Let Me Explain with Seán Defoe

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?

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.

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.

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.

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?

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.

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!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

In this episode of "Let Me Explain," Sean Defoe takes us on a dark journey back to the original tale of Cinderella, unearthing the grimmer aspects that have been sanitized over the years. As we explore the story's beginnings from the Grimm Brothers, we'll discover that this beloved fairy tale is steeped in sorrow, betrayal, and even gruesome retribution. Join us as we dig into the heartbreaking tale of Aschenputtel and her trials, from her struggles with her wicked stepsisters to the shocking endings that differ vastly from the Disney adaptation we know today. Tune in for a fascinating look at the origins of one of our favorite childhood stories and a glimpse into the darker side of fairytales. And don’t miss next week when we dive into the eerie world of Snow White!

In this episode of "Let Me Explain," Sean Defoe dives deep into the vibrant world of Disney's live-action remakes. What drives this nostalgic trend, and are these adaptations a clever cash grab or an artistic endeavor? As we journey through Disney's history, we uncover the success stories—from the surprisingly profitable 1994 "The Jungle Book" to the blockbuster hit "Alice in Wonderland." We also tackle the recent controversies surrounding films like "The Little Mermaid" and the disappointing box office of "Snow White." Join us as we analyze both the financial triumphs and flops of Disney's modern remakes and ponder whether they’re truly capturing the magic of the originals. Tune in to discover if nostalgia holds the key to Disney’s future!

After the election of Pope Leo XIV we're taking a look at some of his worst predecessors in office. From the Popes who used the Vatican like a brothel to the leader of the church who put the rotting corpse of his predecessor on trial, some Popes have been far from saints.

This week introduces the first Newstalk Insider Poll talking to TDs, Senators, advisors and political correspondents to get a sense of how the Government is performing 100 days in. We ask who the best and worst performing party leaders and Ministers are, what's likely to dominate the Dáil agenda this year and who they think will end up being the next President of Ireland.