Watch: Gaoth Dobhair's Áine Ní Bhreisleáin presents new series Rothaí an tSaoil

In Rothaí an tSaoil, Gaoth Dobhair broadcaster Áine Ní Bhreisleáin meets people who offer a revealing and engaging look at life in contemporary Ireland, with the series starting tonight, Thursday, at 8pm on TG4.

In each episode, Áine delves into fascinating conversations and personal reflections to uncover stories of challenges, losses and triumphs with characters who have reached key milestones in their lives.

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Guided by Áine’s warmth, curiosity and natural gift for listening, guests speak openly and honestly about their lives, their challenges and their hopes for the future. Each episode follows Áine on engaging journeys with her guests, sharing experiences, adventures and conversations in places that are central to who they are.

Drawn from diverse backgrounds and life paths, these unique voices offer a fresh and authentic insight into life in Ireland today. Together, Áine and her guests explore the questions that shape us all — what defines us, what sustains us, and what inspires us — as they reflect on resilience, loss, joy and the search for peace and happiness.

Episode 1: Hugh Corcoran
In the opening episode of the series, Áine travels to London to meet Belfast-born chef Hugh Corcoran, the force behind the celebrated - and sometimes controversial - restaurant The Yellow Bittern.

Having cooked across Europe, Hugh has developed strong views about the modern hospitality industry. Since opening the restaurant with his partner Frances and friend Oisín, The Yellow Bittern has drawn intense public and critical attention for their distinctive Irish menu and uncompromising approach. From bookings only by phone or postcard to a strict cash only policy, even here in multicultural London, Hugh and his restaurant stand apart.

Episode 2: Aoife Ní Bhriain
In the second episode, Áine spends time with acclaimed classical and traditional musician Aoife Ní Bhriain, at home in Dublin and on stage in Kilkenny.

One of the most compelling musicians in Ireland today, Aoife brings energy, skill and a strong sense of identity to her performances. Raised in a traditional musical family in north Dublin, she discovered a passion for the violin and classical music at the age of nine. Áine follows Aoife’s journey as she bridges the worlds of traditional Irish and classical music, while also reflecting on her own personal battle with cancer.

Episode 3: Feargal Mac Ionnrachtaigh
In the third episode, Áine travels to Belfast to meet Feargal Mac Ionnrachtaigh.

Born in west Belfast in the early 1980s, Feargal grew up during the turbulent years of the Troubles, a time that brought profound loss and hardship to many families, including his own. Today, he plays a vital role in community development across the city, working in youth, cultural and community projects. Feargal’s story offers a strong, entertaining and personal portrait - a human story of renewal, rooted in family, his community and its culture.

Episode 4: Evanne Ní Chuilinn
In this episode, Áine travels to Dublin and Kilkenny to meet former journalist and sports presenter Evanne Ní Chuilinn.

In spring 2025, Evanne stepped away from her long-standing role at RTÉ after an invitation to become a Fine Gael Senator. Áine and Evanne discuss the motivations behind her decision to enter politics and how her life experiences are shaping her priorities in public office.

Episode 5: Siobhán de Paor & Diarmuid Lyng
In the fifth episode, Áine travels to Kilkenny to meet poet Siobhán de Paor and former Wexford hurler Diarmuid Lyng as they begin a new chapter of life with their young children.

Coming from different backgrounds but united by a shared love of the Irish language, Gaelic culture and one another, the couple are now shaping a life rooted in creativity and tradition. Áine gains a unique insight into their shared vision and the hope that drives them as they build a family home and a unique Irish Language and cultural centre.

Episode 6: Bríd Ní Neachtain
In the final episode of the series, Áine meets actor Bríd Ní Neachtain as she prepares for a new production at the Abbey Theatre, a stage central to the life and work of the renowned Ros Muc performer.

From the small stages of the Gaeltacht to Broadway and international film productions, Bríd has built an extraordinary career. Filmed between Dublin and Connemara, Áine explores the inspiration and passion behind performances ranging from Dancing at Lughnasa and Róise & Frank to The Banshees of Inisherin.