Talkin’ Balls

Talkin' Balls - Episode 70

Tue, 12 May 2026 22:55:49 +0100

NBA Playoffs - Round 2! Eoin O'Connor is back for the second episode of a back-to-back podcast to discuss the Eastern Conference Playoffs. Is 'The Process' dead and buried? Are the Knicks really all that and is Jalen Bruenson capable of carrying New York to the Promised Land? Are Harden and Spida good enough to upset the Top Seeded Pistons and are these playoffs fun? Of course they are! Go Basketball!!!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 69

Tue, 12 May 2026 22:54:43 +0100

Eoin's Commute Pod #1! In the first of a two Podcast Series, Mike is joined by NBA Insider, Eoin O'connor as they talk about the NBA and the Western Conference Playoffs. After the NBA Draft Lottery, who will the Warriors select at Pick 11? Were the Clippers the big winners? Is LeBron really going to retire? Are the Thunder on their way to Back-to-Back titles and can Wemby keep his elbows to himself and carry the Spurs past Antman and the Wolves?

Talkin' Balls - Episode 68

Tue, 05 May 2026 21:38:00 +0100

Dex's Midnight Ramblings! Mike is joined by sports nut, Declan Brennan to discuss a wide variety of topics including a comparison between Mikel Arteta and Marty Shottenheimer (I told you it was a wide variety), the insufferable and painful Celtics (I loved this bit), the downfall of LIV (Dead) Golf and lastly, zany sports stats. Did you know Julio Franco was playing at the age of 146? It's Dex, it's madness and it's all Balls! Let's GOOOOOOO!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 67

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 23:41:21 +0100

Baseball Surprise, Surprise, Surprises! Mike is joined by MLB Insider, Todd Kay, to discuss the biggest surprises of the first month of the 2026 Major League Baseball season. Todd laments the debacle in Beantown, Mike lauds Dodgers phenom, Dalton Rushing, whilst both of them savour the early-season misery of both the Mets and Phillies. The lads also talk about the Japanese gamble that's paid off for the White Sox and wonder where has Nando's Power Stroke gone? It's all Baseball and it's all brilliant!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 66

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 22:42:32 +0100

The NBA Playoffs are Here! Mike is joined by Producer Extraordinaire, Eoin O'Connor, and they discuss the first weekend of the first round of the NBA Playoffs. Are the Knicks in trouble? Will the Celtics settle their nerves and rid themselves of the Sixers? Will the Spurs recover from Wemby's Face Plant and can the Lakers and an ageless LeBron keep it going before reinforcements arrive in the form of Luka and Reeves? And, who should be the MVP? The best player in the League or the best player on the best team? LET'S GOOOOOOOO!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 65

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 18:26:10 +0000

Baseball is BACK AGAIN! Mike flies solo and gives his Top 10 MLB American League Power Rankings. How is Cleveland competitive with a team that can't score and doesn't really have any pitching? Are the Royals ready to take the AL Central Crown? Can the Cal and the Mariners keep the Magic of 2025 going into 2026? And, in the Beast of the AL East, are the Yankees top dogs again? It's Talkin' Balls. It's the Junior Circuit. Let's GOOOOOOO!!!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 64

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 22:10:43 +0000

Spring has Sprung - it's Baseball Season! In the first of a two-part, MLB Podcast Series, Mike is joined by Major League Baseball Insider, Todd Kay as they discuss their predictions for the National League. Are the Dodgers on their way to a Three-peat? Are Ronald Acuna Jr and the Braves contenders or pretenders? Can the Cubs take it one step further and dethrone LA? Are the Pirates going to actually try to win this season? Will the Padres break Mike's heart again? Let's GOOOOOOOOO!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 63

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 22:09:05 +0000

Talkin’ NBA Balls! Mike is joined by NBA insider, Eoin O’Connor to discuss the current state of the NBA including all the trades that never materialised at the trade deadline and why Steph is staying by the Bay. The boys also talk about the 65-games rule and how it might impact on this season’s MVP race and how is the League going to fix ‘Tanking’? Come pound the hardwood with EO28 and MK45!!!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 62

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 20:19:54 +0000

Super Bowl LX Recap! Mike is joined by The Swami and The Chairman to discuss Super Bowl 60 and why The Dark Side is the place to be! Whilst there was tremendous redemption for Sam Darnold, there was nothing but pain and bewilderment for Drake Maye – regardless of what the stats say. The Seattle Seahawks and that dominating defense are the NFL’s Champion. Let’s GOOOOOOOOO!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 61

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 09:30:57 +0000

Super Bowl LX Preview with The Swami & The Chairman! Mike is joined by Simon and Dec as they discuss WHY the Patriots and Seahawks are Super Bowl bound and have earned the right to travel to Santa Clara. The guys also talk about the Super Bowl match-up and whether it will be a defensive battle or hopefully the offensive stars will come out and shine! And finally, the lads give their thoughts on the NFL Hall of Fame snubbing Bill Belichick and ask WHY are so many HOF voters petty bellends? Let's GOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 60

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 18:21:09 +0000

It's a Toddcast! Mike is joined by Todd Kay to discuss the Major League Baseball Offseason, free agent signings and the wheelin' and dealin' of the winter Hot Stove! The boys talk about the dominance of the Big Market teams during the offseason and ask, why can't everyone spend money and try to compete for a championship? Todd also pitches in (see what I did there?) his thoughts on MLB's Collective Bargaining Agreement and why it's possible there could be no baseball in 2027! Get it done, lads! It's the first baseball podcast of 2026. Let's GOOOOOOOOO!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 59

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 20:33:24 +0000

Cardiac Caleb! Bo is Nixed! Throw a Shroud over Stroud! Mike is joined by The Swami to talk about the NFL Divisional Playoff Round and preview the NFL Conference Championship games. Is Caleb Williams the most exciting player in the NFL? Will the Texans start a Go Fund Me page for CJ Stroud's therapy? Can Sam and the Seahawks D hold serve at Home against the Rams? And, without Bo, have the Broncos any chance against Drake and the Pats? LET'S GOOOOOOOOOO!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 58

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 21:01:10 +0000

NFL Madness and Mayhem! Mike is joined by NFL fanatics, The Swami and The Chairman as they review the NFL Wild Card Round and preview the NFL Divisional Round. Is Aaron Rogers done? Is Mike Tomlin heading elsewhere? Can the Patriots really be trusted this late in the season? Can the Bears keep pulling off miracles and/or are the Packers just the Kings of Choke-Jobs? And, will Mile High be good to the Broncos whilst the Seahawks get ready to lower the Boom in Seattle? The Road Trip of all Road Trips hangs in the balance...

Talkin' Balls - Episode 57

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 21:01:51 +0000

NFL Playoff Preview with The Swami and The Chairman! Mike is joined by special guests Simon Hand and Declan Delaney as they talk about the upcoming Wildcard Round of the NFL Playoffs. Are the Bears for real? Do the Broncos have the bottle to hold serve at home and make it to Super Bowl 60? Do the Eagles hate their fans so much that they'd try to lose on purpose? Is Drake Maye (Maybe not) a legit MVP candidate? Should a team with a losing record be in the Playoffs??? It's the Business End of the NFL Season - LET'S GOOOOOOOOOO!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 56

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 21:11:07 +0000

NFL Surprises with The Swami! Mike is joined by resident gridiron expert, Simon Hand, to talk about some of the surprises of the current NFL season. How 'bout dem Bears! The lads discuss the troubles of the Chiefs and Commies whilst highlighting the rise of the Rams and Pats. Simon also gives his playoff predictions with five weeks to go in the season and why he thinks a 1985 Super Bowl Rematch would be brilliant! Did someone say Road Trip to California?!?!?

Talkin' Balls - Episode 55

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 22:52:49 +0000

I'M BAAAAAAACK! After a lengthy hiatus, Mike is back in the chair to discuss Gambling in Sports with special guest, Todd Kay. The boys discuss the recent gambling related scandals in the NBA and Major League Baseball, the history of gambling scandals in sports and the challenge that the respective disciplines have in trying to generate revenue from deep-pocketed gambling companies while also trying to preserve the integrity of the game. Is it really a problem or are we all just burying our heads in the sand as the Gambling Zombies devour the Sporting World?

Talkin' Balls - Episode 54

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 10:49:21 +0100

British & Irish Lions Down Under! Mike is joined by special guests The Swami, Simon Hand, and Jim Hurley as they discuss the Lions Tour of Australia. With Simon and Jim right in the thick of the action in Brisbane, they give their thoughts on the Lions Team selection for the First Test, which takes place this coming Saturday (July 19), and their predictions for the three test matches against Australia in Oz.

Talkin' Balls - Episode 53

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 22:01:07 +0100

Baseball Umpires - for better or worse! Mike is joined by Todd Kay to discuss the inevitability of technology becoming a greater part of baseball and the possible future of Robo-Umps in the game. (Boooooo...) The lads also talk about some of the most famous (infamous) umpiring moments in baseball history and how the Baseball Gods have it all under control!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 52

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 18:52:00 +0100

Mike is joined by special guest, Dr. Dale Jacobs, Professor at the University of Windsor in Canada and author of his newly published book, Makeshift Fields - Chasing Baseball Across Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales. The book is a two-month snapshot of grassroots baseball in Ireland and Britain from Dale’s travels in the summer of 2023. You can buy Makeshift Fields on Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Makeshift-Fields-Chasing-Baseball-Scotland/dp/1778430619

Talkin' Balls - Episode 51

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 15:24:18 +0100

The Cobra Pod! Mike dedicates this short and sweet but special Podcast to Dave Parker. A ballplayer of immense talent and an attitude to match, Parker was the definition of badassery and what it means to be a true five-tool player. RIP, Cobra!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 50

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 09:43:13 +0100

NBA Finals and More! Mike is joined by his special guest, Dex Brennan, and they discuss the NBA Finals, is this young Thunder team a Dynasty in the making, Achilles injuries, NBA Trades and Transactions, the Celtics meltdown and the Red Sox dumping salary! Isn't it great to see Boston sports teams in pain?!?

Talkin' Balls - Episode 49

Sat, 14 Jun 2025 14:21:25 +0100

I'm BACK! After a short hiatus, Mike is back to talk about the NBA Finals, the incessant scourge of Sports Gambling and why Pete Rose should NEVER have his lifetime ban from baseball lifted and NEVER be considered for the MLB Hall of Fame.

Talkin' Balls - Episode 48

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 21:36:23 +0100

Hoooops! Mike is joined by Eoin O'Connor and Todd Kay as they discuss the First Round of the NBA Playoffs. Are the Lakers being run into the ground by the young and hungry Wolves? Can Steph keep it going for the Warriors even without Jimmy Buckets? And, can The Joker fight off the Clippers all by himself? The lads also conduct the All-Time Greatest Basketball Player Draft in whyich Eoin goes scoring crazy, Todd goes nostalgic and Mike goes big - real BIG! Let's GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 47

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 22:24:28 +0100

NBA Playoff Review and the WNBA! Mike is joined by Dex Brennan as they discuss the first weekend of the NBA Playoffs. Will OKC win every game by 50 points? Are the Cavs and Celtics destined to battle it out for the Eastern Conference Title? Are the Clips and Kawhi real threats in the West and are the Lakers in trouble against the Wolves? And, what is the Marketing strategy of the WNBA and will the League ruin the greatest growth opportunity it has ever been handed?

Talkin' Balls - Episode 46

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 22:12:39 +0100

Rory wins the Masters and the Warriors are a Play-In team?!? Mike is joined by Producer Extraordinaire, Eoin O’Connor, and they talk about Rory McIlroy’s triumph at the Masters and what it means to him and his fans. The lads also discuss the upcoming NBA Playoffs and why the Warriors could be dangerous - if they can get by the Grizzlies - and how on God's earth could the World Champion Celtics be considered ‘sleepers’?

Talkin' Balls - Episode 45

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 18:34:12 +0100

Lightning Pod! Mike flies solo and talks a little Hockey? Yes, Hockey. He also talks NBA Hoops, NCAA March Madness, Masters Golf and, of course, Baseball!!! And congratulations to 'JT', John Tone, for winning the Talkin' Balls 2025 March Madness Basketball Competition.

Talkin' Balls - Episode 44

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 22:52:13 +0100

Baseball Opening Weekend Recap! Mike sits down with Dex Brennan to discuss the opening weekend of the MLB Season and the impact that Torpedo Bats and technological innovations will have on the season and the future of Baseball. The lads also discuss PEDs in Baseball and what is wrong with Rafael Devers. Has he just become 'bad at baseball' or is there more to his historically horrid start to the 2025 season! GO PADS!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 43

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 22:38:38 +0000

We're Talkin' BASEBALL! Mike is joined by Todd Kay to discuss the upcoming 2025 Major League Baseball Season, some interesting story lines and, of course, PREDICTIONS! Are the Rangers going to get back on track after a disappointing 2024? Are the Dodgers destined to repeat and who mentioned the REDS?!? LFGSD!!!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 42

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 20:36:04 +0000

MARCH MADNESS! Mike flies solo and makes his picks for the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament. Will UCONN threepeat? Will the SEC justify the 14 conference teams selected by the tournament committee? Or will it be the Aztecs bringing home their first ever National title? I can dream if I want! Listerners can also join our Tournament Challenge Competition with a chance to be a WINNER! Everybody loves stickers! Just click the link and make your picks - you've got nothing to lose, except your self esteem...

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Talkin' Balls - Episode 41

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 22:40:29 +0000

NBA Action with EO! Mike is joined by Producer Extraordinaire, Eoin O'Connor, and they talk about how Jimmy Butler is getting on in the Bay Area, how Luka is getting on in La La Land and how horrific it must be to support the Mavs and Sixers - who cares?!? The lads also discuss if the Cavs have a legit chance to dethrone the Celtics and why it's time for the Thunder to put up or shut up in this year's playoffs. LET'S GOOOOO!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 40

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 20:42:49 +0000

Super Bowl LIX Recap! Mike is joined by the Swami and the Chariman to discuss the disappointment of staying up to all hours of the night / morning for Super Bowl LIX and the magnificience of the Philadelphia Eagles. Simon and Dec also decide that it's time to 'blow-up' and rebuild the Lucky Chiefs whilst Mike has his eye on scoring tickets when the NFL visits Croke Park in Dublin this coming autumn. Let's GOOOOO!!!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 39

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 22:05:37 +0000

The NBA Trade of the Century! Mike is joined by Eoin O'Connor and they discuss the Luka trade to the Lakers. How could this happen? What are the Mavericks doing? How much does Dallas hate Luka, how could they give him away for so little and what does this mean to both the teams and the rest of the League? The lads also talk about other moves and what is happening to the Dubs? Is LeBron going to join Steph in the Bay Area? Eoin can but dream...

Talkin' Balls - Episode 38

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 22:02:19 +0000

Bountiful Baseball Bonanza! Mike is joined by 'LA Todd Kay' as they talk nothing but baseball including the Hot Stove action over the past couple of months, the biggest deals and why some Free Agents are still looking for a home. The boys also discuss Dodger Dominance during the off-season and finish up this epic chat with their views on the voting process for the Baseball Hall of Fame. Is it really broken or is Mike just yelling at clouds?!?

Talkin' Balls - Episode 37

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 20:34:19 +0000

The Swami Learns his lesson! Mike is joined by the Swami, Simon Hand, as they discuss the NFL Conference Championship games from 26 January. And, whilst the Commies are heading home, the Swami still likes Jayden Daniels and his chances of raising Washington to 'Super' heights in the future. The lads also talk about the Eagles / Chiefs Super Bowl Match-up and why Patrick is fitting his finger for a Threepeat Ring!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 36

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 08:28:29 +0000

NFL Conference Championship Chatter! Mike is joined by the Swami and the Chairman to discuss last weekend's NFL Divisional Playoff games and also select their Conference Champions. Is weather that much of a factor in an NFL Game? Are the refs being paid by the Chiefs? And, although Mahomes is still King, is Jayden Daniels the new Sheriff in town?

Talkin' Balls - Episode 35

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 20:45:50 +0000

NFL Season Recap & 'Super Wild Card' Playoff Predictions! Mike is joined by the Swami, Simon Hand, as they perform a post-mortem on their NFL preseason predictions they made way back in early September. *Spoiler Alert - The Swami Smoked it! The lads then talk about the upcoming 'Super Wild Card' Round of the playoffs whilst the Swami looks to recreate his prognosticating magic again! Let's GOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 34

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 19:13:52 +0000

Best Sporting Moments of 2024 - The Draft! Mike is joined by The Swami and TK to select their top sports moments from the past year. The lads cover myriad events from 2024 and even discuss the moments and people that had an impact on a much wider audience than just the sports world - did somebody say RAYGUN?!?

Talkin' Balls - Episode 33

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 06:04:19 +0000

NBA Update! Mike is joined by special guest and Producer Extraordinaire, Eoin O’Connor, as they discuss the NBA Cup, and how Giannis has resurrected the Bucks from the depths of despair. They also talk about recent trades (did someone mention the Warriors?) and moves that could be coming down the tracks (did someone mention Jimmy Buckets?) The lads finish it off by responding to Shaquille O’Neal’s belief that the NBA is unwatchable and put the brakes on any suggestion that the NBA is on a downhill slide. We actually fix all the NBA's problems!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 32

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 11:47:07 +0000

NBA Hoopla! Mike is joined by Producer Extraordinaire, Eoin O'Connor and Declan Brennan and they talk all things NBA basketball including the debacle that is the Bucks, the undefeated Cavs, Giannis joining the Warriors and the dumpster fire in Philly. They also discuss Jokic Magic, the future of the Grizzlies and is Chet better than Wemby? Let's GOOOOO!!!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 31

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 22:18:15 +0000

NFL Midseason surprises and a Rugby Autumn International Preview! Mike is joined on the podcast by the Swami, Simon Hand and The Chairman, Dec Delaney and they talk about what has surpised them from the first half of the NFL Season. The Swami just won't let got of his Chief's Threepeat Dream! The boys also discuss Ireland taking on some of the top Southern Hemisphere rugby nations as they begin their Autumn International Series against New Zealand on November 8th! Come on ye Boyz in Green!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 30

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 23:00:15 +0100

Baseball Bonanza! Mike is joined by special guest, Todd Kay, and they talk nothing but baseball! The lads discuss the passing of two icons of the game, Luis Tiant and Pete Rose, and their everlasting legacies - for better and for worse. We also talk about the NLCS and ALCS and the beauty of the game and what makes October the absolute best!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 29

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 13:09:15 +0100

Baseball Pennant Races and Self Policing! Mike is joined by special guest Todd Kay and they discuss self policing in baseball and why it's still an important part of the game. The lads also break down the MLB pennant races, predict who they think will make the playoffs, why the Orioles are no longer flying and the Tigers are roaring!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 28

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 07:51:03 +0100

NFL & MLB! Episode 28 welcomes special guest Dex Brennan to the show as he and Mike give their takes on Week 1 of the new NFL season. Dex fears for the Packers, is impressed by the 49ers and posits that, no matter how awful the quality of football the NFL peddles, fans will eat it up! The lads also talk about the remaining weeks of the Major League Baseball season and how the Mets are looking good to make it into the playoffs but will likely 'Metsy' it up on the season's final day.

Talkin' Balls - Episode 27

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 08:25:45 +0100

NFL Season Preview! Mike is joined by special guests, The Swami (Simon Hand) and The Chairman (Declan Delaney) and they discuss their predictions for the upcoming 2024-25 NFL Season. The boys select their Conference Champions and then focus on their Super Bowl prognostications, which centre 'chiefly' around the current champs, whilst Mike pushes his chips towards Motown. Let's GOOOOOOO!!!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 26

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 23:11:28 +0100

Baseball History Lesson! In this two part special Mike is joined by guest, Todd Kay, to discuss the most iconic Homeruns in Baseball History. And, in the second segment, Mike and Todd conduct a Draft of the Greatest Players in baseball history. So, have a listen and learn something! (How did I leave Stan Musial off my team?!?!?)

Talkin' Balls - Episode 25

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 13:19:51 +0100

The Silver Jubilee Episode (#25) features nothing but Diamonds!!! Mike welcomes special guest, Declan Brennan and they discuss Major League Baseball Awards and who should win the MVP, Cy Young and Rookie of the Year awards. The two also talk about each of the Divisional races and what teams will make the MLB playoffs!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 24

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 10:27:21 +0100

Tangent Land! Mike is joined by Producer Extraordinaire, Eoin O'Conner, and they discuss the Mens Olympic Basketball Tournament, Steph, KD, Lebron, Devin Booker, the Warriors and Steve Kerr! THEN, they talk about the Womens Olympic Basketball Tournament, Caitlin, World Basketball and LA28. The boys finish off an action-packed Podcast with an update on the NFL IPP and how Irishman Charlie Smyth is doing, as well as a quick look at MLB's hottest Division, the NL West. GO PADS!!!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 23

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 23:15:40 +0100

Olympic Basketball!!! In episode 23, Mike talks Olympic Basketball with special guests Todd Kay and Declan Brennan and why the depth and togetherness of the USA should see them flying home with Gold around their necks. (Yes, the Joker is awesome but one against 12 just ain't gonna cut it for the Serbians.) The lads also discuss how playing for one's country makes some players become superhuman superstars - we're looking at you Denis Schoeder. Let's GOOOOO!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 22

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 14:51:39 +0100

BASEBALL BONANZA!!! Mike talks about Ireland's hosting of the 2024 European Baseball Championship Qualifiers and how Irish Baseball and its youth development programme are on the rise! Mike also breaks down the Major League Baseball Trade Deadline and who were the winners and loooooosers! Go PADS!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 21

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 00:11:14 +0100

Olympic Fever! Mike is joined by Todd Kay and Declan Brennan to break down the Mens Olympic Basketball Tournament and discuss the teams and key players in what should be an extremely interesting and exciting battle for Gold! The lads also talk about Olympic Rugby 7s and what chance Ireland have at winning it all! And don't forget, Ireland host the European Baseball Championship Qualifiers in Ashbourne's International Baseball Centre from July 25-28. COYBIG!!!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 20

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 17:50:57 +0100

Irish Baseball and Irish Rugby! Mike talks with Sean Mitchell and Jimmy Pita about the upcoming Ashbourne International Baseball Tournament and Ireland's hosting of the European Baseball Championship Qualifiers taking place in Ireland from July 25-28. Mike then gets the Big Boys - Declan Delaney and Joe Sargent - to discuss Ireland's successful Rugby Test Series with South Africa and why the future is bright for the Boys in Green! We even talk a bit of fashion...

Talkin' Balls - Episode 19

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 00:01:04 +0100

HOOOOPS, Baseball and Euro 2024! Mike is joined by special guests Eoin O'Connor and Todd Kay to talk about the NBA Draft and the myriad moves taking place during the free agent season. Are Warriors fans finally going to admit that it's over? The lads also discuss the WNBA All-Star team to take on the mighty US Womens Olympic team and why this is the kind of bright initiative that they need to keep the Caitln Carousel rolling. We finish up with a bit of baseball chat and finally talk about the 2024 European Football Championships in Germany as it enters the Quarter-Final stage. Auf gehts Deutschland!!!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 18

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 19:46:39 +0100

I'M BACK!!! In this episode, Mike returns from his holidays to talk NBA Championships, the WNBA, what being a teammate is really all about and why we need to appreciate athletes instead of running them down. LET'S GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 17

Wed, 01 May 2024 15:10:10 +0100

The SWAMI is back!!! Mike is joined by Simon Hand to discuss the NFL Draft and whether the Bears have finally got the Quarterback they've wanted for 30 years! We also discuss the other top picks in the Draft and whether the Atlanta Falcons got it all wrong or does the rest of the world just have 'Penix Envy'! Mike also recaps the NBA Playoffs and gives his take on why it's time for Joel Embiid to be a lot more like his team mate Tyrese Maxey - the REAL superstar of the Sixers.

Talkin' Balls - Episode 16

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 12:41:11 +0100

Ménage à trois, baby! In Episode Sweet 16, Mike welcomes Eoin O'Connor and Todd Kay for a threeway and to also talk NBA Playoffs and the end of an era for the the Warriors. Are the Lakers done? Can Embiid fight his way past the Knicks? Is Giannis going to make it back from injury to save the Bucks? Are the Clippers taking us for fools again, again, again...? It's all NBA Action - it's Talkin' Balls!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 15

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 18:25:25 +0100

The Slugger, his Interpreter, the Gambler and the Feds. Mike flies solo and gives his take on the Shohei Ohtani Gambling saga and why he believes there are still loads of questions to answer, regardless of the FBI Report. Mike explains why he thinks this year's Masters was painful viewing, whilst pining for the days of Seve and Bubba! He also asks the question, 'Why can't some sports people just shut their mouths?' PS - Caitlin ROCKS!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 14

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 12:09:46 +0100

The Irish are taking over the NFL and the Masters - we hope! The Warriors are making a run and Womens basketball is on the rise! Mike is joined by Eoin O'Connor and they talk about the NFL's International Player Pathway Program and how the Irish kickers faired at the NFL combine. We discuss the NBA Playoff picture with one weekend to go in the NBA's regular season and also preview the Masters Golf Tournament and what chances the Irish contingent have of donning the Green Jacket. They finish up by discussing the NCAA Basketball Tournament and how the WNBA has a golden opportunity to really make women's basketball relevant and successful through the magic of Caitlin Clark.

Talkin' Balls - Episode 13

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 11:49:23 +0100

It's FANTANGENT!!! In Episode 13, Mike is joined by LA transplant and Boston resident, Todd Kay, and they talk about the Celtics, Red Sox, Patriots and anything that is remotely - or not - linked to those sporting organisations. We also discuss why Nicola Jokic is the Best Player in the World and why the NBA title goes through the Mile High City. And, we talk why it's Win or get sacked for Dave Roberts and the Dodgers and what Major League Baseball needs to do to survive in the future.

Talkin' Balls - Episode 12

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 21:40:27 +0000

Busted Brackets, Baseball and Bad Gamblers. In this episode, Mike flies solo and discusses the Madness of the 2024 NCAA Mens Basketball Tournament, previews 2024 MLB season and gives his take on the Shohei Ohtani gambling scandal.

Talkin' Balls - Episode 11

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 13:53:45 +0000

March Madness Extravaganza! Cinderella is dancin' and she comes from Louisiana! Mike is joined by College Hoops expert, Patrick Bircher and they discuss the upcoming 2024 NCAA Mens College Basketball Tournament that tips-off on March 21. UCONN are the betting favourites but can the Lopes of GCU or the Creighton Jayhawks dance their way to the Final Four in Glendale? And don't forget to enter the 2024 March Madness Talkin' Balls Competition, in which you could find yourself as the winner of a... wait for it, Talkin' Balls sticker!!! Click the link to join in the fun. If it asks for a Password, it's MIKE

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Talkin' Balls - Episode 10

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 00:10:14 +0000

Top Ten percenters! Talk, Talk, Talk! Joke in the Ring! Celebration Competition! In the tenth episode of Talkin' Balls, Mike flies solo and talks about the Magic and Madness of Court Storming, Trash Talkin', Dodgy decisions and the demise of Boxing. And, to celebrate the Tenth Episode, Talkin' Balls launches the Talkin' Balls March Madness competition with the overall winner getting a Sticky Prize! Click the link below to join the NCAA Tournament Competition.

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Talkin' Balls - Episode 9

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 18:51:51 +0000

Warriors, Wemby and WOW! In Episode 9, Mike welcomes Eoin O'Connor to talk about the Warriors push for the NBA Playoffs, Victor Wembayama's growth as a Rookie, LeBron eclipsing the 40,000 point plateau, the Curse of the Clippers and, Caitlin Clark - the greatest scorer in the history of Collegiate Basketball.

Talkin' Balls - Episode 8

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 09:06:53 +0000

Sportpuorri with ramblings galore! This week, Mike is joined by Media & Sports Marketing Consultant, Declan Brennan, and they talk about the relevance of All-Star Games, Drugs in Sport, the NFL's march to take over the world, an MLB crisis, Robo Umps, and Alfonso Soriano in a Hummer. Listen to this one when you're on a very long walk...

Talkin' Balls - Episode 7

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 20:12:12 +0000

Hoop and the Harm. Ireland and baseball - a match made in heaven. In the seventh Talkin' Balls episode, Mike gives his take on the connection between Sports and Politics and, whilst it would be great if they never crossed paths, they are actually forever intertwined. Mike also welcomes the President of Baseball Ireland, Sean Mitchell, to discuss the state of Irish Baseball, the growth of the game on the island and Ireland's hosting of a European Championship Qualifier this July!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 6

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 08:51:47 +0000

Mahomes Magic. Kelce Madness. Chiefs Crowned Kings again. In this episode, Mike talks with the Swami, Simon Hand, about Super Bowl 58 and how an awful game turned into a Classic and why one should NEVER, EVER bet against Patrick Mahomes. Mike also welcomes back guest, Eoin O'Connor to discuss the NBA and whether the Warriors dynasty is over and can the Knicks actually make a deep playoff run.

Talkin' Balls - Episode 5

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 17:17:31 +0000

Super Bowl, Super Bowl, Super Bowl! Mike welcomes the Swami, Simon Hand, to discuss the Chiefs / 49ers Super Bowl 58 Matchup. Simon goes all in on the Niners whilst Mike selects the correct choice - Kansas City! Let's GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Talkin' Balls - Episode 4

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 12:46:14 +0000

Mahomes is a BAD MAN! A Lionesque collapse. Sexton's goodbye and the Six Nations. This week, Mike talks to the Swami, Simon Hand, about the AFC and NFC Championship Round, how Mahomes worked his magic again and the suicidal tendencies of Baltimore and Detroit fans. Mike also welcomes Declan Delaney to talk Six Nations Rugby and why France might be just too much for the Irish and the rest of their European competitors in this year's tournament.

Talkin' Balls - Episode 3

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 18:29:44 +0000

Mahomes Magic, the Runnin' Ravens, and the Irish are takin' over the NFL! This week Mike talks NFL Playoff action with the Swami Simon Hand and also discuss the NFL's International Player Pathway Program with Eoin O'Connor.

Talkin' Balls - Episode 2

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 13:58:17 +0000

Mike gets a new Mic; Baker is the Boss; Padres are making moves; GAA Handball is Off the Wall! In the second Talkin' Balls Podcast, Mike talks about improving the experience for his listeners and discusses NFL Playoff action with Simon Hand. Mike also highlights the Padres off season transactions, the Phenom Ethan Salas and meets with Gaelic Handball expert Conor O'Connor.

Talkin’ Balls - Episode 1

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 19:18:25 +0000

In the first Talkin' Balls podcast, Mike speaks with Simon Hand about coaching changes in the NFL and the 'Super' Wild Card playoffs this coming weekend. Mike also discusses the end of the Bill Belichick era in New England and the pressure on professional sports coaches.