The Pat Kenny Show
Newstalk
Pat brings you the sharpest analysis of news and current affairs on the radio and fresh perspectives on the issues that will define a generation. Breaking news is interwoven with reflective news features and reports from a variety of reporters based across the country. Experts are on hand to guide listeners on everything from consumer and employment rights and health issues to savvy holiday options. And Pat is joined by all the best personalities from the entertainment world.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
Aug 13, 2025 • 15min
Should we be blaming farmers for rising food prices?
There is no denying that prices have gone up dramatically. We ask should we really be blaming farmers for rising food prices? Pat discusses this further with Denis Drennan, President Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers’ Association and John McManus, Duty Editor Irish Times.
Aug 12, 2025 • 9min
Why do we place unrealistic expectations on our own lives?
As many people know, sometimes the harshest critic you will face throughout your life can be yourself. Many will be hindered by the unrealistic expectations they place upon their own shoulders. You may ask yourself questions like why haven’t I achieved this by now, or why don’t I own the car or house I always dreamt of? This can of course have several negative implications on a person’s mind.
Aug 12, 2025 • 11min
School and college tech guide
Buying a laptop for a student is a big investment, and it's easy to get lost in all the specs. Newstalk's Technology Correspondent Jess Kelly joins us to advise and answers listeners tech questions.
Aug 12, 2025 • 14min
The political situation in Haiti told by a kidnapping survivor
The kidnapping of Gena Heraty in Haiti has garnered international attention in recent days. However, American aid worker Jeff Frazier, who was kidnapped in Haiti in 2023, claims this was a ‘misstep’ that may work against Heraty. He instead recommends a secretive approach to negotiation. He joins us to discuss this, as well as the political situation in Haiti and his experience of his own kidnapping.
Aug 12, 2025 • 11min
What are 'cowboy customers'?
We have all heard the tag cowboy builder. Meaning a tradesperson who fails to carry out work to standard or for an agreed price. But what about cowboy customers? Do we have false expectations over the quality and cost in which work can be done? All to discuss with Peter Finn, Aka Pete the Builder from the series 'Home Rescue'.
Aug 12, 2025 • 8min
The importance of sun protection on your skin
As the sun returns, the podcast highlights the critical need for sun protection to combat rising skin cancer risks. Personal stories reveal the life-altering impact of melanoma, with one guest sharing her journey through diagnosis and treatment. The emotional and physical challenges she faced underline the importance of being vigilant about skin care. Listeners are urged to prioritize sun protection regardless of the weather and to be aware of the dangers lurking even on cloudy days.
Aug 12, 2025 • 9min
Since 2005 2,119 pubs have closed across the country
Since 2005, 2,119 pubs have closed across the country, which represents a 25 percent overall decline in the total number of pubs. Many in the industry are looking to the government in hope of a solution. To discuss further Pat spoke to Donal O’Keefe, Chief Executive of Licensed Vintners’ Association of Ireland.
Aug 12, 2025 • 16min
Trump takes over the Washington DC police department
Donald Trump yesterday announced that he was putting Washington DC’s police department under federal control and deploying the National Guard to combat a wave of crime despite statistics showing violent crime falling. We discuss this and more with Larry Donnelly Law Lecturer at the University of Galway and Columnist with The Journal.
Aug 12, 2025 • 10min
How west bank teachers are managing to educate children in Gaza
Despite over 90% of educational institutions in Gaza having been destroyed since the start of Israel’s war in the territory, teachers in the Occupied West Bank are finding ways to educate Gazans remotely. Sally Hayden, Irish Times Correspondent brings us the details.
Aug 12, 2025 • 14min
Irish novelist Ciara Geraghty on her new book!
Ciara Geraghty began writing at the age of 34 when she had two young children at home and was working in insurance. Now the bestselling Irish novelist is on her tenth book, Late Learner, which is published by HarperCollins. Ciara joined Pat in studio this morning.
