change journalism and the country itself.Kevin Rafter, author of ‘Fearless! Vincent Browne's Magill and Ireland in the 1980s’, joins Seán to
Haircuts 4 Homeless - Henry McKean Reports
Haircuts 4 Homeless was set up by veteran hairdresser Stewart Roberts in England, who brought the concept to Ireland where skilled hairdresser volunteers give haircuts to homeless people. Once a month in the Capuchin Day Centre, Peter Mark hairdresser Trevor Hynes leads a team of stylists, hairdressers and barbers with Haircuts 4 Homeless Ireland - giving stylish haircuts, bringing back dignity an
Moncrieff’s Murder Club: Weird and Unlikely Accomplices
Every Wednesday, Seán will be joined by someone to hear unusual stories on heinous crimes…This week, Cassie Delaney joins to discuss cases involving weird and unlikely accomplices!
Plaque erected dedicated to Donogh O’Malley - who was he?
The kids are back in secondary school, and the fact that free secondary school education exists in the first place is because of Donogh O'Malley, who introduced this 60 years ago…Michael O’Dwyer, co-ordinator of the Remembering Donogh O’Malley Programme, joins Seán to discuss.
BBC ends Ski Sunday - what does it mean for winter sports?
As part of its continued budget cuts, the BBC has announced that it has axed Ski Sunday, a show dedicated to winter sports, which has been airing since the 1970’s.Joining Seán to discuss this is Eddie Edwards, AKA ‘Eddie the Eagle’.
Moving home to Ireland at 29 - what is it like?
For various reasons, Ian Smith, Journalist with the Irish Independent, left Ireland and for about 8 years lived in different European cities. When he eventually returned, he wondered if that was the right choice…He has been writing about his experience, and joins Seán to discuss.
The drunk shopping phenomenon - has it happened to you?
Many people enjoy shopping, many people enjoy alcohol. Mix the two: what could possibly go wrong?One US survey estimated that the drunk shopping industry is worth about €38 billion a year! Eoin McGee, Presenter of the ‘Understanding Money’ podcast, joins Seán to discuss.
Student from Gaza shares experience of studying in Ireland
A number of students from Gaza hoping to study here have had their visas refused for a multitude of complicated reasons. For Seán’s guest, he was lucky enough to receive an education in Ireland.Abdallah Aljazzar, English Literature Student originally from Gaza, joins to share his story.
What is proper walking etiquette?
If you live in a town or city and regularly walk through it, are there things about the experience that annoy you? People walking with their heads in their phones, and, god forbid, tourists?Kelly Earley, columnist with The Journal and co-host of the ‘For Tech’s Sake’ podcast, joins Seán to discuss.
How Pope fashion has changed over the years
Every year, the likes of Vanity Fair and Vogue publish a list of the best dressed celebrities. This year, Pope Leo XIV was featured for his wearing of runners and a baseball cap. So, is the Pope trying to become a new fashion icon? And how has Pope fashion changed over the years?Patsy McGarry, Journalist with the Irish Times, joins Seán to discuss.
Low birth rates - what can be done?
In Ireland and in many other countries around the world, birth rates are dropping. Singapore, which has one of the lowest rates, is throwing grants and increased parental leave in an attempt to boost this. But, what is the right answer here?Joining Seán to discuss is Ellen Coyne, Political Correspondent with the Irish Times.
Annals of Inisfallen goes on display in Ireland for first time in 40 years
For the first time in 40 years, the Annals of Inisfallen will go on display in UCC. At nearly a thousand years old, it is an account of the history of Ireland.Pádraig Ó Macháin, Professor of Modern Irish at UCC, joins Seán to discuss.Image: University College Cork
Four Questions: Katie Taylor Celebrations
We’re looking back on the weekend and looking forward to the week ahead through the lens of these four questions:What delighted you over the weekend? What annoyed you over the weekend? What did you learn over the weekend? What are you looking forward to this week?Joining Seán to discuss is Maia Dunphy and Donal O'Donoghue!
How should Trump be handled this week?
US President Donald Trump will be arriving in Ireland next Saturday. He will have a meeting with President Catherine Connolly and the Taoiseach, before spending time in his golf course in Doonbeg for the Irish Open.Of course there will be protests, but what should our Government do about his visit? Should self interest take place over principal?Joining Seán to discuss is former Irish Ambassador in
What does it mean to be ‘skinny fat’?
Occasionally, you might hear about people who are super fit, but develop an illness normally associated with someone who is overweight. What is this ‘skinny fat’ phenomenon?Personal Trainer John Belton joins Seán to discuss.
Newly-proposed world map shows countries’ true sizes
The UN general assembly is due to vote on changing the world to move away from the traditional Mercator map, which shrinks the size of Africa and exaggerates northern landmasses, for a design that more accurately reflects the true size of countries.Joining Seán to discuss William Durkan booked, Lecturer in Geography and GIS at UCC.
Choosing paint - how do you know what’s right?
If you’re painting or repainting your home, how should you choose your colours? Is it based simply off your favourites, or do certain colours suit a room better?Róisín Murphy, Architect and Artist, joins Seán to discuss!
How do you get your child wanting to read?
A recent study found that half of Irish parents said it was a “challenge” to find “appropriate and enjoyable” books for their children and nearly a quarter of parents feel that reading with their child is a “chore”.Joining Seán to discuss how to get your child to want to read is author of ‘Milly McCarthy and the Doggy Daycare Drama’, Leona Forde…
Seven skunks captured and destroyed in Kildare - where did they come from?
It’s just been revealed that earlier this year the National Parks and Wildlife Service captured and destroyed seven skunks in Kildare, with the potential of there being more…Patricia Devlin, Investigative Reporter with The Journal Investigates, joins Seán to discuss.
Ireland’s first solar-powered race car!
Ireland’s first-ever solar-powered racing car has been unveiled by a team of engineering and technology students from DCU!Joining Seán to discuss the achievement and how the car works is Rían Gill, Team Manager at DCU Solar Racing.Image: @dcusolarracing on Instagram
Why are the Irish so secretive? - Henry McKean Asks
Are the Irish friendly, or is there a deep rooted guarded side to us? Why are the Irish secretive when it comes to emotions and family matters? Are friendship circles closed to outsiders with indirect masking? And, is this based on our dark history or British Rule and the Catholic church?Henry McKean has been out asking these questions to the public, and joins Seán to share what he has heard…
What is living with a strange name like?
Having a difficult-to-spell name, unless you legally change it, is a reminder to parents to choose carefully when picking a name for their child.Máire Treasa Ní Cheallaigh has been writing about this, and joins Seán to discuss.
Finding solace for your mental health in a café
Many of you will be aware of the pressure put on mental services in the country, but in six locations in Ireland, an additional service is offered: a solace café.Ciara Glynn is Operations Manager of the Aware Solace Café in Dublin, and joins Seán to discuss how it works.Helplines:Samaritans 116 123Pieta House 24-Hour Crisis Helpline:1800 247 247 or Text HELP to 51444
Why does the blackbird have the sweetest birdsong?
According to a recently published scientific study, the blackbird has the sweetest birdsong, but is that really true? And why do we like the sounds birds make?Niall Hatch, Head of communications and development with Birdwatch Ireland, joins Seán to discuss.
Age gaps in relationships - when does it become an issue?
It’s been widely reported by the daughter of French First Lady Brigitte Macron, who is 42, has a new boyfriend 20 years younger than her. This follows the pattern of her mother, who is 25 years older than Emmanuel Macron.It begs the question: do these relationships last? How much of a factor is age, and when does it become an issue?Joining Seán to discuss is Mairead Loughman, Matchmaker with Love
Why is fashion taking over tennis?
There is something strange happening in the world of professional tennis, and it’s nothing to do with the game. Increasingly, players are showing up to matches wearing elaborate outfits, jewellery and representing brands…So, why is this happening, and why are players doing it?Sonia Twigg, Women's Sports Reporter with the Telegraph, joins Seán to discuss.
Moncrieff’s Murder Club: Dodgy Doctors
Every Wednesday, Seán will be joined by someone to hear unusual stories on heinous crimes…This week, Cassie Delaney joins to discuss cases involving dodgy doctors!
Should we have a language proficiency test for Irish citizenship?
Foreigners who want to become Irish citizens will face language proficiency tests under proposed new rules. Is this something that is needed?Joining Seán to discuss is Neil Bruton, Director of the Migrant Rights Centre Ireland.
World Gravy Wrestling Championships - how does it work?
Not only can you have gravy on your dinner, you can wrestle in it too! The World Gravy Championships have been taking place for nearly 20 years in the UK, with this year’s event finishing up yesterday.Kay, AKA ‘Granny Granules’, has been competing for six years, and joins Seán to discuss how it works!
British warship brought in to cover hole in Irish defence - why?
A British warship and a helicopter designed to hunt submarines have been deployed off the coast of Co Wicklow as part of a security operation surrounding the meeting of EU Defence Ministers in Druids Glen…Joining Seán to discuss this is Conor Gallagher, Crime Correspondent with the Irish Times.
Why are restaurants moving from gas to induction cookers?
If you are a regular cook - what is your favourite type of hob? Gas seems to be the choice of the professionals, but apparently, induction is becoming the new norm…Joning Seán to discuss is JP McMahon, Chef, Restaurateur and author.
Do you still write letters? - World Letter Writing Day
Today is World Letter Writing Day, and to mark the occasion, Seán is joined by Liz Maguire, creator and curator of FleatmarketLoveLetters.com, to discuss the joys of writing letters!
Judy Garland play ‘End of the Rainbow’ details her troubled life
Judy Garland, one of the most celebrated performers of Hollywood’s Golden Age and star of the iconic Wizard of Oz, is the subject of a brand-new play, detailing a life cut tragically short.Conor Hanratty, Director of ‘End of the Rainbow’, joins Seán to discuss.
Irish Flappers and the Jazz Age - what was it like?
Most people might not be aware, but Ireland did revel in the Roaring Twenties.We had burgeoning dance halls, a thriving jazz scene and yes, we even had Irish flappers!Joining Tom Dunne to discuss is Louise Ryan, Professor of Sociology at the University of Greenwich and Co-Editor, with Dr Eileen Hogan of UCC, of ‘Flappers and the Jazz Age: Women and Leisure in Ireland in the 1920s-30s’.
West Kerry grandfather on his 9 month solo sail around the world
A 70-year-old Irish sailor is preparing to embark on one of the loneliest and most dangerous challenges in world sport. A grandfather from West Kerry, is aiming to complete the 2026 Golden Globe Race, which starts in France on Saturday…Pat Lawless joins to discuss!
Can you have shared custody of a dog after a breakup?
Unfortunately, relationships break down every day of the week and heartbreak ensues for many. But, what happens when you share ownership of a four-legged friend? Can shared custody of a dog ever really work?Joining guest host Tom Dunne to discuss is Yvonne Naughton, owner of Happy Paws Hotel in Kilkenny.
What is your biggest mistake? - Henry McKean Asks
Dolly Parton always said she never faulted herself for making mistakes, she said failure was a sign of effort and that we are always learning.To discuss further we are joined by Henry McKean.
Four Questions: The Joy of Missing Out
We’re looking back on the weekend and looking forward to the week ahead through the lens of these four questions:What delighted you over the weekend? What annoyed you over the weekend? What did you learn over the weekend? What are you looking forward to this week?Joining guest host Tom Dunne to discuss is Maia Dunphy and Donal O'Donoghue!
What is proper toilet paper etiquette?
The burgeoning trade war between the United States and Canada may well catch many Americans short: they use the most toilet paper in the world on average, and while they’re manufactured stateside, they’re made with Canadian lumber!So, should they cut back on their use, and what is correct toilet paper etiquette?Agnes Boucher Hayes, Home Economist, joins Seán to discuss.
The emerging ‘drag king’ scene in Ireland
You’ve heard about drag queens, but what about drag kings? What is the difference?Shani Williams, AKA ‘Slick O’ is the Founder of the Irish Drag King Collective and joins Seán to discuss.
Blackberry picking season - why is it important?
It's blackberry season! The still red and green fruits will darken and ripen over the coming weeks and the white, sometimes blush, flowers will form into berries later, prolonging the supply over several autumn months.What is the significance of this season, and will you be going out to pick some?Regina Sexton, UCC Food and Culinary Historian, food writer, broadcaster and cook joins Seán to discus
Why is there an increasing demand for theme parks?
Universal Studios is currently building its first theme park in Europe with a park in Bedfordshire in the UK, and a new announcement for three anime theme parks (including Dragon Ball Z) in Paris has sent shockwaves through theme park fans everywhere.So, why is there such a demand for them?Olivia Fahy, Entertainment journalist and Founder of Press Play joins Seán to discuss!
Why are young people going mad for a 19th century painting?
‘The Meeting on the Turret Stairs’ by Wicklow-born Frederic William Burton, which is on display in the National Gallery in Dublin, has gone viral, but why?Joining Seán to discuss this is Frank McNally, Journalist with the Irish Times and Chief Writer of An Irishman's Diary.Image: National Gallery of Ireland
Are bandanas making a comeback?
We saw big celebs rock bandanas in the early 90s, and now this simple accessory is back in the spotlight. From necks and wrists to bags and even gym outfits, the Joining Seán to discuss this is Stylist Judy Gilroy.
Should school uniforms be made more comfortable?
Why are school jumpers so itchy? Why are shirts tight around the neck? Is this all done on purpose? Many argue that school uniforms should be made more comfortable for children, so why hasn’t it happened yet?Niamh O'Reilly, Columnist with the Journal, has been writing about this and joins Seán to discuss.
What is life really like in Australia?
Have you noticed more people moving to Australia recently? It seems to be a land of opportunity for many, but is life really better down under?Cork man living in New South Wales, Steve Guerrin, joins Seán to discuss.
Is it ever okay to be late? - Henry McKean Asks
In 2026 is it still acceptable to be fashionably late in Ireland? Is it ok to be late to a party, but not ok to be late to a restaurant booking? Or is it a time blindness, the inability to understand how fast time is passing and the underestimation of travel times?To discuss further, Seán is joined by Henry McKean!
Looking back on Dolly Parton’s movie career
While much of the coverage of the passing of legendary country singer Dolly Parton will examine her music and philanthropy, it can be too-easily-forgotten that she had a fantastic Hollywood career, from ‘9 to 5’ to ‘Steel Magnolias’.Joining Tom Dunne to look back is Film Critic Brian Lloyd.
How do you make a drastic career change later in life?
CAO offers and the end of a sunny summer can make us all ponder our career choices. If you are doing a job you really don’t like, and you need to make a dramatic change, where do you start? And does your age preclude you from making that career leap?Joining Tom Dunne to discuss is Peter Cosgrove, Managing Director at Careers Portal.
What is ‘Pheremone Maxxing’?
What is ‘Pheromone Maxxing’? It's the latest dating trend which advises men to stop showering…So, could sweat be the secret to picking up women?Joining guest host Tom Dunne to discuss is Dr Tristram Wyatt, Senior Research Fellow in the Department of Biology at the University of Oxford.
Moncrieff’s Murder Club: When nature plays a role
Every Wednesday, Cassie Delaney will join to tell unusual stories on heinous crimes…This week, Cassie joins guest host Tom Dunne to discuss cases where nature played its own part.
What is the cost of convenience?
People are happy to pay a premium for convenience, whether it’s paying a fee to have your groceries delivered or reserving a hotel online instead of calling the hotel directly, but is all this convenience costing us a lot over the course of a year?Joining guest host Tom Dunne to discuss is Conor Pope, Consumer Affairs Correspondent for the Irish Times…
Good news: Cleavage is back!
Sales of push-up bras have been steadily increasing - is this a sign that cleavage is returning to the forefront?Katie Glass, Columnist The Times UK, has been writing about this and joins Seán to discuss.
Does this kids TV show say something political?
Paw Patrol is a children’s show about talking dogs who rescue people and stop criminals. They’re an independent group, who, according to one of the movies, fund their operations with t-shirt sales. Apparently, the public sector can’t get the job done, so this private dog outfit has to save the day…So is Paw Patrol secretly capitalist propaganda?Paul Whitington, Cultural Critic, joins Seán to discu
What does a sustainable smartphone look like?
We tend to replace our phones every few years, mostly because they’re not very friendly to upgrade or repair. This hurts your pocket, and the environment. So, what would a phone built with this in mind look like?The company Fairphone has done just this, building a new, sustainable phone.Joining Seán to discuss is Newstalk’s Technology Correspondent, Jess Kelly.
ICE agents to start using electric shock gloves - why?
Despite the deaths caused by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, they have been given a new weapon: electric shock gloves…Declan Power, Security and defence analyst, joins Seán to discuss.
Going to Electric Picnic? This is your survival guide
If you’re going to Electric Picnic, the weather is not looking good with downpours and thunderstorms being forecasted.So, how should you prepare so you’re not drowned out while trying to enjoy the music?Alan O’Reilly from Carlow Weather joins Seán to discuss!
Should the driving age go up for young men?
“I’d also advocate a higher eligible age to get a licence for boys as opposed to girls, for obvious reasons. I’d not let any young man behind the wheel before 25.”Seán O'Grady, Associate Editor at the Independent, has been writing about this, and joins Seán to discuss.
German politician proposes swingers party in city hall - why?
German politics is under increasing pressure from the far right, but thankfully, there is another option: swinging! A local politician in the city of Mannheim wants to turn it into the go-to place for swingers, but why?James Rothwell, Berlin Correspondent with The Telegraph, joins Seán to discuss.
The 40th anniversary of Hurricane Charley
Forty years ago, a tropical storm that began off the coast of the US travelled across the Atlantic to Ireland, picking up moisture along the way. It became Hurricane Charley, and arrived at the end of an already wet summer. It destroyed homes, cost five people their lives and in Bray, left fish on the road…Noeleen McManus, retired Journalist and Bray resident, joins Seán to discuss.
What side of the bed do you sleep on? - Henry McKean Reports
What side of the bed do you sleep on and why? We are hearing some people in a relationship don't have a side of the bed, and whoever gets in first takes a side. But do you have a side of the bed even if you are single?Henry McKean went to ask bed and sleep experts, and sent in this report.
Why is there so much emphasis on learning cursive handwriting?
When the younger kids go back to school in the coming weeks, they will no doubt be taught the skill of cursive writing, but how necessary or important is that today?Dr. Sinead McCauley Lambe from the School of Inclusive & Special Education at DCU joins Seán to discuss.
The power of the human brain
You have possibly heard the claim that we only use 10% of our brainpower, but how true (or untrue) is that, and what is the potential of the human brain?Ruth Freeman, Director of Research for Society at Research Ireland joins Seán to discuss.
Four Questions: Becoming an archaeologist!
We’re looking back on the weekend and looking forward to the week ahead through the lens of these four questions:What delighted you over the weekend? What annoyed you over the weekend? What did you learn over the weekend? What are you looking forward to this week?Joining Seán to discuss is Maia Dunphy and Susan Daly!
Should we have Sundays like the French?
If you’ve ever been to France, you may have noticed that most things are closed on a Sunday, something Ireland used to be known for. Should every day be a shopping day, or should we return to this concept of a ‘French’ Sunday?Joining Seán to discuss is Brenda Power, Barrister and Sunday Independent Columnist.
80th anniversary of ‘A Miracle on Djouce’
On the 12th of August 1946, a Junkers 52 aircraft took off from Paris Le Bourget with a group of French Girl Guides, bound for Dublin on the invitation of the Irish Girl Guides. The aircraft had twenty-six people on board, including the crew. En route, the plane crashed, and one of the Girl Guides, along with two of the crew, went out to search for help, leading to a miracle rescue.Bill Nelson, Lo
The story behind the barn owl rescued at sea
Seeing an owl out in the wild is rare enough, but one at sea is something you’d never expect. 70 miles off the coast of Norfolk, an exhausted barn owl landed on a boat and was looked after by the crew.James Stannard, Conservation Officer for the Barn Owl Trust, joins Seán to discuss.
‘Headline Newds’: X-Rated Climate Change Advocacy
One of the problems with talking about climate change is that it can be a bit of the same depressing message over and over again. So, how do you make the topic more attention-grabbing? Bring it to OnlyFans!Joining Seán to discuss is Jessica Riches, OnlyFans Creator and Writer of ‘Headline Newds’.
The Michael Collins movie - 30 years on
It is the 30th anniversary of the acclaimed film ‘Michael Collins’. What legacy does it have?Joining Seán to discuss is Writer for Ireland’s Own Mick Jordan, who was also an extra in the film.
Why are so many people trying to watch porn at work?
More than 52,000 attempts to access websites categorised as adult content were blocked by the Stormont Assembly’s network in the past year, according to figures released through a Freedom of Information request by James McCarthy, Political Reporter for the Belfast Live website.So why are so many people trying to watch porn at work?Joining Seán to discuss is Ciara O’Brien, Tech Correspondent for th
How does the Heritage Plaque scheme work?
Across Dublin city, plaques remember the achievements and lives of notable figures across all professions, but how does this system actually work? Who decides who gets a plaque?Joining Seán to discuss is Donna Cooney, Green Party Councillor and Chair of the Naming and Commemorations Committee for Dublin City Council.
Living with Alopecia - what is it like?
During the Rose of Tralee this week, the eventual winner talked about having Alopecia, and showcased her collection of weeks. It did demonstrate how the condition can impact anyone at any age.Joining Seán to discuss her experience is Chloe Sheehan, who has Alopecia Areata hair loss.
Does society not tolerate women being funny?
Recent controversy over Amanda Knox turning her experience of being wrongly convicted for murder into a comedy show at the Edinburgh Fringe again brings into question whether or not there are different standards when it comes to men and women doing comedy.So, does society not tolerate women being funny?Joining Seán to discuss is Norma Sheahan, Comedian and Actress.
The ‘Kerry Cow’ debunked - what was it actually?
The remains of the so-called ‘Kerry Cow’, discovered 30 years ago on the Dingle Peninsula, have undergone new analysis with startling results.Joining John Fardy to discuss this is Martin Moucheron from the School of Archaeology at UCD…
What are the red flags of romcoms?
Romcoms are meant to make us feel good, but what happens when romantic gestures look more like red flags under a modern lens?Stephanie Regan, Clinical Psychotherapist and co-host of the ‘Tough Love’ podcast, joins guest host John Fardy to discuss.
Moncrieff’s Murder Club: When Colleagues Kill
Every Wednesday, Cassie Delaney will join to tell unusual stories on heinous crimes…This week, Cassie joins guest host John Fardy to discuss cases where colleagues at work kill!
Does a sweary boss help motivate workers?
Have you ever had a sweary boss who peppers their language with the odd spicy word here and there? Well, new research shows that how this is received depends on the personality type of the employee in question.Joining John Fardy to discuss this is Alexandros Psychcogios, Professor of Organisational Behaviour and Human Resource Management at Loughborough University in the UK.
Is it ever too late to go to university?
Is it ever too late to go to university? Joe Rooney who played Father Damo on Father Ted shocked Professors when they saw he was taking their module at DCU.Joe joins John Fardy to discuss what the experience has been like so far.
What is the best way to get rid of fruit flies?
Every year, whether there's a heat wave or not, fruit flies seem to magically appear in your home.So, what’s the best way to get rid of them?Dr Colm Moore from Rentokil Mobile joins Seán to discuss!
Recommended
OTB's Sunday Paper Review
Fully Charged Best Bits
Traitors Gonna Trait
The Quinn Files
Candlelit Tales Irish Mythology Podcast
Learn Irish with Fexingo
Shadows of Éire | An Irish True Crime Podcast
The Irish Passport
IT IS WHAT IT IS!
So You Think You're an Adult
Stall It with Darren and Joe
The Prodcast
