Welcome to a landmark edition of Quick Irish News! This week, we’re doing things a little differently. This is the very first episode voiced by me, John, as we move toward a more personal, conversational style to keep you updated on everything happening across the 32 counties.

In our usual five-minute sprint, we’re covering 25 stories that defined the week—from the spectacular Northern Lights over Irish skies to the political fallout of a botched multi-million euro IT project.

• The Big Story: Why the Northern Lights weren't just a photo op—the science behind the geomagnetic storm that put our power grid on alert.

• Politics & Policy: Inside the Arts Council’s €6.7m "blind" board disaster and Ireland's push for a European-wide ban on AI-generated deepfakes.

• Justice & Society: The bizarre court case of the teacher who faked two pregnancies and a heartbreaking update on the homelessness crisis in Dublin.

• Infrastructure: A major power boost for the Midlands and the 14-year wait for the Royal Canal Greenway finally nearing an end.

• Sport: Michaela Walsh makes history, an Irish novice wins "The World's Toughest Row," and a massive weekend ahead for the GAA club finals.

• Feel-Good Moment: Celebrating the record-breaking graduation of Irish Travellers at the University of Limerick.

• Follow the Show: Make sure to hit 'follow' on your podcast app so you never miss our five-minute weekly brief.

• First Thoughts: How did you like the new voice? This is a new chapter for the podcast, and I’d love to hear your feedback!

JOHN: "It’s been great finally 'speaking' to you all directly. If you enjoyed the first episode voiced by yours truly, please leave a review—it helps other people find the show!"

In This Episode:Quick Links & Stay Connected

Welcome to a very special episode of Quick World News! Today marks a major milestone for the show—this is the first-ever episode voiced by me, John, bringing you a more personal and human touch to your weekly global update.

In just five minutes, we’re circling the globe to cover the 25 stories you might have missed. From high-stakes diplomacy in the Swiss Alps to a "Top Gun" fashion statement that took the internet by storm, we’ve got it all.

• The Davos Buzz: Why global leaders are talking about AI jobs, and the story behind President Macron’s viral blue aviators.

• Diplomatic Breakthroughs: A massive U-turn on Greenland tariffs and the first high-level Ukraine-Russia-U.S. peace talks in Abu Dhabi.

• Global Shakes-ups: A major military purge in China and the escalating humanitarian crisis in Iran.

• Tech & Culture: How TikTok finally escaped a U.S. ban and the Brazilian films currently taking the Oscars by storm.

• The Feel-Good Finish: Young athletes from around the world take center stage as the 2026 Winter Olympic torchbearers.

• Follow the Podcast: Hit the 'plus' or 'follow' button to get these 5-minute briefings every week.

• Join the Conversation: What did you think of the new "human" voice? Reach out and let me know!

JOHN: "Thanks for joining me on this first 'un-bottled' episode. If you enjoyed the new vibe, please leave a rating—it really helps the show!"

In This Episode:Quick Links & Stay Connected