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The Greg Hughes Podcast

Greg Hughes

The Greg Hughes Podcast goes beyond the headlines to discover the stories behind the people.

Broadcaster Greg Hughes sits down with fascinating guests for open, honest and in-depth conversations about their lives, experiences and the moments that shaped them.

From well-known names and newsmakers to people with extraordinary stories to tell, each episode gives guests the time and space to talk about where they’ve come from, what they’ve experienced and what they’ve learned along the way.

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#45
Friday · 47 min
Bishop Donal McKeown: The Man Behind the Ministry
In this episode, I sit down with retired Bishop of Derry, Donal McKeown, to reflect on a life shaped by faith, sport, education and service. We explore his early years, his connections to Belfast and his childhood passion for sport, before following his journey through education and theological formation towards the priesthood. He reflects on some of the most memorable moments of his time in Derry, including the deaths of Lyra McKee, John Hume and Martin McGuinness, and what those losses meant for the city and its people. We also discuss retirement, his plans for the future and what comes next after decades of ministry. A personal conversation about the experiences behind a public life, and the beginning of a new chapter.
#44
October 2 · 1 hr
Noel Cunningham: On Life, Change and Finding Happiness
This week, author, regular television personality and Ambassador for Harvey’s Point hotel, Noel Cunningham, joins us for an honest conversation about growing up gay in rural Donegal, the loneliness of feeling different, and his journey through alcohol addiction to sobriety. Known to many through his appearances on Ireland AM, Noel reflects on the experiences behind his familiar public presence. We discuss his difficult early years, the impact of his drinking, the regrets he carries, and the turning point that led him to stop. He also shares how life opened up in recovery, finding greater self-acceptance and seeing his career flourish. It’s a personal conversation about living with the past, rebuilding a life and finding hope in a new beginning.
#43
September 25 · 45 min
Rebūke: Success on His Own Terms
From the Irish underground to Coachella and the Las Vegas Sphere, DJ and producer Rebūke has taken his sound around the world. His 2018 breakthrough, “Along Came Polly”, topped the Beatport chart, while collaborations with Anyma on “Syren” and deadmau5 on “Endless” have added to an impressive career. This week, Greg sits down with Rebūke, aka Reuben Keeney, to talk about where it all began: his early love of music, finding his own sound, and the breakthrough that helped him make his name on the international scene. He also shares a fascinating story about one of his biggest early influences later asking him to produce a track. It sounds like the opportunity any young producer would dream of—but creative differences led him to respectfully decline. We discuss what it means to trust your own judgement, even when the person on the other side of the conversation helped inspire you in the first place. And despite everything he’s achieved, Rebūke is already planning to take a step back. We explore his thinking, how his priorities are changing, and what he wants from the next chapter. A candid conversation about making your name, staying true to your music, and deciding what success means to you.
#41
September 18 · 1 hr 2 min
2026 Tip O'Neill Award Recipient Brenden Tiny Vaughan
A proud Carrigart man who made his life in London, Brendan ‘Tiny’ Vaughan has spent decades helping others while keeping Donegal close to his heart. This week on The Greg Hughes Podcast, Tiny joins Greg ahead of receiving the 2026 Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Award for an honest, deeply personal and at times intensely emotional conversation about his life, his love of home and his plans to return to Donegal. His commitment to charity has touched lives across Ireland and Britain. The Donegal Hospice Calendar, which he established in memory of his mother, has raised approximately €240,000, while the London Irish Vintage Club, which he co-founded, has raised more than £1 million through its annual charity event. In this conversation, we get under the famous cap and meet the man behind those remarkable fundraising efforts. As he prepares to accept recognition for years of giving back, Tiny reflects on the life he has built away from Carrigart and what coming home will mean to him. New episodes of The Greg Hughes Podcast arrive every Friday at 11am. Listen at highlandradio.com, on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also watch on YouTube. Follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode.
#42
September 18 · 17 min
2026 Tip O'Neill Award Recipient Kate Barton
From a family rooted in Ireland to the leadership of the world’s largest global law firm, Kate Barton’s story reaches across generations and continents. This week on The Greg Hughes Podcast, Greg welcomes Kate Barton, Global CEO of Dentons and a recipient of the 2026 Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Award. The granddaughter of four Irish grandparents who emigrated to Boston, Kate has built an international career while retaining a strong connection to her Irish heritage. She credits her grandparents’ resilience, storytelling and humour with helping shape her approach to leadership and giving back. Before taking the helm at Dentons, Kate spent more than three decades at EY, rising to senior global leadership roles. Alongside her professional achievements, she supports charitable and educational organisations, including The Ireland Funds and the Shanti Bhavan Children’s Project. As she prepares to receive her award in Donegal, join Greg and Kate for this standalone episode featuring a member of the Irish diaspora whose family roots remain an important part of her story. New episodes of The Greg Hughes Podcast arrive every Friday at 11am. Follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode.
#39
September 11 · 56 min
Niall Mac Eachmharcaigh: A Life in Stage and Screen
From the Gaeltacht village of Rann na Feirste to the fictional shores of Ros na Rún, this week’s guest is a titan of Irish-language media whose career spans over three decades on stage, screen, and behind the camera. Niall Mac Eachmharcaigh joins the podcast to reflect on a remarkable life in storytelling. Best known to millions as John Joe Daly—a role he inhabited for roughly 24 years on TG4’s flagship drama—Niall opens up about the tight-knit community of Donegal actors in An Spidéal and how a chance encounter watching a live stage play in his hometown at age 13 sparked a lifelong devotion to drama. We trace his journey from starting out as a theatre prompter in Donegal in 1973 to multi-hyphenate creative work, including writing, directing, and producing the 1990s comedy series C.U. Burn through his company Lios na Si. Niall also discusses his recent screen work, including the 2024 crime series Crá, Aontas, and his dual-language voice acting debut as the Giant Deer in the 2025 animated Christmas short Nollaí. An inspiring, funny, and deeply engaging conversation celebrating Gaeltacht culture and a legendary career in broadcasting.
#40
September 9 · 22 min
Butterfly Bears: Healing Grief Through Nature with Alicia McHugh
Starting school is a milestone every parent marks with excitement — the tiny uniform, the brand-new shoes, the photo by the front door. But for Alicia McHugh, this week’s school run brings a painful reminder of the little boy who should have been standing in that photo. In November 2021, Alicia’s son Andrew was stillborn at 36 weeks. Facing an unimaginable grief, she turned to a tiny patch of dirt in her back garden, finding solace in caring for growing plants when she couldn't care for her son. That small plot eventually grew into Butterfly Bears Flower Farm in Killygordon — a living tribute where every bloom honors Andrew's memory. In this moving bonus episode, as Andrew would have taken his first steps into primary school alongside his siblings, Alicia shares her journey through grief, the deep symbolism behind the farm’s name, and how nurturing nature helped her find a way forward. In This Episode: A Milestone Marked in Silence: Navigating the emotion of the first day of primary school when a child is missing from the front door photo. Finding Solace in the Soil: How tending to a small garden plot provided a tangible way to care for Andrew when he was gone. Butterfly Bears Flower Farm: Building a flower farm in Killygordon as a lasting, living memorial. The Story Behind the Name: The powerful meaning connecting the Ursa Minor ("Little Bear") star named for Andrew and the symbolic butterfly wings.
#37
September 4 · 23 min
Bonus Ep: Ride for Resilience: The Donegal & FDNY 9/11 Anniversary Story
On September 11, 2001, 19 al-Qaeda militants hijacked four commercial airliners in a coordinated terrorist attack against the United States, taking 2,977 civilian lives—including 343 firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice at the World Trade Center. Marking the upcoming 25th anniversary of that fateful day, a team of six Donegal firefighters is preparing to travel to the US East Coast for the 2026 Ride for Resilience—a five-day, 343-mile charity cycle from Boston to New York City. The trek will raise vital funds for three major organizations: Friends of Firefighters, Livestrong, and the Boston Fire Cancer Foundation. Joining me on the podcast to discuss the journey, the deep transatlantic bond between Donegal and New York, and the lasting legacy of 9/11 is Conor McGuigan, Chairperson of the Donegal Firefighters Association, along with Nancy Carbone, Founder and Executive Director of Friends of Firefighters. We are also privileged to be joined by two FDNY veterans who were on the ground on September 11th: Captain Liam Flaherty of Rescue Co. 2 and Deputy Chief John Corcoran. Together, they share their personal accounts from Ground Zero, reflect on how technical rescue has evolved over the last quarter-century, and discuss why community, remembrance, and standing together still matter so much today.
#38
September 4 · 46 min
Paddy McDonnell: Taxi Stories, West Belfast & an audience of 8
This week on The Greg Hughes Podcast, Greg is joined by one of the sharpest storytellers in Northern Irish comedy—West Belfast’s own Paddy McDonnell! From his early days launching his stand-up career back in 2011 to quickly supporting comedy giants like Des Bishop and Ardal O'Hanlon, Paddy has carved out a massive reputation across Ireland and beyond. In this episode, Paddy sits down with Greg to chat about drawing hilarious material from his former life behind the wheel as a taxi driver, balancing family life, breaking records as the first comedian to perform at the West Belfast Féile six times, and taking his stand-up across the globe to Irish audiences in America and Australia. Plus, Paddy talks about his massive headline runs—from selling out Belfast’s Waterfront Hall, Ulster Hall, and back-to-back SSE Arena shows—to bringing his hit new solo show to Donegal! Catch Paddy McDonnell Live in Donegal: Letterkenny: Paddy Power FULL at An Grianán Theatre — Saturday, September 12th at 8:00 PM (Age 18+) Ballyshannon: Abbey Arts Centre — October 10th, 2026 Ballybofey: Balor Arts Centre — October 16th, 2026 🎟️ Tickets & Info: Book directly through the An Grianán Theatre Box Office or via Paddy's official website. Hit follow to never miss an episode of The Greg Hughes Podcast!
#36
August 28 · 1 hr 3 min
The Greg Hughes Podcast Ep36 Doreen Sheridan-Kennedy: Education, Fine Gael & Never Say Never
On this week’s episode of The Greg Hughes Podcast, Greg sits down with retired teacher, union leader, and veteran politician Doreen Sheridan-Kennedy. Those who listen to Greg and Doreen on live radio know that while the respect is deep, the on-air verbal jousting is guaranteed! True to form, this civil yet spirited conversation covers four decades in education, a lifetime in Donegal politics, and why she hasn't ruled out another run for office... In this episode, Doreen opens up about: Life, Family & Letterkenny: Growing up in Wolfe Tone Place, working at Dillon’s and the Mount Errigal, and raising five children with her husband Cyril. 40 Years in Education: Her career as Deputy Principal at Illistrin National School and two decades on the national committee of the INTO. Grassroots Politics: Her deep Fine Gael roots, working alongside Paddy Harte, and her thoughts on Joe McHugh’s departure and the defective blocks crisis. The Future of Fine Gael: Why Ireland needs more female leaders, her admiration for Helen McEntee, Hildegarde Naughton, and Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, and why you shouldn't write her off for a political comeback just yet. New episodes drop every Friday at 11am on highlandradio.com, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
#35
August 21 · 1 hr 4 min
From Donegal to the World: The Real Jason Quigley Story
This week on The Greg Hughes Podcast, Donegal boxing star Jason Quigley joins the show for an honest, wide-ranging conversation that goes far beyond the ring.We dive deep into the full arc of his career—from the immense hype of his high-profile professional debut to the intensity and pressure of the big fight build-ups. Jason opens up about his shot at a world title against Demetrius Andrade, detailing what really went down in the ring, including a broken jaw early in the fight and a controversial refereeing decision on a disputed knockdown call that completely shifted the contest. Outside the ring, Jason reflects candidly on:Family & Fundamentals: The rewarding yet complex dynamic of his relationship with his father, who coached and guided him through the formative stages of his career. The Business of Boxing: The pivotal split triggered by a missed opportunity with manager Brian Peters, and the harsh realities of navigating high-stakes boxing politics. The New Era: His work alongside trainer Andy Lee, coaching rising star Hamzah Sheeraz, and his ongoing ambition to bring world-class boxing events back to Donegal. Whether you are a die-hard fight fan or just love a compelling story of resilience, drive, and local pride, this episode is an unmissable listen.
#34
August 14 · 58 min
Derry, The Troubles & Letterkenny: Gerry McMonagle
In this episode of The Greg Hughes Podcast, Greg is joined in studio by Letterkenny Sinn Féin Councillor Gerry McMonagle for an in-depth conversation reflecting on his life, personal history, and political career. Gerry opens up about growing up in Derry during the height of the Troubles, his early activism, and the personal and political experiences that shaped his path—including his arrests and receiving an official "letter of comfort." He speaks candidly about making the move across the border to establish a new life in Letterkenny, making Donegal his home, and his deep-rooted passion for community politics. The discussion also explores his long-standing work representing the local community, his view on the evolution of Sinn Féin over the decades, and his thoughts on the current party leadership. Listen back to the full episode now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
#33
August 7 · 52 min
Love, Politics & The Price of Public Life - Cllr Declan Meehan & Dr Padraig McGuinness
In this episode, Greg is joined by Independent Councillor Declan Meehan (Letterkenny / Milford MD) and his husband, local GP Dr Padraig (Paudge) McGuinness, for a candid and wide-ranging conversation about public life, community service, and personal resilience. In this episode: How It All Started: The Tinder match between Dublin and Belfast that led to their 2019 wedding, and how they protect their private life despite being in the public eye. Paths to Public Service: Declan on his background in politics, co-founding the LGBTQ+ equality charity ShoutOut, and his day job managing the Milford & District Resource Centre (MDRC). Frontline Healthcare in Donegal: Paudge explains how he ended up as a GP in Fanad, the severe pressures facing Letterkenny University Hospital's ED, and the ongoing fight for better healthcare infrastructure in the North West. The Human Cost of Public Life: A direct, personal look at what it’s like to face online hatred, homophobic abuse, and death threats while simply trying to help people and serve the community. Life Outside work: Unwinding at the end of the day, their love for city breaks, and Declan's plans to walk the Camino this year. Letterkenny Surgical Hub Update: Where the project currently stands as it moves to design stage, the impact of being aligned with Sligo's timeline, and what to expect come autumn.
#32
July 31 · 1 hr 15 min
Strings Attached: Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh on Music, Family, and Memory
This week on The Greg Hughes Podcast, I’m joined by a living legend of Irish traditional music: fiddler, vocalist, and founding member of Altan, Born and raised in the heart of the West Donegal Gaeltacht of Gweedore (Gaoth Dobhair), Mairéad was immersed in music from an early age under the guidance of her father, the famous fiddle teacher Francie Ní Mhaonaigh. Over a extraordinary career spanning four decades, she went from primary school teaching to co-founding Altan with her late husband Frankie Kennedy, taking Donegal’s unique fiddling tradition and the Irish language onto the global stage. In this episode, we cover: From Gweedore to the World: Growing up in a steeped musical heritage, forming Altan, and touring internationally from local halls to packed halls across North America, Europe, and Japan. Life on the Road & Parenting: The realities of maintaining a relentless global touring schedule while balancing motherhood and family life. Recognition & Legacy: Reflecting on major honors, including being named TG4 Gradam Ceoil Musician of the Year (TG4 Gradam Ceoil Ceoltóir na Bliaina) , Donegal Person of the Year and her ongoing work with projects like String Sisters and Na Mooneys. Live Studio Music: Unique, live acoustic performances recorded right alongside our conversation. Whether you've followed Altan since the early days or simply love authentic conversations about music, culture, and life, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Listen, Subscribe & Share: If you enjoy the show, please consider leaving a rating and review!
#31
July 24 · 1 hr 23 min
Mary Coughlan: Life, Politics and Donegal GAA
In this episode, we sit down with former Tánaiste, Cabinet Minister, and current Chairperson of the Donegal GAA County Board, Mary Coughlan. We take a wide-ranging look back at her life and career—from entering national politics at just 21 as the youngest TD in the country, to managing high-stakes government portfolios during turbulent economic times, and her recent return to public life leading Gaelic games in her home county. What We Cover The Family Roots in Donegal Politics: Growing up in Inver/Frosses. How the tragic death of her uncle, TD Clem Coughlan, in a 1983 car crash brought her father Cathal into politics—and how his sudden death just three years later launched Mary's own career on Donegal County Council at age 21. Entering the Dáil at 21: Becoming the youngest TD in the 25th Dáil in 1987, learning the ropes as a young woman in Leinster House, and serving as a fluent Irish speaker championing Gaeltacht affairs. The Cabinet & Tánaiste Years: Looking back on her rapid rise through major government roles—including Agriculture, Social Affairs, Enterprise, Education, and Health—and serving as Deputy Leader of Fianna Fáil during the financial crisis. Life Beyond Leinster House: Balancing high office with family life, the personal impact of her late husband David Charlton's severe car accident and subsequent passing in 2012, and reflecting on losing her seat in 2011. A New Chapter in Donegal: Returning to the public eye to advocate for women in farming and making history as the first female Chairperson of the Donegal GAA County Board.
#30
July 19 · 49 min
The Ultimate Insider: From Glenveagh to High Society with Patrick Gallagher
What does it take to become the trusted confidant to some of the world’s most powerful, wealthy, and famous icons? In this episode, we step into the extraordinary world of Dunlewey’s own Patrick Gallagher. Patrick didn’t just watch twentieth-century history from the sidelines—he was the ultimate insider. From the majestic halls of Glenveagh Castle to the exclusive social circles of Philadelphia, Salzburg, and Hawaii, he held the keys to a golden age of global glamour. We dive into a lifetime of jaw-dropping stories, including: Keeping Greta Garbo’s secrets during an incognito ten-day stay in Donegal. Hosting artistic and literary giants like Andy Warhol and Tennessee Williams. Rubbing shoulders with Hollywood royalty, from Henry Fonda to Alec Guinness. Jet-setting on Concorde and spending winters in Hawaii with billionaire heiress Doris Duke. Driving Lady Diana’s father, Earl Spencer, in an Opel Manta that Patrick still owns today. And the unforgettable moment he accidentally knocked Bruce Springsteen off his bicycle. This is a front-row seat to an era of unmatched elegance, told with classic Donegal wit and warmth. Press play to step inside the legendary life of Patrick Gallagher.
#29
July 10 · 45 min
Guiding Light: Colin and Ethne Bell on 2,500 Repatriations with the Kevin Bell Trust
In June 2013, 26-year-old Newry native Kevin Bell tragically lost his life in New York. The overwhelming community response that followed raised far more than was needed to bring him home. Faced with profound personal grief, his parents, Ethne and Colin Bell, made a decision that would change Irish society: they used the surplus funds to help another grieving family. That single act of kindness birthed the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust (KBRT). This week, Greg is joined by Colin and Ethne to discuss their incredible 13-year journey operating a 24/7 lifeline for families facing the nightmare of a sudden death overseas. They open up about how the trust was guided by Kevin’s memory, the emotional toll of their work, and their recent milestone decision to hand daily operations over to a dedicated team so they can finally take some well-deserved time for themselves. To date, the trust has stepped into the breach during the darkest hours of grief to bring over 2,500 loved ones home to the island of Ireland. Topics discussed in this episode: Remembering Kevin Bell and the New York fundraising drive that started it all. Navigating the complex logistics and bureaucracy of global repatriation. The hand of Kevin: How chance encounters and timing guided the charity’s growth. The reality of running a 24/7 emergency service and its dramatic impact on their lives. Stepping back: Putting full-time staff in place to protect the future of the trust and reclaim personal time. Reaching the milestone of 2,500 repatriations and Kevin’s enduring legacy. Support & Resources: To learn more about the charity, seek assistance, or make a donation, visit the official website: Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust
#28
July 3 · 59 min
Fighting Arthritis: Dennis McGonagle on the Frontiers of Medicine
This week, we are joined by a truly global heavy-hitter in the medical world who remains deeply rooted right here in Donegal. Professor Dennis McGonagle is a clinical academic and top NHS consultant at the University of Leeds. This year, he made history as the first person from the Republic of Ireland to be awarded the prestigious Heberden Medal by the British Society for Rheumatology. In this brilliant, wide-ranging, and at times deeply emotional conversation, we step outside the lab to look back at his early days growing up in Glengad and his self-admitted "smart-ass" school days at Carndonagh Community School. Dennis shares powerful insights from his 30-year career at the forefront of understanding autoimmune diseases, tracking the incredible evolution of modern treatments that save lives today. We also tackle the hype surrounding stem cell research, with Dennis issuing a sharp warning against the "cowboy businesses" exploiting vulnerable patients. This is a casual chat that covers an extraordinary amount of ground—delving into everything from the daily realities of gout to the unexpected effects of space travel on the human body. Plus, Dennis explains a fascinating scientific twist: how he is collaborating with companies using Donegal alpacas—tied to his brother’s venture, the Wild Alpaca Way—to develop advanced treatments for human arthritis. An inspiring, funny, and profoundly honest conversation with one of Ireland's finest medical minds.
#27
June 26 · 56 min
From Bunbeg to the Dáil: The Dinny McGinley Interview
What does it take to survive 34 years at the coalface of Irish politics? In this episode of The Greg Hughes Podcast, we are joined by former Fine Gael TD and Minister of State, Dinny McGinley, for an unfiltered look back at a remarkable life and career. Born and raised in the West Donegal Gaeltacht, Dinny spent his early years as a teacher and principal at Scoil Chonaill in Bunbeg before making the leap from the classroom to Leinster House in 1982. He went on to win nine consecutive general elections, navigating the extreme highs and brutal lows of public life, culminating in his appointment as Minister of State for Gaeltacht Affairs. We dive into how the political landscape has fundamentally shifted since he first entered the Dáil—including the relentless pace of the modern 24/7 news cycle and the toxic edge of social media. Dinny also shares his perspective on Fine Gael’s current standing in Donegal, the realities of stepping away from power, and what life looks like after politics. An honest, insightful conversation with one of Donegal’s longest-serving public representatives.
#26
June 18 · 38 min
Bonus EP: | The 2026 Donegal International Rally Special
The engine notes will soon be echoing off the hills, the ditches will be lined with fans, and the biggest weekend in Irish motorsport is about to get underway! Welcome to a special, standalone edition of The Greg Hughes Podcast, dedicated entirely to the absolute crown jewel of the Irish rallying calendar—The Donegal International Rally. Whether you are a die-hard petrolhead heading out to the ditches, a driver fine-tuning your pace notes, or a local navigating the weekend, this will be your ultimate all-access preview guide. Inside This Special Episode: 🔥 The Stages & The Shakedown: Our Sports Editor Oisín Kelly, Chairman of the Donegal Motor Club Brian Brogan, and Clerk of the Course Eamonn McGee will dive deep into the competitive side of the weekend. They will break down the grueling 2026 stages, analyze the mechanical setups required for Donegal's unique tarmac, and offer their predictions on who will have the pace to claim the ultimate bragging rights on the ramp. 🚧 Safety, Logistics & Letterkenny Business: We will shift focus from the stages to the massive operational effort required to keep the county safe and moving. Garda Inspector Paul McGee, Council Area Roads Engineer David McIlwaine, and Leonard Watson from the Letterkenny Chamber of Commerce will outline the comprehensive policing strategy, safety zones, and traffic management systems. Crucially, they will share a vital message for the weekend: Letterkenny will be fully open for business, highly accessible, and ready for an incredible atmosphere. Turn the volume up, hit subscribe, and get the ultimate lowdown before the cars leave the start ramp! 🚗💨

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