Aran Island Discs ☘️

Rossa McDermott

Aran Island Discs is an intimate, Irish-hearted interview series in which guests explore the soundtrack of their lives. Inspired by the timeless tradition of storytelling and the wild spirit of the Aran Islands, each episode blends conversation, memory, and music into a vivid portrait of the person behind the public image. Across candid, often deeply personal interviews, recall songs that shaped them — the tunes that carried them through childhood, challenge, triumph, heartbreak, and homecoming. These musical choices become gateways to unexpected stories: the mentor who changed everything, the night everything nearly fell apart, the place they return to in their mind when the world gets loud. Recorded with warmth, humour, and unmistakable Irish authenticity, Aran Island Discs celebrates culture, creativity, and the emotional power of music. Whether the guest is a celebrated artist, an athlete, a thinker, or a local legend, every episode offers a fresh perspective on the people who shape Irish life today. Settle in. Take the ferry. Discover the stories that live between the notes. The podcast presenter is Rossa McDermott, and the series is recorded at Dublin South Podcast Studios in Dundrum. The concept is devised by Dos Amigos, and edited by Peter Rice #aranislanddiscs #podcast #podcastseries #nusic #rossamcdermott #acast #spotify #applemusic #ireland #inismor #inismeain #inismaan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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  1. Episode 12

    Kevin Kilbane

    Kilbane began his career with Preston North End and played a role in getting them out of the fourth tier in 1996. After an additional season with his home-town club in the third tier, he was picked up by second tier West Bromwich Albion for a then club record fee of £1 million in 1997. He’d be with the Baggies for the next two-and-a-half seasons, clearly impressing once more as Premier League Sunderland forked out £2.5 million for his signature in December 1999. That made him our third most expensive signing ever at the time and he made an immediate impact, putting in a cross for Kevin Phillips’ second goal in a 2-0 home win against Southampton on his debut. However, that was to be the brightest moment for SAFC until we finally won another game in March of 2000, beating Everton. That poor run of form was nicknamed the Curse of Kilbane. In February of that year he did assist a late equaliser against Newcastle United though, as we drew 2-2 from 2-0 down. Kilbane’s first goal for the club came in April, scoring with less than ten minutes to go to ensure we beat Wimbledon 2-1. The following season, he netted in wins against Derby County, Southampton and Charlton Athletic as we completed back-to-back seventh place finishes in the top flight. However, as form declined in the 2001/02 season and Sunderland collapsed to finish 17th, Kilbane’s form also declined and his relationship with the fans suffered as a result. In pre-season 2002 in France, he infamously gave the Sunderland following a two-fingered salute. This wasn’t the end of his time on Wearside however. He played another 34 times during our relegation season of 2002/03. His final goal for the Lads came in January 2003, scoring in a 2-1 defeat to Everton. After a handful of additional appearances in the First Division for us, he moved upwards back to the top league with the blue half of Merseyside for just under £1 million in summer 2003 and was reunited with his boss at Preston and future Sunderland manager, David Moyes. Highly versatile at Everton, he was popular and made over 100 appearances during his three-year stint. In August 2006 he transferred to Wigan Athletic, also in the Premier League at the time, and he fared well there too. He ended his over two-and-a-half year goal drought at a club level in April 2007 and was named their Player of the Season in the 2007/08 campaign. In January 2009 he moved to Hull City for £500,000, spending his first season-and-a-half in the Premier League prior to their relegation in 2010. His last two seasons on Humberside were mostly spent out on loan, firstly with League One Huddersfield Town and then Championship Derby. Kilbane’s final club was Coventry City in the third tier, moving there in July 2012. Despite being named as their captain, he retired just under halfway into the season. Internationally, he earned 110 caps for the Republic of Ireland (both his parents are Irish) and scored eight times and was named the Senior FAI Player of the Year in 2004. He’s done quite a bit since hanging up his boots, working as a pundit and commentator for both club and international football, including for major international tournaments such as the World Cup and European Championship. Kilbane also appeared on Dancing on Ice and moved to Canada, plus he’s a patron of the Down’s Syndrome Association. In 2014, he donned a Sunderland shirt once more, playing in Jody Craddock's testimonial match. Aran Island Discs is an Irish themed podcast hosted by Rossa McDermott Each episode features a guest who is invited to imagine themselves on the Aran Islands—a symbolic place evoking rugged beauty and Irish cultural heritage—and explore the soundtrack of their life. Guests choose songs that have shaped their personal journeys, sparking conversations about key moments, memories, and influences in their life. The series Support the show

    Kevin Kilbane

  2. Episode 13

    Flo McSweeney

    Flo Mc Sweeney has enjoyed a career in the entertainment business in Ireland and abroad for over 40 years as a singer, TV presenter and actress. Flo has toured extensively over the years with ‘Moving Hearts’, ’The Commitments’ and Manchester band ‘A Certain Ratio’, with whom she recorded an album for Arista Records. In 2019 Flo released her debut solo album ‘Picture in A Frame’ Highlights as a vocalist include playing to over 30,000 people at the ‘The Festival of Song’ in South America and at the ‘Montreaux Jazz Festival’. She recently toured with Fiachra Trench & Carmel McCreagh in shows ‘Love and all that Jazz’ and ‘Two Diva’s and a Piano’. Other tours include a musical tribute to ‘Ladies In The Blues’, performing in theatres all over the country, including the ‘Cork Jazz Festival’ . Flo McSweeney came to prominence as a TV presenter on ‘TV Gaga’, ‘Megamix’ and RTE’s travel show ‘No Frontiers’. Flo works as a session singer, voiceover artist for TV/Radio commercials, corporate and documentaries. Theatre roles have taken her to stages across Ireland and off Broadway in New York as Eva Gore Booth in Brian Merriman’s play ‘Eirebrushed’. Other roles include ‘Titania’ in ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ at the Gate, ‘Jacques Brel’ at the Gate and ‘Marie Claire’ at the Project Dublin. A longstanding association with composer Bill Whelan (Riverdance) has seen Flo perform for five years at the Yeats/Beckett Festival at the Abbey Theatre, at NCH as part of ‘An Evening with W.B. Yeats’ and in concert at St Patrick’s Cathedral, where she performed one of Bill’s compositions with a 30-piece orchestra and a 120-strong choir, conducted by David Brophy. In 2019 Flo released her debut album Picture in A Frame .The title track , written by Tom Waits has become what Flo likes to refer to as her funeral song, where she is regularly called upon to perform it! Flo Performed with The Nelson Riddle Orchestra in April 2024 at The Bord Gaís Theatre in Dublin .She sang the arrangements that NR had written for Linda Ronstadt back in the eighties . Flo continues her musical journey as a regular guest vocalist with the 17 Piece ‘Hot House Big Band.Flo joined forces with singer Leslie Dowdall in the summer of 2025. Together they created a show celebrating musical legends Linda Ronstadt & Carole King. Natural Women played to a sold out Vicar St Dublin in September 2025 and also at The Lark Theatre Balbriggan. 2026 will see Leslie & Flo tour Natural Women around the country Aran Island Discs is an Irish themed podcast hosted by Rossa McDermott Each episode features a guest who is invited to imagine themselves on the Aran Islands—a symbolic place evoking rugged beauty and Irish cultural heritage—and explore the soundtrack of their life. Guests choose songs that have shaped their personal journeys, sparking conversations about key moments, memories, and influences in their life. The series is recorded at Dublin South Podcast Studios in Dundrum, produced and edited by Peter Rice, and distributed via platforms Acast, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. . Sponsorship enquiries contact@aranislanddiscs.ie www.aranislanddiscs.ie Instagram @aranislanddisc FB @aranislanddiscs X @aranislabddiscs Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Support the show

    Flo McSweeney

  3. Episode 13

    Kevin Cullen

    Kevin Cullen is a prominent American journalist and author, best known for his long career at The Boston Globe and his deep expertise in Irish affairs and high-stakes investigative reporting. His career has been marked by both prestigious accolades and significant professional controversy. Career Highlights The Boston Globe: Joined the paper in 1985. Over four decades, he has served as a local, national, and foreign correspondent, and ultimately a metro columnist. Investigative Powerhouse: He was a member of the famous "Spotlight" team. He was the first journalist to raise public questions about the relationship between mobster Whitey Bulger and the FBI in 1988. Pulitzer Prizes: * 2003: Part of the team that won the Pulitzer Prize for Public Service for exposing the cover-up of sexual abuse within the Catholic Church. 2014: Part of the team that won the Pulitzer Prize for Breaking News for coverage of the Boston Marathon bombings. Irish Correspondent: In 1997, he opened and ran the Globe's Dublin Bureau, becoming a leading American voice on the Northern Ireland peace process. He spent over 20 years covering the "Troubles" and the transition to peace. Literary Success: He is the co-author of the New York Times bestseller Whitey Bulger: America’s Most Wanted Gangster and the Manhunt That Brought Him to Justice (2013).Controversies 2018 Suspension: Cullen was suspended without pay for three months following a review of his work. The investigation concluded that he had made inaccurate or fabricated statements regarding his presence and experiences during the 2013 Boston Marathon bombings. This included a story told to the BBC about a firefighter friend that was found to be a "complete fabrication." Public Perception: Despite the suspension, Cullen returned to the Globe and remains a prominent voice, often compared to legendary Boston columnists like Mike Barnicle (who also faced similar fabrication scandals).Education and Honors Nieman Fellow: He was a fellow at Harvard University in 2003. Awards: Recipient of the Mike Royko Award for best columnist, the Batten Medal (twice), and the Overseas Press Club award for his reporting in Ireland. Education: Graduated from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and attended Trinity College Dublin. Recent Activities (2025–2026) Cullen remains active in the Irish-American media circuit. He recently appeared on the Aran Island Discs podcast with Rossa McDermott, where he discussed his career and the influence of Irish culture on his life and reporting. Support the show

    Kevin Cullen

  4. Episode 16

    Alan Quinlan

    Alan Quinlan is a legendary former Munster and Ireland rugby international who has successfully transitioned into one of Ireland’s most prominent sports broadcasters and mental health advocates. As of May 2026, he is a staple of the Irish media landscape, having just completed a busy Six Nations season as a lead analyst for Virgin Media Television. 1. Professional Background The Munster Icon: Quinlan is a "one-club man" who earned a record-breaking 212 caps for Munster between 1996 and 2011. He was a central figure in the province’s "Golden Era," winning two Heineken Cups (2006, 2008).International Career: He earned 27 caps for Ireland, appearing in the 2003 and 2007 Rugby World Cups.The Lions Heartbreak: In 2009, he reached the pinnacle of selection for the British & Irish Lions tour to South Africa but famously missed out due to a 12-week suspension for "foul play" in a Heineken Cup semi-final—an event he often cites as a major turning point in his life.2. Current Narrative (2025–2026) Broadcasting: He currently co-hosts the VMTV Rugby Pod alongside Stuart McAvoy. In early 2026, he accurately predicted the resurgence of the England squad and analyzed Ireland's Triple Crown victory.Public Speaking: Quinlan is one of Ireland's most sought-after wellness and resilience speakers. He uses his personal experience with depression and anxiety—which he began speaking openly about following his 2009 suspension—to challenge the "macho" culture of professional sports.Podcast Presence: In April 2026, he appeared on the popular Aran Island Discs podcast, where he shared the "soundtrack of his life" and revealed the identity of "Mr. X"—an anonymous informant who used to fuel his competitive fire by telling him what teammates were saying about him behind his backSupport the show

    Alan Quinlan

  5. Episode 18

    Dave Hannigan

    Dave Hannigan is a prominent Irish sports columnist, author, and historian. Originally from Cork City, he has lived in the United States for over two decades, serving as a unique "cultural bridge" between the two nations.  As of May 2026, he is currently promoting his latest book and continuing his long-standing work with The Irish Times.  Current Professional Profile Journalism: He is best known for his weekly "America at Large" column in The Irish Times, written from his base on Long Island, New York. His writing often blends sharp, cynical wit with a deep historical perspective on American and Irish sports.  Academia: Hannigan is a Professor of History at Suffolk County Community College in New York, where he also teaches at Stony Brook University.  Literary Focus: His non-fiction work typically explores the intersection of sporting icons and social history, notably how global figures like Muhammad Ali or Brendan Behan impacted the Irish psyche.  Key Published Works Book Title | Release Year | Narrative CoreWe Need to Talk About Roy | 2026 | Analyzes the "Keaneification" of modern Ireland through the lens of Roy Keane’s evolution from athlete to "viral king." The Big Fight | 2002/2025 | Chronicling Muhammad Ali’s 1972 visit to Croke Park. Drama in the Bahamas | 2016 | A poignant look at Muhammad Ali’s final professional fight. Behan in the USA | 2014 | A biography of writer Brendan Behan's chaotic time in New York. Recent 2026 Highlights The "Keaneification" Discussion: In March 2026, Hannigan appeared on major Irish programs like The Last Word with Matt Cooper to discuss his new book. He argues that Roy Keane is the definitive "transcendent" figure of modern Ireland, embodying the nation's transition from the grim 1980s to the digital age of the "influencer."  Aran Island Discs: On May 2, 2026, he was the featured "castaway" on the Aran Island Discs podcast. During the interview, he discussed his journey from a young reporter in Cork to an academic in New York, using music to explore his life as an Irish emigrant.  Fun Fact: Hannigan grew up playing soccer in the same Cork Schoolboys' League as Roy Keane, a connection he uses to ground his analysis of Keane’s work ethic and rise to fame. Support the show

    Dave Hannigan

  6. Episode 19

    Gavin Friday

    Gavin Friday (born Fionán Martin Hanvey in Dublin) is an Irish singer, composer, actor, painter and cultural provocateur best known as the frontman of the influential post-punk band Virgin Prunes. Emerging from Dublin’s experimental “Lypton Village” scene alongside childhood friends Bono and Guggi, Friday became one of Ireland’s most distinctive artistic voices through his theatrical performances, avant-garde music and film soundtrack work.  The Virgin Prunes, formed in 1977, gained a cult following for their confrontational live shows, blending punk, gothic imagery, performance art and Irish literary influences. Friday’s dramatic stage persona and fearless experimentation made him a standout figure in Irish alternative culture during the 1980s.  After leaving the band in the mid-1980s, Friday expanded into painting, cabaret and solo music. Working closely with composer Maurice Seezer, he released acclaimed solo albums including Each Man Kills the Thing He Loves, Adam ’n’ Eve, Shag Tobacco and Catholic. His song “Angel” became internationally known after appearing in Baz Luhrmann’s Romeo + Juliet.  Friday also became highly respected as a film composer, contributing music to films including In the Name of the Father, The Boxer, Disco Pigs and In America, the latter earning an Ivor Novello nomination.  Known for his long friendship and creative collaborations with Bono and U2, Friday has often acted as a creative adviser within the wider U2 orbit while maintaining a fiercely independent artistic identity.  In recent years he returned with the album Ecce Homo (2024), a deeply personal work reflecting on grief, identity, ageing and creativity. Widely regarded as one of Ireland’s great cult artists, Gavin Friday remains admired for his originality, flamboyance and refusal to conform to mainstream expectations. Support the show

    Gavin Friday

  7. Episode 22

    Mike Ruddock

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    Mike Ruddock

  8. Episode 22

    Willie Walsh

    The aviation executive Willie Walsh was featured as a guest on Season 2, Episode 22 of Aran Island Discs, hosted by Rossa McDermott.  True to the podcast's signature format, the episode blends Walsh's formidable career narrative with the personal tracklist he selected to represent the "soundtrack of his life."  Key Themes of the Interview Set against the imaginary, rugged backdrop of the Aran Islands, the conversation explores Walsh's journey through the aviation industry, moving past the corporate headlines to look at the personal drive and memories behind his choices: From Cadet to Captain: Walsh reflects on his early days entering the aviation industry at just 17 years old as a cadet pilot for Aer Lingus in 1979, navigating his way up to a Boeing 737 captain before pivoting into the boardroom. The "Slasher" Philosophy: The interview touches on the high-stakes risks, leadership choices, and immense pressure he faced while aggressively restructuring Aer Lingus post-9/11, as well as his subsequent heavy-hitting roles orchestrating the creation of International Airlines Group (IAG). The Metaphor of the Island: Using the music as a lens, McDermott guides the usually blunt-talking executive into a more reflective space, exploring the mentors who shaped him, the resilience required to lead global airlines through crisis, and what truly matters outside of corporate operations.Episode Details:Host: Rossa McDermott Run Time: 47 minutes Production: Recorded at Dublin South Podcast Studios, edited by Peter Rice. Availability: Available to stream on Acast, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and major streaming platforms. Support the show

    Willie Walsh

  9. Episode 23

    Richard Fitzpatrick

    Richard Fitzpatrick is an acclaimed Irish print and radio journalist, author, and documentary maker, widely known for his writing on international sports, culture, and the arts. While originally from County Clare, he has spent over a decade based in Barcelona, Spain, establishing himself as a key voice on European football while maintaining a prominent presence in Irish cultural journalism. Journalism Career Fitzpatrick graduated from University College Cork (UCC) in 1995 before working internationally in San Francisco and Toronto. Upon returning to Ireland, he served as a technology journalist with the Sunday Tribune from 2000 to 2004. Since moving to Spain, he has operated as a freelance correspondent, reporting for some of the world's leading publications. His sports and features work has appeared in: The New York Times, The Guardian, El País, and The Irish Times.The Blizzard, Bleacher Report, and Panenka.The Business Post (Ireland) and The Herald (Scotland).Alongside sports, Fitzpatrick is a prolific arts and culture writer. He is a regular contributor to the Irish Examiner, The Irish Independent, and The Sunday Times, where he frequently interviews major cultural figures, authors, and filmmakers. Books and Audio Documentaries Fitzpatrick is the author of two highly regarded books focusing on the intense history, politics, and personalities of global football: El Clásico: Barcelona v Real Madrid, Football's Greatest Rivalry (2012): A bestselling, definitive look at the deep-seated cultural, political, and sporting divide between Spain's two footballing titans.HH: Helenio Herrera, Football's Original Master of the Dark Arts (2023): A detailed biography of the legendary, eccentric, and revolutionary manager who pioneered the defensive Catenaccio system with Inter Milan in the 1960s.In addition to his print work, he produces radio documentaries and podcasts. Notable among his audio work is the highly praised documentary The Man Who Played Offside, which explores the intersections of sport and social history. Support the show

    Richard Fitzpatrick

  10. Apr 14

    John Robbie

    John Robbie has had a remarkable and unconventional career that spans international sport and influential media, bridging Ireland and South Africa in a unique way. Born in Dublin, Robbie first came to prominence as a talented rugby union scrum-half. He represented Ireland national rugby union team between 1976 and 1981, earning nine international caps. Known for his sharp passing and tactical awareness, he quickly established himself as a composed and intelligent player. His abilities were further recognised when he was selected for the British & Irish Lions tour to South Africa in 1980, one of the highest honours in the sport. This experience would prove pivotal, as it marked the beginning of his long association with South Africa. In 1981, Robbie made the bold decision to move permanently to South Africa, where he continued his rugby career with Transvaal. At a time when the country was still under apartheid, this move was both professionally and personally significant. Although he came close to representing South Africa internationally, he never played for the Springboks. Nevertheless, his rugby career in the country helped establish his reputation and laid the foundation for his later work. Following his retirement from professional rugby, Robbie transitioned into broadcasting, where he would achieve even greater prominence. He became a leading voice on Talk Radio 702, hosting a daily talk show that gained widespread popularity. Known for his direct, no-nonsense interviewing style and his trademark phrase “Cut the Slush,” Robbie built a reputation as a fearless and engaging broadcaster. Over a career spanning more than three decades, he interviewed politicians, sports figures, and public personalities, becoming a trusted and recognisable figure in South African media. In addition to his radio work, Robbie also contributed as a rugby commentator and columnist, maintaining his connection to the sport that first made his name. His insights into both Irish and South African rugby added depth to his analysis and broadened his appeal. Beyond media, he has been involved in charitable initiatives, including work with the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, reflecting a commitment to using sport as a force for social change. In summary, John Robbie’s career is defined by its breadth and impact. From representing Ireland and the Lions on the rugby field to becoming one of South Africa’s most prominent radio broadcasters, he has successfully reinvented himself while maintaining a strong connection to sport. His journey illustrates adaptability, resilience, and a willingness to embrace new challenges across continents and professions. Support the show

    John Robbie

  11. May 19

    Maurice Manning

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    Maurice Manning
See All Season 2 (11)

About

Aran Island Discs is an intimate, Irish-hearted interview series in which guests explore the soundtrack of their lives. Inspired by the timeless tradition of storytelling and the wild spirit of the Aran Islands, each episode blends conversation, memory, and music into a vivid portrait of the person behind the public image. Across candid, often deeply personal interviews, recall songs that shaped them — the tunes that carried them through childhood, challenge, triumph, heartbreak, and homecoming. These musical choices become gateways to unexpected stories: the mentor who changed everything, the night everything nearly fell apart, the place they return to in their mind when the world gets loud. Recorded with warmth, humour, and unmistakable Irish authenticity, Aran Island Discs celebrates culture, creativity, and the emotional power of music. Whether the guest is a celebrated artist, an athlete, a thinker, or a local legend, every episode offers a fresh perspective on the people who shape Irish life today. Settle in. Take the ferry. Discover the stories that live between the notes. The podcast presenter is Rossa McDermott, and the series is recorded at Dublin South Podcast Studios in Dundrum. The concept is devised by Dos Amigos, and edited by Peter Rice #aranislanddiscs #podcast #podcastseries #nusic #rossamcdermott #acast #spotify #applemusic #ireland #inismor #inismeain #inismaan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Rossa McDermott
  • Episodes
    18
  • Seasons
    2
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Aran Island Discs ☘️
  • Show Website
    Aran Island Discs ☘️

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