If you don't have the time to keep up with every twist and turn of the news agenda then sit back and Let Me Explain. Each week host Seán Defoe goes behind the scenes on one of the biggest stories dominating the airwaves. Why is it a big deal? Who's trying to spin you a line? And, most importantly, why should you give a damn? Listen and subscribe to Let Me Explain with Seán Defoe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Download, listen and subscribe on the Newstalk App. You can also listen to Newstalk live on newstalk.com or on Alexa, by and asking: 'Alexa, play Newstalk'
142. The Death of All Things
This week Jamie O'Hara runs through some of the things once indispensable to life that have faded into non existence
24/10/2024 • 7 minutes, 17 secondes
141. Conker Cheats Cheat Us All
This week we're going bonkers for conkers as we examine the revelation which threw the committee for competitive conkering into chaos this week. If you can't trust conkers what can you trust?
17/10/2024 • 8 minutes, 37 secondes
140. Three of the hardest Dáil constituencies to predict
This week we're breaking out the crystal ball to have a look at some of the toughest Dáil constituencies to predict ahead of the general election
10/10/2024 • 17 minutes, 6 secondes
139. The Lion, the Wallaby and Dublin's Elephant Graveyard
This week Emma Tyrell brings us on a tour of Dublin's animalistic highlights
03/10/2024 • 10 minutes, 3 secondes
138. Budget gesticulation and election speculation
This week we ruminate on the biggest budget in the history of the State and whether it means an election is imminent
02/10/2024 • 14 minutes, 35 secondes
137. Do we need to take food supplements?
This week we're asking whether the $177bn supplements industry is actually necessary or whether people are popping pills they don't need
26/09/2024 • 19 minutes, 1 secondes
136. Lies, damn lies and election dates
This week we've been hitting up the pre-Dáil party think-ins to get the skinny on the general election date
19/09/2024 • 15 minutes, 26 secondes
135. "We live by two words - what if?" The hidden risks of sepsis
This week for Sepsis Awareness Day we're speaking to a number of families who've been tragically affected by sepsis and discussing how to spot the signs
12/09/2024 • 53 minutes, 35 secondes
134. Naloxone - the medicine that can pause an overdose
This week we're marking International Overdose Awareness Day by talking about a medicine which can temporarily stop an overdose. The injection or nasal spray can buy people precious time to allow an ambulance to arrive or treatment to be given. Let Me Explain.
05/09/2024 • 24 minutes, 38 secondes
133. 30 years since the IRA ceasefire of 1994
This year marks three decades since the IRA ceasefire of 1994 - a pivotal moment on the path to peace in Northern Ireland. Eamonn Torsney remembers life in Northern Ireland during the Troubles.
29/08/2024 • 12 minutes, 46 secondes
132. The city that banned salt
This week we take a look at the South American city that banned salt shakers from restaurant tables in a bid to tackle excess sodium intake and the range of health problems it brings
22/08/2024 • 10 minutes, 43 secondes
131. Six way-too-early election trends to watch
The Irish general election will happen at some point over the next few months and while politicians are taking the last break they'll get for a while we're looking at some of the trends which may shape the vote. Why are former Fine Gael TDs losing selection conventions? Are Sinn Féin spooked? And why the Government isn't afraid to fight an election on housing.
15/08/2024 • 12 minutes, 22 secondes
130. Why are vegetables getting less nutritious?
We're always told to eat our veg and plants are key for nutrition. But many fruits and veggies, from apples to zucchinis, are less nutritious than they were 40 years ago. Why? Let Me Explain.
07/08/2024 • 18 minutes, 51 secondes
129. Poison, painting and pigeon shooting - a weird history of The Olympics
This week we look at some of the weirdest events to ever grace the Olympics. From the 1904 marathon which was marred by poison, hitchhiking and brandy, to the freakish events that never quite caught on. And just how many condoms do the athletes need? Let Me Explain.
01/08/2024 • 13 minutes, 13 secondes
128. Who is Kamala Harris?
Who is Kamala Harris - the presumptive Democratic nominee to be the next US President? From a career as a California prosecutor to the second most important politician in the country, where did she come from and what are her chances of beating Donald Trump? We look at her career as a district attorney right up to her record as Vice President.
23/07/2024 • 17 minutes, 24 secondes
127. The life and times of Leo Varadkar
The former Taoiseach and Fine Gael leader Leo Varadkar announced this week he won't be contesting the next election and will be retiring from front line politics aged just 45. We look back on the career of an early starter and a man who broke a number of big taboos in Irish politics
18/07/2024 • 17 minutes, 17 secondes
126. Looking for a man in Finance? Jack Chambers and the Giant Budget
Looking for a man in Finance? 6'5? Blue Eyes? Well who is the new man in the Department of Finance, Jack Chambers? He's in charge of arguably the most consequential budget of this Government and with the Summer Economic Statement out this week, what's it likely to mean for your pocket? Let Me Explain. Budget 2025
11/07/2024 • 14 minutes, 23 secondes
125. Should Ireland ban tanning beds?
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in Ireland and tanning beds increase the risk of contracting the disease by 60% with just a single use. So is it time to ban the tan? Is fake tan better and safer for you? And what else can be done to combat rising skin cancer rates in Ireland?
04/07/2024 • 25 minutes, 44 secondes
124. How do judges decide jail terms?
In the wake of the suspended sentence for Defence Forces member Cathal Crotty the woman he attacked, Natasha O'Brien, has called for mandatory minimum jail terms for assault causing serious harm. But how do judges come to their sentences? What do they have to take into account? And just how much is in their own hands when it comes to ensuring some people avoid jail?
27/06/2024 • 22 minutes, 3 secondes
123: Why Do Men Die Younger Than Women? A Men's Health Week Special
This week we discuss Men's Health Week and talk about the leading causes of death among men including cancer and heart disease as well as looking at some of the simple fixes you can make to improve your chances of a long life. Featuring the Marie Keating Foundation's Helen Forristal and Finian Murray of the HSE
13/06/2024 • 23 minutes, 12 secondes
122: Who has won the Euro elections?
We go around the grounds to our reporters in Dublin, Cork, Mayo and Limerick to get the wrap up of the European elections. And who is John Moran, the new Mayor of Limerick?
12/06/2024 • 27 minutes, 35 secondes
121: Life in Numbers
Have you ever wondered what our world and what we've achieved looks like when it's compiled down to just figures?Let Jamie O'Hara explain.
06/06/2024 • 7 minutes, 55 secondes
120: My Cancer Journey
You've probably been wondering where Seán Defoe has been over the last 8 months - let him explain.
30/05/2024 • 31 minutes, 12 secondes
119: The Criminal Justice System
Do you ever wonder how journalists navigate court reports and crime stories? Let Andrew Louth explain.
23/05/2024 • 20 minutes, 1 secondes
118: Responsible Dog Ownership
With a rise in dog ownership over the last few years, we've also seen a surge in dog attacks...What does it take to be a responsible dog owner? Let Josh Crosbie explain.
09/05/2024 • 14 minutes, 39 secondes
117: Rise in Botox
What has caused the rise in botox? Laura Donnelly explains all in this week's episode of Let Me Explain.
02/05/2024 • 10 minutes, 39 secondes
116: Cash or Card?
Do you prefer to pay by cash or card? With more businesses opting for card-only payment methods, questions about a 'cashless society' begin to crop up. Could this really happen? Let Josh Crosbie explain.
25/04/2024 • 17 minutes, 41 secondes
115: 999
What happens when you call 999, and what do we have to do to get help to us as quickly as possible? Let Alex Rowley explain.
18/04/2024 • 13 minutes, 27 secondes
124: Measles
Ireland came close to eradicating measles before we saw a recent increase in cases at home and across Europe - with Ireland recording its first measles-related death for the first time in 24 years this year.Where has this rise in cases come from? Let Caoimhseach Connolly explain.
04/04/2024 • 10 minutes, 58 secondes
123: Malawi
The country of Malawi is increasingly becoming under threat due to climate change.Let Ben Finnegan, who has just visited the landlocked African country, explain.
28/03/2024 • 12 minutes, 37 secondes
112: Replacing a Taoiseach
After Leo Varadkar announced his intention to step down as Taoiseach, Ellen Butler explains how a Taoiseach is replaced.
22/03/2024 • 8 minutes, 56 secondes
111: Nominative Determinism
Usain Bolt, PC Rob Banks, Thomas Crapper... Nominative Determinism is the term for when people are attracted to jobs and hobbies that match their names.Let Me Explain.
21/03/2024 • 9 minutes, 29 secondes
110: The Soft Power of St Patrick's Day
Is the world actually jealous of the access St Patrick's Day gives us to the White House? Let Shane Beatty explain.
17/03/2024 • 9 minutes, 14 secondes
109: The Everyday Affects of Climate Change
How will climate change affect everyday life? Let Ben Finnegan explain.
05/03/2024 • 9 minutes, 12 secondes
108: A Reunited Ireland
When we talk about a 'united Ireland', why don't we call it a 'reunited Ireland'? Simon Tierney is in the hot seat on this week's Let Me Explain.
28/02/2024 • 13 minutes, 4 secondes
107: Diamonds
Diamonds: They've fuelled conflicts, marketing campaigns and inspired robberies. How have diamonds captivated the world for hundreds of years? Find out in this week's Let Me Explain.
22/02/2024 • 7 minutes, 8 secondes
106: Concerts, the Economy and You
Music concerts are bigger than ever, but what does that mean for the industry, music fans - even the economy?Jamie O'Hara is here to tell on this week's Let Me Explain.
15/02/2024 • 9 minutes, 30 secondes
105: Wedding Prep
Wedding prep season is in full swing and we have Josh Crosbie in for Seán Defoe to give us a full planning guide!
08/02/2024 • 14 minutes, 49 secondes
104: Deposit Return Scheme
On February 1st Ireland will adopt a new deposit return scheme for bottles and cans. Consumers will be able to return the items to their local shops to claim their deposit back. Let Ben Finnegan Explain...
01/02/2024 • 11 minutes, 10 secondes
103: Burns Night
On the 25th of January, people in Scotland and Scottish people around the world celebrate Burns Night. Did you know people in Ireland also celebrate? Let Eamonn Torsney explain.
25/01/2024 • 9 minutes, 23 secondes
102: Reality TV
Why is reality TV thriving more than ever right now? Let Laura Donnelly explain.
18/01/2024 • 12 minutes, 34 secondes
101: Traffic
Feel like traffic is at an all-time high? Let Jamie O Hara Explain.
11/01/2024 • 10 minutes, 48 secondes
100: Main Character Syndrome
Do you ever feel like you're the main character in the movie that is life? You might have main character syndrome... Let Jamie O'Hara explain.
04/01/2024 • 12 minutes, 7 secondes
99: The Commercialisation of Christmas
Josh Crosbie is back in the hot seat for another episode of Let Me Explain - this week we look at the commercialisation of Christmas.
21/12/2023 • 15 minutes, 8 secondes
98: Christmas Ads
Josh Crosbie takes us on a tour of some of the most iconic Christmas adverts.
14/12/2023 • 11 minutes, 59 secondes
97: Dodgy Boxes
On this week's Let Me Explain we have Laura Donnelly in the hot seat to explain the rise of 'dodgy boxes'.
07/12/2023 • 18 minutes, 41 secondes
96: The Origins of Sayings - 'Bite the bullet'
In this mini episode of Let Me Explain, Sean Defoe looks at some of the most common sayings in the world and where they come from.Let Me Explain.
30/11/2023 • 2 minutes, 38 secondes
95: The Origins of Sayings - 'Best thing since sliced bread'
In this mini episode of Let Me Explain, Sean Defoe looks at some of the most common sayings in the world and where they come from.Let Me Explain.
23/11/2023 • 2 minutes, 54 secondes
94: The Origins of Sayings - 'Elephant in the room'
In this mini episode of Let Me Explain, Sean Defoe looks at some of the most common sayings in the world and where they come from.Let Me Explain.
16/11/2023 • 2 minutes, 19 secondes
93: The origins of sayings - 'Salt of the earth'
In this mini episode of Let Me Explain, Sean Defoe looks at some of the most common sayings in the world and where they come from.Let Me Explain.
09/11/2023 • 4 minutes, 1 secondes
92: What is the Multiverse? - Bitesized
Listen back to an excerpt from Episode 31 - What would happen if you made a big decision differently?
02/11/2023 • 3 minutes, 50 secondes
91: The Haunting of Loftus Hall - Bitesized
Listen back to an excerpt from Episode 30...when the devil roamed the coast of Wexford...
26/10/2023 • 3 minutes, 1 secondes
90: The Rise of Plant Based Milks - Bitesized
Listen back to an excerpt from Episode 20 ... how do you milk an oat?
19/10/2023 • 3 minutes, 9 secondes
89. How to invest
This week we delve into how to invest your money. Is it best off sitting in a bank or could you be making some more cash with it?Let Me Explain.
13/10/2023 • 14 minutes, 31 secondes
88. Why Was Kevin McCarthy Sacked?
This week a bit of history where the US House speaker Kevin McCarthy has been removed - the first time that's ever happened. Let Me Explain.
05/10/2023 • 12 minutes, 36 secondes
87. Inside Ireland's Biggest Drugs Bust
This week we go inside the dramatic events on the high seas as the authorities busted €157m worth of cocaine on a cargo vessel known as 'The Mothership'. Let Me Explain.
27/09/2023 • 16 minutes, 46 secondes
85. Eamon Ryan on battling the climate crisis
Climate Minister Eamon Ryan speaks to us from New York ahead of a key United Nations summit on climate
20/09/2023 • 33 minutes, 43 secondes
86. Does the UN actually matter anymore?
From the UN we get reaction to critical comments about the organisation from President Michael D Higgins as four Cabinet members continue their New York trip
20/09/2023 • 8 minutes, 11 secondes
84. The new Commission reshaping Irish elections
This week we chat to the Chief Executive of Ireland's new Electoral Commission about reform, fake news, lowering the voting age and much more.
14/09/2023 • 45 minutes, 55 secondes
83. Tommy Bowe on life at a Rugby World Cup
This week we chat to former Ireland winger and Ireland AM star Tommy Bowe about what life is like for the players at a World Cup. He chats best and worst roommates, reveals who brought scented candles on tour and outs the players who ended up singing on a bar with their tops off in 2011. Let Me Explain!
05/09/2023 • 30 minutes, 52 secondes
82. The biggest search for the Loch Ness monster in 50 years
This week hundreds of people gathered at Loch Ness for the biggest hunt for the monster in a generation. How did they get on? And what are the Irish connections to the legend?
31/08/2023 • 15 minutes, 36 secondes
81. The Dáil Boundary Review Bonus Pod
It's like Leaving Cert results day for TDs as they learn how their constituencies have changed - we run through the runners and riders. Who comes out well and who's about to lose their seat?
30/08/2023 • 25 minutes, 3 secondes
80. We Could Have 21 New TDs Announced This Week - The Boundary Changes Preview Pod
This week the Electoral Commission will announce one of the biggest changes to Dáil constituencies in history as the boundaries are changed to accommodate up to 21 new TDs. We preview with Electoral Reform Minister Malcolm Noonan and former Fine Gael TD Noel Rock
28/08/2023 • 24 minutes, 40 secondes
79. Could Sailing Ships Save The Planet?
This week we look at how the cargo shipping industry is going back to the future with the return of sails to cut down carbon emissions.
24/08/2023 • 12 minutes, 30 secondes
78. A Tour Through History
This week we're looking back at some of the top historical episodes of the show from the past year
17/08/2023 • 16 minutes, 48 secondes
77. Dying With Dignity
On this episode we pay tribute to the late Brendan Clarke, who spoke to use in May about living with Motor Neuron Disease
10/08/2023 • 16 minutes, 17 secondes
76. The Curse of Silly Season
What is the curse of August which has haunted politicians as they try to take their summer holidays?
03/08/2023 • 12 minutes, 57 secondes
75. Why Don't Electric Cars Have Solar Panels?
This episode does what it says on the tin, we're asking why electric cars aren't all fitted with solar panels to generate their own electricity
27/07/2023 • 12 minutes, 9 secondes
74. An Interview With....Chat GPT
This week we speak to....Chat GPT...
20/07/2023 • 7 minutes, 7 secondes
73. What is the Nature Restoration Law?
The European Parliament has been tearing itself apart arguing over the Nature Restoration Law.
But why is it so controversial?
Let Me Explain
13/07/2023 • 12 minutes, 51 secondes
72. Tubscast
Ryan Tubridy and his agent Noel Kelly appeared before two Oireachtas Committees and we sat through every minute so you didn't have to.
I'm joined for instant reaction by Committee Chair Niamh Smyth
11/07/2023 • 25 minutes, 32 secondes
71. Instant Reaction RTÉ Committee Pod
Recorded in our flip flops myself and Paul Hosford break down a busy and difficult day for RTÉ.
More and more revelations about the finances at the broadcaster as officials were before the Oireachtas Media Committee again.
05/07/2023 • 30 minutes, 53 secondes
70. Who Are The Wagner Group?
Who are the mercenary group which has been fighting in Ukraine and ALMOST led a full throated rebellion against the Russian leadership?
What about their leader 'Putin's Chef' and links to the IRA? (No, not THAT IRA)
Let Me Explain!
29/06/2023 • 19 minutes, 47 secondes
69. The Titanic Sub Mystery
This week we go inside the design and making of the missing sub which had been taking a small crew to view the world's most famous shipwreck
22/06/2023 • 12 minutes, 13 secondes
68. Why Young People Are Avoiding the News
New data reveals a serious drop off in the amount of under 25s reading news and a rising number of people deliberately censoring themselves from certain stories.
Let Me Explain.
15/06/2023 • 13 minutes, 27 secondes
67. Leaving Cert War Stories
This week we've asking YOU for your nightmare Leaving Cert experiences.
Sleep through the exam? How about bringing a TV remote instead of your calculator?
Or having someone get sick on your exam paper.
Let Me Explain.
08/06/2023 • 25 minutes, 11 secondes
66. Making Census Things
Do people have more sex during recessions?
Well some of the Census data suggests yes, and we might have to plan the future around it
More of the bizarre stats from Census 2022 on this week’s Let Me Explain podcast
01/06/2023 • 11 minutes, 51 secondes
65. Why Don't We Want The Apple Tax Money?
The Government is fighting tooth and nail NOT to be given €13 billion from Apple for back taxes the European Commission claims are owed.
So, why don't we want a big payday exactly?
Let Me Explain.
30/05/2023 • 16 minutes, 4 secondes
64. When Renewable Energy Almost Bankrupted The State
This week we're looking into one of the most dramatic projects ever undertaken by an Irish Government when politicians opted to spend 20% of their entire budget on the Ardnacrusha hydroelectric plant.
25/05/2023 • 9 minutes, 20 secondes
63. Does Alcohol Cause Cancer?
This week we're looking at the Government's plans to introduce cigarette-pack style warning labels on alcohol and the connections between the disease and booze.
18/05/2023 • 12 minutes, 56 secondes
62. How Netflix Plans to Stop You Password Sharing
Netflix wants you to stop sharing passwords so it can make more money.
But how do they plan on doing it? And how can you get around it?
Let Me Explain.
11/05/2023 • 12 minutes, 35 secondes
61. Why Are US Banks Collapsing And Should We Panic?
Three of the four biggest US bank collapses have happened in the past....two months.
What's going on and is it time to be worried?
Let Me Explain
04/05/2023 • 15 minutes, 46 secondes
60. What's Happening in Sudan?
Two coups in four years and armed factions fighting for control of one of Africa's biggest countries.
On this week's episode we dive into what's happening in Sudan, and why.
27/04/2023 • 10 minutes, 32 secondes
59. Inside the Hutch Trial
This week we go inside one of the biggest trials in the history of the State which saw Gerry 'The Monk' Hutch acquitted of murder in the Special Criminal Court.
20/04/2023 • 24 minutes, 41 secondes
58. Dummies Guide to The Good Friday Agreement
Do you find yourself having an 'I don't know what a Tracker Mortgage is' moment when talking about the Good Friday Agreement?
Well this is your podcast cheat sheet for what was actually written into the deal 25 years ago.
13/04/2023 • 12 minutes, 56 secondes
57. Keeping the US President Alive
Just what goes into the security operation around a US President when he travels abroad?
With Joe Biden set to visit Ireland next week we look at how the President travels in style and security.
06/04/2023 • 10 minutes, 47 secondes
56. Leaving Politics is like Quitting Smoking
A chat with the former Minister for Mental Health Jim Daly who says his decision to quit politics ahead of the last election was like giving up smoking - he didn't realise how good it would feel until he was gone.
04/04/2023 • 20 minutes, 9 secondes
55. Who is Humza? The new Scottish FM
Scotland elected a new SNP leader and First Ministers this week. But who is Humza Yousef? The man set up as Nicola Sturgeon's replacement.
30/03/2023 • 12 minutes, 31 secondes
54. Ireland's First Satellite
This week we're in UCD to chat to the team who built Ireland's first satellite EIRSAT-1 which is due to launch into orbit this year.
23/03/2023 • 29 minutes, 26 secondes
53. What's it like meeting the US President?
A special episode this week from Washington DC as the Taoiseach meets President Joe Biden.
But what's it like being in the room when meeting the most powerful person in the world? We speak to some of those who've come face to face with Presidents past.
16/03/2023 • 16 minutes, 13 secondes
52. The Death of Ireland's Golden Visa
For as little as €400,000 international millionaires have been able to buy Irish residency since 2012.
But amid a surge of applications from China the Government has moved to close the scheme.
So who came here and where did they put their money?
Let Me Explain.
09/03/2023 • 13 minutes, 35 secondes
51. What the Hell is the Windsor Framework?
This is your dummies guide to the latest Brexit agreement.
Just what is in the Windsor Framework? And will unionists go for it?
Let Me Explain.
02/03/2023 • 15 minutes, 47 secondes
50. Roald Dahl, Puffin's Marvelous Censorship
This week, should we be ok with editing books after the author is dead?
Roald Dahl books are being updated to remove terms some people consider offensive - like fat and 'old hags'.
But it's sparked a wider debate about censorship and whether kids should be allowed to read out of date content.
Let Me Explain.
23/02/2023 • 10 minutes, 45 secondes
49. BONUS: Conservatives vs Sexy Chocolate 2.0
We're back with a post-Superbowl update on the M&Ms scandal
16/02/2023 • 5 minutes, 54 secondes
48. Aliens or Chinese Spies?
Has the USA been shooting down Chinese spy balloons or UFOs of a much more intergalactic nature?
Let Me Explain
16/02/2023 • 11 minutes, 12 secondes
47. The History of Bank Holidays
We've all enjoyed the fun of a three day weekend and the short four day work week that comes after.
But where did Bank Holidays come from? And why did our ancestors have four times as many?
Let Me Explain
09/02/2023 • 8 minutes, 8 secondes
46. Just Who Was St. Brigid Anyway?
CEO, entrepreneur, girl boss.
Not words I'd have associated with St. Brigid - before listening to this episode!
Let Me Explain
02/02/2023 • 15 minutes, 51 secondes
45. Conservatives vs Sexy Chocolate
Yes you read the title right.
Conservatives in the US have hit out at M&Ms for changing their 'spokescandies' to make them less sexy.
Leading to the chocolate giant suspending the use of its candy mascots.
Let Me Explain.
26/01/2023 • 13 minutes, 50 secondes
44. Animals You Should Be Glad Are Extinct
This episode does what it says on the tin.
We're taking a tour through history looking at some of the weird, impressive and downright creepy animals you'll probably be glad don't exist anymore.
Let Me Explain.
19/01/2023 • 11 minutes, 50 secondes
43. White, Pink and Brown Noise For Sleep
Did you know, noise has colours?
You’ve heard of white noise, but what about pink, or brown noise?
And what impact can they have on your sleep?
Let Me Explain.
12/01/2023 • 14 minutes, 29 secondes
42. What TDs Did Before Getting Elected
This week we take a look at the CVs of our TDs.
Which Deputy was a whale watching guide? And who worked in a car dealership?
Let Me Explain
05/01/2023 • 14 minutes, 11 secondes
41. British Prime Ministers Could Fire Nukes From Beyond The Grave
Yes you read that title right.
This week we look at the UK's nuclear defence system and the orders Prime Ministers give in case they're killed by a nuclear attack, telling their submarines what to do.
29/12/2022 • 9 minutes, 3 secondes
40. The 2022 Review! Part Two
The second part of this year's look back on the year that was.
25/12/2022 • 47 minutes, 34 secondes
39. The 2022 Review! Part One
Let's take a look back through the mad and wacky year that was 2022.
25/12/2022 • 46 minutes, 42 secondes
38. Big Historical Events Which Happened on Christmas Day
Christmas Day is usually a time for rest and relaxation. But over the centuries some pretty momentus things have happened on the 25th of December.
From a disaster for Columbus to the end of the Soviet Union, come on a journey through history.
22/12/2022 • 14 minutes, 5 secondes
37. Making Space Accessible for People With Disabilities
Is space flight accessible for people with disabilities?
I’d almost bet if you don’t have a disability you’ve never thought about it before
But there is a whole team at the European Space Agency trying to figure that out
Let Me Explain
15/12/2022 • 14 minutes, 20 secondes
36. Christmas Traditions Across Europe
This week we take a whistlestop tour across Europe looking at Christmas traditions in other countries.
Which country has a Christmas witch? And where do they believe in a child eating Christmas cat?
Let Me Explain
08/12/2022 • 15 minutes, 22 secondes
35. How Does a Cabinet Reshuffle Work?
How do you reshuffle a Cabinet without pissing people off?
That's the challenge for Micheál Martin and Leo Varadkar as they prepare to swap jobs.
Let Me Explain.
01/12/2022 • 12 minutes, 41 secondes
34. Sportswashing
The World Cup in Qatar is a classic example of sportswashing.
When a country tries to use a big sporting event to rehabilitate its image and hide concerns about social issues.
This week we look at some of the other historical examples and ask, will it work again?
24/11/2022 • 12 minutes, 24 secondes
33. What Happened At Cervical Check?
This week saw the sad passing of campaigner Vicky Phelan.
But why did the entire country come to know her? And what happened at Cervical Check?
Let Me Explain
17/11/2022 • 10 minutes, 48 secondes
32. Is Style Better Than Substance?
When it comes to politics, is it better to have style or substance?
Does being a great policymaker get you anywhere if you can't explain it to people?
And have we entered the era of the showman politician?
Let Me Explain.
10/11/2022 • 16 minutes, 24 secondes
31. What is the Multiverse?
Have you ever wondered what would have happened if you'd made a big decision differently? Well some believe other universes exist where you did. Potentially infinite universes, with infinite versions of you.
Let Me Explain.
03/11/2022 • 15 minutes, 13 secondes
30. The Haunting of Loftus Hall
A special Halloween episode of Let Me Explain where we go inside the walls of Ireland's most haunted house. What happened that fateful night in 1765 when the devil himself roamed the cost of Wexford?
27/10/2022 • 14 minutes, 51 secondes
29. The World's Shortest Serving Leaders
Liz Truss has become the shortest serving British Prime Minister in history. But she's not the shortest serving world leader ever. From the US President who died after 31 days to the 20 minute King, Seán Defoe explains.
20/10/2022 • 10 minutes, 14 secondes
28. Iran's Hijab Protests
The arrest and death of a 22 year old woman in Iran has sparked nearly a month of protests against the country's ultra-conservative rules about women.
We go inside the story.
13/10/2022 • 12 minutes, 11 secondes
27. How Would a United Ireland be Governed?
If there were to be a United Ireland tomorrow - what would its parliament look like?
06/10/2022 • 14 minutes, 57 secondes
26. WTF is happening with the UK economy?
Blink and you'd miss it. A mini budget which led to the pound collapsing and all sorts of panic in the markets.
What does it all mean in simple terms?
Well, Let Me Explain
30/09/2022 • 17 minutes, 20 secondes
25. What's a UN Summit like?
Special edition coming to you from the streets of New York and the heart of the UN General Assembly
23/09/2022 • 17 minutes, 58 secondes
24. What's the Paschal Donohoe Eurogroup row about?
There's been a lot of talk about the Eurogroup - but what is it?
And why is it important Paschal Donohoe keeps his role as President of it?
Let Me Explain
22/09/2022 • 14 minutes, 4 secondes
23. How Would A Windfall Tax Work?
Governments across Europe are looking to tax the bumper profits of energy companies.
But how would such a tax work? And would it actually raise all that much money?
Let Me Explain.
15/09/2022 • 12 minutes, 11 secondes
22. Why Is The ECB Hiking Mortgage Interest Rates?
The European Central Bank has announced a 0.75% hike to interest rates - the second increase in a matter of months.
It's going to mean increased mortgage repayments for many, so why are they doing it in the middle of a cost of living crisis?
Let Me Explain.
08/09/2022 • 13 minutes, 9 secondes
21. Cryptocurrency
You've probably heard of Bitcoin. But what actually is it?
Are cryptocurrencies the future or just a passing fad?
Let Me Explain.
01/09/2022 • 15 minutes, 57 secondes
20. The Rise Of Plant Milks
How do you milk an oat? Technically you can't yet plant milks have become all the rage over the past few years.
But how do they compare to dairy on taste, price, environmental impact and when it comes to your health?
Well, Let Me Explain.
25/08/2022 • 16 minutes, 54 secondes
19. How NOT to pronounce Taoiseach
This week's episode is an ode to Liz Truss and all the other politicians who've mangled the word Taoiseach on the world stage
18/08/2022 • 9 minutes, 39 secondes
18. Who Is Rishi Sunak?
Part Two of Two
One of Liz Truss or Rishi Sunak will be British Prime Minister next month, but who the hell are they?
On this episode we delve into the background of Rishi Sunak, the Chancellor who wielded the knife on his former boss and now is looking to wear the crown himself.
11/08/2022 • 13 minutes, 29 secondes
17. Who Is Liz Truss?
Part One of Two
One of Liz Truss or Rishi Sunak will be British Prime Minister next month, but who the hell are they?
On this episode we delve into the background of Liz Truss, the favourite to replace Boris Johnson.
11/08/2022 • 13 minutes, 11 secondes
16. Why Haven't We Met Aliens Yet?
With hundreds of billions of stars and planets in the universe there has to be life out there, right?
Then why haven't we met any yet?
This week we look at some of the major theories about why we haven't met aliens and whether they're out there at all.
04/08/2022 • 15 minutes, 48 secondes
15. Senators vs Seagulls
There are a few classic rivalries in Irish politics.
Fine Gael vs Fianna Fáil. Garrett vs Charlie.
But the most divisive is members of Seanad Eireann vs seagulls.
A wrap of the long standing war between political menace and winged menace.
28/07/2022 • 13 minutes, 56 secondes
14. What's With All The Flying Ants?
Has your garden been invaded by flying ants? It's that time of year where they seem to be everywhere.
But where do they come from? And why do ants suddenly sprout wings?
Let Me Explain.
21/07/2022 • 14 minutes, 16 secondes
13. Why Do Orangemen March on July 12th?
You've no doubt seen the coverage down through the years, but why does the Orange Order hold marches on the 12th of July?
Or bonfires on the 11th?
Let Me Explain.
12/07/2022 • 10 minutes, 37 secondes
12. The Problem With Space Junk
Did you know there's litter in space?
In fact, whole chunks of rockets are just floating around up there. Dead satellites too.
And it may pose a really big problem to the future of space travel.
Let Me Explain.
07/07/2022 • 14 minutes, 19 secondes
11. EMERGENCY POD: Is The Government Goosed?
EMERGENCY PODCAST
The Government has lost its Dáil majority after Donegal TD Joe McHugh voted against his colleagues on the mica redress bill.
What does it mean? And will there be an election?
Let Me Explain!
06/07/2022 • 14 minutes, 15 secondes
10. Why Don't Politicians Get Maternity Leave?
If you went for a job interview and they said there was no maternity leave, you'd walk out right?
Well politicians in Ireland are not entitled to any automatic maternity leave and special arrangements need to be made whenever a female TD, Senator or Councillor gets pregnant.
But why is the system like this? And is there any sign of change?
Let Me Explain
30/06/2022 • 13 minutes, 37 secondes
9. Covid's Back - What The Hell?
The Health Minister has said he can't rule out the return of a mask mandate as the number of people in hospital with Covid has more than doubled in two weeks.
So why are cases on the rise and are any more restrictions on the cards?
Let Me Explain.
22/06/2022 • 9 minutes, 26 secondes
8. Could Free Public Transport Work in Ireland?
Would you give up your car if there was free public transport?
It's been tried in a number of cities and this week Junior Minister Robert Troy said Ireland should go down that road.
But is it the silver bullet it's portrayed as? And is the cost worth it?
Let Me Explain.
16/06/2022 • 12 minutes, 20 secondes
7. If You Heave Me Now
Ever wanted to fire your boss?
Politics is one of the only professions where it's a regular possibility. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson survived a confidence motion this week, but what's the key to a successful coup?
From Julius Caesar to Enda Kenny we look at what's made and messed up political heaves over the years.
Let Me Explain
09/06/2022 • 13 minutes, 50 secondes
6. Hubble, Bubble, Oil and Trouble
The EU has agreed an almost total ban on Russian oil imports - but what will it mean for your pocket?
While sanctions will bite in Moscow consumers across the EU will also feel the pinch.
Let Me Explain.
02/06/2022 • 15 minutes, 4 secondes
5. Monkeypox
Exit the plague - enter the pox!
Just when you thought it was safe to go out again headlines about Monkeypox pop up everywhere. But just what is it? And should we be worried?
Let Me Explain.
25/05/2022 • 10 minutes, 41 secondes
4. Don't Protocol Me Baby
You've heard it talked about on the news hundreds of times - but in plain english, what the hell is the Northern Ireland Protocol?
19/05/2022 • 10 minutes, 29 secondes
3. Ireland's Eurovision Obsession
Where did Ireland's Eurovision obsession come from? Let Me Explain.
12/05/2022 • 13 minutes, 40 secondes
2. Ireland's Nuclear Fallout Plan
What's Ireland's plan to deal with a nuclear war? And just where did the Government build a secret Cold War bunker? Subscribe now to Let Me Explain with Seán Defoe
05/05/2022 • 12 minutes, 39 secondes
1. Leo and the Leak
Listen and subscribe now to Let Me Explain with Seán Defoe
28/04/2022 • 17 minutes, 22 secondes
Coming soon: Let Me Explain with Seán Defoe
Let Me Explain with Seán Defoe launches soon.
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