Louise Cooney's Open Book
Louise Cooney returns with Season 3 of Open Book, bringing a new perspective on life now that she’s a mum and getting ready for a wedding. Prepare to learn, laugh and cry as Louise’s guests open up on everything from trying to get on the housing ladder in Ireland, modern motherhood, female health, surviving and thriving after burnout and so much more. A GoLoud original podcast, new episodes come out every Wednesday, as well as a bonus episode each Monday.
Episodes
Louise's Picks - Sara Kennedy with brilliant wedding advice
In this bitesize episode of Open Book, Louise Cooney reflects on her wedding preparations and shares her favorite moments from Season Three. With a wedding of her own this month, she taps into the expertise of wedding planner Sara Kennedy, who offers invaluable advice from both the couple's and guests' perspectives. Join them as they delve into essential planning tips, the importance of setting
Louise's Picks - Oonagh O'Hagan on the importance of gut health
In this bitesize episode of Open Book, Louise Cooney reflects back on her episode with health expert Oonagh O'Hagan. Discover fascinating insights into the gut-brain connection and how inflammation can manifest in various parts of the body, influencing mental health and physical symptoms alike. Una explains the vital role of the microbiome and why understanding these tiny organisms is crucial for
Louise's Picks - Stefanie Preissner on parenting as a mum with autism
Louise takes a reflective look back at the most memorable moments from Season Three with 'Louise's Picks'. In this bitesize episode, Stefanie Preissner, who’s not only thriving in her acting career, also opens up about her personal journey with autism as a mother of two. She describes the intricacies of parenting, navigating chaos, and the struggles of managing sensory overload in day-to-day life
Louise's Picks- Ellen Keane on self acceptance & vulnerability
As Louise continues to pick some of her favourite moments from Season 3 of Open Book, here she focuses in on part of her chat with the inspirational Ellen Keane. Ellen was Ireland's youngest ever Olympic paralympian and is now a coach on RTE's Ireland's Fittest Family.
Louise's Picks - Muireann O'Connell on the housing crisis
This weeks pick by Louise of her favourite moments from Season 3 of Open Book is from her episode with broadcaster Muireann O'Connell.Muireann recently managed to get on the property ladder for the first time and here she speaks about how difficult it was and how dysfunctional the Irish housing market is.
Louise's Picks - Eoin McGee on saving & investing children's allowance
Louise's Picks from Season 3 of Open Book continues with her favourite bits from her chat with financial planner Eoin McGee. Here he talks about how to become a saver and the best way to maximise your children's allowance by investing it for their future.
Louise's Picks - Dr. Afif El Khuffash on minding yourself as a new parent
Season 3 of Open Book has wrapped up, but there are some highlights that deserve a second serving!'Louise's Picks' are bite size pieces selected by Louise from the last few months. Pediatrician and podcaster Dr. Afif El Khuffash was one of Louise's favourite guests and he had some sage advice for new parents on the importance of minding yourself and just how to do that.
Louise's Picks - Stefanie Preissner on The Walsh Sisters
Season 3 of Open Book has wrapped up, but there are some highlights that deserve a second serving! 'Louise's Picks' are bite size pieces selected by Louise from the last few months. As The Walsh Sisters makes its much-anticipated debut on TV this weekend, here's writer and actor Stefanie Preissner's behind the scenes look at what it was like adapting Marian Keyes' books for the television.
Chapter 51: Kayleigh Trappe
In this episode of Open Book, Louise Cooney chats with Monaghan star Kayleigh Trappe, Ireland's viral lip-syncing sensation and a fresh face on our screens. Known for her witty take on pop culture and iconic figures, Kayleigh's journey from primary school teacher to social media star is nothing short of inspiring. Join them as they discuss everything from Kayleigh’s rise to fame on platforms lik
BONUS: Kayleigh Trappe on sleepwalking and first loves!
In this bonus episode of Open Book, Louise Cooney gives us a sneak peek into her conversation with the vibrant TV star and social media sensation, Kayleigh Trappe. Kayleigh reveals the deeper stories behind her lip-sync viral videos; the reason she needs to cut out the caffeine and why she's still best friends with her first love.
Chapter 50: Ellen Keane on gold medals and self-love
In this episode of Open Book, Louise Cooney welcomes the inspiring Ellen Keane, Ireland’s youngest Paralympian and a gold medalist. Ellen shares her extraordinary journey from a young swimmer, overcoming insecurities about her disability, to becoming a powerful advocate and author.
Listen as she opens up about her early years, the pressures of elite sports, and her quest for self-acceptance. Elle
BONUS: Ellen Keane on being your own cheerleader
In this bonus episode of Open Book, Louise Cooney chats to Gold Paralympian medalist and all round wonder woman Ellen Keane.Ellen recounts the emotional moments surrounding her last swim, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the journey rather than succumbing to pressure. She also opens up about personal habits like practicing positive self-talk, navigating life with a disability, and her hopes
Chapter 49: Celia Holman-Lee on 60 years as Ireland's style icon
In this episode of Open Book, Louise Cooney sits down with the legendary Celia Holman Lee, Ireland’s Queen of Style. With an impressive 60-year career in the fashion industry, Celia shares her remarkable journey from a young model in Limerick to a celebrated icon.
Celia reflects on her unforgettable experiences, from the iconic fashion shows to working with renowned designers. She discusses the c
BONUS: Celia Holman-Lee on good posture and bad cooking!
In this bonus episode of Open Book, Louise Cooney brings you a delightful sneak peek of her conversation with the fabulous Celia Holman-Lee, fellow Limerick woman and renowned style icon. Join them as they dive into some quickfire questions that reveal Celia's vibrant personality and life experiences. Prepare for laughter and wisdom as they touch on family dynamics, cooking (or the lack thereof!),
Chapter 48. Writer Jessica Urlichs on navigating motherhood through poetry
Louise Cooney invites best-selling author and poet Jessica Urlichs from New Zealand to discuss her powerful explorations of motherhood and identity. Jessica's poignant poems have resonated around the globe, capturing the raw realities of parenting that many can relate to. Together, they dive into how motherhood gave Jessica a voice and the courage to share her feelings, creating a connection with
BONUS: Writer Jessica Urlichs on her viral poetry
In this bonus episode of Open Book, Louise Cooney is joined by best-selling poet and author Jessica Urlichs, whose heartfelt exploration of motherhood has resonated with audiences worldwide.Jess shares her transformative journey, discussing the life-changing moments that have shaped her as both a poet and a parent. From a near-fatal car accident that propelled her into adventure and self-discovery
Chapter 47: Dr. Afif El-Khuffash on Baby Myths & Trusting Your Instinct
In this episode of Open Book, Louise Cooney invites Dr. Afif El-Khuffash, a pediatric expert and lactation consultant, to share his invaluable insights for new parents. Whether you're expecting a baby or navigating early parenthood, this conversation is filled with practical advice and relatable experiences. Dr. Afif opens up about the challenges he faced as a parent, revealing that even with his
BONUS: Dr. Afif El-Khuffash on life in pediatrics & parenting
In this fun bonus episode of Open Book, Louise Cooney invites Dr. Afif El-Khuffash, a pediatrician and lactation consultant, to share some unexpected insights about himself. Afif tackles random questions that reveal what makes him tick, from the weirdest compliment he’s ever received to his amusing coffee-drinking quirks. He opens up about the challenges of parenting and the importance of carvin
Chapter 46: Daniella Moyles on burnout, balance & psychotherapy
In this thought-provoking episode of Open Book, Louise Cooney welcomes the inspiring Daniella Moyles, a multi-talented author, psychotherapist, yoga teacher, and mom, who shares her incredible journey through burnout and self-discovery. Daniella reflects on her diverse career, from modeling and radio to finding her calling in mental health. She opens up about the challenges of recognising her ow
BONUS: Daniella Moyles on prioritising your peace & her big news!
In this bonus episode of Open Book, Louise Cooney chats with the remarkable Daniella Moyles, who has worn many hats – from radio presenter and model to author and psychotherapist. With a wealth of life experiences, Daniella opens up about her transformative journey and the powerful moments in her life.The pair dive into the emotional landscape of childbirth, parenting worries, and the importance o
Chapter 45: Eoin McGee on taking control of your finances
In this episode of Open Book, Louise Cooney welcomes Ireland's leading financial planner, Eoin McGee, to unravel the complexities of managing money. They tackle the often-taboo topic of finances, exploring why discussing money feels so daunting for many. Eoin shares expert advice on navigating the current cost of living crisis and offers practical strategies to improve your financial well-being.
BONUS: Financial Planner Eoin McGee answers your questions
Louise received so many of your questions about money related issues and in this bonus episode, she puts as many of them as possible to one of Ireland's most well known Financial Planners - Eoin McGee. From mortgages to pensions and children's allowance, it's all here!
Chapter 44: Dermot Whelan on 'good busy', finding space & calm in chaos
In this enlightening episode of Open Book, Louise Cooney sits down with the multifaceted Dermot Whelan, the beloved Limerick comedian, presenter, and passionate advocate for mindfulness and mental well-being. Dermot shares insights from his book, "Busy and Wrecked," which aims to help us carve out space in our hectic lives. Together, they delve into the challenges of modern busyness, the power o
BONUS: Dermot Whelan on World Records and ditching the worry!
If you want a laugh, to learn something and enjoy listening to one of Ireland's nicest fellas - this bonus episode is for you. Dermot Whelan is a comedian, a radio & TV host, a Mindfulness teacher, an author, a podcaster and a skateboarder (that last one is not one of his many professions!). Be prepared to find out something that very few people know about him...and just why he's given up worr
Chapter 43: Sara Kennedy on planning your dream wedding
In this exciting episode of Open Book, Louise Cooney dives into the world of weddings with renowned expert and planner Sara Kennedy. With just six months until her own big day, Louise is eager to learn from Sarah’s wealth of knowledge gathered over two decades in the industry. Join them as they explore the latest trends in wedding planning, including the rise of digital tools, the allure of desti
BONUS: Sara Kennedy answers your wedding planning questions.
In this bonus episode of Open Book, Louise Cooney welcomes wedding expert and planner Sara Kennedy to tackle your burning questions about all things weddings! Whether you’re in the midst of planning your big day or attending multiple weddings this year, this episode is packed with advice you'll want to hear. Sara addresses everything from how to gracefully decline wedding invites when the expense
Chapter 42: Stefanie Preissner on balancing career and chaos!
In this heartfelt episode of Open Book, Louise Cooney welcomes her friend - the multi-talented Stefanie Preissner - to share her deeply personal journey through motherhood, infertility, and self-discovery. From navigating the challenges of baby loss and IVF to embracing the chaos of raising two young kids, Stefanie offers insights into the realities many parents face. The conversation flows into
BONUS: Stefanie Preissner on spending habits & not being a dog person!
Louise moved into a house across the road from actress and writer Stefanie Preissner two years ago. They weren't long becoming firm friends. In this bonus episode, Louise puts some thought provoking questions to Stefanie that give us an insight into her busy life.
Chapter 41: Oonagh O'Hagan on why & how we should all be focusing on our gut health
Did you know that your gut affects your mental health, skin, hormones and so much more? Gut health expert Oonagh O'Hagan explains what our microbiome is, how important it is for our overall wellbeing and how exactly we can look after it! From skin breakouts to anxiety and inflammation, it all comes back to your gut. Oonagh breaks down what can feel like a mountain of information into easy to diges
BONUS: Health expert Oonagh O'Hagan with answers to your questions
This week, Louise is joined by entrepreneur, pharmacist and health expert Oonagh O'Hagan. In this bonus episode, Louise puts your questions to Oonagh around issues such as acne outbreaks, choosing the best contraceptive pill and constipation. Be sure to listen to the main episode coming Wednesday to hear an in-depth conversation about health concerning your gut, skin and female hormones.
Chapter 40: Muireann O'Connell chats style, her allergy to wedding prep & dealing with internet trolls
In this wide-ranging chat, Louise is joined by TV host, columnist and fellow Limerick lady Muireann O'Connell. The pair dive into everything from learning how to dress, wedding preparations, the house hunting experience in Ireland, phone addiction, her biggest critic being her biggest fan and so much more.
BONUS: Muireann O'Connell on manky feet, big life changes & what keeps her up at night
In the first bonus episode of Season 3, Louise chats to TV host, columnist and all round Limerick sounder Muireann O'Connell. In this bitesize teaser ahead of Wednesday's main episode with Muireann, Louise gives you an insight into what makes Muireann tick with a selection of thought provoking and fun questions.
Season 3 Trailer
Louise Cooney returns with Season 3 of Open Book, bringing a new perspective on life now that she’s a mum and getting ready for a wedding!Prepare to learn, laugh and cry as Louise’s guests open up on everything from trying to get on the housing ladder in Ireland, modern motherhood, female health, surviving and thriving after burnout and so much more.A GoLoud original podcast, new episodes of Louis
Chapter 39: Sinead Hegarty on rekindling a relationship, therapy & meditation
Podcast host, influencer and digital wellness entrepreneur, Sinead Hegarty joined Louise to talk all things meditation including her experience meditating for 8 hours a day, as well as the benefits of therapy and how it's helped her grow. She also spoke about her relationship and the differences between now and when she first met her boyfriend 5 years ago.
Bonus: Sinead Hegarty chats books & other dreams for the future
Podcast host, entrepreneur and lover of all things meditation and wellness, Sinead Hegarty joined Louise this week and explained how her plans for her life have changed as she's gotten older. She also revealed some of her future dreams which might include a wellness hub or even a book!
Louise also offers her own insight as she prepares to move into her new place.
Chapter 38: Sinead O'Brien on grieving, embracing curves & business
Sinead O'Brien also known as SineadsCurvyStyle, joined Louise after a difficult year in which her father and brother in law both passed away within the same week. She opened up about grief and how her baby boy Jacob has brought light to her family during a dark time.
She also talked about body confidence and the inspiration behind her shapewear brand Vacious, as well as the challenges that come
Bonus: Sinead O'Brien chats dressing for your shape & mothers instinct
Fellow Limerick woman, Sinead O'Brien aka SineadsCurvyStyle is this weeks guest and she offers up some tips for dressing for your curves and how to pose to show them off. She also shares the best and worst part of becoming a mother, as well as what she has learned after a difficult year.
Louise also offers an update on her life including an exciting move that requires a reassessment of some of h
Chapter 37: Siobhan O'Hagan on kids, exercise during pregnancy & new values
Despite having spoken publicly about not wanting kids before, coach and fitness influencer Siobhan O'Hagan is due her first baby in just a few weeks. She opened up to Louise about what changed her mind, the reaction to her pregnancy, and how it has altered her lifestyle. She also offered her own perspective on exercising during pregnancy.
Bonus: Siobhan O'Hagan chats anxiety, feeling lonely and a changing body
Fitness influencer and coach Siobhan O'Hagan joined Louise and revealed what makes her secretly anxious and the times when she feels most lonely. Both expecting, the two also chat about excitement becoming first time mothers and the body's amazing ability to change throughout a pregnancy.
Chapter 36: Aoife Walsh on being a single mother, mess & empowerment
Aoife Walsh, content creator and former Miss Ireland, took Louise on a trip down memory lane to their time working together in Abercrombie during college for this week's Open Book. She also spoke openly about having to repaint her picture of life and how she has embraced being a single mother.
Bonus: Aoife Walsh chats self employment, parenting & what could have been
Former Miss Ireland and content creator, Aoife Walsh came into studio this week and told Louise all about balancing motherhood with work when you're self employed and how her daughter has forced her to reassess her priorities. They also talked about dream holidays and Louise shared her own travel plans for a trip to Morocco.
Chapter 35: Vicki Notaro on popstars, awful press trips & moving on
Former editor of Stellar Magazine, Vicki Notaro joined Louise this week and shared some of the highs and lows of her career as a journalist including "working" with Vogue Williams on Fade Street, meeting popstars like One Direction, Calvin Harris and Justin Bieber and sharing a bed with her colleague while on a press trip.
She also explained how she knew it was time for her to leave Stellar and s
Bonus: Vicki Notaro on gossip, avoidance & being bossy
Former editor of Stellar Magazine, Vicki Notaro reveals her thoughts on gossip sites online and told Louise about the personality traits she is most drawn to as well as the ones she avoids at all costs in this week's bonus episode.
Plus, Louise shares an update following her 20 week scan and feeling movement for the first time!
Chapter 34: Frances Kelleher on ghosting, apps & her dating strategy
Irish dating expert Frances Kelleher shares her formula for a lasting relationship, offers some tips for making the most of dating apps and tells Louise about the biggest mistakes people make when looking for love. And Louise tests her knowledge on the new dating terminology - Everything from ghosting and breadcrumbing to a soft launch!
Join the An Post Book Club on https://www.tiktok.com/@anpost
Bonus: Frances Kelleher answers your dating queries
Irish dating expert Frances Kelleher joined Louise this week and answered some of your questions on everything from who should pay for a first date, to should you leave an unfaithful relationship and can you ever change a man. Frances shared practical tips and straightforward advice for anyone looking for love!
Chapter 33: Chupi Sweetman on milestones, Topshop & running her own business
Chupi Sweetman, founder and CEO of award winning Irish jewellery brand Chupi, joined Louise for a chat this week going back to her beginnings selling at markets and designing for Topshop - Including a hectic opening night which saw just three skirts left on the rails! Chupi was then inspired by her own engagement to set up her own jewellery brand which turned 10 this year.
Join the An Post Book C
Bonus: Chupi Sweetman talks bad taste, perfectionism & the pareto principle
Irish jewellery designer and CEO Chupi Sweetman came in to chat with Louise this week and revealed what current trend she thinks is in bad taste and explained why she works so hard not to be a perfectionist.
Louise also reviewed her recent luxurious press trip with Lancome and looked ahead to an upcoming wedding and to moving house.
Chapter 32: Dearbhla Toal on baby bumps, maternal instinct & comparison
One of Louise's best friends and fellow expectant mother, Dearbhla Toal aka Belle_Azzure came in to reminisce about the early days of their friendship, share the truth about her difficult first trimester and offer Louise some advice from someone who has been through it before. Dearbhla's first child was born during the pandemic and she now has a toddler to manage as well so there have been a few n
Bonus: Dearbhla Toal chats maternity leave, competition & dream days
Fellow expectant mother, Dearbhla Toal aka Belle_Azzure joined Louise for a chat about everything from her competitive streak to being selfish and her dream day in this bonus episode of Open Book. The two best friends also came up with some plans for their maternity leave.
And Louise gave an update on her week, including a day at Bloom and a trip to Nice.
Chapter 31: Emily Henry on romance, groupchats & your 30's
Emily Henry, the best selling author of Happy Place, Beach Read and Book Lovers, joined Louise to chat all things romance, writing, and coming of age in your 30's. Emily is a staunch defender of romance novels and explained why that is, as well as telling Louise what she thinks makes a relationship work - Both in reality and in fiction! And she gave an interesting insight into the process of adapt
Bonus: Emily Henry talks standards, divorce rates & parents
Best selling author of Happy Place, Beach Read and Book Lovers, Emily Henry joined Louise for the bonus episode of Open Book. She shared how her parents' relationship impacted what she looks for in a romantic partner and tells Louise why even though they married very young, they wouldn't recommend it to others.
And Louise reviews her favourite looks from the VIP style awards and contemplates mov
Chapter 30: Niamh Cullen on depression, wedding planning & sharing online
Louise's good friend, fitness fanatic, and host of the new podcast Unveiled, Niamh Cullen came in for a chat filled with laughs as they recall funny stories of sharing online - Like taping a tan bottle to your hand for a photograph! Niamh also gave an insight to her upcoming wedding and opened up about her struggles with depression and anxiety in the past year and how she is feeling much better no
Bonus: Niamh Cullen chats fashion & failure (& Louise's exciting news)
This week, Louise opens up and shares some more details about her exciting pregnancy news and thanks everyone for their well wishes following the announcement over the weekend.
She's also joined by fitness coach, friend and host of new podcast Unveiled, Niamh Cullen for a chat about everything from failure to her favourite items of clothes in a sneak peek at this week's main episode.
Chapter 29: Angela Scanlon on making mistakes, being a 'workaholic' & giving birth
Angela Scanlon, presenter of Ask Me Anything, podcast host and jewellery brand designer joined Louise for a discussion about her beginnings in fashion, her career in TV, and chasing what scares you. She also shared an insight to her experience becoming a mother, how it forced her to confront her own issues and why she opted for a home birth for her second child.
Bonus: Angela Scanlon talks flaws, dishwashers & enthusiasm
Host of Ask Me Anything, jewellery designer and podcaster Angela Scanlon joined Louise for this week's episode of Open Book. In this bonus episode, Angela tells us about her biggest flaws and strengths, and how her dad still insists on showing her how to load the dishwasher when she visits home.
Louise also shared an update from her week, including a wedding in Sligo, and a review of Invisalign.
Chapter 28: Georgie Crawford on surrogacy, quiet time & affirmations
Creator of the Good Glow and author of a new book 'Glow: Five Steps to Create the Life You Dream About', Georgie Crawford joined Louise for this week's episode of Open Book. She told Louise about how her cancer diagnosis when her daughter was just 7 months old helped her realise that she wanted more from her life than rushing around and overworking herself, and inspired her to make a change.
Geor
Bonus: Georgie Crawford on motherhood, grandparents & marathons
Louise makes the Good Glow's Georgie Crawford pick a few random questions from a deck of conversation cards, as a preview of Wednesday's episode of Open Book. Georgie told us about her relationship with her grandfather, how she thinks anyone can be a mother and what she still wants to do before she dies.
And Louise gave an update on her weekly plans which include a trip to Paris, a wedding and an
Chapter 27: Greg O'Shea on retiring, dating & mental health
Olympian, TV presenter and Love Island winner Greg O'Shea came into chat with Louise about retiring in his 20's and finding a new focus after competing at the Tokyo Olympics and he told her about his difficulties dating after Love Island, which has essentially ruled out dating apps for him.
Greg also shared his struggles with mental health and this episode contains discussion of suicide. If you a
Bonus: Greg O'Shea shares his poems & regrets
In this week's bonus episode, Louise reviews the new Mugler H&M collection and her latest obsession - Sofia Richie's wedding. And you get a sneak peek at this Wednesday's episode with Greg O'Shea who reveals his biggest regrets in his past relationships and shares his history of writing romantic poems.
Check out the full episode with Greg O'Shea on Wednesday!
Chapter 26: Sarah Knight on growing up, quitting & dream jobs
International bestselling author Sarah Knight joined Louise for this episode of Open Book. Known for her No F*cks Given Guides, Sarah told Louise about the realisation that her 'dream job' was making her miserable, and explained how she went from being suspicious of self help books to sharing her advice with millions of readers around the world.
They also talked about growing up and becoming mor
Bonus: Rachel Gorry talks fear and moving abroad & Sarah Knight offers her best advice
In the bonus episode of Open Book, Louise offers an insight to her week and shares a sneak peek at the main episode which comes out on Wednesday. As an extra treat to mark the launch of the second season, this bonus episode has two guests who each pick a random question from a deck of conversation cards! Rachel Gorry tells Louise what she still wants to do before she dies, while New York Times bes
Chapter 25: Rachel Gorry on grief, mediums & online trolls
For the first episode of the new season, Louise was joined by Rachel Gorry. When Rachel’s husband was diagnosed with cancer at just 29, she began sharing their journey online. She has continued to be open with her followers about the grief she experienced in the wake of his death.
She gave Louise an insight into how it feels to achieve success and see her daughters grow without her husband by her
Chapter 24: Una Leonard 📖
For the last episode of the season, Louise opens the book on Ireland's new star baker, Una Leonard. Una's business 2210 Patisserie took over Instagram during the pandemic with pink boxes of joy making their way the length and breadth of the country, but there's more to this Entrepreneurial Author than meets the eye. Una generously tells Louise of the mental health struggles that could have cut her
Chapter 23: Christmas Book Lists and Lessons in Pottering 📖
Tis the season for a good long chinwag! Louise and her producer, Sarah discuss the rising ruthlessness of Dublin City clampers, whether pottering is a legitimate form of cardio and why graphic sex scenes should be permanently banned from books.
Chapter 22: Geraldine Lavelle 📖
Welcome back to Open Book, the podcast all about life and the stories that shape. This week Louise opens the book on Geraldine Lavelle an ordinary woman with an extraordinary story. Geraldine's life was blown off course when a car crashed into her bicycle, leaving her paralyzed from the chest down. Nine years on, Geraldine is living independently, has a new partner and advocates for those with dis
Chapter 21: Hazel Wallace, The Food Medic 📖
This week Louise is opening the book on Hazel Wallace, Medical Doctor, Founder of The Food Medic and Author of The Female Factor. Hazel talks about how her Father's death changed the course of her story, why female health is still a very much undiscovered country and how learning to love herself in lockdown led to the healthiest relationship of her life.
Book List:
The Female Factor, Hazel Wallac
Chapter 20: Good Books / Bad Books / Sad Books 📖
Welcome back to another episode of Louise Cooney’s Open Book – the book podcast you don’t need to be a reader to enjoy. This week Louise sits down with her Producer, Sarah for a good books / bad books catch up and an Open Book Club check in. Caterpillar cake is on the menu while The Crown and Unsolicited advice are up for debate and Gabrielle Zevin’s, Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow splits list
Chapter 19: Emma Doran 📖
The craic is mighty on the pod this week as Louise opens the book on Emma Doran. Between ginger pubes and the benefits of self-hatred, Comedian Emma talks about the unplanned pregnancy that became her life's biggest plot twist, how being vulnerable is the only way to love and why stand-up comedy can't be learned in books.
Book List:
The Twits, Roald Dahl
The Diary of Tracy Beeker, Jaqueline W
Chapter 18: Partners in Crime 📖
Halloween costumes, pints of the black stuff and the dreaded return of heels all make Louise and Sarah’s good and bad books this week. The book club check in takes a murderous turn while Letters from the Litterati sparks hot (water bottle) debates. If you have any book recommendations, feedback or questions you'd like to ask, do email the podcast at openbook@goloudnow.com. Join the book club and r
Chapter 17: Terrie McEvoy 📖
This week Louise is joined by her close friend Terrie McEvoy – a hugely successful business woman, nurse and fellow book lover. They discuss a childhood spent reading and the books which influenced all that came later.
Book List:
Goosebumps, R. L. Stine
The Twits, Roald Dahl
The Secret, Rhonda Byrne
When All Is Said, Anne Griffin
What I Know for Sure, Oprah Winfrey
Home Stretch, Graham Norton
The
Chapter 16: Reflections 📖
In this veritable chat-athon, Louise and her producer Sarah bawk at the pace of life post-pandemic, talk creating community and making Santa lists way too soon and even discuss what they want done with their bodies after they die… all the light stuff! The two also take some time to reflect on the podcast, share their highlights and standout moments so far and brainstorm dream guests for episodes o
Chapter 15: Aoibhín Garrihy 📖
Louise sits down with Actress, Entrepreneur and now Author Aoibhín Garrihy on the launch of her new poetry book, Every Day is a Fresh Beginning: Meaningful Poems for Life. In comforting and calming chat the mom of three reflects on her life in literature, discussing growing pains and unexpected plot twists, how she’s now happily countrified and making her mark in business and why the pandemic reig
Chapter 14: Goodnight Moon 📖
What do questionable Calamari and Moon worship have in common? Nothing, but they’re both up for discussion on this week’s episode of Open Book anyway. Louise rates West Clare, Sarah slates the book club read and they both equally appreciate the importance of wild women. If you have any book recommendations, feedback or questions, you can email the podcast at openbook@goloudnow.com. Join the book c
Chapter 13: Andrea Mara 📖
This week, Louise sits down with Sunday Times and Irish Times Top Ten bestselling author, Andrea Mara. The former Financier turned crime writer reveals how she started writing “what if” stories to alleviate her anxiety. She admits that being made redundant was the plot twist her story needed and discusses why learning to shun comparisons is the greatest lesson a book never taught her. If you have
Chapter 12: Book Lovers 📖
Louise gives an inside insight into her thirtieth birthday bash as she sits down with producer Sarah for their bi-weekly, book-related catch up.
The Queen’s death is in both of their bad books though they’re divided on the latest book club read and the benefits of vegetarian dating. PLUS the cosmic reading you might be surprised to find on Sarah’s bookshelf… If you have any book recommendations,
Chapter 11: Nathan Anthony AKA Bored of Lunch 📖
In this food focused episode, Louise chats to social media sensation Nathan Anthony, better known as @boredoflunch! As well as cookbook recommendations and recipe tips, Nathan shares with Louise the plot twist that brought him from a career in finance to online fame with food, how he's finally closed the book on self-doubt and why personal growth is a page worth turning.
If you have any book rec
Chapter 10: Closing Books 📖
In this episode, Louise Cooney and her producer Sarah Madden catch up on Louise's whirlwind trip to Venice, chat about why they're done with toxic dieting and "horrid" festivals and also swap their favourite recent reads.
If you have any book recommendations, feedback or questions, you can email the podcast at openbook@goloudnow.com.
Join the book club and read along with the latest selection "B
Chapter 9: Melanie Murphy 📖
Louise chats to Melanie Murphy this week as the author and YouTube star launches her new book, Glasshouses. Between onion ring engagements, ditching the drink, and happiness being life's greatest plot twist - this is a not to be missed conversation, where online followers become IRL friends.
Book List:
Glass Houses, Melanie Murphy
Matilda, Roald Dahl
Moby Dick, Herman Melville
On Writing, St
Chapter 8: Back to the books 📖
It’s back to school for Louise and Sarah this week as they remember their teen book loves, share a tough review of the latest book club read and make time for a natter about the housing crisis, table manners and the best of Irish TV too.
Book List:
This week Louise and Sarah
Playing Nice, by J.P. Delaney
The Murder Rule, Dervla McTiernan
Sorrow and Bliss, Meg Mason
Tuesdays with Morr
Chapter 7: Rosanna Davison 📖
Louise is joined this week by someone she admires greatly, Former Miss World and "When Dreams Come True" author, Rosanna Davison.
In this chat, Rosanna gets vulnerable about her struggle with fertility and miscarriage, opens up about her strong relationship with husband Wes and wows Louise with the enormous efforts she's going to to help her Ukrainian former surrogate find a safe home.
Book List
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