The Pat Kenny Show
Pat brings you the sharpest analysis of news and current affairs on the radio and fresh perspectives on the issues that will define a generation. Breaking news is interwoven with reflective news features and reports from a variety of reporters based across the country. Experts are on hand to guide listeners on everything from consumer and employment rights and health issues to savvy holiday options. And Pat is joined by all the best personalities from the entertainment world.
Episodes
The Divided States of America with Pat Kenny Episode 2
On this episode of 'The Divided States of America', Pat is joined by President of the Global Situation Room and former White House Advisor in the Obama Administration, Brett Bruen, to discuss how last week's events might impact America's international standing.And Irish Times Washington Correspondent, Keith Duggan who has been taking the political temperature in a number of swing states.
Sex vs Gender Identity: Giggle v Tickle
Pat speaks to Sall Grover, founder of 'Giggle for Girls' - an app designed as a women-only online community and support network that was taken offline after sustained controversy and legal pressure. Sall outlines the events that led to the Tickle v. Giggle legal battle, the role of the Australian Human Rights Commission, and what the court ultimately decided about sex, gender identity, and access
Can Europe replace U.S. backing for Ukraine?
Joining Pat from Ukraine, Emmanuelle Chaze of France 24 describes the mood in Kyiv as power cuts become “incessant”, winter approaches, and trust in Washington hits crisis levels.
Inside the Coombe: 200 Years of Maternity Care
Pat explores 200 years of the Coombe Hospital with Dr. Daryl Hendley Rooney, Curator and Senior Management member at the Little Museum of Dublin, as a new exhibition tells the story of one of the city’s most enduring institutions.
Mark Moriarty on his new restaurant, a new book, and a new baby
Pat is joined by chef, author and TV presenter Mark Moriarty to talk about his brand new book 'Everyday Delicious', a brand-new baby, and his first-ever restaurant.
Pat's Sunday Paper Review October 18th
Pat is joined by Craig Hughes, Political Editor of the Irish Daily Mail to unpack the biggest political and public-interest stories making headlines.
Legacy: Ireland’s OPW property gems revealed
Pat Kenny is joined in studio by David Hare, whose TV series and new book 'Legacy' shine a light on 32 of Ireland’s National Historic Properties in the care of the OPW. From Derrynane House and Daniel O’Connell’s fateful duel, to how Áras an Uachtaráin nearly didn’t survive the early years of the State, David explains what makes these buildings such good-value, must-see parts of our heritage.
Optogenetics explained: Light switching neurons
Pat Kenny is joined by Prof Luke O’Neill to unpack two striking breakthroughs in brain science, starting with the Nobel Prize-winning technology that uses light to switch neurons on and off. From an algae protein to moving a mouse’s whiskers with a beam of light, they explore how this tool could transform how we study the living brain — and what it might mean for restoring sight or even tackling e
Waterford arson attack latest & drug debt intimidation in Ireland
A shocking arson attack in Waterford that killed four members of the English family has reignited fears about drug-related intimidation across Ireland. Pat speaks with Stephen Breen, Crime Editor with The Sun, on where the Garda investigation stands, the arrests made so far, and what evidence has been seized as the probe continues.
Billion Dollar Baby: Inside Ireland’s costliest build
Pat is joined by journalist Paul Cullen to trace the long, bruising saga of the National Children’s Hospital - a project first priced at €650 million and now estimated at well over €2.2 billion, with more rises likely. Drawing on his new book, Billion Dollar Baby, Cullen explains how decades of rivalry between Dublin’s children’s hospitals, a tortuous site-selection process, and planning missteps
Amelia Earhart: New clues into a 90-year mystery
Pat revisits one of aviation’s great unsolved mysteries: the disappearance of Amelia Earhart and navigator Fred Noonan during their 1937 attempt to fly around the world. Joined by retired Lieutenant Colonel and airport safety and security auditor Kevin Byrne, Pat digs into the navigation challenge of finding tiny Howland Island, the limits of 1930s radio direction-finding, and why a missed heading
70s kitchen revival: Two fast classic dinners with Gareth Mullins
Pat is joined by Gareth Mullins, Executive Chef at Anantara The Marker Dublin and co-host of the Dishing It Out podcast where he brings us back to school-day classics from the 70s and 80s, sharing his go-to recipes for a quick, classic Beef Stroganoff & Chicken a lá King.
The Divided States of America with Pat Kenny Episode 1
In this first episode of 'The Divided States of America', Pat Kenny is joined by TJ Mulloy of Democrats Abroad to discuss the potential of a blue wave ahead of the upcoming elections.Richard Haas, former US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland, joins Pat from New York to examine how President Trump's actions are impacting his relations with the rest of the world.
Discipline by Randa Abdel-Fattah
Randa Abdel-Fattah is an Australian Author and Academic of Palestinian and Egyptian Heritage whose latest novel 'Discipline', examines censorship, journalism, and academia against the backdrop of the Israel-Gaza conflict.Randa joined Pat to discuss the book and how it has made her into a highly controversial figure.
The Lyric's The Thing
Former Eurovison Winner Paul Harrington joined Pat this morning for a walk through tin pan alley with a quaint re-telling of 'Walkin My Baby Home'
Glorious Monsters
Author and Journalist Martina Devlin rejoined Pat to discuss her new book Glorious Monsters. The novel imagines the life of Mary Shelley, the author of Frankenstein, her husband Percy Bysshe Shelley and their circle, including an Irish born female artist. Image: The Lilliput Press
30 years of the Criminal Asset Bureau
On the 15th of October, the Criminal Asset Bureau will turn 30 years old. The CAB was established to deal with increasing levels of serious, organised crime in Ireland.Pat was joined by Crime Journalist with the Irish Independent Paul Williams to discuss CAB's history and the impact on Ireland today.
Pat's Sunday Paper Review 11th October
Joining Pat to run through the main stories in the Sunday papers is Author and Journalist Martina Devlin.
Paul Howard
As Pat broadcasts from the RDS, home of Leinster Rugby, he is joined by the man who created one of the most famous rugby characters in Irish culture.Pat is joined by Paul Howard, Journalist, author and comedy writer best known as the creator of the number one bestselling Ross O'Carroll-Kelly series.
Sciene with Luke O'Neill: Russian Plague
A 28-year old laboratory worker, Darya Shipilova, who worked at the Irkutsk Anti-Plague Research Institute, died on Oct 2nd of severe pneumonia.The exact cause of death has yet to be confirmed, but conspiracists think it may be caused by a a plague. Professor Luke O'Neill, Chair of Biochemistry in TCD joins Pat to explain the science behind this rumoured 'plague.'
Gordan d'Arcy at Leinster's new home
Former Leinster and Ireland rugby player, Gordon D’arcy, joins Pat live from Leinster's new home, the Lava Arena at the RDS, to discuss his career, his memories of the RDS, and the changing face of Irish rugby.
Trump agrees oil deal with Russia
United States President Donald Trump has said that Russia will supply more than 300,000 tonnes of diesel fuel to the US. Donnacha Ó Beacháin, Professor of Politics at DCU and Author of Unfinished Empire: Russian Imperialism in Ukraine and the Near Abroad joined Pat to discuss the oil deal.
Can Ireland become the world leader in digital health?
Next week, a major conference hosted by Engineers Ireland will host the launch of a ‘moonshot’ that will seek to make Ireland the world leader in digital health. Pat is joined by the man behind Mission10X, Professor Martin Curley, Director, Digital Health Ecosystem, Maynooth University, to discuss the event and Ireland's future in health.
Protein rich recipes with Gareth Mullins
The correct intake of nutrients is crucial no matter what level of activity, so for this week’s food slot, Garett Mullins, Executive Chef in the Anantara Hotel joins Pat with three protein rich recipes.
Leinster Rugby's new home at the RDS
Pat broadcasts live from the Lava Arena to mark Leinster’s return back to the RDS.Pat is joined by Shane Nolan, CEO of Leinster Rugby to discuss the team's new adventure.
Orange Order march banned from Garvaghy Road
Chris Bryant, Northern Ireland Secretary of State has banned the orange order from marching along Garvaghy Road. Alison Morris, Columnist with the Belfast Telegraph and commentator specializing in politics and security, joined Pat to discuss the breaking news.
Brittle: How the Housing Crisis Is Breaking Ireland — And How to Fix It
Economist and Author of the Daft.ie Housing Reports Ronan Lyons has written a book entitled, Brittle: How the Housing Crisis Is Breaking Ireland - And How to Fix It. In this book, Ronan look at the Irish housing market in three different ways, where we are now, how did we get here and where do we go from here. Ronan joined Ciara in studio to discuss. Image: Easons
Garvaghy Road one week on
It is officially one week on from the Garvaghy Road protests. There have been several talks and proceeding and what to go and where to go next. But what effect has this had on the community? Ciara was joined by Dylan Hegarty, Video Editor at The Irish News and Resident of the Garvaghy Road Dessie Trainer.
Will Meta's AI's assistant be the start of the end for smartphones?
Meta has unveiled the Muse Charm, a small device designed to give users constant access to its AI assistant without having to reach for their phone. It can respond to voice commands, see what you're looking at and, as AI becomes more agentic, potentially carry out tasks on your behalf. Irish Independent Technology Correspondent & Host of Big Tech Show, Adrian Weckler joined Ciara to
What should we expect in the budget?
With the budget just around the corner, will the fiscal and macro spending the government announce match up to the various leaks we have been seeing over the past few weeks? But if there was not public pushback, what would work best for the general population, is there a choice that would protect the long-term health of our economy. Ciara Doherty was joined by Economist Austin Hughes a
Sport with Shane Hannon
Ireland face Israel for a second time now in Serbia, after their 3-0 defeat last week. Ciara was joined by Off The Ball's Football Correspondent Ben Symes for updates from Serbia. Off The Ball's Shane Hannon also joined Ciara for more sporting updates.
The Sunday Paper Review 4th October
Joining Ciara Doherty to go through Sunday's Papers was Human Rights Campaigner Colm O'Gorman, Journalist & Author Valerie Cox and Former Fianna Fáil Advisor and Public Affairs Consultant Derek Mooney.
A Letter Home: Irish Correspondence from America
Now before email and social media, ‘the letter from America’ was part of every Irish household who had relatives who emigrated to the States.A Letter Home: Irish Correspondence from America, 1818–1972, by Author and Established Professor of Modern Irish History at the University of Galway Breandán Mac Suibhne, takes a closer look at these letters, who wrote them and what exactly they say. Breandán
Autumnal Food with Gerry Devlin
As we move into October, there’s plenty of great Irish produce coming into season, from root vegetables and squash to apples and pears. Ciara was joined by Gerry Devlin, owner of the Dublin Cookery School, with some seasonal dishes that make the most of what’s available now.
Leo Varadkar on Brexit, Garvaghy road and Irish reunification
Former Taoiseach and Author of ‘Speaking My Mind’ Leo Varadkar joined Ciara Doherty to discuss his thoughts on overturning Brexit, the situation on the Garvaghy road and if Irish reunification is still on the table.
Science with Luke: Epstein-Barr Virus
Epstein-barr virus is one of the most common viruses in the world, with around 95% of us infected, but scientists now have strong evidence that it can play a role in multiple sclerosis. So how does a virus that causes little or no illness in most people go on to trigger a serious autoimmune disease in some, and could targeting the virus help us prevent MS? Luke O'Neil
Ask The Expert: Dietician Sarah Keogh
It is a well-known fact that our diet has a huge role ot play in our physical health, but there is not growing evidence that it has an effect on our stress, mood and overall mental wellbeing. Dietician and Founder of Eatwell Sarah Keogh joined Ciara this morning to discuss if what we eat effect how we feel.
How much can Ireland achieve through its EU presidency?
Ireland is now at the halfway point of its six-month Presidency of the Council of the European Union, with the Government pointing to progress on competitiveness, security, Ukraine and EU enlargement. But the Presidency is taking place against an increasingly volatile international backdrop, how much can Ireland really achieve? Fianna Fail TD & Minister of State for European Af
U2 celebrates their 50th anniversary
The iconic Irish band U2 is celebrating their 50th anniversary. In homage to the band, arts journalist Pat Carty joined Ciara to take a look back at some of their hits and highlights.
Catalpa: The Epic Story of the Greatest Prison Rescue in Irish History
The audacious Catalpa escape story had its 150th anniversary this year. To mark it, historian Michael Barry has just published Catalpa: The Epic Story of the Greatest Prison Rescue in Irish History.Michael joined Ciara this morning to discuss the book. Image: Ennis Bookshop
Updates on the Ireland and Israel match
Under normal circumstances, talk around the game against Israel would be focused on how Ireland might turn around a terrible Thursday night loss against Kosovo. But, after recent developments and Gavin Bazunu pulling out from the lineup, has anything changed? Aidan Fitzmaurice, Sports Reporter at Irish Independent joined Ciara live from Hungary.
Are our AI fears justified?
In the past few weeks, there have been growing concerns about how trustworthy AI really is. With multiple data breaches including the Australian government having their data breach and Revolut’s second date breach in less than a month, are our AI fears justified? CEO of Smartteach247, Raluca Saceanu joined Ciara to discuss.
The Sunday Paper Review 27th September
Joining Ciara Doherty to go through Sunday's Newspapers was Larry Donnelly, Law Lecturer at the University of Galway and Lynn Boylan Sinn Féin MEP for Dublin.
Is turning 50 the end of the road? Or a new chapter?
New research suggests there is a striking generational divide in how Irish people view turning 50.Almost six in ten young adults believing that by 49, someone's most exciting years are largely behind them. But among those aged 45 and over, the overwhelming majority say their best years are still ahead, with confidence, ambition and a desire for new experiences actually increasing with a
What has happened at the UN General Assembly?
The UN General Assembly commenced on the 8th of September. Towards the end of the assembly, world leaders move into the High-Level General Debates. But what has happened so far and how does it impact Ireland's standing? Ciara Doherty was joined by Scott Lucas, Professor and Political Analyst at the Clinton Institute in UCD .
The Orange Order is set to return to Garvaghy Road
The Parades Commission has given the Orange Order permission to march along the Garvaghy Road in Portadown for the first time in almost 30 years. The parade will be limited to 35 people, with no bands or supporters, and must take place between 8am and 9.30am.Ciara was joined by Editor of The Unionist Voice & Portadown Orange District, Jamie Bryson and Sinn Fein TD for the Cavan–Monaghan c
Autumn food with Gerry Devlin
As we head into the Autumn months, a whole range of ingredients come into season. Pumpkins, apples, blackberries, kale and beetroot just to name a few. Gerry Devlin, Owner of the Dublin Cookery School joined Ciara to share a few Autumn recipes.
Ask The Expert: Dermatologist, Professor Caitriona Ryan
This week for Ask The Expert, Ciara Doherty was joined by Professor Caitriona Ryan, a Consultant Dermatologist with the Institute of Dermatology.Caitriona spoke to Ciara about the changes your skin and hair go through during the menopause.
Science with Luke: Ultra-Processed Food
Ultra-processed food now makes up a significant part of what we eat, but just how much damage could it be doing to our health?Luke O'Neill, Professor of Biochemistry in the School of Biochemistry and Immunology at Trinity College Dublin joined Ciara to discuss if this really is that bad for us.
Is the entertainment economy out of control?
With the jump in price for tickets to see Oasis in Slane compared to previous Slane gigs. It begs the question, what has happened to the entertainment economy?Ciara Doherty was joined by Niall Byrne, known online as Nialler9, to answer if the entertainment economy is out of control.
Motoring with Geraldine Herbert
Pat is joined by Geraldine Herbert, Motoring Editor with the Sunday Independent, to talk about the dreaded penalty points.
Trump family's deals in the Balkans
During the week, there were questions surrounding the financing of Don Jr's recent wedding, as it was largely funded by a Russian oligarch. However, this few hundred thousand is nothing compared to some of the deals the Trump family and their close business associates have made in Eastern Europe. Joining Pat to discuss the various projects in the region is Garret Patrick Kelly, former UN Diplomat
What were the Vikings like?
Neil Price, Chair of Archaeology at Uppsala University believes we should view the Vikings as a complex, advanced society, instead of bloodthirsty warriors. Neil argues this in his new book, The Sea-King and the Sorceress. He joins Pat to explain.
Russian elections
This weekend, Russians have been going to the polls in the first parliamentary election since Vladimir Putin launched his first full scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.United Russia is most likely to remain in power. Yaroslava Kiryukhina, Senior Journalist for the BBC based in Riga jo0ined Pat to discuss why this election matters, even if the results are predictable.
Pat's Sunday Paper Review 20th September
Joining Pat to run through the main stories in the Sunday papers is Brenda Power, Columnist, Irish Daily Mail.
Italian recipes with Gareth Mullins
Pat is joined by Executive Chef at Anantara the Marker Hotel and Forbes Street Restaurant, and co-host of the 'Dishing It Out' podcast with Gary O'Hanlon to go through a couple of recipes from beloved Italy.
The latest in Yemen
Iran-aligned Houthis have made major gains along Yemen's Red Sea coast.Saudi Arabia has responded with airstrikes, while the Houthi's advance has brought them closer to Bab l-Mandeb Strait, one of the world's most important shipping routesPat discusses the latest with Adam Parsons, Sky News Middle East Correspondent as turmoil unravels in Yemen.
Trump bans CNN from the White House
US President Donald Trump has banned CNN, MS NOW and Politico from The White House. Pat is joined by Niall Stanage, Associate Editor, 'The Hill' in Washington DC to discuss this and more in the latest US news.
What causes morning sickness during pregnancy?
Luke O'Neill , Chair of Biochemistry at Trinity College Dublin, joins Pat to discuss a latest science breakthrough- the cause of morning sickness during pregnancy.
Carlo Rovelli on Modern Physics
Pat is joined by Carlo Rovelli, Physicist, to discuss his new book, On the Equality of All Things, which explores quantum mechanics and how it applies to our understanding on what is means to exist, a modern physics theory.
Garda Whistleblower Controversy
RTÉ has pulled its garda whistleblower programme from its streaming service, following a request from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. Pat is joined by John Drennan, Political Journalist and Writer, to discuss how the case unfolded and throughout the week and what is next for this garda whistleblower controversy.
How is Trump's weekend visit being viewed at home?
Caitriona Perry is the chief presenter in Washington for the BBC and an extremely recognisable face here in Ireland.Caitriona has been closely following the American president, both here and in the states. She joined Pat this morning to talk about that experience.
The Lyric's The Thing
In the mid 1980’s while working as a secretary at the cable TV Company HBO , songwriter Julie Gold wrote a song that would change her life. Singer, songwriter and Eurovision winner Paul Harrington joined Pat this morning for a closer look at the genesis and global success From A Distance had.
Sebastian Faulkes: Farewell to Eden
Farewell to Eden is the long awaited new novel from author Sebastian Faulkes. Farewell to Eden tells the tale of Philip Deval, a teacher in 1950's England, who was also a veteran of the second world war and served in Palestine during the years that brought the birth of the state of Israel.Sebastian joined Pat Kenny this morning to discuss the book.
President Donald Trump in Doonbeg
Newstalk reporter Henry McKean was in Doonbeg for president Donald Trump's visit. Henry joined Pat this morning to discuss all things Doonbeg and hear from some of the people in the area.
One pan meals with Neven Maguire
Pat was joined by head chef and proprietor of the award winning MacNean House and Restaurant in Cavan, Neven Maguire on how to make home cooking delicious and satisfying while only using one pan.
Pat's Sunday Paper Review September 13th
Joining Pat to run through the main stories in the Sunday papers is, Mark Hennessey, the Irish Times Britain and Ireland editor.
Trump Visit: Farmleigh House
Newstalk reporter Sean DeFoe was at Farmleigh House for President Trump's visit, he joined Pat this more to discuss what was said when the president spoke Taoiseach Micheál Martin, and members of the press.
Solicitor Strike: Tusla have been privately retaining solicitors
With the ongoing legal aid dispute, child and family agency Tusla has had to "dip into their own pockets" and privately retain a number of solicitors for vulnerable young people. Eoghan O'Sullivan is a partner in Powderly Solicitors and he joined Pat this morning to discuss.
Trump Visit: The President's itinerary
President Donald Trump is back on Irish soil ahead of the Irish Open at his golf resort in Doonbeg. Before he attends the open, the President has some meetings with several Irish officials including Taoiseach Micheál Martin and President Catherine Connolly. Newstalk Reporters, Sean DeFoe, Jessica Woodlock and Barry Whyte joined Pat for the latest updates.
September 12th 2001: As reported in the papers
25 years ago, newspapers in Ireland and around the world were trying to make sense of the 9/11 attack in America. Newstalk reporter Bairbre Holmes was just 12 years old at the time, her father a former radio presenter collected newspapers from historical events around the world. Bairbre and her father's collection of 9/11 newspapers joined Pat this morning.
American recipes with Gareth Mullins
Pat is joined by Executive Chef at Anantara the Marker Hotel and Forbes Street Restaurant, and co-host of the 'Dishing It Out' podcast with Gary O'Hanlon to go through a couple of recipes fit for a president!
Gilbert O'Sullivan: Celebrating 60 years in show business
Gilbert O'Sullivan has be renowned as "one of the best songwriters" by artists such as Paul Weller and CMAT.He joins Pat Kenny to celebrate about his 60 years in show business.Image: AMA Music Agency.
New York City on the 9/11 25th Anniversary
To mark the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, memorial events have been held across New York City. Newstalk's multimedia reporter Emily Keegan has been in New York all week speaking to people who have been impacted by 9/11.Emily joined Pat live from New York
A nation united: Katie Taylor retires in glory
Katie Taylor fought her way to retirement in Croke Park, and 83,000 people turned up to witness a farewell that felt less like a bout and more like a national celebration. Pat is joined by reporter Sarah Madden, who was in among the crowds from lunchtime as the carnival atmosphere built as well as Off the Ball's John Duggan to breaks down the unanimous-decision win over France’s Flora Pili.
Pat's Sunday Paper Review September 6th
Joining Pat to run through the main stories in the Sunday papers is Gabija Gatavekaite, BBC Dublin correspondent.
Same Irish butter, two prices: What’s going on?
Two Irish butters are battling it out on US shelves and it’s more complicated than it looks. Kerrygold is the premium brand at a premium price, while a cheaper grass‑fed butter has landed in Costco under the Kirkland label. Pat Kenny is joined by Pat O’Toole of the Irish Farmers Journal to unpack how both products trace back to the same co‑op family, and why Irish dairy is now under pressure to se
Neutrality vs reality: Ireland’s defence gap
Donald Trump’s visit to Ireland next week will put huge pressure on the state’s security and defence apparatus and it’s forcing an uncomfortable question: are we actually ready for modern threats? Pat is joined by Kevin Byrne, retired Lieutenant Colonel of the Air Corps & Patrick Bury, defence expert at the University of Bath and former NATO analyst, to unpack what’s involved: airspace closure
Postpartum mental health: Where are we failing mothers?
The Lindsay Clancy case has raised very difficult questions about the intersection of motherhood, postpartum mental health, and the criminal justice system. It also raises a question closer to home: how well do we actually recognise and respond to serious mental health problems after women give birth here in Ireland? Because for all the focus on the baby and the birth itself, the postpartum period
Remembering the Dromcolliher disaster 100 years on
Today, the village of Dromcolliher in west Limerick, along with the Taoiseach, will come together to remember the tragedy which befell their community on the 5th of September 1926.150 villagers gathered to watch a film, but a fire swept through the tiny loft that had been set up as a makeshift screening room. In all, 48 men, women and children lost their lives. Gerry Keyes, Chairperson of the Drom
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