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Listen! With Frank Mitchell — 1000 episodes

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5544: LISTEN¦ This week on Shared Island Perspectives, U105 and LMFM examine one of the most urgent and difficult issues facing communities across the island of Ireland — violence against women and gender-based violence.

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5543: LISTEN¦ 'To hear 20,000 people singing it back to you is magic - you never get tired of it' - Johnny B O'Brien and Johnny 'Smacks' McMahon, better known as The 2 Johnnies, spoke to Frank ahead of their show at Féile

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LISTEN¦ '100% of the staff who took part in an online consultation said that care is not safe' - Helen Hamill from the Save Our Acute Services campaign said an RQIA inspection report on the South Western Acute Hospital raised serious concerns

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5541: LISTEN¦ 'Our school estate is too big, it's not sustainable - Education Committee chair Nick Mathison spoke to John as the EA raised concerns over a £600m shortfall in maintenance funds

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5540: LISTEN¦ 'Those liberal elites in the chamber were more interested in following ideology than protecting our children' - TUV's Timothy Gaston responded to criticism of unionists voting down a move to increase the age of criminal responsibility

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5539: LISTEN¦ Flooding is one of the biggest natural hazards facing NI, but despite nearly £100m spent, a new report has criticised how Stormont handles the risk. Frank spoke to Alliance's Andrew McMurray who has called for long term planning and funding

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5538: LISTEN¦ As climate extremes become our new normal, the island of Ireland faces a shared environmental reality - navigating it through different political/legislative lenses. Frank spoke to Green Party NI leader & CEO of Friends of the Earth Ireland

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5537: LISTEN¦ 'I think it'll be really interesting to play near where I was born - my grandad was the master in the primary school on the loughshore' - Brianna Corrigan spoke to Frank ahead of her appearance at the Friends Goodwill Festival

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5536: LISTEN¦ 'It doesn't suck - we're still very grateful for it, each and every time' - Def Leppard guitarist Viv Campbell talked to Frank about how it feels to have thousands of fans singing your songs back to you

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5535: LISTEN¦ 'Imagine someone coming into your home, chasing you out of the house and burning your home down...this is about basic humanity' - after homes, cars and a Glider bus were burned in a night of rioting, Frank spoke to public representatives

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5534: LISTEN¦ 'People are very shaken, they're shocked' - local SDLP councillor Carl Whyte and Alliance MLA for North Belfast Nuala McAllister spoke to Frank, after a Somali man was arrested over a brutal knife attack

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5533: LISTEN¦ 'The narrative around our boys at the moment is that they're a problem' - in a new documentary, Gareth Southgate looks at the challenges facing young men and boys. Frank spoke to Rhonda from MAPNI about the work they're doing

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5532: LISTEN¦ Is pumping iron the key to a long life? A Harvard study involving more than 147,000 people found lifting weights for two hours a week reduced the risk of early death. Frank spoke to top PT Tiernan McCarthy

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5531: LISTEN¦ Should teens guilty of serious offences like rape go to prison? As MLAs debate increasing the criminal age of responsibility, writer Malachi O'Doherty argues that it may not always be productive, if the goal is rehabilitation

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5530: LISTEN¦ In the latest episode of our Shared Island Perspectives series, we examine the growing cost-of-living pressures facing families and businesses across the island of Ireland.

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5529: LISTEN¦ Are rules making drivers with ADHD or anxiety issues eligible for a blue parking badge being exploited? The Taxpayers Alliance has raised concerns amid a rise in the numbers being issued

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5528: LISTEN¦ Masterchef's youngest contestant, Killyleagh's Adam Morrison, talked to Frank about how it feels to be selected from thousands of applicants, cooking in front of the cameras and against the clock and putting NI food and producers on the map

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5527: LISTEN¦ Should we ban 'conversion therapy'? In 2021, MLAs voted to ban the practice, but as yet, no legal change has been made. A doctor, Gareth Patterson, originally from NI, wants to see the law change

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5527: LISTEN¦ Could a review of the PSNI's handling of the Katie Simpson deter victims from coming forward? Would more female officers help? Ex-PSNI officer Linzi McLaren said there have been 'great strides, but there still needs to be a lot more done'

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5526: LISTEN¦ Potholes - are the roads looking better, following an eight-week push that saw around 10,000 repairs? The DUP's Peter Martin highlighted figures that suggest we could be on course to fix fewer this year than in 2025

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5525: LISTEN¦ In the latest in our Shared Island Perspectives series, we're looking at healthcare - two jurisdictions, one island - two different approaches to delivering care. Will we ever see the long-promised transformation?

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5524: LISTEN¦ 'Police had a difficult job, but they should have shut it down much sooner, they should have been more prepared' Independent councillor Paul Doherty spoke to Frank after scramblers and cars were recklessly driven in West Belfast

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5223: LISTEN¦ Could Stormont's childcare strategy help the economy, as well as hard-pressed families? Business groups have said making it affordable is 'essential' especially for female workers

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5522: LISTEN¦ Should bare-bummed bikers be banned? The annual World Naked Bike Ride is due to take place in London, but a petition has been launched, over safeguarding concerns. Frank spoke to Gary Kennedy from British Naturism

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5521: LISTEN¦ Should fox hunting be banned? A bill has been brought at Stormont, five years on from the last attempt to outlaw hunting with dogs. Frank spoke to the bill's sponsor, Alliance's John Blair

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5520: LISTEN¦ Is a 20% tip excessive? Gordon Ramsay's been criticised after one of his restaurants applied the hefty ' discretionary service charge' to seasonal menus. Peter spoke to NI's top restaurant critic, Joris Minne

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5519: LISTEN¦ Have you visited an Emergency Department recently? The Royal College of Emergency Medicine described the current state of our EDs as 'horrifying'

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5518: LISTEN¦ Have self-checkouts made people more likely to shoplift? M&S chair Archie Norman's suggested 'good, decent people' are being driven to steal, by difficulty using the machines

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5517: LISTEN¦ Housing is an issue that dominates everyday life - whether you rent a room in Dublin or you're trying to buy your first home in Belfast. Adrian Kennedy from LMFM spoke to Belfast campaigner Paul McCusker & Lorcan Sirr from TU Dublin

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5516: LISTEN¦ 'The loneliest country in Europe'? A recent report found higher rates of social isolation on the island of Ireland than anywhere else in Europe. Could encouraging participation in walking groups help tackle this 'silent epidemic'?

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5515: LISTEN¦ He's performed in front of 10,000 people with legendary rockers INXS and written songs for stars like Madonna and even Al Pacino - now he's back performing live - including in Belfast - Ciaran Gribbin called into chat to Frank

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5514: LISTEN¦ 'There's no doubt in my mind, he's Europe's greatest ever golfer' - chief sports writer Steven Beacom and Jonny MacCann from The Bogey Men podcast spoke to Frank after Rory McIlroy secured a second successive US Masters Title

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5513: LISTEN¦ Is there still a taboo around toupées? Sales of hairpieces have gone up 43% in the last year, with between a third and half of men under 50 experiencing hair loss. Would you wear one? Frank spoke to Alanna Sharratt from Man Grooming

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5511: LISTEN¦ 'We're probably never going to get to zero, but if we can all think about the things we're doing, we can hopefully reduce the numbers' - Helen Bowman from Business in the Community talked about the importance of remembering the Fatal Five

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5512: LISTEN¦ 'We normally support around 1,200 people a year - we're only going to be able to support 3,000 - so it's a big shortfall' - Sean Hanna, from the NOW Group that helps people with learning disabilities into work highlights the impact of cuts

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5510: LISTEN¦ In the latest of our Shared Island Perspectives series, we examine the Irish language - how it's taught, its role in pop culture and its evolution across the island - TD Ruairi O Murchu & Irish language commissioner Pol Deeds spoke to Adrian

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5509: LISTEN¦ Is social media deliberately addictive? A jury in a landmark case has ruled that platforms were built deliberately to be addictive and that had harmed a young person's mental health

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5508: LISTEN¦ Pigeons - pest or pal? They're a common sight in our towns and cities - and not always welcomed - is it time we change how we view them? Sue Joyce from the National Pigeon Advocacy Association thinks so

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5507: LISTEN¦ Should Belfast City Centre be closed to cars and buses during the Fleadh? The council says it's a matter of safety, with some 800,000 visitors expected. Frank spoke to Cllr Donal Lyons

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5506: LISTEN¦ Should we recycle graves to deal with the shortage of burial space? That's a plan being considered by the Law Commission in England - where plots over a century old could be reused. Frank spoke to Malachi O'Doherty

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5505: LISTEN¦ Do we all turn into our parents? A new study found that by 37, we start to do and say things our parents did. Are we just copying their example or is it something deeper than that? Frank talked to Mick Fealty

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5504: LISTEN¦ Who or what should be on our money? Sir Winston Churchill and Jane Austen are set to be replaced by wildlife scenes on Bank of England bank notes. Who deserves their place on our currency? Frank spoke to author Malachi O'Doherty

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5503: LISTEN¦ Can you keep a secret? A new study found the average person is keeping nine secrets. Does it do us any harm? Will the truth always out? Frank spoke to wellness expert Deirdre Maguire

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5502: LISTEN¦ In the first of our Shared Island Perspectives Series, in partnership with LMFM, Frank discussed the Narrow Water Bridge project - with Coleen Tinnelly-Dowdall, president of the WBR Chamber and Richard Brennan founder of Visit Carlingford

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5501: LISTEN¦ 'We have some of the most fun performances from all over the world, as well as homegrown talent - you don't have to be a child or have a child with you to enjoy Belfast Childrens Festival' - Frank spoke to festival director Eibhlín de Barra.

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5500: LISTEN¦ 'The outbreak of war with Iran will have serious long-term consequences, not just for the region, but the world' - historian and anti-war activist Dr Brian Kelly spoke to Peter ahead of a Belfast protest against the US-led bombing in Iran

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5499: LISTEN¦ Should the UK get involved in the conflict in Iran? What's it like being stationed in the Gulf states during a war? Peter spoke to security analyst Philip Ingram and ex-RAF reservist Michael Cairns, who was stationed in Qatar

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5498: LISTEN¦ Will GB price cap lower bills in NI? If not, why not? And is it still possible to get a better deal on your gas, oil or electricity? John spoke to Aodhan O'Donnell, founder of Power to Switch

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5297: LISTEN¦ Family group chats, being a support human to your poodle and writing a semi-autobiographical sitom - Emer Maguire called in for a chat with John about her latest standup show 'Notions' and starring on panel show Hot Takes

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5497: LISTEN¦ 'I'm an introverted extrovert - a live audience is fantastic, it's addictive, seeing in real time what people think of your comedy' - Serena Terry spoke to Frank about her new show 'Therapy', what's next and how Lisa McGee is her 'blueprint'

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5496: LISTEN: Andrew Mountbatten Windsor has been arrested and the former prince's old residence Royal Lodge raided as he's held on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Frank spoke to royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams & historian Gareth Russell

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5495: LISTEN¦ Why are petrol prices at a five year low? Could they go down further? Why is diesel not falling at the same rate? Frank spoke to Karen Smyth from the Consumer Council

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5494: LISTEN¦ Are you happy to pay more than £1,000 to renovate the Houses of Parliament? The planned works could take 60 years and cost nearly £40billion - would they be better building from scratch? Peter spoke to Mick Fealty

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5493: LISTEN¦ Should we all be learning AI? The government's offering free training - but is there a danger the courses will be out of date by the time they're taught? Peter spoke to digital expert Wayne Denner

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5492: LISTEN¦ 'It's just unacceptable, it's embarrassing and it looks like incompetence on someone's part' - UUP leader and former PSNI officer Jon Burrows spoke to Frank after names of serving police were made public on the NI Courts website

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5491: LISTEN¦ '57 people lost their lives on our roads last year - there's still a lot of work to do' - Alastair Lambe from McLaughlin & Harvey spoke to Frank about the role businesses can play in safer roads, ahead of a Responsible Driving event

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5490: LISTEN¦ Should girls have the choice to wear trousers as well as skirts to school? Frank spoke to Education Committee deputy chair Pat Sheehan, who says that for reasons of practicality, equality and comfort the option should be offered

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5489: LISTEN¦ 'It can't stand - we'll lose pubs and other hospitality businesses - jobs will be lost, it'll be a blow to tourism and impact on things like loneliness' SDLP MLA Matthew O'Toole spoke to Frank about the hospitality rates revaluation

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5488: LISTEN¦ Are new restrictions on learner drivers a good idea? NI is to introduce a 6 month wait time before you can take your test, a limit on night-time driving and curbs on passenger numbers. Frank spoke to experts including instructor Anthony

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5487: LISTEN¦ Should Trump apologise for comments minimising the role of NATO troops, including those from the UK, in Afghanistan? Frank spoke to MLA and former soldier Doug Beattie and several other army veterans

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5486: LISTEN¦ What makes you old? How you think and behave or the date on your birth certificate? A recent work tribunal said it was lawful to call a colleague 'old' if you struggle with technology. The worker in question was 39!

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5485: LISTEN¦ Should MPs remove a clause from the goverment's latest legacy bill, that would grant immunity from prosecution to those who co-operated with a truth recovery process? Frank spoke to crime correspondent Allison Morris

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5484: LISTEN¦ Co Antrim Shield win 'means the world' - Carrick Rangers manager Stephen Baxter told Frank the club was 'living the dream' after beating Cliftonville in last night's final

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5483: LISTEN¦ Has AI become too easy to misuse? One of NI's top schools has investigated reports pupils were creating and sharing explicit deepfake images of their classmates. Frank spoke to top cyber security expert Wayne Denner

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5482: LISTEN¦ How often do you use maths? More than you might think! A festival in Derry explores how everyone from hairdressers & electricians to pyramid builders have used maths. Frank spoke to founder Dr Sumeeta Gupta & financial planner Sinead Meenan

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5481: LISTEN¦ 'Anywhere from 80-90%' of the 300 women appearing every day on 'pimping websites' in NI have been trafficked. Frank spoke to the chair of a new All Party group, investigating the increase in websites offering prostitution services

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5480: LISTEN¦ Is a Home Office TikTok account showing immigration raids an effective deterrent to criminals or unnecessarily cruel, as some NGOs have labelled it? Frank spoke to former police officer Colin Breen

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5479: LISTEN¦ Should the BBC licence fee payer be forking out for taxis for the Corporation's staff, stars and guests? A £10m a year contract is out for tender, to provide round the clock cabs. Frank spoke to Anne Strickland from the Taxpayers Alliance

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5478: LISTEN¦ Should we fine people for feeding pigeons in public places? A woman in London was arrested fined £100 after she refused to stop feeding the birds and wouldn't give police her details. Were they too heavy handed?

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5477: LISTEN¦ Could using the nearly 5,000 vacant houses in Belfast and Londonderry help solve the housing crisis? Frank spoke to Liam Tunney from the Belfast Telegraph

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5476: LISTEN¦ Should the US army intervene, after hundreds of protesters were reportedly killed in Iran? Is a diplomatic solution still possible? Frank spoke to Patrick Corrigan, from Amnesty International NI

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5475: LISTEN¦ Should children be allowed smartphones? The education minister has backed a campaign calling on parents to hold off on giving them to children until they're 14. Frank spoke to Rosalind McClean from the group Smartphone Free Childhood

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5474: LISTEN¦ Have yourself a saucy little Christmas! Frank spoke to one of NI's top chefs, Paula McIntyre, about the popularity of gifting hot sauce and olive oil, as well as what it takes to make award winning rum

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5473: LISTEN¦ How to make sure your family doesn't spend the holidays glued to their phones and digital devices - play expert and founder of Pretzel Play, Tara Lea McElduff, talked to Frank about the importance of being present

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5472: LISTEN¦ One of the UK's leading health authorities has told people they 'must' wear a face mask if they have flu-like symptoms - would you wear a mask to stop the spread? Frank spoke to virologist Dr Connor Bamford

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5471: LISTEN¦ Will the allocation of unspent money resolve PSNI pay issues? What about the cost of the data breach? Should the government name Stakeknife? Justice Minister Naomi Long answered a host of questions in a wide-ranging interview

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5470: LISTEN¦ Is AI ruining art - or making it easier than ever to express your creativity? Frank spoke to Caelinn Seaton Kelly from Vault Art Studios who have banned generated art from their art market

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5469: LISTEN¦ Would you give up meat for Christmas? Animal welfare charity PETA has launched its festive awareness campaign, urging people to choose 'compassion over carnage'. Frank spoke to Lucy Watson from the organisation, as well as farmer Robert

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5468: LISTEN¦ Northern Ireland's 'worst road' has finally been fixed. Will a new mapping plan be the solution to our pothole problem? Frank spoke to Cllr Malachy Quinn

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5467: LISTEN¦ 'I'm cross, I'm angered - all I can do is stand up for the principle I believe in and not allow my voice to be silenced' - Alliance MLA Andrew McMurray reacted to threats made by a group called the New Republican Movement

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5466: LISTEN¦ 'Maradona good, Pele better, George Best' - founder of one of the world's biggest Man Utd supports clubs, John White, spoke to Frank on the 20th anniversary of George Best's death

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5456: LISTEN¦ On the 20th anniversary of George's death, Frank spoke to Alex Best about how her late husband would have wanted to be remembered

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5465: LISTEN¦ Do you agree with the Supreme Court's ruling that Christian-focused RE classes are unlawful? Frank spoke to TUV deputy leader Ron McDowell and Jack Russell from Parents for Inclusive Education

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5464: LISTEN¦ It's the most expensive time of year for many families - how can you save money at Christmas and why should we be concerned with what's the upcoming Budget? Clare Murray from Mortgage Solutions spoke to Frank

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5463: LISTEN¦ 'Amy Winehouse can't support the Stones, in Dusseldorf, tomorrow, can you do it?' The Answer front-man Cormac Neeson shared some great rock and roll stories with Frank ahead of the band's Ulster Hall gig on 29 November

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5462: LISTEN¦ Happy birthday to us! The first voice to appear on U105, 20 years ago today - 'Mr Radio' - John Rosborough came on to wish us a happy birthday and to talk about how the station came to be

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5461: LISTEN¦ 'When you're being compelled and coerced to have it by the state, that's a really dangerous precedent' the DUP's Paul Frew and Alliance MLA Paula Bradshaw spoke to Frank as all Stormont parties united against Digital IDs

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5460: LISTEN¦ Mary and Patrick were very much in love, but unwed. When she became pregnant, it began a 'perfect storm of rejection, denouncements and separation'. Frank Brehany talked about his book, showing the impact of the Magdalene Laundries

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5459: LISTEN¦ Meeting artists like Bob Dylan, Pete Seeger and The Clancys, performing all round the world and their connection with Belfast audiences - George and Eddie Furey talked to Frank ahead of their Farewell Tour

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5458: LISTEN¦ 'Keep going - even Snow Patrol took some time to get their first hit - then all of a sudden they took off' - Tim Wheeler from Ash and Claire Hall from Sound of Belfast talked to Frank about fostering the upcoming talent in the city

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5457: LISTEN¦ 'How confident do our Executive feel in being able to deliver for families here, if they're reaching out and asking Westminster for a solution?', ' Dr Casey McGivern from Melted Parents spoke to Frank

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5456: LISTEN¦ 'I've been able to do so many exciting things, it's hard to remember them all - I didn't even recall interviewing Dolly Parton or David Bowie!' Eamonn Holmes talked to Frank about his career, ahead of his live theatre tour

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5455: LISTEN¦ Could playing bingo help you live longer and stay healthier? A new study found it could boost mental and physical health and reduce loneliness. Frank spoke to Phil Doherty from Planet Bingo in Portadown

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5454: LISTEN¦ Should all children learn to swim? A local council is aiming to ensure all children have access to swimming lessons, as a 'vital life skill'. Frank spoke to the councillor behind the motion, Cllr James Cochrane

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5453: LISTEN¦ Why has chocolate become so expensive and can you tell the difference between 'chocolate flavour' biscuits and the real thing? Frank spoke to top chocolatier Geri Martin from Chocolate Manor

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5452: LISTEN¦ Many questions remain unanswered, nearly 40 years on from the Enniskillen Bomb on Remembrance Sunday, 1987. Frank spoke to the journalist behind a gripping new podcast as well as Cathy Gault whose father in law was killed in the atrocity

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5451: LISTEN¦ Do you feel safe in Belfast City Centre? A well-known busker, John Garrity, has spoken out, after he was attacked while performing. John spoke to Frank about the experience

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5450: LISTEN¦ 'The crisis in resourcing is preventing the PSNI providing the service it should and exhausting officers' - UUP MLA Jon Burrows spoke to Frank after the Police Federation's 'unprecedented' appeal for support from the Secretary of State

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5448: LISTEN¦ The flood clean-up continues after some of the worst rains in years left some Newcastle residents trapped in their homes. Frank spoke to local Alliance MLA Andrew McMurray and Sam Anderson from the Regional Community Resilience Group

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5447: LISTEN¦ Why are breastfeeding rates in Northern Ireland lagging behind other regions? Are there societal barriers that prevent some women from doing it? Frank spoke to Dr Jennifer Hanratty from the Centre for Effective Services

101

5446: LISTEN¦ Should NI get its own Citizens' Assembly? Alliance's Michelle Guy has pointed to the success of similar bodies, including in the Republic, as a template 'engaging members of the public in those conversations and feeling part of the process'

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5445: LISTEN¦ 'Nobody's saying peaceful protest isn't allowed, but why at the home? It's really appalling that people would try to intimidate in the way they have - it's more than crossed the line' UUP justice spokesman Doug Beattie spoke to Frank

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5444: LISTEN¦ Is this the worst Executive ever? SDLP MLA has pointed at undelivered projects like the A5 and Casement Park are examples of 'the incompetence of the DUP and Sinn Fein in government' - Frank spoke to the West Tyrone MLA and Prof Jon Tonge

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5443: LISTEN¦ Should the Irish language have more prominence around Belfast? Councillors are to vote on a proposal that would see a bilingual logo appear on council buildings, uniforms and vehicles. Frank spoke to DUP and Sinn Fein councillors

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5442: LISTEN¦ President Trump has caused controversy by suggesting there may be a link between women taking paracetamol during pregnancy and autism rates. EU & UK government officials say it's safe. Frank spoke to GP Dr Frances O'Hagan

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5441: LISTEN¦ Was the PM right to recognise a Palestinian state? Frank spoke to Alliance deputy leader Eóin Tennyson and TUV leader Jim Allister

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5440: LISTEN¦ 'I've had colleagues receive many threats. People put on a brave face for the public, but in private it does take its toll' Alliance's Nuala McAllister spoke to Frank after police issued nearly 6000 'threat to life' notices in five years

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5449: LISTEN¦ The stars of a new coming-of-age film 'Unholylands' set in Belfast, called in to the studio to chat to Frank, ahead of its release next month

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5438: LISTEN¦ Should prison inmates have access to a 'comfort dog'? Officials insist safeguards are in place to ensure the welfare of a dog in Magilligan, but MLA and dog owner Jon Burrows has raised concerns with the justice minister

110

5437: LISTEN¦ Were police wrong to arrest Father Ted writer Graham Linehan for gender-critical tweets? The Metropolitan police have faced significant backlash since the arrest. Frank spoke to Connie Shaw from the Free Speech Union

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5436: LISTEN¦ Should we teach self defense to children at school? A new book revealed that as a teenager, Queen Camilla fought off a would-be attacker on a train. Frank spoke to Glyn Ashton from Vault self-defence and Treasa Rice from Glow NI

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5435: LISTEN¦ Record-breaking Armagh man Marty Rafferty spoke to Frank the day after just his 27 hour buskathon - which raised valuable funds for the Secret Santa charity

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5434: LISTEN¦ Is it time to scrap school uniforms? A new poll found nearly half of parents suffer stress over the cost and some are resorting to buy-now-pay-later services to afford them

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5433: LISTEN¦ The Online Safety Act was meant to stop children from accessing porn websites, but many are using VPNs to bypass safeguards. What do parents need to know about these apps and can they carry hidden risks?

115

5432: LISTEN¦ Should the former Maze prison be used as a Troubles museum? How else might we use the site? Alliance's David Honeyford told Frank there are 'huge economic benefits' yet to be realised and political vetoes need to end

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5431: LISTEN¦ Should dual-language road signs in Belfast require more than the current 15% support to be approved? A new poll found fewer than one in three people support the rules at present

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5430: LISTEN¦ Should well-off people pay more for their healthcare? A senior GP, Dr Tom Black, told Frank that the NHS is so underfunded and understaffed that it's affecting life expectancies

118

5429: LISTEN¦ 'If not now, when?' - SDLP MP Claire Hanna has penned a letter to the Prime Minister, calling for the UK government to apply pressure on Israel to end the war in Gaza and to recognise the rights of both Israel and the Palestinians

119

5428: LISTEN¦ Could the TUV become the biggest unionist party? Would they go into opposition or take up a place in the Executive? Frank spoke to Prof Jon Tonge and Dr David McCann

120

5248: LISTEN¦ With warmer weather upon us, should we celebrate or censor the male form? A survey found nearly three quarters don't believe men should be seen topless away from the beach or swimming pool. Frank spoke to Gary Kennedy from British Naturism

121

5427: LISTEN¦ 'We've been talked over, talked about and talked for - now we're talking for ourselves' - abuse survivors Haileigh Ashton Lamont, Michelle Duffy & journalist Amanda Ferguson spoke to Frank about the need for victims' voices to be heard

122

5426: LISTEN¦ 'I see so many problems with Northern Ireland - I just wanted to put something back, make a difference and serve the people of North Antrim - Stormont's newest MLA, the UUP's Jon Burrows, told Frank why he was embarking on a new career

123

5425: LISTEN¦ 'You're next' - domestic abusers often use media reporting of local women's violent deaths to threaten their victims, according to Women's Aid NI. Frank spoke to journalist Amanda Ferguson and Sonya McMullan from the charity

124

5424: LISTEN¦ Should animal cruelty be met with harsher punishments? Online cat torture rings, sharing videos of animals being mutilated and killed have spread to the UK, with two teens appearing in court in London. Frank spoke to Siobhan from the USPCA

125

5423: LISTEN¦ From this Sunday, for the next 10 weeks, there will be an art market on Hill Street, which will give local artists a platform to showcase their talents and visitors and residents a taste of what pedestrianising the road would be like

126

5422: LISTEN¦ Are the Beckhams right to refuse to buy their children houses? They said it was to teach them the value of 'hard graft'. Should parents financially support their adult children?

127

5421: LISTEN¦ Should Northern Ireland introduce a tourist tax? Deputy PM Angela Rayner is pushing for its introduction in England, to capitalise on booming demand. Some tourism operators warn it would harm their business. What do you think?

128

5420: LISTEN¦ 'Grief is grief, no matter the weeks' - Nikcolette McPeake from Little Forget Me Nots Trust told Frank that the formal recognition of the loss of a baby before 24 weeks would be 'huge' for many parents across NI

129

5419: LISTEN¦ Careful what you wish for? Labour says it's fulfilling a campaign promise by allowing 16 year olds to vote, but will they be the ones to benefit? Frank spoke to former speech writer and columnist Tom Kelly and GB News reporter Dougie Beattie

130

5418: LISTEN¦ A host of volunteers is needed to make sure visitors get the warmest welcome and have a friendly face to point them in the right direction. Frank spoke to Lindsay, Brigid and Roy, who are all giving their time at the Open with Volunteer Now

131

5417: LISTEN¦ The arrival of around 280,000 vistors to Portrush is the ideal opportunity to showcase the best local food and drink producers have to offer. Frank spoke to Siobhan McGuigan from Tourism NI and Emily McCorkle from bbq specialists Lo & Slo

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5416: LISTEN¦ How can you capture the flavour of the open? Iconic ice cream makers Morellis were tasked with producing a special flavour for the Open. Frank spoke to Daniela Morelli

133

5416: LISTEN¦ What makes Royal Portrush one of the world's greatest golf venues? Frank spoke to Jasper Miners, editor of Top 100 Golf Courses

134

5415: LISTEN¦ Has The Open inspired you to consider a career in golf? Ulster University has launched a new course that's already attracting worldwide attention. Frank spoke to the man behind the course, Dr Peter Bolan

135

5414: LISTEN¦ A new study found that one in three parents here has been pushed into debt by the cost of school uniforms and back to school supplies. Frank spoke to Cllr Paul Doherty, from Foodstock. about some of their programmes and about holiday hunger

136

5413: LISTEN¦ Should boys play with Barbie dolls? Sports presenter Alan Brazil started a debate after a young male relative would have no interest in 'playing with dollies'. Does he have a point? Frank spoke to Amanda Ferguson

137

5412: LISTEN¦ TV presenter Richard Madeley described NI as 'close to a basket case' from an economic standpoint - does he have a point? Does it reduce the likelihood of a United Ireland?

138

5411: LISTEN¦ Hot weather can be dangerous for our pets - how can you keep them safe during a heatwave? Frank spoke to Tara Cunningham from Causeway Coast Dog Rescue

139

5410: LISTEN¦ Unemployed people on sickness benefits could soon be £2,500 a year better off than those working full-time on the national living wage. Is that fair? Frank spoke to commentators Tom Kelly and Mick Fealty

140

5409: LISTEN¦ A new documentary is to air, showing the impact Ulster Scots people had on the founding of America and the source of their Bill of Rights - Frank spoke to the man behind it, GB News reporter Dougie Beattie

141

5408: LISTEN¦ Would you fancy an Extra Virgin Daiquiri? How about a straight shot of olive oil? The UK's first olive oil bar has just opened in London. What are the health benefits of this 'green gold'

142

5407: LISTEN¦ Would a £100 fine for vaping in a bus shelter be too harsh? Or is it a necessary clamp-down, by the government, on anti-social behaviour? Frank spoke to Mick Fealty, editor of Slugger O'Toole

143

5406: LISTEN¦ Could a panel of experts from the worlds of business, the arts and charitable sector do a better job than our politicians of drafting policy? Frank spoke to journalist John Manley about the return of the Civic Forum

144

5405: LISTEN¦ Imagine you could devise a sure-fire way to win the Lotto. In 1992, an Irish syndicate attempted to do just that. A film has just been released telling their story. Frank spoke to director Ross Whitaker and Maurice Owens from the syndicate

145

5404: LISTEN¦ A new joint fund has launched helping women to support women. Frank spoke to two of the women involved - Orla Black from the Community Foundation NI and Amanda Ferguson, chair of Give Inc

146

5403: LISTEN¦ 'There's a long tradition in Belfast of really good graffiti, we want to provide a space for those guys to meet and paint, where it's legal' - Adam from Seedhead Arts spoke to Frank as new graffiti walls are made available for street art

147

5402: LISTEN¦ 'There's a sense that our Executive parties aren't taking this matter seriously, otherwise we would've seen action' - SDLP MLA Colin McGrath and local man Jim Boylan spoke to Frank about unpleasant smells around Warrenpoint harbour

148

5401: LISTEN¦ Would you like a shorter work week? 17 companies carried out a trial of a four-day work week. All 17 have decided to keep the routine. Frank spoke to Mark Haslam, founder of Loud Mouth Media in Belfast

149

5400: LISTEN¦ How can we prevent children as young as nine from accessing 'vile' pornography? A safeguarding expert told MPs that primary aged children in NI were being exposed to extreme content on social media. Frank spoke to Wayne Denner

150

5399: LISTEN¦ Do you feel sympathy for the chancellor, after she shed tears in the Commons? The PM did eventually show his support, but should he have come out sooner? Frank spoke to former Westminster speech writer Tom Kelly and Deirdre Maguire

151

5398: LISTEN¦ Nearly half of drivers admit to tailgating - which was linked with 140 UK road deaths last year. Should we increase the penalty, which currently sits at three points and a £100 fine? Frank spoke to Davy Jackson from Roadsafe NI

152

5397: LISTEN¦ Should new dads be given longer paternity leave? The government has committed to reviewing current arrangements, which haven't changed since their introduction in 2003. Frank spoke to Alex from campaign group Dad Shift

153

5396: LISTEN¦ 'Male violence here is going unchallenged, the strategies we have to tackle it are too slow' - Helen Price from the Women's Rights Network NI and Cllr Hannah Irwin spoke to Frank after a man was charged with the murder of Sarah Montgomery

154

5395: LISTEN¦ 'For 83,343 of us, we're over an hour from a surgeon, for some of those patients, it's over two hours - it's a very scary time to be sick in Fermanagh' Helen from the SOAS campaign warns of the risk if emergency surgery at SWAH is closed

155

5394: LISTEN¦ Should wealthy people pay more tax to fund concessions on benefit cuts? Is the welfare system being abused? Frank spoke to Dr David McCann from the Stormont Sources and Shimeon Lee from the Taxpayers Alliance

156

5393: LISTEN¦ Police have opened an investigation into the performances by Kneecap and Bob Vylan at Glastonbury. Are they likely to face prosecution and what could it mean for Lucy Connolly's case? Frank spoke to ex-Met detective Peter Bleksley

157

5392: LISTEN¦ A pair of American podcasters has described Belfast as 'violent' and 'crazy' after a recent visit to record a live show. Are they being unfair? Frank spoke to deputy lord mayor, Paul Doherty

158

5391: LISTEN¦ Has the closure of local bank branches made it harder to do business? Roger Pollen from FSB NI told Frank the ease of setting up an online account could damage local banking provision over the long term

159

5390: LISTEN¦ Is 18 too young to be a politician? Reform UK's George Finch has been put in charge of a county council in England, after the previous leader resigned. Frank spoke to Dr David McCann from the Stormont Sources podcast

160

5389: LISTEN¦ 'The judgement came as a body-blow...there's a real question about competence here and a huge human cost to these delays' Daniel McCrossan reacted to the court ruling on the A5

161

5388: LISTEN¦ 'When someone gets up to speak, it's very clear they're reading pre-scripted notes that you suspect they didn't write and have never read before' - Prof Deirdre Heenan didn't pull any punches on the standard of debate at Stormont

162

5387: LISTEN¦ The Prime Minister says Kneecap appearing at Glastonbury is 'inappropriate' - what do you think? Has the response of politicians helped or hindered the popularity of the west Belfast rap group? Frank spoke to Mick Fealty

163

5386: LISTEN¦ More than 50 people will be jumping off a cliff in Ballycastle - Frank spoke to one of those preparing to take the plunge for an amazing cause, as well as the woman behind the event and the mum of an incredible young fundraiser, Alex

164

5385: LISTEN¦ A decade since the launch of Tinder, people seem to be falling out of love with dating apps. Could there be room for a new way of dating? Andrew Adams is the man behind an upcoming 'Pitch a Mate' event in Belfast

165

5384: LISTEN¦ 'This bill will undermine and fundamentally shift the dial with regards to the value that people place on life - DUP MP Carla Lockhart told Frank why she's voting against the Assisted Dying Bill

166

5383: LISTEN¦ 'Everyone wants the interest rate to come down, but it's unlikely to change much this calendar yet' - chartered accountant Ross Boyd spoke to Frank ahead of the Bank of England's expected freeze on interest rates

167

5382: LISTEN¦ 'There's cross-party support as well as significant local support, yet there's no sign of the work' - Green Party councillor Brian Smyth spoke to Frank about the frustrating delays to a pedestrian crossing in south Belfast

168

5381: LISTEN¦ 'Parents need to know where their children are - we don't want to see young people with criminal records' DUP MLA Gary Middleton spoke to Frank after a second night of riots in the Nailor's Row area of Londonderry

169

5380: LISTEN¦ Would locking up rioters actually solve the problem? Belfast Telegraph columnist Malachi O'Doherty's not convinced. He spoke to Frank about what might be a more effective punishment

170

5379: LISTEN¦ 'More than proud, to see these young lads who came through our youth system - it's a massive achievement' - Geoff Wylie, chair of the NI Darts Organisation reacted to local players Josh Rock and Daryl Gurney winning the Darts World Cup

171

5378: LISTEN¦ 'We're one of the most nature-depleted parts of Europe...if we can't take that seriously, what good is the Executive?' Opposition leader Matthew O'Toole has criticised DUP/SF opposition to the Nutrient Action Plan

172

5377: LISTEN¦ 'We've got your back, we're here to speak up for you' - Cllr Gary McKeown says it's important that politicians make it clear that migrants and people of other nationalities shouldn't live in fear

173

5376: LISTEN¦ 'There's political forums for these discussions, that's where it should be - it should never descend into violence' - Jonathan Buckley warned those involved in disorder risk a criminal record. Frank also spoke to deputy mayor Jess Johnston

174

5375: LISTEN¦ 'I left as the windows started coming in around us, the staff stayed til the very end to make sure everyone was out - it was very frightening' - Alliance MLA Danny Donnelly spoke to Frank after masked youths set fire to Larne Leisure Centre

175

5374: LISTEN¦ Should school children have daily PE lessons? Charity the Youth Sports Trust have warned nearly half of young people are getting 30 minutes activity a day - the Chief Medical Officer recommends one hour

176

5373: LISTEN¦ Should Belfast introduce a congestion charge? Oxford is to trial a temporary charge, to alleviate traffic jams - could it reduce journey times and encourage public transport uptake?

177

5372: LISTEN¦ Police officers were injured after another night of rioting in Ballymena. Frank spoke to reporter Peter McVerry, DUP MLA Paul Frew, TUV councillor Matthew Warwick and Darren Ferguson from Beyond Skin

178

5371: LISTEN¦ 'It shouldn't have happened - it caused anxiety and stress - the Executive has a responsibility to make sure no-one goes cold in the winter - Daniel McCrossan spoke to Frank about the government's u-turn on the winter fuel payment

179

5370: LISTEN¦ 'Case law is allowing perpetrators to get the most pitiful sentences you could imagine' - UUP justice spokesman Doug Beattie spoke to Frank as his party brings a motion on sentencing

180

5369: LISTEN¦ 'One family I spoke to hid in their roof space until they could be safely escorted out by police - those rioting are not reflective of the vast majority who protested last night' Sian Mulholland spoke to Frank after disturbances in Ballymena

181

5368: LISTEN¦ 'The industry needs help. We're creating an environment where it's less attractive for the people coming to the venues and working in them' -restaurateur Eamon McCusker spoke to Frank as 1 in 4 firms say they're making a loss

182

5367: LISTEN: A majority in NI say they want Stomont to take more action to deal with child poverty, but are our politicians listening? Frank spoke to Peter Bryson, head of Save the Children in NI

183

5366: LISTEN¦ Actor Richard Dormer spoke to Frank about Blue Lights, meeting his hero and why he's proud to be an ambassador for the charity SOS NI

184

5365: LISTEN¦ A fight and a champion that united the country - former world boxing champion Barry McGuigan spoke to Frank as he marks the 40th anniversary of his world title win against Eusebio Pedroza

185

5364: LISTEN¦ Are GPs being pushed towards privatisation? Frank spoke to Dr Frances O'Hagan, from the BMA and Prof Deirdre Heenan, after a senior doctor warned of an exodus from the NHS to the private care sector

186

5363: LISTEN¦ From early beginnings playing covers at home, to performing on stage in Osaka and hearing their music on Love Island and coverage of major sports events, Charlie & Ben from :Panic :Over chatted to Frank ahead of Irish tour dates this summer

187

5362: LISTEN¦ 'Men don't ask for help - the only way to do it, is to be vulnerable' - ahead of a major conference in Belfast, organiser Tiarnan McCarthy spoke to Frank about why men need to reach out, if they're struggling with mental health issues

188

5361: LISTEN¦ 'It's a fantastic city already, but this is going to be transformational and make it even better' DUP councillor Carl McClean spoke to Frank after it was announced the long-awaited £150m seafront development in Bangor was going ahead

189

5360: LISTEN¦ 'We don't talk about it, journalists just get on with things, we're not meant to be part of the story' - former journalist Leona O'Neill spoke to Frank about the idea behind her initiative to support journalists with their mental health

190

5359: LISTEN¦ Newly-crowned Miss NI, Carly Wilson, called in to the studio to chat to Frank about how she plans to use her platform, how the competition has changed and the very personal reason why she has chosen to support Friends of the Cancer Centre

191

5358: LISTEN¦ 'You can't give up hope, for Robert's sake' - Terry Delany spoke to Frank about his family's ongoing quest for justice, after his son was shot after he tried to break up a fight involving a son of the veteran republican

192

5357: LISTEN: 'We can't believe they'd let the only theatre in the region go' actor and campaigner Steven Millar says closing the Riverside Theatre in Coleraine would be 'madness'

193

5356: LISTEN¦ Are you a people pleaser? Are you carrying other people's emotional load? Frank got some useful tips from Deirdre Maguire

194

5355: LISTEN¦ Should toddlers get screen time? A Belfast nursery has generated a mixed reaction by using tablets as teaching tools. Frank spoke to top online safety expert Wayne Denner

195

5354: LISTEN¦ Would you pay £1608 to sample some of the world's finest whiskies? Frank spoke to Paul Kane, founder of Belfast Whiskey Week, about the continued popularity of the spirit and the worldwide appeal of Irish whiskey

196

5353: LISTEN¦ Where are thousands of caterpillars coming from and how can you get rid of them? Frank spoke to Dr Archie Murchie from AFBI about the ash sawfly, which is appearing in gardens across Belfast

197

5352: LISTEN¦ 'We'd like to get to a world where industrial action isn't necessary, but we shouldn't be criminalising teachers for taking lawful steps' - Dr Graham Gault from NAHT talked about plans to fine teachers for not complying with inspections

198

5351: LISTEN¦ 'The registration is only a cheek swab, yet just 2.3% in NI are on the bone marrow donor register' - ex Rangers and Everton star Gary Stevens and Eimear's Wish founder Sean Smyth are working together to encourage more people to sign up

199

5350: LISTEN¦ 'If you were looking for an illustration of the crisis we have around violence directed at women and girls, it's hard to find a sharper example' MP Claire Hanna said she hopes an attack on a jogger in Belfast won't deter women from running

200

5349: LISTEN¦ Should there be a train to the plane? Translink say they're looking at the possibility of re-opening a trainline to Belfast International Airport. John spoke to Alliance MLA David Honeyford

201

5348: LISTEN¦ A Carrick man is embarking on a 10 day Mournes trek, with no tent and relying on the generosity of others for food - to raise awareness of homelessness. John spoke to Graham Fergus mid-way through his challenge

202

5347: LISTEN¦ Country star Kip Moore talked to John, ahead of his arena show at Belfast's SSE. He talked about why he loves performing for NI audiences, whether his song-writing had changed and what gives him hope

203

5346: LISTEN¦ What can the UK and Ireland do to be more competitive at Eurovision? John put this and many other questions to Eurovision expert Will O'Regan

204

5345: LISTEN¦ 'There are 113,000 jobs in the eating eco-system in NI - nearly a fifth of our private sector' - Michael Bell from NIFDA told John about the many and varied careers in food, in Northern Ireland

205

5344: LISTEN¦ What are the causes and consequences of a rise in Bovine TB for farmers in NI? John spoke to John Kennedy from the UFU and farmer John Carson

206

5343: LISTEN¦ 'The farm was my husband's pride and joy, there was never a moment we thought we might pull the plug' - Roberta Armstrong said despite the pressure of new inheritance tax laws, she never considered selling the farm after her husband's death

207

5342: LISTEN¦ The Vatican has named its first ever American pontiff - Pope Leo XIV - what will his election mean for the direction of the Catholic church? Peter spoke to Fr Brian D'Arcy and Fr Aidan Troy

208

5341: LISTEN¦ 'Communities like ours are crying out for original, strong, fearless journalism'- Impartial Reporter editor Rodney Edwards spoke to Frank about the paper's 200th anniversary and why he's optimistic for the future

209

5340: LISTEN¦ Only black smoke so far, but when might we see a new Pope elected? Is the new pontiff likely to seek to modernise the Catholic church? Frank spoke to papal expert Prof Rebecca Rist from the University of Reading

210

5339: LISTEN¦ Among plans to cut waiting lists is a reimbursement scheme, allowing patients to pay up front for a procedure and then receive the money back - what if you don't have the cash? Rick spoke to Alliance's Danny Donnelly

211

5338: LISTEN¦ Should we bring back the death penalty? A new poll found a majority support the return of capital punishment for certain crimes. What do you think? Rick spoke to Fionola Meredith

212

5337: LISTEN¦ The brilliant Emer Maguire called in for a chat with John - she talked about her new BBC series 'How's She Cuttin', whether Strabane is country and the useless stuff they teach us at school

213

5336: LISTEN¦ 'Out thousands of dog breeders in NI, only 48 are licensed' - Tara Cunningham from Causeway Coast Dog Rescue spoke to John about the need for much greater regulation of the dog breeding industry

214

5335: LISTEN¦ Is Net Zero 'doomed to fail'? Tony Blair claims the government needs to re-think its climate policy. John spoke to Green leader Mal O'Hara and Brian Gregory from the Alliance of British Drivers

215

5334: LISTEN¦ Should smacking be banned in Northern Ireland? NI Children's Commissioner Chris Quinn has called for law that allows a 'reasonable punishment' defence of hitting, slapping or smacking to be repealed

216

5333: LISTEN¦ Should animal testing for medicines be banned? MPs debated yesterday, after a public petition attracted 250,000 signatures. John spoke to Suzanne Martin from SAFRIreland

217

5332: LISTEN¦ If you're lucky enough to reach 100, would you still like to be working? Shopkeeper Arthur Ferguson says that despite celebrating a century of life, he has no plans to retire

218

5331: LISTEN¦ 'Freedom of speech is really important, but they're not entitled to incite terrorism or break laws around hate speech' - Peter Martin spoke to Peter after police said they were reviewing footage from a Kneecap gig

219

5330: LISTEN¦ 'When we truly value ourselves, we start to make different choices' - Deirdre talked to Peter about how increasing your self-worth be the answer to achieving your goals

220

5329: LISTEN¦ 'He demonstrated through his leadership great humility and service - he was a voice for those who had no voice - Jane Mellet from Trócaire spoke to Frank

221

5328: LISTEN¦ 'He couldn't take any of the airs and graces - he was a reconciling figure - if the church is to bring in the poor, the disillusioned that's the way the church has to go ' - Frank spoke to Fr Aidan Troy from Dublin and Fr Brian D'Arcy

222

5327: LISTEN¦ 'He was someone who led till the last moment of his life' ' Michael Kelly from Aid to the Church in Need & Vatican correspondent Chris White talked about the impact of the Pope's death on the Catholic church

223

5326: LISTEN¦ Should a woman take her husband's name after they get married? Just a third of young woman agree with the tradition, compared to half of young men. Frank spoke to writer Fionola Meredith

224

5325: LISTEN¦ What could be on Rory McIlroy's dream menu, as he prepares to host next year's Champions Dinner, following his Masters win? Frank spoke to top chef Danni Barry

225

5324: LISTEN¦ 'A few miles an hour won't make a difference to the length of your journey, but it could save a life'. Davy Jackson from RoadSafe NI spoke to Frank as PSNI figures show 300 drivers a day are being caught speeding

226

5323: LISTEN¦ 'The fees paid for care no longer cover the cost of treatment - until the Executive allocate enough money, it's going to get worse ' - dentist Dr Ciara Gallagher explained why practices are struggling to take on new NHS patients

227

5322: LISTEN¦ Is Rory McIlroy GB & Ireland's greatest ever sportsman? What's it like to be part of sporting immortality? Frank spoke to Gerry Armstrong and the man who spotted his talent before most, Gerry Kelly

228

5321: LISTEN¦ From Rory-themed buns in a local bakery to high value course fees, what impact could the Masters win have for businesses, locally? Frank spoke to MLA Stephen Dunne and golf tourism expert Dr Peter Bolan from Ulster University

229

5320: LISTEN¦ What was Rory like as a young golfer and what will his success mean to his hometown club? Frank spoke to Paul Gray, who was the club pro during Rory's formative years and club captain Trevor Heaven

230

5319: LISTEN¦ Where does Rory McIlroy's Grand-Slam securing Masters win put him in the pantheon of sporting greats? Will he now go on a run of Major wins? Frank spoke to Rupert Bell and Steven Beacom

231

5318: LISTEN¦ Was the sentence handed to pensioner Oliver MacCormack and three other men, who preyed on vulnerable and drug addicted women too lenient? Frank spoke to crime correspondent Allison Morris and commentator Lata Sharma

232

5317: LISTEN¦ Is it okay to wear your pyjamas out in public? M&S is collaborating with a British designer whose jammies can retail for over £600 on a daytime PJ range and the trend is even having its moment on catwalks

233

5316: LISTEN¦ 36 years since breaking through, 'there's still no place like home' Declan and Brendan Murphy from The 4 Of Us popped in for a chat with Frank, about their favourite places to perform, their latest album and upcoming dates

234

5315: LISTEN¦ Overfilled bins in Belfast may no longer be collected, amid safety concerns. Bin liners are also to be banned, as they frequently catch on bin lorries. Frank spoke to committee chair Cllr Ruth Brooks and took calls from listeners

235

5314: LISTEN¦ Could you date or marry someone with completely different politics? Is it ever worth debating politics with friends of loved ones? Frank got the thoughts of Helen McClements from Sour Wee Blog

236

5313: LISTEN¦ A biotech firm has successfully brought back a species of wolf from extinction. Is it a marvel of modern science or a worrying example of scientists 'playing God'? Frank spoke to animal rights campaigner Andrew Goti

237

5312: LISTEN¦ Is naming and shaming benefits cheats 'a distraction' from wider issues of poverty or a necessary policy to clamp down on £160m of fraud? Niamh Campbell from the Belfast Telegraph spoke to Frank as the first people convicted have been named

238

5311: LISTEN¦ Cutting the number of councils from 26 to 11 was meant to streamline services and save money. Ten years on, are we better off? Frank spoke to Irish News political editor John Manley

239

5310: LISTEN¦ 'This Executive is not delivering to try and find and challenge the causes of the fires and make sure this doesn't happen again' - SDLP MLA Colin McGrath spoke to Frank about his frustration that pledges had not been fulfilled

240

5309: LISTEN¦ Can you turn grief into growth? Deirdre Maguire spoke to Frank about processing loss and 'letting pain shape your purpose, rather than being your prison'

241

5308: LISTEN¦ 'We can't do everything, but we need to prioritise nature' - Environment Minister Andrew Muir reacts to a new OEP report which highlighted a failure to implement protections for our 'natural treasures'

242

5307: LISTEN¦ Should our politicians be presenting a united front rather than rowing over Irish language signs? Frank spoke to Tina McKenzie from FSB NI, Stephen Kelly of Manufacturing NI, Irish News columnist Tom Kelly and top economist Dr Esmond Birnie

243

5306: LISTEN¦ 69 people died on our roads in 2024 - 'I don't think there's anyone in NI who hasn't been touched by someone they know that's been involved in a collision' - Helen Bowman spoke to Frank about a new road safety scheme

244

5305: LISTEN¦ The cost of childcare 'is driving mothers out of work, creating problems across society and intervention isn't quick enough' - Frank spoke to Rebecca Harper, from Melted Parents NI about a demonstration taking place this weekend in Belfast

245

5303: LISTEN¦ 'Public money is part of it, but I absolutely oppose the imposition of Irish language' - Loyalist activist Jamie Bryson spoke to Frank about why he's taking legal action to halt Irish language signs at Belfast's Grand Central Station

246

5302: LISTEN¦ Trump's tariffs could cost the NI economy £100m by some estimates. In what way are ordinary people likely to feel the impact? Frank spoke to Roger Pollen, head of the FSB NI and GB news reporter Dougie Beattie

247

5301: LISTEN¦ Should older drivers have to re-sit their test? Are they safer than newly-qualified drivers? The subject divided our listeners on this morning's Phone-In

248

5300: LISTEN¦ Should dogs be allowed in the office? One in ten UK workers brings their pup to work and animal charities say it reduces separation anxiety but not everyone's a fan. What if you have allergies? Should employees have the option?

249

5299: LISTEN¦ Nearly 40 years on from his Ramsay Street debut, Jason Donovan is still 'Doin Fine' - in fact he's back in Belfast next week and appearing to packed houses across the UK and Ireland. He talked Neighbours, hit musicals and his loyal fanbase

250

5298: LISTEN¦ Should the very wealthiest pay more tax, to fund public services? Or do they already shoulder a disproportionate burden? Campaigers have called for a 'wealth tax' but would it work?

251

5297: LISTEN¦ Should it be illegal to overtake a stopped bus? A local councillor has called for greater safety measures , following the tragic death of an 11 year old girl, who was hit by a car getting off a bus. Frank spoke to Cllr Malachy Quinn

252

5296: LISTEN¦ One of the world's greatest ever songwriters, three-time Oscar winner Sir Tim Rice joined Frank in studio to talk about his upcoming show 'My Life In Musicals: I Know Him So Well'

253

5295: LISTEN¦ The cost of household bills is pushing people into debt. Sinead Campbell from Advice NI spoke to Frank as research found the average personal debt had nearly doubled in four years

254

5294: LISTEN¦ Should we ban parents from giving their children bizarre names? A couple has sparked an online debate after naming their baby 'Trucklyn'. What are the strangest names you've heard? Frank spoke to Gráinne McGarvey

255

5293: LISTEN¦ 'It was quite terrifying' - DUP MLA Diane Forsythe told Frank that dry conditions had led to fires spreading very quickly, threatening wildlife and coming close to people's homes

256

5292: LISTEN¦ The DUP's Carla Lockhart has spoken out about abuse she's faced, while in office. She's far from alone. A BBC programme has highlighted what our local politicians face on a daily basis, leading some to consider leaving politics

257

5291: LISTEN¦ What grosses you out? Scientists in Zurich found younger women are more squeamish, while men become fussier with age. What sickens you?

258

5290: LISTEN¦ Was £54,000 too much to pay for Stormont leaders to visit Washington? Why did it take a year to find the figures? The Belfast Telegraph revealed the cost of the four day trip. Frank got the thoughts of Prof Jon Tonge

259

5289: LISTEN¦ Could ending division help cut waiting lists, improve education and provide better services? An Alliance motion is drawing attention to the near £1bn cost of a divided society. Frank spoke to the party's finance spokesman Eóin Tennyson

260

5288: LISTEN¦ Who should treat young men how to treat women? Parents? Teachers? Netflix drama Adolescence has made headlines, with themes around misogyny, with the PM claiming it should be shown in schools

261

5287: LISTEN¦ Can Stormont find £150m to mitigate welfare cuts? Could health reform be a path to addressing a reliance on long-term disability benefits? Frank spoke to Prof Deirdre Heenan and Dr Ciara Fitzpatrick

262

5286: LISTEN¦ Are taxpayers being 'taken for a ride'? A local MP is among those raising concerns about the number of cars being supplied to Motability claimants in Northern Ireland. Frank spoke to Will Yarwood from the Taxpayers Alliance

263

5285: LISTEN¦ Is Conor McGregor's voice worth listening to? He visited the White House claiming to represent views of Ireland that aren't being heard, but the Taoiseach claimed his message 'did not reflect the views of the people of Ireland'

264

5284: LISTEN¦ Do you find plus-size models inspirational or irresponsible? A clothing brand says it receives over a hundred complaints a day, suggesting they're promoting an unhealthy lifestyle by using larger models

265

5283: LISTEN¦ Are married men letting themselves go? Scientists have found married men are three times more likely than single men to be obese, but married women don't seem to experience the same expanding waistline

266

5282: LISTEN¦ From Newry to New York, via Rio? A local school will be bringing samba rhythms to the world's most famous St Patrick's Day parade, next week. Frank spoke to teacher Peter Slane and pupil Conor Sands

267

5281: LISTEN¦ Should chanting 'ooh ah up the 'Ra' be outlawed? A new policing bill could prohibit flags glorifying terrorism. TUV MP Jim Allister has suggested it should also include a ban on singing songs or chants of support for proscribed organisations

268

5280: LISTEN¦ Delays in ambulance handovers put around 3,800 people at potential risk of severe harm, according to a scathing report by the NI Audit Office. Frank spoke to the SDLP's Colin McGrath and Áine Magee from Carers NI

269

5279: LISTEN¦ Should religious education be mandatory in schools? A new poll suggests a majority don't believe children should have to study it. Frank spoke to Amanda Ferguson

270

5278: LISTEN¦ Is it time to stop sending letters? Denmark's postal service is ending deliveries of letters. Have they had their day? Frank got the thoughts of writer Malachi O'Doherty

271

5277: LISTEN¦ Is there too much football on Match of the Day? BBC Chairman Samir Shah says there should be more analysis and discussion and less focus on the action. Frank spoke to sports writer Steven Beacom

272

5276: LISTEN¦ Over 100 life-saving kidney transplants are carried out in NI each year. Frank spoke to Graeme Francey about his own experience, receiving a kidney from his sister

273

5275: LISTEN¦ Could you save over £130 on your gas bill? Some Firmus customers are getting a price cut. Rick spoke to energy expert Aodhan O'Donnell, from Power To Switch about who will benefit

274

5274: LISTEN¦ Do we still need feminism? A study finds young women out-earn young men by around 9% Is it time for a mainstream mens movement? Peter spoke to writer Fionola Meredith

275

5273: LISTEN¦ 80% of teachers say they've been abused by parents in the past year, with nearly one in ten reporting being physically attacked. Peter spoke to Dr Graham Gault from the NAHT

276

5272: LISTEN¦ Should homeowners be fined up to £500 for an untidy garden? How about dogs that keep the neighbours up by barking? Peter spoke to Helen McClements about a government crackdown on anti-social behaviour

277

5271: LISTEN¦ Top chef Mark Hix is among the celebrated figures inspiring the next generation of hospitality industry talent, as part of Ulster University's culinary salon series. Peter spoke to Mark and Don Sloane from the Oxford Collective

278

5270: LISTEN¦ Do we need to rethink how we speak about violence against women and girls? How important are the language and images we use? Peter spoke to Sonya McMullan from the Womens Aid Federation

279

5269: LISTEN¦ Was the Programme For Government a 'message of ambition' or a 'limp, listless, missed opportunity'? There's been a mixed reaction so far. Peter spoke to opposition leader Matthew O'Toole and Prof Deirdre Heenan

280

5268: LISTEN¦ How do you like your pancakes? A simple crepe? Fluffy American style? Something more exotic? Peter spoke to Britain's Best Home Cook, Suzie Lee and got some great tips

281

5267: LISTEN¦ After several local women are hospitalised following botched cosmetic procedures, there's growing pressure to regulate the non-surgical cosmetic industry. What are the biggest pit falls? Peter spoke to Ashton from Save Face

282

5266: LISTEN¦ The time to act is now - Deirdre Maguire gave Peter some tips about overcoming inaction. Why do we struggle to take action and how to embrace change

283

5265: LISTEN¦ Is it okay to spy on your children? Presenter and DJ Sara Cox told The Times that she uses her doorbell camera and even apps to keep an eye on her teenage children. Is it prudent parenting, or overstepping boundaries?

284

5264: LISTEN¦ What TV shows would you like to see rebooted? Supermarket Sweep is returning, on YouTube. Blind Date, Bullseye and Catchphrase have all been revived, but did it work? Peter spoke to showbiz reporter Nigel Pauley

285

5263: LISTEN¦ Should drivers be made to pay per mile? It's one of the proposals to close an £8bn funding gap a transition to electric vehicles would create, in lost fuel duty and road tax. Rick spoke to Brian Gregory from the Alliance of British Drivers

286

5262: LISTEN¦ Several major sewage treatment projects won't now go ahead due to funding constraints. What impact will that have on water quality in areas including Belfast Lough? Rick spoke to Cllr Anthony Flynn from the Green Party

287

5261: LISTEN¦ Should we ban pavement parking? A council in England is aiming to trial the idea and some believe it would make it safer for pedestrians, wheelchair users and prams. Rick spoke to Cllr Gary McKeown from the SDLP

288

5260: LISTEN¦ Could restoring Belfast's Assembly Rooms be the catalyst for redeveloping part of the city centre? Rick talked to Green councillor Brian Smyth, as campaigners call for it to be bought from developers

289

5259: LISTEN¦ Should children still study Shakespeare? Actress Daisy May Cooper claims the Bard's work is 'depressing' and no longer relevant. Is it still worth teaching? Rick spoke to writer Fionola Meredith

290

5258: LISTEN¦ Should there be bars in the Houses of Parliament? The Strangers bar in the Commons has just re-opened, but do booze and politics mix? Frank spoke to Mick Fealty and Alex Kane

291

5257: LISTEN¦ Are we spoiling kids with 'gentle parenting'? The UK's 'strictest head teacher' claims 'middle class parenting advice' has 'infantilised' parents and left them feeling 'helpless'. Frank spoke to Parenting Focus interim CEO Koulla Yiasouma

292

5256: LISTEN¦ Should nudist beaches be banned? A local authority in England has tried to restrict nude sunbathing, as they claim it's upsetting locals - are they being prudish? Frank spoke to Kim Kelly and Gary Kennedy from British Naturism

293

5255: LISTEN¦ Who's NI's most popular politician? Has the gap between support for the Union and a United Ireland narrowed or widened? Frank got analysis from Prof Jon Tonge and Dr David McCann

294

5254: LISTEN¦ First we had the Real Housewives of Orange County, then New York, Atlanta and Beverly Hills. Now it's the turn of Derry to bring its own brand of glamour, drama and chaos to the stage. Frank spoke to Louise Moorhead and Sonya Blakely

295

5253: LISTEN¦ Are men more romantic? Research combining more than 50 studies suggests they fall in love more quickly, say 'I love you' more readily and are less likely to initiative a break-up. What do you think?

296

5252: LISTEN¦ Do older people have a moral duty to downsize, amid the housing crisis? Latest figures show 10 million UK homes with two or more unused bedrooms - most of them owned by pensioners. What do you think?

297

5251: LISTEN¦ Who should pay on first date? A recent survey found 72% still believe men should pay. Frank spoke to Sour Wee Blogger, Helen McClements

298

5250: LISTEN¦ Do you know a teacher who deserves special recognition for inspiring, education and leaving a lasting impact? Nominations are now open for the Local Women Education Awards 2025

299

5249: LISTEN¦ Is AI going to replace your job? A new study has painted a gloomy picture for the future of some sectors, but will we always need human input? Frank spoke to top cyber security expert Wayne Denner

300

5248: LISTEN¦ Should we name and shame benefit cheats? Communities Minister Gordon Lyons says he plans to re-introduce the practice as part of a zero-tolerance approach to fraud, but campaigners say it's 'misguided'

301

5247: LISTEN¦ Should Northern Ireland follow the Republic in lowering the speed limit on some roads? Would it make us safer? Frank spoke to road safety expert Terence Malcolm and took calls from listeners

302

5246: LISTEN¦ A pet food company claims to be the world's first to use lab grown meat in its products. You might give it to your cat or dog, but would you fancy a boffin-built burger? Frank spoke to Fionola Meredith

303

5245: LISTEN¦ Are you an early bird? A new study found mornings are the 'happiest' time of the day, when we're in a better mood, with lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Frank spoke to early-rise Gráinne McGarvey from Pulse PR

304

5244: LISTEN¦ Should we ban cats from going outdoors, to protect wildlife? Frank spoke to Talk TV presenter and cat aficionado Peter Cardwell about the SNP cat curfew proposal

305

5243: LISTEN¦ Numbers and maths are everywhere and yet many of are fearful of sums - Frank spoke to Dr Sumeeta Gupta and Barry Dillon from Ulster University about Maths Fest which aims to demystify maths for children and parents

306

5242: LISTEN¦Would you struggle to return to the office after working from home? Companies are encouraging and in some cases mandating employees go back to the workplace. Frank spoke to top economist Richard Ramsey

307

5241: LISTEN¦ Will Ireland make history and win three in a row? Frank spoke to Ireland and Leinster legend Rob Kearney, as the Six Nations kicks off

308

5240: LISTEN¦ Should households left without power for a whole week be given compensation? If so, who should pay it? Frank spoke to Alliance MLA Eoin Tennyson and Cllr Gareth Wilson

309

5239: LISTEN¦ With around 25,000 NI home still without power, the DUP's Deborah Erskine, who chairs Stormont's Infrastructure Committee, talks to Frank about the efforts she and other MLAs are making to support people in the aftermath of Storm Eowyn

310

5238: LISTEN¦ A former Lord Mayor has expressed concern that 'ignorant and damaging' billboards risk demonising the people of west Belfast. Does he have a point? Frank spoke to Máirtín Ó Muilleoir

311

5237: LISTEN¦ Have you completed your tax forms? If not, don't delay - it could be costly. Frank spoke to Jennifer Elliot from Advice NI, to get some tips

312

5236: LISTEN¦ Could a simple change to the Highway Code make the roads safer for Northern Ireland's cyclists? Frank spoke to Sophie Gordon, from Cycling UK, about the idea of a 'hierarchy of road users'

313

5235: LISTEN¦ Amazon is to trial drone delivery in the UK. Will you be signing up? Some have concerns around safety and privacy. Frank spoke to blogger Helen McClements and drone operator Dean

314

5234: LISTEN¦ Is it time we treated gambling addiction as a public health issue? As many as 2% of people in NI may have a gambling problem. Frank spoke to MLA Philip McGuigan who chairs the All Party Group on Gambling Harm

315

5233: LISTEN¦ Should eating and driving be banned? Road safety campaigners have hit out at social media star Molly-Mae Hague after she was filmed driving and eating chicken nuggets

316

5232: LISTEN¦ Do we need more or bigger airports? A new report suggests it could be a boost to the economy, helping tourism and business connectivity, but what about the environment? John spoke to travel expert Frank Brehany

317

5231: LISTEN¦ Astrology - do you believe in it? There was a time when astrologers, like Russell Grant and Mystic Meg were household names. It's now making a comeback, as one of the most popular TikTok trends. What do you think?

318

5230: LISTEN¦ The Met Office has issued its first ever red weather warning covering the whole island of Ireland. What precautions can you take to stay safe? John spoke to health and safety expert Kelly Mulgrew

319

5229: LISTEN¦ Are school teeth-brushing lessons the answer to tackling tooth decay? Or should it be up to parents to teach kids good habits? Perhaps a mix of the two? John spoke to dentist Ciara Gallagher, from the British Dental Association

320

5228: LISTEN¦ Is this the worst Man Utd team ever? With his team in 13th in the table, manager Ruben Amorim has said they are 'being the worst team in history' - do you agree?

321

5227: LISTEN¦ What will a second Donald Trump term look like? How will the 47th President shape the world, as well as his own country? Will the MAGA agenda succeed? Peter spoke to Dr Stefan Andreasson, from QUB

322

5226: LISTEN¦ 'Manifesting' was one of the most searched for words of 2024 - but does it work? Have you tried it? Can you will yourself towards success? Peter spoke to wellness expert Deirdre Maguire

323

5225: LISTEN¦ Why are people turning their backs on smart watches, as the trend towards mechanical time pieces grows? How many watches does anyone need? Peter spoke to horology enthusiast John Mulgrew

324

5224: LISTEN¦ Are we a workshy nation? Brewdog founder James Watt has suggested our work ethic 'just doesn't stack up against other nations'

325

5223: LISTEN¦ Suits - stylish or stuffy? Sales have risen in the past year, as more men appear to be turning away from 'dressing down'. We spoke to top tailor Chris Suitor

326

5222: LISTEN¦ A quarter of young adults in NI still live with their parents. More than anywhere else in the UK, according to Institute for Fiscal Studies. What does that say about our culture and economy? Frank spoke to Lata Sharma

327

5221: LISTEN¦ Should school teach DIY? A new survey found a quarter of young people couldn't change a lightbulb, while one in five didn't know what a spanner was.

328

5220: LISTEN¦ Should the taxpayer fund the BBC? The Culture Secretary is considering scrapping the licence fee and using general taxation to pay for the service instead

329

5219: LISTEN¦ Should we be teaching chess at school? World Champion Judit Polgar is among those suggesting it could enhance problem solving and improve behaviour

330

5218: LISTEN¦ Wrestling has exploded onto Netflix, as part of a billion dollar investment - will you be watching? Frank spoke to WWE Womens US Champion Chelsea Green & wrestling superfan, Kris Jack

331

5217: LISTEN¦ Rejection - is it something that terrifies you or is it something you should embrace? Trainer and content creator Eoin Maginn believes facing the fear of can build your confidence - he's been seeking out rejection in a very public way

332

5216: LISTEN¦ 'It takes a village, but these days there isn't a village, we all live in flats, so we're building one' Brónagh Diamond, co founder of Kitsch Sisters, talks about forging community through craft

333

5215: LISTEN¦ Nutritionist Sal Hanvey called in to share Christmas recipe ideas, including a delicious gluten-free, sugar free brie and cranberry filo pastry wreath

334

5214: LISTEN¦ Nathan Carter popped in to talk to Frank about his Christmas Special, recording a charity single with Una Healy, starting his own clothing range and writing his new album with Robbie William's long-time writing partner Guy Chambers

335

5213: LISTEN¦ Looking for some last-minute tips for the perfect Christmas Dinner? Frank spoke to top chef Niall McKenna from James St South/Waterman House

336

5212: LISTEN¦ 'We were so young - at that stage we had no idea how long these songs would last - we were just writing for the next LP' - The Undertones bassist Mickey Bradley spoke to Frank ahead of a special Christmas gig on Saturday, at the Ulster Hall

337

5211: LISTEN¦ Relief for workers at Harland and Wolff as a deal with Spanish state-owned shipbuilders Navantia will secure over 1,000 jobs. Frank got the latest from Irish News business reporter Ryan McAleer

338

5210: LISTEN¦ Has the Labour government betrayed millions of women over pensions? Frank spoke to SDLP leader Claire Hanna, who said that after years of campaigning the move will come as a big blow

339

5209: LISTEN¦ Should foreign billionaires be free to financially back UK parties? Fresh from helping Donald Trump back into the Whitehouse, Elon Musk is considering a major donation to Reform UK. Should we welcome a challenge to the two biggest parties?

340

5208: LISTEN¦ What is the appropriate punishment for a protester who throws a milkshake at a politician, while out canvassing? Victoria Thomas Bowen was given a suspended sentence after assaulting Reform MP Nigel Farage

341

5207: LISTEN¦ Will your next car be electric? A survey found 80% in NI want to buy an EV in the next 5 years, but currently only 2% of cars on our roads are electric. Frank spoke to Alliance MLA Kate Nicholl

342

5206: LISTEN¦ Should you scold other people's children if they misbehave? A TikToker has sparked a debate after describing an encounter with a poorly behaved child on a flight. Frank got the thoughts of Kim Kelly

343

5205: LISTEN¦ Parts of Northern Ireland have been badly affected by flooding, high winds and power cuts as Storm Bert hit. Frank spoke to Cllr Malachy Quinn in Coalisland, Cllr Declan McArdle in Derrylin and Pastor Paul Gray in Dundonald

344

5204: LISTEN¦ Should NI Commonwealth Games chief bin the Ulster Banner in favour of a 'more inclusive' Northern Ireland flag? Frank spoke to sports journalist Adam McKendry

345

5203: LISTEN¦ Diona Doherty called in to talk to Frank about her Christmas show Miracle at Number 34 and her new standup tour 'Get Your Pink Back'

346

5202: LISTEN¦ What government support is there to help young people with SEN transition into adult life? Not very much, it appears. Frank spoke to Alma White about the 'cliff edge' many people experience, once their statement runs out, at 19

347

5201: LISTEN¦ Is the criticism of Prince William's homeless campaign harsh? Some journalists have said he's well meaning but is taking the wrong approach, while Graham Smith CEO of Republic said the problem 'needs political will and money, not royals'

348

5200: LISTEN¦ The head of a health trust has warned patients are missing appointments because they can't afford to miss work. Does the health service need to be more flexible? Would evening and weekend appointments help? Frank spoke to Prof Deirdre Heenan

349

5199: LISTEN¦ Should we be worried after President Putin warned the UK could be targeted for involvement in Ukrainian missile strikes on Moscow? Frank spoke to ex-military intelligence officer Philip Ingram

350

5198: LISTEN¦ Is there a good way to break bad news? A man's gone viral after paying influencers to send his wife a video, saying he wanted a divorce. What's the worst way to tell someone news you know will upset them? Frank spoke to Malachi O'Doherty

351

5197: LISTEN¦ Have you every lied on a CV to get a job? The Chancellor is in hot water over suggestions she exaggerated her experience as an economist - do employers expect it? What should happen if you get caught?

352

5196: LISTEN¦ What would you buy first if you won the lottery jackpot? Frances Connolly, who won £115m in 2019 recently revealed her first purchase was a £12 pack of pants! Would you tell people you'd won?

353

5195: LISTEN¦ Would Jim McDonald work in 2024 Corrie? Charlie Lawson chatted to Frank about 'woke culture' in soaps, holidaying back home and his new memoir 'That's Life, So It Is'

354

5194: LISTEN¦ Are you ever too old to get a tattoo? A 99 year old grandmother, who became the UK's oldest woman to be tattooed, is considering one to mark her 100th birthday

355

5193: LISTEN¦ How can Stormont do more to harness the power of devolution? Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham & Belfast-born lead of Manchester council, Bev Craig, spoke to Frank about making the most of City Deals and learning from other cities

356

5192: LISTEN¦ Pioneer in the world of financial tech and boss of Tech Women Today, Cecilia Harvey spoke to Frank ahead of delivering at keynote speech at the Global Innovation Summit at QUB

357

5191: LISTEN¦ Campaigners warn endangered animals 'clearly suffer' when they're imported for zoos, due to 'insufficient welfare protections'. Frank spoke to animal rights activist Andrew Goti

358

5190: LISTEN¦ Health Minister Mike Nesbitt says a £100m budget shortfall means NI health workers may not get the same pay offer as their UK counterparts. What can he do, without more money? Frank spoke to Prof Deirdre Heenan & Patricia McKeown from Unison

359

5189: LISTEN¦ Would you miss lollipop people, if they disappeared? A 44-year-old man from near Manchester's in the headlines, after becoming a 5th generation lollipop man, but they're becoming harder to recruit. Do you have memories of them?

360

5188: LISTEN¦ Would you pay an extra £2 for a pint after 10pm? Some pubs are introducing 'surge pricing' at peak times - they say it's to cover increased costs, like added security

361

5187: LISTEN¦ Will Fine Gael or the budget airline he leads feel the impact of Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary's comment on teachers, at an event this weekend? Frank spoke to teaching union rep Justin McCamphill from the NASUWT

362

5186: LISTEN¦ Are schools too focused on exam results? The UK education secretary has warned obsessing about grades won't help pupils or schools. Frank spoke to Mick Fealty about his experience of working in schools across Europe

363

5185: LISTEN¦ Funny honey? Research has found that some cheaper honey on supermarkets shelves isn't genuine - being bulked out with sugar syrups. Frank spoke to beekeeper Emma Thompson from Bee Haven

364

5184: LISTEN¦ Will a 'sex strike' change how people vote in future? Women in the US have been backing the so-called '4B' movement in protest over Trump's victory, which they say harms womens rights. Frank spoke to feminist and author Fionola Meredith

365

5183: LISTEN¦ Want to lose 10 pounds by Christmas? Wellness expert Deirdre Maguire had some tips to share with our listeners

366

5182: LISTEN¦ Are beards scruffy? Prince William made headlines after appearing in public with a new beard - some suggested it looked unkempt, while others said it was 'rugged'. Frank got the thoughts of Kim Kelly

367

5181: LISTEN¦ 'She was the most extraordinary woman - endlessly brave, kind and hard-working' - Alliance MLA Kate Nicholl paid tribute to her close friend and colleague Anna Lo, who died aged 74

368

5180: LISTEN¦ Boxing legend Carl Frampton and Age NI's Siobhan Casey spoke to Frank about a new campaign, aiming to raise £500,000 to support older people in Northern Ireland

369

5179: LISTEN¦ It's a fast-paced, full contact sport with millions of players worldwide, but did you know Northern Ireland has its own successful team? Frank spoke to Sarah 'Shutter' Marsden about Belfast Roller Derby

370

5178: LISTEN¦ David Essex - He's sold millions of records, starred on the big and small screens, including a stint on Albert Square. Next month he'll be 'Rocking On' at Belfast's Waterfront Hall. He called in for a chat with Frank

371

5177: LISTEN¦ Did you have a nickname at school? Should you use nicknames in the workplace? A new study in the Harvard Business Review has warned it could be risky! Frank spoke to Kim Kelly

372

5176: LISTEN¦ Should cyclists be banned from cities, to avoid collisions with pedestrians? Birmingham is the latest council to consider it. Would it be a backward step in the push towards more active travel? Frank spoke to Andrew McClean from Cycling UK

373

5175: LISTEN¦ 'Nothing really matters' - Jonny McEwen and Adam Turkington, two of the minds behind Nothing Day and the Nothing Conference talk about the creativity that can be sparked by doing nothing

374

5174: LISTEN¦ Does a celebrity endorsement affect how you vote? Are you getting tired of famous faces involving themselves in politics? Frank spoke to author and journalist Fionola Meredith

375

5173: LISTEN¦ Are all estate agents flashy? Computer programmers geeky? Actors neurotic? What does your job say about you? A new study found there may be a scientific basis for job stereotypes

376

5172: LISTEN¦ MLAs are to have their say on post-Brexit trading arrangements. Why is no cross-community consent required for such a significant vote? Why is the DUP opposing the status quo? Frank spoke to the SDLP's Matthew O'Toole and TUV's Jim Allister

377

5171: LISTEN¦ Too late for the Euros, but should Stormont still go ahead with the Casement Park project, on a reduced scale? Frank spoke to commentators Prof Jon Tonge and Brendan Mulgrew

378

5170: LISTEN¦ Must-see Halloween viewing - 'A blend of local live TV from the 80s and 90s with supernatural, poltergeist movies' - director Dominic O'Neill talks to Frank about his new films Haunted Ulster Live

379

5169: LISTEN¦ 'The creativity is out of this world - it's magical' - Mayor of Derry City & Strabane Lilian Seenoi-Barr talks about the enormous pride and imagination the people of the city display at Halloween

380

5168: LISTEN¦ Scarily good! Odhran Dunne, from Visit Derry told Frank how Derry Halloween had become an international sensation - named by publications like USA Today as the world's best!

381

5167: LISTEN¦ 'I thought I was invincible but that mammogram saved my life' - top reporter Barbara McCann is urging others to self-check and attend appointments, after her own experience of breast cancer

382

5166: LISTEN¦ With minimum wage rises and tax increases on the way, how will the Budget affect Northern Ireland workers and businesses? Frank spoke to Gary McDonald from the Irish News and chartered accountant Ross Boyd

383

5165: LISTEN¦ Why are Gen-Z not having babies? The UK fertility rate has dropped to a record low . Why do you think that is? Frank spoke to Fionola Meredith

384

5164: LISTEN¦ 'A moment's carelessness can lead to a lifetime of injuries' - top plastic surgeon Alastair Brown talks to Frank about the dangers of misuse of fireworks

385

5163: LISTEN¦ Should bad parking be punished with fines? A new pilot scheme in south and east Belfast could see people prosecuted for blocking pavements or access for residents, pedestrians or emergency services

386

5162: LISTEN¦ What is NI's best high street? What makes a good high street? A travel website has named Newcastle, Bayllcastle, Carrickfergus and Enniskillen among our best. Frank got the thoughts of Glyn Roberts from Retail NI

387

LISTEN¦ 'The internet should be a more dangerous place for predators than our children' - child protection expert Jim Gamble and top cyber security consultant Wayne Denner talk about lessons that need to be learned after the Alexander McCartney case

388

5161: LISTEN¦ Should we give teachers more holidays? Some English schools are considering a nine-day fortnight among plans to entice new talent, but campaigner Brian Banks told Frank he just wants existing contracts to be adhered to

389

5160: LISTEN¦ Should you be punished for stealing loo roll from work? A police woman has been suspended after admitting to pinching toilet paper. Was that too harsh a penalty? Have you done it? Frank got the thoughts of Mick Fealty

390

5159: LISTEN¦ Will our rates have to rise to cover record spending deficits by local councils? Or will jobs be axed? And how do we deal with soaring absentee levels among council staff? Frank spoke to John Manley from the Irish News

391

5158: LISTEN¦ Should we stop turning back the clock? Sleep experts claim scrapping daylight savings time could help us living longer and healthier as well as improving road safety. Frank spoke to Dr Megan Crawford from the British Sleep Society

392

5157: LISTEN¦ Belfast traffic so bad that patients AND doctors have missed urgent appointments. Frank spoke to Belfast Telegraph reporter Niamh Campbell who's been covering the story

393

5156: LISTEN¦ Should you always wear your wedding ring? Would you be worried if your spouse stopped wearing theirs? Prince William famously doesn't wear one - do you? Frank got the thoughts of commentator Gráinne McGarvey

394

5155: LISTEN¦ Years of under-investment in water infrastructure are impacting on housing, health and the economy - Frank spoke to Alliance infrastructure spokesman Andrew McMurray as his party set out proposals to deal with the issue

395

5154: LISTEN¦ How did a child go missing for so long without a major search? Irish Sun journalist Stephen Breen spoke to Frank about the latest on the search for eight-year-old Kyran Durnin

396

5153: LISTEN¦ Should shops close on Boxing Day? Poundland has become the latest major retailer to say it will close for two days over the holidays - good for staff or bad for business?

397

5152: LISTEN¦ Want to play your favourite sport, but worried it might be too fast paced? Walking versions of netball and football are growing in popularity. Sarah Aiken from ABC Council told Frank how they're getting more women involved

398

5150: LISTEN¦ Should we fine patients for missing hospital appointments? Each missed consultation costs over £200 in wasted time - should people be punished?

399

5149: LISTEN¦ 'Is Nigel here?' - Paddy Raff talked to Frank about separating himself from his comic creations, what it's like to play the SSE Arena and the X-rated jokes people tell him

400

5148: LISTEN¦ Should we tax frequent flyers more? A new study found a 'jet setter' tax could raise £54 billion a year without hitting most ordinary passengers

401

5147: LISTEN¦ Should we scrap income tax for under-35s? Portugal is experimenting with tax breaks to give young people a better start in life - but is it fair for others to foot the bill? Frank spoke to Fionola Meredith

402

5146: LISTEN¦ Do you trust your gut? Are your instincts normally right? Frank and Deirdre Maguire talk about whether you should listen to your intuition and where it might lead you

403

5145: LISTEN¦ Has your car insurance gone up? Does NI get a raw deal? The government is setting up a task force to tackle spiraling costs. Will it work? Rick spoke to UUP MLA Andy Allen

404

5144: LISTEN¦ Concentration - has social media ruined yours? A study found on average adults struggle to focus for more than 17 minutes. Frank spoke to blogger Helen McClements

405

5143: LISTEN¦ Is it time to get rid of hereditary peers? What about abolishing the House of Lords altogether? Frank spoke to Irish News political editor John Manley

406

5142: LISTEN¦ Next stop Mars? Frank spoke to astronomer Kerem Cubuk from Armagh Planetarium, after Space X successfully landed its re-usable rocket

407

5141: LISTEN¦ How do you feel about the idea of mandatory vaccination or quarantine in the case of a public health emergency? These are two elements being discussed in the consultation around Stormont's new Health Bill

408

5140: LISTEN¦ Is love better later in life? Miranda Hart has spoken of her joy after getting married for the first time at 51. Frank got the thoughts of Kim Kelly

409

5139: LISTEN¦ Is 57 too old to find a new job? Nearly half of recruiters think applicants in their late 50s are too old - a fifth of jobseekers admit to hiding their age - Frank spoke to Malachi O'Doherty

410

5138: LISTEN¦ Should cinemas ban hot food? Do other people eating in public gross you out? Frank spoke to Helen McClements from Sour Wee Blog

411

5137: LISTEN¦ Should parenting classes or other supports be put in place, to ensure children as 'school ready' by the time they start P1? Frank spoke to the NI Children's Commissioner, Chris Quinn

412

5136: LISTEN¦ Will it take a generation to fix our health service? Is it fixable? Prof Bengoa who wrote a roadmap for reform in 2016 is returning - are we any further along? Frank spoke to Prof Deirdre Heenan

413

5135: LISTEN¦ 'You've got to get out - I don't want to write about you' - powerful interview with Allison Morris from the Belfast Telegraph, as she urges women in abusive relationships to seek help, after a fourth woman in NI was killed in just six weeks

414

5134: LISTEN¦ Self checkout tills - do you love them or loathe them? A new survey found 60% of shoppers prefer a human cashier. Frank spoke to Mick Fealty and took calls from listeners

415

5133: LISTEN¦ Have you had trouble getting a GP appointment? Should they all be face-to-face, or do phone consultations have a role to play. Hear what one of NI's top GPs had to say to Frank

416

5132: LISTEN¦ Are our town centres being ignored? What happened to the High Street Task Force? Retail NI chief Glyn Roberts told Frank he was 'disappointed' at the lack of action by the Executive

417

5131: LISTEN¦ Should maternity pay be increased, or is it already 'excessive'. Tory leadership hopeful Kemi Badenoch says her comments have been misinterpreted, but what do you think? Frank spoke to Kim Kelly

418

5130: LISTEN¦ Should male and female sports stars be paid equally? From next year, the England & Wales Cricket Board has agreed minimum salaries for men and women should be equal as a step towards pay parity. Should other sports follow suit?

419

5129: LISTEN¦ Should we punish people for not recycling or do more to incentivise it? A new study has found young people are least likely to recycle and overall rates have fallen. Frank spoke to Green leader Mal O'Hara

420

5128: LISTEN¦ Should we extend Sunday trading hours? Belfast Council is considering a pilot scheme that would allow for businesses to open earlier. But not everyone is a fan. Frank spoke to the head of Retail NI, Glyn Roberts

421

5127: LISTEN¦ Should the long term sick be encouraged to work? The Prime Minister said that to maintain the welfare state 'we must tackle worklessness'

422

5126: LISTEN¦ From telling jokes on the playground to performing for packed crowds as a stand-up - Sean Hegarty talked about how his love of collecting joke books as a child put him on a path to a career in comedy and inspired him to write his own

423

5124: LISTEN¦ Will Phillip Schofield be welcomed back onto our screens? He's set to appear in a new Channel 5 reality show 'Castaway' - will you be watching? Frank spoke to showbiz reporter Kim Kelly

424

5123: LISTEN¦ Is the Royal Family good value for money? A new report has claimed it costs the public purse over £500m a year - but others suggest the tourism revenue generated alone covers its costs

425

LISTEN¦ Should 16 year olds be allowed to vote? Sinn Fein has brought a debate to the Assembly, after the Labour government committed to examining the possibility. Is it time more young people had a say in politics?

426

5122: LISTEN¦ Would you report your child to the police? A 14 year old has escaped prosecution over rioting, because his parents gave him such a telling off. Peter spoke to Kim Kelly

427

5121: LISTEN¦ Becky and Connor from Show Some Love Belfast popped in to talk about Sustainable Fashion Week, their Sunday Service and their very popular podcast

428

5120: LISTEN¦ Is the NI accent the UK's scariest? Tesco have introduced intruder alarms, using a stern Northern Irish accent, to ward off burglars. Do we have the most intimidating accent?

429

5119: LISTEN¦ Is it still worth worth getting a degree? Nearly a third of graduates are being awarded a first - does that erode the value of a degree?

430

5118: LISTEN¦ Is the Prime Minister wrong to accept freebies? Sir Keir Starmer declared gifts worth over £100,000, including VIP football tickets - which he claimed saved taxpayers thousands on security - do you agree?

431

5117: LISTEN¦ Should all shops be dog friendly? One major UK retailer is now allowing pet owners to bring their pups with them to their 200+ stores. Frank spoke to Helen McClements

432

5116: LISTEN¦ What makes you working class? Frank talked to taxi driver Robert, after Tory leadership hopeful Kemi Badenoch claimed she 'became working class' when she worked at McDonalds, in her teens

433

5115: LISTEN¦ Bored of Lunch? Not when Nathan Anthony's about. Frank spoke to the social media star at the Festival of Business, about how he went from cooking for himself at university to sharing his recipes with millions.

434

5114: LISTEN¦ Portrait artist Johnny Hamilton is on a mission to 'Make Bangor Great Again' with a series of stunning murals. He spoke to Frank about his 'City of Faces' project, what he'd like to achieve and who's next

435

5113: LISTEN¦ Paddy McDonnell talks about his new show, Dagger, ahead of his tour starting at the SSE Arena on 4th October. He also dropped a few hints about an upcoming Christmas play

436

5112: LISTEN¦ Does working from home make you more productive? Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds says a right to flexible working would make staff more productive and loyal. Frank spoke to Kim Kelly

437

5111: LISTEN¦ From performing for small crowds in a cabaret club, to sharing his talents with 16 million TikTok followers and becoming a Blue Peter presenter, Bangor's Joel Mawhinney has had quite the career - and he's still only 27

438

5110: LISTEN¦ President Trump has been the target of a second assassination attempt. Are his current security arrangements sufficient? Frank spoke to chair of Republicans Overseas UK, Greg Swenson

439

5109: LISTEN¦ Should irresponsible cyclists get penalty points on their driving licence, for dangerous behaviour? Frank got the thoughts of Mick Fealty from Slugger O'Toole

440

5108: LISTEN¦ Money saved or an opportunity missed? The UK government says it won't fund the projected £400m build cost of a new Casement Park in time for the Euros.

441

5107: LISTEN¦ Should we raise the age limit for social media? Australia is setting a minimum age amid concerns over physical and mental health of young people. Frank spoke to top cyber security expert Wayne Denner

442

5106: LISTEN¦ Will banning junk food advertising before 9pm help fix the obesity crisis? Or is it another example of the 'nanny state'? Frank got the thoughts of Fionola Meredith

443

5105: LISTEN¦ Should we still bow or curtsy when meeting a member of the Royal Family? Or is it an outdated tradition? Jude Law, who played Henry VIII, told an interviewer everyone should be treated the same

444

LISTEN¦ Should MPs be paid less if the UK economy struggles? An ex-government advisor has suggested politicians are too insulated from the consequences of their decision making. Frank spoke to Prof Jon Tonge

445

5104: LISTEN¦ Is it demeaning for a school to measure girls' skirts? Parents of pupils at a school on the Isle of Wight have been critical after pupils were lined up to have skirts measured under a new policy. Frank spoke to Kim Kelly

446

5103: LISTEN¦ The conditions might not suit the players, but Newcastle will be 'jumping' for the return of the Irish Open to Royal County Down. Frank spoke to Off The Ball's Nathan Murphy about everything from the weather to Mayo GAA and Casement Park

447

5102: LISTEN¦ What's it like, as a golf fan, to be the barber of choice for some of the world's top players? Frank spoke to Neal Toner, owner of JFH Social barbershops

448

5101: LISTEN¦ What makes Royal County Down one of the world's top courses? Frank spoke to top golf course analysts James Henderson & Paddy Neil from Top 100 Golf Courses

449

5100: LISTEN¦ Here's what to look out for at this year's Irish Open, at Royal County Down. Frank spoke to Adam McKendry from the Belfast Telegraph

450

5099: LISTEN¦ Is a gift card a lazy present? Or does it just ensure the recipient gets what they want? Frank spoke to commentator Kim Kelly

451

5098: LISTEN¦ Should the government increase tax on crisps, cakes and sugary coffee drinks? The Treasury is considering so-called 'sin taxes' as health bodies charities it will save lives - but are they fair?

452

5097: LISTEN¦ Should a national team manager always sing the national anthem? England interim boss Lee Carlsey has faced calls to resign after he said he wouldn't sing 'God Save the King'. Frank spoke to Mick Fealty of Slugger O'Toole

453

5096: LISTEN¦ Some patients are having to pay up to £5 a time for prescription deliveries, as pharmacies say they're facing huge cost pressures. Frank got the latest from Belfast Telegraph reporter Liam Tunney

454

5094: LISTEN¦ With one in three young drivers admitting to taking a selfie behind the wheel and one in six texting and driving, should the driving age be raised to 21? Frank spoke to Fionola Meredith

455

5093: LISTEN¦ From trips to Ballyholme beach and sushi with strangers in his granny's house on the Lisburn Road, Milton Jones talked to Rick about his Northern Ireland connections - ahead of big shows in Belfast and Derry, later this month

456

5092: LISTEN¦ Childcare subsidies in the Republic have increased from today - how is our own Childcare Subsidy Scheme, announced in May, going? Rick spoke to Clare from Melted Parents NI

457

5091: LISTEN¦ Does Stormont have a long-term vision for improving the lives of people in Northern Ireland? Rick spoke to Ann Watt, from think tank Pivotal, about how are MLAs have performed since the institutions were restored

458

5090: LISTEN¦ How would you celebrate a big anniversary? With a skinny dip? That's just what British Naturism is doing to mark its 60th, along with raising funds for the RNLI which is 200 years old

459

5089: LISTEN¦ Should parents think again when they upload 'first day of school' posts to social media? Rick spoke to top cyber security expert Wayne Denner

460

5088: LISTEN¦ Colum Eastwood is to stand down as SDLP leader - has he left the party better than he found it and who will replace him? Rick spoke to Irish News political editor John Manley who broke the story

461

5086: LISTEN¦ Founder of messaging app Telegram has been arrested by French authorities. A blow for free speech or clamping down on claims of criminality on the platform? Rick spoke to cyber security expert Wayne Denner

462

5085: LISTEN¦ Oasis are expected to get back together for a series of reunion gigs next year. With tickets likely to start from £100, will you be in the queue? Rick spoke to former showbiz editor Nigel Pauley

463

5084: LISTEN¦ Would you like to see Belfast bars stay open later? Frank spoke to Hospitality Ulster chief executive Colin Neill

464

5083: LISTEN¦ What's the most you've paid for a cup of tea? A pensioner has started a row after penning an angry letter about being charged £4.40 for two cups of tea . Frank spoke to blogger Helen McClements

465

5082: LISTEN¦ Should we reward our children for good exam results? Frank got the thoughts of Kim Kelly

466

5081: LISTEN¦ All eyes on you - are doorbell cameras infringing on our privacy? What happens to the data they collect? Frank spoke to cyber security expert Wayne Denner

467

5080: LISTEN¦ Should we make parking more expensive, to encourage public transport or active travel? Frank spoke to Anne Madden from Sustrans and Glyn Roberts from Retail NI

468

5079: LISTEN¦ After the progressive leadership of Doug Beattie, what now for the Ulster Unionist Party? Frank spoke to former UUP comms chief Alex Kane and Slugger O'Toole editor Mick Fealty

469

5078: LISTEN¦ A best man at a wedding has divided online opinion by proposing during his speech. Was the groom right to ask him to leave? Frank spoke to Helen McClements from Sour Wee Blog about wedding no-nos

470

5077: LISTEN¦ Can politicians do more to prevent unrest? As Stormont is recalled, Frank spoke to MLAs Kate Nicholl of Alliance and the TUV's Timothy Gaston, as well as commentator Lata Sharma

471

5076: LISTEN¦ After a third night of disorder, a local health trust has warned that around ten nurses from overseas have said they may now leave Northern Ireland. Frank spoke to journalist Amanda Ferguson and Alliance health spokesperson Danny Donnelly

472

5075: LISTEN¦ Could the re-appearance of blue-green algae on Lough Neagh pose serious health concerns? Frank spoke to expert Dr Neil Reid, from Queens University

473

5074: LISTEN¦ Another night of disorder in Belfast leads to calls for more resources for policing. Frank spoke to PA reporter Jonathan McCambridge, Cllr Séamas de Faoite and U105's Peter McVerry

474

5073: LISTEN¦ Police are treating attacks on Belfast businesses at the weekend as hate crimes. What was behind the disorder? Frank spoke to journalist Amanda Ferguson, SDLP MLA Matthew O'Toole, GB News reporter Dougie Beattie and took calls from listeners

475

5072: LISTEN¦ Olympic boxing has been mired in controversy after an Algerian boxer who had failed a gender eligibility test was allowed to compete. Frank spoke to Fiona McAnena from Sex Matters

476

5071: LISTEN¦ Were the Olympic organisers right to apologise for causing offence with its controversial opening ceremony? Frank spoke to Malachi O'Doherty, Mick Fealty and Pastor Paul Burns

477

5070: LISTEN¦ All Growed Up - the third in Tony Macaulay's best-selling trilogy of memoirs is being brought to life at Belfast's Lyric Theatre - Frank spoke to Tony and Dara McNaughton who plays Tony's teen self

478

5069: LISTEN¦ Should the Olympics drop equestrian sports over cruelty fears? Frank spoke to animal rights campaigner Andrew Goti, after a top rider was filmed repeatedly whipping her horse

479

5068: LISTEN¦ Tigger (aka Damian McCullough) is back again to cheer on the Orchard County in Sunday's All-Ireland Final - for a great cause. He called in to chat to Frank

480

5067: LISTEN¦ Girls as young as 11 are developing anxiety around their appearance and planning future cosmetic procedures - Frank spoke to Save Face campaigner Ashton Collins and ex-showbiz reporter Kim Kelly

481

5066: LISTEN¦ How do you deal with anxiety? Can you escape the prison of past memories? Deirdre Maguire spoke to Frank and gave some useful tips

482

5065: LISTEN¦ Should zero hours contracts be banned? As economy minister Conor Murphy is expected to outlaw them, Frank got the thoughts of Unison rep Conor McCarthy

483

5064: LISTEN¦ Do 'real' men cry? Deirdre Maguire talked to Frank about the taboo of tears

484

5063: LISTEN¦ Grammy-nominated singer songwriters Keith and Kristyn Getty talk to Frank about hearing their music sung in churches worldwide and returning for a homecoming arena show at Christmas

485

5062: LISTEN¦ 'Community, connection, the opportunity to sing' - Becky Bellamy from charity Show Some Love, told Frank about the new non-religious Sunday Services at their city centre site

486

5061: LISTEN¦ 'They put my brother into an early grave and have still not paid a penny' - campaigner Margaret McGuckin spoke to Frank about her struggle to get the religious orders involved in historical abuse to contribute to a compensation scheme

487

5060: LISTEN¦ After selling out the Grand Opera House in record time, the Shamrock Tenors called in to chat to Frank, ahead of their return to the Belfast venue and shows in Derry's Millennium Forum and gigs in the US

488

5059: LISTEN¦ 'For young people with disabilities, when they turn 19 it's quite bleak, it's like a cliff-edge' - ahead of a protest, Alma White, whose son Caleb has autism, OCD and ADHD, told Frank about the need for legal backing for SEN provision

489

5058: LISTEN¦ Belfast has named its first Night Time Czar - Michael Stewart - what should his priorities be, as he takes up the role?

490

5057: LISTEN¦ Have we become a nation of 'side-hustlers'? A new study found nearly half of us now has a second income stream. Frank spoke to Maire, who turned her love of learning into a successful business

491

5056: LISTEN¦ Dave Elliott talked to Frank about his new Roleplay tour, his 'smashing' appearances in Blue Lights and his comedy influences

492

5055: LISTEN¦ Are men who work from home pulling their weight when it comes to housework? If not, why? Prof Heejung Chung from Kings College London says it may be because they're 'protecting their masculinity'

493

5054: LISTEN¦ The Narrow Water Bridge project has been decades in the making, but work has finally begun. Frank spoke to Jim Boylan, from the Narrow Water Bridge Community Network, about how it could transform the region

494

5053: LISTEN¦ It's an award-winning (sort of) episode of U105 of the Best this week - featuring Miss Northern Ireland, poll-topping movies, gig reviews and even some live in-studio performances!

495

5052: LISTEN¦ Is Donald Trump still the favourite to be the next US President, despite his convictions? Frank spoke to Dr Stefan Andreasson from QUB and Greg Swenson, from Republicans Overseas UK

496

5051: LISTEN¦ 'I want to be an advocate for my nursing family' New Miss NI Hannah Johns talked to Frank about the causes close to her heart as she begins her reign, as well as looking forward to Miss World and her proud dad, rugby legend Paddy Johns

497

5050: LISTEN¦ It's Friday...you know that that means! The legendary Dionne Warwick graces this week's U105 of the Best, alongside our regular dose of quizzing, banter, pop culture and more from Northern Ireland's Best Mix!

498

5049: LISTEN¦ Venus Williams is to be immortalised as a Barbie Doll. Which Northern Irish woman deserves the honour? Should Barbie still be considered a role model?

499

5048: LISTEN¦ 'If we get what we ask for it will turbocharge our economy' Peter McVerry spoke to major industry figures from InterTrade Ireland, as they put the case for Northern Ireland at Westminster

500

5047: LISTEN¦ We could see driverless cars on the road in just two years, after a new law regulating them was passed. Would you buy one? A YouGov poll found 2/3 wouldn't feel safe. Frank spoke to Brian Gregory from the Alliance of British Drivers

501

5046: LISTEN¦ If your neighbour has an eyesore in their garden or on their house, should you be able to have it removed? Frank got the thoughts of writer Fionola Meredith

502

5045: LISTEN¦ Toy boys or older men? Anne Hathaway's new film 'The Idea of You' sees the main character in a relationship with a much younger man. Is it all it's cracked up to be? Frank spoke to showbiz journalist Kim Kelly

503

5044: LISTEN¦ Would a cash incentive help you lose weight? An NHS pilot scheme offered participants £400 to lose 10% of their body weight in a year - would it work for you? Frank talked to top trainer Alan Waterman

504

5043: LISTEN¦ Too posh to pick up? Are the types of litter we see changing and why are some people reluctant to lift their rubbish? Frank spoke to behavioural scientist Rachael Singleton

505

5042: LISTEN¦ Are Facebook groups aimed at protecting women from toxic men, by naming and shaming them, doing more harm than good? Frank spoke to cyber security expert Wayne Denner & Carey Baxter from Mens Alliance NI

506

5041: LISTEN¦ Irish Cup Winners, Eurovision hopefuls, green fingers, midgies and MILFs all make the cut in this week's U105 of the Best!

507

5040: LISTEN¦ Would you break up with your partner if they earned a lot more money than you? Chef James Martin has revealed that James Bond heiress Barbara Broccoli's millions created a rift in their relationship

508

5040: Listen¦ Electro legends, cutting-edge comedians, top actors, taps aff and tough questions - it can only be another edition of U105 of the Best!

509

5039: LISTEN¦ Should the Gaza conflict be taught to children in schools? Irish organisation 'Teachers for Palestine' is calling for a two-week course to raise awareness of recent events

510

5038: LISTEN¦ One year temporary exemption certificates are being issued to tackle the MOT backlog, but are bigger changes needed to make the system work? Frank spoke to Alliance's infrastructure spokesman Peter McReynolds

511

5037: LISTEN¦ Is cancel culture making comedy better? Comic Joe Lycett claims it's making the industry more 'inclusive' - but is it funnier? Frank spoke to Fionola Meredith

512

5037: LISTEN¦ Belfast has been named as one of the worst UK cities for a night out - is that fair? Frank spoke to the SDLP's Séamas de Faoite who has been campaigning for the appointment of a Night-Time Czar

513

5036: LISTEN¦ How well did Northern Ireland's politicians deal with the Pandemic? The Covid Inquiry starts in Belfast this week - Frank spoke to Brenda Doherty from the Families for Justice Group

514

5035: LISTEN¦ Is hayfever tormenting you? What's the best way to treat it and how can you tell if you just have a cold? Dr Alan Stout gave us some tips

515

5034: LISTEN¦ Are fear or self-doubt stopping you getting what you want? Deirdre Maguire talks to Frank about how to conquer your fears

516

5033: LISTEN¦ Is it okay for parents to have a favourite child? A YouGov poll found that two-thirds who admit to having a favourite prefer the youngest. Frank got the thoughts of Kim Kelly

517

5032: LISTEN¦ Should you let your kids try alcohol at home? The World Health Organisation has pin-pointed the UK as having a problem with underage drinking. Do we need to reassess our culture around alcohol? Frank talked to nutritionist Sal Hanvey

518

5031: LISTEN¦ Older people's brain power is catching up with the young. New research has found generational IQ gains have plateaued. Frank spoke to lead researcher Prof Stephen Badham from Nottingham Trent University

519

5030: LISTEN¦ It's Friday...you know what that means - U105 of the Best is back with the best of the week from U105! Short men, long albums, green fingers, spandex and scammers all make it in to this week's show!

520

5029: LISTEN¦ Is this art? The Turner Prize has had some unusual entries, but who decides what is art and whether it has any creative merit? Frank spoke to Malachi O'Doherty and took calls from listeners

521

5028: LISTEN¦ Is there anything out there? You could help to find out, by getting involved in the citizen science project Planet Hunters - Sean O'Brien from QUB told us more

522

5027: LISTEN¦ Netflix series Baby Reindeer has people talking about stalking, but what should you do if you think you're being stalked? Frank spoke to Rhonda Lusty from MAPNI as it's revealed 300 have been arrested since a law took effect two years ago

523

5026: LISTEN¦ Predators are targeting children as young as three for online grooming, according to a new report. Cyber safety expert Wayne Denner talked to Frank about how to keep your kids safe on the internet

524

5025: LISTEN¦ How would you feel if someone sat next to you on an empty bus? Thousands of people responded after a woman went viral, sharing her experience of being on a bus in London. Frank spoke to Kim Kelly and got the thoughts of listeners

525

5024: LISTEN¦ Other countries have ditched school uniforms - should NI follow suit? Frank spoke to Alliance education spokesperson Nick Mathison about the role uniforms can play and the problems with the current system

526

5023: LISTEN¦ 'We need to be thinking about disease prevention rather than crisis management' - Dr Carla Devlin and nutritionist Sal Hanvey talk about Bodytalk Live - a health conference being held in Belfast

527

5022: LISTEN¦ Should smacking children be banned? The Royal College of Pediatrics has called for an end to 'unjust and dangerous' physical punishment. Frank spoke to @ParentingNI interim CEO Koulla Yiasouma

528

5021: LISTEN¦ Is going to university still worth it? The head of UK Universities has warned a funding crisis could see fees rise. Frank talked to Dr Fionola Meredith and Richard Kirk from Workplus

529

5020: LISTEN¦ 'We wanted truly shared space for people to come and be creative' - Becky Bellamy and Connor Kerr from Show Some Love told Frank about their new collaborative arts space 'Green House' launching in Belfast City Centre

530

5019: LISTEN¦ What's the strangest baby name you've heard? A family in Sweden was told they couldn't call their son 'Smokey Bacon'. Should you be able to call your child what you want? Frank spoke to Helen McClements

531

5018: LISTEN¦ Businesses call for clear direction from our politicians to help boost low growth and capitalise on the unique opportunities of dual market access. Frank spoke to Suzanne Wylie, head of the NI Chamber of Commerce

532

5017: LISTEN¦ Do you know a business in the North West that deserves special recognition? Perhaps they've gone above and beyond to do something innovative or boost the local economy. Entries are now open. Frank talked to Anna Doherty about the awards

533

5016: LISTEN¦ Toddlers can teach us a lot - how to be happier, more active, sleep better and be more successful. Frank spoke to the author of a new book 'Sleep Well, Take Risks, Squish the Peas', Dr Hasan Merali

534

5015: LISTEN¦ U105 of the Best is back to brighten up your Friday with a classic weekly round-up! Health advice, celebrity interviews, quizzing, food chat and pets - what more could you want in a podcast!

535

5014: LISTEN¦ Where else would you find wrestlers and monsters mixing with Northern Ireland's best businesses, than on U105 of the Best? Hear the week's top clips and interviews now!

536

5013: Listen¦ Good Friday is even better with U105 of the Best! Fill your ears with bands at sea, siblings at work, spring gardening & amazing quizzing and our presenters' favourite chocolate bars!

537

5012: LISTEN¦ Should our politicians get more security protection? Frank spoke to the Belfast Telegraph's Liam Tunney, as the PSNI brief MLAs on safety measures

538

5011: LISTEN¦ Should terminally ill patients be able to choose to end their own lives? Scottish politicians are voting on assisted dying, as campaigners elsewhere want to see it legalised, including in NI. Frank spoke to campaigner Gavin Walker

539

5010: LISTEN¦ Have you ever bought pre-loved clothes? If so, what's been your finest find? Becky Bellamy from Show Some Love talked to Frank, as a report showed 10% of all clothes sales this year will be second hand

540

5009: LISTEN¦ Gardeners may welcome the rain, but for farmers it's made sowing, planting and moving livestock very difficult. Frank spoke to William Irvine, deputy president of the UFU

541

5008: LISTEN¦ What NI places are underrated? A travel website has included Castlewellan, the Moy and Cushendun. Did they miss your home town? Frank spoke to Cllr Laura Devlin, about the joys of Castlewellan

542

5007¦ LISTEN - It’s Friday, you know what that means…U105 of the Best is back! Come for pet care suggestions, hairy legs sustainability and suspect cocktails and stay for Denise's own U105 of the Best books she's read over the last wee while!

543

5006: LISTEN¦ Legendary comedian Jimmy Cricket talked to John Daly about his funny family, why music and comedy are great mix and upcoming show 'The Comedians'

544

5005: LISTEN¦ Botox and fillers - what if they go wrong? One MLA has warned without more regulation, we risk being a 'wild west' for injectables. John spoke to campaigner Ashton Collins from Save Face

545

5004: LISTEN¦ Slugs - a gardener's friend or foe? The Wildlife Trust is encouraging people to think differently about these slimy garden creatures. John spoke to Abi March from the Wildlife Trust

546

5003: LISTEN¦ Will the car always be king? Money for an 'active travel' scheme is now being used to fix pot-holes, because there wasn't enough uptake. Should more be done to encourage walking and cycling? John talked to Cllr Séamas de Faoite

547

5002: LISTEN¦ Who or what is to blame when teens kill? Brianna Ghey's mother says she feels no anger towards the family of her daughter's murderers, after meeting them. Frank talked to Deirdre Maguire

548

5001: LISTEN¦ Adult ADHD could affect 6% of people here and yet there is no dedicated service in Northern Ireland. John spoke to Alliance MLA Peter McReynolds and Claire Loftus whose husband has struggled to get a diagnosis, even from a private provider

549

5000: LISTEN¦ How should you load a dishwasher? It is a source of argument in your house? Frank talked to Helen McClements, after the PM Rishi Sunak claimed his wife does it wrong

550

4999: LISTEN¦ Junior doctors have gone on strike, claiming a real-terms pay cut of 30% over 15 years - with a union rep claiming it's forcing young doctors abroad. Frank spoke to the BMA's Dr Fiona Griffin and took calls from listeners

551

4998: LISTEN¦ Does the media reflect society at large and how important are role models in fostering inclusivity? Frank chatted to Aradhna Tayal Leach, MD of the Radio Academy

552

4997: LISTEN¦ Do you hit the snooze button or spring out of bed when the alarm goes? We lose thousands of hours of productive time by delaying getting up, so why do we do it? Frank chatted to Helen McClements

553

4996: LISTEN¦ It's a leap year - will many woman be getting down on one knee today? Frank spoke to Kim Kelly

554

4995: LISTEN¦ About 1 in 10 of us is living with diabetes or at risk of it - can what we eat help us avoid getting the disease or even reverse the effects? Frank spoke to nutritionist Sal Hanvey

555

4994: LISTEN¦ Why is car insurance in Northern Ireland so expensive and why has the price of premiums risen so much in the last couple of years? Frank spoke to Ulster Unionist MLA Andy Allen and Malcolm Tarling from the Association of British Insurers

556

4993: LISTEN¦ 100 children a day are being targeted by 'sextortion' gangs, according to a newspaper investigation. Frank talked to cyber security expert Wayne Denner about 'Yahoo Boys' brazenly boasting about their scams online

557

4992: LISTEN¦ Shane and Sheena Lynch talked to Frank about fast cars, life on the Real Housewives of Cheshire and their passions that became businesses

558

4991: LISTEN¦ What's the best relationship advice you've ever been given? Did you listen? Frank chatted to Helen McClements, from the Sour Wee Blog

559

4990: LISTEN¦ The cost of redeveloping Casement Park has spiraled from initial estimates, from £75m to well in excess of £200m. Who's going to pay for it? Frank spoke to Ulster GAA secretary Alan McAvoy

560

4989: LISTEN| Internationally acclaimed singer @CaraDillonSings spoke to Frank about her beautiful new book of poetry and stories and accompanying album, 'Coming Home'

561

4988: LISTEN¦ Would you split £1m lottery jackpot with your ex? A woman from Lincolnshire is refusing to share the cash with her former partner, as she paid for the scratch card - he says it was his idea to buy it

562

4987: LISTEN¦ Just a bit of fun or did it go too far? A popular Belfast venue has attracted a lot of attention for it's UK Pleasure Boys night. Frank spoke to commentator Fionola Meredith and Pastor Paul Burns and took calls from listeners

563

4986: LISTEN¦ Are water charges now inevitable in Northern Ireland? Frank spoke to Ann Watt from think tank Pivotal about whether households may need to pay more in future

564

4985: LISTEN¦ Has Sir Jeffrey Donaldson pulled off a significant coup by agreeing a deal to remove the Irish Sea border? When might we see a return to Stormont? Frank spoke to Prof Jon Tonge, Mick Fealty, Alliance MLA Eoin Tennyson & U105's Peter McVerry

565

4984: LISTEN¦ Do you know your character strengths? What do you look for in others and can you have too much of a good thing? Frank talked to Dr Jonny Bloomfield

566

4983: LISTEN¦ Is it now cool to be frugal? The new 'loud budgeting' trend is seeing young people take to social media to boast about their saving habits. Frank spoke to Kim Kelly about it

567

4982: LISTEN¦ Do you have any unusual hobbies or collections? A museum in Yorkshire is looking for submissions for a new exhibit. Frank spoke to Alan Harper, from Newtownabbey, about his own 6,500 item collection of fire memorabilia

568

4981: LISTEN¦ Having competed in the Commonwealth Games, Ann Brady now finds herself paralysed. Her husband, Shaun, is tirelessly working to get her home, after nearly 2 years in hospital, but has received little help from health officials

569

4980: LISTEN¦ Curtis Stigers talked to Frank about his latest tour, hanging out with Elton John, and performing at Bill Clinton's visit to Belfast

570

4979: LISTEN¦ Do you snore? Is your partner's snoring keep you awake at night? Nutritionist Sal Hanvey talked to Frank about the causes of snoring and how to stop it

571

4978: LISTEN¦ U105 turned 18 years old this week, so to celebrate, here’s the best of our on air birthday celebrations from Northern Ireland’s Best Mix – U105!

572

4977: LISTEN¦ This #internationalmensday Frank talked to @krisjack85 about #movember, Bobby Moore and the importance of checking your testicles for abnormalities

573

4976: LISTEN¦ Nigel Farage is one of several big-name contestants on this year's I'm A Celebrity. Will you be watching? Showbiz commentator Nigel Pauley says that like him or loathe him, people are intrigued by Mr Farage

574

LISTEN¦ It’s Friday… you know what that means – another round of U105 of the Best! Where else would you find The Beatles, doormats, inspirational quotes, Nicholas Cage and bad language than on Northern Ireland’s best Mix – U105!

575

4975: LISTEN¦ What makes someone a sex symbol? Monty Don has shrugged off the suggestion he is one - but who decides? Do you have any unusual crushes? Frank got the thoughts of Kim Kelly

576

4974: LISTEN¦ 'We've seen a very swift response from Westminster when this has happened across the water- why is it not the case in NI?' Alliance's Patrick Brown talked to Frank about the need for government support for areas affected by flooding

577

4973: LISTEN¦ Legendary Thin Lizzy guitarist Eric Bell joined Frank to talk about his book, charting his incredible career, ahead an event at the Sound of Belfast festival on Sunday 12 November

578

4972: LISTEN| Top designer Sara O'Neill spoke to Frank about her Christmas cards raising much needed funds for Women's Aid NI and the amazing women that inspired them

579

4972: LISTEN¦ If you're looking for an exciting career where you can progress quickly, tourism and hospitality offer great opportunities, yet recruitment has been a struggle. Why is that? Frank spoke to David Roberts from Tourism NI

580

4971: LISTEN¦ Bellator no.1 contender @leahmccourtmma called in to U105 studios to talk world title fights, Tyson Fury v Francis Ngannou and Tearfund's latest campaign

581

4970: LISTEN¦ As Northern Ireland’s Best Mix celebrates 282,000 sets of ears listening in per week, this week’s U105 shows just why – classic rock chat, pounds and pence in apple pies, mums on Tinder and more!

582

4969: LISTEN¦ A number of US states have brought a case against Instagram parent company Meta. Sal Hanvey called in to the @U105Radio studio to talk about the impact of social media on children

583

4968: LISTEN¦ Paddy Kielty joined John on the Phone-In to talk Late Late Show, box office success and the downside to knowing Harry Kane

584

4967 Listen¦ It's Friday - you know what that means... U105 of the Best! This week's round-up comprises of car park capers, classic crisps, calamitous name-calling, canine and cat care and Coleraine-educated comedian, Omid Djalili...

585

4966: LISTEN¦ Much-loved pets, well-meaning partners, ill-advised pain relief, hope-filled rugby fans and Concert of a Lifetime winners make up this week's U105 of the Best!

586

4965: LISTEN¦ Girls as young as 11 have had AI-generated 'deepfake' nude photos of themselves shared online - is it illegal and how can parents reduce the risk of their kids being targeted? Frank spoke to cyber security expert Wayne Denner

587

4964: LISTEN¦ This week's U105 of the Best sees our daytime line-up of legends talk new movies, holiday packing, iconic sportswomen, washing your ears and desk rage! - just don't tell your boss!

588

4963: LISTEN¦ Disney-themed towns and cities, knowledgeable referees, peri-menopausal snacks, Scottish football's finest and wife carrying contests - it can only be U105 of the Best!

589

4962: LISTEN¦ This week's roundup includes high temperatures, high-flying kids and high-maintenance males, plus health tips for cats and dogs down the pub!

590

4961: LISTEN¦ This week's U105 of the Best features Fat Bottomed Girls, Power Hungry Refs, Iranian-Funded Priests, Menopause-Friendly Meals and Heavy Handbagged Women!

591

4960: LISTEN¦ On this week’s U105 of the Best there’s phobias and time travel, pet health tips and pets doing quizzes, plus wondering what makes a One Hit Wonder!

592

4961: LISTEN: What are you afraid of? A survey of the UK's most common phobias had heights and spiders at the top of the list. How can you overcome your fears? Frank spoke to hypnotherapist Warren York

593

4959: LISTEN¦ This week’s U105 of the Best finds the Breakfast show getting quizzical, Carolyn getting cultured and horticultural, Frank getting ready for the jungle + Johnny & Linda getting nostalgic for the video shop!

594

4958: LISTEN: With less than two weeks until nominations close, Danielle McCormick from @TriterraNI spoke to Frank about the first ever All-Ireland Sustainability Awards

595

4957: LISTEN: Derry Girls and the King's Christmas Speech were the big winners, but overall fewer of us are watching live TV. James Stinson from Ofcom talked to Frank about TV trends

596

4956: LISTEN¦ This week’s U105 of the Best finds Denise debunking aliens, a mighty hard Minute to Win It, Maurice on Belfast’s musical magnificence, the future of football with Frank and a poignant tribute to Sinead O’Connor from Carolyn

597

4955: LISTEN¦ Can you believe your own eyes? AI is making it harder than ever to separate fact from fiction. Cyber security expert Wayne Denner talks to Frank about whether public figures could be at risk from blackmail

598

4954: LISTEN¦ With typical mortgage holders faced with paying an extra £6000 a year, will the Chancellor's meeting with the big lenders yield any good news? Frank spoke to leading property expert Dr John McCord @UlsterUni

599

4953: LISTEN¦ 'Parents need help to stay afloat' - a new report found childcare is 'unaffordable' , but campaigners say the scale of the problem is being understated. Frank spoke to Casey McGivern from @MeltedParentsNI, Aoife Hamilton and Kate Nicholl

600

4952: LISTEN¦ Having spoken up for countless victims and survivors of abuse, for which she was awarded an MBE, Margaret McGuckin spoke to Frank about her book telling the story of her campaign for justice and the abuse she and her brother suffered in care

601

4951: LISTEN¦ After further revelations in the Noah Donohoe case, Nicola Tallant, investigations editor at the Sunday World, spoke to Frank about crowdfunding efforts for an independent investigation

602

4950: LISTEN| Just weeks ago it was being singled out for praise by the US president, now Young Enterprise has seen its funding cut in half. Frank spoke to Carol Fitzsimons, its chief executive

603

4949: LISTEN¦ Gavin James spoke to John Daly about performing at Belsonic with George Ezra and Glastonbury as well as featuring on one of Brazil's biggest soap operas

604

4948: LISTEN¦ One of the founding fathers of the Belfast punk scene, Outcasts lead singer and bassist Greg Cowan called in for a chat, before jetting off to Japan and New York as part of the band's world tour

605

4947: LISTEN¦ With recent electoral success for Sinn Fein and uncertainty post-Brexit leading to growing talk of Irish unity, is unionism right to feel 'under siege'? Frank spoke to historian and author Dr Aaron Edwards about his new book

606

4946: LISTEN¦ Ahead of the 2023 North West Business Awards tomorrow night, Frank spoke to Colin Gracey from main sponsor Loganair about the strength of the region

607

4945: LISTEN¦ Can a positive outlook and being in touch with your emotions help you live a longer, happier life? New research suggests it can. John got the thoughts of Dr Jonny Bloomfield

608

4944: LISTEN¦ Apple has launched its 'most advanced device ever' - which promises to 'seamlessly' blend the real and digital worlds...but would you pay nearly £3,000 for it? John spoke to tech expert Wayne Denner

609

4943: LISTEN¦ Should Katie Taylor hang up her gloves if she loses a rematch with Chantelle Cameron? Jim Gracey, editor of Local Women Sport tells Frank her first defeat might be a 'warning bell' that she should consider her future

610

4942: LISTEN¦ Eating disorders claim more lives than any other mental health condition, yet support services are denied funding. Frank spoke to Ann McCann from @EDA_NIreland

611

4941: LISTEN¦ 'In many ways this was an accident waiting to happen, since 'Queuegate' - you can't have a host and hostess who don't get on' - showbiz commentator Nigel Pauley talked to Frank about Phillip Schofield's departure from This Morning

612

4940: LISTEN| The North West Business Awards are fast approach. Jim Roddy, manager at the City Centre Initiative highlighted the great work being done by companies in the region

613

4939: LISTEN¦ Younger women can develop osteoporosis too - Kim Kelly from Mighty Women talks about her own diagnosis and de-mystifying the condition

614

4938: LISTEN¦ Would the Balmoral Show be improved by going vegan? Animal rights activist @andrewgoti and Belfast Telegraph columnist Fionola Meredith gave their thoughts

615

4937: LISTEN: How does a family begin to pick up the pieces after suicide? Seamus Waites spoke to Frank about losing his son Thomas to suicide - how he rebuilt his life and now helps others and what support exists

616

4936: LISTEN¦ The DUP appear to close the gap on Sinn Fein in the latest Lucid Talk poll - is its Protocol stance winning support? Frank spoke to lead pollster Bill White

617

4935: LISTEN¦ 'When the guide dog's wearing the harness, it's like a uniform, they're going to work - it's important not to distract them' Dawn, with Guide Dogs NI, tells Frank why you shouldn't pet a service dog without asking

618

4934: LISTEN¦ With the weather improving, would you fancy taking your office outdoors? How about a 'fake commute?' Frank talked to Dr Jonny Bloomfield about the benefits of the walking work meeting

619

4933: LISTEN¦ Would you pay money to rent a friend? Frank got the thoughts of Kim Kelly from Mighty Women

620

4932: LISTEN¦ The sister of Columba McVeigh says she hopes the “dark cloud” surrounding their family will be lifted as the search for his body resumes.

621

4931: LISTEN¦ A three-year-old girl and an elderly woman are among those caught up in the feud between rival drug gangs in Ards and North Down. UUP Policing Board Member Mike Nesbitt speaks to Frank after an attack in Donaghadee

622

4930: LISTEN¦ New BBC series Blue Lights reflects the reality of life as a PSNI recruit - it's been getting rave reviews - Frank spoke to writer Declan Lawn and Hannah McClean, who plays Jen Robinson,

623

4929: LISTEN¦ Is having a laugh as good for you as 300 sit-up or running a mile? Dr Jonny Bloomfield tells Frank about the many health benefits of laughter

624

4929: LISTEN¦ 'Cycling education stands kids in good stead for when they go on to become drivers' Colin O'Carroll tells Frank as the DFI says it can no longer fund cycling proficiency lessons

625

4928: LISTEN¦ James and Grace are the most popular baby names in NI - but what does your name say about you and what baby names will never come back? Frank got the thoughts of Kim Kelly

626

4927: LISTEN¦ What makes Donaghadee the best place in NI to live? Frank spoke to former mayor Cllr Mark Brooks and Tim McKee from the Copeland Distillery

627

4926: LISTEN| 'The situation is unfair and unjust' says SDLP Health Spokesperson Colin McGrath as more and more people end up spending their savings on private healthcare in the face of NHS waitlists

628

4925: LISTEN| 'There's uncertainty for ourselves and many disability organisations - we're sitting at a cliff-edge ' - Sean Hanna from NOW Group tells Frank they're just days away from losing a quarter of their funding

629

4924: LISTEN¦ Should smacking be banned in Northern Ireland? After the NSPCC called for a law change on 'physical punishment', Frank spoke to Parenting NI chief executive Charlene Brooks and took calls from listeners

630

4923: LISTEN¦ Caffeine - can you have too much of it? When should you consume it and can it boost your health? Frank spoke to health and performance coach Dr Jonny Bloomfield

631

4943: LISTEN¦ The NSPCC calls for a ban on physical punishment of children. Charlene Brooks from Parenting NI says our lack of Executive is 'no excuse' for the law to be so far behind the Republic, Scotland and Wales

632

4942: LISTEN¦ Can this Ireland side, ranked world number one and fresh from Six Nations glory, win the World Cup? Frank spoke to Grand Slam winner and Ulster legend Paddy Wallace and top sportswriter Steven Beacom

633

4941: LISTEN¦ Are we too prudish when it comes to public nudity? Could we learn something from our continental neighbours? Frank got the thoughts of Kim Kelly

634

4940: LISTEN¦ Act your age? Liam Neeson's still enjoying action hero roles at 70 - but at a certain age, should stars stop scrapping or baring all on camera? Frank spoke to Helen McClements

635

4939: LISTEN¦ Ivan Martin says his son James has 'always been a performer' as he tells Frank about his pride at 'An Irish Goodbye' winning the Best Live Action Short Oscar

636

4938: LISTEN¦ The evolution of the wedding speech? Frank talks to Helen McClements about the growing number of brides breaking with tradition

637

4937: LISTEN¦ Would you fancy taking to the skies in a pilotless plane? Travel expert Frank Brehany talks about the future of flight

638

4936: LISTEN¦ 'We're not just talking about the challenges facing women in media, we also want to celebrate them' - journalist Amanda Ferguson talks to Frank about the Embrace Equity event

639

4935: LISTEN¦ Critics of NHS plans to offer weight-loss jabs for obese patients say it's 'nanny statism' - are they right? Frank got the thoughts of Kim Kelly

640

4934: LISTEN¦ 'They're so unsafe for the rider and the pedestrian - they shouldn't be selling them' - Sarah Gayton from @NFBUK talks to Frank about e-scooters after another fatal crash

641

4933: LISTEN¦ 'It' been devastating for the village, no words can fathom it' - Councillor Caleb McCready says the death of a one-year-old boy in a crash in Moira has sent 'shockwaves' through the area

642

4932: LISTEN¦ Will talking to paramilitaries encourage them to disband? Crime Correspondent Allison Morris talks to Frank about the Secretary of State's latest proposal

643

4931: LISTEN¦ Eurovision semi-finalist Brooke Scullion is hoping to go one better and reach the final of Dancing with the Stars. She chatted to Frank about learning routines, her 'dream' of a dance partner Robert and plans for touring Down Under

644

4930: LISTEN¦ 'Just hearing someone's voice and talking can make a difference' - as GPs in England will soon be able to prescribe phone-calls to tackle loneliness, Frank speaks to AgeNI chief executive Linda Robinson about the Check-In and Chat service

645

4929: LISTEN¦ How will strikes by road workers impact on road gritting and with snow expected, should drivers be worried? Frank spoke to Alan Perry from the GMB Union and head of engineering at DFI, David Porter

646

4928: LISTEN¦ Should we prioritise public spending to make childcare accessible and affordable? Frank spoke to Aoife Hamilton from Employers for Childcare, MLA Connie Egan and Prof Deirdre Heenan

647

4927: LISTEN¦ 7-UP - Liverpool hammered bitter rivals Manchester United by a record 7-0 margin. Frank got reaction from sportswriter and frequent contributor to the Red Agenda podcast, Steven Beacom

648

4926: LISTEN¦ After a resounding 9-3 win over Fife Flyers saw the Belfast Giants retain the Challenge Cup, Frank spoke to head coach Adam Keefe

649

4925: LISTEN¦ After a £4.5m refurb, Titanic Belfast is set to open, with never before seen artifacts added. Frank spoke to Eimear Kearney from Titanic Belfast

650

4924: LISTEN¦ The papers are calling it 'Frogxit' - have Meghan and Harry been asked to leave Frogmore Cottage? Frank spoke to royal commentator Rupert Bell

651

4923: LISTEN¦ Conservationists celebrate a bumper year for barn owls - Frank spoke to Ross McIlwrath from Ulster Wildlife

652

4922: LISTEN¦ As shortages of fresh veg continue in supermarkets, should we turn to the frozen/tinned alternative? Frank spoke to nutritionist Sal Hanvey

653

4921: LISTEN¦ 'We'd love to be able to get on with life and celebrate Lisa for the beautiful human being she was but we can't while she's out there alone, without a gravestone' - Joanne Dorrian spoke to Frank, 18 years after her sister Lisa disappeared

654

4920: LISTEN¦ Strength training isn't just for athletes and bodybuilders, Dr Jonny Bloomfield tells Frank why we should all be doing it

655

4919: LISTEN¦ 'The deal looks like welcome progress, but the real hard work is only beginning' - Retail NI chief Glyn Roberts says the final Protocol deal must work for consumers as well as business

656

4918: LISTEN¦ Love Island viewers have been accusing some contestants of 'toxic femininity' after some male participants were reduced to tears - journalist, commentator and direct of Mighty Women Kim Kelly gives her thoughts

657

4917: LISTEN¦ 'Challenging, but incredibly rewarding' - Mark Haslam, managing director of Loud Mouth Media tells Frank about his company's experience of trialling a four-day work week

658

4916: LISTEN¦ Imagine counting literally millions of one and two pence coins - that's what Eric Kewley has done, as he's raised almost £100,000 for the Children's Hospice, with his Koppers for Kids campaign over the past 25 years

659

4915: LISTEN¦ Over the weekend parts of Northern Ireland were treated to an incredible display of the Northern Lights. But what are they and when are you likely to see them? Frank spoke to Prof Jorick Vink from the Armagh Planetarium

660

4914: LISTEN¦ Should employers let staff bring their kids to work if they can't get childcare cover? Frank got the thoughts of Kim Kelly

661

4913: LISTEN¦ 'There's deep shock here in Omagh, but also a certain amount of anger' Councillor Errol Thompson, who has been friends with Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell for 35 years, urges those with information to come forward

662

4912: LISTEN¦ Former Green Party leader Steven Agnew, who left politics to work in renewables, told Frank there's 'no doubt' others will follow suit if Stormont isn't revived

663

4911: LISTEN¦ 'This is a seasoned, dedicated detective and family man, giving back to his community in his own time and for that he was nearly murdered in front of his own son and other children,, it's an absolute disgrace' - says PFNI chair Liam Kelly

664

4910: LISTEN¦ 'Our community is horrified, disgusted and angered - these people must and will be brought to justice' SDLP MLA Daniel McCrossan and UUP policing board member Mike Nesbitt react to the shooting of a senior PSNI officer in Omagh

665

4909: LISTEN¦ Why are there so many gaps in the fruit and veg aisle? Neil Johnston from the NI Retail Consortium and Trevor Gabbie from the Ulster Farmers Union talk about the challenges facing both supermarkets and growers

666

4908: LISTEN¦ SNP leadership candidate Kate Forbes is facing scrutiny over her Christian beliefs - do we and should we care about the faith of our leaders? Frank got the thoughts of Alex Kane

667

4907: LISTEN¦ BAFTA winning actor James Martin and his father, broadcasting legend Ivan, joined Frank to talk about An Irish Goodbye, meeting A-listers and why an Oscar would be the perfect birthday present

668

4906: LISTEN¦ I give up! Dr Jonny Bloomfield guides Frank through the best way to successfully break bad habits and the power of gradual improvements

669

4905: LISTEN¦ Flippin delicious! Top chef, author and broadcaster Paula McIntyre gives Frank some top tips on the many ways to prepare pancakes - whether you like them sweet or savoury

670

4904: LISTEN¦ Thousands of workers in the education and health sectors across Northern Ireland have gone on strike. Frank spoke to Kevin McAdam from Unite and Mark Langhammer from the National Education Union

671

4903: LISTEN¦ 'I've said from day one, I don't care who did it, I just want it done' - Dáithí Gabhann's father Máirtín tells @frank_broadcast the family is 'relived and emotional' after being told the organ donation bill would go through at Westminster

672

4902: LISTEN¦ It's played host to some of the 20th century's most famous singers, orators and activists. Now a very special building in Derry is getting the restoration it deserves. Frank spoke to Anne Marie Gallagher from the St Columb's Hall Trust

673

4901:LISTEN¦ Losing our religion? Census shows for the first time, more non-religious people than Christians. Frank spoke to David Smyth from Evangelical Alliance and Boyd Sleator from NI Humanists

674

4900: LISTEN| 'Enough is enough - women shouldn't be afraid to be in their home or walk by themselves' - Niall McNally, brother of Natalie, tells Frank why his family is involved in a rally in Lurgan, calling for an end to violence against women

675

4899: LISTEN: 'Excited, flattered and honoured' - multi-platinum selling music legend Phil Coulter tells @U105radio how it feels to be awarded the freedom of his home city, Derry

676

4898: LISTEN¦ 'We want the truth, transparency and lessons to be learned' campaigner Martina Ferguson talks to Frank about the experience of bereaved families as the Covid inquiry moves into its next phase

677

4896: LISTEN¦ The election is over, but the future of the Stormont Assembly remains uncertain. What happens next? Frank heard the thoughts of @brendanhughes64, @BillWhiteNI and @JonTonge

678

4895: LISTEN¦ 'There's a great buzz - things are bouncing back and it's great to celebrate that' - Derry city centre manager Jim Roddy talks to Frank about the upcoming North West Business Awards

679

4892: LISTEN: Misty Falls (@ohmummymisty) talks to @frank_broadcast about the NI drag scene and whether @BluHydrangea_ winning Ru Paul's Drag Race UK vs The World could make drag mainstream in NI

680

4890 LISTEN: With Ireland's first city, Armagh, a modern new town in Craigavon and a traditional market town, Banbridge, Amberlea Neely explains why ABC Council's bid to be UK City of Culture is unique

681

4894: LISTEN¦ 'We can't have any more delays, it's critical to the future of Bangor' UUP councillor Carl McClean tells Frank progress on redeveloping Bangor seafront is overdue, after a one year hold-up in granting permission

682

4893: LISTEN¦ Former DUP minister Jim Wells told Frank why he doesn't expect to stand for office again, why he's supporting Edwin Poots and why he doesn't always enjoy coming on the Phone-In

683

4893: LISTEN¦ Flared jeans are back in style - but what fashions would you like to see return and what styles should remain in the past? Frank talked to style guru Nuala McMenamin from Adorn Bespoke Styling

684

4892: LISTEN¦ More than half of NI women say they don't feel safe on our streets. Frank spoke to Allison Morris and Bill White about the alarming findings of a new poll

685

4873: LISTEN¦ 'We know that a five year old and a four year old are a world apart and yet we're asking them to be assessed together' Tiny Life CEO Alison McNulty talks to Frank as support grows for allowing some children to delay starting school

686

4891: LISTEN¦ 'The road is for everyone -there shouldn't be a conflict between cyclists and motorists' - Anne Madden from Sustrans had some words of advice and encouragement for Frank as he begins his cycling challenge

687

4872: LISTEN¦ The bookies still have Sinn Fein as favourites to be the largest party after next year's Stormont election, but a new poll has the DUP closing the gap - will it be enough to retain the FM post? Frank spoke to pollster Bill White and Prof Jon Tonge

688

4871: LISTEN¦ Struggling to cope with clutter? Frank spoke to organiser expert Claire Savage from Order in the House NI for some great tips #nationalorganisingweek

689

4870: LISTEN¦ Time to ditch the dating apps? Study finds those who meet a spouse online are 6 times more likely to divorce. Frank talks to relationship coach Denise McNally

690

Being Fab At 50 - Lessons on Vitality with Rosemary Gibb

691

Being Fab At 50 - Exercising Your Mind And Body with Melanie Minshull

692

LISTEN¦ Win a staycation - @U105radio is proud to partner with the NI Travel & Tourism Awards 2021 - cast your vote to have a chance of winning - Jonathan Adair tells Frank more

693

4869| LISTEN:Why are many schools not following guidance around self isolation? @drgrahamgault, President of the NAHT & @UTU_edu deputy secretary Jacquie White talk to @frank_broadcast about safety concerns and the difficulties of administering track and trace

694

4868: LISTEN| Would you give a second thought to wearing second hand? Lord Mayor @KateNicholl is encouraging us to embrace pre-loved clothing - 'it helps charities and the environment and slows the cycle of fast fashion'

695

4867: LISTEN¦ Carrot or stick? How can health officials persuade young people to get the Covid vaccine? Organisers at Feile an Phobail have a 'Vaccines for Tickets' initiative - Frank spoke to director Kevin Gamble

696

4866: LISTEN¦ They make our lives easier, but a new report has found that smart devices could be leaving us vulnerable to cyber attack. Frank spoke to top cyber security expert Wayne Denner about how we can improve our security

697

4865: LISTEN¦ The latest LucidTalk poll suggests support for the DUP has halved in 18 months. Who are going to be the major beneficiaries and can Edwin Poots right the ship? Frank spoke to lead pollster Bill White and David McCann

698

4864:LISTEN¦ 'The sun's out and we're good to go' Nicola Neill, owner of luxury B&B Blackrock House in Portrush and Janice Gault from NI Hotels Federation talk to Frank as local tourism reopens

699

4863: LISTEN¦ Denise spoke to Belinda O'Neill whose poems and positive affirmations, on her Be Inspired to Be pages, have been helping people around the world to cope during the pandemic

700

4862: LISTEN¦ Denise spoke to young entrepreneur Holly Milne, who along with her sister Abbey started ChocberryNI during lockdown, amid her PhD studies. Berry impressive! #IWD2021

701

4861: LISTEN¦ Why do teen girls stop playing sports? Denise speaks to two top sportswomen about inspiring girls at all levels to take part

702

4859: LISTEN¦ Could you have hundreds, perhaps thousands in a bank account you don't know about? Scott Kennerley from the Consumer Council told Frank about Child Trust Funds

703

4858: LISTEN|In the first of an 11-part series, looking at how people across NI are coping with lockdown, we hear from post man Brendan, from Belfast. Station manager Peter McVerry also tells Frank more about the Voice of Hope project

704

4857: LISTEN: DUP leader Arlene Foster says a 'wide coalition' of people oppose the NI Protocol, which 'changes the Good Friday Agreement' and 'adds cost and reduces consumer choice'

705

4856: LISTEN| From providing PPE, to school sports equipment and helping charities go digital, Lisa McIlvenna, from Business In The Community tells Frank how businesses have helped meet local needs through the National Business Response Network

706

4856: LISTEN¦ Local author Paul McCracken talks about his gripping new detective novel, Where Crows Land, set in Belfast

707

4855: LISTEN¦ An 8 year old has girl has written to MLAs over the 'heartbreaking' restrictions on dance classes. Frank spoke to Emily and her mum, as well as top dance teacher Gavin Doherty and 4-time Irish dancing world champion Clodagh Davis

708

4854: LISTEN¦ It's been the toughest year ever for performing arts, but Claire Murray from The Lyric and composer Paul Boyd told Frank how they've done all possible to allow people to enjoy the magic of the theatre at home

709

4852: LISTEN¦ 'Families are having to make very difficult choices - will they put food on the table, can they heat their homes - the money's just not there to buy children presents' - Mary Waide from SVP and Major Paul Kingscott from Salvation Army told Frank how they can ensure children living in poverty have a present to open this Christmas

710

4852: LISTEN¦ From Christmas craft workshops to festive films and live-streamed concerts featuring some of NI's top artists, Margaret Henry from the Arts Collaboration Network tells Frank about the amazing events coming up over the holidays. She also had some great gift ideas

711

4851: LISTEN¦ 'Why not donate your commute?' Chris Conway, CEO of Translink talks to Frank about why it's so important to support the #stuffabusni campaign this year and suggests ways people can help

712

4851: LISTEN¦ Digital downloads, face-licking and viva vinyl. Frank spoke to Charlotte Dryden from the Oh Yeah Centre and Mark McCambridge of Arborists about coping without live music and how people can support our amazing local musicians

713

4850: LISTEN¦ With around 100,000 children in Northern Ireland living in poverty, campaigns like #stuffabusNI and charities like St Vincent de Paul have never been more important. Frank spoke to Pauline Brown from SVP about the families the collection will help

714

4848: LISTEN¦ This year's 'Stuff a Bus' campaign will be different, but with our listeners' support can be bigger than ever! Frank spoke to Susan O'Neill and Kevin Wallace from Translink and Major Jacqui Wright from Salvation Army about this year's appeal

715

4847: LISTEN¦ Ian Milne's fascinating life has been chronicled in a book by renowned journalist Ivan Little. He talked to Frank about going from RUC officer and Orangeman to secret peace broker at Drumcree and latterly an undertaker. He also spoke about how his own experience of abuse has led to him encouraging others to speak out.

716

4846: LISTEN¦ 'We want people to work with us so we don't have to move to stricter restrictions' - First Minister Arlene Foster tells Frank it's important people abide by the rules after PM's 'sobering assessment'

717

4845 LISTEN| 'The feeling of being connected, feeling welcome and feeling safe are really important for everyone, especially at the moment - Maeve Monaghan from social enterprise the Now Group tells Frank about the ethos behind their cafes, as they prepare to open two new locations

718

4844: LISTEN| If you have anxiety around wearing a face covering, top hypnotherapist @warrenyorkhypno gave @SportyNeesy some top tips for overcoming it on the @U105radio Phone-In

719

4843: LISTEN| 'Newcastle is still open for business but visitors and locals need to take responsibility and follow Covid guidelines' - says Laura Devlin, chair of Newry Mourne & Down Council

720

4842: LISTEN| 'Arts make up a big part of our identity, who we are, but there's also a hard-headed economic argument for supporting them' SDLP MLA Matthew O'Toole and Margaret Henry from the Arts Collaboration Network welcome £33m in funding for arts venues from the UK Government

721

4830: LISTEN|Arts groups have adapted to meet demand and help support the local community during the pandemic, says Margaret Henry, now it's time our politicians support the arts

722

4829: LISTEN| Quarantining plans 'unenforceable, illogical and ill-timed' - Graham Keddie, managing director at Belfast International Airport tells the U105 Phone-In, as flights resume from Belfast

723

4828: LISTEN| 'We're in a lifeboat, but they're going to kick us out five miles from shore' - Colin Neill from Hospitality Ulster says Stormont support welcome but without more certainty, thousands of jobs are still at risk

724

4827:LISTEN| Songwriter Stevie Horner from Belfast band Lo Mejor and two-weight world boxing champion Carl Frampton told Frank about a new charity single 'The Jackal' released to raise funds for front-line nurses in the NHS

725

4826: LISTEN| Can pets' collars or coats transmit coronavirus? Will hand sanitiser irritate a pet's skin? Can animals catch the virus? Michael Griffiths, from the Jubilee Veterinary Centre answered listeners' questions.

726

4825: LISTEN| 'If you look at it in isolation you think to yourself, how inhumane, but we all get it, we know the reason why' - Paul Clark told Frank about how current restrictions affected his father's funeral

727

4824: LISTEN¦ What kind of meals can we make using store-cupboard ingredients and how can they help boost not only our immunity, but our mood? We spoke to nutritionist Sal Hanvey from Natural Health NI

728

4823: LISTEN¦ With so much conflicting information about coronavirus, we spoke to an expert, virologist Dr Connor Bamford, about where it came from, how it's spread and what to do if you think you may have been infected

729

4822: LISTEN¦ Derry's Brooke Scullion gave a 'knockout' performance on Saturday night as she reached The Voice UK semi final. She spoke to U105 about coping with fame, support from her family and her initiative 'together at home'

730

4821: LISTEN¦ As schools prepare to open 'as a last resort' for children of key workers and those with special educational needs, health correspondent Lisa Smyth talks about some of the plans education officials are considering to ensure health and safety of pupils and teachers

731

4820: 'People's actions today will have a direct effect on our hospital system, on our ICU beds and how our health system copes in two weeks time - Health Minister Robin Swann tells U105 it's 'despairing' to see people flouting social distancing advice

732

4819: LISTEN¦ 'There is no need to panic buy, there is enough to go around' - Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon reassures shoppers after she takes strong steps to ensure supermarket shelves remain stocked and home heating supplies are uninterrupted

733

4818: LISTEN¦ With families set to spend much more time in close proximity, how can we minimise friction and what is the likely impact on relationships? Frank heard from Relate NI CEO Duane Farrell

734

4817: LISTEN¦ What can or should government do to support people and businesses struggling as a result of coronavirus? Could a universal basic income help keep families afloat? Frank spoke to senior economist Dr Esmond Birnie

735

4816: LISTEN¦ How will school closures affect teachers and children preparing for important exams? What guidance have schools been given? Frank spoke to principal Ciaran Mackin

736

4815: LISTEN¦ 'If it is not urgent, you are diverting our time away from helping the most vulnerable' - a pharmacist urges people to show 'patience and kindness' to avoid much-needed services being swamped by non-essential requests

737

4814: LISTEN¦ Health correspondent Lisa Smyth talks about new measures set to be introduced to reduce the impact and stress on GP surgeries and the risk of spreading infection

738

4813: LISTEN¦ Teaching unions have urged the First and Deputy First Minister to end uncertainty by setting a date for school closures. Frank spoke to Gerry Murphy, chair of the NI Teachers' Council

739

4812: LISTEN¦ Frozen veg, nut butters and honey - what kinds of food should we be putting in our 'pandemic pantry' if we have to self-isolate? Frank spoke to nutritionist Sal Hanvey

740

4811: LISTEN¦ Are UK motorist still paying too much for fuel? With tumbling oil prices, campaigner Howard Cox of Fair Fuel UK says consumers should be feeling the benefit at the pump

741

4810: LISTEN¦ Bellaghy's own Brooke Scullion talks about wowing the judges on The Voice, working with mentor Meghan Trainor and what makes people in south Derry special

742

4809: LISTEN¦ 'People need proper information'. Leaked details of a top-level meeting of health officials suggests NI's facing a 'rapid rise' in coronavirus cases a number of measures being considered to prevent panic buying. Frank heard from Irish News health correspondent Seanín Graham

743

4808: LISTEN¦ With people over 70 facing the possibility of months of self-isolation, how can we support our older neighbours and loved ones? Frank spoke to Age NI Chief Executive Linda Robinson

744

4807: LISTEN¦ Can changing the way you think have an impact on your physical health, including your immune system? Frank spoke to mind wellness expert Deirdre Maguire

745

4806: LISTEN¦ Cyber criminals are seeking to exploit fears over coronavirus by targeting web users seeking information. Cyber security expert Wayne Denner explains how to avoid getting caught out

746

4805: LISTEN¦ 'This isn't about money, this is about people' - Colin Neill, CEO of Hospitality Ulster urges the government to create a fund to ensure staff who are unable to work are protected

747

4804: LISTEN¦ 'Be kind, buy responsibly' - Aodhan Connolly, head of the NI Retail Consortium urges people not to panic buys, and praised shop staff working round the clock to ensure shoppers can get what they need

748

4802: LISTEN¦ People are stockpiling disinfectant, preparing to self-isolate and cancelling travel plans to avoid contracting coronavirus. What can you do to boost your immune system. Frank heard from nutritionist Sal Hanvey

749

4801: LISTEN¦ Alliance have drawn voters away from the DUP and Sinn Fein in sizable numbers, according to a University of Liverpool study. Could they dislodge one of the two largest parties to become a dominant force in local politics? Frank heard the thoughts of Prof Peter Shirlow

750

4800: LISTEN¦ More than half of NI drivers admit to using their phone behind the wheel. Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon says we need a culture and behaviour change and plans to introduce tougher penalties. Frank also spoke to road safety expert Terence Malcolm

751

4799: LISTEN¦ As the number of coronavirus victims here rises to 12, how will the spread be contained and will it affect large-scale events? Frank spoke to health correspondent Lisa Smyth and Carla Dallas from Coagh United, who had to take steps after the team came into contact with a player with the virus

752

4798: LISTEN¦ Spitting Image is set to return to our screens. Are our modern-day politicians colourful enough to make it work? Frank heard the thoughts of commentator Alex Kane

753

4797: LISTEN¦ How did a teacher from Dungannon become one of the most influential women in India? Malachi O'Doherty tells the story of Margaret Noble, better known as Sister Nivedita

754

4795: LISTEN¦ UK carrier Flybe has gone into administration. How will it impact on Belfast City Airport and the airline's staff and will passengers be left out of pocket? Frank spoke to chief executive Brian Ambrose, business expert Jamie Delargy, Unite rep George Brash and Richard Williams from the Consumer Council

755

4794: LISTEN¦ Would less traffic and more cycle lanes have you riding into work on two wheels? Frank heard from Anne Madden from Sustrans and author Malachi O'Doherty

756

4793: LISTEN¦ New hit TV show 'My Left Nut' has got people talking about an important men's health issue. Frank spoke to one of the writers Michael Patrick, whose experiences inspired the story

757

4792: LISTEN¦ Ever seen a seventy year old stilt walker or a juggler in her ninth decade? Jim Watson told Frank why his organisation is running circus classes for the over-55s

758

4791: LISTEN¦ Will work on a redeveloped Casement Park finally begin in 2022? Frank heard the thoughts of sports writer Steven Beacom

759

4790: LISTEN¦ 'Good clean fun', or 'cringey TV'? BBC NI recommissioned reality show 'There's No Place Like Tyrone' and not everyone was happy. Frank spoke to journalist and Tyrone native Brendan Hughes

760

4789: LISTEN¦ A tweet by the MS Society, urging people to 'turn Belfast orange' was an innocent mistake but shows how little other parts of the UK understand the 'minefield of language' relating to NI, says the charity's former board member Peter Cardwell

761

4788: LISTEN¦ Ciara Gallagher from Marie Curie told Frank about their 'Make March Yellow' campaign, backing the amazing work the charity does in support of people at the end of life

762

4787: LISTEN¦ New research in the US found while millennials are very open-minded about gender issues, their attitudes to housework remain very traditional. Is that true here? Frank heard the thoughts of Amanda Ferguson

763

4786: LISTEN¦ Why does the PSNI appear to be endorsing social network Next Door? Leading cyber security expert Wayne Denner says it could raise potential concerns around data security

764

4785: LISTEN¦ With a growing number of eating disorder cases, including among younger children, NI still doesn't have a specialist treatment unit. Frank spoke to Debbie Howard, founder of Fight ED about her own experiences of the condition and the work her charity does

765

4784: LISTEN¦ Arlene Foster says she doesn't believe there will be a border poll or a United Ireland in her lifetime. Denise got the thoughts of Prof Jon Tonge and Alex Kane

766

4783: LISTEN¦ Exam stress and the pressure of living up to images of social media influencers are two of the main factors affecting our children's mental health, according to a new report. Denise spoke to Mairead McCafferty, chief exec of NICCY

767

4782: LISTEN¦ Despite the 'seismic' attendance of senior Sinn Fein figures at a PSNI recruitment launch, the number of Catholic applicants has remained almost static. Denise heard from Irish News security correspondent Allison Morris

768

4781: LISTEN¦ It lowers your risk of diabetes, dementia and depression, so why are more of us not out walking? Denise spoke to Jill Montgomery from Outdoor Recreation NI and Leona Coulter, who leads a walking group in Aghalee

769

4780: LISTEN¦ Could a new product which buzzes when you snore be the answer to many sleepless nights? Snoring expert Dr Paul Heaney, from Snoring Solutions NI spoke to Denise about why we snore and how we can stop

770

4779: LISTEN¦ How can you boost your earning potential or perhaps find a new career through online learning? Denise spoke to Katie O’Donovan from Google

771

4778: LISTEN¦ GPs have expressed concern over a lack of protective equipment, school pupils returning from Italian school trips have been sent home, while there all calls to postpone Ireland's Six Nations game against Italy. How well prepared are we for Coronavirus? Denise spoke to Lisa Smyth

772

4777: LISTEN¦ Fancy being your own boss? The number of people starting their own business is on the rise, but what are some of the challenges and pit-falls? Denise spoke to entrepreneur and Apprentice finalist Claire Young

773

4776: LISTEN¦ How do you make the perfect pancake and how do we make sure our vegan friends have to miss out? Denise got some top tips from GBBO star and chef Manon Lagrève

774

4775: LISTEN¦ A group of Belfast Giants fans are aiming to encourage 100 people to donate blood, as part of their #bleedteal100 - each donation with will also raise £10 for @GiveBloodNI - Denise spoke to @AVFTB podcaster @Davy_mcG

775

4774: LISTEN¦ It's the most downloaded app in the world but are parents aware of the hidden dangers Tik Tok may have for children? Denise spoke to cyber security expert and podcaster Wayne Denner

776

4773: LISTEN¦ Former WBO cruiserweight champion Enzo Maccarinelli talks to Frank about the importance of opening up on mental health, as well as this weekend's heavyweight mega fight in Las Vegas, between Tyson Fury and Deontay Wilder

777

4772: LISTEN¦ 'Liss-burn' or 'Liz-burn'? 'Cul-traw' or 'Cul-trah' - are we pronouncing our words correctly? Frank spoke to Sorcha Eastwood and took calls from listeners

778

4771: LISTEN¦ Newly-crowned Britain's Best Cook, Suzie Arbuthnot, from Lisburn, talked to Frank about her winning menu, keeping the secret under wraps and what she hopes to do next

779

4770: LISTEN¦ Despite a change to the law that allows specialist doctors to legally prescribe cannabis to treat some serious conditions, it is not yet available on the NHS. Frank spoke to Robin Emerson, whose daughter Jorja's life has been transformed by the drug, along with Anurag Deb from KRW Law, who have taken the issue to the High Court

780

4769: LISTEN¦ With interest rates so low and this week's announced cut to Premium Bond prizes, is it still worth saving? Frank spoke to business expert Jamie Delargy

781

4768: LISTEN¦ Northern Ireland public transport system is in danger of 'imminent and serious collapse' unless millions more in funding can be found. Will prices need to rise or services be cut? Frank spoke to economist Dr Esmond Birnie, UUP MLA Roy Beggs and took calls from listeners

782

4767: LISTEN¦ Author Malachi O'Doherty talks to Frank about his gripping new novel, Terry Brankin Has A Gun

783

4766: LISTEN¦ Could the spread of the corona virus hurt the NI tourism industry? Frank spoke to a tour operator whose summer bookings have fallen by a third

784

4765: LISTEN¦ Will new UK immigration rules, with salary and skills requirements, help or hinder the NI economy? Frank spoke to Colin Neill from Hospitality Ulster and Dr Esmond Birnie senior economist at Ulster University

785

4764: LISTEN¦ Looking for ideas to occupy the kids during half term holidays? Frank got some tips from travel writer Tim Hedgley

786

4763: LISTEN¦ NI's 'Diabetic Duo' are de-mystifying diabetes through viral videos. Frank spoke to Tik Tok stars Beth Daniel & Ellen Watson

787

4762: LISTEN¦ Actor Martin Freeman admits he has smacked his kids in the past, but says he's 'not proud of it'. Should parents be able to physically discipline children? Frank spoke to commentator Fionola Meredith and took calls from listeners

788

4761: LISTEN¦ Fewer than a third of those surveyed in a major new study would back Irish unity, if a border poll was held tomorrow. Frank spoke to one of those behind the research, Prof Jon Tonge and heard the thoughts of commentator and academic David McCann

789

4760: LISTEN¦ The teenage years can be challenging for both young people and their parents. What changes in the teenage brain and body impact upon mood, sleep and emotions? Dr Declan McKenna explains

790

4759: LISTEN¦ The death of Caroline Flack has put reality TV, social media and the tabloid press at the centre of the 'blame game'. Frank spoke to journalist Amanda Ferguson

791

4758: LISTEN¦ Tributes have been paid to the 'hero of Munich', former Manchester United and Northern Ireland goalkeeper Harry Gregg, who died aged 87. Frank spoke to sports journalists Liam Beckett and Mark McIntosh, John White secretary of a local United supporters club and fellow goalkeeping legend Pat Jennings

792

4757: LISTEN¦ What is a SPAD and what does it take to become one? Former special adviser in Westminster's Justice Department, Peter Cardwell, gave us an insight into the inner workings of government

793

4756: LISTEN¦ What should you do if you get a parking charge notice, while parking on private land? Mark Crawford from the Consumer Council gave listeners some tips

794

4755: LISTEN¦ There were more than 50 deaths related to the powerful painkiller Fentanyl, between 2014 and 2018. SDLP councillor Paul McCusker warns the death toll will rise due to the accessibility of a drug 50 times more potent than heroin

795

4754: LISTEN¦ Suzie Arbuthnot has been doing Lisburn proud, making it all the way to the grand final of BBC One's Best Home Cook. Frank spoke to Suzie about learning to cook, her favourite dishes and meeting culinary icons like Mary Berry

796

4753: LISTEN¦ 'Cruel and disgusting' is how the deputy chief constable described anti-police recruitment posters, depicting injured officer Peadar Heffron. Frank spoke to journalist Amanda Ferguson

797

4752: LISTEN¦ 'Utterly bizarre' - Prof Jon Tonge and Alex Kane discuss the sacking of Secretary of State Julian Smith and what may have been behind the decision to axe him

798

4751: LISTEN¦ 'A bomb going off in Belfast is just as serious as bomb that goes off in Birmingham' - UUP MLA Doug Beattie told Frank omitting NI from new anti-terror legislation is 'scandalous'

799

4751: LISTEN¦ What does £500m buy for the health service? That's the amount the minister warns is needed just to maintain current service levels. As Lisa Smyth tells Frank, difficult decisions will be needed to make significant change

800

4750: LISTEN¦ With no two parties combined meeting the magic 80 seat threshold, what will the Republic's government look like? Could northern MPs be given speaking rights in the new Dail? Frank spoke to Amanda Ferguson and John Manley from the Irish News

801

4749: LISTEN¦ Could a bridge between Northern Ireland and Scotland go ahead? Frank spoke to top architect Alan Dunlop, who carried out a feasibility study

802

4748: LISTEN¦ Former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern says an Irish unity referendum is now 'inevitable'. Sinn Fein would like to see it within five years, could it happen? Frank spoke to Eamonn Mallie and Prof Jon Tonge

803

4747: LISTEN¦ South Korean film Parasite has become the first non-English language film to win Best Picture at the Oscars. What other surprises were there at the film industry's top awards show? Frank spoke to Mr Showbiz himself, Paul Martin

804

4746: LISTEN¦ Ireland have put together back-to-back wins to get their Six Nations campaign off to a strong start, but can they win it? Frank spoke to sports-writer Richard Mulligan

805

4745: LISTEN¦ Green Party leader Clare Bailey talks to Frank about the need for specific laws to protect victims of stalking in Northern Ireland and spoke about her own experiences

806

4744: LISTEN¦ With Sinn Fein topping the polls in Saturday's election, will we see the party in government on both sides of the border and could Mary Lou McDonald become Taoiseach? Frank spoke to Amanda Ferguson in Dublin as well as David McCann and Alex Kane

807

4743: LISTEN¦ Do you have trouble with your theres and theirs or remembering if stationary means staying still or a biro? Susie Dent from Countdown has some tips for improving your spelling

808

4742: LISTEN¦ Sinn Fein's Philip McGuigan has spoken out about the damaging impact of online gambling on his life. Fionola Meredith spoke to Frank about whether widespread advertising for online gambling firms should be banned

809

4741: LISTEN¦ A baby has been tested for suspected coronavirus at Altnagelvin Hospital. What symptoms should you look out for? What happens if a case is identified and how are authorities worldwide dealing with the risk? Frank spoke to virologist Dr Connor Bamford, from Queen's University Belfast

810

4740: LISTEN¦ MLAs have backed calls for mandatory autism training for teachers. But how would it work and would it add to teachers' existing workload? Frank heard from Justin McCamphill of the NASUWT and Kerry Boyd, CEO of Autism NI

811

4739: LISTEN¦ Got a DIY project, big or small, but don't have the tools you need? Frank heard from Neal Campbell, one of the volunteers at Belfast Tool Library, a one-of-a-kind resource on the island of Ireland

812

4738: LISTEN¦ Should Northern Ireland have its own national anthem? One listener submitted his attempt to create an 'anthem for all' - other people had their say

813

4737: LISTEN¦ Should non-payment of the BBC licence fee be decriminalised? Is it still the best way to fund the BBC in the modern media landscape? Frank heard from author and commentator Malachi O'Doherty

814

4736: LISTEN¦ Paul Quinn's parents say they accept an apology from Sinn Fein's Conor Murphy, but want him to say publicly their son was not a criminal. Frank spoke to Irish News journalist Brendan Hughes

815

4735: LISTEN¦ How can you avoid 'pet regret'? One in five owners say they have rehomed a pet, with many saying they didn't fit their lifestyle. Frank spoke to top vet Dr Scott Miller

816

4734: LISTEN¦ An independent inquiry found a culture of 'avoidance and denial' allowed a rogue surgeon to perform botched and unnecessary operations on hundreds of women. Frank spoke to Emma Doughty, a lawyer for a number of Ian Paterson's patients

817

4733: LISTEN¦ Sinn Fein's presence at a PSNI recruitment drive has been hailed as 'seismic and historic' - how far will this go in changing Nationalist attitudes to policing? Frank spoke to Allison Morris and Mark Lindsay from the PFNI

818

4732: LISTEN¦ Frank spoke to makeup artist and YouTube star Chloe Morton about documentary 'Beauty Laid Bare' and turning her hobby into a successful career

819

4731: LISTEN¦ Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey says she plans to extend protections for those who would be affected by the so-called bedroom tax. Who will be the main beneficiaries of the decision? Frank spoke to Kate McCauley from Housing Rights

820

4730: LISTEN¦ A Labour MP has proposed a ban on schools forcing parents to buy branded uniforms and sports gear. What impact would a similar ban have on families in NI? Frank spoke to Ryan Fitzsimmons, from Advice NI

821

4729: LISTEN¦ Councillors in Belfast have called for a drugs task-force to be established, after drugs-related deaths more than doubled in a decade. Frank spoke the proposer of the motion, the SDLP's Paul McCusker.

822

4728: LISTEN¦ A Sinn Fein motion could see Belfast Zoo close in its current form, to be replaced by a 'world class visitor attraction' - what would that mean for the animals and those who work there? Frank spoke to Conor Maskey, Chris McGimpsey, Mal O'Hara and Alan Perry from the GMB

823

4727: LISTEN¦ A fairly uneventful return, so far, for MLAs to Stormont. A sign of new-found consensus? Frank spoke to Irish News political correspondent John Manley

824

4726: LISTEN¦ Considering buying a car you've spotted online? Before you do, avoid any scams by listening to some tips from cyber security expert Wayne Denner

825

4725: LISTEN¦ Derry-born author Claire Allan spoke to Frank about her latest book, The Liar's Daughter

826

4724: LISTEN¦ Mary Kate Kelly and Charlie Kelly, head girl and boy at Rathmore Grammar School spoke to Frank about their upcoming Alumni and Friends Gala Dinner

827

4723: LISTEN¦ Did you make it through Dry January? Research suggests you may be healthier (and lighter) for it. Frank spoke to journalist Amanda Ferguson, who's gone 31 days booze-free

828

4722: LISTEN¦ School dinners are set for a shake-up under Department of Education plans, which would see fewer chips and more veg on our kids plates. What should our children be eating? Frank spoke to nutritionist Sal Hanvey

829

4721: LISTEN¦ 'Brexit Day' is upon us, but will it be a new dawn for Northern Ireland? Frank spoke to Tom Kelly, Prof Jon Tonge, Stephen Kelly of Manufacturing NI and business expert Jamie Delargy

830

4720: LISTEN¦ The World Health Organisation warns that antibiotic-resistant 'super bugs' are one of the greatest threats to human health, globally. Frank spoke to Dr Jenny Mac from the Public Health Agency

831

4719: LISTEN¦ Not enough is being done to improve safeguarding in care homes, according to the for Commissioner for Older People. Frank spoke to the commissioner, Eddie Lynch and health correspondent Lisa Smyth

832

4718: LISTEN¦ Are gluten free snacks any healthier than regular treat foods? Joana Da Silva from Safefood dispels some misconceptions around gluten free products

833

4717: LISTEN¦ The number of botched lip filler cases reported to independent regulator Save Face has doubled in a year, with some victims as young as 14. Does the industry need more regulation? Frank spoke to Save Face founder Ashton Collins

834

4716: LISTEN¦ Tricia O'Neill from Road Safe NI spoke to Frank about a powerful new documentary, the Paulie Project, which talks about the human cost of road deaths

835

4715: LISTEN¦ EU negotiator Michel Barnier claims that frictionless trade between NI and GB post-Brexit is impossible, under Boris's deal. How will this impact on consumers and the haulage industry? Frank spoke to Aodhán Connolly who heads the NI Retail Consortium

836

4714: LISTEN¦ Around half of women believe they're underpaid, yet nearly three quarters have never challenged their boss on the issue. Employment lawyer Ruby Dinsmore gives listeners tips on what to do if you believe you should be paid more and how to negotiate for a better salary

837

4712: LISTEN¦ On the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, Dr Katy Radford talks about the importance of drawing lessons from such atrocities in a way that allows us to move forward, rather than looking backwards

838

4711:LISTEN¦ Thousands of drivers have been given temporary MOT exemptions, after broken vehicle lifts saw a raft of cancellations. Frank spoke to roads minister Nichola Mallon

839

4710: LISTEN¦ Official figures from the Ambulance Service show a steep rise in the use of a drug to reverse the effects of an overdose. What's behind the rise and what are substances people are involved? Frank spoke to Chris Rintoul, from Extern

840

4709: LISTEN¦ Tom Kelly paid tribute to his friend and former colleague Seamus Mallon, a man who 'could connect with ordinary people but make government ministers quiver'

841

4708: LISTEN¦ Are common garden birds as common as they used to be? The RSPB is looking for volunteers to take part in the Big Garden Birdwatch to see how birds numbers and species are changing. Frank spoke to Phil Carson from the charity

842

4707: LISTEN¦ A man's been treated at a Belfast hospital for symptoms of the coronavirus that has so far killed 18 people in China. What do we know about the virus and should we be concerned. Frank got the latest from virologist Connor Bamford

843

4706: LISTEN¦ With thousands of children set to receive the results of their AQE/GL tests, we looked at whether it was too stressful for young children and whether it was aiding social mobility. Frank spoke to education minister Peter Weir and businesswoman Tina McKenzie

844

4705: LISTEN¦ Are we over-feeding our pets? A new study found nearly half of dogs and a third of cats are obese. Frank spoke to vet Scott Miller

845

4704: LISTEN¦ Would removing items from the wreck of the Titanic be disrespectful to those who lost their lives or could it preserve valuable artifacts for posterity? Frank spoke to historian Gareth Russell

846

4703: LISTEN¦ An all-island football cup competition could be back on the table, but would it revitalise the local game? Frank spoke to sport writer Steven Beacom

847

4702: LISTEN¦ Is the local health service facing another crisis with falling GP numbers? Frank spoke to Belfast Telegraph health correspondent Lisa Smyth and Dr Alan Stout from the BMA

848

4700: LISTEN¦ Do your children walk to school? Adventurer and TV presenter Ben Fogle has been challenging kids to reduce their carbon footprint by walking, cycling or using public transport to get to school

849

4699: LISTEN¦ Unlike the rest of the UK and the Republic, NI doesn't have specific anti-stalking legislation. Is it leaving victims vulnerable to repeat offenders? Frank spoke to Irish News security correspondent Allison Morris

850

4698: LISTEN¦ Is the £1,000 pay increase for MLAs 'unjustifiable' or would better pay attract a better calibre of politicians? Frank spoke to Prof Jon Tonge, Alex Kane and SDLP MLA Daniel McCrossan

851

4697: LISTEN¦ Are children taking the lead, encouraging parents to be more eco-friendly? Frank spoke to Michaela Strachan and CEO of moneyexpert.com, Jason Smith

852

4696: LISTEN¦ A new study found 40% of people met their partner online or via an app, but what about those who prefer to use more traditional means? Frank spoke to Claire Hughes, founder of the Soirée Society

853

4695: LISTEN¦ A new code of conduct for special advisers at Stormont has been published, but concerns remain around transparency of appointments and whether the code carries sufficient weight without legislation. Frank spoke to John Manley and Jim Allister

854

4694: LISTEN¦ The Palace is preparing itself for a 'hard Mexit' - but what will Harry and Meghan do once they quit the Royal Family? Frank spoke to Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams

855

4693:LISTEN¦ With thousands of instances of online trolling or cyber abuse reported to the PSNI each year, do the social media giants need to do more to protect users? Frank spoke to cyber security expert Wayne Denner and Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart

856

LISTEN¦ Following a string of suicides in recent weeks in north Belfast, a number of prominent local figures have called on the Health Minister to declare a public health emergency. Frank spoke to Seanin Graham from the Irish News

857

4691: LISTEN¦ After the costly Christmas period, Scott Kennerley of the Consumer Council offered us advice about managing your money during 'the longest month' as well as using his organisation's new budgeting tool

858

4690: LISTEN¦ Are you self-employed? With just two weeks until the self-assessment deadline, Rick got some advice from HMRC tax expert Nikki Sanders

859

4689: LISTEN¦ How are your New Year's Resolutions going? Is your willpower wavering? Frank enlisted the help of hypnotherapist @warrenyorkhypno to give us some tips on how to make real, lasting changes

860

4688: LISTEN¦ With nearly two-thirds of working-age people with epilepsy not in employment, does more need to be done to support people in the workplace? Frank spoke to Erin Davies from Epilepsy Action

861

4687: LISTEN¦ An investigation has begun after campaign group Meat the Victims staged a protest over conditions at a Co Antrim farm. Frank spoke to UFU deputy president David Brown and MTV member Tuesday Goti

862

4686: LISTEN¦ Belfast City Council has backed calls on Stormont to ban the sale of puppies and kittens from unregistered breeders. Frank spoke to Cllr Anthony Flynn, who was behind the motion

863

4685: LISTEN¦ Dieting or detoxing to compensate for that festive blowout? Nutritionist Sal Hanvey offered some great advice on losing weight while avoiding fad diets or supplements

864

4684: LISTEN¦ A top economist has warned it may cost £5bn to fill the shortfall in spending on areas like infrastructure and health. Could differences over funding see the first cracks emerge in the Executive's 'New Approach'?. Frank spoke to Dr Esmond Birnie and Allison Morris

865

4683: LISTEN¦ The Queen is holding crisis talks senior royals - the first face-to-face discussions since the Duke and Duchess of Sussex announced their decision to step back from royal duties. Frank spoke to royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams

866

4682: LISTEN¦ What are the biggest challenges facing the new Executive and who has the toughest brief? Frank spoke to Tom Kelly and Alex Kane

867

4681: LISTEN¦ New year, new career? Conor O'Hagan from Brightwater NI offered advice on the best paying jobs, where to find careers advice and what industries should you be considering

868

4680: LISTEN¦ Got any unwanted or faulty gifts over Christmas? What are your rights when it comes to returns/exchanges? Frank spoke to Ronan Convery from the Consumer Council

869

4679: LISTEN¦ Could combining music with brisk walking be the key to shifting that Christmas weight gain? Frank spoke to professor of exercise and health, Prof Marie Murphy

870

4678: LISTEN¦ Do young men know enough about drink spiking and how can you and your friends stay safe on a night out? Frank spoke to Elaine Hindal, chief executive of Drinkaware

871

4677: LISTEN¦ Campaigner Philip McTaggart has called on officials to declare a 'health emergency' as six people in NI are taking their own lives each week.

872

4676: LISTEN¦ What's in the draft deal and will all parties sign up to it? Frank gets the thoughts of Prof Jon Tonge, Malachi O'Doherty and Amanda Ferguson

873

4675: LISTEN¦ What services are there for young people struggling with their mental health? Frank spoke to Children's Commissioner Koulla Yiasouma

874

4674: LISTEN¦ What will Harry and Meghan do now, following their decision to 'step back' as senior royals? Will it damage the monarchy? Frank spoke to royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams

875

4673: LISTEN¦ A new poll by LucidTalk suggests the DUP will have a tough time selling an Irish Language Act to its voters, while there's a dip in support for Sinn Féin's policy of abstentionism

876

4672: LISTEN¦ A rates revaluation could see retailers pay less, while some pubs and hotels warn of 'crippling' rises. Frank spoke to David Ross from the Department of Finance and Joel Neill of Hospitality Ulster

877

4671: LISTEN¦ Derry City and Strabane District Council has become the first to back a menopause policy, designed to reduce related absenteeism and offer support to manage symptoms at work. Frank got the opinion of journalist Amanda Ferguson

878

4670: LISTEN¦ A new book examines the relationship between women and fiction. Why do women account for such a high percentage of fiction readers? And why do men appear resistant to reading female writers? Frank spoke to the author Prof Helen Taylor

879

4669: LISTEN¦ A top judge has warned that current law in NI doesn't deal 'in a satisfactory way' with hate crimes. Do we need a clearer definition and what about online offences? Frank spoke to Judge Desmond Marrinan

880

4668: LISTEN: Amid growing controversy, the Irish justice minister opted to defer a commemoration of the Royal Irish Constabulary. Historian Eamon Phoenix explains the origins of the organisation and the source of the controversy

881

4667: LISTEN: After the heads of Northern Ireland's health trusts warned this week's strikes could push the system "beyond tipping point" Frank spoke to Conor McCarthy from union Unison and Health Correspondent Lisa Smyth

882

4666: LISTEN¦ After early optimism, will issues around an Irish language act and petition of concern put the brakes on talks progress? Frank spoke to Allison Morris

883

4665: LISTEN¦ Ricky Gervais took aim at celebrities for making political pronouncements. Did he have a point? Frank spoke to showbiz journalist Paul Martin

884

4664: LISTEN¦ Last year was one of the safest in recorded history on NI's roads, but could reducing rural limits and introducing more speed cameras in 30MPH zones make them safer still? Frank heard from Ben Lowry and Jamie Delargy

885

4661: LISTEN¦ Will we see a deal struck to restore the Stormont Assembly or will we go back to the polls, again? Frank got the thoughts of Malachi O'Doherty and Alex Kane

886

4662: LISTEN¦ Rising music star Niamh Murphy called in for a chat with Frank and to perform an original song and a Christmas classic

887

4661: LISTEN¦ Enjoying an alcohol-free Christmas or looking for a new festive fizz? Frank enlisted the help of drinks expert Kate Goodman and Simon Cairn, head of wine at the Co-op

888

4660: LISTEN¦ Heading home for Christmas or jetting off for some winter sun? What happens if your flight is delayed or cancelled? What are your rights? Frank spoke to Richard Williams, head of transport at the Consumer Council

889

4659: LISTEN¦ The Ulster Museum has been gifted six works by the Dutch master Rembrandt. How can you see them and when will they go on display? Frank spoke to head of National Museums NI, Kathryn Thomson

890

4658: LISTEN¦ Talks appear to have ground to a halt at Stormont. What happened? Frank spoke to Irish News political correspondent John Manley

891

4657: LISTEN¦ A newly published review looking at recalled patients of Dr Michael Watt raised question marks over a fifth of diagnoses. Frank spoke to Belfast Telegraph health correspondent Lisa Smyth

892

LISTEN¦ As the boss of an online bookmaker is revealed as the UK's top earning CEO, taking home over £300m, the industry faces criticism, including over children gambling. Frank spoke to Mark Baillie from charity CARE

893

4655: LISTEN¦ After a prominent Instagrammer appeared to admit she hadn't tried a product she was promoting, Frank spoke to top social media expert Wayne Denner about the pitfalls of influencer marketing

894

4654: LISTEN¦ Is loneliness increasingly an issue for middle aged men? Thousands of people have responded to a viral video in which a 52 year old man admits he has no friends. Frank spoke to Eoin McAnuff from the Mens Sheds initiative

895

4653: LISTEN¦ Why are a string of major government projects years behind schedule and millions over-budget? Frank spoke to Auditor General Kieran Donnelly

896

4652: LISTEN¦ The Secretary of State is meeting local parties, aiming to break the deadlock on talks with health unions. Will it have the desired effect? Frank spoke to health correspondent Lisa Smyth

897

4651: LISTEN¦ Research by QUB suggests vaping could be as damaging to your lungs as smoking. Frank spoke to the study's lead author, Dr Deirdre Gilpin

898

4650: LISTEN¦ Last minute talks failed to prevent a strike by health workers - who's to blame and how can the dispute be resolved?

899

4649: LISTEN¦ As the Tumble Circus returns to Belfast for its winter run, Frank spoke to its youngest member, Kasper and mum Tina

900

4648: LISTEN¦ With one in four people in NI admitting to a festive kitchen mishap, how can you avoid a Christmas dinner disaster? Frank spoke to Dr Gary Kearney and chef Stephen Jeffers

901

4647: LISTEN¦ With less than 24 hours to go, can a planned strike by health workers be averted? Frank spoke to Belfast Telegraph health correspondent Lisa Smyth

902

4646: LISTEN¦ With just two days remaining in the Stuff a Bus campaign, Frank spoke to Rioghnach Murphy, service manager at Grosvenor House Family Centre and Salvation Army centre chaplain Simon Arthur

903

4645: LISTEN¦ A return to Stormont could be imminent, with talks commencing today. If so, what will it look like and will it work? Frank spoke to Prof Jon Tonge and Malachi O'Doherty

904

4644: LISTEN¦ What role did Brexit play in the election and will the results provoke soul-searching in unionism? Frank spoke to Allison Morris and Sam McBride

905

4643: LISTEN - Lamentable for Labour, dire for the DUP - where has this election left us, politically? Frank spoke to Ben Lowry, Eamonn Mallie, Amanda Ferguson and Prof Jon Tonge

906

4642: LISTEN¦ Pet charity Blues Cross is giving tips on the best way to care for your pets this Christmas. Rick spoke to vet Roisin Bolger

907

4641: LISTEN¦ A new two-part show will look at Ireland's wealthiest individuals. How did they make their money? Rick spoke to presenter Richard Curran

908

4640: LISTEN¦ Shops are facing calls to remove 'smart toys' from shelves amid fears they could be hacked, leaving children at risk from being contact by strangers. Peter spoke to top cyber security expert Wayne Denner

909

4639: LISTEN¦ NI Chest Heart and Stroke has assembled local 'heart heroes' to help fight heart disease. Peter spoke to Patrick Anderson from NICHS and artist Aly Harte

910

4638: LISTEN¦ Rory McIlroy has turned down a reported $2.5m to play a tournament in Saudi Arabia. Given the kingdom's human rights record, is there an onus on sports people to speak up? Peter talked to Patrick Corrigan from Amnesty International

911

4637: LISTEN¦ Could the return of Stormont be just weeks away and are our politicians prepared to take the difficult decisions? Peter spoke to Irish News political correspondent John Manley and Newsletter political editor Sam McBride

912

4636: LISTEN¦ Our incredibly generous listeners are helping to stuff a bus with up to 20,000 presents for children living in hardship. Frank spoke to Chris from the Salvation Army and Shannon whose family will benefit from this year's campaign

913

4635: LISTEN: Det Chief Supt Paula Hillman talks to Frank about the PSNI's Christmas domestic abuse campaign

914

4634: LISTEN¦ Is Con O'Neill the richest, most powerful Irishman you've never heard of? Frank spoke to the author of a new book about the last Gaelic Lord of Upper Clannaboy

915

4633: LISTEN¦ Just days out from Thursday's general election, will last night's leaders' debate change how people vote? Frank spoke to Prof Jon Tonge, journalist Amanda Ferguson and top pollster Bill White

916

4632: LISTEN¦ After 58 years as a DJ, legendary label-founder Terri Hooley is hanging up his headphones. Frank spoke to Terri about his upcoming farewell tour of Irish venues

917

4631: LISTEN¦ With temperatures dropping, Frank gets advice from Paulino Garcia of the Consumer Council about the most cost-effective ways to stay warm this winter

918

4630: LISTEN¦ With up to 95% of Christmas jumpers containing plastic and as many as 12 million set to be sold this year, environmental charity Hubbub wants more people to swap them or buy second hand. Frank spoke to Sarah from the organisation

919

4629: LISTEN¦ In what has been labelled the 'Brexit election' a poll suggests NI voters have other priorities. Frank spoke to chief pollster Bill White from Lucid Talk and commentator Alex Kane

920

4628: LISTEN¦ Revelations around Jeffrey Epstein have brought the issue of sex trafficking back to the fore. How prevalent is it here? Frank spoke to Gayle from charity Invisible Traffick

921

4627: LISTEN¦ A third home in a social housing development in north Belfast has been the target of sectarian vandalism before the tenant had even moved into the property. Frank spoke to Brendan Hughes from the Irish News and local SDLP councillor Paul McCusker

922

4626: LISTEN¦ The local parties' manifestos contain plenty of spending commitments, but do the sums add up? Frank spoke to senior economist Dr Esmond Birnie

923

4625: LISTEN¦ Ireland and Leinster legend Brian O'Driscoll spoke to Frank about Ulster's prospects in this year's Champions Cup, as well as encouraging more people into the game

924

4614: LISTEN¦ The very talented John Mallon called in to talk to Frank about his new calendar for 2020, Beauty on our Doorstep

925

4623: LISTEN¦ A new poll suggests the environment is increasingly a priority for voters in NI. Frank spoke to WWF director of campaigns, Fanny Calder

926

4622: LISTEN¦ With no devolved health minister in place and Westminster reluctant to intervene, who will take control of the spiraling healthcare system? Frank spoke to former health chief John Compton, Prof Jon Tonge and Sam McBride

927

4621: LISTEN¦ Dogs charity Lucy's Trust is urging people not to impulse buy a puppy at Christmas, especially for a child. Frank spoke to founder and vet Olivia Kennedy

928

4620: LISTEN¦ Police officer Clodagh Dunlop tells Frank the incredible story of her recovery from 'locked-in' syndrome, that inspired her book Return to Duty

929

4619: LISTEN¦ Following thousands of outpatient cancellations, the health trust and unions are at odds over who was to blame. Frank spoke to health correspondent Lisa Smyth and took calls from listeners

930

4618: LISTEN¦ With Christmas around the corner, Frank talked foodie present ideas with Gary Quate from Tourism NI

931

4617: LISTEN¦ Irish IS suspect Lisa Smith has been arrested after arriving back in Dublin. Frank spoke to Irish Sun journalist John Hand and Ms Smith's solicitor Darragh Mackin

932

4616: LISTEN¦ Thousands of outpatient appointments have been cancelled in Belfast, with the Trust blaming industrial action. Frank spoke to Irish News health correspondent Seanin Graham and took calls from listeners

933

4615: LISTEN¦ As Vogue magazine signs up to an international sustainability charter, Frank speaks to Belfast Fashion Week boss Cathy Martin about how you can be sustainable and remain on trend

934

4624: LISTEN¦ With Black Friday upon us, Frank gets advice on safeguarding your rights when ordering online, from Kellin McCloskey of the Consumer Council

935

4622: LISTEN¦ Record waiting lists have left the NI health service on the point of collapse, according to the Royal College of Surgeons. Frank spoke to health correspondent Lisa Smyth

936

4621: LISTEN¦ Frank spoke to Sean Smyth who's campaigning tirelessly to fulfill his daughter Eimear's dying wish

937

4620: LISTEN¦ Why is a Belfast taxi driver travelling over 1,700 miles to Benidorm to pick up a passenger? Frank spoke to man himself, Phil Hamilton

938

4619: LISTEN¦ With Black Friday around the corner, Frank spoke to Consumer Council expert Mark Crawford about potential pitfalls, before you splash the cash

939

4618: LISTEN¦ NI party leaders have backed calls for a soft opt-out system for organ donation, but will it become law?

940

4617: LISTEN¦ How big a problem are drugs in our schools and what support are teachers given to deal with them? Frank spoke to Kevin Daly from the INTO union

941

4616: LISTEN¦ Prince Andrew has stepped aside from Royal duties, but how badly has he damaged the Monarchy?

942

4615: LISTEN¦ The union representing most of NI's healthcare workers is to begin industrial action next week. How did it get to this stage?

943

4614: LISTEN¦ Fancy a worm burger? Or perhaps insect biscuits? More and more people are eating insects. Should you? Frank speaks to Horizon Edible Insects co-founder Tiziana Di Costanzo

944

4613: LISTEN¦ A family has taken a legal case over compulsory religious education at their five year old daughter's school. Should children still be required to study RE at school? Frank spoke to journalist Amanda Ferguson

945

4612: LISTEN¦ After high profile Leave campaigner Arron Banks had his private messages leaked on Twitter, Frank spoke to cyber security expert Wayne Denner about how to keep your own data safe

946

4611: LISTEN¦ Who was the big winner from last night's election debate? Frank spoke to commentator @AlexKane221b

947

4610: LISTEN¦ Politicians, world-class swimmers and celebrity patrons are all set to take part in a charity swim for cross-community group

948

4608: LISTEN¦ Is it still taboo for men to express their emotions or admit if they're struggling with mental health issues? Frank speaks to commentator Daithi McKay

949

4608: LISTEN¦ A new report warns that the absence of a devolved Assembly, a number of public services are on the brink of crisis

950

4607: LISTEN¦ Are you claiming all the benefits to which you're entitled?

951

4606: LISTEN¦ How damaging was Prince Andrew's televised interview to his and the Royal Family's reputation? Frank spoke to Royal commentator @RFitzwilliams

952

4605: LISTEN¦ Banners attacking Sinn Fein candidate John Finucane have been labelled a 'hate crime'

953

4604: LISTEN¦ Should Sinn Fein be more transparent around leadership ballots or a party's internal workings their business alone? Frank spoke to Prof Jon Tonge

954

4603: LISTEN¦ Can Northern Ireland upset an in-form Netherlands side in what's set to be Michael O'Neill's final home game in charge?

955

4602: LISTEN¦ Are NI's two biggest parties to see their vote fall and if so, who will be the major beneficiaries? Frank talks to top pollster Bill White and commentator Alex Kane

956

4601: LISTEN¦ Concerns around two of NI's biggest reservoirs are causing delays in planning applications.

957

4600: LISTEN¦ Frank talks to Business In The Community chief Kieran Harding about the Responsible Business Awards

958

4599: LISTEN¦ Frank talks to QIH executive John McCartin about living under threat since the kidnapping of Kevin Lunney

959

4597: LISTEN¦ Concern for the future of scandal-hit Muckamore Abbey with nearly 40 staff resigning or retiring this year

960

4596: LISTEN¦ Frank talks to journalist and writer @EamonnMallie about his new collection of poems 'Under The Tilley Lamp'

961

4595: LISTEN¦ A senior doctor has warned Northern Ireland is losing the battle against heroin

962

4594: LISTEN¦ With social media trolls, online death threats and constant vilification, who would want to be a politician in 2019? Frank talks to @AllisonMorris1 and @AlexKane221b

963

4593: LISTEN¦ "It's all about respect" - as council figures show more than 100 Irish language road signs are defaced in Mid-Ulster, Frank speaks to local MLA Patsy McGlone

964

4592: LISTEN¦ Who are the early favourites to replace Lady Sylvia Hermon as the next North Down MP?

965

4591: LISTEN¦ A new book examines how faith shaped some people's responses to tragedy during the Troubles.

966

4590: LISTEN¦ Is it still an advantage to be multi-lingual when so many people speak English?

967

4589: LISTEN¦ What drives teens to kill? Frank talks to journalist Michael Doyle following the sentencing of two 15 year old boys over the murder of Ana Kriegel

968

4588: LISTEN¦ A video has captured a doctor giving his assessment of conditions in a local hospital emergency department

969

4587: LISTEN¦ A new book's released, chronicling the real life stories on police men and woman during the Troubles. Frank speaks to the author, @colinbreen12

970

4586: LISTEN¦ Incoming UUP leader Steve Aiken is facing pressure to reverse course on plans to contest all 18 constituencies. Will he be forced into a u-turn? Frank speaks to Newsletter political editor @SJAMcBride

971

4585: LISTEN¦ After countless delays and false dawns, it's now hoped a compensation scheme for victims of historical institutional abuse will make it through Parliament. Frank talks to one of those leading the campaign, Margaret McGuckin from @SAVIA_NI

972

4584: LISTEN¦ Potentially life-saving eye tests to detect heart problems could be available at home, using a smart phone, thanks to ground-breaking research at @UlsterUni and the Royal Victoria Hospital

973

4583: LISTEN¦ What will the impending sale of Bombardier's Belfast operations mean for the future of the site? Frank talks to business expert @Jamie_Delargy

974

4582: LISTEN¦ Will incoming UUP leader Steve Aiken maintain his no pacts stance in North Belfast? Could Colum Eastwood reclaim Foyle for the SDLP? Frank talks to @AlexKane221b and John Manley (@casualgardener1)

975

4581: LISTEN¦ Frank talks to journalist @rodneyedwards about an event in Enniskillen where people can hear from health professionals and alleged victims of historical sex abuse about the help available to those who have suffered trauma

976

4580: LISTEN¦ With a December election looking likely, who are likely to be the big winners? Will voters punish Boris for failing to deliver Brexit by Halloween? Frank talks to @AmandaFBelfast and @EamonnMallie

977

4579: LISTEN¦ In the absence of a Stormont Assembly, should NI have a referendum on abortion? Frank talks to @Jim_Wells_MLA and Green Party MLA @rachelwoods52

978

4578: LISTEN¦ A new poll suggests the terms of Boris's deal have led to some DUP supporters reconsidering their stance on Brexit. Frank speaks to @LucidTalk pollster @BillWhiteNI

979

4577: LISTEN¦ By refusing election pacts is incoming UUP leader Steve Aiken 'jeopardising' traditionally unionist seats or taking a bold step to differentiate his party from the DUP? Frank speaks to @AlexKane221b and @SJAMcBride

980

4576: LISTEN¦ Was the reaction to the 'darkest' day image at a Co Antrim school a challenge to free speech or a proper response to a 'horrendous error of judgement'? Frank talks to @peterlynas and @AmandaFBelfast

981

4575: LISTEN¦ Dame Mary Peters talks to Frank about her new book, Passing the Torch, a series of short inspirational stories from some of the sporting world's top female athletes

982

4574: LISTEN¦ Will the PM's Brexit deal make NI poorer or will it give us the best of both worlds, with access to both the UK and EU single market? Frank talks to business expert @Jamie_Delargy and economist Esmond Birnie

983

4573: LISTEN¦ Are we giving our children too many sweet treats? New research suggests NI kids get SEVEN TIMES more than they should. Frank speaks to @safefood_eu nutrition expert Dr Marian O’Reilly

984

4572: LISTEN¦ The government is now required to bring forward legislation for pensions for those injured during the Troubles, through no fault of their own. Frank speaks to Alan McBride from @WAVETrauma

985

4571: LISTEN¦ Have the events of yesterday at Stormont further tainted the reputation of the Assembly? Frank speaks to @AmandaFBelfast and @AlexKane221b

986

4570: LISTEN¦ As some MLAs prepare to sit at Stormont for the first time in two and a half years, why have others opted not to? Frank speaks to Alliance's @JohnBlair MLA and the UUP's @BeattieDoug

987

4569: LISTEN¦ Every 10 years, a census captures data that helps governments, schools, hospitals and other organisations plan for the future, but how does it work and what happens to your information? Frank talks to Dr David Marshall from @NISRA

988

4568: LISTEN¦ The valuable and often dangerous work of social workers during the Troubles has been documented in a new series, Frontline. Frank speaks to Andy McClenaghan from @BASW_NI

989

4567: LISTEN¦ A bill to ensure bar and restaurant staff keep their tips would not apply to NI. Frank gets reaction from Neil Moore of @UniteunionNI and Andy, a restaurant owner

990

4566: LISTEN¦ Noises from Brussels suggest a Brexit deal may be close, but the DUP insists 'gaps' remain and further work is needed. Can a deal be reached and quickly? Frank speaks to @TKbytesback, @BenLowry2, economist Esmond Birnie and @Jamie_Delargy

991

4565: LISTEN¦ The Good Friday Agreement allows people to identify as British, Irish or both, but legally a court has held, people born in NI are British citizens. Frank speaks to @JimAllister, @NiallSF and @StephenFarryMLA

992

4564: LISTEN¦ Warrenpoint man Austen Burns has gained recognition for a service he developed to help people find a suitable carer - he talks to Frank about his experience with cerebral palsy and how it inspired him to give people more choice and control

993

4563: LISTEN¦ As we approach 1000 days without Stormont, we look at the cost for people in NI. Frank speaks to @UlsterUni senior economist Dr Esmond Birnie and @iamdylanquinn from campaign group We Deserve Better

994

4562: LISTEN¦ Prospects of a Brexit deal appear to have increased after a meeting between the PM and Taoiseach, but will everyone be happy with the outcome? Frank talks to Prof @JonTonge and journalist @BenLowry2

995

4561: LISTEN¦ Frank talks to Steven Dixon about @extern1978's Drop The Mask campaign, urging people to have positive conversations around mental health

996

4560: LISTEN¦ There are claims criminals prostituted young girls from a childrens home in Fermanagh. Frank speaks to journalist @rodneyedwards and @PatrickCorrigan from @AmnestyNI

997

4559: LISTEN¦ Corrie star @TheKerriQuinn talks to Frank about her time in Weatherfield and her live show 'Don't Tell Ma Ma' at @TheMACBelfast, this weekend

998

4558: LISTEN¦ Willie Carlin tells Frank about how he became MI5's top spy in Sinn Fein and how his life has been impacted since his cover was blown

999

4557: LISTEN¦ Willie Carlin tells Frank about how he became MI5's top spy in Sinn Fein and how his life has been impacted since his cover was blown

1000

4556: LISTEN¦ Is there still a stigma around working mums bringing their children to work? Frank speaks to MLAs @NicholaMallon and @Kelmba