Newstalk|9226 - Reasons to be Happy: Electric Picnic, Rain, Dog Day
Andrea Gilligan invites callers to have their say on the topics of the day - get in touch by emailing lunchtimelive@newstalk.com Listen and subscribe to Lunchtime Live on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Download, listen and subscribe on the Newstalk App.
CONVERSATION THAT COUNTS | Ireland’s national independent talk station for news, sport, analysis and entertainment
Este episódio explora os benefícios emocionais e físicos da companhia canina, além de discutir como o exercício físico pode mitigar a privação de sono. O programa também traz novidades sobre o festival Electric Picnic, incluindo melhorias na infraestrutura sanitária feminina.
A discussão aborda ainda eventos astronômicos, como o eclipse lunar e solar, destacando o sentimento de união que proporcionam. Por fim, os apresentadores debatem a nostalgia e a qualidade das sequências de filmes clássicos de comédia romântica.
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But Dog Day is kind of one that puts a smile on, I think, everyone's face because they do bring joy into our lives.
00:01:33 · A apresentadora destaca como o Dia Internacional do Cão celebra a alegria que os animais trazem às pessoas.
Did you know that running could be as good as a nap for sleep deprivation?
00:03:50 · Uma curiosidade sobre como o exercício físico pode ajudar na recuperação da falta de sono.
It's been suggested that we always have equal numbers of men's toilets and women's toilets whether that's port-a-loos or in buildings and we should have double the amount of women's.
00:08:24 · A discussão sobre a necessidade de mais infraestrutura sanitária feminina em grandes eventos devido ao tempo de uso e design.
A blood moon, a lunar eclipse, is going to light up Dublin's skies this week as the moon turns red.
00:11:05 · O anúncio de um evento astronológico visível em Dublin durante a semana.
It was like everyone coming together. It's like, in my éhead, it's like appointment television.
00:12:21 · A apresentadora descreve a sensação de que o eclipse solar é um evento coletivo que une as pessoas.
Este episódio explora os benefícios emocionais e físicos da companhia canina, além de discutir como o exercício físico pode mitigar a privação de sono. O programa também traz novidades sobre o festival Electric Picnic, incluindo melhorias na infraestrutura sanitária feminina.
A discussão aborda ainda eventos astronômicos, como o eclipse lunar e solar, destacando o sentimento de união que proporcionam. Por fim, os apresentadores debatem a nostalgia e a qualidade das sequências de filmes clássicos de comédia romântica.
Опубліковано26 серп. 2026
Тривалість15:21
Епізоди
9226-
Reasons to be Happy: Electric Picnic, Rain, Dog Day
Прослухано
Este episódio explora os benefícios emocionais e físicos da companhia canina, além de discutir como o exercício físico pode mitigar a privação de sono. O programa também traz novidades sobre o festival Electric Picnic, incluindo melhorias na infraestrutura sanitária feminina.
A discussão aborda ainda eventos astronômicos, como o eclipse lunar e solar, destacando o sentimento de união que proporcionam. Por fim, os apresentadores debatem a nostalgia e a qualidade das sequências de filmes clássicos de comédia romântica.
26 серп. 2026
9225-
Do men not talk about their weight with friends?
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Host Andrea Gilligan discusses the complexities of weight loss and body image with three men, sharing personal stories ranging from sustainable lifestyle changes for a wedding to managing obesity as an older adult. The conversation explores overcoming extreme shame associated with high weight and the profound stigma surrounding obesity, particularly among men.
The speakers explore how to have supportive, non-judgmental conversations that focus on health and being part of a solution rather than offering criticism. They discuss reframing medical interventions like weight-loss jabs as treating an illness and offer messages of hope for those seeking professional help.
26 серп. 2026
9224-
Making Babies: Physical Symptoms After Birth
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In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan speaks with advanced midwife practitioner Caroline Brophy about managing physical symptoms and complications following childbirth. The discussion focuses on the importance of recognizing when postpartum pain or issues like urinary incontinence move beyond normal recovery and require medical intervention.
Brophy highlights the role of the Poppy Clinic at the National Maternity Hospital in addressing gaps in postnatal care. The conversation covers practical advice for C-section recovery, the significance of pelvic floor exercises, and the necessity of seeking professional help from GPs, public health nurses, or women's health physiotherapists when symptoms persist.
26 серп. 2026
9223-
Aisling Sharkey on her Ted Lasso experience!
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Irish actress Aisling Sharkey joins Andrea Gilligan on Newstalk's Lunchtime Live to discuss her recent casting in the Emmy Award-winning comedy series Ted Lasso. Sharkey details her experience playing footballer Niamh Harrigan, including the intensive three-week football boot camp used to build chemistry among the cast and the physical demands of performing football choreography.
The interview explores the realities of the acting profession, from the role of luck in auditions to the transition from musical theatre to major television productions. Sharkey also shares insights into the improvisational nature of the Ted Lasso set, where actors were encouraged to incorporate their own cultural nuances and insults into the script.
26 серп. 2026
9222-
Are we in a college accommodation crisis?
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This episode examines the severe student accommodation crisis in Ireland, highlighting the extreme difficulty and rising costs of finding affordable housing. The discussion covers the impact of astronomical rents in Dublin, the prevalence of rental scams, and the lack of legislative protections for students.
The conversation further explores how high private accommodation costs in Cork are affecting student life and whether moving classes online is a viable solution to alleviate shortages. While online learning might address housing issues, experts warn of the potential loss of social development and the trend of students seeking cheaper education abroad.
26 серп. 2026
9221-
Ask the Expert: Dublin Airport ins and outs
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In this episode of Lunchtime Live, Clare McKenna interviews Graeme McQueen from the DAA to discuss Dublin Airport's summer operations and passenger services. The discussion covers airport lounges, updated security policies regarding liquids, accessibility initiatives like the Sunflower Lanyard, and upcoming infrastructure improvements.
The conversation also provides practical travel advice regarding special assistance booking via the PRM Assist app and addresses concerns regarding taxi queue lengths at the airport.
25 серп. 2026
9220-
How to fill the lunchbox for fussy eaters!
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This episode features a discussion with a children's feeding therapist and a nutritionist on managing school lunchboxes for children with fussy eating habits. The experts emphasize focusing on what a child is actually willing to eat rather than striving for social media perfection, while providing practical tips for balanced nutrition and exposure to new foods.
The conversation also covers strategies for managing picky eating in school, such as modifying food textures and using 'picking lunches' like bento boxes to accommodate sensory needs. Additionally, the speakers highlight how environmental factors, such as classroom noise or limited lunchtime duration, can significantly impact a child's ability to eat.
25 серп. 2026
9219-
HSE approves offer on Skyclarys drug for Friedreich's Ataxia patients
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Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan reports on breaking news regarding the HSE senior management team's approval to reimburse Skyclarys for patients living with Friedrich's ataxia. The decision follows a substantial improved financial offer from Biogen, marking an end to a period of uncertainty and intense advocacy for the community. The episode features interviews with Theresa Cain, a mother caring for two children with the condition, and Niamh Niharabard, a patient celebrating her 30th birthday on the day of the announcement.
The discussion covers the physical impacts of Friedrich's ataxia, including scoliosis, sleep apnea, and loss of speech, as well as the emotional toll of campaigning for drug access. The guests reflect on the importance of grassroots pressure in securing this medical advancement and the hope that the medication will slow disease progression and improve quality of life.
25 серп. 2026
9218-
The danger of ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ services
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In this episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan, guests Laura Jordan and Dr. Shane Timmons discuss the rising popularity and potential financial risks of 'Buy Now, Pay Later' (BNPL) services like Klarna. The discussion explores how these services benefit retailers by increasing order values while potentially leading consumers into debt through psychological biases.
The conversation highlights the lack of financial literacy regarding modern payment methods, noting that the ease of digital transactions and marketing tactics can lead to overspending. Dr. Timmons explains behavioral concepts such as 'present bias' and 'underestimation bias,' which make small, frequent payments feel less burdensome than they actually are in aggregate.
25 серп. 2026
9217-
Don’t Miss: Don’t Say Good Luck, Love is Blind UK, Electric Picnic
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In this episode of Lunchtime Live, Andrea Gilligan is joined by Spin 1038 anchor Katie Gallagher to discuss upcoming entertainment highlights. The discussion covers a range of media recommendations, including the emotional Netflix film Don't Say Good Luck, which explores themes of teen grief and cancer. They also review the return of reality TV with season three of Love is Blind UK and suggest the true crime podcast The Prosecutors for those interested in legal deep dives into high-profile trials like Lindsay Clancy. Finally, the pair discusses the upcoming Electric Picnic festival, noting its massive lineup and significance as a major summer event.
25 серп. 2026
9216-
Does Ireland need an ice hockey arena?
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This episode explores the proposed Prime Arena in Cherrywood, Dublin, a multi-use facility designed for ice hockey and concerts. The discussion weighs the benefits of increased event capacity and meeting the demand for indoor winter sports against significant concerns regarding the potential use of state funding.
The conversation also addresses broader investment priorities, contrasting the arena project with the need for better support for maritime heritage and sailing initiatives, such as the Asgard boat restoration.
25 серп. 2026
9215-
The Health Reset: Managing Stress
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In this episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan, behavior change specialist Dr. Heather McKee discusses practical strategies for stress management. The conversation explores the fundamental causes of stress, defined as the gap between perceived demands and available resources, and examines how chronic stress impacts long-term health.
Dr. McKee provides actionable advice on improving sleep hygiene through a 'landing strip' routine to regulate the sleep-wake cycle and offers techniques for managing overthinking and rumination, such as scheduled 'worry time' and journaling. The discussion emphasizes the importance of building micro-moments of recovery throughout the day to sustain well-being during stressful periods.
24 серп. 2026
9214-
Should you have to pay for your children's holidays?
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Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan explores the debate surrounding whether parents should continue to fund family holidays for their adult children. Following a UK survey suggesting one third of young people believe parents should never stop paying for family trips, the program features discussions with broadcaster Claire Ronan and content creator Holly Breslin regarding entitlement versus generosity. The conversation examines the financial implications for parents, the importance of fostering independence in adult children, and the potential for creating lasting family memories through shared travel experiences.
24 серп. 2026
9213-
Is childcare too expensive for the average household?
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This episode explores the escalating childcare crisis in Ireland, characterized by high costs and an extreme lack of availability. Through interviews with creche directors, parents, and childminders, the discussion highlights how financial pressures and regulatory changes are threatening the viability of providers and forcing parents out of the workforce.
Journalist Dominique McMullen joins to discuss the long-standing nature of this issue, arguing for increased public funding and the treatment of childcare as essential infrastructure. The conversation also examines how new regulations and a lack of clarity may lead to the closure of essential childminding services.
24 серп. 2026
9212-
Opening up about men’s mental health struggles
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In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan interviews fitness coach Donal Hyland about his recent decision to go public with his mental health struggles. Hyland discusses his experiences with anxiety, OCD symptoms, and body dysmorphia, highlighting the importance of vulnerability and seeking support through both professional counseling and personal connections. The conversation explores the complexities of managing long-term mental health conditions that do not necessarily have a linear resolution. Additionally, Hyland shares how he shifted his fitness philosophy from aesthetic-driven training to performance-based training to foster a healthier relationship with exercise and nutrition.
24 серп. 2026
9211-
Money Matters: SUSI Grants
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In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Clare McKenna interviews consumer columnist Sinead Ryan about the SUSI student grant system in Ireland. The discussion focuses on helping families navigate college funding following the release of Leaving Cert results and upcoming CAO offers.
Ryan explains the two main types of grants available: the student contribution grant and the maintenance grant for students living more than 30km from their college. She emphasizes that the means-testing limits are generous, allowing households earning up to €120,000 to qualify, and encourages students to apply even if they have not yet finalized their college placement.
24 серп. 2026
9210-
Do you feel safe on public transport?
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An NTA annual report reveals that nearly half of public transport users feel unsafe due to rising antisocial behaviour. The episode explores whether this trend reflects an actual increase in danger or a perception issue driven by a lack of visibility.
Guests and callers debate the effectiveness of increased security versus addressing underlying social issues. Discussions include personal accounts of violence on trains, the potential for a dedicated transport police force with specific legal powers, and the impact of unmanned stations on passenger security.
24 серп. 2026
9208-
Have You Been To? - The best of Galway
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Neste episódio do Lunchtime Live com Andrea Gilligan, o criador de conteúdo de viagens Tony Smith explora as diversas belezas do condado de Galway, na Irlanda. O programa detalha recomendações de locais para diferentes perfis de viajantes, desde a vibrante vida urbana no centro da cidade até a tranquilidade rural de Connemara e vilas costeiras como Salthill.
A conversa aborda dicas práticas sobre transporte, incluindo o uso de comboios e carros para visitar parques nacionais como Diamond Hill, além de sugestões de acomodação que variam de hostels a castelos luxuosos. O episódio também destaca a excelente oferta gastronômica da região, com foco em cafés, brunchs e experiências culinárias locais.
21 серп. 2026
9207-
Do you have music compatibility with your partner?
Прослухано
In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan explores the link between musical taste and relationship compatibility. Featuring musician Aoife Scott, the discussion examines how shared musical interests can serve as a foundation for connection, while also considering the importance of maintaining individual identities within a partnership. The conversation expands to include insights from psychotherapist Helen Vaughan on the deeper role of shared values versus superficial preferences.
The segment delves into personal anecdotes about dating, wedding traditions, and the impact of modern dating culture. Listeners share their own experiences with musical deal-breakers, ranging from heavy metal to techno, illustrating the balance between finding common ground and allowing for separate interests in a healthy relationship.
21 серп. 2026
9206-
Sisters diagnosed with breast cancer - Aisling & Anne’s story
Прослухано
Sisters Aisling and Anya share their extraordinary journey of being diagnosed with breast cancer just six weeks apart, discussing the impact of the BRCA2 gene on their family and their shared treatment experiences. They also explore the importance of community support through organizations like Silverbridge Sisters and Breast Cancer Ireland, reflecting on finding peace through a spiritual trip to Lourdes and the impact of medical advancements.
21 серп. 2026
9205-
Regional Roundup with Shane Beatty
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In this episode of Lunchtime Live, presenter Shane Beatty provides a roundup of notable news stories from across Ireland. The discussion covers a series of mysterious flower thefts targeting businesses in Loughrea, Galway, and the launch of Wicklow Sleep Awareness Week aimed at improving sleep hygiene among young people. The segment also explores a new genealogy experience at the Killarney House Hotel in Kerry and highlights an Irish designer whose work was recently worn by Sarah Jessica Parker on a Dublin red carpet. Finally, the show touches on a clown memorabilia exhibition in Cork and a new branding initiative by Tayto featuring traditional Irish surnames.
21 серп. 2026
9204-
E-scooter ban for under 18s deferred - what do you think?
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Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan explores the controversy surrounding a deferred ban on under-18s using e-scooters in Ireland. Following advice from the Attorney General, the proposed outright ban has been delayed, though mandatory high-visibility jackets and helmets for all users are set to become operational by the end of the month. The discussion highlights significant safety concerns, including reports of pediatric traumatic brain injuries related to e-scooter use and the inherent dangers of lithium battery combustion.
Through a series of caller contributions, the episode examines various perspectives on regulation, ranging from support for age restrictions due to developmental risks to calls for mandatory registration, insurance, and licensing. Callers share personal experiences with road accidents and discuss the technical instabilities of e-scooters, such as high centers of gravity and the inability to signal, weighing the benefits of electric mobility against the need for robust enforcement and parental responsibility.
21 серп. 2026
9203-
Mark Zuckerberg buys Waterford castle - why?
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This episode of Lunchtime Live explores the recent news of Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg purchasing Strandcally Castle in County Waterford. Willie Frayer, curator of the Waterford County Museum, provides a detailed historical overview of the estate, ranging from its medieval origins and legends of murder holes to its various notable owners, including Sir Walter Raleigh and the author Evelyn Waugh.
The discussion also features David Byrne, director of Lisney Sotheby's International Realty, who examines the broader market for luxury estates and castles in Ireland. He discusses the increasing demand from international high-net-worth individuals, particularly from North America, and explains the logistical process involving directors of residences when managing ultra-high-end property acquisitions.
20 серп. 2026
9202-
The Home Squad: Lazy Home Maintenance
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In this episode of Lunchtime Live, Andrea Gilligan hosts Jenny Sheehan and Martin Glynn to discuss low-stress home maintenance tips. The experts provide practical advice on gutter cleaning, resealing baths with dish soap for smoothing, repairing cracks in woodwork, and replacing tiles.
The hosts also address the challenges and rewards of DIY, addressing a listener's concern about crumbling walls by suggesting the use of filler. They compare traditional wallpapering methods to modern 'paste the wall' techniques and offer practical advice on tools and planning for a successful job.
20 серп. 2026
9201-
Dealing with knowing you can’t have children
Прослухано
Life coach Mark Fennell discusses his personal experience with unexplained infertility and the grieving process involved in letting go of a planned future. He shares how he and his wife found contentment by accepting their outcome and emphasizes the importance of men talking about fertility struggles to break down taboos.
Mark explores how to move forward by focusing on what they do have rather than what is missing. The discussion highlights the importance of intentional actions, such as creating boundaries around certain topics during date nights, to prevent emptiness from festering.
20 серп. 2026
9200-
The Making of Kneecap!
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In this episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan, Alan Buckley from the Irish Rock and Roll Museum discusses the rise and cultural impact of the Belfast-based hip-hop group Kneecap. The conversation explores how the group's music is deeply rooted in their Northern Irish identity, utilizing the Irish language to create a modern, provocative, and highly influential sound.
The discussion covers the group's breakthrough via controversial tracks, their musical influences ranging from American hip-hop legends like Wu-Tang Clan to traditional Irish ballads, and their ability to thrive amidst controversy. Buckley highlights how Kneecap has reinvigorated interest in the Irish language among younger generations while navigating political and social tensions.
20 серп. 2026
9199-
How important is financial literacy?
Прослухано
In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan discusses the importance of financial literacy following the CCPC's announcement of new lessons for teenagers. Financial educator Kel Gallivan joins to discuss how managing money should be embedded as early as possible to build confidence and smarter decision-making skills, specifically highlighting the inclusion of topics like VAT in the math curriculum.
The conversation expands to include TJ Hegarty, founder of Online Math School Breakthrough Maths, who challenges the effectiveness of passive learning through videos. The discussion explores the need for a shift in mindset starting from primary school, the impact of AI on student thinking, and how practical, real-world projects can help students overcome math anxiety and prepare for adult life.
20 серп. 2026
9198-
How bad are ambulance wait times?
Прослухано
This episode examines the severe delays in ambulance response times, illustrated by harrowing personal accounts of a football player with a compound fracture and a woman who waited hours after a fall. David Hall, owner of Lifeline Ambulance, critiques systemic failures, staffing shortages, and the lack of independent oversight within the National Ambulance Service.
The discussion further explores how hospital overcrowding and the trolley crisis lead to prolonged ambulance handovers, preventing crews from returning to service. The segment also highlights the disparities in response times across different regions and the fear long waits instill in rural populations.
20 серп. 2026
9197-
Monica Walsh on the silence surrounding domestic abuse
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Model, author, and advocate Monica Walsh joins Andrea Gilligan to discuss her journey from a witness of family tragedy to a prominent campaigner against domestic violence. Walsh recounts the traumatic death of her aunt at the hands of her husband and how researching the issue for a beauty pageant speech led her to uncover the truth about her family's history with abuse.
The conversation covers the psychological patterns of domestic abuse, such as love bombing and isolation, and explores the importance of education in schools to break generational cycles of violence. Walsh also discusses her book, Take Me Out of Hi Hell, which serves as a guide for identifying red flags and finding support through organizations like Women's Aid.
19 серп. 2026
9196-
Reasons to be Happy: Katie Taylor, Olivia Colman, Outdoor Cinema
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In this episode of Lunchtime Live, Ciara Tracey joins Andrea Gilligan to share a series of uplifting stories from across the country. The discussion covers major sporting news regarding Katie Taylor's upcoming fight at Croke Park, which will be broadcast for free on RTÉ, and a lighthearted look at research suggesting the attractiveness of a full Irish breakfast.
The program also explores entertainment updates, including the star-studded expansion of Only Murders in the Building to London, a heartwarming story of a young boy selling toys on Vinted to fund a trip to Legoland, and upcoming outdoor cinema screenings of Cartoon Saloon animations in Dublin parks.
19 серп. 2026
9195-
Should we extend the referee retirement age?
Прослухано
This episode explores the debate surrounding the mandatory retirement age of 50 for inter-county GAA referees. Guests, including a columnist, former referee administrators, and soccer officials, argue that the rule unfairly discards highly experienced and physically fit officials.
The discussion highlights how the policy may be short-sighted, failing to utilize seasoned officials who can still pass stringent fitness tests. The panel compares the GAA's approach to other sporting bodies and discusses the loss of valuable expertise within the game.
19 серп. 2026
9194-
Making Babies: Breastfeeding and Bottle-Feeding Tips
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In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan is joined by International Board Certified Lactation Consultant Maria O'Sullivan to discuss breastfeeding and bottle feeding. The conversation covers essential topics for new parents, including the ideal timing for starting breastfeeding after birth, managing common challenges like latching and positioning, and identifying signs that a baby is receiving adequate milk through nappy counts. O'Sullivan also addresses specific listener concerns regarding nipple piercings, tongue ties, weaning from breastfeeding, and the effectiveness of pumping versus direct feeding.
19 серп. 2026
9193-
Speaking with the winner of this year’s Rose of Tralee!
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Andrea Gilligan hosts Kellyn Lee Kwallig, the newly crowned 2026 Rose of Tralee International Festival winner representing Westmeath, on Lunchtime Live. The interview explores Kwallig's emotional reaction to her victory and her journey as an advocate for those living with alopecia. She discusses how managing hair loss helped build her resilience and character, and how she intends to use her new platform to highlight the community aspects of the Rose of Tralee festival.
Kwallig also shares her professional aspirations to become a trained wig maker to support her community. The conversation touches on the power of authenticity and vulnerability in modern competition, as well as the impact of her openness on viewers, including families navigating similar medical conditions.
19 серп. 2026
9192-
Do you feel safe on our roads?
Прослухано
Representatives from the Irish Road Haulage Association discuss the dangerous increase in reckless and distracted driving on Irish roads, noting issues such as high-speed vehicles, mobile phone usage, and a decline in motorist skill sets since the COVID-19 pandemic. The discussion explores how technology and vehicle insulation contribute to driver distraction and emphasizes that improving road safety requires a combination of engineering, enforcement, and education.
19 серп. 2026
9191-
Ask the Expert: Auctioneer
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In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan sits down with Ray Cook, CEO of Ray Cook Auctioneers, for an 'Ask the Expert' session focused on the Irish property market. The discussion covers current trends in buying and selling, including the rise of mature first-time buyers trading up due to increased home equity.
Listeners receive practical advice on various real estate dilemmas, such as choosing solicitors, navigating best and final offer situations, and preparing properties for viewings to maximize value. Ray Cook also addresses industry concerns regarding 'ghost bidding' by explaining the impact of property regulation and provides guidance on managing mortgages when transitioning between properties.
18 серп. 2026
9190-
How many unread emails do you have?
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Host Andrea Gilligan explores the psychological implications of digital clutter on Lunchtime Live, specifically focusing on the phenomenon of massive unread email counts. Featuring stylist Laura Mullet, who manages 70,000 unread emails, and Professor of Psychiatry Brendan Kelly, the discussion examines whether large inboxes function as useful information libraries or sources of anxiety-inducing perfectionism. The conversation delves into different personality typologies, such as 'cleaners' versus 'keepers,' and offers practical advice on managing digital notifications to prevent them from dictating one's daily life.
18 серп. 2026
9189-
Dealing with post natal depression
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This episode explores the complexities of postpartum depression, featuring Amy's personal journey with emotional disconnection and the importance of seeking help. Madge Fogarty, chairperson of Postnatal Depression Ireland, discusses the historical lack of support and the ongoing stigma surrounding maternal mental health.
The conversation also addresses the critical need for extended postnatal care in Ireland, specifically advocating for a year-long support system beyond the six-week checkup. The discussion highlights the absence of mother and baby units in Ireland and examines how social media influences the expectations placed on new mothers.
18 серп. 2026
9188-
Is it too easy to make the unhealthy choice?
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In this episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan, former HSE Clinical Lead for Obesity, Professor Donal O'Shea, discusses the pervasive nature of ultra-processed foods in the modern food environment. The conversation explores how the food industry targets consumers through strategic product placement and engineered flavors designed to be irresistible.
The discussion covers practical advice for navigating calorie consumption, managing portion sizes, and constructing balanced meals for lunch and dinner. Additionally, the program examines the lack of healthy options in motorway service stations and the potential need for legislation regarding calorie labeling and food industry practices.
18 серп. 2026
9187-
Don’t Miss: Shelter, Sterling Point, The Weeknd
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In this episode of Lunchtime Live, Katie Gallagher joins Andrea Gilligan to share a curated list of entertainment recommendations for the week. The discussion covers a variety of media, including the action thriller film Shelter on Prime Video starring Jason Statham, and the coming-of-age drama series Sterling Point, also available on Prime. The segment also features a poignant look at Hayden Panegira's audiobook, This Me, A Reckoning, reflecting on the actress's life and recent passing. Finally, the hosts discuss upcoming live music, highlighting The Weeknd's performance at Croke Park as part of his After Hours Till Dawn tour.
18 серп. 2026
9186-
How do we deal with the dog poo problem?
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This episode addresses the growing problem of discarded dog poo bags and uncollected waste in public spaces like Crewell Woods and Bray. Listeners and hosts discuss the environmental and hygiene impacts of irresponsible ownership, where bags are often left tied to trees or hedges.
The discussion explores potential solutions to this issue in Ireland, including the need for better infrastructure, stricter enforcement of fines, and fostering a sense of responsibility through education to prevent pets from being treated as mere accessories.
18 серп. 2026
9185-
The Health Reset: Dr Niall Breen
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In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan is joined by Dr. Niall Breen from the Portmarnock GP Clinic to address a variety of listener health queries. The discussion covers pediatric concerns such as teething pain and lip-licking dermatitis, as well as adult ailments including sciatica, eye infections, and insomnia related to bereavement. Dr. Breen also provides medical advice regarding skin irritation after waxing, pregnancy-related back pain, and the necessary vaccinations for an upcoming safari trip.
17 серп. 2026
9184-
Neighbourhood Whatsapp groups - have they gotten out of hand?
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Host Andrea Gilligan discusses the phenomenon of neighborhood WhatsApp groups with tech correspondent Jess Kelly and writer Esther O'Mara O'Donoghue. The conversation explores the spectrum of community group utility, ranging from helpful alerts about bin collections and package deliveries to the stress of overactive, trivial, or even 'tinfoil hat' discussions. The panel debates the merits of broadcast-only channels versus open forums and shares personal anecdotes regarding the social etiquette—or lack thereof—in digital community spaces.
17 серп. 2026
9183-
What support is needed for parents with autistic children?
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In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan speaks with parents about the severe lack of autism services and the devastating impact of long waiting lists. Callers Anthony and Shirley describe the physical and emotional toll of 24/7 care and the necessity of paying for private assessments to bypass years-long delays in state-provided intervention.
The discussion also features Fiona, who shares her family's struggle navigating neurodivergent diagnoses in rural areas. She highlights the financial burden of seeking private care and the difficulties caused by inadequate school support and administrative delays.
17 серп. 2026
9182-
Have you had difficulty getting school bus tickets?
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Lunchtime Live host Andrea Gilligan discusses the ongoing crisis regarding school bus accessibility for families in Ireland. Through interviews with parents Kenny and Alina, the episode highlights how restrictive distance criteria and oversubscribed local schools leave dozens of children without reliable transport to their designated secondary schools. The discussion explores the disconnect between Department of Education admission policies and school transport eligibility, the financial burden on families forced to use private alternatives, and the urgent need for policy reform following a 2/023 transport review.
17 серп. 2026
9181-
Money Matters: Mortgage interest rates
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In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan interviews Paul Merriman, CEO of Fairstone Ireland and personal finance expert, to discuss the current state of mortgage interest rates in Ireland. They explore the differences between fixed-rate, tracker, and variable-rate mortgages, noting that while Ireland's rates recently appeared cheaper than Europe, the margin is very small and banks will eventually pass on ECB rate changes.
Merriman provides strategic advice on managing mortgage debt, suggesting that long-term fixed rates can offer significant financial security. The discussion also covers the importance of loan-to-value (LTV) ratios, the impact of overpaying mortgages versus investing in pensions, and how existing debts like car loans or credit cards might affect mortgage affordability.
17 серп. 2026
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Social media’s influence on dangerous driving - what needs to be done?
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This episode examines the dangerous trend of motorists performing reckless driving maneuvers to gain social media engagement, following a fatal head-on collision on the M9 motorway. Criminologist Trina O'Connor and digital policy expert Dr. Elizabeth Farris discuss how platform algorithms amplify risky behaviors and the legal responsibilities of social media companies under EU law.
The discussion also covers the legal obligations of platforms to mitigate systemic risks under the DSA, alongside a report from County Kildare regarding a devastating collision on the M9 that resulted in the deaths of five teenagers.
17 серп. 2026
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Have You Been To? - Dublin’s Hidden Gems
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Travel content creator Tony Smith joins Andrea Gilligan to share expert recommendations for exploring Dublin as a tourist. The discussion covers various aspects of a Dublin staycation, including the best areas to base yourself, such as the city centre, Dun Laoghaire, and Howth. Smith provides specific suggestions for iconic attractions like the Guinness Storehouse and the Hellfire Club, alongside family-friendly activities like the Viking Splash Tour.
The episode also delves into the Dublin culinary scene, highlighting brunch spots, high-end dining, and budget-friendly options like Buffet et Frites. Additional travel tips include accommodation advice ranging from hostels to luxury hotels like Clontarf Castle, as well as lesser-known gems like Poolebeg Lighthouse and the Dublin Port Greenway.
14 серп. 2026
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How does the restorative justice process work?
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Andrea Gilligan and Dr. Ian Marder discuss the restorative justice programme in Ireland, prompted by Sophia Murphy's experience meeting her father following his conviction. Dr. Marder explains the voluntary nature of the process, its psychological benefits for victims compared to traditional courts, and the systemic limitations caused by a lack of investment.
The discussion also explores the unpredictability of motivations within the process and the need for information accessibility. The speakers clarify that restorative justice can apply to both minor offenses and serious crimes, though practical access often depends on service capacity.
14 серп. 2026
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Should parents contribute to wedding costs?
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Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan explores the complex financial dynamics of modern weddings, specifically focusing on whether parents should contribute to their adult children's wedding costs. Inspired by a recent Irish Independent article regarding expectations for parental help, the episode features a variety of perspectives from listeners, personal finance experts, and wedding planners. The discussion covers themes of entitlement versus generosity, the impact of financial contributions on guest list control, and how shifting generational trends are influencing wedding budgets.
14 серп. 2026
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What do you think about the Irish Athletics success?
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Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan features a discussion regarding recent triumphs for Irish athletics at the championships in Birmingham. Guests Chris McNulty and Cecil Johnston provide firsthand accounts of Mark English winning gold in the 800 metres and Rashida Adalekic's impressive performance. The conversation covers the atmosphere within the stadium, the significance of these victories for local clubs like Finn Valley and Tala Athletics, and the impact of these athletes as role models for the next generation.