The Niall Boylan Podcast (They Told Me To Shut Up)

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• #752 Birth Rates Collapse: Is Population Replacement Inevitable? 02.06.2026 1h 24min

  Birth rates across the Western world are collapsing, families are getting smaller, and in many countries more people are now dying than being born.On this episode of The Niall Boylan Podcast, Niall is joined by journalist Laura Perrins to discuss what many are calling a demographic crisis. Laura argues that a combination of factors is driving fertility rates down, including the rising cost of living, housing shortages, improved education for women, contraception, abortion, smartphones, changing social habits and what she describes as the rise of "useless men."But is that the full story?Some believe the real issue is cultural, with feminism, career ambition, financial independence and delayed motherhood leading many women to choose a different path from previous generations. Others point to economic pressures that make starting a family feel impossible for younger couples.Laura also raises concerns about a society becoming increasingly less child friendly, where children are seen as an inconvenience rather than a blessing, creating a cycle that discourages future generations from having families of their own.So what is really behind the dramatic fall in birth rates? Is it economics, changing values, technology, relationships, or something deeper?And with native populations declining across much of the Western world, are we facing a genuine demographic crisis, or simply adapting to a new way of life?Listen as Niall and Laura Perrins debate one of the most important and controversial issues facing the West today.
• #753 Why Are Foreign Workers Coming In While Irish People Leave? 02.06.2026 46min

  For generations, Irish people have looked beyond our shores in search of a better life. Whether it was for work, opportunity, adventure or simply a fresh start, millions left Ireland and built new lives around the world. Today, the global Irish diaspora is estimated to be between 70 and 80 million people claiming Irish heritage.But is history repeating itself?Every day on the show, listeners tell us they are fed up with the cost of living, soaring house prices, high taxes, government policies, the weather and what they see as a lack of opportunities in Ireland. Many talk about packing their bags and heading for Spain, Australia, Canada or the United States.In fact, this September an Australian jobs expo will take place in Croke Park, actively encouraging Irish professionals to move Down Under in search of better opportunities and a higher quality of life.But is the grass really greener on the other side?On this episode, Niall talks to callers about the growing desire among many Irish people to leave Ireland behind and start again somewhere new. Have you ever seriously considered emigrating? Did you move abroad and come back? Or have you already made the leap and never looked back?If money wasn't an issue, would you leave Ireland tomorrow? Where would you go and what is it that Ireland can no longer offer you?Or do you believe that despite its problems, Ireland is still one of the best places in the world to live?Listen as callers share their stories, frustrations, dreams and experiences of life at home and abroad.
• #751 Niall & AJ (We Give Out About The Stories, So You Dont Have To 29.05.2026 49min

  Niall Boylan and AJ Walshe talk about the stories of the week as well as just some ghood laughs. Ireland’s Disability Numbers Spark Heated DebateOne of the biggest talking points this week was the claim that close to one million people in Ireland now classify themselves as having a disability, potentially almost one in four of the population. The discussion exploded online after comments by the Taoiseach in the Dáil referencing the upcoming Census figures. Critics questioned why Ireland’s figures appear significantly higher than international averages reported by organisations such as the World Health Organisation and compared with the United States.The debate quickly split into two sides. One side argued that modern definitions of disability now include a much broader range of conditions, including mental health and neurodiversity. Others argued the system may be too open to abuse and that some people receiving supports are capable of working in some capacity. The issue became especially controversial because it touches welfare payments, healthcare waiting lists, and the future sustainability of disability supports in Ireland.Should Ireland Boycott Israel?Another major topic this week centred around calls for Ireland to boycott or refuse to play Israel in upcoming sporting fixtures. The online argument intensified ahead of Ireland’s football matches involving Israel and wider Middle East tensions.Those supporting a boycott argued that sport and politics cannot always be separated and pointed to ongoing criticism of Israeli military actions in Gaza. Others pushed back strongly, saying many countries with poor human rights records are never boycotted and that singling out Israel is hypocritical.The discussion reflected wider divisions across Ireland where pro-Palestinian protests have become increasingly visible over the last year. The sporting angle made the story especially emotional because many fans believe athletes should not be punished for government actions.Teen Crime And Calls To Try Children As AdultsA huge reaction online followed discussion of two 15 year olds in the UK who avoided jail after being convicted in a serious sexual assault case involving two girls. The case reignited debate around whether teenagers who commit violent crimes should continue to be treated as minors.Many people argued that modern teenagers understand right from wrong and should face adult punishments for crimes such as rape or murder. Others argued that young offenders still lack emotional maturity and that rehabilitation should remain the focus.The story also tied into concerns about rising youth violence and social media culture. Many posts reflected frustration from people who believe the justice system has become too lenient on serious offenders.The EU Migration Pact And Ireland’s Immigration CrisisImmigration dominated much of the conversation this week following discussion of the EU Migration and Asylum Pact, which is due to begin implementation soon. Critics fear Ireland will lose more control over immigration policy and asylum processing, while supporters argue the pact should create faster and more organised procedures across Europe.Online reactions reflected growing public frustration over housing shortages, pressure on services, and concerns around undocumented arrivals entering Ireland through Northern Ireland. Others defended immigration and argued Ireland still has humanitarian obligations.The story has become one of the most politically divisive issues in Ireland and is increasingly shaping debate ahead of future elections.Deposit Return Scheme BacklashIreland’s Deposit Return Scheme also triggered strong reactions this week. Critics called it expensive, inconvenient and badly organised, especially for ordinary consumers who now feel forced into acting as unpaid recyclers.Supporters defended the scheme as environmentally necessary and pointed to increasing recycling rates. But many people online questioned how much profit is being generated and whether private companies are benefiting from what is effectively a nationwide compulsory recycling charge.The backlash reflects wider frustration with rising living costs and what many see as additional hidden taxes on consumers.Pope Leo XIV And Whether Ireland Still Wants The ChurchDiscussion around a possible visit to Ireland by Pope Leo XIV created another cultural divide online. Some people said they would proudly line the streets just as crowds did for Pope John Paul II in 1979. Others argued the Catholic Church lost moral authority in Ireland because of abuse scandals and institutional failures.The story reopened broader questions about whether Ireland is still culturally Catholic or whether the country has fundamentally changed over the last two decades.Voter Apathy And “Couldn’t Be Arsed” PoliticsFollowing recent by-elections, another issue that gained traction was voter apathy. Comments from people saying they “couldn’t be arsed” voting sparked debate about whether Irish people have lost faith in politics altogether.Some blamed career politicians, broken promises and rising living costs. Others argued people who refuse to vote have no right to complain afterwards.The issue reflects a growing disconnect between ordinary voters and political institutions, particularly among younger people who increasingly feel disconnected from traditional parties.Climate Change Or Just Normal Weather?Weather discussions also became political this week after criticism of Irish media coverage linking warm weather to climate change. Some online commentators argued broadcasters exaggerate normal weather events to create fear and push environmental narratives.Others defended climate science and pointed to long-term global temperature trends and warnings from scientists.The argument reflects a wider international divide where climate discussions increasingly overlap with politics, media trust and public frustration over environmental taxes and regulations.
• #750 1 In 4 Disabled In Ireland? The Numbers Just Don’t Add Up 28.05.2026 1h

  On today’s show, Niall talks to callers about the latest Census figures which are expected to show that almost 1 million people in Ireland now identify as having a disability, a figure that works out at close to 1 in 4 people in the country.The numbers have sparked a huge debate online, with many people asking why Ireland’s disability figures appear significantly higher than countries such as the United States and well above World Health Organisation estimates. Some believe the definition of disability has expanded so broadly that it now includes conditions that would once never have qualified for disability supports, while others argue society is simply becoming more open and understanding of hidden illnesses, mental health conditions and neurological disorders.Niall and callers discuss whether Ireland is genuinely becoming a less healthy society or whether the way we define disability has fundamentally changed over the years. The conversation also turned to the controversial issue of addiction, after questions were raised about alcoholism and substance dependency being recognised in some circumstances as illnesses or disabilities where they seriously impair physical or mental functioning.Do you think drug addiction or alcoholism should entitle somebody to disability supports?Are too many people now being classified as disabled?Or are we finally recognising conditions that were ignored for generations?As always, opinions were divided and callers didn’t hold back. Listen back now.
• #749 Ireland Vs Israel: Moral Stand Or Empty Virtue Signalling? 28.05.2026 1h 6min

  On today’s show, Niall talks to social commentator Karl Deeter, Stephen Delaney and callers about the growing controversy surrounding the Ireland vs Israel football match due to take place in the Aviva Stadium this October.Minister for Sport Patrick O’Donovan and Minister of State Charlie McConalogue have both confirmed they will not attend the match because of the ongoing war in Gaza, reigniting calls from campaigners for Ireland to boycott the fixture altogether. Some believe Ireland should refuse to play, even if it means forfeiting the game or risking disqualification from the competition, arguing that taking part sends the wrong message during a humanitarian crisis.Others say sport and politics should never mix and that punishing Irish players and supporters would achieve absolutely nothing. They argue the Irish team should fulfil the fixture as planned and leave international conflicts to politicians and diplomats.Do you think Ireland should boycott the match in protest?Would forfeiting the game be a powerful statement or a pointless gesture?Do you believe most Irish people strongly support Palestine enough to back a boycott?Or should the game go ahead as planned and politics stay out of sport?The debate got heated as callers clashed over whether Ireland has a moral obligation to act or whether football is being dragged into politics yet again. Listen back now.
• #747 The Deposit Return Scheme Has Become A National Irritation, with Laura Perrins 27.05.2026 1h 8min

  Journalist Laura Perrins joins Niall Boylan to talk about, or more accurately give out about, Ireland’s controversial Deposit Return Scheme. What was supposed to be a simple environmental initiative has instead left many consumers frustrated, with complaints about long queues, broken machines, extra charges on shopping bills and people storing bags of sticky cans and bottles in their homes waiting to cash them in.This week, Peadar Tóibín called on the bosses of the scheme to appear before an Oireachtas Committee, saying it is “time to reform or end this beset scheme.” Laura argues the public were sold a green dream that has turned into an overcomplicated nuisance, while others insist the scheme is finally forcing people to recycle properly and think about waste.Should we accept inconvenience in the name of the environment, or is this just another badly thought out money racket that punishes ordinary shoppers? Do you bother returning your cans and bottles, or do you just throw them into the recycling bin like before? Niall hears from callers who are divided between supporting the idea and wanting the whole thing scrapped.
• #748 16 And Staying Overnight With A Boyfriend, Absolutely Not? with Elaine Mullally 27.05.2026 1h 6min

  A worried mother contacted Niall Boylan after a massive family argument erupted over their 16 year old daughter wanting to stay overnight at her boyfriend’s house for the first time. The mother says she is terrified at the idea and believes 16 is far too young for sleepovers with a boyfriend, especially overnight and out of her sight. Her biggest fear is that her daughter could end up pregnant at such a young age and she says once certain decisions are made, there is no going back.But her husband says she is overreacting and living in the past. He argues their daughter is 16, not 6, and says forbidding her from going will only encourage sneaking around, secrecy and lies. He believes teenagers today are more mature, more educated and that parents need to build trust instead of trying to control every move they make.The debate sparked huge reactions from callers, with some insisting strict boundaries are part of good parenting, while others argued overprotective parents simply push teenagers into rebellion.So where do you stand on the dilemma?At what age should teenagers be allowed stay overnight with a boyfriend or girlfriend?Would you allow your 16 year old daughter or son to stay in their partner’s house?And do strict parents protect teenagers, or do they just make them better liars?Niall hears passionate opinions from callers on one of the parenting debates guaranteed to divide households across Ireland.
• #746 Adult Crimes Should Mean Adult Punishment 26.05.2026 1h 19min

  Niall talks to callers about the growing outrage after two 15-year-old boys in the UK walked free from court despite being convicted of raping two girls, filming the attacks on their phones and later sharing some of the footage online. The judge ruled that a custodial sentence would be too harsh because of their age, a decision that has sparked fierce public debate about whether teenagers who commit the most serious crimes should still be treated as children by the justice system.In Ireland, young offenders between the ages of 12 and 17 are tried as minors and, even in cases involving the most serious offences, they do not automatically receive adult sentences. If convicted, a 15-year-old would usually serve time in a specialised Children Detention School rather than an adult prison.Tonight, Niall asks whether the law is too soft on violent juvenile offenders. Should teenagers who commit crimes such as rape or murder be treated as adults and face tougher sentences, or should the justice system continue to focus on rehabilitation because of their age and immaturity? Expect strong opinions from callers on one of the most controversial justice debates of the moment.
• #745 The EU Is Now Controlling Irish Illegal Immigration 26.05.2026 1h

  Niall talks to Paul Lawless about the Government’s plans to implement the new EU Migration and Asylum Pact, which comes into effect on June 12 and promises faster processing of asylum applications across the EU. Supporters believe the pact could finally bring more order and efficiency to Europe’s immigration system, while critics fear Ireland is surrendering control of its own borders and immigration policies to Brussels.Aontú argues the real problem lies at the border with Northern Ireland, claiming most illegal immigrants are entering the Republic through the North, and says the only solution is stronger border controls down the Irish Sea. Niall and Paul debate whether Ireland has already lost control of immigration, why public frustration continues to grow, and whether the Government is capable of handling the crisis. They also discuss the pressure immigration is putting on housing, healthcare and public services, and ask whether ordinary concerns about immigration are too often dismissed or ignored by political leaders and the media.
• #743 Low Turnouts, Angry Voters, Socialist Surge , Is Ireland Broken? 25.05.2026 56min

  Journalist Ben Scallan joins Niall to break down the dramatic results of the weekend’s by-elections and what they could mean for the future of Irish politics. From the rise of socialist support in Dublin to signs of a Green Party comeback, the conversation explores whether voters are sending a warning to the Government or simply becoming more disconnected from politics altogether.Ben shares his experience speaking to voters on the streets during the campaign, where many people admitted they had little interest in the election. One person told him, “Not really, I’m not really following it,” while another bluntly said, “I couldn’t be arsed.” With voter turnout regularly hovering around 50% or lower, Niall asks why so many people appear disillusioned with the political system and whether democracy in Ireland is facing an engagement crisis.The discussion also looks at whether younger voters are shifting further left, why traditional parties continue to struggle to energise the public, and whether Ireland’s proportional representation system is still fit for purpose or if a “first past the post” model would deliver clearer results and stronger governments.Are Irish people losing faith in politics altogether, or are they simply fed up with the choices on offer? And what do these by-election results tell us about the direction the country is heading in?
• #744 Would A Million Irish People Still Turn Out For The Pope Today? 25.05.2026 1h 7min

  Niall is joined by priest and commentator Father Gabriel Burke to discuss the possibility of Pope Leo XIV visiting Ireland after Taoiseach Micheál Martin officially invited the pontiff to come here. While no official visit has yet been confirmed, the mere suggestion has already sparked fierce debate online, with some people saying “he’s not welcome here,” while many practising Christians say they would proudly line the streets to welcome him.The conversation looks back at the historic 1979 visit of Pope John Paul II when over a million people gathered in Dublin’s Phoenix Park for an open-air Mass in what became one of the biggest events in Irish history. But Ireland has changed dramatically since then. Church attendance has collapsed, trust in the Catholic Church has been severely damaged by decades of sex abuse scandals and cover-ups, and younger generations are far less connected to organised religion than their parents or grandparents.Niall asks whether Ireland would still turn out in huge numbers for a papal visit or whether that era is now gone forever. Has the relationship between Ireland and the Catholic Church been damaged beyond repair, or are people too quick to dismiss the faith of ordinary Catholics who still feel proud of their religion? And if the Pope did arrive in Dublin tomorrow, would you be attending the Mass, protesting the visit, or simply not interested anymore because that holy ship has already sailed?
• #740 Safe Injection Centre or State Sponsored Drug Den? 21.05.2026 54min

  Niall takes your calls on the controversial decision by An Coimisiún Pleanála to grant permanent planning permission for Ireland’s first medically supervised drug injection facility at Merchant’s Quay in Dublin.The centre, which first opened in December 2024 under a temporary licence, allows drug users to inject substances obtained elsewhere using sterile equipment under medical supervision. According to reports submitted as part of the planning process, more than 10,700 visits were made to the facility in just ten months, with staff responding to 179 non-fatal overdoses, many requiring oxygen or naloxone treatment.Supporters say the facility is saving lives, reducing public drug use, cutting down on discarded needles, and easing pressure on emergency services. Critics argue the State is normalising illegal drug use and question whether communities should be expected to accept injection centres in residential areas, especially near schools and local businesses.At the time the facility was proposed, there were fierce objections from local residents and business owners who feared anti-social behaviour and damage to the area. Others argue we have already lost the war on drugs and that supervised injecting is simply a realistic form of harm reduction.But where do you stand?Would you want a medically supervised injection centre in your own area?Are these facilities compassionate healthcare, or are we sending the wrong message about drug use?And as more centres are expected to open around the country, is this the future of addiction policy in Ireland?Niall hears from callers on both sides of one of the most divisive social issues facing Ireland today.
• #741 Was The Ireland Of The 80s And 90s The Last Normal Ireland? 21.05.2026 1h 16min

  Niall is joined by legendary broadcaster George Hook for a fiery and thought-provoking discussion about whether Ireland was actually a better place decades ago, or whether nostalgia is blinding people to the harsh realities of the past.The debate exploded online this week after a viral post claimed people romanticising Ireland of the 1950s were forgetting what life was really like. At the time, divorce and homosexuality were illegal, marital rape was not recognised in law, the Magdalene Laundries were operating at their peak, child abuse scandals within the Catholic Church were hidden, babies were being sold abroad, poverty was widespread and emigration was forcing generations of Irish people to leave the country.But others argue modern Ireland is far from the success story politicians and media outlets claim it is. Critics say the country has lost its identity and sense of community, crime is spiralling, housing has become unaffordable, healthcare is collapsing under pressure and traditional values around marriage, family and gender have been completely dismantled.Niall and George debate whether Ireland today is genuinely more progressive and happier, or whether we have traded stability, morality and community spirit for a society driven by consumerism, division and political correctness.Was Ireland too oppressive in the past, or has modern Ireland gone too far in the opposite direction?Were the 1980s and 1990s the sweet spot before social media, mass immigration and culture wars changed everything?And if you had the choice, would you rather raise a family in Ireland then or now?Expect strong opinions, sharp debate and plenty of uncomfortable truths in this explosive episode.
• #738 Do We Need RTE? Or Are They Wasting Tax Payers Money? 20.05.2026 1h 10min

  On this episode of The Niall Boylan Podcast, Niall discusses the latest controversy surrounding RTÉ as fresh revelations emerge over pay discrepancies and allegations that some presenters were allegedly miscategorised as producers. With questions once again being raised about transparency, accountability and how licence fee money is being spent, many people are asking whether the national broadcaster has learned anything from the scandals of recent years.Adding fuel to the debate are reports that Director General Kevin Bakhurst is eager to retain Patrick Kielty on an even higher salary, despite continued falls in viewing figures for The Late Late Show. Critics argue that RTÉ is out of touch with the public, while supporters insist Ireland still needs a strong public service broadcaster.When challenged by Sinn Féin on the issue, Taoiseach Micheál Martin responded by asking: “Do we want public service broadcasting? Do we want the national broadcaster or not?”That’s the question Niall puts to listeners today. Has RTÉ lost the trust of the Irish public? Is it still value for money? Or despite the controversies, do we still need a national broadcaster in Ireland?As always, listeners share strong opinions, heated debate and personal views on whether RTÉ can ever rebuild public confidence.
• #739 Would Salary Transparency Destroy Workplaces? 20.05.2026 1h

  On this episode of The Niall Boylan Podcast, Niall is joined by broadcaster and commentator Nick Delahanty to discuss the growing controversy surrounding salaries at RTÉ and whether pay transparency should become the norm in Ireland.Following fresh controversy at RTÉ, a proposal has now been made that the names and salaries of all staff earning more than €100,000 should be publicly disclosed. The debate was discussed on Prime Time and has reignited wider questions about secrecy around wages in both the public and private sectors.Supporters of salary transparency argue that publishing wages would expose unfair pay gaps, stop favouritism and prevent situations where employees doing the same job are paid vastly different salaries. Critics however say a person’s income is private and that publishing salaries could create resentment, workplace tension and unnecessary public scrutiny.Niall and Nick debate whether public servants funded by taxpayers should automatically have their salaries disclosed, and whether the same rules should apply to private companies. Has the culture of secrecy around pay allowed inequality to flourish? Or are we moving towards a society where privacy no longer exists?As always, listeners join the conversation with strong opinions on fairness, transparency, jealousy in the workplace and whether people really want to know what their colleagues earn.
• #736 The King Is Coming, Will Ireland Cheer Or Protest? 19.05.2026 1h 4min

  Journalist Laura Perrins joins Niall to discuss the news that King Charles III has accepted an invitation for an official state visit to Ireland following a meeting at Buckingham Palace with Irish President Catherine Connolly.If the visit goes ahead, it will mark only the second official state visit by a British monarch to Ireland since independence, following the historic visit of Queen Elizabeth II in 2011. Her four day trip was viewed by many as a hugely symbolic moment in Anglo Irish relations, particularly when she visited the Garden of Remembrance and honoured those who fought for Irish freedom. Her speech at Dublin Castle, where she opened with a few words in Irish, was praised around the world as a gesture of reconciliation and mutual respect.But not everyone welcomed that visit, and many republicans still strongly oppose any royal visit to Ireland. For some, the British monarchy remains a painful reminder of centuries of British rule, the Troubles, Bloody Sunday and the suffering experienced during Ireland’s struggle for independence. Critics argue that while relations between the two countries may have improved politically, history cannot simply be brushed aside.Others, however, believe a visit by King Charles would be another important step forward in modern relations between Ireland and Great Britain. Supporters say both countries have changed enormously in recent decades and point to the Good Friday Agreement, growing cooperation, trade, tourism and peace in Northern Ireland as proof that reconciliation matters. They argue that respectful diplomacy between neighbours is vital, even when the shared history is difficult and emotional.So, would you line the streets to welcome King Charles on an official visit to Ireland, or do you believe some wounds from the past can never truly heal?
• #737 My Womb, My Choice… Even If He Says No? 19.05.2026 1h 1min

  A devastated listener contacted the show after her husband admitted he no longer wants children, despite the couple spending more than ten years together and always talking about starting a family someday.Now aged 35, she says she feels time is running out. After years of putting careers, finances and busy schedules first, she recently suggested it was finally time to stop using contraception and try for a baby. But instead of excitement, her 42 year old husband shocked her by saying he now believes they are too old to become parents and that having a child would completely disrupt the life they have built together.She says she understands the pressure of modern life, demanding jobs and financial worries, but believes sacrifices can be made for something as important as becoming parents. She told Niall she feels heartbroken, betrayed and terrified she may lose her chance to ever become a mother.Things became even more complicated when a close friend advised her to secretly stop using contraception without telling her husband, insisting that once he sees a baby on the way he would eventually come around and accept it.But is secretly getting pregnant a desperate act from a woman afraid of losing her dream of motherhood, or is it a complete betrayal of trust within a marriage?On this episode, Niall asks listeners where they stand on one of the most emotionally divisive relationship dilemmas imaginable. If a couple always planned to have children, is it unfair for one partner to suddenly change their mind later in life? And if your biological clock was ticking, how far would you go to have the family you always dreamed of?
• #735 Career Politicians Are Destroying Ireland 18.05.2026 1h 6min

  On this episode of The Niall Boylan Podcast, Niall talks to callers about whether politicians in Ireland are staying in power for far too long and if it’s time to radically change the political system.The debate comes after Taoiseach Micheál Martin warned that Ireland “needs to avoid” the political chaos currently unfolding in the UK, saying Britain is potentially “on the cusp” of having its seventh Prime Minister in just ten years. Speaking after the Fianna Fáil Ard Fheis, Martin argued that political instability leads to “a lack of focus and lack of delivery in government”, insisting politicians should concentrate less on leadership speculation and more on the issues affecting ordinary people and their families.But not everybody agrees.Many people believe the real problem in Ireland is the exact opposite, that career politicians stay in office for decades, become disconnected from everyday life, and spend too much time protecting their own positions rather than delivering meaningful change. Micheál Martin himself is now the longest-serving Fianna Fáil leader since Éamon de Valera and will be 69 by the next general election.Some are now calling for dramatic reform, including reducing political terms from five years to just two. Supporters argue that two years should be more than enough time for politicians to prove themselves before facing the voters again. They say shorter terms would keep politicians accountable, stop complacency, and force governments to actually deliver results instead of making promises they never keep.Others warn that constant elections would create instability, endless campaigning, and governments too afraid to make difficult long-term decisions.Would shorter political terms improve democracy or completely destabilise the country? Are Irish politicians in power too long, or do experienced leaders provide stability in uncertain times?Niall hears passionate opinions from callers on both sides of the debate.
• #734 He Chose Marriage Over Being Gay… Now He Regrets It 18.05.2026 1h 9min

  On this episode of The Niall Boylan Podcast, Niall is joined by media producer AJ Walshe to discuss a deeply personal and emotional email sent in by a listener facing a life-changing decision.The man, now in his 40s, has been married for 15 years and is the father of three young children, all under the age of 10. He says he has known he was gay since his teenage years, but growing up in a different time, with the pressure to live a “normal” traditional life, he chose marriage and family instead.Over the years, he admits he secretly experimented with a number of brief relationships and hook-ups with men, all completely unknown to his wife. He says he genuinely loves his wife as a person and as the mother of his children, but he no longer feels sexually attracted to her and admits he has never truly been “in love” with her in that way.Now, after years of living what he describes as “a nightmare of a lie”, he says he feels he can’t continue pretending any longer. Some of his gay friends have encouraged him to “bite the bullet” and finally come out, saying he deserves to live honestly and openly. But his brother, the only family member who knows the truth, has urged him to stay silent until the children are adults, warning that coming out now could destroy his family and completely break the heart of a wife who “idolises” him.Niall and AJ debate the heartbreaking dilemma. Is it fair to continue living a lie for the sake of protecting his family? Or is it more cruel to hide the truth from the woman he married? Should he come out now and risk tearing his family apart, or keep the secret buried until the children are older?It’s a raw and emotional conversation about love, guilt, sexuality, honesty, family, and whether living authentically is worth the pain it may cause to the people closest to you.
• Niall & Sarah: Arguing So You Don’t Have To . Episode 733 15.05.2026 57min

  In this special edition of The Niall Boylan Podcast, Niall is joined by his good friend, Director of Elections Sarah Ryan, Barrister-at-Law, for a lively chat and roundup of the biggest stories making headlines this week.From Bertie Ahern’s controversial comments on immigration, to the Government considering payments for Ukrainians to voluntarily leave Ireland, the pair debate the issues everyone is talking about.They also discuss the outrage over unisex toilets in an Irish school, Michael O’Leary’s call to ban alcohol in airports before flights, Ireland’s Eurovision boycott over Israel’s participation, and the political earthquake in Britain after Nigel Farage’s Reform UK made massive gains in the local elections.Plus, Leo Varadkar sparks debate after speaking publicly about religion and faith in a surprising opinion piece many are calling his “finding God” moment.Expect strong opinions, honest debate and plenty of laughs as Niall and Sarah break down the stories that got the country talking this week.