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
Aug 12, 2025 • 14min
The political situation in Haiti told by a kidnapping survivor
The kidnapping of Gena Heraty in Haiti has garnered international attention in recent days. However, American aid worker Jeff Frazier, who was kidnapped in Haiti in 2023, claims this was a ‘misstep’ that may work against Heraty. He instead recommends a secretive approach to negotiation. He joins us to discuss this, as well as the political situation in Haiti and his experience of his own kidnapping.
Aug 12, 2025 • 8min
The importance of sun protection on your skin
As the sun returns, the podcast highlights the critical need for sun protection to combat rising skin cancer risks. Personal stories reveal the life-altering impact of melanoma, with one guest sharing her journey through diagnosis and treatment. The emotional and physical challenges she faced underline the importance of being vigilant about skin care. Listeners are urged to prioritize sun protection regardless of the weather and to be aware of the dangers lurking even on cloudy days.
Aug 12, 2025 • 16min
Trump takes over the Washington DC police department
Donald Trump yesterday announced that he was putting Washington DC’s police department under federal control and deploying the National Guard to combat a wave of crime despite statistics showing violent crime falling. We discuss this and more with Larry Donnelly Law Lecturer at the University of Galway and Columnist with The Journal.
Aug 12, 2025 • 10min
How west bank teachers are managing to educate children in Gaza
Despite over 90% of educational institutions in Gaza having been destroyed since the start of Israel’s war in the territory, teachers in the Occupied West Bank are finding ways to educate Gazans remotely. Sally Hayden, Irish Times Correspondent brings us the details.
Aug 12, 2025 • 14min
Irish novelist Ciara Geraghty on her new book!
Ciara Geraghty began writing at the age of 34 when she had two young children at home and was working in insurance. Now the bestselling Irish novelist is on her tenth book, Late Learner, which is published by HarperCollins. Ciara joined Pat in studio this morning.
Aug 12, 2025 • 16min
Gardai warn about rising incidents of rental scams in the student market
Every years issues around student accommodation shortages are raised. On top of high rents and limited supply, Gardai have now issued a warning about rising incidents of rental scams in the student market. Our reporter Jessica Woodlock has been looking into this.
Aug 11, 2025 • 11min
Ask The Expert: On drafting a will
Joined by John Costello, a Solicitor at Noble Law Solicitors and former President of The Law Society of Ireland, the discussion dives into the complexities of drafting a will. He highlights the importance of preparation to avoid complications for loved ones. Topics include inheritance rights, potential disputes, and the significance of independent witnesses. The conversation also touches on inheritance tax issues for non-traditional families, emphasizing fairer estate taxation reforms and the emotional aspects of asset distribution.
Aug 11, 2025 • 10min
Best-selling author Lynda La Plante
Best-selling author Lynda La Plante has written dozens of books and screenplays, including the award-winning prime suspect. Her latest, The Scene of the Crime, was released last month. Lynda chatted to Pat about her new book.
Aug 11, 2025 • 7min
Travel: What to do and see in Mallorca
Pól O’Conghaile Travel Editor at the Irish Independent has just returned from Mallorca and he brings us tips and what to do and see there.All with thanks to Ryanair.
Aug 11, 2025 • 18min
What matters in the Presidential campaign
With the October presidential election looming large, what really makes a good campaign? From finance to face, what does the Irish electorate value in a candidate? In a rapidly changing political landscape, what really counts when it comes to the campaign? Is money needed to succeed? How important is personal image in the race for the Áras? All to discuss with Eoin O’Malley, Professor of Politics at DCU on political spending and also Barry McLoughlin Head of Client Engagement at the Communications Clinic.
