Garry Talks

Recorded live at the FÍS TV Summit 2026 in Galway, this special episode of "Garry Talks: Film" features in-depth conversations with key figures from the Irish & UK film and television industry. Host Garry interviews actor/writer Nora-Jane Noone about her career, the impact of "The Magdalene Sisters," and her ambitions in writing and directing. TG4’s Proinsias Ní Ghráinne discusses commissioning Irish-language content and nurturing new talent. Director Mia Mullarkey explores gender diversity and the challenges and triumphs of authentic storytelling in Ireland’s evolving media landscape, whilst UK Producer Mark Herbert explains the creative and logistical challenges of filming "Adolescence" in one continuous shot.

 

- Support this podcast by joining our tribe today at www.GarryTalks.com -

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Most importantly – please subscribe to this Podcast.

Introduction and Episode Overview (00:00:00)
Host Garry introduces the special episode, guests, and the FÍS TV Summit 2026.

Adolescence and Impactful Storytelling (00:00:19)
Discussion on the impact of the Netflix show "Adolescence" and the importance of communication with teenagers.

Guest Introductions: Mia Mullarkey and Proinsias Ní Ghráinne (00:00:38)
Garry introduces director Mia Mullarkey and commissioning editor Proinsias Ní Ghráinne.

Nora-Jane Noone: Early Career and The Magdalene Sisters (00:01:27)
Nora-Jane Noone reflects on her start in acting and the societal impact of "The Magdalene Sisters."

Personal Connections to Magdalene Laundries (00:04:07)
Nora-Jane shares family stories and the secrecy surrounding the laundries in Galway.

Transition to UK Television and Early Acting Lessons (00:05:14)
Nora-Jane discusses moving to the UK, working in soaps, and learning the craft of acting.

Navigating the Acting Industry Without Drama School (00:06:23)
She talks about imposter syndrome, learning on the job, and finding balance as an actor.

Living Abroad: UK, US, and Returning to Ireland (00:07:41)
Nora-Jane describes her time in London and LA, and reasons for returning to Ireland.

Parenthood, Gun Violence, and Choosing Home (00:09:24)
She explains how parenthood and US gun violence influenced her decision to move back.

Advice for Aspiring Actors: Location and Community (00:10:05)
Nora-Jane offers advice on where to base oneself and the importance of community for actors.

Choosing Projects and Hidden Assets (00:11:35)
She shares what excites her about scripts and her involvement in "Hidden Assets."

Irish TV on the Global Stage (00:12:38)
Discussion on the growth and international reach of Irish television.

Transitioning to Writing and Directing (00:13:16)
Nora-Jane talks about her ambitions in writing and directing, and the need for mentorship.

Commissioning Editor Proinsias Ní Ghráinne: What Broadcasters Want (00:16:00)
Proinsias explains what TG4 looks for in pitches and misconceptions about celebrity involvement.

Irish Language Talent and Representation (00:17:22)
Emphasis on finding new Irish-speaking talent and avoiding English-language celebrity reliance.

Changing Landscape: Irish Language Media and Streaming (00:20:21)
Discussion on the surge in Irish speakers, competition with streamers, and TG4’s unique position.

Identity, Language, and International Success (00:23:13)
Proinsias discusses the importance of identity in Irish-language content and international hits like "Kneecap."

Commissioning Risks and Success Stories (00:25:31)
Insights into commissioning bold projects, risks, and the success of "Kneecap."

Diversity of Irish-Language Content (00:27:38)
Showcasing the range of Irish-language productions, including sign language documentaries.

Newsworthiness and Contemporary Storytelling (00:28:42)
Proinsias addresses the importance of newsworthy, contemporary stories for TG4.

Pathways for New Directors and Writers (00:30:11)
Advice on building a track record and TG4’s openness to first-time directors and writers.

Language Requirements for Key Creative Roles (00:32:09)
Expectations for directors and editors to be Irish speakers for authenticity.

Project-Driven Development and Commissioning (00:33:42)
TG4’s approach to developing ideas and the irrelevance of commercial track record in initial commissioning.

Upcoming Projects at TG4 (00:34:54)
Proinsias shares excitement about upcoming music documentaries and international co-productions.

Mia Mullarkey: Nontraditional Path to Directing (00:37:03)
Mia discusses her background in psychology, neuroscience, and transition to documentary filmmaking.

Early Documentary Work and Mentorship (00:38:02)
She describes her early science documentaries and mentorship with Lenny Abrahamson.

First Filmmaking Experiences and Personal Stories (00:40:09)
Mia recounts making documentaries in Peru and her first film about her brother with autism.

Training, Shadowing, and Entry into TV Drama (00:41:19)
Her journey through training schemes and transition into TV drama directing.

Gender and Diversity Gaps in Irish Film (00:42:22)
Mia addresses the lack of female and diverse representation in Irish film and TV.

Industry Quotas and Recent Decline in Diversity (00:42:56)
Discussion on quotas, past improvements, and recent setbacks in gender and diversity statistics.

Barriers for Women and Underrepresented Groups (00:44:33)
Challenges faced by women, people of colour, and differently abled individuals in the industry.

Glass Ceilings and Socioeconomic Barriers (00:45:55)
Mia discusses privilege, financial barriers, and the persistence of glass ceilings.

Impact of Caregiving on Women’s Careers (00:47:38)
The effect of caregiving responsibilities on women’s participation and progression in film.

Industry Supports for Carers and Parents (00:48:41)
Advocacy for better supports and integration of caregiving needs in production.

Role of Diverse Storytellers and Representation (00:50:15)
Mia emphasizes the value of diverse lived experiences in storytelling.

Advice for Aspiring Directors (00:51:17)
Mia offers practical advice for those starting out in TV and film directing.

Mark Herbert: Producing Adolescence (00:53:04)
Mark discusses producing "Adolescence," collaboration with Stephen Graham and Jack Thorne.

One-Shot Filmmaking Challenges (00:54:18)
The creative and logistical challenges of filming "Adolescence" in one continuous shot.

Rehearsal Process and Technical Execution (00:59:07)
Detailed breakdown of the rehearsal and shooting process for the series.

Improvisation, Authenticity, and Performance (01:01:44)
How improvisation and actor performance contributed to the show's realism.

Portraying Family Dynamics and Social Impact (01:03:08)
The importance of showing nuanced family dynamics and sparking societal conversations.

Distribution, Funding, and Working with Netflix (01:07:37)
How "Adolescence" found its home on Netflix and the financial realities of production.

Collaboration and Future Projects (01:10:17)
Mark discusses ongoing collaborations and the focus on authentic Northern English stories.

Episode Wrap-Up and Closing Remarks (01:11:38)
Garry closes the episode, thanks guests, and reflects on the success of the FÍS TV Summit.

In this episode of "Wellth Talks," host Garry Kelly is joined by Pádraic Ó Máille of Smácht and Niall Leyden of Atlantic Wealth Management. The discussion centres on how habits—both good and bad—shape personal and professional success. Drawing on insights from the Pendulum Summit and personal experiences, the guests explore common negative habits like overthinking, procrastination, and lack of presence, and emphasise the importance of self-awareness and small, consistent changes to build a more fulfilling and productive life.

 

Please visit:
GK Media
https://www.gkmedia.ie

Atlantic Wealth Management
https://atlanticwm.ie

Pádraic Ó Máille Smácht
https://omaille.ie

Disclaimer: Niall Leyden is the Founder of Atlantic Wealth Management Limited, a firm that is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland to advise on and arrange a range of financial products. Please note that Niall’s comments in this podcast are made in a personal capacity and are not recommendations or financial advice and do not form part of Atlantic Wealth Management Limited’s regulated activity.

 

Podcast Introduction (00:00:00)
GK Media and Wellth Talks podcast introduction, host and guest introductions, and setting up the episode’s theme.

Personal Habits and Energy (00:01:08)
Garry Kelly shares his positive habits, energy boost, and how easily bad habits can return.

Normalizing Bad Habits (00:02:04)
Discussion on how bad habits become normalized and can hold us back from fulfillment.

Pendulum Summit & Amy Maron’s Talk (00:03:06)
Niall Leyden recounts attending the Pendulum Summit, Amy Maron’s “13 Things Successful People Don’t Do,” and her impactful question.

Survey: Worst Habits (00:04:49)
Niall surveys ten people about their worst habits, receiving diverse and honest responses.

Habit 1: Worrying Too Much (00:05:30)
First response: excessive worry about money, kids, and life.

Habit 2: Overthinking (00:05:41)
Second response: overthinking, replaying conversations, and decision paralysis.

Habit 3: Negative Self-Talk (00:06:02)
Third response: harsh self-talk, feelings of inadequacy, and self-criticism.

Habit 4: Relationship with Alcohol (00:06:49)
Fourth response: struggles with alcohol, its normalization, and its impact on mood and motivation.

Generational Alcohol Habits (00:08:54)
Discussion on generational differences in alcohol consumption and its effects.

Habit 5: Lack of Presence with Family (00:10:10)
Fifth response: not being fully present with family due to work and distractions.

Habit 6: Procrastination (00:10:48)
Sixth response: procrastinating on health, difficult conversations, and financial matters.

Habit 7: Not Finishing What’s Started (00:11:44)
Seventh response: starting many things but not finishing, especially diets, fitness, and business ideas.

Habit 8: Feeling Stuck in a Cycle (00:12:46)
Eighth response: feeling like life is a repetitive Ferris wheel of work and routine.

Habit 9: Lack of Reflection (00:13:31)
Ninth response: never stopping for reflection, journaling, or stillness, leading to repetitive patterns.

Habit 10: Uncertainty About Wants (00:14:23)
Tenth response: not knowing what one wants anymore, despite outward success.

Common Themes in Bad Habits (00:14:47)
Reflection on the commonality of drifting, lack of intention, and the importance of awareness.

Awareness as Agenda for Change (00:16:12)
Recognizing bad habits creates awareness and an agenda for personal or business change.

Habits and Identity (00:16:39)
Discussion on how habits shape identity, not just outcomes.

Applying the Question to Business (00:17:09)
Using the “worst habit” question as a tool for business improvement and self-awareness.

Taking Action on Habits (00:19:19)
Importance of taking action after self-reflection, with examples of positive change.

Personal Reflections on Change (00:20:14)
Garry Kelly shares personal changes: overcoming procrastination and changing Sunday habits.

Surrounding Yourself with Positive People (00:22:32)
Emphasising the importance of supportive environments and avoiding negative influences.

Key Question: Five-Year Regret (00:23:28)
“What habit would you regret not addressing if nothing changed in five years?” as a prompt for action.

The 12 Words Story & Prioritising Family (00:24:02)
Story of Sahel Bloom realising limited time with parents, leading to life-changing action.

Courage and Taking Action (00:26:35)
Highlighting courage as the key to breaking bad habits and making meaningful changes.

Gratitude, Priorities, and Time (00:27:27)
Reflection on gratitude, prioritising relationships, and making the most of limited time.

Podcast Closing & Call to Action (00:27:50)
Thanking guests and listeners, encouraging sharing and reflection, and promoting future episodes.

In this episode of "Wellth Talks," host Garry Kelly is joined by Niall Leyden of Atlantic Wealth Management and Pádraic Ó Máille of Smácht, to discuss the vital role of customer focus in business. Using the example of Galway’s Kenny’s Bookshop, they explore how genuine customer care, purpose, and passion drive long-term success. The conversation highlights the importance of nurturing existing client relationships, delivering consistent service, and staying true to core values, rather than chasing growth or technology alone. Listeners are encouraged to prioritise people and purpose to build resilient, thriving businesses.

 

Please visit:
GK Media
https://www.gkmedia.ie

Atlantic Wealth Management
https://atlanticwm.ie

Pádraic Ó Máille Smácht
https://omaille.ie

Disclaimer: Niall Leyden is the Founder of Atlantic Wealth Management Limited, a firm that is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland to advise on and arrange a range of financial products. Please note that Niall’s comments in this podcast are made in a personal capacity and are not recommendations or financial advice and do not form part of Atlantic Wealth Management Limited’s regulated activity.

 

Podcast Introduction (00:00:00)
GK Media and Creators Network introduction; host Garry Kelly welcomes Niall Leyden and and Pádraic Ó Máille.

Customer Focus vs. Business Growth (00:00:17)
Garry discusses the tendency of business owners to focus on growth and technology over customer experience.

Kenny’s Bookshop: A Case Study (00:01:14)
Introduction to Kenny’s Bookshop as a successful, customer-focused, multi-generational business.

Des Kenny’s Story & Purpose (00:01:33)
Pádraic Ó Máille shares a personal story about Des Kenny, highlighting family, purpose, and customer service.

Learning from Family and Mentors (00:03:00)
Des’ apprenticeship in the book trade, emotional intelligence, and customer journey lessons from family and Sonny Molloy.

Innovation and Customer Service at Kenny’s (00:05:13)
How Kenny’s innovated with book clubs and exports, and their commitment to knowing and serving customers.

Adapting to Change & Surviving (00:07:12)
Discussion on Kenny’s evolution, adaptation to technology, and survival against global competition.

Valuing Customers: Personal Experience (00:08:16)
Garry shares a negative customer service experience, emphasising the importance of making customers feel valued.

Purpose Over Profit: The Ten Commandments (00:10:14)
Niall discusses focusing on purpose, not sales, and shares a story about a client conversation centred on life, not money.

People First, Money Second (00:11:08)
Emphasising understanding clients emotionally and financially, and the importance of basics and consistency in business.

Team Reflection and Goal Setting (00:12:52)
Describing a team meeting focused on reviewing, planning, and setting intentional goals for the future.

The Power of Passion and Purpose (00:13:41)
Reflection on the role of love and passion in business success, using Kenny’s as an example.

Resilience and Client Experience (00:14:40)
Importance of resilience, discipline, and regular, agenda-free conversations with clients for exceptional service.

Business Challenges: Costs and Customer Focus (00:15:31)
Discussion on rising business costs, minimum wage, and the need to focus on customer relationships during tough times.

Mapping the Customer Journey (00:16:41)
Advice on proactively mapping and improving the customer journey to encourage retention and repeat business.

Leveraging Existing Clients (00:18:26)
Niall explains the value of focusing on existing clients for business growth and the benefits of slowing down to improve.

Client Retention and Referrals (00:20:09)
Examples of high client retention and how satisfied clients become ambassadors, leading to referrals.

Passion-Driven Business Transformation (00:21:06)
Story of Brendan from Ethical Tours, illustrating a shift from finance to a passion-driven business.

Continuous Improvement and Learning (00:21:39)
Discussion on learning from other markets (e.g., China) and bringing back ideas to improve local business.

The Best Marketing: A Job Well Done (00:21:54)
A story emphasising that the best marketing is consistently delivering quality work.

Community, Passion, and Authenticity (00:23:53)
Anecdote about business gatherings, highlighting the importance of passion, authenticity, and camaraderie.

Final Advice and Episode Wrap-Up (00:24:47)
Closing thoughts: focus on doing your job well and prioritising customer experience for business success.

In this episode of "Wellth Talks," host Garry Kelly is joined by Dan Haylett of TFP and Niall Leyden of Atlantic Wealth Management to explore the emotional and behavioral aspects of retirement. They discuss the challenges of shifting from saving to spending, the psychological impact of retirement, and the importance of health and purpose. The conversation emphasizes aligning financial planning with personal values, enjoying experiences over possessions, and maintaining well-being. Listeners are encouraged to rethink retirement as a fulfilling, balanced phase of life, integrating family, health, wealth, and meaning.

Please visit:
GK Media
https://www.gkmedia.ie

Dan Haylett
https://www.humansvsretirement.com

The Retirement You Didn't See coming (book)

https://www.humansvsretirement.com/book

Humans vs Retirement (Podcast)

https://www.humansvsretirement.com/podcast-1 

Atlantic Wealth Management

https://atlanticwm.ie

Disclaimer: Niall Leyden is the Founder of Atlantic Wealth Management Limited, a firm that is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland to advise on and arrange a range of financial products. Please note that Niall’s comments in this podcast are made in a personal capacity and are not recommendations or financial advice and do not form part of Atlantic Wealth Management Limited’s regulated activity.

Podcast Introduction (00:00:00)
GK Media and Wellth Talks podcast introduction, host and guest introductions, and episode overview.

Emotional and Behavioral Aspects of Retirement (00:01:05)
Discussion on the emotional and behavioral challenges of spending time and money in retirement.

The Challenge of Spending in Retirement (00:02:20)
Exploring why retirees struggle to spend their savings and the psychological barriers involved.

Societal and Family Expectations Around Legacy (00:03:56)
How societal norms and family expectations influence saving, spending, and leaving inheritances.

The Guilt Complex and Rationality in Retirement Decisions (00:06:50)
Debate on whether underspending is irrational, and the real reasons people want to leave a legacy.

The Value of Giving with a Warm Heart (00:07:49)
Encouragement to give money away during life for greater happiness and impact.

Visualizing the Perfect Retirement Day (00:09:38)
Dan Haylett describes his ideal retirement day, focusing on presence, environment, and feelings.

The Importance of Feelings Over Appearances (00:12:03)
Advice to focus on how retirement feels rather than what it looks like.

The Three Kinder Questions and Vulnerability (00:12:24)
Discussion of George Kinder’s life planning questions and the need for vulnerability in planning.

Finding Balance: Saving vs. Living (00:13:50)
Historical perspective on economic cycles and the challenge of balancing saving with enjoying life.

Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Motivators (00:15:27)
How people today value experiences and meaning over possessions, and finding personal balance.

Health and Reverse Engineering Retirement (00:18:42)
Emphasizing the importance of health and starting retirement planning with the end in mind.

The Myth of the Magic Retirement Number (00:19:20)
Challenging the obsession with a specific retirement savings number and advocating for scenario planning.

Peak Knowledge, Purpose, and Health in Retirement (00:20:03)
Encouraging continued contribution post-retirement and the link between purpose, health, and longevity.

Behavioral Strategies for Spending in Retirement (00:21:55)
Practical strategies to empower retirees to spend confidently and enjoy their savings.

The Importance of Physical and Mental Health (00:23:02)
How retirement highlights neglected health issues and the need for strength and mobility.

The Four Pillars of Wellth Talks (00:23:56)
Summary of the podcast’s focus on family, health, wealth, and business for a fulfilling retirement.

Closing Remarks and Farewell (00:24:45)
Final thanks, guest promotions, and episode wrap-up.

In this episode of "Garry Talks Film," host Garry interviews Moe Honan, founder and CEO of Moetion Films. Moe shares her journey from science student to leading animation producer, offering insights into the creative and business challenges of animation, including voice directing, international co-productions, and financing. The conversation explores the impact of streaming, the role of public broadcasters, and the ethical dilemmas posed by AI in storytelling. Moe also gives practical advice for aspiring filmmakers, emphasising the importance of industry relationships, continuous learning, and the enduring value of human creativity in animation.

 

Support this podcast by joining our tribe today at www.GarryTalks.com -

Please follow Garry Talks on Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok. 

Please follow GKMedia.ie on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and TikTok. 

Most importantly – please subscribe to this Podcast.

 

Episode Introduction (00:00:00)
Moe Honan shares a personal anecdote; episode and guest are introduced, with a focus on Moe’s career and animation.

Early Influences and Education (00:00:49)
Moe discusses her teenage inspirations, university choices, and the value of imperfection in art.

Podcast and Guest Welcome (00:01:26)
Podcast branding, sponsor mentions, and formal welcome to Moe Honan.

University and Career Beginnings (00:01:56)
Moe’s transition from science to arts, her motivations, and early university experiences.

Living Abroad and Early Career Shifts (00:06:24)
Moe's time in Germany and Vienna, cultural influences, and returning to Galway.

Impact of Personal Loss (00:08:04)
Moe describes her father’s sudden passing and its effect on her career direction.

Entry into Media and Radio (00:10:50)
Moe’s media studies, first jobs in radio, and the skills she gained from audio work.

Voice Directing and Animation Process (00:12:24)
Moe explains voice directing, casting, and the workflow of animation versus dubbing.

Voice Acting and ADR in Animation (00:16:03)
Details on ADR, post-production, and the technicalities of syncing voices in animation.

Sound Design and Animation Production (00:18:00)
The importance of sound design in animation and the complexity of building audio worlds.

Producing ‘Niko and the Magic Reindeer’ (00:18:19)
Moe discusses the production timeline, development, and challenges of making the film.

Co-Productions and Industry Challenges (00:21:44)
The complexities, risks, and relationship management in international co-productions.

Founding Motion Films (00:26:23)
Moe shares the origins of Moetion Films and her previous experience at Magma Films.

Transition from Radio to Animation (00:28:00)
Moe’s move from radio to documentaries, then to animation, and her evolving career goals.

Becoming a Producer and Creative Leadership (00:29:09)
Moe’s path to producing, the necessity of handling business, and the role of creative producers.

Starting a Production Company (00:30:40)
Moe’s motivations for founding her own company after Magma Films closed.

Cash Flow and Business Strategy (00:32:19)
How Moe managed early cash flow, balanced service work, and focused on IP development.

First Feature and Building a Portfolio (00:34:18)
Moe’s persistence with her first feature, “Two by Two,” and the challenges of independent production.

COVID-19 and Film Release Challenges (00:35:19)
The impact of the pandemic on film releases and the importance of theatrical runs.

Streamers and Animation Industry Trends (00:36:20)
How streaming platforms have shifted their focus away from animation and the implications for the industry.

Public Broadcasting and Children’s Content (00:38:32)
The role of public broadcasters in supporting diverse and local content for children.

AI in Animation and Copyright Concerns (00:41:41)
Moe’s perspective on AI as both a tool and a threat, especially regarding copyright and ethics.

Storytelling and Human Imperfection (00:45:03)
Moe’s views on what makes storytelling compelling, the value of imperfection, and concerns about AI-generated stories.

Current Industry Landscape and Future Projects (00:47:35)
Moe discusses ongoing projects, industry challenges, and the need for innovation in financing and marketing.

Marketing and Audience Reach (00:51:01)
The growing importance of marketing in film production and the need for earlier, better-funded promotion.

Policy, Funding, and Regional Support (00:54:50)
The necessity of ongoing dialogue with policymakers, regional funding issues, and the role of industry organisations.

Advice for Aspiring Animation Producers/Directors (00:58:33)
Moe’s practical advice: read, watch, attend markets, and learn from industry events to build a career in animation.

Episode Wrap-Up (01:00:54)
Closing thanks, well-wishes, and sponsor acknowledgments.