Brendan O'Connor

Pastry chef Shane Smith has make-at-home recipes to replicate classic biscuits like Fig Rolls, Mikados and a simple recipe for a Bounty taste-a-like.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Actor and playwright Emmet Kirwan picks five songs that have meant something special to him throughout his life from The Housemartins to Dee-Lite to The Pharcyde. He also talks about his new play ‘The Leap’ and why he’s eschewing streaming music in favour of the beauty of the physical CD.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The podcast dives into the resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner over a stamp duty scandal and the ensuing chaos in the UK political landscape. Nigel Farage strategically shifts the media’s attention to his agenda during a Reform UK conference. The discussion highlights the transformation of the conference into a professional event and raises questions about Rayner's polarizing presence in politics. Additionally, the Labour Party faces internal challenges as it navigates pressures from both sides, with crucial elections ahead.

Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson unveiled his slimmed-down physique at the Venice Film Festival this week as he promoted his new MMA film ‘The Smashing Machine’. Many say the highest-paid actor in the world is hoping for an Oscar with his latest movie and Dave Hanratty, host of the ‘No Encore’ podcast, suggests he might have an eye on the White House too,See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Annmarie O'Connor, the Irish Examiner Fashion Editor and author of 'Twitch', opens up about her journey with early-onset Parkinson's. She explores the emotional rollercoaster following her diagnosis, tackling denial and acceptance. Annmarie emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and community support in navigating relationships and finding joy amidst challenges. Reflecting on her experiences, she shares insights on resilience, positivity, and the need to adapt to life with Parkinson’s, while also thinking about future possibilities.

Hollywood legend Alicia Silverstone tells Brendan about filming her new series ‘Irish Blood’ in Ireland, why she loves Dalkey, what ‘doing the deep work’ means for her and reflects on the iconic 90s film ‘Clueless’ on its 30 year anniversary and how she’s trying to get its sequel off the ground.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Tony Bates, a Clinical Psychologist, shares profound insights on the weight of secrets in our lives. He emphasizes that recognizing our repressed feelings can lead to significant personal growth. The discussion explores how family secrets and the shame of confession can hinder emotional well-being. Vulnerability emerges as a powerful tool for connection and healing. Bates likens the journey to home decoration, highlighting the importance of being honest about our imperfections to foster deeper relationships.

Joining Brendan to discuss the Sunday papers this week are Professor Alan Barrett, Research Professor at the ESRI, Liz Carolan Publisher of thebriefing.ie, and Political Scientist, Oisín Coghlan, Public Policy Analyst, Mary Regan, Political Editor with the Irish Independent and Sunday IndependentSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

South Park has started its 27th season with a bang: with its most controversial and divisive episode yet including a photographic representation of President Donald Trump, Satan and the end of 'woke'. Why is an animated series that is almost 30 years old the lone voice of decent? Writer Sarah Maria Griffin explains.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

RTÉ Guide Movies Editor, Michael Doherty and Freelance Culture Journalist, Zara Hedderman give Brendan their recommendations for the best TV and films to watch for the week ahead.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.