Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis

Karen Koster joins Alison on Weekend Breakfast for a fun, sleep-deprived chat after a big night at the Style Awards — Ireland's own mini Met Gala, capes, tiaras and all!Then it's on to summer survival mode for parents, as Karen teams up with MyWadi to launch the MyWadi FAI Football Camps, running nationwide throughout July and August.Karen chats screen-free mornings, confidence-building team sport (especially for girls), inclusive “Football for All,” and why getting those camp weeks booked feels like pure relief!See more faifootballcamps.ie

Lucy Kennedy drops into studio with Alison for a laugh-out-loud catch up that goes everywhere!! — from being a full-blown Swiftie to what it's really like moving in with celebrities on her show.Lucy spills on the surreal moment Caitlyn Jenner opened the door in LA, and why living with Katie Hopkins was the most challenging stay of all.Plus, we talk her new novel 'The Mini Breakers': five friends on a girls' trip, perimenopause, palpitations and more --- and her character inspiration coming poolside in Albufeira! (where she hits the pool fully armed with towels, doughnuts and a floating unicorn at 7am!)And wait until you hear how she celebrated turning 50… pyjamas, Waterford Castle, a ferry, and a Chinese takeaway!

Kate O'Connor is not just good at one event... she has SEVEN! 800 Metres (indoor and outdoor), Shot Put, Long Jump, High Jump, Hurdles, Javelin! It's tiring just reading the list!The World Champion and Olympic contender for Team Ireland joins Alison on Weekend Breakfast for a brilliant chat about life as a heptathlete (and yes, how to say it!) — and what it really takes to be good at seven disciplines, not just one.Kate shares how she fell into multi-events “organically,” thanks a lot to her to her dad's encouragement - he is tell her coach to this day. She opens up about the toughest event to master, the mindset behind constant learning, and the whirlwind of medals, records and media attention! And perhaps the most important of all -- inspiring the young athletes of Ireland to live their own dream!Kate chatted to Alison as part of the SPAR and Eurospar Community Fund - helping more kids get into sport by investing in their clubs. The Community Fund initiative will see €60,000 awarded to 30 sports clubs across the country. Nominees are being asked to submit a short application to showcase how their club is ‘Hungry For Success'.Entries are now open and will close on Wednesday, July 8th.

Two of our favourite people - Stephen and Anita Mangan join Alison on Weekend Breakfast to celebrate their brilliant new kids' book, 'Welcome to Weird Street' — a collection of hilarious and wild short stories!A girl finds a lost cat and knocks door to door down Weird Street, with a brand-new mini adventure behind every house. Anita chats about illustrating all 23 houses (even more drawings than planned) and teasing what's behind each door without giving anything away.Plus, chatty courgettes, why good books are your best friend, reading at bedtime, and which big Irish celebrity living in London (down the road from Anita!) turns out to be their long lost cousin!!

Alison caught up with Alex Warren backstage at the 3 Arena - he was getting ready for the second of his TWO night sold out run at the venue.Ireland hearts Alex and he loves us back. The one night of the year he grabs a beer is always on Irish turf when he checks out a local boozer with his crew for one night! This amazing young man has an incredible backstory but he has turned tragedy into triumph and inspired so many on the way. He talks about “finding your people” on the road, why he sometimes just stares out at the audience to remember it all, and how the big streaming numbers still don't feel real - but what actually matters is the people.An open, heartfelt conversation about losing parents young, keeping their memory alive for his kids, and the artists he's dying to collaborate with next — Niall Horan and Hozier!!

Westlife's Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan and Shane Filan join Alison Curtis in studio on Weekend Breakfast for a brilliant chat — and plenty of laughs — as they mark 25 years together, from the early days to The Ultimate Collection and the memories fans still share with them.The lads reminisce about first meetings (including Grease in Sligo), those early auditions, and what it's like now that their kids are all grown up enough to be backstage — and even have their own group chat.Plus: Shane's advice for young musicians and parents, and Kian explains the now-viral moment he helped push a pregnant woman's car at Supermac's.Westlife's record breaking 3Arena run kicks off this September 10th. ‘25 - The Ultimate Collection' is out now.TodayFM's very special one-off live show 'Up Close and Personal With Westlife' takes place on The Dave Moore Show Friday 15th May. Tune in from 9am.

It's a Fly on the wall, six-part series that documents the incredible work of Ireland's largest animal charity the NSPCA Two of it's stars – Senior Animal Welfare Inspector Fiona Conlon and Veterinary Surgeon Chloe Foley joined Weekend Breakfast to tell Alison all about how much they love their work and the new series.The Shelter: Animal SOS season six airs on Friday May 8 at 8pm on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player.

Brand new MasterChef judge Anna Haugh told Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast how she is so buzzing after a big week at the helm of one of the BBC's biggest shows!! She explains why talking “in civilian clothes” can feel more nerve‑wracking than being in chef mode! When she is filming she is in the zone!Anna tells us about her fabulous London restaurant that has an Irish twist! She's a BIG fan of TK Red Lemonade and boxty!She also talks reimagining old Irish recipes (and famine-era ingredients), life skills in the kitchen with her little lad, what working for Gordon Ramsay really taught her, is The Bear realistic? and why she's so proud to be from Tallaght.Masterchef continues on Tuesday this week on BBC 1 at 9pm Follow Anna - https://www.instagram.com/haughser/

Actor Dominic West joins Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast to chat all things gardens, nature and getting back outside — just in time for the Festival of Gardens & Nature in County Laois, happening Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd of May (the long weekend). Dominic shares his connection to the festival through his wife Catherine Fitzgerald, who co-founded it, and why “tending a garden” might just be the meaning of life — especially after lockdown reminded us how much we need trees, fields and fresh air.He also told us about working with Cillian Murphy's son Aran on upcoming legal thriller 'War' starring opposite Sienna Miller and playing Aran's Stepdad! He couldn't quite get over how much like Cillian his son looks and he really enjoyed the whole experience.Plus: studios vs sunshine, getting kids into the outdoors and learning “life skills”, and where is he with his Irish citizenship quest!Find out more about the festival here: https://festivalofgardensandnature.com/

Chef Shane Smith is in studio with Alison on Weekend Breakfast to celebrate his fab first book! And he doesn't arrive empty handed! IS IT CAKE!!!? Yes, it most certainly is! Droool.Shane a tells us about his new book 'Loaf Tin Bakes' – a whole cookbook dedicated to what you can make in one tin, from simple lemon drizzle-style treats to savoury garlic dough balls, pizza bread swirls and easy brown bread! It's simple genius!Plus: the behind-the-scenes reality of online baking edits, recipe testing and book signings!Follow Shane here

Katie Kirby started writing her Lottie Brooks books in 2021 and she's already got nine in the series and two million copies sold!Wow! It's truly a phenomenon. She is in Ireland on a sold out book tour and popped into Alison and Weekend Breakfast for a chat!OMG!! Hope there's no awks moments but loads of Lottie chat, some superfans AND Katie tells us about the TENTH book in the series due out later this year!The most recent instalment: 'THE SERIOUSLY EPIC HOLIDAY OF LOTTIE BROOKS!' is out nowFollow Katie @katiekirbyauthor on Insta

This week Conde Nast Traveler revealed it's 7 Wonders Of Ireland for 2026 --- they have avoided all the tourist traps on this list for some truly magical locations.Weekend Breakfast with Alison spoke to Irish Travel Blogger Chris Connolly – you may know him from his hugely successful Instagram @explorewithcriostoir --- where he showcases his stunning videos and soft Northern Irish lilt!!Chris has been everywhere in our beautiful country and shared his thoughts on the 7 chosen locations.Here is the full list https://www.cntraveller.com/article/7-wonders-of-ireland-for-2026 1. Waterford topped the list as the must see destination in Ireland by Condé Nast Traveller, --- they said: “A road trip along the Copper Coast of County Waterford takes in some of the most beautiful, empty and underrated beaches in Ireland” – and also cited the Waterford Greenway and the Comeragh mountains for hikes to waterfalls and along panoramic ridges.2. The Burren in County Clare described on the list as “otherworldly and extraordinary” They offer the Ailwee Caves instead of the usual Cliffs Of Moher. And encourage people to walk the two-and-a-half-hour Lough Avalla Farm loop, which takes in woodland trails, bee-buzzing pastures and open landscape.3. Ring of Beara – The lesser known loop often overshadowed by the Ring Of Kerry – This straddles the counties of Kerry and Cork, the Ring of Beara is a knockout and relatively hush-hush route that snakes through the paintbox-bright villages of Eyeries and Allihies, over the dramatic turns of the Healy Pass and even past Ireland's first Tibetan Buddhist temple4. Northwest Donegal - Donegal feels like a place apart. Glenveagh National Park is a spectacular wilderness to explore. Mount Errigal can be scaled in about two hours, leaving plenty of time to head to the long, sandy beaches of Dunfanaghy.5. Fermanagh Lakelands - awe-inspiring hikes including the boardwalk trail known as the Stairway to Heaven; the food scene and pubs of Enniskillen town; Beleek Pottery, and water-based fun on Lough Erne.6. The passage tombs of the Ancient East - In the Boyne Valley of County Meath. Older than Stonehenge and the pyramids of Egypt, Newgrange is Ireland's neolithic headliner.7. The City of Kilkenny for Culture – Cat Laughs, Kilkenomics and Jerpoint Abbey all ticked the list to make this their cultural pick!

WARNING: this podcast episode contains talk of mouth watering meals and may cause you to run immediatley to your local haunt because of your hunger!Alison chats to Food and Travel journalist Ali Dunworth - who compiled a list of the best places in the country to grab a sitdown Sunday Roast!Follow Ali here: https://www.instagram.com/alidunworth/Her full list is here - bear in mind it has a paywall - https://www.independent.ie/life/food-drink/19-of-the-best-pubs-in-ireland-for-a-sunday-roast-from-an-old-school-thatched-bar-to-a-city-centre-favourite/a620042085.html

This Easter weekend we wanted to welcome back one of our favourite guests on to Weekend Breakfast Lou Robbie chats to Alison a Sunday Times bestselling author – number 1 in Ireland and the UK with her debut cookbook - Make & FreezeLou has captured a huge and dedicated online audience – and recently celebrated getting to 1 MILLION FOLLOWERS on Instagram!!She tells us all bout that amazing milestone and also some Easter recipes! Slow roast Leg of Lamb!! (160 degrees!)Born in Tipp and based in Galway she told us that most of her videos are filmed while listening to Weekend Breakfast!She's a big fan of ours and we are big fans of her! https://www.instagram.com/littleloucooks/✨ Sticky & Spicy Slow Cooked Irish Lamb ✨INGREDIENTS• 1 bone-in Irish lamb leg (~2.4kg)Spice rub:• 2 tbsp cumin• 2 tbsp oregano• 2 tsp paprika• 4 garlic cloves (finely grated)• 1 tsp sea salt• 100g Specially Selected red pesto or harissaTray:• 500ml beef stock + 250ml water• 2 onion (sliced)• sprig rosemary• 2 tbsp Organic Squeezy honeyServe with: buttery mash, roast cherry tomatoes & asparagus or roast carrots and parsnips.METHODTake lamb out 20 mins before cooking. Score the fat in a diamond pattern.Mix spice rub ingredients + massage all over lamb. Marinate 1 hr (or overnight).Preheat oven to 160°C (fan). Add onion + rosemary to tray, place lamb on top, pour in stock + water. Cover tightly.Cook 3.5–4.5 hrs until tender & falling apart.Drizzle honey over, uncover, roast 30 mins more.Rest 20 mins before shredding/carving.

Niamh Fahey has won it all - 4 WSL titles, 5 FA Cups, an FAI Women's Cup, an All-Ireland for Galway and 115 caps for the Republic of Ireland! -- She has played for Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool - the former Ireland Captain spoke to Alison all about her new role at Liverpool Football Club, women in sport, and of course her insane competitive streak and much more

Dearbhla Mescal Joins Us For A Very Special Mother's Day Podcast In a specially extended chat, Dearbhla Mescal reveals some of the magical moments of being a Mother. This engaging, warm and revealing interview - Mother of Paul, Donnacha and Nell she speaks lovingly about their incredible bond growing up together, how having a "sweary house" allowed them their self expression, along with the slamming doors as teens! Her own journey from the freeing joy of showing vulnerability, her own cancer journey, her son Paul's current Beatles journey and much more Dearbhla's book ‘Finding Joy' — a beautiful collection of poems, musings and reflections to help you find joy in everyday life is out now

Sky Sports and BBC Match Of The Day Anchor – Kelly Cates is an award winning presenter, podcaster, and all round icon!Kelly joined Weekend Breakfast and Alison to chat about the excitement of live shows, parenting teenagers, young women in sport and creaking doors and much more!! This is a special uncut extended interview.Stars of the Overlap – featuring Gary Neville, Jamie Carragher, Wayne Rooney and hosted by Kelly Cates – Audiences can expect honest conversations, behind-the-scenes stories, and plenty of friendly banter as these football greats take the stage to share their journeys from the pitch to punditry and beyond. LIVE @ The 3 Arena - 25th March ticketmaster.ieFollow Kelly on social: @kellycates_

Alison is joined by Cathal and Ciaran to try to help her get ready to embrace As Gaeilge this March.Gaylinn, is the bilingual comedy podcast hosted by Cian Griffin, Cathal O'Sullivan, and Ciarán Murphy, - Each week they discuss the Worst, Weird & Wonderful of a broad range of topics: Dating, School, Renting, and more.Gaylinn release new weekly episodes every Wednesday.@gaylinnpodcast on Instagram or TikTok

Following their sold-out tour in 2025, I'm Grand Mam return to the live arena in 2026 with their brand-new show Happy Campers. If you don't know already! I'm Grand Mam is the wildly popular Irish comedy duo made up of best friends Kevin Twomey and PJ Kirby.Two Cork boys that can't stop chatting and now they've made a career out of it! Alison caught with our two favourite fellas and they chatted about sexy spectacles, very rude and loud WhatsApp groups, selling put the Olympia (adding more dates!), and PJ reveals the HILARIOUS title for a youth group musical he was in ! @imgrandmam on Instagram

Meet ‘Indiana Bones', who is also known as Indy and was recently named Ireland's Top Agility Dog for the fourth year in a row, and is set to represent the country at Crufts next month!!Not only that but she is a little silver screen superstar starring in several production including movies starring Barry Keoghan and Colm Meaney and more.Alison on Weekend Breakfast spoke to Laura Murphy aka The waggy Mama and we literally spoke to Indy too!Her back story is a Hollywood movie in itself - she was dumped in a shopping bag as a pup. Follow them @thewaggymama on Instagram and waggymamasagility.com

Luke Owens is Dad to Snooker's latest super snooker prodigy...He is the world's youngest snooker player and he's just turned 3 years old!Luke and Jude joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast to chat about his TWO Guinness World Records!And Luke and Jude have Cork roots - Grandad left Cork to move to Manchester!What is even crazier is he performed the tricks at two years of age. Dad tells Alison the pride he feels and awe at what skills Jude is showing at such a young age but he also tells her that his welfare is the MOST important thing and when he got offered a life changing offer of America's Got Talent he turned it down.Jude has clocked up close to 60k followers across his socials @ judey147 - Instagram, Tik Tok, YouTube

Hannah is the owner of Réaltaí Readings - a tarot reader, reiki master, reflexologist and massage therapist based in Dublin.As a young tarot reader – SHE IS ONLY 25.She works at many events from pottery painting, hotel openings, fashion events, etc. Also - baby showers, cafés, hens, birthdays, girls night in and festivals – like All Together Now, Electric Picnic, Beyond the pale, Another love story and this year- Wellfest! Hannah has also featured on Ireland AM - she demystifies Tarot and explains why so many millennials are turning to it. @realtaireadings on socials

One of our favourite people in the world Adam King and his dad David popped in to say hello and chat about the brand new series of Adam's brilliant animated show Adam Loves Adventure! (and it's awesome intro tune!)Adam also fills us in on his busy busy schedule - his charity book Farren's Adventure, debating wins, tennis, and a big 20-year anniversary dance show in Cork Opera House!Adam Loves Adventure is a science-fiction adventure comedy for pre-schoolers starring The Late Late Toy Show's Adam King. Adam's character is a problem-solving space-explorer whose prime-directive is to explore the galaxy, using his big heart and space smarts to make new friends and learn new things! Adam Loves Adventure is back on Saturday February 14th on RTÉ2 and RTE Junior--- and the full series will available will be on RTÉ Player

Sophie Bell from Cavan and Carina Roseingrave from Burren View Farm in Clare join Alison on Weekend Breakfast to discuss the premiere of their new documentary, and theatre experience "Voices of Irish Farmers," as part of the Scene and Heard Festival. February 15th at the Smock Alley Theatre in Dublin, this event promises an afternoon filled with heartwarming stories from Irish farmers, live music, and delicious tastings.Both share their farming lives online (one video fixing a Tractor Tire got 30 million views!!) Both share their insights on the realities of farming life, the passion that drives them, and the importance of showcasing the hard work behind Ireland's food production. SOCIALS: SOPHIE: @sophie_bell__ CARINA : @burrenviewfarm

"I was in the kitchen... the glamour!" John Kelly tells Alison on Weekend Breakfast where he was when he heard his incredible little movie 'Retirement Plan' was nominated for an Academy Award.The self-effacing (and lovely bloke) is a Director from Dublin who has made an animated short that feels like a full movie in seven minutes. The story follows the character Ray, who is dissatisfied with life, and dreams of everything he'll be able to do in retirement, once he finally has the time! The film is narrated by Domhnall Gleeson.Follow John on Insta @johjnkelly_jnrIt is a fantastic piece of work. You can watch it now on Disney + and RTE Player.

***SPOILER ALERT***What a final.Rachel Duffy is the pride of Newry. She rode her luck and used her smarts ... FBI anyone!! And took it all the way to the final.Her younger brother Neil is bursting with pride .. and feeling a little emotional after a night watching his older sister appear on one of telly's biggest shows. He told us what it was like as the entire family and half the town gathered for a watch-along in the local hotel. Ciara is Rachel's bestie and cousin and was as tense as the rest of us watching those final moments!

The second most capped female Republic of Ireland international of all time chatted to Alison on Weekend Breakfast about her recent record breaking move to the WSL and a club she holds close to her heart.She talks about her love of Cork and her native Knocknaheeny, getting into football from an early age (youngest of 10) and her advice for young girls getting into sport and much more!

January is a great time to book - there's a bigger choice than ever, you can give yourself the time to spread payments, and there is nothing better than enjoying the anticipation! Weekend Breakfast welcomes our holiday guru Pól Ó Conghaile - Travel Editor from The Irish Independent - he tells us all about the brand new routes for this year, some fantastic alternatives to the usual spots and some stay at home options!Follow Pol here https://www.instagram.com/poloconghaile/?hl=en#

Russell Alford and Patrick Hanlon better known as The Gastro Gays - FOOD TREND PREDICTIONS FOR 2026 – from the revival of the gourmet chip to pub grub glow ups!The Gastro Gays are food and travel writers Russell Alford & Patrick Hanlon. They are restaurant critics for The Sunday Times Ireland,– they regularly create online content - share recipes online, restaurant recommendations, city guides for travelling around Europe, dog friendly accommodation, cosy cabins around Ireland AND MORE!!Follow them here Official website: gastrogays.com and @GastroGays on INSTA

Back for a second season, and it's bigger, bolder, and greener than ever (and loads of fun)! Alison chats to Brian Dowling about how much the show has changed his attitude to upcycling.The Mission: Led by Brian, the design team returns to prove that stunning home makeovers don't need to cost the earth. Travelling the country in an all-electric van, they transform tired spaces using only upcycled, salvaged, and sustainable materials.Viewers can expect big ideas, even bigger personalities, and makeovers that turn trash into treasure. THE SALVAGE SQUAD starts tonight and every Sunday at 8pm on Virgin Media One and Virgin Media Play.

Vogue is a very busy woman and one thing she really values is a good declutter! Step in Hazel Burton - she is a Certified Professional Organiser from Dublin and is helping Vogue with her latest house move. Hazel also shares her approach to the January reset, emphasising small, simple goals that can make a significant impact. Whether it's tackling overflowing closets or creating a clear space in your hallway, her practical tips will help you reclaim your home without feeling overwhelmed! With insights gained from working with high-profile clients like Vogue Williams, Hazel encourages listeners to embrace intentional living and embrace a clutter-free lifestyle. She is like our very own Stacey Solomon! Let Hazel sort your life out!

Alison welcomes back the charming Keith Brymer-Jones for another chat on Weekend Breakfast! The Great Pottery Throwdown returns tonight for it's ninth series. It is the ultimate comfort telly. It is a show that show has captivated audiences of all ages and why families love to tune in together. Keith shares his excitement about the diverse group of competitors this year, ranging from a tattooist to a chemistry teacher and of course "flat bottoms" "massive cracks" and the innuendo game that has viewers in tears... a bit like Keith!The Great Pottery Throwdown - Channel 4 - starts Jan 4th and every Sunday at 7.30pm

Alison welcomes back chef Nevin Maguire for a festive chat on Weekend Breakfast as she packed with delicious holiday tips and recipes! Neven shares his secrets for a stress-free Christmas dinner, from his famous apricot sage stuffing balls to succulent turkey and mouth-watering ham with an irresistible glaze. Whether you're a seasoned chef or preparing the Christmas dinner for the first time. He even brings in a delicious trifle recipe that's perfect for rounding off your festive feast. It's all about great food and making lasting memories this Christmas!See the full recipes here: https://www.todayfm.com/weekend-breakfast-with-alison-curtis/neven-maguires-cracking-christmas-recipes-2220440

The Queen of Ireland and "National F*cking Treasure!!" Panti Bliss joins Weekend Breakfast for a very special and chaotically fun Christmas Gift Guide!Dr Panti Bliss has been announced as the Ambassador for Design & Crafts Council Ireland, Made Local campaign.The ‘Made Local' campaign celebrates the spirit of community and grassroots energy that has always been central to Ireland's greatest movements.madelocal.ie ---- where you can search for makers and the products you want by location. 1,500 makers based in Ireland and 350 retailers to buy from. Gifts featured:PANTI'S BLISSFUL CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE FOR HIM, FOR HER, FOR THEM, FOR KIDS – FOR EVERYONE!!!The Queen of Ireland and the official Ambassador for the Made Local Campaign has hand picked a few of the amazing handmade Irish items for sale now in time for the perfect Christmas gift!Let's go!Earrings by A Little IdeaFrom Dublin and stocked in Om Diva, these large dangly swirl earrings are called after CMAT!Available online at alittleidea.ie/ or Om Diva in Dublin 2 Sleep Set by Jo BrowneJoanne, from Carlow,the maker behind Jo Browne, has beautiful luxury natural products for you and your home.Available in lots of shops across the country including Arnotts in Dublin and online jobrowne.comGreen Mug by Magda BethaniMagda, based in Wicklow, is a ceramicist - see more here magdabethani.com Seaweed Foot Scrub by WasiWasi is an Irish seaweed skincare brand from Cork Available online at wasi.ie/ or from the Irish Design Shop. Ribbed Merino Hat by Ireland's EyeThis chunky ribbed hat made from 100% merino wool is by Ireland's Eye, who create all-natural knitwear in Dublin Available from Irish Design Shop Linen Barn Owl by We Make GoodWe Make Good is a social enterprise that promotes equality and sustainable production based in Dublin wemakegood.ie or from Irish Design Shop Porcelain Landscape Disc by Karo ArtKaro Art, based in Dublin 8, has creates beautiful ceramicsAvailable from Irish Design Shop and online karoart.eu/

Stephen - Actor, writer, presenter (Landscape Artist Of the Year and on radio a weekly show on Classic FM)Anita – is an award winning Illustrator, Designer and ArtistTogether they make a brilliant creative force behind eight children's books!! The first book was called Escape The Room and now they have made seven since including the hugely successful and brilliantly titled The Fart That Changed The World!You may have seen them on Celebrity Gogglebox UK and they are hilarious!They both joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast to talk real life heroic St. Bernard's, psychotic squirrels and summers in Ireland!

Jeff Kinney joins Alison live from London to discuss the new book in The Diary of A Wimpy Kid Series; Party Pooper.He answers some super-fan questions and says that as his heritage is Irish, it wouldn't be out of the question for Greg to come to Ireland...

Dermot O'Leary is in the studio to chat to Alison about his new book, Toto the Ninja Cat & the Pirate Treasure Hunt.They also chat about radio, Wexford and his undying love of television and reading!

Superstar and Supermum - The Queen Of Kitchen Disco - Sophie Ellis- Bextor is a remarkable woman. Singer, songwriter, podcaster, best-selling author, Mum to five fab kids and now gherkin connoisseur!!Sophie joins me to chat all about Kerry, falling in love with Irish donkeys, growing old but not acting ancient, her new role as a gherkin connoisseur and of course her brand new album!! "A little slice of disco-optimistic pop!"The brilliantly named 'Perimenopop' is OUT NOW!

Join Alison Curtis for a delightful reunion with father-daughter duo Kathi "Fatti" and John Burke, as they dive into their exciting new book, "Animalopedia." John, a former primary school teacher turned author, shares how he has blended his passion for nature with his love for storytelling, while Kathi showcases her incredible talent with over 300 vibrant illustrations that bring these animals to life! It features every animal that has ever existed in Ireland! It's been a decade since we had them in studio! Plus, Cathy spills the beans on her secret project – an upcoming fictional story! Tune in for laughter, insights, and a celebration of wildlife!

Join Alison Curtis as she welcomes Canadian astronaut and author Chris Hadfield back to the show! Chris shares insights into his life, his remarkable family, and his latest literary success, "Final Orbit." His new book is a gripping thriller set against the backdrop of the Cold War that has already become a number one best-seller in Canada! Chris reflects on his unique perspective from space and how it enriches his storytelling, blending history with fiction in a captivating way. He adores Ireland and has a daughter and now a gorgeous 7 month old Granddaughter here! Plus, they dive into the exciting future of space travel and the inspirational role of STEM education for young people. 'Final Orbit' is out now!

David Walliams is one of the world's most prolific children's authors. He has sold over 60 million copies, written more than 40 and has been translated into 55 languages! He joined Alison Curtis in studio for LOTS of laughs, and some very special calls from some of his biggest fans in Ireland.HIs brand new book 'Santa & Son' is out on October 23rd

Alison chats to Tadgh O Donovan, who features in new show 'A Rebel Education: Inside Carrigaline Community School,' on Virgin Media Television every Sunday evening. Tadgh himself has an incredible journey from being a traditional teacher to becoming a social media sensation. He discusses how the shift to online learning during COVID opened new doors for engaging students where they are—on platforms like TikTok! He tells us all about how the show was filmed over a year revealing the challenges, tears and joys of life in a modern Secondary classroom. Tadgh loves to teach and as a Science Teacher he also highlights the importance of STEM education, especially for girls, showcasing the incredible projects his students are spearheading. Oh, and how a Finding Nemo reference to his class made him look soooooo old!!!