Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis

Alison Curtis is joined on Weekend Breakfast by two seriously impressive 18-year-olds from Dublin, Glen Anderson and Ben Hanlon from Back of the Class Podcast _1 They tell the mad, fairytale story of how Glen spotted Gayle King in Dublin, waited outside the hotel, and ended up pitching their podcast to Oprah herself — on camera — in a clip that went around CBS in America - and Oprah agreed!! Plus, the lads chat how the podcast started, why they're focused on getting in the right rooms, the big guests they've already landed, and how that one Oprah moment sent their Instagram flying from a few thousand followers to over 20,000 - in three days!

Alison Curtis is joined on Weekend Breakfast by Kevin and PJ from the I'm Grand Mam podcast, ahead of their new TV series Help Me Buy a Home airing tonight (Sunday) on Virgin Media One.They chat renting reality in Ireland, the stat that stopped Alison in her tracks (61% of 18–34s living at home to save), and why the show aims to give people genuine hope — from retrofitting lessons and hard hats to Kevin getting sent up in a crane! (he reckons he's a natural!!)Plus: dream home chats (Cork, coast, gardens vs raves), the “above the shop” grant, tour excitement for Australia and New Zealand, and a quick detour into Gogglebox and subtitles!

Meet Heidi. She is 4 and a half years old - Her older sister is Chloe and she is 24 ---- Heidi was born with a rare genetic condition that means she requires round the clock care. The nursing support Heidi receives through Jack and Jill means she can remain at home, surrounded by the people who love her most. It means her sisters can spend time with her, laugh with her and simply be sisters. Heidi remains at the centre of this busy family. She is adored by her three big sisters, Ruby, Ella and Chloe.Heidi also LOVES Bluey!! She hears the intro music and her eyes light up! And she loves Tonies --- the game that can play music with little figures… she is also a big fan of Olivia Dean!!This month Today FM is teaming up with the Jack and Jill Children's Foundation for Power Hour across the day on Friday September 25th. It's simple: one hour, your way, to raise vital funds for the Jack and Jill Children's Foundation.Every €20 raised helps fund one hour of in-home nursing care and respite support for a Jack and Jill family.Give what you can to help Jack and Jill Children's Foundation continue the important, incredible work they do, by visiting https://www.jackandjill.ie/power-hour/ or go to Payments on Revolut and search Jack & Jill NOTE: it is important to use the “&” symbol also called an ampersand INSTEAD of the word “and” - when you search. Thanks so much!

It's Weekend Breakfast's Little Reader Book Club time, and Alison welcomes 11-year-old Phoebe Bedford from Hollywell Educate Together in Swords onto the airwaves.Phoebe gives shout-outs to her family, friends and teacher Evan, chats about her love of reading (and the joy of winning signed books on the show!!), and introduces us to her nibbly dwarf hamster with the BEST NAME EVER!!Phoebe reads from The Extremely Embarrassed Life of Lottie Brooks by Katie Kirby, with a very relatable “plot twist” about parents, phones, and the minimum age for Instagram.

Alison Curtis is joined on Weekend Breakfast by Rhys Darby — best-selling author, storyteller, comedian, actor… and yes, “leg model” too — ahead of his return to Ireland with the Unhinged Tour.Rhys chats about his love of Galway (cobblestones, pubs, street musicians, and unforgettable comedy festival crowds), and what it's like raising Kiwi kids in LA as they edge closer to leaving home.He also gives a taste of the new show: middle-age mayhem, memory lapses, the trouble with AI, plus why he reckons he'd make a brilliant Q in the new James Bond and a lovely tribute to his late friend and fellow Kiwi the great Sam Neill.The Unhinged Irish Tour 2026 - 7 Dates across the country· Tues 20 Oct | Craic Den Comedy Club, Dublin· Wed 21 Oct | Limelight, Belfast· Thurs 22 Oct | The Lark, Balbriggan· Sat 24 Oct & Sun Oct 25th | Galway Comedy Festival· Tues 27 Oct | Cyprus Avenue, Cork· Wed 28 Oct | Dolan's, Limerick· Sun 01 Nov | Sligo Live Festival (Hawk's Well)Book tickets now from rhysdarby.com, Ticketmaster or from Local Venues

Aoife left scorched earth behind with a flaming parting shot at the end of last Tuesday night's roundtable --- the explosive episode 6 of Traitor's Ireland!!She told Alison on Weekend Breakfast that she was determined to go out with a bang and the night before that roundtable was the worst night sleep she ever had!Aoife reveals who she thinks will win, why the cloak felt so good, how tough it is for body and mind in the castle and loads more

Alison Curtis is joined on Weekend Breakfast by comedian, actor and QI legend Alan Davies, ahead of his long-awaited return to touring Ireland after a decade away. They chat about his new stand-up show Think Ahead, what it's like hitting the road again at 60, and why he's still loving the risk and buzz of being on stage — even if travelling isn't as easy as it used to be. Alan also shares behind-the-scenes stories from QI (including the one episode he missed… for Arsenal), his love of Derry Girls, and how becoming a dad shaped his life, his books, and what he chooses to bring into his comedy. Catch Alan live: Cork Opera House Oct 12, Ulster Hall Belfast Oct 13, and 3Olympia Theatre Dublin Oct 14.

Alison is joined in studio by the iconic Bronagh Gallagher. She is one of the very few people to star in a Tarantino movie and Star Wars movie plus many more! Bronagh is still buzzing after Katie Taylor's big win, and we ask who could might play her in a biopic and what female stars are really impressing her right now.... CMAT is top of the list.They get into recording in Paris at the legendary analogue studio La Frette, how film roles come along, working with breakout star Lola Petticrew, and why Irish music and storytelling is flying right now.Don't miss Bronagh and her full-band for a night of soul and rock 'n' roll at The Ambassador Theatre on October 17th

If you're looking for your next binge-worthy series, check out 'Furious' now streaming on Disney+. This gritty crime thriller features Lola Petticrew in a breakout role as a serial killer, with a stellar cast including Emma Rossum as a former NYPD detective and Rob Delaney playing against type as a total creep. The show's dark themes and complex characters have critics raving, and it's already renewed for a second season. Definitely not one for the kids, but a must-watch for crime drama fans.

On Weekend breakfast, Alison caught up with 13-year-old DJ Sean, the youngest ever to perform at Electric Picnic. Sean chatted about learning to spin vinyl at just three, meeting Fatboy Slim, and his whirlwind schedule of gigs across Europe and Ireland. He's warming up for legends like Paul Oakenfold, Roger Sanchez, and Dave Clarke at The Haven's 25th anniversary, and even fitting in boxing between sets!! Find him online at DJSEANEM on Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat.

This morning on TodayFM, Austin Curtis welcomed authors Leona Ford and Karen into the studio for a lively chat about their hugely popular children's books. Karen discussed her debut graphic novel, Effie's Offline, which explores the story of a teen trying to escape her influencer family's spotlight. Leona talked about her beloved Millie MacArthur series and shared how her latest book was inspired by her son's wish for a dog, leading to a hilarious pet-themed adventure.

Alison Curtis is joined by Cork singer-songwriter Darren Kiely, catching him early as his career gathers serious pace. Darren chats about growing up “stereotypically Irish”, learning fiddle and guitar, and the musical roots in his family—including a brilliant Dubliners connection!He also talks about spending time gigging in New York and Nashville, and how he follows what feels right in his music.Plus, Darren shares huis influences from Bell X1 to The Lumineers, and performs his song “Wait” live in our EP snug studio.Darren Kiely tour info: https://www.darrenkiely.com/tour/

He is one of the biggest music stars on the planet right now.Alison caught up with Sombr backstage at Electric Picnic to discuss his love for The Cranberries, how Irish crowds set him up for his career, portaloos an much more

With back to school season in full swing, Lou Robbie—better known as Little Lou Cooks—joins TodayFM to share her favourite tips for making school lunches effortless. She's a big fan of batch baking sweet and savoury snacks, like her hugely popular ABC muffins (apple, banana, carrot), and freezing them for busy mornings. Lou emphasizes trying out new recipes in small batches first, and recommends freezing extras to save time and stress during the week. Handy, practical advice for families everywhere.

Comedian Kevin McGaughan joins Weekend Breakfast as the cloaked chaos returns, hosting The Traitors Ireland: Uncloaked alongside the brand-new season kicking off tomorrow on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player.Anna Daly in for Alison chats to Kevin about last year's brutal banishments, the intensity of life inside the castle, and why the show's “herd mentality” can lead to savage group decisions. They also celebrate the uniquely Irish touches—from Siobhán McSweeney's iconic looks and the Irish language, to Slane Castle and those unforgettable wolfhounds. (Siobhán 4 President!)Plus: what Kevin loves most on the after-show, the celebrity guests coming up, and whether he'd rather play faithful… or traitor!

Good morning from Weekend Breakfast! While Dolly Parton is celebrated for her music, her true legacy shines through her Imagination Library. Inspired by her father, who never learned to read, Dolly's initiative has delivered over 500 million books worldwide, including to thousands of children in Ireland every month. In places like Tallaght and Cork, families cherish the excitement of new books arriving. Dolly believed that with the ability to read, kids could teach themselves anything—and she's helping make that possible.

You won't believe this local legend! A Donegal GAA jersey and shorts from the tiny club Naomh Conaill have gone global after they appeared in Rolling Stone magazine, worn by none other than Gracie Abrams. The story started when a local, known online as Donegal Daddy, gifted the kit to actor Paul Mescal during filming in Donegal. Years later, the same kit has popped up on Gracie, leaving the club and locals absolutely buzzing with pride and a great story to tell.

Alison chats to Jamie and Jack, two friends from Meath who turned a lockdown campervan obsession into a full-time business.They're the co-founders of SAOR Campers, building high-quality handcrafted van conversions that look like “tiny apartments on wheels”. These lads are an inspiration and a great positive story. Totally self-taught they have built a van community and quality of work that is absolutely top level - check out their Insta: https://www.instagram.com/saorcampers/Plus, the pair chat on van life meetups, workshops, and the growing community around it all.

The biggest cash prize on Irish radio was won this week.A truly life changing amount of €311,000 Katie Kelleher from Cobh spoke to Alison on Weekend Breakfast all about an amazing call and day for her and her lovely family. It makes us so happy when a really lovely family win.Have they any plans? What has everyone been asking for?Let's find out!

Today FM's Listener of the Month celebrates the brilliant people who tune in every day. Each month, we shine a spotlight on one standout listener from our community, whether they have shared a great story, made us laugh, or simply been a loyal supporter! It is our way of saying thanks for listening.For August it was Pat in Mayo who told Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast about his very special drive to pick up his new born baby girl! What a year it's been for him!

This week Weekend Breakfast went full Hollywood!We caught up with the brilliant cast behind the new comedy Spa Weekend (in cinemas August 21st) — Alison sat down with Leslie Mann, Isla Fisher, Michelle Buteau and Anna Faris — about the kind of pure entertainment we all desperately need right now!!They dive into friendship, motherhood, and the impossible balance of work and family… plus that big “choose yourself” moment in the movie that feels like a rally cry!Michelle talks about how exhausting it is being angry all the time, why women are always stronger together, and she also confirms she's bringing her stand-up to Dublin — November 14th!

We love having Cecelia on the show, and we learn something new about her every time!Detective Thingy Majiggy, is the first in a new children's series inspired by bedtime reading with all her kids. But it was her youngest daughter, Blossom (age 6) who took editorial duties!Blossom even stopped an early draft reading and told her Mum “Get to the point!”The book is about Mia, a 10-year-old who can talk to inanimate objects… and they talk back. She uses their clues to solve mysteries, but the real magic is how those conversations help her understand feelings, empathy and herself.Cecelia also shares why books can still beat screens for imagination.Plus: the brilliant story of her (possibly expired!) forklift driver's licence!!

Judi Love is an award winning comedian, TV presenter, parent and advocate who is a beloved panellist on ITV's Loose Women and has appeared on hit shows including Taskmaster and Last One Laughing among many moreShe has been described as much more than a comic she is a “force of nature” and her authenticity and empathy shines through in her comedy. Judy tells Alison Curtis all about her Irish stand-up debut show at The Ambassador Theatre on September 4th and loads more.How to raise confident kids, why empathy feels lost in a digital world, and what's next: Rebel Wilson's new movie 'Girl Group' and Channel 4's' Schooled'.***This is a specially extended uncut chat for podcast.***

Irish Illustrator and author Karen Hart joins Alison Curtis live from All Together Now, fueled by a coffee, a strong battery… and the afterglow of an epic Pulp set!You will know Karen's work already through the Milly McCarthy series but this is her debut solo graphic novel.'Effie Is Offline', has a very timely and brilliant hook: a 15-year-old raised in an influencer family who's had her whole life posted, sponsored and monetised — and now just wants privacy!From the “Kidfluencer Support Group” opening to the scandal that kicks the story into gear, Alison and Karen dig into what it means for kids growing up online, and why graphic novels are such a powerful way to get young readers hooked.

What are the greatest TV shows of all time — and do you agree with the rankings? Alison Curtis and her producer Lenny dive into a Weekend Breakfast “Top 50 shows everyone should watch” list based on IMDb ratings, and it instantly turns into the ultimate weekend watchlist chat.From rewatching The U.S. Office (the “Stayin' Alive” is still one of the greatest TV comedy moments ever!) to big hitters like Mad Men, True Detective (season one), The Wire, Stranger Things, Game of Thrones and Succession, they debate what deserves a place… and what absolutely doesn't (looking at you, Lost).Plus listener texts, Irish show shout-outs, and the big reveal of the number one show.

Alison Curtis is joined live in studio by Vicki Notaro — podcaster, broadcaster and bestselling author — for a chat packed with laughs, life, and a little bit of home-reno realness (minimalist vs maximalist!).Vicki talks about her third novel, 'Anywhere But Here'. It focuses on female friendships, identity, and that “crossroads” moment many women feel around 40 — with freedom, choice, and pressure all colliding.They also dig into comparison culture, Instagram's happiness-leaching scroll, public scandal, and why Donegal is the perfect escape… even when your problems follow you!Plus: writing advice, publishing nerves, and the crucial question — Mayo or Kerry?NOTE: BOTH Alison and Vicki forgot to bring the book for the obligitary photo with book! So they have invisible copies!! :-D

10-year-old Oisín and his lovely family (including teeny tiny 1 year old brother Cian!) popped into studio to tell Alison Curtis ahead of what he calls “the best day ever” — walking out onto the pitch at Croke Park as the All-Ireland Football Final flag bearer, chosen by The Dave Moore Show in a competition with AIB.Oisin's GAA club is Erin's Own ---- Started Hurling with the club at the age 4 and played in goal and most recently in the forwards. He loves his club with a passion.He has been practicing with his large Kilkenny Flag walking around the house and garden !!Plus, mum Laura and the family join in as Oisín gets surprise voice notes from friends, teammates and a very special message from one of his Kilkenny heroes!!.

Heartstopper creator Alice Oseman joins Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast for a warm chat about saying goodbye after 10 years with her beloved Nick and Charlie — and the mix of emotions that comes with finally closing out the story the way she always wanted to tell.Alice reflects on being a teenager when she got her first book deal, and the unexpected impact Heartstopper has had: getting reluctant readers into books, and giving LGBTQ+ fans representation that feels genuinely positive and supportive.They also talk writing teenagers as “human beings”, why teens today seem more capable than ever, the new Heartstopper Netflix movie, and Alice's first-ever Irish signing in Dublin (500 books later!).

FAWLTY TOWERS THE PLAY at Bord Gáis Energy Theatre – one week only - Tuesday 28th July until Saturday 1st August. TICKETS ON SALE NOW. Ticketmaster.ie · It's just over 50 years since Fawlty Towers was first broadcast on BBC Two on 19 September 1975 - Two seasons of six episodes each.· Last Year on its 50th anniversary The Guardian called it “A perfectly calibrated Swiss watch of cringe… the comedy equivalent of an extremely hot chilli: delicious but a little goes a long way!” and that “it remains the greatest ever sitcom.”· The director of Fawlty Towers season 2 --- Bob Spiers ---- went on to direct Spice World: The Movie in 2007!!!· Bea Arthur played Basil Fawlty in one version, and a young Steve Carrell played Manuel in another. · Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant refused to make a third series of either The Office or Extras, citing Fawlty Towers' short lifespan.· Armando Iannucci: Creator of The Thick of It and Veep, has praised the rapid-fire, escalating panic of Basil Fawlty as a massive influence on his own frantic and beleaguered political characters.

Anna Daly is in for Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast and she has two bold brats in studio as she welcomes Irish rugby legend Gordon D'Arcy and writer Paul Howard for a chat that starts with World Cup sleep deprivation!The writing duo are back with 'Let's Play Football', an interactive, co-reading adventure where kids take the free kicks, dodge setbacks, and lift the trophy at the end — with Ash Chacko's fabulous video-game-style illustrations bringing the match to life.Plus, Paul talks Bad Sisters: how Sharon Horgan brought him into the writers' room, and why Ireland has never looked better on screen.

TV and radio personality, designer, speaker, activist, documentarian --- "maker of things" --- the fabulous Brendan Courtney joined Shelly Gray (in for Alison) on Weekend Breakfast for a Pride Month chat.Brendan spills the details on the GCN ( Gay Community News) Roast Battle Royale, at the Abbey Theatre on Sunday 21st June — a one-night-only, no-filter and feral comedy fundraiser celebrating community and 40 years of GCN. It features a killer lineup including Emma Doran, Shane Daniel Byrne, Gearóid Farrelly, Andrea Horan, Niamh Kavanagh, and more.He explains why Pride is still a passive protest, but also why Ireland can be a beacon of hope globally.

Shelly Gray is in for Alison on Weekend Breakfast, and she spoke to Munster and Ireland rugby legend Simon Zebo. Simon is the Irish Yogurts Clonakilty Street Carnival Ambassador, celebrating its 10th anniversary today June 13.He tells Shelly his love for the gorgeous Clonakilty — his family life - will the kids take after him on the rugby pitch? - his new favourite loves... Podcasts and Padel!Simon also talks retired life: rugby punditry with “no filter”, the odd angry message, and how he's keeping busy with golf, and five-a-side — plus his reaction to the James Lowe news.

Friends of the show, Brian Dowling and Arthur Gourounlian joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast to share the latest life updates - including if they want to host The Six O'Clock Show together.They also chatted all about parenting styles and who Alison aligns with more and the importance of charities, as the guys are supporting the AIB Community €1 Million Fund.

OMG What A Complete Aisling! legends Sarah Breen and Eimear McLysaght join Alison in studio, and the excitement is real — Alison stayed up far too late because she couldn't put their brand new novel down!They chat all about Our Deadly Summer. Plot: best friends Laura and Dee, a J1 to Long Island in 2001, and a jump forward to 2025 where they're reunited for the first time in 25 years… opening on page one with a dead body (not a spoiler!).Emer says it's inspired by her time at an American J1 country club job - she thought it would be “Coyote Ugly” it wasn't! — plus the girls join us for a soon to be award winning quiz “eh? or nay!”

Maisie Williams joins Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast to talk about her brilliant new film 500 Miles — an emotional rollercoaster that Alison admits left her properly rattled.They chat about Maisie taking on a Dublin accent (and absolutely nailing it!!), filming in Dublin with people who know “Dublinese” inside out, and how the accent even shifted her whole personality for the role.Plus, Maisie shares advice for her younger co-star Dexter Sol Ansell who also stepped into the huge world of GOT as 'Egg' in Knight Of The Seven Kingdoms and what kind of advice she had for him from Arya Stark! Plus, she teases the long awaited sequel: Practical Magic 2!!500 Miles is in cinemas now!

Danny O'Donoghue from The Script joins Alison with a load of big news — including a major arena tour, with two huge nights at Dublin's 3Arena on October 30th and 31st. Halloween! Will it be a scary Script --- Alison has an inspired costume suggestion and Danny is up for it!!Danny chats about feeling energised after tour, diving straight into the studio, and the new album 'The User's Guide to Being Human' (out August 14th) — uplifting, positive, and all about the human condition.Plus, he explains the Theodore Roosevelt inspiration behind the brand-new single “Man in the Arena”, and why it's a song people really need right now. Tickets go on sale May 29th

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.