Brendan O'Connor
Brendan O'Connor presents a weekend show on RTÉ Radio 1, offering a mix of human interest, consumer, and lifestyle stories, along with news updates. The program airs live on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am to 1pm, providing listeners with a reflective pause on the week's events.
Episodes
The Newspaper Panel
Joining Dearbhail to discuss the top stories in Sunday’s newspapers are: Caoilfhionn Gallagher, Barrister and International Human Rights Lawyer; Cuan Ó Seireadáin, Political Correspondent, RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta; Emma Howard, Senior Lecturer in Economics in TU Dublin and Dan Mulhall, Former Ambassador to the US.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Shane Daniel Byrne - “I like the way songs can change meaning over the years”
Comedian, actor, podcaster and writer Shane Daniel Byrne talks about his life and career through the prism of five songs’. He also speaks about growing up in an all-brother household, holidaying in Wexford, discovering youth theatre, coming out as gay and life totally changing when he became a stand-up.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Watchlist
Fionnuala Jones, Pop Culture Journalist and podcaster and Michael Doherty, RTÉ Guide Film Editor join Dearbhail to preview the latest T.V. and cinema releases including Furious on Disney+, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe, on HBO, and In the Opinion of the Censor, on RTÉ One.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“Camping is just THE BEST way to explore Ireland”
Glamping... wild camping... camper-vaning... With hotel prices going through the roof, Matthew McConnell, Editor at Outsider.ie, talked to Dearbhail about affordable alternatives in the camping world, and gave tips for the inexperienced.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“People are watching Netflix while they’re driving along”
Paramedic and Community Engagement Manager of the National Ambulance Service, Ger O’Dea, explains the anatomy of a car crash. What happens from the minute they get a 999 call, the roadside care they can offer, why e-scooter crashes are a daily occurrence now and why he says ‘crashes’ instead of ‘accidents’. He issues a road safety appeal ahead of the bank holiday weekend.See omnystudio.com/listene
“You want a waxy spud for a potato salad”
Chef Domini Kemp has tips and recipes for making beautiful potato salads and coleslaws this summer, including Asian Slaw and Green Goddess Slaw. Her recipe twists include using pickles and capers and she has alternatives for people who may be a bit mayonnaise-averse!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Pat Shortt: “I love grotesque, edgy madness!”
Comedian and actor Pat Shortt makes his Abbey Theatre debut in ‘Animals’ this September, based on Blindboy Boatclub’s short stories and adapted and directed by Dan Colley. He tells Dearbhail about trying to stage an “unstageable play”, his 40 years in Limerick, why hurling managers are ripe for humour and his recent month-long motorbike trip across Europe.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy in
“There is always violence bubbling under”
What would a united Ireland look like? And could the island end up stumbling into unity, without doing the necessary thinking and preparatory groundwork? Those are questions explored by film makers, Alan Gilsenan and John Walsh, in their film 'The Irish Question' which airs on Wednesday, July 29th on RTE 1 and on the RTE Player.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Paul Simon’s Graceland at 40
John Meagher, Music Critic and Irish Independent Senior Features Writer, explains why ‘Graceland’ was such a groundbreaking album. Simon felt he needed a change of direction in the 1980s so starting experimenting with African rhythms and township music, journeying to South Africa and making ‘Graceland’ which went onto sell 40 million copies.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Newspaper Panel
Joining Claire Brock to discuss the top stories in Sunday’s newspapers are Harry McGee, Political Correspondent with the Irish Times, Aisling Meehan, Agricultural Solicitor, Tax Advisor and Farmer, Oisín Coghlan, Public Policy Advisor, Prof. Niamh Hourigan, Sociologist and Vice-President of Academic Affairs at Mary Immaculate College, Limerick.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“Are bank details on a wedding invite the new norm?”
With wedding season in full swing, the celebrations can also bring up some difficult issues. Claire is joined by Chartered Psychologist Allison Keating and Wedding Planner and Photographer Jenny McCarthy to talk through various dilemmas including the cost for guests, choosing what to give to the happy couple and handling tricky family dynamics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“By the time you’re thirsty you're already 2% dehydrated” - Defeating Dehydration
Registered dietician Sarah Keogh talks to Claire about effective hydration, how to combat dehydration, how much water we should be drinking, the best time of day for water intake and other essential tips.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Watchlist
Writer Henrietta McKervey and Dave O’ Callaghan, host of the ‘Here and Back Again’ podcast join Claire to preview the latest T.V. and cinema releases including mother and baby home documentary Testimony, Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, thriller Lucky and the inaugural World Cup halftime show.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Frances Black - “A Woman’s Heart was the inspiration for the Spice Girls!”
Singer, activist, and independent senator Frances Black joins Claire for My Life in Five Songs. From Bill Withers to Beginish. She talks about growing up in a musical family, stage-fright, how motherhood transformed her, her journey to the Seanad and her tireless work on the Occupied Territories Bill.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“I want to make the women of Ireland safer” - Leona Mackin
Mother of two Leona Macken is living with incurable Stage Four Cervical Cancer. She talks to Claire about receiving an apology and settlement from the HSE after she learnt that abnormalities on smear test result analyses were missed. She speaks about the need for further improvements to the National Screening Programme.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sensational Strawberries with Neven Maguire
As we hit peak berry season, MacNean House and Restaurant owner, chef Neven Maguire joins Claire to share some versatile strawberry recipes from the savoury to the sweet. Including a smoked duck salad with a strawberry sauce to classics like strawberry sundaes and cheesecake and kids' favourites, fruity ice popsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“Don’t be afraid of your home” - Getting to Know Your House
Martin Glynn from the DIY Academy shares his advice about common household concerns, bleeding radiators, simple plumbing, avoiding electrics and when to call the professionals in.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Luke Combs at Slane - “Ordinary is the appeal”
As Luke Combs takes to the stage at Slane Castle for his first of two sold out shows tonight, country singer and country radio host, Clodagh Lawlor tells Claire about his meteoric rise to fame, why Luke Combs is connecting with a new generation of listeners and what fans can expect from him tonight.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Discover the Coolcation
With temperatures hitting all-time highs across Europe this summer, holidaymakers are seeking cooler climates. Sarah Slattery from The Travel Expert.ie tells Claire about alternative destinations from Sweden to Madeira to escape the sweat and the sunburn.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Newspaper Panel
Joining Brendan to discuss the newspapers are: Míde Nic Fhionnlaoich, Social Democrats Candidate in recent Galway West by-election; Tanya Ward, Chief Executive, Children's Rights Alliance; Gerard Howlin, Public Affairs consultant and former Government advisor and Scott Lucas, Professor of US and International politics at UCD’s Clinton Institute.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“Crying shows us what really matters to us” - The Power of Crying with Dr Tony Bates
Clinical Psychologist, Dr Tony Bates, talks about why we cry in sad or beautiful moments. He also explains the power of tears, their release effect, why people might try to hide their tears and why he worries about the people who never cry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“‘The Queue’ at Wimbledon is now a social media sensation in its own right”
Christine Bohan, tennis fan and Deputy Editor of TheJournal.ie explains why Wimbledon has something for everyone nowadays, whether they’re a tennis fan or not. She talks about the influencers, fashion and food at this year’s tournament, how you get invited into the Royal Box and she previews the Men’s Singles Final this afternoon.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Watchlist
Joining Brendan to look at the best films and TV shows available this week are Zara Hedderman, Culture Journalist and Andy McCarroll, Host of the Extra Vision Podcast. They talk about Moana, Evil Dead Burn, Rosebush Pruning, The Hawk, Nothing To Hide and Love Island amongst many more productions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mary Kennedy - “I’m at an age now where I don’t care what people think of me”
Broadcaster Mary Kennedy charts her life and career through the prism of five songs ranging from ‘Frankie and Johnny’ to ‘Don’t Rain On My Parade” to her nephew, Dermot Kennedy’s, ‘Funeral’. She talks about her parents’ party pieces, the sudden death of her father, moving from teaching to broadcasting, finding confidence in later life, her faith, her friendships, her love for her seven grandchildr
Your Summer Dilemmas with Dr Richard Hogan
Summer can be a stressful time for some. Changes in routine, high expectations, changes in your environment and loneliness. Psychotherapist Dr Richard Hogan answers your summer dilemmas and gives tips on navigating potential stressors over the next few weeks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Darina Allen - "Your oven should never be moody”
Darina Allen, Chef and Founder of the Ballymaloe Cookery School joins Brendan as a cookery agony aunt, solving common kitchen issues. She explains the importance of quality kitchen equipment and understanding how your appliances work. She also tackles common problems making soda bread and sponge cake.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“Breadcrumbing is where the man isn’t giving you the full loaf of bread!”
Freelance journalist Édaein O’Connell takes a look at new dating trends like ‘wildflowering’, ‘chalant dating’, ‘communal vetting’ and ‘sunset clauses’. She also talks about her new relationship and when to have the ‘boyfriend chat’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Minding Yourself In The Heat with Dr Colm Henry
Dr Colm Henry, Chief Clinical Officer of the HSE has advice on managing the hotter days of summer. He has practical tips around staying cool, sleeping, hydration, suncream and tells us why we should all know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why Buying Refurbished Tech saves money and the planet
Colin Baker, CEO of Back To The Future, explains why a refurbished laptop or computer might actually be a smarter purchase than a brand-new machine. He explains they are commercial grade, factory-refurbished and often last longer and perform better than cheaper, new, retail grade devices.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Newspaper Panel
Joining Brendan to discuss the top stories in Sunday’s newspapers are: Director of Public Affairs at Consello and former Fianna Fáil TD, Lisa Chambers; political editor of the Irish Times, Pat Leahy; Head of Social Justice and Policy at SVP, Louise Bayliss; security analyst, Declan Power and University of Galway law lecturer, Larry Donnelly.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“Choose Life” - The Trainspotting Soundtrack turns 30
Musician and broadcaster, Tom Dunne, joins Brendan to celebrate the iconic soundtrack from Danny Boyle’s 1996 hit film Trainspotting. The album included songs by Iggy Pop, Lou Reed, Pulp and Underworld.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Watchlist
Joining Brendan to look at the best films and TV shows available this week are Executive Director of the Dublin International Film Festival, Grainne Humphreys and host of the Screenland podcast, Brian Lloyd. Their choices include ‘The Girl in the Water’, ‘Jackass: Best and Last’ and a new adaptation of ‘Little House on the Prairie’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How to Pack the Perfect Holiday Suitcase
Fashion stylist and personal shopper, Cathy O’Connor, joins Brendan with some top tips on holiday packing. She has strategies for organising your clothes, embracing ‘the slow pack’, and not filling your suitcase with things you won’t actually wear.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Enda Walsh: “Bowie told me he was sick – he wanted to leave on his own terms”
The multi award-winning playwright and screenwriter, Enda Walsh – whose film credits include ‘Disco Pigs’, ‘Hunger’ and ‘Small Things Like These’ - joins Brendan to discuss the music that has influenced him through the years. He describes moving to Cork, meeting a young Cillian Murphy. His music choices include songs by Bjork and David Bowie.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Summer Holiday Book Recommendations “It’s Sinead’s memoir, and she’s reading it – it’s very intimate”
Looking for some great books for your summer holidays? Broadcaster Bryan Dobson, author Emer McLysaght, and actor Jason O’Mara all join Brendan to discuss what makes the perfect summer read and recommend some of their all-time favourites.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Cape Verde’s World Cup Heroics: “It’s been a fairytale, but not an overnight success”
Judie Lopes, mother of Crumlin-born Cape Verde defender – and Shamrock Rovers’ captain – Roberto ‘Pico’ Lopes tells Brendan about the biggest game in her son’s career, against reigning World Cup champions, Argentina. RTE Sports reporter Tony O’Donoghue puts Cape Verde’s achievement in context.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Niall Moyna: “Within four hours of this treatment, 18,000 bio-molecules are produced in your body”
Niall Moyna, Professor of Clinical Exercise Physiology from the School of Health and Human Performance in DCU, explains how that heart attack at age 60 could have started when you were 20-years-old, but that it’s never too late to start working on your exercise and nutrition. He also discusses biological age tests.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Shellfish masterclass: “Irish people always think seafood will kill us. But it's very safe now”
Chef and Owner of the Seafood Café and CEO of Sustainable Seafood Ireland, Niall Sabongi, tells Brendan how to get the best out of crabs, lobster, clams and mussels. He shares his recipes for Dublin Bay prawns with a homemade lemon mayo, oysters and a classic moules marinière.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Newspaper Panel
Joining Brendan to discuss the big stories in Sunday’s newspapers are: Liz Carolan, publisher of TheBriefing.ie; Economist, David W. Higgins; Mick Clifford, Special Correspondent at the Irish Examiner; and Brigid Laffan, Emeritus Professor at the European University Institute.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Conversations To Have With Your Parents Before They Die
Writer Ann Ingle and Brendan Kelly, Professor of Psychiatry in Trinity College Dublin, talk about the important conversations to have with your parents, especially if they’re older. They discuss how to suss out your parents’ receptiveness, how to have the chats, what to talk about and whether it’s okay if some family secrets go to the grave.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wedding bells in Madison Square Garden for Taylor Swift?
It’s reported Taylor Swift has booked out Manhattan’s Madison Square Garden next weekend. Is it for her wedding? Would she really get married in a windowless sports stadium? Or is it just smoke and mirrors? Pop culture journalist and self-confessed Swiftie, Fionnuala Jones, dissects it all with Brendan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Watchlist
Joining Brendan to discuss the week’s film and TV highlights are Nadine O’Regan, Features Writer with the Irish Times and Michael Doherty, Movie Editor of the RTE Guide. They talk about the ‘Legally Blonde’ prequel, ‘Elle’; Réabhlóid Mheiriceá - Na Laochra Gael on TG4 and ‘The Invite’ amongst many more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ann Lane - “People started dying, the Captain told us it was Hantavirus”
Irishwoman Ann Lane was on board the MV Hondius on which three people died from Hantavirus infection. Ann came out of her isolation period this week and tells Brendan about her six Antarctic expeditions, the horror of fellow passengers starting to die aboard the MV Hondius, the relief of not contracting Hantavirus and how she navigated isolation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“Having a son with special needs introduces you to so many everyday heroes” - writer, Ian Rankin
Novelist, Ian Rankin talks to Brendan about the story of his life through the prism of five songs that have a special meaning for him. He talks about his son who lives with Angelman's Syndrome, why he’s glad he wasn’t an overnight success story and the complex life of a writer being so absorbed in another fictional world.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Enda Wyley – Poems for Summer
Poet Enda Wyley has selected some seasonal poems to read that complement the weather and the summer. Poems such as ‘This Morning’ by Moya Cannon; ‘Inniskeen’ Road by Patrick Kavanagh; ‘Strawberries’ by Edwin Morgan and Jean O’Brien’s ‘Skinny Dipping’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Do you need an LED face mask? - Prof Caitriona Ryan
LED Facemasks are all the rage at the moment, but what are their benefits and what are the other skincare gadgets on the market and do they actually work? Consultant Dermatologist, Prof Caitriona Ryan from the Institute of Dermatologists talks Brendan through the electronic and non-electronic skincare gadgets she’d recommend.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“Dot cakes are dopamine baking!”
Caryna Camerino, from the Camerino Bakery, tells Brendan how to make the viral dot cake, and why this cake-in-a-cup has become such a hit with the next generation of bakers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Newspaper Panel
Joining Brendan to discuss the big stories in Sunday’s newspapers are director of stroke services, at Tallaght Hospital, Professor Rónán Collins; political correspondent with The Irish Examiner, Louise Burne; professor of politics at DCU, Donnacha Ó Beacháin; columnist, Brenda Power; and Irish Times London correspondent, Mark Paul.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mark Little: ‘Technology doesn’t have a moral compass – WE need to rein it in and to push for that!’
Entrepreneur and journalist, Mark Little, joins Brendan to reflect on the AI hype cycle, the concentration of power in the hands of a few tech companies, and the staggering amounts of money being poured into this fast moving industry. He also gives his predictions and recommendations for improvement over the next three years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Watchlist
Joining Brendan to discuss the week’s film and TV highlights are podcast hosts Sarina Bellissimo, of ‘The Bellissimo Files’, and Dave O’Callaghan, of ‘There and Back Again’. Among their choices are ‘Toy Story 5’, ‘House of the Dragon’ and Graham Norton’s exclusive interview with Madonna – ‘Madonna and Graham’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The enduring appeal of Nora Ephron
Author Edel Coffey joins Brendan to discuss the enduring wit and insight of author Nora Ephron, best remembered as the writer of iconic rom-coms: ‘When Harry Met Sally’, ‘You’ve Got Mail’ and ‘Sleepless in Seattle’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Daniel Wiffen: “I’ll never replicate the joy of a really tough training session”
Ireland’s most successful male swimmer ever, Daniel Wiffen joins Brendan to discuss his path to Olympic victory, his training regime and the music that gets him through it all - including one Christmas song!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Adam Harris: Why I’m leaving ‘AsIAm’...
Adam Harris, CEO of autism charity, AsIAm, joins Brendan to explain why he’s moving on from the charity he founded, to become the CEO for Social Entrepreneurs Ireland.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Roddy Collins, Mary Coughlan, Kyla Cobbler & more - Advice for the Class of 2026
As the 2026 Leaving Cert class finish their exams, Brendan gets some words of wisdom on navigating adulthood, from singer Mary Coughlan; former footballer Roddy Collins; eight-time All-Ireland winner, Philly McMahon; Comedian, Kyla Cobbler; Poet, performer and playwright, Felispeaks; Comedian and podcaster, Justine Stafford.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Financial Cultures: avoiding the social pressure to overspend
Certified Financial Planner, Leah McMahon joins Brendan to discuss the financial cultures in different groups. How do you navigate a meal out, hen party, or family event where you’re expected to spend more than is comfortable for you?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sprucing up your packed lunch
Whether you’re prepping for a picnic, or sending your kids off to summer camp, Chef Shane Smith joins Brendan to discuss some delicious – and safe – ways to pack a bit more into your packed lunch.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Newspaper Panel
Joining Brendan to discuss the big stories in Sunday’s newspapers are Mary Regan, Political Editor, Irish Independent & Sunday Independent; Alan Barrett, Research Professor at the ESRI; Hazel Chu, Dublin City Councillor and Green Party Deputy Leader and Cormac Lucey, Columnist, The Sunday Times.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Patrick Freyne -“There’s a beauty in accepting that you’re probably just average”
Irish Times Writer Patrick Freyne has written his first novel, ‘Experts In A Dying Field’. He talks to Brendan about identifying as a yuppie in his youth, his years playing in bands, work burnout, obsoletion in middle age and why having children isn’t the be-all-and-end-all. He charts his life through five songs from The Monkees to Pixies and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informatio
The Watchlist
Joining Brendan to discuss the week’s film and TV highlights are writer, Henrietta McKervey and producer, Eoin Sweeney. They discuss Spielberg’s Disclosure Day, Bad: The Song That Saved My Life, The World Cup, The Isle of Wight music festival and Harlan Coben’s I Will Find You amongst many more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The rise of the Naked Nail
Broadcaster Aifric O’Connell explains the trickle-down effect of top influencers and catwalk shows abandoning gel manicures in favour of a return to a healthier, more natural-looking nail, more in line with the recent Quiet Luxury fashion trend.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ciara Mageean - “If I’m going to die, I’m going to fit in as much living as possible now”
Olympian Ciara Mageean spent her career representing Ireland and Northern Ireland, including a Gold at the 1500m European Championships in 2024, a year before the cancer diagnosis that ended her career. She talks to Brendan about her career, her terminal diagnosis, grief for the life she’ll never have and why we should all live in the moment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Salman Rushdie - “It wasn’t true, I never lived in Bono’s back garden!”
Booker Prize-winning author, Salman Rushdie, talked to Brendan about recovering from a knife attack which saw him lose his right eye, how laughter helped in his recovery, his thoughts on the US v Iran war, how free speech has never been more under threat and his new collection of short stories, ‘The Eleventh Hour’See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Irish priest and spiritual advisor to Anthropic reacts to U.S. ban on foreign use
Fr. Brendan McGuire, AI advisor to the Pope and sometimes spiritual advisor to Anthropic, gives his take as Anthropic halts access to top AI models following a U.S. ban on foreign use. Before his ordination, Fr. Brendan worked in Silicon Valley as an engineer and tech exec. He believes technology should serve humanity rather than control it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“Porridge with chocolate milk? Yes! Change up the liquids you use!”
Chef and Instagrammer Alannah Sheehan gives ideas and recipes on jazzing up your daily porridge, how to make porridge bread and also a recipe for a healthy and a not-so-healthy granolaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Stefanie Preissner’s Father’s Day Gift Guide
Writer and broadcaster Stefanie Preissner is back with one of her, by now, legendary gift guides. This time it’s ideas for buying for your father. She’s suggesting concerts, cookery courses, whiskey tasting, introducing your Dad to a day spa, a 10kg box of beef and many more ideas!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Newspaper Panel
Joining Brendan to discuss the big stories in Sunday’s newspapers are consultant in paediatric intensive care at CHI Crumlin, Dr Suzanne Crowe; head of the ESRI’s Behavioural Research Unit, Pete Lunn; political correspondent at The Irish Times, Ellen Coyne; and commentator and head of the Iona Institute, David Quinn.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Elvis Costello: “This is my face – there's nothing I can do about it!”
It’s fifty years since Declan Patrick MacManus burst on to the music scene as Elvis Costello. Ahead of a visit to Dublin’s Iveagh Gardens for a concert on July 5th, with The Imposters and Charlie Sexton, Elvis speaks to Brendan about his Irish heritage, songwriting with Paul McCartney, and producing Shane McGowan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“It felt like a secret world, with music from another planet” - The Pretty in Pink soundtrack at 40
Musician and broadcaster, Tom Dunne joins Brendan to mark the fortieth anniversary of the brat-pack comedy, ‘Pretty in Pink’ - and the iconic soundtrack album that it spawned.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Watchlist
Joining Brendan to discuss the week’s film and TV highlights are broadcaster, Fionnuala Jones and Andy McCarroll, host of the Extra Vision Podcast. They discuss J. Lo’s romcom “Office Romance”; a new series where Irish people explore their migrant roots, “Backstory”; and the latest show from “It’s a Sin” creator, Russell T Davies, “Tip Toe”.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Richard Hogan: “Too many feel their boundaries should never be breached”
Psychotherapist Richard Hogan joins Brendan to talk about boundaries: teaching people how to treat you, putting down boundaries within your family and dealing with tricky people who try to undermine you. He also explains the critical difference between being an authoritative parent, and an authoritarian parent.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Author, Elizabeth Strout: “A marriage can be a lonely place”
Pulitzer Prize-winning author, Elizabeth Strout, joined Brendan to talk about contemporary life in the US, loneliness within marriages, and her latest novel, The Things we Never Say. She was in Ireland for an appearance at the Borris House Festival of Writing and Ideas.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Masterchef’s Anna Haugh: “Appalling treatment of restaurant staff makes my blood boil”
Host of BBC Masterchef, and owner of Myrtle restaurant, chef Anna Haugh talks to Brendan about unacceptable behaviour in restaurant kitchens, her first season hosting Masterchef, and the perfect food when hosting a summer party.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Greenways: “Cycling is about much more than getting from A to B”
President of Cycling Ireland, and former TD, Ciaran Cannon, offers a guide to Ireland’s 750km of greenways. He describes the tourism, commuting and lifestyle benefits that greenways bring – and suggests routes for families with kids, romantic getaways or city dwellers with an afternoon to spare.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“After your show aired, the guy I loved, from years back, got in touch...”
In February, Brendan read out a letter from a listener, about his love affair with a rival athlete, 30 years ago. While watching Heated Rivalry, this listener was flooded with memories of that lost love. After Brendan read this letter on air, the man’s former lover heard it, and reached out to him. The listener fills us in on what happened next.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Newspaper Panel
Joining Brendan to discuss the big stories in Sunday’s newspapers are Oisín Coghlan, public policy advisor; Dan O’Brien, Chief Economist at the Institute of International & European Affairs; Sarah Carey, columnist at the Irish Independent; and Lorna Fitzpatrick, from communications firm, Fenton Fitzwilliam.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“I thought I was the saviour of the planet” - GOT actor, Hannah Murray
Game of Thrones actor, Hannah Murray, joins Brendan to discuss her memoir The Make Believe, which recounts her experience becoming involved in a wellness community that led to her believing she was the saviour of the planet. She reflects on the search for belonging, and how she eventually found her way out.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Watchlist
Joining Brendan to discuss the week’s film and TV highlights are writer, Zara Hedderman, and Business Post Film Critic, John Maguire. They discuss the return of Love Island and one of the shows of the year, Star City. Meanwhile – on the big screen - Mandalorian & Grogu and Backrooms are up for review.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Does technology mean that our cars are no longer private spaces?
Irish Independent technology editor, Adrian Weckler, joins Brendan to explore the increasingly sophisticated technology built-in to modern cars. From driver assistance systems and connected services to data collection and privacy concerns, he explains what's happening behind the dashboard and what motorists should know.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“I’m telling his story, because Brian can’t” - Emily O’Reilly
Three years after the death of her brother, Brian, former European Ombudsman, Emily O'Reilly, tells Brendan about her search for answers. Since contracting HIV decades ago, Brian lived a very full life, but – despite so much recent progress in treatments - she says his death was reminiscent of a different era.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
"Did I want to be an actor or a movie star? That was the question for me" - Jack Reynor
Actor Jack Reynor joins Brendan for My Life in Five Songs, reflecting on a career that has taken him from Wicklow to Hollywood. He discusses the reality of an ADHD diagnosis, and how family life and the support of his wife Madeline have kept him grounded. His song choices include Brian Eno, The Band and Talos.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
