If you want a laugh, to learn something and enjoy listening to one of Ireland's nicest fellas - this bonus episode is for you. Dermot Whelan is a comedian, a radio & TV host, a Mindfulness teacher, an author, a podcaster and a skateboarder (that last one is not one of his many professions!). Be prepared to find out something that very few people know about him...and just why he's given up worrying.

In this exciting episode of Open Book, Louise Cooney dives into the world of weddings with renowned expert and planner Sara Kennedy. With just six months until her own big day, Louise is eager to learn from Sarah’s wealth of knowledge gathered over two decades in the industry.

Join them as they explore the latest trends in wedding planning, including the rise of digital tools, the allure of destination weddings, and the importance of setting priorities. They discuss everything from the challenges of guest lists to tips on budgeting, and how to handle the emotional rollercoaster that comes with wedding planning.

Whether you’re engaged or just curious, this episode offers invaluable insights to make your wedding journey smoother and more enjoyable. Hit play for a blend of laughter, practical advice, and heartfelt moments! You can find Sara's amazing site here - https://theaislebysarakennedy.ie/

Open Book is proudly supported by Symprove

In this bonus episode of Open Book, Louise Cooney welcomes wedding expert and planner Sara Kennedy to tackle your burning questions about all things weddings!

Whether you’re in the midst of planning your big day or attending multiple weddings this year, this episode is packed with advice you'll want to hear. Sara addresses everything from how to gracefully decline wedding invites when the expenses pile up, to managing the inevitable drama of bridal party dynamics. With tips on timeline and budgeting, she breaks down how to navigate those tricky decisions, like honeymoon timing and whether or not to give gifts for marriages abroad. Get ready to take notes!

In this heartfelt episode of Open Book, Louise Cooney welcomes her friend - the multi-talented Stefanie Preissner - to share her deeply personal journey through motherhood, infertility, and self-discovery.

From navigating the challenges of baby loss and IVF to embracing the chaos of raising two young kids, Stefanie offers insights into the realities many parents face. The conversation flows into the pressures of societal expectations, mental health, and the unique struggles of parenting while balancing careers.

Stefanie's honesty about her experiences with weight and body image resonates as she discusses her past with eating disorders and how motherhood has shifted her perspective. Their candid discussion highlights the complexities of life, love, and finding support in unexpected places.

Join us for an episode filled with laughter, tears, and the powerful message that you are not alone in your journey.

Louise moved into a house across the road from actress and writer Stefanie Preissner two years ago. They weren't long becoming firm friends. In this bonus episode, Louise puts some thought provoking questions to Stefanie that give us an insight into her busy life.

Did you know that your gut affects your mental health, skin, hormones and so much more? Gut health expert Oonagh O'Hagan explains what our microbiome is, how important it is for our overall wellbeing and how exactly we can look after it! From skin breakouts to anxiety and inflammation, it all comes back to your gut. Oonagh breaks down what can feel like a mountain of information into easy to digest, understandable and actionable pieces.

This week, Louise is joined by entrepreneur, pharmacist and health expert Oonagh O'Hagan. In this bonus episode, Louise puts your questions to Oonagh around issues such as acne outbreaks, choosing the best contraceptive pill and constipation.

Be sure to listen to the main episode coming Wednesday to hear an in-depth conversation about health concerning your gut, skin and female hormones.

In this wide-ranging chat, Louise is joined by TV host, columnist and fellow Limerick lady Muireann O'Connell. The pair dive into everything from learning how to dress, wedding preparations, the house hunting experience in Ireland, phone addiction, her biggest critic being her biggest fan and so much more.