Girls, Girls, Girls.....Ladies Day on GTB!!

First up on todays GirlsTalkBack we had up and coming Irish model Dearbhla Hogan on who revealed that she has had a rhinoplasty with Ireland’s leading cosmetic surgery provider, The Harley Medical Group.

Dearbhla spoke to us about her life changing procedure and the stigma that surrounds cosmetic surgery in Ireland. At the age of seven, Dearbhla fell on her face and damaged her nose leaving her with a lump of cartilage at the end of it and a large nose bridge which she felt was too big for her face. Dearbhla has since dreamed of reshaping her nose and decided this year to do so as she was becoming more successful in the modeling world.

It has been around two months since she had the procedure and Dearbhla told GTB that she cannot believe the difference it has made. Although Dearbhla can understand how plastic surgery can become addictive she told us she won’t be getting anything else done and believes celebrity’s like Heidi Montage are unique cases and it is quite extreme!!

Dearbhla’s advice to anyone who is looking into cosmetic surgery is to make sure to do what is best for you. Do a lot of research into the surgery you are contemplating getting and be 100% sure it is what you want.

There is still a lot of stigma surrounding plastic surgery but it would appear that Irish people are slowly but surely coming around to the idea. It is definitely seen as the easy but most expensive way of reaching the ‘ideal you’.

It has been revealed that Rhinoplasty, also called plastic surgery of the nose or a "nose job”, now

accounts for 12% of the overall turnover in Ireland and is the second most performed surgical procedure at THMG Dublin clinic with breast augmentations topping the list. The cosmetic surgery industry as a whole in Ireland has seen growth to date in 2010 with The Harley Medical Group expecting the cosmetic surgery and non-surgical treatment market to grow up to a further 20% throughout the coming year.

To find out more about cosmetic surgury follow the link http://www.harleymedical.ie/

 

Before the show, GTB chatted to Styletonic.ie's Michelle Jones about her decision to start up her own Irish fashion website. Styletonic.ie brings together an incredible range of clothing and accessories from Irish boutiques which can be purchased from the site.

Michelle told GTB about the difficulties of getting started, but the encouragemetn and support she's received since she began her business. She said she's met some amazing people who have really helped her to get up and running. GTB thinks Michelle's being a bit modest, though - she's clearly put a lot of hard work into such a funky website!

Styletonic also publishes a montly online magazine and this month's issue features a fantastic guide to NYC, baby! There's also a gorgeous fashion shoot with the very talented photographer, Aisling King, as well as tips on what to wear - and how to wear it.

There's also a chance for you to win some amazing prices here.

We then chatted to Leah O’Reilly co- owner of online jewellery boutique Crystals & Co. Leah is a previous guest and a friend of GTB so we love having her on the show. Since we spoke to Leah last, the Crystals & Co website has been launched where you can browse till your hearts content. The business for the girls has been going from strength to strength as there has been major demand for the Crystal & Co accessories at home and abroad.

The recent glamour event of the year, The IFTA’s saw many famous faces gracing the carpet donning the most beautiful and esquisite Crystals & Co pieces. The girls will also be displaying their pieces in the coming weeks at the Expose Live Exhibition at the RDS. GTB will defo be taking a trip down to get their bling bling on. GTB can EXCLUSIVELY reveal that the spring/summer collection has many more beautiful pieces including the stunning drop ball earrings worn by Cheryl Cole on the X-Factor! GTB will be the first to let you know when you can get your hands on these! You can check out their stunning online jewellery store at crystalsandco.com. GTB love Crystals & Co!!

Talk Soon xxx

GirlsTalk Back Birthday Special....

Happy Birthday to our very own Jenny Conlon who turns 24 years old today...Hope you have a lovely day Jen love the GTB team xxx








Your Country Your Call
GTB had the pleasure of speaking to Shona O’Neill about the competition that has Ireland buzzing!!

 

‘Your Country Your Call’ was founded by President Mary Mcaleese’s husband Martin Mcaleese who decided that it was time to allow the people of Ireland have their say. It is a competition to ignite thinking and to inspire people to use their imagination.

Already there are thousands of applicants logging on to have their say and along with the weird and wacky ideas, some of the proposals are showing how the people of Ireland want to help and encourage change in the way we do things, allow businesses to grow, employment to be created and prosperity to flourish.

If this sounds like something you could contribute to or simply just want to have a look at a few of the ideas that could change the country you live in the log onto http://www.yourcountryyourcall.com/index.html

Get thinking people!!!

Lead guitar and vocals Steve Cassells from ‘J Walkers’ was on the show to talk about music, gigging and everything in between to make a successful band!! GTB got excited at the thought that they could indeed be Irelands very own Glee club….

The band has been together since 2006 and has varied over the years with different band members sometimes reaching over ten people, all bringing their own instruments and this in turn has allowed the group to get such an original sound.

Steve filled us in on how difficult it is to get into the music industry but if you are passionate about something then no matter how many knock backs you just keep pushing forward. The band get there influences from all music genres including rock, jazz and acoustic sounds, John Mayers name crept into conversation a lot, so if you are a fan of his music make sure to check out a few tracks from these guys!!!

If you want to find out more about the band you can head to ‘tink tank’ in Dublin on the 24th of March to see them perform or check them out on their myspace :
http://www.myspace.com/thejwalkersmusic 


ShowBiz news
Jedward get the boot

The X factor tour was in Dublin last week and it was revealed that Jedward have been given the boot by their record company Sony dues to the lack of sales of their first single ‘Under Pressure’ which was a duet with old time rapper Vanilla Ice – but it would seem he couldn’t even make them cool enough!!!

Louis Walsh who is the boys manager had this to say about the whole incident ‘I’m completely committed to Jedward and I know they still have a great career ahead of them’

Reports are already stating they are already in talks with other record labels.

Also released over the weekend is news that the twins have landed a massive €150,000 deal to be the stars of Irish panto this Christmas, they will be the headline act for Cinderella starting on the 22nd December 2010

X FACTOR

Sticking with Louis it is believed he has convinced X factor head judge Simon Cowell to bring the audience to Dublin. Imagine we might get to see Cheryl in the flesh….
It’s rumoured the auditions will take place at Croke park and remember they are now doing it to a live audience, oh god that process alone would put the GTB team off!! But if you think you have the talent get excited and start practicing people!!

Andrea Roche marriage breaks up!

Week after week we hear about marriage break ups from Kate Winslet and her producer husband to the infidelity of Sandra Bullock’s husband and now it has happened within our Irish Celebrity Circuit!! Former Miss Ireland and tv personality Andrea Roche has ended her marriage with business man PJ Mansfield. Reports are stating the marriage did infact end a couple of months ago and that Andrea has moved out and now lives alone. The separation is rumoured to have been amicable and the reason behind the break up is believed to be down to the fact that the couple grew apart. They had been together for nine years and got married back in 2006.

Finally on today’s showbiz news it would appear it is exciting times for the beautiful Grainne Seoige as she might be heading over to GMTV. She did some work at the Cheltenham races and although she isn’t confirming anything reports are stating she is excited about new opportunities. We have our fingers crossed for you Grainne!!!

Talk soon xx

Festivals, fashion and (little) feet!

Leprechauns - back in vogue?

To get into the festive St Patrick’s Day spirit, GTB spoke to Tom O’Rahilly, director of the new Leprechaun Museum on Jervis St. The museum opened last week and has already generated huge interest – even making it into Time magazine.

Tom told GTB that leprechauns first came to Ireland out of the sea and that Trinity College houses a manuscript from the 8th century which is believed to contain the first reference to leprechauns in Ireland.

The Leprechaun Museum, Tom assures us, has plenty to offer locals as it encourages visitors to take a look at Irish mythology (and not just leprechauns). Booking details can be found here. Bear in mind that tickets booked online are for a particular time slot. Tickets can also be bought at the museum itself, but online booking is recommended.

Sticky Imprints, Made With Love!

After becoming a Mum for the second time, Gwen Frei felt inspired and set up her successful business Sticky Imprints. Gwen realized how precious time is and how quickly it passes once you become a mother. Her aim is to capture and preserve beautiful childhood memories in the most unique way. She does by working her magic and imprinting a loved one's finger, hand or footprint in solid silver. Each piece of jewellery created is intricately handcrafted with intrinsic detail.


If you cannot arrange a casting session at Sticky Imprints, this is not a problem as they allow you to capture your loved one’s fingerprint from your own home with a Home Impression Kit and an accompanying set of easy to follow instructions (don't worry the impression is not the actual size of your foot or hand, just so you all know as GTB had to clarify that little piece of info!) The whole process takes approximately 21 days and your desired piece will be sent back to you by registered post. Gwen’s aim is to capture a moment in time that you can carry with you and wear forever
GTB really enjoyed chatting to Gwen and wish her all the luck with her new business!
For all the info that you need log onto the website, www.stickyimprints.ie/


Heidi launches new collection AND boutique

Irish design fans have somewhere new and very exciting to visit – Heidi Higgins (formerly located in the Loft, Powerscourt) has just opened her own boutique in Portlaoise. Up and coming designer Heidi has just launched her Spring Summer 2010 collection, featuring striking colours and lively patterns. There are still staple LBDs in her collection, too!

Heidi explained the planning and production process behind her designs, and is very particular about the shades and quality of materials used. Heidi says if you spot something in her shop that you like, but would prefer a different pattern, colour or fit, she’ll do what she can to sort you out and dress you up!

Check out stockists and her Portlaoise address here.

With St Patricks Day just around the corner GTB wanted to make sure you got the full download on what was happening so we invited Susan Kirby the CEO of the festival onto the show to tell all!!!



The parade theme this year is 'Extraordinary World' and features inventive street theatre troupes, giant puppetry, artists, dancers and marching bands from all across Ireland and the globe!!! You won't want to miss it!!! It was revealed that over 65,000 people made their way into the city last year to watch the parade so make sure to head in early and remember to leave the cars at home because a lot of the roads will be blocked off for the day!!!


St Patricks day is no longer just about the parade as organisers aim to turn it into a festival so if the parade isn't you cup of tea fear not as there is definitely something for everyone!! GTB would recommend checking out the '80 meter Stiletto Heel Dash' in aid of the Marie Keating foundation.....it is still not too late to take part in this great charity http://www.mariekeating.ie/  and if heels just aren't for you, we can guarantee seeing hundreds of women and men running O’Connell street like mad people will give anyone a great laugh ....so make sure to get down there!!! Also on the day there will be a screening of 'Bananas on the Breadboard' which is a 50 minute documentary celebrating the life and stories from the market areas in Dublin which will not only bring you insight into the lives of the market sellers but also bound to have amazing humour….definitely one to watch!! This will be shown at the Light House Cinema in Smithfield at 4pm.

Jenny, Susan and I will be in the middle of all the madness this Wednesday reporting live from the parade so make sure to pop over and say hi to us and take you picture…..your face could be on our blog next week!!!

To find out more information about St Patricks Day check out http://www.stpatricksfestival.ie/cms/events.html

  Happy Paddy’s Day Everyone !!!!!!!

 

Happy International Women's Day!!!

Women who seek to be equal with men lack ambition." ~ ( Timothy Leary )"
"Women In Business - Shaping the Future"


Happy International Women's Day 2010 to all our GTB listeners!!! Today Over 200 Dublin business women will gather to celebrate International Women's Day. There will be a guest speaker panel which will include Mary Ann O'Brien, founder & MD of Lily O'Brien's; Lucy Gaffney, chairperson of Communicorp Group Ltd.; and Nicola Byrne, managing director of 11890. GirslTalkBack were shocked to find out that despite the fact that nearly 60% of Irish graduates are women, they only represent 30% of entrepreneurs in the EU.
Women In Business networks and the European Network of Female Entrepreneurs work to encourage more women to become entrepreneurs and start their own companies. Tonight, the audience will have a unique opportunity to hear from three of the most successful and respected Irish female entrepreneurs. These entrepreneurs will tell their "success stories", their challenges and achievements along the way, and share their top advices for women in business.
Unfortunately this years event has sold out and there is over 70 people on the waiting list so if you don't get the chance to go to this fantastic event this year make sure to put it in your diary for next year!! Come on Ladies get out there and support one another!!!
WHAT: International Women's Day seminar

"Women In Business - Shaping the Future"
WHEN: Monday 8 March from 6.00pm
WHERE: The Alexander Hotel
Contact:Marion Jammet - 01 644 7235 (Marion@dublinchamber.iemailto:Marion@dublinchamber.iemailto:Marion@dublinchamber.ie)
 

From left to right:

Triona Campbell (CR Entertainment – European Female Entrepreneurship Ambassador); Nicola Byrne (11890 - European Female Entrepreneurship Ambassador); Agata Stoinksa (D-Lite Studios - Dublin City Enterprise Board Women In Business Programme); Margaret Fay (Giftsforall.ie - Fingal Women in Business Network) and Catherine O’Sullivan (Feelgood scarves - Dun Laoghaire – Rathdown County Enterprise Board Enterprising Women Programme).
Photo by: Maebh Fitzpatrick
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Donal Skehan
We spoke to Donal Skehan, chef, author and Industry Band member. Donal filled us in on how food doesn't have to be challenging to be healthy. It's all about Good Mood Food. His new book Good Mood Food gives you all the information you need to find the chef within. He has recenlty begun giving demonstrations in schools to children and was surprised at how interested they were in learning all about food. Obeasity is rapidly becoming a huge problem in Ireland but Donal believes that if we educate the children, this knowledge may decrease and improve the situation. Donal also has the most amazing blog which you can find at the goodmoodfoodblog.com.You need to check this out ppl! His food tips and blogs are really inspiring and even convinced GTB that we could actually master a few moves in the kitchen! When he is not cooking, he is singing and recently supported JLS in the 02 arena with his up and coming band, Industry. 2010 is a jam packed year for Donal as he will be travelling all around with his culinary skills, raising money for charity and travelling to Paris to cook for 500 people. We wish Donal the best of look and hope to have all the Industry band members on GTB very soon!

 
ShowBiz News

Big congrats to Niamh Kavanagh who will be singing for Ireland this year in the EuroVision song contest. The Irish public voted for her to represent the country for 2010 on the Late Late Show last Friday night. Micky Graham from Boyzone came a well-respected 2nd but also got voted off TV3's Dancing on ice last night...really wasn't his weekend for winning (don't worry Micky you're our number 1)!!! But GirlsTalkBack do believe the best contendor won so best of luck to Niamh - she will of course do us proud!!





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Also speaking on today's show was Senator David Norris, who chatted to GTB about the forthcoming re-publication of Finnegan's Wake. Although the Senator believes the publicity surrounding the launch will renew interest in the text, many readers will still shy away from the text.

Senator Norris also gave GTB an extraordinary rendition of the infamous 200-letter sequence at the start of Finnegan's Wake. We wouldn't have attempted it ourselves, but he pulled it off brilliantly! For anyone who fancies hearing more from the book, he particularly recommends the Cyril Cusack performance of the text.

Hats off to the editors of the new edition, too; Danis Rose and John O'Hanlon have spent 30 years correcting some 9,000 errors in the text. Phew! Check out the publishing details here. The Indo ran a great feature at the weekend on this edition, which you can read here.

   GTB wonders if Marilyn ever got around to reading Finnegan's Wake, too...














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GirlsTalkBack on 103.2FM

Today's show was really packed with a wide range of topics and guests!

For those of you who may be considering a creative career change, or have always had a hankering for the film business, we spoke to Grainne MacLoone from Filmbase about the wide range of courses offered by Filmbase in Temple Bar.

                                                   
Courses from directing, to editing, to lighting, can be found here.

Grainne mentioned one particularly interesting seminar which is coming up at the end of this month - "Hollywood Screenwriting". Bring it on! James Bartlett, who is a writer and journalist living in LA, and is also a story analyst for the Sundance Institute, National Geographic Films, New Regency, UCLA and the Academy of Motion Pictures Nicholl Screenwriting Awards (phew! what a list!) will be speaking about the impact style can have on your script. James can apparently tell by the opening pages of a script whether the writer is based in the US or on this side of the Atlantic. So, budding writers, take note! The seminar costs €40 for members and €55 for non-members.


GTB had the pleasure of talking to Ray Senior, owner and founder of showbiz.ie and VIP pictures. Ray who is a self confessed Mr. nice guy admitted in studio that the only reason he set up his company was to get into high profile nightclubs and meet girls (we loved the honesty))!! He never imagined it to become the huge success that it is and to Rays delight it celebrated its 10th birthday this year!!

He confirmed that Irish celebrities do in fact tip the paps of on where they will be just to make it into the papers or onto a gossip site....so whenever you see an 'off guard' celeb lazing on a beach...just think they had prob set that all up themselves!!!

He told the girlstalkback team that there is definitely a love/hate relationship between the paparazzi and those being papped.....but let's be honest without them these celebs would never be known!!

If you fancy becoming a pap yourself and earning anything from €90 to €150 from the simple click of a camera, check out showbiz.ie on this link.

We chatted to Grainne Humphreys, The Director of the Jameson Film Festival. Grainne filled us in on the success of this years festival and told us all about the Hollywood greats  who graced our emerald isle over the two week period. This event seems to be getting bigger and better each year. Months and months of preparation and organisation certainly paid off as Colin Farrell was in attendance and opened up the film festival, accompanied by his girlfriend Alicja and the wonderful Neil Jordan . Last night then saw Tilda Swinton close the festival with her new film 'I Am Love', which she also directed. GTB were lucky enough to attend this event and even managed to say Hi to Tilda. She said she was a GTB fan too!!! Hopefully we can get her on the show someday soon! If you want to catch up on anything you missed from the Jameson Film Festival then log onto their website. 

GTB moved on to the more serious subject of Sex Addiction. The Centre for Sexual Addictions, Director of Counselling and Communication, Declan Fitzpatrick discussed the issue with GTB. The number of people in Ireland suffering from Sex Addiction is on the increase and this appears to be more common among the male population!!!With celebs such as Tiger Woods coming out to talk about his struggle with sex addiction, this may encourage others to come out who feel that they may be suffering too. It is definitely an addiction that people seem a little unsure over.....some people simply feel it is an excuse for infidelity or promiscuous behaviour?? What are your thoughts???

The Centre for Sexual Addiction offers help to those who feel they may be suffering from Sex Addiction. Check out their website here.