In this special episode of the Savannah Irish Podcast brought to you by The Savannah Irish Festival host Tara Reese welcomes past general chairman Ashley Norris and current chairman Patrick Beytagh to delve into the intricate details of organizing one of America's largest St. Patrick's Day parades.

They share their unique experiences, reflecting on leadership, tradition, and the evolution of the role. They discuss the importance of maintaining a balance between honoring longstanding traditions and meeting modern expectations, the collaborative efforts required, and the personal challenges and rewards of chairing such a monumental event.

The conversation, peppered with lighthearted banter, also touches on the significance of faith, community, and the enduring legacy of the parade, while providing insights into the organizational and logistical efforts involved.

The Savannah Irish Podcast is proudly supported by The Irish Pub Company - the ‘Official Partner of the Guinness Irish Pub Concept’ which means that they are rated as the best in the world at creating the most profitable and authentic Irish Hospitality Concepts. They design, manufacture and fit out your venue from start to finish.

Learn all about the Savannah Irish Festival at the Alee Temple on Saturday, February 7, and Sunday, February 8, 2026

MEET our SHOW SPONSOR - The Irish Pub Company

MEET our PRODUCTION CREW: Proudly produced by Dee Daniels Media

FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:

00:00 Introduction to the Savannah St. Patrick's Day Parade

00:54 Meet the Chairmen: Ashley Norris and Patrick Beytagh

01:52 The Legacy and Responsibilities of the General Chairman

04:37 The Election Process and Commitment

07:11 Challenges and Rewards of Leadership

08:59 The Role of Volunteers and Committees

17:01 Traditions and Changes Over Time

19:24 Impact of COVID-19 on the Parade

26:45 Leadership Skills and Management

31:44 The Role of Women and Tradition

33:26 The Role of Municipalities in Parades

33:43 Celebrating Irish Heritage in Savannah

34:29 Memories and Anecdotes

36:04 Balancing Tradition and Modern Expectations

36:34 Parade Safety and Regulations

40:29 Challenges and Rewards of Being a Chairman

46:07 Organizing the Parade Lineup

58:52 Legacy and Personal Reflections

01:01:31 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Savannah Irish Podcast brought to you by The Savannah Irish Festival welcomes the committee members for a detailed conversation on planning the 2026 Savannah Irish Festival. Set to take place on February 7th and 8th, 2026, the event promises to build on its 30-year legacy with new features and a larger venue at the Alee Temple.

Featuring guests: Brian Sheffield, Vice President of the Police, Emerald Society of Southeast Georgia in Savannah - Walt Harper, the President for the Ancient Order of Hibernians for the state of Georgia and Entertainment Director for the Savannah Irish Festival - Christin Rouse, President & Vendor Coordinator for the Savannah Irish Festival - Deana Shores, Vice President for the Savannah Irish Festival - and Tara Reese, Treasurer & Podcast Host for the Savannah Irish Festival and Savannah Irish Podcast.

The Savannah Irish Podcast is proudly supported by The Irish Pub Company - the ‘Official Partner of the Guinness Irish Pub Concept’ which means that they are rated as the best in the world at creating the most profitable and authentic Irish Hospitality Concepts. They design, manufacture and fit out your venue from start to finish.

Learn all about the Savannah Irish Festival at the Alee Temple on Saturday, February 7, and Sunday, February 8, 2026

MEET our SHOW SPONSOR - The Irish Pub Company

MEET our PRODUCTION CREW: Proudly produced by Dee Daniels Media

In this episode of the Savannah Irish Podcast brought to you by The Savannah Irish Festival , representatives from various Irish societies in Savannah gather at O'Connell's Irish Pub to share their stories, including their organizations' founding, cultural preservation efforts, and initiatives to engage the younger generation.

The Savannah Irish Podcast is proudly supported by The Irish Pub Company - the ‘Official Partner of the Guinness Irish Pub Concept’ which means that they are rated as the best in the world at creating the most profitable and authentic Irish Hospitality Concepts. They design, manufacture and fit out your venue from start to finish.

The discussion highlights the importance of tradition, stewardship, and community involvement in keeping Savannah's Irish identity vibrant year-round. Notable members such as: Walt Harper - AOH (Ancient Order of Hibernian), Kim Gill - LAOH (Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernian), Deana Shores - Daughters of Ireland, Dori Sessoms - Police Emerald Society, and Patrick McCarthy - Fenian Society introduce themselves and discuss upcoming events like the Savannah Irish Festival.

The conversation also touches on favorite aspects of 'green season,' leveraging digital technology for engagement, and plans for future growth within the societies.

Learn more about the VOICES in this episode AND tap the links to support the Savannah Irish Festival:

Georgia Southern University's Research & Study Abroad Program in Wexford, Ireland

Learn all about the Savannah Irish Festival at the Alee Temple on Saturday, February 7, and Sunday, February 8, 2026

MEET our SHOW SPONSOR - The Irish Pub Company

MEET our PRODUCTION CREW: Proudly produced by Dee Daniels Media

FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:

00:00 Introduction to Savannah Irish Podcast Season Three

00:46 Meet the Representatives of Savannah's Irish Societies

01:38 Founding Stories of Savannah's Irish Societies

05:51 Traditions and Activities of Savannah's Irish Societies

25:28 Engaging the Younger Generation in Irish Heritage

32:53 Favorite Aspects of Savannah's Irish Community

35:21 Family Heritage and the TIC Cross

35:43 Becoming Grand Marshall

36:32 Seasonal Festivities and Traditions

37:36 Favorite Parts of the Season

41:15 Joining Irish Organizations

47:40 Favorite Irish Foods and Drinks

48:12 Dreaming of Ireland

51:23 Starting a Custom Clothing Business

52:49 Supporting the Community

55:09 Final Thoughts and Thank Yous

In this episode of the Savannah Irish Podcast brought to you by The Savannah Irish Festival host Tara Reese sits down with Dr. Amy Potter and a group of honors global scholars from Georgia Southern University who spent six weeks in Ireland.

The Savannah Irish Podcast is proudly supported by The Irish Pub Company - the ‘Official Partner of the Guinness Irish Pub Concept’ which means that they are rated as the best in the world at creating the most profitable and authentic Irish Hospitality Concepts. They design, manufacture and fit out your venue from start to finish.

These students share their experiences conducting agricultural research, studying international farming practices, and immersing in Irish culture. They discuss their unexpected findings, such as the gap in succession planning in Irish farming and the nuanced relationship between farmers and the government.

The conversation also touches on the students' eye-opening cultural experiences, their bonding moments, and how the trip has influenced their academic and career aspirations. Dr. Potter provides insights into the broader vision of the Ireland initiative at Georgia Southern. With moments of humor and heartfelt realizations, this episode is a fascinating look at the impact of global study programs.

Learn more about the VOICES in this episode AND tap the links to support the Savannah Irish Festival:

Georgia Southern University's Research & Study Abroad Program in Wexford, Ireland

Learn all about the Savannah Irish Festival at the Alee Temple on Saturday, February 7, and Sunday, February 8, 2026

MEET our SHOW SPONSOR - The Irish Pub Company

MEET our PRODUCTION CREW: Proudly produced by Dee Daniels Media

FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:

00:00 Introduction to the Savannah Irish Podcast

01:03 Meet the Georgia Southern University Honors Global Scholars

01:32 Dr. Amy Potter on the Ireland Initiative

02:01 Student Introductions and Favorite Subjects

03:15 Overview of the Agricultural Research Project

06:19 Conducting the Survey and Initial Findings

07:22 Surprising Survey Results and Farmer-Government Relations

08:01 Challenges in Succession Planning and Mental Health

11:31 Comparing Irish and American Dairy and Beef

14:04 Broader Implications of Agricultural Research

19:27 Presenting Research to High-Ranking Officials

23:49 Experiencing Irish Farm Life

28:44 Daily Life and Learning in Ireland

30:23 Self-Motivation and Group Dynamics

31:39 First Impressions and Cultural Shocks

34:25 Bonding and Social Experiences

37:48 Impact on Future Goals

41:13 Unique Learning Experiences

44:42 Reflections and Gratitude

50:01 Memorable Moments and Traditions

56:34 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations

In this episode of the Savannah Irish Podcast brought to you by The Savannah Irish Festival host Tara Reese focuses on the revered position of Grand Marshal in the Savannah St. Patrick's Day Parade.

The Savannah Irish Podcast is proudly supported by The Irish Pub Company - the ‘Official Partner of the Guinness Irish Pub Concept’ which means that they are rated as the best in the world at creating the most profitable and authentic Irish Hospitality Concepts. They design, manufacture and fit out your venue from start to finish.

Guests John Forbes, Mike Kenny, and Mike Roush, all former Grand Marshals, share their personal stories and the significance of this lifetime honor. They discuss the traditions, emotional experiences, and community leadership tied to the role, including insights into the historic COVID-era cancellation. The conversation also highlights the various events leading up to the parade, the importance of humility and community involvement, and reflections on the enduring spirit of Savannah's Irish community.

Learn more about the VOICES in this episode AND tap the links to support the Savannah Irish Festival:

Learn all about the Savannah Irish Festival at the Alee Temple on Saturday, February 7, and Sunday, February 8, 2026

MEET our SHOW SPONSOR - The Irish Pub Company

MEET our PRODUCTION CREW: Proudly produced by Dee Daniels Media

FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:

00:00 Welcome to Season Three

00:09 Meet the Grand Marshals

00:19 The Honor of Being Grand Marshal

00:27 Grand Marshals Share Their Stories

00:45 Impact of COVID on the Parade

01:15 Introductions and Backgrounds

02:38 Path to Becoming Grand Marshal

03:17 Deciding to Run for Grand Marshal

06:37 Election Process and Emotions

16:16 Leading the Parade

25:17 Traditions and Community Impact

32:11 Setting Up for the Parade

33:28 Memorable Parade Moments

36:45 The Impact of COVID-19 on the Parade

40:44 Reflections on Being Grand Marshal

49:54 Irish Traditions and Fun Questions

55:10 Advice for Future Grand Marshals

56:24 Closing Remarks and Festival Announcement

Join the SAVANNAH IRISH PODCAST brought to you by The Savannah Irish Festival as host Tara Reese dives into a lively discussion with tourism leaders Michael Owens and Joe Marinelli about the massive economic and cultural impact of St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah.

The Savannah Irish Podcast is proudly supported by The Irish Pub Company - the ‘Official Partner of the Guinness Irish Pub Concept’ which means that they are rated as the best in the world at creating the most profitable and authentic Irish Hospitality Concepts. They design, manufacture and fit out your venue from start to finish.

The guests cover how tourism dollars invigorate the local economy, the special ties between Savannah and Ireland, and the importance of local and international collaboration. Expect fun insights, personal stories, and behind-the-scenes details about the planning of this beloved celebration.

From debunking myths about visitor numbers to reminiscing about heartwarming moments and wild antics, this episode offers a rich tapestry of perspectives on one of Savannah's most cherished traditions.

Learn more about the VOICES in this episode AND tap the links to support the Savannah Irish Festival:

Learn all about the Savannah Irish Festival at the Alee Temple on Saturday, February 7, and Sunday, February 8, 2026

MEET our SHOW SPONSOR - The Irish Pub Company

MEET our PRODUCTION CREW: Proudly produced by Dee Daniels Media

FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:

00:00 Introduction to the Savannah Irish Podcast

00:40 Meet the Tourism Leaders: Michael Owens and Joseph Marinelli

01:30 The Economic Impact of Tourism in Savannah

05:21 Debunking St. Patrick's Day Myths

09:25 Visitor vs. Tourist: Understanding the Difference

11:56 The Importance of St. Patrick's Day to Savannah

19:42 Behind the Scenes: Organizing St. Patrick's Day

25:33 Cultural Exchange with Ireland

26:02 Irish Immigration to Savannah

26:28 Building Business Bridges with Wexford

27:15 Cultural and Educational Exchanges

27:47 Personal Reflections on Irish Friendships

28:23 Scottish and Ulster Scots Heritage

29:28 Future Collaborations with Wexford

32:43 Savannah's St. Patrick's Day Traditions

36:41 Favorite St. Patrick's Day Memories

40:03 Final Reflections and Farewells

In this episode of the SAVANNAH IRISH PODCAST brought to you by The Savannah Irish Festival - host Tara Reese sits down over a pint - or four - of Guiness ON LOCATION at O'Connell's Irish Pub with Irish transplants Derek, Sharon, and Damien for PART 2 as they share their experiences of moving from Ireland to Savannah, Georgia.

The Savannah Irish Podcast is proudly supported by The Irish Pub Company - the ‘Official Partner of the Guinness Irish Pub Concept’ which means that they are rated as the best in the world at creating the most profitable and authentic Irish Hospitality Concepts. They design, manufacture and fit out your venue from start to finish.

With plenty of laughter and 'crack,' they discuss how they maintain their Irish heritage while embracing Southern culture. They recount their journeys to America, the cultural shocks, and the amusing misunderstandings resulting from their accents. From savoring both Irish and Southern traditions, navigating through local festivals, to the peculiarities of American football versus GAA, this episode is a warm-hearted, humorous celebration of Irish spirit blending with Southern hospitality. Join them at O'Connell's Pub, where the conversation is lively, and the Guinness flows freely.

Learn more about the VOICES in this episode AND tap the links to support the Savannah Irish Festival:

Learn all about the Savannah Irish Festival at the Alee Temple on Saturday, February 7, and Sunday, February 8, 2026

MEET our SHOW SPONSOR - The Irish Pub Company

MEET our PRODUCTION CREW: Proudly produced by Dee Daniels Media

FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:

00:00 Introduction and Meet the Guests

00:10 Raising Irish-American Kids

03:04 Favorite Irish Foods

04:15 Family Visits and Impressions of Savannah

06:40 Finding Love Abroad

12:15 Humorous Anecdotes and Reflections

15:37 Reflecting on Marriage and Family

17:21 Nostalgia for Ireland

19:03 Damien's Musical Journey

24:25 Auditioning for Bagatelle

29:26 A Poem for Guinness Lovers

32:05 Closing Remarks and Thank Yous

In this episode of the SAVANNAH IRISH PODCAST brought to you by The Savannah Irish Festival - host Tara Reese sits down over a pint - or four - of Guiness ON LOCATION at O'Connell's Irish Pub with Irish transplants Derek, Sharon, and Damien as they share their experiences of moving from Ireland to Savannah, Georgia.

The Savannah Irish Podcast is proudly supported by The Irish Pub Company - the ‘Official Partner of the Guinness Irish Pub Concept’ which means that they are rated as the best in the world at creating the most profitable and authentic Irish Hospitality Concepts. They design, manufacture and fit out your venue from start to finish.

With plenty of laughter and 'crack,' they discuss how they maintain their Irish heritage while embracing Southern culture. They recount their journeys to America, the cultural shocks, and the amusing misunderstandings resulting from their accents. From savoring both Irish and Southern traditions, navigating through local festivals, to the peculiarities of American football versus GAA, this episode is a warm-hearted, humorous celebration of Irish spirit blending with Southern hospitality. Join them at O'Connell's Pub, where the conversation is lively, and the Guinness flows freely.

Learn more about the VOICES in this episode AND tap the links to support the Savannah Irish Festival:

Learn all about the Savannah Irish Festival at the Alee Temple on Saturday, February 7, and Sunday, February 8, 2026

MEET our SHOW SPONSOR - The Irish Pub Company

MEET our PRODUCTION CREW: Proudly produced by Dee Daniels Media

FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:

00:00 Meet the Irish Savannahians

00:57 Sharon's Journey from Sligo to Savannah

01:45 Damien's Move from Dublin to Savannah

02:50 Derek's Path to Savannah and Firefighting

07:43 First Impressions of Savannah

09:11 Irish Traditions and Southern Hospitality

26:24 Cultural Sayings and Expressions

29:21 Sports: American Football vs. GAA

32:09 Sligo's Day at Crow Park

32:57 GAA vs. American Football

33:43 Funny Story from San Francisco

35:16 Southern Gigi vs. Irish Granny Cooking

36:13 Irish Breakfast and Brown Bread

37:23 Potatoes and Roast Dinners

39:53 Favorite Whiskeys and Drinking Stories

44:47 Accents and Misunderstandings

49:56 Returning to Ireland

53:03 Americanized or Not?