Brendan O'Connor

Tanya Ward, CEO of the Children’s Rights Alliance, speaks on social impacts in news. Larry Donnelly, law lecturer at the University of Galway, provides legal and constitutional perspective. David Quinn, Iona Institute CEO and commentator, offers social and ethical commentary. Aisling Moloney, political reporter at the Irish Independent, brings reporting-driven analysis. They discuss the Taoiseach’s US visit, diplomatic choreography, Iran and regional security, US politics and economic fallout.

Édaein O'Connell, a Kerry freelance journalist who wrote about losing her mother, shares her warm, funny and complex memories. She talks about daily routines they treasured, the shock of a sudden illness and difficult medical choices. She reflects on grief’s physical surprises, small comforting signs and how family roles shifted after the loss.

Michael Doherty, RTÉ Guide movies editor, offers sharp film and TV picks. Aifric O'Connell, broadcaster and commentator, shares lively recommendations. They chat Oscars and Irish contenders. They preview Dancing with the Stars finale. They discuss Nicole Kidman in Scarpetta, Louis Theroux’s Manosphere piece, new documentaries including Moore Street and Turbulence, and standout series and films to watch.

Ed Guiney, CEO of Element Pictures and producer of Room, The Favourite and Normal People, shares Hollywood prep and behind-the-scenes anecdotes. He talks Oscar week networking, the logistics of Oscar morning and car queues, Element’s awards track record and why Irish filmmaking is booming. He also discusses offbeat films like Bugonia and long-term creative partnerships.

Chef Brian "Danny Minnie" O’ Domhnaill, a celebrated chef and cookery contributor, shares restaurant-level fish recipes. Hear tips on pan-seared salmon with dill, lime and grapes. Learn poached sea trout with a creamy crab sauce. Discover how to turn leftovers into crispy fish cakes with a wild garlic mayo.

Dr. Amanullah de Sondy, head of the Study of Religions at University College Cork, reflects on Ramadan and Eid. He describes how fasting slows life, builds gratitude and alters routines. He talks about family rhythms, rules around who fasts and communal iftar traditions. He criticises Eid’s growing commercialisation and the rising costs around celebrations.

Jacqui Hurley, RTÉ Sport rugby analyst, breaks down the drama of a wildly unpredictable Six Nations. She maps out the championship and Triple Crown permutations. She previews Scotland’s historic shot and key threats. She assesses Ireland’s lineup changes, missing leaders and surprise discoveries.

Mark Little, entrepreneur and former foreign correspondent, offers sharp analysis on geopolitics and tech. He discusses how AI and drones are reshaping modern conflict. He warns about escalation risks with great powers and how macho political culture and meme warfare now seep into strategy. He also covers disinformation, drone swarms, and what nations should do to prepare.

Liz Nugent, bestselling Irish crime novelist known for dark psychological fiction. She talks about a childhood injury and its long shadow. She picks five songs tied to vivid memories. She explores nightmares, identity, theatre roots, and real-life sparks for her new novel about sisters, a lie and addiction.

Derek Evans, aka Mr Motivator, is a veteran fitness instructor and TV personality famed for energetic workouts. He talks about movement as medicine and how he trains daily in his 70s. He shares simple weight‑training tips for older exercisers. He criticizes gym culture and champions fun, music‑led activity and choosing positivity in tough times.