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.Listen and subscribe to The Pat Kenny Show on Apple Podcasts, Google 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 adding the Newstalk skill and asking: 'Alexa, play Newstalk'.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 11, 2025 • 7min
A review of the new Google Pixel4 watch
Jess Kelly, a technology journalist and reviewer, explores the new Google Pixel Watch 4 in this insightful discussion. She highlights its sleek design and impressive 3000-nit display, emphasizing comfort and practicality for workouts. Jess dives into its durability, battery life, and the quirks of its proprietary charger. She also discusses Google Assistant's integration and fitness features from Fitbit, offering personalized sleep insights. Though she praises its quality, she questions the need for extra screens, wrapping up with tips on savvy laptop buying.
Nov 11, 2025 • 13min
The Alice Leahy Trust marking its 50th Anniversary
Alice Leahy, founder of the Alice Leahy Trust and a pioneering nurse, reflects on half a century of advocating for marginalized individuals. She discusses her groundbreaking 1974 study highlighting the disconnect between medical professionals and the homeless population. Alice shares how the profile of their clients has evolved, emphasizing challenges like addiction and the impacts of psychiatric institutional closures. She also addresses the persistent issue of homelessness and the necessity for human connection amidst changing official services.
Nov 11, 2025 • 10min
Declan O’ Rourke, Aviva Insurance Ireland CEO
Declan O’Rourke, CEO of Aviva Insurance Ireland, discusses the renewal of Aviva's stadium sponsorship for another five years—marking a 20-year legacy rich in sporting and cultural moments. He explains the strategic importance of this sponsorship for brand recognition and community engagement, while addressing recent trends in motor insurance costs due to claims inflation and modern vehicle technology. Declan also highlights upcoming events at the stadium and Aviva's long-standing commitment to Ireland as they approach a significant milestone.
Nov 11, 2025 • 10min
What can we do to protect our children from bullying?
Rena Maycock, Founder and CEO of Chirp, dives deep into the alarming rise of cyberbullying and its profound impacts on children today. She reveals the darker side of online interactions, including the rise of deepfakes and harmful behaviors that parents should watch for. Rena introduces Chirp, an innovative software designed to detect and block cyberbullying, grooming, and self-harm content. With its focus on child safety without compromising privacy, Chirp aims to intervene early to protect vulnerable youth from the risks associated with the digital world.
Nov 11, 2025 • 6min
Catherine Connolly’s inauguration takes place today in Dublin Castle
Sean Defoe, Newstalk political correspondent and host of 'Let Me Explain,' reports live from Dublin Castle for Catherine Connolly's inauguration as Ireland's first female president. He outlines the ceremony's timeline, speaks about the diverse faith leaders involved, and anticipates community reactions due to Connolly's past views on Israel. The discussion also touches on potential themes for her presidency and the significance of political absences, especially from the DUP, highlighting the sensitive landscape of Irish politics.
Nov 11, 2025 • 11min
The perspective of someone working on the ground in Palestine
Dana Abu Koash, an International Humanitarian Law coordinator with the Palestine Red Crescent Society, shares her firsthand experiences from Ramallah. She outlines the alarming breaches of international humanitarian law in Palestine and the challenges of documenting attacks on healthcare. Dana discusses the need for stronger accountability for crimes in Gaza and the importance of Palestinian-led initiatives for rebuilding trust. She highlights the obstacles her teams face and reflects on the global implications of the ongoing conflict, emphasizing the urgency for international attention.
Nov 11, 2025 • 13min
Over 150 motorists avoided penalty points last year by making a charity donation
Michael Murphy, Chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Transport, discusses the troubling trend of over 150 motorists evading penalty points through charitable donations, despite a 2014 High Court ruling against it. Susan Gray, a road safety advocate, passionately opposes this practice, calling it scandalous and urging for stricter enforcement. They delve into inconsistencies in penalties across counties, the need for judicial accountability, and the implications for public trust in road safety. The conversation highlights the broader implications of using charity as a loophole in the legal system.
Nov 10, 2025 • 14min
Ask The Expert: Consultant Ophthalmologist Arthur Cummins
Arthur Cummins, a Consultant Ophthalmologist at Wellington Eye Clinic, sheds light on the crucial need for regular eye exams, highlighting their role in early disease detection. He discusses the fascinating application of AI in diagnosing diabetic retinopathy and explains the full scope of what an eye exam entails. Arthur also addresses emerging concerns about weight-loss injections and their implications on eye health, and offers tips on managing conditions like blepharitis and chronic optic neuropathy.
Nov 10, 2025 • 11min
What to see and do if you visit Newfoundland
Pól Ó Conghaile, Travel Editor for the Irish Independent, explores the enchanting allure of Newfoundland, where Irish heritage runs deep. He highlights direct flights from Dublin, perfect for a unique getaway. Pól shares captivating tales of Iceberg Alley, vibrant wildlife, and how isolated communities have preserved Irish culture. From local accents on the Irish Loop to the rich culinary scene with dishes like moose stew, and memorable experiences at Fogo Island, he paints Newfoundland as a charming destination worth visiting.
Nov 10, 2025 • 8min
What are the difficulties of working in a family business?
Stephanie Regan, a clinical psychotherapist and co-host of the Tough Love podcast, dives into the complexities of working in family businesses. She discusses how blurred boundaries and role confusion can create conflict at home and work. The conversation highlights trust issues and sibling rivalry, alongside the unique benefits of shared values and quick decision-making. Stephanie advises setting clear job descriptions and establishing boundaries to separate family life from business to protect relationships. It’s a balancing act full of challenges and rewards.
