Nicky Byrne HQ

Nicky sits down with double Olympic gold medallist Kellie Harrington for an inspiring chat about life inside and outside the ring. From growing up in Dublin’s north inner city to becoming one of Ireland’s most loved athletes, Kellie shares the discipline, mindset and sheer determination that shaped her journey. She talks about fear, focus and fighting through doubt, the importance of community, and why she’s chosen happiness and authenticity over fame and fortune.

Nicky Byrne HQ is produced by Studz Entertainments in association with SwanMcG Productions.

Nicky Byrne HQ is out ev...

Nicky chats with singer and actor Shayne Ward about fame, identity and life after The X Factor. Shayne opens up about the whirlwind of overnight success, the pressure to stay on top and the journey to find himself again. He talks about stepping into acting, becoming a dad and why happiness means something very different now.

Nicky Byrne HQ is produced by Studz Entertainments in association with SwanMcG Productions.

Nicky Byrne HQ is out every Thursday. Listen to all past episodes with Katie McCabe, Joss Stone, Alex Brooker, Tom Grennan, Five, Brian McFadden...

Nicky sits down with legendary goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel for a conversation between two former keepers about greatness, grit and glory. From his childhood in Copenhagen to lifting the Champions League with Manchester United, Peter reflects on the mindset that drove him to the very top. He opens up about his rows with Sir Alex Ferguson, the handball skills that shaped his style and the pressure of being the last line of defence at Old Trafford. Along the way he shares powerful life lessons on resilience, bravery and handling setbacks. This is not just a story for football fans but...

Nicky sits down with 90s R&B star Dane Bowers for a candid conversation about fame, fallouts, and finding his way back. From Brit School beginnings to duetting with Jay-Z and topping the charts with Another Level, Dane relives the whirlwind of success and the tensions that pulled the band apart just as they were breaking America. He opens up about fights, regrets, and reality TV, as well as life today in Dubai and why performing still brings him joy.

Nicky Byrne HQ is produced by Studz Entertainments in association with SwanMcG Productions.

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Nicky sits down with Irish boxing star Michael Conlan for an unflinching conversation about triumph, controversy, and resilience. From his unforgettable Olympic moment in Rio to the heartbreak of being seconds away from a world title, Michael opens up about the highs and lows of life in the ring. Disclosure: This episode contains product placement. Michael discusses his beer brand, Le Grá Premium Lager. This is not paid promotion.

Nicky Byrne HQ is produced by Studz Entertainments in association with SwanMcG Productions.

Nicky Byrne HQ is out every Thursday. Listen to all past e...

Nicky sits down with comedian, presenter and The Last Leg star Alex Brooker. From his boy band obsessions and Soccer Aid adventures to dealing with grief and fatherhood, Alex shares how he learned to embrace his differences and use humour to connect with millions. A raw, funny and inspiring chat about resilience, representation and why laughter really is the best medicine.

Nicky Byrne HQ is produced by Studz Entertainments in association with SwanMcG Productions.

Nicky Byrne HQ is out every Thursday. Listen to all past episodes with Katie McCabe, Joss Stone, Tom Grennan...

Nicky sits down with Jacob Underwood of O-Town for a candid conversation about fame, family, and second chances. Jacob looks back on his journey from San Diego surfer to reality-TV pioneer on Making the Band, the whirlwind of O-Town’s early success, and the global hit “All or Nothing” that almost went to Westlife. He shares stories of Clive Davis, Simon Cowell, and the highs and lows of being thrust into the spotlight, before reflecting on the band’s breakup, the years of searching for direction, and the joy of rebuilding O-Town stronger than ever.

Nicky Byrne HQ...

Nicky sits down with Ryan Dusick, founding drummer of Maroon 5, for a powerful conversation about success, loss, and redemption. Ryan reflects on the meteoric rise of the band he started with his high school friends, the Grammy wins, and the whirlwind of fame that came crashing down when injury forced him to walk away. He shares how he rebuilt his life as a clinical psychologist, author, and mental health advocate, and why his book Harder to Breathe has inspired so many.

Nicky Byrne HQ is produced by Studz Entertainments in association with SwanMcG Productions.

Nicky sits down with soul superstar Joss Stone for a wide-ranging conversation about life, music, and motherhood. From winning a BBC talent show at just 14 to becoming the youngest ever Brit Award winner, Joss reflects on the highs and lows of fame, the sting of public criticism, and how she learned resilience through it all. She opens up about life in Nashville, her decision to return home to England with her young family, and why community matters more than ever.

Nicky Byrne HQ is produced by Studz Entertainments in association with SwanMcG Productions.

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Nicky sits down with Aslan’s Billy McGuinness for a moving and memorable chat about life in one of Ireland’s most beloved bands. Billy opens up about the joy and chaos of life on the road, the deep friendship behind the music, and the heartbreak of losing frontman Christy Dignam. He reflects on the legacy Aslan built, the power of connection with their fans, and what it means to keep the flame alive. From breakthrough gigs to personal battles, Billy shares stories of love, loss, and the healing power of music.

Nicky Byrne HQ is prod...

Nicky sits down with Ireland captain Katie McCabe for a powerful and personal conversation about her journey from kicking ball on the streets of Tallaght to leading her country at the World Cup. Katie reflects on the pride and pressure of wearing the green jersey, the sacrifices that shaped her, and the legacy she's building with both club and country. From unforgettable goals to fearless leadership, she shares the moments that made her and what’s next for Irish women’s football.

Nicky Byrne HQ is produced by Studz Entertainments in association with SwanMcG Productions.

Nicky sits down with Busted's James Bourne for a candid conversation about life in one of the biggest bands of the early 2000s. James opens up about his journey from West End child performer to pop stardom, the brutal three-month ultimatum from his father to get a record deal, and that pivotal meeting with Simon Cowell. He reveals the raw emotions behind Busted's shock split at their peak, the creative process behind hits like 'What I Go To School For' and 'Year 3000,' and how he bounced back through McFly collaborations and Son of Dork.

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Nicky sits down with chart-topping artist Tom Grennan for an open and uplifting conversation about his journey from anxious teenager to arena headliner. Tom reflects on growing up with self-doubt, finding confidence through boxing and music, and the role faith has played in shaping his life. They chat about early setbacks, songwriting breakthroughs, and the excitement around his brand new album.

Nicky Byrne HQ is produced by Studz Entertainments in association with SwanMcG Productions.

This episode contains discussions on sensitive topics that may be distressing for some listeners. If you or someone you...

Nicky sits down with actor Martin Compston for a lively, honest, and at times hilarious chat about his unique journey from the football pitch to the big screen. Martin shares how he swapped professional football for acting, the wild moments on Soccer Aid and in Hollywood, and why he’s proud to fly the Scottish flag wherever he goes. 

Nicky Byrne HQ is produced by Studz Entertainments in association with SwanMcG Productions.

Nicky Byrne HQ is out every Thursday. Listen to all past episodes with Five, Brian McFadden, Katie Price, Gary Barlow, Michael Fla...

Nicky sits down with boxing legend Wayne McCullough for an inspiring and emotional conversation about triumph, tenacity, and the battles fought both in and out of the ring. From winning Olympic silver at 19 to becoming WBC World Champion in Japan, Wayne shares what it took to succeed on the world stage. He opens up about coping with personal loss, pressure, and later-life depression. They talk about training under the iconic Eddie Futch, his historic walk as Ireland’s flag bearer, and why Wayne never once hit the canvas in 37 pro fights. A story of grit, discipline, and finding purpose af...

Nicky sits down with Brad Fischetti from LFO for an honest, moving, and often surprising conversation about life in one of America’s most beloved boybands. From the breakout success of Summer Girls and Girl on TV, to wild moments with Eminem, Clive Davis, and TRL, Brad shares what it was really like behind the fame. But the story takes an emotional turn, as he opens up about losing both his bandmates to cancer.

Nicky Byrne HQ is produced by Studz Entertainments in association with SwanMcG Productions.

Nicky Byrne HQ is out every Th...

Nicky sits down with comedian, actor, and author Ardal O’Hanlon for a thoughtful and often hilarious conversation about fame, fear, and forging your own path. Best known as the beloved Father Dougal, Ardal reflects on the surreal rise of Father Ted, the weight of overnight success, and how it shaped his creative choices ever since. He opens up about his stand-up roots, writing novels, staying grounded in the face of stardom, and why laughter remains his guiding light.

Nicky Byrne HQ is produced by Studz Entertainments in association with SwanMcG.

Nicky Byrne HQ...

Nicky sits down with 80s teen pop icon Tiffany for an open and moving conversation about music, fame, and identity. Tiffany reflects on skyrocketing to global stardom at just fifteen with “I Think We’re Alone Now,” the challenges of growing up in the public eye, and how she fought to be taken seriously as an artist. She shares her battles with burnout, self-discovery, and the moment she found her voice again, both literally and creatively.

Nicky Byrne HQ is produced by Studz Entertainments in association with SwanMcG.

Nicky Byrne HQ is out every...

Nicky sits down with Chris Kirkpatrick, founding member of *NSYNC, for a wide-ranging chat about the rise and lasting impact of one of the biggest boybands in history. Chris opens up about how *NSYNC was built from scratch, the early rivalry with Backstreet Boys, and the unexpected twists that shaped his career. He shares personal stories about working with Lou Pearlman, navigating the whirlwind of global fame, and coping with life when the stadium tours stopped. From boyband battles to reunions and fatherhood, Chris reflects with honesty and gratitude on the wild ride that changed his life.

Nicky sits down with Ryan Hennessy, the unmistakable voice of Picture This, for a refreshingly honest and raw conversation about creativity, mental health, and the moments that shaped him. Ryan opens up about turning journal entries into chart-topping hits, navigating sudden fame, and the emotional cost of vulnerability in the spotlight.

Nicky Byrne HQ is produced by Studz Entertainments in association with SwanMcG.

Nicky Byrne HQ is out every Thursday. Listen to all past episodes with Five, Brian McFadden, Katie Price, Gary Barlow, Michael Flatley, Jo O'Meara, Chris Kamara, Louis Walsh, NSync's Joey...

Nicky sits down with pop phenomenon Daniel Bedingfield for a wide-ranging chat about music, fame, and reinvention. Daniel opens up about the whirlwind success of “Gotta Get Thru This,” the pressures of chart-topping fame, and why he chose to step away from the spotlight at the height of his career. He talks candidly about finding purpose through faith, working with musical legends, and why vulnerability is his greatest strength. From major label battles to wild spiritual journeys, this is a fascinating look at the mind of a truly unconventional artist who refused to play by the rules and found peac...

Nicky sits down with the full original lineup of Five for a raw and emotional reunion packed with honesty, humour, and healing. Sean, Abz, Ritchie, Scott, and Jay reflect on the chaos of their early days, their battles with fame, and the fallout that split them apart. From coke cans thrown on Top of the Pops to feuds with other boybands (including Westlife), no topic is off limits. The band opens up about fame at 19, burnout, lost identity, what it took to finally get back in the same room and what’s next for the band that once had th...

Nicky sits down with music legend Johnny Logan for a raw and heartfelt conversation about the man behind the Eurovision anthems. Johnny opens up about the pressure of early success, the pain of being misunderstood, and how he rebuilt his confidence after the spotlight faded. From the family tragedies that shaped him to the creative fire that still burns, Johnny reflects on fame, failure, and finally learning to value his own voice. He talks candidly about the making of You Raise Me Up, the stigma he faced after Eurovision, and why he’s never stopped believing in the power of...

Nicky sits down with Ben Adams, the voice behind A1, for a chat about music, growth, and the unexpected paths life can take. Ben shares stories from his early days as a choirboy to topping the charts with A1, writing the ballads that still resonate with fans around the world. He opens up about navigating fame at a young age, the creative joy of writing music that lasts, and how moving to Norway brought a whole new rhythm to his life. From Brit Awards & Eurovision to building a family, Ben reflects on what success means now and why staying...

Nicky sits down with the remarkable 101-year-old Charlie O’Leary, former Ireland kitman, referee, and football storyteller for a truly unforgettable chat that spans over a century. From growing up in Dublin in the 1920s to standing beside legends like Jack Charlton and Paul McGrath, Charlie shares a treasure trove of memories with warmth, humour, and heart. He opens up about what Ireland was really like before the war, how street leagues began, and his incredible journey from the terraces to the touchline. Charlie also reflects on the secret to a long life, the power of staying curious, and th...

Nicky sits down with Ireland's legendary goalkeeper Shay Given for a powerful conversation about life on and off the pitch. From growing up in Donegal to standing between the posts in World Cups and European Championships, Shay opens up about loss, resilience, and the unbreakable bond with his late mother. He reflects on his Premier League career with Newcastle, Aston Villa, and Manchester City, the moment he nearly died after a horrific on-pitch injury, and the truth about what really happened in Saipan. Shay also shares personal stories of perseverance, playing through pain, and finding strength in family and...

Nicky sits down with 98 Degrees founding member Jeff Timmons for a no-holds-barred chat about the grind behind the glory. Jeff opens up about the early days chasing dreams in LA, working nightclub security and landing a U.S. Navy commercial before fame hit. He talks about starting 98 Degrees from scratch, the challenges of breaking America, and finding his confidence among giants like Backstreet and NSYNC. From Motown dreams to reinventing himself as a producer and performer, Jeff shares the reality of staying relevant, staying fit, and staying humble, nearly 30 years after it all began.

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Nicky sits down with Irish boxing icon Steve Collins for a gripping conversation about grit, belief, and beating the odds. From his working-class roots in Dublin to outwitting Chris Eubank in the ring, Steve shares how discipline, mind games, and family pride helped him rise to world champion. With raw honesty, he reflects on pain, purpose, and what it truly means to fight for more than just titles.

Nicky Byrne HQ is produced by Studz Entertainments in association with SwanMcG.

Nicky Byrne HQ is out every Thursday. Listen to all past episodes with...

Nicky sits down with chart-topping Irish artist Cian Ducrot for a powerful and moving chat about music, identity, and resilience. From growing up in Passage West to winning a Grammy and touring the world, Cian opens up about bullying, family estrangement, and the deep personal loss that shaped his songwriting. With stories of manifesting and forging his own path in music, Cian shares what it really takes to defy expectations and turn pain into purpose.

This episode contains discussions on sensitive topics that may be distressing for some listeners. If you or someone you know is...

This is where it all began. Recorded during lockdown and now released on the five-year anniversary of that moment in history, this conversation with Piers Morgan was the very first podcast Nicky ever recorded - and for reasons you'll hear in his intro, it’s only being shared now. In this wide-ranging and unfiltered chat, Piers opens up about his Irish roots, growing up above a pub, and his love of Guinness and Arsenal. He talks candidly about walking away from CNN, his fallout with Meghan & Harry, and his long-running friendship with Simon Cowell. From cancel culture to family li...

Nicky catches up with Harvey, the So Solid Crew star and TV personality, for an unfiltered conversation about life in the limelight and the struggles behind the scenes. Harvey opens up about his early football dreams, navigating gang violence, and the powerful influence of his parents. He reflects on the chaotic highs of So Solid Crew’s fame, including their infamous Brit Awards clash with Westlife, and how he rebuilt his life after surviving a near-fatal stabbing.

Nicky Byrne HQ is produced by Studz Entertainments in association with SwanMcG.

Nicky Byrne HQ is ou...

This episode includes a lighthearted chat about health and wellness products. While this is not a paid promotion, our guest, Colleen, is sharing her personal experiences and opinions. Any claims made about health benefits are based on her views and should not be taken as medical advice. If you're considering supplements or lifestyle changes, it's always best to do your own research and consult with a qualified healthcare professional. 

This week on NBHQ, Nicky sits down with Coleen Rooney for an open and revealing conversation about family life, fame, and resilience. Coleen reflects on her childhood i...

Nicky sits down with Sébastien Izambard, the French singer and founding member of Il Divo, for a deeply personal and revealing conversation. Sébastien reflects on the incredible journey of Il Divo, from their chart-topping success to duetting with icons like Celine Dion and Barbra Streisand. He opens up about his early struggles, his unexpected path into music, and the tragic loss of bandmate Carlos Marín. In a rare and candid interview, Sébastien shares how grief, resilience, and fatherhood have shaped his life, as well as his thoughts on Il Divo’s evolution and the road ahead...

Nicky sits down with Jill Scott, England’s Euro-winning Lioness and presenter of hit podcast The Overlap, for an inspiring chat. Jill reflects on her journey from kicking a ball in Sunderland to lifting the Euro 2022 trophy at Wembley and becoming a national icon. She opens up about the sacrifices, the highs of international success, and the lessons learned from years at the top of her game. Away from football, Jill shares what it was like to trade the pitch for the jungle on I’m A Celebrity, her move into punditry, and why she’s passionate about growing the wo...

Nicky sits down with Jay McGuiness for a candid conversation about the highs and lows of boyband fame and life beyond it. Jay reflects on The Wanted’s meteoric rise, the chaos behind the scenes, and the moment he knew it was over. He opens up about stepping back into the spotlight on Strictly Come Dancing, his unexpected love for musical theatre, and navigating a career outside the boyband bubble. Jay also speaks about the heartbreaking loss of his bandmate Tom Parker, the impact it had on the group, and how he continues to honour his memory.

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Nicky sits down with Sinitta for a no-holds-barred chat about her whirlwind career, from 80s pop stardom to her lifelong friendship with Simon Cowell. She reflects on her journey from theatre to chart-topping hits, her early days working with Louis Walsh, and how So Macho became a defining anthem. Sinitta also opens up about her time on The X Factor, her thoughts on the music industry today, and the highs and lows of fame. Packed with untold stories, star-studded moments, and behind-the-scenes revelations, this is Sinitta as you’ve never heard her before.

Nicky Byrne HQ is...

Nicky sits down with Ronan Keating for an open and revealing conversation about his life in music. Ronan reflects on his rise to fame with Boyzone, the highs and tensions of working with Louis Walsh, and the deep bond he shared with Stephen Gately. He opens up about the pressures of fame, the impact of loss, and how he forged a solo career that made him one of Ireland’s most successful artists.

Nicky Byrne HQ is produced by Studz Entertainments in association with SwanMcG.

Nicky Byrne HQ is out every Thursday. Listen to...

Nicky sits down with Steve Garrigan, the voice of Kodaline. Steve reflects on his journey from a shy kid in Swords to writing global hits, amassing over a billion streams, and collaborating with artists like Kygo and Westlife. He opens up about battling anxiety, how music became his greatest therapy, and the defining moments that shaped both his career and his life.

Nicky Byrne HQ is produced by Studz Entertainments in association with SwanMcG.

Nicky Byrne HQ is out every Thursday. Listen to all past episodes with Brian McFadden, Katie Price, Gary Barlow...

Nicky sits down with Scott Robinson of Five for an honest and reflective conversation about the highs and lows of boyband stardom. Scott shares stories from the chaotic rise of Five, the lessons learned from their breakup, and his journey to finding purpose through family, radio, and music. From wild hotel fire tales to the bonds that keep Five's legacy alive, this episode is packed with humour, heart, and Scott's unique perspective on fame and reinvention.

Nicky Byrne HQ is produced by Studz Entertainments in association with SwanMcG.

Nicky Byrne HQ is out...

Nicky sits down with Tom Davis, the towering comedian and actor known for King Gary, Wonka, and Paddington. Tom opens up about his journey from scaffolding and laboring to starring alongside Hollywood greats, the lessons he learned from rejection, and how resilience shaped his success. From wild wrestling memories to reflections on his Irish heritage and imposter syndrome, this is a story of chasing big dreams.

Nicky Byrne HQ is produced by Studz Entertainments in association with SwanMcG.

Nicky Byrne HQ is out every Thursday. Listen to all past episodes with Brian McFadden, K...