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Episode details

Radio Ulster,18 Apr 2026,116 mins

Ciaran Gribbin, Louise O'Neill and DadBodsNI

Saturday with John Toal

Available 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.

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Tracklist

  1. Track
    Artist
  2. 1.
    POWER OF LOVE
    POWER OF LOVE
    Huey Lewis and the News
  3. 2.
    HEY BABY DOLL
    HEY BABY DOLL
    Ciaran Gribbin
  4. 3.
    JUST THE WAY YOU ARE
    JUST THE WAY YOU ARE
    Bruno Mars