In this Christmas Special of Under Construction with Chadwicks, host Donncha is joined by two very special guests Eric Roberts, content creator, TV presenter and proud Donegal native, and Dustin the Turkey, builder, broadcaster and Irish comedy legend. From building sites to social media feeds, this festive episode is packed with proper site banter, real talk, and plenty of laughs. Dustin shares his take on DIYers, apprentices, and the realities of modern regulations, while Eric opens up about his own self-build journey in Donegal, juggling planning permission, insulation choices, and learning the ropes along the way. The conversation moves from bricks and mortar to Donegal versus Dublin, as they explore the rural–city divide, what “home” really means, and where’s best to raise a family. Eric reflects on how Donegal’s rugged landscape and strong sense of place have shaped both his humour and his online success, while Dustin weighs in on whether the Dubs really get everything handed to them. Social media takes centre stage too, with Eric discussing his journey from SNA to one of Ireland’s most recognisable online creators, the pressure of feeding the algorithm, and how content creation is shaping how we all use social platforms today. And of course, being a Christmas Special, no chat with Dustin would be complete without a festive detour — turkeys at Christmas, changing traditions, charity campaigns, and whether another seasonal hit could ever be on the cards.  🎤 Honest, funny, and full of character, this episode is about building a life, staying grounded, and finding humour wherever you are — whether that’s on a building site, online, or gathered around the Christmas table.   🔗 Follow Chadwicks, Donncha & the Guests  🔗 Chadwicks Website: www.chadwicks.ie  📲  Follow Chadwicks on Instagram: @chadwicks_ie  📲  Follow Chadwicks on TikTok: @chadwicksie  📲  Follow Donncha O’Callaghan: @donnchaocallaghan  📲  Follow Eric Roberts: @ericroberts  📲  Follow Dustin: (If he ever joins social media…)  🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.   #ChadwicksPodcast #UnderConstructionPodcast #ChristmasSpecial #IrishChristmas #BuildingLife #Donegal #IrishHumour #SiteBanter

In this episode of Under Construction with Chadwicks, host Donncha O’Callaghan sits down with two giants of Tipperary hurling—Seamus Callanan and John McGrath. With Tipp reclaiming the 2025 All-Ireland title, we’re diving into the stories, sacrifices, and moments that define what it truly means to wear the blue and gold. Seamus reflects on a remarkable inter-county career that stretched from 2008 to 2023—taking us back to the day he first pulled on the Tipp jersey, the pride of winning three All-Irelands, and the challenge of stepping away from the game after fifteen years at the top. John, fresh off his third All-Ireland medal and winning Hurler of the Year, talks about the joy of Tipp’s latest triumph, growing up in one of hurling’s most famous families, and what it’s like playing alongside his brother Noel while carrying on the McGrath legacy. Together, Seamus and John explore how the sport has changed—from the early days of Seamus’s career to the near-professional standards faced by today’s young players. They discuss the pressures, the workload, the sacrifices fans don’t always see, and how victories like this inspire the next generation coming through in Tipperary.  🎤 Whether you’re a lifelong Tipp supporter or simply love the game, this episode is filled with insight, honesty, and a behind-the-scenes look at the people behind the helmets.   🔗  Follow Chadwicks, Donncha, and the Guests  🔗  Chadwicks Website: www.chadwicks.ie  📲 Follow Chadwicks on Instagram: @chadwicks_ie  📲 Follow Chadwicks on TikTok: @chadwicksie  📲 Follow Donncha O’Callaghan: @donnchaocallaghan  📲 Follow Seamus Callanan: (@seamiecallanan)  📲 Follow John McGrath: (@mcgrathjohn101)  🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. #ChadwicksPodcast #UnderConstructionPodcast #TipperaryHurling #GAA #AllIrelandChampions #HurlingLegends

In this episode of Under Construction with Chadwicks, Donncha sits down with two thought leaders shaping the conversation about the future of work — Lollie Mancey and Conor Kearney. Lollie Mancey is an educational provocateur with a wealth of entrepreneurial experience. She leads the Postgraduate Certificate in Creativity, Innovation and Entrepreneurship and the Graduate Certificate in Digital Transformation, Technology & Resilience, helping learners prepare for the ever-evolving world of work. Conor Kearney, Executive Director and Founder of CJK Engineering, brings a hands-on perspective from the world of construction and engineering — industries on the front lines of technological change.   Together, Lollie and Conor explore: What the workforce of the future will look like in a world transformed by technology. The role of AI today — how it’s reshaping industries and which jobs may be at risk. Why construction trades remain a cornerstone of the economy and among the safest, most future-proof careers. How education, innovation, and adaptability will define the next generation of professionals. This episode dives deep into the balance between human skill and machine intelligence — offering a grounded, forward-looking discussion on how to build resilience in a changing world of work.   Follow Chadwicks, Donncha, and the Guests: Chadwicks 🔗 Chadwicks Website: www.chadwicks.ie 📲 Follow Chadwicks on Instagram: @chadwicks_ie 📲 Follow Chadwicks on TikTok: @chadwicksie 📲 Follow Donncha O’Callaghan: @donnchaocallaghan   🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. #ChadwicksPodcast #UnderConstructionPodcast #AI #Construction

In this episode of Under Construction with Chadwicks, host Donncha O’Callaghan welcomes two of the West’s funniest voices—Alan Clarke and Owen Colgan. Alan, a Mayo-born content creator, podcaster, and author with over 200k followers, has gone from the carpentry trade to DJing to hosting the Big News Podcast. Owen, star of The Hardy Bucks, has carved out a career in stand-up and podcasting while sharing his trademark humour about rural life, masculinity, and a touch of DIY on the farm. Together, Alan and Owen open up about: Growing up in the West and what makes it such a unique cultural hub. The shift from trades and tools to comedy and cameras. The rise of podcasting in Ireland—and how to keep an audience engaged. Whether making content for the algorithm or the craic is really the secret. This episode dives into comedy, chaos, and plenty of craic as two of Mayo’s best storytellers share their journeys. Follow Chadwicks, Donncha, and the Guests: 🔗 Chadwicks Website: www.chadwicks.ie 📲 Follow Chadwicks on Instagram: @chadwicks_ie 📲 Follow Chadwicks on TikTok: @chadwicksie 📲 Follow Donncha O’Callaghan: @donnchaocallaghan 📲 Follow Alan Clarke: @alanclarkeofficial 📲 Follow Owen Colgan: @owencolganfitness 🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. #ChadwicksPodcast #UnderConstructionPodcast #WestofIreland

In this episode of Under Construction with Chadwicks, host Donncha O’Callaghan sits down with two of Ireland’s brightest young voices in modern farming—Sophie Bell and Fin Walsh.   Sophie, a Cavan-based farmer with over 130k followers across Instagram and TikTok, shares her passion for animal care, rearing dairy heifers, and how she’s using digital marketing skills to connect a new generation with rural life.   Fin, a dairy farmer from Limerick working alongside his dad and brothers, has built a following of more than 230k fans on social media thanks to his mix of humour, high-tech farming demonstrations, and down-to-earth content. Together, Sophie and Fin open up about: Growing up on Irish farms and their first memories on the land. The turning points that brought them online—and the role of calves Pip and beyond. How social media is reshaping farming culture and inspiring younger generations. The skills, trades, and tech every modern farmer needs to master. The challenges and motivations behind a 24/7 lifestyle.   This episode dives into the realities of farming today, from the graft of daily chores to the power of social platforms in preserving tradition while pushing agriculture into the future.  Follow Chadwicks, Donncha, and the Guests:  🔗  Chadwicks Website: ⁠www.chadwicks.ie⁠ 📲 Follow Chadwicks on Instagram: @chadwicks_ie 📲 Follow Chadwicks on TikTok: @chadwicksie 📲 Follow Donncha O’Callaghan: @donnchaocallaghan 📲 Follow Sophie Bell: @sophie_bell__ (IG) | @sophie_bell__ (TikTok) 📲 Follow Fin Walsh: @fin_walsh99 (IG) | @fin_walsh99 (TikTok)     🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. #ChadwicksPodcast #UnderConstructionPodcast #IrishFarming #ModernFarming #AgriContentCreators #FarmingLife #Podcast

Irish comedy legend Pat Shortt and his daughter Faye Shortt join Under Construction for a hilarious and heartfelt conversation. From unforgettable improv moments and epic breakfast roll tales to behind-the-scenes stories from Father Ted and their viral D'Unbelievables sketches, Pat and Faye share the craft, chaos, and charm behind their comedy. Topics include: How Pat & Faye developed their comedic style The magic of improv (and a few unexpected turns!) Building characters like Michael the Builder Life in the spotlight & navigating fame The evolution from stage to social media Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to their work, this episode is packed with laughs, insights, and a dash of mischief. Follow Chadwicks, Donncha, and the Guests:  🔗  Chadwicks Website: ⁠www.chadwicks.ie⁠ 📲 Follow Chadwicks on Instagram: @chadwicks_ie 📲 Follow Chadwicks on TikTok: @chadwicksie 📲 Follow Donncha O’Callaghan: @donnchaocallaghan 📲 Follow Pat Shortt: @patshortt1 📲 Follow Faye Shortt: @fayeshortty  🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.   #ChadwicksPodcast #UnderConstructionPodcast #Podcast #IrishComedy #FatherTed #DUnbelievables #Killinaskully #ComedyIcons

In this episode of Under Construction with Chadwicks, host Donncha O’Callaghan sits down with two Irish sporting stars who’ve dared to step outside the familiar—and into the unknown.   Vikki Wall, Meath LGFA legend turned AFLW premiership winner with North Melbourne, and Mark Jackson, Wicklow’s standout goalkeeper and NFL hopeful, join us to talk ambition, adaptability, and life beyond the GAA pitch.   From kicking points in Croke Park to trialling for the NFL and switching codes to rugby sevens, these two have redefined what it means to chase your dreams. They open up about the pressure of elite sport, the culture shock of new systems abroad, and the personal sacrifices it takes to push boundaries and start over in a completely different sport.     Follow Chadwicks, Donncha, and the Guests:  🔗  Chadwicks Website: www.chadwicks.ie 📲 Follow Chadwicks on Instagram: @chadwicks_ie 📲 Follow Chadwicks on TikTok: @chadwicksie 📲 Follow Donncha O’Callaghan: @donnchaocallaghan 📲 Follow Vikki Wall: @vikkiwall_ 📲 Follow Mark Jackson: @mark_jacko1    🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.   #ChadwicksPodcast #UnderConstructionPodcast #VikkiWall #MarkJackson #AFLW #NFL #GAA #IrishSport #Podcast #AthleteLife #SportTransition

In this episode of Under Construction with Chadwicks, host Donncha O’Callaghan is joined by content creator and DIY expert Jamie Duff and comedian Ryan Carrick—to explore a big question: have we lost the basic DIY skills of generations past?   From converting horse trucks into tiny homes to learning everything from YouTube, Jamie represents the new wave of self-taught DIYers. Meanwhile, Ryan’s curiosity (and lack of experience) brings a fresh perspective—and a few laughs. They dive into the gap in hands-on know-how among younger generations, how online learning is changing the game, and what it takes to actually start building, fixing, or renovating in 2025.   Together, they explore whether it’s a skills crisis or just a shift in how we learn—and prove that anyone can get stuck in (with or without knowing which end of the hammer to hold). 🛠️ Whether you’re a seasoned builder or a total novice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about DIY today.   Follow Chadwicks, Donncha, and the Guests: 🔗 Chadwicks Website: ⁠www.chadwicks.ie⁠  📲 Follow Chadwicks on Instagram: ⁠@chadwicks_ie⁠  📲 Follow Chadwicks on TikTok: ⁠@chadwicksie⁠  📲 Follow Donncha O’Callaghan: ⁠@donnchaocallaghan⁠  📲 Follow Jamie Duff: ⁠@duffdiy⁠  📲 Follow Ryan Carrick: ⁠@ryancarrickcomedy⁠ 🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.   #ChadwicksPodcast #UnderConstructionPodcast #Podcast #DIY #Construction #JamieDuff #RyanCarrick #VanLife #TinyHomes #HomeRenovation #Chadwicks

In this episode of Under Construction with Chadwicks, host Donncha O’Callaghan is joined by two legends of Gaelic games Dublin’s Philly McMahon and Mayo’s Keith Higgins —to discuss one of the game’s biggest rivalries Dublin vs Mayo. From All-Ireland clashes to club battles, we’re diving deep into the rivalries that have shaped the GAA. Philly and Keith know what it means to compete at the highest level—and how it feels to go head-to-head when everything’s on the line. Philly opens up about Dublin’s historic dominance, the pressure of sustaining success, and what it meant to clash with the likes of Mayo and Kerry year after year. Keith reflects on his unique journey as a dual star for Mayo in both football and hurling, and the heartbreak and pride that came with those epic encounters at Croke Park. Together, they discuss the culture, passion, and psychology behind great GAA rivalries—how they bring out the best (and sometimes the worst) in players, fans, and entire counties. 🏐 Whether you’re from the Hill, the West, or anywhere in between, this episode is a must-listen for every GAA fan. Follow Chadwicks, Donncha, and the Guests: 🔗 Chadwicks Website: www.chadwicks.ie 📲 Follow Chadwicks on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chadwicks_ie/ 📲 Follow Chadwicks on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chadwicksie 📲 Follow Donncha O’Callaghan: https://www.instagram.com/donnchaocallaghan/ 📲 Follow Philly McMahon: https://www.instagram.com/phillymcmahon/ 📲 Follow Keith Higgins: https://www.instagram.com/keithhiggins7/ 🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. #ChadwicksPodcast #UnderConstructionPodcast #Podcast #GAA #Rivalries #PhillyMcMahon #KeithHiggins #GAAIcons #DublinGAA #MayoGAA

In this episode of Under Construction with Chadwicks, host Donncha O’Callaghan sits down with two icons of Irish comedy—Patrick McDonnell and Bernard O’Shea.   As Father Ted marks its 30th anniversary this year and Naked Camera turns 20, we’re celebrating the shows and characters that have defined a generation of Irish humour.   Patrick takes us behind the scenes of playing the unforgettable Eoin McLove in Father Ted, and shares the madness of creating Naked Camera, one of Ireland’s most outrageous comedy shows. Bernard reflects on his time writing and performing on Republic of Telly, the hit show that pushed boundaries and brought a new wave of comedy to Irish screens.   Together, they explore how comedy has changed over the years—from TV classics to the world of social media—sharing stories from the road, the stage, and behind the camera.   🎙️ Whether you grew up watching these shows or are just discovering them, this episode is packed with laughs, insights, and a celebration of Ireland’s comedy legacy.   Follow Chadwicks, Donncha, and the Guests: 🔗 Chadwicks Website: www.chadwicks.ie  Follow Chadwicks on 📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chadwicks_ie/ 📲 Follow Chadwicks on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chadwicksie 📲 Follow Donncha O’Callaghan: https://www.instagram.com/donnchaocallaghan/ 📲 Follow Patrick McDonnell: https://www.instagram.com/patmcdonnellcomedian/ 📲 Follow Bernard O’Shea: https://www.instagram.com/bernardo.oshea/   🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.   #ChadwicksPodcast #UnderConstructionPodcast #Podcast #IrishComedy #FatherTed #RepublicOfTelly #ComedyIcons

In this episode of Under Construction with Chadwicks, host Donncha O’Callaghan sits down with Westmeath GAA star Luke Loughlin and Áine Byrne from Bagenalstown Family Resource Centre - Luke opens up about his journey through gambling, drug & alcohol addiction and the long road to recovery. From the first bet where he won big to the moment everything changed, Luke shares the highs, the devastating lows, and the strength it took to turn things around. Alongside him is Áine, an expert in the field who’s spent years working on the frontlines in a resource centre, helping individuals and families affected by gambling harm. Together, they unpack the reality behind the addiction, the shame and silence that often surrounds it, and the hope that comes with support and recovery.   Follow Chadwicks, Donncha, and the Guests:   Chadwicks Website: www.chadwicks.ie   Follow Chadwicks on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chadwicks_ie/   Follow Chadwicks on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chadwicksie   Follow Donncha O’Callaghan: https://www.instagram.com/donnchaocallaghan/   Follow Luke Loughlin: https://www.instagram.com/lukeloughlin13/  Listen on all podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.   If you’ve been affected by anything discussed in this episode, support is available. You can contact Gambling Care at 1800 936 725 or visit www.gamblingcare.ie.   #ChadwicksPodcast #UnderConstructionPodcast #Podcast #Construction

In this episode of Under Construction with Chadwicks, host Donncha O’Callaghan sits down with two legends of Irish comedy—Eric Lalor and Willa White—for a chat filled with laughter, resilience, and a few unexpected turns. From growing up in Ballymun to making audiences roar with laughter, Eric and Willa share their journeys from very different early careers—IBM for Eric, and a much tougher path for Willa—to finding their way onto the comedy circuit. They talk about their breakthrough moments in Des Bishop’s ‘Joy in the Hood’ almost 20 years ago, the highs and lows of stand-up, and the madness of Irish audiences. Expect hilarious stories, hard-earned wisdom, and plenty of slagging as they reflect on their careers, the struggles they’ve overcome, and what’s next. So, grab a cuppa and tune in for plenty of banter and a dose of inspiration from two of Ireland’s finest. 🎧 Listen now for a hilarious and inspiring journey from Ballymun to the comedy stage!   Follow Chadwicks, Donncha, and the Guests: 🔗 Chadwicks Website: www.chadwicks.ie 📲 Follow Chadwicks on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chadwicks_ie/ 📲 Follow Chadwicks on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chadwicksie   📲 Follow Donncha O’Callaghan: https://www.instagram.com/donnchaocallaghan/ 📲 Follow Willa White: https://www.instagram.com/willawhitecomedy/ 📲 Follow Eric Lalor: https://www.instagram.com/ericlalor/   🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.   📩 Drop your thoughts in the comments. What do you think is next for the Irish Comedy scene?   #IrishComedy #Comedy #Irish #Ireland #Comedians #ChadwicksPodcast #UnderConstructionPodcast #Podcast #Construction #Banter

Irish rugby has gone from empty stands to packed stadiums in just a few decades. But how did it happen? In this episode of Under Construction, former Munster and Ireland legend Alan Quinlan and sports presenter Junior B join Donncha O’Callaghan to break down the key moments that changed everything.   From the amateur days of Jaffa Cakes and Coke before a match to the elite professionalism of today, this episode explores:   The moment Irish rugby turned professional and what changed overnight How Munster went from 200 fans at a club match to 40,000 at Twickenham The rise of schools rugby and why it now dominates the talent pool The hidden advantages of Leinster's private school system What the GAA can learn from rugby’s evolution Is grassroots rugby under threat as the game becomes more elite? Alan Quinlan shares hilarious dressing room stories and on-pitch clashes   Expect brilliant stories, honest insights, and plenty of laughs, including:   The time Ronan O’Gara got chased around the pitch mid-game Why Jaffa Cakes and Coke were considered "nutrition" How contract negotiations were completely random in the early days   A great listen if you're a die-hard rugby fan, a casual supporter, or just love a great sports story.   🎧 Listen now and discover the untold story behind Irish rugby’s rise.   Follow Chadwicks, Donncha, and the Guests: 🔗 Chadwicks Website: www.chadwicks.ie 📲 Follow Chadwicks on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chadwicks_ie/ 📲 Follow Chadwicks on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chadwicksie   📲 Follow Donncha O’Callaghan: https://www.instagram.com/donnchaocallaghan/ 📲 Follow Alan Quinlan: https://www.instagram.com/alanquinlan6/ 📲 Follow Junior B: https://www.instagram.com/juniorbthings/   🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.   📩 Drop your thoughts in the comments. What do you think is next for Irish rugby?

Under Construction with Chadwicks is back for Season 5 with host Donncha O'Callaghan! In episode one, Donncha sat down with Mark Coyle and John O'Sullivan from Shelbourne FC to dive into their incredible League of Ireland-winning season. They share insights on the team’s winning mentality, the hard work behind the scenes, and what it takes to lift the trophy. From key moments on the pitch to the bond in the dressing room, this episode is a must-listen.

In the season finale of Under Construction with Chadwicks host Donncha O’Callaghan chats to Irish heavyweight boxer and Chadwicks brand ambassador Jack Marley as well as the first ever Irish boxer to win Olympic gold, Michael Carruth. The episode launches as Jack completes his final preparations to compete on boxing's biggest stage and fight at the Paris 2024 Olympics, which begins later this month.  Jack, who began boxing at Monkstown boxing club aged 8 and is now 21, qualified for the Paris 2024 Olympics early, and has been preparing to fight at the games by completing three training sessions a day, five days a week at the Sport Ireland High Performance Unit for months.  Michael, who during the episode reflects on his own experiences competing at the Seoul 1988 Olympics and at the Barcelona 1992 Olympics, where he won gold aged 25, was described by Donncha as a ‘trend setter for boxing success in Ireland’. Michael’s advice for Jack ahead of Paris is to ‘focus on nothing but the matches’, and ‘believe that he can win’, as every boxer needs to.

In this episode of our award winning podcast host Donncha O’Callaghan chats to farmer and carpenter Glyn Egan (‘Sheep Shepherd’) and Munster Rugby Player John Hodnett about their experiences of modern farming life.  Glyn, who is an eighth generation hill farmer on the Cork and Kerry border, first worked as a carpenter in Australia and New Zealand, before coming home to Ireland to help his father run their family farm. Glyn and his father now share daily unique insights into Irish farming life with social media followers from around the world on Glyn’s Instagram channel. Glyn’s Instagram, ‘Sheep Shepherd’ is followed by over 110,000 accounts and is growing by the day.  John on the other hand, grew up on a farm, but is not ready to swap his rugby boots for wellies just yet! While he loves farming life, John’s focus is firmly on his rugby career as well as upskilling in his spare time, and is currently completing a welding course.

In this episode of the award-winning Under Construction podcast, Donncha is joined by mixed martial arts (MMA) coach John Kavanagh. Throughout the episode, Coach Kavanagh delves into the crucial role he has played in fostering the growth of MMA in Ireland, including his own journey into the sport, switching career paths from engineering to opening his own MMA gym, Straight Blast, in 2001. Referred to frequently as a pioneer for MMA in Ireland, Coach Kavanagh also discusses his experiences training some of the world’s most successful fighters from their first foray into the sport at Straight Blast to competing in some of the biggest earning pay-per-view MMA events in history. Donncha and John also discuss the importance of demonstrating resilience in the world of professional sport. Coach Kavanagh believes that dealing with losses can be tough for anyone starting in MMA, and he takes a considered approach for those who are beginning the sport. John encourages beginners to get out of their shells during training sessions which eventually leads to an overall positive attitude, allowing them to win, lose or draw fights and come away having learnt from each experience.

In this episode host Donncha O'Callaghan is joined by social media content creator James 'Protein Bor' Doyle and actor & comedian Joe McGucken. Throughout the episode James and Joe discuss their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities of content creation in the digital age where people’s attention spans are so short. They also delve into the important topic of mental health among men and the drinking culture in Ireland.

During this captivating episode, Donncha O'Callaghan, Julian Benson and Dermot Bannon give insights into the challenges they have faced transforming a ‘period building that needs a lot of love and attention’ to a ‘home away from home’ for CF families. Dermot also shares his thoughts on the number of buildings in Dublin which should be ‘reused better’, saying there are some ‘great’ derelict buildings in the city that are not being repurposed successfully like they are in other European cities such as Barcelona and Paris.  Dermot believes that ‘a lot of the city of Dublin has fallen into dereliction’ and that in Ireland, ‘buildings are let go’ instead of being renovated to live up to their full potential. He says it only takes twenty minutes to walk anywhere in Dublin city centre before you ‘hit dereliction’ and that while it is ‘tricky’ to restore a derelict building, it is ultimately worthwhile. Dermot also speaks about the construction industry and believes that the government needs to do more to ‘protect skilled tradespeople’ especially at times when there isn’t work available for everyone. He also believes that there is a common misconception about careers in the trades industry, and that more needs to be done at second level, particularly through subjects such as engineering and wood technology (‘woodwork’) to educate students about what a career in the trades can look like.  Dermot shares the many positive benefits of working in different trades, as well as the skills it requires, such as creativity, problem solving, and teamwork. He feels that the government also need to ‘dispel the beliefs that some parents have about what education is’ and that completing third level education is a necessity, as it doesn’t suit all. Dermot Bannon also discusses the lack of women in the construction industry and how this issue could be tackled.

As part of our ‘How’s the Head’ campaign psychotherapist, broadcaster and author Richie Sadlier and comedian Willa White sat down with Donncha to discuss the topic of mental health. Throughout the episode, Richie and Willa explore the stigma surrounding mental health in Ireland, particularly amongst tradespeople, and openly share their own experiences grappling with mental health issues. If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this podcast, you can find support at aware.ie or The Samaritans at thesamaritans.org, or call 116123. Construction Workers can also contact lighthouseclub.org or call 1800 939122, or text Hardhat to 50808.  Alternatively, contact your local GP. If you are outside the Republic of Ireland, please contact support organisations in your country.