• Celebrating Irish Dance: The Legacy of Savannah's Irish Dancers
    Feb 19 2026
    In this episode of the Savannah Irish Podcast brought to you by The Savannah Irish Festival, host Tara Reese is putting on her dancing shoes with guests from Legacy Irish Dance: owner and teacher Abbey Wood, dance mom Jennifer Forbes (wife of 2024’s 200th Grand Marshal John Forbes), and students Keegan Forbes (12) and Faren Wood (9). The episode highlights Irish dance as a vibrant part of Savannah’s Irish culture and a bridge between generations through performance, mentorship, and tradition beyond St. Patrick’s season. Abbey shares how Legacy was founded after she moved to Savannah to teach when visiting instructors could no longer fly in, eventually growing the school into her full-time career. She explains the meaning of “Legacy” as carrying forward a tradition created by those before her, noting she now teaches former students’ children and supports the community through scholarships and donated costumes. The group discusses how the school emphasizes discipline, resilience, teamwork, and learning to handle subjective outcomes, with Jennifer describing her daughter’s progression from starting at age three to training 5–6 hours per week and performing at many seasonal events. Keegan reflects on dancing during her father’s Grand Marshal year and her upcoming competition trip to Ireland. Abbey also recounts a recent performance opportunity at the White House for the annual pot of shamrocks ceremony, including extensive security, a stage near the Rose Garden, interactions with the President and the Irish Prime Minister, and Michael Flatley filming and applauding the dancers. AND SPECIAL NOTE: During the recording, Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce representatives surprise the producers of the Savannah Irish Podcast - Dee Daniels Media - with the Savannah Area Chamber Entrepreneur of the Year award. 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. Legacy Irish Dance: Building the legacy Legacy Irish Dance Parent Association Learn all about the Savannah Irish Festival 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 3 + Why Irish Dance Matters in Savannah 00:54 Meet the Guests: Dance Mom, Teacher/Owner & Young Dancers 02:21 Surprise Interruption: Chamber ‘Entrepreneur of the Year’ Reveal 04:32 How Legacy Irish Dance Was Founded (Abby’s Savannah Story) 06:50 Why It’s Called ‘Legacy’: Tradition, Community & Generations 08:49 Why Savannah Is the Perfect City for Irish Dance (Green Season & Shows) 11:37 Irish Dance as Culture: Music, Storytelling & Identity 14:34 Why Arms Stay Down: History, Tradition & Technique 17:48 Mentorship & Mindset: Competition, Character, and Life Lessons 23:38 Dance Mom Perspective: Starting Young, Balancing Activities & Weekly Hours 25:32 Green Season Schedule: How Many Performances Do They Really Do? 26:07 The Real Cost of Irish Dance Dresses (and How Families Make It Work) 28:37 Scholarships, Hand-Me-Downs & Community Support at Legacy 30:27 Meet the Dancers: When They Started & Why They Chose Irish Dance 32:32 Favorite Dances Explained: What a “Reel” Is (and Why It’s So Fun) 33:32 First Time on Stage: Nerves, Excitement & Irish Festival Memories 35:33 Hardest Moves to Master: “Birds,” “Rocks,” and Training Drills 38:28 Costumes, Crowns & Dancing for a Grand Marshal Dad 41:11 Dream Stages: Ireland, Championships & Inviting Friends to Join 42:35 White House Performance Story: Secret Service, Shamrocks & Michael Flatley 47:38 Rapid-Fire Q&A + Final Thanks
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    52 Min.
  • The Untold Influence of Irish Women in Savannah History
    Feb 12 2026

    In this episode of the Savannah Irish Podcast brought to you by The Savannah Irish Festival, host Tara Reese sits down with Dr. Meaghan Dwyer-Ryan from Georgia Southern University to delve into the critical yet often overlooked contributions of Irish women to Savannah's cultural and historical landscape.

    From early immigration and domestic work to community involvement and the establishment of heritage societies, Irish women have played a significant role in shaping the city's identity. The discussion also covers notable individuals like Alice Riley and reviews the socio-cultural dynamics between Irish and African American communities.

    Diving into both historical and modern-day perspectives, the podcast highlights the essential role of women in maintaining cultural traditions, religious organizations, and education. Join us as we uncover these hidden stories and recognize the lasting impact of Irish women in Savannah.

    In this episode of the Savannah Irish Podcast brought to you by The Savannah Irish Festival, host Tara Reese sits down with Arthur Edward "Ned" Guinness, a member of the illustrious Guinness family, known for their world-renowned stout beer and extensive philanthropy. Edward shares his family’s rich history, from the humble beginnings of Arthur Guinness, who signed a legendary 9,000-year lease for the St. James's Gate Brewery, to the remarkable achievements in social and political impact by later generations. The two also chat about Edward's book - Guinness: A Family Succession: The True Story of the Struggle to Create the World's Largest Brewery.

    The discussion covers Edward's personal experiences, the importance of giving back, and reflections on the family's contribution to Irish society. The episode also touches on the Netflix series 'The House of Guinness,' contrasting dramatization with historical facts. Edward speaks passionately about preserving the family legacy and promoting community welfare, embodying the values his ancestors held dear.

    Whether you are a history buff, a Guinness enthusiast, or just curious about impactful legacies, this episode offers a captivating glimpse into the world behind the iconic Guinness name.

    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

    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's Irish Women

    01:08 Meet Dr. Meaghan Dwyer-Ryan

    01:21 Dr. Ryan's Journey to Savannah

    04:01 The Overlooked Role of Irish Women

    05:12 Alice Riley: The Ghost of Wright Square

    08:10 Irish Immigration in the 19th Century

    11:25 Wexford Women in Savannah

    15:41 Cultural Expectations and Domestic Service

    20:58 The Role of Nuns in Savannah

    25:36 Widows and Their Struggles

    29:34 Rosanna McGuire: A Case Study

    31:05 Exploring the Story of Rosanna

    31:53 Irish Catholic Elite in Savannah

    34:02 Women in the Irish Community

    34:20 Gone With the Wind and Real Stories

    36:50 Savannah's Unique School System

    40:21 Irish and African American Communities

    47:46 Women in Irish Nationalism

    49:23 Modern Day Contributions of Irish Women

    57:20 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion

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    1 Std. und 4 Min.
  • The Guinness Legacy: An Interview with Edward 'Ned' Guinness
    Feb 5 2026

    In this episode of the Savannah Irish Podcast brought to you by The Savannah Irish Festival, host Tara Reese sits down with Arthur Edward "Ned" Guinness, a member of the illustrious Guinness family, known for their world-renowned stout beer and extensive philanthropy. Edward shares his family’s rich history, from the humble beginnings of Arthur Guinness, who signed a legendary 9,000-year lease for the St. James's Gate Brewery, to the remarkable achievements in social and political impact by later generations. The two also chat about Edward's book - Guinness: A Family Succession: The True Story of the Struggle to Create the World's Largest Brewery.

    The discussion covers Edward's personal experiences, the importance of giving back, and reflections on the family's contribution to Irish society. The episode also touches on the Netflix series 'The House of Guinness,' contrasting dramatization with historical facts. Edward speaks passionately about preserving the family legacy and promoting community welfare, embodying the values his ancestors held dear.

    Whether you are a history buff, a Guinness enthusiast, or just curious about impactful legacies, this episode offers a captivating glimpse into the world behind the iconic Guinness name.

    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 more about the VOICES in this episode AND tap the links to support the Savannah Irish Festival: THE BOOK - Guinness: A Family Succession: The True Story of the Struggle to Create the World's Largest Brewery

    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 Special Guest

    00:07 First Encounters and Memorable Meetings

    01:16 Welcoming Edward Ned Guinness

    01:50 Savannah's Irish Festival and Guinness Connection

    04:08 Discussing the Book: Guinness of Family Succession

    05:56 The Legacy of Arthur Guinness

    13:22 Philanthropy and Community Impact

    31:16 Navigating Religious and Social Challenges

    36:16 Restoring Ivy Gardens and Dublin Memories

    37:37 The Turning Point: Edward Cecil's Impact on Guinness

    41:16 Brewing Legacy: From Edward Cecil to Modern Times

    47:31 Guinness Family's Political and Social Contributions

    53:00 Netflix Series and Family Archives

    58:44 Rapid Fire Questions and Reflections

    01:01:27 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

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    1 Std. und 8 Min.
  • The Irresistible Tradition of Savannah's St. Patrick's Day: Why They Keep Coming Back
    Jan 29 2026

    In this special episode of the Savannah Irish Podcast brought to you by The Savannah Irish Festival host Tara Reese explores what makes Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day so special through the heartfelt stories of repeat visitors who have turned the celebration into a beloved tradition. Featuring personal anecdotes, memories, and insights from long-time attendees, this episode highlights the unique charm, culture, and community spirit of Savannah’s iconic celebration. Join us as we delve into the parades, the parties, the local traditions, and the connections that keep people coming back year after year.

    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 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:

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

    00:26 Meet the Regulars: Elevator Speeches

    02:45 First Impressions of Savannah's St. Patrick's Day

    04:05 Memorable Moments and Traditions

    09:20 The Irish Air Corps and the Ostrich Prank

    12:54 Ancestry and Irish Heritage

    21:18 Engagement and Personal Stories

    24:50 Evolving Perspectives on St. Patrick's Day

    28:22 Hunting for the Best Scottish Eggs

    28:52 Favorite Savannah Spots and Memories

    29:28 Must-Visit Places in Savannah

    35:20 Parade Watching Tips and Traditions

    38:44 Evolving Traditions and Respect for Savannah

    42:43 Rapid Fire: Fun Questions and Memories

    47:47 Advice for First-Timers

    50:02 Closing Thoughts on Savannah St. Patrick's Day

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    55 Min.
  • Inside the Savannah St. Patrick's Day Parade: Leadership Insights with the Chairmans
    Jan 23 2026

    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 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 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

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    1 Std. und 7 Min.
  • Behind the Scenes of the 2026 Savannah Irish Festival
    Jan 15 2026

    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 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

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    54 Min.
  • Voices of Savannah's Irish Societies: Tradition, Community, and Legacy
    Jan 8 2026

    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

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    1 Std. und 1 Min.
  • Ireland Escapades: Southern Scholars Sow Seeds Abroad
    Dec 18 2025

    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

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    1 Std. und 5 Min.