Bonus Episode: Danny O’Connor — From Ballyshannon to Berlin

Recorded over Christmas back home in Ballyshannon, I catch up with Berlin-based singer songwriter Danny O’Connor. Formerly of Inuendo and now performing with Murphy’s Law, Danny talks about growing up in the North West, life in Berlin, and carrying a sense of home while playing festivals across Europe and venues like the Europa Center on Kurfürstendamm.

A warm, Christmas-time conversation about music, friendship, and life between home and away.

From all of us here at North and South of the Gap, we wish you a very happy New Year! May 2026 bring music, laughter, and adventures of your own.

Episode Title: Quick Update from North and South of the Gap 🎙️

Description:
Host Marc Mc Menamin drops in with a quick update to wrap up the year! The podcast has grown massively — thanks to all your support. From chats with Charlie Mc Gettigan, Sean Mc Ginley, and Richie Fitzgerald (yes, we know… it’s been a bit Ballyshannon/Bundoran-centric 😅) — to what’s coming next. North and South of the Gap will be back in the new year with more stories and special guests from all across Donegal.

In this episode of North and South of the Gap, we welcome Oliver Donagher of Fides Trustees SA. A native of Ballyshannon, County Donegal, and former president of the Geneva Irish Association, Oliver shares his journey from growing up in Donegal to building a career in Geneva, while staying connected to his Irish roots.

We talk about community, culture, and the importance of the Irish abroad — and explore the ties that continue to link home and diaspora.

Flying High – From the Air Corps to Aer Lingus with Paul Grennan

On this episode of North and South of the Gap, we’re joined by Paul Grennan, a former Irish Air Corps pilot who went on to fly with Aer Lingus. Paul takes us inside the world of military and commercial aviation, from the discipline of Air Corps training and missions to the challenges and rewards of flying passengers across the Atlantic.

With humour, insight, and passion, he shares personal stories from life in the cockpit, reflects on the transition between two very different flying careers, and offers a rare glimpse into what it really means to be a pilot.

Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or simply curious about life at 30,000 feet, this conversation promises to be uplifting, inspiring, and full of fascinating insights.

Sun Song & Soul with Triona O'Neill

In this episode of North and South of the Gap, we welcome singer-songwriter Triona O’Neill. Now based in Los Angeles, Triona grew up in Ballyshannon, and her roots continue to shape her music and her story.

She talks about her journey from Donegal to LA, the inspirations behind her songwriting, and her deep love of music. Along the way, she also treats us to a few live performances, bringing her unique sound and voice right into the conversation.

A heartfelt and uplifting episode filled with music, memory, and the power of following your passion.

Please check out Triona's Music Online to hear the songs she played. They are omitted here for rights reasons.

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6LUUy7538lpa6o1hMvJ39E?si=3RJY_WrVTiyBXHeiBgF10Q

Talking History of all Sorts:

In this episode of North and South of the Gap, we’re joined by Tommy Graham — editor of History Ireland magazine, host of the History Ireland Hedge School, and a native of Ballyshannon.

Tommy shares stories from his own life and reflects on how growing up in the northwest shaped his interest in history. We dive into a wide range of topics — from the power of local stories to the big national narratives — and explore why understanding the past is essential for making sense of the present.

This is a lively, wide-ranging conversation with one of Ireland’s leading voices on history and public debate.

Between Ballybofey and the Big Smoke – with Robert Love

In this episode of North and South of the Gap, we sit down with Robert Love — a Donegal man with deep roots in both sides of the country. A founding member of the Dublin Finn Harps Supporters Club, a former journalist with the Donegal People’s Press, and a long-time Dublin resident, Robert brings a unique perspective on what it means to carry the spirit of the northwest across the Liffey.

We talk football, identity, journalism, and the changing face of both Donegal and Dublin over the past 25 years. Whether you're north or south of the gap, this one’s for anyone who’s ever felt the pull of two places they call home.

Ballyshannon and Sam Maguire – Part 3: Gary Walsh

In the final part of our three-episode series, we sit down with Gary Walsh — the Aodh Rua Ballyshannon shot-stopper who became Donegal’s All-Ireland winning goalkeeper in 1992 and earned an All-Star for his outstanding performances. Gary reflects on the pressure of guarding the net on GAA’s biggest stage, the camaraderie of that special team, and the pride of bringing Sam Maguire home to Donegal. A fitting conclusion to our celebration of Ballyshannon’s heroes from a golden summer in Donegal football.

Part 2 – Brian Murray: From Ballyshannon to All-Ireland Glory

In this episode of North and South of the Gap, we sit down with Brian Murray, the Aodh Rua midfielder who played a central role in Donegal’s historic 1992 All-Ireland win. A native of Ballyshannon, Brian reflects on his journey from club football to the county’s greatest stage, sharing insights into the bond within the squad, the battles on the pitch, and the pride of bringing Sam Maguire home for the very first time.

Now living in Kildare after a long career with An Garda Síochána, Brian looks back on that golden summer and what it still means over 30 years later.

In Part 1 of our special three-part series, we shine a spotlight on the Aodh Rua Ballyshannon legends who played a key role in Donegal’s historic 1992 All-Ireland victory. This episode features Sylvester Maguire — a fiercely talented footballer whose grit and skill helped shape one of the county's proudest moments. Join us as we delve into his early days at Aodh Rua, his journey to the Donegal senior panel, and the lasting legacy he left both on and off the pitch.