Brendan O'Connor

Podcaster Kelly Earley talks to Brendan about why Gen Z are choosing to shop on Tik Tok, being scam-aware and what the trend means for traditional online shopping.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vivienne Bailey paints a picture of her relationship with the late poet Pat Ingoldsby, appreciating his observant nature, living with the irascible artistic temperament and her goal to have Pat’s final book published.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pop idol Jason Donovan takes Brendan through his life in five songs, the soundtrack to his days in the Stock Aitken and Waterman ‘Hit Factory’ and his second act as a musical theatre star. He talks about the impact early fame in Neighbours had on his life, his struggles with addiction and finding refuge and revelation on the stage.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In light of the cancellation of Late Night with Stephen Colbert on CBS in the US, Dave Hanratty, Host of the No Encore podcast, brings us through some of the most memorable American late night television shows, and the reasons why audiences just aren’t watching anymore.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joining Brendan to digest the Sunday papers are; Political Correspondent, Sarah McGuinness, Chief Economist with Deloitte Ireland, Kate English, Former Irish Ambassador to the UK and the EU, Bobby McDonagh, and Sunday Independent Columnist and Former Head of the Housing Agency, Conor Skehan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Sabina Brennan talks to Brendan about caring for her mother when she was diagnosed with dementia, and how it might help others in understanding loved ones with a diagnosis of a similar condition. She charts her experience in her new book, ‘Still Me: A neuroscientist's guide to caring for someone with dementia'.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fionnuala Jones, Podcaster and Presenter Donald Clarke, Chief film Correspondent for The Irish Times join Brendan to give some of their recommendations for what to watch on the big and small screen this week.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Comedian Alison Spittle has a new show, ‘Big’, that she’s bringing to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and is based on her own weight loss journey using prescription injections. She explores her relationship with her body going back to childhood and how she navigates people’s reactions to her weight.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Richard Hogan, a psychotherapist specializing in emotional well-being, dives deep into the loneliness epidemic affecting today’s society. He reveals alarming stats, such as teenage girls being the loneliest demographic. The conversation spans the roots of loneliness, notably its toll on children, and the importance of fostering connections. Richard also discusses the role of social skills in a digital age and emphasizes community engagement as a remedy for isolation, especially among teens. Expect insights on navigating modern relationships and combating the stigma around loneliness.

This week, John Lowe, known as The Money Doctor and a financial advisor, shares valuable insights on navigating summer expenses. He discusses the rising costs of holidays, groceries, and entertainment, emphasizing the need for budgeting. John suggests creative ways to boost income and cut down on expenses through side hustles and free resources. Families will appreciate his tips on budget-friendly summer activities that promote fun without breaking the bank. With John's smart strategies, managing finances during back-to-school season becomes less daunting!