• 192. Jim Gavin's First Newstalk Interview
    Sep 10 2025

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

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    12 mins
  • 191. What will Jim Gavin be like as a politician?
    Sep 3 2025

    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?

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    22 mins
  • 190. The Biggest Controversies in Presidential Election History
    Aug 28 2025

    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.

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    17 mins
  • 189. What is the President not allowed to say?
    Aug 21 2025

    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.

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    20 mins
  • 188: BONUS: Mairead McGuinness pulls out of the race for the Presidency
    Aug 14 2025

    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.

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    7 mins
  • 187. Could the Presidential election be a head-to-head battle?
    Aug 14 2025

    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?

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    18 mins
  • 186: LIVE at All Together Now: The Top 10 of Waterford
    Aug 13 2025

    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.

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    39 mins
  • 185. What prisons can teach us about living on Mars
    Aug 7 2025
    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!
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    18 mins