Everyone Loves To Chat Here We Have The Friendliest People In Ireland!

Framed by hills and lakes and a mountainous landscape, with the River Lee sweeping through it, just a stone’s throw from Gougane Barra. This big-hearted, down-to-earth little village has been hit hard by a declining population but positive shoots are returning with people restarting their lives here. We meet Deirdre and Conor the musicians who have toured the world but have come back to a new home and Mike and Darcie originally from the UK set up their little farm The Lost Valley Dairy and have never looked back. The village has also inspired with its heartwarming approach to the international protection candidates now housed at The former Lake House Hotel and have made it their temporary home. But first we kick it off with Joe Creedon – his family run business is the heartbeat of the village and it has been described as ‘the friendliest bar in Ireland!’ Join Today FM's Alison Curtis as she travels around Ireland to uncover the diverse, interesting and unique voices that make up Ireland today and discover the heart and soul of rural Ireland. This project is co-funded by Coimisiún na Meán under the Sound and Vision Scheme.

Athenry is more than just a ballad sung on the terraces. This is a town where the past and present intertwine to create a truly special place. Alison meets up with two unique clubs that have found a way to relive the past but embrace the future. First stop is the fascinating 1316 Medieval Fight Club, modern-day knights who clash in a spectacle of skill and strength (and it’s not against the rules to talk about it!), and Gliondar Arts Club a safe space where young students bring joy and colour to the streets of Athenry with their spectacular stilt-walking performances! Join Today FM's Alison Curtis as she travels around Ireland to uncover the diverse, interesting and unique voices that make up Ireland today and discover the heart and soul of rural Ireland. This project is co-funded by Coimisiún na Meán under the Sound and Vision Scheme.

This town literally punches above it’s weight. Alison first meets one of boxing’s brightest rising stars, Carlagh Peake. This world beater is so unassuming and humble about her incredible achievements. Then we meet some inspiring pupils at Ballyhaunis Community School where the motto is “Unity In Diversity” Then on to the Ballyhaunis Language Café a great example of a positive and practical integration initiative. Our final destination is the Ballyhaunis Mosque, a symbol of the town's commitment to religious freedom and interfaith harmony. Ballyhaunis stands as a testament to the power of inclusivity, where over 40 nationalities come together to create a vibrant tapestry of cultures. Join Today FM's Alison Curtis as she travels around Ireland to uncover the diverse, interesting and unique voices that make up Ireland today and discover the heart and soul of rural Ireland. This project is co-funded by Coimisiún na Meán under the Sound and Vision Scheme.

Arvagh (Arva) is in a very unique location, where the three provinces of Ulster, Leinster and Connaught meet. Meaning "battlefield" in Irish, it has a rich history, dating back to the battles between the kingdoms of Ulster, Leinster, and Connaught. Today, the action is in the community rather than the battlefield! Alison meets Carol and Irish wolfhound Shan who become our official guides! Then a World Irish Dancing Champion, and the Arvagh Aqua Amigos, a group of swimmers who brave the cold waters of Garty Lough year-round. Then it’s the owners of the Clutterbug Thrift Shop a place where sustainability meets community spirit. First stop is the Breffni Arms Hotel with it’s warm, inviting atmosphere and father daughter team of Eamonn and Ciara Gray. Join Today FM's Alison Curtis as she travels around Ireland to uncover the diverse, interesting and unique voices that make up Ireland today and discover the heart and soul of rural Ireland. This project is co-funded by Coimisiún na Meán under the Sound and Vision Scheme.

This little gem in the heart of Carlow is brimming with energy and a diverse mix of residents who make it a truly special place. Alison meets Máire in Siopa Glas, an award winning community thrift shop whose motto is “Sustainability is a lifestyle” and they tell us about their important link to the Ukrainian community. Fadi Almasri tells us his truly inspiring story from arriving as a Syrian refugee in 2014 to opening the town’s first pharmacy. John Paul Payne from Carlow Pride Festival chats in the local café about his journey to bring Carlow their first ever pride parade. Founded in 2019, it made history attracting 3,500 attendees! And finally local photographer Rachel Fennelly tells us how community support was instrumental as she set up her small business and settled here with her young family. Join Today FM's Alison Curtis as she travels around Ireland to uncover the diverse, interesting and unique voices that make up Ireland today and discover the heart and soul of rural Ireland. This project is co-funded by Coimisiún na Meán under the Sound and Vision Scheme.