Lunchtime Live

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan is joined by performance coach John Belton and renovation expert Kate O'Driscoll for a discussion on creating an effective home gym. The experts provide practical advice on transforming multifunctional spaces like spare rooms, garages, or even sheds into workout areas without needing a massive budget or excessive square footage. The conversation covers essential considerations such as floor reinforcement, ceiling height for barbell clearance, and the importance of ventilation and lighting. The guests also discuss equipment recommendations, ranging from minimal setups with kettlebells and adjustable dumbbells to more advanced options like folding treadmills and interactive exercise bikes. Practical tips on sourcing secondhand commercial equipment and managing space in small homes are also shared.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan interviews Anne, a woman struggling to reclaim her late husband's taxi plate following his sudden passing. Anne describes the bureaucratic hurdles and strict nine-month deadline that resulted in her taxi licence being declared invalid, despite her attempts to finalize the paperwork while grieving. The discussion explores the impact of administrative red tape on families and highlights broader issues within the taxi industry regarding licence transfers and deregulation. The conversation touches upon the financial significance of the taxi plate, which was purchased via a second mortgage, and the lack of recourse available through the NTA or political representatives. The programme also features feedback from other taxi drivers who share similar grievances regarding the difficulty of inheriting plates from retiring or deceased family members.

Newstalk's Lunchtime Live features a debate on potential rule changes in GAA football, including the introduction of a four-point goal and video refereeing. Guests discuss whether recent adjustments, such as the two-pointer, have improved the game's intensity or diluted the impact of traditional goals. The conversation also explores the implementation of technology like goal-line decision making and concludes with predictions for the upcoming match between Kerry and Mayo.

Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan provides an in-depth report on the ongoing wildfire at Slievenamon in County Tipperary. The program features live reporting from Jamie O'Hara at the scene, detailing the multi-agency response involving local fire crews, helicopters, and even local contractors using slurry tankers to combat the blaze. The episode includes perspectives from residents like Billy Tobin, who describes the stress of the fire approaching homes, and officials from Quilcro regarding containment efforts in forest plantations. Discussions also cover the environmental implications of the fire, including the risks posed by peat burning underground, the impact of climate change on extreme weather events, and the urgent need for a long-term multi-agency prevention plan to protect local wildlife and property.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan welcomes Alan Buckley from the Irish Rock and Roll Museum to explore the legendary career of Aretha Franklin. The discussion delves into Franklin's complex personal history, including her upbringing in Memphis, Tennessee, as the daughter of a prominent preacher, and the early hardships that shaped her life. Buckley highlights key milestones in Franklin's musical journey, from her gospel roots to her emergence as a global soul icon. Through a selection of landmark songs like 'I Say a Little Prayer', 'Natural Woman', and 'Respect', the conversation examines her immense vocal talent, her connection to the civil rights movement, and her enduring legacy as one of the greatest singers in music history.

An episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan discussing the ongoing national debate regarding e-scooter bans and safety regulations in Ireland. The program features an interview with Chloe Palmer from County Kerry, whose six-year-old son Nathan suffered a fractured skull following a head-on collision with an e-scooter while riding his bicycle on a footpath. The discussion covers recent Garda seizure statistics, the potential for age restrictions on e-scooter use, and the challenges of enforcing safety measures like high-visibility clothing and helmets.

Host Andrea Gilligan hosts a discussion on body image and the psychological impact of self-criticism, featuring social media creator Grace Mongie, comedian Riona O'Connor, and clinical psychologist Dr. Mally Coyne. The conversation explores the anxiety surrounding wearing swimwear in public, the influence of social media filters on perceived reality, and the importance of practicing self-compassion. The panel discusses strategies for combating the 'inner critic,' such as using positive affirmations and reframing internal dialogue to be as kind as one would be to a child or friend. The episode touches upon how external cultural pressures and evolutionary biology contribute to body dissatisfaction and the struggle to accept physical changes like stretch marks and aging.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan, Sullivan shares news regarding private islands for sale around Ireland, including properties in County Mayo, Donegal, and Tipperary. The discussion covers the costs and logistics of island living, ranging from a 10-acre property in Clew Bay to lakefront homes in Tipperary. The program also explores recent research on morning routines, noting that a shower and coffee are considered ideal by some, while many people stick to repetitive habits. Additional segments touch upon the search for new cast members for Gogglebox Ireland, camping trends among Gen Z, and the confirmed return of the series Kin to RTÉ screens.

This episode explores the decline of taxi services across 23 Irish counties, focusing on the severe impact on rural residents who face high costs and extreme difficulty finding transport. The discussion highlights how rising insurance premiums, expensive vehicle costs, and strict licensing regulations are driving drivers out of the industry. The conversation further examines the financial pressures facing drivers, including fuel prices and vehicle age requirements, while contrasting the overabundance of taxis in Dublin with the critical shortages in rural areas. Participants also debate the legal and insurance barriers preventing platforms like Uber from operating in Ireland.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan interviews Professor Shane Higgins, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist from the National Maternity Hospital. The discussion focuses on the vital role partners play during pregnancy, labour, and the postpartum period. Professor Higgins emphasizes that partners serve as essential advocates, providing physical, emotional, and psychological support. He encourages partners to be active participants in antenatal visits and classes, and highlights the importance of asking questions to ensure a positive birthing experience. The conversation also addresses practical concerns such as managing fatigue during pregnancy, supporting new mothers in the first weeks after birth, and navigating medical uncertainties.

This episode explores the Spanish government's proposal to ban smoking and vaping in outdoor public spaces, such as parks and beaches. Guests discuss the personal benefits of previous smoking bans and the effectiveness of strict tobacco regulations, while also addressing the difficulties of enforcing vaping bans in shared areas. The conversation extends to broader societal concerns, including the challenges pub owners face when policing indoor vaping and the impact of government infringements on personal freedoms. The discussion also examines how shifts in social habits, such as increased mobile phone use, have contributed to the decline of pub culture and diminished social interaction.

Brian Warfield of The Wolf Tones joins Andrea Gilligan to discuss his new musical, Celtic Exodus. Described as the Irish Les Misérables, the production explores the history of the Great Famine through a romantic lens involving two feuding families, the Macdonalds and the Buckleys. The show features approximately 20 pieces of music and aims to tell an authentic Irish story that Warfield felt was missing from the musical theatre landscape. Warfield shares the personal stakes involved in bringing this passion project to life, revealing that he sold a holiday home to self-fund the production due to a lack of external investment or government support. The musical is set to run for four weeks at the Round Room in the Mansion House, opening on July 22nd.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, Dara Cassidy from bonkers.ie discusses the rising energy and fuel costs driven by increasing oil prices and potential carbon tax hikes. He provides expert advice on utility switching, addressing listener queries regarding loyalty discounts, smart meter benefits, and the process for renters to find better deals. The segment also covers various listener questions regarding smart meters, including the resolution of a recent billing error and the benefits of night rates for EV owners. Additionally, the discussion touches on the future rollout of gas smart meters, contract switching fees, and the availability of 24-hour standard tariffs.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan interviews Dr. Primrose Freestone, an Associate Professor in Clinical Microbiology at the University of Leicester, regarding the hygiene risks associated with mobile phones. The discussion explores how smartphones can accumulate bacteria, viruses, and fungi from various surfaces, including hands, food, and even toilet environments. Dr. Freestone provides practical advice on preventing infections, such as using antiseptic wipes daily and avoiding phone use in the bathroom to prevent exposure to microscopic particles.

Residents of Rock Chapel in North County Cork are facing a prolonged water crisis due to dangerously high levels of manganese in their supply. For nearly a year, a 'do not consume' notice has been in effect for three households, preventing the use of tap water for drinking, cooking, or even brushing teeth. While Irish Water provides weekly deliveries of bottled water, the affected residents express deep frustration over the lack of a long-term solution and the health risks associated with manganese exposure. The episode features interviews with affected residents Nolene Quinn and Mairead, alongside local Fine Gael TD John Paul O'Shea. The discussion covers the rising levels of manganese detected in recent tests, the logistical difficulties of living without running water, and the proposed plan to connect the households to the nearby village's water supply. The conversation highlights the ongoing struggle for clarity and funding to resolve this localized utility failure.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan interviews Kevin Hussey, the newly elected Mayor of Longford. Hussey shares his personal journey from struggling with severe dyslexia in school to finding success as a business owner, DJ, and local political leader. He discusses the challenges of learning difficulties, the pivotal role played by supportive figures like his mother and Sister Benedict, and the moment of encouragement from his grandfather that led him to pursue politics. The conversation touches on the importance of early intervention in education and how Hussey's deep roots in the Longford community through charity work and the arts provided a foundation for his public service. His story serves as an illustration of overcoming academic obstacles through perseverance and community support.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, Katie Gallagher from Spins joins Andrea Gilligan to share a curated list of entertainment recommendations for the week. The discussion covers Christopher Nolan's epic new film The Odyssey, highlighting its massive cast including Matt Damon and Anne Hathaway, and the Netflix comedy series The Hawk, starring Will Ferrell. Additionally, they discuss the captivating true crime podcast Love Trapped, which investigates a paternity scandal involving a former Bachelor star, and preview the upcoming Paddy Pirate Comedy Festival in Dublin's Ivy Gardens.

Model Sarah Morrissey, singer Mary Byrne, and solicitor/comedian Justine Halpin discuss the persistent classism and derogatory comments they have faced regarding their accents over their careers. The discussion explores how individuals often feel the need to mask their natural identities to avoid societal prejudice. A panel of guests further examines the pervasive issue of social profiling in Ireland, specifically how accents and educational backgrounds influence perceptions of intelligence and character. Contributors share personal experiences of being judged or facing professional stigma due to their working-class roots.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan is joined by consultant trauma and orthopaedic surgeon Porrick O'Loughlin to discuss recent medical developments and answer listener queries. The conversation begins with an analysis of new proposed regulations for e-scooters, including age bans and mandatory safety gear, viewed through the lens of preventing traumatic brain injuries. The discussion shifts to common orthopedic concerns, specifically regarding hip and knee replacements. Dr. O'Loughlin addresses the fear surrounding surgery, emphasizing holistic management and non-surgical options for joint wear. The episode also covers recovery timelines for major procedures, managing arthritis in younger populations, and the evolving surgical approach to age-related joint issues.

Love Island standout Sean Fitzgerald, known as Fitzy, joins Andrea Gilligan on Newstalk to discuss his recent experience in the villa and his return to Ireland. The interview covers his transition back to normality, the intensity of life without a sense of time, and the reality of being filmed versus how contestants are portrayed on television. Fitzgerald also addresses the drama involving fellow islanders Lola and Julia, his thoughts on public perception regarding his profession as a primary school teacher, and his future plans with Lola. The conversation concludes with his predictions for the winners of the current season and his reflections on the heightened emotions experienced during the show.

This episode features personal stories from listeners Catherine and Andy, whose routine mole checks led to significant medical discoveries, including a rare breast disorder and the identification of suspicious skin cells. Dr. David Buckley joins the discussion to explain clinical indicators like the 'ugly duckling sign' and how dermatoscopes assist in differentiating between harmless and high-risk moles. The discussion also covers the utility of dermatoscopes in diagnosis and the importance of GP assessments for urgent referrals. The episode clarifies the distinction between a standard mole check and the more intensive, high-resource process of mole mapping.

On Newstalk's Lunchtime Live, Andrea Gilligan hosts representatives from Widowed and Bereaved Partners Ireland (WBPI) to discuss the bureaucratic hurdles faced by widowed parents during passport renewals for their children. The guests detail the requirement to provide a notarized affidavit and death certificates for every single renewal application until the child reaches 18, a process they argue is repetitive, costly, and emotionally taxing. The discussion highlights the lack of distinction made by the passport office between different types of single parenthood and the absence of modern digital solutions to store verified information. The campaigners call for a system based on trust and one-time verification, similar to processes used in other European countries, to alleviate the administrative burden on bereaved families.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, Paul Merriman discusses the complexities and burdens of inheritance tax in Ireland. He covers various tax thresholds for different family members, potential tax-planning strategies like Section 72 policies and small gift exemptions, and addresses listener questions regarding property and assets. The discussion also explores the tax implications of inheriting property and rental income, the difficulties of managing prize bonds not included in a will, and the potential benefits of using trusts and small gift exemptions to manage estate liabilities.

A passenger named Blaze describes a chaotic and distressing flight from Dublin to Ibiza involving intoxicated, disruptive passengers. The segment details incidents of verbal harassment, inappropriate behavior in the aircraft lavatory, and the eventual arrival of police and paramedics at the destination. The discussion covers issues of passenger misconduct and the impact such behavior has on travelers' holidays, followed by Ryanair's official response and other listeners' shared experiences regarding the notorious nature of Ibiza flights.