Insights with Sean O'Rourke

Bill Browder is an international campaigner against corruption and human rights abuses in Russia. Bill was an investor in Russia prior to his expulsion from the country in 2005. The death of his lawyer Sergei Magnitsky prompted him to turn his firm Hermitage Capital Management into a campaigning organisation promoting the Magnitsky Act.

In 2012 Jack Kavanagh suffered a life changing spinal cord injury leaving him with 15% muscle function. Now, Jack delivers speeches on wellbeing, resilience and diversity at schools and corporate events. Jack tells Sean about the impact his accident had on his family and how he wants to progress equity and inclusion for people with disabilities.

Aileen Hickie, former barrister and journalist shares memories and stories with Sean about her time in Drishane Convent, Millstreet, her various career paths, how she met her husband broadcaster Matt Cooper, marathon running and her current role as CEO of Parentline.

Rob Kearney is one of Ireland’s most decorated rugby players. He retired from professional rugby in 2021 with 95 caps as well as 3 British and Irish Lions test caps under his belt. He reflects on the highs and lows of his rugby career, the various coaches he’s worked with, how the game has changed over the years, retirement, and family life.

Following his appointment as new president of the GAA Jarlath Burns tells Sean what he hopes to achieve during his three-year term. He also reflects on his life growing up in South Armagh during the troubles, his role as principal of one of the largest secondary schools in the country and his long career in Gaelic games.

Annalise Murphy received a silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, becoming the first Irish woman to win an Olympic sailing medal. She reflects on the highs and lows of preparation and competing, how it felt to win a medal, moving on from her career in sailing and her current pursuit in competitive cycling.

Sinn Féin Senator Fintan Warfield tells Sean about his early interest in politics and how he was politicised by music and songs. Since his election in the Seanad, he has tabled two legislative bills. He talks about how he deals with online trolling, his passion for music, and his campaign to achieve equality for members of the LGBT community

Trainer John Hanlon known universally as ‘Shark’ tells Sean how he went from cattle dealing to training horses. He recalls some of his favourite wins over the years and how he helped Rachael Blackmore in the early days of her career. Excitement is building this week as his horse Hewick, who he bought for just €850 is racing in Cheltenham’s Gold Cup

Award-winning journalist and broadcaster Enda Brady talks about his introduction to journalism, he also reflects on his time at Sky, where he interviewed world leaders, Hollywood A-Listers and elite sports people. Having competed in 48 marathons to date, Enda tells Sean about the importance of resilience and his passion for running.

In this special archive episode, Sean is in conversation with renowned sports broadcaster Colm Murray. Recorded in front of a live audience at the Aviva Stadium and first broadcast in January 2012, Colm revealed his inner thoughts on life, his career and his battle with Motor Neuron Disease. Colm sadly passed away from the illness in July 2013.

Edel Coffey is a journalist, broadcaster and #1 bestselling author of Breaking Point, her debut novel which won best crime novel at the An Post Irish Book awards in 2022. Edel tells Sean about her introduction to journalism, moving from Dublin to Galway for love, and how motherhood was good for her career.

Professor Janice Walshe is a Consultant Medical Oncologist at St Vincent’s hospital specialising in breast cancer. Described as a superstar in the oncology day ward, Professor Walshe tells Sean about the relationship she builds with her patients and the importance of being honest and empathetic in her approach.

Conor Buckley is a social entrepreneur and founder of sustainable clothing brand Human Collective. Son of campaigner Christine Buckley, he shared his own experience of racism growing up, and his mission to spread the message of equality through his brand. He also spoke about his mother's time in Goldenbridge and the horror she suffered there.

Richard Bruton, TD for Dublin Bay North and Fine Gael spokesperson for the Environment, Climate and Communications confirmed that he will not seek re-election after 41 years in the Dáil. An inveterate canvasser, Bruton reflects on his life in politics, and he tells Sean about his decision to stand down.

Sonya Lennon is a fashion designer, social entrepreneur, broadcaster, and businesswoman. She tells Sean how it all began in her career, about her inspirational parents, and her drive and passion for positive social impact.

Stewart Kenny is one of the founders of Paddy Power, he tells Sean about his career in the betting industry which spanned over four decades. He also speaks about the dangers of gambling, in particular online gambling, the importance of introducing gambling regulation in Ireland and his move into psychotherapy and counselling.

International media lawyer Paul Tweed joins Sean to talk about how he built up one of the most lucrative defamation law practices in the world. From cream buns to Hollywood, Paul has represented the likes of Liam Neeson, Johnny Depp and Britney Spears. He also tells Sean how he sought to challenge the power of the social media and online giants.

SDLP veteran Bríd Rodgers reflects on her life in Politics, both in the North and South of Ireland, her relationship with Seamus Mallon and John Hume, and her thoughts on what she thinks John Hume would say today about the current situation in Northern Ireland.

Former Minister Liz O Donnell talks about her life in Politics including her decade as Junior Minister during the Peace Process, the influence of the Progressive Democrats in Irish Politics, and the shock of losing her seat. She also discusses her role as Chairperson of the Road Safety Authority.

Newly appointed President of UCD Orla Feely speaks about her stellar career in engineering research, the challenges she faces in her new role and she shares memories of both her late father, former Dublin City Manager Frank Feely and her late sister Emer, a successful Public Health doctor who passed away during the Covid pandemic.