Then the conversation drifts towards the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup — and whether either of them can muster much enthusiasm for it. From memories of USA '94 and Roberto Baggio, to modern football politics, FIFA, ticket prices, and the influence of figures like Gianni Infantino and Donald Trump, it's a wide-ranging discussion on how sport feels very different in 2026.

Along the way there are detours into Bruce Springsteen, Christy Moore, Roy Keane, World Cup nostalgia retro football jerseys, and the kind of random tangents you've come to expect from a guest-free episode.

To talk about the spectacle we’re joined by Bruce Wardrop, Lecturer in Sports and Exercise Science at South East Technological University and specialist in performance physiology. Bruce helps us unpack what the Games actually were, the science behind doping in elite sport, and the very real health risks tied to chasing marginal gains at any cost.

We also get into the billionaire backing behind the event, the promise of “safe enhancement”, why the performances largely failed to live up to the hype, and what all of this says about modern sport, biohacking culture, and the increasingly worrying social grifting. 

No guest this week just Danny & Graham going full old-man-yells-at-cloud mode. 😅

From Trump grifts and culture wars to Bertie doorstep disasters, World Cup ticket madness, wrestling docs, The Boys, Eurovision burnout and why Pico Lopes making the World Cup is actually class… this one is pure rambles, rants and random tangents.

Like a lot of kids growing up, Richie idolised his favourite band, but unlike most Richie actually joined them!

For the last 10 years, he’s been carrying the torch for Status Quo’s legendary rock and iconic sound, stepping into the role left by his hero Rick Parfitt and bringing his own energy to stages around the world.

We talk about the surreal moment he got the call to join the band, what it’s really like on the road as a musician, how people reacted to his news and his new music venture, The Richie Malone Band.

*An earlier version of this episode was published with some "bonus behind the scenes" content due to Danny having sausage fingers in the edit. Thanks to the listeners who got in touch to alert us / take the piss. 

We catch up with Hil on all we can cram into an hour - from life as a new mum and the return of her Booked In podcast to the deepening instability in U.S. and Israeli politics, this episode covers a lot of ground.

We dig into Trump, polarisation in politics and society, media pressure, religion in the corridors of power, and why so much of the world right now feels like history unfolding in real time.

We spoke about returning to public life after cancer treatment, the reality of going through Ireland’s public health system, and why better access to cancer care still matters. We also get into the Cherrywood arena controversy, public spending priorities, Ireland’s neutrality, Trump, and the growing impact of toxic online culture on real-world violence.

Niamh joins us from Kyiv, where air-raid sirens, power cuts, and sub-zero winters are part of daily life. But, thanks to amazing human resiliance, so are packed cafés, opera nights, and almond lattes.

Alex shares his experience of having recently returned to Ireland. We talk about what living through a war actually feels like and the emotional toll it takes... not just on those there, but on the families watching from home.

We also get into the strange, brilliant side story of how Alex, Niamh, and a small group of Irish expats in Kyiv set up a GAA club in the middle of it all.

Reporting from the arse-end of the Alps at the Winter Olympics, Phil gives us food for thought on the biathlon (skiing and shooting, because of course), Olympic logistics, Irish identity abroad, journalism, fatherhood, music, America's decline, and why standing up (even in Dublin Airport duty-free) still matters.

It's weird, wild, and wonderful. What else would you expect? 

We may be part-timers these days, but we were never going to let this Christmas tradition quietly fall by the wayside.

In true WTS Christmas fashion, we’re joined by Botswanan icon and New York Times favourite Gary Mackle, alongside his sidekick — best-selling author, award-winning journalist, TV writer, comedy genius, man of the people, etc. etc. — Paul Howard.

Get comfortable, we have a two-hour magical mystery tour that winds and weaves from silly to serious, satire to scandal, with a special Christmas recipe you’ll absolutely want to try.

Enjoy it.

From all of us to all of you — Happy Christmas, and may 2026 be your best year yet.

XoXo

Bernard also speaks honestly about burnout in activism, the strength of lived experience (including that of his daughter, trailblazer Sophia), and the simple truth: when you design for those with the greatest needs, everyone benefits.

Elaine is the host of For Tech's Sake Podcast and is a regular national media journalist and commentator on all things science and technology.

This week she helps us dive into AI hype, deepfakes, online culture and the fragile state of modern media. 

*We're working on fixing Mero's audio and will have it sorted soon! 

From shocking allegations and NDAs to shareholder lawsuits and potential fallout for WWE. This is arguably the biggest story to ever hit the world of wrestling, and its impact has changed the business forever. 

On this episode, Brandon brings us through: — The Janel Grant lawsuit and McMahon's resignation — John Laurinaitis flipping sides — The Ring Boy case — WWE’s reputation, locker room silence, and the “cult” of Vince — What comes next, and why arbitration could keep it all quiet

With the white smoke cleared, Colleen joins us live from Rome to chat about the new Pope, conclave drama, the Church’s power struggles, and why she’s still hanging on to her faith — despite seeing all the chaos of the church up close.

We also chat about her upcoming book, Vatican finances (they’re broke-ish), sex scandals, drones at the Sistine Chapel, and what a “collaborative pope” might look like.

From trans rights in sport to media responsibility, fascism creeping into society, and what Sweden gets right (and wrong), this is one of those episodes when we sit back and enjoy the ride Phil takes us on!

We also chat about Dev, the Monto’s wild past of guns and sex for sale, and, as always, Donal shares some great nuggets from Irish history. 

Mero is obsessed with M&S sweet treats and is baffled by the bowl of shamrock circus act in Washington. 

We chat a little bit about nepobabies, must see TV, John Cena is a bad guy, and lots more. 

WTSpod is available in all your podcasty places and we're on Instagram @WTSpod. 

⚽ On the episode:

• John tells us why his United books are flooding the charts.

• Behind the scenes: Researching football history and forgotten stories.

• Thoughts on United’s future under Ruben Amorim.

• Remembering the golden days of Denis Law, the tragedy and triumph behind Munich memories,  Sir Matt Busby’s legacy, and lots more.

Gary has a new adult store partnership. 

Paul shares a special Christmas recipe. 

And Danny buys presents in a petrol station.  Thanks for listening in 2024, a very Happy Christmas and we hope 2025 is your best one yet. x 

Tom is a fully Independent Senator - with no links to any political party. He is seeking re-election in the upcoming Seanad election, hoping to continue holding the government accountable. 

Tom has been a tireless campaigner for the Rights of others - as an Army Whistleblower on Gender-Based Violence and as a Parent campaigning for the rights of Disabled Children, Adults, and the Elderly.  Tom is a strong advocate for Irish Military Neutrality.

In this episode, we talk about Tom’s first term in Leinster House, his advocacy for people with disabilities, and we ask him to put on his military analyst hat to discuss the global security picture.

✨ Plus:

• 🤯 Reddit rabbit holes & clam chowder forum feuds.
• 📺 How The Creep Dive predicts Netflix’s next big hits.
• 👻 Ouija boards and OAPs. 

🌍 It’s internet chaos and we all love it.

🎧 Don’t miss this one! Subscribe to hear all of our new episodes free and first and head over to Instagram and X (Twitter) where you'll find us - @WTSpod

This week, Hilary McGann returns to chat with us about the 2024 US Presidential Election results, surprises, fallout, and more! 

• 🐾 Pup-date: We get the all-important update on Brie, Hilary’s puppy, and the real star of the show!
• 📊 Election Reflections: Hilary gives an inside look at how Americans are reacting post-election, discussing key trends and voter sentiment.
• 🎤 Media on the Move: We dive into how podcasts have become the go-to space for political campaigning, changing the game for media.
• 📚 History Deep Dives: Hilary teases an upcoming conversation with author Ben Macintyre about his book The Siege, on the 1980 Iranian Embassy hostage crisis.

Follow @newsbyhil on Instagram, X, and Patreon to get more from Hilary! 

In this episode, we get into:

🚗 Adventures in Autonomous Cars: Elaine tells us what it's like to ride in a driverless taxi and how it could change the future of travel.

🤖 Robots Among Us: From medical marvels with Robotics to stock-taking bots in supermarkets, we explore how automation is changing everyday life.

🧠 AI: Beyond the Buzz: We separate fact from fiction in the world of artificial intelligence and discuss its true potential and pitfalls.

💬 Battling Online Misinformation: As the world nervously looks to the US presidential election on November 5th, we talk about algorithms, the spread of conspiracy theories, and the importance of keeping conversations respectful.

All of this and lots more! 

In this episode, we dive into:

• 🤼‍♂️ Wrestling Antics: Ross shares unbelievable tales from his days in professional wrestling, including keeping kayfabe and some wild backstage stories.

• 🎤 Comedy Journey: We explore how Ross transitioned into stand-up comedy, his inspirations, and his most memorable performances.

• 🎬 Behind the Scenes of The Young Offenders: An inside look at writing for the hit show and how Ross overcame imposter syndrome.

• 📻 Radio Revelations: The fun and challenges of hosting a morning radio show, building chemistry with co-hosts, and laughing with listeners.

You can catch Ross on stage this October at the Civic Theatre in Tallaght and the Roisin Dubh in Galway. Check out his Social Media for more details. 

♿ This week we're joined by Paralympic Champion Mark Rohan! 🏅

From embracing life in sunny Portugal to sharing insights on the challenges within para-cycling 🚴, Mark opens up about his journey, the impact of athlete classifications in disability sports, why Ireland is getting it wrong, and supporting emerging talents 🌱.

Plus, hear the remarkable story of a Palestinian cyclist who, having lost his leg after being shot by an Israeli sniper, overcame incredible odds and will compete at the Para-Cycling World Championships in Zurich. 

This week we're talking Paris 2024 Olympics with journalist Philip O'Connor who joins us after two weeks in the French capital. 

🎙️✈️ We talk about the highs and lows of the games, from unforgettable victories to the controversies that captured the world's attention. 🏅🔥

What sparks the culture wars at an international event like the Olympics?

How do athletes and fans navigate the complex web of polarizing issues?

Philip shares firsthand insights that go beyond the headlines including telling us about his encounter with the Dutch Olympic Team and their reluctance to answer questions regarding the inclusion of paedophile volleyball player Steven van de Velde, who was convicted of raping a 12-year-old British girl in 2016. 

🎧 Listen now to get the full story

🎙️ New Episode: US Election Drama with Hilary McGann! 🇺🇸

We chat with journalist Hilary McGann (News By Hil) about the latest US Presidential Election twists:

• Biden withdraws 🇺🇸 ➡️ Kamala Harris becomes the Democratic Nominee
• VP picks 🔍
• Importance of swing states 🎯
• How Trump captivates audiences like no one else 📣

Get the inside scoop on one of the most unpredictable elections in history! 🗳️✨

This week we're joined by Dr Colm Kearns from DCU to discuss his work with Tackling Online Hate in Football (TOHIF) which explores social media abuse, particularly in football. 

Colm tells us about his research alongside colleagues in TOHIF and some of the fascinating details behind football fans darker online posts. 

To learn more about TOHIF and the research they are doing, you can visit tohif.com  

Also on this episode: Mero gushes over Rovers in Europe and the lads react to the gunshot heard around the world. 

A week for the lads to catch up and right wrongs but mostly wrong rights. 

👃Mero has the sniffles 

😷 Danny's done with Covid 

🎸 20 years since Oxegen 

🛫 WTF is rawdogging and why are lads bragging?

🦷 Ireland Men's National Team  has a new Dentist / Manager 

🇳🇱 Cheering on the Netherlands 🤦‍♂️(and now Spain)

This week our ol' pal Fergal Devitt - otherwise known as WWE Superstar Finn Bálor - is back on the podcast to catch us up on all that's been happening since we last spoke. 

Celebrating his 10th year with WWE, Finn talks to us about the highs and lows of his decade with the company - including his current run as a World Tag Team Champion alongside his former student and fellow Bray man, JD McDonagh (Jordan Devlin.) 

We talk about his rivalry with WWE Hall of Famer Edge and the infamous 14 staples incident, his dream matches, the nuance of storytelling, and we hear about the art of making it all come together in front of a live audience and millions watching on TV. 

Mícheál is, was, and always be a true great of broadcasting. He'll be remembered fondly and missed deeply. 

Shine On, Mícheál O'Muircheartaigh

Our guest for this episode is the brilliant Jane Casey who is sharing some of the weird and wonderful tidbits that make Ireland such an interesting place. 

From secret tombs to origin stories and much more, Jane has been shedding light on some of Dublin and Ireland's lesser known history. You can follow Jane on Instagram and Tik Tok by searching for @janecasey.ie 

On this week's episode... 

🖥️ What did you want to be when you grew up? 

🍑💨 Roland the Farter and the world of professional flatulists

🏆 United win the FA Cup 

🤦‍♂️ Leinster comes up shy, again. 

The man of a million voices, comedian, and podcaster Al Foran is back on WTSpod. 

Al joined us to talk about what he's been up to lately and, as it is FA Cup Final weekend, we talk about Manchester United Football Club and the Erik Ten Hag saga. 

This week the lads catch up on life and what's going on with Bruce Springsteen, The Dublin Portal and why we can't have nice things, the urge to procrastinate, and lots more besides. 

Her latest radio documentary Last One on the Train is a 6-part series (airing on RTÉ Radio One and available online) that brings a personal perspective to life for physically disabled people in Ireland. Episode five of the series features our very own Graham Merrigan. 

Susan chats to us about making the series, the people behind the stories, and how her daughter Grace drives her to bring these stories to life. 

While you're here, why not hit the subscribe button and leave a little review? You can check us out on Instagram and X (Twitter) - @WTSpod. 

Spirit Level tells the story of a directionless 20-something-year-old named Danny Hook who, after his best friend dies in a drunk driving accident, discovers he can see ghosts... but only when pissed. 

We chat with Richy about the book, how it came together, and what might happen next. 

We chat about big-screen and small-screen favourites, cast a critical eye toward the Oscars, and ask why do they reboot movies that were never any good in the first place? 

Kerrie represented Ireland at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics which, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, were held in 2021. Kerrie tells us about her experience in those historic, pandemic games and what it was like for athletes at the events. 

Kerrie tells us what brought her to Archery and how it helped her with mental health struggles while studying at college. Having never really intended to go to the pinnacle of para-sports, she narrowly missed out on qualifying for Rio 2016 but that left her ready and poised to take on Tokyo. 

With the Paris games on the horizon, we discuss qualification hopes for this year's games. And, away from archery and competing in World Championships and Paralympics, we talk a little about her other passions including being a keen horse breeder and racing fan. 

Paul talks about creating videos and reviewing food as an ordinary Joe. He has travelled around Ireland giving honest reviews of everything from the humble but iconic breakfast roll to Michelin Star restaurants.

We chat to Martin about his protest and how he feels about being called an activist. His life as a musician and his reaction to Christy Moore covering his song Snowflakes.

In our first podcast of 2024, we take tangent talks to the next level. Our chat with Brianna starts with financial advice and ends with mullets and pornstar moustaches. There's some love for Joe Duffy, a chat about culture wars, and we hear how Australia is tackling housing very differently from Ireland. 

As the tradition goes, Paul Howard and Gary Mackle are on hand to steer us through this festive frenzy before our dynamic duo becomes a triple threat thanks to the one and only Al Foran! 

Merry Christmas to you and yours, we'll see you in the new year. 

Friend of the show, Our Man in Stockholm, Philip O'Connor returns to WTSpod to help right the wrongs in our world. 

Philip is a journalist and podcaster originally from Dublin and is now based in Stockholm, Sweden. 

Following the recent mayhem in Ireland's capital, Philip talks to us about the importance of community and why love must win over hate. 

This week we are joined by Irish actor, writer, poet, and performer Stephen Jones. 

Stephen has been performing on stage and on screen for over a decade and will be familiar to people from his roles in Red Rock, Love Hate, and most recently his TG4 drama Northern Lights. 

300th  EPISODE

It's WTS 300 and who better to mark the milestone than Messrs Mackle and Howard! 

This week the lads talk about BAFTA wins and Kate Winslett, mid-life crises, Howie's surgery recovery, their shared love of the great Vincent Browne, Bruce Springsteen and Paul paying the Boss, Gary's cooking, AI, football woes, and lots more besides. 

From Mero and Danny, we just want to say thank you. Whether you have been here for all 300 episodes or just 3 minutes, thanks for listening xoxox.

We're back... 

This week we're talking to Karim Zidan an investigative journalist and writer who specialises in the intersection of sport, power, and politics. 

Karim chats to us about the rise of Saudi Arabian influence in sports and how the term sportwashing doesn't go far enough to capture all that is happening. 

Is what's good for the goose good for the gander and will we see France called out for its authoritarian decisions and actions ahead of the Olympic games in 2024? 

Mero asks Danny about Ireland and the Rugby World Cup so Danny rants for a few minutes about Ireland falling short in a quarter-final... again. 

This week we're joined by singer-songwriter Steo Wall. 

As the finishing touches are being put on his new album, Steo tells us about what's been going on for him and what fans can look forward to when the album comes out later this year. We talk about inspiration and nerves before a big gig and Steo tells us about working with the great Damien Dempsey on his popular hit 'What's Wrong with the World, Ma?"

This week we are joined by Brent Lee and Neil Sanders from Some Dare Call it Conspiracy Podcast.

Brent Lee is a former conspiracist who spent 15 years down the rabbit hole between 2003 and 2018, believing every event from 9/11 to mass shootings was being orchestrated by a "satanic, paedophilic elite". Brent now fights disinformation and helps to explain and unravel the web of lies constructed through conspiracy. 

Neil Sanders is an author covering True Crime and Psychology with a particular interest in the history of mind manipulation techniques. Neil was also part of the "Truther" movement for a number of years before exiting and joining forces with Brent to give people a guided tour of the rabbit hole and reveal the reality of the conspiracy mindset. 

Michael Finkel is a journalist and best-selling author and his new book, The Art Thief, is out now.

We first spoke to Michael six years ago on WTS 118 and we were delighted to welcome him back to tell us the true story of Stephane Breitweiser, a man who stole over 200 pieces of art from museums worth billions of euro and he did it all in broad daylight. 

The Art Thief is available online and in bookshops now, check out https://www.michaelfinkel.com/ for more. 

After four long years, the artist formerly known as Stephanie Roche is back on WTSpod. 

We catch up with Steph about what's been happening since we last spoke, including marrying Dean, her decision to return to Ireland, signing for Shamrock Rovers, and progress in the women's game. 

We get Stephanie's thoughts on the upcoming World Cup, Ireland's squad and she predicts a winner... kind of! 

Steph will be in Australia covering the Girls in Green for this historic tournament and will be part of the commentary team for the tournament.

The Women's World Cup kicks off on Thursday, 20 July and Ireland takes on tournament hosts in a sold-out Stadium Australia. 

This week we're joined by Ireland's best MMA journalist and proud son of Blanchardstown, the great one, Peter Carroll. 

Petesy joined us to talk about the latest goings on in the world of mixed martial arts* and reveals the cringing trauma behind why he can't watch Love Island. 

You can check out some of Petesy's brilliant work by listening to or watching his podcasts The Craic and The Ringer MMA Show. 

*This episode was recorded on Wednesday, June 14th. 

This week we're joined by journalist and broadcaster Elaine Burke. Elaine is a technology and science specialist who can be found contributing to national media regularly. She is also the co-host of For Tech's Sake podcast. 

Elaine joined us to wind up Mero and talk all things tech as we hear about AI and if the hype is driving the fear, Apple's latest announcement and the world of virtual reality, Fast- tech and consuming way more than we need to, and we ask Elaine if our devices are really listening to us... 

This week we go back to the Borough and speak to Sean Mari and Jack Marley from Monkstown Boxing Club. 

Jack is a European Heavyweight Champion and Sean is an Irish Elite Champion who has medaled in European competition. Both men are Team Ireland representatives who tell us about their hopes ahead of Paris 2024. 

This week we're joined by social historian Donal Fallon. His history podcast Three Castles Burning brings the city of Dublin to life, telling its story through its streets and the people who lived there. 

This week Mero asks Danny about three of his favourite things: Bruce Springsteen, Eurovision, and doing the big shop.

This week we're joined by Thomas Crosse - AKA Crossy.

Crossy has been soothing the airwaves since he was a teenager and in recent years has become a staple of Irish radio for many people looking to get their morning off to a flyer. 

Crossy tells us about how he got started in radio, dealing with social media, loving nostalgia, and why Bruce Springsteen concerts are such a special occasion for him and his Mam. 

You can hear more of Crossy every day by tuning in to Dublin's FM104.

This week we're joined by Bob Carley - a counselor, advocate, pastor, and motivationalist. 

We got to know Bob a few years ago through his work with the mental health charity Suicide or Survive and when we sat down to speak with him this week we were not expecting the conversation to flow how it did. 

Bob speaks openly, and passionately about his life, relationships, work, and faith. His message is simple; Love never fails. 

This week we're learning about the science of ageing and some simple things we can all do to help ourselves be younger, and healthier, for longer. 

Rose Anne Kenny is Professor of Medical Gerontology, at Trinity College Dublin. Professor Kenny was appointed in 2005, to Trinity College and St. James's Hospital, as Head of the Academic Department of Medical Gerontology and holds the Chair of Medical Gerontology.

Rose Anne is the founding Principal Investigator of The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing TILDA : www.tilda.ie), Ireland's flagship research project in ageing - where she leads a team of multidisciplinary researchers focusing on psychology, nursing, medicine, physiotherapy, economics, bio-engineering, social sciences and health economics as aspects of the ageing process in Ireland.

Adam Drummond is an Irish athlete who has represented his country in basketball on several occasions. 

In 2021, following an accident, Adam was left paralyzed from the waist down. He tells us about life after the accident and how, after years of playing basketball for Ireland and on scholarships in the US, he has found the switch to wheelchair sports and life at Cork-based Rebel Wheelers Wheelchair Basketball Club. 

This week we're joined by Fionnuala Moran for a chat about sustainable living, dropping fast fashion, and a bit of showbiz. 

Fionnuala is a broadcaster and journalist who has regularly featured on RTÉ, Virgin Media, and a host of print publications. She recently completed a Master's degree in Climate Change: Policy, Media & Society. 

You can follow Fionnuala on Instagram to get lots of great and simple tips to live more sustainably. 

Football journalist and writer David Sneyd joined us to talk all things football and Ireland's upcoming Euro qualifiers. 

David is a writer with the42.ie and has been featured in the Irish Times, Mirror, Independent, RTÉ, and many more. 

This week we are joined by Patrick Harding, a Performance Coach with over 12 years of experience working in the elite sporting environment.

Patrick has worked with Arsenal Football Club, Team GB at the Olympics, Michael Conlon, and over the last few years he was been responsible for helping Formula 1 driver Alex Albon get race fit and mentally sharp. 

We spoke to Patrick ahead of the new F1 season and just days before Williams Racing launch their 2023 car which Alex will compete in. 

Kicking off the new year is journalist and author John Ludden. 

John tells us about his love for the great Diego Maradonna and how his book, 'Once Upon a Time in Naples' became the blueprint for the Diego Maradonna documentary released in 2019. 

We also talk about Eric Ten Haag at Man United, and reasons to be optimistic after a decade of delusion at Old Trafford. 

To hear more from John and check out his work, pop over to his Twitter, @JohnLudds

Thank you for listening in 2022, we'll see you in the next one. Until then, Merry Christmas, and have a very, Happy New Year. 

While FIFA President Gianni Infantino has described this tournament as the greatest World Cup ever, not many would agree. Phillip breaks down the reality of a global tournament in a country that has no free speech and democracy is a pipe dream. 

We discuss the plight of migrant workers, the treatment of the LGBTQ+ community, and what the lasting legacy of Qatar 2022 will really be, despite what FIFA might claim. 

Graham Gartland is a coach, media contributor, and former professional footballer. His decorated playing career saw him compete in Ireland, Scotland, and Europe over 12 years. Since hanging up his boots, he has found a new home in the world of coaching, helping to develop some of Ireland's future stars.

Dr Rory Hearne is one of Ireland's leading voices for action on housing, homelessness, and social justice.

He is an Assistant Professor and Lecturer at Maynooth University and the host of Reboot Republic. His new book "Gaffs: Why no one can get a house and what we can do about it" is out now and available in all good bookshops and some rubbish ones too. 

This week we are joined by author and analyst Aoife Gallagher. Her new book Web of Lies is out now and takes a look at the world of misinformation, conspiracy, and the threat of a rising far right. We chat to Aoife about the book and how easy it is for people to fall down the rabbit hole of a dangerous ideology. 

Web of lies is available online, in all good bookshops and some rubbish ones too. It is brilliant. 

This podcast was brought to you by Bill Gates, George Soros, The Illuminati, Lizzard People, Q, and the fellas what faked the moon landing in '69. 

This week we're talking to Miriam Burke, author and editor at RollerCoaster.ie - Ireland's leading pregnancy and parenting website. Miriam is the co-host of the parenting podcast "A little birdie told me" which brings listeners insights and advice on the ups and downs of all things pregnancy and parenting. 

Returning to the podcast this week is the wonderful Aisling Daly. Ais remains the only Irish woman to have competed in the UFC and to non-MMA fans, they may know her simply as "Number 6" from the latest season of RTÉ's Ultimate Hell Week - The Professionals. 

Having retired from MMA in 2017, we hear how Ais "The Bash" is getting on as she transitions from the UFC octagon to the primary school classroom.

We talk about Ais finding her passion for coaching and teaching and of course, we get the low down on life inside Ultimate Hell Week. 

Aisling took part in Ultimate Hell Week in aid of the mental health charity, Jigsaw. 

This week we welcome Philip O'Connor back to WTSpod and, as always, it leads to an hour or so of conversational bliss covering everything from sportwashing to Churchill and lots more besides. 

Check out Our Man in Stockholm for more of Philip's great work including his brilliant Irish in Sweden podcast. 

After a busy few weeks away from the podcast, we're back to blow off some cobwebs and (sort of) get back into the swing of things. 

The great air-fryer debate rages on with Mero remaining skeptical but Danny being fully converted. 

Is there a need for any monarchy in this day and age? We've watched on in bewilderment as Queen Elizabeth is laid to rest. 

And the lads chat about Garth Brooks in Croke Park and if stadiums in Ireland are actually any use for big concerts? 

This week we're joined by Professor Helen Heneghan, Consultant Bariatric Surgeon with St. Vincent's Hospital and lead surgeon with the National Weight Management Service. 

Helen talks to us about the reality of weight loss surgeries like gastric bypass and gastric sleeve and explains where Ireland is with our attempts to help people who have obesity - explaining the health benefits go far beyond just weight loss. 

From waiting lists to medications that help weight loss and people traveling abroad for surgery but not always getting the best care - bariatric surgery is an increasingly popular and important tool in helping people with obesity but is surgery always the right choice? 

Danny shares a little bit of his experience having gone through the surgery with Professor Heneghan and the National Weight Management Service, and we take some questions from listeners who want to know more about the life-changing surgery. 

If you'd like to learn more, there is a detailed video, which Professor Heneghan mentions in our chat, available here. 

This week we're joined by BBC journalist, Tranmere Rovers fan, and hand-cycling enthusiast Ellis Palmer.

Ellis, who has cerebral palsy, visited Ireland earlier this year and toured the east coast by hand cycling along greenways, bus lanes, cycle lanes, and everything in between. 

We talk about accessible cities and hear about Ellis' time studying in Barcelona - a city Mero holds in high esteem for its planning and legacy from the '92 Paralympic games. 

This week we're joined by Paddy Cullivan. Paddy is a musician and entertainer who many will know as the front man from the Camembert Quartet who were the soundtrack to Tubridy Tonight and the Late Late Show for over a decade. 

As we come to the 100th anniversary of the death of Michael Collins, we spoke to Paddy about his current show, The Murder of Michael Collins. While giving a laugh or two along the way, Paddy helps his audience get closer to the truth about what happened on August 22nd, 1922 in Beal na Blath, pointing out some of the myths and madness surrounding Ireland's version of the JFK assassination.

Our chat with Paddy about his show and lots more starts at the 9-minute mark on this episode. 

Tickets to The Murder of Michael Collins are available through https://www.paddycullivan.com/ with shows taking place in Dublin, Cork, and all over the country. 

This week we're joined by motoring journalist Bob Flavin to talk about motoring in Ireland, Electric Vehicles, what Ireland is doing wrong when it comes to electric vehicles, petrol prices, and lots more besides. 

If you're on the TikTok, head over to Bob Flavin to see what he gets up to, and check out his YouTube for car content. 

*Apologies for Danny's audio this week, he'll have a shiny new mic for next week. 

After a summer of weddings, international tournaments, surgical interventions, and a lot of naps the WTS boys are back in the podcast game. 

Joining us this week is the brilliant Brianna Parkins. Brianna is a journalist and broadcaster currently with The Journal. She is the resident fact checker and is setting the record straight on what is true and not true. 

Jump to 18:20 to get straight into our chat with Brianna. 

This week, as well as chatting to our favourite Aussie, we take a long intro as Mero asks Danny about his recent surgery and we use the word flute too many times for one episode. 

Remember to hit subscribe to hear all of our new episodes free and first and head over to Twitter where you'll find us - @WTSpod 

Philip O'Connor, AKA Our Man in Stolkholm, returns to the podcast to chat through a heaping number of topics which include marriage advice for Danny, the NBA, the Champions League final and Phil's experience on the ground in Paris, Stephen Kenny's Ireland team and why romance is sport will not die, Swedengate, Mero and Irish Wheelchair Basketball team in Europe, and lots more besides. 

You can check out more of Philip's great work by tuning into the Irish in Sweden podcast and heading over to Our Man in Stockholm.

We'll be back later this summer but for now, Danny is off to get married and Mero is off to Bosnia for European Glory. We'll see yas soon xoxo 

Clear Eyes, Full Hearts...

Social historian and fountain of knowledge Donal Fallon joins us to let us know what he's been up to over the last while share some great stories about the Hibernian metropolis that is Dublin City. 

Ahead of hosting a wild Bingo Loco Show at Dublin's 3 Arena, Adam Burke returns to WTSpod to chat comedy and changing perspectives. 

Look out for Adam's comedy nights in Bray's brilliant Hardy Har Comedy Club and at festivals around the country this summer. 

This week we're joined by Blanchardstown's best and brightest - Petesy Carroll. Fresh off the plane from NYC, Petesy gives us the low down on the fight of the year between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano. 

We talk Taylor, Jake Paul, MMA, New York sandwiches, and Petesy shares a story about a trip to Macey's. 

To hear more from Petesy, tune into the Ringer MMA Show on Spotify where you'll find him alongside Ariel Helwani and the great Chuck Mindenhall. 

Our guest this week is Dublin's own Kevin Patrick Egan. Kevin will be familiar to fans of WWE has onscreen personality Kevin Patrick and he has been the voice of the Sunday Game on RTÉ as well as covering the Champions League, La Liga, and other top European football leagues. 

We spoke to Kevin about getting his start in RTÉ before deciding to venture across the Atlantic and crack the US, landing his first role in unfamiliar territory, and what happens when WWE comes calling. 

This week we're joined by Ireland's podfather, Tony Groves.

Tony is a driving force for the Tortoise Shack podcast network and co-host of the Echo Chamber podcast. Check out the great work Tony and the Tortoise team do by visiting https://tortoiseshack.ie/ 

This week we spoke with our dear friend Dr Tom Clonan. Tom is a retired Irish Army Captain, security analyst, media lecturer, and equality activist. He is an Independent Candidate Trinity Senate 2022. 

We spoke to Tom about his senate campaign and the task of breaking the status quo in Irish politics. We also take an indepth look at Vladimir Putin's war in Ukraine - what's happening, what could happen and what it all means for Irish security. 

This week we're joined by two time (two time!), F1 E-sports World Champion, Brendon Leigh.

Brendon is currently part of the Ferrari Driver Academy Esports Team and is based in Moderna, Italy - the home of the famed prancing horse. 

After Danny banging on about E-sports for months now and plugging his own exploits in Ireland's biggest F1 E-sports league (LOI F1), it was recently announced that the Commonwealth Games will trial E-sports in 2022. Sky Sports have been broadcasting gaming for a couple of years and the growth of online leagues has been huge. 

Brendon spoke to us while in the off-season for the E-sports F1 championship and told us all about how he got into the sport and what a typical day is for someone at the pinnacle of this digital sporting revolution. 

This week we welcome our dear friend Tom O'Mahony back to WTSpod. 

One of Ireland's top comedians, Tom has been gracing comedy stages for over a decade and his new show 'Clattered' is hitting the road with dates across the country soon to be announced. Tom will be in the Wild Duck Comedy Club in Dublin on 5 May 2022, performing his new show and tickets are available here. 

This week we're joined by the brilliant Richard Chambers. Richard is a journalist who can be found regularly on TV screens with Virgin Media and was one of the most sought-after sources of information throughout the pandemic. Most importantly for this podcast though, Richard is a Bohs fan. 

His book, "A State of Emergency: Ireland's Covid Crisis", was released in 2021 and gives a behind-the-scenes look at what was happening during one of the most difficult years the country will ever face. 

Away from the pandemic talk, we chat football, journalism, politics, and when job interviews go bad... really bad. 

This week we're talking football with journalist Daniel McDonnell. Dan is a writer with the Irish Independent, hosts the League of Ireland Central podcast, and can be heard regularly on Newstalk's Off the Ball.

Before we get into the football chatter Mero and Danny go on a bit of a meander about food and there is division in the ranks over ketchup. 

When the lads eventually get past the food chat, Dan comes along and shares his take on a week of multiple announcements from the FAI. Bidding to host the Euros, a new strategy, and a new season kicking off - there's a lot going on in Irish football so sit back and have a listen as we get to grips with all that's going on. 

A short burst of WTS goodness to get you over a hump as the lads struggle to understand how Boris Johnson is still going, Mero tells us about the return of the Bulls and Danny explains why you're allegedly seeing fewer birds in the sky than usual...

On this week's podcast...

Returning for her hat-trick and with some heavy silverware now in tow, Irish Journalist of the year Aoife Moore joined us to talk a little bit about a lot of things.

Aoife is one of the brilliant team of journalists currently propelling the Irish Examiner and is a regular contributor to national and international broadcast media. 

In this episode, we spoke with Aoife about her recent experience at a Chisty Moore concert, writing a book, wondering about accountability in politics, the 50th anniversary of Bloody Sunday, and much more besides. 

It just wouldn't be Christmas on What's the Story? Podcast without catching up with our old friends Paul Howard and Gary Mackle. 

This Christmas, we go on a two-hour meander through pondering religion and when exactly should Jesus go in the crib in your Christmas nativity display? Problems are caused by pineapples, Danny isn't happy with Mero and Gary makes an interesting bet with Paul... 

It's weird. It's wonderful. It's the WTSpod Christmas special for 2021.

We'll be back in January - Happy Christmas, stay safe. 

Nicky is a QAnon expert, and his Finding Q podcast brings you through the start of this internet madhouse right to modern-day. The anonymous internet prophet known only as Q, has taken people in from all over the world.

This cult conspiracy with little to no truth in any of its bluster resulted in thousands of Americans storming their nation's Capitol on January 6 2021 - spurred on by then-president Donald Trump and others. But do Trump and his ilk actually believe in Q too, or do they see it as nothing more than a convenient tool that brings them more support? 

We chat to Nicky about his journey into the Q madhouse and his interactions with some of its most important players and those who have lost so much to QAnon. 

To discover the truth about this conspiracy and who may be behind 'Q', head over to Audible and subscribe to Finding Q: My Journey into QAnon. 

After hanging up his boots in 2015, Gordon has moved on to new adventures including an Irish Times column and co-authoring the brilliant "Gordon's Game" book series with Paul Howard. 

In our chat, Gordon tells us about retirement and the mindset of a professional athlete, how the book series came to be, and life as a father of 3 with 110kg of dog roaming around the house. 

You can follow Colm on Twitter - @Colmogorman

Keith is a mental health activist and the founder of Jumpers for Goalposts, the volunteer-run movement that encourages men of different ages, races, backgrounds and abilities to come together for an old-fashioned game of football using ‘jumpers for goalposts’. 

If you're near Ballybrack on Sunday, 10th of October pop along for a special get together of Jumpers for Goalposts supported by Mental Health Ireland, kicking off at 11am beside Ballybrack Boys Football Club. 

To learn more about J4G and future events, visit and like the facebook page today. 

Check out Gearoid's podcast Fascinated to hear some of the great chats he has with guests that range from Chesney Hawks to Carol Decker, Bosco to Rachel Allen and so many more. 

Visit https://gearoidfarrelly.com/ for tour dates and more. 

After a little summer break we're back and back with a bang. Joining us to kick off our latest run of episodes are two of the best combat sports journalists on the planet. Ariel Helwani and Petesy Carrol are two thirds of the brilliant Ringer MMA Show which is exclusively available on Spotify. 

This week we hear how the Mega Powers of MMA journalism joined forces and we talk Nick Diaz's return to the Octagon, Conor McGregor and Irish Media, Ariel and Bret 'The Hitman' Hart and lots more besides. 

Tune into the Ringer MMA Show live on Spotify Greenroom. 

Ciaran is the driving force behind the Instagram page that is calling out the insanity in the Irish housing market today, Crazy House Prices. Ciaran first joined us six months ago to talk to us about the mayhem we're seeing around the country and there are no signs of that mayhem stopping. 

From working at the games with Covid restrictions to the interesting sandwiches you can get in Tokyo Phil gives us a behind the scenes run through of what it's like covering the games as a journalist. 

Danny tries to squeeze in some NBA talk and Mero talks to Phil about the brilliant piece he wrote about the Pride of Portland Row Kellie Harrington. If you've not read it you can find it here.  

Danny tries to keep up with the youth by dropping a Tik Tok reference, Mero had an unpleasant experience while out with the stunning Suggsy and Cara tells us why Bezos and the lads need to pull up their socks on earth before heading off into outer space. 

Dave Rooney, originally from Ballybrack, joins the lads to discuss winning the Emmy for the documentary "An Irish Story: This is my home". The film took the coveted NATAS (National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences) prize in the “Outstanding Achievement” Documentry; Category. 

If you manage to get to fabulous Las Vegas in the future, make sure to pay a visit to the Mandalay Bay where you'll find the Black Donnellys lighting up the stage in Ri Ra's Irish Pub. 

Eve and Una are actively campaigning to introduce specific stalking legislation in Ireland and to provide support to those experiencing stalking. You can sign the petition by visiting the website above or clicking here. At the time this podcast goes live, less than 400 signatures are needed. If everyone listening signed it, the petition would reach its goal within 24 hours. 

We talk about dogs, Sex and the City, what makes a dickhead, and we take an unexpected and deep turn when talking about PJ's childhood. 

Don't forget you hear PJ on Radio Nova, weekdays from 6-10am and you can subscribe to the hilarious Dubland Podcast which he hosts along side the amazing Suzanne Kane. 

We spoke to Larry about his career in football from his trials with clubs like Manchester United and Preston North End to his return home and four decades of success in the Irish game and in Europe. 

His new book, 'Let the players play' is available now and has won the praise of Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kennedy and Ireland internationals like Stephanie Roche and Aine O'Gorman. 

Our chat with the Dun Laoghaire TD covered issues like Israel Palestine, the Debenhams workers, housing and loads more besides. 

In November of 1993 Alan McLoughlin wrote his name into Irish football history. His left foot providing the strike that ultimately sent the Republic of Ireland into a frenzy, packing their bags for the 1994 World Cup in the US, after securing a draw against Northern Ireland. 

On this bonus podcast, Alan joined us just hours after the FAI parted ways with Martin O'Neill, Roy Keane and the rest of O'Neill's backroom staff. Following a disappointing run of games, the Republic of Ireland are struggling to see a bright future for their football fortunes. 

We also spoke to Alan about his days in the green jersey and the legendary strike in Windsor Park back in '93. 

A broadcaster, author, economist and now podcaster, David is one of the most respected voices in Ireland and beyond. This week the chats go from Vespas to the rejuvenation of main streets in Ireland and from the lack of new council housing ruining football to the increasingly asked question of 'what next for Northern Ireland?' 

Make sure to click subscribe for all future episodes and check out the David McWilliams Podcast too. 

This week we're joined by journalist and reporter Brianna Parkins. Brianna will be familiar to listeners from her work with Virgin Media and the Irish Times and from her time as the Sydney Rose at the 2016 Rose of Tralee. 

From dealing with sexism in the workplace to discussing what chocolate goes in the fridge. Danny takes exception to Brianna saying the sun in Ireland is weak, Brianna also shares her Mam's hilarious reaction to her becoming the Sydney Rose and Mero shares stories from his time in Australia (again). 

On this week's episode we learn Mero has Kerry Katona in his eyes, Danny can't say the word optometrist, salted caramel is a celtic tiger creation, we've found the greatest cinnamon bun on the island of Ireland, we hear listeners' "unpopular opinions" that aren't really unpopular and we hear how Mero is helping Danny get Air Jordan's for his wedding...

*Apologies for the audio this week - plagued with mic problems. We'll get it sorted for next episode. 

In association with Inner City Helping Homeless, we are delighted to welcome Fergal Devitt - AKA WWE Superstar and NXT Champion Finn Bálor - back to WTSpod. 

As  part of Wrestlemania week, Finn will defend his NXT championship at NXT:Stand and Deliver and he took time out of his busy schedule to chat to us about what he's been up to since the last time we spoke in January 2016. 

A big thank you must go to Inner City Helping Homeless for supporting this episode and for the incredible work they do on the streets of Dublin. The ICHH outreach volunteers are on the streets 7 nights a week, 365 days a year offering practical supports to people that are sleeping rough in doorways, parks, squats and places off the beaten track. To support the great work done by this charity please visit https://ichh.ie/donate/. 

This week we're blasting off to space with Dr Niamh Shaw who is at the forefront of Ireland's space ambitions. 

Niamh is a performer, a writer, an engineer, a scientist, a communicator and aspiring astronaut. She has worked with the European Space Agency, presented talks at NASA, spoken at Áras an Uachtairan and, as we hear, been involved in a very unique Mars expedition simulation here on Earth. 

Housing in Ireland is absolutely bonkers and the pandemic has only made it worse. This week we spoke to Ciaran Mulqueen of the Instagram page that has Estate Agents cursing t'internet, Crazy House Prices. We had a chat with Ciaran about the page and the madness that is buying a gaff in Ireland in 2021. 

A personal trainer turned primary teacher, Ciaran has no vested interest in the property game beyond being a first time buyer and looking for the right deal. The page has grown rapidly and has become a bit of a community for people looking to buy and finding nothing but frustration. 

It's St. Patrick's Day and to mark the occasion we decided to get the band back together. Gary Mackle and Paul Howard have become firm fan favourites with our listeners over the years. Paul is a best selling author and a highly respected journalist. Gary is an agony aunt, raconteur, philanthropist, entertainer and award winning designer. 

This week we help you build a playlist of great power ballads and cracking cover versions. Gary tells us about the time his arse was compared to a global rockstar's, Paul reveals a dislike for Ed Sheeran, Cheltenham and even Paddy's Day. The lads share war stories from recent trips to the supermarket while Gary gives us some much needed interior design advice and tell us about the time he had to turn down the offer of coordinating a wedding... 

This week we're joined by League of Ireland legend Conan Byrne. A league and cup winner and veteran of European campaigns, Conan has done it all across Ireland's domestic football scene and he joined us this week to chat a bit about his career so far and the upcoming LOI season. 

Immunologist Luke O'Neill joins us this week to talk Covid-19 and tell us about the vaccine. Luke tells us why the vaccine is completely safe and takes some time to answer listeners' questions. 

Luke's book 'Never mind the b#ll*cks, here's the science' was published in 2020 and is available online and in book shops. You can also catch Luke twice a week on the Pat Kenny show on Newstalk and on his own podcast, 'Show me the science' which is available everywhere now. 

Making her long awaited return to WTSpod, Political Correspondent with the Irish Examiner, Aoife Moore is back to help educate the lads and shed some light on the world we live in. 

After a ten minute ramble from Danny and Mero, Aoife puts some manners on the conversation as we chat about schools in Derry v Dublin private schools, female representation in politics, getting stick over working class accents, Irish journalism has a wealth of talent and loads more besides. 

You can follow Aoife on Twitter and pick up a copy of the Irish Examiner to see her bylines running wild on the pages. 

Alan Moore is a sports specialist based and radio host on Captial FM in Moscow. Originally from Dublin, Alan has been based in Russia for around 10 years and has covered a plethora of sports from football to tennis and loads more besides. 

We spoke to Alan about the typically Irish way he ended up with a radio show in Moscow and about doping in sport. Alan predicted in September 2020 that Liverpool would not retain their Premier League title as they were "cycling off" - so what does it mean? How safe is hyper caffeine dosing and what is in Klopp's magic bottles? Are all the clubs playing the same game? 

Dr Tom Clonan returns to the podcast this week after nearly four years from his first appearance. Tom is a retired Irish Army Captain, security analyst, media lecturer and equality activist. His son Eoghan is a wheelchair user and has been the catalyst for Tom's campaign and continues to be a source of inspiration in the fight for equality. 

For the first time since WTS184 the lads have a chat, just the two of them, and as expected it's tangent filled, giggles, waffles and nonsense. Exactly what you'd expect really. 

This week we're joined by our favourite social historian, Donal Fallon. 

Donal is the man behind the mic on the amazing Three Castles Burning podcast and has been a regular contributor to national media for the last few years. 

So here it is, our Christmas Special and everybody's having fun... we didn't really talk about Christmas but instead it felt like we pressed record on the WTS 2020 office party. 

As always, when joined by Gary Mackle and Paul Howard, we never know what way the conversation will go. From the gift exchange to dodgy doctors, rat infestations and food disposal, VAR to the Milky Bar Kid, it's random and it's beautiful. 

Happy Christmas and thanks for listening. Here's to a brighter a better 2021, we'll see you there. 

This week we're joined by Mack Mirahmadi - the man behind the brilliant Good Boy Dog Training. 

Mack gives us some great advice for our canine companions and helps some listeners out by answering their doggy dilemmas with his expertise.

Check out Mack on instagram and if you feel like you're chasing your tail  and your four-legged friend is driving you barking mad, then Mack is the man to set your tail wagging. 

This week we are joined by New York based photographer Mel D. Cole. 

Mel took time from his Thanksgiving celebrations to chat to us about life behind the lens as one of the most exciting photographers in the world today. Mel has captured a who's who of hip hop artists from Kanye to Kid Cudi, Beyonce to Rihanna and everyone in between. 

His book, Great: Photographs of Hip Hop 2002 - 2019 was published in earlier this year and is available to buy now. 

More recently, he has launched Charcoal Pitch FC. The first Black owned sports photography agency dedicated to creatively exploring soccer/football visually. 

Throughout 2020 Mel has been taking photos and documenting the Black Lives Matter protests and the reaction to the US Presidential election which saw supporters of both candidates take to the streets as results came out. You can see all of this and more on Mel's Instagram.

Joining us this week is Our Man in Stockholm, Philip O'Connor. 

Philip is a regular on WTSpod and is described (on this podcast at least) as the Hulk Hogan of Irish journalism. He takes us on whirlwind tour of what happens next in the United States as well as giving us his thoughts on the covid vaccine. 

This week we also take some time to try and promote some local businesses that are near and dear to us. A few quid spent locally can make all the difference so please pop in and support your favourite local places. 

Alongside his long-term partner in crime Niall McGrath, Petesy can be heard every week on The Bash which is available on all podcast providers. 

On this episode of WTSpod we talk about the impact of covid on media, the rise of conspiratorial views from MMA fighters, Conor McGregor, a fighters union, drugs in sport, triple cheeseburgers, and the greatest prank Mero ever pulled.

The aim of the 20-4-20 challenge is to get a group of 20 people of all ages & fitness levels to complete 20,000km & raise €20,000 between February and the 10th September (World Suicide Prevention Day ).

This breaks down to each individual completing 1000km & raising 1000, 1 a Km. The 1000km can be completed by walking, running, cycling, swimming, rowing or crawling and all in aid of the brilliant SOS. 

Eamonn, who is based in Galway, shares his personal story and what led him to get involved in the brilliant initiative which is the brain child of John Blake. Mary, based in Tralee, came into the challenge in a totally different way but still with an incredible story and mind set. 

Visit https://suicideorsurvive.ie/ for more information on a great event and incredible charity. 

Jarlath is a stand-up comedian and podcaster who is the voice (and brain) behind the incredible Irishman Abroad series. 

His new comedy special "Notions 11" is available to stream on Patreon now and you can check it out by visiting patreon.com/irishmanabroad

One of our all time favourites, Joanne is making her third appearance on WTSpod to tell us all about life with COVID, the truth about travelling by sea, online dating, launching a new podcast with an old friend and loadsa craic in between. 

Unfortunately, thanks to coronavirus, live comedy is hard to come by these days, but when it's back make sure to get out to some gigs - especially if Joanne is involved. Until then, you'll have to settle for watching her be gas on Instagram. 

In the wake of George Floyd's murder and the surge of support for the Black Lives Matter movement, Femi and his two friends Leon Diop and Boni Odoemene set up the Black and Irish instagram page to platform the experience of black people around Ireland. 

Femi tells us about the page and his experience of living in Ireland and what he hopes to change. 

This week's podcast also gives a nod to the great Jack Charlton who passed away last Friday. At a time where people need to stand together, Jack's legacy is one of bringing an entire country together through the magic of Euro 88, Italia 90 and USA 94. 

Paul tells us about how he started writing, where he gets inspiration and, given he shares his name with a WWE superstar, we of course ask him about 'rasslin. 

This episode of WTSpod is dedicated to memory of Ray Clarke. 

Eric is one of Ireland's favourite comedians and actors, known for lighting up stages and the streets of Carrigstown on RTÉ's Fair City. 

Donal has forgotten more about Dublin than most will ever know and specialises in social history - sharing the stories of the people behind the events. 

Wash the hands. Stay at home. 

Stay at home. Wash the hands. Much love. 

Tom gives his thoughts on the pandemic, lets us know what he's been up to and how he's surviving, Mero bails out when rugby gets brought up, and Tom tells us about his hard hitting 99-year-old grandad who takes no shit. 

Check out Buckshot Podcast to hear more of Tipperary's finest. 

Wash your hands. 

Paul tells us his story including what happens when you're on the other side of the world and there's a family tragedy, his dedication to completing the 7 summits, and what happened on his previous two attempts to climb Everest. 

Check out www.irishsevensummits.com to learn more about Paul's story and what happens next. 

A double Olympian and double Inter-Continental champion, Conlan is widely regarded as one of Ireland's greatest ever boxers. Mick chats to the lads about some of his career highlights, friendships - including how Paddy Barnes helped save Christmas, his passion for mental health advocacy and helping people, and what comes next. 

It was a pleasure for us to have Mick on the podcast, especially for a milestone episode like 200. 

We've loved the 5 years we've spent making this podcast, and we hope to continue as long as you keep listening. Thanks for listening and supporting two lads from Ballybrack who like to hear stories and laugh at each other's mistakes. 

Much like Irish politics, chaos takes over and the result is a lot of giggles and Mero getting a new nickname. 

Paul gives his take on the 2020 League of Ireland season, the state of Irish MMA and we take a little look at the Republic of Ireland national team's future. 

This episode of WTSpod was brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

This episode of WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more.  

Phil shares some advice Gay once gave him, which he didn't listen to, and we get into the nitty gritty of journalism and why you need to know where you get your news from. 

Check out some of the brilliant work Phil is producing over at Our Man in Stockholm.

Over the years, there has been a swell in the demand for Gary to be a permanent fixture of the WTS line-up, and there has been an almost equal demand for Gary to be shot into the centre of the sun and never heard from again... we don't have the technology to do that, but we do have the technology to have him on the podcast regularly so we'll go with that.  

Through the magic of Skype, Under the Sticks podcast host and Pro 14 Communications gaffer Adam Redmond joined us to talk rugby, wrestling, the world and craic. Of course, we all presumed Ireland would dispose of this year's World Cup hosts and continue their march towards the quarter final... Japan had other ideas and made us all look like ticks. 

So... enjoy us showing we know nothing about rugby and come back next week when we'll cover a topic that requires no predictions at all. 

When he's not podcasting, Matt works with people who have suffered traumatic brain injuries and he tells us about some of the brilliant work being done in the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Dublin. 

While you're here, why not go back and listen to one of our early episodes from the archives? WTS Chapter 189 live in Las Vegas was recorded 4 years ago after UFC 189. Check it out here. 

Fresh from a sun holiday and with plenty to get off his chest, Gary Mackle, our special correspondent, returns due to popular demand. 

Despite being rudely interrupted by his parenting responsibilities, Gary gave us his thoughts and opinions on a range of subjects. Sport, music, knife crime, obscenities, gambling, and tapas are just some of the areas we ramble into this week. 

It's weird. It's wonderful. It's WTSpod with Gary Mackle.  

Jumpers For Goalposts (J4G) is a new volunteer-run movement that encourages men of different ages, races, backgrounds, and abilities to come together for an old-fashioned game of football using ‘jumpers for goalposts’. The idea is the brainchild of Ballybrack mental health activist Keith Kelly. It followed the success of a poem and video he created for World Mental Health Week back in 2018.

To learn more about #J4G, visit www.jumpersforgoalposts.ie

We hear about his new book "Create Beautiful Food at Home" which is available  online and in all good bookshops now. and Adrian challenges Danny to make his simple Carbonara... 

We apologise to Adrian and you this week, Danny pulled an absolute clanger and somehow forgot the recorder. Still, thanks to the magic of technology we managed to salvage something, but the audio is a little thin - feel free to tweet Danny your favourite disappointed or disapproving gif. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

Clelia and Peter were both contestants on the hugely popular series Dancing With the Stars and joined us to talk dancing nerves, struggles, Tupperware and heels.Mero gets embarrassed about his arms and Danny hunts for some tabloid dirt from behind the curtain on this season of DWTS. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

Irv originally joined us back on episode 83 of WTSpod and we caught up with him to hear the latest in the George Gibney saga and find out why 2019 might be the year of reckoning for the former Olympic swimming coach and sex criminal. 

We also talk about the Chris Benoit murder suicide - one of the darkest moments in the history of professional wrestling. 

If you want to know more about Irvin's work visit www.concussioninc.net

After an extended break to allow Danny find himself, WTSpod is back in your life and bringing you an endless stream of tangents, waffles and Mero struggling to say big words. 

This week we welcome two of our favourite people to Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, Paul Howard and Gary Mackle. Paul is one of Gary's biggest fans, so we agreed to set up a meeting between two of the greatest minds to ever come out of Ballybrack. 

Give it a listen, and don't forget to visit www.fitzpatrickcastle.com

As always, there's tangents and side tracks including a discussion about Corn Flakes and how Josh put together a documentary about the world's most expensive stamp...

If you'd like to see more of Josh's work, and we highly recommend you do, you can visit here and you can follow his twitter exploits here. 

So, not wanting to leave it too long since the last instalment of WTSpod, the lads scrambled of a Saturday to talk about the FAI and how Mero doesn't watch Game of Thrones. 

The lads also laugh at John Delaney and Mero disputes Danny's ability to judge travel times. 

Support the podcast at https://www.patreon.com/WTSpod 

Gary Mackle is an agony aunt and relationship expert who resides in county Wicklow. The lads caught up with the Love Doctor to tackle some silly, sublime, and serious topics. This week the lads talk #CrispWorldCup, Gary's wedding planning business, Michael Jackson, Mero tries to catch Danny out for removing Morrissey as the podcast's intro, and Gary gives his culinary advice to the masses. 

The conversations were ripe and varied on this edition of the podcast, from sex education to sexual health, masturbation classes in New York, never underestimating the importance of lube, and we get a professional opinion regarding Mero's fear of commitment while Danny tries not to embarrass himself laughing at the word anal. 

You can learn more about Emily and her work by visiting her website at www.empowersme.com 

Seán is one of Ireland's leading MMA podcaster hosts and writers. You can check out more of his great work through SevereMMA and Sherdog. 

*We're sorry if the audio sounds a bit off on this week's podcast, we had some serious gremlins in the editing process... and no, the gremlin wasn't Danny trying to replace all mentions of football with rugby. 

There's talk of Brexit, the Royal Rumble, the Six Nations and everyone is a friend of the show. 

The lads caught up with The Heat to discuss her career, boxing, unifying the women's featherweight championships, fighting in the Bellator cage again (and maybe in Ireland), and the possibility of facing off against Katie Taylor. 

It's been three years since Steph first appeared on WTSpod and a lot has changed for the Irish striker. Following a year of highs and lows, Steph recently made the move to Italy where she is applying her trade with CF Florentia in Florence. 

Steph tells us how the move to Florentia came to be, the frustration of being injured, covering the 2018 World Cup with RTÉ, the heartbreak of Club 92 in Dublin closing its doors, and loads more. 

Phil O'Connor made his WTS debut earlier this year and warmed the hearts and minds of the lads and their listeners. You can get your fill of Phil by checking out 'Our Man in Stolkholm' on Patreon. 

Petesy Carroll is Europe's best (and most handsome) MMA journalist. He has done wonders to improve Blanchardstown's reputation in light of it being part of Leo Varadkar's constituency. You can hear more of north Dublin's sexiest man (2015) by checking out Eurobash Podcast. 

Mero attempted to make this show a year in review but that went out the window very early and was exchanged for general waffle, craic and what may turn out to be the first movements towards an official Ken Early fan club. 

It's been another great year Paul, Ross O'Carroll Kelly continues to have a place in Irish hearts, and Copper Face Jacks the musical was one of the most popular stage shows of the year - so popular it will return in 2019 for its second outing. 

This episode of WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

Hart Island is the world's largest publicly funded cemetery, and for years it has been shrouded in secrecy and associated with the poor, criminals, insane, and diseased. But is the more Hart Island and is it as dark and sinister as some press reports have portrayed it? 

Since 1994, The Hart Island Project has independently assisted families in obtaining copies of public burial records. The group also helps people track down loved ones and negotiate visits. The Hart Island Project was founded by New York artist Melinda Hunt in an effort to aid the loved ones of the dead buried on Hart Island. 

Two and half years later Alan is back, and this time he's had a little look into the transfer market. His book, "The Transfer Market: The inside stories" will be available from December 1st, you can pre-order it ahead of the Christmas rush to be guaranteed your copy. 

We spoke to Ewan about Brazil's president elect, Jair Bolsonaro, and how he came to power. Bolsonaro has hit headlines internationally for his controversial policies and comments about members of the black community, immigrants, Brazil's LGBTQ population, political opponents and climate change. 

We also talk about the Irish presidential campaign, drugs in sport and loads more. 

The lads finally catch up on Khabib v McGregor, Danny didn't bother watching the build up and gets it wrong, before taking a look at what next for the current and former UFC lightweight champions. There's a brief stint on the Presedential election which annoys Danny and Mero doesn't want to talk about football. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

Gary gives us his home decorating tips, thoughts on Trump, Roy Keane and Gardai in balaclavas. 

The 600 has returned to celebrate the launch of Ian Versey's "Welcome to Ballybrack". 

10 minutes, 600 seconds (give or take) of Mero & Danny talking, waffling, slagging and having the craic - sure what else do you need? 

Having spent 20 years in Sweden, Phil's work has brought him around the world to cover everything from World Cups to Conor McGregor, politics and more. 

You can keep up with Our Man in Stockholm here. 

Viv has campaigned for the disabled community for many years, and has opinion pieces and articles published across several media outlets including The Irish Times and thejournal.ie. 

We talked a lot about why Khabib v Connor is so important to The UFC and MMA - We wonder if Petesy will ever get to write *THAT* book and is the future looking a little bit dim for MMA? 

(We know, we havent recorded an episode of The 600 in a while, but it'll be back - promise.) 

This week we talk Khabib v McGregor, Ballybrack the music video, Transfer deadline day is a pile of sh*te and loads more besides. 

*Audio this week isn't as good as we'd like, we're trying new recording software and should have the hang of it soon. 

Amy's writing has covered everything from Volleyball and The MLS to Ireland's political elite and their love (or lack of) for Beyonce, bags of cans, and Love Actually. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more.

Don joined us to talk about his time with Ireland's OTT Wrestling, and how he came to be the voice of all the action inside Ireland's leading wrestling promotion. 

Check out OTT on Demand to see some of Europe's and the World's top wrestling.

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

Donal Fallon is one of the curators of 'Come Here To Me' and one of Ireland's leading historians. He is a broadcaster and author and has forgotten more about Dublin and her people than most of us will know. 

You can check out more of Donal's work on www.comeheretome.com 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

Jon also talks a little a bit about Trump's USA and we catch up on the World Cup with one of the 12 Americans actually watching it. 

You can learn more about Jon and his work at www.afterauschwitz.com

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatric Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

We have a good chat about the sweet science and of course, The Monkstown International Box Cup. Now in its sixth year, The Monkstown International Box Cup is the biggest boxing tournament in the world. Almost 1000 boxers representing 191 clubs from around the world will compete across three full days (June 29 - July 1). 

If you want to check out the next wave of Olympians and Champions you can go to the tournament for just €5 per day. Full details on https://www.facebook.com/MonkstownBoxCup/ 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

 Con hosts the brilliant “Greatest League in the World” podcast and his voice has provided the soundtrack to sport in Ireland for over 20 years. He has covered six Olympics, football, rugby and golf, including the incredible European Ryder Cup victory at the K Club in 2006.

 WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Caste Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more.

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

Jay spent 3 years clearing his name and in December 2017 his appeal was successful and the conviction overturned. 

Having stared in a local kitchen as a teenager and working his way up to Michelin Star cuisine, Adrian's passion for food is obvious and his enthusiasm and energy are helping to educate children around Ireland on how to cook and eat well. You can try some of his delicious recipies for yourself by visiting his website www.chefadrian.ie 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

Becky gives her thoughts on the Irish Wrestling scene, working with greats like Dusty Rhodes and there's the small matter of Ronda Rousey and the 4 Horsewomen of WWE... 

 WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

This week Danny was too lazy to set up music and decided to make sure the 600 was 600 seconds long 

Mero is excited about this week's guest and gives a few ideas for what to watch on d'telly. 

Besides being one of Ireland's favourite comedians, PJ is one half of the hugely successful Dubland podcast alongside the great Suzanne Kane. 

You can catch PJ on 4fm Monday - Friday on the breakfast show with Jim McCabe. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more 

This week we're joined by broadcaster and TV host, Mairead Ronan. Mairead is veteran of the airwaves having spent over 10 years in Today FM and played a key part in award winning radio shows. She is also a regular on our TV screens has host of Ireland's Fittest Family and travel show, Getaways. 

You can check out www.faro.ie for more of what Mairead gets up to. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

Thanks for the cheese.

Catch ya's later. 

You can support the podcast by signing up to our Patreon. For just €1 per month you can keep WTSpod going. Check out www.patreon.com/WTSpod 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

The 600 turned into the The 1080 this week as we went on for 18 minutes instead of the prescribed 10. This week, we celebrate International Women's Day by celebrating our favourite actresses and try to use one film to justify their selection as our favourite... Spoiler Alert: We're not very good at it.

There's also a little WTS easter egg for you to discover.... 

This week's episode nearly got buried in the snow but thanks to the magic of the internet the lads were able to record a short podcast and discuss the events of the week, including the biggest news story of the year and why the snow is best thing that could have happened to Leo Vradkar. 

You can support the podcast by joining our Patreon for as little as €1 per month, go to www.patreon.com/wtspod

We talk a little MMA, Chris remembers his time in The Borough and we go off on tangents, Danny turns heel and Mero wants life in a socialist paradise. 

Support the podcast on www.patreon.com/wtspod 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

There were burgers, a cat, the coldest night ever, conspiracy chat and some confused memebers of the public. 

Thanks to Bray Comedy Festival and The Harbour Bar for inviting us back to the festival. If you missed the comedy festival you can catch live comedy every month in The Hardy Har Comedy Club, upstairs in the Harbour Bar. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

We also have officially launched our Patreon for anyone who wants to support us - go to www.patreon.com/wtspod 

On top of this Mero's wearing facemasks and Danny gets his toes painted. 

From colourful farts, to being comfortable with yourself and spicing things up in the bed room, Gary has tips for everyone. He shares some of the problems people have sent in to his famed Arklow Gazette column and offers his take on how to find love in the modern world. 

Gary and Danny quiz Graham on his new love life and Danny confesses to Graham's Fair City appearance helping his love life. 

We also give our top songs for increasing the love this Valentine's Day. 

WTSpod and The Arklow Gazette take no responsibilty for any relationships ruined as a result of the advice contained in this podcast. Listener discretion is advised and we apologise for the childish giggling throughout.

This week Danny is mad impressed by Space X and Elon Musk, Mero can't wait for the new League of Ireland season and the lads have been listening to a new podcast. 

Seán Sheehan also joins us to talk about the state of the UFC and the so called superfights. We talk Ronda Rousey in the WWE and call an early predictoon for Cormier v Stipe. 

You can check out Seán on The Severe MMA Podcast every week - www.severemma.com 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel - go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more.

This week animals have been in the news alot, including a talking orca that doesn't talk, and the Chinese are cloning monkeys now. 

The lads talk about bread and decide what the best burger in Dublin is, Danny doesn't know what a romcom is, Mero hates the oscars, Danny farts and we reveal the plans for our Valentine's special with a little help from an old friend... 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

In a wide ranging discussion, we talk to John about what's coming next for him, the bare knuckle boxing tradition for Travellers, John's feelings on history and we see if it's possible for three men to have a rational conversation on Repeal the 8th. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com 

We also talk about drugs in sport and question if is ever acceptable for a sportstar to use drugs. 

Dylan spoke to us about his start in Mixed Martial Arts, turning pro, and what happens when "The Nuke" goes off. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

In this special mid-week bonus podcast we are joined by Michael Graham to peek under the hood of Trump's America. Michael has decades of experience in politics and media and is the host of the "Michael in the Morning Podcast." 

An American republican who believes Donald Trump is an idiot, Michael still holds true to the conservative ideals that are associated with Republican Americans. Besides working in media, Michael has also been a political consultant and spent some time as a stand up comedian, working with names like Chris Rock, Jeff Foxworthy and Jerry Senfield. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

Just over 10 years ago Keith experienced a life changing trauma which left him suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and ultimately led to him attempting to take his own life. Today, Keith is healthy and well and able to share his story so others might hear it and reach out. He is also studying in Maynooth University and helps with the mental health programmes run by the amazing Suicide or Survive. www.suicideorsurvive.ie 

If anyone listening to this podcast or reading this feels like they are in need of help, or even beyond help, please know help is there. The below charities are available by phone 24/7 

Samartains - 116 123 

Pieta House - 1800 247 247 

WTSpod is brought to you by the award winning Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com 

We're 3 days into the new year so we decided to talk resolutions and find out if the lads had mad any. 

Adam is no stranger to WTSpod and we were delighted to welcome him back to close off 2017. We get an update on the upcoming Bray Comedy Festival and theres the usual tangents, giggles, insults, rows and interesting tid bits. 

You can get your tickets and see the full line up for 2018's Bray Comedy Festival at www.braycomedyfest.ie 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel - go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

A short podcast this week as its been a long year for the lads, so long they forgot to do a lot of things for this podcast so it meant Danny tried to fix it... You'll see what we mean.

We have a little chat about music and talk about the old days of buying CDs as Christmas presents and how they don't make bands like they used to. Mero asks what is the right gift for couples in long relationships and Danny tells the story of how he got engaged... it involves a batch loaf. 

Merry Christmas to all our guests, listeners, supporters and Ric Flair. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com 

You can check out more of Suzanne's work here --> http://suzisays.com/

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

With the festive season in full flow we decided to talk Christmas songs and compile our list of festive favourites. There's controversy, surprises, some old classics and a couple of cover versions. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

With the world seemingly intent on shrugging its shoulders and continuing a long walk down an a very unclear path, Joe tires to give us two eejits an idea of the how, what and why of Brexit. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

Shauna joined us to talk kickboxing, life as an elite athlete and her decision - having conquered kickboxing - to take on the world of Taekwondo and represent Ireland at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

This week the lads tackle one of 2017's biggest sex scandals.

Ewan gives the lad a brief lesson in Brazillian tourism before talking about Conor McGregor, David Walsh & Tom Humphries, Ireland and Rugby and even a little bit of ultimate frisbee. 

You can catch Ewan on twitter by tweeting @ewanmackenna or check out his work in papers like The Sunday Business Post. 

This week the lads are very upset after a mierable week for Irish sport. 

We also ask how good is GSP? Who would be on our MMA Mount Rushmore*? And Danny is trying a new recording method that may or may not continue in future.... 

 WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

*Comments and opinions regarding Anderson Silva & Conor McGregor were recorded before the events of November 10th. 

The lads are nervous ahead of the new World Cup Playoff this weekend and Danny finally gets revenge on Mero. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

It's November which means one thing and one thing only... it's Christmas and Danny isn't happy.

Topics this week go from serious to sublime to silly including Niamh missing Patrick Swayze a little bit too much and Danny finally finds someone who loves The Newsroom. We also talk Repeal the 8th and gender wars to online dating, twitter trolls and the dreaded d*ck pic. 

You can check out Girls With Goals through Her.ie and be sure to subscribe on iTunes, Soundcloud and all good podcast places.

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com 

This week the lads talk about dreams after Danny dreamt of bringing back one of the greatest pop acts of all time, ABBA. Sadly it only  in dabs and tears. 

Blood Red Turns Dollar Green made such an impression on WWE's Jim Ross, that he asked Paul to co-write his 2017 autobiography "Slobberknocker: My Life In Wrestling". 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

This week the lads are declarng Denmark enemies of the podcast ahead of Ireland's World Cup play-off and we look back on hurricane Ophelia and the mark she left on Ireland. 

He has won 3 Six Nations titles including a Grand Slam, 2 Triple Crowns, 3 European Cups, 1 European Challenege Cup and 3 Celtic Leagues. 

In a feature length interview we chat to Jamie about everything, from his ventures on and off the pitch to if we're ever going to see him on a reality tv show, favourite travel destinations to whose face would you have on a cake? 

What's the Story Podcast is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

This week we the lads are wrecked and Mero tries to tell us about his trip to Wales for Ireland's World Cup Qualifier. Danny is excited about Sunday's guest and has an apology to make. 

The Stranger in the woods tells the story of Christopher Knight, a hermiit who left everything he knew behind and went to live in a forrest in Maine. He Remained in there in his own splendid isolation for over 25 years. 

True Story tells the distressing tale of Christian Longo. A man accused of the horrific murders of his wife and three young children fled the country and was arrested in Mexico, where he was pretending to be Michael Finkel, a reporter for The New York Times. True Story was made into a major motion picture starring Jonah Hill & James Franco. It is currently available on Netflix. 

To learn more about Mike visit his webiste at michaelfinkel.com

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel - go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

This week on our mini cast we talk about America and guns. The lads both agree for once, except for when it comes to deciding which match is the big match in Dublin this weekend. 

Guests: 

Ken Early - Irish Times journalist and a member of Ireland's greatest media production company, The Second Captains. 

Joanne McNally - One of Ireland's finest stand up comedians and a regular on national TV & Radio. 

David McWilliams - Best selling author, journalist and economist. Founder of Dalkey Book festival and Kilkenonomics Festival. 

A veteran behind the mic, Hugh has called some of the biggest rugby matches of the past decade. We talk to Hugh about getting his start in the industry, a missed opportunity at the 2007 Rugby World Cup and why he isn't too keen on MCing events. Mero does his best to keep up with the rugby talk and Danny is only delighted to indulge. 

Don't forget our next live show is coming up fast!! Tickets are available NOW for our live show at the first ever Dublin Podcast Festival. We'll be joined September 26 by David McWilliams, Ken Early and Joanne McNally in The Workmans Club, Dublin. Check out http://www.ticketmaster.ie/promo/61lbgx?tm_link=tm_arts_event1 for more. 

WTSpod is brought to by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

Everyone's favourite budget airline, Ryanair, turned heel this week and are cancelling flights faster than Mero cancels tinder dates and Danny cancels gym memberships. Of course we're gonna talk about it. 

Tickets are available NOW for our live show at the first ever Dublin Podcast Festival. September 26, Workmans Club Dublin. Check out http://www.ticketmaster.ie/promo/61lbgx?tm_link=tm_arts_event1 for more. 

Don't forget our next live show is coming up fast!! Tickets are available NOW for our live show at the first ever Dublin Podcast Festival. We'll be joined September 26 by David McWilliams, Ken Early and Joanne McNally in The Workmans Club, Dublin. Check out http://www.ticketmaster.ie/promo/61lbgx?tm_link=tm_arts_event1 for more. 

WTSpod is brought to by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

Burt Watson has been a coordinator/baby sitter to the stars for over 30 years and in that time he has worked with Smokin' Joe Frazier, Muhammad Ali, Larry Holmes, Mike Tyson, Riddick "Big Daddy" Bowe and in his 14 + years with the UFC he has worked with just about every fighter who has been talked about as a pound for pound best in the world. 

We talk to Burt about his life and times at the top of the fight game, where he got his start and his latest venture with Alliance MMA. 

But, before we got rollin with Burt we talked a little about a lot, including Mero making accusations about a rugby legend with no evidence or proof of it being true and Danny offers his more realistic reasoning on the matter. 

WTSpod is brought to by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, check out www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

Its that time of year again where reality TV and talent shows take over our televisions - so the lads have a little whinge about it. 

Tickets are available NOW for our live show at the first ever Dublin Podcast Festival. September 26, Workmans Club Dublin. Check out http://www.ticketmaster.ie/promo/61lbgx?tm_link=tm_arts_event1 for more. 

Ian Versey has been involved with Irish hip hop for over 10 years. As an emcee that has collaborated with a ton of people, Versey is a well versed veteran of the scene.

While the standard of hip hop in America has long been the bar, the UK's Grime scene has become more popular than ever and over the last few years Irish emceeing has found its real voice. Versey tells us about his start in Dublin's Temple Theatre all the way to now, where the music is a passion and creating has to be balanced with a 9-5 and a family. 

Mero tries his best to get Danny to rap and we spend way to long talking about chippers and the now infamous Spice Burger Famine of 2009. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

Tickets are available NOW for our live show at the first ever Dublin Podcast Festival. September 26, Workmans Club Dublin. Check out http://www.ticketmaster.ie/promo/61lbgx?tm_link=tm_arts_event1 for more. 

This week the lads discuss North Korea. Danny believes the world is already at war and the lads discuss some of the finer moments of Kim Jong Il and Kim Jong Un's dynasty including giant rabbits, golf and Disney Land. 

An unquestionably brilliant athlete, In 2015 Darragh called time on his swimming career aged just 21 after severing ties with Paralympics Ireland due to what he described as "years of broken deals." 

For the first time since 2015, Darragh talks candidly and honestly about his experiences in and out of the pool. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

This week the lads record through the magic of Whatsapp and discuss Mero's gripe with hospitals and bodily stones... 

You can hear Al every Monday, Wednesday and Friday on RTE 2FM alongside Hugh Cahill on Game On. 

This week the lads are tyring to explain Ireland's connection to the colour green and mostly failing. 

For years now Petesy has been Ireland's and Europe's best MMA journalist. Having coverd the sport for national and international media outlets Petesy has found a new home on the world famous mmafighting.com. 

We look ahead to the biggest fight in the history of sport, Mayweather v McGregor and weigh up the outcomes of the megafight. Can McGregor's magic find a hole in the greatest defensive boxer in recent history? Did we learn annything from the leaked sparring footage? Will 8oz gloves make a difference? All of this and loads more besides. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

This week the lads are are talking about The Rose of Tralee and how it is the greatest beauty contest that isnt about beauty on the planet. There's also signing, and the lads put money on a Rose to win.... 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

This week the lads are discussing Irish politician Danny Healy Rae and his recent claims that Irish Roads are being ruined by vengful fairies... 

Ais is one of Ireland's most recognised MMA stars and recently announced her retirement from competitive action. A brazillian jiu jitsu blackbelt, a world champion, a UFC fighter and one of the nicest people out there, it's always a pleasure to sit down and chat with Ais. 

We catch up with The Bash on what led to her retiring and what she's up to now, Safe MMA and what comes next. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more

There's talk of the cringe factor in football today as clubs try to embrace social media to announce players coming and going - Liverpool and Chelsea in particular. Danny hates football fans and Mero can't wait for Danny to go on holiday so he can takeover the WTS twitter account. 

The lads also show how current they are by talking about the Mayweather McGregor press tour two weeks after it happened. There's also news of a new WTS venture so you can get even more of the multi award winning podcast...

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more 

Mark tells us about the project and what goes into producing a film like this. We hear of his admiration for John Connors who he co-wrote the movie with and for those listening overseas Mark gives an update on an international release. 

Of course there's the usual chat and waffle from the lads and Mark gives his prediction for Mayweather McGregor. 

Cardboard Gangsters in cinemas across Ireland now, check local listings, head along and support Irish Film. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more.

Besides just having the craic we spoke to Damo about his highlight reel knockout which went viral and put his name on everyone's lips in Irish K1. Damo talks about turning professional in Ireland, the difficulty in finding opponents and even when he does find them, the difficulty in finding one who treats the sport professionally. 

We hear about his new business venture, The Lab, which he runs with with BJJ ace, Austin Rhatigan, and a name that will be familiar to longtime listeners of WTSpod - Lindsey "Danger" Doyle. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more

It's been an incredible year for Al which has seen his stock rise internationally with his videos racking up millions of views, and a memorable encounter with boxing legend Floyd Mayweather. 

Al's impressions have earned him a massive following and he brought them to table when he sat down with us, including Gordon Ramsay, President Trump, Jeff Stelling, Wayne Rooney, Tyson Furey and of course The Notorious Conor McGregor. 

Later this year Al will be hitting the stage with his brand new one man show, be sure to follow him on Facebook to keep up to date. www.facebook.com/alforancomedy 

Colm is regarded as one of the thought leaders in Irish Broadcasting, his work with FM104, particularly with the Strawberry Alarm Clock, established them as Dublin's leading radio station. Colm has also enjoyed success with the national broadcaster, RTE. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

The Paris Agreement was thrust into the world's attention recently when President Trump announced the United States would be exiting the agreement. So the lads asked someone who actually knows something to come in and tell us what's what. Cara first joined the lads last year and now, nearly a year on she's come back to continue her efforts in trying to educate two clowns from the borough. From coffee being in danger to islands going under water and trying to capture carbon, Cara took the lads on whirlwind tour of climate and what we could all do to help. 

You can hear more from Cara at her website, www.caraaugustenborg.com 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

Dil's story is one of incredible pain and amazing healing. From the coldness of a family break up in Sri Lanka, to the warmth of the 2015 Marriage Referendum here in Ireland, Dil's journey has been long and her courage unquestionable. 

in 2011 Dil and her partner, Ann Marie Toole, set up Insight Matters, which aims to provide affordable and inclusive psychotherapy and councelling. In 2015 they welcomed their first child and are expecting their second child this summer. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

With BAMMA 30 in Dublin's 3 Arena just a few weeks away, Richie came in and told the lads his plan to become the Bamma Welterweight Champion once he disposes of his BAMMA 30 opponent. 

A vetran Kickboxer and with multiple titles, Kiely transitioned to MMA under the watchful eye of Coach John Kavanagh and made his pro debut in December 2016, taking the fight by TKO with a vicious knee. 

You can follow Richie on the build up to his BAMMA 30 fight on Facebook - www.facebook.com/richardkielymma 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

We we spoke to Ellen about Women's Rights in Ireland, the Repeal the 8th campaign, communicating with emojis, online dating and loads more besides.

Ellen currently writes for the Irish edition of The Times which is now available Monday - Saturday in print and online so you can have access to great content whatever way you want it. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpartick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

Recorded from a sold out Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, the lads were joined by Al Foran, Aisling Daly, Colm Hayes, Paul Howard, Steve Gunn and Caroline McGuigan for a live quiz that at times was beautiful mayhem. Thankfully, WTSpod special correspondent Gary Mackle was there to keep track of what was happening and provide motivational talks when needed... 

Thanks to the support of everyone who came on the night, The Natural Kitchen Dun Laoghaire, Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, Sound Works and all of the local businesses that supported the night we raised over €2500 euro that will go directly to SOS and the amazing work they do with Mental Health. 

(Thanks to Syncwood Studios who helped us recover audio in post production) 

Tom is also familiar to the podcasting world with his own podcasts. The Tom & Gerry show which he records with fellow comedian and Waterford Whispers writer Gerry McBride, and his recently launched podcast, "Buckshot" which gives us a view of the world through the eyes of a rough neck Tipperary native with no time for bullshi*t. 

To see Tom live on a stage near you, go to https://www.facebook.com/TomBearComedy/ to see dates across Ireland. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel. Go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

On top of being one of Ireland's most recognised TV stars, Clelia also happens to be Mero's soap crush and well able to put the two lads in their place for the duration of this chapter... not even Mero's Aunty Mary was safe... 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

Following the success of this, Cian is turning pro and joined us just days away from his professional MMA debut at BAMMA 29 in Birmingham. 

We spoke to Cian about the build up to his fight, his experience at the IMMAF Worlds, being a part of the McGregor training camp ahead of his redemption fight with Nate Diaz, what happened when Cian's car was robbed and of course, Cosmo the Bully. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

This week Danny and Mero talk about the upcoming live show WTS100 - which is almost sold out - and the problem they've been having with the show. 

Football bans and The Lions tour also make the grade and the lads get a fit of the giggles. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

WTSpod is turning 100! To celebrate this milestone we are having a live show in aid of Suicide or Survive, Thursday May 18th, Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel. Special guests on the night and tickets are on sale now www.wts100.eventbrite.ie 

Ruairí has also been a key member of team Lust for Life and in 2012 President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins, appointed him to the Council of State where he sits with fromer Presidents, Taoiseach, and other public figures.  

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more

WTSpod is turning 100! To celebrate this milestone we are having a live show in aid of Suicide or Survive, Thursday May 18th, Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel. Special guests on the night and tickets are on sale now www.wts100.eventbrite.ie 

This week Ian Mahon came to sit down and give us his take on how to look after everything inb the world, however, we got sidetracked early and often, solved nothing and instead ended up with Ian and Mero giving Danny a run through of how Tinder works. 

Mero discusses why he isn't looking for commitment and that if a girl can't take his unrivaled passion for RTE programming then she will never be the love of his life. 

As it's Easter we talk about easter eggs and comebacks that are better than Jesus. Mahoner tells us about his cat getting bullied and Mero gets the giggles as we try to finish the chapter which causes Danny and Mahoner to craic up. 

WTSpod is turning 100! To celebrate this milestone we are having a live show in aid of Suicide or Survive, Thursday May 18th, Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel. Special guests on the night and tickets are on sale now https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/wts-100-the-live-show-in-aid-of-suicide-or-survive-tickets-33094401245 

He is the author of two best selling books (Blood, Sweat & Tears and Whistleblower, Soldier, Spy). Tom's research into sexual harrassment, assualt and bullying within the Irish Defence Forces led to an independant government enquiry. In 2003 the enquiry vindicated everything Tom had said and this led to a transformation of equality across the Irish Defence Forces. 

Dr. Clonan also campaigns for the equality of people with disabilities. His son, Eoghan, is a wheelchair user and has been the catalyst for his campaign and continues to be a source of inspiration in Tom's fight for equality. 

The lads spoke to Tom about the state of the world today. Lone wolf attacks, Syria and the Middle East, Russia v America - are we on a path to a global conflict? Where does Ireland fit in with all of this and are we safe from the threat of extremeists? 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

WTSpod is turning 100! To celebrate this milestone we are having a live show in aid of Suicide or Survive, Thursday May 18th, Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel. Special guests on the night and tickets are on sale now https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/wts-100-the-live-show-in-aid-of-suicide-or-survive-tickets-33094401245 

With over a decade of experience in the wrestling industry Joe is currently one of the driving forces of the incredible Over The Top Wrestling. OTT has developed a massive following in Ireland and has brought a pro wrestling scene to the masses, evident in them selling out their flagship ScrapperMania show almost as soon as it went on sale. 

Joe has travelled the world with pro wrestling and rubbed shoulders with some true legends, including a lock in with Bret "The Hitman" Hart. He was one of the pioneers of the Irish wrestling scene and talks openly about his experience within the WWE performance center. 

You can catch more of Joe and his alter ego, Luther Ward, at upcoming OTT Wrestling shows nationwide. Check out www.ottwrestling.com for more. 

If you enjoyed this chapter of WTSpod be sure to check out chapter 27 with WWE superstar Finn Balor. 

WTSpod is turning 100! To celebrate this milestone we are having a live show in aid of Suicide or Survive, Thursday May 18th, Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel. Special guests on the night and tickets are on sale now https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/wts-100-the-live-show-in-aid-of-suicide-or-survive-tickets-33094401245 

He formerly served as a professor and department chair at the National War College, the founding director of the Institute for Homeland Security, the executive director of the bipartisan Congressional Commission on the Prevention of Weapons of Mass Destruction Proliferation and Terrorism.

The world seems a fragile place in 2017, political tensions are aired on the news, and twitter, everyday. There is no longer a balance of Superpowers, and attacks from small groups or individuals have become more frequent. So what if one of these attacks was carried out, but instead of guns or explosives, the weapon of choice was a biological weapon designed to infect as many people as possible? Is it a real threat or is it just a conspiracy - has anyone tried to do it before or will nature throw something at us before anyone can weaponise a disease? These are just some of the things Randy was able to tell us about. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrck Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

PJ came to a lot of people's attention over 10 years ago thanks to his part on the much loved "Naked Camera" tv show. Since then he's gone on to be one of Ireland's favourite comedians and continues to be a leading light in the entertainment industry. 

From gicknas to manscaping, a pitbull named Sharon and how passionate is Damien Dempsey?, PJ had Mero & Danny sweatting with the laughter. 

You can hear PJ every weekday morning on 4fm from 6-10 as he hosts the breakfast show alongside Jim McCabe, he is also hosts the hilarious "Dubland" Podcast with Suzanne Kane which is available on iTunes now. 

His new tour "Dickhead" kicks off April 28th in Sligo with dates around Ireland to follow, follow @PJGallagher on twitter for full listings. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

The state of the nation has angered both the lads, the Tuam Mother & Baby home, Grace, and the treatment of Sgt. Maurice McCabe are just some of the issues that are plaguing Ireland right now. The lads question the motives of the Catholic Church and ask why are people continuing to baptise their children into a religion they don't believe in? 

Mero leads Danny into a deep and meaningful conversation he was not expecting and there is way too much singing. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, go to www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, visit www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more. 

He has discussed space with Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, Sir Patrick Moore and now the two lads on WTSpod. You can learn more about the world beyond our world by going to www.astronomy.ie and joining the club. 

We also give details of our first ever live show which will take place on May 18th - first guests are announced and we'll give more details in the coming weeks including how you can be there. 

WTSpod is brought to you by Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, check out www.fitzpatrickcastle.com for more.