The Claire Byrne Show
Newstalk
Claire Byrne explores the big stories through the lens of real life.This podcast brings context, consequences and clarity to the issues shaping Ireland today.Covering politics and current affairs alongside the human stories behind them, Claire asks the questions people are thinking, but don’t always hear answered.From housing and health to work, family life, well-being and culture, you’ll hear smart, engaging discussion and moments of light relief - connecting the dots between what’s happening and what it means for you.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Mar 16, 2026 • 9min
A look back to a busy weekend of sport
Agonising stuff in the end for Ireland, as they came within a last minute France penalty of winning the Six Nations. But they did get to settle for a Triple Crown, after beating Scotland in the Aviva on Saturday. All to discuss and more with Cameron Hill from Off The Ball.
Mar 16, 2026 • 8min
Boys clothes do we need more options?
When you’re out clothes shopping for your children, do you find the options limiting for boys when compared to girls? And do your sons mind their lack of choice? Well to chat a bit about this, Jonathan was joined by Freelance Journalist, Niamh O’Reilly.
Mar 16, 2026 • 10min
Has Ireland been too late in switching to electric?
Has the current surge in fuel prices only accentuated the delay in transferring to energy that isn’t dependent on fossil fuels? All to discuss with John Fitzgerald is Adjunct Professor in Economics in Trinity College Dublin.
Mar 16, 2026 • 17min
Josh Crosbie reports live from Jessie Buckley's hometown
We’re going to go to Jessie’s hometown of Killarney where Josh Crosbie has been meeting her family and friends. Also to chat about the highlights of the evening, Jonothan was joined by Film Critic Cara O’Doherty.
Mar 16, 2026 • 8min
Tips for a weekend trip at home
There’s been a couple of false dawns in terms of good weather, but there is hope that sunshine is on the way, with all of us in need of a break away. So with that in mind, to give some advice for a weekend trip at home rather than abroad was Travel Content Creator, Eadaoin Fitzmaurice.
Mar 16, 2026 • 19min
latest on Iran and Taoiseach Micheal Martin’s visit to the White House
The US-Israeli war on Iran is creating turmoil across the Middle East and shaking up global energy markets in its third week. President Trump is also preparing to host the Taoiseach in Washington tomorrow. All to discuss with Borzou Daragahi, Middle East Journalist and Analyst, Larry Donnelly, Law lecturer from University of Galway and Columnist with The Journal. Also speaking to Jonathan was Minister Thomas Byrne.
Mar 16, 2026 • 16min
Jessie Buckley makes history at the Oscars
Jessie Buckley’s acceptance speech at the 98th Oscars, becoming the first Irish woman to win Best Actress ever. We cross live to The Dolby Theatre where Henry McKean reports on a great night for the Irish.
Mar 13, 2026 • 19min
The Debrief
Welcome to The Debrief, where we take a look back on the week and also a little look ahead to the weekend. This week Claire was joined on the show by Columnist, Brenda Power, Political Correspondent with Virgin Media and author, Gavan Reilly, and Economist at TU Dublin, Dr Emma Howard.
Mar 13, 2026 • 10min
Vogue Williams chats podcasts, working life and Ireland as home
Vogue Williams spoke to Claire ahead of being the Grand Marshall of the St Patrick's Day Parade. She also talks about her podcasts, working life and Ireland as home.
Mar 13, 2026 • 10min
Author Claire Douglas on her new book 'The Family Friend'
Bestselling Author Claire Douglas has enjoyed huge success with her books including The Couple at No 9 and The Wrong Sister. Now she has launched her 12th thriller called The Family Friend. Claire told us all about her new book and writing method.
