Shows
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsThe Bits You Didn't Hear - Season 2To close off season two of Changing Times - The Allenwood Conversations, we bring you a compilation of some pieces you didn't hear from Mary Kennedy, Mary McAleese, Sharon Shannon, Diarmuid Gavin, Heather Humphreys and Marty Morrissey.Produced by Enda Grace at Dundara Television and Media.Proudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-05-1317 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsMary McAleese Part 2In Part 2 of this very special podcast, Mary McAleese opens up to her friend and host Mary Kennedy with honesty, warmth, and wit. From her complex relationship with the Catholic Church to intimate stories of family life in the west of Ireland, she reflects on her daughter’s wedding, her son coming out to her, knitting, her passion for shopping, and the joys and challenges of everyday living. With characteristic insight, she shares her hopes for the future of Belfast and reminds us all that life is too short not to live it fu...2025-04-3055 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsMary McAleese - Part 1In part one this very special two part episode, Mary Kennedy chats to her co-host and former President of Ireland Mary McAleese. In this powerful and deeply personal episode, we journey through the formative years of a remarkable woman who would go on to become one of Ireland’s most respected voices. Set against the turbulent backdrop of Northern Ireland during the Troubles, she shares vivid memories of a childhood shaped by conflict — from a devastating car bomb attack on her father's pub to terrifying assaults on her family home, including a harrowing incident that forced them to l...2025-04-221h 00
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsGarda Commissioner Drew HarrisIn this remarkable episode, Mary McAleese & Mary Kennedy sit with Garda Commissioner Drew Harris for a rare and powerful & deeply personal conversation. As he prepares to step down from his role, Drew reflects on a career shaped by profound personal tragedy, public service, his reaction to a no confidence vote in him and a steady commitment to leading with courage and conviction. From growing up during The Troubles in Northern Ireland to leading An Garda Síochána through complex reforms and challenges, his story is one of resilience, integrity, and unwavering duty. With moving candour, he shares how hi...2025-04-1652 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsAn Taoiseach Micheál MartinIs Micheál Martin running for president? He tells us more. Speaking rights, the opposition, Donald Trump, tariffs, dealing with world leaders, family life, personal loss and tragedy, the impact of grief, childhood and political influences, Conor McGregor and the GAA - including who will win this years All Irelands, all areas up for discussion with Mary McAleese and Mary Kennedy in this special episode.Produced by Enda Grace at Dundara Television& Media.Proudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel Tralee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-04-081h 00
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsGeorge McMahonFair City made him a household name, but George McMahon’s story goes far beyond Carrigstown—charting a path through the highs and challenges of an ever-evolving acting career in Ireland.From growing up in Clondalkin to stepping onto the set of Fair City as a teenager, the good humoured and charming George McMahon has spent most of his life in front of the camera. But his journey hasn’t been without its twists—navigating the unpredictable world of acting, embracing new creative challenges, and balancing life in the public eye.In this episode he chats to...2025-04-0157 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsNiall Quinn Part 2 - 35 Years Since Italia 90Jack Charlton called him Noel for four years until he scored in Italia 90. He was at the coalface of the Saipan affair between Roy Keane and Mick McCarthy in 2002. He played for Arsenal, Manchester City, and Sunderland, and earned 92 caps for the Republic of Ireland.In this second part of a very special podcast to commemorate 35 years since the glory days of Italia 90, Niall Quinn chats with the two Marys about all of this and also:Leaving Arsenal to ensure Jack Charlton would take him to the World CupThe excitement of Italia 90Jacks...2025-03-2538 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsNiall Quinn Part 1 - 35 Years Since Italia 90Niall Quinn is a national hero. From the hallowed turf of Lansdowne Road to the boardrooms of Irish football, his impact on the beautiful game is nothing short of legendary. A towering presence on and off the pitch, Niall’s journey from goal-scoring hero to visionary football executive is a story of passion, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the sport.In this first part of a very special podcast to commemorate 35 years since the glory days of Italia 90, Niall chats with the two Marys about:The move from GAA to soccerHis first big game and goalHis Da...2025-03-1842 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsKatherine ZapponeFormer Minister for Children and Youth Affairs in Ireland, Katherine Zappone played a key role in the country's marriage equality referendum. In this emotional yet uplifting episode, Katherine talks frankly to Mary and Mary about many issues including her controversial appointment as a UN Special Envoy and the political fallout that followed. Katherine also openly discusses the heartbreak of losing her beloved wife Anne Louise soon after the groundbreaking marriage equality referendum and makes an exclusive revelation about a future project.Produced by Enda Grace at Dundara Television & Media....2025-03-1152 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsDiarmuid GavinThis is a simply fascinating story. Diarmuid talks to Mary McAleese and Mary Kennedy about: His absolute misery in and hatred for school, Being told he was a dunce and would never amount to anything, Being painfully shy until he was 40, Dealing with the loss of his little brother Conor in an accident when he was just 5 and his parents being misinformed that it was him, Having items repossessed and having to leave his apartment because he was broke,Building a garden at the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show but having no money to eat,The moment that changed...2025-03-0458 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsHeather HumphreysPresidental possibilities? Why did she decide to retire from politics? How did she deal with her daughters horrific car accident? Would she like to see a united Ireland? Cross border smuggling stories. The one piece of advice Leo Varadkar offered her! How she was treated as a woman in politics. Former Minister Heather Humphreys reveals all to Mary McAleese and Mary Kennedy.Changing Times - The Allenwood Conversations is proudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-02-2551 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsMary KennedyIn this very special episode, former President of Ireland Mary McAleese interviews her co-host Mary Kennedy. One of Ireland’s most beloved broadcasters, Mary Kennedy is renowned for her warmth, depth, and decades of experience in Irish media. In a wide ranging discussion, she opens up about a range of topics including her upbringing, her journey into broadcasting, presenting Eurovision and handling a drunk adjudicator, the turmoil of her marriage ending and her mothers fears for her career choice.Changing Times - The Allenwood Conversations is proudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee.2025-02-1857 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsSharon ShannonWho actually is the “Galway Girl”? We were surprised to learn! Poignant, funny and very revealing, Sharon Shannon chats to Mary McAleese about her life, glittering career, personal traumas including the death of her beloved partner Leo and reveals who the "Galway Girl" actually is! Sharon Shannon is a true icon of Irish music, renowned for her vibrant and genre-defying accordion playing. She has played with numerous greats including Steve Earle and Bono. Her energy and enthusiasm for music keep her engaged with audiences worldwide. Changing Times - The Allenwood Conversations is proudly sponsored by th...2025-02-1146 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsGuess This Weeks GuestChanging Times - The Allenwood Conversations is proudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-02-0900 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsMarty MorrisseyBroadcaster Marty Morrissey is not short of an opinion here on the future of the GAA, the managerial merry-go-round, why managers should stick to their own clubs and counties, why the Ireland Finals should be moved back to September and why he should have won Dancing With The Stars!He also chats to the Mary’s about the loss of his mother in a tragic accident in 2021, studying medicine, teaching, taking three years to break into RTÉ, how a nun was instrumental in his early GAA days and his relationship with Cindy Crawford!!!”Chang...2025-02-0458 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsBonus - The Late Late ShowIn this bite-size bonus episode, our legendary hosts Mary McAleese and Mary Kennedy head for the RTE Late Late Show Studios to officially launch season two and chat with Patrick Kielty about how “Changing Times” originated, their Electric Picnic experience, the former president’s addiction to Tunnocks tea cakes, and where their friendship began. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-02-0306 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsLive from Electric Picnic with guest, Olympian Philip Doyle.We are back for season two! In this very special episode recorded live in front of a huge enthusiastic Electric Picnic audience, producer Enda Grace introduces Mary McAleese and Mary Kennedy for a quick chat before introducing our guest, Paris Olympic rowing medalist Philip Doyle.Season two is proudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee, Co. Kerry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-01-3148 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsSeason 1 - The Bits You Didn't HearRegrettably, not everything can be included in our podcast episodes initially. However we have delved into the treasure trove of interviews to bring you a compilation of additional conversational gems that Mary McAleese and Mary Kennedy had with some of our guests including Dermot Kennedy, Daniel O'Donnell, Kathryn Thomas and Phil Coulter. We hope you enjoy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-07-2654 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsBertie AhernDive into the life of Bertie Ahern, Ireland’s shrewd and enigmatic leader. Uncover the secrets behind his political maneuvers and personal triumphs. Join us as we navigate the highs and lows of his remarkable career. Tune in to discover the man who reshaped modern Ireland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-07-161h 11
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsNóirín O'SullivanNóirín O'Sullivan is a former member of An Garda Síochána, who served as Garda Commissioner from 2014 to 2017. Nóirín was the 20th appointed Garda Commissioner and the first woman to lead the Gardaí in its 92-year history. She announced her retirement from the organisation, on the 10th September 2017, amidst a flurry of controversies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-07-0953 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsKathryn ThomasWhat do you do when faced with death in Papua New Guinea? Even worse ,what do you do when 007 walks in on you when you're on the toilet?? How do you deal with nasty comments online? What do you do when a juggernaut like Operation Transformation finishes?Kathryn Thomas, one of the most talented, successful and hardworking TV and radio presenters in Ireland comes to Allenwood and tells all to Mary and Mary. She also tells why she set up a new business, what her thoughts are on television in Ireland today and why she had ten...2024-07-0256 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsDon MescallThe extraordinary story of Don Mescall, an Irish singer and songwriter whose songs have over 16 million hits on YouTube and have been recorded by Rascal Flatts, The Backstreet Boys, Lonestar, Geri Halliwell, Ronan Keating, Sir Cliff Richard, Nathan Carter, MacKenzie Porter, triple platinum singer songwriter Marina Kaye, Sharon Corr, Aslan and many more.Don speaks with honesty and candour about his career, the sudden loss of his Dad at a hurling match when Don was just ten, his battle with drugs and alcohol and the special role he played in the later months of Christy Dignams...2024-06-2655 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsNoel CunninghamAn emotionally charged, poignant and uplifting conversation with one of life's true gentlemen. The public knows Noel Cunningham as the Donegal man who always has a smile on his face and warmth in his heart. But behind his smile is a man who has endured heartbreak, unimaginable loss and discrimination.This podcast explores some sensitive themes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-06-1849 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsCeann Comhairle Seán Ó FearghaílSeán Ó Fearghaíl is an Irish Fianna Fáil politician who has served as the Ceann Comhairle of Dáil Éireann since March 2016.Here we have a very open and frank chat with Mary and Mary about a range of subjects including:The economic crash Israel and Irelands position What he would love to change The homeless crisis The changing face of politics Immigration in Ireland Will he take his Dáil seat after the next election? His recent cancer battle His relationship with Micheal Martin Welcoming Joe Biden to Dáil Éireann...2024-06-1154 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsSean BoylanSeán Boylan is a unique character, demonstrated in the fact he is the only person to hold the title ‘Freeman of Meath'.Having played hurling for Meath, Sean then went on to spend 23 years as the manager of the Meath Gaelic football team, during which time they won four All-Ireland Championships. He also won three National Football League titles and eight Leinster Senior Football Championships. He is one of the most successful county managers in the history of Gaelic football. Here he chats to the Marys about:His thoughts on foo...2024-06-0448 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsEileen DunneEileen Dunne is our presenter Mary Kennedy's best friend!! She has seen and done it all in her broadcasting career.She presented the main RTE television news programmes Six One News, Nine O'Clock News andOne O'Clock News as well as other news bulletins on both radio and television from 1980 to 2022.Over her career with RTE, Eileen covered some of the biggest stories of the past four decades, includingmultiple General Elections, historic referendum campaigns, the talks leading to the Good FridayAgreement, and Queen Elizabeth’s visit to Ir...2024-05-2853 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood Conversations**Rory's Stories - Bitesize Bonus Content**In this special bonus episode, Rory talks about how Rory's Stories all began, his love for the GAA and about his experience captaining the Meath minor football team. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-05-2405 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsRory O'Connor - Rory's StoriesRory O’Connor is a comedian and mental health advocate who has amassed over 1.2 million followers and 2 billion video views across his social media channels, Rory’s Stories.Nobody thought he would make it – written off as ‘thick’ at school he struggled to find a career he felt he could succeed in. When a hot tip led to a win on the horses it was the beginning of a dangerousspiral into a gambling addiction that gnawed away at his self-esteem even further and sent him into the depths of depression. But the ma...2024-05-2151 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsDaniel O'DonnellDaniel O'Donnell is a true Irish legend. He has performed at iconic venues around the globe, from The Point (3Arena) in Dublin to London’s Royal Albert Hall, Sydney’s Opera House and New York’s Carnegie Hall. Daniel has had more albums in the British charts than any other recording artist – and Prince Charles presented him with an MBE for his services to music and charity.In this podcast he speaks about a variety of topics including growing up in Donegal, meeting his wife Majella through her parents, what his mother said to King Charles, his views on...2024-05-1448 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsRoz PurcellThe wonderful Roz Purcell talks openly and candidly about growing up on a farm in Tipperary, Miss Universe, modelling and how she dealt with the more unpleasant aspects of the business, her struggles with an eating disorder, hiking, baking, writing an award winning book and reveals all about her recent engagement and wedding plans! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-05-0744 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood Conversations** Phil Coulter Bitesize Bonus Content**In this special bonus podcast, Phil Coulter talks about his exciting experiences at the BBC's Top Of The Pops while working with Cliff Richard, Sandy Shaw and The Bay City Rollers. He also talks about his worldwide number ones and the young artist he has now taken under his wing. Phil also speaks about his Dad being a policeman in the RUC. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-05-0303 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsPhil Coulterin an exclusive and rare deep personal insight, Phil Coulter opens up to the two Mary’s about his extraordinary life including his phenomenal career success, family life including with his sons diagnosis of Downs Syndrome, two almost identical personal tragedies, the state of Eurovision, his love for rally driving and the divisive Irish rugby anthem ‘Irelands Call’ which he wrote.Phil Coulter has amassed 23 platinum discs, 39 gold discs, 52 silver discs, and is one of the biggest record sellers in the island of Ireland with millions of record sales. His well-known compositions include "The Town I Loved So Wel...2024-04-3050 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood Conversations** Anne Doyle Bitesize Bonus Content **In this special bonus podcast segment, Anne Doyle tells of the only time she ever saw her mother afraid. She speaks beautifully about the financial challenges she and her family faced when she was young and tells us about the many occasions she was hung upside down over a well to retrieve water! And in speaking about Annes love of poetry, former president Mary McAleese utters an unparliamentary word. :) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-04-2706 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood Conversations** Dermot Kennedy Bitesize Bonus Content **In this special five and a half minute bonus podcast, Dermot Kennedy talks about songwriting, self belief and how his first songs had no chorus! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-04-2505 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsStefanie PreissnerStefanie is an award-winning writer for screen and stage, author, director and actor based in Dublin. She was diagnosed with Autism in 2022, at the age of 34. Stefanie speaks openly to the two Mary's about her life, career and her experiences with multiple miscarriage, pregnancy and motherhood. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-04-2343 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsDamian BrowneFormer professional rugby player Damian Browne became the first person to row a boat across the Atlantic from New York City to Galway Ireland, completing his trip on 4 October 2022 after 112 days at sea. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-04-1646 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsAnne DoyleCome on a journey behind the news desk image and meet the real Anne Doyle. Find out what's she's doing now, how she handled some very difficult moments, what she'd like to change about her life and why she was suspended from RTE three times! With her iconic poise, unwavering professionalism, and distinctive voice, Anne has been a beloved figure in Irish broadcasting for decades. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-04-0946 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsKeith BarryAn extremely open Keith Barry sits down to talk about many personal experiences including the horrific car crash that nearly lost him his leg, his forthright opinion on how the Gardai handled the death of his grandfather after a break in, his incredible career and how our online habits are affecting us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-04-0247 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsEimear NooneRenowned for her historic moment at the Oscars, where she became the first female conductor to lead the orchestra during the prestigious ceremony, Galway woman Eimear Noone's journey is one of resilience, triumph, and profound emotion.Beyond her groundbreaking achievements, this trailblazing figure courageously fought and won a landmark court case, paving the way for the rights of pregnant women in Hollywood. Yet, amidst her professional triumphs, Eimear shares with raw honesty some heart-wrenching experiences, revealing the depth of her humanity and the resilience that defines her spirit.She is also a highly accomplished composer...2024-03-2649 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsJarlath Burns GAA PresidentIn a revealing insight, new president of the GAA Jarlath Burns chats to Mary McAleese and Mary Kennedy about a range of topics including his vision for the GAA, a united Ireland, his love of hurling, amateurism, growing up in South Armagh and the importance of the GAA in Northern Ireland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-03-1948 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsDermot KennedyA revealing and insightful conversation with music superstar Dermot Kennedy. Dermot delves deep into his life, offering perspectives on various aspects including the music industry, what he would like to be if he wasn't a singer and his candid thoughts on social media. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-03-1249 min
Changing Times - The Allenwood ConversationsChanging Times TrailerA short teaser for the exciting new podcast "Changing Times - The Allenwood Conversations". This weekly series will be presented by former president of Ireland Mary McAleese and broadcasting icon Mary Kennedy.Each episode sees these two iconic presenters chatting with a guest with the subject of change to the fore. But as you can imagine with these two ladies, the conversations head off in many different directions. The podcast is produced by Enda Grace at Dundara Television and Media. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for...2024-03-0502 min