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Latest episodes from Highlights from Lunchtime Live

Have You Been To? - Antrim's Hidden Gems

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2026 9:49


Starting today, we begin a county-by-county journey across Ireland, exploring all 32 counties that make up this remarkable island. Have you been to some of these places and hidden gems?Today, Andrea is joined by Travel Content Creator Kevin Penrose to find out what the best things to see and do are in County Antrim.

Are you getting back into VHS and cassette tapes?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2026 9:22


Do you remember the days of running in to hit record on the VHS player to record Coronation Street for your mam? Or using a pencil to rewind a cassette to listen from the start again?Apparently, long-abandoned formats such as cassettes and VHS tapes are making a comeback!Elaine Power, co-host of the ‘What's Trending in F1?' podcast and listeners join Andrea to discuss.

Are the summer holidays too long for schools?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2026 20:17


Are school summer holidays too long? An article in today's Irish Examiner by Stephanie Parks says that Ireland's long school holidays don't suit the modern family. Do you agree?Joining Andrea to discuss is Jennifer Horgan, teacher and Irish Examiner Columnist, Lisa O'Sullivan Shaw (@modernirishmom on Instagram) and listeners.

8-year-old's golf bag damaged in flight - listener experience

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2026 12:32


8-year-old Theo Hughes is a champion golfer, but he is now having to play with damaged gear after his kit was broken coming off a flight...His dad Danny joins Andrea to discuss.

Regional Roundup with Shane Beatty

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2026 11:47


Breakfast Briefing Presenter Shane Beatty joined Andrea with a roundup of some of the stories from across the country this week.

ESB solar panel glitch - are you impacted?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2026 17:11


A “technical issue” with ESB solar panels means that 200,000 households fear missing payments for the sunniest weeks of the year.It comes as homeowners have discovered the electricity they are exporting to the grid has not been displayed by ESB Networks (ESBN) since May 25th…Joining Andrea to discuss this is Finance Editor with Irish Independent, Charlie Weston, Peter Finn AKA Pete the Builder and listeners.

The Home Squad: Lighting Solutions

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2026 13:08


From choices to solutions - what are your options if you want to bring some light into your home?This week, the Home Squad are here to discuss lighting solutions!Joining Andrea to discuss is Jenny Sheehan, Co-Host of ‘Rip it up: The Renovations Podcast' (@workerscottage on Instagram) and Interior Stylist Sarah Doyle of Retwiggd.

squad rip lighting solutions
The World Cup starts tonight - what you need to know!

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2026 13:00


While Ireland might have missed out on the World Cup dream, the tournament starts tonight, but what do you actually need to know to bluff our way through and sound like a football expert?Joining Andrea to discuss is Tanya Sweeney, Columnist for the Irish Independent and Off the Ball's Phil Egan.

Do we need more Irish speaking secondary schools?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2026 16:08


A recent campaign set up in Castlebar in Mayo is calling for the introduction of an All-Irish speaking secondary school to cater for primary school students seeking to further their education as Gaeilge.Four towns in Mayo have primary schools as Gaeilge, yet nowhere to continue their secondary level education in Irish. This means that students are at risk of losing their love and interest in the Irish language…Is this a regular problem across the country as a whole, and do we need more Irish speaking secondary schools?Joining Andrea to discuss is Frainc Ó Clochartaigh, a member of this campaign, Claire Spanaic Services Manager with Gaeloideachas, Director of Aonad Loch Gile, Debrah Ni Cheallaigh and Principal of Gaelscoil Chnoc na Ré, Liz Nic Searraigh.

What is it like being a foster carer?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2026 14:34


This month marks the start of National Fostering Awareness month.Tusla released a statement saying “National Fostering Awareness Month is about opening the conversation, challenging myths and helping people understand that they may already have the qualities needed to make a life-changing difference for a child”.To discuss their experience being foster carers, Andrea is joined by Maureen Gannon and Eileen Harkin.

The Making of Olivia Rodrigo!

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2026 11:11


We've decided to do a deep dive on some of our favourite albums and artists to explore the stories behind them.What did artists really think of each other? Where did the inspirations from the songs come from?Joining Andrea to discuss is DJ and Pop Critic Cian Sullivan, who's going to talk through the life and work of Olivia Rodrigo!

What are the benefits to working from home?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2026 15:05


Public trade sector union Fórsa is set to present the benefits of remote working today to the National Economic and Social Council.The research found that flexible work arrangements led to improved outcomes.So, should remote work be given to those who want it?Andrea is joined by listeners to discuss.

Reasons to be Happy: Irish Runners, The Bear, Mayo

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2026 9:59


Lunchtime Live's Reasons to be Happy looks at some of the news stories that you might have missed that will leave you feeling more optimistic.98FM's Cathal O'Sullivan joined Andrea in the studio to put a smile on your faces…

Have you had your car clamped?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2026 16:17


Following on from yesterday's conversation on clamping, what has your experience been? Have you had a nightmare story where your car war clamped at the worst possible time, and did you fight against it?Andrea is joined by listeners to hear their stories…

Making Babies: Gestational Diabetes

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2026 12:15


Every Wednesday afternoon, we'll be talking Making Babies.Andrea will be joined by Professor Shane Higgins, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, to cover every area of trying to have a baby. From the very start of knowing how to prepare, right up to pregnancy – and all the bumps in the road in between.This week, Shane joins Andrea to discuss gestational diabetes.

The importance of therapy dogs in schools

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2026 7:40


What is a school therapy dog, and how can they help children navigate the challenges of school life every day?Frank is a Goldendoodle with a very special role at Mallow's Convent Primary School. He lives with the school Principal, proudly wears the school jersey on match days, and even treats everyone on his birthday. But, beyond his popularity, Frank plays an important part in supporting the wellbeing of pupils and staff alike.Joining Andrea to discuss is Sheila O'Connor, Principal of Mallow's Convent Primary School, and Jennifer Long, third class teacher in the school.

What is your reaction to the Belfast riots?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2026 22:32


Riots broke out in Belfast yesterday evening in the aftermath of a serious knife attack in the city.A number of homes and businesses were targeted during the disorder, with properties being torched and significant damage reported.Many people were forced to flee their homes as emergency services dealt with up to 62 separate incidents throughout the night…Were you affected by these riots, and what did you witness?Andrea is joined by locals in Belfast, as well as Newstalk's Chief Reporter Barry Whyte, to discuss.

Ask the Expert: Power of Attorney

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 11:49


For this week's Ask the Expert, Andrea is joined by Áine Hynes, Senior Counsel Solicitor and Chair of the Law Society task force for Mental Health Law & Capacity Law, and author of ‘Irish Legal Capacity and Assisted Decision Making', to discuss everything you should know about a Power of Attorney.

Could Katie Taylor run for President?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 7:49


Could Katie Taylor be planning a run for the Áras? In a recent interview ahead of her fight in Croke Park in September, she said she's not ruling it out…What do you think about this? Would you like to see her run for the role of President?Joining Andrea to discuss is Liam Morley Brereton from St Brigid's Boxing Club in Offaly and listeners.

Would you choose to freeze your eggs?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 14:48


We're hearing more and more about women choosing to freeze their eggs, but we want to understand better why women are making this decision, and what the costs are around it…Alexandra Ryan, Founder of Goss.ie and Tara Logan Buckley, Chartered Clinical Psychologist, join Andrea to discuss.

founders eggs freeze goss chartered clinical psychologist alexandra ryan
How hard is it to appeal a clamping fine?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 11:45


New figures show that almost 143,000 vehicles were clamped in Ireland last year. Of those who appealed, nearly one in four successfully had their clamp overturned, while almost half of those who pursued a second-stage appeal won their case.How common is clamping, and are more motorists missing the opportunity to challenge it? Have you ever had your vehicle clamped, and did you appeal the decision?Joining Andrea to discuss is Broadcaster Padraig Wilson McCarthy, Editor of CompleteCar.ie, Shane O'Donoghue and listeners.

Will we see Ireland face Israel in a neutral venue?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 19:20


A public meeting is taking place in Blanchardstown tonight to discuss the Ireland v Israel fixtures.Will we see the match take place in a neutral venue? What would you like to see happen?Joining Andrea to discuss is Ruth Coppinger, Solidarity TD for Dublin West, Off the Ball's Cameron Hill, as well as listeners.

Don't Miss: Office Romance, The Witness, Good Hang

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 10:44


Katie Gallagher, Spin News Anchor, has her finger on the pulse for what's happening and she joins Andrea with the things you don't want to miss this week!Image: Netflix

Ask the Medic: Tinnitus

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2026 10:00


It's time for Ask the Medic! Where an expert joins to answer any of your health-related questions.This week, guest host Clare McKenna is joined by Frank McGrath, Audiologist and owner of TinnitusClinic.ie to discuss all you need to know about tinnitus.

Have we lost office food etiquette?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2026 6:39


Is there anything worse than a colleague cracking open their lunch, just to unleash the smell of fish or eggs in the office?Have we lost all office food etiquette?Food Writer Dee Laffan joins guest host Clare McKenna to discuss!

What needs to be done to address A&E issues?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2026 20:48


Last week on show, listeners across the country shared their experiences of A&E. Since then, even more people have been in touch to share their stories…When was the last time you attended A&E, and what was your experience like? Whether it was positive or negative, how long did you wait, how were you treated, and did you receive the care you needed?Guest host Clare McKenna is joined by listeners to discuss.

Author Sheila O'Flanagan on experiencing early menopause

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2026 11:40


Author Sheila O'Flanagan was in her 30s when she had a hysterectomy and started menopause.She joins Clare McKenna to talk and discuss her experience…

Changes to customs charges on online purchases - how will it affect you?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2026 11:15


From the 1st of July, a new customs duty of €3 per item in a parcel will apply to items bought online from the UK and other non EU countries.Why and how will it affect Irish consumers?Caitríona Redmond, Consumer Columnist with the Irish Examiner, joins guest host Clare McKenna to discuss.

Is litter a problem in your area?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2026 20:12


How bad is litter in your local area?According to a study published today, Limerick City Centre is the dirtiest in the country, while Sligo is the cleanest town...Coffee cups and cigarette butts are amongst the worst offenders.Guest host Clare McKenna is joined by listeners to hear their issues…

Ask Me Anything: Public Relations

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2026 18:33


For this week's Ask Me Anything, Joanne Byrne, Director of Presence Plus PR joins guest host Clare McKenna to answer any of your questions about public relations, and being a celebrity agent!

Should we give newlyweds cash as a gift?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2026 14:56


Should we stop giving money as a gift to newlyweds?Cash is one of the most popular wedding gifts, but some may argue that getting married is a decision, not an achievement.What do you think about giving cash as a gift?Joining guest host Clare McKenna to discuss is Sinead Ryan, Presenter of the Home show on Newstalk, Wedding planner Lyndsey Moynagh and listeners.

Have you been stuck waiting in A&E?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2026 29:45


Yesterday, Newstalk's Caoimhe Harney, whose father spent more than 24 hours waiting in A&E before being seen by a doctor, joined to speak with Andrea. Following her story, many listeners got in touch to share their own experiences of a healthcare system that, at times, is struggling to meet patients' needs…Today, guest host Clare McKenna is joined by some of those listeners to hear their stories.

Regional Roundup with Shane Beatty

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2026 13:13


Breakfast Briefing Presenter Shane Beatty joined guest host Clare McKenna with a roundup of some of the stories from across the country this week.

The Home Squad: Rental Refreshes

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 10:25


Are you renting, but want to spruce up your home?This week, the Home Squad are here to discuss rental refreshes without annoying your landlord!Joining Andrea to discuss is Jenny Sheehan, Co-Host of ‘Rip it up: The Renovations Podcast' (@workerscottage on Instagram) and Jenny Butler, Interior Architect & Designer and Director of Jennifer Anne Interior.

Why are all matches not on GAA+?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 13:01


GAA fans from Kerry, Kildare, Donegal, Cork, Dublin and Cavan are not happy because they will not be able to watch the Championship matches on TV or on GAA+ next weekend…So, why is this the case?Joining Andrea to discuss is Tommy Rooney, Gaelic Games Correspondent with Off the Ball, as well as listeners.

Do you still use cash?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 14:36


Tánaiste and Minister for Finance Simon Harris is expected to approve proposals aimed at strengthening access to cash, building on rules introduced last year that set minimum standards for ATM and cash service provision.Under the measures, the public will be able to raise concerns directly with the Central Bank if they experience difficulties accessing cash in their area.So, should cash be more readily available to people, or should we scrap cash completely?Andrea is joined by listeners to discuss.

What are the main differences between men and women?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 12:31


One of the oldest clichés in the book is that men prefer things and women prefer people, well researchers have just proved that may be true!But what do you think, is this the main difference between men and women?Joining Andrea to discuss is Dr Brendan O'Shea, Kildare GP, and Assistant Adjunct Professor in General Practice In Trinity College, Comedian Julie Jay, Comedian Claire Roche, and Editor of Cork Beo, Joe O'Shea.

The Making of Luke Combs!

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 8:22


We've decided to do a deep dive on some of our favourite albums and artists to explore the stories behind them.What did artists really think of each other? Where did the inspirations from the songs come from?Joining Andrea to discuss is Today FM Presenter Clodagh Lawlor, who's going to talk through the life and work of Luke Combs!

Have you had a negative A&E experience?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 20:56


Newstalk's Caoimhe Harney had a recent experience where her dad had to go to A&E. Unfortunately, the quality of service was very poor…Have you had a recent negative experience with A&E?She joins Andrea, as well as Stephen McMahon from the Irish Patients' Association, to discuss.

How will cheaper créche fees impact childcare?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2026 13:38


Minister for Children, Norma Foley, is today set to introduce a new maximum fee cap for childcare providers that receive State funding.The move comes amid growing concern over the high cost of childcare, with many parents facing significant financial pressure and others unable to afford childcare services altogether. The proposed cap aims to help make childcare more accessible and affordable for families across the country.What will this cap mean for parents, and how will it impact childcare providers?Joining Andrea to discuss is owner of Care-A-Lot Childcare, Averil Sheehan, Presenter of Better with Money from The Irish Times, Aideen Finnegan and owner & Director of Mary Geary Childcare, Ollie Sheehan.

Reasons to be Happy: CMAT & Olivia Rodrigo, Big John, Work Friends

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2026 9:09


Lunchtime Live's Reasons to be Happy looks at some of the news stories that you might have missed that will leave you feeling more optimistic.98FM's Cathal O'Sullivan joined Andrea in the studio to put a smile on your faces…

New EV grants launched - would you make the switch?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2026 15:17


The Government has launched a new €8,500 scrappage scheme for electric vehicles.Its aim is to incentivize the owners of older, more polluting diesel and petrol internal combustion engine vehicles to scrap them and apply the scrappage value to the purchase of a battery electric vehicle.It will be ringfenced for people living outside the major cities of Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford.Would this incentivize you to make the switch?Joining Andrea to discuss is Derek Reilly from Nevo.ie, as well as listeners.

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