Weekend Breakfast with Alison Curtis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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