Lunchtime Live

Este episódio discute as taxas de burglaries na Irlanda, destacando a disparidade regional e o profundo impacto psicológico das invasões. Através de relatos como os de Caroline, Damien e Ivan, exploramos as consequências emocionais, a perda de itens com valor sentimental e a importância da segurança e do apoio comunitário. O debate aborda desde a natureza oportunista dos crimes até a reflexão sobre manter a perspectiva diante de perdas materiais, enfatizando que o dano emocional pode ser mais profundo do que o prejuízo financeiro.

Travel content creator Kevin Penrose joins Andrea Gilligan to explore the highlights of County Down. The discussion focuses on Newcastle as a primary base for visitors, offering access to both the Mourne Mountains and the seaside. Key attractions discussed include seaweed baths, pottery workshops at the Clay Project, and various accommodation options ranging from the luxury Slieveanor Hotel to more rugged camper van setups in Tullymore Forest. The episode covers diverse activities such as guided mountain adventures with the Mourne Shack, exploring the filming locations of Game of Thrones, and visiting Dundrum Castle. Culinary recommendations include local seafood in Dundrum and specific cafes in Newcastle, providing a comprehensive guide for hikers, families, and food enthusiasts looking to visit the region.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan, guests Digital Dinny (Dennis Spinbar Cronin) and budgeting influencer Kaz Mooney discuss the rising trend of personal borrowing in Ireland. The conversation highlights how easy access to credit via mobile apps, aggressive online marketing, and social media-driven 'lifestyle creep' are encouraging record numbers of people to take out loans for cars, home improvements, and even weddings. The panel explores the psychological and generational shifts in attitudes toward debt, noting that while previous generations often lived within their means, younger generations are increasingly exposed to 'buy now, pay later' schemes and social media pressures. The guests warn of the potential long-term consequences on credit ratings as the cost of living continues to rise.

O episódio do programa Lunchtime Live apresenta o relato de Danielle McElroy, uma jovem de 22 anos que enfrenta consequências devastadoras da endometriose severa. A entrevista detalha sua trajetória desde os primeiros sintomas na infância até a perda da capacidade de caminhar e a dependência de uma cadeira de rodas. Danielle descreve as falhas no sistema de saúde, o impacto de cirurgias mal sucedidas e a negligência médica que resultou em complicações como fibromialgia. A conversa aborda a busca por alternativas médicas fora do país, incluindo planos para buscar tratamento na Grécia, devido à falta de suporte especializado na Irlanda do Norte. O programa também traz o depoimento de outra paciente de 31 anos e apresenta uma resposta oficial do Southeastern Trust sobre as listas de espera e o acompanhamento clínico da paciente.

On Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan, alongside guests Sarah Jane Tobin and Andreas, explores the decision to decline roles in wedding parties. The discussion examines the financial, emotional, and time commitments associated with being a bridesmaid or best man, as well as the potential for friendship strain caused by these obligations. The speakers further discuss the complexities of bridal party duties, including the burden of coordinating group chats and the impact of unappreciated efforts on friendships. The episode also features listener stories regarding the pressures of commitment and the consequences of dropping out of wedding roles.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, hosts Andrea Gilligan and Shane Beatty discuss several heartwarming and significant news stories from across Ireland. They begin by honoring the memory of Nancy Murray, a 96-year-old Donegal woman who was famously known as the world's oldest pub landlady in Manchester. The program also covers a major tourism boost for the Glen of Aherlow in Tipperary following recognition by National Geographic, a surprise appearance on the Gaelic football pitch by Love Island star Fitzy, and the opening of a unique social supermarket in Kildare designed to provide food support with dignity. Finally, they highlight an upcoming sensory-friendly Debs event in Clonmel for young people with additional needs.

This episode features a debate regarding whether dogs should be banned from beaches due to issues with owner responsibility and lack of control. Contributors, including dog owners and a local councillor, argue that the problem lies not with the animals themselves but with owners who fail to use leads or clean up after their pets. The discussion explores the regulation and enforcement of dogs on beaches, with participants arguing that existing rules are sufficient but lack proper enforcement by dog wardens. The debate also includes listener perspectives ranging from the fear of loose dogs to personal anecdotes about enjoying off-lead time at secluded beaches.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan is joined by Jenny Sheehan from the Rip It Up podcast and Hazel Burton from The Home Reset to discuss kitchen organization and pantry solutions. The conversation covers various storage trends, including the rise of walk-in pantries, coffee stations, and the use of pocket doors to maximize space. The experts provide practical advice on organizing dry goods, decanting items for visibility, and managing small spaces using tools like Lazy Susans and tiered storage. They also address listener queries regarding appliance placement, lighting solutions for dark larders, and the best locations for pantry installation relative to cooking zones.

Zoologist Dr. Michelle Dugan joins Andrea Gilligan to discuss the prevalence and behavior of biting insects like mosquitoes and horseflies in Ireland. The conversation explores why certain individuals are more attractive to these insects, citing factors such as sweat, CO2, beer consumption, and even clothing color. Dr. Dugan provides scientific insights into how these insects feed, the differences between mosquito and horsefly bites, and the impact of climate change on the arrival of new mosquito species in Ireland. The episode also offers practical advice on using natural repellents like lemongrass and eucalyptus oils to deter pests.

Neste episódio do programa Lunchtime Live com Andrea Gilligan, James Flanagan, de County Tipperary, compartilha sua jornada pessoal após ser diagnosticado com esclerose múltipla em 2014. O relato detalha o processo de diagnóstico complexo, sua experiência com o NHS no Reino Unido e os desafios enfrentados ao retornar para a Irlanda. A discussão foca na grave falta de serviços de reabilitação neurológica na região sudeste da Irlanda. James expõe o alto custo financeiro de manter tratamentos particulares e a disparidade regional no acesso à saúde, enquanto a Neurological Alliance of Ireland (NAI) defende a implementação urgente de equipes especializadas para atender pacientes com condições crônicas.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan welcomes Alan Buckley from the Irish Rock and Roll Museum Experience to discuss the life and career of music veteran Shania Twain. The conversation explores Twain's journey from her Canadian roots and a difficult childhood marked by family tragedy and abuse to her massive global success in the mid-1990s. The discussion covers her groundbreaking crossover success with albums like The Woman in Me and Come On Over, which helped bridge the gap between country and pop music. Buckley also details the personal challenges Twain faced, including high-profile relationship scandals and significant health battles with Lyme disease and dysphonia, ultimately highlighting her enduring legacy as the highest-selling female country artist of all time.

Lunchtime Live host Andrea Gilligan hosts a discussion featuring two collectors sharing their unique histories of memorabilia. Carthage Buckley discusses his 68-year collection of GAA, soccer, and rugby items, which he is opening for a charity fundraiser to benefit Dorcas, a cancer support group in Tullamore, following the loss of his son. The event features an auction of top items alongside a public viewing of thousands of programmes and historical newspaper clippings. The program also features caller Sean, an Eric Clapton enthusiast who shares stories of his connection to the musician. His collection includes rare photographs, signed instruments, and a custom collage presented to Clapton for his 80th birthday. The episode highlights the personal motivations behind collecting and the community impact of sharing these historical treasures.

This podcast explores the severe student accommodation crisis in Ireland, featuring interviews with students and union representatives. The discussion highlights the extreme financial burdens of high rents, long commutes, and poor living conditions involving mould and pests. The episode further examines the impact of unregulated Airbnbs on housing availability in cities like Galway and discusses potential solutions such as 'digs drives' and college-built housing, while noting the rising costs across major Irish college towns.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan discusses affordable holiday alternatives in Ireland, focusing specifically on the benefits and costs of camping. Featuring guests Aaron Burchill from the Camping Crew podcast, Matt McConnell from Outsider Magazine, and Con Quill from the Irish Caravan and Camping Council, the conversation explores various camping styles including tent camping, glamping pods, motorhomes, and the rising popularity of roof tents. The panel provides practical advice for beginners, such as borrowing gear to reduce entry costs and prioritizing comfort with items like eye masks and earplugs. While discussing the financial aspects, they address the variability in campsite fees and the distinction between regulated campsites and wild camping, ultimately recommending official resources like campingireland.ie for planning a safe and enjoyable trip.

Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan and Carlos Sullivan explores a series of uplifting news stories, ranging from cultural revivals to celebrity sightings. The episode covers the reopening of the Phoenix Cinema in Dingle by Cillian Murphy and Yvonne McGuinness, as well as scientific research suggesting that attending live music and cultural events can physically rejuvenate the body's internal clock. Additionally, the hosts discuss the massive footfall success of the Belfast festival, a heartwarming encounter with Pitbull at Shannon Airport, and the ongoing speculation regarding the next actor to take on the role of James Bond.

This episode explores the rising financial burden of back-to-school costs in Ireland, specifically focusing on the high price of branded school uniforms and mandatory suppliers. Guests discuss personal experiences with these expenses and propose solutions like iron-on crests to allow for more affordable, generic clothing options. The discussion further examines the broader financial strain on parents, highlighting the inconsistency in school expenses and the potential for uniforms to act as a social leveler. The debate covers whether the root cause lies in school management, underfunding, or the lack of flexible options for families.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan, guests Saoirse Hanley, an independent journalist, and Phil Smith, a physicist and science communicator, discuss the biological differences between early birds and night owls. The conversation explores the concept of chronotypes, explaining that sleep patterns are driven by genetics, light exposure, and age rather than mere discipline. The discussion covers practical implications of these rhythms, such as how light exposure can help regulate the circadian rhythm and the impact of lifestyle demands on sleep habits. The guests share personal anecdotes regarding morning productivity, the challenges of being a night owl in a structured society, and the evolutionary utility of different sleep patterns.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan, Professor Shane Higgins, a consultant obstetrician and gynecologist from the National Maternity Hospital, discusses the safety of various medications, lifestyle choices, and activities during pregnancy. The discussion aims to separate fact from fiction regarding common concerns such as antibiotics, hair dye, exercise, and over-the-counter drugs. Professor Higgins addresses specific listener queries ranging from the use of paracetamol and antibiotics to more complex issues like managing chronic conditions with medication. He emphasizes the importance of consulting healthcare providers for personalized medical advice and risk-benefit analyses, particularly when dealing with pre-existing comorbidities or specialized medications.

This episode explores the growing trend of Irish employers providing accommodation to staff as a response to the national housing crisis. Featuring insights from business owners Pat McDonough, Tony Walsh, and Robert, the discussion examines various models for using rental, purchasing, or building properties to aid in recruitment and retention. HR expert Caroline Reedy discusses the strategic advantages and significant risks associated with these initiatives. She emphasizes the importance of clear policies and separate legal agreements to maintain boundaries between an employee's professional responsibilities and their personal home life.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan and trichologist Clare Devereaux discuss various hair health concerns, including scalp protection from the sun and managing postpartum hair loss. They also address listener questions regarding male pattern hair loss, childhood hair tangles, and hair dryness in older age. Clare Devereaux further answers listener questions regarding dry shampoo usage, post-treatment hair changes, and the impact of weight loss medications. She provides professional advice on scalp care, the risks of box dye, and managing hair thinning through nutrition and professional consultation.

Host Andrea Gilligan and Barry Kenney from Iarnród Éireann discuss the increasing need for passengers to use headphones and maintain privacy on public transport. The episode explores the challenges of noise and etiquette, featuring listener stories ranging from loud phone calls and children's cartoons to debates regarding the necessity of fines and enforcement.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, Katie Gallagher shares a variety of media recommendations across film, television, and literature. The discussion covers the Netflix series 'I Will Find You', the single-location film 'The Invite', and the true crime documentary 'Idaho Murders College Nightmare'. The episode also explores impactful reading and theater, highlighting the self-help book 'The Four Agreements' as a guide for personal freedom and mental resetting. Additionally, the speakers discuss 'Celtic Exodus', a new musical by Brian Warfield that blends Irish storytelling with music to explore themes of the famine.

This episode features an interview with Antoinette, a resident near the Dublin mountains, regarding a persistent wildfire that has threatened her home and nearby forests. The discussion highlights the lack of access for fire brigades, the intense community response to support firefighters, and calls for better national coordination and land management to prevent such recurring disasters. The speakers discuss the urgent need for a national coordinated response to localized wildfires, criticizing the lack of leadership and reliance on volunteers. They emphasize that authorities like the Minister of Foretry and the OPW must take control to prevent further danger to residents and property.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan, travel content creator Kevin Penrose provides an in-depth guide to exploring County Donegal. The discussion covers the best places to base oneself, such as Donegal Town, and highlights various accommodations ranging from local hotels to luxury options like Lough Eske Castle. The segment explores diverse activities across the county, including visiting the Slieve League cliffs, exploring the wildlife sanctuary at Wild Ireland, and hiking Mount Ergal. Kevin also recommends coastal gems like Rossnowlagh Beach and hidden spots like the Leenane waterfall, offering a comprehensive itinerary for both adventure seekers and those looking for a peaceful retreat.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, Anna Daly hosts Caroline from Smith's Ice Cream to discuss the operations and nostalgia surrounding the ice cream van business. The conversation covers the evolution of the family business, the high demand for bookings during communion season, and the rise of corporate catering requests. Beyond the logistics of running a van, the segment explores listener memories ranging from childhood treats to modern-day trends like dog-friendly ice cream. The discussion also touches on the pricing of a classic 99 cone and the importance of using high-quality Irish dairy in their products.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan, Cahill Cully and Rebecca Wilson discuss their 'Different Minds, Same Heart' campaign. As a couple who both received late diagnoses for autism and ADHD, they are using their upcoming wedding to raise awareness, challenge neurodivergent stereotypes, and reduce the stigma associated with these conditions. The conversation covers the complexities of the diagnostic process, the personal impact of late diagnosis on mental health, and practical ways they are making their wedding ceremony more sensory-friendly and inclusive for all guests.

This podcast explores the developmental benefits of boredom and unstructured play for children, highlighting how a lack of constant stimulation can foster creativity, problem-solving, and independence. The conversation also touches on the value of involving children in household responsibilities and embracing the natural chaos of a home during childhood.

Host Andrea Gilligan discusses the upcoming Fleadh na hÉireann in Belfast, which is set to host more than 100 live events and an estimated 800,000 people. Siobhan McGuigan, Head of Events with Tourism Northern Ireland, provides details on the economic impact, which is projected to exceed £53 million for the local economy, and highlights the cultural significance of Belfast as a UNESCO City of Music. The episode covers the variety of programming available, including the free Gig Rig at Belfast City Hall, family zones, and pop-up sessions. The conversation also features Ethan, an Irish dancing instructor, who discusses adult classes and the social importance of the dance, alongside mentions of themed workshops such as jewellery making and flash tattoos.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, Shane Beattie presents a roundup of news stories including the regulation of gravediggers in Limerick and the availability of islands for sale in Ireland. The show also covers requested flight destinations for Waterford Airport. The segment further explores upcoming bank holiday weekend festivals in Ireland, specifically detailing the return of the Crisp Festival at The Bernard Shaw in Dublin and the Ballylongford Oyster Festival in Kerry.

This episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan features a discussion regarding the targeted harassment of female local councillors in Ireland. Three councillors—Mary Howard, Rachel Batten, and Nuala Killeen—share their experiences of receiving persistent, sexually explicit, and threatening phone calls from an unidentified individual. The conversation explores the psychological impact of these attacks, the vulnerability felt by representatives during non-working hours, and the broader implications for women's participation in politics. The participants discuss the shared nature of the experience across different political parties and the sense of solidarity found among victims. They highlight the necessity of safeguarding female politicians against sexualized abuse and emphasize that such behavior is unacceptable in any professional or social context.

O episódio Lunchtime Live com Andrea Gilligan explora estratégias práticas e de baixo custo para aumentar a segurança residencial, especialmente durante períodos de ausência prolongada ou feriados. A conversa aborda o uso de tecnologia, como tomadas inteligentes, dispositivos SwitchBot para cortinas e sistemas de câmeras Eufy, contrastando-os com métodos tradicionais e a importância da colaboração com vizinhos. Além de dicas sobre iluminação estratégica e monitoramento de entregas, os apresentadores discutem o perigo de confiar exclusivamente em dispositivos Wi-Fi e sugerem cuidados simples, como não deixar lixo acumulado ou correspondência visível. O programa também toca brevemente no tema de intercâmbio de casas (home exchange) e na importância de manter a casa com aparência de habitada para evitar oportunidades para oportunistas.

This episode of Lunchtime Live explores the significant economic impact following Mayo's All-Ireland victory. Guests Susan Hayes-Culleton and Dennis Finbar Cronin discuss unprecedented spending surges in County Mayo, including a 1000% increase in pub revenue in Castlebar and substantial growth in hotel bookings and food services. The conversation examines how this historic win, the first for the county in 75 years, serves as a massive boost to the local hospitality industry and the global Mayo GAA brand. The discussion also touches upon increased digital connectivity via roaming data peaks and the broader cultural significance of such sporting achievements for regional economies.

The hosts and guests discuss the challenges and methods of maintaining friendships at different stages of life, ranging from childhood connections to 'friends of convenience' made through parenting. The conversation explores how digital communication like memes and reels helps sustain low-maintenance bonds, while also touching on the difficulty of integrating into established local communities. The speakers further explore how transitions like children entering school or moving locations impact social circles. They examine the idea that while technology provides an illusion of connection, maintaining deep, meaningful relationships requires intentional effort and emotional capacity.

Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan explores the resurgence of spray tans, discussing whether the practice is a returning trend from the Celtic Tiger era or a permanent fixture in beauty routines. Featuring lifestyle content creator Chelsea Tyler McGrane, Coco Brown Tan CEO Marissa Carter, and broadcasters Suzanne Cain and journalist Saoirse Hanley, the episode examines the evolution of tanning technology. The conversation covers the transition from notorious orange hues to sophisticated, customizable formulas, the convenience of mobile tanning services, and the shared, often humorous, experiences of the tanning process.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan, Alan Buckley from the Irish Rock and Roll Museum Experience discusses the long and eclectic history of the band Pulp. While often associated with the Britpop movement of the 1990s alongside bands like Oasis and Blur, Buckley highlights that the group actually formed much earlier, in 1978, and possesses a diverse musical influence ranging from the Human League to ABBA. The conversation covers the band's various phases, including their formation in Sheffield, periods of breakup and reunion, and their evolution through different musical styles. Buckley also touches upon notable members, such as keyboardist Candida, and discusses the cultural impact of frontman Jarvis Cocker, specifically mentioning his outspoken nature and a famous incident at the Brit Awards.

Andrea Gilligan, travel expert Ciara Mooney, and environmental journalist John Gibbons discuss the impact of extreme heat and wildfires in Europe, noting how human-induced carbon emissions are driving these climate events. The discussion also explores the potential for agricultural communities to assist during natural disasters. Dennis Drennan highlights the untapped potential of using agricultural equipment and farmer goodwill to support local authorities during emergencies like snowstorms and wildfires. He emphasizes the need for a coordinated response framework that addresses insurance and liability concerns to encourage farmers to help their communities.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, Andrea Gilligan interviews Dr. Dermot Quillan regarding the acute GP shortages affecting Ireland's rural and commuter areas. The discussion explores how rapid population growth and an aging demographic are driving a crisis in medical accessibility. The conversation also addresses the difficulties of accessing services in regional counties, featuring personal accounts of long wait times. Additionally, the segment examines the impact of medical emigration and provides statistics on the retention rates of Irish-trained medical professionals.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan interviews Professor Shane Higgins, a consultant obstetrician and gynecologist from the National Maternity Hospital. The discussion focuses on the differences between scheduled and emergency C-sections, explaining that while the surgical procedure is largely the same, the timing and preparation vary significantly. Professor Higgins addresses common concerns regarding induction of labor, pain management through regional anesthetics, and the presence of partners during surgery. He also provides practical advice for expectant parents, suggesting they avoid overly prescriptive birth plans to manage expectations when medical necessities require a change in delivery method.

Ger Gavigan from Crumlin GAA Club joins Andrea Gilligan to discuss a recent act of vandalism at Pearce Park. A vehicle was driven onto the club's only adult pitch and set on fire during the early hours of a Monday morning, resulting in a burnt-out car and extensive damage to the playing surface. The incident occurs at a critical time as the club enters the championship season, threatening training and matches for hundreds of members. The discussion covers the immediate impact on the community, the difficulty of finding alternative playing venues due to existing championship schedules, and the estimated six to eight-week timeline for repairs. While Dublin City Council has provided support for ground restoration, the loss of the pitch presents a significant challenge for the club's youth and adult teams throughout the summer.

This episode features tributes to the late Irish musician Glenn Hansard following news of his death in a road traffic accident. Guests Danny McElhinney and Ciara Dignam share personal stories regarding Hansard's musical legacy, his activism for the homeless, and his genuine character. The segment also includes various tributes from musicians and fans about his authenticity and kindness. Discussions cover his musical influence, his role in the film 'The Commitments', and his legendary live performances with The Frames.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan, Dr. Ellen McSweeney from the Irish Blood Transfusion Service answers listener questions regarding blood donation eligibility. The discussion covers a wide range of medical and lifestyle topics, including the impact of tattoos, vaccinations, pregnancy, and recent medications like Ozempic. Dr. McSweeney also addresses more complex concerns such as past histories of cancer, stroke, and travel to malaria-prone regions, explaining the precautionary measures and updated guidelines used by the service. The segment concludes with advice on how potential donors can check their eligibility via the official website.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan interviews Stuart McHugh, a Disneyland Paris content creator, regarding his successful campaign to include the Irish language in the iconic 'It's a Small World' ride. McHugh discusses the historical and personal connections between Disney and Ireland, including Walt Disney's heritage and the presence of Irish staff at the park. The conversation covers the specific changes made to the attraction, such as the addition of 'Fáilte' on the entrance sign and 'Slán go fóill' on the exit. McHugh also shares insights into his role as a voluntary content creator, providing travel tips and accessibility information for visitors to Disneyland Paris.

This episode explores the ongoing debate regarding the campaign to rename Dublin streets with colonial links. Guests including Councillor Niall Ring, architect Roisin Murphy, and historian Emma Galise discuss whether such changes sanitize history or provide educational opportunities, weighing the preservation of historical layers against the desire to honor Irish figures and women. The discussion further examines diverse listener opinions, ranging from opposition to 'woke nonsense' to support for removing colonial connections. Niall Ring addresses the possibility of renaming specific areas like George's Dock and discusses the committee's review of names associated with historical oppression.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan, the discussion centers on a new report from Zelos regarding the 'Avoidance Economy,' which highlights how Gen Z is losing money because they are too afraid to ask friends for repayments. The panel explores whether this reluctance to request owed funds is a generational trait or a cultural phenomenon specific to Ireland. Guests including Terry Prone, Mally Coyne, and listeners share perspectives on the social dynamics of lending. The conversation touches upon how lending money can create power imbalances and resentment in friendships, the psychological fear of being perceived as 'tight' or 'mean,' and the practical advice of treating loans as gifts to preserve relationships.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, Andrea Gilligan is joined by Katie Gallagher from Spin to discuss upcoming entertainment highlights. The discussion covers a variety of media recommendations, including the crime thriller movie Crime 101 on Prime featuring Chris Hemsworth, and the new Apple TV series Lucky starring Anya Taylor-Joy. Additionally, the pair discuss Holly Willoughby's new YouTube cooking venture, Together, and the upcoming lineup for the All Together Now festival in Waterford, which features a rare appearance by Christy Moore.

This episode explores the debate between staycations and traveling abroad, weighing the costs and benefits of both options. The discussion covers the rising prices of international travel versus the high cost of accommodation in Ireland, while highlighting affordable local alternatives like the Dublin Coastal Trail. The conversation also delves into trends in Irish tourism, including the rise in last-minute domestic bookings and the impact of extreme heat in mainland Europe on travel choices. Additionally, the episode features initiatives aimed at supporting single-parent families through discounted hotel stays and discusses the importance of fair wages within the hospitality industry.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan discusses strategies for maintaining health and routine during the summer months. Featuring behavior change specialist Dr. Heather McKee and endocrinologist Dr. Mary Ryan, the conversation explores how to navigate seasonal temptations like barbecues, ice creams, and increased alcohol consumption without falling into all-or-nothing behaviors. The experts provide medical and psychological insights into managing sugar spikes, the importance of nutritional moderation, and the benefits of maintaining daily anchors to support long-term wellbeing.

This episode captures the profound emotional landscape following Mayo's historic All-Ireland victory, ending a 75-year wait for the Sam Maguire Cup. Guests share personal stories of relief and joy, reflecting on the intense atmosphere at Croke Park, the resilience of the team, and the deep connection felt by the global Mayo diaspora. The conversation explores the aftermath of the win, including the massive scale of homecoming preparations in Castlebar and Ballina. From memories of the 1951 victory to the cultural impact of the win through music and personal anecdotes, the episode highlights the widespread celebration across Ireland and beyond.

Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan explores the ongoing impact of wildfires and dry weather across Ireland and Europe. The episode features a local resident from Waterford discussing the health challenges posed by smoke for those with respiratory conditions, alongside an independent counselor detailing the theft of equipment and damage to personal vehicles belonging to firefighters in Tipperary. The discussion also includes insights from Tipperary TD Matty McGrath on the importance of landscape maintenance and community coordination during fire emergencies. Finally, travel expert Owen Corry provides updates on wildfire-related evacuations in France and Spain, offering practical advice for holidaymakers regarding travel insurance and changing plans due to environmental conditions.

Personal finance expert Paul Merriman, CEO of Fairstone, joins Andrea Gilligan to discuss the utility of trusts and small gift exemptions for estate planning. The discussion clarifies that trusts are not exclusively for the ultra-wealthy and explains how parents and grandparents can use the €3,000 annual small gift exemption to build assets for children without triggering capital acquisition tax. The episode covers various financial structures including bare trusts, discretionary trusts, and family partnerships. Key topics include managing lifetime inheritance tax limits, the implications of transferring assets like property or cars, and the importance of early planning to maximize the benefits of annual exemptions.