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Here are 7 podcasts to take your mind off the General Election for an hour


By Edaein OConnell
10th Feb 2020
Here are 7 podcasts to take your mind off the General Election for an hour

Our minds have been filled with General Election talk over the last few days but these seven podcasts will take your mind off of it – even if it’s only for an hour


It has been an exhausting few days for us Irish.

We could all do with a hot whiskey and a social media cleanse after this General Election. In the midst of a win against Wales in the rugby and Sinn Féin causing a significant shift in the political plates of this small island, I think it’s time we take an hour break away from the business of the country.

One way to do this is to listen to a podcast – simple, no fuss and can be enjoyed in the comfort of your own home.

During the last three years, podcasts have found a new kind of momentum. They are now an integral facet of the media landscape. Publications, television networks and even TV shows have added podcasts to their line-up as an extra offering. The excellent HBO series Chernobyl was given more weight with a superb podcast which delved into the true stories that shaped the scenes.

A good podcast can take you to a very far away place, which is welcome in a world that is constantly turned on.

There is a little something for everyone in these seven podcasts; from music to comedy to fashion to reality TV. But most of all they will take your mind away from the news, even if it’s only for an hour.

The 2 Johnnies Podcast

What do you get when you put two messers from Tipperary into a room and place microphones in front of them? The 2 Johnnies Podcast. Presented by Johnny B and Johnny Smacks, the podcast is a mixture of stories, interviews and a lot of comedy. Most of all, it’s a surefire way to make you smile.

The Laughs Of Your Life With Doireann Garrihy

Doireann Garrihy’s podcast takes well known Irish personalities and asks them about the humourous moments which have defined their lives. It’s a wonderful mix of light and dark, and will keep you smiling on your morning commute. We especially love the episode with former Ireland rugby player Donncha O’ Callaghan.

Dolly Parton’s America

Hosted by Jad Abumrad, Dolly Parton’s America takes a look at the cultural significance of the country singer. A deeply personal, historical, and musical rethinking of one of America’s great icons, the podcast makes for fascinating listening and will ignite a newfound appreciation for the country singer.

Table Manners with Jessie Ware

You may know Jessie Ware as a singer, but did you know she presents a podcast alongside her mother? Table Manners celebrates the love of food and the art of having a chat. The calibre of guests is incredible including big names such as Emilia Clarke and Ed Sheeran.

Desert Island Discs

Desert Island Discs is a classic BBC radio program which was broadcast first in 1942. Luckily, many of the episodes have been archived and are available in podcast format with a new episode released each week. Guests are permitted to choose eight records that they would take with them to a desert island, each record then instigates a deeper discussion about their lives. Everyone who is anyone has been on this show including our very own Christy Moore.

Fashion No Filter

Fashion lovers, this one is for you. Presented by fashion journalists Camille Charriere and Monica Ainley, each episode gives listeners a unique, behind the scenes look at how the fashion industry operates.

My Pod On Paper

My Pod On Paper is the unofficial Love Island podcast hosted by effervescent and hilarious duo Orlaith Condon and Fionnuala Jones. If you adore Love Island, you will love this. The hosts discuss (in detail) the goings-on of the islanders such as who has a connection with whom and which of the boys is acting the tool. While listening you will find yourself talking right back at the hosts in agreement, which isn’t at all weird while you are sitting on a packed Dart.


Read more: 10 of the best health and wellness podcasts to listen to right now

Read more: 6 books, plays and podcasts to help you deal with grief

Read more: 8 more unforgettable books you must read this year