Conversations with Sam Assad

23/11/2025

Episode 5 – Malcolm Byrne

Fianna Fáil TD for Wicklow–Wexford.

In our discussion, Malcolm reflects on his journey in politics from local councils to his roles on the national stage.

We also chat about Ireland’s ongoing housing challenges, the opportunities and risks of artificial intelligence and his candid thoughts on the future direction of Fianna Fáil.

🎙️ Full interview available on YouTube.

👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xwl9MX09MxA

🎧 Also streaming on Spotify & Apple Podcasts.

In this episode, I sit down with Malcolm Byrne - Fianna Fáil TD for Wicklow–Wexford who has over two decades of experience in public life.In our discussion, ...

23/11/2025

“Politics is a marathon, not a sprint” – Former Minister and Independent TD Denis Naughten

🎙 Full episode on Youtube, Spotify & Apple Podcasts.

23/11/2025

Episode 4 – Denis Naughten

Former Government Minister, long-serving TD and one of the most prominent Independent voices in Irish politics.

From his early days in Fine Gael to his time as Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Denis has been at the centre of major national debates.

We talk about the highs and lows of his career, why he left Fine Gael, the realities of going independent, and what drives his work today outside politics.

🎙️ Full interview available on YouTube.

👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Jtc_tn1_HA

🎧 Also streaming on Spotify & Apple Podcasts.

In this episode, I sit down with Denis Naughten — former Government Minister, long-serving TD, and one of the most prominent Independent voices in Irish poli...

18/11/2025

Activist Jenny Maguire calls for a community led, trans-inclusive healthcare model.

🎙 Full episode on Youtube, Spotify & Apple Podcasts.

31/08/2025

Episode 3 – Jenny Maguire

Activist, columnist, and former President of Trinity College Dublin Students’ Union joins me to talk about her journey from growing up trans in Ireland to leading one of the country’s most visible student unions, and the lessons she’s carried from protest, activism, and politics on campus.

Along the way, we discuss her personal story, the debates around trans rights and inclusion, and what comes next after her term as SU President.

🎙️ Full interview available on YouTube.

👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bnaMx0U3Rlo&t=65s

🎧 Also streaming on Spotify & Apple Podcasts.

In this episode, I sit down with Jenny Maguire — activist, columnist, and former President of Trinity College Dublin Students’ Union.We talk about her journe...

31/08/2025

Episode 2 – Louise O’Reilly

Sinn Féin TD Louise O’Reilly joins me for a wide-ranging conversation.

From her early days in the trade union movement to taking a seat on Sinn Féin’s front bench, we talk about the fight for workers’ rights, the debate around Irish reunification, life in opposition, and her journey into politics.

🎙️ Full interview available on YouTube.

👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5WkPaGnIg0&t=131s

🎧 Also streaming on Spotify & Apple Podcasts.

In this episode, I sit down with Louise O’Reilly — Sinn Féin TD for Dublin Fingal West and the party’s spokesperson on Social Protection, Rural and Community...

31/08/2025

Episode 1 – Ciarán Cuffe

A veteran Green Party politician with more than 30 years in public life.

From Dublin City Council to Dáil Éireann to the European Parliament, we reflect on a life in green politics, the challenges of climate leadership, and the moments that shaped his journey.

🎙️ Full interview available on YouTube.

👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hehj12SY2u4&t=2499s

🎧 Also streaming on Spotify & Apple Podcasts.

In this episode, I sit down with Ciarán Cuffe — a veteran Green Party politician with more than 30 years in public life. From Dublin City Council to Dáil Éir...