Craic on the Coast: An AOH Podcast

Welcome to Craic on the Coast, a lively and engaging podcast celebrating Irish culture, history, and heritage on the South Shore of Massachusetts. Based in America's Hometown of Plymouth, MA, this podcast is proudly brought to you by the Father John Murphy Division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH). Each episode dives into the rich tapestry of Irish-American life in the region, blending history, storytelling, music, and community voices. From exploring the waves of Irish immigration to Massachusetts to highlighting the modern contributions of Irish culture, Craic on the Coast captures the enduring spirit of the Irish on the South Shore. Listeners will enjoy: • Historical Deep Dives: Learn about the Irish experience in Plymouth and beyond, from 19th-century immigrants to today's vibrant Irish-American community. • Cultural Spotlights: Celebrate Irish traditions, music, dance, and folklore with local musicians, performers, and storytellers. • Community Connections: Hear from guests involved in the local Irish community, from members of the AOH and Irish clubs to organizers of festivals and parades. • Modern Craic: Explore how Irish culture thrives today with pubs, local businesses, sports, and connections to Ireland itself. Whether you're Irish by blood, by marriage, or simply by heart, Craic on the Coast invites you to join the conversation. With a mix of humor, heart, and history, this podcast is your go-to source for celebrating the Emerald Isle right here in Massachusetts. Slainte!

Episode 14: Making Irish History Go Viral: A Conversation with Davy Holden 08/25/2025

Episode 14: Making Irish History Go Viral: A Conversation with Davy Holden Making Irish History Go Viral: A Conversation with Davy Holden In Episode 14 of Craic on the Coast, hosts Michael Schilling and Shaun Morgan sit down with two fantastic guests. First up is Davy Holden, the Irish storyteller behind , whose short, engaging lessons on Irish history have attracted more than 200,000 followers on Instagram. Davy shares how he got started, why his content resonates so widely, and what’s next for him. Plus, he tells us the story behind the exclusive jersey design we’re giving away to one lucky listener! Next, we’re joined by Liam Lynch from Authentic to preview the upcoming Seisiún Irish Music and Culture Festival in Boston on September 6–7, 2025. From incredible live music to Irish dance, food, and culture, Liam gives us the inside scoop on what promises to be an unforgettable weekend. Finally, Michael and Shaun announce that Craic on the Coast is hitting the road for the very first time with a live on-location recording at Tinker’s Son in Norwell for their Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day celebration on Saturday, September 20th. 📌 Show Notes & Links 🎁 Jersey Giveaway To enter the Craic on the Coast Jersey Giveaway: Follow on Instagram Follow on Instagram Like and comment “For the Craic” on our giveaway post and tag a friend Winner will be selected Friday, August 29th. We’ll contact the winner to confirm size and ship the jersey directly. 📲 Follow Our Guests Davy Holden (Irish History Instagram): Seisiún Irish Music & Culture Festival (The Bowery Presents): Festival Info & Tickets 📡 Stay Connected with Us Father John Murphy Division AOH Plymouth: The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email [email protected] to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! /episode/index/show/d7b9fe9e-ae7a-4c73-8665-52c0042c6bdd/id/37951085

Episode 13: In the Midst of Plenty with Amy Day 08/19/2025

Episode 12: From Brockton to Ballsbridge: A Conversation with Ambassador Claire Cronin 08/11/2025

Episode 12: From Brockton to Ballsbridge: A Conversation with Ambassador Claire Cronin Episode 12 – From Brockton to Ballsbridge: A Conversation with Ambassador Claire Cronin In this very special episode of Craic on the Coast, Michael Schilling and Shaun Morgan sit down with Claire Cronin, former U.S. Ambassador to Ireland. From her groundbreaking rise in Massachusetts politics to her impactful diplomatic service in Dublin, Ambassador Cronin shares her journey as a public servant, her career “firsts,” and the lessons learned in leadership, diplomacy, and perseverance. We talk about her proudest achievements, her fondest memories representing the United States in Ireland, the challenges she overcame, and her vision for the future of Irish-American relations. We close by asking: What’s next for Claire Cronin? Whether you’re passionate about Irish heritage, politics, or the power of trailblazers to shape history, this episode is an inspiring listen. 📝 Show Notes Father John Murphy Division – AOH Plymouth 📌 Facebook: 📌 Instagram: Upcoming Event: 📅 New Plymouth County LAOH Division Informational Meeting 📍 Father John Murphy Division, 36 Cordage Park Circle, Suite 220A, Plymouth, MA 📅 Saturday, September 6th at 1 PM 📩 RSVP & Register here: The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email [email protected] to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! /episode/index/show/d7b9fe9e-ae7a-4c73-8665-52c0042c6bdd/id/37758745

Episode 11: Diamonds & Brotherhood: Irish Baseball and Hibernian Pride 07/28/2025

Episode 11: Diamonds & Brotherhood: Irish Baseball and Hibernian Pride 🎙️ Episode 11 – "Diamonds & Brotherhood: Irish Baseball and Hibernian Pride" In this episode of Craic on the Coast, host Michael Schilling is joined by two distinguished guests: John Fitzgerald, CEO of the Irish American Baseball Society, and Sean Pender, National President of the Ancient Order of Hibernians. They reflect on the recent baseball game between the Irish Wolfhounds and the Boston Jakes at the Brockton Rox stadium—a day filled with heritage, sport, and camaraderie. The Father John Murphy Division was proud to take part in the opening ceremonies and attend the game in full Hibernian spirit. The conversation then explores the history and mission of the Irish American Baseball Society, followed by an exciting discussion of the newly formed partnership between the IABS and the AOH—an alliance rooted in promoting Irish-American culture, youth engagement, and international connection through sport. Finally, the episode closes with a heartfelt remembrance of Jack Meehan, Past Massachusetts State President and National President of the AOH, who recently passed away. His legacy and leadership are honored in true Hibernian fashion. 📌 Show Notes 🔗 Learn More & Get Involved: Irish American Baseball Society Website: https://irishbaseball.org Instagram: Facebook: Ancient Order of Hibernians – National Website: https://aoh.com Facebook: Father John Murphy Division – Plymouth, MA Facebook: Instagram: 🎧 Craic on the Coast is available on all major podcast platforms. Subscribe, leave a review, and share with your Irish-loving friends! #CraicOnTheCoast #IrishBaseball #Hibernians #AOH #IrishHeritage #JackMeehan #BostonJakes #IrishWolfhounds #IrishAmericanBaseball #FriendshipUnityChristianCharity #WhatsAHibernian The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email [email protected] to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! /episode/index/show/d7b9fe9e-ae7a-4c73-8665-52c0042c6bdd/id/37580610

Episode 10: From Native Roots to Global Goals: Ireland Lacrosse with Michael Kennedy 07/21/2025

Episode 10: From Native Roots to Global Goals: Ireland Lacrosse with Michael Kennedy In this international edition of Craic on the Coast, hosts Michael Schilling and Shaun Morgan sit down with Michael Kennedy, CEO of Ireland Lacrosse, for an inspiring conversation about sport, identity, and global community. Recorded shortly after meeting at the Great Hunger Institute Summer School Conference in Strokestown, Roscommon, this episode explores the Native American origins of lacrosse, Ireland’s strong cultural and diplomatic relationship with the Haudenosaunee Nation, and how lacrosse has become a vehicle for storytelling, connection, and pride. Michael Kennedy walks us through Ireland’s tournament season—from the Men’s U20 European Championship win in Poland to upcoming appearances at the World Box Championships in Utica, New York. He also shares exciting plans for Ireland’s bid to compete in the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, where lacrosse returns as a medal sport for the first time since 1908. Plus, we take a deep dive into the Éire Programme, which allows Irish passport-holders and Irish-heritage players from across the diaspora to represent Ireland in international competition—including many right here in Massachusetts, where nine Éire teams competed in the Heritage Cup this past May. Whether you're a fan of sport, Irish identity, or global connection, this episode offers a powerful look at what happens when heritage and heart take the field. 📌 Show Notes & Links 🏑 Ireland Lacrosse: Website: Facebook: Instagram: Twitter/X: 🌍 Éire Programme: Info & Updates: Heritage Cup Overview: Laxnai Tournament (Utica 2025): ☘️ Father John Murphy Division – AOH Plymouth: Website: Facebook: Instagram: 🎧 Listen to All Episodes of Craic on the Coast: Spotify: Apple Podcasts: The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email [email protected] to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! /episode/index/show/d7b9fe9e-ae7a-4c73-8665-52c0042c6bdd/id/37461150

Episode 9: Songs of the Heart: Declan Houton of Devri and the Power of Community 07/15/2025

Episode 9: Songs of the Heart: Declan Houton of Devri and the Power of Community 🎙️ Craic on the Coast – Episode 9: "Songs of the Heart: Declan Houton of Devri and the Power of Community" In this heartfelt episode of Craic on the Coast, hosts Michael Schilling and Shaun Morgan sit down with beloved Irish musician Declan Houton, lead singer of Devri. They trace Declan’s journey from Donegal to the South Shore and explore how his music—and his unwavering commitment to community—has made a lasting impact. From benefit concerts to first pitches, Declan reflects on the Irish spirit of giving back, including the incredible efforts to support the Waters family of Weymouth, first during their son Quinn’s health battle and now as Jarlath Waters faces his own medical challenges. The episode also shines a light on causes close to Declan’s heart like Tommy’s Place and Lucy’s Love Bus, two organizations bringing joy and healing to families facing pediatric cancer. We also chat about Devri’s upcoming Hawaiian-themed boat cruise and how music continues to bring people together in times of both celebration and need. 📌 Show Notes & Links 🎶 Follow Devri: Facebook: Instagram: 🌴 Devri’s Hawaiian-Themed Boat Cruise: ☘️ AOH Plymouth – Father John Murphy Division: Facebook: Instagram: 💚 Support the Waters Family: Email: [email protected] for donation info and upcoming benefit events. 🏠 Tommy’s Place: Website: 🦋 Lucy’s Love Bus: Website: The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email [email protected] to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! /episode/index/show/d7b9fe9e-ae7a-4c73-8665-52c0042c6bdd/id/37417505

Episode 8: Walking Memory: The Story Behind the National Famine Way 07/02/2025

Episode 8: Walking Memory: The Story Behind the National Famine Way 🎙️ Craic on the Coast – Episode 8: “Walking Memory: The Story Behind the National Famine Way” In this powerful episode of Craic on the Coast, host Michael Schilling welcomes Caroilin Callery, founder and driving force behind the National Famine Way in Ireland. From its origins in the haunting records of Strokestown Park to its emergence as a 100-mile commemorative trail—and now its expansion into a Global Famine Way—we explore the emotional, historical, and logistical journey that brought this vision to life. Caroilin shares how the footsteps of 1,490 evicted tenants from Roscommon to Dublin in 1847 became a living monument to resilience, remembrance, and global connection. With a recent unveiling in Canada and plans stretching across the Irish diaspora, the story of the Famine Walk continues to grow. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about historical memory, international solidarity, and the power of walking in the footsteps of those who came before us. Sláinte, and let the walk continue. 🔗 Show Notes & Links National Famine Way Website: Strokestown Park – Irish National Famine Museum: Follow the National Famine Way on Social Media: Facebook: Instagram: Twitter/X: Follow AOH Plymouth: Facebook: Instagram: The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email [email protected] to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! /episode/index/show/d7b9fe9e-ae7a-4c73-8665-52c0042c6bdd/id/37257260

Episode 7: Bloomsday on the Coast: Joyce, Poetry and 38 Years of Tradition 06/16/2025

Episode 7: Bloomsday on the Coast: Joyce, Poetry and 38 Years of Tradition 🎙️ Bloomsday on the Coast: Joyce, Poetry and 38 Years of Tradition In this special Bloomsday episode of Craic on the Coast, hosts Michael Schilling and Shaun Morgan are joined by Jennifer Harris and Miriam O’Neal of America’s Hometown Laureates to celebrate the language, legacy, and literary revolution of not only James Joyce but Irish poets and poetry in general. Together, they explore the meaning of Bloomsday and how Irish literature continues to inspire modern poetry and community storytelling. Passages from several poets are brought to life, the mission of America’s Hometown Laureates is illuminated, and the cultural threads connecting past and present are woven with care and wit. The episode concludes with a special shoutout to Bridget’s – An Irish Tradition, celebrating 38 years of championing Irish heritage on the South Shore. Whether you’re a Joyce scholar or a curious newcomer, this episode offers a poetic journey through Dublin, memory, and meaning. 📌 Show Notes 🟩 Featured Guests 🎤 Jennifer Harris & Miriam O’Neal America’s Hometown Laureates – A collective dedicated to celebrating and elevating local voices through poetry and the arts. 🌐 Website: 📘 Facebook: 📷 Instagram: 🟩 Connect with the Father John Murphy Division – AOH Plymouth 🇮🇪 Promoting Irish culture, history, and Christian charity on the South Shore of Massachusetts 📘 Facebook: 📷 Instagram: 🎉 Shoutout 💚 Bridget’s – An Irish Tradition Celebrating 38 years of keeping Irish culture alive in Norton, MA! Visit them in-store or follow them on social media to support this cherished local business. The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email [email protected] to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! /episode/index/show/d7b9fe9e-ae7a-4c73-8665-52c0042c6bdd/id/37028345

Episode 6: Six Days, One Hundred Miles, and a Thousand Stories: Walking the National Famine Way 06/12/2025

Episode 6: Six Days, One Hundred Miles, and a Thousand Stories: Walking the National Famine Way In this moving episode of Craic on the Coast, hosts Michael Schilling and John Sullivan recount their unforgettable six-day journey walking the National Famine Way—a 100-mile path from Strokestown, County Roscommon to Dublin. Retracing the footsteps of 1,490 Irish men, women, and children who were forced to emigrate during the Great Hunger of 1847, the hosts reflect on the historical weight of each step, the emotional moments along the trail, and the modern purpose behind their walk: raising funds to combat hunger today. From stories of bronze shoes and schoolchildren's notes to meetings with President Michael D. Higgins and Tánaiste Simon Harris, this episode captures the heart, hardship, and hope of honoring Irish history through action. Whether you’re a student of history, a lover of Ireland, or someone searching for meaning in modern remembrance, this episode walks with you. Tune in, walk with us, and let memory lead the way. 📌 Show Notes 🔗 Learn More about the National Famine Way: 📸 Follow the Father John Murphy Division of the AOH (Plymouth, MA): Facebook: Instagram: 🎙️ Presented by: Craic on the Coast: An AOH Podcast Produced in Plymouth, Massachusetts – America’s Hometown The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email [email protected] to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! /episode/index/show/d7b9fe9e-ae7a-4c73-8665-52c0042c6bdd/id/36970510

Episode 5: Pints & Pearls: Guinness, Oysters, and the Art of the Perfect Pairing 05/14/2025

Episode 4: Heritage, Hunger, and One Last Pint 04/09/2025

Episode 4: Heritage, Hunger, and One Last Pint 🎙️ Craic on the Coast – Episode 4: “Heritage, Hunger, and One Last Pint” In this heartfelt and history-rich episode, host Michael Schilling and guest co-host Greg Shanahan take listeners on a journey through Ireland’s past, present, and future — all from the shores of Massachusetts. First, they preview two powerful upcoming events from the Father John Murphy Division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians: the Easter Rising Commemoration on April 27th and the ambitious Hibernian Walk for Hunger this May, where Division members will walk 100 miles in 6 days along Ireland’s National Famine Way to raise funds in the fight against hunger. Next, they welcome Sara Stanton, founder of Cara Travel Group in Quincy, to talk about the magic of discovering Ireland for the first time — and how travel can reconnect us to our roots. Cara Travel is also this year's Gold Sponsor for the Easter Rising event. Finally, the lads raise a glass and share stories as they bid farewell to a South Shore legend — Paddy Barry’s Pub of Quincy — reflecting on the music, the memories, and the mighty craic that made it “the best little pub in the world.” Whether you’re a history buff, a proud Hibernian, or just missing the sound of a good session, this episode is for you. Show notes: Cara Group Travel link to Easter Rising Commemoration Eventbrite page Social Media: The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email [email protected] to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! /episode/index/show/d7b9fe9e-ae7a-4c73-8665-52c0042c6bdd/id/36056210

Episode 3: Beyond St. Patrick’s Day: Honoring Irish Heritage Year-Round 03/27/2025

Episode 2: March Madness (The Irish Way!) 03/05/2025

Episode 2: March Madness (The Irish Way!) Episode 2: March Madness (The Irish Way!) March is designated as Irish Heritage Month by the Ancient Order of Hibernians, and in this episode of Craic on the Coast, we’re diving into all the festivities, events, and celebrations happening across the South Shore and beyond. Whether you're looking for parades, live music, AOH gatherings, or the best spots to raise a pint on St. Patrick’s Day, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also be highlighting where you can find the Plymouth AOH throughout the month—from commemorations and community events to fundraisers and social gatherings—so you can stay connected with the local Irish-American community. But that’s not all! We’re thrilled to welcome special guest Stephen Lindsay of The Lindsays to the podcast booth. A seasoned musician and a mainstay in the South Shore’s Irish music scene, Stephen shares his journey in music, his thoughts on the energy of March, and where you can catch him performing throughout the month. We’ll also chat about how Irish music in the region has grown and evolved over the years, from traditional sessions to the lively pub scene we know today. Whether you’re looking for the best ways to celebrate, eager to support local Irish music, or just love a good chat about heritage and community, this episode is packed with everything you need to make the most of March. Grab a pint, tune in, and join the craic! The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email [email protected] to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! /episode/index/show/d7b9fe9e-ae7a-4c73-8665-52c0042c6bdd/id/35546380

Episode 1: Introduction & Patrick McDonough 02/21/2025

Episode 1: Introduction & Patrick McDonough Episode 1: Introduction & Patrick McDonough Welcome to the Craic on the Coast, the podcast bringing you all things Irish from Plymouth County and beyond! Hosted by Michael Schilling and Shawn Morgan from the Ancient Order of Hibernians, Plymouth Division, we’re here to share the stories, history, and events that celebrate Irish culture on the South Shore of Massachusetts. In this first episode, we introduce ourselves, our connection to the AOH, and why now is the perfect time for an Irish cultural renaissance on the South Shore. We dive into a brief history of the Irish in the region and the growing appreciation for Irish and Irish-American heritage today. Then, we sit down with Patrick McDonough, the organizer behind the Cape Cod Irish Festival and former South Shore Irish Festival. He shares how these celebrations of Irish music, culture, and community came to be, and what festival-goers can look forward to this year at the Cape Cod Irish Village at the Emerald Resort. Plus, we introduce our recurring segment, “Talk of the Trail,” highlighting key stops along the South Shore Irish Heritage Trail—from Weymouth to Plymouth—where history and heritage come to life. Join us as we ask our guests, “What’s the Craic?” and explore the vibrant Irish community right here on the coast! 🎧 Tune in, share the craic, and celebrate Irish culture with us! The Local Seen by Plymouth Area Community Access Television welcomes residents of Plymouth, Pembroke, Kingston, and Duxbury into our studio to produce their own show, podcast, or special to air on our community and YouTube channel. We provide production training and services as a platform for free and uncensored speech. The content herein does not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of The Local Seen's staff or Board of Directors. If you live or work in one of our four towns, and would like to produce your own content, email [email protected] to get started! We'll see you on The Local Seen! www.thelocalseen.mediahealing /episode/index/show/d7b9fe9e-ae7a-4c73-8665-52c0042c6bdd/id/35378785

Craic on the Coast: An AOH Podcast

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