Let Me Explain with Seán Defoe

If you don't have the time to keep up with every twist and turn of the news agenda then sit back and Let Me Explain. Each week host Seán Defoe goes behind the scenes on one of the biggest stories dominating the airwaves. Why is it a big deal? Who's trying to spin you a line? And, most importantly, why should you give a damn? Listen and subscribe to Let Me Explain with Seán Defoe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Download, listen and subscribe on the Newstalk App.   You can also listen to Newstalk live on newstalk.com or on Alexa, by and asking: 'Alexa, play Newstalk'

195. Who won the first Presidential debate?

Sean Defoe runs his eye over the first Presidential election debate grading the winners and losers

09-30
13:46

194. Trump tries to sink the UN

This episode comes to you from Canada and the travelling pack covering Ireland's appearance at the UN summit in New York and meeting the Prime Minister of Canada

09-25
19:44

193. Asian Hornets in Ireland

Jamie O Hara examines what the discovery of two Asian Hornet nests could mean for the country.

09-18
07:58

192. Jim Gavin's First Newstalk Interview

This week Sean catches up with Fianna Fáil Presidential candidate Jim Gavin after he secured the nomination ahead of MEP Billy Kelleher

09-10
13:47

191. What will Jim Gavin be like as a politician?

As Jim Gavin enters the race for the Presidency Off The Ball's GAA Correspondent Tommy Rooney joins Sean Defoe to discuss what Gavin might be like as a politician. What can we learn from his time as Dublin boss about how he would approach the Áras?

09-03
22:37

190. The Biggest Controversies in Presidential Election History

In this episode of Let Me Explain, Sean Defoe takes a fascinating trip down memory lane to explore the controversies that have shaped Irish presidential elections. From high-profile scandals to sharp political clashes, Sean covers how some candidates faced firestorms—sometimes of their own making. Join Sean as he revisits notable moments from past elections, including the turbulent 1990 race featuring Brian Lenihan and Mary Robinson, and the dramatic fallout from Sean Gallagher's campaign in 2011. He examines how these incidents, whether damaging or surprising, have affected candidates and their chances at the presidency.

08-28
18:37

189. What is the President not allowed to say?

In this episode of Let Me Explain, Sean Defoe dives into the intriguing world of presidential powers and constraints in Ireland. What can the President actually say, and what rules govern their speech? Joining Sean is Dr. Jennifer Kavanagh, the "constitutional whisperer," who unpacks the legal intricacies surrounding the office of the president. With insights into the constitutional backing and historical context, they discuss how Michael D. Higgins has navigated these limitations while still voicing opinions on critical issues like housing. As the presidential race heats up, the conversation shifts to how potential candidates might approach this delicate balance of opinion and formality in their campaigns.

08-21
20:57

188: BONUS: Mairead McGuinness pulls out of the race for the Presidency

Mairead McGuinness has pulled out of the Presidential race.In a shock statement this afternoon the former EU Commissioner said she was doing so on medical advice after spending time in hospital last week.She said she doesn't believe she has the strength to give the campaign her all. McGuinness had been the favourite to win the election and replace Michael D Higgins.

08-14
08:39

187. Could the Presidential election be a head-to-head battle?

Could Ireland see its first head-to-head presidential election in 50 years this November? In this episode of Let Me Explain, Sean Defoe analyzes the current landscape of the Irish presidential race, where only two candidates have made the ballot so far, leaving many wondering about the potential for a competitive showdown. Explore the historical context of past elections, where traditional parties grapple with their choices and the viability of new contenders. With strong personalities like Mairead McGuinness and Catherine Connolly, is a head-to-head battle on the horizon?

08-14
18:39

186: LIVE at All Together Now: The Top 10 of Waterford

Coming to you live from All Together Now it's the first LIVE Let Me Explain podcast. Join Sean Defoe, Niall Power, Claire Power and Mick Kelly as they rank the top 10 things about the Deise county. From John Mullane, to blaas and red lead.

08-13
39:43

185. What prisons can teach us about living on Mars

What if a mission to Mars resembles a stay in prison more than a scientific adventure? In this episode of Let Me Explain, Sean Defoe delves into the surprising parallels between long-term space missions and life behind bars, drawing insights from researcher Lucy Berthold of the University of Bristol. Join us as we explore the intricate challenges of human exploration on Mars, from the isolation experienced during the journey to the psychological complexities of living in close quarters. Could the harsh realities of prison life provide key lessons for future Martian colonies? Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that shines a light on the darker side of space travel!

08-07
17:46

184. Who is the new Garda Commissioner?

Justin Kelly has been appointed the next Garda Commissioner - but who is he and why did he get the job?

07-30
16:16

183. Why Budget 2026 might disappoint you

With our first real look at the books you'd have to say Budget 2026 is built on some shaky maths. Let Me Explain

07-24
16:41

182. The ABCs of running for President

This week - how do you get to run for President? Who is in with a shout? And what powers will they actually have? Let Me Explain

07-17
15:40

181. How do direct to streaming TV shows make money?

This week we're delving into the streaming wars and exploring how TV shows and movies that go straight to streaming make enough cash to pay for themselves. The wonderful Sarina Bellissimo joins Sean Defoe to discuss

07-10
25:27

180. Naming and Shaming Councils on Social Housing Delivery

This week the Housing Minister James Browne has decided to release new league tables which name and shame under-delivering local authorities when it comes to social housing

07-03
15:12

179. Behind the scenes on the DART

This week Alex Rowley goes behind the scenes with the people who make your daily DART commute function

06-26
15:40

178. What would you do with €250 million in a Lotto win?

This week we're discussing the biggest ever lotto wins from across the world and asking what you would spend €250m on

06-19
16:52

177. Penile Cancer

To mark Men's Health Week we're discussing the little known but devastating cancer diagnosis more than 50 men in Ireland get every year - penile cancer

06-12
20:16

176. The Grimm Origins of Snow White

In this episode of "Let Me Explain," Sean Defoe uncovers the dark and twisted origins of the beloved fairy tale, Snow White. While many know the Disney version, the original Brothers Grimm story is a chilling tale that dives deep into themes of cannibalism, betrayal, and revenge. Join us as we explore how Snow White came to be, from the Queen's gruesome obsession with beauty to her murderous intent against the innocent girl. We'll dissect the shocking twists that land this tale far from the enchanting bedtime story we grew up with. Prepare for a journey into unsettling fairy tale territory as we reveal the true Snow White story that will leave you questioning the fairness of happy endings. Tune in for a mix of horror, humor, and history!

06-05
14:00

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