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 9, 2026 • 8min
Who is Iran's new supreme leader?
The Iranian regime has chosen the son of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as the country’s new supreme leader. The succession plan was announced in a lengthy statement last night. Speaking to Claire to discuss further was Negah Angha is a former Senior Advisor at the U.S. Department of State and the White House National Security under President Biden; and is currently Visiting fellow at King’s College London.
Mar 9, 2026 • 7min
Double murderer Ian Huntley died at the weekend following an attack in prison
Double murderer Ian Huntley died at the weekend following an attack in prison. The former school caretaker had been serving a life sentence for the murder of best friends, ten-year-olds, Holly Wells and Jessican Chapman in 2002. Speaking to Claire this morning was Sean O’Neill a Senior Writer for The Times, who followed the story of Huntley closely.
Mar 9, 2026 • 19min
Fuel costs increasing as the war on Iran enters day ten
Missile strikes have continued over the weekend in the Middle East, with tensions showing no signs of easing after Iran named their new supreme leader. To discuss the latest, and how it impacts us all here, I’m now joined by Sky News Foreign Correspondent, Alistair Bunkall. Also fears are rising over fuel costs increase here at home. Claire spoke to Professor of Economics at the University of Galway, Alan Ahearne and Consumer Affairs Correspondent, Conor Pope.
Mar 6, 2026 • 17min
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 by Executive Editor of the Irish Independent, Kevin Doyle ,Broadcaster and Presenter of the Newstalk Daily Podcast, Ciara Doherty and Consumer Affairs Correspondent, Conor Pope.
Mar 6, 2026 • 14min
A preview of all the big sporting action this weekend
To preview all the big sporting action this weekend, I’m now joined by Eoin Sheahan, from Off The Ball and former Irish international Gordon D’Arcy.Gordon also told Claire about taking part for the third year running in support of MND with the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. https://www.justgiving.com/team/dgs2026
Mar 6, 2026 • 22min
Former Head of the International Coast Guard Chris Reynolds
In a week where war zones and shipping lanes have been a part of our daily conversations, who better to talk to than Former Head of the International Coast Guard Chris Reynolds.
Mar 6, 2026 • 6min
The search for Nancy Guthrie continues
US TV host Savannah Guthrie is planning to return work as the investigation into her missing mother, Nancy, continues. To talk through the latest in this Claire was joined by New York Times journalist, Ali Watkins.
Mar 6, 2026 • 5min
Neuroconvergence is taking place in UCD Saturday 7th March
Do you have a family member or friend who is neurodivergent and sometimes struggle to find something that suits their needs. This weekend a public festival might be right up your street .Neuroconvergence is taking place in UCD and here to tell us about it is Peter O’ Brien Founder of Happenings and Neuroconvergence.
Mar 6, 2026 • 13min
Should someone be kicked off a flight for playing music out loud?
Should someone be kicked off a flight for playing music without using their headphones? That’s what one American airline is saying they’re going to do. Should everyone start doing the same? Claire asked Associate Professor in Psychology at University of Limerick Dr Aisling O’Donnell.
Mar 6, 2026 • 12min
The body of Liam Farrell is to be exhumed as Gardai continue their investigation
The body of Liam Farrell is to be exhumed as Gardai continue their investigation into the 87 year old’s death in Leitrim, just over 6 years ago. To discuss this latest development, Claire was joined by Liam’s son, Brendan Farrell.
