Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis: Recent Episodes
Today FM
Join Alison Curtis for some PMA (Positive Morning Attitude!) With lots of fun, energy, family-friendly chat, advice, big guests, the best listeners and big prize giveaways Weekend Breakfast broadcasts a blast of positivity every Saturday morning from 8am and Sunday from 9am.
Something a majority of parents are faced with at some point during their children’s life is picky eating. Here to provide some much need light on the issue is Louise Lennox an accredited fussy eating expert and runs a course called Picky Eaters Mealtime Makeover.
Louise has work as a TV chef and food writer – she was a favourite on RTÉ’s The Restaurant as a pastry chef – but for years, she’s been training and specialising in what she describes as her real purpose in life, to help empower parents at the table.
Her son Alex’s refusal to eat as a young child, quite simply, broke her heart.
At one point, there were just ten foods in total that he would eat. Desperate to understand more about why some children refuse to eat, Louise went to the US and trained with the world’s leading pediatricians in children’s feeding disorders and her mind was blown.
Follow her @louiselennox
‘Celebrity Bear Hunt’ is a terrifying game of cat and mouse where Bear Grylls becomes the ultimate predator. If he catches them, they’re out.
Tennis legend Boris Becker joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast to discuss all of the trials and tribulations of his time on the show.
'Celebrity Bear Hunt' is the new Netflix series hosted by Holly Willoughby and Bear Grylls.
An action-packed showdown throws an unexpected mix of famous faces into the wild, where they’ll have to prove they have the instincts, courage, and grit to survive.
Holly Willoughby and Bear Grylls told Alison Curtis all about the new show.
Imagine being stranded in the unforgiving Central American jungle, with Bear Grylls himself hunting you down. Now imagine former England rugby star Danny Cipriani is there with you! Spice Girl Mel B didn't have to imagine - it was real life!
Mel B and Danny Cipriani joined Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast to chat about Celebrity Bear Hunt.
Singer and songwriter, Cian Ducrot joined Ray on the show to chat all about his big night in LA and how it felt to WIN his first ever Grammy!
The good doctor Ciara Kelly was in the house to discuss our listeners ailments - from shaky hands to ingrown toenails.
Caroline Hirons, a renowned skincare expert, author, and entrepreneur, is bringing her live podcast Glad We Had This Chat to 3Olympia Theatre, Dublin in February 2025.
She joined Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast to chat all about it and why she can't stand snoring!
One of Ireland’s greatest ever rugby stars, Gordon D’Arcy, and its greatest No.10 never-to-have-been capped, Paul Howard (aka Ross O’Carroll Kelly), have once again teamed up for a new children’s book, 'Let’s Play Rugby'.
The lads joined Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast to chat all things rugby!
Friend of the show Shane Dan Byrne popped into studio with Alison to chat about his new tour Trouble Denim, selling out the 3Olympia Theatre with the 'Young Hot Guys' podcast and the type of cleaning you do when you listen to podcasts!
Sometimes your wildest dreams do really come true!
Irish Taekwondo Olympian Jack Wooley and his pro partner Alexandra Vladimirov popped into studio with Alison Curtis ahead of their second week on Dancing With The Stars! Jack told Alison all about how his grandmother inspired his journey to the ballroom.
'The Great Pottery Throw Down' is back on our screens and in keeping with tradition, potter and judge Keith Brymer Jones joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast!
The newly divorced and unapologetically wild, Norma Sheahan is on tour!
She is diving into her outrageous bucket list her with the help of her glow-up-savvy teenagers.
She joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast to chat all about her tour, wanting to represent Ireland at Eurovision and who she wants to DJ at her funeral.
He's back! Neven Maguire has got a new book 'Eat Out at Home,' which is full of tips for adding that extra bit of flair to your cooking.
There's even a new way to do your potatoes this Christmas and Neven has all the tips for making it happen.
Press the play button to hear all the tips and below are the recipes mentioned.
Turkey Roulade with Maple Glaze: Serves 6–8
75g butter
1 large onion, finely chopped
100g fresh ciabatta breadcrumbs
2 tsp chopped fresh mixed herbs (sage, rosemary and thyme)
20g fresh flat-leaf parsley, leaves stripped off
1.75–2kg boneless turkey breast, skin on
50g dried cranberries or chopped apricots
2 tbsp maple syrup
200ml carton poultry gravy
sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F/Gas Mark 6).
Heat a sauté pan over a medium heat, melt half of the butter and gently sauté the onion for 8–10 minutes until softened but not coloured.
Season well.
Put the breadcrumbs and herbs into a food processor and blitz to fine crumbs, then add the sautéed onions and pulse to make a paste.
Put the turkey breast skin-side down on a chopping board, then butterfly it by cutting partway into the thickest side.
Open the turkey breast out and cover with parchment paper, then use a rolling pin to gently bash it out to an even 2cm thickness.
Remove the parchment and season, then spread over the breadcrumb paste, leaving a border around the edges.
Scatter the cranberries or apricots on top, then press down so that they form part of the stuffing.
Starting from one of the short sides, roll the turkey breast into a tight log shape, then tie at even intervals with kitchen string.
Melt the rest of the butter in a small pan with the maple syrup, and use this to glaze the joint, reserving any that is left over.
This will keep in the fridge for 2 days, or it can be frozen and defrosted.
Put the turkey roulade on a rack in a roasting tin and roast for 40 minutes, basting halfway through with the rest of the glaze, until the turkey is cooked through. A thermometer should read 70°C.
Transfer the roulade to a platter, cover loosely with foil and leave to rest for 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, put the roasting tin on the hob and stir in the gravy with a splash of boiling water, scraping the bottom of the tin to remove any sediment.
Carve the turkey into slices and arrange on plates, then pour over some of the gravy to serve.
Sticky Damson Ham with Star Anise: Serves 8–10
2kg unsmoked gammon joint
1 onion, sliced
2 celery sticks, roughly chopped
1 tbsp black peppercorns
8 star anise
175g damson plum jam or conserve
juice of 1 orange
100g light brown sugar
Rinse the gammon with fresh water and put in a pan of boiling water.
Add the onion, celery, peppercorns and 2 of the star anise. Bring to a simmer over a low heat and cook for 1½ hours. Leave to cool in the liquid.
Meanwhile, make the glaze. Put the damson jam or conserve in a small pan with the orange juice, sugar and the rest of the star anise.
Heat gently until the sugar has dissolved, then simmer for 3–4 minutes or until reduced to a thick glaze, stirring to ensure it doesn’t catch at the bottom. Leave to cool slightly.
Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F/Gas Mark 7).
Remove the gammon from the pan and put into a baking tin. Using a sharp knife, cut off the rind, leaving the fat on top and score diagonally into a diamond pattern.
Pour around 500ml of the cooking liquid, which will help to keep the joint moist.
Smear the damson glaze all over the ham, reserving 2 tablespoons, making sure the star anise are sitting on top of the joint.
Roast for 20–30 minutes until cooked through.
Remove from the oven and drizzle over the remaining glaze.
Leave to rest for at least 15 minutes or up to 1 hour, covered loosely with tin foil.
Carve slices from the ham and arrange on plates to serve.
Tiramisu: Serves 8–10
4 large eggs
100g caster sugar
250g mascarpone cheese 2
50ml cream
250ml freshly brewed strong espresso coffee (left to cool completely)
150ml Tia Maria or Kahlúa liqueur
40 sponge fingers
50g bar plain chocolate
2 tsp cocoa powder
Separate the eggs, putting the yolks in one bowl with 80g of the sugar, and the egg whites in another.
Using an electric beater, whisk the egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy, then mix in the mascarpone cheese until well combined.
Whip the cream in a separate bowl until soft peaks form, then fold into the egg yolk and mascarpone mixture.
Using spotlessly clean beaters, whisk the egg whites with 20g of sugar until soft peaks form, then fold this into the mascarpone cream.
Spoon a third of this mixture into a suitable dish that is at least 2cm deep.
Pour the coffee into a shallow dish and stir in the Tia Maria or Kahlúa.
Dip in enough of the sponge fingers to make an even layer on top of the mascarpone mixture.
Only dip the sponge fingers in as you go along, so they don’t soak for too long and become difficult to handle.
Cover the layer of soaked sponge fingers with another third of the mascarpone mixture, then grate most of the chocolate bar on top using the coarse side of a grater.
Add another layer with the rest of the soaked sponge fingers, then spoon over the remaining mascarpone mixture and spread evenly with a back of a spoon.
Cover with cling film and chill overnight to allow the flavours to develop and the dessert to settle.
To serve, give the tiramisu a good dusting of cocoa powder, then grate over the rest of the chocolate. Place in the middle of the table so that everyone can help themselves.
Struggling to find the perfect Christmas Gift? Well, Mairead Ronan and Jenny Kelly have written a book 'What We Know Now: Lessons on Life, Love, Loss and Friendship' and we think it's perfect!
The girls joined Alison in studio to chat about their book and a whole lot more!
Well if it isn't the one and only, Roz Purcell!
Roz joined Alison in studio to chat all about her new book 'The Hike Life: 50 More to Explore', her love of birds and why so many people slide into her DM's to ask about proposal locations.
From The Wolfe Tones to Enoch Burke's Mother, Mario Rosenstock has some amazing ideas lined up for his tour next year.
As part of Gift Grub celebrating 25 years this year, Mario is hitting the road early next year. He joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast to chat all about it!
Based on the charming trilogy of children's books by beloved multi award-winning writer/director Richard Curtis, 'That Christmas' follows a series of entwined tales about family and friends, love and loneliness, and Santa Claus making a big mistake, not to mention an enormous number of turkeys!
Actress Fiona Shaw (Killing Eve, Bad Sisters) joined Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast to chat about her role as Miss Trapper in the film, as well as some other Christmas tales.
The Irish Farmers calendar is back again in its fifteenth year! Calendar creator Shauna Byrne and farming model Brendan Fanning chatted about the calendar, why its an important tradition and how Brendan ended up being chosen as the cover star for this years edition.
This time of year, skincare for young people can be a hot topic. But if the pressure is on in the lead-up to Christmas, Jennifer Rock has got all the answers on what to look for in skin care products for teens and adults.
The story of Tayto crisps is fascinating - so much so that it's been turned into a book! Managing director John O'Connor from Tayto caught up with Alison to share some of the incredible story behind Ireland's favourite snack.
How did they come up with cheese and onion? What was a tumble drier used for in the crisp making process? John tells us all!
And All That Jazz!
Ahead of her SOLD OUT one woman show at the Ambassador Theatre this festive season, Comedian Rachel Galvo joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast to chat about her career so far and why she struggles with being called a comedian.
He's Never Gonna Give You Up, Never Gonna Let You Down - It's Rick Astley!
His new book Never is an intimate look at the man behind the hits and he joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast to talk about his life and career!
Olive Foley was the wife of Axel Foley, an Irish rugby union player and head coach of Munster who was one of the most respected rugby players in the country. He played for Ireland from 1995 until 2005 and captained the squad on three occasions. In 2016, he died of cardiomyopathy.
His wife Olive Foley joins Alison on Weekend Breakfast to share Axel's legacy.
We've loved Adam King since he first appeared on the Late Late Toy Show in 2020, and now he's managed to publish his first book at the age of ten! It's called 'Farron’s Adventure - A Winterval Tale.'
Adam tells us all about it, joined along with dad David King, on Weekend Breakfast.
Friend of the show, Chef Shane Smith joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast to chat about his recipe for a 7UP cake!
By adding the 7UP to the batter, it gives it a lighter texture while adding a citrus flavour. He also chatted about some of his favourite other retro bakes!
Donnacha O'Callaghan is best known for his triumphs on the pitch, but he is a self-proclaimed Disaster Dad!
He joined Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast to chat about his new book 'Disaster Dad', Ireland's rugby success in recent years and why his first time having tapas did NOT go to plan!
It's so close to Halloween now and if there's one thing you've got to do at this time of year, it's watching horror films!
Whether you need a film for all the family or reminders of a couple of classics, Gordon Hayden has got you covered. He hosts a horror movies podcast and gives us his recommendations - including a film that's celebrating its 40th anniversary!
Get Back To Me!
Chris Connolly AKA Get Better With Chris is a father, mental health activist, and business owner who has overcome a lot of battles in his life. He is currently in the middle of one of his biggest challenges to date. He joined Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast to chat all about it!
The new season of Heartstopper is here and the stars, Kit O'Connor and Joe Locke, had a chat with Alison on Weekend Breakfast all about it! Plus, which one of them has never been to Ireland?
Press the play button on this page to find out!
Olympic sprinter Sharlene Mawdsley did Ireland proud this past summer. But it turns out, she didn't always expect to become an Olympian.
She chatted with Alison about the impact the Community Games had on her and how she's helping Zambrero to donate one billion meals globally to people in need.
The famous Irish author and dramatist Roddy Doyle joined us on Weekend Breakfast to tell all on his return to Paula Spencer with his new book, The Women Behind The Door – and he tells us what at moment during COVID he decided to write the book.
Aisling Larkin is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to new meals to try! With the weather warnings out in force this weekend, it's the perfect time to get prepared for the week ahead and make things a bit easier on yourself!
Chatting with Alison, Aisling gives us her top tips on how to make meals that can stretch across a couple of days and shares some stunning recipes.
Author of over 100 books and a hero to thousands, Jacqueline Wilson celebrated the release of her latest book Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast.
She tells us all about writing the new book, returning to some well-known characters and gives life advice that we loved hearing.
Cheese and crackers before bed? Absolutely!
Graham Herterich aka The Cupcake Bloke has a new book out! 'Cook' explores traditional Irish cooking, with a modern twist. Graham popped into studio to chat about Mammy Salads, his love for food and what's the difference between dinner, supper and tea?
The eagerly-awaited debut novel from Zainab Boladale is an exciting and heartwarming coming-of-age story.
Zainab popped into studio to Alison on Weekend Breakfast to chat about 'Braids Take A Day', how she got into her career in television and why she loves Lahinch so much.
Who doesn't love the DirtBirds?
DirtBirds are bringing their brand-new show Girls World Tour to 3Olympia Theatre, Dublin on Friday 13th and Saturday 14th September 2024 and Leisureland, Galway on Saturday 12th October 2024. The hilarious duo popped into studio to chat about Mammy's at the school gate, Irish women in the airport and why they love performing.
Alison was joined on Weekend Breakfast by Olympian and Allianz ambassador, Rhasidat Adeleke after making history at the Olympic Games Paris 2024. At her first Olympic Games Rhasidat became the first Irish woman to reach an Olympic sprint final. Allianz are proud to be global and local partners of the Olympic movement and announced the renewal of their partnership with the Olympic Federation of Ireland last month, reaffirming their commitment to supporting Irish athletes on their journey beyond Paris 2024.
He's a Swiftie and proud!
Spencer Matthews has taken on the challenge of a lifetime! He is currently in the middle of running 30 marathons in 30 days across the desert. He's aiming to set a World Record while raising funds for Global's Make Some Noise.
He joined Alison Curtis LIVE from Jordan after completing marathon number 28.
Former President of Ireland, Mary Robinson and Director Aoife Kelleher joined Alison Curtis on Weekend Mrs. Robinson, a new documentary film sharing the story of her life.
The film features contributions from family, friends, and public figures like Christiana Figures and Richard Branson. The film is due for release in Ireland this autumn.
She is an incredible swimmer, an inspiration to young people and she is the moment!
Olympic Bronze Medalist Mona McSharry joined Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast to recap her time at the Paris Olympics and look ahead to the closing ceremony!
We are obsessed with the Olympics! As the final curtain falls on an amazing couple of weeks in Paris, Newstalk Presenter Kieran Cuddihy joined Alison to chat about a historic games for Team Ireland and he told us what sport he thinks he could compete in!
Producer Cathal also told Alison some of his highlights from the games!
Alison Curtis kicked off Today FM’s My Town on Weekend Breakfast!
The show was LIVE from The Lifeboat Inn in Courtmacsherry in the beautiful County Cork.
It was all part of My Town here on Today FM – celebrating the small towns and villages that demonstrate the best in community spirit.
Tánaiste Micheál Martin was in the area and popped in to chat about his love for the area and he even taught Alison the country wave!
The hilarious Julie Jay is going on tour! Before heading to All Together Now, she chatted with Alison Curtis about the shows she's got coming up, living in Kerry and how she's been heckled at home.
She Is The Angel Of Our Dreams!
JADE has launched her solo career with her debut single 'Angel of my Dreams' and she joined Paula MacSweeney on Weekend Breakfast to chat about the meaning behind it, what songs she would love to sample in the future and why she loves Eurovision SO MUCH!
'I Love You, I Love You, I Love You,' - Rumour has it if you say it three times in a row, people fall in love with you!
Laura Dockrill, British author, illustrator and performance poet joined Alison to chat about her experience with postpartum psychosis and how her new novel 'I Love You, I Love You, I Love You' is based on her first love.
Actor Robert Sheehan joined Paula MacSweeney on Weekend Breakfast to chat about his role in 'Reunion' at Galway International Arts Festival.
He also told us about THAT Instagram post of a gravestone with his name on it!
Is there 'Someone in the Attic?'
Bestselling author, Andrea Mara joined Alison Curtis to chat about how she decided on the career path of an author, her new book 'Someone in the Attic' and finding out one of her novels was being made into a TV series...
Haven't you heard? Michael Fry has only gone and got his own radio show!
Comedian Michael Fry joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast to chat about his new show 'Lunchtime with Michael Fry' and quashing the beef with the Young Hot Guys.
"Do you like doughnuts?"
Marty Gleeson is an Irish comedian from Limerick in Ireland based in London. She recently won the LGBTQ+ New Comedian of the Year 2024 and is known for her offbeat and disarming performance style.
She has also secured a place at the Pleasance Comedy Reserve at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival this year. She joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast to chat about her recent success and her hopes for the future...
Zak Moradi joined Alison on the show this weekend.
Zak came to Ireland from Iran when he was just 11, and had to learn to speak English from scratch. Now he's won hurling championships with his club and volunteers as a coach with his club and with Kellogs Cul Camps!
For the full chat, hit the play button!
The Leaving Cert weather is finally here! We've some sunny days coming which makes it the perfect weather for getting the barbecue out!
Gina and Karol from The Daly Dish chatted barbecue recipes with Alison and these are must-makes.
For the full chat, hit the play button!
Summer Lemon Pasta
Serves 2
What you need :
- 200g pasta (whichever type you prefer)
- 2 garlic cloves sliced finely
- 1 to 2 chilies (less or more depending on how hot you like it) sliced finely
- 1 lemon
- 3 slices of prosciutto
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper
- 2 tablespoon grated parmesan
- Handful of fresh Basil
Method :
Cook your pasta, drain off the water and put aside.
Throw a good glug of olive oil in a pan on medium heat and allow to heat.
Throw in your garlic, chili and lemon pepper. Cook for a minute or so and allow it to infuse with the oil.
Tear up your prosciutto and add it in. Mix it up for a minute then add in your basil and pasta.
Stir the pasta through mixing with everything.
Squeeze your lemon in and then add in a bit of lemon zest too, followed by your parmesan.
Give it all a good mix and then serve.
Easy Garlic & Chili Prawn Pasta
3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
Fresh prawns (use as much as you like)
3-4 cloves of garlic roughly chopped
1/2 - 1 teaspoon of chili flakes (depending on your preference, you can use a full fresh chilly sliced or diced also)
1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
Spaghetti or linguine pasta (make enough for 1/2/3/4 people etc)
Parmesan to finish
Crusty bread on the side
Method:
Heat the oil.
Add in the garlic and let it fry off for 1-2 mins then add the chili flakes and the smoked paprika. Mix to flavour all the oil.
Add in the prawns. They only need 3-4 mins in hot oil to cook through.
Add in the cooked spaghetti or linguine and coat well in that deliciously-flavoured oil.
Serve and finish with a good grating of parmesan.
She's a winner baby!
The iconic Belfast beauty, Blu Hydrange, winner of RuPaul's Drag Race UK vs The World Season 1 and Dancing With The Stars Runner-Up, joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast to chat all things Pride and how she got her drag name.
Name a more iconic duo? We'll wait!
Emer McLysaght and Sarah Breen, the authors behind the 'Oh My God, What A Complete Aisling' series popped into studio with Alison to tell us all about their new venture, The Ballygobbard Project. The girls also talked about why Emer has PTSD from a quiz show she was on when she was a teenager, setting up a joint bank account and what do you call those GAA plaits that is on EVERY Irish person's suitcase?
What do you get when you mix animals and space? A great idea for a children's book, that's what!
Comedian and author, David Walliams joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast to chat about his new book 'Astrochimp', what it's like working with his friend Matt Lucas again and how he ended up getting his own branded Tupperware containers! Who doesn't love Tupperware?
Bridgerton fever has hit Today FM!
Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton joined Alison Curtis in studio to chat about the third series of Bridgerton and THOSE raunchy scenes. And in radio first, Luke Newton's secret talent was revealed to Nicola LIVE on air!
She is booked and busy and she IS the moment!
Katja Mia, Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon ambassador, popped into studio with Alison Curtis to chat about her busiest year ever, her training schedule and who she would include in Today FM's Top 1000.
For the full podcast click the 'Play' button on this page.
Rhasidat Adeleke is Ireland's sprinting sensation!
The new University of Texas graduate is weeks away from her debut on the Olympic stage. She joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast to chat about the story behind her realising her lightning speed and her journey from promising talent to international star.
Catch the full chat by pressing the play button on this page.
Comedian Shane Dan Byrne is a man of many talents but admin is NOT one of them! He can however spot an Irish person abroad from a mile away.
He has been all over the country and even Down Under with his show 'But He's Gay'. He joined Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast to chat about his tour, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and comedy just being for fun.
Catch the full chat by pressing the play button on this page.
Bridgerton is back!
Esteemed members of Today FM, on this very special day, Lady Alison Curtis was joined on Weekend Breakfast by some of the cast of Bridgerton to discuss the goings on in Mayfair and what viewers can expect from this season.
We’re celebrating 25 years of Gift Grub on Today FM and the man of the hour, Mario Rosenstock joined Alison Curtis in studio to chat about how it has evolved over the years.
The guys looked forward to his gig in the 3Arena next year and Alison made a stab at some of Mario's best known impressions.
Journalist Vicki Notaro has just released her highly-anticipated debut novel, Reality Check.
She joins Alison for chats about where the idea came from, how everyone seems to want to write a book and what TV show Alison just can't get into.
For the full chat, press the play button on this page.
The new season of The Young Offenders has just started and Hilary Rose is back! She chats with Alison about how close she's become with one cast member in particular, how they've aged up the characters and her podcast.
For the full chat, hit the play button on this page.
What do you get when you put your Kerry mother and Scottish husband in a room together? A lesson in how to Google Translate!
Comedy Singer-Songwriter and Performer Riona O'Connor joined Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast to chat about creating relatable content, her love for her home county of Kerry and why she stockpiles Savlon.
Looking for some top recommendations? Well look no further!
Cassie Stokes has become a name everyone knows after her ‘Best Of’ series took off on social media, showcasing the best of Ireland for food and drink.
Cassie joined Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast to reveal some of her favourite spots to visit around the country for pizza, pints and craic.
Bradley Riches is fresh from his stint in the Celebrity Big Brother house. People will also recognise him from his role as James McEwan in Season 2 of the Netflix series 'Heartstopper.'
Bradley joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast to discuss what plans are in store for Season 3 and what it's like to live with the King of Talent, Louis Walsh.
Actress India Mullen is probably best known for her roles in 'Red Rock' and the hit series 'Normal People.' But she wasn't always going to be an actress!
She joined Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast to chat about how she became an accidental actress, why 'Normal People' is her favourite project she has worked on and the wave of Irish talent taking the acting world by storm.
Have you got a wok at home but you never quite manage to use it right? Resident chef for the Six O'Clock Show, Kwanghi Chan, chatted with Alison on Weekend Breakfast about his book 'WOK' being the first Irish-Chinese cookbook to ever be published and how to avoid the most common mistakes made with using a wok!
To hear the full chat, hit the play button on this page.
Broadcaster Kathryn Thomas joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast to chat about how becoming a mother impacts your career, what age you feel and the song that follows her everywhere.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.
Will Coleman is a viral chef who shares delicious, easy-to-make recipes online. It turns out, that means he's the perfect person for giving us tips on doing the food shop! He's come up with a way to make healthy meals without needing to spend ages meal-planning and without the risk of buying more than you can use.
To hear all about it, hit the play button on this page!
You can find Will on TikTok and Instagram.
Jake Carter isn't just a pop music star - he's also a coffee buff! Seeing as he's been to so many places around the country, we had to find out his top five coffee shop recommendations.
Plus Alison and Jake chat about their first time meeting at a Strictly Come Dancing event - and who's the meaner judge.
For the full chat, hit the play button on this page!
Two of the biggest podcasters of the moment, Kevin and PJ from I'm Grand Mam caught up with Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast.
The pair are gearing up for an Irish tour that's sold out half its venues so far, so we found out how they're feeling about it and why their Cork accents seems to be a draw for listeners. Plus, what are the funny things their Mams do? To find out, hit the play button on this page!
Marie uses her lived experience to help those experiencing homelessness.
Now Marie works for Focus Ireland.
We're all in for the Big Busk for Focus Ireland to help end homelessness in Ireland, are you?
Find out more at TodayFM.com/Busk
Ricky describes Liverpool as Ireland’s second capital! And his love of the Emerald Isle started decades ago when he met all the Irish ex-pats on the building sites. Since then he has considered it his second home.
He played Bobby Grant in Brookside, and DCI Charlie Wise in Cracker but he is best known as the lovable and lewd Jim Royle in The Royle Family - Actor, Writer and activist and most importantly – a very very proud Liverpudlian.
Ricky had a Sunday sit-down with Alison Curtis and talked about the brand new tour he is about to embark in Ireland with the Irish Annie's stage show, how he adores meeting the fans after the shows and he still gets Jim Royle requests! He has a children's book on the way, he tells a hilarious story about Irish soccer legend John Aldridge plus his new Channel 4 tv show and loads more.
Ricky Tomlinson stars in Irish Annie’s musical comedy - Tour Dates from Dublin, Galway, Louth and Cork see more here: irishannies.com
Ricky also has a brand-new show starting on Channel 4. He stars in the road trip reality show with screen wife Sue Johnston - Ricky, Sue And A Trip Or Two starts this coming Tuesday on Channel 4
He is the Tom Crean of cycling. A Kerryman with adventure on his mind.
Tomas Mac an t-Saoir has travelled through the USA, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, Central Asia and the Middle East – and he is just back from touring from India through Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan.
And ALL of it on two wheels! He is the The Kerryman cycling the globe. In total he has clocked up an astounding 35,000+ km plus.
He tells Alison Curtis about his excellent adventures, including the joys and dangers of travelling through Afghanistan (1,300km) and how Iranian people are just like the Irish especially when it comes to tea and that Cillian Murphy is a regular in his family pub in Kerry!
Ryan ‘Brickman’ McNaught is one of the world’s leading LEGO® brick artists. He is one of only twenty-one LEGO® certified professionals globally. Like a Jedi Knight of all things brick related!
He is known to many this side of the world as judge of Channel Four's LEGO® Masters Australia
The exhibition is inspired by his bestselling book ‘The Bricktionary: The Ultimate LEGO® A-Z’, and the exhibition.
The immersive exhibition developed by Ryan and The Brickman team features over 150 models, made from over 1,000,000 LEGO® bricks
The exhibition also includes brick models from the imaginations of The Brickman team, ranging from anime to life-size animals animals, fashion to fantasy and tabletop games to TV shows,
It has taken more than 6,500 hours to build the complete exhibition, all built by hand by Ryan and his team.
He told Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast all about it from his LEGO den in Melbourne, Australia!:
Alisha Weir has been in Matilda, Wicked Little Letters and now Abigail – and she's only 14!
It wasn't Alison's first time chatting with Alisha, so the pair caught up on how the last two years have been going for her and whether the films are affecting her school life.
Alisha shared how she handled the news that she was in Matilda with her school mates and Alison had to find out, was Alisha even allowed to watch Wicked Little Letters?
Plus, what's it like becoming a vampire ballerina for Abigail? Well, press the play button on this page to find out!
National Treasure and Irish acting legend Brendan Gleeson on Weekend Breakfast.
Alison has not hidden the fact that Brendan is one of her absolute heroes. She spoke to him about his brand-new documentary, ‘Brendan Gleeson's Farewell to Hughes’ and why he felt it was so important to record this period in his life and what trad music and a creative space is so important to humanity and Irish people in particular. He is a proud fiddle and mandolin player.
Brendan also revealed his thoughts on the current Irish acting renaissance, Paddington 2 "I nearly sliced the finger off meself!" , Harry Potter, Smurf Movie, Joker 2 (he was amazed by Joaquin in first movie and signed by straight away to Folie A Deux once he knew Phoenix was attached) and loads more!
‘Brendan Gleeson's Farewell to Hughes's’ documentary will make its world premiere at the Dublin International Film Festival on Friday 1st March followed by a Q&A with Brendan Gleeson.
It will be released in the Lighthouse Cinema and Pálás Cinema Galway on March 2nd. For more see diff.ie.
Laura de Barra is a Cork-born property portfolio developer and illustrator working in the competitive London rental market. Her first book, 'Gaff Goddess', was a No.1 bestseller.
Now she has turned her hand to clothing. She reveals all the helpful hacks and advice from things to consider before we buy an item of clothing, changing room cheats, trying to buy sustainably and on a budget, parental clothing tips and loads more
Her new book is 'Garment Goddess' - Buy well, mend well, wear well, life changing advice from the queen of the household hack' It's out now.
Former model and Mother of 3 Award winning content creator
Sunday Times bestselling author, campaigner - Louise Boyce is better known online as Mamasstillgotit_
She pivoted from plus size positive modelling to comedy content creator during Covid and never looked back. On Instagram she has built up a following of over 500k and on Tik Tok nearly 400k Followers and 6.5M Likes.
Her campaign called 'Push It Out' exposed how the fashion industry didn't play fair when selling maternity wear. (later when she became pregnant she was dropped by her agent!) A pregnancy was seen as "damaged goods"
She got them to change their adverts to come with disclaimers. She has always been wary of aspects of the fashion industry and In 1998 she quit the business due to an eating disorder. She said she was "extremely unhealthy (mentally and physically) and was told I could never have children."
Louise told Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast all about it.
The paperback of her book Mamas Still Got It – How to make it through the Calpol years without losing yourself - is out 29th February.
In the chat with Louise Boyce mentioned she had suffered with an eating disorder – if you or someone you know is looking for help or advice – there is the Eating Disorders Association of Ireland, a national voluntary organisation supporting people affected by this – get more at bodywhys.ie
Billy Dee Williams was born and raised in New York City. He has starred in forty movies, seven Broadway plays, and has made more than forty television shows and tv movies combined!
In a Galaxy far, far away … okay maybe just L.A. over Zoom! Alison Curtis spoke to this living legend on the show --- He is best known as outlandishly handsome rogue Lando Calrissian on Return Of the Jedi and The Empire Strikes Back but he has had an INCREDIBLE career over SIX decades!
He told Weekend Breakfast how he the biggest star in the world once turned up to his first Broadway show, how George Lucas made the biggest call of his life, leading to his iconic role, how he dealt with Star wars fans when they thought he double-crossed Han Solo plus his Irish connections! At one time Billy’s circle of friends included included Diana Ross, Smokey Robinson, and Marvin Gaye!
HIs autobiography ‘What Have We Here: Portraits of a Life’ BY Billy Dee Williams is out now.
Seven studio albums with Wet Wet Wet. Twelve solo albums. Millions sold. He has starred on Broadway and the West End.
"Love Is All Around" reached number one in 1994 It then remained there for 15 weeks!
Throughout its chart run, some radio stations banned the song, as many listeners were fed up of hearing it for so long. Apparently - The band themselves eventually took the decision to delete the record from sale.
However, it didn’t make it to number one in Ireland … and guess what kept it off the top spot?
Alison chats to Marti about dealing with fame as a teenager, Scotland's link with Canada, and what does 'No Marti, No Party' mean! Can we get our own Marty's Whelan and Morrissey involved!?
The WWW debut album ‘Popped In Souled Out’ which established Marti and the band as one of the greatest talents to ever come out of Scotland. The record earned him a BRIT Award and four platinum discs in the UK alone.
He will play it in full with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra @ 3Arena Dublin on 10th March 2024
Ryan O'Sullivan is 30 and is a Culinary Studies graduate of MTU (Munster Technological University) He is originally from Gurranabraher in Cork City
He had previously worked in the Maryborough and River Lee hotels in Cork city before relocating to the US to further his career, landing a job at the Mirasol County Club in Florida in 2018.
He fought off 17 other highly talented chefs to take the top prize of $250,000 and a head chef role in Gordon Ramsay's famous Hell's Kitchen Las Vegas restaurant.
Winner of season 22 – it took seven weeks of intense filming. He had to keep the outcome a secret the whole time!
A young Cork entrepreneur who first started with bringing his homemade energy balls to college lectures has signed a contract worth €1 million with supermarket chain ALDI.
Matthew Collins is from Ballydesmond in Cork and he founded The Sibly Food Co. in 2018.
After years of making product for friends, then selling at markets he recently has signed a 12 month contract to supply ALDI’s 161 Irish stores with its popular Energy Balls product.
He started making his own homemade energy balls and bringing them to college lectures at the age of 21.
After classmates encouraged him to sell his produce, Matthew set up a stall at a Christmas Market in Kanturk where his energy balls proved a big hit with customers and his business has grown hugely since then.
He applied for the ‘Grow with ALDI’ programme in 2022 and was selected as one of five winners of the supplier development programme.
He told Alison his story.
Spring has nearly sprung and we are looking to emerge from hibernation and looking for things that we can do with the kids that don’t involve screens!!
Lilly Higgins is a TV chef, a crafting genius and a Mum to 3 kids - she shares her best tips for keeping them off screens and doing achievable activities that will empower them and also are loads of fun.
Some suggestions by Lilly include:
- Toad Stool Centrepiece
- Jewellery Tree
- Tie-dye tees
All are available in her book ‘The Homemade Year’ by Lilly Higgins
Follow her on Insta: lilly_higgins_
One of our very favourite people in TodayFM and ever joined Alison Curtis for a chat!
Paula is usually heard Sunday to Thursday evenings from 7 on TodayFM.
She joined Alison to chat wardrobes and why 'dopamine dressing' is so important especially this time of year.
Holiday prices are rising but that doesn’t seem to be stopping us booking holidays at home or abroad.
A survey of Irish holidaymakers found over 43% are planning to take three or more holidays in 2024. Whilst over 60% of claim that rising living costs will impact their travel plans, fewer than 2% say they will not travel at all.
Irish Independent, Travel Editor - Pol O Conghaile joined us to talk about Ireland's obsession and need for breaks no matter how big or small - home and abroad.
He tells us all about the Irish Independent Reader Travel Awards - Best holiday county? Best hotel in Ireland? Best overseas city break? The best holiday spot abroad? and much more
Matty Edgell's life changed the minute he was crowned Great British Bake Off Winner 2023.
Although he gained instant fame after winning one of Telly's biggest shows he has remained grounded and as normal as he can. He is 28 and works as a P.E. and Science teacher in Peterborough, UK and is one of the nicest, genuine people we have interviewed on the show.
When the first episode of the series was aired on Channel 4, Matty had to apologise to his friends who were only just finding out “his best kept secret”: that he is an undercover home baker!
Matty beat fellow finalist Josh and Dan to be crowned Bake Off Champion 2023 – the people’s champion. He described himself as the “official underdog”
He watched the final in his local and when Alison Hammond (who he ADORES!) made the announcement it was like a cheer in a football match!
Judge Prue Leith said: "I've never met a more cheerful, smiling uncomplaining and willing baker,"
Matty told Alison Curtis all about the Bake Off WhatsApp group, making friends for life, his upcoming wedding - will he make the cake, behind the scenes goss and who he loves the most inside the tent! (Clue: she made him laugh so much he had to steady himself to bake!)
She has been described as the Irish Stacey Solomon!
And she has even worked with Stacey's team from 'Sort Your Life Out' and trained under Dilly Carter from the show! However, the Stacey similarities don't stop there; as Hazel admits herself she is the head off the English presenter who is one of her heroes.
Hazel from 'The Home Reset' joined us last year and we got such a good reaction to our chat and follow up podcast that we thought with it being January and all, it is a great time to have her back on! We love Stace... I mean Hazel! Enjoy
Arthur Gourounlian is one of The Holy Trinity of judges on Dancing With The Stars!
And we LOVE HIM! AG joined us again for a fab bubbly chat to talk the first week of DWTS, who has really impressed him, who surprised him (clue: he spent his career riding and now he has to keep up his form!) and the rest of the goss! Arthur also reveals his dance lessons with husband Brian! Plus, loads more.
The days are colder, but this news really warmed our hearts. One of our favourite shows The Great Pottery Throwdown starts again on Channel 4. 12 potters, 10 weeks of passion, creativity, imagination, humour and maybe even some tears!
Friend of the show Keith Brymer-Jones is the head judge on this fabulous show and he spoke to Alison about being back with his BFFs Siobhan and Rich, his brand new tour, his love for the show and the contestants, being friends with a young Shane MacGowan, the new Canadian version of Pottery Throwdown featuring Seth Rogen plus loads more
Catch The Great Pottery Throwdown every Sunday on Channel 4 @ 7.45pm
January is not the easiest time of the year. All the build-up in December is released and we have to restart again! The weather is cold and it can be a bit bleak – we are the equivalent of a squeezed tea bag perched on the edge of a sink – So, what better way to lift our spirits than to grab a cup of tea and a blankie - put our feet up an watch some quality uplifting, inspiring happy television.
Producer Lenny is here with his Telly picks for January.
Here is his list in full:
Dancing With The Stars - RTE 1 Sunday nights
Sort Your Life Out with Stacey Solomon - Originally on BBC - Repeats are showing now on W – and you can also search in your Sky or Virgin provider, and it should show up to download or record.
Junior Bake Off – available to stream on All 4 through your smart tv
Gravity Falls - the best animated show EVER!
Only Murders in the Building - Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez – star as three true crime podcast addicts whose lives begin to imitate art.
Modern Family - watch this brilliant comedy described as the real life Simpsons from the start or just go back and watch classic episodes - or if you have never watched START NOW!!
All 3 above are available on Disney +
Queer Eye - JVN, Tan, Antoni, Karamo and Bobby, travel around the world and help people get their lives together. From personal grooming, home renovation, style, food, and life, Prepare for tears of joy.
Nailed It! – the hilarious Nicole Byer presents this anti-baking slice of brilliance
Derry Girls – why not? Go back to the start - pick a fave or introduce a friend!
Above three available on Netflix
From how to make the best roasties to an insight into his own plans, Neven Maguire is full of tips and ideas for making the Christmas dinner!
To hear the full chat, press the play button on this page.
The final episodes of The Crown are coming out this week on Netflix. How have Dominic West and Olivia Williams found playing Charles and Camila? Well, Alison Curtis finds out – and Dominic tells her about all of his Irish connections!
Jenny Kelly and Mairéad Ronan from the 'Jenny & Mairéad Now' have been doing the podcast for almost a year now, and joined Alison to chat all about it! They also went into what they're looking forward to this Christmas and chatted about their time at TodayFM.
For the full chat, press the play button on this page.
'So This Is Christmas' is the new Irish documentary following five people in an Irish village and looking at their relationship with Christmas. Director Ken Wardrop joined us to chat all about it and how he found Christmas growing up.
For the full chat, press the play button on this page.
There are tons of options out there for buying bits for around the house, and Orla Neligan joined us to tell us which would make great gifts for Christmas. Plus, they're all Irish!
For the full chat, press the play button on this page.
Sometimes, you want to get someone in your life a present that's very thoughtful but you've no idea where to start. Well if they're a foodie, Katy McGuinness has got it sorted for us!
For the full chat, press the play button on this page.
Have you ever wanted to cuddle a cow? Fiona Wilson at Dumble Farm in the UK realised her cows were so friendly and affectionate, that she decided to try offering cow cuddling sessions!
Click here to visit Dumble Farm's website.
For the full chat, press the play button on this page.
Are you already feeling stuck for inspiration on the present-buying front? Well, Stephen Daly and Jess Spencer have got tons of ideas – and they're from Irish brands and businesses!
For the full chat, press the play button on this page.
Patrick Kielty's first Late Late Toy Show is over and done with now, and so we wanted to find out what people thought! We had our two little reviewers, Lily and Lydia, on Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtism along with our big reviewer, Shannon Keenan!
For the full chat, press the play button on this page.
When a group of nine people went out for a meal in Rob's Ranch House in Wexford, they got a big surprise!
Restaurant owner Peter Campbell told us all about it.
To hear the full chat, press the play button on this page.
Nobody wants to go out for a meal and not have a good time – so thankfully, Russell Alford is here to suggest where we should visit. Whether you're looking to go out with friends, family or on a date night, Russell has got you sorted.
For the full chat, press the play button on this page.
24 year-old Adam B is a YouTuber and children's author, but he's also developed an interest in property. When he realised how tough the housing crisis is, he decided to make an incredible gesture for a stranger and pay their rent for a year.
To hear the full chat, press the play button on this page.
Bilingual comedian Áine Gallagher is bringing her tour A Cup of Focals around Ireland. She joined Alison to chat about learning Irish and to share some Irish-language jokes.
For the full chat, press the play button.
There's a new show in town – Culprits! After a high-stakes heist, a crew of elite criminals have gone their separate ways and have tried to leave their old lives behind, but the past and present collide when a ruthless assassin starts targeting them one by one.
Our entertainment reporter, Shannon Keenan, told us all about it! For the full chat, press the play button on this page.
Sometimes our ideas can feel bigger than our budgets, but on The Salvage Squad, we're learning that's not always the case! Interior designer Natasha Rocca Devine joined Alison to give her top tips for transforming a home.
For the full chat, press the play button on this page.
Award winning Derry Comedian, author, actress, podcaster, presenter, online superstar and friend of the show - Serena Terry aka Mammy Banter joined Alison for some chats.
Her @mammybanter account on Instagram has Over 250,000 followers
Her Facebook has 886k
Tik Tok she has over 2.2 MILLION!
Serena Terry aka Mammy Banter – All Tied Up! Tour 2024
Friday 20th September 2024 @ 3Olympia – Sat, Oct 12: Everyman Theatre, Cork - tickets on sale now at ticketmaster.ie
The GAA has over 2,200 clubs on the island of Ireland!
The Carlow team is nicknamed ‘The Scallion Eaters’ and Wexford fans are the ‘Yellowbellies’!!
In a senior inter county game a sliothar can travel at an average speed of 180km AN HOUR!! Faster than a hurricane!
These are just some of the amazing facts from Evanne Ni Chuilinn and her new book The Great Irish Book of Gaelic Games
Evanne has worked as a sports broadcaster for over 18 years and seen regularly on RTE on Six One news.
She puts all her experience and love of GAA into this incredible new book.
Do you find yourself buying ingredients, using them once and not knowing what to do with them after that? How about eating the same few meals all the time but they're feeling pretty bland? Donal Skehan's new book Home Kitchen can help – and he's got some ideas of big flavour recipes that can make all the difference for dinnertime.
For the full chat, press the play button on this page.
Brian Dowling and Arthur Gourounlian are fathers to baby Blake, and have written Brian and Arthur's Modern Family to share their story of becoming a family. Alison chatted about one of the moments she was most moved in the book, what cute aggression is and found out how their plans for celebrating Blake's birthday escalated.
For the full chat, press the play button on this page.
Looking for the best way to spend a day out with the kids this Halloween? Gráinne Daly from Hey It's Grá gave us her top suggestions for events around the country.
For the full chat, press the play button on this page.
Stuck for some spooky watches this Halloween? Today FM's Ed Smith has got some recommendations that all the family can enjoy – and a few just for adults!
To hear the full chat, press the play button on this page.
Neven Maguire is at the Permanent TSB Ideal Home Show for the weekend and Alison chatted with him about autumnal recipes, date nights and the show he's been filming this month!
For the full chat, press the play button on this page.
Halloween can be tough for our pets – fireworks suddenly, going off, doorbells ringing from trick-or-treaters. Lucky for us, dog behaviourist and trainer Suzi Walsh has a ton of tips for how we can help our pets so they don't get spooked by the fun!
For the full chat, press the play button on this page.
Leon Diop and Briana Fitzsimons have got a new book Black & Irish, which is full of stories about incredible black Irish people. The pair joined Alison to share some great stories, where the book came from and how Briana made the choice to raise children in Ireland.
For the full chat, press the play button on this page.
Our entertainment reporter, Shannon Keenan, joins us to chat all things Loki as season two is now streaming exclusively on Disney+.
The new season picks up in the aftermath of the shocking season finale when Loki finds himself in a battle for the soul of the Time Variance Authority.
To hear all about it, press the play button on this page.
Two Irish cities were named as part of the top five friendliest cities in Europe – but are they really the friendliest places Ireland has to offer? Well, the Today FM listeners had their say!
To hear the full chat, press the play button on this page.
Ten-year old Ella Berney was chosen to be Ireland's mascot at the rugby so we caught up with her and her Mam, Aisling, to find out how they got on at the Ireland versus Scotland game!
If you want to hear our first chat with them, you can catch it here.
For the latest chat, press the play button on this page.
Is every single farmer reared on a farm? Is TikTok any use to farmers? That's what Alison wanted to know on Weekend Breakfast as she chatted with two Irish farmers from TikTok, Séaghan Ó Súilleabháin and Aoife Mullen.
To hear the full chat, hit the play button on this page.
You can check out Séaghan (The Kerry Cowboy) and Aoife (The Dairy Queen) over on TikTok.
Have you ever seen a mascot leading out the team before a match and wondered 'how did they end up there?' Well, ten-year old Ella is the Irish mascot for Ireland versus Scotland and Alison found out how exactly she got the chance to give the Irish squad a pep talk!
Looking for a break over the mid-term? Ireland's award-winning travel expert Pól Ó Conghaile joined Alison to chat all things travel! Whether you're looking to stay at home or go abroad , he's got the top mid-term break suggestions for us.
For the full chat, press the play button on this page.
Tired of spending as long cleaning up after dinner as you did cooking? Gelf Anderson tells us all about why 'River Cottage Great Roasts' is full of one-tray dishes – and shares some of his favourites!
For the full chat, press the play button on this page.
Queens Don't Quit founder Maeve Madden caught up with Alison, sharing her advice on developing body confidence and what she would love to tell her teenage self.
For the full chat, press the play button on this page.
Dave Moore's a busy man right now, with a brand new show where he hosts Ireland's biggest music quiz. He tells Alison how he's found it since going solo, why he loves Irish radio and he puts Alison's music knowledge to the test in Music Master.
For all the craic, hit the play button on this page.
Alison chats with the Supervet Noel Fitzpatrick about his new children's book, why animals are so special and which Barbie actor he helped find a puppy!
For the full chat, press the play button on this page.
You might know him from the Classic 9 @ 11, or maybe from his Daily Grind videos. TodayFM's Stephen Daly joins Alison as they taste some coffees together, and Stephen tells us why some coffee taste bitter.
For the full chat, press the play button on this page.
Well, this could be a game changer! Lee Sim from Lisboa Pastelaria in Dublin has a secret sandwich that we never knew we needed until now. It's been known by the Portuguese as the perfect cure to a hangover – and now it's come to Ireland! To hear all about it, press the play button on this page.
Would you be able to sit the Leaving Cert math exam? Well, Cara Darmody was one of thousands of students doing the exams in June – except that she was just 12 years old. She was doing the exam to raise autism awareness, and since then she's challenged Leo Varadkar about access to autism services.
But on her first day of secondary school, she got a call to say her result was in...
For the full chat, press the play button on this page!
You'll know her from her make-up empire, but now Aimee Connolly is spending time on something entirely different – volunteering at Park Runs! She told Alison why a Park Run is great for everyone of every ability, even if you'd rather watch on from the sidelines.
For the full chat, press the play button on this page!
Are you single and ready to mingle? Are you sick of online dating? Fitness coach Korina Duffy answered yes to both those questions and so she decided to set up a walking and hiking group with a dating twist. She told Alison all about it on the Weekend Breakfast, for the full chat press the play button on this page
Poppy Cooks is a chef and broadcaster with 4 million TikTok followers. Her latest book is all about how to get the best out of your air fryer with amazing recipes including Sunday roasts and delicious desserts. She spoke to Alison Curtis on The Weekend Breakfast Show. For the full chat press the play button on this page
Best friends Aoife McNevin and Rachel Perry spent months renovating an iconic building in Tuam and have just opened their new bakery together. The pair told Alison Curtis that they were unsure what to do after the Leaving Cert and are now living their dream. For the full chat press the play button on this page.
As the Summer holidays come to an end we all need to start thinking about how to keep our kids healthy and happy going back to school. Pharmacist Rebecca Barry joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast had some handy tips. For the full chat press the play button on this page
As the Summer holidays come to an end we face into another year of battles with trying to get our children to eat healthy school lunches and to not leave the bananas rot inside their schoolbags. TV cook and broadcaster Aisling Larkin joined Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast with some vital and life-saving tips. For the full chat press the play button on this page
The second annual "Bros Or Tralee" competition on Weekend Breakfast pit the men of Ireland against each other, with the crown going to the one with the most unusual talent. This year it was was won by Wicklow man Martin Donegan who can identify the make of a tractor by the sound of its engine. For the full chat press the play button on this page
A listener to the Weekend Breakfast Show on Saturday told Alison Curtis how she was going in that day to get her first tattoo. Pat, who admits she is late in life getting her first ink, loved it so much she has signed up to get another one in two weeks time. For the full chat press the play button on this page.
Father of two, Paul Tierney, is halfway through the mammoth task of climbing 23 peaks in under two weeks to raise funds to support the Ashling Murphy Memorial Fund. Paul told Alison Curtis that he is climbing each mountain to mark each year of Aisling's life, after she was murdered in 2022 at the age of 23. He is also attempting to complete the task solo, cycling from one location to the next with his tent on his back. For the full chat press the play button on this page
Would you like to sleep under the stars in county Waterford, surrounded by trees and horses.... on a double decker bus?? Mark Graham and Ellie O Byrne have spent the last 3 years turned an old double decker bus into the coolest listing on Airbnb. They told Alison Curtis about the sweat and tears that went into this project. For the full chat press the play button on this page.
The Deepest Breath is one of the most watched movies on Netflix at the moment and tells the story of Irish ocean freediver Stephen Keenan as he attempts to help Italian diver Alessia Zechinni break the world record. Beautifully shot and heartbreakingly raw this is a must watch. Irish director Laura McGann speaks to Paula McSweeney
Comedian Emma Doran chats to Paula MacSweeney about her appearances at the Vodafone Comedy Festival and All Together Now, and about those little toxic traits that led her to think she could do the splits during lockdown.
The second season of the massive hit show The Bear has dropped on Disney+ and things are heating up in the kitchen for Carmy and the gang. Today Fm's Russell Alford watched the entire season and says it's a must-watch. Catch all new episodes of Season 2 of The Bear on Disney+ now.
Young Offenders actress Hilary Rose, who brilliantly plays Conor and Jock's mum Mairead in The Young Offenders, tells Alison about her podcast Live Wild, which will host a live stage show with other cast members later this month. She goes barefoot for the summer and sleeps in a tent outdoors, find out why.
Who Runs The World? Girls! Author and Journalist Emily Hourican has been a coach for her daughters underage soccer team for the past few years and says it is one of the most satisfying things she has ever done, despite the long hours. Listen back as she chats to Alison on Weekend Breakfast
Do you ever get overwhelmed by the clutter in your home? Well, then Hazel from The Home Reset is the person you need. She is a professional home organiser who can help you to reset your home. She talked to Alison Curtis on the Weekend Breakfast show and admitted the open plan office at Today Fm gave her anxiety!
Celebrity wedding photographer Jenny McCarthy, who has photographed the weddings of celebs such as Suzanne Jackson, Brian Dowling and Arthur Gourounlian, Glenda Gilson, Stephanie Roche and Seamus Coleman, has just released a new book with tips for a hassle free wedding day. She joined Alison on The Weekend Breakfast show.
On the Weekend Breakfast Show Alison is on a mission to get non-swimmer Aoife into the water. Aoife lives in beautiful Sligo but never learned how to swim Now that her kids are spending lots of time in the water she thinks it's about time!
The President of Dolly Parton's US theme park, Dollywood, was in Kerry recently to watch the residents of Listowel smash a World Record. Eugene Naughton witnessed 1,137 people dressed as Dolly Parton and he chatted to Alison on The Weekend Breakfast Show. Her told her the three reasons why we all love a bit of Dolly.
Season 3 of The Kardashians has dropped on Disney+ and we are here for it. Entertainment correspondent Shauna gives Alison the low down on all the drama of the new season, including Kim's divorce, Khloe's motherhood, Kourtney's PDA's Kendal's modelling and Kylie casually being a billionaire. Brought to you with thanks to Disney+, streaming new episodes of The Kardashians every Thursday.
A former winner on the Weekend Breakfast Show's Little Baker competition, Finian Tierney, has been going from strength to strength since winning the competition. The 11 year old now has a mini business going in Sligo and recently sold his wares at his local GAA pitch.
Dog trainer Suzi Walsh (dogbehaviour.ie) joined Alison in studio on the Weekend Breakfast Show to answer listeners questions about their dog's behaviour. Does your pet bark when you leave the house? Or jump up on visitors? Then this is a must listen.
On the Weekend Breakfast Show Alison caught up with Fiona and Paul Connolly who run Connolly Brothers Toy Shop in Cavan which is celebrating 100 years in business this week. The shop has been in Paul's family for three generations,
Sunworshippers in Cork's Bell's Field were treated to a happy surprise when New York native Ali Syed got down on one knee and proposed to his girlfriend, UCC medical student Maha Irfan. Alison Curtis caught up with the couple on Sunday's weekend breakfast to find out about their magical day.
Chef Aisling Larkin joined Alison to go over some delicious dessert recipes, what to expect if you're hitting Taste Of Dublin this year and how to add that extra 'shazam' to your food.
For the full chat click the 'Play' button on this page.
This week Alison spoke with cybersecurity expert Alex Cooney about whether you should let your kids online, if so at what age and how to set proper boundaries around internet safety. Alex is the co-founder and CEO of the Irish charity 'Cyber Safe Kids'. For for the full chat click the 'Play' button on this page.
'Mae' restaurant owner Grainne O'Keefe joined Alison to give her top Bbq tips to spruce up your summer meals. For the full chat click the 'Play' button on this
Neil Kenna who you may know as the bartender from First Dates Ireland joined Alison to give his pro tips on being a standout dater on the show. First dates are coming back for their 8th season and looking for daters, particularly men to take part and potentially find their future spouse. For the full chat click the 'Play' button on this page.
Travel, event and food blogger Sarah Hanrahan from 'I Come Undone' joins Alison to us all about free events for the whole family around Ireland. For the full chat click the 'Play' button above.
Author Eoin Colfer joined Alison on weekend breakfast to discuss the upcoming International Literature Festival taking place in Dublin this year, and he even has a few questions for Alison about where she's from. For the full chat click the 'Play' button above.
The 'kitchen disco queen' Sophie Ellis-Bextor joined Alison to discuss her new podcast 'Spinning Plates', being a full-time working mum to five boys and the excitement of her upcoming Dublin gig in St Anne's park. For the full chat click the 'Play' button above.
Fashion influencer turned business women Louise Cooney joined Alison to discuss Season 2 of her podcast 'Open Book'. She also talks about making it as an influencer, the key to staying on top of your game and the difficulties that come with it. For the full chat click the 'Play' button on this page.
Paul O'Connell is a Barnardos ambassador and he is fronting the Big Active campaign with Aldi to encourage primary school children to approach their health in holistic way, by looking after their minds, hearts and bodies.Get involved at Barnardos.ie/bigactive
It was a phenomenon when it first launched, and it's been such a hit that it's getting it's very own spin off.'Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story' is a prequel to the tale we know so well which focuses on the Queen's rise to power and we caught up with the cast to find out more!
It was a phenomenon when it first launched, and it's been such a hit that it's getting it's very own spin off.'Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story' is a prequel to the tale we know so well which focuses on the Queen's rise to power and we caught up with the cast to find out more!
A show regular and voice of reason, Dr. Colman Noctor joined Alison this morning to tell her all about his new book, 'The 4-7 Zone'. Colman gives readers an easy and effective way to live a balanced life - and explains how you can become your own therapist. Hit play now to hear the full conversation.
He's the man behind the iconic 'This Is Going To Hurt' and has just realised a book all about the digestive system, so it's safe to say that Adam Kay is not squeamish.The former doctor, comedian and author joined Alison to chat about writing for kids, turning his life into a BBC series and why doctors are terrible patients.
It's one of the most iconic characters to ever grace the literary, TV and movie world but in 2023, Tinkerbell is moving from sidekick to superstar. Yara Shahidi is Tinkerbell in brand new Disney+ series 'Peter Pan and Wendy' and she joined Alison to chat about putting on those famous wings!
You might have heard of Las Tapas de Lola – one of the top tapas spots in the country. Its owners - Anna Cabrera and Vanessa Murphy – have had a busy few months, opening another restaurant to rave reviews and writing a new book teaching you to master tapas. They caught up with Alison to tell her all about it.
Following the release of her 19th book in 20 years, author Cecelia Ahern joined Alison Curtis. They chatted about aura migranes, Alice in Wonerland, empathy and how being bored shaped Cecelia's creativity.
Gráinne Mullins was already an award-winning pastry chef when she launched Grá Chocolates from her parents' shed in 2020. Since then she and her business have gone strength to strength, and she appeared on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list last month.She caught up with Alison to chat abouther amazing career and the all the best summer food festivals.
Did you see Joe Biden was in a deli in Dundalk? (we cannot believe we're asking that question either)Alison Curtis spoke to the owner of McAteers Food House in the wee county Jerome McAteer, who welcomed the US President - and the secret service into his café this week. They chatted about sniffer dogs, rescue dogs and ironing flags.
Have you heard about Ireland's answer to Love Island? Centred around the quintesential Gaeltacht experience, Grá ar an Trá is all about helping Gaelgóirs and Béarla speakers find love while using their Irish - and the couple with the most focail win! Man an Tí James Kavanagh dropped by Weekend Breakfast to tell Alison all about it. They chatted about Irish reality TV, Canadian Gaeltachts and James's latest food ventures.
Getting diagnosed with autism at the age of 27 changed author and illutrator Aoife Dooley’s life forever. But five years on, she has grown to love and accept herself – and wants to help children do the same. She joined Alison to chat about the second book in the Frankie's World series: Finding My Voice.
Mel McDermott set up her company Galz Gone Wild in 2017 when she found herself looking for a community for women who love making connections and enjoying the outdoors.After becoming a mother in September, she once again went searching for a group of ladies with similar passions and needs – and came up with a sister community – Mamz Gone Wild. She told Alison all about it.
Spring has officially sprung and many of us are looking at our not-so-green thumbs wondering what to do with our gardens. This week Alison caught up with the Bon Jovi of the gardening scene, Diarmuid Gavin, and asked his advice on a selection of your plant problems. They also chatted about rewilding, Ed Sheeran and Diarmuid's dodgy tattoo...
In 2021, after 7 years as a rugby international, Hannah Tyrell traded her Irish jersey for a Dublin one and was back on the GAA pitch just one month after her retirement. She spoke to Weekend Breakfast about her incredible career, achieving sports-work-life balance and what the sporting community means to her.
Fresh off the back of the success of his gorgeous surrogacy documentray, DWTS judge Arthur Gourounlian joined Alison Curtis for the first time! (They are now best friends). They chatted about the series finale, being multilingual and family life with hubby Brain Dowling and their adorable daughter Blake.
After 15 years hosting the Sunday Game and over three decades in the broadcasting game, Des Cahill is one of the most familiar faces and voices in the country. But what you might not know about him is he is a fantastic Irish speaker, as he got to show off in a new RTÉ. He joined Alison to talk about the importance of using your cúpla focail, life after the Sunday Game and our very own Ian Dempsey...
The adorable Milly McCarthy might be a catastrophe, but her author Leona Forde is anything but! As the first installment in the Milly series continues continues to fly of the shelves, Alison caught up with Leona to chat about her new found literary success and the inspiration behing the book.
Barry Enderwick loves a sandwich with a story - so much so he's built a social media platfrom celebrating just that. He joined Weeekend Breakfast to chat about the best and worst sandwiches of all time (some of them are truly gross!).
Here at Today FM we have Big Busk on the brain.With less than a week to go, Weekend Breakfast spoke to Catherine Keenan. Catherine spent seven years living in homelessness – but thanks to our charity partner Focus Ireland, she found a home and a second chance to live with her family.
Ahead of this weekend's clash against Italy, Kathleen McNamee of Off The Ball joined Alison to discuss how the Irish rugby team are faring in the Six Nations.
Alison caught up with drag sensation turned ballroom star Panti Bliss, AKA Rory O'Neill, who has been painting the Dancing With the Stars floor red each week. They chatted all things ballroom, the bond between contestants this year and breaking down stigma.
With over one billion monthly users, Tiktok has fast become one of the most popular social media platforms out there. For parents with young teenagers, trying to navigate this new cyber space and keep their kids safe can be daunting. But CEO of Parentline Aileen Hickie is here to help! She joined Weekend Breakfast with tips to help parents tackle TikTok.
With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, Weekend Breakfast has love on the brain. And what type of love is more important than self-love?Alison caught up with Irish Times journalist Conor Capplis – who’s recently grown a mullet and is championing his hair and his decision.
You might remember 10-year-old Saoibh Lonergan from her appearance on the Late Late Toy Show with a song she wrote, Raining Rainbows. She had to have major surgery over the summer to remove a tumour on her back - but now she is absolutely smashing her recovery. This week Alison caught up with Saoibh and her dad Kenny. They told Weekend Breakfast her story in honour of the return of Little Baker and chatted about the Great Irish Bake - all in aid of Children’s Health Ireland. The Great Irish Bake is being held by the Children's Health Foundation on March 31st. For more details on how to get involved, tune into Weekend Breakfast every Saturday, or visit childrenshealth.ie/greatirishbake
Sophie Hinchliffe, aka Mrs Hinch, is an internet sensation renowned for her cleaning tips and tricks. She posts content of her cleaning - AKA Hinching – to her 4.6 million Instagram followers.She joined Weekend Breakfast to chat about life as a cleanfluencer, alpachas and her new kids book - Welcome to Hinch Farm.
This week Weekend Breakfast caught up with the hilarious mind behind Ross O’Carroll-Kely, Paul Howard, to discuss his second brain child, Aldrin Adams – a cheese-loving, kind-hearted kid superhero. Following the release of he second book in the Aldin series this week, Paul filled Alison in on Aldrin’s latest antics and his own cheese-induced nightmares…
Dublin Senator Lynn Ruane embarked on a roadtrip across Ireland this summer with Bafta-winning actress Miriam Margoyles to explore the life of Lady Gregory. She joined Alison to chat about her mate Mimzo, travelling cross country, and even managed to squeeze in a quick lesson in Dublinese....
It's been a busy few weeks in the Mescal household!Singer-songwriter Nell caught up with Weekend Breakfast to chat about her new track Homesick, her reaction to Paul's Oscar Nomination and the Irish on the centre stage.
Husband and wife Gina and Karol Daly - more commonly known as the Daly Dish - are all about good food and big flavours. Their most recent book was crowned Cookbook at the Year of the An Post Irish Book Awards 2022. This week they spoke to Weekend Breakfast about fakeaways, the perfect Sunday dinner and eating well without sacrificing the wow factor.
To fight the January Blues, many are dreaming of sunnier summer days. With holidays on the brain, Alison caught up with travel expert Pól Ó Conghaile. They chatted about the best holiday deals for families and couples and the Irish Independent Reader Travel Awards 2023.
Dr Coleman Noctor joined Weekend Breakfast with his top three parenting tips for 2023. He chatted about improving your child’s social skillset, learning to take a backseat and embracing the average. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.
We caught up with Eoin Reardon, 21-year old from Cork who blew up on TikTok after sharing videos of his traditional woodworking skills. What started as a lockdown hobby for Eoin has become a regular source of entertainment for his 2.5 million followers worldwide. He chatted to Alison about TikTok, traditional tool, building his platform (and his curragh).
As the first week in 2023 draws to a close, many of us are attempting to stick to our resolutions and lead healthier lives. We caught up with dietitian Orla Walsh to discuss forging healthy habits and the dos and don'ts of eating well.
As season six of The Great Pottery Throwdown returns to our screens tonight, Alison caught up with master potter Keith Brymer Jones. They chatted about the art of ceramics, creativity, patience and Keith's unlikely friendship with a certain A-lister...
Bressie joined Alison in studio and shared some great tips to help keep mindful during the Christmas break.It can be a time of high stress for a lot of people, but the popular singer and podcaster has some excellent tips. Plus, he gives more details of the relaunch of his hugely popular podcast "Where Is My Mind". There will be a live podcast recording on April 28th at the 3Olympia Theatre too.
Neven Maguire joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast to talk all things Christmas dinner. Neven had our mouths watering with his special twists on Christmas classics but also gave us some tips on how to avoid a big stress over the cooking. We can't wait to try his harissa turkey and soy sauce brussels sprouts!
Mario Rosenstock joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast and had us laughing from start to finish! Straight off the back of his Late Late Show appearance he let us in on his backstage secrets and gave us a taste of a new sketch featuring Matt Cooper, Frank Greaney and our very own Alison.
The fabulous Sarah Breen joined us in studio on Weekend Breakfast.She spoke to Alison Curtis about being an only child and now have her own kids, why she is a 10 bauble Christmas lover! And of course what happens next for her famous Irish heroine Aisling.
Actress, author, podcaster, designer, mother and all round hilarious woman, Amy Huberman joined Alison to discuss her podcast exploring the joys and difficulties in parenting. Aldi's Mamia & Me has real talk, parenting confessions and most importantly - laughs! Amy and Alison had plenty of laughs on the show.
Derry woman Serena Terry, also known as ‘Mammy Banter’ has released her second, eagerly-awaited new book, ‘The Sh!te Before Christmas’ and joined Alison on Sunday's show.
Serena shot to fame on Instagram and TikTok, amassing more than two million followers and 35 million views across all platforms. She also made a guest appearance on the final season of "Derry Girls".
After the phenomenal success of her first book 'Mammy Banter: The Secret Life of an Uncool Mum' Serena couldn't wait to tell more of Tara's story, and this time we meet her during one of the most chaotic times of the year.
Serena and Alison talk about the extreme pressure mammies put on themselves at this time of year, and how Serena wrote this book in just 8 weeks!
We have our Cadbury Soundtown Winner for 2022. Congratulations to Listowel, Co Kerry!
In 2022 local spirit has never been more important, and we've been searching for those communities that go the extra mile to spread light and joy. Our judging panel said Listowel fully embodied our SOUND qualities of It has been a difficult year for us all with the hope of returning to ‘normality’ taking a little longer than anticipated. Local spirit has never been more important, and we want to celebrate those communities that go the extra mile to spread light and joy.
Soundtown with Alison Curtis is back and ready to hear about the wonderful community spirit in your neighbourhood. And you don’t have to be a sound ’town’ – you could be a sound city, a sound village, a sound collection of locals. We’re looking for communities who live and breathe our SOUND qualities: Selfless, Optimistic, United, Neighbourly, Dependable.
Click play to hear their fantastic reaction to winning €10,000 for their town with thanks to Cadbury.
HUGE THANKS to all our amazing finalists: Westport Co Mayo, Drogheda Co Louth, Rosscarbery Co Cork, Grange Co Carlow, and Dunshaughlin, Co. Meath
Comedian Emma Doran has just announced her biggest tour to date including a night a Vicar Street on April 21st.
Emma joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast to tell her all about it, including the unusual places she gets her comedy inspiration from.
Bryan went viral this week after a video he made about his story was received with HUGE positive responses.
Mallow native Bryan O’Keeffe was unhappy with his weight at 23 stone and wanted to change his life for the better — At the end of last year, he moved to the Mallorcan wilderness cutting off communication from family and friends for 7 months so he could get his transformation going. His hard work paid off as he dropped a whopping 10 stone. To celebrate his transformation, he came home to Ireland to surprise his family and friends and released a video.
Alison spoke to Bryan on Saturday's show to hear all about it.
Our resident pastry professional Chef Shane Smith joins Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast to share three simple spooky recipes for an extra easy tasty Halloween. All treats and no tricks!
Go to chefshanesmith.ie for more
Activist, Speaker, Journalist, Superhero, Dog Enthusiast and most importantly an A-List Cork celeb legend Joanne O'Riordan joined Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast.
She is also a proud Ambassador for women's sport in Ireland and although we are in a golden era...how are women in Irish sport being supported?
This week she has a documentary called 'A Sporting Chance' that looks at women's sport in Ireland, examining if there a level playing field for females and what more can be done in terms of progress. She explores the potential financial upsides for sponsors and players. It features recent European Championships medal winning boxer Amy Broadhurst and GAA footballer and former Ireland rugby star Hannah Tyrrell.
A Sporting Chance airs this coming Thursday the 27th October at 10.15pm on RTE 1
Adam King truly is a national treasure at this stage.
Alongside his dad David they have captured the hearts of the world with the 'A Hug For You' campaign that Adam launched back on The Late Late Toy Show.
They joined Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast to chat about their brand new book – ‘Sir Adam the Brave and the Moody Monsters'- a fun filled tale all about kindness, inclusion...and monsters! AND it has already been shortlisted for the An Post Irish Book Awards - Junior Children's Book of the Year!
There is a brand-new inclusive Irish TV series for children and families called Dizzie Deliveries, a show told through spoken word and the Lámh sign system for people with intellectual disabilities.
Launching on RTÉjr this week Dizzy Deliveries is making history as the first television series in Ireland to use Lámh Signs.
To tell Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis all about it and the star of one of the episodes - television’s best-loved chef and one of our favourite people – Donal Skehan
The series itself kicks off on RTEjr on 19 Oct which is also National Lámh Day. The Dizzy Deliveries Bakery episode that features Donal will now air on 27 Oct.
Visit lamh.org to learn more about the sign system used by children and adults with intellectual disability and communication needs in Ireland
Journalist Jen Hogan wrote a piece this week in 'The Irish Times' about how some behaviours in underage team sports have left families and their children distraught.
What happens when winning is more important to coaches than making sure every child has fun?
The article shone a light on how some coaches believe winning matches is far more important than including children of all abilities and, importantly, also showed how damaging that attitude can be to those left on the sidelines.
The piece got a massive reaction and Jen joined Weekend Breakfast to tell Alison Curtis why it resonated so much and the solutions that can be found.
You can follow Jen here on Insta: @jenhoganjourno
After broadcast on Weekend Breakfast the show got a huge response from listeners. Here is a selection:
Alison, as a coach it is difficult to play someone who is not interested or has the aptitude for the game ahead of someone who does. Leaving can often allow the player the time and focus on an activity that suits them better. Chris (Ennis)
Hey Alison. This is what I’ve been doing while listening to your piece. I coach U13 soccer and use an app to make sure I don’t forget who has played and for how long. The app times all my players. I also try to make sure starting subs are different each week. If they don’t get full allocation one game they get it next. Its a really hard balancing act but its about how you approach it and being prepared as much as possible before a match. If parents are onboard with you as a coach then that’s the definition of a team.
Child development...The policies are already there, it's some coaches & parents ( not to make light of it) go all D'unbelievables on it!!
I agree with everything about equal game time and participation before winning total agree ... but as a coach all I hear is coach bashing… I would ask parents have you offered to volunteer?!
Alison my husband left coaching because of the hassle he got from parents. He believed that every child who trained should get a turn playing a match but some of the parents thought it was just about winning and not the players. The best day he had as a coach was when an autistic child who had played for several other teams but never played a match until he moved to our club, scored his first goal. His reaction and that of his family were what team sports should be about.
This has been an issue at our club end of season with finals and under 12s been brought up to under 14s. Under 14s not played. Anyway, because parents are speaking up coaches are threatening to leave using the no one is grateful even though the other parents are involved in coaching too
I am a coach of 4 underage GAA teams on Dublin & completely agree that inclusion & keeping the kids engaged & happy on training & games is the key to success. One issue not helping is that referees, who are also at the centre of discussion at the moment, are calling fouls that aren't fouls. The kids are asking what they've done wrong more & more & the kids are saying they're fed up with this. Obviously abuse of referees is totally unacceptable, but being able to question them would help all parties....John, dublin
Robin Stevens has been described as Agatha Christie meets Enid Blyton.
She is credited with igniting the mystery book for young readers – Her hugely entertaining series 'Murder Most Unladylike' has sold over 100,000 copies in Ireland ALONE and millions globally. And now she has a brand new series.
Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis was delighted to welcome Robin Stevens in to studio for a lovely chat about her brand new series.
Brandon Flowers finally gets an answer!
Ireland's favourite Professor Luke O'Neill has a fascinating new book for young curious minds: ‘What Makes Us Human: A Scientist’s Guide to our Amazing Existence’
What do you have in common with the 7.75 billion other people on the planet? Will we ever create superhumans? Why is music so important to human existence? Humans like to peel their clothes off but we have MUCH more in common with bananas than you think! Why are we half banana?
Plus, The most important question posed in music - Are we human or are we dancer?
Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis spoke to Luke O’Neill and he attempted to answer some big questions in his latest book for curious young adults.
During lockdown Rebs Lightbody turned to baking to destress from the chaos of the world.
She got the news she made it into GBBO in the same week she graduated!
Rebs told Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast all about her time in the tent, do they get to eat their creations? Has anyone told her she looks like Daphne from Bridgerton?! And how piercing are Paul Hollywood's eyes in the flesh!!?
“Paul Hollywood has eyes like a White Walker! They look straight into your soul!” 🤣
David Walliams is one the world's most prolific children's authors.
Published in 53 languages and selling over 50 million copies he has inspired imaginations worldwide.
From Gangsta Granny, Slime, Code Name Bananas, Billionaire Boy, the World’s Worst series and many more he has published some of the most entertaining children's books ever.
In a wide ranging entertaining chat David sat down with Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis to chat about his influences, how to get kids reading, tips for budding writers, his newest book 'Spaceboy' and then answers very cute questions from some of his Irish superfans! (Incluing an interesting writing proposal!)
Clinton Liberty has a fabulous name made for the big screen.
He currently plays Linus Dunne in the TV adaptation of Graham Norton's book ‘Holding’ and the Meath Actor has raised much praise for his assured performance alongside a star-studded cast including Oscar-winning Brenda Fricker, Charlene McKenna, Siobhán McSweeney and Conleth Hill.
Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast spoke to this fast rising star about his big break and also starring in Disney + blockbuster show Red Election.
Plus, can he nail the Canadian accent!!? "ay!"
Holding airs on Monday nights at 9pm on Virgin Media One. Catch up is available on the Virgin Media Player.
Clinton Liberty has a fabulous name made for the big screen.
He currently plays Linus Dunne in the TV adaptation of Graham Norton's book ‘Holding’ and the Meath Actor has raised much praise for his assured performance alongside a star-studded cast including Oscar-winning Brenda Fricker, Charlene McKenna, Siobhán McSweeney and Conleth Hill.
Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast spoke to this fast rising star about his big break and also starring in Disney + blockbuster show Red Election.
Plus, can he nail the Canadian accent!!? "ay!"
Holding airs on Monday nights at 9pm on Virgin Media One. Catch up is available on the Virgin Media Player.
Ever since he left Love Island in 2018, my next guest has used his growing platform to advocate for better mental health especially in younger people.
This led to his appointment as the UK’s ‘Youth Mental Health Ambassador’
He is also a best-selling author, founder of a wellness brand and all this while still working as an emergency A & E Doctor.
I chatted to him about his brand new book ‘A Better Day: Your Positive Mental Health Handbook’ a toolkit for kids and teens.
In the interview we discuss the topic of suicide and Doctor Alex was personally affected by this when his younger brother Lyr took his own life.
If you need to seek help or talk to anyone please contact:
Samaritans Ireland on 116 123 samaritans.org Pieta – 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444 pieta.ie
Ever since he left Love Island in 2018, my next guest has used his growing platform to advocate for better mental health especially in younger people.
This led to his appointment as the UK’s ‘Youth Mental Health Ambassador’
He is also a best-selling author, founder of a wellness brand and all this while still working as an emergency A & E Doctor.
I chatted to him about his brand new book ‘A Better Day: Your Positive Mental Health Handbook’ a toolkit for kids and teens.
In the interview we discuss the topic of suicide and Doctor Alex was personally affected by this when his younger brother Lyr took his own life.
If you need to seek help or talk to anyone please contact:
Samaritans Ireland on 116 123 samaritans.org Pieta – 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444 pieta.ie
Graham Herterich aka 'The Cupcake Bloke' joins Alison live in studio to tell us all about his newest book.
From old Irish tales to 4 ingredient recipes, this book covers it all.
For the full chat click the play button below.
Graham Herterich aka 'The Cupcake Bloke' joins Alison live in studio to tell us all about his newest book.
From old Irish tales to 4 ingredient recipes, this book covers it all.
For the full chat click the play button below.
Lilly Higgins joined us LIVE from Electric Picnic where she is part of the Theatre Of Food.
Aisling Bea said of Lilly's new book: “Things to see, eat smell and do I am a long time lover of Lilly Higgins recipes and now all these great home tips and tasty treats in one place. Its like all my favourite bits of instagram but in one handy book"
Nadiya Hussein's life changed forever when she entered and then won the 2015 Great British Bake Off.
Since that day Nadiya has presented her own hugely popular cookery shows that include 'Fast Flavours', 'Nadiya Bakes' and 'Nadiya's Time To Eat' plus 'Nadiya's American Adventure' and 'Nadiya's Asian Odyssey'
She has also published SEVENTEEN books. She is a busy, busy lady but she took the time out to chat to Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast and talk about how her kids are such teenagers, her love of the humble baked bean, the fabulous new book Nadiya's Everyday Baking and loads more. We heart Nadiya.
Some schools have already gone back but all will be back at some stage this week.
So who better to talk us through some top tips on settling our kids back into the classroom and into a routine than Parenting and Early Childhood Education Expert Dr. Mary O’Kane!
drmaryokane.ie
Alison spoke to her on Weekend Breakfast.
It's nearly time to jump around...but it needn't be a house of pain!!
It's Sunday evening and you have the feet up and the telly is on to the new boxset.. then suddenly you remember..."Aaaarrrgghhh!! School lunches!!"
Well fear not. Here to help us gear up for the marathon ahead… best selling author and owner of a cookery school - Jolene Cox aka One Yummy Mummy
She has all the best tips
oneyummymummy.com On Instagram too @oneyummymummy
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jolene + Lil's Cox (@oneyummymummy1)
Finally, a show to rival The Rose Of Tralee!
Weekend Breakfast scoured every county in Ireland to find the best man or "Bros(e)" to come on air and display their greatest talent!
Alison welcomed John in Limerick ( a truck driver by day and as silky voiced as Celine Dion by night!) and another John in Cork (a Lab Manager who is very well respected in his field...literally) He really mooved us to tears.
Aine Duffy is one of the most creative self-starting musicians in Ireland.
She created her Duffbox (a converted Donkey Box) during the pandemic while searching for a way to continue gigging safely.
She also built her own passive home for 12k!
The Duffbox is still on tour, it’s been great fun, to see the people’s faces alone with the happiness and the craic.
Áine Duffy will play for hundreds of children in direct provision centres around Cork in the coming weeks.
The Duffbox Children’s Project is funded by Cork County Council and the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.
She is now considering expanding her Duffbox idea by renovating a campervan which can be used by visiting musicians for both accommodation and transport when coming to Ireland to tour.
It also turns out herself and Billie Eilish are closely related and she is trying to find a way to get her family tree book to her!
Follow her many adventures @aineduffymusic
The most important part of Weekend Breakfast is you guys! We LOVE engagement with our listeners whether they are on the way to sports practice, or music event, or sitting at home with a cup of tea.
Wherever you are we love to hear from you.
And sometimes you guys are listening in the strangest places - and this has to be the most unique ever!
This week we got a slimey email or I should say Snail Mail from Kieran Corley in Monaghan. • Bragan Skincare is a family business – Kerri and Donal his kids help out!! • Kieran has over 500,000 snails!! • Fed with Vegs and fruit • No offence but they don’t have any ears! • It is particularly effective against skin conditions such as eczema, scar tissue, nappy rash and many other painful skin conditions... It has proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
There’s even a skateboarding snail called Derek!!
Check Kieran and his snails out and support Irish here: Bragan Skincare - braganskincare.com @braganskincare on Insta, Facebook and Tik-Tok
SNAIL FACTS: • In 500 BC the Roman Empire recognised snail balm • as a natural skin treatment • Snails are Hermaphrodites (they have both male and female sexual organs). • A snail has 22,000 teeth. • Each snail will lay approximately 100 eggs. In the wild only 3% will survive. • If conditions are not perfect, a snail can curl up in its shell and remain dormant for 3 years before emerging unscathed (but probably a little hungry). • A snail has no ears and very poor eyesight. • Like big cats do by urinating, a snail leaves lots of information about itself for other snails in it's slime.
"CHEEEEEESE!"
Aardman Animation has embedded itself into popular movie culture with memorable characters like Wallace & Gromit, Shaun The Sheep, and many more.
George Watson is one of the genius minds behind Aardman. He is a model maker responsible for many of their best works including Chicken Run 2 which he has just finished working on!
Ever heard of the new game graveyard? If you haven't Emma Doran tells Alison all about it in today's show.
For the full chat click the play button above
Dublin Bus and its employees have a new community partnership with LGBT Ireland for Pride 2022.
It features a diverse group of LGBTQ+ community members, including Dublin Bus employees with the person who has always been there for them and who has grown alongside their journey - somebody who’s been there through the good times, the bad times and all the times in-between providing unrelenting support.
Jim strongly believes that everyone should be able to love who they want to love and that is something that he has taught his 4 children. His home is a ‘safe house’ and his family treat everyone equally and everyone is welcome.
Adrian agrees that their relationship is like any normal relationship. They talk straight from the heart and Adrian trusts Jim. They mutually support each other. Adrian also gives Jim advice – because one of Jim’s children is a member of the LGBT community - and this made them even closer.
Drivers for 24 years, Jim and Aidan spoke to Alison Curtis and Weekend Breakfast all about the 'By Your Side' initiative.
He is 'All Fired Up' with his new show on RTE on Tuesdays.
Nico spoke to Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast about his Roscommon and Jamaican heritage and his travels which have inspired his life as one of the country's best barbecue chefs.
"I grew up with the meat and potatoes but my Mam would always throw on a little something special like the Jamaican hot sauce and I then spent time in South America and that inspired another twist to my food."
Tọlá Okogwu is beyond excited about the news that her new book has already been acquired by Netflix.
It will be produced by Will Smith and David Oyelowo and it is only published THIS MONTH! Wow.
The book' Onyeka and the Academy of the Sun' has been described as Black Panther Meets Percy Jackson Meets The X-Men (with a little bit of Umbrella Academy thrown in!) and is gripping, thrilling, unexpected and empowering.
Alison Curtis and Weekend Breakfast sat down with Tola and asked her about her inspiring new book.
We spotted this heart warming and inspiring Tweet about a Limerick Dad going back to school!
Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis spoke to son Shane and Dad Peter about this courageous return to do his Leaving Cert again.
A very proud son on Father's Day:
Please send good wishes out to the powers that be that my Dad, Peter, flies through his #LeavingCert2022 Art History exam at 2.00pm! 🍀
So crazy proud of him for going back to do his Leaving in his 60s 🙌❤️
(Fun fact: he dropped me to my Art History exam 12 years ago today!) pic.twitter.com/DEFvuRit7X
— Shane Hickey-O'Mara 🌻 (@ShaneSHOM) June 16, 2022
Glenda Gilson, former model and Xposé presenter has a very different life now.
She was once jetting off up to three times a week doing crazy work hours going from fashion shoots to famous shouts.
Now, she is doing Zoom interviews in the car after being chased by a small fella wielding a tin-whistle and blowing it so hard she had to run out of the house!
Glenda chats about how Motherhood has brought so much happiness, hard-work and also chickenpox!
She is also very close to Dublin Simon Community and told Weekend Breakfast all about their Longest Day Steps Challenge - find out more here: dubsimon.ie
Katherine Ryan is one of the world's best and most accomplished Stand-Ups.
She is also an Actor, writer, TV presenter and panelist and has managed to let her talent shine in an impossibly competitive industry.
Her new show on Prime Video called 'Backstage With Katherine Ryan' is a fascinating concept.
Katherine Ryan combines her stand-up routine with all the behind-the-scenes gossip, as she invites a host of seriously top comedy stars to perform and hang out backstage with her at London’s Roundhouse theatre.
Alison Curtis caught up with Katherine this week on Zoom and they started with a chat about Katherine's recent trip to Mayfield in Cork.
How would you fancy re-sitting junior cert maths? Now, imagine sitting it at 11 years old. Cara Darmody is doing just that all in aid of helping those with autism and their families. But she hasn't stopped there. She's set to meet the Tánaiste next Thursday to discuss the changes she would like to see made. If you'd like to support Cara on her mission you can donate here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/caras-extraordinary-maths-challenge [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2022/05/22113615/Cara-autism-ireland.mp3"][/audio] Hit play to catch the full chat and join Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast. Saturdays from 8am and Sundays from 9am!
How do you fancy saving a few quid on your food bills? This week Alison was joined by online sensation Ruth Whelan AKA 'Mrs Hawkins House' to discuss just that! Ruth tells Alison her top saving tips and how you can make 28 meals a week for just over 15eur a head. Sounds like a bargain to us. [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2022/05/21114303/Mrs-Hawkins-Podcast.mp3"][/audio] Hit play to catch the full chat and join Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast. Saturdays from 8am and Sundays from 9am!
Lili is one of Irelands top photographers and foodie instagrammers @liliforberg She has reached unimaginable success for something that was once a hobby. After much support from fans and friends and after two years she has released a new book (see below) it is currently No. 1 in Ireland! The book includes fuss free recipes for busy families, that mean you don’t have to source specialist ingredients. They are tried and tested by her own family. Weekend breakfast loves her and Alison chats to Lili about her unexpected success and absolute love of simple fuss free cooking plus her fab son Leon who is her mini assistant: [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2022/04/30132043/LILI-FORBERG-.mp3"][/audio]
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Lucy Hawking is a science educator, journalist, documentary maker, campaigner and author. The series of children's books she wrote with her Dad Stephen, ‘George’s Secret Key to the Universe’ was a global hit. Over 400,000 books worldwide translated into 38 languages. Now, she releases a brand new book called ‘Princess Olivia Investigates: The Wrong Weather’
Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast chatted to Lucy about her inspirational and iconic father Stephen and why she continues to campaign for science to a younger audience. And what does spaghetti have to do with a black hole?? Lucy also had a fascinating Ted Talk on Science and Storytelling:
People around the country have definitely started booking off holiday time and many might not exactly know where to go! Travel restrictions are easing. The industry is really bouncing back, outpacing predictions. This has caused some problems too!! See Dublin Airport delays, hospitality staffing issues, price pressures in peak season. However, the need to get a holiday tops everything. Home or abroad. And guess what? We're worth it! (thanks L'Oreal) Irish Independent Travel Editor, Pol O’Conghaile has great ideas for breaks abroad this summer and hot staycation ideas for Ireland. [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2022/04/23112214/POL-O-CONGHAILE-SUMMER-HOLS.mp3"][/audio] EXTRA TIPS FROM POL - Book early, and if you can, around fringes of peak (June/late August) - Have travel insurance (at least 14 days before travel) - Check passports are in date... eek! - You get best protection by booking with an Irish travel agent / tour op - Book airport parking in advance (it's selling out) - Think about extras like car hire, bag charges (half-board can save on food) - Book direct (hotels etc can offer up to 15pc off) Follow him on Insta:
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Every year we resurrect ourselves for Easter. But, what's the best way to cook the lamb? And the best dessert? Top Telly chef and farmer foodie favourite Catherine Fulvio tells Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast: [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2022/04/16120727/TDFM-J9-CATHERINE-FULVIO-FINAL.mp3"][/audio]
When Bridgerton first hit Netflix it was the most streamed show ever before a certain Squid Game came along. It has been a phenomenon and season two kicked off this weekend. Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast had the privilege of taking a promenade walk with members of the cast. Adjoa Andoh (Lady Danbury) Ruth Gemmell (Violet Bridgerton) & Golda Rosheuvel (Queen Charlotte) Luke Newton (Colin Bridgerton) & Luke Thompson (Benedict Bridgerton) PRESS PLAY TO LISTEN [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2022/03/26104100/TDFM-J9-BRIDGERTON-FINAL-ALL-CAST-.mp3"][/audio]
The VHi Women's Mini Marathon 2022 will be emotional. After the last few years being a virtual event this will be the first time since Covid struck that it will finally be live again. Roz Purcell is this year's Ambassador and says that with so many people together for such a positive occasion it is sure to get emotional! Being a hiking hero Roz also tells Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast some top treks for adult groups and families. JUST PRESS PLAY TO LISTEN [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2022/03/09112259/TDFM-J9-ROZ-PURCELL-FINAL.mp3"][/audio] Check out Roz and her Hike Life Instagram for fab tips on treks.
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Serena Terry is a true Derry Girl! The Tik-Tok / Instagram superstar has made a playful post of some daily Mum themed comedy sketches into a brilliant book. The creator of viral sensation 'Mammy Banter' spoke to Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast. She talks about imposter syndrome, turning Tik Toks into a book ()it incudes a Derryisms glossary!), dealing with anxiety, solidarity with Mums all over the world, why society has created impossible pressures on parenting and loads more PRESS PLAY TO LISTEN TO CHAT [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2022/03/05100630/TDFM-J9-SERENA-TERRY-FINAL.mp3"][/audio] Check out her hilarious World Book Day sketch! EVERY parent knows what this is like!
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And here is Serena hanging out with fellow Derry Girl and big fan Jamie Lee O'Donnell who plays 'Michelle'
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Homelessness in Ireland has increased by 9% in the last year. In the last 6 months:
5 people became homeless every day 2 children became homeless every day One family became homeless every day One family became homeless every day in the last 6 months. 2,500 CHILDREN are living in emergency accommodation.
These are the reasons TodayFM created 'The Big Busk' campaign. CEO Pat Dennigan spoke to Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast. Pat said if we can come together as a country and tackle Covid we can tackle homelessness: PRESS PLAY TO LISTEN [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2022/02/27110624/PAT-DENNIGAN-FOCUS-IRELAND.mp3"][/audio] Just go to todayfm.com/busk for more on 'The Big Busk'
Sign up & sing out for The Big Busk for @FocusIreland on Friday March 11th! 🎤 Buskers will proudly perform live at @IrishRail stations, in their local communities & online, supporting the journey home for people experiencing homelessness Will you join us? 🎸🎵 — Today FM 💛 (@TodayFM) February 21, 2022
Scott is one of the people who have benefited from Focus Ireland. Check out his positive inspiring story here:
The Eagles classic Hotel California clocks in at a whopping 6:30 Just imagine holding your breath for close to that! The pandemic has reshaped a lot of our lives and made us consider many things in work and life. Some of us even gained new talents and none more so than this incredible woman from Waterford. Kathy MacDonald who set 10 new Irish Freediving records including holding her breath underwater for 6 minutes and 12 seconds only starting training in the middle of the pandemic! Kathy spoke to Weekend breakfast from the Cayman Islands. She is training 5 days a week hoping to make Freediving her new profession. PRESS PLAY TO HEAR CHAT [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2022/02/20133017/KATHY-MACDONALD-FREEDIVER-.mp3"][/audio] Follow Kathy on Instagram @huntertravel
Keith Brymer-Jones has a fabulous story to tell. Most people will know him as the Judge from The Great Pottery Throw Down who gets tearful over terracota! If there a piece of pottery he loves then he has no hesitation in creating an emotional bond. The Channel 4 show hosted by our very own Siobhán McSweeney (Sister Michael in Derry Girls). She broke her leg so Ellie Taylor took over presenting duties this season. Keith joined Weekend Breakfast and told Alison Curtis his amazing story overcoming severe dyslexia, how an art teacher and a ball of clay saved his life and all about The Great Pottery Throw Down. He has a brand new book called 'Boy In A China Shop' out now. [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2022/02/19111642/KEITH-BRYMER-JONES.mp3"][/audio] Here's a supercut of Keith embracing his emotions:
TACOS! Ireland has fallen in love with Mexican food. And nobody knows this better than Lily Ramirez-Foran! She has just published her first book 'TACOS' in Ireland and it already has a fan in Telly chef superstar Nigella Lawson. Lily joined Weekend Breakfast to tell us more about herself, her story and all about Mexican cuisine. PRESS PLAY TO LISTEN TO CHAT [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2022/02/13134754/MEXICAN-CHEF-LILY-RM.mp3"][/audio] I feel a little overwhelmed with all the great comments and messages. I just love that this is the very first book on Mexican food ever published in Ireland and I got the privilege to write it.
Speechless… and it doesn’t happen to me often 😳❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ https://t.co/f8ue3Fbgsd — Lily Ramirez-Foran (@LilyRamirezFora) February 10, 2022
Nadia Caterina Munno aka The Pasta Queen is a linguine legend! The Italian born chef now based in California reigns supreme:
She has amassed over 2m followers on Insta 250k subscribers on YouTube 2.1 million followers and 35 million likes on Tik-Tok
She looks like Sofia Vergara is just as hilarious and LOVES sharing her Italian roots! Pasta La Vista baby what's not to love! Weekend Breakfast caught up with her from her home in California! "INGREDIENTS!!!" Press Play Below To Listen To The Chat [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2022/01/30131059/PASTA-QUEEN-NEW-EDIT-USE-JAN-30.mp3"][/audio]
Her feed is HILARIOUS and very tasty!
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Here she is on Tik-Tok. Absolutely brilliant! @the_pastaqueenHow to break an Italian♬ original sound - The Pasta Queen
We absolutely love Kellie Harrington. The gold medal winning Olympian has a knockout personality and an inspiring outlook on life. Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis spoke to her about her role as brand ambassador for Spar and their 'Better Choices' campaign. She talks passionately about how Irish boxing has more than any other sport saved the lives of young people in this country. Boxing clubs are saving the lives of some kids. It builds resilience and discipline and self worth. Having a coach there who knows their name, knows who they are it means so much Kellie also reveals what food fuels a gold medal winning athlete. Just Press Play to Listen [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2022/01/29103521/TDFM-J9-KELLIE-HARRINGTON-SAT-JAN-29.mp3"][/audio]
Fiona Bergin is BIG in the Agri-Tik Tok scene! The 23-year-old from Kilkenny already has 6.6 m views of her and her calves. (no not her own she's not a fitness influencer) it's her COWS. That's a big herd of followers! Fiona spoke to Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast about why she thinks it got so big, how much she loves her animals and how the city and country debate in Ireland is ongoing... some of her non-farming friends have never gone near a cow! JUST PRESS PLAY TO LISTEN
[audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2022/01/23120844/FIONA-BERGIN-FARMER-TIK-TOK-USE-JUNE-23-.mp3"][/audio] A wet wellie controversy and a twine belt. She's a TRUE FARMER!! @fionabergin Wait for it!! Left with the work!! 😂 #fyp #foryoupage #ireland #irish #farmer #work #viral #video #foryou #smile #animals #calves #cattle #actor #f ♬ Famous piano songs for comedy and cooking programs - moshimo sound design
The Daly Dish join us for a chat – Gina and Karol Daly are a couple of our favourite people! They have two number 1 selling books The Daly Dish and The Daly Dish Rides Again. And even a best selling Food Diary WARNING: Don't listen hungry or you'll eat the speakers! ;-) [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2022/01/22113458/TDFM-J9-DALY-DISH-FULL-USE-JAN-22.mp3"][/audio] Check out the Airfryer Buffalo Spring Rolls - you can follow the video below!
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It is time to start dreaming and planning for trips in 2022. However, what is realistic? What are some top tips? Is there some serious bucket worthy experiences to look forward to? Irish Independent Travel Editor Pol O Conghaile joined Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis to give us hope! JUST PRESS PLAY TO LISTEN [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2022/01/16124933/POL-TRAVEL-FOR-2022.mp3"][/audio]
52 weekends away for 2022... as travel testing rules ease, we're allowing ourselves to dream in @IndoWeekend with a holiday suggestion for every weekend this year... https://t.co/geLMsXH2PT pic.twitter.com/6msCd81xNL — @poloconghaile (@poloconghaile) January 8, 2022
"A story about Ireland, love, murder, & potatoes!" Whistle Through the Shamrocks takes every Irish cliché of every stage play and movie and dials it up to 100! Written and created by Derry Girls and Bridgerton star Nicola Coughlan and playwright Camilla Whitehill. The star studded cast is fabulous. (see below) Jonathan Van Ness plays a Banshee! Ah beggorah! Alison Curtis and Weekend Breakfast sat down with Nicola and Camilla over Zoom to chat: JUST PRESS PLAY HERE [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2022/01/15113909/NICOLA-COUGHLAN-POD-FULL1.mp3"][/audio]
It has a fabulous cast including: Louisa Hartland who plays Orla in Derry Girls, Jamie Beamish (also seen in Derry Girls and Bridgerton), Stephanie Beatriz (Brooklyn Nine-Nine and the lead character Mirabel Madrigal in Encanto), Queer Eye’s Jonathan Van Ness, and Bridgerton’s Ben Miller.
The most colourful woman Ireland set herself a challenge for this month to dress up using different household items every day for the month. Taryn De Vere has matched herself to a tube of toothpaste, an orange sink unblocker bottle, a tin of beans and a carton of Donegal fresh milk! Her creativity knows no bounds especially if you're housebound! This will Inspire anyone affected by isolation at home. Looking to lift their life. She has already featured in press across the UK and appeared on Australian TV! What a brilliant way to brighten up January! Taryn joined Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast: [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2022/01/09122711/TARYN-DE-VERE-.mp3"][/audio] Get involved #ObjectDressChallenge
What a way to brighten up 2022!❤️🌟 This morning @AlisonTodayFM is chatting to Irish writer, designer, creative genius @TarynDeVere about her January fashion challenge. She is dressing as a household item every day of January and has already been on Aussie TV this morning! 🤩🙌🏻 pic.twitter.com/oYF7WAlOk2 — Today FM 💛 (@TodayFM) January 9, 2022
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Chef Shane Smith has some simple bakes that will brighten up your month. Who better to bake our way into January 2022 than one of our favourite guests. Three easy to follow recipes for you to complete alongside your kids or as a simple solo treat. Alison Curtis caught up with Shane for some baking banter ... what better subject is there! WARNING: Mouth watering may occur. See Below for recipes. For more follow @chefshanesmith go to chefshanesmith.ie [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2022/01/08124345/SHANE-SMITH-NEW-YEAR-BAKES-2022.mp3"][/audio] Banoffee Pie Pancakes
Makes 6-8 pancakes Pancake batter 150ml milk 1 large egg 1/2 tbsp caster sugar pinch salt 2 tbsp melted butter 120g self raising flour Toffee sauce 110g butter 100g brown sugar 120ml single cream dash vanilla Garnish 4 bananas 200ml single cream Grated chocolate Method For the toffee sauce, in a saucepan add the butter and brown sugar and cook over a medium-low heat until combined and it turns a golden brown colour. To this, carefully add the cream and vanilla and reduce the heat and cook for 5 minutes until all the sugar is dissolved and the sauce has thickened slightly. Set aside to cool to room temperature. For the pancakes, add all the ingredients into a bowl and whisk until smooth. Add a splash of oil to a frying pan set over a medium heat and spoon on the pancake mix. Cook for 30 seconds on each side or until golden brown. To assemble, layer up the pancakes with sliced banana and toffee sauce. Top with semi whipped cream and grated chocolate. Enjoy
Carrot Cake Cookie Sandwiches
Makes 20 cookies (10 sandwiches) Ingredients 115g butter 125g brown sugar 2 tbsp maple syrup 1 tsp vanilla essence 140g plain flour, sieved 130g porridge oats 3/4 tsp bread soda 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp ground mixed spice 60ml milk 100g grated carrot 50g pecans, chopped Cream cheese buttercream 200g butter 200g icing sugar 50g cream cheese dash vanilla Method
For the cookies, preheat your oven to 180C/160C fan and line two trays with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, add the butter, brown sugar, maple syrup and vanilla. Mix until soft & creamy. To this add the flour, oats, bread soda, spices. Mix. Next, add the grated carrot, milk & pecans and mix until combined. Chill the cookie dough for 30 minutes. Once rested, divide into 20 scoops and pop ten on each tray. Pop into the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Remove and allow to cool. For the buttercream, whisk the butter, sugar and vanilla together until soft and light in texture. To this add the cream cheese and fold through - don't overmix. Pop the buttercream into a piping bag and pipe onto the base of ten of the cookies. Sandwich with the remaining half and simply enjoy!
Apple Crumble Loaf
Serves 6 Cake batter 220g butter 140g caster sugar dash vanilla 4 medium eggs pinch salt 1 tsp baking powder 200g plain flour Apples 2 apples, peeled & chopped 30g brown sugar 1 tsp cinnamon Crumble 40g plain flour 30g porridge oats 30g cold and cubed butter 35g brown sugar Method • Preheat your oven to 180C/160C fan. • Grease and dust a 2lb loaf tin, set aside. • Toss the apples in the cinnamon and sugar and leave to sit out until needed. • For the crumble mix, in a bowl mix all the ingredients together with your fingertips until you reach a nice sandy texture. Chill until needed. • For the cake, cream the butter and sugar until soft and pale. • Add the eggs gradually, if the mix begins to split dont panic, it will come together when the dry ingredients are added. • Add the vanilla. Mix. • To this mixture add the sieved flour, salt and baking powder. Mix. • Fold in the diced apples and spoon this bater into the prepared tin. • Top with the chilled crumble mix and place in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes. • Allow to cool slightly in the tin before carefully removing it.
Neven Maguire is now a best friend of the show. We love him on Weekend Breakfast. Every year it's become tradition for him to share his Christmas dinner wisdom. Grab a pen or open notes on your phone! Just Press Play and get start licking your lips! WARNING: Your tummy will rumble. It's the tastiest podcast you''ll hear! Neven Top Tips Include: ✅ How to prevent a dry bird. The biggest fear for many! Neven has some super ideas to get the best from your bird. ✅ The best method for a super spud. Roasties, mash and the rest. Neven has the best tips. ✅ It's all in the preparation. Neven tells you how to do it from your mash to your turkey. ✅ Goose or Duck this year? Then Neven has you covered. You can follow Neven on Instagram for more top tips:
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Gillian Anderson is one of the world's biggest stars. She came to huge fame as Dana Scully in X-Files back in the 90s and since the she has graced many TV shows and movies. She even played Margaret Thatcher in The Crown and now she plays another villain in the new Aardman movie, Robin Robin. Being a superfan of Aardman Animations it was easy for her to snap up the role of 'Cat' but had no idea she would have to sing! (Don't worry she pulls it off brilliantly in character!) Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast spoke to Gillian about the new movie, which is fabulous! PRESS PLAY TO HEAR INTERVIEW [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/11/28121219/GILLIAN-ANDERSON-FULL.mp3"][/audio] Check out the trailer here:
Jeff Kinney is a writing phenomenon. He is the creator of The Diary Of A Wimpy Kid series and they have sold a very un-wimpy 250 million copies. They're available in 65 languages and 79 editions. Kids worldwide have loved the adventures of Greg Heffley and Rowley Jefferson. And now those loved characters appear in an animated movie on Disney+ (out December 3rd) Jeff told Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast how excited he is about the new movie, how he has Irish roots, his best place to write (in his car, but wait till you hear where he is parked!) and loads more He has been interviewed many times. However this time he also gets grilled by an eight-year-old Irish superfan called Lara who keeps him on his toes! PRESS PLAY TO HEAR THE JEFF KINNEY CHAT [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/11/21115824/TDFM-J9-JEFF-KINNEY-WITH-LARA-INTERVIEW.mp3"][/audio] THIS LOOKS AWESOME! And make far more sense than the real life versions.
We heart Aisling Bea! The star of brand new Home Sweet Home Alone spoke to Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast on TodayFM alongside co-star Archie Yates.
Aisling started with some essential festive Irish language tuition for Archie: [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/11/20095601/TDFM-J9-AISLING-BEA-ARCHIE-WITH-BED-AND-TRAILER.mp3"][/audio]
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Check out the Trailer here:
From hosting Blankety Blank as his alter ego Lily Savage to hosting his own talk show on Channel 4 Paul O'Grady is a television and comedy legend. He later became renowned as an animal rights advocate presenting hugely popular shows like For the Love of Dogs and Animal Orphans. Paul is already a best-selling author and his four volumes of adult autobiography are all Sunday Times bestsellers. Now, his latest challenge is in the world of children’s literature. His debut book is inspired by his love of animals and is called Eddie Albert and the Amazing Animal Gang: The Amsterdam Adventure Paul O Grady had a gorgeous, funny and heartwarming chat with Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast. Not only does he have three pregnant Alpacas, he has five dogs, five pigs, three goats, six barn owls, nine sheep and so many ducks and chickens he has lost count! He even had a cow called 'Dot' once, but she kept coming into the house and wouldn't leave the kitchen! Paul also talks about his rural Irish childhood on holidays in Glinsk, Galway and family who still live in the West. He learned to milk a cow at six-years- old! PRESS PLAY TO LISTEN BACK HERE [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/11/14132423/PAUL-O-GRADY-.mp3"][/audio]
Science Week 2021 is here! With so many amazing science themed events happening online and in the flesh - this year is set to be one of the best yet. It's a time to celebrate the people in the white coats with big hair... (and sometimes covered in hair) It runs from Nov 7-13.
So, to tell us all about it Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis are absolutely delighted to have world renowned Immunologist and Professor of Biochemistry at Trinity College Dublin - Professor Luke O’Neil. He told Paula MacSweeney (in for Alison) why it's his favourite time of the year...like a mini Christmas! [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/11/07123444/LUKE-O-NEILL-SCIENCE-WEEK.mp3"][/audio] This year’s theme for Science week focuses around the Creating Our Future campaign – an opportunity to discuss and explore the collective future that they want for Irish society. There will be 12 pre-recorded Science Shows for Primary Schools available. From The role of STEM in caring for elephants at Dublin Zoo to Rocket Science with Dr. Naomi Lavelle to Ocean Challenges and Actions with Galway Atlantaquarium - There’s even A Mindful Movement and Meditation Workshop. And this year there will be 13 Science Week Festivals taking place all across the country. For a full list of the thrilling science shows, workshops and talks across the country, visit the Science Week website scienceweek.ie Professor Luke's new book called ‘Keep Calm and Trust The Science’ is out now.
The wait is over - Science Week is finally here! With events, interviews, partnerships and more, there is something for everyone and every interest. Get involved and help us with #CreatingOurFuture! Learn more at https://t.co/MkKQnFfn5T#ScienceWeek #ScienceWeekIreland pic.twitter.com/OBY0eAJVOf — Science Week Ireland (@ScienceWeek) November 7, 2021
Adam King stole the hearts of the nation when he introduced us to his Virtual Hug at the Toy Show in November 2020. It gained the attention of the world from NASA to Joe Biden and beyond. For the rest of us it has become a national symbol of love and positivity. And now Adam and Dad David have written a book inspired by that hug travelling around the world. Adam and his Dad David joined Paula MacSweeney (in for Alison) on Weekend Breakfast: [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/11/06121633/ADAM-AND-DAVID-KING-.mp3"][/audio] The book is shortlisted in the Children's Book Of The Year (Junior category) for the An Post Irish Book Awards. You can vote for Adam and David's Book - 'A Hug For You' here
It was a joy to have Adam King and his Dad David in to to see us! 🤗❤️ Our Paula had a fab chat on #WeekendBreakfast with this little superhero 🙌🏼 He even signed a few copies of his book #AHugForYou ✍🏻📕😎 It’s out now! pic.twitter.com/BZwoDnY77C — Today FM 💛 (@TodayFM) November 6, 2021
Killian Sundermann is so unassuming about the huge success of his online comedy. The Dublin born comedian with German parents never knew that when he dad asked him to do a quick video on Irish/German cultural differences that it would be viewed by over 10 MILLION people and counting.
If I've learned anything it's that anytime your dad asks you to make a video about Irish/German cultural differences for the Goethe Institut's 60 anniversary in Dublin, you should say yes — Killian Sundermann (@killersundymann) October 9, 2021
He did the favour and the rest is online viral hit history. Killian chatted to Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast about his sudden viral fame and how much of his comedy is inspired by his parents .. and hedges. [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/10/31125424/KILLIAN-SUNDERMANN-.mp3"][/audio] Killian has now gained over 350,000 followers across Instagram, Twitter and TikTok. He is one of a new breed of hugely talented online Irish comedian collective alongside Sean Burke, Justine Stafford, Serena Terry, Michael Fry, Tony Cantwell and more. Killian has a new show called ‘Free Gaff’ with Darren Conway and Joe McGucken coming out on RTE Player Nov 3rd Check out the sketch that went viral crazy here:
Irish and German people offering things pic.twitter.com/AoPgWJpK6L — Killian Sundermann (@killersundymann) October 7, 2021
Laura de Barra is one of our favourite people. The Gaff Goddess aka The Queen of She-I-Y told weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis about her fabulous new book and she has a ton of advice. Who else would describe the hallway as, "the place that kisses you goodbye before you go to work!" [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/10/30113308/LAURA-DE-BARRA-FULL-INTERVIEW-USE.mp3"][/audio] Her Book 'Decor Galore' is out now and it's up for an Irish Book Award!
We are delighted that the SHE-IY queen's Décor Galore has been shortlisted for the Bookstation Lifestyle Book of the Year @AnPostIBAS. Congratulations @LauradeBarra 🍸🎉 Read an interview @IrishTimesBooks - https://t.co/exSWINCyrs pic.twitter.com/akomwacjse — Penguin Books Ireland (@PenguinIEBooks) October 21, 2021
Check out her fabulous Instagram. It funny, fabulous and full of practical tips!
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The delightful Donal Skehan is back with a brand-new TV series, Donal’s Family Kitchen filmed entirely in his home. It's two episodes in and Alison is absolutely hooked! He told Weekend Breakfast all about the fun he had making the show and his new book, Everyday Cook currently the number 1 cookbook in Ireland! Donal also had a blast with some lovely messages from listeners which included Niamh - who sent in a pic of the brack she made from his recipe! [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/10/24123734/DONAL-SKEHAN-TV-SHOW.mp3"][/audio]
ACTUAL HUMANS IN THE STUDIO!!! This has to be one of the greatest rugby tales. Former Leinster, Ireland and Lion, Gordon D'Arcy has swapped the rugby field for fiction. Alongside fabulous Irish writer Paul Howard (Ross O'Carroll Kelly & Aldrin Adams) they have created the book series Gordon's Game. The newest edition is Gordon's Game: Lion's Roar.
Thanks so much everyone, delighted Lion’s Roar is going down well @AkaPaulHoward @easons pic.twitter.com/fBGKoa6uoH — Gordon D'Arcy (@Gordonwdarcy) October 20, 2021
Gordon has been inspired by some of the fabulous and funny moments from his incredible career in the book. This includes an absolutely hilarious story about Shane Horgan hiding in a locker just to scare Geordan Murphy! (you'll also learn what the squad calls the injured players on a tour... it's so cruel but VERY FUNNY!) [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/10/23123351/GORDON-DARCY-AND-PAUL-HOWARD-LIONS-ROAR.mp3"][/audio]
Thank you for a great chat @AlisonTodayFM https://t.co/uMqmQxZqHM — Gordon D'Arcy (@Gordonwdarcy) October 23, 2021
TV presenter Kathryn Thomas knows exactly how expectant Mothers have felt during this pandemic. Alongside countless others she has had scans shared over the phone as husband Padraig waits in the car park while she gets her appointment. She says it's been tough but is thankful she has such wonderful support from her family and the medical staff themselves. Alison Curtis chatted to Kathryn on Weekend Breakfast about how things are going with baby number two, how baby number one, Ellie is coping with her little sister news, and Kathryn's brand new pre-and post natal fitness program called 'Bumpfit.' [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/10/10123854/KATHRYN-THOMAS-BUMPFIT-.mp3"][/audio]
From Holywood to Hollywood! Andrew Smyth from Belfast rose to fame as a finalist in the Great British Bake Off and wowed the judges with his structural marvels. Since then he flexed his skills with Discovery Science, and the BBC and working as a Performance Technologist for for Rolls-Royce. But now, This Northern Irish Cambridge University graduate is back and putting crumbs on seats with his own show. He has combined his two favourite things ‘Baking’ and ‘Engineering’ and created his own show on Netflix all about Bakineering! It’s called ‘Baking Impossible’ and has already appeared in the Netflix Top 5 Most Watched Shows in the US! Andrew spoke to Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast all about his dream come through: [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/10/09125453/ANDREW-SMYTH-BAKING-IMPOSSIBLE-.mp3"][/audio] Have a taste of his brain melting brilliant baking show, 'Baking Impossible'
Andrew appearing in GBBO:
She is officially the self-styled 'Queen Of The Potato'! The humble spud has speaheaded her rocket to Tik Tok superstardom. Now, Poppy O'Toole has a book out. She tells Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast that she is a Michelin trained chef who has worked in many high pressure kitchens and how being in a "very hungry!" family where food was central inspired her online life and love for the humble spud! Her debut cook book 'Poppy Cooks: The Food You Need' is out now. She has 1.8 million followers and growing on TikTok and 174k on Instagram. (check her out below) JUST PRESS PLAY TO HEAR THE INTERVIEW [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/10/07151124/POPPY-O-TOOLE-POTATO-WOMAN.mp3"][/audio]
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@poppycooks You’ve found us. Don’t leave… 🥔❤️ #potatotiktok #potatok #potato ♬ original sound - Poppy O’Toole
@poppycooks #duet with @sooziethefoodie I’m here for Halloween potatoes #roastmypotatoes #halloween #potatotiktok ♬ Make appropriate videos to the sound please - (っ◔◡◔)っ
Its fast approaching and always something to look forward to, mid-term break and joining Alison this morning was Travel Editor with the Irish Independent Pól Ó Conghaile. Last week in the Independent weekend magazine there was a list of 25 midterm Halloween breaks and Pól took Alison through some of the best spots. Alison and Pól headed abroad first to find the best places to suggest for a mid term break Cruising in Scotland was one of the highlights! [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/10/02103140/0210P%25C3%25B3l-2.mp3"][/audio] Pól warned people not to forget to check if their passport is in date or not!!! Top Recommendations - Foreign Holidays
Salou in Spain - entry rate is €529 per person for per week this is in 4-star accommodation. Lanzarote - €639 per person for seven nights, this includes flights and the 4-star hotel. Paris - 5-star camping experience close to Disneyland Paris for seven nights in a three bedroom mobile home comes to €500.
Top Recommendations - Irish Holidays
County Laois - Glamping under the stars for two nights its €399 for a space that sleeps up to six. County Meath - Knightsbrook hotel has a family b&b and pizza package for €450-€550. County Sligo - the Ocean Sand's Hotel has a mid-term offer of two nights for a family of four for €450-€550.
Before overseas travel check restrictions at your destination and on return to Ireland on dfa.ie, gov.ie and reopen.europa.eu
For more from Travel Editor with the Irish Independent Pól Ó Conghaile check out his Instagram and his website.
She is always a hit when she is on the show, full of information we let sink in like a good face cream - it is the Skin Nerd aka Jennifer Rock. Jennifer spoke to Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast all about her 'Less Is More' campaign to combat plastic waste in the beauty industry. Her new reusable beauty products are trying to turn this trend. She reveals the cornerstones of good skin routines. (Don't be a Samantha!) Plus, loads more valuable tips for keeping your skin in fabulous mode. [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/09/26133541/JENNIFER-ROCK-THE-SKIN-NERD.mp3"][/audio] People don't see the skin as an organ but as an accessory. We need to look after it. And when it comes to our children we need to teach them a simple gentle routine Find out more here
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Anna Geary knows what it is to lead a team. As Cork Camogie Captain she has won numerous All-Ireland and All-Star medals. She is fully aware of what it takes to be a champion and wants to pass those life skills on to inspire others. And she also knows that fun is fundamental. If you aren't enjoying it then it's not the right environment. She says, "If you make ten mistakes, you should go for eleven. It's about learning in a non-judgemental environment" Weekend breakfast with Alison Curtis spoke to Anna about getting young people into sport, and creating a non--judgemental environment especially for girls, her awesome Instagram (see below) now at over 125k - full of wellbeing wisdom, and also about being part of Team Green with Repak. [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/09/25120231/ANNA-GEARY-REPAK-.mp3"][/audio]
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Serena Terry aka 'Mammy Banter' is a wonderfully funny woman from Derry who provides so much joy through her Instagram and Tik Tok accounts. Inspired in lockdown by the false filtered life of some Mother's on Instagram, she created her own "real life" character and has now gained more than 155k Instagram followers and 500k on Tik Tok! And she has recently signed on for a book deal with Harper Collins! Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis chatted to Serena about getting inspired in Lockdown, the brave step of giving up the day job to concentrate on comedy, how the filtered unreality of Insta motivated her, and how doing the videos really helped her own mental health, plus she tells us all about the fabulous book deal! JUST PRESS PLAY TO LISTEN TO CHAT (it includes one of her most famous sketches at the start...the video of which can be seen below) [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/09/18121311/MAMMY-BANTER-SERENA-TERRY.mp3"][/audio]
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So, the kids have been given their own bank cards. WOOHOO! There's no stress at all!! Well, that's a lie.
It's a natural anxiety but we need to get more comfortable talking family finances with our kids.
When it comes to money, responsibility and trust with our children is hugely important. That's the view of parental expert David Coleman. For the last few weeks, Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis was delighted to have An Post on board for 'The Money Mate Moment'. 'The Money Mate Moment' It's a new current account for 7-15 year-olds to help prepare your children to learn how to earn, save and spend money. And to help us we have renowned Clinical Psychologist and parental expert David Coleman. He will help us to navigate the importance of childhood financial independence. Each week we chose a different topic and today was listener finance fears. Week 4: Listeners Questions: 'ATM Anxiety' and 'Tips On How To Discuss Family Finances' [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/09/18110704/MONEY-MATE-MOMENT-SEP-18-WITH-INTRO-BEDS.mp3"][/audio] The Money Mate Moment brought to you by An Post, help prepare your children for financial independence with An Post Money Mate. To learn more about Money Mate click here To listen back to all our Money Mate Moments: 'Giving Independence while staying in control' click here 'Putting Money Aside' click here 'Understanding the value of money' click here Watch David Coleman advise The Keegan family on how An Post Money Mate can help parents teach their children about responsibility and decision making.
Izzy Wheels was founded by Irish sisters Ailbhe and Izzy Keane. The idea was inspired by Izzy who was born with Spina Bifida and is paralyzed from her waist down. Izzy has always seen her wheelchair as a symbol of freedom but never felt it expressed her personality. Ailbhe created a range of colourful wheel covers for her sister's chair as her final year project in The National College of Art and Design in 2016. The rest is history! These inspiring super siblings have gone from strength to strength and announced some very exciting news this week. Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis caught up with the sisters to find out more about their partnership with Disney: [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/09/12130042/IZZY-WHEELS-.mp3"][/audio] Amazing Izzy Wheel Achievements
Izzy Wheels became the first disability fashion brand to collaborate with some of the world's most famous brands. In 2019 they teamed up with Barbie to create a range of designs for a new and inclusive wheelchair Fashionista Doll. In 2020 they created two limited edition wheel cover collections with Japanese pop icon Hello Kitty. Izzy Wheels has been featured in some of the world's top global publications including Vogue, Teen Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Elle, Forbes, Oprah Magazine, It's Nice That, TechCrunch and many more. The brand has won 15 national awards and both sisters were named on Forbes 30 Under 30 in 2018.
This Is A Dream Come True
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Let's face it. Teaching kids to share some of their hard earned cash can be a tricky task. What you save at an early age is really important to you.
There are things you can do to help children understand the benefits of sharing, donating and thinking of others. Money Jars can be an important tool in that journey. 'The Money Mate Moment' So, for the next few weeks, Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis is delighted to have An Post on board for 'The Money Mate Moment'. It's a new current account for 7-15 year-olds to help prepare your children to learn how to earn, save and spend money. And to help us we have renowned Clinical Psychologist and parental expert David Coleman. He will help us to navigate the importance of childhood financial independence. Each week we choose a different topic. Week 3: Putting money aside [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/09/11112604/MONEY-MATE-MOMENT-SEP-11-WITH-INTRO-BED.mp3"][/audio]
Putting money aside in jars is the start point for understanding about budgeting and learning how to differentiate between necessary purchases and luxury purchases. Saving for something can help children to learn to delay their gratification. Use your discussions with children about their money as a means to explore wider cause related issues – what is important to them and introducing them to ‘if you have enough, why not share a little’ Gifting, sharing and donating some of their money teaches them about good citizenship and care for others.
The Money Mate Moment brought to you by An Post, help prepare your children for financial independence with An Post Money Mate. To learn more about Money Mate click here To listen back to last week's Money Mate Moment on 'Understanding the value of money' click here Watch David Coleman advise The Keegan family on how An Post Money Mate can help parents teach their children about responsibility and decision making.
Aine Duffy is an innovator! A creative genius! And a horsebox hero! The last 18 months has been devastating for the live music industry. People who rely on the gigs from the musicians to the crew have been left without work. Only the last week has there been some light in the tunnel ahead. Many had to pivot their livelihoods and one such person was Aine Duffy. The Cork musician had a moment of inspiration and converted a horse box into a moveable live venue! She didn't stop there and has also managed to build her own home for 12 grand! Aine spoke to Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast about her unusual gig venue, her genius new home, and why she had to stop people touching her knob! Just Press Play To Listen [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/09/05122022/AINE-DUFFY-DUFFBOX-.mp3"][/audio] Aine and her amazing tiny home appeared in The Irish Times Check out her fabulous Instagram:
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Million-copy bestselling author Cecelia Ahern spoke to Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast about her brand-new novel 'Freckles' It is her eighteenth book! Wow. It is nearly a book a year since her world conquering debut. She must be considered a national treasure at this stage! (albeit a very young one! Is there a treasure age?!) She tells Alison about her new book which she has based in her hometown of Malahide, her brilliant advice as she turns 40 this year, and her excitement about her new star studded TV show 'Roar' she made with Nicole Kidman coming soon to Apple TV+ Just Press Play to listen to the chat [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/09/04131012/CECELIA-AHERN-FRECKLES-.mp3"][/audio]
Every child has queued up at the Bank Of Mum & Dad and filled out the forms... (by forms I mean thrown your hands together and pleaded "PLEEEEAAAASE!!!" )
Then we would get annoyed if they informed us that they had only just given us the last of our pocket money the day before and we blitzed it on popping candy and a full size jelly pizza. Really important purchases of course but maybe we should have held off. What we need as kids is a learning curve.
It might not seem like it at the time but from disappointment comes wisdom. 'The Money Mate Moment' So, for the next few weeks, Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis is delighted to have An Post on board for 'The Money Mate Moment'. It's a new current account for 7-15 year-olds to help prepare your children to learn how to earn, save and spend money. And to help us we have renowned Clinical Psychologist and parental expert David Coleman. He will help us to navigate the importance of childhood financial independence. Each week we choose a different topic. Week 2: Understanding the value of money [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/09/04120205/AN-POST-MONEY-MATE-MOMENT-WEEK-2.mp3"][/audio]
Allowing children to feel the disappointment of not having enough money is healthy for them. They may need to experience some level of disappointment to learn how to spend more wisely, save harder or earn more. Using some household chores as a way to earn money is also a good start point for children to learn that their time and effort have value and can be used to get them things they may need or want.
The Money Mate Moment brought to you by An Post, help prepare your children for financial independence with An Post Money Mate. To learn more about Money Mate click here To listen back to last week's Money Mate Moment on 'Giving Independence while staying in control' click here Watch David Coleman advise The Keegan family on how An Post Money Mate can help parents teach their children about responsibility and decision making.
It is back to school time again, some students have already been back for a few days with the rest following this week. It is an exciting time of year but also a time of year that can pose some challenges for kids and parents. The wonderful Dr Mary O’Kane (parenting and early childhood education expert) joined Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis to help guide us through it all: [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/08/29131211/MARY-O-KANE-BACK-TO-SCHOOL.mp3"][/audio] HANDLE WITH CARE Mary also spoke about this inspiring message:
One to consider for all the teachers out there! Not intended for big issues, but for the little things, the days they are just a bit off-kilter! A little kindness goes a long way! https://t.co/eoeSqZWyv8 — Dr Mary O'Kane (@MOKEarlyYears) August 29, 2021
LISTENER QUESTIONS ANSWERED "Alison and Mary my daughter who is 8 has become very clinging over the summer and I am worried how back to school might impact her or how she will manage back in the classroom - or is it something I should even worry about." Anita in Roscommon "I have a 14 year old son who left school last year feeling detached from a lot of kids in his class. Over the summer it has come out more and more that he felt bullied by a few of the other boys. We are hoping a break from them this summer will set it all straight again but wondering if there is anything we can do in the first few weeks back to help him with all of this. I know it is an absolute mind-field. Thank you." Diarmuid in Carlow "I found often last year when I picked up my son (who is 7) he didn’t transition from the busy classroom to homelife very well . He often had a meltdown shortly after getting home would Mary have any tips on how to make this transition smoother this year as mammy doesn’t think she can handle this all over again this year!" Sylvia in Dublin
Remember that feeling when you finally got your own money?
Strutting into the corner shop like a BeeGee gangsta declaring, "The penny sweets are on me lads!" Taking control of our own finances as a kid is a milestone in our lives. So, for the next four weeks, Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis is delighted to have An Post on board for 'The Money Mate Moment'. 'The Money Mate Moment' It's a new current account for 7-15 year-olds to help prepare your children to learn how to earn, save and spend money. And to help us we have renowned Clinical Psychologist and parental expert David Coleman. He will help us to navigate the importance of childhood financial independence. Each week we choose a different topic. Week 1: Giving Independence while staying in control: [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/08/28124005/AN-POST-MONEY-MATE-MOMENT-WEEK-1.mp3"][/audio]
Once children have pocket-money, it is their money. If they are to learn about using money wisely, they must be allowed to manage their money, even if they make mistakes. An Post Money Mate allows parents that helicopter view, setting boundaries from the outset and maintaining some control. It allows you step in and discuss decision making along the way. Being involved in their An Post Money Mate account, with them, provides that opportunity for open discussion and reflection. You can use your own budgeting or spending habits to role-model for your children.
The Money Mate Moment brought to you by An Post, help prepare your children for financial independence with An Post Money Mate. To learn more about Money Mate click here Watch David Coleman advise The Keegan family on how An Post Money Mate can help parents teach their children about responsibility and decision making.
This is the kind of image that stops you in your tracks - and it's even more remarkable when you hear the story behind it. It was described by one person as resembling a Rembrandt. It was in fact painted by a thirteen year old who also has Autism. Zara Craig is a student at Ballyclare High School in Antrim but hasn’t been back in class since the start of the pandemic. Her special educational needs coordinator, shared Zara’s painting and it has been shared more than 20,000 times since. Mum Gillian said she allowed it to be shared to break stereotypes – reinforce the positive stories of Autism. Alison Curtis spoke to Mum Gillian and Zara about her amazing talent. [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/08/15131129/ANTRIM-AUTISM-ARTIST-ZARA-CRAIG.mp3"][/audio] Here is the original post:
My wee one in year 9 has given me permission to share her first oil painting - I mean I'm speechless... 13 years old... she just amazes me - art is a type of therapy for her ❤ I think her art teacher Mrs Conlon will be happy too... well done Zara 9E 👏 pic.twitter.com/GzCGbKS79x — Ballyclare High SEN (L. Smith) (@sen_bhs) August 2, 2021
Having autism and some physical disabilities often requiring her to use a wheelchair, she has also been dealing with severe anxiety. Completing her schoolwork from home, the family say artwork has become a form of therapy for her. The reaction was HUGE AND POSITIVE. Twitter gets a bad press but according to her Mum Gillian this was hugely positive and encouraging for Zara.
Paralympian High Jumper Jordan Lee doesn't wear a cape. He doesn't need one. If you look at his achievements already and he's only just turned 21 - you will see that this young man from Killarney is a superhero. The best way to describe how high I can jump is the next time you park your car and you see the car park barrier set at 1 meter 95 just think that your good ol friend Jordan can jump over that! That is insane. LOOK HOW HIGH THAT IS!!!!
PRESS PLAY TO LISTEN TO ALISON CURTIS CHATTING JORDAN LIVE FROM TOKYO [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/08/14111520/JORDAN-LEE-PARALYMPIAN.mp3"][/audio] Just a few of Jordan's honours so far:
In Basketball - He created history by becoming the first amputee athlete to represent their country at international level. 2018 European Para- Athletics Championships Berlin (Bronze Medal) 2 Time WPA Italian Grand Prix Gold Medallist 2 Time French Grand Prix Gold Medallist Ranked No. 2 in the World in WPA World Rankings
The Paralympic Games will kick off on Tuesday 24 August and coverage will continue for the next fortnight after that daily on RTE. Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games - Jordan Lee - ©INPHO/Tommy Dickson COME ON TEAM IRELAND!!! Follow Jordan's Paralympic journey on Instagram. You'll also find inspirational stuff like this:
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As our kids are growing up, we are moving more and more to a cashless society with tap-and-go payments and in-app purchases. So how can we teach them the real value of money and that we all don't have magic money trees in our gardens? Alison on Weekend Breakfast caught up with Child Psychotherapist, Dr Colman Noctor who has recently written all about our kids cash in his Irish Examiner column. Hit play to catch the full chat and join Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast. Saturdays from 8am and Sundays from 9am!
It's the end of another month and time for Alison to announce this month's winner of Cadbury's Sound Town! John Browne, a teacher from Abbeyfeale in County Limerick, joins us to tell us why his town deserves to go in the drawer for the whopping €10,000 prize at the end of the year!
🎉 Massive congrats to Abbeyfeale, Co. Limerick our July #CadburySoundtown on Weekend Breakfast!! 🎉 They melted our hearts when they told us how they worked together to breathe fresh life into the town following the closure of local businesses 💛@AlisonTodayFM @CadburyIreland pic.twitter.com/lt6D7jYxFS — Today FM 💛 (@TodayFM) July 25, 2021
If you want to nominate your town as a Sound Town, email alison@todayfm.com! Hit play to catch the full chat and join Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast. Saturdays from 8am and Sundays from 9am!
Every Sunday on Weekend Breakfast, Alison loves to shout about Small Businesses! This week she was joined by David Quire from Wholesome Kitchen, who despite the pandemic, have been able to branch out and launch a meal prep service! Just look how great their food looks...
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If you want to get featured on Small Business Shoutouts, just email us on lenny@todayfm.com! Hit play to catch the full chat and join Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast.
Saturdays from 8am and Sundays from 9am!
The Last Letter From Your Lover is a brand new film hitting cinemas starring Felicity Jones, you'll recognise her from the Star Wars films and Shailene Woodley of Big Little Lies fame and they joined Alison on Weekend Breakfast! The film follows a young female journalist in modern day London who uncovers and then becomes obsessed with finding the owners of a series of lost love letters from the 1960s. You can catch the film in cinemas from August 6th! Hit play to catch the full chat and join Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast. Saturdays from 8am and Sundays from 9am!
Lets face it most parents are faced with picky eaters in their homes and it can cause a lot of stress around meal times, here to help is Dietician Orla Walsh Orla is a qualified Dietitian and member of the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute (M.I.N.D.I.) and Self Employed Dietitians of Ireland (S.E.D.I.). She is also registered with CORU. On Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis Orla covers:
The basics in kids nutrition - do parents tend to over worry or manage their kids intake Any wonder foods kids can have daily that tick a lot of boxes in terms of nutrition? What are common root causes for picky eating? Do kids need more control or say in the food they eat? What are some warning signs to look out for and to seek further help for? What are some of your top tips on how to expand the food repertoire for kids?
PRESS PLAY HERE TO LISTEN [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/06/26130914/WB-ORLA-WALSH-PICKY-EATERS.mp3"][/audio] Orla has a dedicated website: orlawalshnutrition.ie And a child focused Insta:
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Best Friends Eimear Tangney and Aine McCauley are the Salty Sea Sisters. They have set up a community of wild women across Ireland and the UK who support and connect with one another to pursue adventures - they're website describes them as "the feral ones and the untamed!" So, it was Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast who had the job of taming them! ;-) They had a wonderful chat about their brilliant book, 'Swim Map of Ireland' and great advice for sea swim wannabes It contains over 140 wild swimming locations across the whole Island of Ireland is available now. [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/06/13131310/WB-SALTY-SEA-SISTERS.mp3"][/audio]
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This has all the ingredients of a magical moment. Stunning scenery, a gorgeous couple, and lots of LOVE! Tadhg Twomey, from Dromahane in Cork told Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast about why he chose the highest cave in Ireland to ask the big question to his girlfriend Joanne. (And did she say YES!!?) [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/06/12123856/WB-CAVE-PROPOSAL-TADGH-TWOMEY.mp3"][/audio] We first spotted the story in the Evening Echo in Cork These stunning pics were taken by fellow climbers who witnessed the happy event!
🥰😍💍@AlisonTodayFM spoke to Tadgh Twomey in Cork who proposed to his partner Joanne in Benbulbin, Sligo. The cave in Sligo is named after two lovers called Diarmuid and Grainne. ❤️ Another climber spotted them and took this stunning photo😍🇮🇪💚... SHE SAID YES! 🥳 pic.twitter.com/yky61XOdlQ — Today FM (@TodayFM) June 12, 2021
Joshua Coombes has a simple mantra 'Do Something For Nothing' The former hairdresser spoke to Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast from his home in London. He has been all around the world cutting hair for people who are homeless. Joshua says, "I run into the nearest café or pub and ask, ‘Can I borrow a chair?’ They say ‘why?’ and when I tell them, they often offer water and other items enthusiastically. "It's getting the community together. I am not raising awareness I am raising compassion - the reasons people end up without a home are incredibly complex." His experiences have now been captured in a book titled 'Do Something For Nothing' and he spoke to Weekend Breakfast all about his experience. PRESS PLAY TO HEAR THE FULL CHAT [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/06/06131233/WB-JOSHUA-COOMBES-HOMELESS-HAIRDRESSER.mp3"][/audio] Follow Joshua on Instagram:
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Here he is getting his first copy of his wonderful book:
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The traditional girl's school uniform in Ireland needs an upgrade. Last week Alison got an Instagram message that read like this: Hey Alison could I ask if you could put it out there if there are any Irish companies that make Girls charcoal grey uniform skorts. I have a 10 year old that is asking me why she can’t wear one for school and I don’t want to tell her that I can’t find anyone who makes them! Mum of 3 daughters Ciara had a nightmare trying to find some 'Skorts' (a hybrid of shorts and skirt) for her girls. Not sport ones they are everywhere but ones for their uniform. Alison Curtis asked the nation for help and you did it! Carmel from allseasonssports.ie said she could do it! PRESS PLAY FOR THE FULL CHAT [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/06/05121036/WB-SKORT-.mp3"][/audio]
Brendan Courtney and Sonya Lennon are here to help! Ireland's sartorial saviours spoke to Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast to talk about clothing concerns for post Covid world. When not risking their lives on rocks (see Sonya pic above) they are producing clothes that rock! As we look to a brighter future opening up the country it's time for us to leave our caves!
Should we ditch the elasticated waistband? Will we be the same fashion wise? How will we break out of our super comfy clothes bubble?
PRESS PLAY TO LISTEN TO FULL CHAT [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/06/05115252/WB-LENNON-COURTNEY.mp3"][/audio] Their S/S 2021 release is called ‘The Bold and Beautiful Collection’ nd is out now.
Husband-and-wife team James and Aileen McCauley from Dublin are set to feature on Dragons’ Den on BBC One on Thursday 3rd June. Batman had The Riddler, while James and Aileen have THE WRIGGLER! The dynamic duo spoke to Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast. Will she make them an offer!? [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/05/30131425/wb-dragons-den-couple.mp3"][/audio] WHAT IS THE WRIGGLER? Their award-winning invention The Wriggler - an anti-roll portable baby-changing mat specially designed for babies and toddlers who wriggle and writhe during a nappy change. Inspired by personal experience with their own little boy the couple came up with The Wriggler, the portable changing mat with straps that resembles an adorable bear character. See more here BEST OF LUCK GUYS - SLAY THOSE DRAGONS! Aileen and James will appear before UK Dragons Touker Suleyman, Sara Davies, Deborah Meaden, Tej Lalvani and Peter Jones
Lecturer in Psychology and Early Childhood Studies, Dr Mary O’Kane joins Weekend Breakfast to advise on digital parenting. She published a parenting manual earlier this year called 'Perfectly Imperfect Parenting' and spoke to Alison Curtis: [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/05/29115325/WB-MARY-O-KANE-DIGITAL-PARENTING-.mp3"][/audio] QUESTIONS COVERED:
How to get them off technology without a fight? How to deal with a teen that is getting more and more secretive with their online life? What are some of the best rules to have around device use in the home?
This is a huge subject and you can get more in-depth info at drmaryokane.ie
Over the past year we have spent more time than ever inside our homes. Many of us have found that we had to make changes to accommodate working from home or creating extra space for our sanity! Home renovation has been on minds now more than ever. And many owners have decided that a renovation is a better option than selling. However, it is a really involved process and there is a lot to consider! This morning on Weekend Breakfast Alison Curtis spoke to Clodagh Doyle from Property Renovation Specialists Placelift in Enniskerry, Wicklow. (btw what a brilliant name for the business we love it!) Clodagh shared some of her best advice for anyone looking to do a renovation or currently in the process. Listen here: [audio mp3="https://media.radiocms.net/uploads/2021/05/16130808/WB-RENOVATION-SPECIAL-CLODAGH-DOYLE.mp3"][/audio] You can also check out an excellent article Clodagh did for The Journal here
It has been the toughest of times but now we are seeing some freedom return. Summer holidays are on the horizon. But is there anywhere left to book for a get away in Ireland? Travel Editor with the Irish Independent Pol O’Conghaile talks to Alison Curtis on Weekend Breakfast about some of the fantastic solutions to your summer and Top Tips for Irish hotels, B&Bs, self-catering and camping. He covers Looking Inland, City Stays, Short Break Options, plus Sneaky Five Star Stays: I wrote about this in today's Weekend Mag. Lack of overseas visitors means there is lots more availability (and some good value) in five-stars... you get the comforts, breakfast, leisure centre & flexible cancellation policies into the bargain. Pol also suggests: Best value & availability is midweek, June and late August / September (due to school hols closing, but some put this down to possibility of overseas returning too) Remember to pre-book stuff!!! breakfasts, pools, visitor attractions, activities Plus, a whole list of other options available after people responded to Pol on Twitter:
Irish hotels, B&Bs, self-catering and camping - got any deals and availability left to flag this summer? Let myself and @AlisonTodayFM know! #JournoRequest https://t.co/Zcoxbp4VsD — @poloconghaile (@poloconghaile) May 14, 2021