The Ian Dempsey Breakfast Show

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Welcome to today, this is your captain speaking. With Iano at the helm, the Breakfast Show brings you up to speed on everything. News, sport, guests, giveaways, listener interaction and music - not to mention the legendary Gift Grub - all add to the mix of this 2-hour radio rollercoaster. Buckle up and come and have your breakfast.

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    • Feb 25, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 4m AVG DURATION
    • 1,313 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from The Ian Dempsey Breakfast Show

    Gift Grub: RTÉ Blow The Budget On A New Jingle Package

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 25, 2026 4:56


    On this morning's Gift Grub, we headed over to the Ideas Department in Montrose to see what's been cooking lately. Hit play now to hear the episode in full.

    Gift Grub: Primetime Tackles Ireland's No.1 Song

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 24, 2026 4:24


    On this morning's Gift Grub, Ian headed across to the Prime Time studio for a very special episode. As the country faces the 'biggest vote in decades', Miram grilled the nation's leaders on their picks and checks in with count centres across the country to see what will be chosen as Ireland's number one song of all time. Hit play now to hear the episode in full.

    Gift Grub: 'Dancing With The Stars' Celebrates 100 Shows!

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 2:57


    Last night marked a big night on Dancing With The Stars, as the series hit its 100th episode. On this morning's Gift Grub, Ian caught up with judges Brian Redmond and Karen Byrne to find out how the show went! Hit play now to hear the full episode.

    Gift Grub: Donal Lenihan Is Still On A High After Ireland's Win

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 4:37


    On this morning's Gift Grub, Ian relived Ireland's record-breaking win against England on Saturday and caught up with commentator Donal Lenihan, who was still stuck in full-on “commentary mode”. Hit play now to hear the episode in full.

    Dáithí Ó Sé Gives 5 BRILLIANT Options For The 100 Greatest Irish Songs

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 7:49


    Dáithí Ó Sé joined Iano this morning to go through his picks for the Top 100 Greatest Irish Songs. Talk about belters?!! Hit play now to hear the chat in full. Remember, you can vote now on todayfm.com/irish

    Gift Grub: Bertie Reviews The Monk's Stage Debut

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 3:41


    On this morning's Gift Grub, Bertie called in to chat to Ian. He wanted to talk about the new Gerry 'The Monk' Hutch play, and he has some thoughts! Hit play now to hear the episode in full.

    Gift Grub: The FOGS Are Back with 'Balacoune Outside'

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2026 3:48


    The Ireland v England match is looming on Saturday, and the FOGS are back, with a brand new pre-match anthem to lift the mood. After a shaky start to the campaign, The FOGS are all about the optimism, revealing Ireland's secret weapon, Robert Baloucoune. Hit play now to hear the episode in full.

    Dermot Bannon's Top 5 Irish Songs Revealed

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2026 8:36


    The Ian Dempsey Breakfast Show is gearing up for next month's countdown of the 100 greatest Irish songs, voted for by you. If you haven't had your say yet, head to todayfm.com/Irish.This time, Ian gets a Top 5 from Dermot Bannon, who's always loved music and admits picking just five is nearly impossible.From childhood memories with The Dubliners, to college days with Something Happens on repeat, Dermot's list also features Bell X1, Sinéad O'Connor and a beautifully late-night No.1 from The Pogues.

    Mairead Ronan Picks Her Top 5 Irish Songs

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2026 6:42


    Today FM is getting ready for St. Patrick's Day with a huge countdown: the 100 greatest Irish songs of all time, voted by you.After Dustin the Turkey's top five earlier in the week, Iano gets another brilliant list — this time from Mairead Ronan, who's dodged the school run and is ready to argue the case for some absolute classics.Get voting at todayfm.com/Irish.

    Gift Grub: Stars Of Irish Music Go Hard Campaigning

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 18, 2026 4:37


    Today FM is counting down the 100 greatest Irish songs of all time, and a full-on canvassing war has broken out, with the biggest names in Irish music going door-to-door looking for your number one. Hit play now to hear the episode in full.

    Gift Grub: Simon Harris Appointed Pancake Czar

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2026 5:11


    Pancake Tuesday hits Marconi House, and Ian's taking Gift Grub upstairs to the shiny new kitchen for a very special “cooking” segment with Matt Cooper. “Pancake Czar” Simon Harris launches a full-blown Pancake Action Plan, Katie Taylor brings a bit of bite to the batter and Garron Noone unveils a truly unhinged creation that definitely isn't about Cork.

    Gift Grub: Donal Lenihan Slams Virgin Rugby Panel

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 16, 2026 3:15


    Ireland may have “got out of jail” against Italy, but in Gift Grub, it's the punditry that really takes the hit.Ian chats to RTÉ's Donal Lenihan and Virgin Media's Peter O'Mahony to break down the match...and the analysis.

    Gift Grub: Dustin The Turkey's Top 5 Irish Songs

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 16, 2026 9:21


    Iano is on a mission to get the nation talking ahead of Today FM's countdown of the Top 100 Irish songs, and he kicked this week off with a very special guest who reckons he might even make the list himself… Dustin the Turkey.Dustin dives head-first into his Top 5, with plenty of chaos, Den nostalgia and a few wild detours along the way.Hit play now to hear the full episode.

    Gift Grub: Is Robbie Keane Heading To Spurs?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 13, 2026 2:43


    It's been a hectic week in the Premier League, with managers getting the chop left, right, and centre, and Ian Dempsey wants to know if Robbie Keane might be headed to Spurs. Hit play now to hear the full episode.

    Gift Grub: What Is Ireland's Most Romantic County?!

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 13, 2026 3:22


    According to a recent survey, Kerry is Ireland's most romantic county, and the data says that Kerry men are not afraid to splash the cash. Well, we know John Mullane LOVES his county and he has something to say about that! Hit play now to hear the episode in full.

    Gift Grub: Radio ROG - Six Nations Talk Derailed by Screaming Women!

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2026 4:33


    Ronan O'Gara and Quinny were back this morning with a brand new episode of Radio ROG. The lads were looking at Ireland's chances against Italy this weekend, but it seems the listeners are more interested in Conor Murray and Rob Kearney. Hit play now to hear the episode in full.

    Gift Grub: The Former Gift Grub Characters Support Group

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2026 3:43


    What happens when your Gift Grub days come to an end? Well, you enter the Former Gift Grub Character Support Group, of course! Joe Duffy, Enda Kenny, Michael D, Ray D'Arcy, Joan Burton, and more former Gift Grub characters open up about the truth about life after Gift Grub. Hit play now to hear the episode in full.

    Gift Grub: Is Ryan Tubridy Set For A Comeback?!

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 10, 2026 4:06


    There is no doubt about it - Ryan Tubridy has been in the media quite a bit recently. Is there a comeback on the cards? On this morning's Gift Grub, Ian got a preview of the plan for the big return! Hit play now to hear the episode in full.

    Gift Grub: Christy Campaigns To Be Included In Today FM's 100 Greatest Irish Songs

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 9, 2026 3:42


    On this morning's show, Ian kicked off Today FM's 100 Greatest Irish Songs and was encouraging listeners to get in touch and vote for their favourites. Gift Grub's Christy Moore dropped in and was absolutely full with suggestions. He felt so inspired that he created a musical tribute of his own! Hit play now to hear the episode in full.

    Gift Grub: Dancing With The Stars Fans Got A Fright Last Night!

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 9, 2026 2:25


    Well, it was all about the frights on last night's Dancing With The Stars. On this morning's Gift Grub, some of the famous judging panel joined Ian to give him the full run down. Hit play now to hear the episode in full.

    Ian Dempsey Meets Irish Chaser, Darragh 'The Menace' Ennis

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 9, 2026 11:53


    TV quiz legend and The Chase's own Darragh 'The Menace' Ennis dropped into the studio this morning to chat about his 'Ultimate Pub Quiz' in Dublin's Laughter Lounge. Darragh gave Ian all the info about the quiz, as well as all the dirt on The Chase. He then took on our resident Beat The Intro Queen, Shauna O'Reilly. However, neither Shauna nor Darragh covered themselves in glory! Hit play now to hear the chat in full.

    Gift Grub: Sexton Snaps After Paris Pummeling

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2026 3:12


    Former Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan joined Ian on this morning's Gift Grub to break down Ireland's Six Nations debut last night. He was followed by assistant coach Johnny Sexton, who was frustrated to put it lightly! Hit play now to hear the episode in full.

    Gift Grub: Michael D Throws Some Shade At Catherine Connolly

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2026 4:05


    The 3Arena is the place to be tonight. Legendary Irish magazine Hot Press kicks off its 50-year celebrations with a massive gig featuring a whole host of Irish stars and a special appearance from Michael D Higgins. On this morning's Gift Grub, Ian caught up with our former president. Hit play now to hear the episode in full.

    Gift Grub: Michael Flatley's Back With A Bang

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 5, 2026 4:40


    Michael Flatley dropped into the Breakfast Show this morning ahead of Lord of the Dance hitting the 3Arena.It's “a soft day” outside, but Michael's promising the feet will be raining down on that stage harder than an orange alert.Expect wild granddaddy wisdom, Monaco tales, Princess Grace name-drops, and a diamond Rolex on the strand.

    Andrew Porter Misses Match Day Nerves (Not the Pre-Match Meal)

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 5, 2026 6:40


    Ireland kick off their Six Nations tonight against France in Paris, but there's a big name missing from the team sheet - Andrew Porter!Andrew joined Ian this morning on the phone to chat injuries, comeback hopes, and what it's like watching the lads when you're stuck on the sideline.Then Gift Grub crashes the call, with Donal Lenihan giving a “rugby insight” only he could deliver, and Johnny Sexton laying into Ian for asking the important questions — like birthdays.

    Gift Grub: The Fogees Drop a Six Nations Rap

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2026 3:39


    The Six Nations is almost here, and Gift Grub is getting match-ready in the only way it knows how.Ian's joined in studio by the Fogs… sorry, the “Fogees” — with Paul O'Connell, ROG and Quinny lined up to drop a brand new hype track ahead of Ireland's clash with France at the Stade de France.Press play and get fired up for kick-off.

    Gift Grub: Will We Ever See A Blue Sky Again?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2026 5:08


    In this episode of Gift Grub, Iano dives into the relentless and soggy weather wreaking havoc across Ireland. As spring remains a distant dream, we hear from Daniel O'Donnell who is fed up with the constant downpours and is more fed up with Met Eireann's weather alerts. Martin King and Bertie Ahern give their opinion too.

    Gift Grub: Simon Harris Has Added More Jobs To His Portfolio

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2026 3:31


    The bloody rain. Will it ever stop!? The East coast got a battering this week but it hasn't stopped raining in 2026 across the country. We see how the weather is affecting government, media and more in Gift Grub.

    Gift Grub: What Would A Trump Tower In Dublin Look Like?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2026 5:04


    Eric Trump, son of American president Donald Trump, has said his father intends to build a Trump Tower in Dublin. The president joined Ian this morning to talk about his plans and his planned renovation work on the Cliffs of Moher.

    Gift Grub: Would You All Just Stop Scrolling In Your Jeep!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2026 4:55


    Drive on any road in Ireland and it won't take you long to see someone with their head down while driving. They are on their phone. The RSA observed two-thirds (67%) of drivers using a mobile device were using it in their hand, typing or scrolling, while the rest held it to their ear.Ronan Keating, Keith Duffy and Daniel O Donnell joined Ian this morning to discuss their campaign to stop the people of Ireland from scrolling while driving.

    Gift Grub: Does Michael O Leary Qualify For Saint Status Yet?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2026 4:19


    People are queueing up to pay tribute to Michael O Leary after his spat with billionaire Elon Musk last week. Taoiseach Michael Martin and broadcaster Matt Cooper joined Ian to gush over Michael.

    Gift Grub: Brendan Gleeson Isn't Having This Oscar Hysteria

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2026 2:56


    Yet again, the Irish are celebrating yet another acting nomination at the Oscars. This time it's Jessie Buckley for her role in Hamnet. Ian was joined by Irish acting royalty this morning when Brendan Gleeson and Pierce Brosnan gave their reaction to the news.

    Gift Grub: Ronan Keating Is Glued To Love Island

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2026 3:41


    Jack Keating is back in the Love Island villa looking for love. His proud dad Ronan joined Ian this morning to talk about Jack's appearance and surprised him with a live call to his son.

    Gift Grub: Posh & Becks Hit Back With New Documentary

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2026 3:48


    It has been quite the week for the Beckham family following the statement from eldest son Brooklyn. How will they react to the bombshell statement? By doing another Netflix of course. Gift Grub has the exclusive!

    Gift Grub: Trump

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 21, 2026 4:59


    Donald Trump has made it to Davos in Switzerland along with many other world leaders and dignitaries. Just what will other countries do to keep Trump onside while disagreeing with him at the same time? Nothing an aul Rose of Tralee tiara can't sort!

    Gift Grub: Michael Flatley Reveals His New Masterpiece

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 20, 2026 4:22


    Michael Flatley is in the front pages of all the papers this past week. He joined Ian this morning to discuss what makes him relaxed when he's in the spotlight and he revealed to Ian his newest masterpiece in studio.

    Gift Grub: Munster Supporters Aren't Enjoying Blue Monday

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2026 3:07


    Munster's season came to a crashing halt over the weekend with a defeat to Castres and a sharp exit from The Champions Cup. Donal Lenihan, Michael Corcoran and Ronan O Gara all reluctantly joined Ian this morning to discuss.

    Gift Grub: Brian Kennedy Makes A B Sharp Exit From DWTS

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2026 2:37


    Brian Kennedy was the second celebrity to be eliminated from Dancing with the Stars 2026 during last night's Movie Night special. Brian received the lowest combined scores from the judges and public votes.Judges Brian, Arthur and Karen joined Ian for a recap this morning.

    Gift Grub: The Soap Transfer Window Is Officially Open

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2026 3:57


    Actress Beverley Callard, best known for playing Liz McDonald in Coronation Street, has swapped the cobbles of Weatherfield for the hustle and bustle of Carrigstown by joining the cast of RTÉ's Fair City.Will this lead to a soap version of the Premier League's transfer window? We're all here for it if it does!

    Gift Grub: Garron Noone Wants A Chocolate Cost Of Living Intervention

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2026 4:27


    The Dail is back and there was plenty to get politicans talking about.Paschal's World Bank top-up and the rising costs of chocolate bars were top of the agenda!

    Gift Grub: Simon Harris Does Hollywood

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2026 3:52


    Simon Harris, Minister for Finance and leader of Fine Gael, is currently in LA on a three day trip to discuss Ireland-US ties. He captured it all on socials including chance encounters with Tom Cruise and Michael Douglas plus hanging out with Brendan Gleeson at the Golden Globes.

    Gift Grub: Barry Dunne - The Cash Machine King

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2026 4:18


    The subject of this morning's Gift Grub was....the man, the myth, the legend, CASH MACHINE KING; Barry Dunne. Hit play now to hear the episode in full.

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