I'm joined by rugby writer and Munster fan, Caolan Scully, and Ulster fan, Ross Barnett, as we discuss Ulster's first win in Thomond Park in over 8 years.

We also look ahead to a weekend of rugby featuring number one in the world, Ireland, take on the current World Cup holders, South Africa.

Welcome to a very special episode of the Red Hand Podcast.

Ian McKinley was an international out-half who played rugby at the top level in Ireland and then continued his career in Italy after a transformative experience which threatened to end his career before it had really got going.

His path has not been a straightforward one.

His story is among the most inspiring I’ve ever heard and was am lucky to be speaking to Ian just ahead of the launch of his book, Second Sight which is now out.

I have followed his career since becoming aware of the remarkable resilience and determination he has shown, inspiring so many along the way. The themes ‘never give up’ and always push forward despite being told that certain things will be impossible are central to Ian’s story.

I hope you enjoy this chat and are inspired by it as much as I was.

I'm joined by Ulster expert and regular contributor to the Red Hand, Ian Frizzell and South African Rugby journalist AP Cronje as we discuss Ulster's 39-37 win over the Lions.

We also look ahead to an even tougher test against the Sharks this weekend. 

I am joined by rugby analyst and expert, Evan Kavanagh and Ulster fan and host of the Ulster Rugby Roundup monthly podcast, Nigel Quigley, as we look at Ulster's recent emphatic win over Ospreys in Belfast.

We discuss the key players for Ulster, where there is still some room for improvement and what we think of Ulster's season so far.

On a wet and windy night IN Belfast Leinster managed to ride out a late ulster storm with a 20 points to 13 win.

Having beaten Leinster at home and away last season ulster will be frustrated by the manner of the defeat – a few critical moments, high penalty count and high number of errors on a difficult evening ultimately cost us against a fully stacked Leinster team. Ulster did fight back, but it wasn't enough in the end. 

I discuss the game with Ulster fan Ian Frizzell and, to even things out, Leinster fans Nathan Johns and Jeff Pagano.

I chat with Irish Times journalist and Leinster fan, Nathan Johns, about the upcoming interprovincial clash with Leinster.

We reflect on the Scarlets game, what Ulster did well and where Ulster need to improve if they hope to beat Leinster.

With both sides going full whip, this will be an old-school, feisty interprovincial derby and we can't wait to see how it plays out.

We also discuss the names to look out for the Emerging Ireland team tomorrow afternoon.

Hope you enjoy the chat!

#SUFTUM

Ulster kicked off their BKT United Rugby Championship campaign with a bonus point win over their provincial rivals, Connacht, in Belfast on Saturday night.

With both sides afflicted by early season rustiness, it was ultimately the hosts who managed to click into gear and dominate in terms of territory and possession, chalking up five tries to the visitors’ one.

Stephen Murphy, Connacht fan and host of the Master of None Podcast and I look back on the game.

Delighted to be back!

In the first episode of the season, I’m joined by Ulster super-fan and regular contributor to the podcast, Ian Frizzell and rugby journalists Rhys Jones and Nathan Johns.

We take a look at last night’s friendly against Exeter, discuss the stand-out performances, new players and familiar faces returning this season.

We also discuss Ulster’s strengths and weaknesses and expectations for the season ahead.

Hope you enjoy!

Simon Mason is the definition of an Ulster legend. An unflappable presence at fullback and peerless goal-kicker, he hit a playing peak on the province's journey to European triumph in 1999.

Simon discusses his journey to playing for Ulster and Ireland, what made the legendary '99 squad so special and his obsession with kicking which made him one of the most faultless goal-kickers in Europe in his prime.

Really enjoyed this chat with Simon and I hope you enjoy listening.

Paddy McAllister has had a fascinating life and career.

In what is perhaps the most important podcast to date, Paddy discusses his remarkable life both on and off the field.

Following a rapid rise through the ranks with Ulster and Ireland under 20s, Paddy was then faced with difficult and tragic personal circumstances that would affect his career and life.

We discuss the highs, lows and relentless nature of professional rugby, dealing with grief, faith and family.

A really thoughtful conversation with a top player and person.

Hope you enjoy listening.