In today’s episode, former senator and government minister Katherine Zappone joins Kathy Sheridan to discuss her new memoir Love in a Time of Politics. In this wide-ranging conversation, Zappone charts her journey through Irish politics, from a fresh-faced senator appointed by then taoiseach Enda Kenny, right through to her tenure as minister for children and youth affairs. She speaks about the campaigns she’s most proud of and the scandals she’d rather forget. The 71-year-old also reflects on her relationship with her beloved wife, Dr Ann Louise Gilligan who died in 2017 and the grief that followed her devastating loss. She tells Sheridan how she eventually found love again with her South African partner Jennifer and what the future now holds for the pair. 

But first, Irish Times opinion editor Jennifer O’Connell is here to discuss some of the biggest stories of the week, including Trump's unhinged behaviour aboard Air Force One and how and why the global skincare industry is targeting products towards children as young as four.

Did you know The Irish Times Women’s Podcast is turning ten years old? To celebrate a decade of conversation, craic and captivating stories, we are hosting our ten year birthday bash at the Peacock Theatre in Dublin on Tuesday, December 2nd. For more information and to get tickets to the event, see here.

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Releasedatum: 20-11-2025 17:05:00