In this episode, Niall asks: Should the Irish government pay people to have babies—and is motherhood properly valued in Irish society? The discussion was sparked by a U.S. proposal under the Trump administration to offer a $5,000 baby bonus to new mothers, aimed at reversing declining birth rates and promoting traditional family structures. As America explores pronatalist policies, the question is now being asked closer to home: Should Ireland do the same?

Ireland’s birth rate has dropped well below the replacement level of 2.1, with the fertility rate now hovering around 1.6. First-time mothers are older than ever before, and the pressures of career-building, the high cost of childcare and housing, and shifting cultural values are all contributing to smaller families—or no families at all.

Some callers believe a baby bonus is exactly what’s needed. They argue it would offer much-needed financial support at a critical time and show that the State values parenting. Others cite examples like Hungary, where such measures have led to measurable (though modest) increases in birth rates. If Ireland doesn’t act, they warn, the country could face a demographic crisis—with fewer workers, heavier pension burdens, and an aging population.

Other callers push back, saying children should never be a financial transaction. They argue that €5,000 is a band-aid solution that won’t address the deeper issues—like unaffordable housing, lack of childcare, and job insecurity. For them, the government should focus on broader structural reforms instead of financial incentives that may not even influence someone’s decision to become a parent.

The conversation sparks wider questions too: Has society lost sight of the value of parenting? Are Irish families supported enough? Or is this just another distraction from fixing the real issues?

In this episode, Niall is asking: Are some grandparents too involved—or are new parents just being ungrateful?

The topic stems from a heartfelt email sent in by a first-time mum who says her mother-in-law is turning her life upside down. From daily unannounced visits to constant criticism of her parenting, she feels like she’s being pushed aside in her own home. To make matters worse, her husband refuses to intervene, insisting his mother is "just trying to help."

The debate quickly ignites as listeners weigh in.

Some callers believe new parents are too sensitive these days. They argue that grandparents should be seen as a blessing, especially when they’re willing to help out. For them, the mother-in-law’s input is simply old-fashioned wisdom, not interference.

But others strongly disagree. They say boundaries are essential—especially when unsolicited advice turns into full-blown control. These callers argue that the mother-in-law is clearly overstepping and the husband needs to prioritise his wife and child over keeping mammy happy.

The episode reveals just how divisive family dynamics can be when parenting meets tradition, and why setting limits—especially with in-laws—isn't always so straightforward.

In this episode, Niall is asking: Is religion helping or harming mental health? Can faith be a lifeline—or a source of guilt and repression?

Religion has, for centuries, been a source of comfort, purpose, and moral grounding for billions of people around the world. For many, it offers a sense of belonging, a guide through life’s darkest moments, and a way to make sense of suffering. It can provide structure, community, and hope—especially when someone is struggling mentally or emotionally.

But for others, religion can be the very thing that causes or worsens their suffering. Strict doctrines, teachings about sin and punishment, or the fear of eternal damnation can weigh heavily on a person’s mind. Some say that religious guilt, pressure to conform, and fear of judgment have led to anxiety, depression, and shame. For them, the institution that’s meant to heal can feel like a source of harm.

Some callers believe religion provides people with a sense of hope and stability. In times of mental struggle, it can offer meaning and comfort that therapy or medication alone can’t always provide. Faith gives people strength. For many, religion builds community and gives people something to believe in beyond themselves. That sense of purpose can be vital for mental health, especially during hard times.

While other callers feel religion can be incredibly damaging to mental health if it’s rooted in fear or shame. Constant guilt, judgment, and pressure to be ‘perfect’ can break a person mentally, not help them. When religion is used to control rather than support, it becomes toxic. People can end up suppressing who they really are, living with fear instead of freedom. That’s not healing—that’s harm.

In this episode, Niall is asking: Should Ireland officially recognise only two genders—male and female? The conversation is sparked by recent international developments: The U.S. has moved away from recognising genders beyond male and female, and the UK Supreme Court recently ruled that a woman is someone born biologically female. Should Ireland now follow suit and take a stand on what some are calling “gender ideology gone too far”?

Some callers believe Ireland should stand firm and legally recognise only two genders—male and female. They argue this is based on biology and science, not opinion. One caller said, “This isn’t about hate—it’s about facts. There are two biological sexes, and we’ve allowed ideology to override reality for too long.” Others added that confusing young people with multiple gender identities only leads to more psychological harm than good.

While other callers argue that gender identity is more nuanced than biological sex. “Some people don’t fit neatly into male or female,” one caller said. “They exist, and they deserve legal and social recognition.” Others felt that acknowledging people’s identities doesn’t harm anyone and that inclusion should be a basic value in a modern Ireland.

Niall closes the show by saying he personally agrees that there are only two genders—male and female. While he respects everyone’s right to live how they choose, he believes the State should base legal recognition on biological sex, not subjective identity. “This isn’t about denying anyone their dignity,” he says, “but at some point, we have to draw a line between inclusion and confusion.”

In this engaging and refreshingly honest interview, Niall is joined by The Apprentice UK breakout star Jordan Dargan, the only Irish contestant in this year’s series, who made it all the way to the final five—despite not even being part of the original lineup. Jordan shares the behind-the-scenes reality of life on one of Britain’s biggest business shows, what really went down in the boardroom, and how one text from Lord Sugar might just change everything.

Jordan’s story is one of bold risks and self-made success. He opens up about the last-minute twist that got him onto the show:

“I was a reserve… I could have done everything and not even got on.”

But when the call came, he was on the first flight to London—and determined to make an impact. Despite early challenges navigating the louder personalities, Jordan admits he held back at first, believing that if he didn’t say anything controversial, he couldn’t be edited poorly. But he quickly learned the show doesn’t reward quiet strategy:

“At the beginning, I was only saying things that I felt were necessary… and that's just not how the process works.”

As the tasks intensified, Jordan found his stride. But one controversial final challenge—a gender-fluid fashion project—tested his instincts. He reveals he wanted to go a different direction but struggled under pressure:

“I said I just don't think men wearing skirts is gonna sell… in hindsight, I should have stuck to my guns.”

His honesty in discussing the clash between business sense and performative values is something listeners will find refreshingly grounded.

Yet his most powerful moment came during a product pitch when he vulnerably shared details of a difficult childhood, connecting with buyers on a personal level. What viewers didn’t fully see was the impact that had off-camera:

“I opened up about that… and one of the buyers said he was sober for ten years and really resonated with it… there were real moments in it.”

From being grilled over using brand logos without permission on his business website to being praised for his self-taught skills in 3D design, Jordan offers an unfiltered look at the highs and lows of the process. And while he didn’t win, Lord Sugar saw enough in him to hand over something rarely offered—a personal phone number.

“It’s funny how quickly your life can change… just a year ago, I was delivering fruit and veg around Castleknock—now I’m delivering one-liners in the boardroom.”

Jordan reflects on how the exposure has transformed his business, brought in clients, and even made him a role model to younger viewers:

“What makes it all worth it is when kids come up to you saying they want to be a businessman because they saw you on The Apprentice.”

He also talks about what viewers didn’t see—the daily 20-minute wake-up calls, repeated takes for every scene, and how editing can shape public perception of each candidate. He even reveals who he thought should’ve made the final, and why he believes more Irish people should step up and apply:

“We need representation over there. We need to get an Irish man to get his first win.”

This episode offers a rare glimpse into the real Apprentice experience through the eyes of one of its most grounded and driven contestants. Whether you followed the series or not, Jordan’s journey is one of resilience, reflection, and rising to the occasion when the odds are stacked against you.

In this episode, Niall asks a timely and controversial question: Should it be illegal to film Gardaí while they’re on duty? The debate stems from growing calls within the Gardaí for restrictions on the public streaming or recording officers in the line of duty, especially during arrests or public disturbances.

Supporters of the proposed restrictions argue that filming Gardaí without context can endanger officers, escalate already tense situations, and expose them to online abuse. They believe that if someone has a legitimate concern about police conduct, it should be handled through official channels—not social media.

However, others say the right to film Gardaí is vital for public accountability. With the rise in high-profile incidents involving law enforcement, being able to record interactions serves as a crucial check and balance. For these callers, transparency and the ability to document what happens in public spaces should not be curtailed.

Some callers argue that it’s about time filming Gardaí was restricted. Officers deserve to do their jobs without being harassed or put on display online. They believe the constant presence of phones creates fear, makes Gardaí hesitant to act, and opens the door to online mobs targeting individuals for simply doing their job.

While other callers insist the public must retain the right to film Gardaí, especially when it involves use of force or questionable actions. They see mobile footage as a form of protection—for both citizens and officers—and a vital tool for transparency and justice.

Niall wraps up by noting how the conversation reflected a deep divide between public accountability and Garda privacy. He acknowledges both the concerns of officers on the ground and the need for transparency in modern policing. As trust in institutions evolves, he asks: is filming a necessary watchdog—or a dangerous distraction?

In this episode of The Niall Boylan Podcast, Niall is asking: Is a hidden same-sex relationship in the past a dealbreaker in marriage?

The topic arises from an emotional email sent by a listener who discovered her husband had a romantic relationship with a male college friend 17 years ago—something he initially denied when they met the friend together recently. The truth only came to light after she spoke with an old mutual friend who confirmed the relationship. Eventually, her husband admitted it, calling it a “confusing time in his life.” Now, she’s left wondering whether she ever really knew the man she married.

Some callers believe this kind of secret is a massive breach of trust. It’s not about the husband's past sexuality—it’s the dishonesty that bothers them. They argue that a marriage should be built on full transparency, and hiding a significant past relationship, regardless of gender, calls everything into question. If he kept that part of himself hidden, what else might he be hiding?

While other callers take a more empathetic view, saying people change and grow, especially when they're young. They argue that what matters most is who he is now and the life he’s built with his wife. To them, it’s not a dealbreaker if there’s genuine love and trust in the present. His confusion in the past shouldn’t define the marriage today.

Niall closes the show by reflecting on the difference between secrets and shame, and how honesty—even when uncomfortable—can be the foundation for stronger relationships. Whether it’s a dealbreaker or a difficult conversation, today’s show proved that the truth always finds a way out—and how we handle it can shape the future of a relationship.

In this episode, Niall is asking: Do prisoners deserve better living conditions? Live on The Niall Boylan Podcast, we take a hard look at the state of Irish prisons in 2025. The latest figures from February show that the prison population has reached a record high of 5,181 inmates—with 346 prisoners sleeping on mattresses on cell floors due to overcrowding. It’s sparked outrage in some quarters, and indifference in others. But should we care?

Some callers think just because someone has committed a crime doesn’t mean they should be treated like animals. They argue that Ireland is supposed to be a modern and civilized society, and basic decency—even behind bars—should be a given. They say that harsh conditions do nothing for rehabilitation, and that how we treat our prisoners reflects who we are as a nation.

While other callers feel no sympathy at all. For them, prison isn’t supposed to be comfortable. If someone doesn’t want to sleep on a mattress, they shouldn’t break the law. With homelessness and housing crises impacting law-abiding citizens, they argue it’s wrong to focus on improving jail conditions. Some even say the tough conditions might act as a deterrent.

Niall closes the show by reflecting on how divided opinions were—between compassion and punishment. He questions what kind of justice system Ireland really wants: one that rehabilitates or simply punishes. As always, he leaves listeners with plenty to think about.

In this episode, Niall is asking: Is Ireland a kip? We received a message from an angry listener who said he’s had enough—he’s packing up his family and leaving Ireland for good, calling the country a “kip” that’s beyond saving. Live on The Niall Boylan Podcast, we ask: is he right?

With the cost of living spiralling out of control, a housing crisis that’s left many without hope of ever owning a home, a health system stretched to the brink, and crumbling infrastructure across the country—some callers said they’re ready to follow him out the door. Add in mass immigration and a government that many feel has lost touch, and it’s no wonder people are considering emigration.

Some callers think Ireland has truly become a kip. They say you can’t get a GP appointment, the roads are falling apart, and families are being crushed under the weight of rising rent, childcare, and taxes. There’s a growing feeling that the government cares more about optics than real change. They argue that if you want a better life, the only choice left is to leave.

While other callers feel calling Ireland a kip is unfair and ungrateful. Yes, things are tough, but they believe in fixing the problems instead of running from them. They say Ireland still has heart—its people, its culture, and its potential. If everyone who’s frustrated gives up, what’s left? Reform, not retreat, is the way forward.

Niall reflects on the passionate views shared throughout the show, noting that while frustration is widespread, so too is hope. Whether you’re staying or going, the debate proves one thing—we all care deeply about the country we call home.

In this episode of The Niall Boylan Podcast, Niall is asking: Is wanting children a reason to leave your partner? A listener emailed in to share his heartbreaking dilemma—he loves his wife of four years but wants to leave her because she has made it clear she doesn’t want children. He’s torn between staying in a loving marriage or pursuing his lifelong dream of becoming a father.

Some callers think absolutely he’s right to leave. Wanting children isn’t a small issue—it’s a core life value. If his wife doesn’t want the same future, staying together will only cause pain and regret. They believe that love alone isn’t enough when your hopes for family life are fundamentally incompatible.

While other callers feel leaving over this is too extreme. They argue that relationships are built on compromise and that people can change. Some say he should be patient and focus on the love they share—perhaps there are other ways to build a fulfilling life together, such as fostering, adoption, or focusing on other shared dreams.

Niall reflects on the emotional weight of the discussion, acknowledging how difficult it is when love and life goals are at odds. He reminds listeners that no relationship is perfect and decisions like this require deep thought, open communication, and honesty—not just with your partner, but with yourself.