

The Hard Shoulder
Newstalk
The Hard Shoulder with Kieran Cuddihy on Newstalk. Join Kieran every weekday afternoon from 4-7pm for a round-up of the day’s events, interviews with the people at the centre of the stories – and a bit of craic along the way. Listen and subscribe to The Hard Shoulder 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

Jul 28, 2025 • 22min
How much has the EU lost in new US tariff deal?
As you will have heard in the news headlines today, the European Union and United States have agreed a deal that will lock in tariffs of 15% on most EU imports to the US, preventing the prospect of a trade war.But, has the EU lost too much in this deal?Joining guest host Mandy Johnston to discuss is Emma Howard, Economist in TU Dublin, Danny McCoy, CEO of IBEC and Fine Gael MEP Regina Doherty.

Jul 28, 2025 • 8min
The best (and worst) TV comebacks
Line of Duty star Adrian Dunbar has said the show is poised to return next year after being left “frustrated” by the finale.This comes after fans were left somewhat disappointed following the finale of the show back in 2021.This begs the question, can Line of Duty director Jed Mercurio rewrite the wrongs of a failed ending?Joining guest host Mandy Johnston to discuss this and more is Editor of Geek.ie, Olivia Fahy.Image: BBC

Jul 28, 2025 • 15min
Will aid drops do anything for Gaza?
The hunger crisis facing Palestinians has been high on the agenda in talks between the British Prime Minister and Donald Trump in Scotland today.It’s as Israel allows foreign countries to parachute aid packages in.So, what is happening, and what’s next in addressing the crisis?Gershon Baskin is a Hostage Negotiator and the Middle East Director for the International Communities Organization, a UK-based NGO. He joins guest host Mandy Johnston to discuss.

Jul 28, 2025 • 15min
Should the Obamas get Freedom of the City?
Former US President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle have been invited to accept the Freedom of the City of Dublin when they visit the capital in September.The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Ray McAdam, said the couple had received the city's highest civic honor in February 2017 by Dublin City Council, however they have not yet had the opportunity to formally accept it.Is now the right time to receive this award? And should they get it at all?Joining guest host Mandy Johnston to discuss this and more is Eddie Punch from the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers Association and Law Lecturer from the University of Galway & Columnist with The Journal, Larry Donnelly.

Jul 25, 2025 • 27min
Winners and Sinners
This week, Kieran Cuddihy was joined by the presenter of Weekend Breakfast on Today FM, Alison Curtis and Off the Ball’s Ger Gilroy to look back on the week that was, but with a few twists…

Jul 25, 2025 • 12min
You Are What You Eat: Pork
Aisling Larkin, Mindful Eating Coach and TV Chef joins Kieran Cuddihy to discuss pork, and how you can use and enjoy it!

Jul 25, 2025 • 10min
"They got my Dad" excitement is building in the Kingdom ahead of All-Ireland final
Excitement is building across the country as Kerry prepare to take on Donegal on Sunday.The Kingdom will be looking to secure their 39th All-Ireland title, while Jim McGuinness has built up confidence in Donegal.Newstalk reporter Josh Crosbie has been around the county to hear how fans are feeling ahead of Sunday.

Jul 25, 2025 • 7min
Sport with Eoin Sheahan
Off The Ball's Eoin Sheahan joined Kieran Cuddihy on The Hard Shoulder to review the week in sport and look ahead to the weekend action, including the All-Ireland Football Final.

Jul 25, 2025 • 14min
Protest in Tallaght over attacks on Indian community
A silent vigil has been held outside the Department of Justice by members of the Indian community in response to a man who was brutally attacked in Tallaght.Newstalk Reporter Barry Whyte joins Kieran with the latest updates.

Jul 25, 2025 • 7min
All-Ireland Football Final - who will win?
The All-Ireland Football Final is this Sunday, Donegal taking on Kerry in Croke Park.So, who will come out on top?Former Kerry All-Ireland winner Killian Burns and Donegal legend Brian McEniff join Kieran to discuss.