Pull Over and Let Me Out

Episode 48:

Step into one of Ireland’s most atmospheric and historically rich landscapes in this episode of the Pull Over and Let Me Out Podcast.

I’m joined by Daniel Curley, Manager of the Rathcroghan Visitor Centre in Tulsk, County Roscommon, as we explore the incredible story behind Rathcroghan — a lesser-traveled but deeply significant archaeological landscape in the heart of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.

Often overlooked in favor of Ireland’s more famous heritage sites, Rathcroghan is a place where myth and archaeology sit side by side. This ancient royal complex is steeped in legend, linked to Queen Medb and the origins of Samhain, and filled with burial mounds, earthworks, and stories that stretch back thousands of years. It’s the kind of place that rewards slowing down, looking closer, and letting the landscape speak for itself.

We talk about what makes this site so important, why it remains relatively unknown to many visitors, and why it absolutely deserves a place on any Hidden Heartlands itinerary for travelers who want to go beyond the usual stops.

If you’re drawn to Ireland’s ancient past, hidden gems, and places that still feel powerful and untouched, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.

Hit play and explore one of Ireland’s most mysterious landscapes with us.

Rathcroghan Visitor Center Website: https://www.rathcroghan.ie/

Instagram

Email: [email protected]

Tel : +353 (0)71 963 9268

Ready to start planning your trip to Ireland? Here are some helpful affiliate links to get you started.

Expedia Ireland Travel Top Ireland Day Tours

PullOverandLetMeOut First-Timer's Guide to Ireland

Stay connected and support the podcast:

☕ If this episode made you smile or sparked a travel idea, consider buying me a coffee to support the podcast and help keep the journeys coming! BuyMeACoffee.com/AnnaMarieWrites

🌍 Travel blog & stories: PullOverandLetMeOut.com

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📚 My books: Anna Marie Jehorek Books

☘️ Ireland trip planning: Plan your trip

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Episode 47

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland — or even just starting to dream about one — this episode will give you a fresh way to think about how you experience the country.☘️

I’m joined by Angela Gavigan of TouraLoora, a company specializing in small-group cultural tours across Ireland. We talk about why these more personalized tours are becoming such a popular choice for travelers who want to go beyond the typical bus tour experience while still seeing Ireland’s most iconic highlights.

Angela shares insights into what makes small-group travel so different — from the flexibility and local connection to the chance to experience both Ireland’s famous landmarks and lesser-known regions like the Hidden Heartlands. We explore how these tours strike a balance between must-see destinations and deeper cultural experiences, helping travelers connect more meaningfully with Ireland.

Whether you’re planning your first itinerary in Ireland or returning to explore more deeply, this conversation highlights how small-group tours can completely change the way you see the country.

Tune in for a look at Ireland travel that goes beyond the surface — and into the heart of the experience.

TouraLoora Website: https://touraloora.com/

TouraLoora Hidden Heartlands and West of Ireland 6-Day Tour

email: [email protected]

phone: 00-353-86-0206877

Instagram

☘️TouraLoora is a trusted Ireland travel partner of Pull Over and Let Me Out. If you’d like to learn more about their small-group Ireland tours and services, you can reach out directly—and if you choose to book, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. If you do connect with them, I’d really appreciate you mentioning you heard about them through Anna Marie Jehorek and Pull Over and Let Me Out.☘️

If you're ready to start planning your trip to Ireland, be sure to get the Pull Over and Let Me Out First-Timer's Guide to Ireland for all the helpful information you'll want to get you started on your way.

Stay connected and support the podcast:

☕ If this episode made you smile or sparked a travel idea, consider buying me a coffee to support the podcast and help keep the journeys coming! BuyMeACoffee.com/AnnaMarieWrites

🌍 Travel blog & stories: PullOverandLetMeOut.com

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📚 My books: Anna Marie Jehorek Books

☘️ Ireland trip planning: Plan your trip

Episode 46

Each summer in North Carolina, the slopes of Grandfather Mountain come alive with the sights and sounds of Scotland.

In this episode, I’m joined by Steve Quillin, President of the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games, for a closer look at one of the largest and most unique Highland gatherings in the world.

We talk about what makes this four-day annual event so special—from the deep-rooted celebration of Scottish heritage and culture to the excitement of traditional athletics, music, and dance. We also explore the educational side of the Games, where history is preserved and shared through clan connections, storytelling, and hands-on experiences that bring the past to life.

Whether you’ve had this event on your list for years or you’re just discovering it for the first time, this conversation offers a meaningful look at why so many people return to the mountain year after year.

If you’ve ever been curious about what it’s like to experience it for yourself, this is a great place to start—listen in.

Today's Guest: Steve Quillin, President, Grandfather Mountain Highland Games

Website: https://gmhg.org/

Email: [email protected]

Ready to plan your trip to Grandfather Mountain? Here are a couple of helpful affiliate links to get you started.

Expedia

Grandfather Mountain & Blue Ridge Tours

Stay connected and support the podcast:

☕ If this episode made you smile or sparked a travel idea, consider buying me a coffee to support the podcast and help keep the journeys coming! BuyMeACoffee.com/AnnaMarieWrites

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☘️ Ireland trip planning: Plan your trip

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Episode 45:

In this episode of the Pull Over and Let Me Out podcast, I’m joined by Linda Bailey of the Official Gavin & Stacey Tour to talk about stepping into the world of a beloved BBC series and exploring one of Wales’ most charming seaside towns. We dive into what makes the tour so special, giving fans the chance to visit iconic filming locations and discover the beauty, character, and charm of Barry Island.

Whether you’re planning a trip or simply dreaming about one, this tour is a fun and meaningful way to experience Wales beyond the usual stops—and it just might earn a spot on your itinerary.

If you’re a fan of Gavin & Stacey, this episode is a must-listen. Hear behind-the-scenes insights, memorable moments from the tour, and why fans continue to fall in love with both the show and the place that brought it to life.

Website: https://britmovietours.com/bookings/gavin-and-stacey-tour/

email: [email protected]

Instagram

Facebook

Linda Bailey on X

Ready to visit Wales? Here are a couple of helpful affiliate links to get you started.

The Lush House & Other Places to Stay

Top Wales Tours

Stay connected and support the podcast:

☕ If this episode made you smile or sparked a travel idea, consider buying me a coffee to support the podcast and help keep the journeys coming! BuyMeACoffee.com/AnnaMarieWrites

🌍 Travel blog & stories: PullOverandLetMeOut.com

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📚 My books: Anna Marie Jehorek Books

☘️ Ireland trip planning: Plan your trip

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Episode 44:

What makes a place stay with you long after you’ve left?

In this episode, I’m joined by Jennifer Bell, Tourism Manager for Harrisonburg—a destination that has quietly stayed with me since my first visit on a travel writers’ FAM trip.

Nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley and surrounded by the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, Harrisonburg offers a blend of rich history, beautiful architecture, a thriving arts scene, and a vibrant downtown shaped by its universities and local community.

Jennifer shares a wonderful snapshot of what makes this city so special—from its deep-rooted heritage to the experiences that keep visitors coming back again and again.

If you’ve never considered Harrisonburg for your travels, this episode might just change that.

🎧 Be sure to check the show notes for links and resources to help you plan your visit.

Website: https://visitharrisonburgva.com/

Visitor Center: (540) 432-8935

email: [email protected]

Social Media: Instagram Facebook

Stay connected and support the podcast:

☕ If this episode made you smile or sparked a travel idea, consider buying me a coffee to support the podcast and help keep the journeys coming! BuyMeACoffee.com/AnnaMarieWrites

🌍 Travel blog & stories: PullOverandLetMeOut.com

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📚 My books: Anna Marie Jehorek Books

☘️ Ireland trip planning: Plan your trip

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Episode 43:

What if you could do more than watch Irish dance in Ireland—what if you could step into it?

In this episode, I’m joined by Siobhán Manson of Riverdance fame, who now brings her world-class experience to the heart of Galway through the Irish Dance Experience. Together, we talk about her journey from performing as a lead on some of the world’s biggest stages to creating a welcoming, hands-on way for visitors to connect with Irish culture.

We also dive into the magic of Galway itself—why it’s such a special place to visit—and what makes this experience so unique, memorable, and completely unintimidating, even if you’ve never danced before.

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland (or dreaming about one), this is exactly the kind of experience you’ll want to add to your itinerary.

🎧 Listen in to discover how you can step into the rhythm of Ireland for yourself.

Irish Dance Experience:

Website

Instagram

If you're ready to plan your visit to Galway, here are a couple of helpful affiliate links to get you started:

Trad on the Prom

Guided Tour from Galway to Kylemore Abbey

Kylemore Abbey Walking Tour

Galway Day Trips

About Siobhán Manson:

Siobhán Manson began dancing at the age of four in her hometown of Galway with the world-

renowned Hession School. For the next ten years, Siobhan competed at local, national, and

international levels, winning numerous titles. She began her professional career touring with

Celtic Legends in France and French Polynesia. In 2004, Siobhán was offered a full-time

position with the Broadway phenomenon Riverdance and spent the next four years on the

road with the European, American, and Asian companies. After a year with Riverdance

Siobhán was asked to train for the lead role and had her debut as principal dancer in Dublin

at the Gaiety Theatre in 2005.

In 2007, Siobhán took a break from dancing and returned to college, completing a degree in

History and English, and a master's degree in history. Siobhan returned to the stage with

Women of Ireland touring the U.S. and Asia. In 2013, Siobhan was honoured to join Sky T.V’s

Got to Dance winners, Prodijig, on their debut tour throughout Ireland and the U.K ending on

the West End in Sadler’s Well’s Peacock Theatre.

Throughout her career, Siobhán has performed in some of the world’s most prestigious

venues: The Kremlin State Palace in Moscow, the Fox Theatre in Detroit, and the Pantages

Theatre in L.A, to name but a few. She has had the honour of performing for Empress Michiko

of Japan in Tokyo, the First Lady of America, Michelle Obama, and performing live for over a

billion TV viewers at the Chinese 2009 New Year festival broadcast in Beijing.

Siobhan is also a member of Breandán de Gallaí’s dance company Éiru (@eriudance), which

showcase throughout Ireland and abroad.

Siobhán is currently undertaking an Arts Practice PhD through The World Academy of Music

and Dance with The University of Limerick. Her Research council funded project is examining

The lived experience of Women in Irish Dance.

She is currently residing in Galway and running The Irish Dance Experience.

Stay connected and support the podcast:

☕ If this episode made you smile or sparked a travel idea, consider buying me a coffee to support the podcast and help keep the journeys coming! BuyMeACoffee.com/AnnaMarieWrites

🌍 Travel blog & stories: PullOverandLetMeOut.com

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📚 My books: Anna Marie Jehorek Books

☘️ Ireland trip planning: Plan your trip

🤝 Traveling to Give Trip Planning Tool: Learn more

Episode 42:

The Irish Famine is one of the most powerful chapters in Ireland’s history, and the National Famine Museum at Strokestown Park in County Roscommon tells it like no other.

In this episode of the Pull Over and Let Me Out Podcast, host Anna Marie Jehorek speaks with John O’Driscoll, General Manager of the museum, in a moving conversation about how Strokestown Park preserves the stories of those who lived through the Great Famine. From tenant records and eviction notices to the Mahon estate letters, the museum brings the heartbreaking human experience of this history to life.

Having visited several times herself, Anna Marie shares why each visit to Strokestown Park and the historic Strokestown House continues to reveal something new—making it a must-see stop for anyone exploring Ireland’s history.

🎧 Listen in to discover a place where history, memory, and travel meet.

National Famine Museum Strokestown Park Website

The National Famine Way

Irish Heritage Trust

email: [email protected]

Ready to begin planning your visit to Ireland? Here are a couple of helpful affiliate links to get you started.

Expedia Ireland Vacation Packages

Top Ireland Day Tours

Kilronan Castle

Stay connected and support the podcast:

☕ If this episode made you smile or sparked a travel idea, consider buying me a coffee to support the podcast and help keep the journeys coming! BuyMeACoffee.com/AnnaMarieWrites

🌍 Travel blog & stories: PullOverandLetMeOut.com

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📚 My books: Anna Marie Jehorek Books

☘️ Ireland trip planning: Plan your trip

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Episode 41:

What is it like to stand in the very place where a legend’s story began?

In this episode of the Pull Over and Let Me Out Podcast, I’m joined by Roy Turner, Executive Director of the Elvis Presley Birthplace, for a conversation that goes far beyond a typical travel stop.

We explore what visitors can expect when they come to Tupelo — from the humble two-room house where Elvis Presley was born to the museum, church, and beautifully preserved grounds that tell the story of his early life. But this episode is also about something deeper.

Roy shares moving stories of Elvis’s childhood, his strong connection to his hometown, and the meaningful ways he gave back to the community that shaped him. It’s a reminder that even global icons have rooted beginnings, and that home has a powerful way of staying with us.

Whether you’re an Elvis fan, a lover of music history, or someone who believes every place has a story to tell, this conversation will leave a lasting impression.

🎙️ Press play and discover why Tupelo isn’t just where Elvis was born — it’s where his story truly began.

Website: Elvis Presley Birthplace

Social Media: Facebook Instagram

Museum Newsletter

Are you ready to plan your visit to the Elvis Presley Birthplace or visit Tupelo? Here are a couple of affiliate links to help get you started.

Expedia

Top Tupelo Region Tours

Tupelo Day Tour

Stay connected and support the podcast:

☕ If this episode made you smile or sparked a travel idea, consider buying me a coffee to support the podcast and help keep the journeys coming! BuyMeACoffee.com/AnnaMarieWrites

🌍 Travel blog & stories: PullOverandLetMeOut.com

✉️ Newsletter sign-up: Subscribe here

📚 My books: Anna Marie Jehorek Books

☘️ Ireland trip planning: Plan your trip

🤝 Traveling to Give Trip Planning Tool: Learn more

Episode 40

What if the most unforgettable part of travel isn’t the destination — but the people you meet along the way?

In this episode of the Pull Over and Let Me Out Podcast, I’m joined by world traveler Melissa Rodway, author of The People You Meet and host of FLY Travel Radio. Melissa has journeyed across the globe, collecting not just passport stamps but meaningful encounters that have shaped her perspective and deepened her understanding of the world.

We talk about the inspiration behind her book, the heartwarming and unexpected connections she’s made in her travels, and the powerful reminder that sometimes the smallest moments become the ones we carry with us longest. Melissa also shares practical advice for travelers who want to move beyond sightseeing and experience deeper, more meaningful adventures.

If you believe travel is about more than miles — it’s about connection — this conversation is for you.

Listen in and be inspired to embrace the people you meet on your own journey.

Melissa Rodway's Website: https://flyrodway.com/

The People You Meet book on Amazon

Stay connected and support the podcast:

☕ If this episode made you smile or sparked a travel idea, consider buying me a coffee to support the podcast and help keep the journeys coming! BuyMeACoffee.com/AnnaMarieWrites

🌍 Travel blog & stories: PullOverandLetMeOut.com

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📚 My books: Anna Marie Jehorek Books

☘️ Ireland trip planning: Plan your trip

🤝 Traveling to Give Trip Planning Tool: Learn more

Episode 39:

In this episode, I’m joined by Cathy Griffin, Head of Welfare at The Donkey Sanctuary in Ireland, for a thoughtful conversation about the incredible work being done to protect and care for donkeys. Cathy shares insights into the sanctuary’s mission, the challenges donkeys face, and the dedication behind their rescue, rehabilitation, and lifelong care.

We also talk about what visitors can expect when they stop by the sanctuary, why these gentle animals hold such a special place in Ireland’s rural heritage, and how a visit here can be a meaningful addition to any Ireland itinerary.

Listen in—you won’t want to miss this conversation about the people, passion, and donkeys behind this special place, and why it’s worth adding to your travel plans in Ireland.

The Donkey Sanctuary Website: https://www.thedonkeysanctuary.ie/

Support the Donkey Sanctuary

Social Media: Instagram Facebook TikTok

Ready to start planning your Ireland adventure? Here are a couple of helpful affiliate links to get you started. Expedia Ireland Packages Viator Top Ireland Tours Cork Day Trips

Stay connected and support the podcast:

☕ If this episode made you smile or sparked a travel idea, consider buying me a coffee to support the podcast and help keep the journeys coming! BuyMeACoffee.com/AnnaMarieWrites

🌍 Travel blog & stories: PullOverandLetMeOut.com

✉️ Newsletter sign-up: Subscribe here

📚 My books: Anna Marie Jehorek Books

☘️ Ireland trip planning: Plan your trip

🤝 Traveling to Give Trip Planning Tool: Learn more