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Miriam: The fascinating memoir from one of Ireland's most celebrated broadcasters
Brought to you by Penguin.
I started writing this book as an exclusively work memoir but the work and the personal kept overlapping. I don’t know if that’s because I’m a woman or a mother or both, or none of those reasons. I just know that for my story to be authentic and truthful, I couldn’t simply focus on the work side of my life.
Miriam O'Callaghan is one of Ireland's best-known broadcasters, covering every election, referendum, major controversy and important public event for TV, and hosting an award-winning radio show. Combining career success, high-octane glamour and being a mother-of-eight makes her a truly unique figure in Irish public life.
In her absorbing memoir, Miriam shares touching stories from her personal life – from the life-changing impact of losing her beloved sister and father in a matter of months, and the end of her first marriage that same year, to the joys and challenges of bringing eight children into the world and juggling a frenetically busy life (‘give up on perfection’ is her wise advice!).
Miriam includes fascinating insights into a career that has given her a ringside seat to a changing Ireland. Like attending Bobby Sands’ wake even before she was a journalist, and life coming full circle when she championed John Hume to be declared the greatest figure in Irish history. She describes extraordinary debates, important and heart-breaking conversations with people in the eye of a media storm, and how she goes after and prepares for the big interviews – as well as what happens when things go wrong. Miriam also addresses the recent RTÉ controversies that cast a shadow over its high-profile presenters, not least herself.
Miriam is an exceptionally honest and personal memoir from one of Ireland’s most esteemed broadcasters
© Miriam O'Callaghan 2025 (P) Penguin Audio 2025
I started writing this book as an exclusively work memoir but the work and the personal kept overlapping. I don’t know if that’s because I’m a woman or a mother or both, or none of those reasons. I just know that for my story to be authentic and truthful, I couldn’t simply focus on the work side of my life.
Miriam O'Callaghan is one of Ireland's best-known broadcasters, covering every election, referendum, major controversy and important public event for TV, and hosting an award-winning radio show. Combining career success, high-octane glamour and being a mother-of-eight makes her a truly unique figure in Irish public life.
In her absorbing memoir, Miriam shares touching stories from her personal life – from the life-changing impact of losing her beloved sister and father in a matter of months, and the end of her first marriage that same year, to the joys and challenges of bringing eight children into the world and juggling a frenetically busy life (‘give up on perfection’ is her wise advice!).
Miriam includes fascinating insights into a career that has given her a ringside seat to a changing Ireland. Like attending Bobby Sands’ wake even before she was a journalist, and life coming full circle when she championed John Hume to be declared the greatest figure in Irish history. She describes extraordinary debates, important and heart-breaking conversations with people in the eye of a media storm, and how she goes after and prepares for the big interviews – as well as what happens when things go wrong. Miriam also addresses the recent RTÉ controversies that cast a shadow over its high-profile presenters, not least herself.
Miriam is an exceptionally honest and personal memoir from one of Ireland’s most esteemed broadcasters
© Miriam O'Callaghan 2025 (P) Penguin Audio 2025
Audible Audio
Published October 30, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
November 17, 2025
The book explores Miriams life’s complexities with honesty, blending personal anecdotes along with struggles in a way that feels relatable. If you're looking for something thought-provoking, uplifting, this book will not disappoint. Highly recommend it to anyone looking for a genuine, inspiring read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 16, 2026
Great listen 🤟
March 10, 2026
Good read.
March 13, 2026
A solid 3.5 stars. I felt like I was having a cup of tea and a good ould chat with Miriam while reading her book. A really lovely read. Love her even more now 💕
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews