Podcast
Insight: The Stripped Back Podcast
Hosted by Stephen Buckley & Keith Delahan · EN
Stephen Buckley and Keith Delahan engage in thoughtful discussions on current events and hot topics, while also featuring notable guests who share their unique professional experiences and inspiring tales. Together, they delve into the motivations, reasoning, and methods behind their guests' chosen careers, Tune in to learn what drives these individuals in their careers and gain valuable insights from their experiences.
17episodes
Episodes
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Bonus Episode - The Apprentice Mindset with Aaron Murray
2d ago00:47:00Tap to summarizeThis week we are joined by electrical apprentice Aaron Murray for a special summer break bonus episode filled with honest conversation, motivation and real life perspective.Aaron speaks openly about his experience in school and why the traditional classroom environment was not a place where he felt he could truly thrive. We discuss the pressure surrounding the Leaving Cert and why exam results should never define someone’s future or limit their career opportunities.We also talk about how Aaron landed his apprenticeship through connections built within his local community thanks to a friend’s father and local football coach, highlighting the importance of relationships, networking and backing yourself when opportunities arise.The conversation also explores the huge role health and fitness has played in Aaron’s life both physically and mentally. From amateur boxing to maintaining discipline and confidence, Aaron explains how staying active helped shape his mindset and resilience.We also discuss sponsorships, building relationships with brands and why creating genuine partnerships can open doors and create mutual support along the way.A brilliant conversation with plenty of value for apprentices, young people finding their path and anyone who has ever felt school was not the right fit for them.Big thanks to our sponsors Snickers Workwear Ireland and our Season 9 partners N2 Electrical Wholesalers and Hager Ireland for their continued support throughout the season.We look forward to being back in your ears and on your screens later this summer for Season 10 of The Stripped Back Podcast.
Transcribe →S9 E10 - With Frontline Paramedic John Gaughan
1w ago01:11:49Tap to summarizeSeason 9 comes to a powerful and emotional close as we sit down with paramedic and frontline worker John Gaughan for one of the most honest conversations we’ve ever had on The Stripped Back Podcast.In this season finale, John opens up about life on the frontline, the unseen mental toll of dealing with trauma on a daily basis, and the harsh realities facing emergency services in Ireland today. We discuss the pressures within the healthcare system, the challenges paramedics face behind the scenes, and why meaningful change is desperately needed.But this episode goes far deeper than the job title.John speaks openly about the pressures men face in modern life — trying to be providers, partners, fathers, friends, and strong for everyone around them while often suffering in silence themselves. In an incredibly raw and courageous conversation, he shares his own battle with suicidal thoughts and actions, how close he came to the edge, and what ultimately brought him back.Now, through both his work and his social media platform, John is using his experiences to help others who may be struggling in silence and to remind people that there is always hope, even in the darkest moments.This episode is real, emotional, powerful, and deeply important.If this conversation helps even one person feel less alone, then it was worth having.Podcast sponsored by Snickers Workwear Ireland.Season 9 has also been in association with Hager Ireland and N2 Electrical Wholesalers Ashbourne
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S9 E9.5 - Live From The Gram
2w ago00:51:21Tap to summarizeJoin Stephen Buckley and Keith Delahan as they discuss the evolving landscape of renewable energy, the importance of industry standards, and practical insights into electrical safety and maintenance. This episode offers real-world experiences, technical discussions, and advice for professionals navigating the modern electrical and energy sectors.Main Topics:The impact of social media and marketing transformations for local businessesCurrent trends and challenges within the renewables sector in Ireland and the UKSignificance of certification, quality control, and regulatory compliance in electrical workSmart strategies for PIRs, inspections, and ensuring safety standardsFuture outlook on maintenance, retrofit projects, and the importance of industry collaborationLocal businesses like Powell Insulations' success stories and marketing strategiesInsights from Adam Powell on energy efficiency, grants, and the renewable boomThe risks and considerations around solar and energy retrofit installationsThe role of SEAI certification in maintaining quality and trustTechnical discussion on electrical testing tools, PIR procedures, and recent inspection experiencesThe importance of proper wiring, bonding, and avoiding shortcuts in electrical installationsNavigating project timelines, out-of-hours work, and client communicationsThe changing landscape of maintenance versus installation services in the industryPodcast sponsored by Snickers Workwear Ireland and Season 9 is also in association with Hager Ireland and N2 Electrical Wholesaler
Transcribe →S9 E9 - The Insulation Fella - Adam Powell From Powell Insulation
3w ago01:01:50Tap to summarizeIn our penultimate interview episode of Season 9, we sit down with Adam Powell from Powell Insulation for a proper, honest conversation about building a modern trade business while staying rooted in family values.Adam takes us back to the early days, growing up around the business his father built, and what it was like stepping into that world before putting his own stamp on it.We get into how he’s taken Powell Insulation in a new direction, embracing social media and paid ads to generate leads and grow the brand in a competitive industry.From there, we talk about levelling up standards, the importance of uniforms, wrapped vans, and presenting a professional image that reflects the quality of the work.We also break down the real benefits of home insulation, and the government grants available right now that homeowners should be taking advantage of.And to wrap it all up… we finish with:What’s the weirdest thing Adam has ever found in an atticTrust us, you’ll want to hear this one.Podcast is sponsored by Snickers Workwear Ireland and Season 9 is in association with Hager Ireland and N2 Electrical Listen now and don’t forget to follow, rate and share the podcast
Transcribe →S9 E8 - With Musicians Ian Brennan and Ronan Sherlock
Apr 2601:20:29Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we sit down with Ian Brennan of Ian Brennan & The Echoes and Ronan Sherlock from Ian Brennan & The Echoes & Gather The Lost for a real, honest look at life in the Irish music scene.We get into the lads’ early years, their first jobs, and how they each found their way into music. From there, the conversation opens up around the realities of being in a band, the dynamics, the creative process, and what it actually takes to keep things moving.This one goes deep on the graft behind the scenes. The time, energy, and commitment required to write music, organise gigs, rehearse, and perform, all while navigating an industry where nothing is guaranteed.We also chat about the current state of the music scene in Ireland and why having a genuine love for the craft is what keeps artists going.If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to “keep the show on the road,” this episode gives you a proper insight.Check out Ian Brennan & The Echoes and Gather The Lost for updates on upcoming gigs and album releases.Our podcast is sponsored by Snickers Workwear Ireland and S9 is also in association with Hager Ireland and N2 Electrical Wholesalers.
Transcribe →S9 E7 - With Plumber Aaron Cunningham and Painter Julian Fraser
Apr 1901:23:32Tap to summarizeThis episode featuring Northern Irish Plumber Aaron Cunningham and Dublin Painter Julian Fraser from Fraser Painting, offers raw, honest conversations about health battles, the trades, childhood memories, and mental well-being, with a focus on personal resilience and community support. Join us for a real chat that highlights the importance of talking and staying connected during tough times.Key Topics:Personal health journeys and battling illness, including cancer and recoveryThe impact of sports, childhood memories, and community on identityInsights into trades and apprenticeships in Dublin and the importance of perseveranceManaging mental health and breaking barriers around men’s emotional expressionThe value of supporting friends and family through difficult timesReflections on childhood, school choices, and early careersHow work ethic and attitude shape success in trades and lifeThe significance of building relationships and mentorship in the tradesLessons learned from setbacks and the resilience needed to keep goingTips on job hunting, apprenticeships, and fostering a strong work culture. Check out Aaron on Instagram at @ac_plumber83 and Julian at @fraserpainting.ieThis podcast is sponsored by Snickers Workwear Ireland and S9 is in association with Hager Ireland and N2 Electrical Wholesalers.
Transcribe →S9 E6 - With Trades Based Educational Entrepreneur Declan Buggy
Apr 1200:49:39Tap to summarizeJoin Stephen Buckley and Keith Delahan in this episode as they explore Ireland's current fuel protests, to innovative DIY education programs. Discover how grassroots movements and practical skills are shaping the future generations, community resilience, and economic fairness. Main insights from the episode include:The ongoing energy crisis in Ireland and its social and economic impacts, emphasizing the importance of fair taxation on fuel for essential workersDeclan Buggy’s journey founding the Irish School of DIY, focusing on building confidence and independence through practical trade skills for all agesThe expanding scope of DIY education, from school-based programs to adult courses, encouraging self-sufficiency and community involvementGender dynamics in DIY participation, with higher engagement of women and the importance of inclusive skill-building initiativesThe potential scalability of DIY education nationwide, including plans for regional schools and workshops in schools and community centersThe role of social media and industry partnerships in promoting practical trades and dispelling myths around qualificationsHow embracing a DIY mindset can empower individuals financially and socially, especially amid housing and supply chain challengesThis podcast is sponsored by Snickers Workwear Ireland and S9 is also in association with Hager Ireland and N2 Electrical Wholesalers
Transcribe →S9 E5 - With Bespoke Furniture Craftsman Niall Walsh
Apr 501:09:16Tap to summarizeJoin us as we explore the journey of a talented Irish craftsman who shares his experiences from rural Ireland to Australia and New Zealand, highlighting the importance of trades, craftsmanship, and social media in modern business. Discover insights on career development, overcoming challenges, and building a community around craft.We chat about Niall's career journey from Ireland to Australia to New Zealand and back again.The impact of social media on modern craftsmanship and the challenges faced during the economic downturn and personal tragedy.This episode highlights the importance of mentorship and community within the trades.This podcast is sponsored by Snickers Workwear Ireland and Season 9 is also in association with N2 Electrical Wholesalers and Hager Ireland.
Transcribe →S9 E4 - With Home Energy Retrofit And Sustainability Expert Fergal Cantwell
Mar 2901:04:53Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we sit down with Fergal Cantwell to break down the realities of retrofitting, energy management, and navigating grants in Ireland.Fergal shares practical insights from the front line of the industry, cutting through the confusion around home energy upgrades and exposing some of the biggest misconceptions homeowners and tradespeople face today.We dive into the importance of proper training in the trades, why knowledge gaps can leave both workers and clients at a disadvantage, and how getting the right advice from the right sources is crucial when it comes to grants and energy upgrades.Fergal also co-hosts the podcast Behind the Walls alongside Peter Finn, where they explore everything from retrofitting and insulation to energy efficiency and grant schemes, making complex topics more accessible for both tradespeople and homeowners.Whether you’re in the trade or planning upgrades to your home, this episode is packed with real, actionable advice.Podcast is sponsored by Snickers Workwear Ireland and Season 9 is also in association with N2 Electrical and Hager Ireland
Transcribe →S9 E3 - Feeling This with Saul Whelan
Mar 2300:57:10Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we sit down with Saul Whelan to dive into his journey from school into the world of surveying and the wider construction industry. Saul shares a refreshingly honest perspective on carving out a career path at a young age, highlighting the opportunities that exist within the trades and beyond.We explore how social media and AI are rapidly shaping the construction industry, from changing how people learn and connect, to improving productivity and opening new doors for the next generation.A powerful part of this conversation focuses on mental health, particularly among men in the industry. Saul speaks openly about the challenges, the misunderstandings that can arise, and why having honest conversations is more important than ever.This episode is a mix of real talk, industry insight, and a reminder of the importance of looking after both your career and your mental wellbeing.Podcast is sponsored by Snickers Workwear Ireland and S9 is also in association with N2 Electrical and Hager Ireland
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