The Hard Shoulder
Newstalk
The Hard Shoulder on Newstalk. Join us 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. 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
Sep 25, 2025 • 6min
NASA is returning to the moon!
“Thats one small step for Man one giant leap for Mankind”...We may hear those words again in the coming years as yesterday Nasa announced its first crewed mission to the moon in 50 years is to take place next February, as they prepare for another lunar landing as early as 2027.Joining Kieran to discuss is Leo Enright, Space Commentator and former Chairman of the Irish Government’s Science Awareness Program.
Sep 24, 2025 • 9min
Will Budget 2026 tackle energy prices?
Budget day is almost upon us, and it’s once again in the shadow of the high cost-of-living...A big part of that is energy prices, and many providers have announced hikes, which for many will kick in next week. Is there any hope for a reduction in costs?Joining Kieran to discuss this more is Darragh Cassidy, Head of Communications at Bonkers.ie.
Sep 24, 2025 • 8min
Is Freedom of the City the best Dublin can award?
Former US President Barack Obama is to be awarded the Freedom of Dublin tomorrow. What does this mean, and should there be a new award?Joining Kieran to discuss is Irish Times journalist and Historian, Ronan McGreevy.
Sep 24, 2025 • 10min
Tech Takeover: Technology in the NFL
For this week’s Tech Takeover, Jess Kelly, Newstalk’s Technology Correspondent joins Kieran ahead of the big Dublin NFL game to talk about some of the unique technology used in the sporting organisation.Image: NFL Football Operations
Sep 24, 2025 • 16min
Ryder Cup preview with Pádraig Harrington
Europe and the US will face off against each other in just two days as the Ryder Cup returns.The Americans will be keen to reclaim the cup after the Europeans won out last time…Joining Kieran to look ahead to it all is Irish golfing legend and member of 6 Ryder cup teams, Pádraig Harrington.
Sep 24, 2025 • 8min
Traitors Ireland is a huge success! - Henry McKean Reports
Traitors Ireland is the most successful RTÉ programme since Love/Hate getting Late Late Toy Show ratings. Henry McKean met Traitors and Faithfuls at The Traitors Finale Watch Party, and sends in this report!
Sep 24, 2025 • 12min
Maria Steen fails to get enough backing to run for President
Maria Steen has failed in her attempt to be a presidential candidate in the coming election…Receiving 18 votes of support from Oireachtas members out of 20 ,she narrowly missed the mark.Joining Kieran with the latest and to discuss is Pat Leahy, Political Editor with the Irish Times and Peadar Tóbín, TD for Meath West and Aontú Leader.
Sep 24, 2025 • 7min
Is strong legislation needed on vaping?
Legislation is being discussed in the Dáil on the restriction of vape products.To talk more about this issue and the impact it’s having on young people, Kieran is joined by Consultant in Paediatric Respiratory Medicine at CHI Crumlin & member of the Irish Thoracic Society Council, Professor Des Cox.
Sep 24, 2025 • 11min
Should you use a smart watch to track your child?
Should we be tracking our kids, or are things like Xplora watches simply another way to helicopter parent?Joining Kieran to discuss is Mary McCarthy, Columnist with The Irish Independent and Ciara O’Brien, Business and Tech Journalist with The Irish Times.Image: Xplora
Sep 24, 2025 • 10min
The Ultimate Guide: Winter Getaways
Every week for The Ultimate Guide on The Hard Shoulder, Fionn Davenport takes a closer look at some of the fantastic destinations to visit around the world.This week, Fionn joined Kieran to give his recommendations for a winter getaway!
