Taran's Parallel Universe

About Taran's Parallel Universe

Comedian Taran O'Sullivan talks to a different guest each week about how their lives could have been completely different.

Publisher

Taran OSullivan

Category

comedy

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

22 Dec 2025

Latest episode

7 Jun 2026

Latest episodes

10 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   7 Jun 2026

   Season 2 Episode 3 Fiona Frawley

   Fiona Frawley discusses her career choices, past aspirations, and unexpected opportunities in the media industry. She also shares her thoughts on decision-making and reflects on her life and experiences. Takeaways Career Choices Past Aspirations Chapters 00:00 Reflections on Life

2. 

   7 May 2026

   Season 2 Episode 2 Aindriú De Paor

   The conversation delves into Andrew's early career aspirations, memories from primary school, influential decisions, and turning points in his career. It highlights the impact of career choices on career trajectory and the unexpected nature of opportunities. The conversation covers the themes of embracing fear, finding passion and purpose, historical moments and sporting events, reflections on personal growth and change, and a quick fire round with final thoughts. Takeaways Career choices impact career trajectory Opportunities can arise unexpectedly Follow your passion Embrace the 'field of fear' and do it anyway Chapters 00:00 Early Career Aspirations 06:12 Influential Decisions 15:13 Embracing Fear and Taking Chances 20:56 Reflections on Personal Growth and Change

3. 

   29 Apr 2026

   Taran's Parallel Universe Aaron McCarthy

   The conversation delves into Aaron's passion for comedy and bodybuilding, as well as the challenges and growth he has experienced through personal experiences. Takeaways Passion for comedy and bodybuilding Challenges and growth through personal experiences Chapters 00:00 Passion for Comedy and Bodybuilding

4. 

   23 Feb 2026

   Paddy McDonnell: Injury Sparks Comedy Career

   A sudden, violent incident can derail your life, forcing you down an unforeseen path of despair and deep depression. What do you do when the world you knew collapses and leaves you struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder? Paddy McDonnell’s journey to becoming a full-time, arena-selling comedian was anything but traditional, starting with a life-changing finger injury that forced him to confront his mental health and find a new purpose. In this hilarious and honest episode, Paddy shares unbelievable stories from his past as a carpenter, doorman, and black taxi driver, detailing how a viral lockdown video exploded his career, leading to sold-out shows and sharing a stage with comedy titans. This week, Taran welcomes the brilliant Paddy McDonnell, a Northern Irish comedian who has sold out major venues like the Ulster Hall, The Waterfront Hall, and the SSE Arena [bio]. Known for his razor-sharp observations and turning everyday chaos into comedy gold, Paddy is one of Belfast's finest and most energetic acts. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT From carpentry to black taxi driving Door job injury led to PTSD Stand-up comedy saved Paddy’s life Viral stag do story during lockdown Life as a priest and Kevin Hart GUEST DETAILS Paddy McDonnell is a professional Northern Irish comedian from West Belfast. He is celebrated for his razor-sharp observational comedy, often drawing from his experiences as a former taxi man, husband, and father. McDonnell quickly rose to supporting acts like Des Bishop and Ardal O’Hanlon, has produced five successful one-man shows including the 5-star reviewed Dagger, and has sold out major solo headline shows at Belfast venues such as the Ulster Hall and the SSE Arena Connect with Paddy: https://www.instagram.com/paddythedagger HOST INFORMATION Taran O'Sullivan is the dynamic, authentic, and highly relatable shooting star in Irish media. A familiar and beloved presence on RTÉ 2FM, catch her weekdays on the hit Laura Fox Show. Taran effortlessly connects with audiences through her sharp wit and genuine warmth. Beyond her significant broadcasting presence, Taran is a distinguished figure on the Irish comedy circuit. Known for her dry, sardonic wit and acutely relatable storytelling, she regularly performs across various comedy clubs and festivals. Taran’s Contact Details Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taranosullivan7/ QUOTES I always did feel like I wanted to entertain or be involved or up on a stage, but it was like, No, I need to do boxing. I need to do hurling. I needed to do football. And I need to be a proper male in West Belfast, you know - Paddy McDonnell The only advice I'm going to give you is just take every gig you can get and just but you have to wait the process." - Paddy McDonnell If you're doing this 10 years, it'll be 10 years or more before something kicks because that's the norm. It's like an apprenticeship. - Paddy McDonnell KEYWORDS: #IrishComedy #BelfastStandup #CareerChange #PodcastInterview #PTSDRecovery

5. 

   16 Feb 2026

   Aifric O'Connell: From Newsagent Dreams To Radio

   How does a broadcaster find their voice after repeatedly changing direction and nearly giving up on education entirely? This episode explores navigating early career uncertainty through persistence and serendipity. Repeating Leaving Cert leading to unexpected broadcasting opportunity. Solo travel building confidence and overcoming fear. Working across every radio role creating invaluable industry connections. Small career decisions creating unexpectedly transformative outcomes. Aifric O'Connell is highly regarded Irish broadcaster and producer known for sharp instincts thoughtful storytelling and natural ability making large scale conversations feel deeply personal. Versatile career established her as familiar trusted voice on national airwaves moving seamlessly between lead presenting roles and high level production. Currently serves as producer for The 2 Johnnies playing vital role in powerhouse duo's output including chart topping podcast celebrated for honesty musical expertise and authentic rapport resonating across podcasts radio and Irish festival circuit. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Repeating Leaving Cert opened unexpected doors Granddad's funeral comment sparked broadcasting journey Solo Vietnam travel built courage confidence Working every radio role built connections Two Johnnies partnership turned out brilliantly GUEST DETAILS Aifric O'Connell is highly regarded Irish broadcaster and producer known for sharp instincts thoughtful storytelling and natural ability making large scale conversations feel deeply personal. Built strong reputation as flagship presenter on RTÉ 2fm whilst equally recognised for creative influence behind scenes. Currently serves as producer for The 2 Johnnies playing vital role in powerhouse duo's chart topping podcast output celebrated for honesty musical expertise and authentic rapport resonating across podcasts radio and Irish festival circuit. Connect with Aifric O’Connell: Instagram: @aifricoc HOST INFORMATION Taran O'Sullivan is the dynamic, authentic, and highly relatable shooting star in Irish media. A familiar and beloved presence on RTÉ 2FM, catch her weekdays on the hit Laura Fox Show. Taran effortlessly connects with audiences through her sharp wit and genuine warmth. Beyond her significant broadcasting presence, Taran is a distinguished figure on the Irish comedy circuit. Known for her dry, sardonic wit and acutely relatable storytelling, she regularly performs across various comedy clubs and festivals. Taran’s Contact Details Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taranosullivan7/ QUOTES I worked in everything you can do in radio, because a lot of this industry as well is getting to know people and making connections. Our parents were right. Yeah, bring the CV in person. - Aifric O'Connell My granddad died, and he was like one of my favourite people. And I remember they asked me to do like a prayer or whatever at his funeral, so I went and did the prayer, and somebody said to me afterwards, my friend's mom said to me, you've a really good voice. You should be on the radio. And I was like, fuck, I never thought about that before. - Aifric O'Connell I basically sent my CV to RTE straight out of college. It turned out that they used to take on people during the summer for answering phones on liveline. So I did that job first, and then got asked afterwards to cover a maternity leave here and there." - Aifric O'Connell KEYWORDS: #IrishBroadcaster #RadioCareer #SoloTravel #CareerJourney #BroadcastingIndustry

6. 

   9 Feb 2026

   Lottie Ryan: Broadcasting Career Choices

   Broadcasting success demands ruthless selectivity and resilience in managing rejection, but industry veterans make their intentional choices appear effortless. Lottie Ryan joins the show to discuss the pivotal moments that shaped her career: the seven-minute radio segment that completely transformed her focus from television, the enduring regret of opportunities missed due to bad advice, and how motherhood empowered her to set firm boundaries, eliminating her tolerance for negativity and "energy vampires". This is an honest look at breaking free from professional limitations and standing firm on boundaries despite people-pleasing tendencies. Lottie Ryan is one of Ireland's best-loved radio and TV personalities, with over 13 years of broadcasting experience at RTÉ 2FM. She is the Dancing with the Stars 2020 champion and has hosted successful podcasts, including the number one Irish parenting podcast Jen and Lottie Do Parenting (with Jennifer Zamparelli). She currently co-hosts the second season of her third podcast, No One Else Will Listen, alongside her sister. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Theatre childhood shaped performance career dreams Seven radio minutes changed television focus Motherhood eliminated tolerance for negativity completely Turning down television opportunity regret remains Standing up for yourself finally comfortable GUEST DETAILS Lottie Ryan is a radio and TV personality with over 13 years of broadcasting experience at RTÉ 2FM. She is the Dancing with the Stars 2020 champion. She also co-hosted an episode of the show alongside Nicky Byrne. Lottie currently hosts the second season of her third podcast, No One Else Will Listen, alongside her sister Bonnie. This follows her success co-hosting the number one Irish parenting podcast, Jen and Lottie Do Parenting with Jennifer Zamparelli, which topped Apple and Spotify charts. Connect with Lottie Ryan: www.instagram.com/lottieryan1/ HOST INFORMATION Taran O'Sullivan is the dynamic, authentic, and highly relatable shooting star in Irish media. A familiar and beloved presence on RTÉ 2FM, catch her weekdays on the hit Laura Fox Show. Taran effortlessly connects with audiences through her sharp wit and genuine warmth. Beyond her significant broadcasting presence, Taran is a distinguished figure on the Irish comedy circuit. Known for her dry, sardonic wit and acutely relatable storytelling, she regularly performs across various comedy clubs and festivals. Taran’s Contact Details Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taranosullivan7/ QUOTES I reluctantly agreed to a seven-minute radio slot on 2FM. I walked out and instantly went, "Oh shit, this is it. - Lottie Ryan Once I had Wolf, I mean, I just didn't put up with bullshit anymore. It was like this whole other person was born. It was like you mess with me, you mess with my son. And I haven't got time for it. - Lottie Ryan I think I'd be surprised at how much, how comfortable I've become standing up for myself, probably, and probably also how much I kind of want to do different things now. - Lottie Ryan KEYWORDS: #IrishBroadcaster #MotherhoodJourney #CareerChoices #SettingBoundaries #RadioTVPersonality

7. 

   2 Feb 2026

   Killian Sundermann: From Viral Sketches To Standup

   Comedy careers rarely follow predictable paths yet somehow survive stolen bicycles and pandemic lockdowns. Success emerges from consistent weekly video creation meeting right place right time viral moments. This episode explores viral comedy creation during lockdown. Self criticism necessary for quality performance. Turning down lucrative advertising opportunities for artistic integrity. Publishing absurdist countryside comedy with distinguished literary houses. Meeting life partners whilst pursuing creative dreams abroad. Killian Sundermann is Dublin based comedian, writer and actor who became a prominent voice in modern Irish comedy. He rose to fame through viral sketches during pandemic amassing over half a million followers online. Best known for the satirical CountryFail series adapted into 2024 Faber published book. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Professional footballer dreams versus comedy reality Stolen bikes trigger major life decisions New York creating videos for celebrities Turning down lucrative advertising opportunity integrity Publishing absurdist countryside book with Faber GUEST DETAILS Killian Sundermann is Dublin based comedian writer and actor who became a prominent voice in modern Irish comedy rising through viral sketches during pandemic. He amassed over half a million followers online best known for satirical CountryFail series adapted into 2024 book published by Faber and Faber. Seasoned live performer regular at major festivals like Electric Picnic and Edinburgh Fringe with 2026 tour Killian Dollar Baby showcasing offbeat standup cultural observations and musical comedy drawing from Irish German heritage. Connect Killian Sundermann: https://www.instagram.com/killersundy/ HOST INFORMATION Taran O'Sullivan is the dynamic, authentic, and highly relatable shooting star in Irish media. A familiar and beloved presence on RTÉ 2FM, catch her weekdays on the hit Laura Fox Show. Taran effortlessly connects with audiences through her sharp wit and genuine warmth. Beyond her significant broadcasting presence, Taran is a distinguished figure on the Irish comedy circuit. Known for her dry, sardonic wit and acutely relatable storytelling, she regularly performs across various comedy clubs and festivals. Taran’s Contact Details Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taranosullivan7/ QUOTES I was making a video every single week during the pandemic. It's luck that a few of those went viral, but it's not luck that I was making them and putting them out there.  - Killian Sundermann The fact that it's sort of steamrolled is nice, but I think I'd still just be doing it because it's just a lot of fun.  - Killian Sundermann I'd say go to therapy at a younger age. That's probably some good advice. Don't spend so much time in your head. I think maybe the best way of doing that will be to talk to some sort of medical professional or something. Worry less. Do things more. - Killian Sundermann KEYWORDS: #ViralComedy #IrishComedian #StandupJourney #CountryFail #ComedyWriting

8. 

   26 Jan 2026

   Emma Doran: Stand-Up Made Her Obsessed

   The path to a creative, fulfilling career is rarely straight, often requiring immense vulnerability and a leap of faith into the unknown. We're all searching for that one thing that can ignite an obsession. This episode dives into the unexpected moments and crucial decisions that shaped a life in comedy, from the impulse to post a video online to the shock of winning a first-ever stand-up gig. Taran and her guest discuss how being a young mother focused her creative path, the emotional difficulty of putting your art "out there" for public scrutiny, and the powerful drive that fuels an all-consuming career. Joining Taran to dive into the multiverse is the hilarious and iconic Emma Doran, a Comedian, Author, and Podcaster, known for her sharp, "no-nonsense" Dublin wit. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Alternate careers: jewellery and production. Starting comedy through accidental social media. Why motherhood focused her comedy. The first stand-up gig changed everything. The obsession and timing of a comedy career. GUEST DETAILS Emma Doran is one of Ireland’s most popular stand-up comedians and viral creators, who also co-hosts the hit comedy podcast Keep It Tight alongside Deirdre O’Kane. She is a breakout star of Amazon Prime’s LOL: Last One Laughing Ireland and a top-five best-selling author of the 2024 memoir Mad, Isn’t It?, with over 300,000 social media followers. Connect Emma Doran: Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/emmadorancomedian/?hl=en HOST INFORMATION Taran O'Sullivan is the dynamic, authentic, and highly relatable shooting star in Irish media. A familiar and beloved presence on RTÉ 2FM, catch her weekdays on the hit Laura Fox Show. Taran effortlessly connects with audiences through her sharp wit and genuine warmth. Beyond her significant broadcasting presence, Taran is a distinguished figure on the Irish comedy circuit. Known for her dry, sardonic wit and acutely relatable storytelling, she regularly performs across various comedy clubs and festivals. Taran’s Contact Details Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taranosullivan7/ QUOTES But it is good to remind yourself of what you from even two years ago would have thought about the thing that you're doing now, or whatever you feel like. - Emma Doran I think as well, when you're coming up, that's you're playing to everyone, and nobody knows who you are, and nobody cares. So you have to, yeah, I was, it was much more, I think gags. - Emma Doran So, you know, it's no harm to try and, like, have your fingers in different pies and be open to different things and whatever. I still believe that.  Emma Doran KEYWORDS: #IrishComedy #StandUpJourney #EmmaDoran #ParallelUniverse #CreativeLeap

9. 

   19 Jan 2026

   Nina Carberry: Jockey, Dancer, Politician

   Life's most defining moments often stem from decisions that feel small at the time, or from a resilience that must be cultivated from a young age to overcome a male-dominated world. It takes mental fortitude and an all-in commitment to transition from a grueling career like champion jockey to a public life as a television personality and politician. This episode delves into the pivotal choices, heartbreaking sacrifices, and intense focus required to succeed across multiple, completely different fields. Discover how one moment on a reality TV show redefined a career trajectory and why trusting your own conviction is the key to achieving the unbelievable. This journey is brought to you by the brilliant Nina Carberry, a Member of the European Parliament (MEP), Champion Jockey, and TV Personality, who shares the work ethic that defines her life. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Considering a career in sports massage/physio. Dancing with the Stars opened new paths. Building resilience from childhood farm life. The life-changing decision to have a family. Regret over turning down US scholarship GUEST DETAILS Nina Carberry | MEP, Champion Jockey & TV Personality Nina Carberry is a legendary Irish sportswoman, politician, and television personality. Widely regarded as one of the greatest amateur riders in horse racing history, she secured seven Cheltenham Festival winners and a historic victory in the 2011 Irish Grand National before retiring in 2018. Since hanging up her silks, Nina has become a household name on screen, winning Dancing with the Stars in 2022 and serving as a coach on RTÉ’s Ireland’s Fittest Family. In 2024, she successfully transitioned into politics, being elected as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) for the Midlands–North-West constituency. She is also the author of the Rowan Tree Stables children’s book series and remains a prominent figure in Irish public life. Connect with Nina Carberry: website: https://ninacarberrymep.com HOST INFORMATION Taran O'Sullivan is the dynamic, authentic, and highly relatable shooting star in Irish media. A familiar and beloved presence on RTÉ 2FM, catch her weekdays on the hit Laura Fox Show. Taran effortlessly connects with audiences through her sharp wit and genuine warmth. Beyond her significant broadcasting presence, Taran is a distinguished figure on the Irish comedy circuit. Known for her dry, sardonic wit and acutely relatable storytelling, she regularly performs across various comedy clubs and festivals. Taran’s Contact Details Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taranosullivan7/ QUOTES I don't think I've ever been as fit in my whole life as Dancing with the Stars - Nina Carberry Resilience happens from work go from when I was a kid, riding the pony, falling off and getting back up again. - Nina Carberry The reality of it is being a sports person if you take time off, there's someone I was going to take your place or be fitter than you if you take time off - Nina Carberry KEYWORDS: #ChampionJockey #IrishPolitics #LifeDecisions #CareerChange #BuildingResilience

10. 

    22 Dec 2025

    Trailer

    Welcome to Taran's Parallel Universe, where we take one life, shake it slightly and see what could have happened instead! Join comedian Taran O'Sullivan with personality guests who share moments that changed everything; jobs they didn't take, people they didn't text back and tiny decisions that sent their life in a completely different direction. It's part comedy, part chaos and part ‘thank God that didn't happen’ !!! Jump into the multiverse with Taran’s Parallel Universe, every week from 19 Jan 2026.

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.