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The Bookshelf with Ryan Tubridy

Ryan Tubridy
Books
Eason
Literature
Education
Irish Politics
Dublin
Family
Irish Football
Gary Lightbody
Snow Patrol
Politics
Rugby
Grief
Ireland
Irish Literature
Nesting
Childhood Books
Matilda
Parenting
World Cup 1990

On ‘The Bookshelf with Ryan Tubridy’, the renowned broadcaster, author and book lover sits down with household names to discover the books that have influenced their lives.

Every week, Ryan will turn the pages of their life through the prism of three books: The childhood book, the book that brought them joy, and the book that changed their life.

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PublishesTwice monthlyEpisodes77Founded2 years ago
Number of ListenersCategories
ArtsLeisure

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Artwork for The Bookshelf

Latest Episodes

Ryan squints back on eclipse night in Dublin, gives his verdict on the new Spider-Man, and prepares for his first-ever Parkrun. Plus a return to the Rose of Tralee after more than 20 years, why Donal Ryan is one of his favourite writers, and your fil... more

YouTube

Ryan shares his joy at discovering the remarkable singer-songwriter Dave Lofts, thanks to a recommendation from his friend Russell Crowe. Plus, backstage encounters with Julianne Moore and Richard Armitage, a celebration of independent bookshops, and... more

YouTube

The unexpected news of Glen Hansard's death changed the direction of this week's Bookshelf Live. Ryan reflects on Glen's remarkable life, his generosity, his music and the legacy he leaves behind. Sharing personal memories and stories from listeners,... more

YouTube

Ryan’s rave review of The Odyssey, the case against cinema intervals, Bono’s neglected Vespa, adult nappies at concerts (yes, really), Korean food discoveries, Paul Howard’s latest political satire, and the extraordinary true story behind one of the ... more

YouTube

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Recent Guests

Joseph O'Connor
Author, writer, guest announced for Bookshelf Live
Episode: The Bookshelf Live: A Trip to Downing Street!
Laura Dowling
Pharmacist, author, and women's health advocate known as The Fabulous Pharmacist
Episode: Laura Dowling
Norah Patten
An aeronautical engineer, STEM advocate, and future astronaut
Episode: Dr Norah Patten
Conor Murray
One of Ireland's most respected rugby players, known for his leadership on the pitch.
Irish Rugby Team
Episode: Conor Murray
Anna Haugh
Dublin chef and leading voice in modern Irish cooking
Episode: Anna Haugh
Jeffrey Archer
One of the world's most popular and enduring storytellers, author known for his extensive work including the William Warwick series and other best-sellers.
None
Episode: Jeffrey Archer
Alice Leahy
Pioneering advocate for the homeless and founder of the Alice Leahy Trust
Alice Leahy Trust
Episode: Alice Leahy
Emma Doran
Comedian and author
Episode: Emma Doran
Colm Tóibín
One of Ireland's most celebrated writers, known for novels like Brooklyn and The Master
Episode: Colm Tóibín

Host

Ryan Tubridy
Host focused on books, literature, and conversations with notable figures; consistently fosters warm, engaging discussion and book recommendations.

Reviews

4.4 out of 5 stars from 776 ratings
  • Perfect pod

    Great to have you back. I have always loved your work and how you are with the people you interview. Love this pod.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    shellyk09
    Ireland5 months ago
  • Gone off

    Just not good anymore

    Apple Podcasts
    1
    Aastn66
    United Kingdom7 months ago
  • Entertaining and fascinating

    Great podcast, worth a listen and entertaining. The episode with Mary McAleese was absolutely fascinating and candid. I am surprised, having been inspired by her in the past, that I had never really taken the time to learn about her life before Trinity College. A wonderful avenue to learn about her life.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Franirl25
    Ireland7 months ago
  • Leo was brilliant

    Leo is so authentic and a huge loss to politics. Great interview Ryan

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Cahermore
    Ireland10 months ago
  • Love the podcast but whhhy Leo ugh

    Ryan, love your podcast and was so excited to see a new season but what a disappointment to see Leo varadkar. Omg what an absolute k***head. Please don’t say Simon Harris is upcoming on your show 🙏

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Sarah-!?23
    Irelanda year ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

Guests are frequently described as engaging and well-chosen, with meaningful book insights.
Overall sentiment is positive, with occasional critiques about guest selections or episode focus.
Listeners consistently praise the host's warmth and ease in guiding interviews.

Chart Rankings

How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.

Apple Podcasts
#9
Ireland/Arts
Apple Podcasts
#249
Finland/Arts

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

Conor Murray
Q: What is the book that changed your life?
I think 'Who Moved My Cheese' had a profound impact on me as it taught me about resilience and taking initiative in life.
Conor Murray
Q: What was your experience playing for Ireland?
It was empowering and I had a greater appreciation for it as I was a late bloomer in rugby, but when it became a reality, it felt incredible.
Conor Murray
Q: Tell us a little bit about your childhood.
I grew up in Patrick's Well, Limerick, in a small bungalow house, with both my parents supporting me in a sports-filled life.
Jeffrey Archer
Q: What would you say was the most defining moment of your life?
Archer mentioned that losing everything in the stock market and going to prison ultimately led him to become a writer, which changed the course of his life.
Jeffrey Archer
Q: How did your friendship with Margaret Thatcher influence your life?
He appreciated her directness and commitment to her vision, noting the impact she had on his political career.

Audience Metrics

Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.

Listeners per Episode
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Location
Interests
Professions
Age Range
Household Income
Social Media Reach

Frequently Asked Questions About The Bookshelf

What is The Bookshelf about and what kind of topics does it cover?

A thoughtfully curated interview show that centers conversations with notable figures about the books that shaped their lives. Episodes typically explore three anchor books—the childhood favorite, a book that brought joy, and a life-changing read—woven into intimate, often charming chat about careers, passions, and personal stories. Listeners consistently encounter warm, conversational hosting, insightful author and public figure guests, and rich book recommendations tied to Irish culture and broader literary trends. The format and community feel—combined with strong storytelling, a love of reading, and accessible discussions of life, work, and memory—make it appealing to committed readers and culture enthusiasts seeking texture beyond stan... more

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Which podcasts are similar to The Bookshelf?

These podcasts share a similar audience with The Bookshelf:

1. Brendan O'Connor
2. Ready To Be Real by Síle Seoige
3. The Laura Dowling Experience
4. The Women's Podcast
5. Real Health with Karl Henry

How many episodes of The Bookshelf are there?

The Bookshelf launched 2 years ago and published 77 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

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What guests have appeared on The Bookshelf?

Recent guests on The Bookshelf include:

1. Joseph O'Connor
2. Laura Dowling
3. Norah Patten
4. Conor Murray
5. Anna Haugh
6. Jeffrey Archer
7. Alice Leahy
8. Emma Doran

To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.

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