Brainstormhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/en-ieRTÉ 2025-RTÉ Commercial Enterprises Ltd, Registration No: 155076, Donnybrook, Dublin 4, Ireland.Tue, 24 Jun 2025 07:13:39 +0100How did Ireland become Europe's second most expensive country?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0624/1519913-ireland-costs-prices-eurostat-europe-economics-policies/We're near the top of this league table due to economic growth, rising demand, government policies and unique socio-geographic characteristicsTue, 24 Jun 2025 07:09:30 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0624/1519913-ireland-costs-prices-eurostat-europe-economics-policies/Cost of LivingThe secret life of the solitary beehttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0623/1519896-solitary-bees-nature-pollinators/Solitary bees are a diverse group of wild bees that nest alone rather than in hives or colonies like honeybees or bumblebeesMon, 23 Jun 2025 15:53:54 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0623/1519896-solitary-bees-nature-pollinators/NatureWhat does learning a second language do to your first language?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0619/1519099-first-language-loss-learning-languages-native-speakers/First language loss is where people may lose aspects of their native language when they learn a second oneThu, 19 Jun 2025 07:11:01 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0619/1519099-first-language-loss-learning-languages-native-speakers/LanguagesHow the Dubs put their stamp on Gaelic footballhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0623/1519845-dublin-kevin-heffernan-gaelic-football-gaa-history-hell-for-leather/The swell in support for Kevin Heffernan's high flying Dubs in the 1970s signalled something significant and new for the GAAMon, 23 Jun 2025 12:25:50 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0623/1519845-dublin-kevin-heffernan-gaelic-football-gaa-history-hell-for-leather/Hell For LeatherWill Iran-Israel conflict mean a rise in Irish petrol prices?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0623/1519804-ireland-petrol-diesel-prices-iran-israel-united-states-strait-of-hormuz/Two key factors will determine if oil prices - and the price you pay for petrol and diesel - increase a little or rise a lot this weekMon, 23 Jun 2025 07:07:25 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0623/1519804-ireland-petrol-diesel-prices-iran-israel-united-states-strait-of-hormuz/Petrol PricesIs it possible to create a healthy, tasty beer with no alcohol?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0620/1483299-non-alcoholic-beer-healh-benefits-gut-microbiome/The sober-curious movement has seen sales of non-alcoholic drinks rocket, but do these beverages come with health benefits?Fri, 20 Jun 2025 07:10:12 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0620/1483299-non-alcoholic-beer-healh-benefits-gut-microbiome/DrinkHow a Gulf nuclear incident could disrupt world's energy supplyhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0620/1519279-gulf-nuclear-incident-iran-israel-qatar-energy-supplies/A nuclear incident in the Arabian Gulf during the current Israeli strikes against Iran could have devastating consequences worldwideFri, 20 Jun 2025 09:14:01 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0620/1519279-gulf-nuclear-incident-iran-israel-qatar-energy-supplies/EnergyWhy a 115kg stone from Waterford is finding a new home in Bostonhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0618/1519039-stonelifting-cloch-ban-annestown-waterford-boston-no-fame-games/Shipping the Cloch Bán up to Boston is a slightly eccentric idea, but it captures how diaspora communities find joy in heritageWed, 18 Jun 2025 12:29:31 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0618/1519039-stonelifting-cloch-ban-annestown-waterford-boston-no-fame-games/HeritageThe night a small village in Co Monaghan was invaded by Loyalistshttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0620/1519462-clontibret-co-monaghan-1986-invasion-loyalists-peter-robinson/While the violent incursion in 1986 was an isolated incident, it's a reminder that Ireland's security can't be taken for grantedFri, 20 Jun 2025 12:55:26 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0620/1519462-clontibret-co-monaghan-1986-invasion-loyalists-peter-robinson/History10 queer novels, poems and plays as Gaeilgehttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0618/1516632-lgbtq-irish-language-literature-leirithe-ladta-litriocht-na-gaeilge/Irish is no longer just the language of saints and scholars, but of queer poets and writers who are sharing their storiesWed, 18 Jun 2025 15:58:57 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0618/1516632-lgbtq-irish-language-literature-leirithe-ladta-litriocht-na-gaeilge/GaeilgeCan a four-star hotel manager become a five-star hotel manager?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0619/1518825-hotel-management-career-progression-promotion-4-star-5-star-perceptions/New research finds invisible barriers and inter-brand mobility between hotel groups are barriers to hospitality careersThu, 19 Jun 2025 16:06:03 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0619/1518825-hotel-management-career-progression-promotion-4-star-5-star-perceptions/HotelsWhy summertime is the right time to help children move betterhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0619/1519090-children-basic-movement-skills-motor-competence/Kids with the ability to move well and with control have the motivation, confidence, physical skill and knowledge needed to stay active for lifeThu, 19 Jun 2025 12:29:24 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0619/1519090-children-basic-movement-skills-motor-competence/ChildrenHow to decide when it's time to leave your jobhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0618/1519023-workplace-jobs-decision-to-leave-quit-resign/If your job is driving you crazy or making you sick, leaving is better than staying even if the alternatives are not entirely clearWed, 18 Jun 2025 07:05:48 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0618/1519023-workplace-jobs-decision-to-leave-quit-resign/Work and careersWhich Dublin residential areas use the most & least electricity?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0616/1517672-cso-metered-electricity-consumption-ireland-dublin-2024-data-centres/The latest CSO report on electricity consumption in Ireland highlights some interesting facts about usage across the capital and countryMon, 16 Jun 2025 07:14:26 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0616/1517672-cso-metered-electricity-consumption-ireland-dublin-2024-data-centres/ElectricityWhy Kneecap have become poster boys for Irish anti-colonialismhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0617/1518738-kneecap-anti-colonialism/'They represent the new symbols and soundtrack of Irish anti-colonial resistance for a generation that aren't actually evoking violent nationalism'Tue, 17 Jun 2025 15:49:03 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0617/1518738-kneecap-anti-colonialism/KneecapHow slogans as Gaeilge have become part of Irish Gaza protestshttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0609/1517425-ireland-gaza-palestine-protests-gaeilge-history-language-suppression/The use of Gaeilge at demonstrations in support of the Palestinian people is part of the radical tradition of Irish language activismMon, 09 Jun 2025 12:27:03 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0609/1517425-ireland-gaza-palestine-protests-gaeilge-history-language-suppression/GaeilgeWhy bonfires blaze across Ireland on June 23rdhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0623/1390519-bonfires-st-johns-eve-june-23rd-folklore-traditions-ireland-bonna-night/The sight of St John's Eve bonfires on hilltops still provides quite a spectacle and reminds us of a pivotal time in the calendarMon, 23 Jun 2025 06:50:43 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0623/1390519-bonfires-st-johns-eve-june-23rd-folklore-traditions-ireland-bonna-night/St John's EveSummer Solstice: the longest day and shortest night of the yearhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0621/1056342-summer-solstice/The ancient Celtic festival acts as a timely reminder and celebration of who, where and what we really are.Sat, 21 Jun 2025 06:00:00 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0621/1056342-summer-solstice/Summer SolsticeWhat we know about how winning the EuroMillions changes your lifehttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0618/1255126-lotto-lottery-euromillions-winners-happiness-psychology/Winning money in the lottery has an effect on who we are, how we spend our money and what we want to do with our livesWed, 18 Jun 2025 09:23:11 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0618/1255126-lotto-lottery-euromillions-winners-happiness-psychology/PsychologyHow do airlines deal with Israel-Iran conflict?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0617/1518822-civil-aviation-israel-iran-conflict/The Middle East is a major flight hub and history shows that the civil airline industry and military conflict do not mixTue, 17 Jun 2025 07:06:30 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0617/1518822-civil-aviation-israel-iran-conflict/AviationWhat have the Anglo-Normans ever done for us anyway?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0610/1517518-anglo-normans-ireland-occupation-history-culture-legacy/Not much really apart from giving us counties, the Pale, fortified towns, stone castles, gothic architecture and markets...Tue, 10 Jun 2025 12:24:47 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0610/1517518-anglo-normans-ireland-occupation-history-culture-legacy/HistoryHow Gaza's children face a lifetime of harm from food blockadehttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0612/1518014-gaza-children-famine-food-blockade-malnutrition-illness-long-term-health-impacts/The forced starvation of Gaza's children will have profound, long-term and generational health consequences for survivorsThu, 12 Jun 2025 12:32:36 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0612/1518014-gaza-children-famine-food-blockade-malnutrition-illness-long-term-health-impacts/Gaza'Gaelic football owes a debt of gratitude to Kerry'https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0616/1518607-kerry-gaelic-football-gaa-history-hell-for-leather/No Kerry team has ever taken the field without belief in its ability, which is why the county has been so successfulMon, 16 Jun 2025 15:18:27 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0616/1518607-kerry-gaelic-football-gaa-history-hell-for-leather/Kerry GaaAre 'quiet redundancies' happening in your workplace?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0611/1514613-quiet-redundancies-workplace-trend-ireland-stealth-layoffs/Employers in Ireland are implementing 'quiet redundancies' to scale back workforces in the face of uncertainty, tariffs and AIWed, 11 Jun 2025 07:08:15 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0611/1514613-quiet-redundancies-workplace-trend-ireland-stealth-layoffs/Work and careersWhat's really in the air Dubliners breathe?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0610/1518005-dublin-air-quality-dna-genetics-monitoring/You're certainly getting more than oxygen as DNA captured from the atmosphere shows exactly what's in the air in the capital cityTue, 10 Jun 2025 06:35:40 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0610/1518005-dublin-air-quality-dna-genetics-monitoring/GeneticsHow RIP.ie became an Irish cultural phenomenonhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0611/1475807-rip-ie-irish-times-death-notices-condolences-cultural-phenomenon-data/Aside from publishing death notices and condolences, RIP.ie is also a rich source of significant personal, cultural and historical dataWed, 11 Jun 2025 09:29:56 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0611/1475807-rip-ie-irish-times-death-notices-condolences-cultural-phenomenon-data/SocietyIs your beard a hygiene risk?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0611/1517782-beards-hygiene-bacteria-microbes/Stylish or unsanitary? Here's what the evidence shows about beards and bacteriaWed, 11 Jun 2025 09:31:45 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0611/1517782-beards-hygiene-bacteria-microbes/BeardsWhat happened on the very first Bloomsday in 1954?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0616/1518012-bloomsday-1964-history-dublin-james-joyce-ulysses/Dublin's annual celebration of James Joyce's Ulysses may be a big event now, but its debut outing was rather inauspiciousMon, 16 Jun 2025 00:01:01 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0616/1518012-bloomsday-1964-history-dublin-james-joyce-ulysses/BloomsdayHow many people in Ireland believe in conspiracy theories?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0610/1516823-national-election-and-democracy-study-conspiracy-theories-belief/While the majority do not believe six prominent conspiracy theories, the level of support for some of these might raise a few eyebrowsTue, 10 Jun 2025 16:06:13 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0610/1516823-national-election-and-democracy-study-conspiracy-theories-belief/Conspiracy theoriesWhy do some words give us the ick?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0610/1517507-words-unpleasant-feelings-linguistics-phonaesthetics-euphony-cacophony/We may all want to be more conscious of the words and sounds we use that turn others off, particularly in work or romantic situationsTue, 10 Jun 2025 07:05:31 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0610/1517507-words-unpleasant-feelings-linguistics-phonaesthetics-euphony-cacophony/WordsWhy is there so much Latin in Ulysses?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0613/1518109-james-joyce-latin-language-ulysses-bloomsday-portrait/The language, the way it was taught and references to Latin literature are constants throughout James Joyce's workFri, 13 Jun 2025 12:25:38 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0613/1518109-james-joyce-latin-language-ulysses-bloomsday-portrait/James Joyce'When dads are supported, the whole family benefits'https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0613/1518096-families-parenting-fathers-mothers-support-research/When research focuses just on mothers, fathers' voices and the chance to build more balanced parenting supports and policies get lostFri, 13 Jun 2025 15:55:36 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0613/1518096-families-parenting-fathers-mothers-support-research/FamilyHow Dante's work deeply influenced James Joyce's literary journeyhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0616/1518605-james-joyce-dante-ulysses-divine-comedy/Dante and Joyce take different paths with the Divine Comedy and Ulysses, but their journeys are deeply connectedMon, 16 Jun 2025 09:34:21 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0616/1518605-james-joyce-dante-ulysses-divine-comedy/James JoyceHow Trump's actions against LA protesters defy all precedentshttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0610/1517636-los-angles-protests-donald-trump-us-national-guard-legal-precedents/Trump's unilateral decision to take federal control over the National Guard pits the president against the state of CaliforniaTue, 10 Jun 2025 09:44:48 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0610/1517636-los-angles-protests-donald-trump-us-national-guard-legal-precedents/USWhy is my landlord offering a licence & not a tenancy agreement?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0611/1517783-ireland-renting-law-licence-tenancy-agreement-landlords/There are important distinctions in law between those who occupy a premises under a tenancy or under a licenceWed, 11 Jun 2025 12:25:09 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0611/1517783-ireland-renting-law-licence-tenancy-agreement-landlords/RentingWhy Friday 13th superstitions are all in your headhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0613/1098671-friday-13th-superstitions/Superstitions like crossing your fingers or throwing spilled salt over your shoulder can have a powerful impact on your emotionsFri, 13 Jun 2025 06:01:55 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0613/1098671-friday-13th-superstitions/Friday 13thAre we prepared for future emergency evacuations?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0611/1517791-emergency-disaster-planning-evacuations-security-equity/Societal and demographic changes will have a major effect on how people experience and survive mass casualty and disaster eventsWed, 11 Jun 2025 15:55:09 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0611/1517791-emergency-disaster-planning-evacuations-security-equity/Emergency Planning5 ways a Tipperary family created a model for sustainable farminghttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0609/1517492-walsh-family-farm-ballylooby-tipperary-sustainability/More climate-friendly practices on the Walsh family farm has produced a carbon footprint significantly lower than the national averageMon, 09 Jun 2025 15:55:16 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0609/1517492-walsh-family-farm-ballylooby-tipperary-sustainability/FarmingWhy having a massive public row with your boss rarely ends wellhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0609/1517361-donald-trump-elon-musk-public-row-workplace-psychology/The spat between Donald Trump and Elon Musk is a vivid example of how a massive blowup with your boss can be destructive and dangerousMon, 09 Jun 2025 07:10:58 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0609/1517361-donald-trump-elon-musk-public-row-workplace-psychology/Work and careersWhat media sources did people use & trust before voting in 2024?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0605/1516628-national-election-and-democracy-study-media-use-trust-general-election-2024/Here's what a new study found about the media Irish voters used and trusted when getting information ahead of last year's electionThu, 05 Jun 2025 12:14:26 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0605/1516628-national-election-and-democracy-study-media-use-trust-general-election-2024/MediaThe fascinating story of Gaelic football's historic rootshttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0606/1516701-gaelic-football-history-roots-paul-rouse-hell-for-leather/Right at its core, Gaelic football is a mirror to Irish society and to the nature of that society at any given timeFri, 06 Jun 2025 12:19:26 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0606/1516701-gaelic-football-history-roots-paul-rouse-hell-for-leather/Gaelic footballWhy micro-retirement has become a new workplace trend for Gen Zhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0606/1491961-micro-retirement-career-work-life-balance-burnout-gen-z-millennials/The demand for micro-retirement is driven by the desire to achieve a better work-life balance and avoid burnoutFri, 06 Jun 2025 06:02:57 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0606/1491961-micro-retirement-career-work-life-balance-burnout-gen-z-millennials/Work and careersAre you being ripped off by the 'loyalty penalty'?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0604/1516572-loyalty-penalty-consumer-affairs-switching-banks-insurance-subscriptions/From banks to insurance, companies punish loyal consumers with higher prices, while new customers are rewarded with better dealsWed, 04 Jun 2025 07:09:23 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0604/1516572-loyalty-penalty-consumer-affairs-switching-banks-insurance-subscriptions/Your MoneyBlood, sweat and milk: the changing world of GAA interviews on TVhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0605/1516651-gaa-interviews-tv-history/From unruly dressing room visits to celebratory pitchside interviews, GAA TV interviews have evolved over the yearsThu, 05 Jun 2025 07:22:45 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0605/1516651-gaa-interviews-tv-history/GAAWhat a shortage of planners in Ireland means for where you livehttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0604/1516619-planners-ireland-local-authorities-development/Planners work to manage growth and guide it towards outcomes to benefit both communities and the environmentWed, 04 Jun 2025 15:52:00 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0604/1516619-planners-ireland-local-authorities-development/PlanningThe political sorcery of 'harmless buffoon' Sir John Haringtonhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0605/1516786-sir-john-harington-queen-elizabeth-ii-hugh-oneill-earl-of-tyrone/The poet, inventor and wannabe statesman played a secret role in controversial 1599 peace talks between Irish and English forcesThu, 05 Jun 2025 15:56:01 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0605/1516786-sir-john-harington-queen-elizabeth-ii-hugh-oneill-earl-of-tyrone/HistoryDo you feel more 'pain' if you pay by cash, card or mobile?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0613/1491136-pain-of-payment-effect-cash-card-mobile/Mobile payments used to be regarded as less 'painful' than using cash, but that might be changingFri, 13 Jun 2025 11:07:42 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0613/1491136-pain-of-payment-effect-cash-card-mobile/moneyAirlines make cash from extra charges, but flyers can benefit toohttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0612/1462761-airlines-extra-charges-savvy-flyers/Those annoying extra charges levied by airlines can end up subsidising discounts enjoyed by other travellersThu, 12 Jun 2025 11:12:18 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0612/1462761-airlines-extra-charges-savvy-flyers/TransportAll you need to know about voice spoofing and audio deepfakeshttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0604/1516581-voice-spoofing-audio-deepfakes-biometric-fraud-scams-crime/Biometric fraud like voice spoofing and audio deepfakes are part of broader social engineering attacks by scammers and criminalsWed, 04 Jun 2025 12:21:24 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0604/1516581-voice-spoofing-audio-deepfakes-biometric-fraud-scams-crime/FraudWhat is CTE and why does it matter for Irish athletes?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0603/1516400-what-is-cte-concussion-brain-trauma-sport-tes-rugby-gaa/Brain injuries in sport are a growing public health issue that affects players at all levels, from local community teams to seasoned professionalsTue, 03 Jun 2025 10:51:04 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0603/1516400-what-is-cte-concussion-brain-trauma-sport-tes-rugby-gaa/SportCould household cleaning products end up dirtying indoor air?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0603/1510569-household-cleaning-products-air-quality/When we clean, the goal is to remove dirt and germs, but in the process, we often introduce harmful chemicals into the airTue, 03 Jun 2025 13:51:37 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0603/1510569-household-cleaning-products-air-quality/Air QualityHow Ukraine carried out Operation Spiderweb strike on Russiahttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0603/1516366-ukraine-operation-spiderweb-drone-strike-russia/The operation combined tactics and technology in a way that existing systems could not prevent the attack or maybe even see it comingTue, 03 Jun 2025 07:39:53 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0603/1516366-ukraine-operation-spiderweb-drone-strike-russia/UkraineCan you spot a fake smile from the real thing?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0530/1515837-smile-smiling-real-fake-anatomy/What makes a smile feel sincere or fake is due to a surprising blend of facial anatomy, neurology and emotional authenticityFri, 30 May 2025 08:00:56 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0530/1515837-smile-smiling-real-fake-anatomy/SmilingWhy is Irish mythology so prevalent in Japanese videogames?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0530/1515576-video-games-irish-mythology-elden-ring-nightreign/Influences from Irish mythology are woven throughout the story and lore of the Elden Ring series and other Japanese gamesFri, 30 May 2025 15:55:07 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0530/1515576-video-games-irish-mythology-elden-ring-nightreign/Video GamesHow bonus points have changed Leaving Cert Mathshttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0530/1498554-leaving-cert-higher-level-maths-cao-bonus-points-initiative/There's no doubt that bonus points are driving the uptake of Higher Level maths, but the initiative has had unintended consequencesFri, 30 May 2025 11:20:56 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0530/1498554-leaving-cert-higher-level-maths-cao-bonus-points-initiative/Leaving CertStress on the beat: why gardaí struggle with mental health issueshttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0529/1515575-an-garda-siochana-mental-health-wellbeing-support-stress-burnout-bullying/The mental wellbeing of those who protect and serve us is a public issue of major concern and needs to be properly supported and resourcedThu, 29 May 2025 12:18:42 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0529/1515575-an-garda-siochana-mental-health-wellbeing-support-stress-burnout-bullying/An Garda Síochána5 lessons from National Children's Hospital for future projectshttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0529/1515559-national-childrens-hospital-infrastructure-ireland-projects-development/The stakes are too high and the public resources too valuable to repeat the mistakes that have characterised this projectThu, 29 May 2025 09:36:25 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0529/1515559-national-childrens-hospital-infrastructure-ireland-projects-development/National Children's HosptalThe risks of having 'yes men' in a business or governmenthttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0529/1515560-workplace-sycophants-yes-men-research/Sycophantic behaviour in the workplace has been found to reduce respect and morale and lead to lower productivityThu, 29 May 2025 07:08:16 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0529/1515560-workplace-sycophants-yes-men-research/Work and careersHow carrying spuds & doing Wordle are signs of good healthhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0528/1515328-ageing-health-tips-exercises-balance-mental-sharpness-grip-muscles/If you can balance on one leg while brushing your teeth, carry a bag of spuds up the stairs and name 20 animals in 30 seconds, you're doing wellWed, 28 May 2025 12:38:16 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0528/1515328-ageing-health-tips-exercises-balance-mental-sharpness-grip-muscles/HealthCan dogs help to predict epileptic seizures?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0528/1514944-dogs-smell-epileptic-seizures-pawsense/New research combining a dog's natural instincts with technology might help people with epilepsy by predicting seizuresWed, 28 May 2025 07:12:43 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0528/1514944-dogs-smell-epileptic-seizures-pawsense/HealthWhy does air travel make us so cranky?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0527/1515142-air-travel-passengers-anger-rage-frustration-health/A look at the science behind why flying brings out the worst in us and what we can do about itTue, 27 May 2025 12:28:57 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0527/1515142-air-travel-passengers-anger-rage-frustration-health/AviationA 'game changing' way for Irish farmers to test for potato blighthttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0527/1514906-potato-blight-farming-ireland-lateral-flow-tests/Lateral flow tests, inspired by Covid-19 tests, can give growers vital information to deal with blight during Ireland's summersTue, 27 May 2025 15:40:21 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0527/1514906-potato-blight-farming-ireland-lateral-flow-tests/PotatoesCan a simple calendar help farmers tackle climate change?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0528/1515442-agri-climate-calendar-emissions-climate-change-actions-tips-guide/An agri-climate calendar with easy-to-follow advice and tips can give farmers clear and practical climate steps to take throughout the yearWed, 28 May 2025 15:53:58 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0528/1515442-agri-climate-calendar-emissions-climate-change-actions-tips-guide/Farming4 tips for improving handwriting in Junior and Leaving Cert examshttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0526/1515034-improving-handwriting-junior-cert-leaving-cert-state-exams/There is little that can be done to improve your speed at this point in the academic year, but there are quick ways to increase legibilityMon, 26 May 2025 15:40:54 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0526/1515034-improving-handwriting-junior-cert-leaving-cert-state-exams/EducationHow can we harness the renewable energy off Ireland's west coast?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0526/1514909-ireland-offshore-renewable-energy-floating-wind-wave-sceirde/A major windfarm project off Connemara has been withdrawn, but two emerging technologies could provide a solutionMon, 26 May 2025 09:34:01 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0526/1514909-ireland-offshore-renewable-energy-floating-wind-wave-sceirde/Renewable EnergyWhy your long list of unfinished work tasks takes up so much timehttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0527/1515089-work-unfinished-tasks-to-do-list-zeigarnik-effect/Modern work environments mean an ever-growing list of unfinished tasks so what can we do to fix this and reduce stress?Tue, 27 May 2025 07:08:53 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0527/1515089-work-unfinished-tasks-to-do-list-zeigarnik-effect/PsychologyHere are 10 landmark GAA sites to visit in 2025https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0523/1493782-gaa-tourism-landmarks-sites-ireland-phoenix-park-cullenstown-handball-cushendall-lar-na-pairce-thurles/A bucket list of GAA destinations to explore, all offering unique social insight and powerful historical connections to Gaelic gamesFri, 23 May 2025 06:55:41 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0523/1493782-gaa-tourism-landmarks-sites-ireland-phoenix-park-cullenstown-handball-cushendall-lar-na-pairce-thurles/GAACan a large Coke and fries stop your migraine?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0521/1514105-migraines-viral-hack-large-coke-fries/Believe it or not, the viral hack that a large Coca-Cola and fries can stop a migraine in its tracks is not total nonsenseWed, 21 May 2025 19:28:56 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0521/1514105-migraines-viral-hack-large-coke-fries/Health5 tips for the perfect wedding speechhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0523/1514474-wedding-speech-tips/You could turn to ChatGPT for help or you could take advice from ancient top orators like Cicero and QuintilianFri, 23 May 2025 09:07:38 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0523/1514474-wedding-speech-tips/WeddingsHow LGBTQ+ parents in Ireland are still facing legal obstacleshttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0523/1514456-same-sex-parents-ireland-rights-legal-protection/10 years post-marriage equality, many same-sex parents are still campaigning for legal recognition of their familiesFri, 23 May 2025 16:00:20 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0523/1514456-same-sex-parents-ireland-rights-legal-protection/Marriage Equality ReferendumHappy birthday Bob! A guide to Dylan's best narrative songshttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0523/1514482-bob-dylan-best-narrative-songs-the-lonesome-death-of-hattie-carroll-isis/To mark Dylan's birthday this weekend, a decade by decade guide to the songs showing the master storyteller's narrative strengthsFri, 23 May 2025 12:24:56 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0523/1514482-bob-dylan-best-narrative-songs-the-lonesome-death-of-hattie-carroll-isis/Bob DylanWhy Ireland is experiencing a 'marine heatwave' right nowhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0523/1514557-marine-heatwave-ireland-explained-climate-change-met-eireann/Paul Moore, climatologist with Met Eireann explains what a 'marine heatwave' is and why Ireland is experiencing oneFri, 23 May 2025 12:49:38 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0523/1514557-marine-heatwave-ireland-explained-climate-change-met-eireann/WeatherWhat is Ireland's 'Triple Lock' and why is it in the news again?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0522/1514313-ireland-triple-lock-explainer-legislation-defence-forces-peacekeeping/For 65 years the 'Triple Lock' has determined when Irish soldiers are sent abroad, but new legislation could change how it worksThu, 22 May 2025 12:46:37 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0522/1514313-ireland-triple-lock-explainer-legislation-defence-forces-peacekeeping/Triple LockHave Leaving Cert maths' questions got easier or harder?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0528/1199276-leaving-cert-maths-questions-exam-papers-archive/An archive of Leaving Cert maths' papers tells a fascinating story of how the exam has changed since 1925..Wed, 28 May 2025 12:01:09 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0528/1199276-leaving-cert-maths-questions-exam-papers-archive/MathsHow solar power forecasting can help maximise your solar panelshttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0521/1514029-solar-power-forecasting-solar-panels-energy/As solar becomes a significant part of our energy system, there are challenges in effectively forecasting and managing solar energy productionWed, 21 May 2025 12:23:01 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0521/1514029-solar-power-forecasting-solar-panels-energy/Solar PowerCan bad weather really cause headaches?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0526/1514940-headaches-bad-weather-pressure/There actually is a scientific basis for why some people are able to sense changes in the weather by the headaches they causeMon, 26 May 2025 07:47:51 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0526/1514940-headaches-bad-weather-pressure/HeadachesDoes The Great Gatsby reflect F. Scott Fitzgerald's Irish roots?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0521/1514032-scott-fitzgerald-the-great-gatsby-irish-catholic-roots-influences/The author with Irish Catholic roots may have had a complex relationship with Ireland yet echoes of Irish influence run through his worksWed, 21 May 2025 15:59:48 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0521/1514032-scott-fitzgerald-the-great-gatsby-irish-catholic-roots-influences/F. Scott FitzgeraldWhat 499,642 tweets say about 2015 marriage equality referendumhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0521/1514094-marriage-equality-referendum-twitter-social-media-research-polarisation/Research shows Twitter may have caused polarisation of ideas in such a controversial environment and made debate and discussion challengingWed, 21 May 2025 19:16:24 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0521/1514094-marriage-equality-referendum-twitter-social-media-research-polarisation/Marriage Equality ReferendumHow can we support parents with mental health challenges?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0522/1514095-parenting-mental-health-supports/Irish research estimates that roughly one in four families in Ireland have a parent who has experienced mental health difficultiesThu, 22 May 2025 15:51:28 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0522/1514095-parenting-mental-health-supports/Mental HealthHere's why soil smells so good after it rainshttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0523/1135795-petrichor-soil-smells-after-rain-bacteria/The smell called petrichor is a reminder of the fascinating and extremely valuable bacteria that thrive in the ground beneath your feetFri, 23 May 2025 15:14:03 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0523/1135795-petrichor-soil-smells-after-rain-bacteria/NatureInside the phenomenal football brain of Kevin De Bruynehttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0520/1513820-kevin-de-bruyne-football-intelligence/Football intelligence means the Belgian and Man City star's ability to read the game is on par with the greatest midfielders of all timeTue, 20 May 2025 09:27:33 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0520/1513820-kevin-de-bruyne-football-intelligence/Kevin De BruyneA history of the sexual liberation movement in Irelandhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0519/1513771-history-sexual-liberation-movement-ireland-decriminalisation-marriage-equality/The road to marriage equality, and the seismic change of recent times, was built on foundations laid by feminist and queer activists in the 1970sMon, 19 May 2025 20:09:05 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0519/1513771-history-sexual-liberation-movement-ireland-decriminalisation-marriage-equality/Marriage Equality ReferendumIs it better to shower in the morning or at night?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0521/1513861-showering-morning-night-hygiene/Here's what a microbiologist has to say about the standoff between morning shower enthusiasts and night shower loyalistsWed, 21 May 2025 07:07:53 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0521/1513861-showering-morning-night-hygiene/HealthThe pivotal case that came before marriage equality in Irelandhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0519/1512869-marriage-equality-ireland-kal-case-history/Marriage equality was propelled into public debate when two women tried to have their Canadian marriage recognised in IrelandMon, 19 May 2025 12:30:29 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0519/1512869-marriage-equality-ireland-kal-case-history/Marriage Equality ReferendumAll you need to know about joint painhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0520/1513720-joint-pain-knee-osteoarthritis-hip/The recommended treatment for most joint conditions is appropriate exercise and education on how to manage pain during daily activitiesTue, 20 May 2025 07:10:15 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0520/1513720-joint-pain-knee-osteoarthritis-hip/HealthNote to Generation X workers: the workplace is always changinghttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0519/1513599-generation-x-workplace-changing-nature-of-work/Historical analysis provides a harsh truth that people who bank on the world of work never changing are likely to lose outMon, 19 May 2025 07:27:46 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0519/1513599-generation-x-workplace-changing-nature-of-work/Work and careersWhy we've fallen out of love with dating appshttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0520/1513862-dating-apps-algorithms-ai-technology/Dating app algorithms means something as potentially exciting as finding a romantic partner can become so dreadfully boringTue, 20 May 2025 12:24:12 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0520/1513862-dating-apps-algorithms-ai-technology/RelationshipsHow Irish classrooms can deal with warmer weatherhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0519/1513600-ireland-schools-weather-higher-temperatures-air-quality/Parents, educators and policymakers must treat classroom heat not as a seasonal inconvenience, but as a pressing public health issueMon, 19 May 2025 07:16:12 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0519/1513600-ireland-schools-weather-higher-temperatures-air-quality/Schools5 things you didn't know about the epic Book of Invasionshttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0514/1511390-book-of-invasions-lebor-gabala-erenn-ireland-history-christianity/The Lebor Gabála Érenn tells an epic origin story for Ireland and the Irish language through a series of mythical invasionsWed, 14 May 2025 12:18:51 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0514/1511390-book-of-invasions-lebor-gabala-erenn-ireland-history-christianity/IrelandWhy exemptions from studying Irish are an increasing phenomenonhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0516/1490367-irish-gaeilge-secondary-schools-exemptions/We need a comprehensive plan for Irish in education and one that addresses the issue of exemptions in an inclusive fashionFri, 16 May 2025 09:40:48 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0516/1490367-irish-gaeilge-secondary-schools-exemptions/EducationHow you could be hit by the Sim-swap fraud used to attack M&Shttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0515/1512968-marks-and-spencer-sim-swap-fraud-hackers-cyberattacks/The hackers behind the M&S cyberattacks used a little-known but dangerous technique – and anyone could be vulnerableThu, 15 May 2025 07:17:30 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0515/1512968-marks-and-spencer-sim-swap-fraud-hackers-cyberattacks/technologyHow an 'Omega block' has given Ireland a dry, warm and sunny Mayhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0516/1513060-ireland-weather-paul-moore-met-eireann-omega-block-high-pressure/The great weather we're currently enjoying is down to a a blocking area of high pressure sitting just to the north of IrelandFri, 16 May 2025 07:32:39 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0516/1513060-ireland-weather-paul-moore-met-eireann-omega-block-high-pressure/WeatherWhy is the Child of Prague statue associated with Irish weddings?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0513/1512414-child-of-prague-statue-ireland-weddings-weather-folklore/The general belief was that you should leave the statue outside under a bush the night before the wedding to ensure good weatherTue, 13 May 2025 07:08:14 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0513/1512414-child-of-prague-statue-ireland-weddings-weather-folklore/FolkloreHere are some of the ways you can build trust in the workplacehttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0515/1512777-trust-in-the-workplace-characteristics/Trust is a valuable resource for working relationships and should be proactively worked on and developedThu, 15 May 2025 09:29:18 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0515/1512777-trust-in-the-workplace-characteristics/Work and careersCan I love myself or am I just being a big old narcissist?https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0501/1510616-self-love-loneliness-philosophy/A philosophy of self-love would encourage us to welcome relationships, not deny them in favour of self-absorptionThu, 01 May 2025 17:41:40 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0501/1510616-self-love-loneliness-philosophy/PhilosophyHow an Irish Catholic newspaper viewed World War II - & communismhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0515/1510709-the-standard-catholic-newspaper-ireland-world-war-ii-communism/A supporter of European dictators, The Standard's main enemy before, during and after the war was the Godless Communism of RussiaThu, 15 May 2025 12:28:44 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0515/1510709-the-standard-catholic-newspaper-ireland-world-war-ii-communism/HistoryThe maths behind the public votes at Eurovision 2025https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0518/1513508-israel-eurovision-2025-ireland-public-votes/Pollster Kevin Cunningham explains how the nature of Eurovision voting influenced the outcomeSun, 18 May 2025 09:41:58 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0518/1513508-israel-eurovision-2025-ireland-public-votes/Eurovision 2025How the war in Ukraine has damaged the environmenthttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0515/1513002-russia-ukraine-war-environmental-damage-chernobyl-kakhovka-dam-pollution/The Russian invasion of Ukraine has caused an increase in emissions from fires, forests have burned and water has been pollutedThu, 15 May 2025 16:09:30 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0515/1513002-russia-ukraine-war-environmental-damage-chernobyl-kakhovka-dam-pollution/UkraineHow to talk to your partner about moneyhttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2024/0528/1489828-relationships-couples-money-finances-budgets-planning/Whether you are a few weeks or decades into your relationship, it's never too early or too late to start to talk about moneyTue, 28 May 2024 14:01:22 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2024/0528/1489828-relationships-couples-money-finances-budgets-planning/Your MoneyHow changes in height show the effects of the Great Irish Faminehttps://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0518/1512781-great-irish-famine-health-effects-data-research-height-malnutrition/New research finds that the long‑term health impacts of the Great Irish Famine varied by region and socioeconomic conditionsSun, 18 May 2025 07:46:21 +0100https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2025/0518/1512781-great-irish-famine-health-effects-data-research-height-malnutrition/The Great Famine