Edward Devery : Programming

Meet the Team: Ed Devery

Edward is Athlone Community Radio’s Volunteer.

Ed Devery discovered his passion for community radio while doing a course with the National Learning Network in Athlone. Introduced to Athlone Community Radio in 2019, he started volunteering in 2021 and has since become a valued member of the station, sharing positivity and connecting with listeners through his programmes.

Work at the Station

Ed wears multiple hats at Athlone Community Radio as a Researcher, Producer, and Presenter. He manages the “Think Positive” slot on the “Athlone Today” programme, ensuring each episode is researched, compiled, and delivered to engage listeners with meaningful content.

Achievements

Ed’s dedication to the station has earned him recognition beyond the studio. In 2023, he won the National Volunteer Ireland Award in the Health and Well-being category for his “Think Positive” slot — a proud highlight of his broadcasting journey.

About Me

What first drew you to community radio?

I was first introduced to Athlone Community Radio while doing a Course with the National Learning Network in Athlone.  They discovered that I had a great interest in researching and broadcasting.

What’s your advice for anyone thinking about volunteering in radio?

My advice to anyone interested in volunteering for radio is to go for it, especially if you want to improve your communication and social skills.

Favourite songs right now?

There are currently 2 songs from the same singer/songwriter that I really like – “The Measure” and “Boomerang Baby”.  The artist is Ultan Conlon from Loughrea in Co. Galway.  He also recorded a duet with Mary Coughlan, also from Galway.

If you could interview anyone, living or dead, who would it be and why?

My ultimate radio hero and inspiration is Joe Duffy from RTE, especially with his “Liveline” show.  I always admired him as a plain and clear speaker and his great ability in encouraging the listenership to get involved with his show by coming on air and sharing their good stories and, very often, their not-so-good stories also.

If your life had a theme song, what would it be?

If I could instantly master one instrument, it would have to be the guitar, especially the acoustic guitar.  I have a great admiration for guitar players and always take note of how they use their fingers on the strings to produce the different notes.

Tea or coffee? (Or go-to refreshment?)

I always have a pen with me at the station!!  Handwriting has always been a great interest of mine and it’s something I enjoy doing.  Also, when I hold a pen in my hand, it seems to give me a certain confidence, especially when I am in the studio, recording or presenting a programme.  I just like to hold a pen in my hand!!

You’re stuck in a lift with one celebrity and one station mate — who do you pick and why?

As a child, I thought the sky was made up of cotton wool and didn’t understand anything about clouds!!  I also thought that I could touch the sky if I jumped up high enough as I got bigger!!

Pineapple on pizza: yes or no?

 If I had to wear one outfit for the rest of my life, it would have to be a shirt.  I don’t find suits, jackets or jumpers comfortable at all.  Shirts are both my comfort and fashion item, and always choosy about the colours.  I’m not the best at shopping for clothes but it’s nice when somebody else might offer to do it for me and come back with a shirt that really appeals to me!!

What does “community” mean to you?

 To me, community means everybody coming together in a locality, taking great pride in their area and in everything they do, and also making every effort to improve the lives for everybody living there.  Community spirit is often mentioned, where people get together with one goal in mind and that is to do everything possible to enhance their community.

How do you see radio making a difference in Athlone?

My proudest moment with Athlone Community Radio has to be in 2023, when I was the recipient of the National Volunteer Ireland Award in the Health and Well-being category for my programme, “Think Positive”

Ed’s dedication to research, positivity, and community engagement makes him an essential part of Athlone Community Radio. Through his show, “Think Positive”, he inspires listeners while showcasing the impact of community radio in everyday life.