The Hard Shoulder

The Hard Shoulder

Author: Newstalk Language: English Episodes: 50
Stuck in traffic or winding down after the day? The Hard Shoulder offers a lively alternative to the usual radio silence, blending sharp analysis with the kind of conversation you'd have with well-informed friends. Hosted by Ciara Kelly and Shane Colman, this daily podcast from Newstalk captures the essence of Ireland's premier talk station, transforming the commute into a stimulating part of your routine. Each episode delves into the stories shaping Irish society and culture, from breaking news and political developments to sports and lighter entertainment. The discussion is always grounded, relevant, and driven by a desire to make sense of the world around us. You'll hear interviews, panel debates, and candid reflections that go beyond the headlines, offering fresh perspectives on the issues that matter. This isn't just background noise; it's engaging content designed to inform and provoke thought, mirroring the energy of a great drive-time show but crafted for on-demand listening. Tune in for a direct line to the national conversation, delivered with the clarity and independence Newstalk is known for. Whether you're catching up on the go or settling in at home, this podcast serves as your reliable audio companion for intelligent, contemporary talk.
Episodes
Has smoking had a resurgence? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 5:53
With cigarettes appearing in recent music videos, catwalk shows and Hollywood movies, it’s no wonder they’re creeping into the hands of young people. Some are even swapping out their vapes for a cigarette. So, is smoking…
Macklemore dropped from Ed Sheeran US tour - why? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 10:50
US rapper Macklemore has been dropped from the remaining dates of Ed Sheeran's US tour following controversy over comments he made in support of Palestine during a concert in New Jersey.Joining Shane to discuss this is D…
Murdered & banished discuss last night's episode of The Traitors! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:39
(Spoilers for last night’s episode of The Traitors Ireland ahead! You have been warned!)Ciara and Shane are joined by murdered Faithful, Sean C and banished Faithful, Donal, to discuss their thoughts and experiences of t…
Road Safety at the Ploughing Championships - Henry McKean Reports [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:53
Between 2024 and May 2026, there were 101 deaths in collisions involving a male driver aged between 16 and 25, according to the Road Safety Authority. At this year’s Ploughing Championships, the RSA are trying to get thr…
Rhys Darby discusses the Galway Comedy Festival! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 7:28
Comedian Rhys Darby joins Shane to discuss his upcoming appearance at the Galway Comedy Festival, which is running from October 20th to the 26th!
Flood preparations ahead of storm season - Bairbre Holmes Reports [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 7:47
Last winter, five named storms hit Ireland. They included Storm Chandra, which caused widespread floods across the Southeast in January.Not only was Enniscorthy one of the towns hit hardest, it was the 16th time the Wexf…
Kids Clinic: Leaving the nest [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 7:06
For this week’s Kids Clinic, Ciara is joined by Richard Hogan, Family Psychologist and host of The GoLoud podcast ‘They Mess You Up’ to discuss how to deal with your kids leaving the nest, whether that be for college or…
Why have crime reporting figures fallen? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 6:16
Figures published by The Central Statistics Office (CSO) have found that crime reporting has fallen from 39% in 2019 to 30% in 2025.For more on this, and why less reporting of crime is happening, Shane is joined by Trina…
Oasis confirm Slane gigs in 2027 - are you excited? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 4:01
Oasis have today ended months of speculation with the announcement that they will return in 2027. Oasis Live ‘27 will see the band play 38 live shows, visiting Scotland, England, Germany, Spain, Netherlands, France, Ital…