Big News Coming Soon Podcast

In this episode, I’m joined by the incredible Brenda Dennehy for a catch-up about life and a chat about her powerful new book.

Brenda opens up about her journey through addiction, rehab, heartbreak and loss, and how she found the strength to turn her life around.

We talk about resilience, second chances, the people who never gave up on her, and why it’s never too late to make a comeback.

An honest, inspiring and heartfelt conversation you won’t want to miss.

Get the book here...

NEVER STOP DREAMING – MAYO’S STORY OF ALL-IRELAND GLORY

For 75 long years, Mayo dreamed of lifting Sam Maguire once again. In 2026, that dream finally became a reality! This week, I’m joined by author Edwin McGreal, co-author of Never Stop Dreaming: Mayo’s Story of All-Ireland Glory.

We chat about the inspiration behind the book, the incredible journey Mayo supporters have been on, and why this is the perfect souvenir of a season that will live forever in the hearts of Mayo fans. Never Stop Dreaming tells the compelling story of the year Mayo fin...

In this episode, we explore the extraordinary life of Kevin McDonald, author of A Life Less Ordinary. From serving in Ireland’s elite Army Ranger Wing to spending over 40 years on military and UN missions in some of the world’s most dangerous conflict zones, Kevin shares remarkable stories of courage, survival and the harsh realities of war.

Beyond his military career, we discover his passion for mountaineering and archaeology.

An incredible story of adventure, resilience and a life truly less ordinary.

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From Castlebar to Building Media Empires | Niall McGarry

From growing up in Castlebar, County Mayo, to founding one of Ireland’s most recognisable digital media brands, JOE.ie, Niall McGarry’s journey is one of ambition, entrepreneurship and backing yourself. In this episode, I sit down with Niall to discuss his story from the very beginning.

We chat about his early days growing up in Castlebar, his college years, the experiences that shaped him, and how he went on to make his mark on the Irish media industry. Niall takes us behind the scen...

This week, I’m delighted to be joined by Irish singer Brendan Murray.

Originally from Tuam, County Galway, Brendan first rose to fame as a member of Irish boyband Hometown, achieving chart success and a number one single. In 2017, he went on to represent Ireland at the Eurovision Song Contest with his song Dying to Try.

In this episode, Brendan sits down for a frank and honest conversation about his journey through the music industry. We chat about the incredible highs of finding success at a young age, life as part of a ch...

This week, I’m delighted to be joined by Peter Finn, better known as Pete the Builder, a familiar face from our TV screens over the years.

Pete and I had a brilliant, relaxed chat about his early life, how he found his way into the television industry, and his experiences working in the construction sector.

I really enjoyed this conversation, and I feel like we only scratched the surface on a lot of topics. Hopefully, we’ll have Pete back on the podcast soon to take a deeper dive into construction, the indu...

Sean Fox is a retired Eircom technician and lifelong farmer who has found an unexpected new audience on TikTok, thanks to his daughter Laura. Her wholesome videos capturing everyday life on the family farm have struck a chord with viewers around the world, who now tune in regularly to catch up with Sean and his wife, Gertie.

In this episode, Sean reflects on his years working with Eircom, adjusting to retirement and the realities of farming in Ireland today. He shares stories from a life spent balancing work and the farm, and talks about the challenges...

Tom Murphy is a proud, born and bred Castlebar man with an inspiring story of ambition, resilience and taking a chance when life doesn’t go to plan.

Growing up on the Green in Castlebar, Tom had a simple ambition: to get a car, get out on the road and become a salesman. He achieved that goal and went on to build his career in sales, becoming incredibly loyal to one company and dedicating years of his working life to it.

Then came the news he never expected. He was being let go.

In this episode, we sit down with Conor Moore, better known online as Conor Sketches, to hear the story behind his incredible rise.

From his early days working as a phone salesman to building a career in comedy and performing alongside some of the biggest names in sport and entertainment, Conor shares the highs, the setbacks, the risks and the moments that changed everything. We chat about life before the spotlight, backing yourself when the safe option is easier, the journey behind his success and some brilliant stories from along the way.

A...

This week’s episode is a real roller coaster as I sit down with Father Mark Quinn, the parish priest of Tuam, County Galway.

Mark and I grew up in the same village, but until this conversation, I had no idea about many of the struggles and challenges he faced throughout his life. I still remember reading in the local newspaper that he had become a parish priest, it genuinely surprised me, and it made me curious about the journey that brought him there.

This is probably the longest episode of the season, an...

Ronan Mitchell, better known online as Mitch, is a content creator from County Galway who lives and breathes content creation. With an impressive background in radio, MCing, and TV presenting, he’s built a reputation as one of Ireland’s rising digital personalities.

In this inspiring conversation, Ronan shares his journey from leaving the security of a comfortable day job to pursuing his passion full-time. We talk about the hard work, dedication, and focus it takes to build a career doing what you love, along with the lessons he’s learned along the way. This is an hon...

This week, I’m delighted to be joined by Paraic Horkan, a qualified horticulturist and Director of Horkans Garden & Lifestyle Centre, who trained at the National Botanic Gardens.

Paraic reflects on growing up in the west of Ireland, where he inherited an incredible work ethic that shaped both his life and career. Alongside his family, he went on to build and run four successful garden centres across Ireland.

At the age of 40, Paraic set himself a bold goal: to retire at 60 and step away from the business completely. In this open, honest and in...

This week, I’m delighted to be joined by Castlebar native Fintan Phelan for a powerful and honest conversation about alcohol addiction, self-discovery, and life growing up in the west of Ireland.

Raised in a culture where a good night out was often at the centre of social life, Fintan shares his personal journey with alcoholism, the challenges he faced, and the lessons he has learned along the way. Recently, he launched the Instagram page The Creative Sigma, where he combines his passion for golf with candid reflections on recovery and living alcohol-free.

Th...

From Ballina, County Mayo, to the boardrooms of Europe, Suzanne Rowe’s journey is a powerful story of ambition, resilience, and backing yourself every step of the way.

In this inspiring conversation, Suzanne reflects on leaving the west of Ireland at a young age to pursue opportunities in Dublin, continually pushing beyond her comfort zone and refusing to settle for less than she knew she was capable of achieving. Through determination, courage, and a willingness to embrace challenges, she built an impressive career that has led her to become Head of Sales for MSC Cruises and Ex...

WATCH THE FULL VIDEO FOR FREE ON PATREON - Pharmacist Mark Jordan joins us in studio to answer your questions. With the new sponsor on board I thought it was better to bring in a qualified professional to answer your questions and concerns in a balanced and responsible manner. Whilst I genuinely believed that I was being the "responsible podcaster" one person didn't appreciate my efforts very much and we explain why.

Don't forget if you'd like to try any of the Pamex products you can use the code "calm" for 20% off the website but the...

This week on the podcast, I’m delighted to be joined by content creator, beauty expert, and lipedema spokesperson, Jo Prendergast.

Lipedema / Lipoedema is a chronic medical condition characterised by a symmetrical and abnormal build-up of fat, most commonly in the legs and arms, while typically sparing the hands and feet. Often triggered by hormonal changes, the condition can cause significant pain, easy bruising, and is resistant to traditional diet and exercise.

In this honest and inspiring conversation, Jo shares her experience of living with lipedema from a very young age, the challenges sh...

This week, I’m thrilled and honoured to be joined by former Mayo footballer Pádraig O Hora, who recently achieved the extraordinary feat of reaching the summit of Mount Everest.

Pádraig has long been a passionate and inspiring advocate for mental health, using his platform to encourage open and honest conversations around wellbeing. In this episode, he shares the incredible story of his journey to the top of the world, the challenges, sacrifices, setbacks, and triumphs that ultimately led him to stand on the highest point on Earth.

It’s a powerf...

This week’s episode is a special one for me.

I’m joined by a man who, without even realising it, helped shape my path in broadcasting. We’ve worked together many times, but this is the first time we’ve sat down properly to talk about where it all began, from his early days behind the mic to helping build Midwest Radio into one of the country’s biggest stations.

If you’re in the west of Ireland, you’ll instantly recognise the voice. So get comfortable and enjoy my conversation with Gerry Glennon...

In this episode, I sit down with actor, writer, and comedian John Colleary for a wide ranging and deeply personal conversation about his journey into the world of performance. From his early days growing up in County Sligo to his experiences living abroad, John reflects on the moments and influences that shaped both his life and career.

We dive into how he first found his footing in the industry, the twists and turns that led him to where he is today, and some of the standout projects he’s worked on including the iconic series The Sav...

This week on the podcast, I’m joined by Jodie McGuinness. Jodie is the sister of Natalie McGuinness, who was tragically murdered in County Sligo. In this episode, Jodie shares Natalie’s story, the impact her loss has had on their family, and the strength it takes to keep her sister’s memory alive. It’s a deeply personal and important conversation about grief, justice (or lack of), and the human reality behind the headlines.

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A recent online exchange between Donal Byrne (CEO of BRB Homes) and Joe Doyle (Construction Sector Business Mentor) sparked a lively debate about self-employment in Ireland. Donal argued that it’s becoming increasingly difficult to run a business and hire staff, while Joe pushed back, saying there has never been more opportunity to be self-employed in Ireland.
Rather than let the discussion stay online, I invited both Donal and Joe onto the podcast at the same time to talk it through properly. In this episode, they share their opposing perspectives, challenge each other’s views, and debate what it’s real...

One man who definitely never shies away from a challenge is Donal Byrne, CEO of BRB Homes in Swinford Co.Mayo. Donal joins us on the podcast this week to talk about a recent court case, the huge developments with the trade school, and some very big news coming soon. You won’t want to miss this one!

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Alan & Kieran sit down for a chat and recap about the Big News Coming Soon Weekend at The Diamond Coast Hotel in Enniscrone.

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Megan Durkan, from Swinford in County Mayo, is a successful business owner, makeup artist, and tutor.

This podcast is a prime example of the saying: "never judge a book by its cover". On the outside, Megan is always positive, always in good form, and always striving to make her clients feel better about themselves. But behind closed doors, Megan has faced a roller coaster of a childhood and life.

She speaks very openly and honestly about a difficult upbringing in Chicago, the heartbreaking loss of her best friend and mother, experiences that shaped...

This week on The Big News Coming Soon Podcast, we’re joined by the wonderful Siobhan O’Gara.

Siobhan first appeared on social media as beautyfruity17, took a short break, and has since returned with an equestrian focus that has captured the hearts of many. Based in Claremorris, County Mayo, she’s a true breath of fresh air, wearing her heart on her sleeve, telling it like it is, and sharing the real highs and lows of horse ownership in the West of Ireland.

Whether you’ve spotted her out and about with her icon...

In this episode, Eamonn Cunningham, owner of the hugely successful Sligo-based business EJ Menswear, sits down for an open and honest conversation about his journey. He shares the highs and lows of building and running a business, the realities of being your own boss, and the challenges that come with it. Eamon also opens up about his personal struggles growing up with a stammer and a fear of speaking, offering a powerful insight into resilience, growth, and determination.

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Doireann O'Connor (33) from Laois is an aspiring actor, singer and presenter who blew up on social media in recent months. When Doireann returned to Ireland from traveling, with a new lease of life, she feels that everyone should follow their dreams because at the end of the day, "Nothing matters and nobody cares".

Doireann is a breath of fresh air on social media and regularly films videos in her car. A recent series of videos called "Dating With Doireann" is very popular where she interviews single people and tries to find a match.

...

Martin Maloney is a well known actor, comedian and musician best known for playing Eddie Durkan in The Hardy Bucks. Maloney was one of the original creators of The Hardy Bucks alongside Chris Tordoff, Owen Colgan, Peter Cassidy and Mike Cockayne.

In October 2012 Martin was arrested and accused of attacking two bouncers but in June 2014 the Judge viewed the CCTV footage and determined that it contradicted the prosecutions evidence. Martin was cleared of all charges as the Judge did not accept the bouncers testimony.

This podcast is intended for an over 18s audience. <...

Caroline Rushe is a content creator from Ennis, Co.Clare. Having just set up social media two years ago she quickly became a household name for her bubbly, humorous takes on fashion, lifestyle, food and family. A common thread in this podcast will be Caroline talking about setting up her business and the fact that she "waits for one one". This is a very real and down to earth chat with some truths behind the world of influencing in Ireland.

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Seamus Moore, nicknamed THE JCB MAN, is an Irish Country singer best known for his lively, humorous songs and down to earth style. I had the pleasure of recording a number of his music videos for songs such as 'The Mighty Man From Mayo" and "She only wants to dance". Seamus rose to fame after winning a talent competition in the 1990s with his hit song THE JCB MAN. He lives in the UK but tours Ireland for the summer and I was lucky to grab him for a chat when he was performing in Mayo.

Please...

Sean O'Reilly is a proud Cavan man who is a part time farmer and full time drummer. In this interesting chat, Sean tells me how one week he was living in Australia struggling to make ends meet and the following week he was touring Europe, playing huge festivals with a band. From rubbing shoulders with bands such as Earth, Wind & Fire to becoming Nathan Carters drummer, this is a really inspiring conversation.

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Ross Browne has a lot of feathers in his cap, he is a former professional wrestler, comedian, radio presenter and part of the genius behind the TV show "The Young Offenders" based in Cork. This was a fascinating and honest chat about his life to date. Ross talks about how he got into the world of wrestling, his worst stand up show of all time and his passion for writing.

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Brenda Dennehy is well known online as "Brenda's Bits". I was really lucky to have Brenda as a special guest on my live show in Cork a few years ago and today I'm honored to sit with her and speak about her time seeking treatment in rehab after hitting rock bottom and ignoring the trolls. Brenda has transformed her life without being dependent on alcohol and this podcast is so inspiring.

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Singer Gearoid McCarthy has taken social media by storm in recent years and now has over 700k followers. On St Patrick’s Day, Gearoid pledged to still play his gig at Broderick’s n Newfoundland, in his father's memory after learning that he had passed away, but the series of events in the lead up to the gig that night will blow your mind.

This was an extremely difficult conversation for Gearoid and I can't thank him enough for sharing his life journey to date. Big things await Gearoid McCarthy.

This podcast is a tr...

This week I'm honored to sit down with a person who I have admired from a very early age and that man is Fr John Kenny. Growing up, we would have known John as "Fr Trendy" because he was driving sporty cars, he had a huge interest in adventure sports and he was also the dancing priest. John welcomed me into his home for a very open and honest conversation. We spoke about how the church has changed during his time, where he sees it going in the future and we had to talk about his love for cars. <...

Harpist Bríd McGowan on her love of music and her day job – as a funeral director and embalmer.

Brid has been living her best life for the last 30 years and there is a very peculiar reason why. She joined me for a chat about growing up above a funeral home, her overwhelming love of the Harp and how we shouldn't be afraid of death.

Please sign up to my Patreon for weekly bonus episodes: www.patreon.com/BigNewsComingSoon

Please sign up to my Patreon for weekly bonus episodes: www.pat...

A real fanboy moment for me getting to interview the comedic legend that is Chris Kent. Chris welcomed me into his beautiful family home in County Cork for a honest chat about his life and his hard earned rise to fame. I couldn't be more honored to have Chris on the podcast. This man is without doubt going to be the next MEGA name in the international comedy scene.

Please sign up to my Patreon for weekly bonus episodes: www.patreon.com/BigNewsComingSoon

Please sign up to my Patreon for weekly bonus episodes: www...

Stephen Cowboy Kelly drops in to tell us all the gossip from behind the scenes of his tour in Australia, Dubai & New Zealand. Everything from missing flights and getting into fights. Strap in for this one, it's a wild ride.

There is also an extra hour with video over on Patreon: www.patreon.com/BigNewsComingSoon

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Hermitage Green's Darragh Graham spoke to me about the long journey he went through to track down his birth parents.

The multi-instrumentalist with the Irish acoustic folk-rock band sat down with me and spoke about why the urge to try to find his birth parents didn't arise until later in life.

Growing up in Co Wicklow in the '90s, the musician knew that he was "a little bit different".

In 2019 Darragh set out to find his parents but this is a story that has many twists and turns.....

'The Suspicious Death of Liam Farrell" - Brendan & Bernie Farrell

The Garda Commissioner is to appoint a senior officer to carry out a peer review of the garda investigation into the death of Liam Farrell.

The 87-year-old who lived alone in Rooskey, Co Leitrim, was found by his daughter slumped on his back at the back door of his home on Sunday 13 January 2020.

He was covered in blood, his shoes and socks were removed, his watch was broken and he had bruising to his left eye and his feet.

...