The Pat Kenny Show
Newstalk
Pat brings you the sharpest analysis of news and current affairs on the radio and fresh perspectives on the issues that will define a generation. Breaking news is interwoven with reflective news features and reports from a variety of reporters based across the country. Experts are on hand to guide listeners on everything from consumer and employment rights and health issues to savvy holiday options. And Pat is joined by all the best personalities from the entertainment world.CONVERSATION THAT COUNTS | Ireland’s national independent talk station for news, sport, analysis and entertainmentListen to Newstalk at http://newstalk.com/listenlive | Download the GoLoud app now, the new home for Newstalk
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 27, 2025 • 11min
Is Irish fashion now in vogue?
The discussion explores whether Irish fashion is finally gaining global recognition. Interviews reveal a burgeoning street style scene in Dublin, with locals embracing bolder outfits and sustainable choices. Experts highlight the impact of social media, linking Irish designers to international trends. Taryn Devere promotes the joy of color in fashion through innovative events. With figures like Jonathan Anderson leading major brands, Ireland's fashion identity seems poised for a vibrant future.
Nov 27, 2025 • 10min
Science with Luke: How to avoid a hangover?
Luke O'Neill, a distinguished Professor of Biochemistry at Trinity College Dublin, dives deep into the science of hangovers. He details how compounds like acetaldehyde and dehydrating effects lead to those dreaded morning-after symptoms. Interestingly, he explains why infrequent drinkers often suffer worse hangovers and discusses the role of congeners in darker drinks. O'Neill shares practical tips like consuming milk before drinking and opting for carbohydrates and juice the next morning. His insights aim to help listeners make informed, enjoyable choices this holiday season.
Nov 27, 2025 • 20min
Taxi drivers are set to bring Dublin to a standstill today
David Mitchell, a taxi driver and protest coordinator, discusses the impending Dublin protest against Uber's fixed-fare feature, emphasizing its threat to driver incomes. He outlines planned protest routes while addressing concerns about public taxi availability. Richard Boyd-Barrett, a People Before Profit TD, advocates for stronger regulations and proposes a non-profit app alternative. The conversation highlights worries about low Uber fares, technology fees, and the potential loss of wheelchair-accessible taxis, stressing the need for government action.
Nov 27, 2025 • 8min
All the ways you can reduce the impact of potential Christmas waste
Zoe Kavanagh, CEO of Repak, dives into the pressing issue of Christmas waste and recycling. She shares findings on how Irish shoppers are increasingly choosing recyclable and upcycled gifts. Zoe highlights three eco-conscious behaviors gaining traction: upcycling, purchasing items with second lives, and reducing food waste. She also discusses the strong performance of glass recycling in Ireland and the importance of obeying new regulations on packaging space. Plus, Zoe offers practical tips for cleaning and sorting recyclables effectively.
Nov 27, 2025 • 9min
The environmental impact of Black Friday
Jo Linehan, a climate and sustainability journalist, dives into the environmental toll of Black Friday shopping. She highlights Ireland's higher spending rates and the alarming increase in online returns, emphasizing how impulse buys lead to waste. Linehan discusses the poor recycling rates for electronics and urges the importance of returning old devices. She also addresses the emissions from delivery logistics and explores future delivery risks with automation. Her key takeaway encourages intentional shopping and supporting local retailers for a sustainable future.
Nov 27, 2025 • 10min
Is microshifting the future of work?
Damien McCarthy, Founder and MD of HR Buddy, dives into the innovative concept of microshifting—splitting the workday into flexible blocks. He shares insights on how parents utilize this method to balance childcare and work. Risks such as 'double jobbing' and employee burnout are discussed, alongside the necessity for strong leadership in remote work. Damien highlights the unique challenges faced by young workers and the demand for better government support for caregivers, emphasizing the need for fairness in workplace policies.
Nov 27, 2025 • 16min
‘Project Aware’ raising awareness on human trafficking in Ireland
Jenny Pattwell, a financial services partner at EY Ireland, and Detective Superintendent Derek Maguire from the Garda National Protective Services Bureau share insights on Project Aware, which raises awareness of human trafficking in Ireland. They discuss signs of trafficking, sectors where it exists, and how traffickers control victims through coercion and poor living conditions. The importance of public vigilance, support systems, and legislative efforts in combating this crime are also highlighted, alongside the collaboration between private and public sectors.
Nov 26, 2025 • 10min
Inside Hollywood: Actors didn’t choose their iconic roles they endured them
In Hollywood, we often imagine actors chasing roles, clawing their way toward the perfect character or the perfect script. But the Golden Age of Hollywood and even much of modern Hollywood is full of stories where actors didn’t choose their iconic roles they endured them.All to chat with Lisa Cannon, Head of Studio, DMG Media.
Nov 26, 2025 • 23min
Author Richard Osman on this new book ‘The Impossible Fortune’.
Presenter and author Richard Osman is the mind behind the record-breaking ‘Thursday Murder Club’ series. Off the back of this year’s Netflix film adaptation, he’s released the newest installment in the series - ‘The Impossible Fortune’. Which debuted at no.1 on the Sunday Times best seller list.
Nov 26, 2025 • 9min
Today's political roundup with Sean Defoe
On the agenda for cabinet today is a ban on electro-convulsive therapy for under –18's, a reform of migration procedures and they will seek approval to allow people affected by defective concrete blocks to apply for increased grants. But the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council have warned that the government are spending the budget “like there’s no tomorrow”. All to discuss with Newstalk’s Political Correspondent, Sean Defoe.
