Spirit Radio's Podcast

Amanda Prather of Tearfund Ireland speaks to Nikki about the situation in Lebannon now, what their partners are seeing on the ground and how you can help over 1 million displaced in the country right now

Some of you will know the name Dr Scott Hahn, he is a theologian, a writer and a lecturer and this week he will be speaking at an event in the Convention Centre. Organised by the Domenicans, the event is called Ignite with the subtitle From Embers to Flames.  Our CEO Rob Clarke had a chance to talk to Scott about signs of hope..  Dr Scott Hahn who will be speaking at the convention centre this coming Saturday.. for more information and to book a seat go to the Dominicans website    Dominicans.ie

Will Crampton from Better Together, a national peer-led recovery community offering free support and connection to people across Ireland.   Through online groups, peer support and community events, Better Together creates safe spaces for people facing mental health challenges, addiction recovery or isolation — reminding people they don't have to go through difficult times alone.  

The recent fuel crisis has underlined just how dependent the global economy is on the supply of oil and gas. This issue was on the agenda at a recent Conference in Colombia highlighting the need to transition away from our reliance on fossil fuels Sinéad Loughran, Trócaire’s Climate Justice Policy and Advocacy Advisor was at the Conference and on her return spoke to Spirit Radio about the need for action.

Joining me now is singer-songwriter Kim Hayden and composer-producer Gus Crawford Collins. Originally from Wicklow, the pair have been making waves internationally with their cinematic reimagining of classic songs, featured on hit shows including Love Island, Netflix productions like Fool Me Once and Obsession, as well as major movie trailers and gaming campaigns.   Kim, a former finalist on The Voice of Ireland, and Gus have built a unique sound that's earning them recognition around the world, and they're here to tell us more about their incredible musical journey.  

Time now for our weekly Life in 5 where we speak to someone about their faith journey and their walk with the Lord.  I'm delighted to be joined this morning By Lorraine Mason. Lorraine is living in Stepaside in South Dublin and attends Liberty Church. She used to play hockey and football and coached at Joeys in Sallynoggin –  she's also a trekkie!! 

As Ireland celebrates National Bike Week, we're shining a light on the people who choose two wheels over four every single day. Joining us is Audrey Lawless — a mother, cyclist, and passionate advocate for everyday biking.   Whether it's wind, rain, or sunshine, Audrey cycles to work because she believes it's better for your fitness, your health, and your pocket.  

Today I'm joined by Clodagh Hogan, Head of Communications with The Jack & Jill Children's Foundation, to talk about one of Ireland's most exciting and unique fundraising campaigns — Incognito.  The initiative has captured the imagination of art lovers and supporters alike, with thousands of postcard-sized artworks sold anonymously each year, raising vital funds for families caring for children with severe learning disabilities and complex medical needs at home. 

Today on Spirit Radio, we're talking faith, leadership, and purpose with David McDonald of Escalante Golf and Tom Miller from LeaderImpact Ireland.  David is building a global golf company shaped by Christian values, while Tom is helping leaders across Ireland grow personally, professionally, and spiritually through LeaderImpact. 

we're joined by Colin Creighton of soulstory.ie – a Christian counsellor, speaker, and mentor who is passionate about helping people navigate life, faith, relationships, and emotional wellbeing through a biblical lens.   During Mental Health Awareness Week, Colin is helping us explore the importance of biblical counselling in today's world and why emotional and spiritual health matter deeply for Christians and churches alike. 

Today we're joined by Irish singer Jennifer Wood, whose music is inspired not only by her love of performing but also by her Christian faith. Jennifer has been touching audiences with her powerful vocals, uplifting message and heartfelt songs, building a growing following through music that encourages hope, faith and authenticity.  She joins us to talk about her musical journey, the influence of faith in her life and career, and what's ahead for her in the coming months. 

Linda Desmond from IBI, who's here to tell us about an exciting new opportunity for prospective students.   For the 2026/2027 academic year, IBI is introducing a €1,000 bursary aimed at those starting a Certificate course or a BA in Applied Theology—supporting people who feel called to study, explore ministry, or simply go deeper in their understanding of theology.  If you're thinking about taking that next step into study or exploring a deeper calling, this bursary could be the perfect place to start. For more information or to chat through your options, you can contact 01 – 8069060 or visit ibi.ie .

Our guest today is parenting expert Catriona Lynch, who joins us to talk about one of the most important parts of a child's development — building confidence and healthy self-esteem.  In today's world, children and teenagers face many pressures, from school and social media to friendships and expectations. As parents and caregivers, it can sometimes be difficult to know how best to support them, encourage resilience, and help them believe in themselves.  Catriona is here to share practical advice and simple ways families can help children grow into confident and emotionally secure young people.  

Now, as part of Mental Health Awareness Week, we're delighted to be joined by Sean Blake. Sean is a mental health advocate who's been incredibly open about his own experiences with anorexia, body image, anxiety, and recovery — and by sharing his story, he's helping a lot of people feel less alone.  He's been working to break down stigma around men's mental health here in Ireland and encouraging people to speak up and seek support when they need it. 

James Kevin Foley from Prevail Counselling, who has recently written a series of blogs looking at the intersection between faith and mental health support.  His work explores how Christians decide whether to engage with counselling, the role churches can play in that journey, what can hold people back from seeking help, and also how secular clients experience working with a Christian counsellor. 

Time now for our weekly life in 5 where we invite a guest into studio to sit down and share their faith and their walk with Jesus. Today I am delighted to be joined in studio by Suzanne Dunwoody grew up in Dublin 4 near Landsdowne and now living in Tallaght next to the stadium.   Her hobbies include listening to Spirit, Raising her kids and showing people kindness 

Natalie Ross, author of Do Not Fret Little Sheep, a reflective book inspired by the biblical parable of the sheep and the shepherd.   Rooted in that familiar image of care, guidance, and trust, the book gently speaks into worry, anxiety, and the pressures of everyday life.   It's a reminder that we are not left to navigate life alone, but are watched over with care and purpose, even in uncertain moments.  For more on Natalie Visit HERE

Sam Childers, widely known as “The Machine Gun Preacher,” is an American pastor, former outlaw biker, and humanitarian whose life story has inspired people around the world. After a troubled past marked by addiction, violence, and crime, he experienced a dramatic Christian conversion that changed the course of his life. He went on to dedicate himself to rescuing vulnerable children in war-torn East Africa, particularly in South Sudan and Uganda, where he founded children's villages and orphanages through his ministry, Angels of East Africa. His extraordinary journey was portrayed in the 2011 film Machine Gun Preacher starring Gerard Butler. He joined Kieran in studio

Time now for our prayer coach slot for this week. Katy Edgemon is our prayer coach today. She and her husband Blake have an upcoming event “unshamed” for Christian women which she'll tell us more about but first she's reflecting on psalm 139:7-12  Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.    To attend the UNSHAMED event, click HERE

Kate Martin from 3qrecruitment is promoting  #CelebrateNurses campaign ahead of International Nurses Day next Tuesday 12th May.   It's a simple but important reminder to stop and say thank you to the nurses who care for us and our loved ones during some of life's hardest moments.   Their kindness, patience, and compassion often leave a lasting impact, and this is a chance to let them know they are truly appreciated. 

As excitement builds for Sailing with St Brendan, organisers Valerie Raitt and Rev. Philip McKinley are looking forward to welcoming pilgrims onto the River Shannon for what promises to be a memorable and meaningful journey. Inspired by the story of St Brendan the Navigator, this one-day pilgrimage invites people to slow down, travel together by boat and on foot, and experience some of Ireland's most sacred places in a fresh way.  From Athlone Lock to Clonfert Cathedral, the route connects history, landscape and faith—offering space for reflection, conversation and a shared sense of purpo

The Irish Times headline from last week read “New in-car recording systems are designed to help provide real-world safety data, but there are significant privacy concerns”  Conor Faughnan is one of Ireland's best-known voices on transport and road safety—he's spent years advocating for motorists and consumer rights, and now continues that work as an independent motoring expert with Carzone. 

If you're thinking about heading to Dublin for a day, a weekend, or maybe just a change of scenery, but you're not quite sure where to start—our travel doctor Joe Supple has been doing the legwork for you.  He's been out around the capital this week, including a visit to Dion at one of the city's newest standout spots, and he's also been checking out some of the best ways to see Dublin if you're visiting for the first time—or even if you haven't explored it in a while.  So whether it's skyline views, sightseeing tours, or the classic Dublin experiences, Joe's got some ideas to help you make the most of it. 

It's time now for our weekly visit from everyone's favourite vet, Pete Wedderburn—better known as Pete the Vet—where we answer your pet questions and get expert advice on keeping our animals happy and healthy.  And Pete, we have to start close to home today—because there's some very exciting news from our own producer Eimear… her cat gave birth to kittens just yesterday! Pete answers some of your questions, that you can email anytime to producer@spiritradio.ie

The term cosmeticorexia—an unhealthy obsession with skincare and appearance—is being linked to the growing “Sephora kids” trend. Retail giant Sephora is now under scrutiny in Italy over claims its marketing may be encouraging very young girls to adopt complex skincare routines and spend heavily on products designed for adults. Experts warn this is fuelling cosmeticorexia, with children becoming overly focused on achieving “perfect” skin—raising concerns about both physical harm and long-term body image issues. To discuss this and the harm its doing, Kieran was joined by Adam Burke, youth engagment officer with Jigsaw Ireland. More help HERE

Fiona O'Malley, CEO of Sonas, joins us now as the organisation warns that current housing policies are effectively driving victims of domestic violence into homelessness.   Sonas says the system is fundamentally flawed, with women and children often forced to flee their homes while perpetrators remain — creating both deep personal trauma and significant financial strain on already stretched services.

Now, one of Ireland's most unique and enduring spiritual traditions is continuing once again this year, as preparations ramp up for the pilgrimage season at Lough Derg.  For generations, pilgrims have travelled to the island seeking reflection, renewal and a break from the noise of everyday life—and in more recent years, there's even been a noticeable rise in younger people taking part, searching for meaning and stillness in a busy world.   To tell us more about what lies ahead this season, and why Lough Derg continues to resonate with so many, we're joined now by Father Eamon Conway. Father, you're very welcome.

A lot of people are looking for a sense of connection, purpose, and community at the moment — and churches are often right at the heart of that.  My next guest is someone who helped start a new church here in Dublin in the middle of the pandemic — and has been building it into a growing, vibrant community ever since.  Phil Rowntree is co-pastor of Expectation Church, which has a simple mission — to see Jesus in every heart and every home. 

Time now for our life in 5 .. where we talk to someone about their faith and their walk with the Lord.   Today I'm delighted to be joined by Mark Teisler Goldsmith founder of Open House Ministries. Mark is from Kent , Sotuh East England.   He loves to swim, recently has swam the English channell for charity, loves to hike with his dog Tia and Kayak with his wife Laura and the kids.  He also shares details on the upcoming retreat for men with Open House Ministries – OHM Rize Men's Retreat from 8th to 10th May—a powerful three-day weekend to rediscover who you truly are. They’re doing it at Drewstown House in County Meath, a beautiful facility surrounded by countryside and natural beauty, where they’ll have teachings, live worship, deliverance, soul healing, prayer, kayaking, and so much more! Tickets can be booked at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ohm-rize-mens–retreat-ireland-2026-tickets-1978682463513

Now, we all know that feeling — when something small is bothering us at work, but we avoid saying it… and before you know it, it turns into something much bigger.  Well, my next guest says a lot of the stress, conflict, and even formal complaints we see in workplaces could actually be avoided — if people just had the confidence and the tools to have those honest conversations early.  But the reality is, most of us don't — we avoid, we delay, or we just hope things will sort themselves out.  I'm joined now by Mary Jo Parker, who works with organisations to help people ‘see it, say it, sort it' — and tackle issues before they escalate. 

CEO of Spirit Radio joins Kieran in Studio to talk about “Truth & Treason”.   Truth & Treason is based on the true story of Helmuth Hubener, a teenage resistance fighter who opposed the Nazi regime in Germany during WWII.

My next guest is part of an organisation doing incredible work bringing basic eye care to some of the world's poorest communities — and quite literally changing lives in the process. I'm joined now by Dualta Roughneen, CEO of CBM Ireland. Mornings

We're reflecting today on the passing of one of Ireland's most iconic and distinctive musical voices — Moya Brennan.  Best known as the voice of Clannad and for her remarkable solo career, Moya's music helped shape the sound of Irish folk and Celtic music on a global stage.   She was also someone who Jackie Hayden from Hot Press has interviewed over the years, giving a unique insight into both her artistry and her journey through the music industry.  Jackie joins us now to look back on her life in music. 

Yesterday at the Mansion House in Dublin, Seeking Safety Ireland launched a new three-year strategy aimed at transforming how we support women dealing with trauma, addiction and gender-based violence.   The focus is on a joined-up, trauma-informed approach that helps women build safety and stability in their lives.  To tell us more, I'm joined by Annmarie Flanagan, Manager of Seeking Safety Ireland. 

Now, if you've ever said to yourself “I really need to look after myself a bit better” — but didn't know where to begin — this might be right up your street.   I'm joined by Fatima Alvarado, founder of Greystones Wellness Hub, which is all about making wellness feel simple, enjoyable, and part of everyday life. And also joining Fatima is Brian Kingston, Corporate experiences partner, Greystones wellness Hub.  It's not about being perfect — it's about finding what works for you, and actually enjoying it along the way. 

Seán O'Rónan from Agape Ireland, a ministry doing incredible work with young people across the country.   Agape is all about creating spaces where faith comes alive for the next generation — and one of their most powerful initiatives has been their Camino experiences for Leaving Cert students.   Listen to hear more about their mission, the impact of these journeys, and what's ahead for Camino 2027.   

We're joined today by a very familiar voice and a trusted expert when it comes to all things animal care — Pete the Vet.   Pete has been helping pet owners better understand and care for their animals for years, offering practical advice, reassurance, and a real passion for animal wellbeing.   Today, we're putting some of your questions to him and tackling a few common concerns many pet owners face. 

Margaret Dabrowski from Mada Skin Clinic and Spa joins us today to talk about something that affects so many of us—sun damage.  Recent research has shown that using sunbeds carries risks in the same bracket as smoking and asbestos when it comes to skin cancer. Margaret, who knows all there is to know about skin health, is here to explain not only how to reverse the signs of sun damage but also the best ways to protect your skin moving forward. 

Rosie Fuller joins us to talk about one of the most exciting film events coming to Dublin this spring—the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour.  Bringing together some of the most breathtaking adventure films from around the world, the tour showcases incredible stories of endurance, exploration, and pushing human limits—from climbing and skiing to mountain biking in some of the most remote and extreme environments on the planet.  And the good news is—it's all coming to the National Concert Hall on April 28th,Everyman theatre Cork on 29th offering audiences the chance to view these jaw-dropping adventures on the big screen. 

Anita Lynch is a psychotherapist with the Misneach Centre, where the focus is on making mental health support more accessible and part of everyday life.  This summer, Anita is taking that idea beyond the therapy room—bringing support into festival spaces, where people can engage in a more relaxed and informal way. She's also running a really practical workshop tackling something many of us struggle with: how to switch off and not bring work stress home with us. 

Anna Tormey joins us on Life in 5. Originally from Dolphin House but now living on Lombard Street, Anna is a devoted mother of four, grandmother, and a pillar of her community.  Her granddaughter is getting married this year—and Anna will be officiating the ceremony herself. She serves as an elder at Liberty Church, runs a community group in Chapelizod, and trains in pastoral ministry with Liberty.   Her life revolves around the church, and she's known for her strong sense of humor and commitment. Interestingly, her mother even delivered Pastor Noel Kenny when he was born—a wonderful link between generations of faith. 

Ryan O'Neill from AIMaestro.me is in studio to talk about something that's moving faster than almost any other technology right now—artificial intelligence.  From how we work and communicate to how businesses operate and decisions are made, AI is already reshaping daily life—and many believe we're only at the beginning. Ryan says AI isn't just a trend, it's the future, and today we're looking at what that really means, how it's going to impact us, and whether we're ready for it. 

Marie Louise Heffernan is a Connemara-based ecologist, farmer, and writer whose work bridges science, land stewardship, and faith.   With over 30 years' experience in biodiversity, conservation, and environmental planning, she is the founder of Aster Environmental Consultants and director of The Ecology Centre in Letterfrack.  Living and working on the land in the west of Ireland, she brings a deeply personal perspective to farming—one shaped not only by ecological expertise but also by a lived spirituality rooted in place.   In her recent piece “God's Acre: A farmer and ecologist on faith and the land,” she reflects on seeing the land not as a burden, but as a blessing—an outlook that weaves together care for creation, daily farm life, and a sense of the sacred in the natural world. 

Venetia Quick is the creator and host of The Grief Pod, a weekly podcast that opens honest conversations around grief, loss, and healing.   Through deeply personal interviews with guests from all walks of life, the series explores the many different ways people experience bereavement—from sudden loss to long-term illness—and the impact it has on everyday life.  The podcast aims to break the silence around grief, creating a space where people can share their stories, feel less alone, and better understand how to support others through loss.  

Parenting expert Catriona Lynch spoke to Kieran about how parents can focus on being calm, clear, and consistent, and avoid falling into the habit of yelling at their children.  

Brandon Ratcliffe is a musician in the United States who has been gaining widespread attention online thanks to a simple but powerful idea—posting daily videos of himself and his mum singing hymns on Instagram in the lead-up to Easter. He spoke to Kieran about how the idea has been striking a chord with people looking for connection, tradition, and meaning in their daily lives. To follow Brandon on Instagram visit @brandonratcliff

As Square One Theatre Group celebrates an incredible 50 years of community theatre, Kieran was joined by Director Marie McCourt, and cast members Killian McCrea and Jacki Cullen to chat about their upcoming  milestone production of Juno and the Paycock. The show comes to the Mermaid Arts Centre in Bray 14th – 18th of April https://www.mermaidartscentre.ie/whats-on/events/juno-and-the-paycock

Susan Dunn at Belgrave Nanny Agency, spoke to Kieran about they work to connect families with professional nannies, childminders, and maternity nurses, and how the right support can transform not just a household, but the well-being of the entire family. https://www.nanny.ie/

Anthea Kieran from Finglas spoke to Kieran about her faith journey and how God has worked miracles in her life, by answering five honest questions about her experiences and beliefs.  

Alan Wyley, CEO of EnergyCloud, spoke to Kieran about how they have been working on practical ways to redirect surplus energy into home heating solutions. https://energycloud.org/ireland/

This Saturday, Tearfund Ireland is hosting a conference in RIASK in Swords from 9:30am to 1pm, bringing together speakers working on the frontlines of global displacement and humanitarian response — as well as those with personal experience of seeking refuge.  The event comes at a time of deepening crisis in Lebanon, where ongoing conflict has forced more than 700,000 people from their homes since early March — including over 200,000 children.   Tearfund are on the ground responding — providing food, hygiene supplies, and prioritising care for the most vulnerable, including children, older people, and those living with disabilities.