The UTV Podcast

UTV Talking Politics: The PM's miserable month and Stormont's TACOs

In this episode of UTV Talking Politics, Tracey and Vicki discuss the PM's miserable May, our version of TACO and the creep of Stormont suspicion. You can also watch this episode on ITVX. [https://www.itv.com/news/utv/2026-05-22/the-pms-miserable-month-and-stormonts-tacos]

View From Stormont: No Stormont budget in sight

One minister warns of a looming crisis because a budget still isn't agreed. We'll be joined by the parties to find out what is going on. All eyes are on how the government parties and Sinn Féin will fare in two crucial by-elections in the Republic. We'll be joined by Irish Times political editor, Pat Leahy for the latest. Our commentators are Ursula Savage and Alex Kane.

'There was a Russian doll inside of me struggling to get out'

In this episode of Going the Extra Mile, Carol Jordan sits down with Lauren - a trans woman, activist, and Belfast Pride volunteer - for a deeply personal and uplifting conversation about the courage it takes to live authentically. Lauren opens up about her journey coming out during the 2020 lockdown, navigating serious mental health struggles, and how counselling helped her finally step into her true identity. From finding her confidence on stage as a cabaret performer to navigating senior leadership in the corporate tech world, Lauren’s story is one of resilience and self-discovery. We also discuss her vital advocacy work, including reverse mentoring for senior leaders and creating inclusive safe spaces like trans-friendly pole fitness classes. If you or someone you know is questioning their gender identity, Lauren shares practical advice and resources on where to find support. This episode is also available to watch on ITVX. [https://www.itv.com/news/utv/2026-05-14/trans-woman-lauren-on-the-struggle-to-live-as-herself-in-northern-ireland]

View from Stormont: Sir Keir Starmer's leadership hangs in the balance

Sir Keir Starmer's leadership hangs in the balance, creating a chaotic backdrop for the King's Speech to Parliament on Wednesday. We have analysis from Westminster, where our Political Editor Tracey Magee will be joined by DUP Leader Gavin Robinson, and SDLP Leader Claire Hanna joins Vicki in the studio. What - if any - impact will nationalist First Ministers in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have on the future of the United Kingdom? We are joined by Professor Nicola McEwen in Glasgow, Professor Jon Tonge from Liverpool, and Dr David McCann in Belfast. We'll hear from two key players in the Good Friday Agreement negotiations, as calls grow for the reform of Stormont. I'll be joined by former Deputy First Minister Mark Durkan, and former UUP advisor David Kerr. You can also watch this episode on ITVX [https://www.itv.com/watch/news/view-from-stormont/vssc0ng].

Blind at 20, CEO for 30 Years: The Inspiring Story of Dr Agnes Lunny

In this week's episode of Going the Extra Mile, Carol Jordan sits down with Dr Agnes Lunny, founder and outgoing chief executive of Positive Futures, an organisation which supports people with learning difficulties, acquired brain injuries or autism and their families. Established in 1995, the charity now has over 750 employees and works with health trusts right across the island of Ireland helping thousands of people. You can also watch this episode on ITVX. [https://www.itv.com/watch/news/going-the-extra-mile-positive-futures-and-seeing-the-best-in-people/c8v58ft]