TwoMacs Podcast
TwoMacs Podcast
Join two old friends, Ronan McSherry and Martin J McGuinness, as they sit down for candid and often unpredictable conversations on everything under the sun. With decades of friendship and life experience between them, Ronan and Martin dive into a wide range of topics—from culture, history, and politics, to personal stories, current events, and everything in between. They’re often joined by interesting guests, offering fresh perspectives and rich, engaging dialogue. Whether they’re reminiscing about their shared past, exploring new ideas, or simply having a laugh, each episode promises something thought-provoking and entertaining. Tune in for a mix of humor, insight, and a genuine look into the minds of two lifelong friends navigating the world together.
TwoMacs Podcast
TwoMacs Podcast Ep 60 John Hanna
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John Hanna is an artist to his fingertips...
He and Martin are friends in more ways than one. They get on well, as is evident from this podcast encounter. They are also cousins.
Originally from Derrytresk, John is the youngest son of the late great Geordie Hanna, a traditional singer known the length and breadth of Ireland.
Seamus Heaney once said that making a living is one thing; poetry is something extra. John has worked all his adult life but for him the 'something extra' is the art of making sticks - blackthorn, hazel and holly, to name a few.
His interest started early, before the age of ten, when infant John handled a blackthorn stick belonging to a man named Tom Rah. In his teens the interest was still there. Geordie suggested Jimmy O'Neill of the Glen would be a good man to see. So, off John went to make contact with Jimmy, a colourful character who made blackthorn sticks.
Buddhists say, 'If a pupil does not surpass the teacher, the teacher has not done his job'. Jimmy did his job extra well. He gave John a certain book that allowed the younger man to develop his art and make contact with other stick makers.
'A thing of beauty is a joy forever, ' said poet John Keats. These sticks don't last forever - about 100 years, says John Hanna - but I say they are definitely beautiful.
The conversation also touches on poetry, painting, acting and song with Oliver Corr making contributions to a discussion that both engages and delights.
