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 13, 2026 • 15min
A preview all the big sporting action this weekend!
To preview all the big sporting action this weekend Claire was joined by Eoin Sheahan, from Off The Ball and also by former Scotland and British and Irish Lyons player Craig Chalmers.
Mar 13, 2026 • 10min
Henry in Hollywood: The build up and excitement of the Oscars!
The 98th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre this Sunday from 11pm. Jessie Buckley could become the first Irish woman to win in the Best Actress category. Henry McKean joined us from the West Coast Stateside.
Mar 13, 2026 • 7min
Ask The Exert: On avoiding and managing back pain
Most of us have experienced back pain at some point, and it really can be debilitating. So how can we avoid it and help ourselves when it strikes. With some advice and guidance Claire was joined by Chartered Physiotherapist and owner of Laura Lodge Physio Alan Moynihan.
Mar 13, 2026 • 8min
What’s been trending online this week?
What’s been trending online this week? To tell us all was entertainment journalist and podcaster, Dee Reddy.
Mar 13, 2026 • 3min
Weekend end weather look ahead!
We (kind of) have a long weekend coming up so is the weather going to play ball for us? Carlow Weather’s Alan O’Reilly gave us a weather update for the weekend.
Mar 13, 2026 • 17min
The many forms that mothering can take in Ireland today
Mother’s Day is one of flowers, cards and celebration, but it’s also a day that holds many different meanings for women whose paths to motherhood have been anything but straightforward. This morning, we’re bringing together three women whose experiences reflect some of the many forms that mothering can take in Ireland today.Joining Claire was Sandie Cassin - Foster Carer, Caitríona Nic Mhuiris, founder of Kinship Care Ireland and also Catherine Roster a single parent and full-time carer.
Mar 13, 2026 • 16min
We have now entered day 14 on the war on Iran
We have now entered day 14 of the conflict, with significant news this morning that the US has eased sanctions against Russian Oil. We get the latest on the conflict was Middle East Journalist and Analyst, Borzou Daragahi, and former fighter pilot, Military Analyst, and Co-Host of The Red Matrix Podcast, Sean Bell. Clair also spoke to International Journalist, Presenter, and Host of the State Of The World on YouTube, Sally Lockwood, who is currently based in Dubai.
Mar 12, 2026 • 9min
Gardening: Does every garden suit a tree?
Not every tree would suit a garden, but does every garden suit a tree? To chat about this and get some advice, Claire was joined by Gardener, Marie Staunton.
Mar 12, 2026 • 7min
Ask The Expert on buying a house
According to the newest figures, the asking price for a home was up 5.4 per cent in the final months of 2025 compared with the same period in 2024. But, as those trying to buy a house at the moment are finding, the selling price is often something far higher. Managing Partner of Hunters Estate Agents Rowena Quinn brings us loads of house buying tips and advice.
Mar 12, 2026 • 13min
When will the US and Israeli aims for the war diverge?
The United Nations' refugee agency has this morning that up to 3.2 million people in Iran have been displaced since the war began almost a fortnight ago. US President Donald Trump seems to be saying that the conflict is ‘practically complete’. But is that really the case? Is there any end in sight? All to discuss with Jasmine El Gamal is founder and CEO of Averos Strategies and former Middle East Adviser at the US Department of Defence.
