Savannah Irish Podcast

Irish Sports Revival in Savannah: Rugby, Hurling, and Cultural Camaraderie

In this episode of the Savannah Irish Podcast brought to you by The Savannah Irish Festival, host Tara Reese welcomes guests Don Paul (manager/chair, Pooler GAA), Will Garnett (president, Savannah Shamrocks Rugby Club), and Jared Papper (Savannah GAA) discussing how Irish identity in Savannah is thriving through sport. They explain the basics of rugby, hurling, and Gaelic football, share how their clubs formed (Shamrocks in 1978; Savannah GAA in February 2020), and emphasize welcoming, community-building, and social traditions.
 
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.
 
Pooler GAA
Savannah GAA
Savannah Shamrocks Rugby Club
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 Irish Sports in Savannah
01:25 Meet the Guests
02:45 How the Clubs Began
07:01 Rugby Basics Explained
08:08 Hurling and Gaelic Football 101
12:51 How to Join and Practice Times
17:10 Community and Charity Off the Field
22:38 Savannah St Patrick's Rugby Tournament
27:06 Free Entry Logistics
27:16 Tournament Size Reputation
29:13 Host City Cup Details
29:58 Registration Flex Teams
31:14 Game Day Schedule Setup
32:38 After Party Plans
33:37 Savannah vs Pooler Rivalry
38:08 Growing Youth Programs
43:39 Favorite Match Memories
49:28 Quickfire Pints Rivals
51:42 Final Dates Callout

Celebrating Irish Dance: The Legacy of Savannah's Irish Dancers

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

The Untold Influence of Irish Women in Savannah History

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.
 
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

The Guinness Legacy: An Interview with Edward 'Ned' Guinness

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
 

The Irresistible Tradition of Savannah's St. Patrick's Day: Why They Keep Coming Back

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
 

Inside the Savannah St. Patrick's Day Parade: Leadership Insights with the Chairmans

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

Behind the Scenes of the 2026 Savannah Irish Festival

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

Voices of Savannah's Irish Societies: Tradition, Community, and Legacy

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
 

Ireland Escapades: Southern Scholars Sow Seeds Abroad

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
 

The Legacy of Being Named Grand Marshal of the Savannah St. Patrick's Day Parade

In this episode of the Savannah Irish Podcast brought to you by The Savannah Irish Festival host Tara Reese focuses on the revered position of Grand Marshal in the Savannah St. Patrick's Day Parade.
 
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.
 
Guests John Forbes, Mike Kenny, and Mike Roush, all former Grand Marshals, share their personal stories and the significance of this lifetime honor. They discuss the traditions, emotional experiences, and community leadership tied to the role, including insights into the historic COVID-era cancellation. The conversation also highlights the various events leading up to the parade, the importance of humility and community involvement, and reflections on the enduring spirit of Savannah's Irish community.
 
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 Welcome to Season Three
00:09 Meet the Grand Marshals
00:19 The Honor of Being Grand Marshal
00:27 Grand Marshals Share Their Stories
00:45 Impact of COVID on the Parade
01:15 Introductions and Backgrounds
02:38 Path to Becoming Grand Marshal
03:17 Deciding to Run for Grand Marshal
06:37 Election Process and Emotions
16:16 Leading the Parade
25:17 Traditions and Community Impact
32:11 Setting Up for the Parade
33:28 Memorable Parade Moments
36:45 The Impact of COVID-19 on the Parade
40:44 Reflections on Being Grand Marshal
49:54 Irish Traditions and Fun Questions
55:10 Advice for Future Grand Marshals
56:24 Closing Remarks and Festival Announcement