Latest news with #OperationTransformation
Irish Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Daily Mirror
Kathryn Thomas admits she 'sleeps better' since landing her own radio show
TV and radio host Kathryn Thomas has said she "sleeps better" since she landed her own radio show. The former Operation Transformation star now presents her own breakfast radio show on Dublin's Q102 called The Morning Show with Kathryn Thomas, which runs from 7am-10am daily. And despite the gruelling 5am starts, the Co Carlow native said her new routine makes her sleep much better at night. She said: "Things are amazing. Loving the job. I'm just back from Santorini. "I hadn't been sleeping great for the last year. And, you know, lots of different things going on. And then when you get into a routine of which I've never had before. "So I've gotten to 46 years of age, and I've never had a job where I have to be somewhere Monday to Friday, right? And I was like, 'oh, routine won't suit me'. And then I had this chat with Dermot (Whelan) on his podcast, and he was like, 'routine suits everybody, you know?' "I'm in bed at 9pm, and I'm asleep by 10pm, so I'm actually up at 5.20am, so I'm sleeping better now. "I'm sleeping more than I would have for the last couple of years. I'm actually feeling more energetic than I have done so I'm delighted. "I don't know whether it's kind of also the job, you know. So maybe that will wear off after six months." Kathryn previously told us that landing her morning radio show comes down to timing. She said at the time: "It comes down to timing. I mean there was no way when I was doing Operation Transformation and the schedule that consumed that I would be able to do a daily breakfast radio show. "I always filled in in the it was never breakfast radio. My focus was there at Radio 1 and focussing on covering for them. "My big priority was TV but then when I really thought about it, I knew my time in Operation Transformation was done and I knew if I didn't close one door, another one wouldn't open. "As a mom, things can come in on top of you in terms of trying to parent and trying to work and trying to keep all the balls in the air without sitting down and saying 'what do I want'. "If you asked me would I do breakfast radio when I had no children, I would've said 'not on your nelly'," she said laughing at the time. "But the opportunity came up and this was the right time to start something new."
The Irish Sun
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
‘My hormones died down and I was fine' says Kathryn Thomas as she reveals hubby's response to her wanting third child
KATHRYN Thomas has admitted to wanting a third child but her "hormones died down" after her husband's response. The Carlow native and her husband Padraig McLoughlin, who tied the knot in 2019 at Kilkea Castle, Kilkenny, have two daughters; Ellie, seven, and Grace, three. Advertisement 4 Kathryn Thomas spoke to The Irish Sun at the Platinum VIP Style Awards Credit: Brian McEvoy 4 Kathryn and her husband got married in 2019 Credit: Social Media Collect 4 Kathryn has two daughters Credit: Social Media Collect Ellie is going into second class this September and her youngest will be completing her last year of preschool. And when asked if she's getting notions about having another child, Kathryn told The Irish Sun: "No... the shop is closed!" However, she admitted that she briefly thought about it around two years ago. Advertisement read more on kathryn thomas She explained: "My sister had a baby, Lily, she's two now. But I remember going in to see her in the Coombe. "Grace was one. I had said to my gynaecologist, 'No, done, shop is closed', and my doctor said, 'I've heard of women like you before'. "Anyway, I went in to see my sister in the Coombe, held the baby, gave her back, ran outside, rang my husband, was like, 'Do you want another baby?', and he was like, 'Not on your f***ing life'." Kathryn laughing added: "So that was the end of that conversation. And very quickly I kind of was like... the hormone release died down, I was fine." Advertisement Most read in Celebrity Exclusive The 46-year-old has been of new listeners with on Q102 since early February. Kathryn is on air from Monday to Friday at 7am to 10am. Kathryn Thomas shares 'fabulous' clip from family holiday It's the first time she's had a 'normal' routine and Kathryn has said feeling better than ever. The former Operation Transformation host said: "I'm loving the job. When you get to this point on a Friday, I feel the tiredness of the week. I feel that I'm in a better routine. Advertisement "I hadn't been sleeping great for the last year with lots of different things going on and then when you get into a routine, which I've never had before. 'I'M DELIGHTED' "I've gotten to 46 years of age and I've never had a job where I have to be somewhere Monday to Friday. And I was like, 'Oh, routine won't suit me'. And then I had this chat with Dermot Whelan on his podcast and he was like, 'Routine suits everybody'. "I put the kids to bed at half eight, I'm in bed at nine and I'm asleep by ten. I'm actually then up at twenty past five. "So I'm sleeping better now and sleeping more than I would have for the last couple of years. Advertisement "Now also my kids are coming out like Grace is three, so we're kind of coming out of the hard phase as well. "But I'm actually feeling more energetic than I have done in, I can't remember when. So I'm delighted." 4 Kathryn got the itch to have another baby after seeing her sister's newborn Credit: Instagram
Extra.ie
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Extra.ie
Could former GP Ciara be just what the doctor ordered for Liveline?
Liveline contender Ciara Kelly has highlighted her credentials in the race to replace Joe Duffy – but knows the veteran broadcaster will be an 'extremely hard act to follow'. The Newstalk Breakfast host is one of several names in the running to take the Liveline hot seat when Duffy departs on the last Friday of June. Asked about the prospect of going solo after five years presenting as a duo with Shane Coleman, Kelly pointed out she did three years on Lunchtime Live – 'the Newstalk equivalent' to Liveline – before taking the morning slot. Liveline contender Ciara Kelly has highlighted her credentials in the race to replace Joe Duffy – but knows the veteran broadcaster will be an 'extremely hard act to follow'. Pic: Gareth Chaney/ Collins Photos The former GP told 'I did the first ever interactive radio show on Newstalk. I took over from George Hook in that slot and grew the audience very nicely. So yes, I did do that role, and it went well actually.' Remaining coy as to whether she has been approached by RTÉ, the former Operation Transformation contributor said she 'couldn't possibly say anything about any of that'. 'I'm sure Liveline would be an amazing job for anyone who was lucky enough to get it. But I have no real comment other than that, obviously, I have a great job [at Newstalk] myself as well.' Further pressed on her suitability, Kelly noted: 'I suppose I do like talking to people and all of that kind of thing, absolutely. 'But having said that, I have no idea if I'm in the running for Liveline or not. That obviously is out of my hands entirely.' The GP-turned-broadcaster acknowledged that Duffy will be 'an extremely hard act to follow' for whoever ends up in his chair, after his 27 years fronting the show. Pic: RTÉ The GP-turned-broadcaster acknowledged that Duffy will be 'an extremely hard act to follow' for whoever ends up in his chair, after his 27 years fronting the show. 'And he's a lovely man,' she added. 'I would know Joe a little bit, and he's obviously an icon as well, and made [Liveline] his own. So I think for anyone filling those shoes, it would be an enormous task.' The Greystones, Co. Wicklow-raised presenter said she has been a Liveline listener, since 'even before Joe's days', when the show was hosted by the late Marian Finucane, whom Kelly described as 'probably the best broadcaster Ireland has ever produced'. 'I think Marian was gifted in her touch, not only in current affairs but in her ability to get people to open up to her and to talk to her,' Kelly said. 'And I think that's something that she shares with Joe, actually – that people saw both of them as almost like a friend, someone you could really talk to.' Kelly has worked on RTÉ TV shows before, including as a medical expert on Operation Transformation and presenting duties on the magazine's health show, Doctors On Call. (Ciara Kelly on Operation Transformation). Pic: Gareth Chaney Collins The Newstalk woman called the 40-year-old RTÉ staple Liveline 'an institution of Irish radio' that has 'a finger on the pulse of the country'. Kelly has worked on RTÉ TV shows before, including in her role as medical expert on Operation Transformation and presenting duties on the magazine health show Doctors On Call. She is a former client of Noel Kelly, the agent whose books include much of RTÉ's top talent, and who became a household name himself during the secret payments scandal in 2023. She was one of several stars to part company with NK Management in the wake of that story, citing her duty as a broadcaster to report on it without bias. Kelly told the Irish Independent in July 2023: 'In order to fully interrogate the RTÉ payments issue going forward, to remain impartial and fulfil my objective public service broadcasting remit. 'I believe I have to now step away from the agency and as of today, I no longer retain them as my agent.' Kelly's Newstalk colleague Andrea Gilligan has also been mentioned as a potential replacement for Duffy. The Donegal woman is the current presenter of Lunchtime Live – similar in format to Liveline – and has been praised for her easy manner with callers. Katie Hannon and Philip Boucher-Hayes, who have often stood in for Duffy over the years, have also been mooted as obvious considerations for RTÉ. Rose of Tralee host Dáithí Ó Sé is reportedly a strong contender too, while Dancing With The Stars presenter Jennifer Zamparelli was the bookies' favourite at one stage.
Irish Independent
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Thousands expected to attend street carnival in vibrant Cork town
Clonakilty is set to come alive once again as the highly anticipated Irish Yogurts Clonakilty Street Carnival returns for another unforgettable day of food, fun, and festivities. Now in its seventh year, this vibrant event has become a staple of the West Cork calendar, drawing thousands of visitors to experience the region's largest outdoor dining celebration. Pearse Street will be transformed into a colourful, bustling food hub, with long communal tables stretching through the town centre. Fitness expert, radio & TV broadcaster, author and podcast host Karl Henry will officially open the festivities setting the tone for a full day of upbeat energy, family fun, and irresistible flavours. Karl is a leading Irish fitness expert, best known as the long-time trainer on RTÉ's Operation Transformation, and lives in West Cork with his family. Ticket holders can enjoy a mouth-watering array of street food, prepared by some of the region's top chefs and food producers, offering everything from rich Indian curries to fresh local seafood, all accompanied by delicious wines and desserts. Special guest Karl Henry said: 'Living in West Cork, I get to experience the incredible sense of community and the amazing food culture every day. This event really brings all of that to life. 'It's a celebration of everything that makes this part of the world so special. The passionate local producers, the vibrant town atmosphere and of course, the fantastic food. I can't wait to kick off what's set to be a brilliant day for all,' he added. The event will feature food from renowned local venues including The Emmet Hotel, Inchydoney Island Lodge and Spa, Scannell's Bar and Restaurant, Clonakilty Park Hotel, O'Donovan's Hotel, The Alley Garden Bistro, Oak Fire Pizza, Casey's Bar & Restaurant, Lil's, Kirby's @ The Whale's Tail, and The Clonakilty Food Company (Clonakilty Black Pudding). In addition to its mouth-watering food offerings, the Irish Yogurts Clonakilty Street Carnival promises a vibrant line-up of live music and entertainment. Headlining the festivities are The Monks, The Kates, and Boola Boom, with performances taking place throughout the day and into the evening. Street entertainers, including stilt walkers, jugglers, and face painters, will keep the atmosphere lively, joined by musical performances from Andrew Whelton, and Shanley's House Band. Families can enjoy a dedicated Family Fun Zone, packed with attractions for children of all ages, such as bouncy castles, face painting, giant games, a carousel, a sensory play area, and more, all set in a fully pedestrianised town centre. Diarmuid O'Sullivan, Managing Director of Irish Yogurts Clonakilty and lead sponsor said it's a joy to see the town come alive with such energy, creativity, and community spirit. 'This event showcases the very best of West Cork, from its passionate food producers to the warm welcome it offers every visitor. It's truly a celebration of community at its finest.' Meal tickets, which include adult and children's options and portion sizes, will offer a variety of meat, seafood, vegetarian and vegan dishes, along with desserts and drinks. New for 2025, the kids meals will now be served alongside the adults in the main food tent from 3pm until 5pm, while the Family Fun Zone will remain open from 11am as in previous years, with entertainment continuing into the evening. Admission to all non-food activities is free, but meal tickets should be pre-booked online at to secure a seat at the table. Booking fees apply. Tickets can also be purchased at O'Donovan's Hotel and Fuchsia Footwear in Clonakilty. Meal tickets are now on sale at
Irish Examiner
09-05-2025
- Health
- Irish Examiner
Seeking support from Pieta House: ‘It was easier to open up to a stranger than to family'
Most people in Ireland will be familiar with Pieta House. Opened 19 years ago, it has since then helped more than 70,000 people who have suicidal thoughts or who self-harm. Each year, it answers 100,000 calls and texts via its crisis helpline and provides 50,000 hours of counselling at its 20 locations around Ireland. Dean Hayes from Campile in Wexford was 18 when he first sought the services of Pieta House. In 2014, his grandmother died of cancer. Dean signed up for a charity skydive with his cousins to raise money in her memory. When he arrived at the skydiving centre, he was told he was too heavy to do the skydive. 'At that time, I was also dealing with being a gay man and the grief of losing my Nana. It was a difficult time, but that comment took me to rock bottom.' Hayes was aware of Pieta House's work. One of his cousins had died by suicide a few years before, and his family had used Pieta's bereavement counselling services. Now, with Dean himself experiencing suicidal thoughts, he reached out to the charity. 'I didn't want to burden my family, as we had just lost my nana. I know now that I wouldn't have been a burden. "I come from a really supportive family, but, at the time, I felt like I was a burden. So I reached out to Pieta House, and the staff were fantastic.' After calling the free Pieta helpline at 1800 247247, he was referred to the Pieta centre in Wexford for in-person counselling. 'From the first session, the counsellors made me feel welcome, and it was like talking to friends. 'I suppose, I found it easier to open up to a stranger than my family, and, after just one session, I felt so different. I went from feeling very low to feeling much more positive.' Dean Hayes: "I spoke with the Pieta counsellor. She helped me understand that there was no need to change me. After I came out of that session, I told my family that I was gay. And I've never looked back since.' Picture: Patrick Browne The counselling was crucial in helping him through a difficult time, particularly in dealing with his sexuality and personal challenges. 'Being gay and coming out as gay had become a massive thing in my head. I kept thinking about how I could change myself. 'But, then, I spoke with the Pieta counsellor. She helped me understand that there was no need to change me. After I came out of that session, I told my family that I was gay. And I've never looked back since.' In 2016, Hayes took part in Operation Transformation. He credits the confidence he gained working with Pieta House counsellors for being able to take that step. 'I would never have had the courage to take part if it wasn't for the work I did at Pieta House, and getting through the experiences I'd had.' Student nurse Hayes attended counselling at Pieta for over a year, and whenever he felt he needed additional support, 'the door was always open for me to go back'. Since then, he has become an active volunteer for Pieta House. In memory of his cousin, he has done the Darkness into Light walk for the past 10 years, and, last year, he organised a walk in his former hometown of Rosslare. 'It was the first time it had ever been in Rosslare; we're back there again this year. Last year, we had more than 350 people walking, and we raised €13,500; it was phenomenal. "The support in the community, when it comes to something like this, is exceptional,' says Hayes. A life saver At any given time, Pieta provides ongoing counselling for almost 7,000 people, says Paula Coyle, clinical services manager at Pieta House. 'And all the services are provided free of charge, with no need for a referral. We want the Pieta services to be as accessible to those needing them.' According to the latest available figures from the Central Statistics Office, 449 people died by suicide in 2021 (359 males and 90 females). The rate of self-harm in Ireland is 196 per 100,000 people, says Coyle, although she is quick to point out that this figure only represents the people who have made themselves known at hospitals. 'We know there are more open conversations about mental health these days, and that's a good thing, but we are also seeing a rise in demand for our services. The 14-to-25 age group continues to be high-risk, with issues ike cyberbullying becoming more prevalent and relentless.' The Darkness into Light events are vital to the Pieta House story. The fundraising event provides 87% of the service's annual income. 'It costs €18m to run Pieta House services yearly,' explains Coyle. 'These are the crisis helpline, the counselling services, intervention, and bereavement. 'We now have over 200 full-time counsellors working at our 20 locations nationwide. And our 24/7 helpline is manned by those qualified therapists, which is unique.' Darkness into Light events take place on Saturday, May 10, starting at 4.15am. Around 100,000 people are expected to participate in this year's events all over the world. 'The registration fee of €22 enables our crisis line to handle two calls, so you can see just how important each registration is,' says Coyle. Hayes puts the life-changing impact of the charity in stark terms: 'To be honest, I think if I hadn't gone to Pieta House, I wouldn't be here today.' If you have been affected by an issue raised in an Irish Examiner article, please click here for a list of websites offering support services and their helpline numbers. Read More Some like it hot — the benefits of sauna and steam
