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
What is needed for the perfect beer garden?
This week, we have had the ultimate beer garden weather. Picture it now: You finish a long week in the office, the sun is shining and you get THE text… “Pints?”. So, what is needed for the perfect beer garden experience?Joining Seán to discuss is the Guinness Guru, Darragh Curran...
New book covers airplane sick bag collection
Unless you’ve had to use one, you probably don’t think about the airplane sick bag, but some people actually collect them!Elizabeth McCafferty, Journalist, Filmmaker and author of ‘Sicko’, which covers one person’s collection of them, joins to discuss.
What are the benefits of sleeping naked?
No matter how many windows you leave open, it can be quite difficult to sleep in the heat. So, do we need a change of clothes, or maybe no clothes at all?Joining Seán to discuss is Health Scientist & Sleep Coach, Tom Coleman.
China overtakes US in the supercomputer race
China has taken the top spot for the world’s most powerful supercomputer. They have overtaken the US for the first time since 2017 in a race for tech supremacy.To discuss this, Seán is joined by host of the ‘For Tech’s Sake’ podcast, Elaine Burke…
The Irish Chili Festival comes to Cork!
Neil Numb, Founder & Organizer, Irish Chili Festival in Cork, Berlin Chili Festival & European Hot Sauce Awards joins Seán to discuss the upcoming Irish Chili Festival, and subject two audience members to a chili eating competition!
Michael and Maura Horgan on 50 years of marriage and business
Michael and Maura Horgan run Horgan's Delicatessen Supplies in Mitchelstown, and they are celebrating not only 50 years of running the business, but also 50 years of marriage!They join Seán to discuss.
Cape Clear Lavender Festival returns! What to expect
This year marks the third annual Cape Clear Lavender Festival.Starting with just 500 plants to now 5,000, this project has blossomed over the past few years.Project Founder Joe Driscoll joins Seán to discuss the event and more.
Should Cork be the ‘true’ capital? - Henry McKean Asks
How do you know if someone is from Cork? They’ll tell you! The city is fondly named as the ‘true capital’, but should that become a reality?Henry McKean has been out asking Corkonians for their unbiased opinions, and joins Seán to discuss.
Comedian Chris Kent on his upcoming tour!
The Moncrieff Show is coming to you from the Montenotte Hotel in Cork as part of Newstalk’s Summer Tour, with thanks to ESB!Seán is joined by Cork Comedian Christ Kent to talk about his path from Electrician to Stand Up, and his upcoming tour.
Then V Now with Moncrieff: Episode One - Communication
Was finding a partner easier in the past? People met through friends, work, or local clubs. Today, dating apps put thousands of potential matches at our fingertips. But has more choice made it easier to find love? Sean is joined by broadcaster Mary Kennedy and radio presenter Emily McEvoy on Then V Now with Moncrieff to compare dating across two different generations.
Do you like sharing your food?
Would you let someone try your desert, taste your cocktail, or maybe even double dip? Seán’s guest loves to share her food, but we all know people who absolutely hate it! So, how should we be sharing our food? Should we have some rules of engagement?TV Chef Erica Drumm joins to discuss.
How “hot girls” gave hope to a brain cancer patient
Seán’s guest was diagnosed with brain cancer at the age of 22, but she says that some “hot girls” gave her hope.Annabel Craddock joins to discuss…
How do you dress for work in the heat?
You have to go to work, even when the weather is lovely! But, when you’re in the office, what do you wear that’s suitable for work, and won’t roast you alive?Stylist Judy Gilroy joins Seán to discuss.
Moncrieff’s Murder Club: When hobbies become fatal
Every Wednesday, Seán will be joined by someone to hear unusual stories on heinous crimes…This week, Cassie Delaney joins to discuss cases where hobbies became fatal…
Should road traffic incidents be called ‘accidents’?
When a road traffic incident takes place on our roads, the traditional articulation of this has been to describe it as an ‘accident’, but should we re-examine the language we use in this area?Joining Seán to discuss is Sadbh O’Neill, Contributor to the Irish Times…
Are beards actually unhygienic?
People assume that those with facial hair are more likely to harbour bacteria on their faces than the clean-shaven, but the truth is more tangled…So is having a beard unhygienic?Joining Seán to discuss is Dr Primrose Freestone, Senior Lecturer in Clinical Microbiology at the University of Leicester.
How do you confront an alcoholic?
If you have an alcoholic (or any kind of addict) in your life, is there anything you can do to help them? And, even if not, can you do something to stop the problem from getting worse?Joining Seán to discuss is Austin Prior, Addiction Counsellor.
Do you have nostalgia for school packed lunch?
Do you have any fond memories of your old school packed lunches? What are the differences between the ones you had, and the ones your kids are having now?Joining Seán to discuss is Máirtín Mac Con Iomaire, Chef, Culinary Historian and Chair of the Masters in Gastronomy and Food Studies at TU Dublin.
What are the implications of Andy Burnham’s Catholicism?
The likely coronation of Andy Burnham as the next British Prime Minister sets up an intriguing possibility: he would be the first Catholic PM. But, what are the implications of this, and can he actually even claim to be the first at all?Joining Seán to discuss is Mark Paul, London Correspondent for the Irish Times.Image: Reuters
Are luxury items a good investment?
You could collect art and regard it as an investment, but are there other luxury items worth investing in? Like watches or handbags? How do you know what will retain or grow in value?Joining Seán to discuss is Nicholas Charalambous, Managing Director at Alpha Wealth.
How the World Cup brings families together
There are few things on TV today that the whole family can gather and watch. If Ireland qualified for the World Cup, it certainly would have brought families together...Dr Colman Noctor, Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist, Senior Mental Health Lecturer at SETU Waterford and host of the ‘Asking for a Parent’ podcast, has been writing about this, and joins Seán to discuss.
Is there still a stigma around dining alone?
A photograph of the Hollywood actor Jake Gyllenhaal has gone viral, prompting a wider conversation about the stigma and merits of dining alone in restaurants. Joining Seán to discuss is a woman who loves dining alone, Journalist Alice Bradley…
Is there a wild salmon crisis in Ireland?
Earlier this month, a pollution event on the River Glyde in Louth caused the deaths of thousands of fish, including many wild salmon, leading to calls for greater effort to be made to protect this species…Joining Seán to discuss is Ella McSweeney, Journalist and Co-Presenter of ‘Ear to the Ground’.
Should carpeted bathrooms make a comeback?
A new book by the New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman claims that Donald Trump insisted on carpeting the en suite of his bedroom in the White House. Now, while many listeners no doubt had a carpeted bathroom growing up here in Ireland back in the day, they have long gone out of fashion, but why?Joining Seán to discuss is Jennifer Sheehan, former ‘Home of the Year’ winner and Columnist for the
Four Questions: ‘Everything’ Showers
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 Doireann O’Connor and Donal O'Donoghue!
Why don’t people have one-night stands anymore? - Henry McKean Reports
Is the one night stand dead? According to research, it's in slow decline for a number of reasons. From being more safety-conscious to being disappointed and dissatisfied the next morning. Other reasons given is the rise in online dating, and some Gen Z don't know how to flirt!Henry McKean sent in this report.
Best movie lines
“Houston, We Have A Problem”, "Luke, I am your father", “Mirror, Mirror On The Wall” - believe it or not all of those quotes are wrong! Movie editor at entertainment.ie Brian Lloyd, joined Sean to talk about some of the most memorable, and frequently wrong quotes!
Are Dutch children unusually happy and healthy because of walking?
Once a year, Dutch kids, parents and teachers take part in a walking festival, heading out for four nights in a single week to explore their neighbourhoods, exercise and make friends. It’s a tradition that seems to be genuinely transformative Sean was joined by Inger Leemans is professor of cultural history at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam to delve into this. &nbs
How sewing and other crafts became cool again
Ever since the pandemic there has been a significant surge in people turning to practical hobbies, particularly crafts like sewing. Lorna Daly, Founder of When Poppy Met Daisy on Capel Street in Dublin joined Sean to talk about why this is the case.
The Robin Hood Tree has died
The Major Oak, one of this continent’s oldest and most famous trees, due to its long association with Robin Hood, has died after 1000 years of growth.Chloe Ryder, Estate Operations Manager at Sherwood Forest for the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds joined Sean to discuss. Image: BBC
Do Do we thank bus drivers anymore? - Henry McKean reports
When people come to Ireland for the first time, they notice all sorts of customs unique to us. We say hello to strangers, we eat Tayto sandwiches, and we say thank you to the bus driver.But is this custom dying out?Newstalk reporter Henry McKean went to find out!
Louth Contemporary Music Society celebrates its 20th anniversary
Éamonn Quinn and his wife Gemma Murray founded Louth Contemporary Music Society (LCMS) in Dundalk in 2006.After settling in Dundalk in 2002, the couple found themselves travelling regularly to Dublin and Belfast to hear contemporary music and began to wonder why artists of that calibre never came to Dundalk.Twenty years later, LCMS has become one of Ireland's most respected contemporary music orga
A restaurant in Minnesota that doesn't charge customers for food
A Minneapolis restaurant stopped charging customers for food earlier this year and now operates entirely on donations.Owner Dylan Alverson said the move was inspired by both political concerns and years of financial struggles in the restaurant industry.Despite nearly half of diners not paying for their meals, Alverson told The New York Times the restaurant is thriving under its new model.Dylan joi
Meet the woman who had a baby with her biological father
Sophia Greenwood reunited with her biological father after being raised by adoptive parents in Yorkshire. they then began a relationship.She isn't alone, genetic sexual attraction is an intense bond sometimes reported between biological relatives reunited after being separated at birth.Sophia joins Sean to tell her story.
What are the most iconic movie cars of all time ?
From Doc and Marty's DeLorean in Back to the Future to James Bond's Aston Martin - we have seen some truly beautiful and captivating cars on our cinemas screens over the years. But, what are the most iconic, and why are certain cars picked for movies over others ?Joining Seán to explain was Paddy Comyn, Head of Automotive Content and Communications with Done Deal.
Could nudist events make you more comfortable with your body?
Scientific research suggests that people who take part in naturist activities report higher body satisfaction, greater self-esteem and increased overall life satisfaction.Katy Regan, journalist and author, like so many, was struggling to come to terms with her body, and decided to go to a naturist club for the weekend to see whether nudity might be the answer to her angst. She joins Seán to discus
Moncrieff's Murder Club: Creepy twins who committed crimes
Every Wednesday, Seán will be joined by someone to hear unusual stories on heinous crimes…This week, Cassie Delaney joins to discuss cases of creepy twins who committed crimes.
What are the rules around ash scattering?
The authorities in Venice are up in arms after a woman was filmed scattering a loved one’s ashes into the lagoon, an action that is against the law and punishable with a potential fine. This is not the case in Ireland, but what exactly are the options when it comes to the ashes?Joining Seán was Dr Brian Casey, Visitor Centre Manager and Historian for Dublin Cemetries Trust at Glasnevin Cemetery...
Should you chill red wine?
Should you be drinking your red wine chilled? There is a new trend emerging of drinking red wine that’s cold. The Times has reported that Gen Z drinkers are driving this trend, finding that 56% had drunk chilled red wine, or wine served over ice, in summer. So, in what way are we meant to drink red? Seán is joined by Leslie Williams to discuss.
Blooms Day: Recreating the smell of Ulysses
A perfumer in France has been recreating the smells in Joyce’s Ulysees. The project was recently showcased at the Irish Embassy in Paris. Meabh McCurtin, an Irish fine fragrance perfumer based in Paris joined Sean this morning to discuss.
HIV Awareness Day
The 16th of June marks HIV Awareness Day. At the moment, women in Ireland are facing a rise in HIV diagnoses but public health messaging seems to still be treating them as an afterthought. The Mobile Testing Coordinator at HIV Ireland Ann Piercy joined Sean this afternoon.
Tolü Makay on 'clueless' racist abuse after performing for the Canadian Prime Minister
On Saturday night, singer/songwriter Tolü Makay serenaded Canadian Prime Minister, Mark Carney, with her rendition of the song N17, at the official state dinner in Dublin Castle. But on Sunday, Tolü was forced to address nasty abuse on her official Facebook page. Tolü joined Sean to talk about her experience.
Large Hadron Collider to be shut down next week for 4 years
The Large Hadron Collider will be switched off on June 29th for a refurb. This marks the beginning of "Long Shutdown 3," a major 4-year hiatus dedicated to dismantling parts of the CERN ring to upgrade it into the much more powerful High-Luminosity LHC. Joining Sean was James Keavney, Assistant Professor in the School of Physics at UCD Image: National Geographic
How much money can you earn from social media?
How do influencers actually make any more from social media and what are the different rules on the various platforms? Journalist Caitriona Redmond tried it out and wrote about it for the Examiner. She joined Sean this afternoon to talk about how she got on.
Does abstaining from sex improve athletic performance?
The New York Knicks’ first NBA championship in 53 years may have been built on many things: Jalen Brunson’s brilliance, Mike Brown’s steady hand, a suffocating defense and a healthy roster when it mattered most. According to much-maligned team owner James Dolan, it may also have required a little self-denial. Dr. Brian Higgins, from Galway Primary Care joined Sean to discuss.
Why is the golden retriever the top dog in Ireland?
For 8 years in a row, the golden retriever has been the most popular dog in Ireland. So, why exactly is it so loved here?Orla Murray, Secretary of the Golden Retriever Society of Ireland and a Director of the Irish Kennel Club joins Seán to discuss!
The Weird Questions Kids Ask - Henry McKean Reports
Writing in the Irish Times, Seamus O'Reilly has been swamped with questions from his 7 year old, including the question: would you rather have no stomach or no bum? Henry McKean has an 8 year old at home, and has to field similar questions, what is the best way to answer them?Henry met with parents and kids, and sent in this report.
Jennie’s Law - How would a domestic violence register work?
The Oireachtas will be considering legislation to establish a register of domestic violence offenders. It’s called ‘Jennie’s Law’, after Jennifer Poole, who was murdered by her former partner in 2021.So, how would it work, and how should it work?Joining Seán to discuss is Lisa Ann Wilkinson, Barrister at Law victim-survivors of domestic abuse and violence & Co-Founder of the right to transpare
Four Questions: Done Deal Dilemmas
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 Doireann O’Connor and Donal O'Donoghue!
Why are there protests over Ivanka Trump’s luxury resort in Albania?
Ivanka and Jared Kushner’s plans for a billion dollar luxury resort in an environmentally-protected part of Albania is causing major protests in the Balkan country.Joining Seán to discuss is Helena Smith, the Guardian's Correspondent in Greece, Turkey and Cyprus...
What should you wear to a concert?
Are the days of just throwing on a band t-shirt and a pair of jeans to go to a concert well and truly done?To discuss what you should wear to a concert, Seán is joined by stylist and fashion guru, Laura Mullet.
The sexual aphrodisiacs of 18th century Ireland
What was sex like in 18th century Ireland? Apparently, there was a big focus on aphrodisiacs - but what were the touted sexual super items?Joining Seán to discuss is Historian of Family, Gender and Sexuality, Leanne Calvert.
‘Gig in a Gaff’ is bringing concerts to living rooms
Three musicians who play at a Donegal pub are on a mission to bring concerts into living rooms and kitchens in every Irish county.This month, Gig in a Gaff had their third concert at a living room in Dublin featuring local artists WineMom, Final Girl and Runner.Aaron Coleman from Gig in a Gaff joins Seán to discuss.
What can be learned from the last boxing match in Croke Park?
With tickets for Katie Taylor’s last hurrah selling out in just 30 minutes this morning, what happened the last time there was a boxing match in Croker, and what lessons can be learned?Joining Seán to discuss is Dave Hannigan, Sports Journalist based in New York and author of ‘The Big Fight: When Ali Conquered Ireland’...
Are ‘blackout tattoos’ bad for you?
Singer and actor Machine Gun Kelly, formerly dating Megan Fox, recently opened up about the devastating toll a tattoo trend had on his health.Blackout tattoos, achieved by covering skin or preexisting tattoos in pitch black ink, is an increasingly common practice, but what are the risks?Joining Seán to discuss is Aidan O’Connell, owner of Fade Laser Clinic on Grafton Street.
What exactly is kleptomania?
What exactly is kleptomania? Is it defined by your upbringing, environmental factors, or just human nature?To discuss, Seán is joined by Psychologist from the D4 Clinic, whose specialty is the subconscious mind, Jason O’Callaghan.
Adventurer writes memoir on frozen Siberia hike
In 2022, Seán’s guest set out to hike across the frozen rivers of Siberia. When Putin invaded Ukraine, things took a turn for the worse…Joining to discuss is Charlie Walker, Adventurer and author of new book ‘On Thin Ice: Adventurer and author of On Thin Ice: An Explorer's Memoir of Siberia, Surveillance and Survival’.
Why do we participate the LinkedIn humiliation ritual?
Is LinkedIn really the uncool cousin of the social media sites? Is posting about every tiny job update a humiliation ritual?Journalist and Presenter Brianna Parkins sure thinks so!She joins Seán to discuss.
Illustrator’s work on ridiculously-detailed map of Dublin
Illustrator John Ruddy is attempting the near impossible: creating a large-scale map of Dublin with ridiculous detail.The multiple year project is now spanning from Dublin Port to Glasnevin, with more to go.John Ruddy, actor, Illustrator, writer, teacher and Historian, joins Seán to discuss.
1 in 6 TDs have a second job - is that okay?
One in six TDs have a separate job alongside being a public representative, if you don't include landlord as a job.These findings come after the Government’s face off with the board of the Rotunda hospital over consultants offering private and public care.Joining Seán to discuss this is Gavan Reilly, Political Correspondent for Virgin Media News and the host of ‘Monday with Gavan Reilly’.
The mystery of New York City’s ‘Manhole Creepers’
New York City police are investigating the bizarre case of ‘manhole creepers’ emerging from the city’s sewers, apparently looking for treasure.For more on the story, Seán is joined by Andrew Buncombe, Freelance Journalist in the U.S.
Why should you watch a film in 70mm?
Steven Spielberg's sci-fi thriller ‘Disclosure Day’, about the leadup to a worldwide revelation that humanity is not alone, is set to release this Friday.During the week, the Irish Film Institution received their 70mm rolls of the film. The IFI is the only place in the country where you can still see a 70mm film, but what are the differences and advantages of this format?Joining Seán to discuss is
Does sport lead to a spike in domestic violence?
As the World Cup kicks off tomorrow, it is worth bearing in mind that research consistently shows a spike in domestic abuse against women during major football tournaments…Joining Seán to discuss this is Karol Balfe, CEO of Action Aid Ireland, who has been conveying her thoughts in the Journal.
Moncrieff’s Murder Club: Disappearances & Returns
Every Wednesday, Seán will be joined by someone to hear unusual stories on heinous crimes…This week, Cassie Delaney joins to discuss cases where people disappeared, but later came back.
How much is too much when it comes to PDA?
Is there such a thing as too much PDA? While there is no definitive answer, there are moments where even the most open of us must draw the line?But, are we drawing the line too soon in Ireland?Joining Seán to discuss this is Dr Siobhan O'Higgins, Sexologist and Educator from the School of Psychology at the University of Galway.
Why “real drivers” love crap cars
Any loser can drive a posh car, but it takes real character to drive a crap one. At least, that’s what Seán’s guest thinks…Features Writer with the London Times, Katie Glass, joins to discuss!
Is there a “right” way to bid on a home?
Is there a strategy you should be using when bidding on a house?Michael Houghton, host of the Irish FIRE podcast, a show about financial independence, doesn't think so…He joins Seán to discuss.
The Witches of Etsy - Emma Tyrrell Reports
Did you know that you can buy spells from witches on Etsy?Emma Tyrrell has been investigating this supernatural side of the internet, and sent in this report!
American woman on Instagram love story with Irishman gone wrong
Sparks flew for Texas based Theresa Rowley when an Irishman slid into her Instagram DMs, but it all came to a tragic ending…Theresa is back in Ireland, and joins Seán to discuss.
Are periods still a taboo subject?
Today marks No Apologies Period Day. The day focuses on period positivity, open conversation, and reducing the shame that can surround menstruation.But, are periods still a taboo subject?Dr. Kay Maunsell, Associate Professor of Psychology and Education at the School of Human Development at DCU, joins Seán to discuss.
What are the guidelines for first contact with aliens?
SETI, the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence committee, has updated its guidelines for the first time in 16 years on how to manage the communication of first contact with aliens…Joining Seán to discuss is Mike Garrett, Chair of the International Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence committee.
What is the new ‘NeeDoh’ craze?
Toy shops across the world have been struggling to keep NeeDoh’s in stock, even having to ration them when they eventually come in.The brightly coloured sensory toys, designed to be squeezed, stretched, squashed and obsessively collected, have become the surprise craze of the year, overtaking even the Labubu doll craze.Hazel McCarthy from the Toy Corner in Moycullen Galway joins Seán to discuss.
The Benefits of Being Alone - Henry McKean Reports
While it’s often said that we are experiencing an epidemic of loneliness, is there value in our modern world to be alone sometimes?Henry McKean has been out asking the public, and sends in this report.
Why are bagels popular again in Ireland?
The bagel has become a staple of lunchtimes here in Ireland again. In the mid-2000s, we had bagel bars across the country, until in the 2010s when carbs became the enemy. But now, they are back, and better than ever before…Joining Seán to discuss the history of the bagel is Dympna O’Brien, Managing Director of Bretzel Bakery in Dublin.
How do you write an obituary?
Deep in the New York Times lies a strange collection of articles that have yet to be published. At last count, their number of obituaries was at over 2,000. The New York Times is among the last major international news outlets to dedicate an entire department to the writing of obituaries.Adam Bernstein previously spent 17 years writing and editing obituaries at the Washington Post, and is now The
Dealing with slugs after a downpour
The recent downpours of rain are bringing the slugs out in large numbers, and at the worst time for gardeners, when new vegetable seedlings are at their most vulnerable…So, how do you deal with them? Joining Seán to discuss is Mick Kelly from GIY in Waterford.
Four Questions: Perfect Petrol Station Sandwiches
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 Doireann O’Connor and Donal O'Donoghue!
Should there be a drunk driving limit for cyclists?
Unlike drunk driving, the current law on cycling while intoxicated does not specify a specific limit. Rather, it relies on the Gardaí judging whether you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs to the point that you do not have proper control of the bike. So, should a specific limit for cycling while drunk be introduced?Joining Seán to discuss further is Conor Faughnan, Independent Motoring Ex
Chef uses partner’s breastmilk to make ice cream - why?
Seán’s guest is a Chef who has been experimenting with a very unusual ice cream…(It’s breastmilk flavour).Joining to discuss is Alasdair Gill, Chef and author…
Why do we have so few cockroaches in Ireland?
Last month saw the largest seizure of illegal insects in Australian history, over 100,000 giant cockroaches, worth nearly 200,000 Australian Dollars, were seized. With cockroaches in apparently such high demand, ‘the bug doctor’ Dr. Michel Dugon, joins Seán to discuss cockroaches in Ireland.
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