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 21, 2025 • 12min
What are stablecoins?
You’re likely to have frequently heard of the cryptocurrency bitcoin in the past number of years…but what about ‘stablecoins’? Aave is the world’s largest decentralised finance lending network and has just received a license from the central bank to trade here and across Europe. Tech Editor with The Irish Independent Adrian Weckler explains.
Nov 21, 2025 • 15min
The tense relationship between American Presidents and the press
In light of Trump's alarming increase in personal attacks on journalists. Newstalk's Simon Tierney takes a look at the tense relationship between American Presidents and the press...
Nov 21, 2025 • 9min
One person has died after a small plane crash near Tramore
One person has died after a small plane crash near Tramore in Co Waterford yesterday. A garda spokesperson said the victim was the sole occupant of the light aircraft. We discuss this further with Kevin Byrne, Lieutenant Colonel Retired and Airport Safety and Security Auditor
Nov 20, 2025 • 9min
Boxed features: All Her Fault"
John Fardy, a film and TV presenter known for his engaging reviews, dives into the gritty depths of the new thriller series 'All Her Fault.' He shares initial reactions, highlighting the chilling missing-child premise that taps into parental fears. Fardy praises Sarah Snook's performance and discusses the complex themes of working mothers and societal blame. The conversation also touches on class dynamics and the portrayal of Latino nannies, revealing how the show resonates with contemporary issues while being adapted from Andrea Mara's novel.
Nov 20, 2025 • 11min
Mary, Lady Heath the first true female trailblazer in aviation
Cameron Hill, a sports journalist and contributor from Off The Ball, delves into the incredible life of Mary, Lady Heath, the pioneering female aviator. Hill recounts Heath's traumatic childhood in Limerick and her remarkable achievements in sports. She excelled as an athlete and advocate for women's sports, all while facing sexism in aviation. Hear about her groundbreaking solo flight from South Africa and the tragic decline that followed. Hill also reveals how Heath inspired Amelia Earhart, spotlighting her as a true trailblazer often overlooked in history.
Nov 20, 2025 • 9min
Are kids better off being looked after at home or in afterschool care?
Stella O'Malley, a psychotherapist and author, joins to discuss intriguing research on after-school care and child development. She highlights how structured care can enhance reading skills and sports participation compared to staying at home. Stella contrasts the warmth of familial care with the professionalism of child care and warns about the negative impact of excessive screen time on social skills. They also explore socioeconomic factors influencing childcare choices and suggest a potential backlash against device-heavy childhoods.
Nov 20, 2025 • 18min
Lee and Andrew Child on their new book 'Exit Strategy
Lee Child, the bestselling author behind the iconic Jack Reacher, joins forces with his brother Andrew Child, a novelist and co-author, to discuss their collaboration on the latest thriller. They reveal how living across states shapes their writing process, with Andrew doing most of the typing while they brainstorm ideas. The brothers delve into Reacher's cultural impact, casting in adaptations, and how their own childhood experiences inform the character. They also highlight Reacher’s empathy for veterans and the fascinating plot of their new book, 'Exit Strategy'.
Nov 20, 2025 • 10min
Will AI actually make us less smart?
Professor Luke O'Neill, a renowned expert in biochemistry and immunology at Trinity College Dublin, delves into a thought-provoking MIT study revealing that AI may diminish students' cognitive abilities. He discusses how AI impacts creativity, attention, and the ability to defend one’s work. Luke highlights trends showing reduced critical thinking in workplaces reliant on AI. Their discussion also covers the historical fears of technology affecting cognition and suggests that while AI can aid in routine tasks, it may lead to detrimental dependence and laziness.
Nov 20, 2025 • 13min
A Russian spy ship is on course for Irish waters
Conor Gallagher, a Crime and Security correspondent for The Irish Times, and Retired Commander Caoimhin MacUnfraidh, a naval expert with 29 years of service, discuss the impending arrival of the Russian spy ship Antar. They explore its suspected role in undersea surveillance disguised as research and the vulnerabilities of Ireland's undersea cables. The guests debate Ireland's limited naval capabilities and the potential for increased UK engagement due to provocative actions by the Antar, while emphasizing the need for investment in defense to ensure national sovereignty.
Nov 20, 2025 • 6min
We hear about the new digital product passport
Jo Linehan, a climate journalist and sustainability expert, dives into the challenging world of sustainable fashion. She discusses the EU's new Digital Product Passport, which aims to help consumers trace garment origins via QR codes. Linehan highlights the dangers of greenwashing and shares insights from a study on eco-labels that simplify shopping decisions. She also emphasizes the certification value of Oeko-Tex and the potential impact of the passport on retail practices, noting its gradual rollout and implications for small suppliers.
