
Launched in the summer of 2020, society and culture podcast First Thought is a way to enjoy Galway International Arts Festival anytime, anywhere.
In the run up to the 2021 Festival (28 August-18 September), newly recorded Vinyl Hours interviews will be released on the podcast every month. First up: actor and singer-songwriter Steve Wall will join host Tiernan Henry for a chat all about the soundtrack of his life (coming Wednesday 26 May)
A total of 26 episodes to date include engaging First Thought Talks on hot-button issues of the day, personal Vinyl Hours music conversations, and engrossing interviews with some of Ireland’s most esteemed artists recorded in the heart of the Festival Gallery.
If you haven’t listened to First Thought before, now is the perfect time to dive in. Unsure where to start? Check out our episode guide:
If you’re always following news and current events, we recommend…
What May the Post-Pandemic Future Hold? Fintan O’Toole in conversation with Catriona Crowe
COVID-19 in Ireland: Dr Luke O’Neill, Dr Catherine Motherway, Dr Mary Favier & David McCullagh
Climate: What Can Change? Minister Eamon Ryan, Tara O’Neill and Mai Sheehan and Dr. Rory Monaghan
Ireland’s Direct Provision System: Donna Vuma, Bulelani Mfaco and Evgeny Shtorn
If you can’t get enough of political podcasts, try...
Brexit and the North: Glenn Patterson, MP Claire Hanna and Dave O’Connell
The State of the UK: Fintan O’Toole, John Lanchester & Martina Fitzgerald
If you’re a history buff, try…
Bloody Sunday 1920: Paul Rouse, Anne Dolan and Diarmaid Ferriter
The Spanish Flu: Dr Ida Milne, Fergal Bowers and Dr Caitriona Clear
Does Culture Drive Human Evolution? With Gaia Vince and Mauren Kennelly
If you’re a music fan, we think you'll like…
If you’re interested in artists and their creative processes, try…
First Thought is available on all major podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iTunes, and Google Podcasts, or visit our podcast page here.
If you enjoyed an episode, we want to hear from you! rate, review and subscribe to First Thought. If you’re interested in supporting Galway International Arts Festival's ongoing work, please consider making a donation, joining our mailing list, or becoming a volunteer.