Marty Morrissey and Olympic rower lined up for new season of popular Kildare podcast

Fresh off the back of national recognition on The Late Late Show, Changing Times – The Allenwood Conversations podcast is back for a brand-new season, promising more thought-provoking discussions with some of the most influential voices of our time.

Hosted by Mary Kennedy and Mary McAleese and produced by acclaimed television and podcast producer Enda Grace of Dundara Television & Media, the series has become a must-listen for audiences seeking insightful and inspiring conversations.

Season 1 was a runaway success with guests including Dermot Kennedy, Daniel O’Donnell, Bertie Ahern and Phil Coulter, soaring to the top of the podcast charts and resonating deeply with listeners.

Now, Season 2 is set to raise the bar even higher with an impressive lineup of 16 distinguished guests, kicking off with Olympic rowing medalist Philip Doyle recorded in front of a live audience at Electric Picnic. Episode two is an in depth and emotive conversation in studio with broadcasting legend Marty Morrissey who has some controversial things to say about the GAA.

As always, each episode will capture the essence of Ireland’s ever-evolving social and cultural landscape, bringing listeners into the heart of meaningful conversations.

The recent Late Late Show appearance by Mary Kennedy and Mary McAleese further underscored the impact of the podcast, as they reected on its origins and the signicance of recording in Enda Grace’s Dundara studio, nestled in the heart of the Bog of Allen in County Kildare.

“We knew from the beginning that this project was something special,” says Mary Kennedy, “It’s about documenting the shifts in Irish society, capturing voices that matter, and engaging in conversations that inform, entertain and inspire. We love heading out to record in Allenwood and so do our guests.”

Mary McAleese echoes that sentiment: “This podcast is about change, about Ireland’s journey, and about the people shaping its future. Recording in lovely Allenwood adds a sense of grounding and authenticity that makes it truly unique. We have deep chats with our guests but also a lot of fun.”

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This season also marks an exciting new chapter with the Meadowlands Hotel Tralee coming on board as the official sponsor. Brid Ní Mhathúna, Meadowlands Hotel, shares her enthusiasm for the partnership.

"We are thrilled to sponsor the Changing Times podcast with Mary Kennedy and Mary McAleese. This collaboration presents a fantastic opportunity to be part of meaningful discussions about the evolving world we live in. As a hotel dedicated to creating memorable experiences in Kerry, we are excited to team up with such inuential voices who connect with audiences both nationally and internationally. We look forward to the inspiring impact this partnership will bring," she says.

Enda Grace, the driving force behind the production, is excited for what lies ahead. “The response to Season 1 was phenomenal, and this season, we’re building on that momentum. With an incredible lineup of guests, a fantastic new sponsor, and big plans for the future, Changing Times is only getting bigger and better. I am so delighted to be able to bring a second season of recordings and an array of well known faces out to my home village of Allenwood.”

New episodes of Changing Times – The Allenwood Conversations will be released weekly on Tuesdays and are available on Apple, Spotify and all major podcast platforms. For more information, visit the Dundara Television Instagram page dundara_television