North and South of the Gap

Bonus Episode: Danny O’Connor — From Ballyshannon to Berlin Recorded over Christmas back home in Ballyshannon , I catch up with Berlin-based singer songwriter Danny O’Connor . Formerly of Inuendo and now performing with Murphy’s Law , Danny talks about growing up in the North West , life in Berlin , and carrying a sense of home while playing festivals across Europe and venues like the Europa Cente...

Episode Title: Quick Update from North and South of the Gap 🎙️ Description: Host Marc Mc Menamin drops in with a quick update to wrap up the year! The podcast has grown massively — thanks to all your support. From chats with Charlie Mc Gettigan, Sean Mc Ginley, and Richie Fitzgerald (yes, we know… it’s been a bit Ballyshannon/Bundoran-centric 😅) — to what’s coming next. North and South of the Gap...

In this episode of North and South of the Gap , we welcome Oliver Donagher of Fides Trustees SA . A native of Ballyshannon, County Donegal , and former president of the Geneva Irish Association , Oliver shares his journey from growing up in Donegal to building a career in Geneva, while staying connected to his Irish roots. We talk about community, culture, and the importance of the Irish abroad —...

Flying High – From the Air Corps to Aer Lingus with Paul Grennan On this episode of North and South of the Gap , we’re joined by Paul Grennan , a former Irish Air Corps pilot who went on to fly with Aer Lingus . Paul takes us inside the world of military and commercial aviation, from the discipline of Air Corps training and missions to the challenges and rewards of flying passengers across the Atl...

Sun Song & Soul with Triona O'Neill In this episode of North and South of the Gap , we welcome singer-songwriter Triona O’Neill. Now based in Los Angeles, Triona grew up in Ballyshannon, and her roots continue to shape her music and her story. She talks about her journey from Donegal to LA, the inspirations behind her songwriting, and her deep love of music. Along the way, she also treats...

Talking History of all Sorts: In this episode of North and South of the Gap , we’re joined by Tommy Graham — editor of History Ireland magazine, host of the History Ireland Hedge School , and a native of Ballyshannon. Tommy shares stories from his own life and reflects on how growing up in the northwest shaped his interest in history. We dive into a wide range of topics — from the power of local s...

Between Ballybofey and the Big Smoke – with Robert Love In this episode of North and South of the Gap , we sit down with Robert Love — a Donegal man with deep roots in both sides of the country. A founding member of the Dublin Finn Harps Supporters Club , a former journalist with the Donegal People’s Press , and a long-time Dublin resident , Robert brings a unique perspective on what it means to c...

Ballyshannon and Sam Maguire – Part 3: Gary Walsh In the final part of our three-episode series, we sit down with Gary Walsh — the Aodh Rua Ballyshannon shot-stopper who became Donegal’s All-Ireland winning goalkeeper in 1992 and earned an All-Star for his outstanding performances. Gary reflects on the pressure of guarding the net on GAA’s biggest stage, the camaraderie of that special team, and t...

Part 2 – Brian Murray: From Ballyshannon to All-Ireland Glory In this episode of North and South of the Gap, we sit down with Brian Murray, the Aodh Rua midfielder who played a central role in Donegal’s historic 1992 All-Ireland win. A native of Ballyshannon, Brian reflects on his journey from club football to the county’s greatest stage, sharing insights into the bond within the squad, the battle...

In Part 1 of our special three-part series, we shine a spotlight on the Aodh Rua Ballyshannon legends who played a key role in Donegal’s historic 1992 All-Ireland victory. This episode features Sylvester Maguire — a fiercely talented footballer whose grit and skill helped shape one of the county's proudest moments. Join us as we delve into his early days at Aodh Rua, his journey to the Donegal sen...

In this episode of North and South of the Gap , we sit down with acclaimed actor Sean McGinley to talk about his Donegal roots, his journey through the world of Irish film and theatre, and how the landscapes and characters of the northwest have shaped his life and career. From quiet beginnings to powerful screen roles, this is a conversation full of insight, heart, and a touch of home.

In this special episode of North and South of the Gap , we sit down with the electrifying Johnny Gallagher — frontman of the acclaimed Irish band Boxtie . Known for his raw energy, soulful guitar work, and magnetic stage presence, Johnny shares stories from both sides of the musical and geographical divide. From growing up in Donegal to playing stages across Europe, Johnny opens up about the roots...

In this episode of North and South of the Gap , we paddle out with one of Ireland’s most iconic surfers — Richie Fitzgerald from Bundoran. From the rugged Atlantic coast to the world’s heaviest waves, Richie has spent a lifetime chasing surf and shaping Ireland’s place on the global surfing map. We talk about growing up in a seaside town before it was a surf mecca, what it's like to stare down 50-...

Episode 1 – Charlie McGettigan: From Ballyshannon to Eurovision In this premiere episode of North and South of the Gap , we sit down with Ballyshannon native and Eurovision legend Charlie McGettigan . From his early days on the Donegal music scene to winning the Eurovision Song Contest with Rock ‘n’ Roll Kids , Charlie shares stories of songcraft, identity, and the enduring magic of the northwest....

North and South of the Gap: A Podcast about Donegal By Marc Mc Menamin Journey through the rich tapestry of Donegal’s history, culture, and landscapes in North and South of the Gap . Hosted by author and broadcaster Marc Mc Menamin, this podcast delves deep into the stories that shape Ireland’s wild northwest—on both sides of the iconic Barnesmore Gap. From ancient folklore and hidden heritage to...