Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis

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!!!

I SWEAR is an honest, funny, moving and powerful new film inspired by the life and experiences of John Davidson, charting his journey for the understanding and acceptance of Tourette Syndrome. Alison Curtis is joined by the Directer and writer Kirk Jones and the main star Robert Aramayo (who some will know as Elrond in THE LORD OF THE RINGS: THE RINGS OF POWER), it also has a fantastic supporting cast - Maxine Peake, Shirely Henderson and Peter Mullan. Kirk and Robert discuss why this movie is so important to them and the community it highlights. It is already being talked about as a sleeper hit for 2025 with an Oscar worthy performance by the lead role.It is in cinemas now.

Alison Curtis is joined by the beloved author Dame Jacqueline Wilson, author of over a 100 books – she has sold over 40 MILLION copies - and is the creator of iconic characters such as Tracy Beaker and Hetty Feather. Jacqueline discusses her latest book, 'Picture Imperfect' which revisits Dolphin, the narrator of one of her classic stories, 'The Illustrated Mum' Now 33, Dolphin navigates adulthood with the same challenges that resonate with readers, including the complexities of family dynamics and mental health. Jacqueline reflects on the pressures young people face today, exploring how technology influences their experiences. Plus, Jacqueline shares her admiration for contemporary authors like David Nicholls and Catherine Rundell. And wil she get her first ever tattoo!? And what would it be?Don't miss Jacqueline in conversation with Edel Coffey in Dublin on Saturday, 11th October at the Pavilion Theatre. Tickets from paviliontheatre.ie 'Picture Imperfect' is in all good bookshops now!

TodayFM and AsIAm, Ireland's Autism Charity, have teamed up to help make the magic of Halloween more fun and friendly for everyone!We're raising awareness about the unique challenges Autistic people may face during the spooky season! Adam Harris is CEO and Founder of AsIAm. Adam highlights common barriers Autistic people face every day and especially how they can be magnified at Halloween like sensory overload from fireworks, pressure to dress up, unexpected interactions at the door. Throughout the month, we're sharing helpful tips and chatting with the AsIAm community to learn more about how little changes can make a big difference.Let's make sure everyone feels safe, happy, and included — because Halloween is for All!For more keep an eye on todayfm.com/all

Social Media star, Lip Sync Queen and Dancing with the Stars finalist Kayleigh Trappe as she visits her old school in Monaghan and travels to Dublin, Kerry, Connemara and Inis Oirr to meet a diverse group of learners, all of whom are on a learning journey through the Irish language.She also tells Alison all about her DMs from Vogue Williams and Joanne McNally that light up her week!Eachtraí Foghlama le Kayleigh Trappe (Learning Adventures with Kayleigh Trappe) is on TG4 tomorrow evening @ 7.30pm

It is the show that helps house-hunters find their dream holiday home in the sun.The first episode aired in 2002!It has been running for 21 seasons! There has been several spin-off shows too!It's a real favourite for viewers who might be tender of a morning or just looking for some comfort viewing!But what has been the enduring appeal of such a simple show? Jasmine is the OG Presenter of the show and told Alison on Weekend Breakfast that viewers love rooting for the house hunters to fulfil their dream and are also inspired by them! She also says she still gets told on a daily basis by fans that the show really helped people to get through Covid lockdown.A Place In The Sun – LIVE is on at the RDS – 11th and 12th Octoberaplaceinthesunevents.com for more

Susie Dent is the resident word expert in Dictionary Corner every week day on Channel 4's Countdown and on 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, has appeared on many TV shows over the years whenever a Word Queen is required!She joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast to tell us all about her new book Words for Life: That Will Make Every Day Betterjoined Susie answers the tough questions like what is the strange history behind the word arse!? Do the Finns really have a word for drinking alone in your underwear!!?She describes the book as a full year's supply of verbal vitamin shots guaranteed to entertain and enlighten, to brighten and boost every single day.

Weekend Breakfast had an inspiring chat with rugby legend Paul O'Connell. Alison spoke to our Limerick national treasure as he takes a break from the pitch to explore remarkable initiatives off the field! Paul is helping to lead a new campaign to help support young people in Ireland. Toyota Ireland and Foróige's 'Big Brother Big Sister' programme , a mentoring initiative for children aged 10 to 18 and about the power of adult role models in shaping young lives. He is the youngest of three lads and knows what it's like to have big brothers you love to look up to and of course be competitive with! This rewarding program connects volunteers with kids who are eager for support and guidance. Plus, Paul reflects on his coaching journey with the Irish rugby team. For more see bigbrotherbigsister.ie

Weekend Breakfast was delighted to welcome Comedian Peter McGann and Actor/Director Hugh O'Conor live in studio. They are part of a brand new show starting ion RTÉ 1 called Showkids. Set in a drama class for children led by the intriguing Miss Jessop, the series explores young Sam Curtin (played by Flynn Gray, star of Wednesday and the new Star Wars movie with Ryan Gosling!) Sam discovers, that when they act out scenes, the world they are pretending to be in literally comes to life around them!Peter, who plays the entrepreneurial father, brings a hilarious twist with his character's quirky invention, the 'Headbag'. The idea for the show came from Hugh who was inspired by his own career - he has starred in many movies including as a child in Lamb with Liam Neeson and playing a young Christy Brown in My Left Foot. Plus, hear about Peter's upcoming comedy tour and catch a sneak peek of the adorable new series starting every Sunday at 5 PM on RTÉ 1!

This week on Weekend Breakfast, Alison Curtis is back with the brilliant Hazel from The Home Reset! After Hazel's previous appearance became one of our most listened to podcasts ever, she's here to help us tackle our homes as we transition into autumn. Hazel shares her Top 5 Tips to create an organised and clutter-free space. From seasonal wardrobe rotations to efficient homework stations, the importance of routines and designated zones for every family member's belongings. Get ready to declutter your pantry and simplify paperwork—September is the perfect time for a fresh start! Practical advice that brings calm to your home and makes everyday life a little easier. Follow her here @thehomereset.ie on Insta

It's back to school time, and we're here to help you make it delicious! Weekend Breakfast welcomes back the fab Lou Robbie from @littleloucooks and now a Sunday Times best-selling author and culinary wizard behind the hit cookbook, "Make and Freeze." Lou shares incredible ideas for both savoury lunchboxes and sweet treats that kids will actually want to eat! Discover how easy it is to whip up mini scones, flapjacks, and no-bake snacks—all designed for busy parents. Plus, the best way for batch preparation and reducing sugar while still satisfying those sweet tooth cravings! Whether you're packing for little ones or just looking to spice up your own meals, Lou's got your lunchbox's back!

Here we dough again!!Iain enters the famous tent of the Great British Bake Off in its 16th series! Known online @ Thug.Loaf the Irish baker from Belfast has gained a huge following for his music inspired bakes! (Asap Rocky-Road anyone!!)Iain shares his unique baking journey, revealing how a last-day-of-uni loaf sparked his passion for creating over a thousand delicious breads since! He dives into his signature sourdough and how he infuses musical artistry into his bakes by painting album covers on pastries and bread. He also reveals the behind the scenes intense pressures of the show and the friendships forged in the baking tent. And yes Noel Fielding and Alison Hammond are absolutely lovely!!The Great British Bake Off kicks off Tuesday Sep 2nd on Channel 4 at 8pm

Grab your stetsons and ready your yeehaws!! Paula MacSweeney in for Alison on Weekend Breakfast welcomes the fabulous Clodagh Lawlor, the vibrant voice behind the Country Hits show every Wednesday on Today FM! Clodagh shares her whirlwind journey to making her mark at the Rose of Tralee. Discover the passion that fuels her love for country music, and its huge popularity in Ireland. With an upcoming trip to Nashville on the horizon, (she's literally flying out after the chat!!) Clodagh reveals her exciting plans, including meeting industry legends and exploring the heart of country music. Follow Clodagh on Instagram at @clodalawlormusic.

Star of Line of Duty, This is England, The Replacement, Insomnia among many others and most recently filming season 4 of Trigger Point Actress Vicky McClure joins Alison Curtis on this week's Weekend Breakfast.Vicky shares the inspiring story behind her event Day Fever, a vibrant daytime disco experience that brings people from all walks of life together for an unforgettable dance party. With its infectious tunes and inclusive vibe, Day Fever is all about community, fun, and nostalgia and it's coming to Ireland in September! Vicky also reflects on her iconic role in Line of Duty, and the cast WhatsApp group and the excitement surrounding the Oasis concerts in Dublin.

Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis chats with two incredible Irish surfing champions, Gearoid McDaid and Ruby Knox from Sligo and Kerry respectively. Ruby joins us live from the sun-soaked shores of Cornwall where she is competing! Gearoid is currently Ireland's top surfer and the first Irish surfer to ever claim gold at the European Championships! He shares his journey from a young boy in Sligo to an aspiring world-class talent currently competing at the Board Masters. Meanwhile, Ruby recounts her own path from reluctant beginner to longboarding enthusiast, diving into her family's surf center and the artistry of traditional surfing. Gearoid also shares the mindset needed to conquer those massive waves, and hear their aspirations for upcoming competitions, including the World Surfing Games in El Salvador and future Olympic dreams. Follow them @gearoidmcdaid and @rubyknox515

Join Alison Curtis on this week's Weekend Breakfast for an inspiring chat with the incredible Lou Robbie from Little Lou Cooks! Galway based Lou shares her fascinating journey from professional chef to viral cooking sensation, revealing the story behind her explosive growth on social media during the pandemic! (one of her videos is close to 16 MILLION VIEWS!! Wowsers!)With her dedication to sharing easy, family-friendly recipes, she has transformed the way parents approach cooking for their kids. In her new book, “Make and Freeze: The Ultimate Guide to Family-Friendly Meal Prep,” Lou demystifies the art of freezer cooking, encouraging busy parents to embrace their freezers in a fun and creative way. Discover how her simple recipes are captivating young chefs and making nutritious lunches a breeze!Follow her @littleloucooks on Instagram

Alison Curtis chats to proud Corkonian and Telly super chef Clodagh McKenna .She tells Weekend Breakfast about the upcoming Cork on a Fork Festival, happening from August 13th to 17th and how it makes the city come alive.Clodagh has a deep-rooted passion for Cork's culinary scene and the incredible local producers that make it truly special. With a nod to her journey in the food industry, Clodagh also chats about the monumental success of her latest book, "In Minutes," which skyrocketed to number one on the Amazon book charts and her regular appearances as one of chefs on top rated telly show This Morning.

'The War God Of Gardening!' could that be the title of a new Gardening show presented by the Munster and Ireland icon!Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis sits down with rugby legend Peter O'Mahony to delve into his passion for gardening. Nicknamed the 'War God' on the rugby pitch he has hung up his boots and shares how this gardening passion helped him throughout his career.Peter shares the heartwarming origins of his gardening journey, recalling fond memories of helping his grandmothers in their gardens and learning the ropes from his uncle in West Cork. As he transitions from the rugby pitch to a new chapter in life, Peter reflects on how gardening has become a form of mindfulness amidst the high-intensity demands of his sports career. And of course the greatest and funniest sports moment of the year - the viral moment with his mother at his final Munster match in Cork!

Join Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast for an inspiring chat with Olympic hurdler Sarah Lavin! Sarah shares exciting news about the partnership between SPAR and Eurospar as official retail partners for Team Ireland heading to LA 2028. She reflects on the impact of last year's Olympic Games in Paris and how it's inspired young athletes across Ireland. As she discusses her journey from being a full-time physiotherapist to becoming a record-holding athlete, Sarah highlights the importance of balance and dedication in pursuing sports. She tells Alison about the insane technicalities of hurdles, her personal growth, and how young aspiring athletes can envision a career in professional sports!

"Let's just say there's Lederhosen involved Alison!"The very entertaining Sean Lally and his wife Elaine describe their latest video on their socials. They have embraced comedy so brilliantly that they've accumulated millions of views in their hilarious videos! The dynamic duo behind Hotel Woodstock in Clare are winners of the prestigious Gold Hospitality Business Award for 2024 and say their personalized approach to welcoming guests has set them apart, making them favorites among visitors.The Family Business Awards 2025 take place on October 30th and TodayFM are media partners and our own Matt Cooper is the host of the awards again this year. If you would like to enter for The Family Business Awards 2025 the deadline for entries is - August 15th. – familybusinessawards.ie for more and follow Sean and Elaine @hotelwoodstock on you socials

Alison Curtis spoke to Katie Kirby the creator of the hugely popular Lottie Brooks books, an illustrated series for pre-teens filled with friendships, embarrassment, fun and of course rabbits and Monster Munch! From first boyfriends, to stolen diaries, Lottie experiences all the highs and lows young girls do at her age. The series so far has sold over a million copies - The 8th installment is out now and it's called Lottie Brooks vs The Ultra Mean Girls@katiekirbyauthor and @ hurrahforgin on Instagram

Johannes is a much-loved pro dancer on the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing show and now he returns to Ireland. The last time he was here with his own show he felt like a football superstar, "Everyone was cheering ole, ole ole. It was incredible. The love I got from that Irish crowd set me up for years to come!!"He tells Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast all about the show and his role, it's important message, and his inspirational life journey from South Africa to Strictly to the stage... his own life is now becoming a movie!He says the “message of the show: let's all be kind to one another, make space for one another, and accept each other for who we are.”Johannes is back for one week only as Lola in the Broadway and West End phenomenon, KINKY BOOTS The Musical. From 15TH to the 19 July – For more info and tickets go to bordgaisenergytheatre.ie

He found fame as a member of one of the hugely successful British and Irish bands The Wanted – since then he has wowed audiences in the West End and danced his way to win Strictly --- and his journey from Boyband to Books continues as he releases the highly anticipated sequel to his explosive debut Blood Flowers! It's called Poison Tides and it's written by Jay McGuiness.

When it was announced that Oasis would reform and embark on a 41 date tour – it seemed like a music miracle especially to the many diehard fans – and it's those fans that have stood by the band of brothers.Noel and Liam fell out with each other but the fans never fell out with them. And now a fascinating and unique book called ‘And After All: A Fan History Of Oasis' has been written entirely from the fan's perspective. And the author of that book is Melissa Locker. She chatted to Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast all about meeting those fans and their inspirational stories.

Join Alison Curtis this week on Weekend Breakfast as she welcomes the multi-talented Jen Hatton, known for her hilarious takes on everyday life and lighting up social media with characters like Ms Finglas Rachel! Jen opens up about her journey from viral TikTok star to podcast host of "The Unpopular Opinion." Together, they discuss her latest adventure—transforming her long-neglected garden in Finglas, all while juggling motherhood with two young kids. With a budget close to zero, she's tackling the project one square meter at a time and sharing her progress online! Follow Jen's gardening journey on Instagram and TikTok at @Jen__Hatton.

Join Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast as she goes full Scandi! Culinary duo Russell and Patrick, also known as The Gastro Gays tell us about their fascinating love affair with Sweden, where they share their passion for Scandinavian culture, food, and music.Midsommar is Sweden's vibrant summer celebration and it kicks off this weekend and the lads tell us about their exciting collaboration with Stenaline. From ginger spiced cookies to quirky Swedish treats like 'Plop', they guide us through the delightful flavors of the Nordic landscape. Tune in for culinary insights, travel tales, and a taste of all things Scandi that will leave you craving more!Follow Russell and Patrick here: @gastrogays

Gabby Logan and a host of sporting celebrities are undertaking a 555-mile cycling challenge around Ireland in memory of former Scottish international player Doddie Weir.The event aims to raise over €600,000 for the My Name'5 Doddie Foundation and the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association.Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast spoke to Gabby to tell us all about this incredible challenge and why she can't wait to get around Ireland (although her husband Kenny says she has the cushy leg of the tour!) and her remarkable sporting career.Stops will include origin clubs of famous Irish Lions players, with the challenge concluding at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin, where the team will deliver the match ball ahead of the British & Irish Lions match against Argentina next Friday, June 20.To support Doddie's Lions Challenge or find out more visit myname5doddie.co.uk/.And Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association, visit imnda.ie

'Good Girls Gossip' is the new book from Tova Leigh. Is gossiping a bad thing? Alison and Tova chat all about it on Weekend Breakfast!

Ahead of Taste of Dublin, Sarah Butler shared some recipes that are perfect for the summer - including one fun way to tell if your pavlova is ready!

Gary Kirwan has won gold and best in category for his incredible garden at Bloom this year! Alison was left shocked at how many pieces of Lego he used to build the whole thing.

Travel expert Pól Ó Conghaile gave us an update on the best places to visit in Ireland, if you're still looking to book for this summer!

Her books like Finding My Voice and Frankie's World have been an absolute joy to young readers. Author, Illustrator and comedian – Aoife Dooley joins Alison Curtis to tell us all about her fab new book Squid Squad ...and can Aoife take on the Weekend Breakfast Squid Squad Challenge!! (Spoiler: OF COURSE!!! She nailed it!!)https://www.aoifedooleydesign.com/Don't miss Aoife on May 25th - International Literature Festival in Merrion Square, Dublin

Chef, restaurateur, three-time New York Times best-selling author, executive producer and star of hit show The Bear is bringing his world famous tour to Ireland.Matty Matheson chatted to Alison Curtis about the upcoming gig, life on The Bear and ... Gabby's Dollhouse movie!!"Matty's World" Live at Vicar St. 5th June 2025.

What is the most famous Australian export? Alongside Neighbours and Alf Stewart it has to be Bluey and Dianne Buswell!That dream team duo are now together! Strictly Come Dancing icon and current champion Dianne Buswell is stepping into Bluey's World, to choreograph and star in a series of five dance videos.Dianne told Alison Curtis about us this very special project and also why we all need to dance like nobody's watching!Incredible fact alert: Bluey was credited as the top overall streaming title of 2024 with over 55 BILLION minutes of watch time on Disney+

5ive are back!Get ready to slam dunk da funk with the original five. Back for a huge UK and Ireland arena tour - they play the 3 Arena Sun 23 Nov 2025 – [Sold Out] and Tue 2 Dec 2025They sold over 20 million records and were one of the biggest boybands of the 90 and Noughties.Sean , Ritchie , Scott , Abz and Jason "J" joined Alison Curtis to talk about how and why they've got back together, what they hope the future holds, sharing mics! and what pop star played a pivotal role in them getting back together, and Guinness!

Jacqui Hurley as the official ambassador for MiWadi FAI Football Camps 2025 A renowned female trailblazer in Irish sports media, a champion for gender equality in sport, and a proud mother herself (two kids Lily and Luke), Jacqui is passionate about inspiring the next generation of athletes. Jacqui spoke to Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast about how the landscape of female sport has evolved so much and as a self confessed Karaoke Queen what her killer karaoke tune is!!Jacqui is urging parents of all girls and boys to get them involved and active through some football fun this summer.She is one of Ireland's leading sports broadcasters and author of the best-selling children's book series Girls Play Too.Lead anchor of RTÉ's rugby coverage on TV and also presents The Sunday Game.In 2009 - first ever female anchor of Sunday Sport on RTÉ Radio One.She has anchored all of the major sporting events, including the Olympics, World Cups, the Euro's & multiple All Ireland finals

Pirouetting on to Weekend Breakfast its Dancing With The Stars judge and owner of television's greatest hair ---- Arthur Gourounlian! Arthur told Alison Curtis about a very special event recently called 'Cúl and Curious.' He also told her about his brand new podcast with Donal Skehan called 'Let's Do This!'Over 100 children, including those from the International Protection Accommodation Service centre and those from local communities, took part in the event at St Breckan's GAA grounds and tried their hand at football, hurling and camogie.The 2025 Kellogg's GAA Cúl Camps promise to inspire a new generation of GAA stars and fostering a love for Gaelic Games that will last a lifetime.The Cúl and Curious camp's aim was to support diversity and inclusion, giving those who have arrived in Ireland a chance to fall in love with the game. The GAA is for everyone and the organisation recently hosted the event to try and introduce children from migrant families to the sport.

He is an author, content creator, podcaster and adventurer! Creator of the social media phenomenon 'Weird Ireland' – his off the beaten track adventures of the strange and quirky side of this country have gained him a huge following. (see below) Alison Curtis spoke to Brinsley McNamara about the incredible success of his quirky content. HANDLES - Instagram: @weird.ireland TikTok: @weirdirelandSTATS: Instagram: 320K followers TikTok: 85K Followers 1.2MLikesPODCAST: Weird Ireland on all platforms.BOOK: ‘Weird Ireland: An Unofficial Guide To The Island' out nowBrinsley Facts:· Every video starts with his famous phrase “Well, I'm Brinsley McNamara and welcome to Weird Ireland."· He tackles every subject from Wren Boys to Wibbly Wobbly Wonders! From Ireland's biggest 99 to Irish Crisp Folklore· Brinsley McNamara is not his real name! Based on another famous Westmeath figure of folklore and banned writer. Brinsley is also from Westmeath· He loves weird and fascinating topics, stories, places, and subcultures from across Ireland.· Grew up loving the Horrible Histories books. He is a huge fan of Louis Theroux.· His videos never feature his face – so people are very used to his voice but not his face – he says he is very shy.· Topics covered in his podcast include: The unique Irish sports of Irish Stick Fighting and Sheaf Throwing, The Rhino in The River, Urbexing (urban exploring), Bog Iron, The Lough Ree Monster, Healing rocks, The Kilbroney Graveyard with a holy well and the grave of the Tallest Man In The World