The Hard Shoulder

Last week, the show covered a silent vigil that took place over an unprovoked and racially-motivated attack on an Indian man.Unfortunately, it seems that more attacks on the Indian community are taking place…Barry Whyte, Newstalk’s Chief Reporter, has been investigating and joins Kieran to discuss.

This summer, you might be struggling to keep your kids busy while they are out of school, but don’t worry! The Hard Shoulder will be looking at different ways to keep those small ones occupied.Kieran is joined by Finn Fury, son of Finbar Fury and Adam Agee to discuss why you might want to get your kids into trad music.

Earlier today, Conor McGregor lost his appeal against the finding of a civil jury that he raped Nikita Hand.McGregor, who told the civil trial he had consensual sex with Nikita Hand in a Dublin penthouse in December 2018, launched an appeal after a jury of eight women and four men found him civilly liable.Joining Kieran to discuss is Frank Greaney, Newstalk Courts Correspondent.

An estimated 30,000 festival goers expected at All Together Now this weekend, including Kieran!Festivals, even when the weather plays nice can be messy, and potentially disgusting if you are not prepared!So, how does one prepare themselves?Kieran is joined by Sarah Finnan, Freelance Journalist and Saoirse Hanley, Journalist with the Irish Independent, both who will be attending All Together Now this weekend to discuss!

The Asthma Society of Ireland is calling on the Government to make asthma medication and treatment more accessible and affordable. This call comes as the organisation released its pre-budget submission earlier this week. As part of the submission, they presented concerning data which stated that 24% of their respondents had gone without asthma medication at least once in the past three months because they couldn’t afford it…Guest host Mandy Johnston is joined by Professor Ross Morgan, Consultant Respiratory Physician and Member of the Medical Advisory Group Asthma Society of Ireland to discuss this.

Guest Simon Tierney, a master of tips for life’s conundrums, shares insights into the art of making new friends. He highlights the challenges adults face in sustaining relationships amid busy lives. The conversation delves into the impact of social media on friendships and the difference between organic and manufactured connections. Tierney also discusses the 'acceptance prophecy,' encouraging listeners to meet new people and foster diverse perspectives. Finally, he explores gender dynamics in adult friendships, emphasizing their importance during tough times.

With an estimated one in five people in Ireland experiencing digestive problems on a regular basis, finding solutions to such problems is clearly wanted.But, with there being all kinds of products, wellness trends and diets out there: what are they do’s and don’ts for gut wellness?Lorraine Cooney is a Gut Health Dietician and joins guest host Mandy Johnston to discuss.

Achill Island in Mayo has been voted one of the world’s most beautiful islands in the world! The travel magazine, Big 7, published a list of the top 50 islands... and not only did Achill make the top 10, but it nabbed spot #8!To hear about this not-so-hidden gem, guest host Mandy Johnston is joined by Manager of Achill Tourism, Chis McCarthy and owner of Lynott’s Pub in Achill, Mick Lynch.

New figures released show that only 1/3 of people accused of sexual offences in the last ten years were prosecuted. Often, the reason given for a case not being brought forward is a lack of evidence.Guest host Mandy Johnston is joined by Jessica Woodlock, Newstalk Reporter, Hazel Behan, Sexual Assault Survivor & Activist and Noeline Blackwell, Lawyer & Victims Rights Activist to discuss.If you have been affected by anything in this podcast, you can contact the Rape Crisis Network’s 24 Hour helpline at 1800 778888.

Today is International Friendship Day!Henry McKean has been out asking people about friendships, and how to get out of toxic friendships. He joins guest host Mandy Johnston to share what he’s heard.