Al Gibbs : Freaks, Festivals & Finding the Beat

This week I sit down with a true legend of Irish dance music , Al Gibbs. From his early days spinning kids’ discos in Ballybrack to sharing stages with Carl Cox and writing Maniac 2000, Al’s journey is packed with rhythm, resilience, and rave history.

We talk about the evolution of DJing, the golden days of Dublin’s club scene, staying grounded through the crash, and what it’s like to host Freaks on Friday the iconic FM104 show that’s been lighting up Irish weekends for nearly 20 years.

It’s a nostalgic, honest, and inspiring chat with a man who's never lost the buzz for what he does.

👉 Catch Freaks on Friday every Friday from 7–10pm on FM104

👉 Freaks with Al Gibbs airs Saturdays from 9–11pm

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In this gripping episode of The Parting Glass, Zoe Holohan opens up about surviving one of Europe's deadliest wildfires, a tragedy that claimed the life of her husband of just four days, Brian. Zoe credits the incredible teams of surgeons and medical staff in Athens and St. James’ Hospital in Dublin for saving both her life and her limbs. She also expresses her eternal gratitude to Manos, a volunteer firefighter, who pulled her burnt body from the flames, giving her a chance to live.

Throughout her journey, Zoe's wicked sense of humor has been a vital part of her healing process, helping her navigate the darkest days and giving her the strength to push forward. Her story is not only one of unimaginable loss but also of resilience, gratitude, and the power of laughter in the face of adversity. Now, Zoe is using her experience to advocate for burn victims and others affected by trauma, sharing her story to inspire and uplift. This episode is a testament to the power of survival, the human spirit, and the role of humor in healing. #Resilience #Survival #Advocacy #Loss #Gratitude #Humor

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"Pull up a chair, grab a pint — we’ve stories to tell."

I’m Niamh Ryan, and every week on The Parting Glass, I sit down with Dubliners who’ve been through the wars , heartbreak, injustice, near disasters and somehow come out the far side with a story that’ll break your heart and make you laugh in the same breath.

From Olympians to musicians to everyday legends, we talk truth, grief, craic, and everything in between.

It’s raw, it’s real, and sometimes it’s a bit sweary.

Slainte

Listen to The Parting Glass -available on all platforms

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🧙‍♀️NEW EPISODE ALERT!

This week on The Parting Glass, I sat down with the absolutely terrifying, spell-casting, broom-riding menace to society… Ruth Coppinger 😱

That’s right - the woman some folks on X (formerly known as Twitter, but still full of trolls) lovingly refer to as a witch. Spoiler: no cauldron in sight, just sharp wit, feminism, and fiery takes. Hear Ruth's view on the "bro-ligarchs of the world", her teaching career, growing up in a big family in Dublin.

Tune in as we chat about politics, protests, and whether she prefers eye of newt or oat flat whites 🧹☕️

Burn the patriarchy, not women at the stake 🔥

#ThePartingGlass #Podcast #RuthCoppinger #IrishPolitics #WitchPlease #NewEpisode #FeministFireChapters

00:00 Introduction to The Parting Glass Podcast

00:52 Ruth Coppinger: A Fierce Advocate for Social Justice

02:09 Growing Up in a Working-Class Family

06:29 The Housing Crisis and Its Impact on Communities

09:31 Political Engagement and Voter Turnout Challenges

12:17 Secularism and the Separation of Church and State

16:38 Grassroots Movements and Direct Action

20:01 Addressing Gender-Based Violence

24:28 The Role of Character References in Court

28:37 Navigating Polarization in Politics

33:07 Reflections on Teaching and Activism

34:52 Resilience in Activism and the Fight for Change

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Fingerz Kenny - Music, Mayhem & Mental Health!!

Meet Kenny “Fingerz” Kenny, Knocklyon’s musical maverick, piano prodigy, festival impresario, and all‑round entertainer. From rocking bands since age 13 to orchestrating legendary events like KnockanStockan, Kenny’s journey is one of creative chaos and fearless self‑expression.

In this episode, we dive deep into:

• His winding school journey, including an infamous “excommunication” from Blackrock College and his early music training at Ballyfermot Rock School

• Walking away from a potential career in accountancy to fully embrace life in music, from touring with Hudson Taylor and working with The Scratch to running gigs and building grassroots festivals

• His honest take on how quiet Dublin nightlife has become, and the challenges of organising live gigs in a city that’s losing venues and energy

• His bond with his daughter Sadie, now 11 and one of his best mates, and how fatherhood put his creative life into perspective

• Living with ADHD and how he balances the chaos of event planning with the difficulty of doing simple tasks, relying on his AI sidekick “Gary” (aka ChatGPT) for support

• That unforgettable First Dates appearance - the waistcoat, the jokes, and the scenes that had the country talking

• A candid conversation around mental health, neurodiversity, and learning to work with your brain instead of against it

Whether you’re a music lover, a dreamer, or just someone who appreciates an honest, funny, no-filter story, this one’s for you.

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David Gillick – From Gold Medals to Grounded Living

In this episode of The Parting Glass Podcast, we sit down with Olympic sprinter and proud Dubliner David Gillick. From winning double gold at the European Indoor Championships to holding the Irish 400m record, David shares the highs of elite athletics and the challenges that followed when the stadium lights faded.

We chat about his experience at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he compared the buzz to Italia ’90, his honest reflections on mental health after retirement, and how life has changed as a father of three. David also talks about his passion for coaching, his MasterChef win, and what it means to stay rooted in his hometown of Ballinteer.

This is a wide-ranging, honest, and uplifting conversation with a man who continues to inspire on and off the track.

🎙️ Topics Covered:

• Life at the top of international athletics
• The emotional impact of retirement
• Commentary and interviews at Paris 2024
• Mental health and public advocacy
• Coaching kids and dealing with pushy parents
• Family life and staying grounded in Dublin
• Quickfire Dublin questions – from spice bags to Coppers

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In this deeply moving episode of The Parting Glass, we sit down with integrative psychotherapist and founder of the Stephen Moylan Foundation, Susan Moylan. With over 21 years of experience supporting young people’s mental health, Susan brings professional insight and personal resilience to a conversation about love, loss, and the power of healing.Susan speaks openly about the heartbreaking loss of her husband Sean in 2003 and her beloved son Stephen in 2019, a tragedy that inspired the creation of the Stephen Moylan Foundation, a community-led initiative offering therapeutic support to children and young people who have lost a parent.

We talk about grief, family, the long road through trauma, and how Susan has transformed pain into purpose by helping others navigate their darkest moments.

The Stephen Moylan Foundation provides counselling and bereavement supports for children aged 5 to 18, as well as guidance for schools, caregivers, and communities. Based in Dublin 11, 9, and 7, the foundation’s goal is to expand its reach across Dublin and eventually nationwide.

To find out more about the incredible work Susan and her team are doing, and to stay up to date on upcoming events, supports, and initiatives, visit www.thestephenmoylanfoundation.com.

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"The Eyes She Never Forgot"

In 2004, 20-year-old Hazel Behan was brutally attacked in her apartment in Portugal. Tied up, raped at knifepoint, and filmed by a masked man who entered through a broken balcony door. Her case went cold. Years later, she recognised her attacker’s eyes in a news report. The man? Christian Brückner, now the main suspect in the disappearance of Madeleine McCann.

Hazel took the stand. He was acquitted.

Now, she's taking her fight to the European Court of Human Rights, accusing Portuguese authorities of failing her -and others.

This is the story of trauma, courage, and a woman demanding justice, not just for herself, but for survivors everywhere.

⚠️ Content warning: this episode contains descriptions of sexual violence.

🆘 If you have been affected by sexual violence, support is available:

🇮🇪 Ireland –

Rape Crisis Centre 24-Hour Helpline: 1800 77 88 88

Visit: www.drcc.ie

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Episode 30: Phil Cawley : The Voice of a Generation

For our 30th episode, a milestone worth celebrating, we’re joined by a true legend of Irish broadcasting, Phil Cawley. With that unmistakable voice and over three decades of experience on the airwaves, Phil has been a constant companion to listeners across the country. In this candid and entertaining chat, we explore his journey from pirate radio days to becoming a household name on Today FM.

Phil opens up about his love for music, the evolution of radio, and what keeps him passionate after all these years. He shares behind-the-scenes stories, memorable listener moments, and his views on staying grounded in a fast-changing media landscape.

This episode is packed with nostalgia, laughs, and insights. And what better way to mark our 30th than with a man who’s been in people’s homes every weekend for decades?

Tune in for tales, tunes, and a toast to keeping the passion alive.

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Niamh Kavanagh: More Than Just “In Your Eyes”

Before she stole the Eurovision crown, Niamh Kavanagh was handpicked by director Alan Parker from thousands of Dubliners to feature on The Commitments soundtrack and she hasn’t slowed down since. In this electric episode, Niamh shares the untold story of her iconic red Eurovision jacket, why she’ll always love the contest even if Ireland can’t seem to get over not winning, and how she juggled performing at the Grammys while still working in AIB. A powerhouse of talent and work ethic, Niamh opens up about her love of staying busy, staying grounded, and staying true to herself, spotlight or not. She even honoured us with a stunning snippet of In Your Eyes.... and sounds exactly like she did in 1993. Goosebumps !!

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Trigger warning: This episode contains discussions around suicide, grief, and childhood trauma. Listener discretion is advised.

In this episode of The Parting Glass, Niamh sits down for a proper chat with John Connors, award-winning actor, writer and proud Traveller man who’s never been afraid to speak his mind.John shares his story with real honesty. Growing up in the Traveller community, losing his dad to suicide at a young age, and finding a way through the pain by throwing himself into acting and storytelling. They chat about the power of creativity, the stigma around mental health, especially in the Traveller community, and the pressure and privilege of having a platform to make a bit of noise for the right reasons.

He doesn’t hold back when it comes to politics either, saying he was embarrassed for Ireland watching our Taoiseach go weak at the knees in front of Donald Trump in the White House.

John also opens up about the devastating loss of his mother in 2023. He was overcome with grief and went down a dark path, but with the help of close friends and family, he found his way back. Now he’s working and directing again, boxing,keeping fit and says his strong belief in God is what keeps him going.

He’s also giving back by running affordable workshops for young filmmakers, helping the next generation find their voice and their path.

It’s raw, powerful stuff. Full of heart, hope and a fair bit of truth-telling.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out.

📞 Pieta House – 1800 247 247

📞 Samaritans Ireland – 116 123

📞 Childline (for under 18s) – 1800 66 66 66

You're not alone. Help is always there.

John's insta @filmconnors

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Derek Sherry’s story is one you won’t forget.

In 80s & 90's Dublin, Derek was very well known for his bleach-blonde hair, deep tan, and love of dance music - and still is !!

A regular on the city’s club scene, it was there he met Gwen, his dancer wife of 30 years.

But behind the buzz and beats,partying and drugs, Derek was fighting deep-rooted trauma, addiction, and depression. On July 10, 2022, everything changed. He got sober and started running..... toward a brand new life.

Now, at 54, he’s part of a powerful sea swimming and running community "The Shelters" in Portmarnock using discomfort as his path to healing.

🎧 A raw, nostalgic, and uplifting listen on The Parting Glass Podcast.

#ThePartingGlassPodcast #80sDublin #BleachBlondeEra #MentalHealthAwareness #RecoveryStory #IrishPodcast #SoberLiving #SeaSwimming #FromDanceFloorsToFinishLines

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Justice for Terence Wheelock – 20 Years On

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses police brutality, wrongful arrest, and death in custody.

In this powerful episode, we speak with Sammy Wheelock, brother of Terence Wheelock, who has spent nearly two decades demanding answers about what really happened to his younger brother.

Who was Terence Wheelock?

On a summer day in 2005, 20-year-old Terence left his home in Summerhill to buy a paintbrush at a local hardware shop. He never came home. Instead, he was arrested for a crime he didn’t commit and taken into custody at Store Street Garda Station in Dublin’s North Inner City. A few hours later, he was found unconscious in a cell, with severe injuries. He died three months later in hospital.

A flawed investigation. A family left in the dark.

The official Garda investigation, led by an officer from Store Street station, was filled with inconsistencies. Evidence went missing, including Terence’s blood-stained T-shirt—only “found” years later. The 2010 GSOC (Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission) investigation failed to address critical details, and the Coroner’s Court did not return a unanimous verdict in favour of the official story.

For nearly 20 years, the Wheelock family has campaigned for truth and justice, demanding an independent public inquiry into Terence’s death.

As we approach the 20th anniversary of his passing in September 2025, we call on Dublin City Council to:

1. Write to the Minister for Justice supporting the call for an independent public inquiry.
2. Rename The Diamond Park in Dublin 1 as Terence Wheelock Memorial Park.
3. Commission a mural in Terence’s memory in the Summerhill area, where he lived.

You can support the campaign by signing the petition here:

🔗 Sign the petition

This episode is about a family’s relentless fight for answers, the wider impact of state violence, and why this case still matters today. Sammy Wheelock shares his family’s pain, resilience, and hope for justice.

Listen, learn, and take action.

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This week on The Parting Glass Podcast, we welcome Sean McManamon or as he's known on stage, Manamon, a Dublin singer-songwriter pushing the boundaries of sound and storytelling. 🎸✨

With a fearless blend of indie rock, folk, and electronica, Sean’s music hits deep, his debut single “In A Frame” is a raw reflection on connection, while his latest release “Company” captures the power of finding solace in someone who truly understands.

🎤 From sharing the stage with Damien Dempsey at Vicar Street to Sunday sessions at Devitt’s with his brother Kevin (yes, the 8-time All-Ireland champ! 🏆), Sean’s journey is as unique as his sound.But his impact goes beyond music, through his work with The Soar Foundation, he’s helping young people discover their potential, proving that creativity and resilience go hand in hand.

Join us for an episode filled with music, memories, and a few pints’ worth of Dublin soul. 🍻💙

#ThePartingGlassPodcast #Manamon #SeanMcManamon #IrishMusic #DublinStories #NewMusic #Company #DevittsSessions #SoarFoundation #PodcastLovers #Sláinte

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🎉 SPECIAL EPISODE – THE PARTING GLASS TURNS 6 MONTHS! 🎉

🚀 Six months, 24 stories, and powerful conversations later… we’re just getting started!

To mark this milestone, we’re bringing you one of our most compelling episodes yet – a raw and honest conversation with Richard Boyd Barrett. Known for his fearless activism and fierce passion for justice, Richard opens up like never before.

💡 In this deeply personal and powerful chat, he shares:

🔥 Learning from an early age that he was adopted – and later discovering his birth mother was none other than legendary actress Sinéad Cusack

🔥 The incredible twist of fate – his mam used to do Sinéad's hair, neither knowing their true connection

🔥 His journey to Israel in 1987, witnessing firsthand the persecution of the Palestinian people during the First Intifada – a defining moment in his activism

🔥 His love of punk music, Damien Dempsey, and Christy Moore, and why he admires them for always calling out social injustices through their music

🔥 His unwavering fight for a fairer Ireland and what still drives him every day

This is not just a political chat—it’s a story of identity, discovery, and lifelong activism.

Thank you to everyone who’s tuned in, supported, and shared The Parting Glass Podcast over the past 6 months. Here’s to many more! 🍻

🎧 Listen now

📲 Tag a mate who needs to hear this one!

#ThePartingGlassPodcast #6MonthsStrong #RichardBoydBarrett #SinéadCusack #Palestine #PunkMusic #ChristyMoore #DamienDempsey #IrishPolitics #SocialJustice #NewEpisode

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This week, we sit down with Sarah Grace , who bravely shares her harrowing journey of survival after experiencing a violent sexual assault by an intruder in her apartment in 2019. The perpetrator was a stranger. In this deeply moving episode, Sarah opens up about the night that changed her life, the aftermath of trauma, and her long road to healing. She speaks candidly about the impact on her mental health, the struggles with shame and fear, and the strength it took to seek justice and reclaim her life.

Her story is one of unimaginable pain and hope. Prepare to feel pure rage of the humiliation and barbaric way victims have to navigate the old legal system to get justice. Sarah is sharing her truth not just for herself, but for anyone who has ever felt silenced, ashamed, or alone.

Through her Instagram account @busywarrioryoga, she shares motivational content, tips on healing, and yoga tutorials.

Buy Sarah's book >>>https://obrien.ie/sarah-grace

If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual violence, please reach out for support. You are not alone. Help is available:

📞 Rape Crisis Centre 24/7 Helpline: 1800 77 88 88

📞 Women's Aid: 1800 341 900

📞 Samaritans (24/7 Support): 116 123

Let’s break the silence, support survivors, and create a world where no one suffers in silence.

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💔 JENNIE'S LAW: A CALL FOR CHANGE 💔

In April 2021, Jennifer Poole’s life was stolen by the very person she once trusted. A devoted mother, sister, and healthcare worker, Jennifer’s kindness touched everyone who knew her. But behind closed doors, she faced a hidden horror, one that cost her everything.

Her killer had 13 previous convictions for violence, including domestic abuse. Yet Jennifer never knew.

Now, her brother Jason Poole is fighting for Jennifer’s Law—a domestic violence register to protect women from repeat offenders, just like Clare’s Law in the UK.

🔴 Why should victims be left in the dark?

🔴 Why do abusers get to hide their past?

🔴 How many more lives must be lost before we act?

Jason kindly joined me on to share Jennifer’s story, his fight for justice, and how we can all help ensure no family endures this pain again.

🎧 Listen now & stand with us in demanding change.

💡 If you or someone you know needs support, help is available:

📞 Women’s Aid: 1800 341 900 (24/7)

📞 Men’s Aid Ireland: 01 554 3811

📞 Safe Ireland: Find local services at www.safeireland.ie

📞 Garda Confidential Line: 1800 666 111

#JennifersLaw #JusticeForJennifer #EndDomesticViolence #ThePartingGlassPodcast

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🎙️ 📸 This week on The Parting Glass Podcast, we rolled out the red carpet for one of Ireland’s most iconic & legendary press photographers—Brian McEvoy from Goatstown! ✨

For over 30 years, Brian has been capturing unforgettable moments, from red carpets to major PR events. 📷✨Following in his father’s footsteps, photography isn’t just his job—it’s a family legacy. 🧔🏻👦🏼

In this episode: 🔑 How Brian got hooked on photography 🎞️

📍 The story behind his big break 🚀

👨‍👦 His hopes for a third generation of McEvoy photographers 📷

🎥 Plus... why you might recognize him from TV! 👀

Brian’s stories are as captivating as his photos—you don’t want to miss this one! 🎧🍀

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In this episode we meet Shauna Halpin, 27, from Ballymun, Dublin—a Special Needs Assistant (SNA) who fought a 10-year battle with mental health and crippling pain before finally getting diagnosed with PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder).

From admitting herself to Vincent’s Psychiatric Hospital, losing friends, her job, and her beloved GAA, to feeling like a shell of herself and contemplating suicide, Shauna has been through it all and faced dark times at such a young age. But today, after starting HRT just a few months ago, she is loving life and determined to raise awareness about this condition.

She’s on a mission to push for more education in schools on PMDD so others don’t have to suffer in silence. Her story is raw, powerful, and truly inspiring. 💛

Big thanks to Ray Corcoran from Sparks Will Fly Podcast who co-hosted the episode and introduced me to the amazing Shauna. Thanks to Tony @the Tortoise Shack for the cuppa and set up ...yuppp

Listen now wherever you get your podcasts! 🎧 #ThePartingGlassPodcast #PMDDawareness #MentalHealthMatters #ListenNow

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"Jonathan- a gem of a fella like Nelson Mandela" - Damien Dempsey

This week, we sit down with Jonathan Smith, the heart and soul behind Ernesto’s Café in Rathmines. More than just a coffee shop, Ernesto’s has become a beloved community hub, known for its warm atmosphere, great food, and strong sense of local connection.

In this episode, Jonathan shares:

☕ His journey from addiction to opening Ernesto’s

💡 The Cuban inspiration behind the café and its unique vibe

🌍 The challenges and triumphs of running a small business in Dublin

🤝 How community have shaped his path & men's mental health group Blue Balls Ireland

❤️ And the beautiful story of how he met the love of his life, Caroline

Jonathan’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and the power and uniqueness of the Dubs

https://www.blueballs.ie/meet-the-team

🎧 Available now on https://open.spotify.com/show/0wRrDWuRCGqJP2yMjzCiBs?si=2a396dae60dd4807

#ThePartingGlassPodcast #DublinStories #SupportLocal #CommunityMatters

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