The Irish Snug Podcast

Tim Grant

Pull up a stool and settle in. The Irish Snug Podcast is your dedicated corner for the stories, history, and characters that make Irish pub culture legendary. From the storied wood of Manhattan’s iconic bars to the hidden gems of the Irish countryside, we sit down with the people who keep the tradition alive. Whether it’s a deep dive into family legacies or a chat with a local regular, we’re capturing the spirit of Ireland, one pint and one story at a time. (Formerly the Pubs & Pints Podcast). Rooted in the Irish tradition of great storytelling, each episode invites listeners to pull up a stool and enjoy tales that range from laugh-out- loud funny to deeply moving.

  1. 1d ago

    Back From Ireland, Ch. 1: Twelve Days of Cliffs, Hikes, Pints, & Family | Chuck Rodda

    What really happens when you stop checking boxes and start experiencing Ireland? In this episode of The Irish Snug, retired U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 5 and longtime aviator Chuck Rodda joins us for the first installment of “Back from Ireland”—a new series focused less on the itinerary and more on the stories that happen along the way. Chuck and his wife, Michelle, return from a 12-day Ireland road trip filled with Wild Atlantic Way hikes, spontaneous detours, traditional Irish music, family history, Irish pubs, and unforgettable hospitality. Chuck shares practical Ireland travel tips—from booking a direct flight and driving on the left to reading Atlantic weather, traveling without a rigid hotel plan, and knowing when to trade a famous attraction for a quieter local experience. Along the route, we visit Giant’s Causeway, Bushmills, Killybegs, Slieve League, Galway, Kilkee, Dingle, Slea Head Drive, Conor Pass, Kenmare, Waterford, and Midleton. We also compare two Irish whiskey tours, search for the perfect pint of Guinness, hear the story of a singing Slieve League guide, and return to Chuck’s grandmother’s cottage in rural County Galway. EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00:00 Welcome to “Back from Ireland” and meet Chuck Rodda00:04:11 The trip’s standout memories: Slieve League and Dingle00:07:51 A missed connection—and why Chuck recommends flying direct00:09:14 Renting a car, driving on the left, and booking as you go00:12:09 Using aviation weather skills and Ireland’s long summer days00:14:28 Dingle fish chowder, pubs, music, and Slea Head Drive00:17:01 Giant’s Causeway and an unplanned Bushmills tour00:18:34 Bushmills vs. Midleton: which whiskey tour is best?00:21:59 Killybegs, local advice, and a perfect Slieve League hike00:25:55 The Rusty Mackerel and planning a future camper trip00:29:30 The Dingle Pub and Chuck’s best pint at Kruger’s00:32:41 Family roots and Chuck’s grandmother’s County Galway cottage00:37:19 A remarkable family story Chuck had never heard00:40:43 Skipping the Cliffs of Moher for Kilkee and an unplanned ferry00:44:53 The Immortal Irishman and a Waterford connection00:45:36 Conor Pass, “the lake with monsters,” and Crowley’s Bar00:51:29 Roches—the Sinking Pub00:54:10 The Quays, a New York encounter, and Radio Kingston’s Irish Show00:57:05 Why Chuck drank Coors Light in Ireland00:58:33 What Ireland taught Chuck about traveling slowly01:04:50 Five closing questions: place, pint, meal, person, and storyLINKS & PLACES MENTIONED Bushmills Distillery: [https://bushmills.com/pages/distillery] Midleton Distillery: [https://www.jamesonwhiskey.com/en-us/...] Dingle Distillery: [https://dingledistillery.ie/] The Irish Show, Radio Kingston: [https://www.radiokingston.org/onair/t...] The Immortal Irishman by Timothy Egan (Amazon): [https://www.amazon.com/dp/0544944836] If you enjoy honest Ireland travel stories, Irish history, traditional music, pub culture, genealogy, and practical road-trip advice, subscribe to The Irish Snug and share this episode with someone planning a trip to Ireland. Connect with The Irish Snug Podcast: Website: https://www.theirishsnugpodcast.com/YouTube:      / @irishsnug  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1V1xWuV...Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...Instagram:   / irish_snug  #IrelandTravel #IrishPodcast #WildAtlanticWay  #TheIrishSnug #Ireland Send us Fan Mail Support the show

    Back From Ireland, Ch. 1: Twelve Days of Cliffs, Hikes, Pints, & Family | Chuck Rodda

  2. Aug 9

    From Apprentice to Master: Bringing Back Traditional Household Coopering | Killian O'Mahony

    *How do you revive a craft that nearly vanished from Ireland? In this episode of The Irish Snug, Tim sits down with Killian O’Mahony —better known as Killian the Cooper—to explore the remarkable return of Irish coopering. When Killian began his apprenticeship with Irish Distillers in 2013, he was Ireland’s first apprentice cooper in roughly 40 years. Today, through his family-run O’Mahony Craft Cooperage in East Cork, he is helping restore the almost-lost tradition of household—or “white”—coopering. Killian explains what a cooper actually does, from making and repairing whiskey casks to crafting tankards, butter churns, pails and other wooden vessels without glue, screws or sealants. He traces barrel-making from ancient Celtic tribes and Roman trade routes to modern Irish whiskey warehouses, then breaks down the science of oak, charring, maturation, the angel’s share and why miniature casks can transform a spirit so quickly. The conversation also explores Killian’s family connection to Midleton Distillery and New York, his training in Scotland, custom casks for private whiskey clubs, restoring historic butter churns, traditional Irish foodways, shillelaghs, emigration, hunting and the deep human pull toward handmade objects in the age of AI. If you love Irish history, Irish whiskey, barrel making, woodworking, traditional crafts, heritage skills or the stories carried by handmade objects, this episode is for you. Subscribe to The Irish Snug for more conversations about Irish culture, folklore, history and tradition—and share this episode with someone who appreciates Irish craftsmanship. CHAPTERS 00:00:00 Welcome and introduction 00:01:37 What is a cooper? Killian’s Cork roots and apprenticeship 00:06:41 Celtic barrels, Roman trade and the history of coopering 00:08:01 Sustainable craft and handmade objects in the age of AI 00:09:49 Miniature whiskey casks and charred tankards 00:11:21 Whiskey maturation, sealed casks and the angel’s share 00:14:00 Killian’s family connection to Midleton Distillery 00:16:42 Training on the cooper’s bench in Scotland 00:21:39 The sights, sounds and smells of an old cooperage 00:23:06 Reviving butter churns with Bunratty Castle 00:26:18 Restoring a 150-year-old barrel churn 00:29:43 Unusual vessels, French oak and poitín 00:32:18 Custom casks and private whiskey clubs 00:34:02 How to mature whiskey at home 00:38:56 How much whiskey flavor comes from the wood? 00:39:58 Killian’s Irish–New York family history 00:41:36 The chemistry of toasting and charring oak 00:43:27 How coopers shape and bend barrel staves 00:46:05 Why smaller casks mature spirits faster 00:48:07 Shipping Irish-made casks around the world 00:51:34 Shillelaghs, Irish heritage and family lore 00:55:02 From “The Rare Ould Times” to a living craft revival 00:57:30 A family cooperage and circular traditional life 01:02:31 Hunting, the Great Irish Elk and Irish foodways 01:08:36 Plans for apprentices and the next generation 01:10:38 What to remember the next time you drink whiskey 01:11:34 The right way to taste whiskey 01:16:13 Custom tankards and a future Irish Snug barrel 01:17:34 Final thoughts on the revival of Irish coopering LINKS MENTIONED 00:00:08 Killian the Cooper on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/killianthecooper/] 00:02:21 Irish Distillers: [https://www.irishdistillers.ie/] 00:10:57 Midleton Distillery Experience: [https://www.jamesonwhiskey.com/en-ie/visit-our-distilleries/midleton-distillery-cork/](https://www.jamesonwhiskey.com/en-ie/visit-our-distilleries/midleton-distillery-cork/) 00:22:54 Leeside Forge: [https://leesideforge.ie/] 00:23:06 Bunratty Castle & Folk Park: [https://www.bunrattycastle.ie/] 00:27:31 The Butter Museum, Cork: [https://thebuttermuseum.com/] 00:38:15 O’Mahony Craft Cooperage: [https://omcc.ie/] 00:38:22 O’Mahony Craft Cooperage on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/omcc.ie/] Please enjoy whiskey responsibly. *Connect with The Irish Snug Podcast:* * Website: https://www.theirishsnugpodcast.com/ * YouTube:   https://www.youtube.com/@irishsnug * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1V1xWuVTsJ13NpbcRIQrHW * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-irish-snug-podcast/id1842749209 * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579093757528&mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=lbRgbnHdrwCYz894&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F1aKUFcBbxa%2F%3Fmibextid%3DwwXIfr# * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/irish_snug #cooper #ireland #whiskey #irishsnug #whiskeyenthusiast Send us Fan Mail Support the show

    From Apprentice to Master: Bringing Back Traditional Household Coopering | Killian O'Mahony

  3. Aug 4

    Inside the Dublin Fire Brigade Pipe Band: Stories & History | Tom McLoughlin

    Welcome back to The Irish Snug! In this episode, Tim sits down with Tom McLoughlin—Dublin Fire Brigade firefighter, fire chief, and former chairman of the Dublin Fire Brigade Pipe Band. Tom shares his journey starting as a retained firefighter in 1988, joining the pipe band in 1992, and building a deep, lifelong brotherhood with the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) Pipe Band. From unexpected trips to Moscow to emotional visits to New York after 9/11 and honor guard duties for Irish history, Tom shares unforgettable stories from a lifetime of service, music, and camaraderie. Episode Highlights & Timestamps • 0:00:00 – Welcome to The Irish Snug: Intro with Tom McLoughlin • 0:00:36 – The evolution of the podcast: From "Pubs & Pints" to "The Irish Snug" • 0:04:23 – Joining the Dublin Fire Brigade as a retained firefighter in 1988 • 0:05:52 – Tom’s first interaction with the FDNY Pipe Band in Malahide (1989) • 0:07:13 – Growing up in Malahide & working security and Mountjoy Prison • 0:09:22 – Joining the DFB Pipe Band in 1992 as a drummer • 0:10:43 – The infamous 1993 pipe band trip to Moscow, Russia • 0:14:33 – First trip to NYC (1994), trading a hat for World Cup tickets & meeting the FDNY • 0:17:38 – Travels across the US & Europe: Delray Beach, DC, Chicago, & London • 0:21:05 – Traveling to New York for FDNY line-of-duty funerals after 9/11 • 0:22:17 – Funny memories with band legend Peter Hedderman at the Rose of Tralee • 0:26:28 – The 2006 All-Ireland competition in Letterkenny with the FDNY • 0:31:22 – Traditional vs. modern pipe band music & evolving the repertoire • 0:35:41 – The story behind the Dublin Fire Brigade tartan and uniform • 0:38:37 – Remembering FDNY Chairman Joe Murphy & the bond between bands • 0:41:06 – Visiting Ground Zero and honoring Bronco • 0:44:46 – Serving as pallbearer for Irish patriot Kevin Barry in 2001 • 0:46:32 – Closing thoughts & upcoming reunions in Dublin Links Mentioned • Dublin Fire Brigade Pipe Band: https://www.facebook.com/DFBPipeBand/ • FDNY Emerald Society Pipes and Drums: https://www.fdnypipesanddrums.net/ • Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann: https://fleadhcheoil.ie/ • Malahide Castle & Gardens: https://www.malahidecastleandgardens.ie/ Connect with The Irish Snug Podcast: * Website: https://www.theirishsnugpodcast.com/ * YouTube:   https://www.youtube.com/@irishsnug * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php? * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/irish_snug #IrishSnug #DublinFireBrigade #FDNY #Bagpipes #IrishHeritage Send us Fan Mail Support the show

    Inside the Dublin Fire Brigade Pipe Band: Stories & History | Tom McLoughlin

  4. Jul 23

    Carne Golf Links: Where Irish Heritage Meets the Game of Golf | John Garrity

    Award-winning golf writer and longtime Sports Illustrated senior writer John Garrity joins The Irish Snug Podcast for a journey into Irish golf, family history and the wild Atlantic landscape of County Mayo. John’s acclaimed book, Ancestral Links: A Golf Obsession Spanning Generations, traces the game of golf through his family and across Ireland, Scotland and America. At the heart of the story is Belmullet—the remote Mayo town his great-grandfather left during the Famine—and the extraordinary Carne Golf Links, built among some of the most dramatic dunes in Ireland. John shares the emotional story of first arriving in Belmullet in 1989, meeting members of the Garrity family and standing near the place where his ancestor boarded a small boat to begin his journey to America. He explains how those discoveries inspired his return to Mayo, his Sports Illustrated feature and ultimately Ancestral Links. We also explore the oral histories of the Mullet Peninsula, Irish emigration to Wisconsin, changing family surnames, the importance of recording our elders’ stories and the remarkable community effort that created Carne Golf Links with little more than shovels, rakes and determination. For golfers, John offers an unforgettable tour of Carne: its towering dunes, Atlantic winds, original Eddie Hackett design, legendary 17th-hole challenge and the advice every visitor should hear before playing links golf in Ireland. EPISODE CHAPTERS • 00:00:00 – Introduction to John Garrity and Ancestral Links • 00:03:32 – Discovering his family connection to Belmullet • 00:05:05 – John’s first journey to Ireland in 1989 • 00:07:19 – Irish surnames, immigration and changing spellings • 00:12:10 – When Irish ancestry becomes a personal calling • 00:16:39 – Arriving in Belmullet and meeting the Garrity family • 00:18:30 – History and storytelling on the Mullet Peninsula • 00:20:00 – Standing where his great-grandfather left for America • 00:22:01 – Mayo emigrants and their journey to Wisconsin • 00:27:12 – Why preserving family stories matters • 00:31:12 – How Ancestral Links became a book • 00:32:15 – John’s golfing family and Sports Illustrated career • 00:34:13 – Belmullet’s transformation through the Celtic Tiger era • 00:37:20 – The majesty of Carne Golf Links and its towering dunes • 00:41:04 – Golf as a bridge between generations • 00:42:00 – Other great links courses in northwest Ireland • 00:43:29 – Irish banter and a memorable first tee at Carne • 00:48:34 – The right mindset for playing links golf • 00:52:07 – Five months living, researching and golfing in Mayo • 00:54:21 – The legendary 18-ball challenge on Carne’s 17th hole • 01:00:01 – The solitude and spirituality of evening golf • 01:00:59 – John’s favorite holes on the original Hackett course • 01:07:37 – Carne earns recognition among the world’s best courses • 01:09:46 – Belmullet pubs, music and the famous “Lobster Pot” • 01:13:03 – Céide Fields and the North Mayo cliffs • 01:16:03 – Blacksod Lighthouse, D-Day and the SOLAS Visitor Centre • 01:19:04 – International Members Week and Carne’s remarkable rise • 01:20:00 – How local farmers built a world-class golf course LINKS MENTIONED 📖 Ancestral Links by John Garrity: ⛳ Carne Golf Links: 🎥 Carne Golf Links hole-by-hole video playlist: 🏌🏻‍♂️First hole - Par 5 🏛️ SOLAS Visitor Centre: 🌊 Blacksod Lighthouse: About the Podcast: Hosted by a retired FDNY Captain, The Irish Snug Podcast features interviews with a wide range of guests—from pub owners and historians to musicians and local regulars. While it deeply honors Irish and Irish-American roots, the podcast is open to anyone with a compelling story tied to Irish culture, pub culture, folklore and history.  The episodes often blend personal anecdotes with cultural insights, capturing the "craic" and the timeless tradition of sharing a pint and a tale. #CarneGolfLinks #IrishGolf #CountyMayo #GolfIreland #irish Send us Fan Mail Support the show

    Carne Golf Links: Where Irish Heritage Meets the Game of Golf | John Garrity

  5. Jul 16

    The Fireside Chronicles | Tales from an Irish Hearth with Pat Greene: Chapter 1

    🪵 We are thrilled to premiere The Fireside Chronicles: Tales from an Irish Hearth. Over the coming months, we are charting a chronological journey through the life, lore, and memories of one of Brooklyn’s finest Irish storytellers, Pat Greene. In this debut chapter, Pat sits down by the fire with host Tim Grant to paint a beautiful picture of growing up in East Limerick, the magical power of the written letter, and how the simple traditions of rural Ireland shaped him into the storyteller he is today. Whether you're looking to reconnect with your Irish heritage, love traditional folklore, or just want to slow down with a cup of tea and a good story, this episode is for you. 🔔 Don't forget to subscribe to The Irish Snug Podcast for more chronicles, music, and stories! ⏱️ EPISODE TIMESTAMPS • 00:00:02 Introduction to the Fireside ChroniclesTim welcomes Brooklyn storyteller Pat Greene to the premiere of a brand-new chronological series exploring Irish life, memory, and lore. • 00:01:22 Childhood in East Limerick Pat describes growing up in Kilteely, East Limerick, surrounded by legendary storytellers, and shares a humorous tale about peeping through a staircase peephole to hear them. • 00:04:44 The Turning Point: "Crossing the Line" How an assignment from his schoolteacher, Mrs. Rice, unlocked Pat's natural storytelling gift on paper and moved his entire classroom to tears. • 00:10:42 Discovering the Joy of Reading A childhood sibling dispute leads Pat to discover Walter Mackin's classic book Quench the Moon, sparking a lifelong love for literature and rural Irish history. • 00:13:39 The Ireland's Own Connection & Transatlantic Pen Pals Tim and Pat reminisce about the famous pen pal section of Ireland's Own magazine. Tim shares a personal 1982 clipping submitted by his grandmother. • 00:17:05 The Art of the Handwritten Letter Pat reflects on writing massive, heartfelt letters to his first pen pal in Santa Barbara, California, and the vulnerability required to truly express oneself. • 00:23:26 A Box of WWII Letters & Irish Ancestry Tim shares a fascinating story from his days as a Bronx firefighter about uncovering a hidden box of World War II pen pal letters and returning them using Ancestry. • 00:27:03 The Apprentice Barman in Thurles Leaving school at 14, Pat lands an apprenticeship at a hotel in Thurles thanks to Father John Sweeney, bringing the local characters of Kili to a wider audience. • 00:31:00 How Fictional Characters Come Alive Pat explains his unique creative process—molding several real-life personalities from his youth into beloved, kind-hearted fictional characters. • 00:35:32 What is a Seanchaí ? A deep dive into the historical, wandering Irish storytellers who traveled from home to home, carrying the spirit of communities on their backs. • 00:40:09 The Poet in the Rain at Lough Gur Pat recounts a mesmerizing night near Lough Gur observing a mysterious poet recite a 30-verse poem in the pouring rain, cementing his philosophy on emotional writing. • 00:43:46 Poetry, vulnerability, and Jerry Divine A nod to powerful Irish poets, including friend Ger Divine (author of The Hurly Maker), and why artists must let go of control to create true connection. • 00:46:03 Emigration Advice: Keep Your Accent, Slow Down Pat shares his wisdom for young Irish emigrants traveling abroad, reflecting on his own transitions to London and New York. • 00:49:58 The Rhythm of the Accordion & Plucking Geese Pat fondly remembers hearing his father and Uncle Frank play the button accordion, and the social importance of visiting lonely farms as a youth. • 00:54:00 Winning the "Billion Dollar" Green Card Pat previews his next chapter, detailing his journey to London, emigrating to America, and literally kissing the ground after winning the Morrison Visa. 🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED • Explore Irish Family History: http://Ancestry.com • Discover Traditional Irish Stories: https://www.irelandsown.ie/ Connect with The Irish Snug Podcast: Website: https://www.theirishsnugpodcast.com/ YouTube:      / @irishsnug   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1V1xWuV... Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... Instagram:   / irish_snug   #FiresideChronicles #IrishStorytelling #IrishHistory #Limerick #BrooklynIrish Send us Fan Mail Support the show

    The Fireside Chronicles | Tales from an Irish Hearth with Pat Greene: Chapter 1

  6. Jul 2

    A Legendary Son of the New York Irish Diaspora | Robert John Burke

    In this episode, we sit down with native New Yorker, seasoned Hollywood actor, and dedicated volunteer firefighter Robert John Burke. As a proud first-generation son of County Galway immigrants, Robert beautifully bridges the grit of New York City with deep Irish ancestral roots. Pull up a stool as we dive into his upbringing in Washington Heights, the rhythms of the Irish-American diaspora, and unforgettable behind-the-scenes stories from film sets like Copland and working alongside Tom Cruise and Sylvester Stallone. We also discuss his deep bond with legendary FDNY figures like Father Mychal Judge and Captain Patrick Brown, and his ongoing work to support the firefighting community. 📌 Episode Breakdown & Timestamps 0:00:07 – Welcome to the Snug: Introduction to Robert John Burke. 0:01:27 – Growing up in Washington Heights and moving to East Northport, Long Island. 0:03:38 – The immigrant experience: Balancing a love for Ireland with making a go in America. 0:04:58 – Robert’s first trip back to Ireland in 1979 and discovering author Niall Williams. 0:06:22 – Traditional Irish music, tin whistles, and the global appeal of Irish Trad. 0:11:47 – Family farms in County Galway, traveling to Lacray, and winter turf fires. 0:16:43 – Family legacy: Growing up with a twin brother and three remarkable nurse sisters. 0:18:47 – The calling to serve: Firefighters, police officers, and Irish-American civil service. 0:21:12 – The volatile history of Irish assimilation in New York City. 0:26:22 – Crucial life lessons: Why we learn more from losing than winning. 0:29:14 – How Irish sensibilities, rhythms, and the oral tradition shape an actor’s approach to a scene. 0:33:55 – Working with Tom Cruise on a massive upcoming film and the post-9/11 detox initiative. 0:36:52 – Upcoming projects (Digger, Subversion, and returning to HBO's The Last of Us). 0:37:42 – Behind-the-scenes of Copland: Stallone, De Niro, Ray Liotta, and a carnival hammer challenge. 0:43:01 – The true art of a pub "session": Conversation, balance, and storytelling. 0:47:32 – Breaking down the stereotypes surrounding Irish culture. 0:50:27 – Taking a DNA ancestry test and tracking Norman roots. 0:52:57 – Meeting Captain Patrick "Patty" Brown and moving to Ocean Beach. 0:55:17 – Honoring FDNY heroes: The Drennan family and the iconic legacy of Father Mychal Judge. 1:02:26 – An Irish engagement at the Cliffs of Moher and the history of "Honeymoon" Mead. 1:04:36 – Committing to 24 years of fire service in honor of Captain Patrick Brown. 1:06:24 – The incredible impact of the Leary Firefighters Foundation and the Joey DiBernardo Foundation. 1:11:18 – The ultimate Irish Snug question: Imagining the perfect pub gathering with old country memories. 🔗 Support the Foundations Mentioned in This Episode Robert talks extensively about the critical need for material equipment and advanced training for firefighters. Please consider visiting and donating to these incredible causes: The Leary Firefighters Foundation: http://learyfirefighters.org The Lieutenant Joseph P. DiBernardo Memorial Foundation: http://joeydfoundation.org Follow The Irish Snug Podcast: Website: https://www.theirishsnugpodcast.com/YouTube:      / @irishsnug  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1V1xWuV...Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...Instagram:   / irish_snug  Send us Fan Mail Support the show

    A Legendary Son of the New York Irish Diaspora | Robert John Burke

  7. Jun 1

    Highland Games, Irish Wrestling & Celtic Pride: The No Fame Games | Josh Mackintosh

    What happens when you mix traditional Scottish heavy events, ancient Irish wrestling styles, stone lifting, a traveling Irish pub, and a deep respect for the elders who kept Celtic traditions alive? You get the No Fame Games. In this episode of The Irish Snug Podcast, Tim sits down with Josh MacKintosh, founder of the No Fame Games, to talk about the upcoming Celtic Strength World Championships, the revival of ancient strength traditions, and the deeper meaning behind Celtic culture, heritage, camaraderie, and community. Josh shares how the No Fame Games began in a Massachusetts backyard during the pandemic and grew into an international Celtic strength event featuring athletes from around the world. The conversation covers Highland Games heavy events, stone lifting, Irish collar-and-elbow wrestling, Scottish backhold wrestling, shillelagh traditions, Irish martial arts, the role of Guinness and The Black Harp traveling Irish pub, and the importance of preserving cultural traditions in an authentic way. ⏱️ CHAPTERS 0:00:02 Welcome to The Irish Snug Podcast 0:01:26 Josh’s family background, Scottish ancestry, and New England roots 0:04:02 How the pandemic led to the first No Fame Games 0:05:22 From a backyard gathering to 140 athletes and a world championship 0:06:48 David Conn, backyard stone lifting, and the revival of Irish lifting stones 0:08:47 Breaking down the events: Four championships across Irish and Scottish traditions 0:09:04 Scottish Highland Games (stone put, Braemar stone, weights for distance) 0:14:19 Caber toss and the famous “telephone pole” event 0:20:50 Celtic wrestling and the historic return of Scottish backhold 0:22:20 Irish collar-and-elbow wrestling and its forgotten history in America 0:24:36 Stone lifting and team-based strength events (truck pull, deadlift, stone over bar) 0:30:06 Stone lifting stations and working with Martin Jancsics and David Conn 0:31:02 Bringing David Conn’s Copper Coast lifting stone to Boston 0:35:48 How Josh’s Ireland trip deepened the mission of seeking authenticity 0:36:43 Cultural panel discussion: What is Celtic strength? 0:39:55 Shillelaghs and the ancient Irish art of stick fighting 0:44:36 Stone of the Fianna, Martin Jancsics, and Rogue’s Stoneland documentary 0:45:14 Dúchas archives and the rediscovery of Irish lifting stones 0:47:22 Guinness sponsorship, B.T.’s Smokehouse, and The Black Harp traveling Irish pub 0:50:07 Jerry Divine’s poem “Mac Tíre” and the emotional impact on Josh 1:00:33 Boston Scally caps and hands-on strength education 1:05:08 Final question: Which historical Celtic figure would Josh share a pint with? 🔗 LINKS & WEBSITES MENTIONED No Fame Games: https://www.nofamegames.com/ The Black Harp Traveling Irish Pub: https://theblackharp.com/ B.T.’s Smokehouse: https://www.btsmokehouse.com/ Boston Scally: https://www.bostonscally.com/ Irish Collar & Elbow Wrestling Federation: https://www.collarandelbow.ie/ Rogue Fitness — Stoneland documentary: https://www.roguefitness.com/theindex... Dúchas — National Folklore Collection: https://www.duchas.ie/ Guinness: https://www.guinness.com/ Follow The Irish Snug Podcast: Website: https://www.theirishsnugpodcast.com/ YouTube:   https://www.youtube.com/@irishsnug Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1V1xWuVTsJ13NpbcRIQrHW Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-irish-snug-podcast/id1842749209 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php? Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/irish_snug #NoFameGames #CelticStrength #IrishCulture #HighlandGames #TheBlackHarp Send us Fan Mail Support the show

    Highland Games, Irish Wrestling & Celtic Pride: The No Fame Games | Josh Mackintosh

  8. May 23

    The Shillelagh: Reviving Ireland’s Indigenous Martial Arts | Nathan Featherstone

    In today’s episode, Nathan Featherstone joins us from Dublin - an elite martial artist, historian, and leader of the global renaissance of the indigenous Irish art of stick fighting. Many of us grew up with a shillelagh in our homes, viewing it simply as a traditional walking stick or an Irish souvenir. But as Nathan explains, its history is far deeper, more complicated, and entirely fascinating. Driven underground by the 17th-century Penal Laws—which effectively outlawed "being Irish" and banned the ownership of conventional weapons—the shillelagh became a vital tool for self-defense, recreation, and massive "faction fights" at local cattle markets. Nathan breaks down the physics of the weapon, the two surviving traditional styles (Doyle and Antrim), the role women played in these historical brawls, and how he is working to keep these martial arts alive today through sparring and international workshops. We also discuss his work revitalizing traditional Irish Collar and Elbow wrestling and what to expect at the upcoming Neo-Trad Games near Boston! ⏱️ Episode Timestamps [00:00:02] - Welcome to The Irish Snug & Guest Introduction [00:01:01] - Host Tim shares his personal family shillelagh story [00:02:19] - The Penal Laws: How the shillelagh became Ireland's hidden weapon [00:03:51] - Stick fighting as recreation and letting off steam [00:05:06] - Fair days and faction fights: 5,000-person brawls [00:06:00] - Land clearances, city guilds (Butchers vs. Weavers), and sectarian feuds [00:07:36] - Peak popularity and how the Great Famine nearly drove the art extinct [00:08:00] - The social pushback: The GAA and the "saints and scholars" image [00:09:22] - Tracking folklore through the Dúchas archive [00:10:46] - Wood types: From outlawed Irish oak to traditional blackthorn [00:11:21] - The history of "souvenir" shillelaghs and 1960s American tourism [00:13:35] - The 7 specific types of Irish sticks [00:14:32] - Preserving traditional Irish Collar and Elbow wrestling [00:15:33] - The loss of young Irish men across generations of global wars [00:16:39] - Thanking the Irish diaspora for keeping traditions alive [00:17:18] - Nathan's martial arts background: MMA, Judo, and starting Ireland's first Sumo school [00:19:50] - The Rambling Kern: Deconstructing post-colonial stereotypes of Irish history [00:23:09] - Doyle vs. Antrim: Understanding the two surviving styles of Irish stick fighting [00:24:39] - The unique mechanics of the shillelagh grip and the "flick" action [00:25:56] - The historical rules: Women with rock-filled aprons and ground-fighting bans [00:26:55] - Evaluating historical artwork vs. modern living lineages [00:31:06] - The rhythm and combat acoustics of stick combinations [00:33:18] - How to train safely: Padded sticks, fencing masks, and tire drills [00:35:29] - Self-defense practicality vs. the dangers of turning it into a sport [00:37:59] - Nathan's global training tours and his goals for students in Ireland [00:40:31] - Embracing a modern Irish identity free from historical shackles [00:41:25] - Dismantling anti-Irish drinking stereotypes [00:43:42] - Thoughts on bringing Irish stick fighting to the Joe Rogan Experience [00:44:33] - The New England Celtic Games & the upcoming Northeastern Wrestling Championship 🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode Nathan’s Platform: Check out historical videos and martial arts demonstrations on Nathan's page, The Rambling Kern. YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ramblingkern Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theramblingkern/ Folklore Archive: Explore the Irish history and folklore archive mentioned by Nathan at http://Dúchas.ie. Upcoming Events: Get tickets and information for the No Fame Games (expanding from the Highland Games) in Milford, Massachusetts, taking place this June 13th. http://nofamegames.com If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the SUBSCRIBE button and the bell icon so you never miss a story from the Snug. Sláinte! Follow The Irish Snug Podcast: Website: https://www.theirishsnugpodcast.com/ YouTube:   https://www.youtube.com/@irishsnug Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1V1xWuVTsJ13NpbcRIQrHW Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-irish-snug-podcast/id1842749209 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php? Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/irish_snug #IrishStickFighting #Shillelagh #IrishCulture #MartialArts #TheRamblingKern Send us Fan Mail Support the show

    The Shillelagh: Reviving Ireland’s Indigenous Martial Arts | Nathan Featherstone
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About

Pull up a stool and settle in. The Irish Snug Podcast is your dedicated corner for the stories, history, and characters that make Irish pub culture legendary. From the storied wood of Manhattan’s iconic bars to the hidden gems of the Irish countryside, we sit down with the people who keep the tradition alive. Whether it’s a deep dive into family legacies or a chat with a local regular, we’re capturing the spirit of Ireland, one pint and one story at a time. (Formerly the Pubs & Pints Podcast). Rooted in the Irish tradition of great storytelling, each episode invites listeners to pull up a stool and enjoy tales that range from laugh-out- loud funny to deeply moving.

Information

  • Creator
    Tim Grant
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    32
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Irish Snug Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Irish Snug Podcast

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