The Pat Kenny Show

Pat Kenny introduces 'The Divided States of America,' an exploration of the political and social fractures within the United States, ranging from the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. to modern-day tensions involving ICE and Trump's rhetoric. The episode examines strategies used to cast doubt on election integrity, the influence of new media and big money, and the impact of voter roll purges. Additionally, Richard Haass discusses the strategic consequences of U.S. foreign policy regarding Russia, Ukraine, and Iran. The conversation highlights a pattern of deference toward Putin and the decline of expertise within the State Department as the administration shifts from professional diplomats to business-minded amateurs.

An exploration of the history of Tin Pan Alley and the 1931 classic song 'Walking My Baby Back Home'. The episode delves into the origins of Manhattan's songwriting district, explaining how the proximity of musicians in the Flower District led to the creation of a musical hub characterized by the cacophony of cheap pianos. The discussion covers the collaborative work of lyricist Roy Turk and composer Fred E. Albert, highlighting their contributions to jazz standards and pop hits. The segment also traces the various notable covers of 'Walking My Baby Back Home', from Nat King Cole's 1952 version to James Taylor's 1997 recording, reflecting on the enduring appeal of courtship rituals and era-specific decorum.

In this interview, author and academic Randa Abdel Fattah discusses her personal background as a Palestinian-Egyptian Australian and the themes of institutional racism in her new novel, Discipline. She addresses controversies surrounding her views on the October 7th attacks, critiques the media's handling of the Gaza conflict, and discusses the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Palestine. The interview further explores the political and personal dimensions of the Palestinian struggle, discussing the shift in global discourse and the necessity of tangible actions like sanctions over mere words. The speaker also shares a deeply personal account of visiting their father's ancestral lands and expresses a vision for a decolonized, equal Palestine.

Author Martina Devlin joins Pat Kenny to discuss her new novel, Glorious Monsters. The book explores the lives of the Shelley circle in the early 19th century, featuring figures such as Lord Byron, Percy Shelley, and Mary Shelley, alongside the narrator Amelia Curran. The narrative weaves together historical connections between the radical poets of the Romantic era and the tragic 16th-century story of Beatrice Cenci. The discussion delves into the social constraints faced by women artists of the period, the scandalous lifestyle of the Shelleys in Italy, and the literary legacy of Mary Shelley. Devlin also highlights the historical significance of Amelia Curran, an amateur artist whose work is preserved in the National Portrait Gallery.

Crime journalist Paul Williams joins Pat Kenny to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB). The discussion traces the agency's origins back to the summer of 1996, following the high-profile murder of investigative journalist Veronica Guerin. Williams details how the assassination of Guerin provided the political impetus to establish a multidisciplinary law enforcement body capable of targeting the financial foundations of organized crime. The episode explores the evolution of Irish criminal justice, moving from a period where gangsters could operate with relative impunity to the implementation of draconian legislation like the Proceeds of Crime Act. Key themes include the shift in the burden of proof to a civil standard, the integration of various state agencies such as Revenue and Social Welfare, and the legal challenges brought against the Bureau's constitutionality.

In this edition of The Pat Kenny Show on Newstalk, host Pat Kenny and columnist Martina Devlin review the Sunday morning headlines. The discussion covers a wide range of political and social issues, including the political future of Minister Patrick O'Donovan amidst coalition tensions, budget concerns regarding RTÉ funding, and the potential for industrial action in the public sector. The conversation also touches upon the legal complexities surrounding the Parades Commission in Northern Ireland, Michael D's housing concerns in Galway, and international news such as the US criminal justice system and the evolving debate over Brexit in the UK.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, author and satirist Paul Howard discusses his new novel, A Nation Once Again, which explores the complex and often absurd prospect of Irish reunification. Drawing inspiration from Spike Milligan's satire, Howard examines the logistical and cultural challenges of uniting North and South, including potential compromises on flags, anthems, and policing. The conversation also touches upon Howard's famous creation, Ross O'Carroll Kelly, his transition into television writing, and his observations on the enduring culture of Dublin school rugby.

Professor Luke O'Neill, Professor of Biochemistry at Trinity College Dublin, joins Pat Kenney to discuss recent reports of a suspected plague case in Irkutsk, Russia. The discussion covers the biological characteristics of Yersinia pestis, distinguishing between bubonic and pneumonic plague, and examines the potential for lab-related accidents versus offensive biological weapons programs. The conversation also touches upon historical instances of biological warfare, such as the use of smallpox-infested blankets, and concludes with a brief look at current measles epidemics in the United States.

In this episode of Newstalk with Bobby Kerr, former Leinster and Ireland rugby player Gordon Darcy joins the show to discuss his transition from professional athlete to writer and entrepreneur. Darcy reflects on his rugby career, including his time playing alongside Brian O'Driscoll, the challenges of retiring from professional sport, and his decision to pursue higher education later in life. The conversation also covers the current state of Leinster Rugby, the impact of their move back to the RDS, and the legacy left by coach Leo Cullen. Darcy shares insights into his creative pursuits in writing for the Irish Times and his involvement in family business ventures, offering a perspective on finding balance and building multiple pillars of identity beyond the rugby pitch.

The Pat Kenny Show explores the political and economic implications of a recent deal involving the importation of Russian oil and diesel into the United States. Host Pat Kenny and Professor of Politics Dr. Donal Delaney discuss whether the move is a strategic maneuver to lower fuel prices ahead of the November midterms or a legally questionable pact that undermines support for Ukraine and European interests. The conversation examines the potential impact on Trump's core support base, the legality regarding the Ending Importation of Russian Oil Act of 2022, and the logistical feasibility of Russia meeting such supply demands amidst ongoing Ukrainian attacks on Russian refineries.

Professor Martin Curley, Director of Digital Health Ecosystems at Maynooth University, discusses the 'Mission 10X' initiative, a strategic moonshot aimed at transforming Ireland into a global leader in digital health. The project proposes moving healthcare from hospital-centric models to home-based care through a decentralized digital spine and mobile technology. Curley highlights the inefficiencies of current health systems, noting that despite increased spending and staffing, productivity remains stagnant. By leveraging 'Open Innovation 2.0' and a leapfrog strategy, the initiative seeks to implement remote monitoring and electronic health records that empower patients and clinicians alike, potentially offering a scalable model for global export.

Executive Chef Gareth Mullins joins The Pat Kenny Show to discuss the nuances of professional sports nutrition, debunking the myth that elite athletes consume only plain chicken and pasta. Drawing from his experience cooking for teams like the All Blacks and Barcelona, Mullins shares recipes designed for flavor and performance, focusing on balanced proteins and carbohydrates. The episode features detailed instructions for preparing a hearty spaghetti bolognese using a traditional sofrito base, a flavorful chicken and beef fajita blend with homemade spice mixes, and a no-cook energy bar composed of oats, dried fruits, and peanut butter. The discussion highlights the importance of healthy fats like olive oil and the role of slow-release carbohydrates in athletic training.

Pat Kenny interviews Shane Nolan, CEO of Leinster Rugby, at the Ley Arena at the RDS to mark the club's return to their home ground. The discussion covers the significant 52 million euro refurbishment of the arena, which includes an increased capacity of 20,600 and improved viewing angles for fans. Nolan details the complexities of managing a dual mandate for both professional and amateur rugby, the financial discipline required to run a not-for-profit organization, and the logistical challenges of a stadium that must be modified for the annual horse show. The episode also touches upon Leinster's recent competitive successes in the URC, the club's ambitions in the Champions Cup, and the upcoming search for a new head coach following Leo Cullen's final season. Nolan highlights the importance of the fan experience, including new fan zones and the preservation of standing terraces to maintain the club's atmosphere.

The Pat Kenney Show explores the political fallout following Northern Secretary of State Chris Bryant's decision to ban the Orange Order march along the Garvahi Road. Featuring analysis from Belfast Telegraph columnist Alison Morris, the episode examines the failures in intelligence and communication involving the Parades Commission and the PSNI during the recent period of unrest. The discussion covers the ambiguity of existing legislation, the potential for political shifts within the DUP, and the growing divide between First Minister Michelle O'Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly.

Economist and author Ronan Lyons joins Pat Kenny to discuss his new book, Brittle: How the Housing Crisis is Breaking Ireland and How to Fix It. Lyons argues that Ireland's housing system has moved beyond a mere bubble into a brittle state that is fundamentally reshaping Irish society and preventing younger generations from establishing independent lives. The discussion explores the widening gap between housing supply and actual need, driven by changing demographics such as smaller household sizes and an aging population. Lyons proposes moving away from a reliance on single-family home ownership toward a balanced system of social rental and market rental sectors. He advocates for structural reforms, including the creation of a dedicated fund to ensure long-term investment in cost rental housing, rather than simply increasing annual spending.

The Pat Kenney Show explores the ongoing tensions surrounding the Garvahi Road protests one week after recent demonstrations. Featuring resident Desi Traynor and Irish News video editor Dylan Hegarty, the discussion examines the current standoff between residents and the Orange Order, highlighting the lack of resolution despite legal proceedings and proposed compromises. Desi Traynor shares a deeply personal history of loss during the Troubles to illustrate the complexities of identity and the intergenerational trauma affecting Northern Ireland. The episode delves into the symbolic nature of the marches, the recent community prayer services at Drumcree, and the urgent desire for a resolution that prevents the cycle of conflict from being passed on to future generations.

Host Pat Kenny and technology correspondent Adrian Weckler discuss Meta's newly unveiled Muse charm, a small, wearable AI device designed to provide constant access to an AI assistant without a smartphone. The discussion explores the device's capabilities, including its ability to use cameras and microphones to identify objects and information in real-time, as well as its potential to act as an agent capable of executing tasks like purchasing concert tickets using personal credentials. The conversation also addresses the broader implications of moving into an era of always-on personal assistants. While the technology offers significant convenience for managing schedules and automating tedious web searches, it raises critical concerns regarding privacy, data security, and the potential for AI overreach when granted access to sensitive personal information and financial details.

Host Pat Kenney discusses the upcoming Irish budget with economist Austin Hughes and Professor of Economics Edgar Morganroth. The panel examines whether the government's shift from a 'workers' budget' to a 'cost of living' focus is appropriate given current inflationary pressures and global economic uncertainty. The discussion covers critical themes including the necessity of indexing income tax, the challenges of infrastructure investment, and the risks associated with a narrowing tax base. The conversation explores the tension between short-term political popularity and long-term economic resilience. Key topics include the impact of energy prices on households, the difficulty of transitioning to electric vehicles for the squeezed middle, and the importance of maintaining fiscal prudence through special funds despite rising public spending.

The Pat Kenny Show discusses the intense atmosphere surrounding the upcoming football match between Ireland and Israel in Serbia. Reporters Ben Symes and Shane Hannan provide details on a recent surreal press conference involving allegations of racism, physical confrontations with journalists, and the absence of a UEFA delegate despite high tensions. The discussion also covers the psychological impact of off-pitch incidents on players and the potential for a volatile match. The episode transitions to the ongoing legal and financial scrutiny surrounding Manchester City's alleged breaches of Premier League rules. Analysts debate the potential sanctions, the possibility of relegation, and the long-term implications for the English football hierarchy if the appeal process drags on through the end of the season.

The panel analyzes the upcoming Irish budget, examining the tension between government spending plans and departmental negotiations. The discussion covers potential changes to pensions, childcare costs, and the minimum wage, while critiquing the lack of a cohesive political narrative and addressing concerns regarding child poverty and the rising cost of living. The conversation also explores broader political issues, including energy policy, recent political tensions in Northern Ireland compared to the 1990s, and the stability of the power-sharing executive. The episode concludes with a discussion on global trends surrounding the ethics of the death penalty.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, host Pat Kenny interviews Brendan McShovna, Professor of History at the University of Galway, regarding his new book, A Letter Home, Irish Correspondence from America, 1818 to 1972. The discussion explores the profound impact of Irish emigration on the nation's identity, using personal letters to reveal the lived realities of those who left for the United States. The conversation delves into themes of precarity, exile, and the ambivalence felt by emigrants who viewed America as both a land of liberty and a place of forced departure due to economic and political systems in Ireland. McShovna highlights the unique experiences of young women seeking independence, the emotional weight of letters that served as the sole link to home, and the enduring legacy of the millions of Irish people who emigrated across two centuries.

Gerry Devlin, owner of the Dublin Cookery School, joins Pat Kenny to discuss seasonal Irish produce for October. The conversation focuses on utilizing autumnal ingredients such as pumpkins, squash, mushrooms, and beef cheeks to create flavorful, comforting dishes. Devlin shares culinary techniques for making fresh pasta, mushroom soufflés, and braised beef cheeks, emphasizing the importance of visiting local butchers, fishmongers, and veg shops to find high-quality, seasonal varieties like Potimar squash and wild Irish mushrooms.

Leo Radker discusses Andy Burnham's stance on rejoining the European Union, exploring the potential economic and security benefits of a closer UK-EU relationship and the political challenges involved. The conversation also examines the implications for Schengen and the Euro, alongside tensions in Northern Ireland following recent parade disputes. The episode further explores the prospect of a United Ireland, emphasizing the importance of protecting the British minority, and concludes with reflections on Irish budgetary politics.

Professor of Biochemistry Luke O'Neill joins The Pat Kenney Show to discuss the groundbreaking scientific evidence linking the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) to the development of multiple sclerosis (MS). The discussion explores how a common virus, often associated with infectious mononucleosis or 'kissing disease,' can trigger an autoimmune response in individuals with specific genetic predispositions through a process known as molecular mimicry. The episode covers the current state of medical research, including ongoing clinical trials by companies like Moderna for both preventive and therapeutic vaccines. Beyond MS, the conversation touches upon the potential links between EBV and other autoimmune conditions like lupus, as well as its historical connection to certain types of lymphoma.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, dietitian Sarah Keogh discusses the profound connection between nutrition and mental well-being. She explains how dietary patterns, such as the MIND diet, can influence mood, stress levels, and cognitive function by providing essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and iron. The conversation also covers the importance of identifying underlying health issues, such as celiac disease, which can manifest as recurrent low iron. Keogh provides practical advice for balanced eating, suggesting a simple plate method involving protein, high-fiber carbohydrates, and plenty of fruits and vegetables to optimize both physical and mental health.

In this interview, Minister of State Thomas Byrne discusses Ireland's EU presidency, focusing on energy security, the impact of global geopolitics on fuel prices, and the transition away from fossil fuels. He also addresses the challenges of regulating AI, the importance of the EU's long-term budget for competitiveness, and the complexities of negotiating among member states. The discussion further covers the Irish presidency's role in negotiating the EU budget, specifically addressing tensions between member states over proposed increases. The segment also touches upon the separation of politics from football following a recent Ireland match and the ongoing preparatory work for future EU-UK relations.

Arts journalist Pat Carty joins The Pat Kenny Show to reflect on the 50-year career of the iconic Irish band U2. The discussion traces the band's evolution from their early days in Mount Temple, playing covers out of necessity, through their massive global breakthrough with The Joshua Tree and the experimental era of Achtung Baby. The conversation explores the band's consistent ability to reinvent themselves, their legendary live performances like Live Aid, and the enduring impact of their hits on both Irish and global audiences.

Historian Michael Barry joins Pat Kenny to discuss his new book, Catalpa, which chronicles the 150th anniversary of the audacious rescue of six Fenian prisoners from Western Australia. The escape involved a complex international conspiracy led by John Devoy in New York, involving the procurement of a whaling ship and an undercover agent to facilitate the prison break. The narrative details the high-stakes maritime pursuit by the British vessel Georgette and the eventual successful evasion through the use of the American flag. The episode concludes with the legacy of the escapees, who settled in America and became part of enduring Irish-American folklore.

This episode explores the intense controversy surrounding the Ireland national football team's decision to play a match against Israel in Hungary. Reporter Aidan Fitzmaurice details the internal division within the squad following a vote, the impact of social media pressure on young players, and the perceived leadership failure by the FAI. The discussion further examines the tension surrounding the squad's presence in Hungary amidst political sensitivities regarding Israel and Palestine. The segment highlights the difference in political awareness between players raised in Ireland versus those from England, the absence of Irish fans at the game, and the potential for provocative pre-match protocols such as refusing handshakes.

Raluca Sakunu, CEO of Smart Reach 247, joins The Pat Kenny Show to discuss the escalating cybersecurity threats posed by artificial intelligence. The discussion covers recent high-profile data breaches, including incidents involving the Australian government and OpenAI, highlighting how generative AI is accelerating attacks through autonomous tasks and rogue agents. Sakunu explores the challenges of monitoring AI-driven exploits, the potential for regulatory capture by large tech firms, and the necessity of implementing governance models similar to those found in the aviation and medicine industries.

The panel discusses the controversy surrounding a football match between Ireland and Israel, focusing on player Gavin Bazuna's decision not to participate and debates regarding political responsibility, the FAI, and the effectiveness of boycotting sporting events. The episode also explores international law and double standards in the context of the Gaza conflict. The discussion transitions to live reporting from Garvahi Road regarding a protest standoff, followed by an analysis of Ireland's national budget. The speakers weigh the tension between providing immediate cost-of-living relief and implementing long-term structural changes in housing, childcare, and energy, while also addressing inheritance tax reform.

The Pat Kenney Show explores new research revealing a generational divide in how Irish people perceive aging, specifically the belief among young adults that life's most exciting years end by age 49. Featuring hotelier Frances Brennan and Professor Roseanne Kenny of Trinity College Dublin, the discussion challenges ageist stereotypes and examines the reality of quality of life in later decades. The conversation highlights how retirement can offer newfound freedom and how a positive attitude toward aging can biologically impact longevity.

Host Pat Kenney interviews political analyst Scott Lucas regarding the recent UN General Assembly and the shifting dynamics of global power. The discussion explores Antonio Guterres's concerns over the decline of multilateralism and the rise of individual leaders influencing global crises, including the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. The conversation covers the impact of US foreign policy under Donald Trump, the strategic maneuvers of China to establish an alternative economic system, and the diplomatic tensions surrounding Iran and Israel.

The Pat Kenny Show discusses the Parades Commission's decision to grant the Orange Order permission to march along the Garvagh Road in Portadown for the first time in nearly 30 years. The episode features a debate between Jamie Bryson, legal representative for the Portadown District LOL, and Sinn Féin TD Matt Carthy regarding the implications of this limited parade for community relations in Northern Ireland. Bryson argues that the decision upholds fundamental rights to parade and expresses a willingness for mediation, while Carthy characterizes the Commission's decision as reckless and a threat to the hard-earned peace in the area. The discussion covers the ongoing High Court challenge, the historical context of the Garvagh Road, and the potential for future community tension.

Gerry Devlin from the Dublin Cookery School joins The Pat Kenny Show to discuss seasonal autumn cooking and how to utilize new ingredients like pumpkin, kale, beetroot, and venison. The discussion focuses on transitioning from summer produce to comforting, nutrient-dense foods that align with the changing season. Devlin provides practical culinary advice, including a recipe for a velvety pumpkin soup enhanced with truffle oil and hazelnuts, a slow-cooked venison stew, and an autumn salad featuring celeriac and candied walnuts. The episode also covers a nostalgic apple and blackberry crumble prepared with a unique twist using ginger ale.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, consultant dermatologist Professor Katrina Ryan discusses the physiological changes to skin and hair during perimenopause and menopause. The conversation explores how the significant drop in estrogen levels can lead to a rapid loss of collagen, increased skin dryness, pigmentation issues, and even the onset of adult acne. Professor Ryan provides practical dermatological advice, emphasizing the importance of simple skincare routines involving zinc-containing sunblock and retinoids. The discussion also covers androgen-triggered hair thinning and management strategies for perioral dermatitis, offering medical insights into preventative care and available treatments.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, Professor of Biochemistry Luke O'Neill discusses a massive new analysis involving over 8.8 million people that links ultra-processed food consumption to increased risks of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and premature death. The conversation explores the biological mechanisms behind this link, including systemic inflammation and the disruption of the gut microbiome caused by additives, emulsifiers, and man-made chemicals. The discussion also covers the potential for reversing damage through dietary changes and examines international approaches to food labeling, such as Chile's traffic light system and France's Nutri-Score. The episode concludes with a look at the prevalence of ultra-processed foods in the Irish diet compared to other nations and the socioeconomic challenges, such as poverty, that influence food choices.

The Pat Kenny Show explores the rising costs of the entertainment economy, specifically focusing on the massive price disparity between upcoming Oasis and Fontaines D.C. concerts at Slane. Featuring guest Niall Byrne, the discussion examines the impact of 'Americanized' ticketing practices, such as platinum and tiered pricing, and the strategic use of registration codes to build mailing lists. The conversation also touches upon how inflation, touring costs, and demographic differences drive ticket prices, alongside the economic tension between massive stadium events and the decline of grassroots music venues in Ireland.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, motoring editor Ger Herbert joins the studio to discuss the current landscape of driving in Ireland, focusing on the implications of penalty points and insurance premiums. The conversation explores how driver behavior and technology, such as telematics and speed warnings, impact both young and elderly drivers. The discussion shifts to the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market, highlighting new models from Cupra, Polestar, Mercedes, and Skoda. Herbert provides insights into battery ranges, pricing trends, and the transition from internal combustion engines to electric power, while also touching upon the future of electric commercial vans and potential government budget impacts on fuel excise.

The Pat Kenny Show explores allegations of corruption and controversial business dealings involving the Trump family and their associates across Eastern Europe. Featuring insights from former UN diplomat Gareth Patrick-Kelly, the episode examines Jared Kushner's proposed luxury resort in Albania, which has sparked widespread public protests over environmental concerns and potential money laundering. The discussion also covers a failed hotel development in Belgrade, Serbia, and a suspicious billion-euro gas pipeline contract in Bosnia involving close allies of Donald Trump. Beyond business interests, the program delves into the political implications for European Union integration. The conversation touches upon the glorification of war criminals in Serbia following the funeral of Ratko Mladic and the diplomatic tensions arising from legislative changes that threaten environmental protections and democratic standards in the Balkan region.

In this episode of The Pat Kenney Show, archaeologist Neil Price, chair of archaeology at Uppsala University, discusses his new book, The Sea King and the Sorceress. The conversation explores the complexities of Norse society, moving beyond the popular image of mere raiders to examine a multifaceted culture defined by a lethal trinity of raiding, trading, and trafficking. Price details the extensive reach of Norse seafarers, from the colonization of North America to trade routes extending into Asia and China. The discussion also covers the impact of Norse settlement in Ireland, specifically the development of Viking towns like Dublin, and the cultural blending that created Hiberno-Nrolse populations. The episode touches upon diverse topics including the role of women and sorceresses in Norse religion, the significance of burial rituals, and a scientific look at genetic diversity in Scandinavia, challenging modern myths regarding genetic purity.

This episode examines the first Russian parliamentary elections held since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Featuring BBC journalist Yaroslava Kurehina, the discussion explores the significance of the State Duma elections, the dominance of the United Russia Party, and the impact of unprecedented electronic voting on election integrity. The conversation also covers recent drone attacks on Moscow's infrastructure, fuel shortages, and the limited landscape for political opposition following the removal of the Yabloko party from the ballot. Additionally, the segment analyzes various forms of voter resistance, such as the 'smart voting' initiative and the 'voting for peace' campaign, against the backdrop of a managed democracy.

The hosts review various headlines from Sunday newspapers, covering topics such as a proposed cultural allowance for teens, the expiration of Christy Kinahan's visa in the UAE, and controversies surrounding the British Royal Family. They also discuss infrastructure concerns regarding Metrolink and recent legal stories involving sexual assault allegations and whistleblowers. The discussion extends to potential extradition cases involving false reporting of sexual assault and safety concerns at the Children's Hospital. The episode concludes with a critique of state-funded project management and a debate regarding Ireland's response to international conflicts.

This episode covers major news stories including Donald Trump's announcement to ban specific media outlets from the White House and a report on how US military AI nearly triggered a conflict with China. The discussion also explores a new security agreement regarding Greenland. Additionally, the episode examines various political and social controversies, ranging from Ed Sheeran's tour controversy involving Robert Kraft to allegations of corruption within the Trump family's business interests and the involvement of Russian oligarchs.