Ulster legend John Cooney pops into the Waterfront Hall studio fresh off the plane from France, and straight away it's clear pre-season hasn't quite kicked in yet — he reckons he's put on five kilos on a diet of Ulster fries and Guinness.

On this week's show, John joins us to talk life in France, from butchering the language mid-training-drill to not understanding a word of changing-room banter. We get into how he became one of the URC's best-ever kickers almost by accident, the mental tricks he's nicked from Kobe and Steph Curry, and the flat tyre that nearly cost him his Ulster career before it started. Plus his Ireland heartbreaks, the funniest man in the dressing room, and some proper advice for his younger self.

Recorded at the Waterfront Hall, co-created with the Waterfront's podcast studio. Find full event listings at waterfront.co.uk.

What happens when the final whistle blows on a professional rugby career?

This week, former Ulster favourites Dave Shanahan and Andrew Trimble join the podcast to reflect on life after rugby, dressing room culture, career highs and lows, and the challenge of moving on from the game that shaped their lives.

From hilarious tour stories and changing-room characters to serious conversations about identity, retirement and finding a new purpose, this is an honest and entertaining look behind the curtain of professional rugby.

Plus, Dave discusses his Ulster career, embracing the impact role, and why he's excited for what comes next.

🎙️ Plenty of laughs, great stories, and a fascinating insight into rugby beyond the pitch.

From growing up in Zimbabwe to winning Premiership titles, a European Cup, and lifting trophies with Exeter Chiefs, Dave Ewers joins Stand Up: An Ulster Rugby Show to reflect on a remarkable rugby journey.Dave opens up on leaving home as a teenager, the rise of Exeter, life at Ulster, his spell with the Stormers, retirement struggles, and the possibility of one final chapter with Zimbabwe at the Rugby World Cup. Plus, plenty of stories from the changing room, the famous Exeter culture, and some quick-fire questions to finish.🎧 Available now on YouTube, Spotify and wherever you get your podcasts.