Nature, it has been said, invites us to eat by appetite and rewards by flavor. But what exactly are flavours? Why are some so pleasing while others are not? Nowadays, there are advancements in technology that makes extracting flavours easier than ever before. Roisin Burke, Senior Lecturer in Culinary Science and Food Product Development at TU Dublin joined Sean to discuss the science of flavour and how flavours are extracted…

People were shocked to hear about the attacks on Gardai that took place in Ballyfermot a couple of weeks ago. No one was more outraged than active community members from the area who work tirelessly to rid themselves of negative stereotypes and make the area a pleasant place to live, work and socialise. Denise Calnan, News Editor and The Indo Daily Podcast Host at the Irish Independent is a resident of Ballyfermot and she joined Sean on the show to discuss… Image: Google Maps

Former UK Health Minister Matt Hancock considered exterminating cats early in the Covid crisis, 3 years ago, because a female Siamese became the first known animal in the UK to catch the disease. Newstalk's Henry McKean went to find out could we live in a world without cats?

Former Channel 4 News presenter, Jon Snow joined Sean on the show today to discuss his new book 'The State of Us'...

It may be time you gave your spice rack some side eye as a new study has found that they could be the germiest part of your kitchen. When did you last clean down your spice jars even though you might have picked them up straight after handling raw meat? To find out just how germy they are and if we should be worried, Sean was joined by Anna Burns, microbiologist and nutritional scientist…

Five years ago, Sheila Naughton was at her lowest ever with anorexia. Now, she is the Head of News for Tipp FM and a young woman involved in strength training. She’s been sharing her story of recovery as part of Eating Disorder Awareness Week and joined Sean to discuss… Image: Sheila Naughton

You’ve heard of skiing and equestrian riding but what do you call it when the two are put together? Sean was joined by Susan Oakes, part of Team Ireland skijoring.

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at how to invest. Sean was joined in studio by Paul Sommerville from Sommerville Advisory Markets to discuss…

Being heckled by the public is a common experience for politicians but usually it’s over public services, poor roads and raised taxes. However on Tuesday, Social Democrats TD Gary Gannon was walking towards the plinth at Leinster House when a primary school child shouted “Ginger!” at him. Gary joined Sean on the show to discuss today…

One man's obsession with visiting every one of Ireland’s islands began a decade ago and has only intensified with time. A journey which led him to discovering one of Ireland’s least-known but most picturesque islands. Sub-Editor at the Irish Examiner and Outdoor Columnist, Dan MacCarthy joined Sean to discuss his quest...

We all know the story, bear finds cocaine, eats said cocaine and goes on a drug fueled rampage around the forest, it's the plot to the new Hollywood movie Cocaine Bear, some of which was filmed in Wicklow. But what does it take to bring the bear to life? Barra O’Connor, Data IO coordinator at Windmill Lane and one of the bears in Cocaine Bear joined Sean to discuss... Image: Barra O'Connor

National Public Sleeping Day is celebrated today on February 28 of every year. National Public Sleeping Day encourages people to sleep in public places like parks, beaches, cinemas or sleep during travelling on public transport like a train, bus, or even at the desk in the office. Henry McKean has been looking at your sleeping patterns...

When you go to see a film in the cinema nowadays you may not think too much about how the film’s picture and sound are arranged, but in a dwindling number of cinemas around the country this is the responsibility of the projectionist. Sean was joined by Paul Markey, Projectionist at the IFI to discuss…

The oldest, most complete version of Hebrew Bible made around the year 900 has gone up for auction. Sharon Mintz, senior consultant of Hebrew scripts and manuscripts in the book department of Sothebey’s New York joined Sean on the show to discuss...

10 years ago a woman turned up on O'Connell Street in Dublin and it turned into a case that baffled the Gardaí. The extraordinary story of Samantha Azzopardi, or ‘GPO Girl’ as she became known in the Irish media, is now the subject of a new documentary series on the streaming service Paramount +. Sean was joined by Andrew Farrell, Executive Producer of ‘Con Girl’ to discuss...

Jan Glazewski was born and raised in South Africa, but was regularly told stories about his grandfather’s estate close to Lviv. Prior to World War Two that was Polish territory, but after the war and the erection of the Iron Curtain, it reverted to being part of Ukraine. According to Jan’s father, the family silver was still buried there and eventually Jan set out to find out… Sean was joined by Jan Glazewski, retired professor of Environmental law at the University of Cape Town and author of the memoir ‘Blood and Silver’ to find out more...

A recent study has discovered that the spinning rate of the Earth’s inner core has slowed down and may even have stopped altogether. But why is this happening and should we be worried? Sean was joined by Aline Melo, Geophysicist in UCD’s School of Earth Sciences to discuss…

The most popular baby names in 2022 were Jack and Emily.But when you look at the county by county breakdown, there’s one that stands out: Muhammad was the most popular boys name in Galway City. So just how fast is the Muslim population growing in Galway? Sean was joined by Ibrahim Noonan, Imam of Galway Mosque and the first ever Irish Imam, to discuss...

Johnny Fallon, Strategy Director with Carr Communications joined Sean on the show today to recap the stories making the headlines this past week...

People express their frustrations with the current housing crisis in different ways but an artist collective has been inspired to use their experiences of the crisis to stage a musical comedy, entitled Fusion Murga which is being performed tomorrow in Dublin as part of the Seen + Heard Festival. Sean was joined by one of the creators of the show Ro Cruañas...

He’s called Ace Ventura, Sherlock Bones and many other names but Rob Kenny has spent the last 16 years as a Pet Detective. He works between Ireland and London, but also travels the world helping people find their missing cats, dogs and even horses…

Caroline O’Connor, registered paediatric dietitian, lactation consultant, mum of four and founder of Solid Start joined Sean to discuss the challenges and benefits of raising your baby on a vegan diet...

It’s been a long time coming but finally, the end of the world now features periods. In the most recent episode of The Last of Us, Ellie is given a moon cup to help with her monthly cycle. Why is this so important? Saoirse Hanley answered this question in her column for the Irish independent and she joined Sean to discuss…

Tetris the movie is due to be released on Apple TV on the 31st of March. The highly-addictive yet simple game has a not-so-simple backstory. Dan Ackerman, Veteran tech reporter, game designer and author of The Tetris Effect joined Sean to fill us in...

'As I Remember It: Bertie Ahern & the Good Friday Agreement' is a new podcast that tells the story of the Good Friday Agreement as told by those who negotiated it and marks the first time all those involved have reunited to reflect on the negotiations in 25 years. Head to newstalk.com/goodfridayagreement.

An Irish filmmaker living in New York took to the streets during the first Covid Lockdowns and documented the whole thing. All on his iPhone! With his work being added to the New York Historical Society’s digital collection, he pieced together the footage and developed a documentary called Outside In. Sean was joined by award-winning filmmaker, Mark O’Toole... Image: Outside In Documentary outsideindoc.com

64 years ago, the first ever women recruits entered An Garda Síochána. A new book traces this history and is entitled 'The Women of An Garda Síochána: a Reflection on their Journeys in Irish Policing.' Sean was joined by Chief Superintendent Margaret Nugent, Chairperson of the An Garda Síochána Women’s Network and Ciara Ahern, Deputy Press Officer with the force...

An age old argument amongst us is which is the right way to cut toast? Are you triangle, horizontal or across? Or do you just eat it whole? Henry McKean, our toast correspondent, took on this massive task to uncover the truth...

The fishing community in Castletownbere are speaking up about how unfair the Brexit deal was to Ireland. Managing Director of Castletownbere Fishermen’s Co-op, John Nolan joined Sean on the show to discuss...

A new report conducted by the School of Nursing and Midwifery at Trinity College Dublin details the harrowing experiences of people in Ireland exposed to Conversion Therapy. The Government has moved a step closer to banning the practise after this damning report. Sean was joined by Brian Keogh, Associate Professor, School of Nursing & Midwifery…

Boarded up windows, rusted railings, and overgrown gardens – many towns in Ireland are blighted with dereliction. So you might be surprised to see a shop window highlighting just that. Fibs Estates is a spoof estate agency that’s posted photos and information about the abandoned buildings on a shop front in Phibsboro on the boundary of Dublin city. Labour Party Senator Marie Sherlock is a resident and she joined Sean to discuss why she is supporting the campaign... Image: Twitter @crossgunscampa1

Across the world, humans compete for status. Status can elevate us in our career, can win us a partner or can compensate for other things in our lives that maybe we aren’t very happy with. A new study has found evidence linking flashy sports cars to small penis size in men. Authors of this research, Professor Daniel Richardson, Department of Experimental Psychology at University College London as well as Chuck Thompson, journalist and author of The Status Revolution joined Sean to discuss…

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at how to home school your children. Sean was joined in studio by Catherine Monahan, Contact Officer of Home Education Network to discuss...

Many women choose to begin an exercise regime after giving birth but more and more mothers are instead choosing to undertake abdominoplasty, the so-called ‘mummy tuck’. Sean was joined by Dr. Siun Murphy, Consultant plastic surgeon at the Blackrock Clinic to discuss...

The Workplace Bullying Institute came out with some damning research recently on inter-female relationships and behavior in the workplace. Our reporter Sarah Madden has been hearing the stories behind the stats, and she sent us this report. 

Sponges, mice and bubbles - harmless to some, terrifying to others. Sarah Madden has been exploring modern phobias, the tech that's squashing them and the Irish spreading them, and she sent us this report.

The actor Penn Badgley is making headlines for requesting fewer sex scenes in the hit Netflix series, You for the sake of his marriage. So, is on screen intimacy on the way out, and how are our own actors navigating these waters? Newstalk's Sarah Madden reports.

How do you find lasting love in today's world? We’re inundated with the idea of romantic love through the movies we watch and the music we listen to but should we be taking a more practical approach to finding a life partner? English actress Emma Thompson thinks we should. Promoting her new movie, ‘What’s love got to do with it?’, she branded romantic love as a ‘myth’. Clinical Psychotherapist, Stephanie Regan joined Seán to discuss…

A person in Germany has been cured of HIV, that’s according to a study published in the Nature Medicine Journal this week. He is the 3rd person to be reported as medically cured of the disease in recent years. Seán was joined by Professor Sam McConkey, Infectious Disease Specialist at the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland to discuss…

It might seem odd in the midst of a war, people feel the need to laugh. However, it is very apparent in Ukraine. It has become a sort of coping mechanism and a way to metabolize fear with black humour. There are now regular comedy gigs taking place in Ukraine. One of the more popular places where these gigs take place is the House of Actor and during Sean's visit to Kyiv last week, he attended a comedy gig here... For more on Sean’s week in Kyiv, go to newstalk.com/moncrieffinukraine

New analysis of an ancient Roman artefact has established that it is probably a sex toy or a pestle or perhaps even both. Sean was joined by Rob Collins, Senior Lecturer in Archeology at Newcastle University to discuss... Image: Vindolanda Trust

After winning a BAFTA for Best Supporting Actor in The Banshees of Inisherin, Dublin’s North Inner City is beaming with pride for their native son, Barry Keoghan. Henry McKean visited the area and spoke to old friends, teachers and the community…

The works of Shakespeare has been translated into all of the major languages in the world, is studied in schools and universities globally, and to this day is considered by many as the greatest writer of all time. His influence on literature has prevailed and this year copies of the first printed edition of William Shakespeare’s plays will go on display in Scotland to mark 400 years since it was first published. Professor Adrian Streete, Head of English Literature at Glasgow University joined Sean to discuss...

Being bald and losing your hair is a very traumatic thing to happen but female baldness, while common is rarely spoken about. Why do women lose their hair and start becoming bald? Sean was joined by Claire Fullam, trichologist and owner of Trua Hair to discuss...

2023 will see the band Inhaler support Arctic Monkeys on a full European tour and play alongside Harry Styles at Slane Castle. Their first album “It Won't Always Be Like This” was praised globally and their second album Cuts & Bruises, launched on February 17. Sean was joined in studio by the band to discuss their latest release, the future of their music and what their parents do for work... Image: Inhaler

Would you share your toilet with your cat? Pete Wedderburn is a practicing small animal vet and a well-known journalist writing and broadcasting about animal welfare and behaviour and pet health. He joined Sean now to discuss potty training for your feline friends…

Weather balloons have suddenly come into the news over the past few weeks as authorities in the US have shot a number down due to fears that they were being used for nefarious purposes. But does Ireland have our own weather balloons and what do they actually do? Sarah Gallagher, Head of Observations at Met Eireann joined Sean on the show to discuss…

Sean Moncrieff spent the last week in Kyiv in Ukraine talking to locals ahead of the one-year anniversary of the Russian invasion. Today, Seán reflected on his time in Kyiv and we heard from a woman that he met who had her home destroyed. Throughout this week on Moncrieff, Seán will be playing out interviews and reports from his time in Ukraine. For more on Sean’s week in Kyiv, go to newstalk.com/moncrieffinukraine

The 90’s were a simpler time when everyone wasn't glued to a screen and hooked on social media. The more modern tech dominates the culture, the more there is a collective longing for the iconic decade that brought us the Spice Girls, The Sega Mega Drive and the Tamagotchi. Jackie’s Bar in Dublin is your 90s dream come true and co-owner of the bar, Cian Toner joined Jarlath Regan to tell him more...

If you believe the movies, the most satisfying sex is completely spontaneous and unplanned but a new study suggests that might not be the case. Introducing scheduled sex whereby couples pencil in lovemaking like a visit to the dentist or a trip to the salon, could be the way forward. Jarlath Regan was joined on the show by co-author of this study, Katarina Kovacevic-Registered psychotherapist and owner of Kat Kova Therapy…

The concept of expressing yourself through art is not a new concept. Many of us will express their feelings through the clothes they wear, others by the car they drive but self-portrait artist, Michael Aaron Ulmer takes this to a whole new level. Michael transforms himself into various objects depending on how he feels. This month he warped into a human candle and he told Jarlath Regan all about it… Image: Instagram @michaelulmer

Stereotypes reinforced by cinema may be contributing to a lack of women in tech. That’s according to a new study commissioned by the University of Cambridge which looks at the lack of female representation in movies centred around AI. Tom Dunne was joined by the co-author of the “Who makes AI” study, Dr Eleanor Drage...

A first studio recording by Rod Stewart is being auctioned off. Who will be the lucky fan to buy it? Tom Dunne was joined by Martin Millard, director at Cheffins Auctioneers...

Ireland wouldn’t be top of the list for countries that get much snow and ice but despite that, we do have an ice skating team which consists of Laura & Kevin Hegarty. The teenagers represent Ireland all over the world in international competitions all over the world but because Ireland has no purpose built facility, the duo are forced to train off ice, in their runners. Laura and Kevin joined Tom Dunne on the show to discuss…

40 used to be the benchmark for midlife. But as we live longer, we seem to look and act younger. For example, the cast of “And Just Like That”, the reboot of Sex and the City were the same age as the Golden Girls cast. Is midlife even a thing anymore? Tom Dunne was joined by Regius Professor, Rose Anne Kenny, author of ‘’Age Proof’’ and Head of the ageing research programme at Trinity College Dublin to discuss… 

It has been announced that the beleaguered movie Rust is to restart filming after it was suspended over a year ago when the cinematographer Halyna Hutchens was fatally shot on set. Tom Dunne was joined by professional armourer, Tommy Dunne, who was the weapons master on Game of Thrones, to discuss this and to look at the firearm protocols in place on film sets is...

Have you ever wondered what a spy looks like? When I say the word “spy”, does your imagination conjure up a picture of a man, or a woman? Long thought to be the domain of men, spy thrillers are beginning to see more female authors tackle the genre, and represent female spy characters. Ava Glass, former counter terrorism expert and author of new novel, ‘The Chase’ joined Tom Dunne on the show to discuss her latest work and what inspired it…

Frogs legs are a delicacy in many countries but what effect is this having on the species? Are we starting to wreck another part of our ecosystem? Tom Dunne was joined by Dr Sandra Altherr, biologist and co-founder of Pro-Wildlife Germany to discuss…

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at how to trace your genealogy. Tom Dunne was joined in studio by Padraig Hogan, Senior Genealogist with Erin Research to discuss...

Dublin City air quality has never been the best. Though we know it was bad, today we find just how bad it is with the results of the City Council’s Smart Dublin programme. Thanks to this programme, we now have a clear map that shows the levels of air quality across the city in a very clear way. Tom Dunne was joined by Michael Pigeon, Green Party councillor for Dublin City to discuss…

Each year we lose more and more of our ancient wildlife and now an ancient beech tree in Kinsale that was planned to be cut down, has halted. Tom Dunne was joined by Marc O Riain, local Green Party representative of Bandon and Kinsale to discuss...

Wine is often seen as the finer things in life and held to a high standard with endless respect. Is it time to give chocolate the same treatment? Shobitha Ramadasanm, a chocolate sommelier has taken a leap, leaving her career as a lawyer to follow her chocolate passion and she joined Tom Dunne on the show to discuss...

The Annual TedFest, which celebrates all things Father Ted, takes place from March 2nd this year. Apart from the usual events such as the Lovely Girls Competition and the Priests Vs Nuns soccer match, this year will see the festival hosting its first funeral, celebrating the life of one of the festival’s most enthusiastic contributors, Belfast musician Norman Coates. Tom Dunne was joined by Peter Philips, Founder of TedFest to discuss...

It's Valentine's Day, but who was your first Valentine's crush and is it still standard procedure to give a card to the one you dote on? Newstalk's Henry McKean went to the love capital of the world, Cork City to find out...

'Mattress Mick the Musical' is coming to Dublin this Spring, and they are on the hunt for the next biggest star! That’s right, the unsuspecting sensation is having a musical about his life coming to the stage. Tom Dunne was joined by writer and director Josephine McCaffrey and the main man himself, Mattress Mick… Image: Twitter @mattressmick

The question of family expansion is one everybody has an opinion on. Although we’ve moved on from the “when are you having a baby” question, many mothers are still bombarded with the less taboo question of, “when are you having another?” Concern around your first born being an only child becomes a bizarre, misplaced preoccupation for the people around us — pushy relatives, insistent friends, and random weirdos alike. Author, podcaster and mum of one, Caroline Foran joined Tom Dunne on the show to discuss…

The US military has shot down another flying unmanned object over Lake Huron in Michigan on Sunday, a fourth such incident this month. Eamon Ansbro, an astronomer who works with the European Space Agency joined Tom Dunne on the show to discuss...

Tomorrow is indeed Valentine’s Day so we can expect all the usual column inches devoted to love and dating but there is one area of all this which tends to make people awkward, money. Finance expert Paul Merriman is co-host of the Two Pauls in a Pod, a financial advice podcast, and he has been exploring the relationship between money and romance…

Jen Hogan, journalist with The Irish Times joined Tom Dunne on the show today to recap the stories making the headlines this past week...

It's not uncommon for us to lose old photos or home videos in our lives but do you ever wonder if you’d get them back? Sean was joined by David Gutenmacher, from Museum of Lost Memories on Instagram, whose goal is to return lost photos and items to their owners...

Anyone who has ever brought their child to the hairdressers will understand just how challenging it can be. Maggie Radecka is a hairdresser that realised something needed to change in how we approach children’s barbering and decided to set up a specialist sensory room in her shop. Maggie runs Fun & Cut in Inchicore and she joined Sean on the show today...

Usually when it comes to book clubs, we often stray off the rules for what it is intended for, talking about books. It becomes more about wine and chats than the book. Should there be set rules to get everyone on the same page? Journalist and author Liadán Hynes is a member of three book clubs and joined Sean to discuss…

There has been much debate as to whether the Lia Fáil on the Hill of Tara is the real one at all. After it being vandalised with the word “fake” spray painted on it, we question the legitimacy of the stone. Sean was joined by Anthony Murphy, author and founder of Mythical Ireland to discuss...

The history of dentistry in Ireland closely aligns with the fledgling Free State 100 years ago. But how do the decisions of the past regarding dental care affect the current issues facing the sector today? Sean was joined by Fintan Hourihan, Chief Executive of the Irish Dental Association...

RTÉ has announced that its ground-breaking programme 'Eco Eye' is coming to an end after over 2 decades. Sean was joined by broadcaster and architect Duncan Stewart, who hosted the show for a long time, to discuss how the media’s handling of the climate crisis has been transformed over the past 20 years... Image: Twitter @DuncanStewart4

As our population continues to rise, so does our demand for government representation. It is estimated that Ireland could have 250 TDs by 2050 with the next Dáil being the largest ever because of a significant spike in population over the last five years. Sean was joined by Gary Murphy, Professor of Politics at Dublin City University…

Do you still have a landline in your house and if so is it because you have it for the internet? According to figures we have seen fixed lines continue to drop. Do you miss the old landline and do you even know how to use them? Henry McKean has been investigating for us, and he even brought one into studio…

There has been a growing rise in countries requesting compensation from times of colonization like the compensation of £100,000 by the Trevelyan family and the acknowledgement of their role in the slave trade. With a tweet sent by Katherine Mezzacappa questioning if there will be “any word” on famine reparations, we ask should the same recognition be put on the atrocities that took place during the famine? Sean was joined by Katherine Mezzacappa, historical novelist, originally from Carrickfergus and publishing under the name of Katie Hutton…

With Valentine's Day right around the corner, Matt Levell, owner of the Irish Axe Throwing Club joined Sean to discuss an alternative type of date this February 14th...

Usually when you're looking for love, you use dating apps or go outside and mingle. You don't really use a system of rate and review to find the best match for you. Well, a Facebook group, ‘Are We Dating the Same Guy?’, has taken this concept and expanded it into something larger. Sean was joined by Olivia Petter, journalist and author of Millennial Love to discuss…

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at how to have a home birth. Sean was joined in studio by Ali Murphy, a self employed Community Midwife to discuss...

What gender is God? Jesus Christ was born a man, but does the same apply to the other two parts of the holy trinity. Shouldn't a God transcend such human restricted definitions. In the Church of England, they're actively considering making references to God the Father gender neutral. Could such an idea spread to other Christian denominations? Fr Paddy Byrne, parish priest of Abbeyleix, Ballinakill and Raheen in Co Laois joined Sean on the show to discuss...

Increasingly, if you look up at the night sky, what you're seeing isn't a star but a something manmade. Since 2019, the amount of satellites orbiting our world has increased four fold, and in the coming years up to 400,000 of them could be in orbit. Antonio Martin Carrillo, Assistant Professor in the School of Physics at UCD joined Sean on the show to discuss...

At Maynooth University Library a new machine can been seen in reception called a 'Short Story Dispenser'. It spits out poetry, short stories and graphics on receipt paper. They last one, three or five mins. Some fun, some serious. The machine was developed in France by Short Editions and is slowly going global at hotels, airports and libraries. Henry McKean spoke with a short story writer and visited Maynooth University and met the students trying out the machine with the librarians...

Have you noticed lately that some businesses are only offering one method of payment – either cash only or cardless. What are the laws around this? If you have legal tender in your hand, does a business have to accept it? Conor Pope, consumer affairs correspondent with the Irish Times joined Sean to discuss..

Bret Easton Ellis has written 9 books but his newest novel The Shards is his first in 13 years. Best known to many as the author of American Psycho, he joined Sean on the show to discuss his latest release...

One might be surprised about the benefits that breast milk soap can have for someone’s skin and health. Sean was joined by Reham Ghafarji, a Syrian entrepreneur who is donating 15% of her profits of soap to homeless charities in Ireland..

Nearly three quarters of people have a ‘work wife’ or ‘work husband’, with the vast majority claiming that it helps with their mental health in their jobs, a new survey commissioned by doughnut firm Krispy Kreme reveals. According to the survey, 73% of people have a work spouse, with one in three admitting that they are more likely to confide in them than their actual partner. Sean was joined by Peter Cosgrove, Managing Director Futurewise to discuss...

In the space of just 4 weeks, two people who were pronounced dead in the United States were subsequently found to be still alive. It begs the question as to how on earth such a mistake could be made and how exactly a diagnosis of death is made. Sean was joined by David Fanagan, Director of Fanagan’s Funeral Home in Dublin to discuss…

We often think of theatre as a primarily visual medium. But a theatre group in Navan is disrupting these expectations with their group called Sightless Cinema. Sean was joined by Gillian Stafford, Performer with Sightless Cinema in Navan...

We all know that Ireland is steeped in history but today we’re focusing specifically on Kilkenny history and the hidden lore. Sean was joined by Paul Cuddihy, teacher of history and geography at Kilkenny College.

Nora Twomey went on to establish the highly successful animations studios Cartoon Saloon with Paul Young and Tom Moore. The Kilkenny-based studios are behind films like My Dragon’s Father, Wolfwalkers and The Secret of Kells and have become world revered. Nearly every one of its features, including Nora Twomey’s The Breadwinner, has received an Oscar nomination for Best Animated Feature.

Board games have moved on from the days of Risk and Monopoly and now a host of environmentally themed games are entering the market. But can they make the climate crisis a more tangible reality? Cathy Maguire, Member of Board Games Ireland, has been playing some of these games and she joined Sean to discuss…

Boeing have just added the finishing touches to the last ever 747 as production comes to an end after 54 years. But what was it actually like to fly one? Sean was joined by pilot Nick Eades, who has completed more flying hours on a Jumbo Jet than any other pilot in history…

“Save time, money and effort when buying a breadmaker by writing ‘breadmaker’ on a cardboard box, leaving it on your worktop and buying a white sliced loaf from the shop instead. William Stroker, Derry City.” That’s taken from the letters page of 'Viz' - the comic book. Does William have a point? We buy so many electronic goods, never use them and end up hoarding them over the years. Henry McKean went to the dump to find out how wasteful are we?

On Monday we spoke with David Mongey in Kildare about his ambition to repatriate at least part of the remains of St Brigid back to Ireland from Portugal. They currently reside in a reliquary in the Church of St John the Baptist Church in Lumiar. Mario Miguel Rosa, a parishioner from Lumiar joined Sean on the show to discuss...

Enough is Enoch, is the name of a new campaign from independent councilor Alan Edge to raise money for trans youth and make something positive out of Enoch Burke the situation. Councillor Alan Edge joined Sean on the show to discuss...

While many things are standardised across the EU, often issues relating to health care are not. MEP for Ireland South Billy Kelleher is calling for a European Health Union. He has also just left Ukraine after visiting devastation and rebuilding efforts in Kyiv and other areas and joined Sean to discuss…

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at how to get out of debt. Sean was joined in studio by Eoin McGee, financial advisor and author of 'How to Make your Money Work' and 'How to be Good with Money'...

It has been discovered that the coffee with the most amount of caffeine in it is Costa’s medium sized cappuccino which contains 325mg of caffeine, the same as 4 cans of Red Bull. Do you know how much caffeine you’re drinking and why is there such disparity in coffee shops? Sean was joined in studio by James McCormack, CEO of the Dublin Barista School to discuss...

Dr. Nicholas Dodman, Professor Emeritus, Tufts University President, Center for Canine Behavior Studies joined Sean to discuss the importance of dog sports to prevent doggy depression...

The ancient art of water divining in Ireland has been handed down from the pre-Christian Druids, who used yew-rods to issue their predictions. Water divining, however, survives quietly in contemporary Irish society and is used by many builders who need to locate the best spot on the land to drill for water, although most diviners are found by word of mouth rather than via a website or directory. Sean was joined by Gerry Cremins, Chairman of the Irish Society of Diviners to discuss...

In recent days we have learned of two incidents where a child choking on their food tragically resulted in death. How do you deal with a baby or young child who is choking and what are the main concerns a parent has? Siobhan Butler, former paediatric nurse, who now runs First Aid for Everyone, joined Sean on the show to discuss...

The kink community in Ireland is alive and kicking, with the scene having doubled here over the past few years. That’s according to Professional Dominatrix, Clarity Mills. Despite all this, she says most people don’t tap into this side of their sexuality because our tiny nation is a ‘kink shame factory’. Professional Dominatrix, Clarity Mills joined Sean on the show today...

Just how small can a house get? Well, the answer is very small indeed, as attested by a tiny abode in a small town in Wales. Sean was joined on the show by Jan Tyley, the owner of the Guinness Book of Records certified ‘Britain’s Smallest House’....

According to new research in the UK most people prefer to be represented by a barrister with a posh voice than someone with a strong regional accent. 80% said they would prefer received pronunciation or the Queen's English and only 20% said they would be happy with a West Midlands English accent. But how does that translate to Ireland? Do we still have a hang up with with accents? And would we prefer a posh accent to represent us in court? Henry McKean took the streets to ask...

The remains of St. Brigid currently reside in a reliquary in a church near Lisbon. But is it time to bring her home? Joining Sean today was David Mongey, Chairman of INTO Kildare and member of the Brigid 1500 group.

Aoife Barry, assistant news editor at The Journal joined Sean today on the show to look as some of the stories from weekend.

If we have engagement parties, should we celebrate divorce as well? Can you ever mark the dissolution of a marriage in a positive way? Moncrieff's guest says yes. Reverend Brenda O’Grady is an interfaith minister, wedding solemniser and family celebrant in Laois and she leads divorce ceremonies.

We have heard of the rise of dogs and cats being adopted during the peak of Covid. Pigs were also an animal that rose in popularity around this time but today we ask why so many of them are being abandoned after such a large boom? Sean was joined by Martina Kenny, co-founder of My Lovely Horse Rescue.

Is it time to stop eating fruit? We’ve heard of being a vegetarian, even a vegan but what about a fruitarian? People who believe in only eating fruit. Sean was joined by Colas Demeillers, an ethical fruitarian.  

With the new introduction of health warnings to be included on wine labels in Ireland, it has caused outrage for the Italian foreign minister, calling it ‘an attack on the Mediterranean diet.’ For more on this Kieran was joined by Naomi O’ Leary, Europe Correspondent with The Irish Times…

Annually at the Iowa State Fair, there is a Husband Calling Competition. It’s part of a suite of heritage competitions at America’s largest state fair. Sean was joined by the marketing director, Mindy Williamson.

Ireland has two big movies up for Oscars – The Banshees of Inisherin and An Cáilín Ciúin. Apart from the Oscar connection and both being Irish, another connection is they both feature the same actor in their movies. That being movie extra Mary Jo Needham. Mary Jo joined Sean on the show today…

Go to any port or harbour in Ireland and you’ll find some boats and ships in various states of disrepair. However, there is one particular ship right in the heart of the Dublin Docklands that took a sudden turn for the worse in the past week, to the point where she’s almost capsized. The Naomh Eanna has a long history in Ireland, and there’s been a campaign to save her - so why has she deteriorated so badly? Nathan Wheeler, an artist with a special interest in dereliction joined Sean on the show to discuss...

If you’ve been watching The Last of Us on Sky Atlantic or even heard about it you’ll know it is based on the premise that the heating up of the world’s temperature causes a fungi attack on the human race, leading to zombies and the end of the world as we know it. Could this actually happen? Sean was joined by Kevin Kavanagh, Professor of Microbiology at Maynooth University to discuss…

As we approach Valentine’s Day, attention turns once again for many couples as to where to take your date for dinner, on perhaps the busiest night of the year for Ireland’s restaurants. A chef in Cork is curating a special aphrodisiac menu to get diners in the mood for love. Sean was joined by Rebeccaa Harrington, Head Chef at the Bookshelf at the Elysian in Cork...

At Paris fashion week Kylie Jenner of the Kardashian tribe, wore a large lion head sewn into her dress made by Italian designer Schiaparelli. We asked how would a lion’s head work on the streets of Dublin. Could this be the next fashion trend? Newstalk's Henry McKean joined Sean to discuss...

A very rare comet, green in colour, is currently making its way around earth and is now visible to the naked eye. David Moore from Astronomy Ireland joined Sean to discuss...

Netflix's real-life version of Squid Game started filming this week and it turned into utter chaos as at least one contestant was stretchered off and filming had ti be stalled repeatedly due to health issues with the contestant Julia Atherley, news reporter with The Sun has been speaking to contestants and joined Sean on the show to discuss..

The Doomsday Clock has set its time at 90 seconds to midnight, the closest to midnight the clock has been since it was established in 1947. It is there to show the existential threat of nuclear warfare that surrounds us. The name of this, the Doomsday Clock brings such negative and fatalistic connotations that it’s hard to have a positive outlook on the world. For some, this seeps into their everyday life and what is called the ‘negativity bias’ takes over. To discuss this Sean was joined by Dr. Malie Coyne, Clinical Psychologist and author of ‘Love In Love Out’...

White sliced pan is of course a big seller in Irish and British supermarkets but is it possible to make a healthier alternative, without sacrificing taste? Well, a team of scientists in Reading University are working on a new idea to replicate white slice pan but that is made out of an ingredient with a tricky image - fava beans, once notoriously favoured by Hannibal Lector. Sean was joined by Donal O’Sullivan, Professor of Crop Science at the University of Reading...

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at how to start a business. Sean was joined in studio by Oisin Geoghegan, Head of Enterprise at Fingal Local Enterprise Office

Filling out forms is a necessary evil for lots of things – applying for a loan, getting a quote for insurance, or some job applications. But what about form-filling to find love? It is becoming more and more common for potential matches on dating apps to be sent a Google form or survey with a list of questions to be filled out before a date can be arranged. Is there any value in this kind of practicality before you even meet a potential partner? Lisa McFarland, relationships coach joined Sean on the show to discuss... Instagram: Lisa McFarland @relationship.coaching.ni

What happens when your company’s name happens to share a tangential link with a corporate colossus? This is precisely the situation a small children’s clock manufacturer in Cornwall currently finds itself in. Sean was joined by Sarah Davies, co-owner of Oyster & Pop to discuss... Image: Oyster & Pop

It sounds like a TV show - you’re about to give birth, there’s no time to go to the hospital and the only option is to call the emergency services for help and have the baby at home. That’s exactly what happened to Emma Tyrrell, newsreader on 98fm, who with the help of Dublin Fire Brigade, safely delivered her bundle of joy Laoise at home on Sunday morning…

This week on Newstalk, we’re shining a spotlight on domestic abuse, in partnership with Allianz and Women’s Aid. As we’ve seen in Ireland and similarly around the world, there is a worrying increase in domestic abuse homicides. Dr. Jane Monckton Smith is a professor of Public Protection who specialises in domestic abuse homicide and has identified 8 steps that shows men who kill their partners follow a pattern in their relationship…

With around 240 pubs in Dublin city centre, would it be possible to visit each one in a day? John Geraghty, the founder of Publin, the Dublin pub guide, has set himself the challenge and he joined Sean on the show to tell him all about it…

The Oscar nominations were announced this afternoon. In all, Ireland received 14 nominations - with nine going to the Banshees of Inisherin. Esther McCarthy joined Sean on the show this afternoon to discuss her predictions and the reaction to the nominations...

The Government has announced that it will pass the legislation to introduce the specific offence of grooming children into crime. Various agencies and communities have been aware of this for some time. Newstalk's Henry McKean has been visiting communities where grooming for crime occurs...

With the reintroduction of the rare white-tailed eagle back into Ireland there are also bound to be threats that these birds face. With a poison already claiming one of these rare birds, we ask why? Sean was joined by Niall Hatch, Head of Communications and Development with Birdwatch Ireland to discuss...

Over the past number of years the culture of street art has grown in prominence, with more and more murals popping up around the country, particularly in Waterford for example. On occasion, murals can disappear overnight. This is because they were erected without permission from the local authority. So, what are the rules regarding who can and can’t do street art and how do they decide what warrants public display? Ray Yeates, City Arts Officer with Dublin City Council joined Sean on the show to discuss…

What happens if the beneficiary of a deceased person’s will cannot be located? Who is hired to track them down? Padraic Grennan, managing director of Irish probate genealogy firm Erin Research, deals with on a daily basis and he joined Sean to discuss his work...

An 'Cailín Ciúin' is an Irish Language film which is based on the short story ‘Foster’ by Claire Keegan. The film which has been nominated for a number of BAFTAs is hotly tipped to get receive an Oscar nomination when they're announced tomorrow. The films producer Cleóna Ní Chrualaoi and the director Colm Bairéad joined Sean on the show to discuss... Image: Irish Film Institute

Graham Finlay joined Sean on the show today to recap the stories making the headlines this past week.

Imagine sitting down to enjoy your favourite bar of chocolate only to discover all was not as it seems. This happened to Matt O Baoill’s girlfriend and he joined Sean to tell the harrowing story…

You may be planning to bring a loved one for afternoon tea in a few weeks for Valentine’s Day but what constitutes the perfect afternoon tea and what is the etiquette involved? Sean was joined by Eileen Donaghey, Tea Champion, Afternoon Tea Expert and author of ‘A Beginner’s Guide to Afternoon Tea at Home’…

When we lose someone we often go through multiple stages of grief. We seek counselling, therapy or activities that help brighten our day just a little more. For this person, however, pole dancing helped her come to terms with her grief. Sean was joined by Siân Docksey, a pole dancing comedian and writer from Belgium who has been on BBC 3 and shortlisted for the BBC New Comedy Award…

It turns out Humpty Dumpty was not an egg. He was, in fact, a cannon. But how did a weapon of warfare become something so different? Aoife Bannon, features editor with The Irish Sun went digging into the origins of nursery rhymes, and what she found was quite surprising…

A new report has opened the debate about whether or not PSNI officers should continue to be armed. Police men and women in Northern Ireland are the only force in England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland where every officer carries a gun as standard. Sean was joined by Jim Gamble, Former Senior Police Officer who has worked in the RUC, PSNI and in England to discuss…

With the cost of living and inflation on the rise, the price of everything is being affected. Nowadays in Dublin City, many coffees are selling for over €5! Newstalk’s Henry McKean even found a hot chocolate priced at €8. Henry joined Sean in studio to discuss what he found whilst looking for Dublin’s priciest cup of Joe…

Women often tend to feel the cold more than men, but we never ask why that could be? Leona Donaghy, a PHD researcher of Ulster University and self-employed healthy building consultant at Wholehearted Environment joined Sean to discuss the science behind this…

20 years ago there were 4000 B&Bs in Ireland. Now there are just 800 left. What has caused this decline and how has it affected rural Ireland? John G O’Dwyer, Author of ‘50 Best Irish Walks’ and chairman of Pilgrim Paths Ireland, has been writing about this issue for the Irish Examiner and he joined Sean to discuss...

20 years ago this week, Dublin finally became home to the world's tallest piece of free-standing public art - The Spire. It generated countless nicknames in the early days but has it grown on people during the interim two decades and has it become a mascot for Dublin? Brianna Parkins, Columnist with the Irish Times, has been writing about this and she joined Sean on the show to discuss…

Today marks the end of what’s commonly known in the world of astrology as 'Mercury Retrograde'. You may hear a lot of things being blamed on the planet of communication’s retrograde period, from technology mishaps to misunderstandings with friends and loved ones. But what is Mercury Retrograde, why do people make such a big deal of it and what will change in our lives as we emerge out of this phase? Sean was joined by Psychological Astrologer, Margaret Gray to discuss...

Many adult children are still living at home with their parents. For some it’s the comfort of ease of it all but for most, they are at home for economic reasons. The housing market means they cannot afford to fly the nest and instead can still be at home with their parents until their late 20s, or later, stunting their growth and restricting their independence. Journalist and author, Suzanne Harrington, joined Sean on the show to discuss…

If you’re a cheese lover, this next item might be for you. Token bar in Smithfield is no stranger to food challenges, but their current competition is not for the fainthearted. One kilogram of mozzarella bites as fast as you can. Nick DiMaio from Token bar joined Sean on the show to discuss...

You may well have heard of polyamory, it is fast becoming the buzzword of 2023. Dr Zhana Vrangalova, is a Professor of Sexuality at New York University and a sex and relationship scientist who teaches an ethical non-monogamy course called Open Smarter. Dr Zhana also specialises in ‘Solo Poly’, or solo polyamory. What is it and how does it work? He joined Sean on the show to discuss...

Sometimes history is hidden right beneath our feet, and this was the case for Tom Joe Murphy, a Waterford farmer who discovered the 3,500-year-old tree on his farmland. Tom Joe joined Sean on the show to discuss his discovery...

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at how to go back to college as a mature student. Sean was joined in studio by Orla Stafford, Mature Students Officer at DCU...

Words are the way to people’s hearts, especially when you’re down or going about the endless bustle of work and school. And for tens of thousands of people, those words were found in the Underground Tube Stations notice boards written by Jeremy Chopra and Ian Redpath, two Transport for London (TfL) customer service team members, who have brightened the day for many. All on the Board, made it their mission to bring smiles to the faces of London commuters through writing creative messages, quotes and poems on the underground's service information boards. They have complied these messages in to their second book “All On The Board - Your Daily Companion: Inspiring words to take you from morning to night” and both Ian and Jeremy joined Sean on the show to discuss… Image: Twitter @allontheboard

Two Irish men have done the impossible, the unthinkable - they’ve driven from one end of Ireland to the next, in an electric vehicle, without stopping to charge. Paddy Comyn, Head of Communications at AA was behind the wheel and he joined Sean on the show to discuss...

After many years of preparation, the new Korean War Memorial in Washington DC was unveiled last summer. But now researchers have discovered countless mistakes in its inscriptions. Sean was joined by Hal Barker, Founder of the Korean War Project, who has been sourcing and cataloguing the names of veterans for decades...

This year marks the 5 year anniversary of the famous Edge School Roast Potato. But how exactly do you create it and what has its impact been? Sean was joined by Adrian Martin, Vice Principal of the Edge Hotel School in England...

Four in five Irish nightclubs have shut since the year 2000. At the turn of the millennium, 522 nightclubs were in Ireland and now only 85 remain. Why is this? Newstalk's Henry McKean went to look back to nightclubs you remember that no longer exist...

A number of years ago, Tipperary author Julian Gough was asked to write a poem that would feature at the end of the popular video game Minecraft. The so-called ‘End Poem’ has become a beloved part of the experience. However, controversey over the intellectual ownership of this poem culminated recently when it’s author decided to gift the poem to the public domain. Julian joined Sean on the show to discuss...

Altruistic egg donation has been available in the UK for years. Hannah Tomes is the Spectators’ Newsletter Editor says she’s been targeted by ads on social media, asking her to donate her eggs. Hannah joined Sean on the show to discuss…

The revelation that Prince Harry’s hotly anticipated tell all book was in fact ghost-written has caused quite the stir on social media in the last few days. But how many of these so called “self penned” publications have actually been written by the subject? Author, Shane Dunphy joined Sean on the show to discuss...

The question everybody asks these days is, do you put your wine glasses in the dishwasher? This causes much debate and Sean was joined Tara O’Connor, event planner and tablescapist from The Designed Table to put this to bed once and for all...

Elaine Burke, host of For Tech’s Sake podcast joined Sean on the show today to recap the stories making the headlines this past week...

You may type LOL and make people you think you laughed out loud but if you didn’t, a new device will hold you accountable. The LOL Verifier is a device that sits between your keyboard and your computer and only lets you type "lol" if you've truly laughed out loud. Bringing authenticity to the least authentic place: the internet. Brian Moore, the inventor of the LOL verifier joined Sean on the show to discuss...

Since the publication of ‘Spare’, some of the revelations in the book have caused a Prince Harry lookalike to rethink his own personal security. Sean was joined by Rhys Whittock to discuss...

Today is Friday the 13th but what does it really mean? Henry McKean has been speaking to paranormal experts and trying out their ghost capture equipment and did a walking under a ladder test…

100 years ago, the Irish Free State began issuing its first stamps, the earliest tangible expression of our independence. Beginning in December 1922 and continuing throughout 1923, a set of 12 stamps slowly came into circulation. Sean was joined by Padraig O’Shea, Owner of Raven Stamps in Cork to discuss…

A new report from non-profit energy efficiency group, CLASP and European Public Health Alliance suggests that cooking on gas in a typical kitchen without mechanical ventilation causes indoor air pollution of rise and exceed World Health Organisation air quality guidelines Michael Scholand, Senior Advisor at CLASP joined Sean on the show to discuss...

The streets of Dublin have been brought to life through a new augmented reality app. The 'Dublin Discovery Trails' application allows history enthusiasts and visitors to the city to go back in time and see the Guinness barges sailing down the Liffey as well as witness the Customs House fire of 1921.  Sean was joined by Marie Kavanagh, Docklands Area Manager with Dublin City Council to discuss…

Last October the Franciscans announced that, after 800 years of presence in Athlone, they would be departing the town. Now a major volunteer and community effort has allowed the Franciscans a few more months reprieve as the members find new places to live before the site takes up a new use. Sean was joined by Fr Gabriel Kinahan, Guardian of the Franciscan community in Athlone…

This year marks 10 years since the horse meat scandal hit the headlines and caused out outrage across the island. It completely changed the way we look at food labelling, particularly where meat and poultry is concerned. Sean was joined in studio now by the man who was at the heart of uncovering the truth, Former Chief Executive of the Food Safety Authority, Alan Reilly…

A rare horticultural event has taken place in Australia, as the exceptionally smelly Corpse Flower has bloomed, something it does only once every few years. Sean was joined Matt Coulter, Horticultural Curator at the Botanic Gardens in Adelaide...

Science offers clarity in ways us humans can understand. Some study emotions, place them under a microscope and dissect them bit by bit. However, when grief takes hold it causes us to re-evaluate or relationship with what we see in scientific papers. Sean was joined by Dr Dean Burnett, a behavioural neuroscientist who has had his views changed on how emotions should work...

With the steadying growth of AI, it has started to creep its way into the arts, robbing and stealing human content to imitate as its own. With whispers of AI music being at the top of charts in due time, is technology going too far? Sean was joined by Dr Martin Clancy, IRC Researcher at Center for Digital Humanities, Trinity College...

The Banshees of Inisherin scooped up multiple awards at last night’s Golden Globe ceremony but one character that stole many scenes and was a big personality in the movie was Jenny, the miniature donkey. Rita Moloney, coordinator and chief handler of Jenny from Fircroft Animal Actors joined Sean on the show…

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at how to retire. Sean was joined in studio by Val Diggan, Specialist in Life and Pensions with Fitzgerald Flynn, an insurance broker in Dublin to discuss...

There are few circumstances where receiving a package of human faeces is a welcome delivery, but for scientists in a Swiss laboratory, they were delighted. The Microbiota Vault Project is collecting stool samples in the hopes of building a global collection of gut bacteria so that the different species are not completely lost. But why is this necessary? Prof Adrian Egli is the Director of the Institute of Medical Microbiology and a member of the vault launch team and he joined Sean on the show to discuss… Image: Microbiota Vault

The Polish government has reiterated its request for Germany to pay over 1 trillion Euro in reparations that it believes it is owed due to historic aggression during World War Two. Sean was joined on the show by Poland’s Ambassador to Ireland, Anna Sochańska to discuss...

The Copenhagen restaurant Noma, one of the world’s top restaurants, with three Michelin stars, will close at the end of 2024 to reinvent itself as a full time food laboratory. The restaurant redefined what fine dining was and influenced chefs all over the world, including here in Ireland. Chef JP McMahon was fully inspired by Noma when opening his Michelin-starred restaurant Aniar and I’m delighted to say he joined Sean on the show to discuss

Newstalk's Simon Tierney joined Sean in studio to tell him why he finds the bald emoji ageist and degrading... Image: HotEmoji

Hiberno-English is the dialect of English that most Irish people speak. But, in Cork, do locals speak a different language altogether? Henry McKean went to the real capital to see if he could understand anyone?

Ireland's smallest mammal, the pygmy shrew, is under catastrophic threat from an invasive and non-native shrew. But why has this happened? Sean was joined by Dr Allan McDevitt of the Atlantic Technological University to discuss...

What do Orlando Bloom, Cameron Diaz and Cheryl Cole have in common? They all have dimples, a physical trait that more and more people want to have for its apparent attractiveness. And many are now undergoing dimpleplasty in order to achieve it. Dr Aamer Khan, the Clinical director of The Harley Street Skin Clinic in London joined Sean to discuss...

There is a venue in the heart of Dublin’s city centre that is a pub but offers no alcohol and doesn’t charge you for what’s inside, but instead charges you for your time. The Clockwork Door is a “time house” and allows you to use the space as you would like and you just pay by the hour to be there To explain this concept and how it works, Sean was joined by by Ciarán Hogan, founder of the Clockwork Door... Image: The Clockwork Door

Richard Branson's Virgin Orbit is due to rocket-launch satellites over Irish water later tonight. The military and commercial satellites will be the first launched from UK territory. However, a space launch hazard area will be in place off the coast of Cork and Kerry between 10 o'clock tonight and 1 am tomorrow, in case anything goes wrong with the rocket. Patrick Murphy, CEO of Irish South and West Fish Producers Organisation joined Sean on the show to discuss how this might affect the vessels currently stationed in the area...

Sean was joined on the show by Yvonne Conner, who lives in a village in Yorkshire that has been plagued by a mysterious sound for the past 3 years, the so-called Holmfield Hum...

With the first full week of school ahead, lots of parents will be dreading the return to the homework battle every evening. However, Jennifer Horgan is a teacher who believes there should be absolutely no homework in primary school, and for more reasons than family harmony at dinner time. Jennifer joined Sean on the show to discuss...

Senator Tom Clonan joined Sean on the show today to recap the stories making the headlines this past week...

Just before Christmas every year ice hotels around the world begin building their annual, and of course very seasonal, accommodations which usually open this week. But what is it actually like to stay in one? Sean was joined by travel journalist Devorah Lev-Tov to discuss...

Red Sky at Night, Sailor’s Delight. A Green Christmas makes a fat Churchyard. If it be clear, a happy year. These are some of the common sayings in Irish folklore about the weather, but were they really trying to, or able to, predict the weather? Dr Marion McGarry is a Lecturer in ATU in Galway and author of 'Irish Customs and Rituals: How our ancestors celebrated life and the seasons' and she joined Sean on the show to discuss...

A Nobel prize winning scientist shocked the world earlier this week when he suggested an unusual and cost-saving method for cooking pasta. Now, a team of researchers in the UK have tried and tested it while also discovering their own even better way of doing it. Sean was joined by Dr. David Fairhurst, Physicist at Nottingham Trent University...

A survey has found that 60 percent of people aged 18 to 29 have never used a phone box. What was once a lifeline for families and communities has been made obsolete by mobile technology. However, there is still a strong nostalgia for the old phone boxes, and none more so than for Paul Murphy, aka The Phonebox Man who has been restoring them over the last decade. He joined Sean on the show today to discuss...

2022 saw a 13% rise in road fatalities. This was the highest number for 5 years. But what is causing this and is the EU’s protocol on speed limiters a possible solution? Sean was joined by Conor Faughnan, transport commentator to discuss..

If you’ve ever had the opportunity to taste American chocolate you’ll know it’s an odd experience. The chocolate is not as creamy, it’s dry and crumbly and has an wierd underlying taste of vomit. Why is this and how do American’s make their chocolate compared to Ireland? To discuss, Sean was joined by Daniel Linehan, chocolatier from Bon Chocolatier in Athlone...

For almost 20 years, Fr Aquinas Duffy has worked with missing persons cases and set up missing.ie in 2000. Last month on National Missing Persons Day it was shown that there are 897 missing persons cases on the island of Ireland still outstanding. Fr. Aquinas continues to urge people with any information, no matter how irrelevant you might think, to come forward. He joined Sean on the show today to discuss...

When we hear the word “UFO”, many will think about science fiction, little grey men and The X Files. But for Dr Eamonn Ansbro, his research paints a very different picture. He’s an astronomer who works with the European Space Agency, but he’s also been documenting and researching these unexplained objects in our skies for more than 30 years. Eamonn joined Sean on the show to discuss...

It’s easy to forget that most musical instruments start out as a block of wood. Slowly, and over time, they are manipulated into beautiful objects that make music. And this is very true in the case of the traditional Irish banjo, which are still handcrafted in Co. Galway today, and indeed for the past 40 years. But what is involved in the process? Tom Dunne was joined by Fintan Cussen of Clareen Banjos to discuss...

Lisa de Jong is a women’s health coach or what people call a period coach and educator. Before this role and after years of suffering, Lisa felt no one was taking the pain caused by her menstrual cycle seriously. She travelled abroad for treatment and was eventually diagnosed with endometriosis. Lisa now helps women in Ireland, and all over the world, to manage the symptoms of chronic pain and trauma linked to their period, and she joined Tom Dunne on the show to discuss…

How do twins differ? How are they exactly the same? There are many misconceptions about twins and how similar and different they can be. Could a pair of identical twins score the exact same on a test without even knowing it? Tom Dunne was joined by Professor Nancy Segal Director of the Twin Studies Center at Cal State Fullerton...

Anja Bakker started her pilgrimage last April, from Cork to Jerusalem on foot. Now, 9 months later, she is currently in Serbia and she joined Tom Dunne on the show to discuss... Image: The Flaunting Harper

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at how to sell your house. Tom Dunne was joined in studio by Barry McDonald, Estate Agent and Spokesperson for the REA group to discuss...

Perhaps one of the big questions facing the creators of artificial intelligence is how to replicate human touch. Now, a robot has been created that is able to give hugs. It’s called the HuggieBot 2.0 and one of its creators, Alexis Block of the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems joined Tom Dunne on the show...

A new palliative care centre is to be built on Midlands Prison campus. This is a decision made as the elderly population in the prison continues to rise Conor Lally, Security and Crime Editor of The Irish Times joined Tom Dunne on the show to discuss..

With the Christmas period coming to an end, many people around the country will be starting to take their Christmas tree down. But when is the right date to do so, and what do you do with it afterwards? Henry McKean has been looking into this and he joined Tom Dunne to discuss...

A rare celestial event will take place later tonight. But what is it and how can people look out for it? Dave Moore from Astronomy Ireland joined Tom Dunne on the show to explain...

It is often said that bad times make great art - Dublin based artist, Nathan Wheeler certainly believes that to be true and has been using his creative skills to expose the sheer scale of the housing crisis. The hobbyist turned activist is highlighting the issue by creating detailed models of the derelict buildings in every town and village in the country and he joined Tom Dunne on the show to discuss... Image: Twitter @craftynathan

An Irish man is in position to become the 2nd ever Irish person to win the long running channel 4 quiz show Countdown. Octochamp Edward Byrne has won today’s semi final and is now in the final which is on our TV screens tomorrow, Friday 23rd December. Edward joined Sean on the show today to chat... Image: Channel 4

Many people will be making their way home for Christmas over the next 48 hours or so, whether that be a short car journey or a flight around the world. But for families in Ukraine, having the family home for Christmas this year takes on a whole new meaning, and for Lesia Vasylenko, she picked up some very special passengers from the train yesterday. Lesia is a human rights lawyer as well as an MP, and her children returned to Kyiv for the first time since she evacuated them on March 1…

When you’re seriously ill and in need of rehabilitation, one form of therapy you might not think of is music therapy. Music has been proven to be a motivator towards meeting your health goals and can bring both physical support and emotional support along your health journey. Alison Sweeney, music therapist in Children’s Health Ireland at Temple Street joined Sean to discuss…

Henry McKean met people randomly at Heuston Station in Dublin and asked where are you going?

The BBC Food website is a go-to for many households, especially in preparation for Christmas dinner. And it turns out the prawn cocktail with Marie Rose sauce seems to be back in vogue as the website releases their most popular recipes for the big day. Is it the ultimate kitsch dish? And why would a staple of the 70s and 80s be making a comeback? Edward Hayden, TV chef and culinary lecturer from South East Technological University joined Sean to discuss…

In the town of Gavle in Sweden, every year the city builds a giant straw goat. But dark forces have led the goat to be burned down on a total of 38 times out of the past 54 years. Will it survive this year? Sean was joined by Anna-Karin Niemann, Spokesperson for the Gavle Christmas Goat...

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at how to donate an organ. Sean was joined in studio by Dr. Catherine Motherway, Clinical Lead on Organ Donation with University Hospital Limerick and Organ Donation Transplant Ireland to discuss...

Brendan Cummins, who is one of Ireland’s most violent prisoners is suing the State after being placed in solitary confinement for the last 3 and a half years. His lawyers are arguing that being locked up for 23 hours a day is making him more aggressive due to the solitary placement in what is known as the National Violence Reduction Unit. To explain this case, Sean was joined by Conor Gallagher, The Irish Times, Crime Correspondent… Image: Photo of Midlands Prison via Google Maps

There have been reports that the morality police in Iran is to be disbanded. The Attorney General said it at a press conference, but it turns out he doesn’t have the power to do so. Since then, Iranian officials have only affirmed the regime’s commitment to modesty rules, even announcing new enforcement methods and punishments. The morality police was established in 2005 with the task of arresting people who violate the Islamic dress code, usually concerning women wearing hijabs covering their hair. Colm Flynn is an Irish reporter based in Europe. He met with an Iranian woman who had been arrested and charged by the morality police. She wished to remain anonymous, but she agreed to tell Colm her story…

This Christmas sees the return of the Nativity play to schools all around the country. Newstalk reporter Henry McKean visited Holy Child National School, Larkhill, Whitehall to see their Nativity play...

Welsh-Australian Artist, Lee Hadwin had no training, and no inclination in his waking life to be an artist, however, he draws and sketches portraits, figures and landscapes in his sleep. Lee is the only person known to be alive that can only produce art whilst asleep and not whilst in a conscious state awake, and he joined Sean on the show to discuss... Image: leehadwin.com

What is it about Christmas music that we enjoy so much? It’s the same songs we hear year on year, so what is their enduring power? Peter Vuust, Professor in Neuroscience at the Department of Clinical Medicine at Aarhus University and Director of the Center for Music in the Brain joined Sean to discuss…

Swinging paintcans, electrified sinks, a drop from a zipwire are all hazards that the baddies ‘’The Wet Bandits’’ are subjected to in the movie Home Alone. When comedians James Acaster and Guz Khan decided to make a TV show recreating the scenes from the Christmas classic they knew they needed to call one person, Engineer, Dr Zoe Laughlin. Zoe joined Sean on the show to discuss the science behind some of the scenes in Home Alone…

The myths and preconceptions that surround stammering can often affect how people who stammer view themselves. Society’s obsession with fluency has reinforced a stigma that is difficult to shake off. Happily, the shame that is often associated with stammering is now being replaced by what’s called stammering pride. Sean was joined by Nora Trench Bowles, Vice Chair of The Irish Stammering Association…

The remains of Private Seán Rooney, who was killed in an ambush while serving on a United Nations (UN) mission in Lebanon on Wednesday night, have returned home to Ireland this morning. Three separate investigations are being conducted into the incident by the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, Lebanese authorities led by a military prosecutor, and the Irish Defence Forces. Sean was joined by Foreign Reporter based in Beirut, Hannah McCarthy…

James Dempsey joined Sean for the weekly TV review slot, TV on the Radio...

With only 9 more sleeps until Christmas, Santa and his reindeers are readying themselves for their annual world wide trip. Scientists have now worked out how Santa and his team have been able to make their epic journey whilst also protecting the environment. Matt Grey, founder of event:decision, who was involved in carrying out this research joined Sean on the show to discuss...

At last there is a pub in Dublin that caters quite heavily to your pooch. PYE Dundrum has newly opened and encourages your doggy companion to join you for a doggy beer. Ronan Flood, co-owner of PYE Dundrum joined Sean on the show... Image: PYE Dundrum

Jen Hogan journalist with The Irish Times joined Sean on the show today to recap the stories making the headlines this past week...

Kim McCafferty has travelled all over the world as a street theatre artist, perhaps most notably with her work for Clowns Without Borders, an extraordinary group of people who bring laughter to the most marginalised communities in the most challenging circumstances. Closer to home, she is also the founder of Cavan Arts Festival. Kim joined Tom Dunne on the show today…

Have you ever turned to artists like Cold Play or Adele to find some comfort in times of despair? If the answer is yes, you’re not alone as various studies including research carried out in Durham University have found that melancholy music actually helps to lift our spirits. Tom Dunne was joined by Tuomas Eerola, Professor in Music Cognition in Durham University to discuss...

Underwear. A vital component in how we dress. One leg goes in, then the other, and we hoist them up to our hips. But for one person, they have taken this process one step further. Trinity Graduate, Rachael Schmitt has broken the Guinness World Record for most underpants pulled up in thirty seconds. Rachel joined Tom Dunne in studio, alongside Henry McKean who is attempting to break her record...

It’s no secret the past couple of years have been tough for everyone. It seems like it’s been one thing after the next for most. But is there anyone out there who is having a good time? Celebrity psychic Inbaal joined Tom Dunne to tell us which star signs are coming out on top in 2023…

Artificial intelligence has been developing at a staggering rate for the past couple of decades bringing both excitement and fear. ChatGPT is a new AI bot that has the ability to write a movie script in the style of Scorsese or craft a poem with the flair of W.B Yeats. Tom Dunne was joined by professor of AI at UCC, Barry O’Sullivan…

One silver lining to Brexit this Christmas on the ferry to Wales and back is the duty free. For €16 or £12 foot passenger return you can save about 40% on drink, cigarettes and perfume. Henry McKean jumped onboard the Stena Line Estrid to bring this report…

The world of politics can be a murky business at the best of times. When entering public life, you can expect that a lot of criticism will come your way over the course of your career but personal jabs from anonymous accounts on social media is a relatively new aspect to political life. Neil Richmond, Fine Gael TD for Dublin Rathdown has found his own way dealing with the negativity and he joined Tom Dunne to discuss…

In 1996 two teenagers in the state of Georgia were convicted of murder. After new evidence emerged thanks to a true crime podcast the two men have been released from prison after over 25 years. Stefanie Preissner was joined by Lee, one of the men who has been exonerated and Jacinda Davis, co-hosts of 'Proof' podcast... Image: Georgia Innocence Project

A farmer has appealed to a dog owner to put their animals down after 50 sheep were killed on his Offaly farm by two dogs. Suzi Walsh, dog behavioural therapist joined Stefanie Preissner on the show to discuss...

It has been a long time since comedian Harry Hill performed live on stage, night after night. However, he is back and is currently on his first tour in almost a decade with 'Pedigree Fun!', ‘an all-singing, all-dancing one-man spectacular,' Harry Hill joined Stefanie Preissner to discuss...

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at how to get a mortgage. Stefanie Preissner was joined in studio by Karl Deeter, Director of Yes.ie...

Under a new scheme starting in Limerick next year, psychiatric nurses will attend certain situations with Gardaí in a bid to better aid the Gardai and help the individual who is suffering with their mental health in a very serious way Chief Superintendent Gerard Roche based in Galway has been working on this new programme and joined Sean on the show to discuss...

Some of us love Christmas dinners, so much we have multiple ones, even before the big day. We asked Henry McKean to find us the best Christmas Carvery. Henry has been taking advice from you - the listener and word of mouth. Henry joined Sean to discuss what is on offer out there, prices, value for money and quality…

We saw misinformation and conspiracy theories fill our social media during the pandemic and it has reared its ugly head once again. This time relating to the childhood illnesses RSV and Strep A. Aoife Gallagher, researcher with the Institute for Strategic Dialogue has been investigating for theJournal.ie how far it has gone so far and she joined Sean to discuss…

Emmanuel Macron has announced that the French government will be making condoms free for all people between the ages of 18 and 25. As our own government moved to provide free contraception to women earlier this year, is it now time to follow France’s example and provide condoms for gratis too? Senator Lynn Ruane joined Sean on the show to discuss...

You’ve heard of the Frog Chorus and Paul McCartney, but a charity in Australia has released a full album of frog song – and it’s already reached number three in the charts, and may become a Christmas number one! Anthony Albrecht, co-founder of The Bowerbird Collective, a charity that makes art for nature joined Sean on the show...

Jennifer McShane has had her fair share of knock backs over 10 years of online dating, but dating with a disability brings it’s own issues and mainly it’s the date's reactions to her that has surprised her. Being open about her cerebral palsy can lead to no-shows, ghosting or rejection all go hand-in-hand even before a first date. Jennifer wrote about her experiences in the Irish independent and she joined Sean on the show to discuss... Image: Twitter @Jenny_McShane

After an attempted coup in Germany last week, Graham Finlay, from the School of Politics and International Relations at University College Dublin has been looking at some historic coups and where they stemmed from...

A chalice secretly used by Franciscan monks during the Cromwellian invasion has been returned to a parish in Leitrim almost 400 years after it was crafted. Sean was joined by the man who tracked it down, historian and priest Monsignor Liam Kelly... Image: Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati

Eithne Shortall, author and columnist with the Business Post joined Sean on the show today to recap some of the stories making the headlines over the weekend...

Singer, Moncrieff joined Sean LIVE in The Sugar Club to chat about his life, career and how he got his name...

Cody Keegan played a huge, but perhaps invisible, role in the Obama administration. As the president’s chief speechwriter, it was his job to ensure that the so-called Leader of the Free World could articulate just the right sentiment during moments of crisis. Sean was joined by Cody Keegan, author of ‘Grace: President Obama and Ten Days in the Battle for America’...

With our energy bills on the rise it can sometimes be quite confusing trying to work out how much it actually costs to use different appliances in our homes. The Home Energy Saving Kit, made by Codema and available to rent for free now from libraries across the country, may well be a good starting point. Sean was joined by Suzanne Fitzpatrick, Communications Manager with CODEMA, Dublin’s Energy Agency... Image: Codema

While most parents continue to use nappies, most of which end up in landfill, some are trying out the increasingly popular ‘Elimination Communication’ method. But what is it and how does it work? Barborba Svecova, from Elimination Communication Ireland joined Sean on the show...

The Vagina Museum in London seeks to demystify the female anatomy and break down barriers to communication about how the body works. Sean was joined by Florence Schechter, Founder of the Vagina Museum to discuss...

As a childless woman, I’m fed up of people treating Christmas as a kids’ holiday - so says UK based journalist Hannah Davies in her opinion piece at Metro. Is Christmas really a Children oriented holiday, and are people with no children under extra pressure during the holiday season? Andrea Smith, freelance journalist, who is also a childless person joined Sean to discuss...

Today is Letter Writing Day, which means we should all down our handheld devices, pick up a pen and paper and write a letter to a friend or loved one and reignite the art that is letter writing. Liz Maguire is creator and curator of FleetmarketLoveLetters.com and she joined Sean to discuss...

In the last few days Pantone announced its Colour of the Year for 2023 which is Viva Magenta, stating their choice '..is brave and fearless' and 'promotes a joyous and optimistic celebration, writing a new narrative.' Pantone's 'Colour of the Year' has become increasingly influential in the world of design since it was first introduced in 2000. Sean was joined by Helen Steele, fashion designer and artist to discuss..

The planet earth now contains 8 billion people but one group believe that humans need to die out for the good of the planet and other species. The Voluntary Human Extinction Movement do not want mass murder or suicides but for all “to live long and die out”. Essentially, do not procreate. The founder Les Knight joined Sean on the show to discuss... Image: Voluntary Human Extinction Movement

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at how to become an Irish citizen. Sean was joined in studio by Gerry McGrath, an immigration solicitor with McGrath McGrane to discuss...

It was a little over a decade ago when UNESCO declared the Gaelic language, Manx extinct. Then students on the Isle of Man studying at the school took strong exception. Manx language is now talk of the town and will be their future Sean was joined by Ruth Keggin Gell, Manx Language Development Officer at Culture Vannin in the Isle of Man...

The sound of the synthesizer is so entrenched in the music of the second half of the 20th century that it is hard to imagine the history of pop music without it. But where did it come from? A new book explores the life and times of its inventor. Sean was joined by Albert Glinsky, Author of ‘Switched On: Bob Moog and the Synthesizer Revolution’... Image: Getty Images

After many years of dereliction the once famous Dun Laoghaire Baths are due to reopen next week. But where are the actual baths? Sean was joined by Eileen O’Duffy, Author of ‘From Dirt and Dips to Dryrobes: Bathing in Dun Laoghaire Through the Ages’...

A new study suggests there is a link between depression and sending Christmas cards. Sean was joined by Professor Stephen Gallagher, Director of the Study of Anxiety, Stress and Health Lab at UL to discuss...

The mpox vaccine is currently being rolled out across Ireland. Newstalk reporter, Henry McKean met those who have got the vaccine, and also Adam Shanley, MPower Programme Manager at HIV Ireland, who have been crucial in pushing the vaccine rollout...

Jon Pichaya Ferry discovered his love of bones at age 13, while growing up in Thailand. His father gave him a mouse skeleton which, “instead of it being creepy, dark and weird”, it kickstarted his passion, and in time he went from animal bones to selling human bones. Founder and Owner of JonsBones, Jon Pichaya Ferry joined Sean on the show to discuss...

Aimee Brown, is the first person in Ireland to receive a ministerial license for cannabis prescription to treat pain associated with her endometriosis condition. Aimee joined Sean on the show to discuss...

The Government’s temporary protection status for Ukrainian refugees allows those affected to work and claim benefits while other refugees languish in the purgatory of Direct Provision, without the right to work. Some are worried that this is leading to a two tier system. Sean was joined by Fellipe Lopes, Communications and Engagement Coordinator at the Immigrant Council of Ireland...

A poll in the UK of 2,000 adults, found that the best of the shortlisted jokes was: “What type of peas ruin Christmas Dinner? MPs. Are Christmas cracker jokes supposed to be funny? Comedian and Poet, John Moynes joined Sean to discuss what makes the perfect Christmas cracker joke?

The Parole Board has launched a new campaign asking victims of serious crimes to register with them. But, how does the new statutory parole board work and what would families be registering for? And ultimately, what involvement would they have in ultimately deciding if a prisoner is released? Sean was joined by Ciarín deBuis, the Chief Executive of the Parole Board...

In a world where gaming has become prolific, a new game is soon to be available to gamers. ‘I Am Jesus Christ’, a controversial video game that literally lets you play as the Messiah, from his birth to his crucifixion and subsequent resurrection, recently became playable on Steam. To discuss, review and offer some insight into the strange experience it must be to play as 'God', Sean was joined by Graham Day, Editor in Chief at Game Eir an Irish Video Game Website... Image: Steam

Elaine O'Loughlin, Deputy Political Editor with the Irish Examiner joined Sean on the show today to recap some of the stories making the headlines over the weekend...

Leo Molloy from VintageTypwriters.ie is on a mission to bring the vintage typewriter back into popularity and spends his days restoring, repairing and rehoming old typewriters. Leo joined Sean in studio to discuss...

What do you do if you think you’ve spotted The Loch Ness Monster? That’s what Gary Campbell asked himself 26 years ago after spotting a mysterious object in the lakes of Inverness. Unable to register the sighting anywhere, he and his wife set up a register which investigates any reports of the mythical creature. Gary joined Sean on the show to discuss...

Alexander Smoljanovic is one of about 12 people in Germany who collect a very particular set of items. Wheely bins. Alexander has 100 full size wheely bins in his collection and over 300 miniature but he has his sight set on the rare 2002 Sulo 240 litre in purple which has evaded him so far. He joined Sean on the show to discuss...

Micheal Martin has said there’s a major review of the laws around controlling dogs underway. It comes after a child suffered horrific injuries in an attack earlier this week. But is there any legislation that can really prevent this kind of incident? Would banning certain breeds work? Suzi Walsh, dog trainer and behaviourist joined Sean on the show to discuss...

Women rarely inherit land and are low down on the rung of decision-making levels but contribute hugely to agribusiness and in sustaining rural life. How do we overturn this and stop perpetuating the ‘unacceptable cultural barriers’ as the minister for Charlie McConalogue put it? Hannah Quinn Mulligan, founder of Women in Agriculture Stakeholders Group and beef and dairy farmer joined Sean on the show to discuss…

Baguettes have been making headlines this week. More than six billion baguettes are baked every year in France and UNESCO gas now inscribed the tradition in its “intangible cultural heritage” list. Furthermore, Limerick man Eddie O'Keeffe, gatecrashed French TV coverage of the World Cup at the weekend shouting ‘Je suis une baguette!’ So what makes French baguette so special and how is it different from what we know as Irish Chicken roll bread? Eoin Cluskey, the owner of Bread 41 bakery in Dublin, joined Sean in studio to discuss...

Christmas Parties are back after a 3 year absence because of the pandemic. But have we forgotten about the way to behave, letting our hair down, kissing the assistant, falling down the stairs? What are the dos and don’ts? Henry McKean joined Sean to talk him through it...

Employees and companies have reported overwhelmingly positive results after the trial of a 4 day working week across 12 Irish companies. It wasn't that long ago that similar trials were being done to reduce the working week from 6 to 5 days. Can the historical context of this idea help us to understand the current debate. Sean was joined by Graham Finlay, School of Politics and International Relations at University College Dublin to discuss...

Why do Irish people use the English language to not say what they really mean? Are we too polite and afraid of offending or are we afraid of having those awkward conversations? Maybe it’s all about a fear of committing and following through on our words. Gail Flanagan, linguist tutor from the School of Modern Languages and Applied Linguistics at the University of Limerick joined Sean on the show to discuss..

In the new genre-bending documentary ‘How To Tell A Secret’, directors Anna Rodgers and Shaun Dunne joined forces to find creative ways to tell the stories of people in Ireland who are HIV-positive, while shining a light on the transformative power of telling your story. Sean was joined in studio by Anna and also by Enda McGrattan or Veda as you may know him, who contributes his story in the documentary… Image: twitter.com/asecretfilm

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at how to plan your garden from scratch. Sean was joined in studio by Paul Smith, gardener and author of 'Gardening Together'...

Ice cream vans are synonymous with treats, however for communities in some of the poorest parts of Glasgow in the 1970s, these vans were a lifeline. Carrying not just ice cream, these vans were effectively the general store on wheels because the council had built high-density living without the necessary amenities like shops. However, the routes through these estates became highly lucrative, and were quickly taken over by criminals and the ensuing wars between opposing factions led to one of the most controversial investigations and convictions in modern Scottish history. Robert Neill is the director of BBC’s The Ice Cream Wars and he joined Sean on the show to discuss…

A community project has begun to update maps of traveller campsites in Coolock, which have previously gone undocumented. Not only are the campsites being added to maps, but the stories behind the people who live there are being archived too. Sean was joined by Michael Collins, a third generation traveller from Coolock who has been instrumental in getting the project going… Image: Pavee Point

Technology plays a huge part in many aspect of our lives but when it come to the green and climate agenda, can technology play a bigger role than we think? George Monbiot, columnist with the Guardian joined Sean on the show to discuss...

Is there anything sadder than the sight of shriveled up, abandoned Christmas trees lying on the side of Irish roads in early January? One man in Cork is offering a Christmas tree rental service with the tree surviving well beyond the festive period. Colm Crowley, Owner of Cork Pot Grown Christmas Trees joined Sean on the show to explain...

Writer and Investigative Journalist, Giampiero Ambrosi joined Sean on the show to discuss the life and crimes of Tony Tetro...

The latest Citizens’ Assembly is strongly recommending a referendum to protect biodiversity. This is, of course, the latest in a busy line of citizens’ assemblies undertaken over the past 10 years or so. But how do they work and who decides what topics are debated on? Sean was joined by Professor Jane Suiter from the School of Communications at DCU, who was instrumental in bringing the concept to Ireland…

Will Hill had been living in Denmark for the past few years. However, on Friday he was deported from the country for failing to secure the correct paperwork as a British, and therefore non-EU, citizen. Will joined Sean on the show to discuss...

Author, Edel Coffey joined Sean on the show today to recap some of the stories making the headlines over the weekend...

Actor and Playwright David Gilna was making headway in Hollywood and hours after being offered a part in a movie, he was hit by a bolt of lightning sending 300,000 volts of electricity through his body. Thankfully David lives to tell the tale and has written the show “A Bolt From D’Blue” which is premiering in the Seán O’Casey Theatre on December 1st. He joined Sean on the show to tell him all about it...

A man who lived for 18 years in Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris recently passed away. My next guest travelled to Paris in 2004 and spent three weeks with him, subsequently writing his autobiography ‘The Terminal Man’. Andrew Donkin is also the author of Illegal, a graphic novel co-written with Ireland’s Eoin Colfer and he joined Sean on the show today...

2022 will go down in history as the first time we have tackled our piss-poor urinal designs. The current model is basically a flat wall. Not ideal when you’re trying to avoid backsplash after a few scoops. But researchers at Waterloo University in Canada believe they have the answer to splash-free peeing experience. Kaveeshan Akan Thurairajah, Mechanical Engineering Research Student at Waterloo University joined Sean to explain… Image: Waterloo University

Gardai were involved in an international policing operation today aimed at taking down a website that allows frausters to impersonate banks or other trusted organistaions. Police forces around the world are starting to work together to target these kinds of cyber crime activities, but are they even getting the tip of the iceberg? Sean was joined by Pat Larkin, CEO of Ward Solutions and Ekco to discuss…

Sasha Huber has been on a 15 year campaign to get a mountain in the Swiss Alps renamed due to its current association with a notorious 19th century racist. Sean was joined by Sasha Huber, Campaigner and artist to discuss...

When Richard Hammond lost control of a £2 million supercar, he ended up in a coma. In a recent video Richard talked about this experience and how his wife screaming at him ultimately brought him out of his coma. It got us wondering what is the brain doing when in this state of unconsciousness and how aware is it of what is going on. Sean was joined by Professor Shane O’Mara, Professor of Experimental Brain Research in Trinity College Dublin...

Russia has faced many sanctions over the past year, from oil to gold, from caviar to vodka - but diamonds are still being traded. Apparently diamond trade has fallen significantly with Russia, but it escapes the sanctions list. Sean was joined by Richard Campbell, Diamond and Gemstone Specialist at Design Yard to discuss…

A new motion to be brought to the floor of the Seanad later today calls for a constitutional guarantee of Irish neutrality. However, not everyone is in favour of the motion. Sean was joined by Gerard Craughwell, Independent Senator and Tom Clonan, Independent Senator to discuss...

Choosing the name of a new-born can be a challenging process for any parent. It’s a big decision. You are branding your child with a bunch of letters for the rest of their life. But have you ever wondered what a physicist must go through, when trying to come up with a new word that will be accepted and approved around the world? Sean was joined by Dr Richard Brown, Head of Metrology at the U.K.’s National Physical Laboratory, who was recently challenged with bringing 4 new words to the metric system…

Pornhub have released Ireland’s biggest secret - the favourite porn each county loves to watch. Not only that, but they have interesting data about how long we spend watching videos, and reveal that one night of the year we don’t watch porn! Sean was joined by Dr Caroline West, Sex Educator and Host of the Glow West Podcast to discuss...

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at how to paint your house. Sean was joined in studio by Kate Gaynor, Owner of The Paint Hub Carlow to discuss...

Mee-m M-em Me-me-ma. We might pronounce it differently, but everyone's sending them all the same. Newstalk reporter, Sarah Madden looks into the growing power of memes and their sinister potential in this report.

Biohacker, Leon Kurita would like to live forever and is currently going through the various levels of biohacking in order to achieve this. Leon Kurita, joined Sean on the show to discuss...

Newstalk Reporter, Henry McKean asked the people of Cork, the simple question 'Where are you going?'...

Catherine Mahon Buckley, founder of CADA Performing Arts and the director of The Everyman Palace Theatre's Pantomime in Cork for 25 years joined Sean on the show... Image: CADA Performing Arts

We like to think that society has become less tolerant of inappropriate behaviour. However, Colman Noctor says that almost every woman he asked during his lecturing, has been inappropriately touched. Is it time to bring in legislation to make groping a criminal offence? Colman Noctor, child psychotherapist joined Sean on the show to discuss...

Elizabeth Oakes, Founder of Pure Reflections joined Sean on the show to discuss the practice of water cremations...

You’ve heard about the Eurovision, but did you know there is a kids’ version called the Junior Eurovision? This year it is being held in Armenia on December 11th. Sean was joined by super Eurovision fan, Richard Taylor who is also the writer of Eurovision Ireland, the official Irish Eurovision Blog...

Larry Donnelly, Law Lecturer at Ollscoil na Gaillimhe joined Sean on the show today to recap some of the stories making the headlines over the weekend...

Sean was joined on the show by therapist, Jenny Keane to discuss the benefits of hugging, the comfort it brings and why some people might be using a large teddy bear in place of another human when they're alone...

For many people living in two particular cities in Mexico, the reason they have escaped tropical storms over the past number of decades is because they are being protected by a cabal of aliens who live in an underwater base called Amupac. Nathaniel Janowitz, Reporter for Vice World News, has recently spent time in Mexico investigating this phenomenon and he joined Sean on the show...

Have you ever heard of a person who collects sick bags? Unused sick bags. “Baggists” is the term adopted by this niche community. The people who snatch those little paper bags you find on planes. Sean was joined by Barf Bag Collector, Steven Silberberg…

After 8 years and a staggering 430 million downloads, the British podcast series My Dad Wrote a Porno is coming to an end, with the first of its final three episodes set to be released on Monday week. Sean was joined by the co-host Jamie Morton... Image: My Dad Wrote a Porno

Back in 1966, just a very short time before the England World Cup took off, the World Cup trophy was nicked from an exhibition space in Central London. How it was eventually retrieved beggars belief. Sean was joined by Richard Milway, Director of Who Stole the World Cup, a new documentary on All4...

On this day 100 years ago the Free State Army executed 4 young men, the first people to be executed by the state during the Civil War. A new exhibition entitled 'I am to die for Ireland: Civil War Executions in Kilmainham Gaol’ is now open at the Gaol Brian Crowley, the curator joined Sean on the show...

A bill is being brought to the floor of the Dáil next week that will seek to amend the current Misuse of Drugs legislation, in order to allow a limited and personal use of cannabis. Sean was joined by the author of the bill, Gino Kenny, Dublin Mid-West TD for People Before Profit...

The internet has become a great place for affirmations. However, with almost two hundred thousand followers, Dave Tarnowski is big in the affirmations community, but for his disappointing affirmations. Dave joined Sean on the show to discuss...

Have you ever thought about throwing in the towel and starting a totally different career? One Wexford resident, Ciara Louise Gray, ditched her nurse’s scrubs for the opportunity to become a circus performer, and she joined Sean on the show to tell him all about it...

During the 8th century, there were thatched wooden and wattle round houses dotted around the country where people lived, cooked and slept. Now, a team in UCD has reconstructed one from scratch on the grounds of Belfield. Dr. Brendan O’Neill, Lecturer in the School of Archeology at UCD joined Sean on the show... Image: UCD

For some people, the mark of Christmas Time is hearing that Coca Cola jingle, “Holidays are Coming” and seeing the lit-up, red trucks bursting through the snow across our screens. For others, it’s the reveal of the latest John Lewis ad. Or maybe for you, it’s seeing what Aldi’s Kevin the Carrot is up to! Irish Times Writer, Patrick Freyne joined Sean to discuss the best and worst Christmas ads for 2022... Image: Boots

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at how to submit a Freedom of Information request. Sean was joined in studio by Fred Logue, solicitor specialising in Information Law...

Are America’s politicians getting dumb and dumber? This is a question Andy Borowitz addresses in his new book Profiles in Ignorance. Starting with Ronald Reagan’s first campaign for governor in 1966 and culminating with the election of Donald J. Trump, Borowitz shows how, during the age of twenty-four-hour news and social media, the US has elected politicians to positions of great power whose lack of the most basic information is terrifying. The New York Times-bestselling author joined Sean on the show...

The planet’s eight billionth person was born today, as humanity’s population continues to soar. Graham FInlay from the School of Politics and International Relations at University College Dublin joined Sean to discuss...

When Davor and Andela Rostuhar got married, they decided to ditch the traditional honeymoon and instead spend a year travelling the world in order to explore the nature of romantic relationships in different parts of the globe. They have now turned this into a documentary film called ‘Love Around the World’ which premieres tomorrow at the Cork International Film Festival. Davor and Andela Rostuhar joined Sean in studio to discuss... Image: davorrostuhar.com

This year the Irish Singles Chart turns 60, having broadcast for the first time in 1962. But what was the first Irish Number 1 and how has the chart system evolved over 6 decades? Sean was joined by music journalist Eamon Sweeney to discuss...

Frisbee is a game that many of us would only play on the beach on holiday but it is an actual sport. Some of Ireland’s best frisbee players have helped set up a frisbee club in Mountjoy Prison. Henry McKean went behind bars to find out more.

International commercial surrogacy will be permitted and regulated under new legislation due to be given cabinet approval imminently. After many years of campaigning on this issue it will come as a relief to families affected. Sean was joined by Cathy Wheatley, Spokesperson for Irish Families Through Surrogacy…

The Steve Martin Banjo Prize is a prize given to the best banjo players in the world, funded by Steve Martin. This year the fifty thousand dollar prize went to Irish man Enda Scahill who joined Sean on the show today... Image: endascahill.com

There is a lot of concern among fans heading to Doha about just how expensive it will be to drink in the desert micro nation. Not only this, but will booze be that accessible at all? Sean was joined by Ashley Brown from the Football Supporters Association to discuss...

Kevin Doyle, Group Head of News at Independent News and Media joined Sean on the show today to recap some of the stories making the headlines over the weekend...

Nowadays it’s all about how big your TV is but one group in Ohio have spent the past while building the world’s smallest TV. In fact, it’s so small that it could fit on a postage stamp. Sean was joined by Ken Burns, Founder of Tiny Circuits...

Irish singer-songwriter, Shane MacGowan has recently launched his new book of art and lyrics, ‘The Eternal Buzz and The Crock of Gold.' Ever present in the public eye, he is supported whole-heartedly by his wife, Victoria Mary Clarke. An artist, a designer, and a writer, Victoria joined Sean to share how her relationship with angels has guided her through the ups and the downs of life...

Luca De Marzio, Owner of Rosa Madre Restaurant in Temple Bar, brought a live King Crab into Sean in studio. It is very rare to have a fresh king crab in Ireland because most of this meat comes from frozen. The crab will cost a diner €1,000 in his restaurant but it will feed a full family...

The family courts are held “in camera” meaning they can be reported on but are held behind closed doors to the public. So unless you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of a separation and custody battle over your children, the daily workings are somewhat unknown. However there’s considerable debate emerging about the use of – or even reality of – parental alienation as part of those battles. Kitty Holland, Social Affairs Correspondent with the Irish Times joined Sean on the show to discuss...

As Science Week begins next week, Sean was joined by health psychologist and neuroscientist, Sabina Brennan to look at the science of love, and what exactly takes place in the body and mind when you fall in love...

Model Emily Ratajkowski bought her one year old son a baby doll to avoid gender stereotypes. She said she wanted to avoid conditioning her son playing with certain toys. Henry McKean visited toy shops including the Lego Store and met shop keepers, young people and parents, to ask are gender stereotypes in toys a thing of the past or is it natural for boys to rush towards tractors and girls dolls?

Demand for air fryers has increased exponentially thanks to people trying to find cheaper ways to cook in the current climate but also because of my next guest who cooks everything in her air fryer. Gina Daly, together with her husband Karol have created recipes that have garnered a devoted online following. They have just released their 3rd third cookbook, 'The Daly Dish: Bold Food Made.' Gina joined Sean on the show to chat about some of her techniques and recipes and why we all love an air fryer…

Parents across the country recently received double child benefit, a one off from the government to help with the cost of living crisis. However, it has reopened the discussion as to whether universal child benefit is wasteful or not and whether we should have a means tested system instead. Sean was joined by Dr. Laura Bambrick, Head of Social Policy and Employment Affairs at the Irish Congress of Trade Unions to discuss...

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at how to get breast augmentation surgery. Sean was joined in studio by Dr Ahmed Salman, Aesthetic surgeon from the Auralia Clinic...

The official line is that after the notorious Lord Lucan was accused of murdering his children’s nanny in 1974, he disappeared without a trace and hasn’t been seen since. Or has he? Some presume he is dead, while others think he may be still alive and evading justice. Now, a special AI facial recognition software is on the case. Sean was joined by Hassan Ugail, Professor of Visual Computing at the University of Bradford...

The No. 1 podcast series hosted by Newstalk’s Court Correspondent, Frank Greaney returns for a second series. ‘Inside the Crime’ investigates the unsolved murder of RTÉ set designer, Charles Self. The new series of Inside The Crime tells the story of Charles Self, a young gay man who was murdered in Dublin 40 years ago. Subscribe now at newstalk.com/insidethecrime or wherever you get your podcasts.

Doctor and Sports Psychologist, Máire Treasa Ní Cheallaigh joined Sean on the show to discuss Wimbledon changing their dress-code for female player's underwear...

During the Princess of Wales’ public appearance at a rugby match on Saturday there was intense speculation about whether she is pregnant or not in the media. But why is this type of pregnancy speculation considered acceptable and to what extent does it affect women more broadly? Sean was joined by Chrissie Russell, Freelance journalist with the Irish Independent to discuss...

In a first for Ireland, you can now bring your dog to an art exhibition made for your dog. Exhibition for Dogs By Ruan van Vliet opens this Thursday and is tailored to your dog from how the art is displayed to the activities they can do Ruan joined Sean live from the studio with paintbrush in hand...

Irish shoppers are turning to cheaper cuts of meat and own-brand labels to beat the cost-of-living crisis. And across the water British chain Waitrose reported that sales of fish heads were up an “incredible” 34% on last year, while spam sales rose by 36%. Henry McKean has been looking at it here in Ireland...

Jess Kelly, Newstalk's Technology Correspondent, to discuss Mastodon, a site that could see Twitter users joining it in the wake of Elon Musk's takeover...

The 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference, more commonly known as or COP27, is underway in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. One man who has attended almost every year is Frank McDonald, former environment editor of The Irish Times, he was a the very first one in 1995. Frank joined Sean on the show to chart the history of COP...

When a loved one chooses to be cremated, the first question that often arises is where to scatter the remains. A new service in the UK expands these options by scattering them by drone. Sean was joined by Chris Mace, Founder of Aerial Ashes...

Inside and outside, some men can't help but touch their crotch. Why is this? A new NUI Galway study says touching your penis, releases oxytocin to the brain which can help regulate mood and help with any anxiety Sean was joined by Dr. Siobhan O’Higgins, co leader at Active Consent, sexologist and educator from the School of Psychology at NUI Galway...

Órla Ryan, News Correspondent with theJournal.ie and creator of the new podcast Redacted Lives joined Sean on the show today to recap some of the stories making the headlines over the weekend...

With their videos racking up tens of thousands of views, a live tour on the go and now a brand new podcast to boot, Dirtbirds are on the up and up. The Dirtbirds themselves, Sinead Culbert and Sue Collins joined Sean LIVE in The Galmont Hotel for Movies and Booze...

Wallis Bird is touring with her 7th studio album called 'Hands'. While she’s in Galway for her Roisin Dubh gig, she’s made time to join Seán Live in the Galmont Hotel for Movies and Booze...

Like a lot of small towns in Ireland, Abbeyfeale in Limerick has been feeling a bit neglected in recent years. In order to boost the town's profile, local photographer, John Morris proposed a calendar featuring the town and some of it's inhabitants. Unlike a normal day in Abbeyfeale, every one in the calendar is naked. John Morris joined Sean on the show to discuss the inspiration behind the calendar and some of the shots...

According to a UK Channel 4 survey studying the rise of “young illiberal progressives”, found that those aged 13 to 24 could be considered “less liberal” than earlier generations as they were “less tolerant” of others’ views. Henry McKean has been investigating for us here in Ireland and getting the views of Gen Z...

Here in Ireland we’re best known from producing excellent beers and spirits, but Irish made wine might sound as an unlikely idea. David Llevellyn, a farmer from Lusk is trying to challenge this idea, by offering Irish costumers a home grown, Irish produced wine. David Llevellyn, Lusk based farmer and wine producer, joined Sean on the show…

Breast reduction surgery is a procedure to reduce the size and weight of your breasts. Often the reason for reduction is back pain in women. But it’s not only women who may require this surgery. Some men experience gynecomastia, which is defined by the MAYO Clinic as an increase in the amount of breast gland tissue in boys or men, caused by an imbalance of the hormones oestrogen and testosterone. Ian Lynam is a Dublin-based comedian and writer, joined Sean to tell him about his experience with breast reduction surgery...

Despite the risk of a painful sting which can last for week or months on end, an Oxford man has grown one of the world’s most dangerous plants in his house. Daniel Emlyn-Jones has cultivated the gympie-gympie, a member of the nettle family which is notorious for its venom that causes an extremely painful and long-lasting sting. Daniel joined Sean on the show today to discuss...

With a quarter of priests set to retire in the next 15 years, could the diaconate become even more important? What roles do they currently do? John Taffe has been a permanent deacon in Ireland since 2013, and joined Sean on the show to discuss

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at how to run in an election in Ireland. Sean was joined in studio by Noel Rock, Former Fine Gael TD and Director of Public Affairs for Red Flag to discuss...

"So many women in Ireland are suffering with menopause” - says broadcaster Grainne Seoige. In her new documentary for TG4 she explores the topic that affects so many women in our country with a main focus on stigma still surrounding this issue. Grainne’s documentary is called, Meanapás: Meon Nua, and she joined Seán on the show to discuss...

As humans we have the ability to make and sustain friendships and it is considered something that indicates a healthy personality. The ability to care for others and give emotional support to those who are special to us, outside our marriage and family, is something innate in most of us from childhood. But would you agree to go to friendship counselling if a friendship was failing? Sean was joined by Leslie Shoemaker, Counselling Psychologist and lecturer at TU Dublin to discuss...

Ireland needs a task force to tackle the current bird flu epidemic says Niall Hatch of Bird Watch Ireland. He is very concerned about the State response in comparison to other European countries. The Avian Flu is devastating the Irish seabird population. Niall Hatch, Head of Communications and Development at Birdwatch Ireland joined Sean on the show...

As the Laughter Lounge here in Dublin evolves into a theatre space and a comedy club, a new play entitled ‘The First Irish Coffee’ kicks things off from November 14th. The story behind the show pits Limerick against Dublin in the battle to discover just who actually invented the Irish Coffee. Sean was joined by the writer of the play, Lee Coffee.

Writing in the Irish Independent, Chrissie Russell says the phrase 'daddy daycare' really annoys me.' Do we take the role of fatherhood seriously enough and do dads these days do the same heavy lifting as mums? Henry McKean met stay at home dads and people from all generations...

The state of Nevada’s athletic commission has recently agreed to greenlight the emerging sport of slap fighting. But what is it and how does it work? Sean was joined by Darrin Ward, Founder of SlapFight.com…

William Murray from the Currabinny Food Company joined Sean on the show to discuss different recipes in which you can use your leftover pumpkin...

A lot of things have been to space on the various missions over the past 60 years but this may well be a first. A specially designed bottle of champagne, designed to withstand the spectral forces beyond planet earth. Sean was joined by Octave de Gaulle, Director of the Space Design agency...

With the prevalence of smart phones and an ever-growing variety of apps and websites, sharing of intimate images is experienced by more and more people.It used to be called “revenge porn” but it’s so much more than that now, with images of men and women being shared widely without permission, leaving the victim feeling powerless. Mia Landsem, who had such an experience is now helping other women to track and trace an image of them that’s been shared online, and she joined Sean on the show...

Data on the number of people identifying as lesbian, gay or bisexual in Northern Ireland appears to suggest that the community is much smaller than the UK percentage average. But are these figures telling the real story or is there a latent homophobia up North that discourages people from being comfortably open about their sexuality? John Laverty, Night Editor with the Belfast Telegraph joined Sean on the show to discuss...

Loose Women TV Presenter and Birds of a Feather actress Linda Robson, says she never takes her clothes off in front of her husband because of her Catholic heritage. Henry McKean asked relationship experts and people of all backgrounds about getting undressed in front of their partner and what is ok and off limits, farting, nose picking?

Cork County Councillors were discussing a pilot project to introduce a Columbarium wall in Bantry. This is a wall with individual spaces for storing urns following cremation. These spaces are often rented in other European countries, but how do they operate here? David McGowan, funeral director in Sligo and Ballina joined Sean on the show to discuss...

Mary Butler is a TD and Junior Health Minister, and so spends her time deep in healthcare provision. Around three years ago, Minister Butler noticed a mole on the bridge of her nose and urged her doctor to refer her for a specialist to look at it. She has just returned to work in Leinster House after a skin cancer diagnosis, and she joined Sean in studio...

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at how to know what are the best appliances to buy for your kitchen. Sean was joined in studio by Darragh Garvey, White Goods purchaser for Harvey Norman...

Clara Malone used to work for a multinational company before she did and about turn and decided to retrain as a celebrant. Now, she conducts marriages, naming ceremonies and even alternatives to First Communions and Confirmations. Clara joined Sean on the show to discuss her line of work...

A new world record has been set for driving the fastest mile in reverse. The record has now been officially certified by the Guinness Book of Records. Sean was joined by Scott Burner, reverse driver and YouTuber...

A partial solar eclipse took place on Tuesday morning. Around a quarter of the moon covered the sun. Newstalk reporter Josh Crosbie had his telescope out and finds out about the power of the moon.

A protest took place outside Leinster House today to mark World Right to Die Day. Dr Brendan O’Shea, Assitant Professor for General Practice in Trinity College Dublin and a spokesperson for the Irish Doctors Supporting Medical Assistance in Dying. Brendan joined Sean on the show from the protest...

A new Jewish Cultural Centre is set to open imminently in Rathmines here in Dublin and will even feature a classic New York style Jewish deli. All this is in response to the changing face of the community in Ireland. Sean was joined now by Rabbi Zalman Lent, Rabbi of the Orthodox Dublin Jewish Community...

In the space of just a few years the Chinese fast fashion giant Shein has become an online behemoth. A new documentary exposes not only how it targets consumers but also the work practices of the company. Sean was joined by Iman Amrani, the director of Untold: Inside the Shein Machine...

Pregnant women will be handed free vapes by a south London council to stop them spending money on cigarettes and help them to eventually become smoke free Is this something we should see happen in Ireland? To discuss this further I’m joined by Kate Cassidy, Health Promotion Officer for the HSE...

Fin Dwyer, historian and host of the Irish History Podcast joined Sean on the show today to recap some of the stories making the headlines over the weekend...

The Banshees of Inisherin is released today in cinemas across the country but it was this time last year that the filmmakers wrapped up the project on Achill Island. But what impact did the making of the film have on the island and what are the tourism prospects? Sean was joined by Chris McCarthy, Manager of Achill Tourism to discuss...

Elisa Allen, PETA’s Vice President of Programmes joined Sean on the show to discuss octopus consumption and the 'octopus'...

Artist Denis Connolly and his wife Anne Cleary became the first couple to navigate Ireland’s waterway network all the way from Limerick to Enniskillen on their fibre glass solar powered, zero carbon, electric boat. This summer they successfully undertook the Eco Showboat expedition and Denis joined Sean to tell him all about it...

Dominic Maher left Templemore, Co. Tipperary in 1985 to live in America and has spent much of the last 10 year travelling the globe and has done it. Dominic has travelled to Ireland to baptise his 16 month old twins and joined Sean in studio to discuss his life travelling the world...

Krishnan Guru Murphy was caught off camera swearing at MP Steve Baker on Channel 4 yesterday as the Conservative Party meltdown continues across the water. But, how common is swearing in everyday language? Henry McKean visited Coolock in Dublin to see what people think?

The responses to the Just Stop Oil group throwing a can of soup over Van Gogh’s Sunflowers painting have begun to shift, with an increasing amount of people viewing this form of protest as acceptable. Sean was joined by environmental journalist, John Gibbons to discuss...

To mark Black History Month, Trinity College will host a public lecture with Elmer Dixon, former Black Panther and co-founder of the Seattle Chapter of the Black Panthers. Elmer joined Sean in studio for a chat about his life...

Last week saw the largest flatties meet up in the world held in Colorado, USA. Breast cancer survivors who have chosen not to undergo reconstructive surgery refer to themselves affectionately as “flatties”. 100 flatties gathered from the US, Canada & Mexico to find community, understanding and healing on the largest flat top mountain in the world, Grand Mesa. The organiser of this event, Lissa Sears joined Sean on the show to discuss..

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at leaving the Catholic Church in Ireland. Sean was joined in studio by Michael Nugent, Chairperson of Atheist Ireland to discuss...

Aoife Harvey, specialist in women’s pelvic health physiotherapy from Women’s Health Dublin joined Sean on the show to discuss a new study that suggests orgasms help women's pelvic floor post partum...

Today a legal case is being brought against a number of Northern Ireland institutions alleging that Lord Louis Mountbatten abused a named boy at Kincora Boys’ Home in Belfast. Sean was joined on the show by Andrew Lownie, author of 'The Mountbattens: The Lives and Loves of Dickie and Edwina Mountbatten'...

The Golden Canary Diamond, weighing a colossal 303.10 carats, is one of the largest polished diamonds in the world and the largest flawless diamond ever graded. The historic diamond is set to highlight Sotheby’s Magnificent Jewels auction in New York. Gerry Appleby from Appleby Jewellers, joined Sean on the show to discuss the diamond...

For many of us before air travel became affordable, the only way to get to London was via bus and ferry. As we all feel the pinch and with air travel going up, what is it like to take the coach to London these days? We sent Henry McKean on a road trip and he joined Sean in studio to discuss...

The government’s redress scheme for survivors of mother and baby homes will not include special compensation for victims of illegal vaccine trials that were carried out in these institutions. Sean was joined by Holly Cairns, Social Democrat TD for West Cork to discuss...

From Miriam O’Callaghan to Michael Flatley and Ronan Keating, Mario Rosenstock has made a name for himself, mimicking the quirky traits of some of Ireland’s most recognisable figures. His popular podcast, 'The Mario Rosenstock Podcast' that launched in March 2021 has now joined Go Loud network and he joined Sean on the show this afternoon...

Michelle Furey Lawlor, owner and director of Je Juve Clinic joined Sean on the show to discuss Brazilian bum lifts, the rise in popularity of cosmetic procedures abroad and the risks involved...

Elaine Burke, Editor at Silicon Republic joined Sean on the show today to recap some of the stories making the headlines over the weekend...

Sean was joined live in The River Lee Hotel in Cork by Pat O'Connell, the famous fishmonger of the English Market in Cork City. Pat was the subject of what has become an iconic photograph during the late Queen’s visit to Cork back in 2011. The two remained in contact over the past few years writing letters to one another...

Sean was joined live in The River Lee Hotel in Cork by former Irish Olympian, Sonia O'Sullivan. She joined Sean to discuss her career, keeping up running and solidifying her legendary status in Cobh...

Vin Diesel has been voted the Hottest Bald Man for 2022. Newstalk Reporter Henry McKean hit the streets to find out if people find bald men attractive?

Kate Summerscale, author of The Book of Phobias and Manias: A History of Obsession, joined Sean on the show...

Have you ever dropped your phone in a place you really had to think twice about retrieving it from? Darren Stevens, Football coach and DJ joined Sean on the show to tell the story of dropping his phone in a Venetian canal, and jumping in to save it...

Since Ernest Shackleton’s ship Endurance was finally discovered earlier this year, after resting at the bottom of the ocean off Antarctica for over a hundred years, the prospect that it could be raised is a controversial one. Sean was joined by on the show by Jonathan Shackleton, second cousin of Ernest Shackleton and Shackleton family historian...

The search is on for America’s next top Mullet. With 600 hopefuls entering from every corner of the United States, a celebrity judging panel has whittled the extensive list down to just 25 contestants and the winner is expected to be revealed live on American TV next week. The founder of The USA Mullet Championships, Kevin Begola joined Sean on the show...

Niall Harbison was used to the jet set lifestyle that came with owning social media companies such as Simply Zesty and Lovin’ Dublin but grew weary of the superficiality of cruise ships and Michelin star restaurants. In 2018 he traded it all in for a quieter life in Thailand and along the way found his life’s purpose in saving thousands of street dogs through sterilization...

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at fostering children in Ireland and how it works in Ireland. Sean was joined in studio by Catherine Bond, CEO of Irish Foster Care Association...

In a world first, An Post has announced they’re now offering a digital stamp. No more licking the glue or leaving an unsent card on the hall table because you keep forgetting to buy a stamp in the shop. To explain more about how this will work, Anna McHugh, Head of Communications with An Post joined Sean on the show...

According to the Limerick Leader, Travellers will start returning to Rathkeale soon for the festive period and community groups want them to stay long after Christmas. Newstalk Reporter, Henry McKean joined Sean on the show from Rathkeale...

On Sunday the 2022 Amputee World Cup came to a close in Turkey. It was 17th edition of the competition that takes place every 4 years. It welcomes people with an amputation, congenital deficiency, or other limb affecting disorder to compete at the highest level of Amputee Football. Garry Hoey, is a veteran of the sport and this year at aged 44, he took part in his 3rd World Cup. He joined Sean on the show...

Breastfeeding rates are low in Ireland when compared to other European countries. There have been many suggestions for raising this, but the Green Party is suggesting we teach it in school. Senator Pauline O’Reilly joined Sean on the show to discuss...

If you’re trying to lose weight, you should be eating your dinner at 5pm. That’s according to a new Harvard study, which looked at how eating late can affect your weight. Henry McKean was looking into this and joined Sean to tell him about what he found out..

From Todd’s in Limerick to Cash's in Cork, department stores, once a staple in the Irish shopping landscape, gradually declined, making way for high street alternatives. But what was the cultural impact of those glamorous department stores of the past? Sean was joined by Eddie Shanahan, consultant for the fashion, retail and craft sectors to discuss...

Sean was joined by Alice Vernon, the Author of ‘Night Terrors: Troubled Sleep and the Stories We Tell About It’. She experiences parasomnia, in particular night terrors. But these experiences are much more widespread than we think...

Some countries, including the UK of course, are determinedly outside of the EU while others, such as Ukraine, are desperate to get in. A new project aims to bring all of these disparate countries together under the banner of the newly established European Political Community. The EPC has its first meeting of 44 nations tomorrow in Prague. Shona Murray, Europe Correspondent with EuroNews joined Sean to tell him what its all about...

Dublin woman Nina McGowan is on route to breaking her own record tomorrow at the World Outdoor Freediving Championships in Turkey after successfully reaching a depth of 43 metres in 2 minutes 10 seconds at a pre-event competition earlier this week. Nina says she’s doing it for woman over 50 to attack the narrative that you’re “over the hill” once you reach a certain age. Nina joined Sean on the show live from Turkey...

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at adopting or getting a dog. Sean was joined in studio by Ciara Murran, Head of Communications at Dogs Trust...

There was a beautiful image today of Grandmother Angela Rielo holding triplet babies on the front of the Irish Independent. Angela’s grandson came home from school one day in 2018 saying that he would love a sibling. There began her journey to extend their family unit and undergo IVF treatment. Angela joined Sean on the show to discuss her journey...

Today is the feast day of St Francis of Assisi and Henry McKean attended an animal blessing at St Anne’s Church Portmarnock.

Dublin City Council have opted to lower Local Property Tax even though there is a €50 million hole in their budget. Michael Pidgeon, Green Party Group Leader on the DCC says this shows a lack of political integrity from public servants who are afraid to say no to their constituents. Sean was joined by Michael Pidgeon on the show to discuss this further...

The Minister of Justice has pledged to overhaul Ireland’s licensing laws but what will any new legislation replace? The answer is the Public Dance Halls Act of 1935 and the Habitual Drunkards Act of 1879. For more about the social history of these laws is Dr. Johanna Duffy, Historian and Librarian at Mayo Public Libraries joined Sean on the show to discuss...

Mark Christopher Lee, frontman of 'The Pocket Gods' joined Sean on the show to discuss only selling one copy of their new album...

In last week’s budget, funding for IVF treatment was promised for the first time, after years of campaigning by interested parties. But should it be legislated on to ensure its continuation into the future? Sean was joined on the show by Senator Catherine Ardagh, Seanad spokesperson on Social Protection and Fianna Fáíl Senator...

Do we associate certain emotions with a particular gender? This has certainly been the case in historical culture and literature. A new book entitled ‘Hysterical: Exploding the Myth of Gendered Emotions’ explores this and also the idea and benefits of ‘structured yelling’. Sean was joined on the show by Pragya Agarwal, Behavioural scientist and author of ‘Hysterical: Exploding the Myth of Gendered Emotions’...

Security analyst, Declan Power joined Sean on the show today to recap some of the stories making the headlines over the weekend...

George Woodville, has spent the past year living barefoot. After he decided to ditch shoes altogether, he has been spreading the good news of the so-called Grounding Movement. George Woodville, AKA the Barefoot Guy joined Sean on the show today...

Oliver Callan's new podcast for BBC Sounds, ‘In Bits: Killing Leprechauns’, is an attempt to examine how much the British actually know about Irish history and contemporary life. Oliver Callan joined Sean on the show this afternoon...

Fr Willie Purcell, National diocesan and vocations director for the Bishop's Conference joined Sean to discuss the number of priests training in Ireland...

On the 29th September 2002, it was Henry McKean's first day of Newstalk. Today on the show Sean Moncrieff surprised Henry with a celebration of his 20 years with the station...

Professor Desmond O’Neill, Consultant Geriatrician at Tallaght University Hospital joined Sean on the show to discuss the future of planning and design in nursing homes...

Pure Grit will make its Irish cinematic debut on September 30th. It sees Irish film maker Kim Bartley explore how the wild natural landscapes of rural Wyoming shapes those who call it home — particularly the women determinedly making their mark in the traditionally masculine environment of Indian relay racing. Bartley spent three years on the Wind River Reservation, focusing her attention on bareback riding champion Sharmaine, who fights prejudice and homophobia on route to racing glory. Kim joined Sean in studio to discuss her upcoming film...

It is hard to imagine it now but until the 1970 there was a major cattle market in what we would today describe as Dublin 7. The history of this mart is the subject of an event taking place tonight as part of Dublin Festival of History. Kieran was joined by Dr. Mary Muldowney, Historian in Residence with Dublin City Council...

The kangaroo is perhaps the most ubiquitous symbol of Australia but the animal’s reputation took a hit last week when a three year old male killed a man in Western Australia. Why did this happen and what does it tell us about the animal? Sean was joined on the show by Graeme Coulson, Behavioural ecologist and Associate Professor at the University of Melbourne...

Fingal Ferguson from Gubbeen Cheese, joined Sean on the show to discuss his family's cheese making business and Ireland being third highest producer of cheese internationally, per capita...

Brian Mooney, Guidance Counsellor and Irish Times Education Columnist joined Sean on the show this afternoon to discuss is there really such thing as a stupid question?

Conor Gallagher, crime correspondent with The Irish Times joined Sean on the show to discuss the new Chinese police outpost on Dublin's Capel Street and why it is in Ireland...

A specially designed probe will tonight collide with a meteor over the Indian Ocean in order to test NASA’s capability to defend the planet against objects that could potentially have a devastating impact on Earth. Sean was joined on the show by Professor Alan Fitzsimmons, Astronomer and member of the Nasa Dart investigation team at Queen’s University Belfast, to discuss...

As Australia gets a new head of state, in the form of King Charles III, are more and more people Down Under campaigning for an overhaul of the system? Sean was joined by Peter Fitzsimons, Chairperson of the Australia Republic Movement, to discuss...

James O'Hagan, from LGBT Ireland and host of ‘Invisible Threads’ on GoLoud, joined Sean on the show today to recap some of the stories making the headlines over the weekend including; the cost of living protests in Dublin, Italian elections and Rihanna performing at the next Superbowl halftime show...

The tightest parallel park in history was achieved recently in an electric car. Precision driver, Paul Swift made history when he parked into the tiniest space ever recorded. Swift had only 3 seconds to park in the space which was created by two Mini Coopers, parked parallel to the curb. Paul joined Sean on the show to discuss it...

We’ve all watched 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off' and watched with amazement at the mischief he gets up to throughout the day and think, there’s no way that could actually happen. Or is there? Leigh Giangreco, spent her day being Ferris Bueller and had a day off, following his every step. Could 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off' really be done? Leigh joined Sean to let him know about her attempt...

Karolin Tsarski, conscious sex coach joined Sean on the show today...

The last thing you want to experience on your daily commute or at a family gathering is a whiff of odour coming from your body. Most people heave at the very thought of bodily perspiration but Bio Engineer otherwise known as 'Dr. Armpit' has dedicated his life to the causes and cures for BO.  Dr Christopher Callewaert, aka 'Dr. Armpit', joined Sean on the show today..

Faith in Nature, which sells soap and haircare products as well as household cleaners and shampoo for dogs has become the first company in the world to give Nature a formal vote on corporate decisions that could affect it. The Edinburgh-based company have appointed Senior Lecturer in Law in Essex Law School, Brontie Ansell as their new Guardian of Nature. Brontie joined Sean on the show today...

The Ceann Comhairle, Seán Ó Fearghaíl declared that "history" had been made in the Dáil yesterday, when Violet-Anne Wynne brought her new child into the chamber. The Independent TD received standing ovation as she stood holding her 7 month old at the back of the chamber. Violet Anne joined Sean on the show today...

A demonstration has taken place in Dublin this afternoon calling for more cultural spaces. Musicians, DJs and drag performers took part in the protest outside An Bord Pleanála organised by Rock for Culture. The campaign started over a planning decision that could affect Fibbers pub on O'Connell Street, the bar has been home to alternative nights for decades. Newstalk reporter Josh Crosbie was there to meet with those in attendance.

When it comes to hangovers, we’ve all heard of the supposed cures from drinking raw eggs, to taking a dip in the ocean and of course, the legendary ‘hair of the dog’ remedy. What about the preventative measures you can take before to avoid those dreaded alcohol induced headaches? Nicolle Merrilyne, Psychic Medium from Seattle has come up with some unconventional rituals to avoid the dreaded hangover, and she joined Sean on the show to discuss them...

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at planning your big day. Sean was joined in studio by Sharon Griffin, Owner and Creative Director at Frog Prince Weddings...

Professor Neil Walsh, from Liverpool John Moores University joined Sean on the show today to discuss the importance of how you sleep...

There were celebrations last May when Capel Street, in Dublin City was pedestrianised but now many businesses on the street are speaking out about the negative impact it is having on their trading. Sean was joined on the show by Doc Huysmans of Dublin City Comics on Capel Street to discuss...

There tends to be a clear distinction between physical and mental health in the way they are both handled and treated but should this distinction be dropped so that they are both simply considered ‘health’? Sean was joined by Edward Bullmore, Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Cambridge and author of 'The Inflamed Mind: A Radical New Approach to Depression'...

People going through a vulnerable time in their life are often the targets of falsified clairvoyants who claim they can take the pain away. Broadcaster and Writer, Maia Dunphy was recently contacted by 5 separate psychics asking her if she wanted them to make contact with her mother who recently passed away. Maia joined Sean on the show to discuss...

Emilie Pine, Author and Professor of Modern Drama at UCD joined Sean on the show this afternoon to discuss her two shows at the Dublin Theatre Festival...

In the early noughties, the so-called 'Mole Man of Hackney' was evicted from his house in East London after it was discovered that he had dug an extensive network of tunnels under his home. Eventually, artist Sue Webster bought the house and has managed to preserve some of the Mole Man’s legacy. Sue joined Sean on the show this afternoon...

A street in Manhattan has been named after an Irishman, after an official ceremony in New York featuring Mayor Eric Adams and a dedication speech by former mayor and presidential candidate Michael Bloomberg. 'Jimmy Neary Way' is named after one of Sligo and New York’s most famous restaurateurs. Una Neary, daughter of Jimmy Neary joined Sean on the show...

Jenny Keane is a professionally trained, trauma certified, holistic sex educator and Tantra yoga teacher. Her online classes and workshop see thousands of people join in to learn techniques and understanding in the best ways to embrace your sexuality and pleasure. Jenny joined Sean on the show to discuss her work...

A new project in Tallaght will see waste heat from the Amazon data centre being funneled into a number of buildings in the area, as part of a new district heating programme. Sean was joined by Donna Gartland, CEO of CODEMA, Dublin’s Energy Agency, who has been working on this scheme for a number of years...

Áine Bennett, of TikTok fame or 'TravelWithAine', shares her number with a Dublin radio station FM104. For the last 7 years she has received texts, song requests and competition entries incorrectly sent to her instead of the radio station. Áine joined Sean on the show to tell him about some of the messages that have been sent to her...

Susan Daly, Managing Editor at Journal Media, joined Sean on the show today to recap some of the stories making the headlines this past week.

Sean was joined in Hook House Lighthouse by Jimmy Cullen, former lighthouse keeper and Lorraine Waters, Hook Lighthouse General Manager to discuss the different aspects of living and working in a lighthouse...

Pierce Turner is a well known singer songwriter who splits his time between Wexford and New York. His new album is entitled 'Terrible Good' and he joined Sean today live in Hook Head lighthouse...

It’s a staple at every school sports day, but tug of war is a very real sport and the World Championships take place this week in The Netherlands. Ireland has three teams competing, and Sean was joined by Noel Higgins, who is on the sport committee for Tug of War Ireland...

In Sydney, the city’s residents are wrangling with cockatoos who routinely open their wheelie bins causing a mess. A new study has discovered what they describe as an ‘interspecies innovation arms race’ between bird and human. Sean was joined on the show by Dr. Barbara Klump, Behavioural Ecologist at the Max Planck Institute in Germany to discuss...

A vegetarian restaurant is the first in Britain to add carbon emissions to its menu. 'The Canteen' in Bristol hopes to reduce its carbon footprint by buying local ingredients and reducing food waste. Anna Blightman, marketing manager at The Canteen joined Sean on the show to discuss...

John Boyne shot to fame with his book 'The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas' in 2006. It told the story of two boys who lived either side of a fence in Auschwitz – one a prisoner, the other, Bruno, the son of a guard at the camp. Today he publishes a sequel, 'All the Broken Places', which follows Bruno’s older sister as she reflects on her life knowing what her father had been involved in. John joined Sean on the show to discuss his new book, success and his future work...

The term “revenge porn” is used to describe the non-consensual sharing or the threat to share intimate images without permission. The image is normally depicted a person who is naked. Dr. Caroline West, Outreach co-ordinator at Active Consent says we should be using the term 'Image-based sexual abuse' instead of revenge porn and she joined Sean on the show to discuss...

Sara Davison, Break-Up coach and Founder of the International Divorce Coach Centre of Excellence joined Sean on the show today...

A businessman is advertising his turf logs as “mud” in a “tongue-in-cheek” protest at the proposed ban on the sale of peat and other fossil fuels. Eric McNulty, who owns and runs McNulty Fuels, which is a petrol and fueling station in the town of Hospital, Co Limerick, is advertising “bags of decorative hardened Irish mud for sale” and says it is “for ornamental use only – not to be burned in a fire”. Eric joined Sean on the show to discuss the move...

For this weeks 'How To' slot focuses on how to have a baby through surrogacy. Sean was joined by Annette Hickey, surrogacy solicitor...

Andrew Doig, Author of 'This Mortal Coil: The History of Death' joined Sean on the show to discuss the history of mortality...

The author JD Salinger was famously reluctant to sign any copies of his most famous novel, 'The Catcher in the Rye.' Now one of the world’s only known signed copy of the book is going on sale for just under a quarter of a million pounds sterling. To discuss this, Sean was joined by Adam Douglas, Specialist in rare books at Peter Harrington Books in London...

Colm Kavanagh from Kavanagh’s Newsagents in Arklow joined Sean on the show to discuss why some shops might be stopping selling magazines and newspapers...

10 years ago, a group of pilots and aeronautical scientists deliberately crashed a Boeing 727 into a desert in Mexico, in an attempt to better understand which part of an airplane you are most likely to survive. Sean was joined by Leland “Chip” Shanle, author and pilot with American Airways, who was part of the piloting team on that extraordinary day a decade ago...

For years, discussions around the Irish language have been met with an attitude of resentment and distain. The discourse about our native tongue is often reduced down to a conversation about the curriculum. The cultural significance of Irish can be lost in what ends up being a roaring match about the Leaving Cert. Sean was joined by Breanndán Begley, Irish Musician and Native Irish Speaker to discuss...

Many were surprised to see Prince Andrew emerge from Balmoral to greet well wishers on Saturday afternoon, in light of the allegations against him. But what happens to the Duke of York now that his mother has passed on and his older brother is now king? Sean was joined on the show by Nigel Cawthorne, Author of Prince Andrew: Maxwell, Epstein and the Palace to discuss...

Sorcha Killian, co-founder of The Hygiene Bank joined Sean on the show to mark the launch of National Hygiene Week...

Elaine Loughlin, Deputy Political Editor with the Irish Examiner joined Sean on the show to chat through political think-ins, philanthropy and what happens to the Queen's money?

f you’ve always wondered what your cat is trying to say, this new app might be able to help with that. Founders of MeowTalk, a new ‘cat translator’ app, say they have found a formula that can identify a cat’s meows and translate them into human languages. Javier Sanchez, Co-Founder of MeowTalk and he joined Sean on the show...

Sometimes pulling into a drive through and grabbing a burger and chips is a handy way of eating on the go. However, one Cork Councillor wants to put them in the past forever. Dan Boyle, Green party councillor in Cork City joined Sean on the show to tell him why...

Scott Drummond was 28-years-old when a botched operation on his thumb led to him being “pronounced dead for 20 minutes”. Now in his late sixties, Drummond remembers vividly the out of body experience he had while chaos unfolded around him. Scott joined Sean on the show to tell his story...

Festival goers who went to Electric Picnic are just starting to come back to reality now but some are still searching for what they left behind. If you are looking for a lost phone, wallet or passport, there is a chance it's still in Stradbally. The Society St Vincent de Paul is operating the lost and found this weekend and our reporter Josh Crosbie has been down there rummaging through the items.

Mikhail Khodorkovsky, once the richest man in Russia, had his life turned upside down when he made the bold move to speak out against the corruption of the Russian regime – Exposing the truth about Putin’s misconduct resulted in him being stripped of his entire wealth and jailed for over ten years. Now freed, Khodorkovsky has written about his experience of standing up to the notorious dictator with some help from best selling Sunday Times Author, Martin Sixsmith in, The Russia Conundrum. Martin joined Sean on the show...

Your sense of smell can be a powerful thing, but imagine if you could smell a developing disease? Joy Milne, noticed her husband’s scent changed when he was 33. It turned out, she was smelling his Parkinson’s more than a decade before his diagnosis. She has been working with researchers ever since, and now they’ve developed a skin test that would identify the disease before symptoms begin. Joy joined Sean on the show today...

New Zealand MP, Chris Hipkins recently celebrated his birthday with one of the more unusual gifts - a sausage roll cake. But what is a sausage roll cake and how does one go about putting it together? Ireland Am Chef and Culinary Lecturer at South East Technological University, Edward Hayden joined Sean to answer these questions...

Jennie Bond, former BBC Royal Correspondent joined Sean on the show to discuss the plans in place should her majesty, Queen Elizabeth II pass away...

Bestselling crime novelist Helen Field’s new book The Last Girl to Die, which is published this week, focuses on a family who relocate to a completely new place. This has echoes with her own life, having upped sticks 5 years ago to live in the States. Helen joined Sean on the show to discuss moving home and her new novel...

John F Kennedy died at just 46 years of age. It was a tumultuous time in America with the civil rights movement and tensions with Russia. What could this young Irish Catholic president have achieved if he hadn’t been assassinated so young? Neal Thompson, Author of The First Kennedys: The Humble Roots of an American Dynasty is here in Ireland for this year’s Kennedy Summer School and joined Sean on the show...

For those who are addicted to food, it is all you think about every minute of everyday, you obsess over the food you’ve eaten and feel guilty, you binge on food and then starve yourself because of it. Food addiction is a real problem and for many and Overeaters Anonymous follows the same addiction steps as Alcoholics Anonymous because they believe food addiction is the very same as any other. Sarah, a member from Overeaters Anonymous joined Sean on the show discuss this more…

Peppa Pig has introduced its first lesbian couple, with Penny Polar Bear telling Peppa she has two mummies. Meanwhile, an autistic train is joining the cast of Thomas the Tank Engine. Andrew Kavanagh, Founder and CEO of Kavaleer Productions joined Sean on the show to discuss increasing diversity in children's cartoons

For this weeks 'How To' slot we’re looking at claiming tax relief. Sean was joined in studio by Marian Ryan, Business Development Director with Taxback.com...

It may only be September but one man in Co. Limerick is dusting off the Christmas lights and decorations as we speak. Tony Noonan is gearing up for the return of his widely loved Christmas Lights for Charity and has started preparations for this year’s display. Tony joined Sean on the show today...

Jane Fallon worked for years in theatre and TV and then at 45 she changed career and never looked back. Now having completed her 12th novel and many best sellers under her belt, Jane has clearly found her passion. Jane’s newest novel is called ‘Just Got Real’ and she joined Sean on the show to discuss...

IT project manager during the day and an avid quizzer by night, Dan O’Malley is one of Ireland most successful quizzers. Ireland is a big quizzing nation yet we have no home-grown quiz shows on our screens. Dan O’Malley, Professional Quizzer and Competitions Officer with the Irish Quiz Organisation joined Sean on the show...

Chef Daniel Lambert went from being a chef in a restaurant before the pandemic, to a TikTok chef during the pandemic. This changed everything for him. Now, thanks to his deep-fried TikTok concoctions and potato recipes, Daniel has gone from CookTok to cookbook and has published his first selection of recipes in ‘Lush: Recipes for the food you really want to eat’ Daniel joined Sean on the show today...

A group of vegan activists last week targeted supermarkets in four UK cities in an attempt to block customers' access to cow's milk in the dairy aisles. Demonstrators from the activist group Animal Rebellion sat in protest as shoppers attempted to buy a pint of milk, holding up ‘Plant-Based Future’ signs. One of those protesters was Robert Gordan and he joined Sean on the show...

Friendships can be tricky at times. They need care and attention from all sides and when that doesn't happen, it can be quite hurtful. This is especially true if your friendship group is made up of three. There’s a risk involved that one will be left out Ann-Marie O’Sullivan, freelance journalist joined Sean on the show to discuss....

Chris Wilkins, Former director of strategy and chief speechwriter to the former prime minister, Theresa May, joined Sean on the show.

Did you know there was a right way and a wrong way to pee? Aoife Harvey, a specialist in women’s pelvic health physiotherapy from Women’s Health Dublin joined Sean on the show to explain how get going with good toilet habits early on can help protect you from bladder problems, pelvic floor issues and UTIs.

Artisan jewelry and gifts can often be very personal in nature, but Amanda Booth takes this to a whole new level in her clay art. Amanda is the designer of Jizzy Jewelry, which is a featured line of products in her Trinkets by Amanda Booth collection and she joined Sean on the show from Ontario, Canada.

Caroline Morahan splits her time between LA and Ireland, spending two large periods home in Ireland with family and the rest of the year in LA with her husband and kids. This summer, a family trip home happened to coincide with a new acting opportunity and Caroline joined Sean in the studio to talk about her role in the new stage production ‘Looking at the Sun’ which had its world premiere last week.

Some people are gluttons for punishment, and this applied to our guest on the show today. Roy Williams danced with the devil in a food challenge this week, involving the Toe of Satan to raise funds for the Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice. He joined Sean on the show to suck on the world’s hottest lollipop live on air.

While we’ve known for a long time that whales sing and dolphins communicate in clicks, we don’t really know much about what they’re saying to each other. A team of researchers from the Scottish Association for Marine Science dropped 10 microphones close to the sea floor off the western coast of Scotland, and recorded a full year of sounds to learn more about the sea life activities. Nienke van Geel is an expert in marine mammal ecology and acoustics, and he joined Sean to discuss the research.

Plant blindness. That’s what scientists call the way we, non-scientific humans, often fail to notice the staggering diversity and complexity of plant life around us. Professor Paco Calvo runs a laboratory in Spain studying plant behavior and he joined Sean to discuss how he feels we need to start acknowledging how plant life is not only intelligent but aware.

Belgian-British teenager Mack Rutherford, joined Sean to discuss his delighted at becoming the youngest person to fly solo around the world.

With the cost of living deepening, Sean was joined by Rónán Ó Dálaigh, Founder of Thriftify, to discuss how many charity shops are now moving online.

It's a challenge for many parents to get their kids to enjoy reading books. Sean was joined by Mary McCarthy, Columnist with the Irish Independent, to discuss paying children to read.

Last week the World Transplant Games were held in England with all the athletes who were participating being organ donor recipients or dialysis patients. One of those was James Nolan, Athlete & Butcher from Kilcullen who was competing for Team Ireland and he joined Sean to discuss the event.

While most people enter romantic relationships with every intention of being loyal, a study has revealed that infidelity may be contagious. Sean was joined by Brendan Kelly, Professor of Psychiatry at Trinity College Dublin, to discuss why this might be.

Today we started our new ‘How To’ segment. Each week will take a topic and deep dive into it, doing all the research so you don’t have to. This week Sarah Owens, Policy Officer with Crosscare Migrant Project, joined Sean to discuss how to emigrate.

In a very significant change to sentencing structures, judges will be allowed to set out the length of time a convicted murderer will spend behind bars. While it has always been a mandatory life sentence, in reality the perpetrators spend between 18 and 20 years in jail before they get parole. As a member of Sentencing And Victim Equality, Kathleen Chada has been campaigning for a change to the laws since her two songs, Eoghan and Ruairi were murdered by their father, Sanjeev, in 2013. She joined Sean to discuss he reaction to the changes.

When it comes to elective Caesarean sections, fasting before surgery, while necessary, can see heavily pregnant women waiting without food or even liquids ,sometimes for several hours. Sean was joined by Midwife and author, Tracy Donegan, to discuss the new "sip till send" scheme, which try's to address the issue of expectant mothers waiting for long periods of time without food.

The black hornet is a six inch ‘’microdrone’’ that can enter buildings undetected. Last Wednesday Boris Johnson’s office announced that the 850 microdrones were part of a new £54 million package going to Ukraine. They will be jointly supplied with Norway, which co-produced the drone. Sean was joined by David Hambling, defence journalist and author, to discuss how these drones will work to support the war effort.

Toilet paper brand Cushelle has become the first company to remove the cardboard inner tube from its packaging in an attempt to reduce waste. Mary Fitzgerald, former presenter of How Do You Do, joined Sean to discuss what inpact this could have on children's art projects.

Open coffins are often used as part of Irish funerals. Independent columnist,Justine O’Mahony, joined Sean to discuss the conversation she had with her other half about having one at her own funeral.

The unusual case involving the personal diary of President Biden’s daughter has gained momentum as two defendants have now pleaded guilty to its theft. Joining me now to untangle all of this, and indeed the broader Biden family drama, is Ben Schreckinger, Journalist and author of The Bidens: Inside the First Family’s Fifty-Year Rise to Power...

Amid the cost of living crisis, food banks and charities are finding it increasingly difficult to make the same amount of money stretch to cover costs. Ashling Lowe is the chairperson for the Meath Food Bank, she joined Sean to discuss the abuse she experienced when there has not be enough food to meet the high demand.

James Joyce is one of Irelands most beloved writer, however he has also influenced works of literature in other parts of the world. Ellen Howley is an assistant professor at DCU’s School of English and works primarily on Irish and Caribbean poetry, she joined Sean to discuss his influence in the Caribbean.

On Saturday between 3 and 5pm 80 cyclists donned nothing but bodypaint to take part in the world naked bike ride in Cork. Spokesperson for the world naked bike ride Cork, Stephen Bolton, joined Sean to explain how it was to raise awareness for cyclists on our roads.

False widow spiders have been spreading quite rapidly across Ireland, and now a team of scientists have compared the power of its venom with that of other Northern European spiders. Dr Michel Dugon, from the Venom Systems Lab in NUI Galway is the senior author of the study, joined Sean to explain how the venom is 230 time more poisonous than our domestic eight-legged friends.

Eithne Shortall novelist, joined Sean on the show today to recap the stories making the headlines this past week.

Excitement is building in Oulu in Finland as The Air Guitar World Championships are set to start tonight. Competitors will be judged on stage presence, accuracy and airness. On the show today, Seán spoke to Justin Howards AKA Nordic Thunder who won the competition in 2012 and is judging tonight's competition.

Consultant Audiologist Mr Neel Raithatha is known online as the "Wax Whisperer" as he uploads videos online of wax removal from patients' ears. He joined Sean today to discuss his work and some of the things he's found in people's ears!

A new aquarium has been installed at the bottom of Blarney Castle in Co. Cork in an effort to show jellyfish in a more positive light. Tom Doyle, Marine Biologist in UCC joined Sean to discuss the new project.

Over the past number of years there has been a significant increase in the numbers of Irish people travelling to Turkey and Poland as so-called ‘medical tourists’ in order to get dental work done. Dr Vanessa Creaven, dentist and co-founder of Spotlight Oral Care in Galway joined Sean to explain how their has been a rise in people reporting an issue after having these procedures.

Until now it has been generally accepted that migrating insects move with the wind. Myles Menz, an entomologist at James Cook University and the Max Plank Institute, joined Sean to explain how new research carried out using tiny radio transmitter backpacks for moths, shows a different story.

The local library in the Liberties in Dublin closed over 20 years ago, leaving a vacumm for book lovers in the area. Sean was joined by Joanne Hunter, General Manager of Books at One project, to explain how this was yesterday rectified, after a cross country project called Books at One moved into a vacant butchers unit on Meath Street.

Drug addiction is something we hear a lot about in this country but we often forget that over the counter medications can also be addictive. Sean was joined by a gentleman who was in the Irish Sun this week, to share his story with codeine addiction and highlight why he thinks these tablets should be prescription-only.

One Irish town is working to tackle the housing crisis and the positive thing is the architects behind this idea have found a way to build houses and help with climate change. In Ballina, Co Mayo, a group called Accelerating Change Together, or Act who are made up of architects, urbanists and policy specialists, has submitted an ambitious plan that could provide inspiration for unloved buildings in towns across the country. Act’s co-founder Kevin Loftus joined Sean to discuss the details.

A years long debate on the ethical implications of the naming of a library in Trinity College has come to a head this week with the university’s Student’s Union demanding the denaming of Berkeley Library. Gaby Fulham, President of Trinity College’s Students Union, joined Sean to explain why the philosopher’s links with the transatlantic slave trade have called the name into question.

Each week we’re going to bring you some suggestions for your summer reading, taking a different category each time. This week Bob Johnstone of The Gutter Bookshop, joined Sean with some recommendation for popular fiction reads. He suggested It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover, The Wedding Party by Cathy Kelly, Beautiful World, Where Are You? By Sally Rooney, Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus, The 6.20 man by David Baldacci, The Accomplice by Steve Cavanagh, Book Lovers by Emily Henry, The Night Interns by Austin Duffy,Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid and Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid.

Each week will take a topic and deep dive into it, doing all the research so you don’t have to. This week Dr. Emmet Kerin, Founding Partner of Gentle Procedures Ireland, joined Sean to explain how to get a vasectomy.

Lisa Fingleton is an artist and a farmer from county Laois and her passion for local food production and sustainability. She joined Sean to explain how she was inspired her to start the, which inspires people to eat only Irish produce for one month.

During the years of the War of Independence and the Civil War, over 250 great Irish country houses were burned down by the IRA and others. Hstorian Robert O’Byrne, joined Sean to explain how the stories of these houses are explored in his new book ‘Left Without a Handkerchief’.

Lou O’Brien in Co. Wexford, has had the same pet by her side for over half a century. She joined Sean to explain how Timmy the tortoise is missing and the search is on to bring him home.

Gout has always been considered an old man’s disease, affecting men of a certain vintage who are enjoying the finer things in life a little too much. Daniel Lavelle joined Sean to explain how at 35 was stricken with what started as a throbbing toe and soon discovered he has gout.

In the last week we have seen Irish athletes complete in the European Championships and break records. However their names caused difficulty for many Irish broadcasters. Kieran Cunningham, Chief Sports Writer and current affairs columnist with the Irish Daily Star, joined Sean to discuss that while we demand respect from other countries regarding our names and heritage, we often find it difficult to pronounce names from other heritages.

People with disabilities are often at the mercy of other people’s consciousness of the physical world and the way we all move through it. An abled bodied person doesn’t have to worry too much about a van on the footpath, on street dining, sandwich boards or even an untrimmed tree branch blocking their route, they can simply go around it. Those same obstacles are not as easy to navigate for the vision impaired. Tabitha Kenlon is an advocate for NCBI’s campaign to #ClearOurPath and she joined Sean on the show...

As the debate about the regulation of drugs continues, a group in the Netherlands has organised a mock-up of what a shop selling ecstasy might look like in reality. Mack Busz, Director of the Mainline foundation, joined Sean to discuss what an ecstasy shop might look like.

Travelling on long car journeys with small children can be a real challenge for parents, but what if there was a way you could potentially nip the problem in the bud and avoid it completely? Dr. James Hind, Statistician and Senior Lecturer at Nottingham Trent University joined Sean to discuss a new formula, that has been created by a British statistician which predicts the probability of a tantrum.

Newstalk reporter Aoife Kearns headed to Cork to the mark the anniversary of the death of Michael Collins.

A stand up comedian named Masai Graham has won the annual Funniest Joke of the Edinburgh Fringe award, as carried out by the TV station Dave. Comedian and poet John Moynes, joined Sean to discuss the shortlist and what make's a good one liner.

Graham Finlay joined Sean on the show today to recap the stories making the headlines this past week.

Many of you will be familiar with the phenomenon of Tiktok but have you heard about BookTok? If you haven’t, allow me to enlighten you. It’s the book-obsessed corner of TikTok that focuses specifically on books and literature. Alex Aster is an author of teen fiction and after being rejected by numerous publishers and dropped by her agent, she took to TikBook to promote her latest offering. Fast forward a few months and she has signed a six-figure deal to publish one of the most eagerly anticipated releases of the year. Tom Dunne was joined on the show by award-winning author, Alex Aster.

A new true crime series on Netflix is currently taking Irish viewers by storm. Called ‘I Just Killed My Dad’, the programme explores the events surrounding Anthony Templet’s killing of his father in 2019. Tom Dunne was joined on the show by the director, Skye Borgman.

A new documentary film, which opens at the Irish Film Institute today, tells the extraordinary true life story of a barely believable deception that took place in a Scottish school in the early 1990s. Tom Dunne was joined on the show to discuss the film, which is entitled ‘My Old School’, by director Jono McLeod.

Drastic times call for drastic measures. A couple from Italy took that saying literally when they undertook a European voyage via bicycle all in the name of sustainable living. As a response to the climate emergency, Arianna Casiraghi and Daniel Rayneau-Kirkhope came up with the novel idea of cycling through seven countries and clocking up 4,500 miles with the sole aim of creating an image of a bicycle on a gps map. Tom Dunne was joined on the show by Arianna Casiraghi and Daniel Rayneau-Kirkhope.

As part of the Safer Nightlight' programme and drug harm reduction campaign. The Health Service Executive has announced there will be drug testing at Electric Picnic in Stradbally, Co Laois, next month. Tom was joined by Neasa Hourigan,Green Party TD for Dublin Central and spokesperson on Drug Policy, to discuss how it will work.

The Irish wedding venue resource SaveMyDay.ie has seen a 50% increase in the number of wedding venues around the country that now welcome dogs on the big day. This represents a sizeable shift considering the fact that traditionally speaking most hotels in Ireland didn’t accommodate pets. Shell Holden, Co-Founder of SaveMyDay.ie, joined Tom to discuss why there has been an increase in dog's becoming involved in weddings.

Minister of State for Biodiversity and Green Party senator, Pippa Hackett has said that ‘some livestock farmers could consider and possibly be incentivised for breeding more horses in an attempt to bring Ireland’s agriculture emissions. Tom was joined by Eamon Sheehan, dairy farmer and horse breeder from Kilkenny, to discuss how hard it is to diversify farms.

Popstars often have a shelf life. They have a hit, they become famous and perhaps rich. Then there is a sometimes inevitable decline. Tom was joined by Nick Duerden whose new book 'Exit Stage Left: The Curious Afterlife of Popstars', explores what happens to popstar's after their fame has ended.

Choosing a pair of socks may seem like the simplest thing in the world but often we find ourselves wearing ones that are either uncomfortable, slip down or make our feet smelly. Tom was joined by Lucianne Tonti, Fashion editor and author, to discuss how to pick the perfect pair of socks.

Ireland is unique in being able to provide foster family-based care for such a high proportion of children in care. However numbers are on the decrease due to a lack of supports and services and this putting considerable strain on the fostering system. Tom was joined by Patrick Costello, Green Party TD for Dublin South Central and a former child protection social worker, who spoke about how Ireland needs far more foster carers.

Equine therapy is used by many autistic and neurodiverse people here in Ireland to enhance physical or emotional healing. Rupert Isaacson, founder of the Horse Boy Programme, joined Tom to discuss how he was introduced to it and how it has helped his own son.

Each week will take a topic and deep dive into it, doing all the research so you don’t have to. This week Michael Pidgeon,Dublin city Green Party Councillor, joined Tom to discuss how to do sail and rail travel.

The pleasure of a good old sneeze is enjoyed by birds, reptiles and indeed us humans too. Tom was joined by Niklas Kornder, Marine Biologist at University of Amsterdam, to discuss how despite lacking nerves, muscles or even brains, sea sponges get their sneeze on with the best of us.

Michael Slepian is the author of The Secret Life of Secrets, he has spent years studying the psychology of secrets, what motivates us to keep them and what makes us inclined to divulge them. He joined Tom to discuss his findings.

As we approach the 6 month mark of the War in Ukraine, some Irish anti-war protesters have held vigil for almost the entirety of the conflict on Orwell Road, outside the Russian Embassy. John Farrelly is one of the protesters and he joined Tom to discuss the turn out for today's protest.

For the third time in 100 years, the uniform of An Garda Siochana has received a revamp and from today, you will be able to see it on the streets. Image consultant from The Style Bob, Aoife Dunican, joined Sean to discuss if the Garda uniform is fashionable.

From a Poodle to a Great Dane, dogs come in all sorts of shapes and sizes and display an array of temperaments. Studies suggest that the type of dog breed you choose tells a lot about your personality, Samantha Rawson is a dog trainer and behaviorist from the Canine College and she joined Tom to discuss what your dog breed says about your personality.

The Edinburgh Fringe is currently taking place with comedians from all over the world coming together in the Scottish capital. One veteran stand up, Simon Fanshawe, is set to perform a new show, running from August 19th to 23rd. Simon has been writing in the Sunday Times about how political correctness has morphed into a type of wokeness which isn’t helping anyone. He joined Tom to discuss the difference between PC and woke.

Ken Sweeney, Showbiz Editor with the Irish Sun joined Tom on the show today to recap the stories making the headlines this past week.

It must be every comic’s worst nightmare to perform to an audience of one. But not so for comedian Robin Grainger who following his show to a solo gig goer Mike, feels invincible ever since. Robin’s show “Robin Time” is showing at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and he joined Stefanie to tell her about it. Robin you’re very welcome to the show

Becoming a new mother can bring up a lot of conflicting emotions. On one hand you’re filled with gratitude, joy and of course love for your newborn baby but motherhood can also bring with it feelings of guilt, despair and an emotion not many feel comfortable talking about-loneliness. Author of a new book, “Hide and Seek”, Andrea Mara, joined Stefanie to discuss why she has decided to talk about it.

Each week we’re going to bring you some suggestions for your summer reading, taking a different category each time. This week Bob Johnstone of The Gutter Bookshop, joined Stefanie to recommend some classic reads. He recommended The Talented Mr Ripley by Patricia Highsmith, The Enchanted April by Elizabeth Von Arnim,Giovanni’s Room by James Baldwin, Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury, My Antonia by Willa Cather, The Colussus of Maroussi by Henry Miller,Brideshead Revisited by Evelyn Waugh, The Greengage Summer by Rumer Godden, Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe and Chances by Jackie Collins.

Politicians and military analysts across the Western World have spent the past 6 months trying to come up with a successful way of preventing Putin from progressing his ambitions. Mystifier Uri Gellar, joined Stefanie to explain how he feel's mind control could be the perfect way to put a stop to Putins plans.

Each week will take a topic and deep dive into it, doing all the research so you don’t have to. This week Susi Lodola,Cognitive Behaviorist Therapist, joined Stefanie to discuss how to choose the right therapist for you.

Many people do yoga to improve their body tone but Lydia Sasse, a face yoga therapist and Wellness Coach, joined Stefanie to explain yoga can also improve your facial muscles and lead to a more youthful appearance.

A question that often baffles parents is why some kids engage in competitive sports while others drop out in their early teenage years. Child psychotherapist, Dr. Colman Noctor, joined Stefanie to discuss if we too quick to label certain children as “unsporty” and if there is an over-competitive nature of sport in this country.

The rise in people going to clairvoyants and psychic mediums increases in times of crisis. But research is showing that more and more Gen Z-ers are turning to tarot cards and astrology to deal with the ambiguity in their lives. Fiona Faery, Psychic medium, joined Stefanie to discuss if this rise is because of uncertainty or are people just more aware of these services.

Educational researcher Dr. Eemer Eivers, joined Stefanie to explain how she was concerned to discover recently that a bike sharing service, operating in Ireland, was using female names for its vehicles. She explained how she was moved to act on the matter and has now been successful in persuading the company to change its system.

Seven year old hooker boat from Galway, named Loveen took a land and sea trip to Netherlands this week, taking on board a group of local sea scouts. The boat has been completely restored and now is showcasing an Irish westcoast’s maritime heritage at Navaka International Warer Camp in Netherlands. Colette Furey, Galway Hooker Sailing Club crew member is now in Netherlands and she joined Stefanie to discuss the restoration.  

Elaine Burke, Editor at SiliconRepublic.com, joined Stefanie on the show today to recap the stories making the headlines this past week.

For over 30 years, Dolores Whelan has led the way in understanding and appreciating Celtic spirituality and the waning traditions of indigenous Ireland. She joined Stefanie to explain why she feel's people in Ireland could benefit from reigniting their Celtic spirituality.

Pat Shortt has been entertaining audiences since the 1980s - from D’Unbelieveables with Jon Kenny and his own solo tours to acting roles in both theatres and on the big and small screens. This next tour is a little different again, it’s called Well and also features his daughter Faye. Pat Shortt, Actor and comedian joined Sean Moncrieff live from the Osprey hotel in Naas.

My next guest has become a household name across the country thanks to his recent role as judge on Dancing with the Stars on RTE but for many they will already know him from his dance routines on his Instagram and tik tok Arthur Gourounlian a professional dancer, choreographer and tv personality, married to Brian Dowling and are expecting their first baby together in mere weeks and I’m glad to say he has stepped away from building and painting of the new nursery to join us here today in the Osprey Hotel in Nass

An increase in the number of people being diagnosed with monkey pox in Ireland combined with a lack of awareness campaigns and vaccine rollout is causing significant anxiety for the gay and bisexual community, who are disproportionately impacted by the virus. Director of HIV Ireland, Stephen O'Hare, joined Sean to discuss the stigma.

Conspiracy theorist Alex Jones has testified that the 2012 Sandy Hook school shooting was "100% real" and that it was wrong to call it a hoax. Sean was joined by Terry Sheridan,News Director of WSHU public radio,to give an update on the case.

The lack of services and supports for people with autism and their families has been highlighted many times but what’s not often discussed is the shame and isolation that often goes hand and hand with a diagnosis. Dervla Burke O’Connor, former Crytal Swing singer and mother of 2,joined Sean to describe the rejection and isolation families can feel and what can be done to better support them.

Tom Cruise’s plane landed in Kerry Airport yesterday, sparking rumours that one of Hollywood’s biggest stars is in the Kingdom. Jerry O’Sullivan, is the presenter of Kerry Today on Radio Kerry, joined Sean to discuss if the there having been any spotting's of the star.

Getting your foot on the property ladder is a pip dream for a lot of people here in Ireland and indeed the UK. Paul Mappley and his partner Yip Ward couldn’t afford a home in England, they joined Sean to describe how they fled to France and bought an entire village.

The Most Hated Man on the Internet, Hunter Moore, is the subject of a new Netflix there -part docu-series. Jess Kelly joined Sean to discuss the new series.

Lego is a popular children's toy but it turns out it could be worth a fortune. A tiny Boba Fett Lego figurine from 2003 is going on auction and is set to make £2000. Andrew Stowe, Auction House manager and auctioneer at East Bristol Auctions, joined Sean to discuss how a child's toy can increase so much in value.

Each week we’re going to bring you some suggestions for your summer reading, taking a different category each time. This week Bob Johnstone, of The Gutter Bookshop, joined Sean with his recommendations for biography and essay. He recommended Rogues:True Stories of Grifters, Killers, Rebels and Crooks by Patrick Radden Keefe,I Don't Want to Talk About Home by Suad Aldarra,All Down Darkness Wide : A Memoir by Seán Hewitt,Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner,And Away... by Bob Mortimer,The Last Days of Roger Federer And Other Endings by Geoff Dyer,Free : Coming of Age at the End of History by Lea Ypi,Fun Home : A Family Tragicomic by Alison Bechdel,All About Me! : My Remarkable Life in Show Business by Mel Brooks,The Troubles with Us : One Belfast Girl on Boys and Bombs and Finding Her Way by Alix O'Neill.

Recently, a woman was sentenced to prison for three months over the manslaughter of her newborn baby. She had concealed her pregnancy. Dr. Sylvia Murphy Tighe, Midwifery lecturer at University of Limerick joined Sean to explain how a custodial sentence will only be a deterrent for women seeking help.

Each week will take a topic and deep dive into it, doing all the research so you don’t have to. This week Julie O’Connor, pro with the Institute of Guidance Counsellors, joined Sean with all you need to know about changing career.

Despite the fact that Ireland holds claim as being one of the top surfing locations in the world, 50 years ago surfing on this Island was non-existent. Ireland boosts over 2000 miles of coastline but we didn’t start catching waves over here until a trailblazing group of surfers including Wicklow man, Kevin Cavey formed a club in the 1960s. He joined Sean to discuss his love of surfing.

The controversy continues over Sabina Higgins’ letter on the Russian-Ukrainian war. Dr. Laura Cahillane , Senior Lecturer in law at the University of Limerick joined Sean to discuss if this signals the President is looking to evolve his role and be more politically active.

A new study has used ancient archeological evidence to trace the origins of the cold sore. Dr. Meriam Guellil, from Tartu University’s Institute of Genomics, joined Sean to discuss effect the evolution of kissing have on the virus.

The parents of a 12 year old boy have made a last ditch plea to the UK’s Supreme Court to keep their son on life support. Archie Battersbee’s doctors say he is brain dead, but his parents want to give him more time to heal. Joshua Rozenberg, legal commentator, joined Sean and Enda Brady London-based journalist, to discuss the case.

The space jacket worn by Buzz Aldrin during the first successful landing on the Moon has been sold at auction in New York for 2.8 million dollars. Dan Kendall, Curator at the National Space Centre in Leicester in the UK joined Tom to discuss what goes into making a space suit and how they have evolved over time.

Sean was joined by Stella O’Malley, Psychotherapist, Ted Talk Speaker and Author, to discuss the stigma around having sex in a later stage of life.

For many, screening for cancer is daunting and the fear of the unknown means many don’t come forward. But screening is so important and as we’ll see, it’s nothing to be feared. Dr Alan Smith, Specialist in Public Health Medicine at the National Screening Service, joined Sean with all you need to know on how to screen for bowl cancer.

Each week we’re going to bring you some suggestions for your summer reading, taking a different category each time. This week Bob Johnstone of The Gutter Bookshop, joined Sean with his recommendations for science and nature reads. He recommend The Dawn of Everything : A New History of Humanity by David Graeber & David Wengrow, Wilding by Isabella Tree, The Order of Time by Carlo Rovelli, Unwell Women : A Journey Through Medicine And Myth in a Man-Made World by Elinor Cleghorn,The Uninhabitable Earth by David Wallace-Wells,Entangled Life by Merlin Sheldrake, Sapiens : A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari,Silent Spring by Rachel Carson,Diary of a Young Naturalist by Dara McAnulty and A Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson.

One of the toughest aspects of chemotherapy is the hair loss that it can result in. Aaron Hannon, Co-Founder and CEO of Luminate Medical, based in Galway has secured millions in funding for a novel device that has been designed to prevent hair loss during this treatment.

Sean was joined by Zoe Holohan, to discuss the process of writing her book “As the Smoke Clears: The inspirational true story of surviving Greece’s deadly wildfires, overcoming devastating loss, and discovering a path to hope and renewal.”

Over 150 years ago, the first successful transatlantic telegraph cable was laid between Valentia Island in Ireland and Newfoundland, Canada, thereby reducing the time to communicate between the Old and New Worlds from weeks to minutes. Leonard Hobbs, Chairperson of Valentia Transatlantic Cable Foundation joined Sean to discuss how they reached a milestone moment with their bid for UNESCO status.

Johnny Fallon, Strategy Director at Carr Communications, joined Sean to recap the stories making the headlines this past week.

For some people, breaking one world record is impressive, but breaking over 200 world records might seem quite impossible. But Idaho man David Rush has made it possible, and actively holds 130 world records. Just this week, he broke the record for the furthest distance to throw and catch a hot dog in a bun. And better still, he’s breaking all of these records to promote STEM education. David joined Stefanie Preissner on the show this afternoon.

The oldest medieval shipwreck in British waters, dating to the 13th century and made out of Irish oak, has now been given the highest level of protection by the UK government. However, it is perhaps the cargo that this ship was carrying that is the most interesting part of the story. Stefanie Preissner was joined on the show by Paul Jeffrey, Historic England’s National Listing Manager.

When it comes to having an opinion on the ‘best’ Irishman to ever exist, my next guest’s choice will likely surprise you. In fact, you may never even have heard of the man. Author Peter Phillips says the legacy of Richard Martin, who curated the world’s first piece of animal legislation in the world back in 1822 exceeds anyone else’s legacy. Peter has even written a biography on Richard, also known as ‘Humanity Dick.’ And today, he launched a commemoration event in Galway for Richard in honour of the 200th anniversary since ‘Martin’s Bill’ passed. Peter Phillips joined Stefanie Preissner live from Wales.

A professor of Experimental Psychology at Oxford University is ruffling the feathers of those who are sticklers for table manners by claiming that the best way to eat food is actually with your mouth open, not closed. So, have we been doing it wrong all along or is this just a completely revolting idea? Stefanie Preissner was joined on the show by Tom Doorly, Food & Wine critic with the Irish Daily Mail and Irish Mail on Sunday

Several polls now indicate that Putin has the overwhelming support of the Russian people for his campaign in Ukraine. Data also reveals that his personal popularity has grown since the war began. Noah Buckley, Assistant professor of political science at Trinity College, joined Sean to discuss why Putins war is so popular with the people of Russia.

Kate Tym used to work as a wedding celebrant before moving into the area of funerals instead. She joined Sean to explain how she now co-runs a group called the UK Coffin Club, empowering members to create their own coffins.

In Cork, the Fermoy Municipal District is allowing green spaces in council estates to be removed to make room for more parking spaces for residents. Fermoy Councillor Kay Dawson, joined Sean to discuss how the shortage of spaces is being blamed on the fact adult children can’t afford to move out due to the price of housing.

It’s an unusual thing to happen in July, but this Sunday, Croke Park will host its second All Ireland final in a week. More than 80 thousand people, mostly from Kerry and Galway, will make their way into the stands to watch either team lift the Sam Maguire Cup. Peter McKenna stadium director for Croke Park, joined Sean to discuss what preparation goes into making sure the stadium is ready for such a big event.

Timmy O’Driscoll was on Owenahincha beach enjoying the heatwave with his two young children and his partner Jenna, when he noticed a young boy getting into difficulty in the water. He joined Sean to share his incredible story of diving into the water fully clothed to save the child.

Each week we’re going to bring you some suggestions for your summer reading, taking a different category each time. This week Bob Johnstone of The Gutter Bookshop, joined Sean with his recommendations for crime and thriller reads. He recommended Bullet Train by Kotaro Isaka,The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley,Geiger by Gustaf Skordeman,Hawk Mountain by Conner Habib,An Unsuitable Job for a Woman by P.D.James and Dirt Town by Hayley Scrivenor.

Each week will take a topic and deep dive into it, doing all the research so you don’t have to. This week Gerry Appleby From Appleby jewellers, off Grafton Street, joined Sean with all you need to know how to buy an engagement ring.

With so many seagulls living in the capital they have made it hard to enjoy food outdoors in the summer. Newstalk reporter Simon Tierney has been researching ways to keep them away from and joined Sean to discuss how certain music could the answer to stopping seagulls stealing your snacks.

The National Council for the Blind of Ireland is now using pioneering technology to allow its service users to access information, newspapers, books and more. Kyran O’Mahoney, Chief Technology Officer with the NCBI, joined Sean to discuss how technology can assist those with sight loss.

We all know bees are good for crops and biodiversity, but proof is emerging that they are also clever, sentient and unique beings who yield basic emotions and intelligence. Lars Chittka has been studying bees for 30 years, he joined Sean to discuss how he has documented his discoveries in his new book “The Mind of a Bee”.

They are America’s oldest Irish Catholic Fraternal Organisation, set up for Catholic immigrants in 1836 in New York and Pennsylvania. Today, they have over 46,000 members with groups across the world. Last week they held a vote at their convention proposing allowing women to join the order, but members voted against it. President of The Ancient Order of Hibernians Danny J 0’Connell joined Sean to discuss why.

AIB has announced it’s moving 70 banks cashless, which is about a third of its network. Bob Quinn, Principal of The Money Advisors based in Naas town, joined Sean to discuss the pros and cons of a cashless society.

Europe's largest mammal is the bison. But it has been extinct in mainland Britain for thousands of years. Today, bison bred in Fota in Cork have been released into the wild in Kent. Sean McKeown, Director of Fota Wildlife Park, joined Sean to discuss the rewilding process.

A new study which reviews the experiences of women in Ireland who have had an abortion suggests that those who looked for treatment for a fatal fetal anomaly are falling through the cracks and are being ill-served. Alison Lynch, Co-chair of LMC Bereavement Support, an organisation which offers help for women in this area, joined Sean to discuss the ways in which women are being let down.

Author Edel Coffey joined Sean to recap the stories making the headlines this past week.

A seaside town in Co. Clare will soon get the chance to change the spelling of the town back to the name the residents say is officially the correct one.The town of Lahinch, or Lehinch as the signs say, has been a source of annoyance to many residents living in the area and Michael Vaughan, owner of the Vaughan Lodge Hotel joined Sean to explain how they been fighting for the name change for 6 years now.

When my next guest was given a book about historic sandwiches, it began a whole new online career for him. Barry Enderwick runs the ‘Sandwiches of History’ handle across various social media platforms, where he recreates some of the most bizarre, sometimes delicious, and often disgusting sandwiches from the past.