The Parting Glass

In this powerful episode of The Parting Glass, we are joined by retired PSNI Detective Sergeant James Brannigan, one of Ireland’s most respected homicide investigators. James reflects on his policing career, his instinct for questioning the official story, and the experiences that shaped his approach to justice.
The conversation centres on the murder of 21 year old Katie Simpson, whose death was initially treated as suicide. James explains how he identified overlooked red flags, challenged internal resistance, and helped expose the truth that ultimately led to a murder trial.

James also discusses coercive control, how it operates long before physical violence occurs, and why it is so frequently misunderstood by investigators. He shares insight into his work with The Katie Trust https://thekatietrust.com a cross border charity he founded to support families who believe their loved one’s death was suspicious or inadequately investigated. The Trust provides independent reviews by experienced investigators and advocates for transparency, accountability, and dignity for bereaved families. This episode is a compelling and compassionate look at investigative failure, institutional blind spots, and the courage required to pursue truth when the official version does not add up.

If this episode brings up difficult feelings or if you or someone you know is experiencing abuse or coercive control, help is available.
Republic of Ireland
Women’s Aid 24 Hour National Freephone Helpline
1800 341 900
Free, confidential support for women experiencing domestic abuse, including coercive control
https://www.womensaid.ie [womensaid.ie]

Samaritans Ireland
116 123
24 7 emotional support for anyone struggling or in distress
https://www.samaritans.org/samaritans-ireland/
Northern Ireland
24 Hour Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline
0808 802 1414
Free, confidential support for women and men affected by domestic or sexual abuse
https://www.dsahelpline.org

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"People approach me for photos.I'll never get used to it" Ciaran Moran
From the heart of Dublin’s inner city to stages he once only dreamed of, Ciarán Moran opens up in this gripping episode about the reality behind the rise.
It’s not just about the music it’s about the journey. The graft, the setbacks, the self-doubt and the resilience it takes to keep going when nothing is guaranteed.
A raw talent with a story to match, Ciarán shares how his environment shaped his sound, his hunger, and his honesty as a songwriter.
Talks pressure, staying grounded, and backing yourself when it matters most.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Parting Glass, we’re joined by comedian and internet sensation Simon Hennessy and things take a turn.
Simon chats about life on the comedy circuit, creating viral characters, and the brutal reality of taking a show to the Fringe Festival. Think tiny audiences, endless flyering, questionable accommodation, and the emotional rollercoaster of performing your soul to six people, two of whom are also comedians.
He opens up about the pressure of constantly being funny online, creative burnout, and the weird gap between internet success and real life gigs. We talk stand up, sketch comedy, and what it is actually like trying to turn jokes into a career without completely losing your mind.
Then the truth comes out.
Simon reveals his dark side. Beneath the lovable comedian exterior lurks a massive bully, a man who has learned to weaponise intimidation, sarcasm and pure social pressure to force innocent passers by into attending his Fringe shows. A master of psychological warfare. A menace with flyers. A comic who refuses to take no thanks for an answer.
It is a hilarious and honest chat about grafting, self promotion, imposter syndrome, and the lengths performers go to just to get bums on seats, with plenty of laughs and questionable ethics along the way.
Comedy, chaos, bullying for good, and the Fringe Festival as you have never heard it before.
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This episode delivers an unforgettable conversation with Senator Frances Black, a woman whose life story unfolds with the intensity of a novel and the emotional force of lived truth. From her early years shaped by music and community to the defining challenges that forged her resilience, Frances speaks with a depth and honesty that holds nothing back.She brings us inside her most passionate battles, including her determined push for the OTB Bill and her long standing advocacy for the freedom and dignity of the Palestinian people. She reflects on the Ireland she dreams of for her grandchildren, sharing her heartfelt hope to one day see a united Ireland built on fairness and compassion.In one of the most striking moments of the interview, Frances explains why she believes Catherine Connolly is the best person to serve as President of Ireland. She speaks about Catherine’s integrity, independence and unwavering commitment to justice. Frances also reveals that she herself was invited to run for the presidency, but she shares candidly why the timing is not right for her at this moment in her life. What emerges is a vivid portrait of a woman driven by fierce empathy, unshakeable conviction and a lifelong devotion to standing up for others. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paralympian Colin Judge joins The Parting Glass for one of our most inspiring conversations yet. Born with one arm and no legs, Colin defied every expectation to become a European Champion, six-time Irish National Champion, and a two-time Paralympian. He talks reclassification setbacks, rebuilding from rock bottom, the pride of wearing the green jersey, and the fire driving him toward LA 2028. It’s raw, honest, funny, and full of unstoppable Irish grit.
If you need motivation, this is the episode.
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