Introducing Parting Words: A New RIP.ie Podcast on Love, Loss, and the Stories That Stay With Us

Proudly sponsored by An Post Insurance

Every day on RIP.ie, families share memories of the people they have loved and lost. Through leaving condolences, we see stories filled with humour, heartbreak, resilience, and the quiet moments that define a life. These stories remind us that grief is not only about endings; it is also about connection, legacy, and the ways love continues.

Today, we are honoured to introduce a new space for these conversations: our brand‑new podcast, Parting Words.

Why We Created Parting Words

Grief touches every family, yet it can feel incredibly isolating. People often struggle to find the right words, or to know whether what they’re feeling is “normal.” But when someone shares their experience openly, it can offer comfort, clarity, and a sense of companionship.

Parting Words was created to bring those voices together.

Across the series, guests speak candidly about love, loss, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. These are not stories about death — they are stories about life, courage, and the bonds that endure long after someone has passed.

Meet the Host: Muireann O’Connell

Guiding each conversation is Muireann O’Connell, one of Ireland’s most engaging and empathetic broadcasters. Known for her warmth, humour, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life, Muireann brings a gentle steadiness to each episode.

She listens deeply, asks the questions that matter, and creates a space where guests feel safe to share the most personal parts of their journey.

Episode One: Colm Hayes on Love, Loss, and Living Through Grief

Our first episode features a voice familiar to listeners across the country: Colm Hayes, a legend of Irish radio whose career spans pirate stations, FM104, 2FM, Radio Nova and Classic Hits.

But this conversation is not about radio. It is about Colm’s beloved wife, Anne.

In September 2025, Colm shared that Anne had passed away after a six‑year battle with breast cancer. In this moving and intimate episode, he reflects on:

• how they lived with cancer while still protecting joy and normality
• the strength and humour that defined Anne
• the shock of grief, even when you think you’re prepared
• the small rituals and supports that help him navigate life without her

Colm speaks with honesty, tenderness, and a love that is felt in every moment of the conversation. The episode offers comfort, insight, and a reminder that grief is not something to “get over” — it is something we learn to carry.

We won’t give away the full conversation here, but listeners can expect a powerful, heartfelt start to the series.

A Six‑Part Season

Season 1 of Parting Words is a six‑episode series. A new episode will be released each month, with every guest offering a different perspective on grief, remembrance, and the enduring ties that shape our lives.

Our hope is that these conversations help people feel supported, understood, and connected, wherever they are on their own path through loss.

About the Sponsor: An Post Insurance

Parting Words is proudly sponsored by An Post Insurance. The partnership reflects the company’s commitment to supporting people as they prepare thoughtfully and compassionately for life’s most difficult moments. The podcast aligns naturally with An Post Insurance’s funeral insurance product, which helps individuals plan ahead and ease the financial burden on loved ones during times of loss.

Paul Grimes, Managing Director at An Post Insurance, said the series resonates deeply with their values: “Parting Words is a beautifully crafted series that treats grief with sensitivity, warmth, and authenticity. It aligns perfectly with our funeral insurance product, which helps people plan ahead and protect their loved ones when it matters most. We’re proud to support a project that encourages meaningful conversations around remembrance, resilience, and the bonds that connect us.”

One Direct (Ireland) Limited, trading as An Post Insurance, is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of An Post and is a tied agent of New Ireland Assurance Company plc for life assurance business. Funeral Insurance policies are underwritten and provided by New Ireland Assurance Company plc.

Listen to Parting Words on all major podcast platforms and watch full episodes on YouTube.