Mary McAleese - Part 1

04/22/25 • 60 min

Changing Times - The Allenwood Conversations

In part one this very special two part episode, Mary Kennedy chats to her co-host and former President of Ireland Mary McAleese.

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, we journey through the formative years of a remarkable woman who would go on to become one of Ireland’s most respected voices. Set against the turbulent backdrop of Northern Ireland during the Troubles, she shares vivid memories of a childhood shaped by conflict — from a devastating car bomb attack on her father's pub to terrifying assaults on her family home, including a harrowing incident that forced them to leave everything behind.

She recalls the fear etched into her younger sister’s face during one violent episode — and the protective instinct that saw the siblings stand up for each other in the face of danger. Bricks smashed through windows, bullets fired into their home, and friends drawn into the web of the IRA — all part of a reality few could imagine.

Told she could never be a lawyer by a priest, she defied expectations and broke barriers. This episode also explores the love story that began when she met her husband, Martin, and the lifelong friendship they formed with rugby legend Moss Keane.

She speaks candidly about her difficult years working in RTÉ, her deep admiration for John Hume, and what ultimately drove her to step into public life and run for President.

Raw, honest, and unforgettable — this is a story of courage, conviction, and the quiet strength behind the public figure.

Produced by Enda Grace at Dundara Television & Media.

Proudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee.

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

In part one this very special two part episode, Mary Kennedy chats to her co-host and former President of Ireland Mary McAleese.

She speaks candidly about her difficult years working in RTÉ, her deep admiration for John Hume, and what ultimately drove her to step into public life and run for President.

Raw, honest, and unforgettable — this is a story of courage, conviction, and the quiet strength behind the public figure.

Produced by Enda Grace at Dundara Television & Media.

Proudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee.

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

Previous Episode

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris

In this remarkable episode, Mary McAleese & Mary Kennedy sit with Garda Commissioner Drew Harris for a rare and powerful & deeply personal conversation. As he prepares to step down from his role, Drew reflects on a career shaped by profound personal tragedy, public service, his reaction to a no confidence vote in him and a steady commitment to leading with courage and conviction. From growing up during The Troubles in Northern Ireland to leading An Garda Síochána through complex reforms and challenges, his story is one of resilience, integrity, and unwavering duty. With moving candour, he shares how his father’s murder shaped his worldview, the philosophy that has guided his leadership, and the toll — and fulfilment — of a life lived in service.

In this episode, we discuss:

His childhood in Belfast and Lisburn and the early influence of his father’s policing career.
The trauma of his father’s assassination by the IRA and the impact it had on his life and career.
How he found the strength to stay in policing and lead without bitterness.
His move from the PSNI to becoming the first Garda Commissioner from outside the force.
The sweeping reforms he implemented across Garda Síochána, from technology to welfare.
Building trust within communities and strengthening international policing cooperation.
The rise of far-right extremism and public disorder — and how the force is responding.
His reaction to the historic vote of no confidence and why he chose not to resign.
What leadership under pressure really means, and what he hopes his legacy will be.

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

Next Episode

Mary McAleese Part 2

In Part 2 of this very special podcast, Mary McAleese opens up to her friend and host Mary Kennedy with honesty, warmth, and wit.

From her complex relationship with the Catholic Church to intimate stories of family life in the west of Ireland, she reflects on her daughter’s wedding, her son coming out to her, knitting, her passion for shopping, and the joys and challenges of everyday living.

With characteristic insight, she shares her hopes for the future of Belfast and reminds us all that life is too short not to live it fully. A powerful, personal, and often humorous conversation with one of Ireland’s most compelling voices.

Produced by Enda Grace at Dundara Television and Media.

Proudly sponsored by the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee.

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