PUB SONGS & STORIES

Geek-rock musician Mikey Mason joins me to talk about writing songs on schedule, his New Music Monday ritual, and how to stay creative every single week. Music by Caliceltic, May Will Bloom, The Gothard Sisters, and Mikey Mason. This is Pub Songs & Stories #311 0:18 - Caliceltic "The Beer from St James Gate" from 2023 and Me 5:25 - WELCOME TO PUB SONGS & STORIES Every song has a story, every episode is a toast to Celtic and folk songwriters. Discover the stories behind the songs from the heart of the Celtic pub scene. I am your bard, Marc Gunn, also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. Today's episode dives into the creative mind of comedy-rock songwriter Mikey Mason. If you've ever struggled to finish a song or waited for inspiration to strike, this conversation will change how you think about writing. Mikey writes and releases a brand-new song every Monday. And he does it without relying on his muse. We'll talk about manufacturing inspiration, using unusual prompts, and turning routine into creative freedom. 6:59 - UPCOMING SHOWS NOV 22: Georgia Renaissance Festival Fall Fling, Fairburn, GA DEC 6: Georgia Renaissance Festival Fall Fling, Fairburn, GA DEC 7: Nerdy Wonderland at The Lost Druid, Avondale Estates, GA @ 12 - 5 PM. If you're new to the show, please follow us. You can do that at PubSong.com. I have a new band with my daughter Inara. We are called May Will Bloom and at IrishFest Atlanta, we released a brand new single. 9:40 - May Will Bloom "Star of the County Down" from Single A big thanks to my… GUNN RUNNERS ON PATREON If you're enjoying Pub Songs & Stories or you've been spinning my music for years, follow me on Patreon. It's free to join, and you'll get early, ad-free episodes along with updates on what I'm creating next. But the real magic kicks in when you become a Patron of the Arts. Patreon is how independent musicians like me keep making music, telling stories, and sharing these pub-song adventures with you. For just $5 a month, you unlock a treasure trove of exclusives—unreleased songs, behind-the-scenes podcasts, video concerts, rare bootlegs, and surprises you won't hear anywhere else. Want the full rundown? Email follow@celtfather and I'll send you all the details. 13:35 - NEWS Mark your calendar for December 5. That's the next Bandcamp Friday. It's also the official release of Another Faire to Remember by Brobdingnagian Bards. If you loved our Renaissance festival classic, A Faire to Remember, you will love this one as well because it was made for you in mind. Follow our mailing list on Patreon to be the first to hear of the release to read some stories from our Renaissance festival past. It's http://patreon.com/thebards Christmas music is in the air. In fact, Celtic Christmas Music is a podcast where you can enjoy Christmas music by Celtic musicians. There are over 80 episodes including some of my music. Are you looking for the perfect Celtic stocking stuffer? Give a gift that's green… and a little bit magical. At MageRecords.com, you'll find eco-friendly Irish and Celtic treasures made to delight the music lovers, the festival wanderers, and the folklore fans in your life.Wood-burned album pins and for a limited time, Celtic Christmas ornaments. Small enough to slip into a stocking… and meaningful enough to make someone smile long after the holidays. So this year, skip the plastic. Go Celtic. Go sustainable. Visit com and fill those stockings with something worth keeping. Check out my new Kickstarter, Please leave a comment on the podcast show notes at pubsong.com or wherever you listen. Email pictures of where you're listening to follow@celtfather . I'll send you a free gift and you can learn more about how to follow this podcast. 16:33 - The Gothard Sisters "Moment in Time" from Moment in Time 19:55 - TODAY'S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS Every year, I take a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don't see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos. Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com. 20:23 - QUEST & CHORUS of How to Write Songs on Schedule (and Still Stay Inspired) Where every place has a story, every story has a song, and every song is a step in the quest. Mikey Mason is a U.S.-based "geek-rock" musician. He blends his stand-up comedy background with music rooted in sci-fi, fantasy, board games, cats and role-playing. He spent more than a decade as a full-time stand-up comedian performing across the U.S. In 2011 his song "She Don't Like Firefly" went viral on YouTube and earned attention from outlets including Nerdist, SyFy, MTV Geek News, Dr. Demento and Time magazine. Since then, Mikey has released numerous albums and EPs and now primarily works as a musician and artist whose work draws heavily on his lifelong love of geek culture. Before we get started, this is also a Quest & Chorus.Where every place has a story, every story has a song, and every song is a step in the quest. That means you need a secret word to unlock a secret treasure chest of bonus content, this time from Mikey Mason. So listen up so you can unlock the Quest. How many songs does Mikey Mason average in a year with his New Music Monday releases? Click here to enter your answer and unlock your reward! 46:06 - Mikey Mason "Kinda Like" from Patreon Single 1:03:14 - Mikey Mason "Shades of Gray" from Shades of Gray If you want to learn more about Mikey Mason, visit his website at http://mikeymason.com his com/mikeymason. You can also enjoy him Our podcast together, In the 'Verse Listen to my interview with Mikey Mason about "Hero of Christmas" I interviewed Mikey in 2018 for my Celtfather podcast. 1:07:35 - CREDITS Thanks for listening to Pub Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen. You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I'm performing. Clean energy isn't just good for the planet, it's good for your wallet. Solar and wind are now the cheapest power sources in history. But too many politicians would rather protect billionaires than help working families save on their bills. Real change starts when we stop allowing the ultra-rich to write our energy policy and run our government. Let's choose affordable, renewable power. Clean energy means lower costs, more freedom, and a planet that can actually breathe. Join the Pub and Sing Along at www.pubsong.com! #pubstories  

Over 3,000 stones rise from the fields of Carnac. They stand silent, waiting, like the trees of Fangorn Forest, patient and alive beneath their stillness. In this episode of Quest & Chorus, we walk among ancient alignments, uncover old legends, and listen to what endures. Featuring music from The Irish Lassies, Dublin Gulch, and Brobdingnagian Bards. This is Quest & Chorus #310 0:27 - The Irish Lassies "Hammer Up Whisky Down" from Immigration Stories 5:20 - WELCOME TO QUEST & CHORUS Welcome to Quest & Chorus, where ancient stones still speak and songs remember what trees never forget. I'm your bard, Marc Gunn, also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, and typically host of this show as Folk Songs & Stories, but today, we call it Quest & Chorus. Quest & Chorus is a 6-part podcast series. I fuse Celtic and folk music, science fiction and fantasy, and travel into a podcast with a quest. In each episode, you will get a clue to unlock a secret reward. And at the end of the season, you will combine all of those clues to unlock an even bigger amazing reward. And today we walk not into a forest—but into a field that feels like one. The Alignments of Carnac stretch across the land like rows of rooted giants. They are silent. But not still. And if you listen… they speak in echoes. Today we talk of nature, of memory, and also of what I learned about food waste. WHAT I LEARNED ABOUT MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR FOOD Freezing fruit Composting Planting Pickling vs fermenting Soups Granola You don't have to do it in one day. It's taking me several years. And it doesn't have to be perfect. You just have to be open to learning. Check out Sustainable Jungle and One5C. They have a lot of real, practical and non-judgemental tips on how to be more eco-friendly with your food and your life. If you're new to the show, please follow us. You can do that at PubSong.com. UPCOMING SHOWS NOV 8: IrishFest Atlanta, Roswell, GA with Inara NOV 14-16: CONjuration, Duluth, GA NOV 22: Georgia Renaissance Festival Fall Fling, Fairburn, GA DEC 6: Georgia Renaissance Festival Fall Fling, Fairburn, GA DEC 7: Nerdy Wonderland at The Lost Druid, Avondale Estates, GA @ 12 - 5 PM. 15:37 - Dublin Gulch "Sarah Daly/The Copper King's Daughter" from Tap 'Er Light Please leave a comment on the podcast show notes at pubsong.com or wherever you listen. Email pictures of where you're listening to follow@celtfather . I'll send you a free gift and you can learn more about how to follow this podcast. 19:59 - NEWS Celtic Christmas Music releases the first official episode of the season. Looking for volunteers to work the Nerdy Wonderland table and promote the event. It takes place Dec 7. New Band with Inara–May Bloom. Planning to release an Album Pin and Single A big thanks to my… GUNN RUNNERS ON PATREON If you enjoy this podcast or you love listening to my music, please follow my Celtfather Patreon page. You can sign up for free and get updates on what's new and you can get an ad-free edition of this podcast before public listeners. But you get so much more when you become a Patron of the Arts. Patreon is one of the ways modern musicians and podcasters make a living. For just $5 per month, you'll get exclusive, unreleased songs, podcasts, video concerts, bootleg concerts, and so much more. Email follow@celtfather to get more details!  Pull Up a Stool and Join the Band! Follow me on Patreon for behind-the-scenes stories, ad-free episodes of Pub Songs & Stories, and a few free MP3s to take home. It's free to follow — but if you toss a coin in the bard's hat, you'll help keep the music playing every week. TODAY'S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS Every year, I take a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don't see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos. Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com. In 2017, I led a Celtic Invasion of Brittany. You can read about our search for the Holy Grail in France. In the meantime, it's time for the… QUEST & CHORUS of ALIGNMENTS OF CARNAC Over 3,000 standing stones stretch in careful lines through the fields of Carnac. No one knows exactly why they're here. Were they a celestial map? Some say they mark burial grounds. But walking by them, I didn't feel like I was in a graveyard. I felt like I was among the elders. It reminded me of Fangorn Forest, home of the Ents. In The Lord of the Rings, Fangorn is a place where time moves slowly. Trees remember battles that men have forgotten. Carnac is a lot like that. The stones are not dead. They're just waiting. I can't help but wonder who placed them here, so careful and deliberate. The stones of Carnac weren't raised by elves or Ents, but by real people. Neolithic builders, thousands of years before written history. Here's what we know about them. HISTORY OF THE ALIGNMENTS OF CARNAC The Alignments of Carnac in Brittany, France, are one of the most remarkable prehistoric monuments in Europe. They consist of long rows of standing stones (menhirs) and other megalithic features that stretch across the landscape. Archaeological studies show that many of the stones date from between about 4,800 and 3,500 BC — some recent research suggests parts were erected as early as 4,600 BC. The site is not a single line but a complex of alignments: four major groups (for example, Ménec, Kermario, Kerlescan, Petit Ménec) that lie in the commune of Carnac and its surroundings. Originally, these stones were erected by Neolithic peoples who lived in what we now call Brittany. Their purpose remains a subject of debate: some propose they were ritual or ceremonial, others suggest funerary meaning, or perhaps linked to astronomical patterns or seasonal calendars. Over the millennia, many stones were removed, toppled, or reused in local buildings, especially in historic times. The word "alignments" refers to the visible rows of standing stones that still remain. Today, the Alignments of Carnac are protected as important heritage sites. Research continues to refine their dating and function, and the monuments remain a remarkable testimony to the ambition and organisation of prehistoric communities. References: Musee de Prehistoire:The Carnac Alignments Göteborgs universite: Menhirs of Carnac Alignments of Carnac Wikipedia Carnac Tourism: The World Famous Standing Stones Internet Sacred Text Archive: Menhirs and Dolmens LEGENDS & MYTHS OF CARNAC There are actual legends connected to the Carnac stones. One of the most widely told involves Saint Cornély. According to Breton tradition, Cornély was being pursued by soldiers. He and his oxen fled, and the stones of Carnac are said to be the soldiers turned to stone as a result of divine intervention. Another version says the stones were dancing at midnight on Christmas Eve, and people who saw them would be crushed beneath as the stones marched to the sea. While these legends don't claim to explain the actual Neolithic origins of the stones, they illustrate how later generations understood and imagined the dramatic rows of stones in their landscape. MY THOUGHTS on CARNAC Your walk through Carnac: Describe how it feels to be watched by stone that might remember more than you do. PLUS Environmental reflection: These monuments lasted thousands of years. What are we building that will last that long? "Heart of Fangorn" as a prayer for the planet: This song speaks for trees, for roots, for voices we ignore in our haste. In Fangorn, the Ents stand watch over the woods. At Carnac, the menhirs stand silent on the moor. If they could speak, what would their witness be? The Ents of Fangorn resist change; the stones of Carnac endure it. When do you find yourself standing still while everything else moves? 27:48 - Brobdingnagian Bards "Heart of Fangorn" from Memories of Middle Earth Get the "They Come In Pints" album pin to own Memories of Middle Earth and enter the forest Listen to the song recorded live at Dragon Con 2024 in a Bootleg Concert from our Podcast. You can also hear the song on a past Bards podcast episode that was recorded right before we flew off on the second Brobdingnagian Tour of Ireland in 2008. HEART OF FANGORN Lyrics and music Marc Gunn Long before men tread Middle-Earth, Before the dwarves and elves gave birth, There sprouted a race for the trees' defense In the heart of Fangorn, there live the Ents. Ha-room… Ha-da-ra-room. Ha-room… Ha-da-ra-room. Patient farmers they tend the woods. Gaurdians of stems and of roots. They hear the arbors' laments and wails From falling axes and tearful trails. Ha-room… Ha-da-ra-room. Ha-room… Ha-da-ra-room. For Living Creatures all roam the land, But hasty judgements make careless hands. One thoughtless word from a thoughtless king A thousand creatures die beneath the trees. Ha-room… Ha-da-ra-room. Ha-room… Ha-da-ra-room. The rivers will flow though their course may change. The birds are born and will fly away. Men will come and men will go, But the Ents remain through the melting snow. Ha-room… Ha-da-ra-room. Ha-room… Ha-da-ra-room. Mark it down. Because the stones are not silent. They're just slow to speak. This is the final episode named Quest & Chorus. For that matter, it's also the final episode of Folk Songs & Stories, at least by those names. I ran a poll on Patreon to see what name people liked the most. The most popular name was Pub Songs & Stories. So we're moving back to that name. That said, Quest & Chorus is not gone forever. This is just the beginning. I really liked this special feature and so in some episodes in the future, I hope to include a quest and chorus for you. I also realized that the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, my award-winning flagship program, is a great show. But over the past decade, the podcast has become m

The sea around Skellig Michael never rests. Waves slam the cliffs like a heartbeat, and mist rises from the rocks like breath from some sleeping giant. Eight miles off the Kerry coast, this jagged island looks less like a piece of earth and more like a fragment of another world. More than a thousand years ago, monks climbed 600 stone steps to live here, chasing silence, prayer, and the edge of heaven. Today, visitors come for the same reason, though they may not know it. Whether you're drawn by faith, history, or a galaxy far, far away, Skellig has a way of making you listen to what the sea remembers. And that's where today's story begins — between exile and return, faith and freedom, stone and surf. Because sometimes, we're all just trying to find our way back to the ocean. With Music from Niamh Dunne, Wolf Loescher, and Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira. This is Quest & Chorus #309 0:58 - Niamh Dunne "Ballyneety's Walls" from Portraits 4:17 - WELCOME TO QUEST & CHORUS Welcome to Quest & Chorus, where every wave might carry a myth, and every exile still dreams of home. I'm your bard, Marc Gunn, also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, and typically host of this show as Folk Songs & Stories, but today, we call it Quest & Chorus. And today, we drift to the edge of the world, To Skellig Michael, where the sea swallows history and monks once whispered their prayers to gulls. It's also where a Jedi gave up the fight. And where a selkie sings himself back into the sea. Today's theme may seem like exile or perhaps it's where you truly belong. Quest & Chorus is a 6-part podcast series. I fuse my love of Celtic and folk music, science fiction and fantasy, and travel into a podcast with a quest. In each episode, you will get a clue to unlock a secret reward. And at the end of the season, you will combine all of those clues to unlock an even bigger amazing reward. If you're new to the show, please follow us. You can do that at PubSong.com. UPCOMING SHOWS NOV 1: Georgia Renaissance Festival Fall Festival, Fairburn, GA NOV 8: IrishFest Atlanta, Roswell, GA with Inara NOV 14-16: CONjuration, Duluth, GA NOV 22: Georgia Renaissance Festival Fall Festival, Fairburn, GA DEC 6: Georgia Renaissance Festival Fall Festival, Fairburn, GA DEC 7: Nerdy Wonderland at The Lost Druid, Avondale Estates, GA @ 12 - 5 PM. 6:24 - Wolf Loescher "Rovin' Journeyman" from Child of Alba Please leave a comment on the podcast show notes at pubsong.com or wherever you listen. Email pictures of where you're listening to follow@celtfather . I'll send you a free gift and you can learn more about how to follow this podcast. News If you're looking for Celtic Halloween music, I have a large selection of such music. While my Happy Songs of Death album fits the bill, I also did a series of concerts inspired by that theme for several years. Follow the link in the shownotes for details. A big thanks to my… 7:45 - GUNN RUNNERS ON PATREON If you enjoy this podcast or you love listening to my music, please follow my Celtfather Patreon page. You can sign up for free and get updates on what's new and you can get an ad-free edition of this podcast before public listeners. But you get so much more when you become a Patron of the Arts. Patreon is one of the ways modern musicians and podcasters make a living. For just $5 per month, you'll get exclusive, unreleased songs, podcasts, video concerts, bootleg concerts, and so much more. Email follow@celtfather to get more details! 9:47 - Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira "Going Home" from Here To Stay 13:15 - TODAY'S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS Every year, I take a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don't see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos. In 2026, you can join me for a Celtic Invasion of Galicia in Spain. Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com. Let's begin the… 13:47 - QUEST & CHORUS of SKELLIG MICHAEL Eight miles off the coast of County Kerry is the island of Skellig Michael. It is a jagged twin-peaked island. Its name comes from the Irish Sceilg Mhichíl which means Michael's Rock. It was dedicated to the Archangel Michael. The island's history began in the sixth century. Monks sought isolation and closeness to God. So they settled there because the early Irish monastic tradition valued hardship, solitude, and spiritual testing. The monks carved out a small community on narrow terraces more than 600 steps above sea level. The monastic settlement they built still survives. They built a cluster of beehive stone huts, stone crosses and terraces connected by narrow paths. Everything was dry-stone construction. That means they were fitted together without mortar. They were built so well that they have lasted over a millennium. The monks grew small gardens, caught seabirds and fish, and collected rainwater in cisterns. They survived off of what the island would allow. Skellig Michael was a center of devotion to Saint Michael the Archangel sometime after the 8th century. The island was also a pilgrimage site for centuries. Climbing its steps was seen as a form of penance and spiritual renewal. By the 13th century, life on Skellig Michael had become too difficult. Storms, isolation, and changing Church patterns led the monks to relocate to the mainland, near Ballinskelligs. But the island remained a place of pilgrimage well into the modern era. Skellig Michael is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is recognized for its exceptional preservation of early Christian monastic life and its haunting natural beauty. It's also become familiar to a new generation as Ahch-To, the oceanic world where Luke Skywalker lived in exile in Star Wars: The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi. Even now, Skellig Michael stands as a symbol of endurance, of faith carved into stone, of solitude turned to sanctuary, and of the fragile bridge between human devotion and the raw power of nature. LEGENDS OF SKELLIG MICHAEL One of the more famous legends involves the Tuatha Dé Danann and the Milesian invasion of Ireland. It is recounted in the Lebor Gabála Érenn (the Book of Invasions). According to this myth: As the Milesians sailed toward Ireland around 1400 BC in the mythic narrative, a storm was caused by the Tuatha Dé Danann. They are one of the faerie-like supernatural race in Irish mythology. Skellig's cliffs are sometimes mentioned as one of the treacherous places where ships were driven ashore. One version says Irr, a son of Míl Espáine (the mythic ancestor of the Gaels), was travelling from the Iberian Peninsula. He drowned and was buried on Skellig. MY THOUGHTS on SKELLIG MICHAEL 20:02 - Marc Gunn "Selkie's Life" from Come Adventure With Me Check out my blog of the puffins of Skellig Michael. Selkie's Life, Selkie Call of the Sea #234 Thank you for returning to the sea with me. Skellig Michael is not the end of the story. But it's where stories are kept safe. Next time, we wander the great alignments of Carnac, stones older than myth, standing like trees in time. Until then… If the sea calls you, don't be afraid to answer. 23:39 - CREDITS Thanks for listening to Quest & Chorus. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen. You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I'm performing. Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment. Join the Quest and Sing Along at www.pubsong.com! #pubstories    

The Quiraing is not a gentle place. Stone spires jut skyward, cliffs crumble toward the sea, and paths twist like they're still being carved by giants. It's a landscape that doesn't promise safety—it dares you to take another step. On Skye, they say even dragons once hid in these folds, rising to defend the island from invaders. And standing here, staring into that mist and stone, you can feel it: adventure isn't slaying dragons. It's choosing to face the one within. Music from Kinnfolk, Ed Miller, and Marc Gunn. This is Quest & Chorus #308 0:39 -  - Kinnfolk "Highland Laddie" from Star Above The Mountain 4:21 - WELCOME TO QUEST & CHORUS Where every hill might hide a dragon, and every fear might be your map. We stand on the edge… of a cliff, of a journey, of ourselves. The Quiraing, on the Isle of Skye, is a land caught between movement and stillness… earth sliding slowly toward the sea. And standing here, staring out over stone teeth and mist-choked valleys, you might ask: Should I go forward? Or turn back? I'm your bard, Marc Gunn, also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, and typically host of this show as Folk Songs & Stories, but today, we call it Quest & Chorus. Quest & Chorus is a 6-part podcast series. I fuse my love of Celtic and folk music, science fiction and fantasy, and travel into a podcast with a quest. In each episode, you will get a clue to unlock a secret reward. And at the end of the season, you will combine all of those clues to unlock an even bigger amazing reward. If you're new to the show, please follow us. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather. Review of ALEP 6: A Long Expected Party. Stories: 6 mile hike Dressing like a hobbit Playing music with Kelly and Mitch in the Dancing Pony. Providing the atmosphere for Middle-Earth Sunrise over The Shire Singing beneath the stars. Ed Miller has a gift for turning lived experience into song. In "The Wide Rio Grande," he tells the story of a young Scottish singer facing the sting of rejection at the U.S. border — and how that moment bound him to countless others who've risked everything to cross into a new life. It's a song about displacement and determination, about rules that separate and courage that refuses to be denied. From Houston to Laredo, from Scotland to Mexico, it is both personal and universal — a reminder that behind every border there are human hearts, still daring to cross. 11:19 - Ed Miller "The Wide Rio Grand" from Many's The Fine Tale The Wide Rio Grande Lyrics and music by Brian McNeill Fifteen years gone, the airport in Houston A young Scottish singer stands waiting in line He's been too long apart from the home of his heart It's a young Texas sweetheart so fair and so fine But the man at the desk with his uniform shoulders Gives uniform reasons and a uniform smile Takes more than a song son. The paperwork's wrong son Fly back where you came from just 5000 miles Come all you brave lads who follow my story I'll stand at the border and give you my hand Here's honor and luck, good health, and glory To those who would try for the wide Rio Grande London to Mexico, ready to try again Walk through a border that thousands have crossed Join the bold dispossessed of the South and the West For a white boy from Scotland, no irony lost But he knows as he reaches the light in Laredo With the guards looking on and the sun beating down That the hard law and order, the rules on the border Has made him at one with the men who have drowned Come all you brave lads who follow my story I'll stand at the border and give you my hand Here's honor and luck, good health, and glory To those who would try for the wide Rio Grande So the next time you walk the wrong side of the border Remember this song as you think on your lot For every man, Jack, who can take the road back Should think on the fortune of those who cannot For Wetback's a name that they whisper in corners But there's one man hear who will wear it with pride For a fence or a wall means nothing at all For a heart full of courage will ne'er be denied Come all you brave lads who follow my story I'll stand at the border and give you my hand Here's honor and luck, good health, and glory To those who would try for the wide Rio Grande Compadres and amigos who follow my story I'll stand at the border and give you my hand Here's honor and luck, good health, and glory To those who would try for the wide Rio Grande 15:50 - UPCOMING SHOWS OCT 11: The Lost Druid Brewery, Avondale Estates, GA OCT 17-19: MultiVerse, Peachtree City, GA NOV 1: Georgia Renaissance Festival Fall Festival, Fairburn, GA NOV 8: IrishFest Atlanta, Roswell, GA with Inara NOV 14-16: CONjuration, Duluth, GA NOV 22: Georgia Renaissance Festival Fall Festival, Fairburn, GA DEC 6: Georgia Renaissance Festival Fall Festival, Fairburn, GA DEC 7: Nerdy Wonderland at The Lost Druid, Avondale Estates, GA @ 12 - 5 PM. Please leave a comment on the podcast show notes at pubsong.com or wherever you listen. Email pictures of where you're listening to follow@celtfather . I'll send you a free gift and you can learn more about how to follow this podcast. News There is also a 10-day Sale at com for the 2025 Firefly Drinking Songs t-shirts. This is the only time you'll be able to get a copy of this shirt this year. The store closes on October 10. So get those orders in! October Patreon Membership Drive. I'm running a Patreon Membership Drive from October 1-10, 2025. When you become a Patron, you get a free album: Kilted Drinking Songs. I say a free album. But to be fair, you get several free albums. This is the latest. It features songs that were once recorded exclusively for this podcast. It's now together as a digital-only album. There's only one way to get it. A big thanks to my… GUNN RUNNERS ON PATREON If you enjoy this podcast or you love listening to my music, please follow my Celtfather Patreon page. You can sign up for free and get updates on what's new and you can get an ad-free edition of this podcast before public listeners. But you get so much more when you become a Patron of the Arts. Patreon is one of the ways modern musicians and podcasters make a living. For just $5 per month, you'll get exclusive, unreleased songs, podcasts, video concerts, bootleg concerts, and so much more. Email follow@celtfather to get more details! 18:38 - Marc Gunn "Paddy Murphy" from Kilted Drinking Songs 24:17 - TODAY'S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS Every year, I take a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don't see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos. In 2026, you can join me for a Celtic Invasion of Galicia in Spain. Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com. Let's begin the… QUEST & CHORUS of QUIRAING, SCOTLAND The Quiraing lies on the northern Trotternish Ridge of Skye. It's part of the largest landslip in Britain — a massive collapse of rock that stretches nearly the length of the peninsula. What makes the Quiraing remarkable is that it's still moving. Every year, the road below must be repaired, because cracks open and the land shifts. The cliffs and pinnacles here are not frozen in time; they are alive, in motion, reshaping themselves even now. Within this landscape are some striking features: The Needle, a tall jagged spike of rock; The Prison, a crag shaped like a fortress; and The Table, a grassy plateau hidden away within the folds of the cliffs. These names reflect how the landscape feels — not just natural, but storied. The word Quiraing comes from Old Norse — Kví Rand — which means "round fold." It's thought to describe the way the land curves inward, almost like a natural pen or hollow. Local lore says the hollows were once used to hide cattle, especially during Viking raids. The geography itself became a shield, a place of protection. There are stories of dragons living in the Quiraing. However, the dragon stories don't come from ancient Gaelic tradition. They appear more in modern folklore retellings and travel writing — stories told to capture the atmosphere of the landscape. It's easy to see why. The Prison, a huge crag that looks like a fortress, seems like the perfect lair. The Needle rises like a spear ready to strike. The Table, hidden within the fold of the cliffs, feels like a secret clearing where wings could unfurl. One version says the dragons hid in the folds of the Quiraing, guarding the people of Skye from Viking invaders. When longships came over the horizon, the dragons rose from the cliffs themselves — wings beating like thunder, breath as fierce as the Atlantic spray. The Vikings fled, and the people survived. It's not a tale you'll find in the oldest manuscripts.  In a place where the land still moves, where cliffs shift and stones crash down, dragons feel less like fantasy and more like a natural explanation for the Quiraing's wild power. So when you set foot there today, you're not just walking among rocks and landslides. You're stepping into a landscape that invites adventure — where the air feels charged, as if dragons might still be hiding just behind the next ridge, waiting for the moment to rise again. In Middle-earth, places like this are where heroes are tested. This is where Frodo keeps walking. Where Aragorn faces the dead. Where you ask: Am I brave enough to keep going? Talk prompts: Fear is not the enemy—stagnation is. Talk about how fear can be a compass, not a wall. The illusion of safety: The "door" we hide behind may protect us—but it can also trap us. Personal story: Have you ever reached a moment of internal Quiraing? When you had to keep going even if you were shaking? D&D parallel: Every great campaign starts with a hesitant first step. Players choose to walk into darkness. The song's core idea:

Welcome to Quest & Chorus, where songs remember what history forgets. I'm your bard, and today, we climb a legendary cliff—where myth and memory blur. To Tintagel. Some say King Arthur was born here. Others say he died here. And whether that's true or not doesn't really matter… Because this place feels like the kind of place where someone says goodbye. Today, we raise a glass—to stories that fade, and the people who carry them. This is Quest & Chorus #307 0:30 - Heather Dale "Mordred's Lullaby" from The Trial of Lancelot and The Secret World of Celtic Rock 3:41 - WELCOME TO QUEST & CHORUS Where every place has a story, every story has a song, and every song is a step in the quest. I'm your bard, Marc Gunn, also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, and typically host of this show as Folk Songs & Stories, but today, we call it Quest & Chorus. Quest & Chorus is a 6-part podcast series. I fuse my love of music, science fiction and fantasy, and travel into a podcast with a quest. In each episode, you will get a clue to unlock a secret reward. And at the end of the season, you will combine all of those clues to unlock an even bigger amazing reward. If you're new to the show, please follow us. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather. UPCOMING SHOWS SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY OCT 11: The Lost Druid Brewery, Avondale Estates, GA OCT 17-19: MultiVerse, Peachtree City, GA NOV 1: Georgia Renaissance Festival Fall Festival, Fairburn, GA NOV 8: IrishFest Atlanta, Roswell, GA with Inara Please leave a comment on the podcast show notes at pubsong.com or wherever you listen. Email pictures of where you're listening to follow@celtfather . I'll send you a free gift and you can learn more about how to follow this podcast. News October Patreon Membership Drive. Get a free album: Field of Drams: Kilted Drinking Songs Flash Sale on MageRecords.com Guess the Secret Word to Unlock a reward. A big thanks to my… GUNN RUNNERS ON PATREON If you enjoy this podcast or you love listening to my music, please follow my Celtfather Patreon page. You can sign up for free and get updates on what's new and you can get an ad-free edition of this podcast before public listeners. But you get so much more when you become a Patron of the Arts. Patreon is one of the ways modern musicians and podcasters make a living. For just $5 per month, you'll get exclusive, unreleased songs, podcasts, video concerts, bootleg concerts, and so much more. Email follow@celtfather to get more details! 7:55 - Brobdingnagian Bards "Do Virgins Tast Better Medley" from A Faire To Remember 12:43 - TODAY'S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS Every year, I take a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don't see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos. In 2026, you can join me for a Celtic Invasion of Galicia in Spain. Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com. Let's begin the… QUEST & CHORUS of TINTAGEL, CORNWALL - History & Myth Tintagel is carved into the coast of Cornwall — cliffs like the broken edge of a sword, sea spray rising like breath. Ruins cling to the stone. A castle? Maybe. A dream? Definitely. But before we step into the realm of Arthur and Avalon, let's talk about what Tintagel really is. 🏰 The History The site we call Tintagel Castle was built in the 1230s by Richard, Earl of Cornwall, the brother of King Henry III. Richard was a man of immense wealth and ambition. And his castle wasn't entirely practical. It wasn't raised to defend farmland or trade routes. It was built as a statement — to tie himself to the powerful myths already woven into Tintagel's cliffs. But Tintagel's story stretches much further back. Archaeological excavations reveal traces of a post-Roman settlement from the 5th to 7th centuries. Pottery  and glassware from the Mediterranean show that Tintagel was a hub of high-status trade — a gateway where Cornish kings connected with the wider world. Of course, life on these cliffs was never easy. The seas around Tintagel are beautiful but brutal. The jagged rocks and fierce Atlantic storms made this stretch of coast notorious for shipwrecks. For centuries, sailors feared the Cornish coast as "the graveyard of ships." Wreckage would wash ashore, and in the medieval period — and even later — locals salvaged timbers, cargo, and stories from the sea. These wrecks added to Tintagel's aura: a place where lives and legends were broken against the rocks, where the ocean itself seemed determined to test humanity's endurance. So Tintagel is not just a romantic ruin. It is a site of trade, ambition, and survival — a place shaped as much by the storms of the sea as by the myths of men. 🗡️ The Mythology Of course, it's the legends that have made Tintagel famous. Geoffrey of Monmouth, writing in the 12th century, set part of his History of the Kings of Britain here. He claimed that King Arthur was conceived at Tintagel. According to the tale, Uther Pendragon, Arthur's father, was enchanted by the wizard Merlin. Disguised in the form of Gorlois, the Duke of Cornwall, Uther gained access to Tintagel and to Igraine, the Duke's wife. From that union, Arthur was born. That story, scandalous and magical, placed Tintagel forever in the Arthurian landscape. And once Richard built his castle a century later, the connection between myth and stone was sealed. Visitors came not just to see a fortress, but to walk where legends were born. Other traditions place Tristan and Iseult at Tintagel. Some even whisper of Avalon, the mystical isle where Arthur was carried after his last battle, half-dead, half-remembered. 🌊 The Atmosphere When I walked those paths, I didn't feel like I was seeing where a king was born. I felt like I was walking through the last pages of a story. There's a heaviness here, like the final chapter has already been written. And that's why I thought of Camelot. Of knights and queens and betrayal and loss. Of Avalon, where Arthur was taken, half-dead, half-remembered. This isn't a place where stories begin. It's where they echo. Ritual and memory: The "parting glass" is more than a drink. It's a tradition that tells someone: "You mattered." Arthur's LegacyArthur's story lingers, half-history, half-legend. What legacies in your own family or culture do you want to carry forward, even if the details blur with time? The Parting Glass ItselfThe Parting Glass is about lifting one last drink, remembering friendship and love even as we say goodbye. If you were raising that glass tonight, who — or what — would you be remembering? UNLOCK THE SECRET WORLD This song is centuries old. It's been sung by warriors and wanderers, by friends who know they won't meet again. And even though it's often the final tune of the night… It never feels like an end. This is 'The Parting Glass. 20:49 - The Haar "The Parting Glass" from single At the end of this story—both Arthur's and ours—there's something shared. A symbol of closure. Of memory. What item do we raise to honor what's been lost? You've already heard it. It's in the title. Write it down. Thank you for climbing to Tintagel with me. Partings are never easy. But they're where the real stories live. Next time, we cross into the Quiraing—the jagged edge of Skye—where dragons hide and courage trembles. Until then… May you never raise the glass alone. 26:54 - CREDITS Thanks for listening to Quest & Chorus. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen. You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I'm performing. Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment. Join the Quest and Sing Along at www.pubsong.com! #pubstories  

The Calf of Man, just off the southern tip of the Isle of Man. There's a decayed building there. And on its wall hangs a strange thing. A life preserver—round, red and white, worn by time. It made me wonder: What do we leave behind to save the ones who come after us?" This is Quest & Chorus #306 0:21 - We Banjo 3 "Alive With You" from Open The Road 3:14 - WELCOME TO QUEST & CHORUS Where every place has a story, every story has a song, and every song is a step in the quest. I'm your bard, Marc Gunn, also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, and typically host of this show as Folk Songs & Stories, but today, we call it Quest & Chorus. Quest & Chorus is a 6-part podcast series. I fuse my love of music, science fiction and fantasy, and travel into a podcast with a quest. In each episode, you will get a clue to unlock a secret reward. And at the end of the season, you will combine all of those clues to unlock an even bigger amazing reward. We're sailing to the Isle of Man to talk about hope, abandonment, legacy, moving forward, and what comes next. If you're new to the show, please follow us. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather. UPCOMING SHOWS SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY OCT 11: The Lost Druid Brewery, Avondale Estates, GA OCT 17-19: MultiVerse, Peachtree City, GA Please leave a comment on the podcast show notes at pubsong.com or wherever you listen. Email pictures of where you're listening to follow@celtfather . I'll send you a free gift and you can learn more about how to follow this podcast. 4:55 - Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh "Cad É Sin Don Té Sin" from Neadú 8:23 - Bill Mullen "Irish Rover" from The Beginning A big thanks to my… 11:06 - GUNN RUNNERS ON PATREON If you enjoy this podcast or you love listening to my music, please follow my Celtfather Patreon page. You can sign up for free and get updates on what's new and you can get an ad-free edition of this podcast before public listeners. But you get so much more when you become a Patron of the Arts. Patreon is one of the ways modern musicians and podcasters make a living. For just $5 per month, you'll get exclusive, unreleased songs, podcasts, video concerts, bootleg concerts, and so much more. Email follow@celtfather to get more details! TODAY'S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS Every year, I take a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don't see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos. In 2026, you can join me for a Celtic Invasion of Galicia in Spain. Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com. Let's begin the… QUEST & CHORUS of CALF OF MAN The Calf of Man is a small island located about a half mile off the southern tip of the Isle of Man. It is a protected national park that is part of the Manx National Heritage. It is home to large number of species of birds, including some colonies that migrate there. Around 33 species of seabirds breed on the islet annually, including  Manx Shearwater, Kittiwake, Razorbill and Shag. Every year, I take a small group of people to explore our Celtic heritage. It's called Celtic Invasion Vacations. Next year, we're going to Galicia in Spain. That's one of the most-obscure Celtic nations. But in the summer of 2024, we did a Celtic Invasion of the Isle of Man. On the invasion, we took the Wild Life and Scenic Trip around Calf of Man with Shona Boat Trips. They are one of the small boat operators that give tours. Desi was our guide. He lived on the island for a year. We didn't get to explore much of the land. Because the Calf of Man is raw. The kind of place the sea keeps for itself. There was a building by the shore. We couldn't inspect it during our fifteen minutes on the ground, but it looked like just the bones of a dwelling, stone clinging to stone. And from its wall, there was one oddity that stood out in the stark landscape. A life preserver. That's wild to think about. A life preserver is a tool meant to save someone in the future, and it was hanging on the ruins of a home from the past. It reminded me of Miranda, from the movie, Serenity. A planet left behind. A warning not given. A silence that cost too much. That building, that place… it feels like Miranda. Not because it's dead. But because someone left it—hoping it might save someone else. In the first episode of Firefly, Malcolm Reynolds is fighting in Serenity Valley. A soldier standing next to him is terrified that they are gonna die. Mal tells him, "we're too pretty to die." He's filled with so much hope. A moment later he watches in horror as his air support leaves. He watches his Angels fly away as the soldier next to him is shot down. Two-thirds of the Independents died in the Battle of Serenity Valley. Two-thirds of Mal's fellow soldiers did not make it home. And yet he lived. He was preserved. MUCH LIKE THE SECRET WORD OF THE DAY. WHAT WAS PRESERVED? Were you ever left behind? How did you move forward? Music is my safe place. That's one of the reasons I wrote "Serenity Valley Waltz". I wanted a song for survivors. For those who were left behind. To not just face the future, but to also take care of the next generation. This is why I spend so much time thinking about sustainability and my music career. Are we making a life preserver for the next generation? For my daughters? I've been reading the book Ministry of the Future by Kim Stanley Robinson. He does an amazing job at illustrating the tipping point of climate change. When we HAVE to start doing something about it. The very first chapters of the book lay out a horror that brought tears to my eyes. Especially when I imagined what my children will most likely face at some point. We can use that life preserver right now by changing how we do stuff right now. And perhaps music can be our guiding light.  Our healer. Our hope. "Serenity Valley Waltz" is a song all about healing and hope. It's about overcoming our nightmares and looking out across the ocean from the Isle of Man and seeing a better future for all of us. This song is for the places that hold pain. But also for the objects that remind us to stay afloat. That round red and white ring… it didn't save a life today. But it might tomorrow. This is Serenity Valley Waltz." 16:19 - NEWS Marc Gunn "Serenity Valley Waltz" from Selcouth If you want to learn more about "Serenity Valley Waltz", visit the shownotes. I did an episode where I shared the inspiration beyond the song. You can also find a link to the discussion that Mikey Mason and I had when we wrote the song as part of the In the 'Verse podcast. Poll: What are your favorite songs on Selcouth? Merch: Buy Selcouth Thank you for standing on the shore with me today. The Calf of Man may be forgotten, but its story, like yours, is worth remembering. Next week, we climb to Tintagel, the seat of Camelot, to raise a glass to myths and farewells. Until then… Leave something behind.  Not because you're going… But because someone might come looking. 19:30 - CREDITS Thanks for listening to Quest & Chorus. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen. You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I'm performing. Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment. Join the Quest and Sing Along at www.pubsong.com! #pubstories  

Quest & Chorus is a six-part series where I share songs, stories, and places along with a game to make the adventure even more fun. This is the first episode in your quest. A reminder to be present with those who you love, while we travel through time to Kilmartin Glen in Scotland. This is Quest & Chorus on Folk Songs & Stories #305 0:12 - Tan and Sober Gentlemen "All the Time" from Regressive Folk Music 4:18 - WELCOME TO QUEST & CHORUS Where legends meet lyrics, and every place sings a story. I'm your bard, Marc Gunn, also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, and typically host of this show as Folk Songs & Stories, but today, we call it Quest & Chorus, and we begin our journey in a place where time stands still, literally. Welcome to Kilmartin Glen, in Scotland. A valley lined with stones that don't move, don't blink, and yet they watch… As you and I walk the long path of memory, love, and time itself. If you're new to the show, please follow us. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather. NEWS Poll: What are your favorite songs on Come Adventure With Me? Merch: Buy Come Adventure With Me Are you ready to answer the secret question to unlock your free gift? Click here. 4:55 - UPCOMING SHOWS AUG 28-SEP 1: Dragon Con, Atlanta, GA SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY OCT 11: The Lost Druid Brewery, Avondale Estates, GA OCT 17-19: MultiVerse, Peachtree City, GA 5:05 - TODAY'S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS Every year, I take a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don't see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos. In 2026, you can join me for a Celtic Invasion of Galicia in Spain. Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com. 6:02 - Tulua "Rambling Boys of Pleasure" from No Coming No Going 11:48 - The Secret Commonwealth "Dubhachas (I'll Dream of Times Like This)" from Last Call The ads on this podcast pay for some of the hosting and podcast editing. My time producing the show is paid for by my… 15:43 - GUNN RUNNERS ON PATREON Thank you so much for your generous support of my music. Patreon is how the modern musician makes a living with music. Album Pin and CD sales help me to perform in person. But my livelihood is entirely funded by Patrons of the Arts. You can sign up for as little as $5 per month. You'll get exclusive, unreleased songs. You'll get this and other podcasts I produce. Plus, you'll get access to a huge archive of video concerts. Email follow@celtfather to get more details! If you can't support me financially right now, just sign up on Patreon for free. You'll also get weekly updates. Please leave a comment on the podcast show notes at pubsong.com or wherever you're listening. You can also message me on Facebook. Email me, send me pictures of where you're listening. follow@celtfather Let's begin the… 16:54 - QUEST & CHORUS of KILMARTIN GLEN In a valley near the West Coast of Scotland is Kilmartin Glen. There you will find standing stones. Not one or two, but many laid out like a memory. Kilmartin Glen is considered to have one of the most important concentrations of Neolithic and Bronze Age remains in Scotland. There are more than 350 ancient monuments within a six mile radius of the village, with 150 of them being prehistoric. In the glen that we visited, we got a nice sized taste of those monuments. If you stand still long enough, you might be able to look back into time, like the TARDIS from Doctor Who. But these time machines don't fly, they stand cold and alone, watching everything, never blinking. Count the stones in the cover image and let prime numbers guide you to unlock your first Quest. These stones watched lovers part and children grow old. And in their stillness, they remember everything. They carry the weight of forgotten voyages. They are beautiful. And they are a little bit sad. That sadness seemed appropriate in 2022 when I led my Celtic Invasion of Scotland to Kilmartin Glen. The group was shrinking due to Covid. The feeling as people left the group. This song, 'Blink,' was born of that fear, the fear of blinking and losing something beautiful. Of falling in love with someone so radiant, so unique, that you fear time itself. But also… It's a love song for the moment. It's for every second you choose to stay present, even when it hurts. Learn more about my song #277 "Blink". Unlock the secret page. 22:31 - Marc Gunn "Blink" from Come Adventure With Me That's the end of today's tale, but the song lives on. Come back next week as we sail the Calf of Man through loss and resilience. Until then, don't blink. Don't look away. And may your memories always sing. 26:04 - CREDITS Thanks for listening to Quest & Chorus. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen. You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I'm performing. Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment. Join the Quest and Sing Along at www.pubsong.com! #pubstories #doctorwhoblink #kilmartinstones #questandchorus  

Wanna hear a Harry Potter inspired cat song? Plus learn some facts about whether you should declaw your cat. Celebrate Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers' 20th anniversary with this special podcast of the new and the old. This is Folk Songs & Stories #304 0:34 - Marc Gunn "Rising of the Moon" from Irish Drinking Songs: The Cat Lover's Companion 2:40 - WELCOME TO FOLK SONGS & STORIES I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic folk musician living in Atlanta, Georgia and host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. I'm also a cat lover as you'll hear later on in the show. If you're new to the show, please subscribe. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather. Got a cat picture? Send it to me to post in the podcast. NEWS Poll: What's your favorite song on Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers? Merch: Buy Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers on Patreon or Bandcamp. 3:23 - UPCOMING SHOWS JUL 19: Fiddler's Green Coffeehouse Concert series @ 8 PM, First Existentialist Congregation of Atlanta. 470 Candler Park Dr. NE / Atlanta GA 30307. 404-378-5570. firstexistentialist.org, Presented by Atlanta Area Friends of Folk Music (AAFFM) JUL 31-AUG 3: Gen Con, Indianapolis, IN AUG 28-SEP 1: Dragon Con, Atlanta, GA SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY OCT 17-19: MultiVerse, Peachtree City, GA NOV 8: IrishFest Atlanta, Roswell, GA with Inara DEC 7: Nerdy Wonderland at The Lost Druid, Avondale Estates, GA @ 12 - 5 PM. 4:16 - Blibbering Humdingers "No Shame in Hufflepuff" from Free Awkward Hugs 8:21 - SUPPORT THE CLUB The show is brought to you by my supporters on Patreon. If you enjoy this podcast or my music, please join the Club. You get something new every week. It could be a blog, an exclusive podcast, downloadable song, printed sheet music, or stories from the road. Plus, you'll get access to all of my Coffee with The Celtfather video concert series. Email follow@celtfather ! If you can't support me financially, just sign up on Patreon for free. Special thanks to our newest and returning patrons: CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS Every year, I lead a small group of people on an exciting adventure to one of the Celtic nations and other exciting locations. In 2026, we're going on a Celtic Invasion of Galicia in Spain. Galicia is indeed one of the more obscure Celtic nations to those of us who are most familiar with Ireland and Scotland. Find out more at CelticInvasion.com. 9:52 - CAT MUSIC LOVERS #6: "HARRY POTTER AND THE RISING OF THE MOON" & DECLAWING CATS FAQ Why you should not declaw your cats, and some great alternatives, plus a cat silliness on the net. Cat Music & News Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers now available The Mows, a daily cat web comic Stuff On My Cat, pictures of cats with things on them. My Cat Hates You.com, Pictures of sneering putty tats House of Dra, designer shirts for Renaissance & Celtic Festivals, Cats I Met on the Road Artemis (She's a tabby colored singularity...) Cassiopeia (Cassie for short, she used to belong to Satan, but he couldn't handle her so he dumped her off at MadLadyRed's house.) The kitties were Cicero (the big gray that tried to conquer my car), Ophelia (the nervous orange one), and Fortuna. Declawing FAQ, Original article was written by Veterinarian, Dr. Christianne Schelling Declawing Alternatives, Another declawing alternative is Soft Paws, or call 1-800-989-2542. Irish Drinking Songs, the Cat Lover's Companion CD Special thanks to these suppporters: Susan Saint-Lockhart, Charles Walker, Scott Robinson, Jennifer L. Sperry, Shelley Oden, Elizabeth Northrup, R N Goddard, Mary Mealiffe, Larry Lochner, Catherine Devine, David & Deborah Kaye Bibb, Kathryn Robinson, Charlotte Straight, Tay Aston, Fred Milano, Sandra Bobleter, Shelley Clifford, Matthew Williams, Dennise D Hunting, Roger Skulsky, Brenda Jarvis, Virginia Page, Kelli McLaughlin, Alan Brown, Steve Shonk, Fireball Express, Sarah leonard & Sarah Gruetz, Rebecca Jordan, Sara Carman, Beth Beal The Cat Lovers Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn. 24:45 - Marc Gunn & The Dubliners' Tabby Cats "Harry Potter and the Rising of the Moon" from Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers harry potter/rising of the moon autoharp, lead vocal: Marc Gunn banjo: franco bordoni fiddle: James "Cedric" Hazlerig dombek: Michelle Hedden bass: Ari Koinuma bgv: Marc Gunn, Ben Hamby, Blake McCaig, Sarah Dinan 27:10 - CREDITS Thanks for listening to Folk Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen. You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I'm performing. Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment. Have fun and sing along at www.pubsong.com! #pubstories  

Make sure your cat is drinking water. Cats love to pounce. It's another 20th anniversary celebration of Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers as I share the story behind "Lord of the Pounce". This is Folk Songs & Stories #303 0:29 - Marc Gunn "Lord of the Dance" from Irish Drinking Songs: The Cat Lover's Companion 3:05 - WELCOME TO FOLK SONGS & STORIES I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic folk musician living in Atlanta, Georgia and host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. I'm also a cat lover as you'll hear later on in the show. If you're new to the show, please subscribe. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather. Got a cat picture? Send it to me to post in the podcast. NEWS Poll: What's your favorite song on Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers? Merch: Buy Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers on Patreon or Bandcamp. Did you get your Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers album pin? Yes. It is my Celtic Cat Logo 3:51 - UPCOMING SHOWS JUL 19: Fiddler's Green Coffeehouse Concert series @ 8 PM, First Existentialist Congregation of Atlanta. 470 Candler Park Dr. NE / Atlanta GA 30307. 404-378-5570. firstexistentialist.org, Presented by Atlanta Area Friends of Folk Music (AAFFM) JUL 31-AUG 3: Gen Con, Indianapolis, IN AUG 28-SEP 1: Dragon Con, Atlanta, GA SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY OCT 17-19: MultiVerse, Peachtree City, GA NOV 8: IrishFest Atlanta, Roswell, GA with Inara DEC 7: Nerdy Wonderland at The Lost Druid, Avondale Estates, GA @ 12 - 5 PM. 5:09 - Ruth Keggin & Rachel Hair "Mish as y Keayn" from LOSSAN Hear an interview with them on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast 9:54 - SUPPORT THE CLUB The show is brought to you by my supporters on Patreon. If you enjoy this podcast or my music, please join the Club. You get something new every week. It could be a blog, an exclusive podcast, downloadable song, printed sheet music, or stories from the road. Plus, you'll get access to all of my Coffee with The Celtfather video concert series. Email follow@celtfather ! If you can't support me financially, just sign up on Patreon for free. Special thanks to our newest and returning patrons: CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS Every year, I lead a small group of people on an exciting adventure to one of the Celtic nations and other exciting locations. In 2026, we're going on a Celtic Invasion of Galicia in Spain. Galicia is indeed one of the more obscure Celtic nations to those of us who are most familiar with Ireland and Scotland. Find out more at CelticInvasion.com. 11:33 - CAT MUSIC LOVERS #5: "LORD OF THE POUNCE" AND CAT VET VISIT TnT's Annual Visit to the Vet, Cat CD House Concerts, Kitten War, Cats need to drink lots of water, "Lord of the Pounce" TnT's Annual Visit to the Vet Cat CD House Concerts Thanks to the Musicians on the CD. Some will be at the Austin Celtic Festival this November, including: Heather Gilmer, Sarah Dinan, Cedric of the Bedlam Bards and Christopher Buckley of Cluan. Kitten War Cats need to drink lots of water I want to offer Special Thanks to these Kind Supporters: Molly McDevitt, Pamela Worsham, Carole Simpsons, Robert Freeborn, Aaron Williams Vote for the Cat Lovers Podcast at Podcast Alley, no longer available. I want to offer Special Thanks to these Kind Supporters: Lanora Davidson of Things Celtic, Ashley Crawford, Kim Lambert, Dorothy Washburn, Holly Hill, Theresa Pittman, John Wohlers, Michele Piantà from Italy, Joshua Summit, Patrick Patterson, Zia King of Fifth House Candles – Cat Candles. 20:46 - Marc Gunn & The Dubliners' Tabby Cats "Lord of the Pounce" from Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers lord of the pounce autoharp, lead vocal: Marc Gunn fiddle: Heather Gilmer bass, guitar: Ari Koinuma bgv: Marc Gunn, Ben Hamby, Blake McCaig, Sarah Dinan CREDITS Thanks for listening to Folk Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen. You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I'm performing. Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment. Have fun and sing along at www.pubsong.com! #pubstories  

What happens when a kitty passes from this life to the next? It's filled with milk and catnip and all the luxuries a cat could possibly enjoy. Hear the story of "Catnipping Green" as we celebrate 20 years of Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers. This is Folk Songs & Stories #302 0:34 - Marc Gunn "Fiddler's Green" from Irish Drinking Songs: The Cat Lover's Companion 4:38 - WELCOME TO FOLK SONGS & STORIES I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic folk musician living in Atlanta, Georgia and host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. I'm also a cat lover as you'll hear later on in the show. This show is for fans of my music. If you're new to the show, please subscribe. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather. Got a cat picture? Send it to me to post in the podcast. NEWS Poll: What's your favorite song on Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers? Merch: Buy Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers on Patreon or Bandcamp. 5:20 - UPCOMING SHOWS JUL 19: Fiddler's Green Coffeehouse Concert series @ 8 PM, First Existentialist Congregation of Atlanta. 470 Candler Park Dr. NE / Atlanta GA 30307. 404-378-5570. firstexistentialist.org, Presented by Atlanta Area Friends of Folk Music (AAFFM) JUL 31-AUG 3: Gen Con, Indianapolis, IN AUG 28-SEP 1: Dragon Con, Atlanta, GA SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY OCT 17-19: MultiVerse, Peachtree City, GA NOV 8: IrishFest Atlanta, Roswell, GA with Inara DEC 7: Nerdy Wonderland at The Lost Druid, Avondale Estates, GA @ 12 - 5 PM. 6:26 - Socks in the Frying Pan "Irelands Struggle" from Waiting for Inspiration 10:49 - SUPPORT THE CLUB The show is brought to you by my supporters on Patreon. If you enjoy this podcast or my music, please join the Club. You get something new every week. It could be a blog, an exclusive podcast, downloadable song, printed sheet music, or stories from the road. Plus, you'll get access to all of my Coffee with The Celtfather video concert series. Email follow@celtfather ! If you can't support me financially, just sign up on Patreon for free. Special thanks to our newest and returning patrons: CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS Every year, I lead a small group of people on an exciting adventure to one of the Celtic nations and other exciting locations. In 2025, we're going on a Celtic Invasion of Galicia in Spain. Galicia is indeed one of the more obscure Celtic nations to those of us who are most familiar with Ireland and Scotland. Find out more at CelticInvasion.com. 12:01 - CAT MUSIC LOVERS #4: "CATNIPPING GREEN" AND BATHING YOUR CAT (REBOOT) The martial art of bathing your cat and cat world domination in action on Cat Drinking Songs. Cat Music & News Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers Cat World Domination in Action Cat Bathing as a Martial Art "Catnipping Green" by The Dubliners' Tabby Cats Vote for the Cat Lovers Podcast at Podcast Alley Cat Lover Websites Alley Cat Allies Cat Fanciers Association The Daily Kitten I want to offer Special Thanks to these Kind Supporters: Lanora Davidson of Things Celtic, Ashley Crawford, Kim Lambert, Dorothy Washburn, Holly Hill, Theresa Pittman, John Wohlers, Michele Piantà from Italy, Joshua Summit, Patrick Patterson, Zia King of Fifth House Candles – Cat Candles. 21:43 - Marc Gunn & The Dubliners' Tabby Cats "Catnipping Green" from Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers autoharp, lead vocal: Marc Gunn penny whistle: April Porter bass, piano, mandolin: Ari Koinuma bgv: Sarah Dinan 26:06 - CREDITS Thanks for listening to Folk Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen. You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I'm performing. Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment. Have fun and sing along at www.pubsong.com! #pubstories  

Can cats become zombies, outside of Stephen King's Pet Sematary? Apparently, it happens in songs too. I'll share the story behind "Furagone's Wake" and another Cat Lovers Podcast episode. We're celebrating the 20 year anniversary of Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers. This is Folk Songs & Stories #301 0:34 - Marc Gunn "Finnegan's Wake" from Irish Drinking Songs: The Cat Lover's Companion 3:16 - WELCOME TO FOLK SONGS & STORIES I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic folk musician living in Atlanta, Georgia and host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. I'm also a cat lover as you'll hear later on in the show. If you're new to the show, please subscribe. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather. NEWS Poll: What's your favorite song on Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers? Merch: Buy Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers on Patreon or Bandcamp. 3:48 - UPCOMING SHOWS JUL 19: Fiddler's Green Coffeehouse Concert series @ 8 PM, First Existentialist Congregation of Atlanta. 470 Candler Park Dr. NE / Atlanta GA 30307. 404-378-5570. firstexistentialist.org, Presented by Atlanta Area Friends of Folk Music (AAFFM) JUL 31-AUG 3: Gen Con, Indianapolis, IN AUG 28-SEP 1: Dragon Con, Atlanta, GA SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY OCT 17-19: MultiVerse, Peachtree City, GA NOV 8: IrishFest Atlanta, Roswell, GA with Inara DEC 7: Nerdy Wonderland at The Lost Druid, Avondale Estates, GA @ 12 - 5 PM. 4:35 - Kinnfolk "Byker Hill" from Kinnfolk 6:26 - SUPPORT THE CLUB The show is brought to you by my supporters on Patreon. If you enjoy this podcast or my music, please join the Club. You get something new every week. It could be a blog, an exclusive podcast, downloadable song, printed sheet music, or stories from the road. Plus, you'll get access to all of my Coffee with The Celtfather video concert series. Email follow@celtfather ! If you can't support me financially, just sign up on Patreon for free. Special thanks to our newest and returning patrons: CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS Every year, I lead a small group of people on an exciting adventure to one of the Celtic nations and other exciting locations. In 2025, we're going on a Celtic Invasion of Galicia in Spain. Galicia is indeed one of the more obscure Celtic nations to those of us who are most familiar with Ireland and Scotland. Find out more at CelticInvasion.com. 7:12 - CAT MUSIC LOVERS #3: " FURAGONE'S WAKE", CATNIP FAQ (REBOOT) How to know if your cat is plotting world domination and a funny story about fresh catnip on Cat Music Lovers Podcast. Cat Music & News Cat Medical News – Catnip FAQ Pet Product Could Harm Your Cat The 16 Signs Your Cat Is Plotting World Domination Irish Drinking Song for Cat Lovers News 21:14 - Marc Gunn & The Dubliners' Tabby Cats "Furagone's Wake" from Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers Based on the Irish folk song, "Finnegan's Wake", this cat song tells the story of a Sphynx Cat who loses his ninth life. His fellow cats gather for a wake that turns into one big cat fight. Look for it on my Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers CD. furagone's wake autoharp, lead vocal: Marc Gunn mandola: James "Cedric" Hazlerig bass, mandolin, maracas: Ari Koinuma bgv: Marc Gunn, Ben Hamby, Ari Koinuma comments & sound effects: Marc Gunn, Ben Hamby 24:00 - CREDITS Thanks for listening to Folk Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen. You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I'm performing. Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment. Have fun and sing along at www.pubsong.com! #pubstories  

We're celebrating the 20 year anniversary of Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers. I'll share a story about "When Kitty Eyes Are Smiling". You'll find out how about how my first Kickstarter did 4 years before Kickstarter existed. Plus, you'll enjoy rockin 'traditional music from High Octane out of France. This is Folk Songs & Stories #300 0:45 - Marc Gunn "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling" from Irish Drinking Songs: The Cat Lover's Companion 2:37 - WELCOME TO FOLK SONGS & STORIES I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic folk musician living in Atlanta, Georgia and host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. I'm also a cat lover as you'll hear later on in the show. This show is for fans of my music. If you're new to the show, please subscribe. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather. 3:00 - NEWS Poll: What's your favorite song on Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers? Merch: Buy Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers on Patreon or Bandcamp. 3:13 - UPCOMING SHOWS JUL 19: Fiddler's Green Coffeehouse Concert series @ 8 PM, First Existentialist Congregation of Atlanta. 470 Candler Park Dr. NE / Atlanta GA 30307. 404-378-5570. firstexistentialist.org, Presented by Atlanta Area Friends of Folk Music (AAFFM) JUL 31-AUG 3: Gen Con, Indianapolis, IN AUG 28-SEP 1: Dragon Con, Atlanta, GA SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY OCT 17-19: MultiVerse, Peachtree City, GA NOV 8: IrishFest Atlanta, Roswell, GA with Inara DEC 7: Nerdy Wonderland at The Lost Druid, Avondale Estates, GA @ 12 - 5 PM. 4:02 - High Octane "Eastern Vagrant" from High Octane 9:55 - SUPPORT THE CLUB The show is brought to you by my supporters on Patreon. If you enjoy this podcast or my music, please join the Club. You get something new every week. It could be a blog, an exclusive podcast, downloadable song, printed sheet music, or stories from the road. Plus, you'll get access to all of my Coffee with The Celtfather video concert series. Email follow@celtfather ! If you can't support me financially, just sign up on Patreon for free. Special thanks to our newest and returning patrons: --CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS Every year, I lead a small group of people on an exciting adventure to one of the Celtic nations and other exciting locations. In 2025, we're going on a Celtic Invasion of Galicia in Spain. Galicia is indeed one of the more obscure Celtic nations to those of us who are most familiar with Ireland and Scotland. Find out more at CelticInvasion.com. 11:43 - IRISH DRINKING SONGS FOR CAT LOVERS KICKSTARTER In 2005, I decided to fund my second solo album, Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers, with a Kickstarter. Well, officially Kickstarter hadn't started yet. It would be another four years before that happened. However, I ran the Kickstarter in a very similar way. I set different levels and ended up raising over $10,000 to fund the album. Admittedly, that was not all profit. In fact, I had far higher expenses back then because I didn't know how to run a fundraising campaign back then. Nevertheless, it was a huge success and I was able to order 1000 copies of this CD. I think I've printed over 3000 copies of this CD since it was released. But of course, now it is no longer available on CD with me at least. It's only available as a digital download or on an album pin. On June 6, 2005, I released the second episode of the Cat Lovers Podcast to fund this album. Here's a re-release of that podcast episode. 11:56 - CAT MUSIC LOVERS #2: "WHEN KITTY EYES ARE SMILING", CATS STUCK IN DRAWERS (REBOOT) A tabby cat stuck in the dresser drawers A letter to Torre from Anthony Creech of Celtic Radio Keeping cats indoors Cat Galaxy, All Cats! All the Time! 24:25 - Marc Gunn & The Dubliners' Tabby Cats "When Kitty Eyes Are Smiling" from Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers "When Kitty Eyes Are Smiling" is a parody of the song "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling". The lyrics to When Irish Eyes Are Smiling were written by Chauncey Olcott and George Graff, Jr. and set to the music of Enerst Ball for Olcott's production of The Isle O' Dreams. The music was published in 1912. when kitty eyes are smiling autoharp, lead vocal: Marc Gunn flute: Hannah Gunn bass, piano: Ari Koinuma Did you find this episode entertaining? Share it with a friend. 27:12 - CREDITS Thanks for listening to Folk Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen. You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I'm performing. Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment. Have fun and sing along at www.pubsong.com! #pubstories  

2025 is the 20 year anniversary of the release of Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers. We're resharing the Cat Lovers Podcast along with stories about the song that launched that album, "Wild Kitty". You'll also enjoy the music of Jesse Ferguson in this week's show. This is Folk Songs & Stories #299 WELCOME TO FOLK SONGS & STORIES 0:35 - Marc Gunn "Wild Rover" from Irish Drinking Songs: The Cat Lover's Companion I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic folk musician and podcaster living in Atlanta, Georgia. I'm also a cat lover as you'll hear later on in the show. This show is for fans of my music. But it's also for people who attend Celtic festivals, Renaissance festivals, and science fiction conventions. If you're new to the show, please subscribe. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather. Here's a weird request. I would like you to think of the first song that comes to your mind. Next, take a picture. Not one but three. Three pictures to tell a story. Perhaps you have a story to tell as well take some pictures and send them to me. 3:08 - NEWS Poll: What's your favorite song on Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers? Merch: Buy Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers on Patreon or Bandcamp. 4:20 - UPCOMING SHOWS JUL 19: Fiddler's Green Coffeehouse Concert series @ 8 PM, First Existentialist Congregation of Atlanta. 470 Candler Park Dr. NE / Atlanta GA 30307. 404-378-5570. firstexistentialist.org, Presented by Atlanta Area Friends of Folk Music (AAFFM) JUL 31-AUG 3: Gen Con, Indianapolis, IN AUG 28-SEP 1: Dragon Con, Atlanta, GA SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY OCT 17-19: MultiVerse, Peachtree City, GA NOV 8: IrishFest Atlanta, Roswell, GA with Inara DEC 7: Nerdy Wonderland at The Lost Druid, Avondale Estates, GA @ 12 - 5 PM. 5:02 - Jesse Ferguson "Bonnie Dundee" from Ten 8:45 - SUPPORT THE CLUB The show is brought to you by my supporters on Patreon. If you enjoy this podcast or my music, please join the Club. You get something new every week. It could be a blog, an exclusive podcast, downloadable song, printed sheet music, or stories from the road. Plus, you'll get access to all of my Coffee with The Celtfather video concert series. Email follow@celtfather ! If you can't support me financially, just sign up on Patreon for free. Special thanks to our newest and returning patrons: 9:33 - CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS Every year, I lead a small group of people on an exciting adventure to one of the Celtic nations and other exciting locations. In 2025, we're going on a Celtic Invasion of Galicia in Spain. Galicia is indeed one of the more obscure Celtic nations to those of us who are most familiar with Ireland and Scotland. Find out more at CelticInvasion.com. 9:43 - IRISH DRINKING SONGS FOR CAT LOVERS In 2003, I was back from Dragon Con chatting with a friend on the phone. The Irish song "Wild Rover" was stuck in my head as we started talking about cats. The chorus came around and I started meowing. An idea started growing in my head. What if I parodied a bunch of traditional Irish drinking songs with lyrics all about cats. I wrote my first three songs before the end of October. I then found Ari Koinuma in Austin to help me produce the single. I set up a website at CatDrinkingSongs.com. In December, someone posted the idea to Fark. I had 20,000 website hits in one day and hundreds of comments. I knew this was a great idea. In May of 2005, I launched a podcast to help raise money for a CD of Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers. Thus was born the Cat Lovers Podcast. 10:54 - CAT MUSIC LOVERS #1: "WILD KITTY" AND CATS IN PHYSICS (REBOOT) In honor of the 20 year anniversary of my first cat CD, Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers, I am re-releasing the Cat Lovers Podcast on this feed. I'll also share new stories about the inspiration behind the album creation, including the liner notes from the album. Cats in the News Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers Cats in Physics Deer hunting kitties 23:52 - Marc Gunn & The Dubliners' Tabby Cats "Wild Kitty" from Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers "Wild Kitty" is a parody of the traditional Irish song "Wild Rover". autoharp, lead vocal: Marc Gunn fiddle: James "Cedric" Hazlerig bass, maracas: Ari Koinuma bgv: Marc Gunn, Ben Hamby, Blake McCaig, Ari Koinuma meows: Marc Gunn, April Porter, Ben Hamby, Blake McCaig, 26:41 - CREDITS Thanks for listening to Pub Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen. You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I'm performing. Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment. Have fun and sing along at www.pubsong.com! #pubstories  

The Celtic Spring Challenge is underway. I will tell you all about it. I'm heading back to Texas for Sherwood Forest Faire. Buy local and buy sustainable. Music from Tami Curtis, Sassenach, Charlie O'Brien, Toby Bresnahan, Brobdingnagian Bards, plus Screeched Inn with yours truly. This is Folk Songs & Stories #298 0:39 - Tami Curtis "Keep Our Fire Burning" from Cavort 4:43 - WELCOME TO FOLK SONGS & STORIES I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic and Folk musician and also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. If you're new to the show, please subscribe. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send an email to follow@celtfather. Greetings my friends. Spring has sprung in Atlanta. Everything is covered in the yellowish glow of pollen. Fortunately, I've doubled up on allergy meds this year. It seems to have helped. I haven't lost my voice once this season, knock on wood. Even after a 4 hour show at the Wings Cafe & Tap House on St Patrick's Day. I call that a HUGE win. In the meantime, I've got a little challenge for you. It's simple, it's soulful, and it's rooted in the music we love. It's called the Celtic Spring Challenge, and it's happening all through the month of April. Here's how it works: 🎶 First—listen to Celtic music every day. Whether it's a lively jig, a haunting ballad, or an old favorite that stirs your heart. This podcast is mostly about Celtic Folk songs. So let that music be your companion. 🚶‍♀️ Second—go for a 30-minute walk. Every day if you can. Get outside, breathe in that spring air, and let the rhythm of the music move your feet. ♻️ And third—pick up three pieces of trash while you're out there. It's a small gesture, but it's a way of giving something back to the land that inspires so much of the music we celebrate here. It's easy, it's meaningful, and it's a beautiful way to connect—with nature, with music, and with community. Share your journey with us using the hashtag #CelticSpringChallenge. We'd love to see your favorite walking paths, hear your go-to songs, and celebrate the good you're doing out in the world. So what do you say? Lace up. Press play. And let's make this April a month to remember. 8:08 - Charlie O'Brien "Donovan's Mount" from The Trackless Wild, Irish Song of the Pampa 11:05 - BUY LOCAL. BUY SMALL. BUY SUSTAINABLE. 14:39 - Marc Gunn, Screeched Inn "Bright Side of Everything" from Selcouth Hear the story of Bright Side of Everything" on the 2022 episode #247 Vote:  Favorite songs on Selcouth? 17:49 - UPCOMING SHOWS APR 4-6: StellarFest, Duluth, GA APR 12-13: Sherwood Forest Faire, Paige, TX APR 19-20: Sherwood Forest Faire, Paige, TX APR 25-27: Jordan Con, Atlanta, GA MAY 3: Maggie McGuinness Pub, Huntsville, AL MAY 4: The Lost Druid Brewery, Avondale Estates, GA @ 4-7 PM JUN 21-28: Celtic Invasion of Wexford, Ireland JUL 19: Fiddler's Green Coffeehouse Concert series @ 8 PM JUL 31-AUG 3: Gen Con, Indianapolis, IN AUG 28-SEP 1: Dragon Con, Atlanta, GA SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY DEC 7: Nerdy Wonderland at The Lost Druid, Avondale Estates, GA @ 12 - 5 PM. I'm gonna be at Sherwood Forest Faire for the last two weekends. And I'd like you to do me a favor. I gave them a big ask this year. You see, I was initially scheduled for different dates. But because of my hip surgery, the faires so kind enough to change the dates for me so I could be sure I was able to walk at the festival. I am so grateful to them. So tell the faire thank you once you visit me at the event 21:49 - Sassenach "My Lagan Love" from Passages 25:47 - LATEST NEWS Slowly mailing merch for two Kickstarters Updated my blog on What is an Album Pin? New Come Adventure With Me album pins are laser-engraved wood See pictures from my Celtic Invasion of Isle of Man Merch: Buy the Kiss Me I'm Sci F'Irish Album Pin. I have a limited run of these album pins available. But I also now have a Sci Fi Drinking Songs Special Package. 32:03 - THANK YOU GUNN RUNNERS ON PATREON Your support on Patreon isn't just appreciated—it means everything. It's because of you that I'm able to make a living doing what I love: creating music that brings people joy, comfort, laughter… and sometimes, even a bit of healing. It's your patronage that fuels the songs, the podcasts, and the stories I get to share with the world. When you sign up as an official Gunn Runner—starting at just $5 a month—you become part of something truly special. You get access to exclusive, unreleased songs, intimate podcast moments, behind-the-scenes blogs, and a deep archive of video concerts. But more than that, you help keep this creative fire burning. And if you're not in a place to support me financially right now, that's okay. Honestly. Take care of yourself first—that's what matters most. You can still join the club for free and get weekly snapshots from my Celtic adventures and musical wanderings. However you choose to be part of this journey, know this: I'm deeply grateful. Your presence makes the music matter. Email follow@celtfather to get more details! 33:13 - Toby Bresnahan "Lord Randall" from All In Good time Please leave a comment on the podcast show notes at pubsong.com or wherever you're listening. You can also message me on Facebook. Email me, send me pictures of where you're listening. follow@celtfather 37:49 - TODAY'S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS Every year, I take a select group of Celtic music enthusiasts on an unforgettable, laid-back adventure. We don't rush to see everything. Instead, we immerse ourselves in one beautiful region, exploring its culture, history, and legends at a relaxed pace. You can join us from the comfort of your own home with a rich mix of podcasts and videos that bring the journey to life. In 2026, we'll be traveling to Galicia, a Celtic heartland in Spain. Together, we'll explore the deep history and captivating myths of the Galician Celts, tracing their connections to Ireland, Scotland, and beyond. We'll wander the same lands once tread by Celtic warriors, uncover the ancient tales passed down through the ages, and experience the soul-stirring rhythms of authentic Galician Celtic music, filled with history and passion. This isn't just a trip—it's an immersive journey into a Celtic culture like no other. Are you ready to join us? Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com. 39:00 - THE STORY OF MUSHROOMS 43:48 - Brobdingnagian Bards "Mushrooms" from Another Faire to Remember 46:32 - CREDITS Thanks for listening to Folk Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen. The intro was performed by Sharon Collins. The podcast was produced by Marc Gunn and my Gunn Runners on Patreon. Follow my Patreon blog for free updates and to listen to the podcast. Sign up to my mailing list for monthly updates and to discover where I'm performing. Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor. Finally, remember. Climate change is real, and we can fix it. Cutting waste, saving energy, and pushing for clean power all make a difference. A cleaner, safer world benefits everyone. Talk to someone today—our children are counting on you. Have fun and sing along at www.pubsong.com! #folksongs #celticsongs  

St Patrick's Day is a week away. Listen to a fun concert of St Patrick's Day music. Irish songs with my own unique twist. This is Folk Songs & Stories #297 WELCOME TO FOLK SONGS & STORIES I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic and Folk musician and also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, an hour-long radio show of some of the best indie Celtic music online. That was… If you're new to this show, please subscribe. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send an email to follow@celtfather. SET LIST 0:10 - "Star of the County Down" from How America Saved Irish Music 4:46 - "Slainte Mhaith" from Flower of Scotland 8:55 - "Wild Rover/Wild Kitty" from Irish Drinking Songs and Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers 14:23 - "Kilty Pleasure" from Selcouth 17:59 - "Happy Birthday From Ireland" from Soul of a Harper 21:44 - "Come Out Ye Black and Tans" from Songs of Ireland 24:04 - "Donald, Where's Your Drunken Sailor" from A Faire to Remember 29:37 - "I'm Coming Home" from Another Faire to Remember 36:10 - "Mingulay Boat Song" from Scottish Songs of Drinking & Rebellion UPCOMING SHOWS MAR 16: The Wings Cafe & Tap House, Marietta, GA @ 3-7 PM MAR 17: The Wings Cafe & Tap House, Marietta, GA @ 6-9:30 PM APR 4-6, StellarFest, Duluth, GA APR 12-13: Sherwood Forest Faire, Paige, TX APR 19-20: Sherwood Forest Faire, Paige, TX APR 25-27: Jordan Con, Atlanta, GA THANK YOU GUNN RUNNERS Your support on Patreon isn't just a game-changer—it's the reason I get to make music, podcasts, and all kinds of Celtic mischief! For just $5 a month, you unlock a treasure trove of exclusive, unreleased songs, behind-the-scenes blogs, and a massive vault of video concerts. It's like a backstage pass to all things me! Not ready to pledge just yet? No worries—your first mission is to take care of yourself. You can still join the club for free and get weekly snapshots of my Celtic invasions, plus updates from my wild musical adventures. Either way, I'd love to have you along for the journey! 🍀🎻 Email follow@celtfather to get more details! Please leave a comment on the podcast show notes at pubsong.com or wherever you're listening. You can also message me on Facebook. Email me, send me pictures of where you're listening. follow@celtfather TODAY'S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS Every year, I take a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don't see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos. In 2025, you can join me for a Celtic Invasion of Wexford, Ireland. Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com. CREDITS Thanks for listening to Folk Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen. It was produced by Marc Gunn and my Gunn Runners on Patreon. Follow my Patreon blog for free updates and to listen to the podcast. Sign up to my mailing list for monthly updates and to discover where I'm performing. Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor. And Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and talk with others about how you can make a positive impact on climate change and your community. Have fun and sing along at www.pubsong.com! #folksongs #celticsongs  

St. Patrick's Day is almost here. So it's time to definitively answer the old question. Is it Saint Paddy's day or Saint Patty's day? Plus, I'll give you 17 amazing Celtic bands that you should listen to for St. Patrick's Day. Music from Socks in the Frying Pan, Marc Gunn & Jesse Ferguson, and Blackwillow Starling. This is Folk Songs & Stories #296 0:25 - Socks in the Frying Pan "Ireland's Struggle" from Waiting for Inspiration 4:47 - WELCOME TO FOLK SONGS & STORIES I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic and Folk musician and also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, an hour-long radio show of some of the best indie Celtic music online. That was… If you're new to this show, please subscribe. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send an email to follow@celtfather. 5:39 - IS IT ST PADDY'S DAY OR ST PATTY'S DAY St Paddy's Day is the shortened version of St Patrick's Day. However, that shortened name is often misspelled. It should be spelled Paddy. Not Patty. Patty is a girls name. Paddy is short for the Irish name Padraig. That's from my 11 St Patrick's Day Facts episode of this podcast. I learned from The Daily Difference, the newsletter of the Carbon Almanac that the Episocopal Church used their environmental voice with their wallet. In 2015, the Episcopal Church made a commitment to divest fossil fuel investments from its holdings of around $500 million. And they honored that commitment just before the end of 2024. We all have the power of our voice, our wallet and our time to support climate initiatives. We are all in a weird position these days. There's a billionaire stripping government services from people who need them, just so he can get a huge tax cut. No matter where you stand on that situation, I don't think there's a single person in America who think that billionaires and corporations need a tax cut. Let me know if I'm wrong. Sadly, we may not have the power to stop corporate entitlements. But we do have the power of our wallets. We can support businesses and organizations who are doing good things to protect the environment and protect individuals like you and me. Take a moment and think about where your money is going. If you're gonna play the stock market, will you consider divesting your fossil fuel investments? 9:02 - Marc Gunn "Blue Sun" from As Long As I'm Flyin' Learn more about Blue Sun in this episode. Also check out Rebellion Songs of 2019 and Rebel Pub Songs 11:29 - VOTE: Favorite songs on As Long As I'm Flyin'? 12:20 - UPCOMING SHOWS MAR 16: The Wings Cafe & Tap House, Marietta, GA @ 3-7 PM MAR 17: The Wings Cafe & Tap House, Marietta, GA @ 6-9:30 PM APR 4-6, StellarFest, Duluth, GA APR 12-13: Sherwood Forest Faire, Paige, TX APR 19-20: Sherwood Forest Faire, Paige, TX APR 25-27: Jordan Con, Atlanta, GA MAY 3: Maggie McGuinness Pub, Huntsville, AL JUL 19: Fiddler's Green Coffeehouse Concert series @ 8 PM JUN 21-28: Celtic Invasion of Wexford, Ireland SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY Gen Con! 12:51 - LATEST NEWS See pictures from my Celtic Invasion of Scotland's Whiskey Merch of the Month: Limited Edition Album Pins for Come Adventure With Me. 14:23 - THANK YOU GUNN RUNNERS Your support on Patreon isn't just a game-changer—it's the reason I get to make music, podcasts, and all kinds of Celtic mischief! For just $5 a month, you unlock a treasure trove of exclusive, unreleased songs, behind-the-scenes blogs, and a massive vault of video concerts. It's like a backstage pass to all things me! Not ready to pledge just yet? No worries—your first mission is to take care of yourself. You can still join the club for free and get weekly snapshots of my Celtic invasions, plus updates from my wild musical adventures. Either way, I'd love to have you along for the journey! 🍀🎻 Email follow@celtfather to get more details! 15:36 - Marc Gunn & Jesse Ferguson "Molly Malone" from Come Adventure With Me Interviewed Jesse Ferguson on Irish & Celtic Music Podcast Please leave a comment on the podcast show notes at pubsong.com or wherever you're listening. You can also message me on Facebook. Email me, send me pictures of where you're listening. follow@celtfather 18:13 - 17 CELTIC BANDS YOU SHOULD LISTEN TO THIS ST PATRICK'S DAY The Gothard Sisters Kinnfolk The Langer's Ball Jesse Ferguson Blackwillow Starling Socks in the Frying Pan Matt & Shannon Heaton The Byrne Brothers Cherish the Ladies Sorcha The Drowsy Lads Celtic Wood & Wires The Friel Sisters Enda Reilly The Haar Tradify Poitin Brobdingnagian Bards 23:50 - TODAY'S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS Every year, I take a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don't see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos. In 2025, you can join me for a Celtic Invasion of Wexford, Ireland. Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com. 24:31 - Blackwillow Starling "Matty Groves" from Blackwillow Starling 28:55 - CREDITS Thanks for listening to Folk Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen. It was produced by Marc Gunn and my Gunn Runners on Patreon. Follow my Patreon blog for free updates and to listen to the podcast. Sign up to my mailing list for monthly updates and to discover where I'm performing. Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor. And Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and talk with others about how you can make a positive impact on climate change and your community. Have fun and sing along at www.pubsong.com! #folksongs #celticsongs  

Today, you'll learn about 17 things you can see and do in Wicklow, Ireland. Plus you'll hear music from Eimear Arkins, The Ciderhouse Rebellion and Kyle Carey. This is Folk Songs & Stories #295 0:14 - Eimear Arkins "Téir Abhaile Riú (Song)" from Here & There 3:47 - WELCOME TO FOLK SONGS & STORIES I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic and Folk musician and also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, an hour-long radio show of some of the best indie Celtic music online. That was… If you're new to this show, please subscribe. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send an email to follow@celtfather. Looks like you get a bonus episode this month. I'm gonna share with you some cool things I found for County Wicklow in Ireland. We're driving through Wicklow for my Celtic Invasion of Wexford. I heard so many good things about Wicklow that I plan to stop there. Now time for your Sustainability tip for the day. Get on the Meatless Monday bandwagon A few years back, my wife decided we would add a meatless day to our meal schedule for the week. It took me a while to get used to it. But I gotta say I feel so much better because of it. Now I've come to realize I really don't need meat in my diet. Not that I don't eat it. But I don't feel the need to spend the money to do so. We went to the grocery store last week and the price of a steak was insane, like double what it used to be. Giving up meat can be difficult, but it's one of the most impactful things that anyone can do to lower their personal carbon footprint and send a bigger message about sustainability in our agricultural system. Now I eat mostly veggies. Garbanzos are a new favorite. We have a super simple recipe that makes yummy garbanzos to go on rice and veggies. I also make my hummus. I even found this great recipe for lentil pancakes. They're sooo good. There are so many great vegetarian and vegan recipes I found on YouTube. I'm eating them up. And yet, we still eat chicken and salmon and steak and carnitas depending on our mood. But it feels good to not feel stuffed full of meat. Oh.  Some good news. Last time, I mentioned getting involved with your local government. Good Newsletter reported. ​A bipartisan coalition of 24 U.S. governors pledged to continue the country's work toward achieving Paris Agreement goals.Representing nearly 60% of the U.S. economy and 55% of the nation's population, Alliance members pledged to reduce collective greenhouse gas emissions by 26% below 2005 levels by 2025, a target it is on track to achieve The Goodnewsletter is created by Good Good Good. 8:52 - Marc Gunn "Naked" from Come Adventure With Me Learn more about "Naked" in episode #278 Listen to a rough cut of Naked The song was written for In the 'Verse show podcast #11. Vote: Favorite songs on Come Adventure With Me? 11:59 - UPCOMING SHOWS MAR 1: The Lost Druid Brewery, Avondale Estates, GA @ 6-9 PM MAR 16: The Wings Cafe & Tap House, Marietta, GA @ 3-7 PM MAR 17: The Wings Cafe & Tap House, Marietta, GA @ 6-9:30 PM APR 4-6, StellarFest, Duluth, GA APR 12-13: Sherwood Forest Faire, Paige, TX APR 19-20: Sherwood Forest Faire, Paige, TX APR 25-27: Jordan Con, Atlanta, GA MAY 3: Maggie McGuinness Pub, Huntsville, AL JUN 21-28: Celtic Invasion of Wexford, Ireland JUL 19: Fiddler's Green Coffeehouse Concert series @ 8 PM SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY 13:24 - LATEST NEWS See pictures from my Celtic Invasion of Scotland's Whiskey I have pictures from Stirling Castle, Dewar Aberfledy, and even Falkirk, and Blair Athol Distillery Merch of the Month: Limited Edition Album Pins for Come Adventure With Me. Come Adventure With Me is my latest solo album. It features some of my best songwriting yet, if I do say so myself. Like for instance that song "Naked" I wrote, a song about emotional vulnerability. I have a new Album Pin coming out shortly. Well, two actually. They are in my store. Whoever buys one will get both versions. But there are only a handful of both. They use the dragon design that came out with the original release. But they are both made entirely of wood instead of enamel. You buy one, you get both. But only a handful of both will be available. I'm testing them out. And I'd LOVE your feedback. Which do you prefer? Find a link to order them in the shownotes. 15:26 - THANK YOU GUNN RUNNERS 🎶 Calling all Gunn Runners! 🎶 Your support on Patreon isn't just a game-changer—it's the reason I get to make music, podcasts, and all kinds of Celtic mischief! For just $5 a month, you unlock a treasure trove of exclusive, unreleased songs, behind-the-scenes blogs, and a massive vault of video concerts. It's like a backstage pass to all things me! Not ready to pledge just yet? No worries—your first mission is to take care of yourself. You can still join the club for free and get weekly snapshots of my Celtic invasions, plus updates from my wild musical adventures. Either way, I'd love to have you along for the journey! 🍀🎻 Email follow@celtfather to get more details! 16:32 - The Ciderhouse Rebellion with Molly Donnery "The Cabin with the Roses 'Round The Door" from A Little Bit Slanted Please leave a comment on the podcast show notes at pubsong.com or wherever you're listening. You can also message me on Facebook. Email me, send me pictures of where you're listening. follow@celtfather 23:48 - 17 Things to See and Do in Wicklow, Ireland Glendalough Monastic Site: Explore this early medieval monastic settlement in a stunning valley. Wicklow Mountains National Park: Hike or drive through breathtaking mountain scenery. Powerscourt Estate & Gardens: Wander through one of the world's finest gardens. Powerscourt Waterfall: Marvel at Ireland's highest waterfall. The Great Sugarloaf: Climb this iconic peak for panoramic views. Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk: Take a scenic coastal hike between two charming towns. Russborough House: Tour this grand Palladian mansion and its art collection. Wicklow Gaol: Learn about Ireland's turbulent history at this atmospheric jail. Mount Usher Gardens: Stroll through these award-winning Robinsonian-style gardens. The Sally Gap: Drive through this picturesque mountain pass. Lough Tay (Guinness Lake): Visit this iconic black-and-white lake in the mountains. Brittas Bay: Relax on this long stretch of golden sandy beach. Glendalough Upper and Lower Lakes: Enjoy stunning lake views and walking trails. Tinahely Farm Shop & Activity Centre: A family-friendly spot with animals, crafts, and food. Avoca Village: Visit the "Ballykissangel" filming location and shop at the Avoca Handweavers. Kilmacurragh Botanic Gardens: Discover rare plants in this tranquil garden. Hollywood, County Wicklow: Explore this tiny village with a big name, linked to early Irish film history. 27:29 - TODAY'S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS Every year, I take a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don't see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos. In 2025, you can join me for a Celtic Invasion of Wexford, Ireland. Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com. 28:53 - Kyle Carey "The Sere Wind" from The Last Bough Interview with Kyle Carey on sustainability 31:57 - CREDITS Thanks for listening to Folk Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen. It was produced by Marc Gunn and my Gunn Runners on Patreon. Follow my Patreon blog for free updates and to listen to the podcast. Sign up to my mailing list for monthly updates and to discover where I'm performing. Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor. And Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and talk with others about how you can make a positive impact on climate change and your community. Have fun and sing along at www.pubsong.com! #folksongs #celticsongs

Today, you'll learn about 17 things to see and do in Wexford, Ireland. Just in time for my Celtic Invasion of Wexford that happens in June. I share one of the best ways to make effective climate change happen along with an easy personal change. And you'll hear music from Kinnfolk, Tarren, and Erin Ruth. This is Folk Songs & Stories #294 0:22 - Tarren "Sunk" from Outside Time 4:54 - WELCOME TO FOLK SONGS & STORIES I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic and Folk musician and also host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, an hour-long radio show of some of the best indie Celtic music online. That was… If you're new to this show, please subscribe. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send an email to follow@celtfather. I had hip replacement surgery on the 13th of January. It's incredible that two weeks later I'm up and walking around. Yeah. I got a gruesome scar, but the medical professions are just amazing. The big challenge, of course, is that I haven't had time to work on podcasts or music or much of anything else. I'm largely exercising and taking care of my family. All while trying to ignore the pain. Sleeping is one of the worst parts of it all. But I'm hoping to get some new medicine that might make me at least a little bit more comfortable. So that said, I realized the Brobdingnagian Bards' Kickstarter is now delayed a couple months. Andrew and I planned to get together in person to record in February. I don't think it's gonna happen. Tho there's still a small possibility. In the meantime, we are planning to get together in April to record when I head to Texas for Sherwood Forest Faire. But that also didn't stop me from launching Another Kickstarter. This one is for the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. It funds a CD and Album Pin and other merch to promote the podcast with a really cool design that reads "Celtic Forever". I'll tell you more about that in a little bit. But if you want to support the Kickstarter, I would greatly appreciate it. Follow the link in the shownotes. But before we goton with the show, I have a really important way for you to fight climate change. It all begins with your local government. The current administration is dismantling all the good climate progress we had these past few years. But that just reminds me that since the beginning of our country, there's been a big discussion about States Rights vs Federal Rights. States Rights was a big issue when our nation started. I'm learning more about that as I help my daughter with American History. While I think some issues like Climate Change progress should be national, that's not the way America will work for the next four years. We need to take it local. I heard about a recent analysis, state and local programs, such as improved building efficiency standards and ambitious renewable energy adoption targets. They have the potential to reduce U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by up to 62%. You can join a local group. Or you can talk to your city legislators or county or state legislators. If enough of us reach out locally, we can make change happen in our physical communities. Which will blossom up to our State and hopefully eventually our National. Start small. Start local. That idea was inspired while reading One5C, a website that shares climate news and actions. Bring your water bottle (or reusable mug) everywhere One of the biggest challenges in terms of both climate change and overconsumption is the world's dependence on single-use plastic. It's a dilemma in terms of fossil fuel use, pollution, ecosystem destruction, human health, and more. According to the U.N., 1 million plastic bottles are purchased every single minute across the world, and half of all plastic produced is used just once and then thrown away. The easiest thing we can do right this moment is make sure to grab your water bottle or coffee cup whenever you leave the house. You never know when thirst will strike, and bringing your own container no matter the destination takes away the need to buy something you'll just toss when it's empty—a win for both your wallet and the planet. 11:21 - Marc Gunn "Kilty Pleasure" from Selcouth Listen to the full story of "Kilty Pleasure" on show #251. Vote: Favorite songs on Selcouth? 15:25 - UPCOMING SHOWS MAR 1: The Lost Druid Brewery, Avondale Estates, GA @ 6-9 PM MAR 16: The Wings Cafe & Tap House, Marietta, GA @ 3-7 PM MAR 17: The Wings Cafe & Tap House, Marietta, GA @ 6-9:30 PM APR 12-13: Sherwood Forest Faire, Paige, TX APR 19-20: Sherwood Forest Faire, Paige, TX APR 25-27: Jordan Con, Atlanta, GA MAY 3: Maggie McGuinness Pub, Huntsville, AL JUL 19: Fiddler's Green Coffeehouse Concert series @ 8 PM JUN 21-28: Celtic Invasion of Wexford, Ireland SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY 15:53 - LATEST NEWS See pictures from my Celtic Invasion of Scotland's Whiskey A few more weeks and I'll have shared all of my photos from my Celtic Invasion of Scotland's Whisky. You can see those on Patreon. Merch: Celtic Forever: Best Celtic Music of 2024 Celtic Forever is a compilation CD (you have…) and Album Pin (you have…) featuring 14 of the best songs and tunes as voted on by fans of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. There's music from The Gothard Sisters, Poitín, Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer, Cherish The Ladies, Marc Gunn, Sorcha, Mànran, Arise & Go, The Byrne Brothers, Screaming Orphans, Ian Fontova, Fialla, Matt & Shannon Heaton, Dancing With Hobbits. You can hear the complete list of songs and tunes on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcasts ​​Celtic Top 20 of 2024 #691. And if you check out show #695 Celtic Forever, you'll hear other tracks from these amazing Celtic artists. So why Celtic Forever. It goes back to the last song I featured earlier, "Kilty Pleasure". Then I'm off to the pub or the fair or the fest A wee swing goes into each step 'Cause I'm American born and Celtic forever And both are truly blessed I was trying to use that phrase to promote Selcouth with an album pin for the past couple of years. But the ideas just weren't working. Then Christopher Toler made the Cat in front of a Celtic Moon design that inspired the compilation artwork. I love the Album Pin design. So when you support the Album Pin on Kickstarter, you will get both the 14 track compilation, plus you'll get my album, Selcouth, as a bonus gift. 19:54 - THANK YOU GUNN RUNNERS Your generous support on Patreon is how I make a living with music. It is patronage that allows me to create new music and podcasts that help others out. Sign up as an official Gunn Runner for as little as $5 per month. You'll get exclusive, unreleased songs. You'll get podcasts, blogs, and you'll enjoy access to a huge archive of video concerts. If you can't support me financially right now, that's okay, take care of yourself first. You can join the club for free and get weekly photos of my Celtic invasions and regular updates of my musical adventures. Email follow@celtfather to get more details! 21:27 - Kinnfolk "The Water's Rising / Gwendal" from Star Above The Mountain Please leave a comment on the podcast show notes at pubsong.com or wherever you're listening. You can also message me on Facebook. Email me, send me pictures of where you're listening. follow@celtfather 27:10 - TODAY'S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS Every year, I take a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don't see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos. In 2025, you can join me for a Celtic Invasion of Wexford, Ireland. Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com. 28:33 - 17 Things to See and Do in Wexford, Ireland   Hook Lighthouse: Visit the world's oldest operational lighthouse and take a guided tour. Irish National Heritage Park: Explore this open-air museum showcasing 9,000 years of Irish history. Curracloe Beach: A pristine beach famous for being featured in Saving Private Ryan. Johnstown Castle & Gardens: Tour the Gothic Revival castle and stroll through its beautifully landscaped gardens. Tintern Abbey: Discover this 13th-century Cistercian abbey and nearby walking trails. Wexford Wildfowl Reserve: A haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Selskar Abbey: Visit the ruins of this 12th-century abbey in Wexford town. Dunbrody Famine Ship: Step aboard a replica of a 19th-century emigrant ship. Rosslare Strand: Enjoy the beach, water sports, and seaside charm of Rosslare. Duncannon Fort: Explore this star-shaped fort with stunning views of the coast. Loftus Hall: A haunted 14th-century mansion on the Hook Peninsula. Ballyhack Castle: Tour this 15th-century tower house with connections to the Knights Hospitaller. Tacumshane Windmill: Visit one of Ireland's oldest windmills. Baginbun Beach: A secluded spot with historical significance tied to the Norman invasion. Saltee Islands: Take a boat trip to these birdwatcher's paradises. Enniscorthy Castle: Explore the medieval castle and its exhibitions. Raven Nature Reserve: Hike through this coastal woodland adjacent to Curracloe Beach. 33:12 - Erin Ruth "Oro My Little Boat" from single 25:42 - CREDITS Thanks for listening to Folk Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen. It was produced by Marc Gunn and my Gunn Runners on Patreon. Follow my Patreon blog for free updates and to listen to the podcast. Sign up to my mailing list for monthly updates and to discover where I'm performing. Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor. And Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and talk with others about how you can make a positive impact on climate change and your community. Have fun and sing along at www.pubsong.com! #folksongs #celticsongs  

Today, I'm talking about… 9 Celtic Folk bands you want to watch in 2025. We also talk about simple actions we can take to combat climate change and improve our local community. This is Folk Songs & Stories #293 0:17 - WELCOME TO FOLK SONGS & STORIES I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic and Folk musician and host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. If you're new to the show, please subscribe. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send an email to follow@celtfather. Happy New Year! Climate change is a real issue, and it concerns me. I have two amazing daughters. I want them to have long healthy lives. I want them to continue to experience the great outdoors, going for hikes, and being a part of the beauty our world has to offer. That's one of the reasons I created the Album Pin. It's a beautiful product that connects you to the music. It may even make you think about how we consume. I also want to help other musicians create sustainable music careers. I believe Album Pin is the way to do just that. This year on Folk Songs & Stories, as well as my other podcasts, I have three goals. First, I will introduce you to some great Celtic and Folk musicians that I encounter as part of my travels or from through my Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. We'll dig a little deeper into their music. Second, I hope to share simple, practical tips on how to live life more sustainably. And finally, I will promote my music, because that's ultimately what this podcast has always been about. I am currently planning monthly releases of this podcast. However, when I get the urge, I might release more. And this summer, I have a 10-part series promoting my Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers CD which was officially released 20 years ago. 20 years ago. This is also my 20th year as a podcaster and full-time musician. We're gonna start the year off by counting down 9 bands that you should keep an eye on in 2025 along with some of my favorite songs from the year. But I also hope that you will consider one change to support climate change efforts. Here are three that you can choose from. Just pick one. Buy fewer items with single use plastic Buy from small, local sustainable businesses, that includes bands. Talk to them about album pins and Patreon Together we can make a difference 5:00 - Marc Gunn "Come Adventure With Me" from Come Adventure With Me Vote:  Favorite songs on Come Adventure With Me? 9:28 - UPCOMING SHOWS MAR 1: The Lost Druid Brewery, Avondale Estates, GA @ 6-9 PM MAR 7-9: Cleveland Concoction, Cleveland, OH MAR 15: The Wings Cafe & Tap House, Marietta, GA @ 3-7 PM APR 25-27: Jordan Con, Atlanta, GA JUN 21-28: Celtic Invasion of Wexford, Ireland SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY Sherwood Forest Faire TBD 10:12 - LATEST NEWS See pictures from my Celtic Invasion of Scotland's Whiskey Merch: Did you listen to the Celtic Top 20 of the 2024 episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast? The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast launches a Kickstarter in a couple weeks for a new CD and Album Pin where you can own and archive some of the best Celtic music of last year. There will be only 100 CDs printed. No more than that. This is a great way to celebrate your love of Celtic culture through music. THANK YOU GUNN RUNNERS ON PATREON Your generous support on Patreon is how I make a living with music. It is patronage that allows me to create new music and podcasts that help others out. Sign up as an official Gunn Runner for as little as $5 per month. You'll get exclusive, unreleased songs. You'll get podcasts, blogs, and you'll enjoy access to a huge archive of video concerts. If you can't support me financially right now, that's okay, take care of yourself first. You can join the club for free and get weekly photos of my Celtic invasions and regular updates of my musical adventures. Email follow@celtfather to get more details! 10:52 - The Langer's Ball "Irish Rover" from The Singles Collection 2023-2024 Please leave a comment on the podcast show notes at pubsong.com or wherever you're listening. You can also message me on Facebook. Email me, send me pictures of where you're listening. follow@celtfather 15:53 - TODAY'S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS Every year, I take a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don't see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos. In 2025, you can join me for a Celtic Invasion of Wexford, Ireland. Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com. 16:31 - 9 CELTIC FOLK BANDS TO WATCH IN 2025 20:08 - The Haar "Wild Rover" from Where Old Ghosts Meet 24:38 - 9 CELTIC FOLK BANDS TO WATCH IN 2025 (continued) 28:07 - Kinnfolk "Roanoke Puirt à Beul" from Star Above The Mountain 31:13 - CREDITS Thanks for listening to Folk Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen. It was produced by Marc Gunn and my Gunn Runners on Patreon. Follow my Patreon blog for free updates and to listen to the podcast. Sign up to my mailing list for monthly updates and to discover where I'm performing. Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor. And Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and talk with others about how you can make a positive impact on climate change and your community. Have fun and sing along at www.pubsong.com! #folksongs #celticsongs #topcelticfolkbands  

Here's a holiday gift. It's a live concert from Dragon Con 2024. This is Pub Songs & Stories #292 0:09 - Marc Gunn & Mikey Mason "Hero of Christmas" from Browncoat Christmas 2:26 - WELCOME TO PUB SONGS & STORIES I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic and Folk musician and host of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. If you're new to the show, please subscribe. You can do that PubSong.com or Just send me an email to follow@celtfather. Today, I'm sharing a live concert from Dragon Con 2024. Each episode has a timestamp and chapter marks. You can click those to straight where you want in each episode. Just head over to the show notes. 3:10 - LATEST NEWS New Show Title: Folk Songs & Stories Did you vote for your favorite song on Live at the Cactus Cafe? See pictures from my Celtic Invasion of Scotland's Whiskey. Next Celtic Invasion of Wexford, Ireland is on June 21-28, 2025. Merch: Dancing with Hobbits is on sale. Get the "I Went Dancing With Hobbits" album pin. Kickstarter: Launching a new Kickstarter for Irish & Celtic Music Podcast in January. Sign up to the Pre-Launch Page. 5:33 - TODAY'S SHOW IS BROUGHT TO BY CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS Every year, I lead a small group of people on a relaxing adventure to one of the Celtic nations. We don't see everything. Instead we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join me with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts, blogs, videos, and photos. In 2025, you can join me for a Celtic Invasion of Galicia in Spain. This lesser known Celtic Nation is located in the Northwest corner of the country. It's secluded in the mountains. So Julius Caesar never invaded this country. It survived with its own unique linguistic dialect and its own unique style of bagpipes. Sign to the Celtic Invasion Vacations mailing list at CelticInvasion.com. 7:46 - UPCOMING SHOWS JAN 11: Maggie McGuinness Pub, Huntsville, AL MAR 1: The Lost Druid Brewery, Avondale Estates, GA MAR 7-9: Cleveland Concoction, Cleveland, OH MAR 21-23: Sherwood Forest Faire, Paige, TX MAR 29-30: Sherwood Forest Faire, Paige, TX APR 25-27: Jordan Con, Atlanta, GA JUL 19: Fiddler's Green Coffeehouse Concert series @ 8 PM, First Existentialist Congregation of Atlanta. 470 Candler Park Dr. NE / Atlanta GA 30307. 404-378-5570. Presented by Atlanta Area Friends of Folk Music (AAFFM) JUN 21-28: Celtic Invasion of Wexford, Ireland SEP 24-28: ALEP 6, Harrodsburg, KY 8:50 - GUNN RUNNERS ON PATREON The ads on this podcast pay for the hosting and podcast editing. My time producing the show is paid for by my… A big thanks to all of my patrons who've been supporting me for months and years. When you join the community, you get access to exclusive videos and podcasts. You get some free early-release songs, blogs, and lots more. Email follow@celtfather ! If you can't support me financially right now, just sign up on Patreon for free. You'll also get weekly updates. Please leave a comment on the podcast show notes at pubsong.com or wherever you're listening. You can also message me on Facebook. Email me, send me pictures of where you're listening. follow@celtfather 9:36 - LIVE AT DRAGON CON 1:07:59 - CLOSING 1:08:51 - Marc Gunn "Christmas in the Shire" from Celtic Christmas Greetings 1:12:34 - CREDITS Thanks for listening to Pub Songs & Stories. This episode was edited by Mitchell Petersen. You can follow and listen to the show on my Patreon or wherever you find podcasts. Sign up to my mailing list to learn more about songs featured in this podcast and discover where I'm performing. Remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and talk with others about how you can make a positive impact on climate change. Have fun and sing along at www.pubsong.com!   #pubstories