Grey Matters

Terry and Fergus are back for Season Two of Grey Matters. This week they discuss Fergus's health diagnosis last spring and reflect on vulnerability, ageing, family, the Irish healthcare system. Fergus opens up about the support of his wife and children, the realities of recovering from major surgery and why, ultimately, he considers himself incredibly lucky.

On this week's episode, Valerie Cox joins Terry and Fergus to debate the older generation's love of cruises. A devoted cruiser for more than 25 years, Valerie explains why small-ship voyages have taken her from Venice and the Greek Islands to Iceland and the Nile, and why she believes they're one of the most relaxing ways to travel. Terry, however, can't understand the appeal. From seasickness and sinking ships to onboard viruses and being surrounded by strangers, she argues there are plenty of reasons to stay firmly on dry land.

Financial planner Eoin McGee joins Terry and Fergus to talk money, ageing, and the moment a lifetime of saving turns into a lifetime of spending. From inheritance tax thresholds and the €3,000 gift exemption, to the risks of equity release loans and the hidden signs of elder financial abuse, Eoin brings 27 years of frontline experience to one of the most avoided conversations in Irish family life: what happens to the pot once you stop filling it.

In this week’s episode of Grey Matters, Terry and Fergus sit down with broadcaster Valerie Cox to reflect on her distinguished career in journalism and her difficult departure from RTÉ.

In this weeks episode of Grey Matters, Terry and Fergus argue that longer lives, better health, and evolving expectations are reshaping attitudes as people approach the traditional retirement age. The podcasters challenge the idea that retirement at 65 remains a natural or desirable milestone for everyone.