Craic on the Coast: An AOH Podcast

Ancient Order of Hibernians
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Craic on the Coast connects Ireland and Irish America through conversations with musicians, historians, athletes, cultural leaders, and storytellers shaping Irish identity today. From heritage and history to modern Ireland, community, and the arts, we blend thoughtful insight with lively craic and a passion for preserving and celebrating our shared story. Whether you’re rooted in Ireland or part of the global Irish diaspora, join us for conversations that inspire connection, pride, and curiosity. New episodes, every week — pull up a chair and join the craic!

  1. Jun 19

    Episode 34: The Catalpa Rescue: The Greatest Prison Escape in Irish History | Marcus Howard

    Welcome back to another episode of Craic on the Coast!In Episode 34, Michael Schilling and Greg Shanahan sit down with independent historian and filmmaker Marcus Howard to discuss one of the most extraordinary stories in Irish and Irish-American history—the Catalpa Rescue.Marcus recently released his groundbreaking documentary, The Catalpa Rescue: The Greatest Prison Escape in Irish History, which tells the remarkable story of six Fenian prisoners rescued from Fremantle Prison in Western Australia through an international operation organized by Irish-Americans and led by the whaling ship Catalpa.The conversation explores:☘️ The Fenian movement☘️ John Boyle O'Reilly's incredible escape from Australia☘️ The planning and execution of the Catalpa Rescue☘️ Captain George Anthony and the role of New Bedford☘️ Irish-American support for Irish freedom☘️ How Marcus used AI to help bring history to life☘️ Why this story deserves a major motion pictureWe also discuss the legacy of John Boyle O'Reilly, one of the most influential Irish-American voices of the nineteenth century, whose connections to Massachusetts remain strong today.If you enjoy Irish history, Irish-American heritage, revolutionary stories, and untold historical adventures, this is an episode you won't want to miss.To watch Marcus Howard's content and his documentary:▶️ YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@easterrisingstories9729📩 Have a story to tell or a topic you want us to cover?📧 Email:[craiconthecoast@gmail.com](mailto:craiconthecoast@gmail.com)📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/craiconthecoast▶️ YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@CraicontheCoast🎧 Enjoyed the episode?Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who loves Irish history, culture, sports, or heritage storytelling.Craic on the Coast is a podcast dedicated to exploring Irish history, culture, music, community, and the stories that connect Ireland and Irish America — with a special focus on the South Shore of Massachusetts and the wider Irish diaspora.Hosted by Michael Schilling, Greg Shanahan, and Shaun Morgan, Craic on the Coast features conversations with historians, musicians, authors, community leaders, athletes, and cultural figures who bring Ireland's past and present to life. Each episode blends thoughtful discussion, accessible storytelling, and good craic, making history and heritage engaging for both casual listeners and lifelong enthusiasts.Whether we're unpacking pivotal moments in Irish history, highlighting modern cultural connections, preserving local stories, or spotlighting community-driven initiatives, Craic on the Coast is about connection, curiosity, and keeping Irish stories alive.#IrishHistory #CatalpaRescue #JohnBoyleOReilly #IrishAmericanHistory #Fenians #Australia #NewBedford #BostonIrish #AOH #CraicOnTheCoast

  2. Jun 7

    Celtic Strength is Back | Josh Mackintosh & The No Fame Games

    Welcome back to another episode of Craic on the Coast! In Episode 33, Michael Schilling and Greg Shanahan debut the show's expanded format featuring Hibernian Headlines, Talk of the Trail, and The Afters before sitting down with Josh Mackintosh, founder of the No Fame Games and organizer of the inaugural Celtic Strength World Championships coming to Milford, Massachusetts on June 13. The episode begins with discussions on major developments in Irish and Irish-American affairs, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's formal apology following the Springhill-Westrock Massacre Inquiry, upcoming events hosted by the Father John Murphy Division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, and the announcement of this year's Dr. Bill & Rita O'Connell AOH Scholarship recipient. We also take a deep dive into exciting developments surrounding the South Shore Irish Heritage Trail, including the Government of Ireland's International Famine Commemoration held in Cohasset and the designation of the Brig St. John Memorial as part of the Global Irish Famine Way. Then we welcome Josh Mackintosh to the show for a fascinating conversation about Celtic strength sports, stone lifting, Irish Collar & Elbow Wrestling, Scottish Backhold Wrestling, Highland Games traditions, and the vision behind the No Fame Games. Josh shares how the event has evolved into an international celebration of Celtic culture and athleticism and what visitors can expect from the Celtic Strength World Championships. Check out this event:https://www.nofamegames.com/ Use discount code:CRAICONTHECOASTfor 20% off admission. The episode also covers: ☘️ Hibernian Headlines☘️ Springhill-Westrock Massacre Inquiry☘️ Father John Murphy Division Open House☘️ Craic on the Canal Cruise☘️ Dr. Bill & Rita O'Connell Scholarship☘️ International Famine Commemoration☘️ Global Irish Famine Way☘️ South Shore Irish Heritage Trail☘️ Celtic Strength World Championships☘️ The No Fame Games If you love Irish history, Irish culture, Celtic traditions, heritage preservation, athletics, storytelling, or community — this episode is for you. 🔗 Connect with No Fame Games 🌐 Official Website:https://www.nofamegames.com/ Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nofamegames/ 📩 Have a story to tell or a topic you want us to cover? 📧 Email:craiconthecoast@gmail.com 📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/craiconthecoast ▶️ YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@craiconthecoast 🎧 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who loves Irish history, culture, sports, or heritage storytelling. Craic on the Coast is a podcast dedicated to exploring Irish history, culture, music, community, and the stories that connect Ireland and Irish America — with a special focus on the South Shore of Massachusetts and the wider Irish diaspora. Hosted by Michael Schilling, Greg Shanahan, and Shaun Morgan, Craic on the Coast features conversations with historians, musicians, authors, community leaders, athletes, and cultural figures who bring Ireland's past and present to life. Each episode blends thoughtful discussion, accessible storytelling, and good craic, making history and heritage engaging for both casual listeners and lifelong enthusiasts. Whether we're unpacking pivotal moments in Irish history, highlighting modern cultural connections, preserving local stories, or spotlighting community-driven initiatives, Craic on the Coast is about connection, curiosity, and keeping Irish stories alive. #CraicOnTheCoast #NoFameGames #JoshMackintosh #CelticStrength #CelticStrengthWorldChampionships #IrishCulture #IrishHistory #AncientOrderOfHibernians #SouthShoreIrishHeritageTrail #GlobalIrishFamineWay #StoneLifting #HighlandGames #IrishWrestling #IrishAmerican #MassachusettsIrish

  3. May 28

    From Lord of the Dance to the ICC | Declan Crowley Interview

    Welcome back to another episode of Craic on the Coast! In Episode 32, Michael Schilling and Greg Shanahan sit down with Declan Crowley — former Lord of the Dance principal performer and current Cultural Programmer for the Irish Cultural Centre of Greater Boston. Declan shares his incredible journey from competitive Irish dance champion in upstate New York to performing internationally with Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance and Feet of Flames. The conversation explores the global growth of Irish dance, touring life, Irish identity abroad, and the future of Irish cultural preservation in America. The episode also dives deep into everything happening at the ICC:☘️ Irish music sessions☘️ GAA & rugby☘️ Dance & language classes☘️ Upcoming concerts and events☘️ The Heritage Pub reopening☘️ Why the ICC remains one of the most important Irish cultural institutions in the United States If you love Irish culture, music, dance, history, storytelling, or community — this episode is for you. Irish Cultural Centre of Greater BostonHome | Irish Cultural Centre Greater Boston About Craic on the Coast: 📩 Have a story to tell or a topic you want us to cover? 📧 Email:📩 craiconthecoast@gmail.com (Story ideas, guest pitches, topics you want covered) 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craiconthecoast (Clips, episodes, behind-the-scenes, events) 🎧 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who loves Irish history, culture, or heritage storytelling. Craic on the Coast is a podcast dedicated to exploring Irish history, culture, music, community, and the stories that connect Ireland and Irish America — with a special focus on the South Shore of Massachusetts and the wider Irish diaspora. Hosted by Michael Schilling, Greg Shanahan, and Shaun Morgan, Craic on the Coast features conversations with historians, musicians, authors, community leaders, and cultural figures who bring Ireland’s past and present to life. Each episode blends thoughtful discussion, accessible storytelling, and good craic, making history and heritage engaging for both casual listeners and lifelong enthusiasts. Whether we’re unpacking pivotal moments in Irish history, highlighting modern cultural connections, or spotlighting community-driven initiatives, Craic on the Coast is about connection, curiosity, and keeping Irish stories alive. #CraicOnTheCoast #IrishCulture #LordOfTheDance #IrishDance #ICC #BostonIrish #GAA #Riverdance #IrishMusic #IrishAmerican

  4. May 21

    Inside the Rose of Tralee 🌹 | Boston Rose Maeve Kelly & Roses from Around the World

    Welcome back to Craic on the Coast! 🇮🇪 🌊 In Episode 31, we sit down with Maeve Kelly, the Boston Rose, alongside four incredible Roses representing communities from around the world. Together, we dive into what it truly means to be part of the Rose of Tralee—from the pride of representing your community to the friendships, stories, and unforgettable moments that come with it. This episode is a celebration of Irish culture, global connection, and the modern meaning of identity through the Rose experience. 🌹 In this episode: What it takes to become a Rose Representing Boston and the global Irish diaspora Behind-the-scenes of the Rose of Tralee journey Personal stories from Roses across the world Why this tradition still matters today About Craic on the Coast 📩 Have a story to tell or a topic you want us to cover? 📧 Email:📩 craiconthecoast@gmail.com (Story ideas, guest pitches, topics you want covered) 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craiconthecoast (Clips, episodes, behind-the-scenes, events) 🎧 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who loves Irish history, culture, or heritage storytelling. Craic on the Coast is a podcast dedicated to exploring Irish history, culture, music, community, and the stories that connect Ireland and Irish America — with a special focus on the South Shore of Massachusetts and the wider Irish diaspora. Hosted by Michael Schilling, Greg Shanahan, and Shaun Morgan, Craic on the Coast features conversations with historians, musicians, authors, community leaders, and cultural figures who bring Ireland’s past and present to life. Each episode blends thoughtful discussion, accessible storytelling, and good craic, making history and heritage engaging for both casual listeners and lifelong enthusiasts. Whether we’re unpacking pivotal moments in Irish history, highlighting modern cultural connections, or spotlighting community-driven initiatives, Craic on the Coast is about connection, curiosity, and keeping Irish stories alive. #irishhistory #IrishIndependence #EasterRising #AmericanRevolution #IrishCulture #HistoryPodcast #IrishAmerican #CraicOnTheCoast

  5. Mar 26

    Why the Irish Language Is Making a Comeback (And Why It Matters)

    Is the Irish language (Gaeilge) making a comeback? 🇮🇪 In this episode of Craic on the Coast, we sit down with Mollie Guidera (Irish with Molly) to explore the growing global movement to revive and reconnect with the Irish language.Check out this video - ⁠https://youtu.be/gmGFA6r0sOY?si=qkQILWgGlEt2q1ix ⁠From Ireland to the United States and across the diaspora, more people than ever are rediscovering Gaeilge—not just as a language, but as a deeper connection to identity, culture, and heritage.We dive into: Why Irish (Gaeilge) is experiencing a cultural resurgenceThe emotional and cultural power of the language Why traditional teaching methods failed—and what works now How YOU can start learning Irish today The role of Irish Americans in keeping the language alive This conversation is part history, part culture, and part call to action. 🍀 Whether you're Irish, Irish-American, or just curious—this episode will change how you think about language and identity. 🎶 NEW SEGMENT: South Shore SessionsStick around until the end of the episode for our latest South Shore Sessions—highlighting the music, venues, and people keeping Irish tradition alive right here on the South Shore. 🔗 Connect with Molly Guidera https://www.irishwithmollie.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/irishwithmollie/ — Irish language content, behind-the-scenes, lesson updates 🇮🇪 ▶️ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@irishwithmollie — Irish language videos and storytelling 🇮🇪📩 Have a story to tell or a topic you want us to cover?📧 Email:📩 craiconthecoast@gmail.com(Story ideas, guest pitches, topics you want covered) Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/craiconthecoast(Clips, episodes, behind-the-scenes, events) ▶️YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@CraicontheCoast(Full video podcast episodes & bonus content)🎧 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who loves Irish history, culture, or heritage storytelling. Craic on the Coast is a podcast dedicated to exploring Irish history, culture, music, community, and the stories that connect Ireland and Irish America — with a special focus on the South Shore of Massachusetts and the wider Irish diaspora. Hosted by Michael Schilling, Greg Shanahan, and Shaun Morgan, Craic on the Coast features conversations with historians, musicians, authors, community leaders, and cultural figures who bring Ireland’s past and present to life. Each episode blends thoughtful discussion, accessible storytelling, and good craic, making history and heritage engaging for both casual listeners and lifelong enthusiasts. Whether we’re unpacking pivotal moments in Irish history, highlighting modern cultural connections, or spotlighting community-driven initiatives, Craic on the Coast is about connection, curiosity, and keeping Irish stories alive. #IrishLanguage #Gaeilge #LearnIrish #IrishCulture #IrishHeritage #LanguageRevival #IrishDiaspora #CelticCulture #CraicOnTheCoast #IrishAmerican #BostonIrish #SouthShoreMA

  6. Jan 23

    Episode 29: Irish History Comes Alive Davy Holden on Ireland Tours, Revolution & Easter Rising

    Irish history, revolution, and the stories that connect Ireland and Irish America take center stage in this episode of Craic on the Coast as we welcome back historian and storyteller Davy Holden. You will not believe some of the stories he shares with us. Check out this video - ⁠https://youtu.be/gmGFA6r0sOY?si=qkQILWgGlEt2q1ix⁠ In Episode 29, we explore Irish history through a revolutionary lens, including how the American Revolution inspired Ireland’s own fight for independence, the roots of Irish republican thought, and why these stories still matter today. Davy also shares details about his first guided Irish history tour, designed to bring people to the real places where Ireland’s past was shaped. We also discuss our spring collaboration with Davy, including a Plymouth, Massachusetts workshop rooted in revolutionary history and his role as keynote speaker at our Annual Easter Rising Commemoration in Scituate, MA. This episode blends serious history, accessible storytelling, and good craic, making it perfect for history lovers, Irish culture enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the deep connections between America and Ireland. 🔗 Connect with Davy Holden 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davy_holden/ — Irish history content, behind-the-scenes, tour updates 🇮🇪 ▶️ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@davyholden — Irish history videos and storytelling 🇮🇪 📩 Have a story to tell or a topic you want us to cover? 📧 Email:📩 craiconthecoast@gmail.com(Story ideas, guest pitches, topics you want covered) 📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/craiconthecoast(Clips, episodes, behind-the-scenes, events) ▶️ YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@craiconthecoast(Full video podcast episodes & bonus content) 🎧 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/1Lj0N7qJCQUz2hvCXtxb90(Subscribe & listen to all episodes) 🎧 Enjoyed the episode?Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who loves Irish history, culture, or heritage storytelling. Craic on the Coast is a podcast dedicated to exploring Irish history, culture, music, community, and the stories that connect Ireland and Irish America — with a special focus on the South Shore of Massachusetts and the wider Irish diaspora. Hosted by Michael Schilling, Greg Shanahan, and Shaun Morgan, Craic on the Coast features conversations with historians, musicians, authors, community leaders, and cultural figures who bring Ireland’s past and present to life. Each episode blends thoughtful discussion, accessible storytelling, and good craic, making history and heritage engaging for both casual listeners and lifelong enthusiasts. Whether we’re unpacking pivotal moments in Irish history, highlighting modern cultural connections, or spotlighting community-driven initiatives, Craic on the Coast is about connection, curiosity, and keeping Irish stories alive. #IrishHistory #IrishIndependence #EasterRising #AmericanRevolution #IrishCulture #HistoryPodcast #IrishAmerican #CraicOnTheCoast

  7. Jan 8

    Episode 28: Feeding the Future: The Hibernian Hunger Project

    Summary: In Episode 28 of Craic on the Coast, hosts Michael Schilling and Greg Shanahan sit down with William “Bill” Sullivan, National Chair of the Hibernian Hunger Committee for the Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH). Bill shares the origins of the Hibernian Hunger Project, a national initiative rooted in both compassion and Irish historical memory. The conversation explores: How the Hunger Project was founded and its mission at the national level. Why hunger relief resonates deeply within Irish and Irish-American communities. How local AOH divisions — including the Father John Murphy Division in Plymouth — put the national vision into action with community food drives, pantry partnerships, and volunteer service. Stories of impact from around the country and the ongoing work to educate and serve. This episode blends history and heart — showing how remembrance of Ireland’s past fuels meaningful action today. 📌 Show Notes & Links✝️ Ancient Order of Hibernians — Official Resources Hibernian Hunger Project (official AOH page):https://aoh.com/hibernian-hunger-project/ Bill Sullivan — National Chair, Hibernian Hunger Committee:https://aoh.com/nationalofficers/bill-sullivan/ Podcast (Apple Podcasts): Craic on the Coast — An AOH Podcast Apple Podcasts Podcast (Spotify & other platforms): https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/craiconthecoast Spotify for Creators Instagram — Craic on the Coast: https://www.instagram.com/craiconthecoast/ Email: craiconthecoast@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aohplymouth/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PlymouthAOH/ 📺 Listen & Follow Craic on the Coast☘️ Father John Murphy Division — AOH Plymouth Hibernian Hunger Project Ancient Order of Hibernians AOH charity work Irish American community service Food insecurity Food pantry donations Hunger relief programs Great Hunger history Irish diaspora Plymouth Massachusetts podcast South Shore Massachusetts Irish history podcast Irish culture podcast Volunteer community outreach Nonprofit service organizations

  8. 12/23/2025

    Episode 27: Songs, Stories, and a Life Well Played — Eddie Dillon on Music, Memory, and the Road

    In this extended episode of Craic on the Coast, hosts Michael Schilling and Greg Shanahan welcome Irish-American singer-songwriter and master storyteller Eddie Dillon for a wide-ranging conversation that spans a lifetime in music. From his earliest experiences discovering music through family and community, to stepping onto stages as a teenager, Eddie shares how Irish traditional music became a guiding force in his life. He reflects on touring and performing with legendary Irish musicians, including time spent on the road with the Clancy Brothers, and the lessons learned from decades of performing, writing, and living the life of a working musician. With hundreds of original songs to his name, Eddie opens up about his songwriting process, the stories behind his music, and the importance of authenticity, storytelling, and staying true to your voice. Along the way, he shares memorable road stories, thoughtful reflections on legacy, and advice for the next generation of musicians. This is a warm, thoughtful, and often humorous conversation about Irish-American music, tradition, creativity, and a life shaped by song. 📓 Show Notes 🔗 Learn more about Eddie Dillon:👉 Official Website: https://eddiedillon.com 🎧 Listen to Eddie Dillon’s music:👉 Streaming & albums: https://eddiedillon.com/music 📬 Stay connected with Eddie:👉 Join his mailing list: https://eddiedillon.com/mail-list 📱 Follow Craic on the Coast:Instagram | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube

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Craic on the Coast connects Ireland and Irish America through conversations with musicians, historians, athletes, cultural leaders, and storytellers shaping Irish identity today. From heritage and history to modern Ireland, community, and the arts, we blend thoughtful insight with lively craic and a passion for preserving and celebrating our shared story. Whether you’re rooted in Ireland or part of the global Irish diaspora, join us for conversations that inspire connection, pride, and curiosity. New episodes, every week — pull up a chair and join the craic!

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