The Bits You Didn't Hear - Season 2

A preview of Mary McAleese and Mary Kennedy in a candid and compelling conversation with renowned RTÉ broadcaster Miriam O’Callaghan and Kerry GAA great Dara Ó Cinnéide, recorded live at The Meadowlands Hotel in Tralee. Full episodes coming soon! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This special episode of Changing Times – The Allenwood Conversations was recorded live in front of an audience at the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee. Producer Enda Grace steps out from behind the scenes to introduce the story of how the podcast came to life, from a simple idea to a conversation-led series that has resonated with listeners across Ireland and beyond. On stage, Mary McAleese and Mary Kennedy chat to Enda and reflect on what the podcast means to them, what they’ve discovered through the conversations, and why sitting down to truly listen still matters. They also share their personal connections to County Kerry and revisit some of the most meaningful — and at times surprising — highlights of their respective careers. There’s warmth. There’s honesty. There’s laughter. And there’s that special energy that only comes from a live room. If you’ve ever wondered how Changing Times began, or what happens when two remarkable women reflect openly on their journey, this is an episode not to miss. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Part 2 of this very special podcast, Mary McAleese opens up to her friend and host Mary Kennedy with honesty, warmth, and wit.

In part one this very special two part episode, Mary Kennedy chats to her co-host and former President of Ireland Mary McAleese. In this powerful and deeply personal episode, we journey through the formative years of a remarkable woman who would go on to become one of Ireland’s most respected voices. Set against the turbulent backdrop of Northern Ireland during the Troubles, she shares vivid memories of a childhood shaped by conflict — from a devastating car bomb attack on her father's pub to terrifying assaults on her family home, including a harrowing incident that forced them to leave everything behind.

In this remarkable episode, Mary McAleese & Mary Kennedy sit with Garda Commissioner Drew Harris for a rare and powerful & deeply personal conversation. As he prepares to step down from his role, Drew reflects on a career shaped by profound personal tragedy, public service, his reaction to a no confidence vote in him and a steady commitment to leading with courage and conviction. From growing up during The Troubles in Northern Ireland to leading An Garda Síochána through complex reforms and challenges, his story is one of resilience, integrity, and unwavering duty. With moving candour, he shares how his father’s murder shaped his worldview, the philosophy that has guided his leadership, and the toll — and fulfilment — of a life lived in service. In this episode, we discuss: His childhood in Belfast and Lisburn and the early influence of his father’s policing career. The trauma of his father’s assassination by the IRA and the impact it had on his life and career. How he found the strength to stay in policing and lead without bitterness. His move from the PSNI to becoming the first Garda Commissioner from outside the force. The sweeping reforms he implemented across Garda Síochána, from technology to welfare. Building trust within communities and strengthening international policing cooperation. The rise of far-right extremism and public disorder — and how the force is responding. His reaction to the historic vote of no confidence and why he chose not to resign. What leadership under pressure really means, and what he hopes his legacy will be.