Tune in for insightful and informed conversation as Fran McNulty, Paul Cunningham and some of RTÉ's top journalists digest the news stories of the day. Expect deep dives, analysis, interesting guests, and maybe even some laughs along the way.Email: behindthestory@rte.ieNew episodes every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Episode List

Open AI: rogue hack or hype?

Jul 22nd, 2026 4:21 PM

OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT said one of it's models had gone rogue during security testing and hacked another company, calling it an 'unprecedented cyber incident'. Professor Barry O'Sullivan of UCC Computer Science joins host Brian O'Donovan to explain the cyber hack but also whether or not, it's as big a deal as being protrayed. Later, Chief Economist with Deloitte, Kate English discusses her favourite July activity - the Summer Economic Statement! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Britain's new PM and changes to law around E scooters use

Jul 20th, 2026 4:04 PM

Andy Burnham became Britain's 7th prime minister in a decade. He gave his first speech outside Downing Street and RTÉ's Fiona Mitchell joins Evelyn and Brian to discuss the day's events and what Burnham's premiership might mean for Ireland. Evelyn and Brian also discuss the significant changes to the laws around E scooter use, including banning their use for under 18s and mandatory requirement to wear hi-viz jacket and helmet from August. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Secrets of Croke Park on All Ireland Final day!

Jul 17th, 2026 4:18 PM

The government plans to roll out a new digital wallet which could contain a person's driving license and other important identity documents. Tech Editor with the Irish Independent, Adrian Weckler explains how the wallet might work. And with a massive weekend of sport ahead, Fran and Eamon chat to a man who works behind the scenes at Croke Park and hear what happens on match days! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chawke siblings jailed for unprovoked assault

Jul 15th, 2026 2:52 PM

On Tuesday, Bill and Alison Chawke were given a custodial sentence for assaulting two men in a hotel in 2023. Limerick Leader senior reporter, Sandra Quinn was in the circuit court as the sentence was handed down and joins Paul to explain the case and how the brother and sister reacted to the jail sentence. Later, as the Dáil rises for summer, Political correspondent Mícheál Lehane runs through some of the highs and lows of the term. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What's behind Intel's investment in Ireland? and remembering Sam Neill

Jul 13th, 2026 4:11 PM

Intel announced a €5billion investment in it's facility in Kildare and is promising hundreds of new jobs. The turnaround in the company's fortunes is significant. RTÉ's Brian O'Donovan joins Evelyn to chat about the announcement and how the US government played a role in the renewed success of the chip maker. Later, Entertainment journalist, Brian Lloyd remembers Sam Neill, the Irish-NZ actor who died recently and had a hugely successful career. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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