Let Me Explain with Seán Defoe

In this episode of Let Me Explain, Sean Defoe takes a fascinating trip down memory lane to explore the controversies that have shaped Irish presidential elections. From high-profile scandals to sharp political clashes, Sean covers how some candidates faced firestorms—sometimes of their own making. Join Sean as he revisits notable moments from past elections, including the turbulent 1990 race featu...

In this episode of Let Me Explain, Sean Defoe dives into the intriguing world of presidential powers and constraints in Ireland. What can the President actually say, and what rules govern their speech? Joining Sean is Dr. Jennifer Kavanagh, the "constitutional whisperer," who unpacks the legal intricacies surrounding the office of the president. With insights into the constitutional backing and hi...

Mairead McGuinness has pulled out of the Presidential race. In a shock statement this afternoon the former EU Commissioner said she was doing so on medical advice after spending time in hospital last week. She said she doesn't believe she has the strength to give the campaign her all.  McGuinness had been the favourite to win the election and replace Michael D Higgins.

Could Ireland see its first head-to-head presidential election in 50 years this November? In this episode of Let Me Explain, Sean Defoe analyzes the current landscape of the Irish presidential race, where only two candidates have made the ballot so far, leaving many wondering about the potential for a competitive showdown. Explore the historical context of past elections, where traditional parties...

Coming to you live from All Together Now it's the first LIVE Let Me Explain podcast. Join Sean Defoe, Niall Power, Claire Power and Mick Kelly as they rank the top 10 things about the Deise county. From John Mullane, to blaas and red lead.

What if a mission to Mars resembles a stay in prison more than a scientific adventure? In this episode of Let Me Explain, Sean Defoe delves into the surprising parallels between long-term space missions and life behind bars, drawing insights from researcher Lucy Berthold of the University of Bristol. Join us as we explore the intricate challenges of human exploration on Mars, from the isolation ex...

Justin Kelly has been appointed the next Garda Commissioner - but who is he and why did he get the job?

With our first real look at the books you'd have to say Budget 2026 is built on some shaky maths. Let Me Explain

This week - how do you get to run for President? Who is in with a shout? And what powers will they actually have? Let Me Explain

This week we're delving into the streaming wars and exploring how TV shows and movies that go straight to streaming make enough cash to pay for themselves. The wonderful Sarina Bellissimo joins Sean Defoe to discuss

This week the Housing Minister James Browne has decided to release new league tables which name and shame under-delivering local authorities when it comes to social housing

This week Alex Rowley goes behind the scenes with the people who make your daily DART commute function

This week we're discussing the biggest ever lotto wins from across the world and asking what you would spend €250m on

To mark Men's Health Week we're discussing the little known but devastating cancer diagnosis more than 50 men in Ireland get every year - penile cancer

In this episode of "Let Me Explain," Sean Defoe uncovers the dark and twisted origins of the beloved fairy tale, Snow White. While many know the Disney version, the original Brothers Grimm story is a chilling tale that dives deep into themes of cannibalism, betrayal, and revenge. Join us as we explore how Snow White came to be, from the Queen's gruesome obsession with beauty to her murderous inten...

In this episode of "Let Me Explain," Sean Defoe takes us on a dark journey back to the original tale of Cinderella, unearthing the grimmer aspects that have been sanitized over the years. As we explore the story's beginnings from the Grimm Brothers, we'll discover that this beloved fairy tale is steeped in sorrow, betrayal, and even gruesome retribution. Join us as we dig into the heartbreaking ta...

In this episode of "Let Me Explain," Sean Defoe dives deep into the vibrant world of Disney's live-action remakes. What drives this nostalgic trend, and are these adaptations a clever cash grab or an artistic endeavor? As we journey through Disney's history, we uncover the success stories—from the surprisingly profitable 1994 "The Jungle Book" to the blockbuster hit "Alice in Wonderland." We also...

After the election of Pope Leo XIV we're taking a look at some of his worst predecessors in office. From the Popes who used the Vatican like a brothel to the leader of the church who put the rotting corpse of his predecessor on trial, some Popes have been far from saints.

This week introduces the first Newstalk Insider Poll talking to TDs, Senators, advisors and political correspondents to get a sense of how the Government is performing 100 days in. We ask who the best and worst performing party leaders and Ministers are, what's likely to dominate the Dáil agenda this year and who they think will end up being the next President of Ireland.

In this episode of "Let Me Explain," Sean Defoe dives into the significant transition within the Catholic Church following the passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday. Join us as we explore the legacy of Francis, who has often been hailed for his progressive stance, yet faced criticism over the Church’s handling of past abuses. As the Vatican braces for the upcoming conclave, we break down the co...

To mark bowel cancer awareness month we discuss the disease, the warning signs and the importance of screening in identifying it early. Sean speaks with Galway man Joe Grogan who faced his own cancer battle after a routine screen warned him something was wrong. And consultant Dr Alan Smith from the HSE national screening service discusses plans to expand screening and the concerning rise in bowel...

In this week's episode, Jamie O Hara explores the intricacies of court reporting with Newstalk's Courts Correspondent Frank Greaney to understand why the public can't always know everything said in court. Also, how the Justice Minister is exploring ways to potentially inform people about their partner's past. 

You've heard the name bandied about on every news bulletin for weeks but what exactly are tariffs? How do they work? Who do they hurt? And what will Donald Trump's latest announcements mean for the Irish economy?

In this episode of "Let Me Explain," host Seán Defoe sits down with Paul Johnston, the British Ambassador to Ireland, for an insightful discussion on the evolving landscape of UK-Irish relations. From the impact of Brexit to the recent positive shift marked by a high-profile summit, they dive into the complexities of diplomacy and what the future holds for both nations. Join Seán and Ambassador Jo...

On this episode Seán Defoe breaks down why Conor McGregor's political ambitions are dust in the wind and analyses who might actually win the Irish Presidency later this year. From a hotly contested battle for the Fine Gael nomination to the ghost of Bertie Ahern plaguing Fianna Fáil, Sinn Féin's difficult position and a potential unity candidate on the left Seán looks through the runners and rider...