The Pat Kenny Show

Arts journalist Pat Carty joins The Pat Kenny Show to reflect on the 50-year career of the iconic Irish band U2. The discussion traces the band's evolution from their early days in Mount Temple, playing covers out of necessity, through their massive global breakthrough with The Joshua Tree and the experimental era of Achtung Baby. The conversation explores the band's consistent ability to reinvent themselves, their legendary live performances like Live Aid, and the enduring impact of their hits on both Irish and global audiences.

Historian Michael Barry joins Pat Kenny to discuss his new book, Catalpa, which chronicles the 150th anniversary of the audacious rescue of six Fenian prisoners from Western Australia. The escape involved a complex international conspiracy led by John Devoy in New York, involving the procurement of a whaling ship and an undercover agent to facilitate the prison break. The narrative details the high-stakes maritime pursuit by the British vessel Georgette and the eventual successful evasion through the use of the American flag. The episode concludes with the legacy of the escapees, who settled in America and became part of enduring Irish-American folklore.

This episode explores the intense controversy surrounding the Ireland national football team's decision to play a match against Israel in Hungary. Reporter Aidan Fitzmaurice details the internal division within the squad following a vote, the impact of social media pressure on young players, and the perceived leadership failure by the FAI. The discussion further examines the tension surrounding the squad's presence in Hungary amidst political sensitivities regarding Israel and Palestine. The segment highlights the difference in political awareness between players raised in Ireland versus those from England, the absence of Irish fans at the game, and the potential for provocative pre-match protocols such as refusing handshakes.

Raluca Sakunu, CEO of Smart Reach 247, joins The Pat Kenny Show to discuss the escalating cybersecurity threats posed by artificial intelligence. The discussion covers recent high-profile data breaches, including incidents involving the Australian government and OpenAI, highlighting how generative AI is accelerating attacks through autonomous tasks and rogue agents. Sakunu explores the challenges of monitoring AI-driven exploits, the potential for regulatory capture by large tech firms, and the necessity of implementing governance models similar to those found in the aviation and medicine industries.

The panel discusses the controversy surrounding a football match between Ireland and Israel, focusing on player Gavin Bazuna's decision not to participate and debates regarding political responsibility, the FAI, and the effectiveness of boycotting sporting events. The episode also explores international law and double standards in the context of the Gaza conflict. The discussion transitions to live reporting from Garvahi Road regarding a protest standoff, followed by an analysis of Ireland's national budget. The speakers weigh the tension between providing immediate cost-of-living relief and implementing long-term structural changes in housing, childcare, and energy, while also addressing inheritance tax reform.

The Pat Kenney Show explores new research revealing a generational divide in how Irish people perceive aging, specifically the belief among young adults that life's most exciting years end by age 49. Featuring hotelier Frances Brennan and Professor Roseanne Kenny of Trinity College Dublin, the discussion challenges ageist stereotypes and examines the reality of quality of life in later decades. The conversation highlights how retirement can offer newfound freedom and how a positive attitude toward aging can biologically impact longevity.

Host Pat Kenney interviews political analyst Scott Lucas regarding the recent UN General Assembly and the shifting dynamics of global power. The discussion explores Antonio Guterres's concerns over the decline of multilateralism and the rise of individual leaders influencing global crises, including the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. The conversation covers the impact of US foreign policy under Donald Trump, the strategic maneuvers of China to establish an alternative economic system, and the diplomatic tensions surrounding Iran and Israel.

The Pat Kenny Show discusses the Parades Commission's decision to grant the Orange Order permission to march along the Garvagh Road in Portadown for the first time in nearly 30 years. The episode features a debate between Jamie Bryson, legal representative for the Portadown District LOL, and Sinn Féin TD Matt Carthy regarding the implications of this limited parade for community relations in Northern Ireland. Bryson argues that the decision upholds fundamental rights to parade and expresses a willingness for mediation, while Carthy characterizes the Commission's decision as reckless and a threat to the hard-earned peace in the area. The discussion covers the ongoing High Court challenge, the historical context of the Garvagh Road, and the potential for future community tension.

Gerry Devlin from the Dublin Cookery School joins The Pat Kenny Show to discuss seasonal autumn cooking and how to utilize new ingredients like pumpkin, kale, beetroot, and venison. The discussion focuses on transitioning from summer produce to comforting, nutrient-dense foods that align with the changing season. Devlin provides practical culinary advice, including a recipe for a velvety pumpkin soup enhanced with truffle oil and hazelnuts, a slow-cooked venison stew, and an autumn salad featuring celeriac and candied walnuts. The episode also covers a nostalgic apple and blackberry crumble prepared with a unique twist using ginger ale.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, consultant dermatologist Professor Katrina Ryan discusses the physiological changes to skin and hair during perimenopause and menopause. The conversation explores how the significant drop in estrogen levels can lead to a rapid loss of collagen, increased skin dryness, pigmentation issues, and even the onset of adult acne. Professor Ryan provides practical dermatological advice, emphasizing the importance of simple skincare routines involving zinc-containing sunblock and retinoids. The discussion also covers androgen-triggered hair thinning and management strategies for perioral dermatitis, offering medical insights into preventative care and available treatments.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, Professor of Biochemistry Luke O'Neill discusses a massive new analysis involving over 8.8 million people that links ultra-processed food consumption to increased risks of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and premature death. The conversation explores the biological mechanisms behind this link, including systemic inflammation and the disruption of the gut microbiome caused by additives, emulsifiers, and man-made chemicals. The discussion also covers the potential for reversing damage through dietary changes and examines international approaches to food labeling, such as Chile's traffic light system and France's Nutri-Score. The episode concludes with a look at the prevalence of ultra-processed foods in the Irish diet compared to other nations and the socioeconomic challenges, such as poverty, that influence food choices.

The Pat Kenny Show explores the rising costs of the entertainment economy, specifically focusing on the massive price disparity between upcoming Oasis and Fontaines D.C. concerts at Slane. Featuring guest Niall Byrne, the discussion examines the impact of 'Americanized' ticketing practices, such as platinum and tiered pricing, and the strategic use of registration codes to build mailing lists. The conversation also touches upon how inflation, touring costs, and demographic differences drive ticket prices, alongside the economic tension between massive stadium events and the decline of grassroots music venues in Ireland.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, motoring editor Ger Herbert joins the studio to discuss the current landscape of driving in Ireland, focusing on the implications of penalty points and insurance premiums. The conversation explores how driver behavior and technology, such as telematics and speed warnings, impact both young and elderly drivers. The discussion shifts to the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market, highlighting new models from Cupra, Polestar, Mercedes, and Skoda. Herbert provides insights into battery ranges, pricing trends, and the transition from internal combustion engines to electric power, while also touching upon the future of electric commercial vans and potential government budget impacts on fuel excise.

The Pat Kenny Show explores allegations of corruption and controversial business dealings involving the Trump family and their associates across Eastern Europe. Featuring insights from former UN diplomat Gareth Patrick-Kelly, the episode examines Jared Kushner's proposed luxury resort in Albania, which has sparked widespread public protests over environmental concerns and potential money laundering. The discussion also covers a failed hotel development in Belgrade, Serbia, and a suspicious billion-euro gas pipeline contract in Bosnia involving close allies of Donald Trump. Beyond business interests, the program delves into the political implications for European Union integration. The conversation touches upon the glorification of war criminals in Serbia following the funeral of Ratko Mladic and the diplomatic tensions arising from legislative changes that threaten environmental protections and democratic standards in the Balkan region.

In this episode of The Pat Kenney Show, archaeologist Neil Price, chair of archaeology at Uppsala University, discusses his new book, The Sea King and the Sorceress. The conversation explores the complexities of Norse society, moving beyond the popular image of mere raiders to examine a multifaceted culture defined by a lethal trinity of raiding, trading, and trafficking. Price details the extensive reach of Norse seafarers, from the colonization of North America to trade routes extending into Asia and China. The discussion also covers the impact of Norse settlement in Ireland, specifically the development of Viking towns like Dublin, and the cultural blending that created Hiberno-Nrolse populations. The episode touches upon diverse topics including the role of women and sorceresses in Norse religion, the significance of burial rituals, and a scientific look at genetic diversity in Scandinavia, challenging modern myths regarding genetic purity.

This episode examines the first Russian parliamentary elections held since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Featuring BBC journalist Yaroslava Kurehina, the discussion explores the significance of the State Duma elections, the dominance of the United Russia Party, and the impact of unprecedented electronic voting on election integrity. The conversation also covers recent drone attacks on Moscow's infrastructure, fuel shortages, and the limited landscape for political opposition following the removal of the Yabloko party from the ballot. Additionally, the segment analyzes various forms of voter resistance, such as the 'smart voting' initiative and the 'voting for peace' campaign, against the backdrop of a managed democracy.

The hosts review various headlines from Sunday newspapers, covering topics such as a proposed cultural allowance for teens, the expiration of Christy Kinahan's visa in the UAE, and controversies surrounding the British Royal Family. They also discuss infrastructure concerns regarding Metrolink and recent legal stories involving sexual assault allegations and whistleblowers. The discussion extends to potential extradition cases involving false reporting of sexual assault and safety concerns at the Children's Hospital. The episode concludes with a critique of state-funded project management and a debate regarding Ireland's response to international conflicts.

This episode covers major news stories including Donald Trump's announcement to ban specific media outlets from the White House and a report on how US military AI nearly triggered a conflict with China. The discussion also explores a new security agreement regarding Greenland. Additionally, the episode examines various political and social controversies, ranging from Ed Sheeran's tour controversy involving Robert Kraft to allegations of corruption within the Trump family's business interests and the involvement of Russian oligarchs.

Professor of Biochemistry Luke O'Neill discusses a significant biomedical breakthrough regarding the cause of morning sickness and hyperemesis gravidarum. Speaking from a conference in New York, O'Neill explains that the protein GDF-15, produced by the fetus, is responsible for the nausea and vomiting experienced during pregnancy. The discussion covers the evolutionary purpose of this mechanism as a protective response to potential toxins and explores how new clinical trials aim to dial down GDF-15 levels to treat severe cases. The episode also examines the broader implications of this research, including potential applications in reducing chemotherapy-induced nausea and treating cancer-related muscle wasting known as cachexia. Additionally, O'Neill touches upon the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in accelerating drug discovery and enhancing diagnostic accuracy within the field of biochemistry.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, Sky News Middle East correspondent Adam Parsons joins the program to discuss the escalating conflict in Yemen and its global implications. The discussion focuses on the recent territorial gains by the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels along the Red Sea coast, specifically their proximity to the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. The conversation explores the nature of the Houthis as a hybrid political and military organization, their use of asymmetric warfare against Saudi Arabia, and the potential for these disruptions to impact global oil prices and shipping routes. The analysis extends to the geopolitical tensions involving Saudi Arabia, Iran, and the United States. Parsons examines the limitations of high-tech military solutions, such as F-35 fighter jets, against low-cost insurgent tactics like drone strikes and missile launchers. The episode also touches upon the historical coexistence of Zaydi Shia and Sunni populations in Yemen and the broader humanitarian impact of a decade of continuous warfare.

In this segment of The Pat Kenny Show, chef Gareth Mullins shares professional tips and techniques for elevating Italian home cooking through superior ingredient selection and specific preparation methods. The discussion covers three distinct recipes: classic meatballs with a fresh tomato sauce, a homemade basil pesto penne, and an al minuto tagliatelle featuring tiger prawns, baby spinach, and lemon. Mullins emphasizes the importance of using high-quality components like aged Parmesan and extra virgin olive oil. He provides detailed instructions on creating a meatball mixture using a milk-soaked breadcrumb technique, emulsifying pasta sauces with starchy water for a glossy finish, and preparing fresh pesto from scratch to avoid store-bought alternatives.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, physicist Carlo Rovelli discusses his new book, 'On the Equality of All Things'. He explores how modern physics, specifically quantum mechanics and relativity, challenges our traditional perceptions of an objective, fixed reality. Rovelli argues that instead of absolute truths, we experience a perspectival reality where properties exist in relation to other things. The conversation also touches upon the practical implications of quantum mechanics in everyday technology, such as transistors and the blue color of the sky. Rovelli addresses the difficulty of grasping these scientific revolutions, comparing the current struggle to understand quantum phenomena to the historical shift from believing in a flat Earth to accepting a spherical one.

The Pat Kenney Show examines recent revelations from a Primetime Investigates broadcast regarding systemic failures and whistleblowing within An Garda Síochána. The episode details allegations of mismanagement concerning the storage of weapons, the inadequacy of police holsters linked to the death of Garret Noonan, and interference in the protected disclosures process by senior officials. Through an interview with political journalist John Drennan, the program explores the potential political ramifications for current and former Ministers for Justice, as well as the broader culture of accountability within Irish public governance.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, host Pat Kenny interviews BBC Washington correspondent Katrina Perry regarding President Trump's recent visit to Ireland. The discussion covers the motivations behind the President's trip to the Doonbeg golf course, including his relationship with the US Ambassador to Ireland and the political implications of his comments on a unified Ireland. Perry provides insights into the current state of the Republican party ahead of the midterm elections, discussing the 'Trumpalooza' convention in Dallas, shifting approval ratings due to economic pressures, and the internal fractures within the GOP regarding candidates like Ken Paxton. The conversation also explores the enduring but aging nature of Irish-American political influence in Washington.

This episode of The Lyrics The Thing explores the origin story and global ascent of Julie Gold's iconic song, From a Distance. The discussion traces Gold's journey from her beginnings as an HBO secretary to becoming a successful songwriter, highlighting the pivotal moment when a demo reached Nancy Griffith. The narrative covers the song's profound impact on listeners during political conflicts in Northern Ireland, its recording by major artists like Bette Midler and Judy Collins, and its extraordinary reach as a welcome song for astronauts on the Mir space station.

Neste episódio do The Pat Kenney Show, o autor Sebastian Foulkes discute seu novo romance, Farewell to Eden. A obra explora as vidas interconectadas de Philip de Val, um veterano da Segunda Guerra Mundial, e Frances, uma professora de música, em uma narrativa que alterna entre a Inglaterra dos anos 1950 e o período final do Mandato Britânico na Palestina. A conversa aborda temas profundos como crença religiosa, o impacto emocional da música e as complexidades históricas do conflito no Oriente Médio. Foulkes compartilha insights sobre seu processo de escrita, a importância da precisão histórica em cenários de guerra e como as experiências pessoais de seu pai influenciaram a ambientação do livro.

The Pat Kenney Show reviews the weekend's major headlines, focusing heavily on Donald Trump's recent visit to Ireland and his remarks regarding a united Ireland. Host Pat Kenny and guest Mark Hennessy discuss whether Trump's comments are a strategic move for message control ahead of the US midterms and evaluate the current strength of the Irish-American lobby. The program also covers news regarding Anthropic's potential expansion in Dublin, debates surrounding GAA integration, and safety concerns involving fire doors at the Children's Hospital. The discussion extends to broader political themes, including the impact of external messaging on elections, the decline in motorway usage following major accidents, and the ongoing delays in the opening of critical infrastructure. The episode provides a comprehensive overview of current affairs across Irish and international politics, business, and social issues.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, Nevin Maguire discusses his new cookbook, 'One Pan Wins'. The book focuses on creating delicious, satisfying meals using only a single pan, pot, tray, or tin to minimize cleanup. Maguire shares insights into the inspiration behind the book, which came from popular one-pan recipe videos, and explains how the recipes cater to various skill levels and dietary needs. The conversation also covers the evolution of the Irish palate, noting an increased embrace of international spices and flavors. Maguire highlights specific elements of the book, such as 'flavour bombs'—versatile dressings and sauces—and a selection of desserts. He concludes by reflecting on the importance of quality kitchen essentials like a good skillet pan and the seamless nature of life and work near the Irish border.

The Pat Kenney Show explores the intense atmosphere at Trump Doonbeg during the Irish Open, following Donald Trump's recent visit to the golf resort. The episode covers the intersection of high-profile sports and global politics, specifically addressing Trump's comments regarding a unified Ireland. Reporter Henry McKean provides on-the-ground coverage from West Clare, describing the heavy security presence, including armored vehicles and marksmen, alongside the excitement of local fans and international spectators. The broadcast also features listener reactions to Trump's visit, ranging from praise for the economic benefits to criticism of the political implications.

This episode details Donald Trump's visit to Ireland, including his meeting with Catherine Connolly at the Áras an Uachtaráin and his scheduled arrival at the Irish Open in Doonbeg. The report covers the massive security presence and logistical challenges facing local Gardaí, including controversies over officer accommodation costs. Additionally, the coverage explores the impact of the presidential visit on the Irish Open tournament. Discussions include potential disruptions to golf play due to helicopter landings, the influence of weather conditions on the tournament's pace, and the significant scale of the US military and security deployment.

O episódio aborda as comemorações do 25º aniversário dos ataques de 11 de setembro em Nova York, trazendo relatos de socorristas e moradores sobre o impacto emocional, as mudanças sociais e o aumento da islamofobia. A reportagem explora também as reflexões de um nova-iorquino muçulmano sobre a identidade religiosa após a tragédia e discute a ausência do ex-presidente Donald Trump no memorial em Ground Zero.

Executive chef Gareth Mullins joins The Pat Kenny Show to present a selection of American-inspired recipes, themed around food fit for a Trump visit. The episode features detailed instructions for preparing crispy chicken wings with an Irish twist using Crozier Blue cheese creme fraiche, as well as a Cajun buttermilk chicken burger served with crispy slaw and ranch sauce. Mullins discusses techniques such as using baking powder for crispiness, the tenderizing effects of buttermilk, and the importance of double-frying for the perfect texture.

Uma entrevista exclusiva com o lendário compositor Gilbert O'Sullivan no The Pat Kenny Show. O episódio explora a trajetória de 60 anos de carreira do artista, abordando desde suas raízes musicais na Irlanda e Inglaterra até sua formação em artes visuais. O cantor compartilha detalhes sobre seu processo criativo focado na melodia, a construção de sua imagem icônica inspirada em Charlie Chaplin e as complexidades da indústria musical. O diálogo também percorre momentos marcantes de sua história, incluindo o impacto do movimento Beatles, disputas legais históricas sobre direitos autorais e o uso de samples no hip-hop, além de reflexões sobre composições recentes e sua atual turnê internacional.

Reporter Sean Defoe provides an on-the-ground report from Farmleigh during Donald Trump's visit to Ireland. The coverage details the President's motorcade, his press conference at the residence, and his unexpected comments regarding a United Ireland. The discussion covers Trump's responses to questions about Gaza, Iran, and domestic protests in Ireland, as well as his recent meeting with Catherine Connolly. Additionally, the report touches upon Trump's confirmed return to Ireland for the Ryder Cup and the diplomatic efforts of Micheál Martin during the visit.

The Pat Kenney Show explores the immediate media aftermath of the September 11 attacks through a discussion with reporter Barbara Holmes. Examining a collection of newspapers from September 11 and 12, 2001, the episode details the visceral imagery found in Irish and British broadsheets, including the iconic photos of the Twin Towers and the 'falling man.' The conversation covers the evolving narrative of the day, from the initial confusion and reports of a single plane hitting the towers to the later realization of a coordinated terrorist attack. The discussion also touches upon the journalistic immediacy of eyewitness accounts and the historical context of the subsequent war on terror.

Owen O'Sullivan, a partner at Powderly Solicitors, discusses the ongoing legal aid dispute affecting the criminal justice system and its impact on vulnerable youth. Due to the breakdown in negotiations between solicitors and the Department of Justice, Tusla has been forced to privately retain solicitors to ensure children in their care have legal representation in the Children's Court. O'Sullivan outlines the unworkable nature of the current flat-fee scheme and proposes interim solutions to prevent a total collapse of legal services in the district courts. The interview highlights the significant drop in solicitor availability, noting a 93% decrease in certificates issued during the dispute. The conversation covers the potential for massive case backlogs, the strain placed on the judiciary, and the specific financial issues regarding fee structures for complex or long-running cases.

Pat Kenny discusses the Sunday newspapers with BBC Dublin correspondent Gabi Agatavizkaita, covering a wide range of Irish and international news. The discussion explores the Metrolink project's setbacks following claims by its former chief, the upcoming visit of Donald Trump to Ireland, and the impact of recent boxing victories by Katie Taylor. The program also examines political polling trends in Ireland, including Sinn Féin's standing, and delves into behind-the-scenes accounts from a former Sinn Féin advisor regarding Mary Lou McDonald.

This episode covers the retirement of Irish boxing legend Katie Taylor following her final fight at Croke Park. Reporters Sarah Madden and John Duggan describe the electric, unifying atmosphere of the 80,000-strong crowd and reflect on Taylor's monumental career and lasting legacy for women in sport. The discussion features reflections on the emotional atmosphere of the event, Taylor's legendary career trajectory, and her ability to retire as an undisputed champion.