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Newstalk
Andrea Gilligan invites callers to have their say on the topics of the day - get in touch by emailing lunchtimelive@newstalk.com Listen and subscribe to Lunchtime Live on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Download, listen and subscribe on the Newstalk App.You can also listen to Newstalk live on newstalk.com or on Alexa, by and asking: 'Alexa, play Newstalk'
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 30, 2025 • 14min
Pod Squad – Stalked
Today FM's Cathal Minogue and Elaine Burke from the For Tech's Sake Podcast join Lunchtime Live to review the podcast Stalked, how a relentless campaign of online abuse derailed one woman’s life.Listen here.

Jun 30, 2025 • 17min
How Long Does It Take to Get an Appointment with Your GP?
Parts of the country are at risk of becoming GP blackspots as family doctors retire, according to a new report for the Department of Health.The report calls for better succession planning and more incentives for GPs in areas under most pressure.Andrea takes calls from listeners impacted by the rural decline of GP practivies.Listen here.

Jun 27, 2025 • 13min
Summer Memories with Helen Steele
Designer Helen Steele joins Andrea in studio to reflect on her favourite summer memories — from holidays and music to summer jobs and more.Listen here

Jun 27, 2025 • 8min
Ticket Scams on Concert Season
Mary D’Arcy, Financial Crime Lead with FraudSMART, joins Lunchtime Live following comedian Joanne McNally’s revelation that she lost thousands in a Glastonbury ticket scam. Mary shares all the best practical advice on how to avoid getting conned while buying tickets for gigs and festivals.Listen here

Jun 27, 2025 • 19min
What Age Should We Talk to Our Children About Sex?
Stella O’Malley, psychotherapist and parenting author, joins Andrea alongside Irish Times journalist and mother of seven Jen Hogan, and Newstalk’s own Simon Tierney, to discuss how and when to start talking to your kids about sex — and why it should be an ongoing conversation, not a one-time lecture.Listen here

Jun 27, 2025 • 9min
Why Do Irish Households Waste So Much Food?
Chef Holly Dalton and Machaela O’Leary of the app Too Good To Go join Lunchtime Live to unpack why the average Irish household throws away €660 worth of food each year — and what simple steps we can take to cut down on waste, save money, and even shop smarter.Listen here

Jun 27, 2025 • 13min
Regional Round-Up
From Palestinian GAA clubs touring the country, to all the great gigs across the island.Shane Beaty joins Lunchtime Live to go through the regional round-up.Listen here.

Jun 27, 2025 • 20min
Should Supports for Long COVID Be Extended?
Long Covid continues to impact the lives of many across the country.It was recently announced that those eligible for the Long COVID Support Scheme will now have until the end of the year to access this benefit.Originally set to end this month, the scheme has been extended by six months. While this extension is welcome, it raises important questions about the future of support for those affected. Andrea speaks to those still suffering and with Professor Jack Lambert from the UCD School of Medicine.Listen here.

Jun 26, 2025 • 14min
Home Squad
For The Home Squad this week we look at some of the biggest trends in interior design with Jenny Sheahan, former Home of the Year winner and creator of the ‘workers cottage’ Instagram account, and Sarah Twigg Doyle, interior stylist and design colour consultant.From 'intentional clutter' to a brighter home, get all the best tips here.

Jun 26, 2025 • 8min
A Good Night’s Sleep in the Heat
Sleep expert Erica Hargaden provides invaluable tips for a restful night's sleep in the summer heat. She discusses managing body temperature, recommending warm showers and breathable bedding to enhance comfort. Listeners learn about inventive solutions like frozen pillowcases and the benefits of proper ventilation. Erica also addresses adjusting sleep habits, focusing on lighter fabrics and cooling methods, ensuring everyone, even children, can achieve better sleep during those hot, humid nights.


