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    Best Of ‘Free State’ Volume 2

    enDecember 28, 2023
    What services does PlushCare offer for weight loss?
    How does Burrow Furniture enhance customer satisfaction?
    What lesson did the speaker learn from the football game incident?
    Who is Matthew Collins and what does he advocate for?
    Why is understanding suffering from both sides important in conflicts?

    Podcast Summary

    • Exploring weight loss and furniture shopping with online convenienceOnline platforms like PlushCare and Burrow offer convenient solutions for weight loss and furniture shopping, with the added benefits of FDA-approved medications, customer satisfaction, and Memorial Day savings.

      PlushCare offers a convenient and effective way to begin your weight loss journey with online access to certified physicians who can prescribe FDA-approved medications. Meanwhile, Burrow Furniture prioritizes customer satisfaction with easy assembly, new color options, and fast free shipping. During the Memorial Day Sale, customers can save up to 60% at burrow.com/acast. Reflecting on the podcast's early days, the hosts shared an unexpected opportunity to interview renowned journalist Peter Taylor, who had unparalleled access to the community they aimed to serve. Maintaining these connections required honesty and respect, making it a testament to Peter's credibility and the podcast's mission.

    • The emotional toll of reporting on conflictsReporting on conflicts brings immense personal challenges, including guilt and feelings of responsibility, but also moments of normalcy and unexpected comfort.

      Reporting on conflicts, especially those close to home, comes with immense personal challenges. Joe Cahill, a veteran journalist who covered the Northern Ireland conflict for decades, shared an experience where he interviewed a prison officer who sympathized with the republican prisoners' demands. The officer was later murdered by the IRA, leading to accusations and feelings of guilt towards Joe. However, he also found solace in unexpected places, like a local pub where the conversation revolved around an unusual topic - sheep nuts. Despite the gravity of his profession, Joe found moments of normalcy and humor that kept him going. This anecdote underscores the complexities and emotional toll of journalism in conflict zones.

    • Unexpected alternative to Viagra in IrelandSheep nuts, a local Irish alternative, cost €12.10 vs €3,125,000 for Viagra, potentially challenging pharmaceutical dominance

      There's an unexpected and cost-effective alternative to a well-known medication in certain parts of Ireland. The speaker discovered that 25 kilograms of sheep nuts, which have similar effects according to the Stroke Association, cost only €12.10, while 25 kilograms of Viagra would cost €3,125,000. This revelation could potentially challenge the dominance of pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer, especially in areas where this alternative is readily available. The speaker also emphasized the importance of the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) and the GAA's ethos of representing one's parish, county, and deep-rooted connections to one's community. He criticized the trend of individuals moving around and breaking these traditional bonds, viewing it as a failure of the system rather than the individuals themselves. Despite this, he reaffirmed his personal commitment to the GAA and his unwillingness to accept payment for managing teams.

    • Emphasizing loyalty and shared experiences in GAAThe importance of sincere apologies and acknowledging past mistakes for authentic sports traditions, contrasted with the professionalization and lack of genuine remorse in modern sports management.

      The essence of GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) goes beyond winning and instead emphasizes deep loyalty and shared experiences among teammates. The speaker is dismayed by the professionalization of sports management and the lack of genuine apologies, which undermines the authenticity and beauty of this cherished tradition. A proper apology requires sincere remorse and a commitment to never repeating hurtful actions. The speaker also reflects on the importance of acknowledging past mistakes and making amends, using his own experience of apologizing to Marty Morrissey as an example. Additionally, the speaker touches upon the complex and troubling situation in Gaza and the role of propaganda in shaping public opinion.

    • Acknowledging feelings of abandonment and loneliness in Jewish communitiesRecognizing perspectives and stopping violence is crucial for peace, ignoring feelings can lead to a cycle of conflict.

      Acknowledging and addressing the feelings of abandonment and being alone experienced by Jewish people, especially during times of conflict, is crucial for fostering understanding and promoting peace. The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing the perspectives of all parties involved and focusing on stopping the violence rather than engaging in rhetoric that can further divide communities. The absence of acknowledgment and recognition can lead to a dangerous cycle of conflict and can hinder efforts towards peace and understanding. It's essential to remember that every life lost is a priority and that we must work towards finding solutions that address the root causes of conflict and promote peace and understanding for all.

    • Recognizing the reality of suffering in conflictDuring conflict, it's essential to acknowledge the suffering of all parties involved, not just those in power or in the spotlight. Nuanced discussions and understanding are crucial for long-term peace.

      Acknowledging the suffering of all parties involved is crucial during times of conflict. The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing the reality of the situation, which includes the suffering of people on both sides. They criticize the hierarchical representation of news, which often focuses on the suffering of certain groups over others. The speaker also touches on the need for more nuanced discussions and understanding after the immediate crisis has been addressed. Additionally, the speaker shares a personal story about a friend who surprised them with a more serious side, highlighting the importance of looking beyond first impressions and recognizing the complexity of individuals.

    • Unexpected acts of kindness in sportsSports can foster empathy, understanding, and human connection, leading to unexpected acts of kindness and positive change.

      Sports can bring out strong emotions and unexpected acts of kindness, even in the face of intense competition. The speaker shares a personal story from a football game in 2013 where a rival player congratulated him and encouraged him to pray, despite their team losing the championship. This act of sportsmanship stayed with the speaker and he later reciprocated the gesture when they met again. The discussion also touches on the importance of empathy and understanding in addressing hatred and dehumanization, as exemplified by the work of Matthew Collins, a recovered neo-Nazi who now advocates against hate movements. Overall, the conversation highlights the power of sports and human connection to bring people together and foster positive change. This Mother's Day, consider giving back to the moms who have given us so much by ordering handmade bouquets, sweet treats, gourmet food, and one-of-a-kind gifts from 1-800-Flowers.com/acast. Save up to 40% on Mother's Day bestsellers for a limited time.

    • Online hate speech and harassment, particularly on anonymous social media platforms, is a growing concern.Social media platforms need greater accountability to prevent anonymous hate speech and harassment, which can have devastating impacts on individuals' safety and dignity.

      Social media platforms, where users can remain anonymous, have become breeding grounds for hate speech and harassment. This was highlighted in the discussion when Dermot Devlin, a human rights champion with disabilities, was subjected to vile abuse online for speaking out against the exploitation of a knife attack at a nursery. The attackers called him derogatory names, and the incident underscores the need for greater accountability on these platforms. Elon Musk and other social media magnates have a role to play in addressing this issue, but it's important to distinguish between those who are adjacent to fascist groups and those who are simply allowing anonymous hate speech to flourish. The impact of such harassment can be devastating, and it's essential to recognize that the online world is an extension of the real world, where people's safety and dignity must be respected.

    • The Danger of Conspiracy TheoriesConspiracy theories can spread rapidly and cause harm, even without evidence. Be critical of online information and seek out reliable sources.

      While conspiracy theories can provide a sense of order and excitement in a chaotic world, they often lack evidence and can lead individuals to believe in false or harmful beliefs. The proliferation of online information during times of isolation and uncertainty can exacerbate this trend, leading some people to believe in outlandish and dangerous theories. The history of conspiracy theories shows that they can spread rapidly and cause harm, even when there is no evidence to support them. It's important to be critical of information we consume online and to seek out reliable sources of information. The world may be complex and difficult to understand at times, but relying on conspiracy theories is not a healthy or productive way to make sense of it.

    • Strive for peace, love, and understandingCelebrate Mother's Day with love, manage healthcare costs, and promote peace and understanding in our lives

      Despite the challenges and hardships we face in life, it's important to hold onto the values of peace, love, and understanding. These values may seem elusive at times, but they are essential for harmony and unity. Meanwhile, in practical terms, it's crucial to manage healthcare costs effectively, and UnitedHealthcare's Health ProtectorGuard plans can help with that. Additionally, Mother's Day is a time to express gratitude and give back to the special moms in our lives. 1-800-Flowers offers various ways to celebrate with thoughtful gifts, sweet treats, and fresh bouquets, with discounts available for a limited time. So, let's strive for peace, love, and understanding, and take care of ourselves and our loved ones in the process.

    Recent Episodes from Free State with Joe Brolly and Dion Fanning

    Trump, Kamala and two nice Jewish boys

    Trump, Kamala and two nice Jewish boys

    Donald Trump was undermined by his own narcissism in his presidential debate. Kamala Harris took him apart with a lawyer’s precision. On Free State, Joe considers how he would deal with Trump in a debate but also how the genocide in Gaza is being normalised. Dion and Joe look at the story of the Two Nice Jewish Boys podcast and how they joked about ‘erasing’ Gaza. What does it tell us about the human condition when two ordinary Israelis can speak like this? What does it tell us about suffering when it can be dismissed in this way?


    This episode of Free State is sponsored by Manscaped. Visit https://www.manscaped.com/ and get 20% off and free shipping by using code freestate20


    Free State with Joe Brolly and Dion Fanning is a Gold Hat Production in association with SwanMcG.


    For more on Free State: https://freestatepodcast.com/



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Poisonous Patriotism: Lords, Anthems & broken lives

    Poisonous Patriotism: Lords, Anthems & broken lives

    The Tánaiste Micheál Martin condemned the booing of God Save The King by Irish fans before Ireland played England on Saturday. The Daily Mail called for England manager Lee Carsley to be sacked before the game because he said he wouldn’t sing the anthem.


    On Free State today, Joe and Dion wonder why this plastic patriotism is indulged and why real patriotism can transform a country. Dion was at the Aviva on Saturday. Joe can’t understand why he was there - or why he doesn’t get better seats. Dion has frustrations other than the pantomime booing.


    In the world where actions can make a difference, Joe talks about the visit by the DUP’s Gordon Lyons to Creggan GAA club. Joe also recalls the darker period in the club’s history. He tells the powerful story of Peadar Heffron, who became one of the first GAA members to join the PSNI, and how he was failed by his own community. A failure which should makes us ask questions of ourselves and dismiss those who peddle cheap nationalism.


    This episode of Free State is sponsored by Manscaped. Visit https://www.manscaped.com/ and get 20% off and free shipping by using code freestate20


    Free State with Joe Brolly and Dion Fanning is a Gold Hat Production in association with SwanMcG.


    For more on Free State: https://freestatepodcast.com/



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    The coal man’s son

    The coal man’s son

    What is more rewarding? Winning or glory? If you are Donald Trump or the modern GAA coach then nothing matters except winning. But can we as Trump said, get tired of winning? Is the story of the coalman’s son, Tommy Loughran, the moment when people had enough? On Free State today, Joe and Dion talk about the decision to give a marking job on Tommy Loughran to two players in an U-14 match. Why has Gaelic football gone this way? Joe doesn’t believe the suggested rule changes will save it and makes some proposals of his own. Dion has a more radical solution and announces also that he has entered the c-suite.


    This episode of Free State is sponsored by Manscaped. Visit https://www.manscaped.com/ and get 20% off and free shipping by using code freestate20


    Free State with Joe Brolly and Dion Fanning is a Gold Hat Production in association with SwanMcG.


    For more on Free State: https://freestatepodcast.com/



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    From Elon to Enoch: The entrepreneurs of hate

    From Elon to Enoch: The entrepreneurs of hate

    Enoch Burke is in jail again. He is unwavering in his beliefs but is he a pawn in other people’s games? On Free State, Dion and Joe look at foot soldiers like Enoch Burke and what they are doing for their beliefs. Brazil has banned X as they attempt to protect their country. Elon Musk insists free speech is the cornerstone of democracy but is free speech on social media, the instrument that will destroy democracy while promoting fascism? Joe is not an Oasis fan. He recalls the night he tried to get a Gallagher brother’s autograph and the unpleasantness that followed.


    This episode of Free State is sponsored by Manscaped. Visit https://www.manscaped.com/ and get 20% off and free shipping by using code freestate20


    Free State with Joe Brolly and Dion Fanning is a Gold Hat Production in association with SwanMcG.


    For more on Free State: https://freestatepodcast.com/



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Will they ever get tired of walking backwards? Kicking the Brits out, Part 2

    Will they ever get tired of walking backwards? Kicking the Brits out, Part 2

    On August 31, 1994, the Provisional IRA announced that “there will be a complete cessation of military operations. All our units have been instructed accordingly”. It was a statement that brought joy, tears and relief to so many in Northern Ireland who had endured violence. So much that would follow came from the ceasefire and the delicate negotiations that brought it about. As the 30th anniversary of the ceasefire approaches, Joe and Dion consider the people who made that possible, the role of the US and the refusal of unionism to move forward. They also ask why the lessons of the north are being ignored in Gaza. And can Dion, a Protestant in his heart, pass the Orange Lodge test?


    This episode of Free State is sponsored by Manscaped. Visit https://www.manscaped.com/ and get 20% off and free shipping by using code freestate20


    Free State with Joe Brolly and Dion Fanning is a Gold Hat Production in association with SwanMcG.


    For more on Free State: https://freestatepodcast.com/



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Kicking The Brits Out, Part 1

    Kicking The Brits Out, Part 1

    More than 30 years ago, Bill Clinton said he still believed in a town called Hope. At the Democratic National Convention, Michelle Obama said hope is making a comeback. Is this just a tagline for a bad movie or if Kamala Harris was elected would she make a difference in Gaza and in fixing structural inequality in the US? On Free State today, Dion and Joe look at the choice in the US presidential election and ask if it is a choice at all. They also ask if there is a chance of real change in Ireland or have the same forces taken hold here?


    This episode of Free State is sponsored by Manscaped. Visit https://www.manscaped.com/ and get 20% off and free shipping by using code freestate20


    Free State with Joe Brolly and Dion Fanning is a Gold Hat Production in association with SwanMcG.


    For more on Free State: https://freestatepodcast.com/



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Keep a light at the window. The rise and fall of Douglas Beattie

    Keep a light at the window. The rise and fall of Douglas Beattie

    When Doug Beattie sank a bayonet into Taliban fighter during a hellish fight for survival in Afghanistan, he could never escape his actions. Yet the trauma of killing also brought an empathy that was missing in other unionists leaders. On Free State today Dion and Joe look at the fall of Doug Beattie. Joe recalls his day with Beattie when he talked emotionally about how it feels to take a man’s life. They consider how a life marked by conflict at an early age, shaped a leader until he was undone by the tyranny that is unionism in Northern Ireland.


    This episode of Free State is sponsored by Manscaped. Visit https://www.manscaped.com/ and get 20% off and free shipping by using code freestate20


    Free State with Joe Brolly and Dion Fanning is a Gold Hat Production in association with SwanMcG.


    For more on Free State: https://freestatepodcast.com/



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Tommy guns, car chases & All Irelands. The life and times of a great Irish man.

    Tommy guns, car chases & All Irelands. The life and times of a great Irish man.

    Funerals matter in Ireland. They are an expression of community. On Free State today, Joe recalls the extraordinary life of Colm McCusker and why his funeral told so much about the man. Colm McCusker was 91 when he died and he didn’t waste a minute during a life packed with love and family, but also car chases, tommy guns and All-Irelands. Joe also prescribes a surprising cure for Dion’s boredom.


    This episode of Free State is sponsored by Manscaped. Visit https://www.manscaped.com/ and get 20% off and free shipping by using code freestate20


    Free State with Joe Brolly and Dion Fanning is a Gold Hat Production in association with SwanMcG.


    For more on Free State: https://freestatepodcast.com/



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Drinking with Loyalists, Part 2. Conor McGregor is not at war. While he sails his yacht in the Med, it’s your kids who go to prison.

    Drinking with Loyalists, Part 2. Conor McGregor is not at war. While he sails his yacht in the Med, it’s your kids who go to prison.

    As people are sentenced to years in prison for their part in the riots, what is the real purpose of the pogroms? There are those who will say it is a cry for attention from the dispossessed but what do those in control want? On Free State, Dion and Joe look at how countries are being destabilised by astroturf movements designed to seem like community-driven groups. They explore the funding of those like Tommy Robinson who encouraged riots while in a five star hotel in Ayia Napa. They ask why there is a light touch being applied in Ireland to the far right and ask what Elon Musk’s mission is. They also wonder where Dion and Joe should go if they wanted a mini break?


    This episode of Free State is sponsored by Manscaped. Visit https://www.manscaped.com/ and get 20% off and free shipping by using code freestate20


    Free State with Joe Brolly and Dion Fanning is a Gold Hat Production in association with SwanMcG.


    For more on Free State: https://freestatepodcast.com/



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


    Drinking with Loyalists, Part 1. Ulster (and Coolock) says No

    Drinking with Loyalists, Part 1. Ulster (and Coolock) says No

    At their best, the Olympics represent all that is good about humanity. For Ireland the Olympics brought an outpouring of spontaneous joy and happiness, at least until the homecoming parade. But the hate and fear that is being weaponised across Ireland and Britain won’t be combated by two weeks in Paris.


    On Free State, Dion and Joe discuss the far right pogroms and what needs to be done to stop them. While communities have stood up for the marginalised, the Coolock Says No leaders are drinking with loyalist paramilitaries on Sandy Row. And the powerful have used the trouble for their own end and as a dress rehearsal for what is to come.


    This episode of Free State is sponsored by Manscaped. Visit https://www.manscaped.com/ and get 20% off and free shipping by using code freestate20


    Free State with Joe Brolly and Dion Fanning is a Gold Hat Production in association with SwanMcG.


    For more on Free State: https://freestatepodcast.com/



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


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