Stephen Buckley and Keith Delahan sit down with Dave Dillon and Jennifer Murray, the passionate duo behind TheTradeCounter.ie. Together, they explore deeply personal experiences that have shaped their lives and careers, from the challenges of childhood and post natal depression, to the complexities of ADHD and the battle with addiction and the journey of recovery.
The discussion goes beyond individual stories, shining a light on the often unspoken struggles within the trades community. Dave and Jennifer share how Trade Counter is working to change that by building meaningful connections across the industry, offering a space where tradespeople can talk honestly about mental health, support each other, and break down stigmas.
If you’ve ever felt alone with your struggles, or wondered if others in the trades industry feel the same pressure, this conversation is for you. It’s real, raw, and full of hope. With honesty and empathy, our guests show the importance of solidarity, because no one should have to face their challenges alone.
Learn more about The Trade Counter:
Find them on social media or visit TheTradeCounter.ie to get involved, connect with others, or find support.
This podcast is sponsored by Robus Lighting and this season is in association with Snickers Workwear Ireland
In this Overload Segment Episode of the Insight The Stripped Back podcast,
Stephen highlights the rapid evolution of the trade industry, particularly in relation to technology and renewable energy.
He reflects on how the industry has changed since the early 2000s, emphasising the need for electricians to adapt to new technologies such as solar panels and EV chargers.
The conversation highlights the importance of continuous learning and embracing new trends to stay relevant in the field.
He also touch on the significance of helping clients manage their energy needs and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead for tradespeople.
This podcast is sponsored by Robus Lighting, the worlds leading LED company, and Season 8 is also in association with our good friends at Snickers Workwear Ireland.
In this episode, hosts Stephen Buckley and Keith Delahan sit down with Dylan Kearney, founder of Koncept Construction, for an open and insightful conversation about the modern construction industry and the growing impact of social media.Dylan shares his journey from apprenticeship to entrepreneurship, discussing how he built his personal brand and leveraged digital platforms to connect, grow, and inspire others. The trio explore the importance of mentorship, networking, and continuous learning in today’s ever-changing trade landscape.They also dig into the realities behind business ownership, from managing pressure and finding balance between work and personal life, to staying resilient when things get tough.Whether you’re an apprentice, tradesperson, or business owner, this episode offers valuable insights into building a career with purpose and adaptability in the digital age. Learn more about Dylan and Koncept Construction at www.konceptconstruction.ie Listen now and get inspired to build your brand, your business, and your future.This podcast is sponsored by ROBUS Lighting and Season 8 is also in association with Snickers Workwear Ireland
Design Source Ireland is a creative hub that connects professionals across design, architecture, and the construction trades, providing inspiration, resources, and collaboration opportunities for those shaping Ireland’s built environment.
Stephen and Keith were invited by Design Source Ireland to join Brian Tyrell from Bear Creation on an Instagram Live chat, where Brian turned the tables and interviewed the lads about their journey in the industry.
They discuss their early entry into the trades, the inception of Insight: The Stripped Back Podcast, the lessons they’ve learned along the way, and why having a platform that champions the trades industry is so important.
A huge thank you to Design Source Ireland for the invitation and to Brian Tyrell for hosting such an engaging and insightful chat.
Be sure to check out Design Source Ireland on their website and across social media under the same name, and don’t miss Bear Creation, online and on socials by the same name. They are known for their award-winning furniture design and manufacturing.
This episode is not to be missed, it’s an inspiring and honest look behind the mics at how Insight: The Stripped Back Podcast came to be, why the trades matter more than ever, and how collaboration across the industry is helping shape a stronger, more connected community.
We kick off Season 8 with a powerful conversation featuring Alan Collins from Simplified Sparky Marketing. A Cork native now living and working in Australia, Alan shares his inspiring story of starting his business Westcork Electrical from scratch, the lessons learned along the way, and how he is turning his trade experience into a much needed marketing brand, with Simplified Sparky Marketing helping fellow electricians internationally.
From the importance of professionalism and the hidden power of sports in networking, to the role of AI and automation in shaping the future of business, this episode is packed with insights for anyone in the trade industry looking to level up. Alan also opens up about documenting his business journey and why every business owner should build with an exit strategy in mind.
Rocket your electrical business marketing in 9 minutes:
https://simplifiedsparky.carrd.co
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/_alan.collins
Website:
https://simplifiedsparky.com
This podcast is sponsored by Robus Lighting and Season 8 is also in association with Snickers Workwear Ireland
Sometimes the best conversations don’t happen in a studio, they happen out on the road. In this episode, Stephen and Keith park up in Sutton, Dublin, with the stunning backdrop of Dublin Bay behind them for a proper catch-up on all things Insight.
From the buzz around the upcoming season to the amazing support flooding in for the Insight Trades Awards, the lads open up about what it all means, not just for them, but for the entire trade community that’s helped bring it to life.
It’s real. It’s raw. It’s straight from the van.
Because that’s where the real talk happens.
🎧 Tune in, kick back, and join the chat.
Don't forget to check us out on Instagram
@InsightTheStrippedBackPodcast and head to our bio link to vote in our inaugural Insight Trades Award 2025. Voting closes on the 29th Of October 2025 and the ceremony will stream live from our YouTube channel on December 11th 2025
In this special bonus episode, Stephen takes a few minutes from his van to give listeners a sneak peek into what’s coming for Season 8 of Insight: The Stripped Back Podcast , and to share some exciting news about the first-ever Insight Trades Awards 2025!
This year, Stephen and Keith are taking their passion for the trades community to the next level with an event created by the trades, for the trades. The Insight Trades Awards will recognise the people and businesses that make the industry what it is, from Electrician of the Year to Plumber, HVAC, Carpenter, Fitters, Skilled Tradespeople, Influencers, and Local Wholesalers.
How it works:
Winners will be nominated, shortlisted, and voted for by their peers, giving everyone in the industry a chance to shine.
Nominations are open until October 29th, 2025, with the final ceremony streaming live on Thursday, December 11th.
This year’s awards are proudly supported by Robus, FuseBox Ireland, ATC, and Snickers Workwear Ireland and the lads hope this will be the start of an annual celebration of the Irish trades community, with future plans to make it an in-person event.
Head over to @insightthestrippedbackpodcast on Instagram, hit the link in our bio, and vote for your favourite tradesperson today!
Let’s celebrate the people who keep Ireland powered, built, and running, one trade at a time.
In this special bonus short recorded via Tik Tok Live, Stephen takes the mic back to where it all began, the van. From those early days of recording on the go to building a studio through Robus Lighting and growing a community, Stephen reflects on the journey of the podcast so far.He shares honest insights into the ups and downs of podcasting, along with practical nuggets of advice for anyone thinking about starting their own. From choosing the right format, staying consistent, and connecting with your audience, to navigating the world of sponsorships, what to look out for, what works, and what doesn’t. This is a behind-the-scenes look at the lessons learned along the way.Stay tuned for more bonus shorts as we gear up for another season. Season 8 is coming your way this October.
Insight Goes to WorldSkills Ireland 2025 event in the RDS Dublin and in this special bonus episode, Keith and Stephen bring you along for the ride.
The lads walked the floor chatting with students, exhibitors, and industry representatives to capture the real buzz of an event that connects education with opportunity. From engineering and the trades, to beauty, hospitality, and horticulture, this event continues to grow each year, opening doors for school leavers while also giving industries a platform to showcase the future of their sectors.
For students, it’s a chance to explore exciting career pathways and see what’s possible beyond the classroom. For the industry, it’s about inspiring the next generation, closing skills gaps, and highlighting how diverse and rewarding these careers can be.
A massive thank you to WorldSkills Ireland for the invite, we’re excited to share our experience with you.
Tune in now for a stripped-back look at how WorldSkills Ireland is shaping the future for students and industry alike.
In this special bonus episode, we take you inside BEPEX 2025 in Dublin, where Irish brands and innovators in the building, plumbing and electrical industry come together to showcase the latest products, ideas, and solutions shaping the future of the trade.
From the importance of energy efficiency to the value of face-to-face conversations, we explore what’s driving progress across the industry. Representatives from a variety of companies share their insights on customer feedback, contractor needs, and the evolving demand for simpler, more efficient product design.
We also discuss how apprentices are viewed as the future of the trade, why promoting Irish-made products matters now more than ever, and how companies are expanding their reach into Europe while staying grounded in local expertise.
What you’ll hear in this episode:
Why BEPEX 2025 is a key platform for showcasing Irish innovation
The role of contractors and apprentices in shaping future products
How express installations and efficiency are becoming industry standards
Market trends driven by customer and end-user feedback
The growing importance of Irish brands in Europe and beyond
Whether you’re a contractor, apprentice, or simply curious about the direction of the electrical industry, this episode offers an inside look at the conversations and ideas shaping the trade.
For our Season 7 finale, Stephen takes the mic solo while Keith is tied up with work commitments (don’t worry, he’ll be back for Season 8!). Joining him in the studio is Danielle Tutty from Rathmines Glass, who brings powerful insights into life, business, and breaking barriers in the construction and glazing industries.
Danielle opens up about her journey of growing up in a family business, the lessons passed down from her father and grandfather, and how the trade has evolved over generations. She shares the challenges of being a woman in construction, the stereotypes she’s faced, and why representation matters now more than ever.
The conversation also takes a deeply human turn as Danielle reflects on the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the devastating toll it has taken on families. She shares the heartbreaking story of a close friend who is separated from her children on opposite sides of the Gaza border, highlighting the human cost of war and the importance of empathy, awareness, and solidarity in times of crisis.
From the importance of authenticity on social media to the need for supporting local communities during tough times, this conversation dives deep into the realities of running a business in today’s world. Danielle also reflects on how early work experiences shape career paths, how technology is influencing younger generations, and the ongoing struggle of balancing work with family life.
As the episode closes, Stephen and Danielle discuss the future of glazing, the need to nurture new talent, and how innovation in manufacturing can open new doors for the industry.
This is a powerful and inspiring finale that shines a light on resilience, family, community, and the ongoing journey of breaking down gender barriers in the trades, while never forgetting the global struggles that remind us of our shared humanity.
🎧 Tune in now and join us as we wrap up Season 7 with a story that truly embodies the spirit of Insight: The Stripped Back Podcast.
Join hosts Stephen Buckley and Keith Delahan on the penultimate episode of Season 7, as they kick things off with The Overload Segment, where they explore the intricacies of the trade, sharing humorous and insightful stories from the field. This segment delves into the common challenges faced by tradespeople and the unique customer interactions that make the job both rewarding and unpredictable.
Closing out the episode, Keith and Stephen sit down with Fergus Farrell, a true embodiment of resilience and recovery. Fergus shares his incredible journey from a life-altering accident to becoming a mental health advocate and ambassador for the Lighthouse Charity. Discover how he overcame adversity, rebuilt his life, and now inspires others through his story and upcoming book, "Rebuilding a Man," set to release on October 2nd, 2025.
Fergus discusses the challenges he faced and the tools he used to rebuild his life, emphasising the power of asking for help and staying resilient.
Follow Fergus on social media at @iamfergusfarrell to stay updated on his journey and upcoming book release. If you or someone you know needs support, reach out to the Lighthouse Charity by text at 50808 (ROI) and 85258 (UK)
This podcast is sponsored by Robus Lighting and this season is also in association with Snickers Workwear Ireland and Velocity Pro Gear.
In this episode of Insight: The Stripped Back Podcast, hosts Stephen Buckley and Keith Delahan kick things off with The Overload Segment, catching up on Stephen’s attic renovation progress, discussing the importance of Lockout Tagout (LOTO) in electrical work, and highlighting the real dangers and injuries that can happen when safety isn’t prioritised.
Closing out the episode, they sit down with Wayne Aherne, founder of Apprentice Ireland, for a powerful and thought-provoking conversation about the current state of apprenticeships in Ireland. Wayne shares his journey and valuable insights into the challenges apprentices face, from navigating misconceptions to finding the right support networks. The discussion highlights how community support and social media can provide apprentices with vital resources and information, and why hands-on experience is crucial for building confidence and skill in the trades.
The episode closes with reflections on the future of apprenticeships, emphasising the importance of ongoing dialogue, inclusivity, and systemic improvements to create better opportunities for the next generation of tradespeople.
Make sure to check out Wayne Aherne and everything he has to offer in supporting apprentices at www.apprenticeireland.ie or on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
This podcast is sponsored by Robus Lighting and this season is in association with Snickers Workwear Ireland and Velocity Pro Gear
Kicking off the episode on The Overload Segment, Stephen Buckley and Keith Delahan dive into an electrifying conversation with Eoghan O Conghaile, aka The Dublin Sparky. Discover Eoghan's journey from a local Centra to becoming a prominent figure in the Irish trade industry. Learn about his unique approach to content creation, the challenges of the trade, and the importance of sharing knowledge through social media. Eoghan's early days and the unexpected path to becoming an electrician. The role of social media in modern trade education. Insights into the apprenticeship experience and the value of hands-on learning. The impact of COVID-19 on education and career progression. Eoghan's tips for creating engaging content and building a personal brand.
Closing out the episode, we have a feature length chat with Paul Nealon as he shares his journey of founding IFFTV and the challenges he faced along the way. Insights into the growth of Irish football and the role of media in shaping its future. Personal stories of resilience, including Paul's experiences with ADHD and overcoming personal loss. Reminiscing about early days with his father, supporting Everton, and taking memorable trips to Liverpool to watch them play. Reflections on his close relationship with his mother and the profound impact her passing has had on his life and work.
This podcast is sponsored by Robus Lighting and this season is in association with Snickers Workwear Ireland and Velocity Pro Gear
We kick things off with an Overload Segment that took us back to the roots of the podcast, where we delve into the intricacies of electrical maintenance, sharing insights on pricing strategies, the importance of thorough inspections, and the challenges faced in the industry. Discover how to balance quality and cost, and learn from real-life experiences in the field. We discuss pricing strategies for electrical jobs and the Importance of thorough inspections and the challenges faced day to day whilst highlighting real-life experiences and lessons learned.
Closing out the episode, we sit down with Coach Sean Doyle, a personal trainer, entrepreneur, and influencer whose story is as real as it is inspiring.
From overcoming personal challenges to building a thriving fitness community, Sean takes us through his powerful transformation journey. We explore how his love for neuroscience led to a life-changing ADHD diagnosis, giving him a deeper understanding of himself and the young boy who once struggled to focus.
Sean also opens up about the creation of Tru Power Coaching, the importance of community in fitness, and how resilience can be built one challenge at a time. Along the way, we discuss the role social media plays in motivating others and how anyone can take that first step toward change.
Tune in now and start your journey of transformation.
Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review
This podcast is sponsored Robus Lighting and this season is also in association with Snickers Workwear Ireland and Velocity Pro Gear.
Hosts Stephen Buckley and Keith Delahan kick things off with The Overload Segment, where they chat with Jessica Rose aka PlumbingJess, a trailblazer in the trades industry. Discover her inspiring journey from academia to becoming a rising star in plumbing, and how she's challenging stereotypes along the way.
Jessica's early life and academic background in Worcestershire. Transition from Hairdressing into Law, then onto a career in plumbing. Overcoming gender stereotypes in the trades. The importance of social media in building a supportive community. Insights into the UK trade apprenticeship system. Jessica's aspirations for the future and her role as a mentor.
Closing out the episode is our Special Guest Interview Segment,
Join us in this compelling interview as we delve into the inspiring journey of Sean Fox, founder of Goosey Goo, an Irish hypoallergenic child-friendly clothing brand. Sean shares personal stories of resilience, entrepreneurship, and the power of community support. Discover how life's challenges can be transformed into stepping stones for growth and innovation.
The impact of early life experiences on personal development. Navigating the challenges of addiction and recovery. Building Goosey Goo from the ground up amidst adversity. The importance of community and mentorship in achieving success.
Special Offer: Enjoy a 20% discount on all Goosey Goo orders online at www.gooseygoo.ie with the code Insight20.
Podcast is sponsored by Robus Lighting, The world’s leading LED lighting company.
Season 7 is also in association with Snickers Workwear Ireland and Velocity Pro Gear
We kick off on Season 7 Episode 4 with two incredible and inspiring guests whose stories reflect the true meaning of resilience, growth, and transformation.
First up, we welcome back electrical apprentice and Building Heroes ambassador, Chatreen O’Connor.
A familiar voice on the podcast, Chatreen joins us for the third time, giving us an honest and powerful update on her journey through the apprenticeship. Just after completing her Phase 4 exams, facing the setback of having to repeat one, Chatreen opens up about what it takes to keep moving forward when things don’t go to plan. Her unwavering determination is a powerful message to anyone navigating their own path in the trades.
Closing the episode, we’re joined by ex-racehorse jockey turned personal trainer, Katie Reddington.
Katie left school young to follow her dream of working in the horse racing industry, but the intense pressure around weight and a culture of alcohol took a heavy toll. In a brave move, Katie stepped away from the sport she loved and began a new chapter in the fitness world. She shares a raw and inspiring look into the challenges she’s faced, the growth she’s found, and what it really means to take control of your life.
This Podcast is proudly sponsored by
ROBUS Lighting, The world’s leading LED lighting company and Season 7 also comes to you in association with Snickers Workwear Ireland and Velocity Pro Gear
We kick things off The Overload Segment,
Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of Neo Mosudisa, an entrepreneur from Birmingham, who turned a simple idea into a life-saving product. Discover how his background in engineering and a keen eye for safety led to the creation of Spurlok, a device designed to enhance electrical safety in industrial and domestic settings.
We learn about Neo's early life and his education, the challenges and triumphs of launching Spurlok, yhe importance of safety in the electrical industry Insights into the engineering profession and its impact on innovation
To close out the episode, Gavin Meenan, a mentor and advocate for men's mental health, shares his journey and insights. we dive deep into the transformative journey of embracing vulnerability and authenticity. Our guest shares personal stories of overcoming societal expectations, the importance of emotional expression, and the path to self-acceptance. Discover how breaking down barriers can lead to profound personal growth and a more fulfilling life.
The impact of societal norms on men's emotional health Personal stories of overcoming adversity and finding strength The role of vulnerability in personal growth Insights into balancing work, life, and emotional well-being
Tune in to hear Gavin's inspiring story and learn how embracing vulnerability can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!
This podcast is sponsored by Robus Lighting and Season 7 is also in association with Snickers Workwear Ireland and Velocity Pro Gear.
In this special bonus episode of Insight: The Stripped Back Podcast, we welcome back a powerful voice and previous guest, Robin Grace, who first joined us in Season 5, Episode 5. During that episode, Robin courageously opened up about his battle with mental health issues rooted in childhood trauma, sharing how it led to moments of deep struggle and suicidal thoughts. His story left a lasting impression on us and our listeners alike.
Since then, Robin has been on a mission. Passionate about making a difference, he’s been exploring how technology can be implemented in high-risk areas for self-harm and suicide such as coastal cliffs and tourist hotspots to serve as potential life-saving interventions. However, despite his drive, compassion, and forward-thinking ideas, he’s encountered barriers and resistance from those in positions of influence.
This episode is about giving Robin the mic unfiltered and uncut to share his updates, his frustrations, and his hopes. He dives into the progress he's made, the walls he's hit, and why he believes now, more than ever, we need to act before more lives are lost.
Whether you’re someone who works in local government, tourism, or simply care about mental health and community well-being, this episode is one you need to hear.
Let’s amplify Robin’s message, for his community and beyond.
Press play, share it wide, and be part of the change.
If you have been affected by anything mentioned during this episode, the following supports are available;
Samaritans
116 123 (Free, 24/7)
www.samaritans.ie
Offers emotional support for anyone in distress or struggling to cope.
Pieta House
1800 247 247 (Free, 24/7)
Text HELP to 51444
www.pieta.ie
Provides free therapy for people who are suicidal, engaging in self-harm, or bereaved by suicide.
1800 80 48 48 (Daily, 10am–10pm)
www.aware.ie
Support for people experiencing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or related mood conditions.
www.jigsaw.ie
Provides mental health support and services for young people aged 12–25.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 999 or 112.
In this episode, we’re keeping things real, raw and exactly how we like it.First up on The Overload, we catch up with friend of the podcast Richard Cockerline over a remote video call, bridging the gap between the UK and Ireland. It’s a wholesome chat with plenty of laughs, touching on the importance of reaching out to your mates, keeping safe on site, and of course, what vans we’re all driving these days. A proper off-the-cuff conversation that’s as genuine as it gets.Closing out the episode, we’re joined by Cian O’Reilly from CJ Ventilation, who opens up about his journey through adversity, the heartbreak of losing close friends, mental health battles and ultimately, the resilience that’s shaped him into the man he is today. Cian lays it all bare in a powerful, honest discussion that we’re proud to share.This podcast is proudly supported by our main sponsor Robus Lighting, and also season 7 is in association with Snickers Workwear Ireland & Velocity Pro Gear.
Hit follow to stay updated, leave us a review if you’re enjoying the conversations, and as always, thanks for tuning in!