The Niall Boylan Podcast (They Told Me To Shut Up)

• #379 The Notorious President: Is Ireland Ready for McGregor?

  In this episode, Niall is asking: With all the controversy around Conor McGregor, would you vote for him to be president of Ireland?Conor McGregor has undoubtedly made his mark as a world-class fighter, becoming the biggest name in mixed martial arts and putting Ireland in the global spotlight. However, his rise to fame has been marred by a series of controversies, including multiple criminal charges, accusations of assault, and ongoing legal battles. From his infamous bus attack in New York to being fined for speeding and facing allegations of sexual misconduct, McGregor’s public image is anything but spotless. Despite this, some see him as a true Irish hero—someone who never backs down and always fights for his dreams.Some callers think Conor McGregor as president would be a disaster. They believe his criminal past and hot-headed nature make him unfit to hold such a position of responsibility. They argue that Ireland needs a dignified and respectable leader, not someone constantly embroiled in controversy. His actions reflect poorly on the nation, and having him represent Ireland on the world stage would be a major embarrassment.While other callers feel that McGregor’s passion and fighting spirit are exactly what the country needs. They admire his fearlessness, his dedication to his sport, and his ability to rally Irish pride. They argue that despite his flaws, he’s an undeniable icon who has done more for Ireland’s image abroad than most politicians. Some callers even suggest that his no-nonsense attitude would shake up the political scene and bring a fresh, bold approach to leadership.Niall reflects on the passion and intensity of the debate, acknowledging that Conor McGregor’s potential run for president has clearly divided public opinion. While some admire his fighting spirit and charisma, others feel his controversial past makes him unfit to represent Ireland. Niall thanks the callers for sharing their perspectives and leaves the audience with one final question: Would you trust McGregor to lead the nation, or is it too big a risk?

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• #378 From Mourning to Moving On: How Soon Is Acceptable?

  In this episode, Niall explores a sensitive question: When is the right time to start a new relationship after the death of a partner? A listener reached out, sharing that she’s fallen in love with a friend of her late husband only three months after his passing. Fearing judgment, she’s hesitant to tell anyone about her new relationship and wonders if it’s too soon to move on.Some callers feel that three months is indeed too soon, suggesting that grief can cloud judgment, especially in forming new romantic connections. They believe that the woman might be drawn to someone close to her late husband as a source of comfort, rather than true love. For them, waiting longer could allow her to process her grief fully before entering a new relationship, especially with someone so close to her past.While other callers argue that there’s no fixed timeline for grief or love. If she’s found someone who brings her happiness and understands her pain, then she should follow her heart without worrying about outside opinions. For them, moving forward with her life is a personal choice, and if she’s ready for a new relationship, that decision deserves respect

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• #377 Banks vs. Families: Is Home Repossession Ever Justified?

  In this episode, Niall is asking, is repossessing homes a necessary evil? The discussion comes from an emotional email sent in by a listener, Dolores, whose family is facing the devastating reality of losing their home after falling behind on mortgage payments.Dolores and her husband bought their home 12 years ago, stretching their finances to provide stability for their children. But when her husband lost his job during the pandemic, they struggled to keep up with repayments. Even though he is now working again and they are doing everything they can to catch up, the debt remains. Now, they have received a letter from the bank initiating repossession proceedings.Dolores is asking, is it fair that families in temporary financial distress can lose everything? Should banks be doing more to help those who fall on hard times, or is repossession simply a harsh but necessary reality?Some callers believe repossessions are sometimes necessary. Banks are not charities, and they have their own financial obligations. While repossession is harsh, it is usually a last resort and essential for the system to function. If homeowners cannot pay their mortgages, the banks have no choice but to take action to avoid financial instability.Other callers strongly disagree, arguing that banks should show more flexibility, especially in cases like Dolores’, where a family is trying to recover from circumstances beyond their control. They say repossession destroys lives and that banks and the government should do more to protect homeowners from losing everything when they are willing to make an effort to repay.

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• #376 Trade Over Textbooks Should Your Child Ditch School for a Career?

  In this episode, Niall explores a dilemma many parents face: Would you allow your child to leave school to pursue a trade?Pauline, a listener, shares her struggle. Her 16-year-old son has little interest in academics but thrives in hands-on work. He dreams of joining his father in the family garage, but Pauline fears that without a Leaving Cert, he’ll limit his future opportunities. Her husband, on the other hand, sees an apprenticeship as a fast track to success.Some callers think school isn’t for everyone. Trades offer solid careers, good wages, and no student debt. If this young man already has a job lined up, why force him to stay in school when he could be getting a head start in a well-paid, in-demand profession?While other callers feel dropping out at 16 is too risky. A Leaving Cert keeps options open, and what if he changes his mind in a few years? Many argue that even those in trades benefit from having basic qualifications if they ever want to switch careers or start their own business.As the discussion comes to a close, Niall reflects on the balance between education and practical skills. While some see school as essential, others argue that real-world experience and trade skills are just as valuable. The conversation leaves listeners questioning whether the traditional school path is the only route to success.

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• #357 Is Ireland Losing Its Identity or Just Evolving?

  In this episode, Niall asks: Is Ireland losing its national identity, or is it simply evolving with the times? Some argue that Irish traditions are being erased in the name of inclusivity, while others say that culture naturally changes and adapts. Has modern Ireland moved too far from its roots, or is this just the next chapter in our nation’s history?Some callers think Ireland is losing its identity. Schools are no longer prioritizing Irish history and language, and there’s a sense that cultural traditions are being diluted. National pride isn’t what it used to be, and if we don’t protect our heritage, future generations won’t understand what it means to be Irish.While other callers feel Irish culture is still strong—it’s just evolving. We’re more global now, but that doesn’t mean we’ve abandoned our roots. Irish music, GAA, and festivals are still thriving, and more people are learning the language than ever before. Change isn’t the same as loss, and being Irish can take many forms.

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