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.
30episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
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
Transcribe →S9 E2 - Days Like These
Mar 1600:44:35Tap to summarizeUnlock the secrets to elevating your trade game and setting yourself apart at industry events. This episode dives into the power of community, storytelling, and strategic networking, showing how tradespeople and designers are reshaping Irish markets one connection at a time.Imagine transforming a routine trade show visit into a goldmine of opportunities. We explore how entrepreneurs like boost their profiles and forge lucrative collaborations. Their stories reveal that stepping beyond social media and engaging in authentic conversations can truly accelerate your career.Perfect for tradies, designers, entrepreneurs, and anyone eager to future-proof their career, this episode offers actionable insights to elevate your presence and influence. Whether you're just starting out or looking to deepen your industry connections, you'll gain the motivation and strategies to step into the next phase of your professional journey.Conversations with industry professionals and brands such as; Angela Fogarty from Halo Tiling & Bathrooms, Edel Treanor from Mullan Lighting and Derek Barrett from Derek Barrett Design.Join us as we explore how community, storytelling, and innovation are shaping the future of Irish trades and design. Don't miss the chance to learn from those pushing boundaries and redefining success, hit play and start transforming your approach today.Podcast is sponsored by Snickers Workwear Ireland and Season 9 is also in association with N2 Electrical and Hager Ireland
Transcribe →S9 E1 - Design Source Ireland 2026 Part 1
Mar 900:33:34Tap to summarizeWe kick off Season 9 with this special episode of The Stripped Back Podcast, were we took the microphones on the road and headed to the Design Source Ireland Trade & Networking Event at the RDS Dublin. Rather than sitting down in the studio, we walked the show floor and chatted with some of the exhibitors, distributors, and innovators shaping the industry in this two part special.In Part 1, we speak with representatives from Fraser Painting, Graphenstone, Finsa, and Royal & Co., diving into conversations about sustainable materials, evolving design trends, and what’s coming down the line for the trade industry in 2026.From eco-friendly paints and materials to the importance of industry networking events like Design Source Ireland, this episode captures the energy of the show and the people behind the products.Events like this are vital for bringing together trades, designers, manufacturers, and suppliers. Creating opportunities to share ideas, build relationships, and showcase the innovations shaping the future of the industry.🎧 Tune in to hear the conversations straight from the show floor ans make sure to follow the show on your favourite platform to be notified when Part 2 drops next week.The Stripped Back Podcast is proudly sponsored by Snickers Workwear and S9 is in association with N2 Electrical and Hager Ireland.
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The Overload - WorldSkills 2025 RDS Dublin
Mar 200:09:36Tap to summarizeIn this bonus off season Overload Segment episode, Stephen Buckley and Keith Delahan dive into WorldSkills 2025, exploring the incredible range of career opportunities available to students across the trades. From electrical installation and plumbing to hospitality and automotive, they highlight how skills competitions and vocational training are shaping the next generation. The lads stress the importance of schools actively engaging students with these pathways, helping inspire informed, confident career choices for the future.
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Road To 100 Series: Season 7 - Rooted
Feb 2301:19:37Tap to summarizeSeason 7 was about going back to what matters.The conversations. The people. The stories.In this special lookback episode, we revisit every episode from Season 7 and reflect on the powerful moments that shaped it. From raw discussions around mental health, to honest insights from those in the trades, to conversations around physical health, resilience, growth and purpose, this season truly lived up to its name: Rooted.We check back in on:The tradespeople building more than just projects, building character, community and legacyThe guests who opened up about mental health and the courage it takes to speak outConversations around physical wellbeing, discipline and long-term sustainabilityStories from completely different backgrounds that all share one thing in common, authenticity.Season 7 reminded us why we started.Real conversations. No filters, No fluff. Just perspective.To every guest who sat in the chair and trusted us with their story, thank you.To every listener who continues to support and share the podcast, we’re only getting started.
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The Overload - Apprentice To Manager
Feb 1600:15:07Tap to summarizeIn this bonus Overload Segment, Stephen shares his full journey, from starting out as an electrical apprentice in 2006 to stepping into a leadership role as Assistant Manager of a Mobile Maintenance Team in 2026, Twenty years of paving a path of career growth opportunities.This is a real, honest breakdown of what progression in the trade actually looks like.From apprenticeship days to developing specialist skills in access control and door automation sector, to the pressure and discipline of shift working in the semiconductor industry. How his family life evolved, priorities shifted and how moving into mobile maintenance brought structure, new challenges, and a fresh opportunity to grow.20 years of being proactive.20 years of adding value.20 years of not sitting easy.This isn’t about titles.It’s about standards.It’s about work ethic.It’s about opening doors for yourself.
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Road To 100 Series: Back To The Start - With Stephen Buckley
Feb 900:15:10Tap to summarizeAs part of our Road To 100 Series, join one half of The Stripped Back Podcast, Co-Host Stephen Buckley as he reflects on the origins and evolution of Insight. From starting with just an idea, a phone and honesty, the podcast has grown into a platform connecting tradespeople. Discover how authentic content built on trust and community, the role of social media in its growth, and the importance of supporting apprentices. Stephen shares lessons learned from recording in makeshift locations and emphasizes staying true to the podcast's roots. This is his personal take on the journey so far and the potential for the road yet to travel.
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S5 E4 - Lonely Island
Dec 16, 2024Tap to summarizeInsight: The Stripped Back Podcast – Episode Highlights Hosts: Stephen Buckley & Keith Delahan Special Guests: Paul Collins (The Marble Master) – Expert in marble restoration and tiling. Tony Griffin – Former Clare hurler, acclaimed author, performance coach, and philanthropist. --- In this captivating episode of Insight: The Stripped Back Podcast, Stephen and Keith sit down with two incredible guests, each with unique stories of resilience, growth, and success. Segment 1: Overload with Paul Collins (The Marble Master) Paul shares his journey into the world of marble restoration, reflecting on the challenges that shaped his career and the lessons he learned through tough times. He emphasizes: The importance of staying authentic on social media. How personal experiences influenced his career trajectory. The resilience and strength developed from overcoming adversity. Discover more about Paul’s work and connect with him on Instagram: @marblemaster.ie. Segment 2: Guest Interview with Tony Griffin Tony dives into his inspiring life story, from his days as a Clare hurler to becoming an author, performance coach, and philanthropist. Highlights from the discussion include: His charity-led cycling journey across Canada after the loss of his father. The significance of mental strength, preparation, and work ethic. The impact of storytelling in driving change and fostering connections. Insights on prioritizing mental health and personal growth. Learn more about Tony’s journey at tonygriffin.ie and follow him on social media. --- Key Takeaways: This episode is packed with valuable insights into resilience, the power of authenticity, and the importance of mental preparation in achieving success. Whether you're navigating personal challenges or looking for inspiration in your career, these stories will leave you motivated and ready to take on the world. --- Connect with Us: Follow Insight: The Stripped Back Podcast on Instagram: @insightthestrippedbackpodcast. Check out our bio for links to all streaming platforms. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share the episode with friends who need a dose of inspiration!
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