The Distance Dilemma

Would We Still Be Mates If...

In this episode, things get a little unpredictable—welcome to our Out of Context Weekly Scenarios. From weird real-life moments to even stranger what-ifs, we kick things off with some absolute curveballs.
Our Topic of the Week? Would we still be mates if… — a deep dive (and plenty of laughs) as we test the limits of friendship through hypothetical chaos. Spoiler: some of the answers might surprise you.
We also get into current affairs, breaking down the 2026 Budget release and the latest twists in the presidential race. Expect honest takes, wild tangents, and a bit of economic confusion along the way.
Then, we debut our brand-new segment, Your Distant Dilemmas — where we tackle real listener confessions and sticky situations from afar. Awkward texts, friendship dramas, questionable decisions — nothing’s off-limits.
As always, it’s just the two of us — chatting life, reacting to madness, and trying to make sense of it all.

Welcome Back!

In this episode, we’re back after a month-long hiatus! It’s been a little while since you’ve heard from us, and we thought—what better way to return than by catching up and setting the stage for what’s next?
First up, Shaun’s fresh off a trip to Donegal, and he’s got nothing but love for it. From the stunning coastline to the peaceful vibes, it’s safe to say Donegal’s officially stolen his heart. Meanwhile, we’re chatting about the future of the podcast—what’s been working, what we want to change, and some exciting new segments we’ve got in the works. It’s a bit of a reset moment, and we’re both feeling inspired about where things could go next.
As always, it’s just the two of us—reminiscing, reflecting, and appreciating how far we’ve come. Thanks for sticking with us through it all. Stay tuned, because WERE BACK!!!

A Look Back On 32 Episodes

In this episode, we’re taking a breather, and what better way to do that than by reflecting on everything we’ve been through? First up, Imran’s heading back to college! After a bit of a gap, he’s diving into project management, and we’re all about those “back to school” vibes. The idea of textbooks, late-night study sessions, and group projects is both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. It’s a solid reminder of how much we’ve grown, both in and out of the classroom.
Meanwhile, Shaun’s still buzzing about his new car—definitely a big upgrade from what he had before. But that comes with a bittersweet goodbye to Betsy, our trusty old ride that’s been through thick and thin with us. You know, the kind of car that always started, even if it sounded like it was on its last legs. RIP Betsy, you’ve earned your rest.
We also dive into a topic that’s been on our minds a lot lately—reflecting on the 31 episodes we’ve done together. It’s crazy to think back to where we started and where we’ve come. From some wild topics to deep, introspective moments, we’ve shared a lot. We talk about our favorite moments, the unexpected twists, and the conversations that have really stuck with us.
And as the cherry on top, we announce that we’re taking a break from the podcast. Yeah, we know—it’s a little bittersweet. Scheduling’s been tricky, and we both agree that it’s time to step back for a bit and recharge. Don’t worry, though—we’re not disappearing forever. Just hitting pause for now.
As always, it’s just the two of us, reminiscing, reflecting, and appreciating the journey we’ve had so far. Stay tuned, we’ll be back before you know it.

Let’s Talk Gigs

In this episode, things take a bit of a turn. We kick off with Imran nearly getting frauded—Instagram hacked, chaos unfolding—but thankfully, he managed to wrestle his account back. A wild ride, and a solid reminder to check those privacy settings.
Meanwhile, Shaun’s buzzing about his new car. Big upgrade vibes. But with that excitement comes a bittersweet farewell to Betsy—our beloved, slightly falling-apart car that’s been with us through everything. RIP Betsy, you did us proud.
Shaun also finally watched Interstellar for the first time (yes, really), and we get into that whole emotional rollercoaster. From wormholes to crying in space, it's a lot.
Then we dive into the GOAT TV shows of all time. The heavy-hitters, the underrated gems, the comfort watches—we try (and fail) to narrow it down.
Finally, we wrap things up talking gigs: ticket prices, best live acts we've seen, and why nothing really beats the chaos and magic of live music.
As always, just the two of us—chatting life, unpacking moments, and trying to make sense of it all.

Unwritten Rules We Live By

In this episode, we slow things down a bit. We chat about why all-inclusive holidays are just so good—unlimited food, zero stress, and the pure joy of not having to make a single decision. It’s the kind of travel we can actually get behind.
We also talk about how posters can completely transform a room. Whether it’s band art, movie classics, or something totally random, there’s something weirdly powerful about what you choose to hang up.
Later, we get into a very real part of modern life: the tactical videos we queue up for those... strategic bathroom breaks. You know the ones. Weirdly informative, mildly addictive, and strangely calming.
That leads us into this week’s topic: Unwritten Rules We Live By. From the everyday social codes to those internal guidelines we never say out loud, we break down the quiet systems that keep us functioning.
As always, it’s just the two of us—talking things out, reflecting, and trying to make sense of where we are now.

Movies We Would Show Our Kids

In this episode, we slow things down a bit. We chat about some of the classic melters at the gym—you know the type—and the bizarre things we’ve seen people do while working out. It’s equal parts confusing and entertaining.
We also talk about what it’s like trying to practice in a band when one of the members is missing. Shaun gives his perspective on how the dynamic changes, and we reflect on how that affects the creative process.
Later, we get into Happy Gilmore 2—yes, it's happening—and share our thoughts as lifelong Sandler fans. That leads us into this week’s topic: Movies We Would Show Our Kids. It’s a fun one, filled with nostalgia, a bit of dreaming, and some surprisingly strong opinions.
As always, it’s just the two of us—talking things out, reflecting, and trying to make sense of where we are now.
 

Growing Out Of Old Friendships

In this episode, we slow things down a bit. We talk about the everyday routines that make up most of our lives—the repetitive nature of daily tasks; and we discuss how important finding personal space is while living with a partner (for all involved!)
We also say goodbye to our shared car, Betsy, who’s officially no longer roadworthy. She’s been through a lot with us, and while it’s just a car, it feels like the end of a chapter.
Later, we take a look back at some of our favourite Adam Sandler kids movies from when we were younger. It’s a nostalgic moment that brings up how certain things we loved still hold a special place, even if we’ve outgrown them.
This week’s main topic is about growing out of old friendships. It’s something many of us go through as we get older—people drift, priorities shift, and connections change. We talk honestly about how that feels, what we’ve learned from it, and how we’re learning to let go when the time is right.
As always, it’s just the two of us—talking things out, reflecting, and trying to make sense of where we are now.

We Started A Political Debate On Tik Tok

In this episode, we’re going off the rails a bit. First up—we pay our deeply unqualified respects to two absolute legends: Ozzy Osbourne and Hulk Hogan. Yes, both of them. Yes, recently. Yes, we’re still processing. It’s a strange mix of “RIP, king” and “wait, wasn’t he already dead?” We talk about their iconic moments, the chaos they brought to the world, and how our childhoods are officially over now.
Then things take a turn—Shaun talks us through his recent car crash. (He’s fine, relax.) But it’s a wild story involving bad luck, some questionable decisions, and maybe a ghost? We’re not saying it was haunted, but we’re also not not saying that.
This week’s topic is one for the books: we dive into the unhinged right-wing comment section on our TikTok about Irish emigration. Buckle up—we read them out loud, try to guess what decade these people think it is, and ask the big question: why are they so angry? And do any of them know how to use punctuation?
It’s a chaotic mix of legends dying, cars crashing, and online trolls losing their minds. As always—no script, no filter, just two eejits trying to make sense of the world one laugh (and one questionable take) at a time.

Expectations For Gift Giving

In this episode, we’re getting personal—we’re talking about our weight loss journeys. Both of us have recently started taking it seriously, and we’ve had a lot of questions come in about how it’s going. So we’re sharing our experiences so far: what it’s like being in a calorie deficit for the first time, what’s been challenging, and what’s actually helping.
We talk through the mindset shift, the day-to-day changes, and the moments that have tested our patience. It’s not about perfection or hitting some unrealistic goal—just trying to feel better, stay consistent, and figure out what works.
We also put Shaun to the test with a quiz on where our listeners are tuning in from around the world. It’s always interesting to see who’s out there, and it’s a good reminder that these conversations are reaching way beyond home.
And finally, Imran brings this week’s topic: gift-giving expectations. Whether it’s a birthday, a BBQ, or a casual get-together—there’s always that question: should I bring something? We talk about the pressure, the social norms, and how different people handle it.
No script, no filter—just real talk about health, habits, and the little things that come with growing up and figuring it out.

Why I Stayed In Ireland

In this episode, we’re diving into a more serious one—Why I Stayed in Ireland. We’ve been getting DMs and voice notes from listeners who’ve thought about packing up and leaving, but ultimately decided to stay put. So we’re unpacking all of that this week: the push and pull of emigration, the things that made people stay, and whether Ireland still has enough to offer.
No messing around this time—it’s strictly business. We chat about the cost of living, housing (obviously), careers, community, and the emotional side of choosing to stick it out here. Is it hope? Is it stubbornness? Or are there actually some underrated perks to staying local?
We also hear directly from listeners who’ve been right on the edge of leaving—people who had the visas sorted, the job offers lined up, the escape plan in motion—but changed their mind. Some stayed for family, some for love, and a few just couldn’t say goodbye to the sea, the pints, or their granny’s roast.
No script, no filter—just real talk, hard truths, and a bit of honesty about what keeps us rooted in a place, even when everything’s telling us to leave.