Two Norries hang up their headphones as podcast to end

James Leonard and Timmy Long, both from the northside of Cork city, said the podcast released tomorrow will be their last

The Two Norries podcast included discussions on crime, mental health, and addiction. Picture: Miki Barlok

The inspirational friends behind the award-winning Two Norries Podcast have announced the end of the popular series.

James Leonard and Timmy Long, both from the northside of Cork city, confirmed the news on social media today and said the podcast which will be released tomorrow will be their last.

They began the series three and a half years ago, talking about their own experiences with drug addiction, childhood trauma, and homelessness, and later invited experts to join them in these discussions.

The show helped destigmatise these social issues and helped thousands of listeners.

They recorded almost 190 episodes over the year, with discussions on crime, mental health, addiction, and a range of social and health issues.

They paid tribute to their guests, which included high-profile figures such as former taoiseach Micheál Martin, Justice Minister Helen McEntee, defence solicitor Frank Buttimer, homeless champion Fr Peter McVerry, and GAA legend Jimmy Barry-Murphy.

Timmy Long and James Leonard with singer Christy Moore on The Two Norries podcast.

They also spoke to ‘ordinary’ people with extraordinary stories of determination, courage, and resilience.

They hosted their podcast before live audiences in theatres around the country, and were interviewed themselves on various national radio and tv shows. 

They were named the joint winners of a Cork Person of the Month award in July 2022 for being "a real force for change" and the series won a certificate of merit award at the Justice Media Awards the same month, following a powerful interview with barrister Doireann O'Mahony on her experience of an abusive relationship and coercive control. 

Mr Leonard and Mr Long said all their guests’ stories “added magic to our podcast”.

“It's with mixed emotions that we welcome you to our final episode that will be released this Saturday,” they said.

From the first chat to now, our final podcast, has been an incredible journey, and it wouldn't have been the same without your support.

“In this farewell, we're diving into our favourite moments, our reasons for finishing up, sharing behind-the-scenes stories, and reflecting on the journey.

“Thank you for sharing your incredible journeys with us. To our listeners, your support has been our driving force, and we can't thank you enough for joining us on this part of our journey.

“While it's goodbye for now, the memories we've created will stay with us.” 

RTÉ Radio One reporter Brian O’Connell was among those to pay tribute to the pair, saying: “You’ve changed many lives lads and broken down a lot of stigma and stereotyping in the process.”