Best Virgin Media Television Podcasts (2024)

1
🗳️ On The Road: Is Election 24 finally getting a bit spicy? 22:58

33m ago22:58

22:58

Richard, Gavan and Zara catch back up again (from car parks across the land!) to chew the fat about the brewing fiscal war between Fine Gael and Sinn Féin. Is the national piggy bank really being smashed? What impact will the John McGahon controversy have? Is Fianna Fáil sailing pretty? And should we be paying more attention to Donald Trump's lates…

1
Election 24: Does FF/FG phony war suit Sinn Féin? 45:40

19m ago45:40

45:40

Richard, Gavan and Zara review this week's election campaign events and discuss how Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael's fighting may be an advantage for Sinn Féin. Donald Trump's cabinet picks are making waves, after RFK Jr. and Matt Gaetz receive top positions. And the group reflects on the life and work of D'Unbelievables star Jon Kenny. Hosted on Acast.…

1
🗳️ On The Road: unpacking the first days of Election 2024 34:41

15h ago34:41

34:41

With Election 2024 finally underway, Richard, Zara and Gavan are on the road following the campaigns and talking to voters about what they want. Richard's witnessed some competitive jiving, Zara's been speaking to angry teachers, and Gav isn't sure if the war of words between Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil is all for show… We're moving our TV instalment…

1
"What would you have done differently on immigration?": Roderic O'Gorman in studio 45:09

8d ago45:09

45:09

Gavan and Zara are joined by Green Party leader Roderic O'Gorman in studio to discuss his handling of immigration and childcare and the difficulties he faces as party leader. And Richard joins in from the US to reflect on Donald Trump's historic re-election, how Kamala Harris' campaign failed to attract voters and what the result means for Ukraine.…

1
Why Should Voters Trust Sinn Féin?: Mary Lou McDonald in studio 46:07

14d ago46:07

46:07

Mary Lou McDonald is in studio to discuss Sinn Féin's immigration policy, whether or not they will enter into a coalition and her biggest regrets over the course of her leadership. Richard, Gavan and Zara also debate the fallout of Trump's Madison Square Garden rally and Biden's newest gaffe. And Zara's move to Cork; how difficult is it to change y…

1
Why Not Call It A Genocide?: Micheál Martin in Studio 45:02

22d ago45:02

45:02

Tonight on The Group Chat, Tánaiste Micheál Martin faces tough questions on the government's response to the escalating conflict in the Middle East. The team doesn't hold back on Ireland’s housing crisis either, asking why voters should place their trust in his party for another term. Then, we dive into U.S. politics: with the election just two wee…

1
What's really going on in Sinn Féin? 45:11

29d ago45:11

45:11

Richard, Gavan and Zara break-down the recent controversy within Sinn Féin and what it means for Mary Lou McDonald's leadership going forward. They speak with Dr. Amber Alayyan, a medical referent for MSF, for comment on the recent strikes on Gazan hospitals and the struggles doctors go through in Gaza. And Tied with Trump: Polls show Kamala Harris…

1
A Perfect Storm for Joe Biden? 45:28

1M ago45:28

45:28

Richard and Gavan are joined by Zara from the US to discuss Simon Harris' meeting with Joe Biden and how Storm Milton is interrupting his plans. The pair also meet with journalist Hannah McCarthy, this time in studio, to discuss how the crisis in Lebanon has developed and if there is any possibility of peace. And who is Cobalt? Irish politicians ar…

1
Paschal Donohoe defends the Budget - and laments the Bike Shed 45:44

1M ago45:44

45:44

Richard, Gavan and Zara are joined in studio by Paschal Donohoe, Minister for Public Expenditure, for comment on Budget 2025 and the blow-back from the bike shed. The group discusses the consequences of the recent missile attacks by Iran against Israel and what it means for the 379 Irish UNIFIL staff currently in Lebanon. And did Walz flub the deba…

1
Life Under Bombardment: Middle East Crisis Continues 46:11

2M ago46:11

46:11

Richard and Zara speak with Hannah McCarthy, a journalist in Lebanon, to understand the ground situation in the country and what Israel's ultimate game plan is. Gavan joins in from New York at the UN General Assembly to discuss Simon Harris' comments on housing and Micheál Martin meeting Meryl Streep. And will the costs and delays of the National C…

1
Ploughing Politics, Pagers and Pennsylvania 45:50

2M ago45:50

45:50

Richard has returned to Gavan and Zara from Pennsylvania to discuss the 'Kamala Wave' in America and the implications of a second assassination attempt on Donald Trump. The group discusses the political plans of politicians at the ploughing. And Pager Panic; what do the pager bombings against Hezbollah mean for tensions in the Middle East? Hosted o…

1
ISIS Survivor in Studio, Taylor endorses Kamala & Apple Tax Trouble 45:19

2M ago45:19

45:19

Gavan and Zara talk with Shireen Khero, an ISIS survivor, who discusses how she was taken from her home and the 10 year anniversary of the genocide of the Yazidi people in Syria. Team Taylor is Team Kamala; the international popstar has endorsed the presidential nominee after the first debate. And the Apple Tax Windfall; what will the tax ruling by…

1
We're back! Our new season launches this Wednesday! 0:50

2M ago0:50

0:50

Just to let you know, we're back with our sixth (sixth!!) season this Wednesday! As always, we want to keep in touch with you - email us at thegroupchat@virginmedia.ie or follow us on social media (@newschambers, @zaraking.news and @gavreilly). We're back on TV this Wednesday night at 11pm on Virgin Media One, and in your podcast feeds first thing …

1
🚨 Emergency Pod! 🇺🇸 Joe Biden drops out… what now? 31:07

4M ago31:07

31:07

It turns out there's no such thing as the summertime 'silly season' in 2024… Richard, Zara and Gavan reassemble for an unplanned summer episode to talk about Joe Biden's dropout from the U.S. presidential race, the assassination attempt on Donald Trump, and the impact the race might have on all of us - including here in Ireland. The good piece Rich…

1
Season Finale: Take-off for Talks and Tay-Tay's in Town 45:32

5M ago45:32

45:32

Richard, Gavan and Zara speak with Sarah Benson of Women's Aid on violence against women in Ireland following the assault of Natasha O'Brien by a member of the Defence Forces. Aer Lingus and the IALPA have agreed to enter into talks to resolve their dispute, but industrial action at the airline continues. And the Taylor Swift Eras Tour rolls into D…

1
Bonus Episode: Ireland's First Astronaut 15:56

5M ago15:56

15:56

Richard, Gavan and Zara speak with Norah Patten about her planned trip to space with Virgin Galactic in 2026 and what it means for the future of Irish space travel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1
Aer Lingus vs. Pilots, Ryanair vs. Ryan & Norma vs. Bullies 45:53

5M ago45:53

45:53

Richard, Gavan and Zara discuss the impact of Aer Lingus pilot's industrial action on the company and holidaymakers. Eamon Ryan stepping down as Green Party leader has created a tight race between Roderic O'Gorman and Pippa Hackett. And "Bí Cineálta": Norma Foley's new scheme to tackle bullying in schools. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for…

1
Counts Continue, Parties Ponder & Golden Girls 45:59

5M ago45:59

45:59

Richard and Zara join Gavan to discuss the ongoing counts for MEPs in the Ireland South and Midlands-Northwest constituencies. They also analyse the results of the local elections and what they mean for the major parties. And Gavan speaks with Will Dalton from Virgin Media Sport for his perspective on Irish athletics and the recent results in the E…

1
Elections Are Here, Farage is Back & Gail is Gone 46:19

5M ago46:19

46:19

Richard, Gavan and Zara discuss the upcoming local and European elections and what the newest exit polls may suggest. Nigel Farage is making an ambitious 8th try for a position in the UK parliament in the July election. And Gail Platt is leaving Coronation Street; the group reflects on the character over the years. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/pr…

1
Rafah & Recognition: Palestine's Ambassador in Studio 46:00

6M ago46:00

46:00

Richard, Gavan and Zara speak with Dr Jilan Abdalmajid, Palestine's Ambassador to Ireland, for her first in-studio interview after Ireland's recognition of Palestinian statehood and discuss the most recent tragedy in Rafah. RTÉ 2FM is facing significant challenges following a series of departures by its top talent. And do you trust Temu? The group …

1
Recognising Palestine, Knocking on Doors & Stealing Voices 46:17

6M ago46:17

46:17

Richard, Gavan and Zara discuss Ireland's recognition of Palestine as a state and what it means for future relations with Israel. A report by the Housing Commission and the lack of politicians knocking on doors could have impacts on the upcoming election. And did OpenAI steal Scarlett Johansson's voice? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for mo…

1
Portal Problems, TikTok Teens & Baby Reindeer 45:29

6M ago45:29

45:29

Richard and Zara discuss the drama surrounding the New York Portal and its recent closure. They talk with journalists Jen Hogan and Patrick Freyne about how teenagers are reacting to what they see on TikTok. And Piers Morgan enters the discourse around Baby Reindeer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

1
All Eyes on Rafah, RTE Reports and Douze Pointe? 45:58

6M ago45:58

45:58

Richard, Gavan and Zara speak with Khalid el-Astal about his struggle to get his family out of Gaza. Three new reports have a recommended a number of changes in RTE. And can Bambie Thug win the Eurovison for Ireland for the first time in almost 30 years? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

1
Tents, Trolleys and Too Young For Smartphones 45:50

7M ago45:50

45:50

Richard, Gavan and Zara discuss the Mount Street migration and the rising tensions between Ireland and the UK over immigration policy. The results of the Aoife Johnston Inquest has put University Hospital Limerick under pressure. And a new report commissioned by the French government has recommended that children be banned from having a smartphone …

1
Stardust Fire: The Inquest, the Apology and the Future? 43:30

7M ago43:30

43:30

Gavan and Zara speak with Selina and Louise McDermott for their reactions to the findings of the Stardust Inquest and the subsequent state apology. Richard reports from the inquest into the death of teenager Aoife Johnston at University Hospital Limerick. And they also discuss the difficulties facing the new recycling scheme and the demise of DVDs.…

1
World War & Wet Weather 47:02

7M ago47:02

47:02

Richard, Gavan and Zara discuss the conflict between Israel and Iran and speculation that it could lead to a world war. The group speaks to one Kerry farmer, who is spending €3,000 a month on fodder because of the recent spell of bad weather. And "Scoop" throws the group for a loop. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

1
Can Harris crack housing? GUEST James Kavanagh 46:28

7M ago46:28

46:28

Zara, Richard and Gavan look at the housing promises being made by new Taoiseach Simon Harris. They're also joined by James Kavanagh to hear about his own house hunting experience with his partner on "The Great Inspo Home Adventure" and how the Taoiseach's promises don't fill him with confidence. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more info…

1
Aid Convoy Attack, Autism Awareness & Kinahan's Cuisine 44:07

8M ago44:07

44:07

Richard, Gavan and Zara discuss the attack on an aid convoy in Gaza. A new study has highlighted the struggles of those with autism. And 'Gourmet Gangster': Christy Kinahan's Google Reviews. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1
From TikTok to Taoiseach, Can Harris Learn from Paris? 46:26

8M ago46:26

46:26

Richard, Gavan and Zara discuss the communication skills of incoming Taoiseach Simon Harris. They look at how Paris is revitalizing its city centre. And does the Britain's Royal press team have questions to answer over the Kate Middleton drama? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

1
Leo Varadkar calls it a day - A pod on the hoof 20:55

8M ago20:55

20:55

Leo Varadkar has announced his decision to step down as Taoiseach and Fine Gael leader. Gavan and Zara take the podcast to Leinster House to discuss a massive day in Irish politics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1
Kate Middleton, Charlie Bird & Cillian Murphy 45:39

8M ago45:39

45:39

Richard and Zara speak to ITV News Royal Editor Chris Ship about Kate Middleton's now infamous Mother's Day photo. They discuss the career of Charlie Bird, who passed away this week. And Cillian Murphy makes Oscar history by being the first Irish-born star to win Best Actor. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

1
Taoiseach goes to Washington, Cillian goes to Hollywood & Ireland goes to the polls 45:49

9M ago45:49

45:49

Gavan, Richard and Zara discuss the Taoiseach's upcoming trip to Washington for St. Patrick's Day. Is Cillian Murphy on the home-stretch for an Oscar this weekend? And Ireland goes to the polls; we answer your referendum questions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1
Vibecession, Coffin Drug & Saltburn Siege 48:37

9M ago48:37

48:37

Gavan, Richard and Zara discuss the latest cost of living survey by Barnardos. Calls for so-called "coffin drug" to be made a controlled substance. And the house were Saltburn was filmed is under siege. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1
Kids of Gaza and Metrolink back on track 47:57

9M ago47:57

47:57

Richard and Gavan speak to Ibrahim Alagha and his son Sami about how they're adjusting to life back in Ireland since they fled Gaza. Dublin's long awaited Metrolink is back on track And the group discuses the latest financial controversy to hit RTÉ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

1
Israel sanctions, children's hospital & "Old Man" Joe 47:51

9M ago47:51

47:51

Ireland and Spain have written to the President of the EU Commission asking for sanctions against Israel, but will it make a difference? Zara, Gavan and Richard look at the rising cost of the new National Children's Hospital. And questions about Joe Biden's age continue, a new poll says most Americans think he's too old for the White House Hosted o…

1
British Royals, Boycotts and "Fast Car" 45:23

9M ago45:23

45:23

Richard, Zara and Gavan talk to ITV News Royal Editor Chris Ship about the recent cancer diagnosis for King Charles and what it means for Britain's royal family. Why the conflict in the Middle East has hit the sales of McDonald's. And more than three decades after it was first released, Tracy Chapman's "Fast Car" has become a viral sensation. Hoste…

1
Sinn Féin slide and Taylor Swift deepfakes 45:48

10M ago45:48

45:48

Gavan, Zara and Richard discus the new deal to restore the government in Northern Ireland and the recent slide in support for Sinn Féin And the group also looks at the fallout from the publication of explicit AI generated deepfakes of Taylor Swift Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

1
BONUS: What does the ICJ's ruling mean for Israel and Gaza? 21:46

10M ago21:46

21:46

The International Court of Justice has today issued orders to Israel about the conduct of its war in Gaza - saying it was clear that the threshold for preventative measures had been met. But, in practice, what does that mean? Is Israel likely to comply with this ruling? What change will it make for the people of Gaza? And is a point coming where ot…

1
Reverse vending machines, red carpets & referendums 43:30

10M ago43:30

43:30

Richard, Gavan and Zara discuss media literacy around the conflict in Gaza The upcoming referendums, what you need to know Reverse vending machines, how will they work? And the buzz around the Oscars from Irish hopefuls to Barbie snubs Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1
Roscrea, Cuckoo Funds and Saltburn takes 45:21

10M ago45:21

45:21

Protests continue over plans to house International Protection applicants in Roscrea in Tipperary. "Cuckoo funds" that are buying up properties are back on the political agenda. And Zara, Richard and Gavan have watched "Saltburn" and they have thoughts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

1
Hospitals in crisis, Israel in court & Barry Keoghan 46:56

11M ago46:56

46:56

As hospitals see their traditional January surge in demand, we speak to one doctor on the frontline. South Africa is taking Israel to the International Court of Justice. And everyone is talking about Barry Keoghan and Saltburn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1
Year in Review w/ Peter McGann & Fionnuala Jay 44:02

11M ago44:02

44:02

Peter McGann & Fionnuala Jay join to recap on the most significant news stories of 2023. They talk Ryan Tubridy & the RTE scandal, the downfall of Phillip & Holly, live TV slip ups and a huge year for Taylor Swift. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1
Zelensky's Trouble, COP-out & Golden Globes 46:02

11M ago46:02

46:02

Zelensky's approval ratings have slumped down to around 32% in Ukraine. What does their head of armed forces have to do with it? A deal has been struck at COP28 but it's difficult not to be cynical. Big updates in the procurement of facial recognition for Gardaí. Clothing brand Zara is under fire following an insensitive & tasteless ad campaign. Ho…

1
The Minister, Rizz & Christmas Number 1 46:41

12M ago46:41

46:41

In the wake of the vote of surviving her vote no confidence does, Minister Helen McEntee stand a chance at regaining law and order? Is it finally time for something new? We chat about why the same Christmas songs stay on the charts every holiday season. From Rizz to Artificial intelligence We discuss the most used words from this year! Hosted on Ac…

1
Riot Aftermath, Emily Is Free & Katie Taylor Triumph 46:38

12M ago46:38

46:38

Following violence in the capital last week, are more riots in Dublin City inevitable? Is it time to retire Twitter (X) as a source of trustworthy news? Richard explains why he is stepping back from the platform. Katie Taylor is now a two-weight undisputed champion of the world & how has it been over 20 years since Girls Aloud started? Hosted on Ac…

1
Riots in Dublin: Hatred on the streets 24:44

12M ago24:44

24:44

Thirty-four people have been arrested following violent riots in Dublin City Centre last night. Commissioner Drew Harris said eleven Garda vehicles were damaged or destroyed while thirteen shops were damaged or looted. Rioters also set fire to a LUAS tram and buses. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

1
Hostages, 'El Loco' & Ghost Diana 45:59

12M ago45:59

45:59

With a ceasefire and hostage deal being agreed what will it mean for the Israel-Hamas conflict? Argentina's new dog-loving, firebrand president is promising radical change but will his bite match his bark? Is Princess Diana's ghost in the series The Crown worth a watch? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

1
Downsizing RTÉ, Fleeing Gaza & Cabinet Creche 46:11

1y ago46:11

46:11

With cost saving measures being announced at RTÉ with plans to downsize but will it be enough? Will David Cameron's return to politics be enough to save the Tories? Why is Diplomacy such a key aspect when it comes to helping citizens stuck in a conflict? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

1
GUILTY: Justice for Ashling Murphy 19:45

1y ago19:45

19:45

Deborah Naylor joins to analyse the outcome of Aishling Murphy's trial aswell as Jozef Puska's sentencing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1
How do you negotiate the release of hostages? 44:09

1y ago44:09

44:09

Hostage negotiator Oliver McTernan reacts to the Israel - Gaza situation and Tom Hand's plea to Hamas. Martin Wall of The Irish Times explains the details of the sentencing hearing for Tom Martens and his daughter Molly following the death of Limerick man Jason Corbett in 2015. The Department of Education proposes a new policy to deter smartphone u…

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