The Second Half: Presented by Podge & Popa (Bonus Episode 23)

How Is He Podcast | Ep. 93

Joining Podge & Popa in studio today is a true legend of Kilkenny hurling. Born in Urlingford, County Kilkenny, Aidan Fogarty ("Taggy") burst onto the inter-county scene at just twenty-one and went on to become a mainstay of one of the most dominant teams the game has ever seen. Making his senior championship debut in 2003, Aidan quickly cemented his place on the starting fifteen and enjoyed an incredible career, winning Eight All-Ireland medals, Eleven Leinster titles, and three National League medals and many more!! In senior championship games Aidan has a score tally of 10-41 on the field of play in 38 Championship games.

Across his career appearances, he also represented Leinster with distinction, picking up three Railway Cup medals, and tasted success at club level with Emeralds. After announcing his retirement from inter-county hurling in 2014, Aidan continued to show his versatility by reaching a whole new audience when he appeared on Dancing with the Stars in 2020.

From championship battles to life after elite sport, this is a conversation packed with insight, stories, and experience.

The Second Half: Presented by Podge & Popa (Bonus Episode 22)

How Is He Podcast | Ep. 92

Today’s guest is one of the most iconic figures in Irish women’s rugby. Alison Miller is a former Ireland international winger who spent nearly a decade wearing the green jersey and redefining what was possible in the women’s game.

A key member of Ireland’s historic 2013 Six Nations Grand Slam team, Alison is remembered for her blistering pace, fearless running, and unforgettable tries. Including scoring in Ireland’s famous 2014 World Cup victory over New Zealand.

Off the pitch, she’s a teacher, mentor, and role model, and in 2023 her impact was officially recognised with induction into the Rugby Players Ireland Hall of Fame.

The Second Half: Presented by Podge & Popa (Bonus Episode 21)

How Is He Podcast | Ep. 91

Today Podge & Popa are delighted to welcome a truly inspiring guest into Ampifi Studios: Connie Byrne.

Connie is a full-time yoga teacher, breathing guide, and wellness facilitator who is deeply passionate about the life-changing power of mindful movement and breath. Her work is rooted in connection, compassion, and real-life experience.

After 35 years in hairdressing, a career built on people, conversation, and community, Connie retired and carried those same grassroots skills straight into her wellness work. Following a life-changing period in her own life, she discovered Tai Chi, yoga, and breath guidance, practices that helped her rebuild with greater balance, grounding, and clarity.

Those personal transformations became her purpose. To support others on their own journeys. Connie’s approach to yoga and mindfulness is simple, accessible, and incredibly effective. No fuss, no pressure, just doable practices, that genuinely make a difference.

On today’s podcast, Connie is excited to share these skills with Podge and Poppa. Exploring chair yoga, breath guidance, positive affirmations, and inviting listeners to breathe, move, and rest in a fun and uplifting way.

Together, they step into the new year with space, intention, and the possibility of filling the year ahead with health, calm, and happiness.

A proud Carlow and Graiguecullen woman, Connie has long been involved in grassroots arts projects, helping bring colour, creativity, and opportunity to the streets of Carlow, while paving the way for emerging artists. She’s also recently joined a writing group, exploring storytelling and poetry through VISUAL, where she teaches yoga.

Family is at the heart of everything for Connie. She’s a proud mum to Ella Lilly, a rising talent in theatre, film, and television — and one of ten siblings from Sleaty Street, Graiguecullen, where her mother still lives.

The Second Half: Presented by Podge & Popa (Bonus Episode 20)

How Is He Podcast | Ep. 90

Joining Podge & Popa in studio today is a UEFA A Licensed coach, with a BA Honours in Sports Coaching & Management, and a coaching journey that spans Ireland and the United States at academy, youth national, and professional development levels.

As a player he played for Pats at all levels including the first team. He also played for Shamrock rovers 17s, 18s and 19s, Wexford u/19s Newbridge Town LSL side Carlow IT, Carlow academy and was also a part of the prestigious regional set up and emerging talent program.

He began coaching at just 15 years old and is now in his 15th consecutive year in the game. In Ireland, his experience includes coaching with St Patricks Carlow from U13 to U18, serving as U15 Head Coach with Carlow Kilkenny, and working with Carlow Academy, where he was part of a Kennedy Cup coaching team where Popa was the Manager and led that team to a Leinster u/15 Championship title as Head Coach.

In the United States, he’s held senior leadership roles with Seattle Celtic as Head Coach and Head of Coach Development, Seattle United as Director of Coaching and Head Coach — including a U17 National Finalist run in 2023 — and Ballard FC, where he was Head Coach of the USL League Two National Champions, also winning the Northwest and Western Divisions. Under his leadership, 11 full-time players have gone on to play professionally across the U.S., Asia, and Australia/New Zealand.

He’s currently the Seattle Sounders U15 Head Coach and Second Team Assistant, continuing to work at the highest levels of player development in the American game.

The lads are excited to dive into Ethan O’Neill's coaching philosophy, leadership approach, and lessons from the pathway.