Episode details

Radio Ulster,18 Apr 2026,116 mins
Ciaran Gribbin, Louise O'Neill and DadBodsNI
Saturday with John ToalAvailable for 29 days
Grammy nominated singer songwriter Ciaran Gribbin joins us in the studio for a chat and a live performance ahead of his Belfast gig next week. Originally from Castledawson, Ciaran once fronted INXS and has collaborated with global icons including Madonna, U2, Paul McCartney, Snow Patrol and even Al Pacino. Best selling Irish author Louise O’Neill discusses her gripping new thriller, ‘Whatever Happened to Madeline Stone?’, which is an exploration of child stardom, family secrets and the price of fame. Members of DadBodsNI drop into the studio to share how their support group is helping fathers navigate the unique challenges of modern dad life. They’re also launching a “Pints and Ponytails” event, teaching dads how to braid and plait their daughters’ hair. We catch up with Laura Beacom, the current European Cup Stacking Champion from Belfast, who joins us live from Spain as she prepares to defend her title this weekend. John meets marathon runner Kieran McGovern to hear about his mission to complete the world’s six major marathons by Monday, and his unexpected love of pavlova. And, as it’s National Tea Day, Paula serves up tea smoked, brined chicken thighs with peri peri and a refreshing cucumber salad.
Programme WebsiteTracklist
- TrackArtist
- 1.POWER OF LOVEPOWER OF LOVEHuey Lewis and the News
- 2.HEY BABY DOLLHEY BABY DOLLCiaran Gribbin
- 3.JUST THE WAY YOU AREJUST THE WAY YOU AREBruno Mars