Colin Coulter: The Economic Myths of a United Ireland
Is Northern Ireland really a financial burden on the UK? Should we believe the headlines claiming the Irish Republic is a thriving economic alternative? In this Made to Parade bonus episode, Prof Colin Coulter from Maynooth University challenges those assumptions.We explore the growing media narrative around a united Ireland referendum and break down the economic myths often used to promote Irish unification. Professor Coulter reveals how the Republic of Ireland may look wealthy on paper — but behind the GDP headlines lies a very different reality.🇬🇧 A powerful pro-union argument backed by evidence.📉 Why Ireland is a wealthy economy but not a wealthy country.📊 The truth about financial data, tax policy, and corporate loopholes.🗳️ A must-listen for anyone questioning the financial case for a united Ireland.
--------
38:33
--------
38:33
Made to Parade Unfiltered #1: Orange Arches - Iconic tradition or Road Safety Risk
In this first episode of Made to Parade "Unfiltered", we’re joined by Rev. Mervyn Gibson, Grand Secretary of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland, to delve into one of the most visually recognisable – and often misunderstood – symbols of Ulster Protestant culture: the Orange arch.Erected in towns and villages across Northern Ireland in the lead-up to the Twelfth of July, these decorative arches are deeply rooted in local tradition, community pride, and historical commemoration. But in recent years, some critics have labelled them as public safety risks or divisive displays.Are these claims based on genuine concern – or are they being used to suppress cultural expression in contested spaces?We explore:The origins and evolution of the Orange arch traditionThe legal and safety processes involved in erecting themCommon myths and criticismsThe broader questions of identity, heritage, and visibility in a post-conflict societyRev. Gibson offers both historical insight and a firm defence of the role these structures play in community life today. Whether you’re from within the band scene or looking to understand more about Northern Ireland’s cultural landscape, this episode challenges assumptions and sparks important conversation.#MadeToParade #OrangeArches #MervynGibson #CulturalHeritage #NorthernIreland #TwelfthOfJuly #AskMervyn #ParadingTradition #SharedSpace #CommunityIdentity
--------
52:23
--------
52:23
Tunes that changed the Scene #4
Tunes That Changed the Scene | Black Skull Flute Band – St. Louis BluesIn this episode of Tunes That Changed the Scene, we take a look at one of the most iconic band recordings to come out of Glasgow—St. Louis Blues by Black Skull Flute Band.Originally featured on their second tape, this track marked a bold shift in the sound and style of the band scene, blending big band swing influences with the unmistakable energy of the melody flute tradition. We explore what made this tune such a standout moment, how it influenced other bands, and why it still holds legendary status today.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes exploring the tunes that helped shape the marching band world.#MadeToParade #TunesThatChangedTheScene #FluteBand #BlackSkullFB #StLouisBlues #BandCulture #MarchingBandHistory
--------
12:05
--------
12:05
Episode 99 Marching Minds Mental Health Arts Festival Special - PART 2
Part 2 of the Made to Parade – Mental Health Live Podcast Special.This Episode is kindly sponsored by N.I. Band ServicesThis time we’re joined by:Derek Moore -@William King Memorial Flute Band LondonderryGraeme Stevenson - Portadown Defenders Flute BandSarah Bunting - representing the Belfast Bands ForumTogether we’ll dive into the real-life highs, lows, and hard-won lessons of protecting our mental health within the band scene. Whether you march, support, or just love good conversation, you won’t want to miss it.Let’s keep looking after each other.#MadeToParade #MentalHealthMatters#BandFamily #FluteBand #NorthernIreland#LivePodcast
--------
46:46
--------
46:46
Episode 98 Marching Minds Mental Health Arts Festival Special - PART 1
Marching Minds – Part 1 | Made to Parade Live Podcast | Mental Health Arts Festival NIIt’s been a wee while since we posted, but we’re back with something really special.This is Part 1 of “Marching Minds”, a live Made to Parade podcast recorded as part of the Mental Health Arts Festival Northern Ireland and released to coincide with Men’s Mental Health Week.This episode brings together voices from across the marching band scene to talk openly and honestly about mental health, music, masculinity, and community. Through personal stories, shared experiences, and a bit of craic, we explore how band culture can be a powerful force for connection and wellbeing.🧠 Featuring panel guests from Light of Foot, Londonderry Bands Forum, Belfast Bands Forum, and more.This is more than a podcast episode – it’s a conversation we all need to be having.📍 Part 2 coming soon – subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss it.👇 Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know what stood out to you.#MadeToParade #MarchingMinds #MensMentalHealthWeek #MentalHealthAwareness #MentalHealthArtsFestival #MarchingBandsNI #BandCulture #Podcast
The Made to Parade podcast is an accompaniment to the book of the same name. Just like the book, the podcast promotes positive stories about the marching band scene in Northern Ireland and the rest of Great Britain. It provides a positive narrative and an inside look at what being a member of a marching band is all about and what it means personally to members.
Ireland