The MOTH NEWS Podcast

Ireland is drowning long before COP30 can save it.In this episode, we start in North Kerry, where a homeowner watched floodwater surround her home while hedge-cutting debris piled up in a stream like a “beaver dam.” We use a Futurama clip to explain why climate summits still matter, break down what COP30 actually delivered in Belém, and look at why Ireland keeps ending up in court over its climate plans.Al joins the discussion to talk systems failure, tech parallels, and why Ireland struggles with implementation.Then environmental specialist John Doherty from the Inishowen Rivers Trust explains how farmers in Wales reduced flooding with simple, grant-funded measures — the exact kind of practical solution Ireland constantly talks about but rarely does.A grounded, solutions-focused look at the messy gap between climate policy and the lived reality in Irish communities already underwater.

MOTH News Live — Friday 20 NovemberThis week: US businessman Jeff Leo faces a High Court grilling over €60 million in disputed assets, unfiled accounts, and a secret stake in an IPAS accommodation centre.Keith breaks down what it means — and why it matters.Also:The real story behind the Beyond the Pale Festival rescueOscar explains how FOI requests hold the State to accountAnd Ireland’s playoff path for the 2026 World CupLive from 11am with Keith Walsh, Oscar Virdee and Al Francis.

Moth News Live returns with a brand new format! Host Keith Walsh, joined by Al and Oscar, leads a high-stakes investigation into three stories the establishment doesn't want discussed.This week, we are asking who is financially benefiting from Ireland's ongoing crises. Keith begins by dissecting Simon Harris's suggestion that immigration is the core housing problem, arguing instead that the focus should be on the financial beneficiaries who profit from the crisis's continuation. We examine a sourced snapshot of private companies currently operating IPAS centers, including Barlow Properties, Cromey Ltd., Aramark, and Mosney Unlimited Company, and ask the central question: “Who’s lobbying hardest to keep it this way?”.Next, Oscar brings alarming data from Dublin and Wicklow adolescent addiction programs. We discuss the finding that up to a quarter of teenagers seeking treatment have ADHD, which is a recognized risk factor for addiction. We explore the prevalence of cannabis (70%) and the regulatory failure surrounding the surge of the semi-synthetic cannabinoid HHC (20%).Finally, Al investigates the turbulent world of startup investment. We highlight the success of the Boole Angel Investment Syndicate, which has invested €15 million, but contrast this with serious allegations stemming from the collapse of food-tech startup Senoptica. We examine claims that investor actions (by Boole Nominees Ltd.) were an "unreasonable and inconsistent" move that "created a funding crisis" designed to be exploited.Join us as we connect the dots and expose the forces profiting from instability—from housing to health to high-tech finance.

Neil Giles of Stop the Traffik says the pattern of trafficking has changed, with more victims from Nigeria and Ghana who are exploited long before reaching Europe. He argues that prevention begins with lived-experience narratives and digital outreach. Campaigns on Facebook and Instagram Lite warn communities about false job offers and scams. Giles cites Desmond Tutu’s analogy: instead of rescuing people downstream, we must stop them from falling in upstream. He says changing awareness and reducing profit can disrupt traffickers’ control.

Miriam Moriarty Owens, one of four Boarded‑Out survivors sleeping rough outside Leinster House, discusses the 40‑day hunger strike, the meeting with Taoiseach Micheál Martin, the role of the upcoming mediator, and the demand for a written HAA medical, state pension and official apology.

MOTH News Live — Friday, November 7thSurvivors of Ireland’s industrial schools are on hunger strike outside the Dáil — demanding medical cards and pensions they’re already entitled to.Keith Walsh speaks with Miriam Moriarty Owens, whose story of violence and survival under the Sisters of Mercy exposes how little has really changed.

If you’ve ever wondered why it’s so hard to get a mortgage in Ireland — even when you’re doing everything right — or why repossessions are still happening over loans taken out during the Celtic Tiger, then this next conversation is one you need to hear.Cormac Butler is a financial consultant, a former derivatives specialist, and a whistleblower who’s been raising the alarm about serious problems in how Irish banks operate — and how the Central Bank regulates them.He believes the banks are hiding major losses. And that the Central Bank is choosing not to act — because doing so could unravel the entire mortgage market.Today, he joins me to explain what he’s uncovered, why he chose to speak out, and what it all means for Irish homeowners, renters, and anyone hoping to buy a home. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today’s MOTH News Live, Keith Walsh is joined by Al for the stories behind the headlines The latest on Jeff Leo's promised repayments. Will he make it on time and what happens nextSports journalist Philip O’Connor joins us live from Sweden to preview the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 Final: Spain vs England.Ireland may not be there, but we can’t afford to sit out the conversation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on MOTHCAST: Unvetted, we’re joined producer, and activist Áine O’Neill for a powerful and unfiltered conversation about one of the most controversial cultural moments of the year: Irish rap trio Kneecap’s explosive performance at Coachella.Fresh from a 12-day visit to Palestine, Áine shares what she witnessed on the ground, why she speaks out for Palestinian rights, the backlash to Kneecap’s pro-Palestinian message and how once she started to see society for what it is, she had to look at changing everything.We also dig into Taoiseach Micheál Martin’s public demand for Kneecap to clarify their position on Hamas and Hezbollah — and why media outlets in Ireland should clarify where their loyalties lie. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“The Grace Case, All Over Again?”This episode featurs a powerful and urgent conversation that echoes one of Ireland’s most harrowing scandals — the Grace case.Philip O'Connor speaks exclusively to solicitor Caoimhe Haughey, who represents Caitlin Hassan, a young autistic woman who alleges she was raped while in State-funded care.Senator Tom Clonan has called this “the Grace case happening again – in real time.”In this episode:Are the HSE repeating the same catastrophic mistakes?Why were red flags ignored?What justice is possible for Caitlin and her mother Louise?This is a story about safeguarding, systemic failure, and the right to be believed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of MOTHCAST – Unvetted, MOTH News chief reporter Philip O’Connor sits down with People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy for a wide-ranging and unfiltered conversation.Can the current opposition parties really form the next Irish government? What role does Michael Lowry still play in shaping outcomes? Is protest still a powerful tool for change, or has it been neutralised? Paul and Philip also dive into the triple lock on military deployments, Ireland’s neutrality, and ask the big question—are the days of the establishment parties numbered?Smart, sharp, and straight to the point—unfiltered news for unfiltered minds🔊 Subscribe, share, and get involved—because the news doesn’t end when the mic goes off. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A few weeks ago, Irish comedian and activist Tadhg Hickey, found himself at the center of a media storm after attending the funeral of Hizbullah leader Hassan Nasrallah. Critical articles in the Irish Independent and Irish Times accused him of ‘foreign policy stupidity’ and aligning with controversial figures. Supporters argue this is an unfair hit piece, while critics say he has crossed a line. Obviously MOTH News chief reporter Philip O'Connor had to sit down and chat to the man. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, former Danish Minister for Greenland (1982-1987) Tom Hoyem sits down with MOTH NEWS chief reporter Philip O’Connor to discuss one of the most bizarre geopolitical proposals in recent history—Donald Trump’s grand plan to buy Greenland.Why would the U.S. want it? How valuable is the territory? And would Greenlanders be happy to become the 51st state? Hoyem offers insider insights, historical context, and a few sharp takes on the idea that made headlines around the world.Tune in for an unfiltered, unvetted conversation on power, politics, and the Arctic’s unexpected role in global strategy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this urgent special report, we go live to Örebro, Sweden, where journalist Philip O’Connor is on the ground covering the tragic school shooting at Risbergska school. With 10 confirmed dead, including the suspected gunman, this is being called the worst mass shooting in Swedish history. What happened? Who was behind it? And how is Sweden responding? Listen now for the latest updates and eyewitness accounts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MOTHCAST - Unvetted, from MOTH NEWS – The Rise of Far-Right Fight Clubs & the UFC’s Antisemitism ProblemIn this episode of MOTHCAST Unvetted, journalist Karim Zidan joins Philip O’Connor to discuss the troubling connections between combat sports and political extremism. Zidan, whose work has appeared in The New York Times and The Guardian, is the founder of Sports Politika, a multimedia platform focused on the intersection of sports, power, and politics.They explore the rise of far-right fight clubs and how extremist groups are using MMA as a recruitment tool. The conversation also delves into the UFC’s antisemitism problem and the organization’s failure to address growing concerns. With a focus on the power struggles within combat sports, they examine who controls the narrative and what it means for the future of the industry.Watch MOTH NEWS Live every Friday at 3PM. Follow us on @mothnews_ for moreMOTH goes beyond the headlines, bringing you the stories and voices that challenge the status quo. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Unvetted: Episode 2A Strand of The MOTH NEWS Podcast, MOTHCASTWelcome back to Unvetted, where we dig into the stories that the mainstream media just isn’t telling. On this strand of the MOTH NEWS Podcast, MOTHCAST, our head reporter Philip O’Connor sits down with past, present, and potential future guests of the broadcast for in-depth conversations about the topics that matter, the stories behind the headlines, and the voices often left unheard.This week’s guest is none other than politically outspoken, avant-garde punk artist Meryl Streek. Meryl is an artist who doesn’t just make music—he makes noise, statements, and bold calls to action. He’s furious at the Irish government, outraged by the ongoing housing crisis, and unafraid to channel his anger into art.Meryl sat with Philip to discuss it all: the government policies that have him fired up, the housing crisis that’s left so many struggling, and how his music acts as both an outlet for his rage and a rallying cry for change. It’s an honest, raw, and unfiltered conversation that dives deep into the intersection of art, politics, and personal rebellion.For those unfamiliar with Meryl’s work, his debut album 796, released on the independent label Venn Records and produced by Dan Doherty (of Fontaines DC fame), has been making waves in the punk and alternative music scenes. The title refers to the 796 children who died at the Tuam Mother and Baby Home in Ireland—an example of how Meryl uses his music to shine a spotlight on the darker chapters of history and hold those in power accountable.Don’t just take our word for it—Rolling Stone’s Francis Zégut called the album, “powerful and rebellious, brave and acid... holy shit it’s good!” Zégut compared Meryl’s sound to the energy of Killing Joke, the defiance of The Sex Pistols, and the chaotic brilliance of The Prodigy. With tracks like “False Apologies” clocking in at nearly six minutes of unapologetic intensity, 796 is punk with purpose—an unrelenting, scathing critique of societal failures.So tune in as Meryl Streek and Philip O’Connor dive into the stories behind the music, the inspirations that drive him, and the fight for a better Ireland. This episode of Unvetted is a must-listen for anyone who believes in the power of art to challenge the status quo.Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.And as always, keep your ears tuned to MOTH NEWS for the stories you won’t find anywhere else. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Unvetted: Episode 2A Strand of The MOTH NEWS Podcast - MOTHCASTWelcome back to Unvetted, where we dig into the stories that the mainstream media just isn’t telling. On this strand of the MOTH NEWS Podcast, MOTHCAST, our head reporter Philip O’Connor sits down with past, present, and potential future guests of the broadcast for in-depth conversations about the topics that matter, the stories behind the headlines, and the voices often left unheard.This week’s guest is none other than politically outspoken, avant-garde punk artist Meryl Streek. Meryl is an artist who doesn’t just make music—he makes noise, statements, and bold calls to action. He’s furious at the Irish government, outraged by the ongoing housing crisis, and unafraid to channel his anger into art.Meryl sat with Philip to discuss it all: the government policies that have him fired up, the housing crisis that’s left so many struggling, and how his music acts as both an outlet for his rage and a rallying cry for change. It’s an honest, raw, and unfiltered conversation that dives deep into the intersection of art, politics, and personal rebellion.For those unfamiliar with Meryl’s work, his debut album 796, released on the independent label Venn Records and produced by Dan Doherty (of Fontaines DC fame), has been making waves in the punk and alternative music scenes. The title refers to the 796 children who died at the Tuam Mother and Baby Home in Ireland—an example of how Meryl uses his music to shine a spotlight on the darker chapters of history and hold those in power accountable.Don’t just take our word for it—Rolling Stone’s Francis Zégut called the album, “powerful and rebellious, brave and acid... holy shit it’s good!” Zégut compared Meryl’s sound to the energy of Killing Joke, the defiance of The Sex Pistols, and the chaotic brilliance of The Prodigy. With tracks like “False Apologies” clocking in at nearly six minutes of unapologetic intensity, 796 is punk with purpose—an unrelenting, scathing critique of societal failures.So tune in as Meryl Streek and Philip O’Connor dive into the stories behind the music, the inspirations that drive him, and the fight for a better Ireland. This episode of Unvetted is a must-listen for anyone who believes in the power of art to challenge the status quo.Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.And as always, keep your ears tuned to MOTH NEWS for the stories you won’t find anywhere else. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the MOTHCAST the MOTH News Podcast! 🎙️MOTH stands for Monopoly of Truth, and we’re dedicated to cutting through the noise to uncover the stories that truly matter. In a media landscape often influenced by vested interests, our mission is to deliver transparency, ask tough questions, and provide a platform for in-depth conversations that empower you to think critically about the world around you.I’m Keith Walsh, and along with my co-host Al, we bring you the audio version of our weekly live stream, just in case you missed it. We go live every Friday across your favorite platforms—catch us on X (@mothnews_), Instagram (@monopolyoftruth), and on YouTube, TikTok, Twitch, and more.This week’s show is packed with hard-hitting stories:🛑 We spoke to James from Comrade Workwear about how his social media accounts were wiped out and why the NYPD showed up at his door.📉 Plus, Philip O’Connor joins us from Sweden with devastating news about Ireland’s record-breaking homeless figures.Join Al and me for another deep dive into the stories that matter. Stay informed, stay engaged, and join the conversation with MOTH News Live. Let’s dive in! 🎧 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.