IRELAND WITH MICHAEL

#501 The Galway Races
Michael embarks on a nostalgic journey to the City of the Tribes, reconnecting with friends from his Riverdance days to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of Trad on the Prom. Escaping to the serene beauty of Connemara, he tries his hand at angling and marvels at the impressive art collection housed in the luxurious Ballynahinch Castle. Uncover the allure of the rare Connemara Marble, and cap off the adventure with an energetic performance by Galway band Galvian Way.

Short Description: Michael tries his hand at fly fishing at a castle in Connemara then takes in tunes in the City of the Tribes. On the way he sees a world class art collection and the greenest of marble.


#502 Back Home to Derry
Michael's journey from Dublin to Derry is filled with captivating stops, including Sliabh Gullion, where he explores the enchanting Killeavy Castle and the majestic Mountains of Mourne. On Dart Mountain, he learns the fine art of cheese-making and crafts his own signature gin. The harmonious tunes of The Four Harps provide a musical backdrop as he delves into the charm of Derry Girls with insights from a local expert at the city museum. The day concludes at the elegant Ebrington Hotel, where he meets the chef who recently cooked for President Biden. He listens to the soulful pipes of Tim Britton.

Short Description: Michael returns to meet some Derry Girls, to make some cheese on Dart Mountain. He gets to meet a chef fit for a President and to make his own gin in County Derry.


#503 Sunny South East
In Wexford, Michael uncovers a deep connection to American Civil Rights, immerses himself in plein air painting and admires an original Warhol at Kelly’s Hotel on Rosslare Strand. In County Kilkenny, he tastes exquisite single estate Pot Still Whiskey paired with local cheeses, guided by food expert Santina Kennedy. The Bow Tides provide a lively soundtrack as Michael hones his culinary skills with a cooking lesson from TV chef Paul Flynn in the seaside town of Dungarvan, all while enjoying the vibrant sounds of Seo Linn.

Short Description: Michael hears about Frederick Douglas visiting his home town, takes in a Warhol at Kellys in Rosslare and tries some Pot Still Whiskey, all in the Sunny South East.


#504 Cork'd
Michael's exploration of the Republic of Cork begins with breathtaking views from the Montenotte Hotel. At Bandon House & Gardens, he discovers the realities of maintaining a grand estate, He is serenaded by Laura Keegan's rendition of "Ae Fond Kiss." Michael then experiences the thrill of horseback riding through stunning landscapes and visits the home of Five Farms Liquor to meet the dairy cows behind its renowned cream. A culinary tour of Kinsale offers fresh oysters and a cosmic tale at The Tap Tavern before The Bow Tides conclude the episode with an original musical set.

Short Description: Michael visits the Republic of Cork to see what it takes to maintain a grand estate. He meets the cows responsible for the finest of cream liquor, tries his first oyster and meets a landlady with a story from outer space.


#505 To the Waters & the Wild
Traveling along the Wild Atlantic Way, Michael's journey includes stops at Killybegs and Glencolmkille Folk Village, where he learns about the region's ancient crafts. The spirited Byrne Brothers infuse the air with music as Michael explores the weaving legacy of Molloy and Sons. He steps out of his comfort zone with a surfing lesson on Strandhill Beach, followed by a soothing Seaweed Bath at Voya. Michael sings "Our Rivers Run Free," inspired by the rugged coastline that shapes Martina Hamilton’s jewelry designs in Sligo.

Short Description: The Wild Atlantic Way offers challenges to Michael from surfing for the first time with the reward of having a relaxing bath in seaweed afterwards. The ocean influences the ancient crafts at Glencolmkille Folk Village and Michael sings a song inspired by the nature around him.


#506 Lord of the Ring of Kerry
Michael returns to the Kingdom, savoring Kenmare's vibrant atmosphere with local chocolates and pottery. He joins mezzo-soprano Grace Foley for a song in her cousin’s pub and tours the scenic Ring of Kerry. A pony and trap ride through Killarney National Park leads to Ross Castle, and a visit to the Iveragh Peninsula ends with a flute tune from Gavan Ring.

Short Description: Michael lands in Kenmare, one of Ireland’s hotspots, for a foodie tour. A Pony and Trap takes him through the Killarney National Park, just one stop on the world famous Ring of Kerry


#507 On Yer Bike
Michael embraces adventure along the Royal Canal, cycling and horseback riding across the picturesque Ballyfin Demesne. At the grand estate, he tries clay pigeon shooting and hones his golfing skills at The K Club, former Ryder Cup venue. Tunes from the Fahy family accompany his journey, as he learns to craft a cocktail with a tale of Saint Brigid from food historian Santina Kennedy. Throughout the day, Shane Hennessy's guitar artistry adds a melodic touch.

Short Description: Michael heads outdoors for some fun on a bike along the banks of the Royal Canal before heading to the exclusive K Club for some golf and Ballyfin for some horse riding.


#508 Iowish
In Iowa, Michael immerses himself in Irish culture at the Iowa Irish Festival, one of the largest celebrations in the U.S. He uncovers the stories of the Irish diaspora's influence on Iowa's history and meets the Keepers of the Steps, witnessing the popularity of Irish dance in America. With a crowd of 75,000, the festival features performances by renowned Irish music acts, including The Byrne Brothers and Colm Keegan.

Short Description: Michael explores Ireland in America with a stop at the Iowa Irish Fest, one of the biggest in the country to meet some of Ireland’s top performers and some of America’s culture keepers.