Garry Talks

• #163 Wellth Talks - Why First Impressions Matter

  In this episode of "Wellth Talks," host Garry Kelly is joined by Pádraic Ó Máille and Niall Leyden to discuss the impact of appearance in business. The conversation explores how first impressions, dressing appropriately, and maintaining a professional environment influence credibility and success. The guests share personal stories about the importance of grooming, quality clothing, and the pride reflected in tidy workplaces. They emphasize that attention to detail—whether in attire or business settings—shapes how others perceive you and can open doors to new opportunities.   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 Studios and Wellth Talks podcast introduction, hosts and guests are introduced. Setting the Topic: Appearance in Business (00:00:47) Garry introduces the main topic: the importance of appearance and first impressions in business. First Impressions and Personal Stories (00:01:26) Garry shares personal anecdotes about dressing well, body language, and credibility. Dressing for Your Audience (00:03:24) Pádraic discusses dressing like your clients and adapting to modern business attire. Appearance and Perception: Car Story (00:05:16) Niall shares a story about how owning a new car affected business relationships and perceptions. Personal Grooming and Feeling Good (00:06:37) Discussion on grooming, feeling good, and how appearance affects confidence and mood. First Impressions in Business Environments (00:07:32) Garry describes visiting businesses, how cleanliness and order set expectations for professionalism. Workplace Pride and Cleanliness (00:08:36) Niall talks about factory visits, pride in the workplace, and how environment impacts staff morale. Retail Experience and Shoe Story (00:10:32) Pádraic recounts a story about buying shoes, customer service, and the impact of footwear on business image. The Value of Good Shoes (00:13:45) Further discussion on investing in quality shoes, their impact on energy, and business perception. Farm Appearance and Business Success (00:17:20) Anecdote about how the appearance of a farm or business reflects its success and profitability. Investing in Quality Clothing and Accessories (00:18:13) Advice on buying quality suits and accessories, and how they enhance professional appearance. Appearance’s Ripple Effect on Business (00:19:24) How personal and business appearance positively affects staff, clients, and overall business image. Podcast Wrap-Up and Outro (00:19:48) Closing remarks, encouragement to share the episode, and podcast outro.  

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• #162 Eímear Noone and Craig Stuart Garfinkle (Part One) - Garry Talks: Film

  In this episode of "Garry Talks Film," Garry welcomes renowned composer-conductor Eímear Noone and her husband, Emmy-nominated composer Craig Stuart Garfinkle. The conversation explores their experiences living between Ireland and California, including narrowly escaping Malibu wildfires, and delves into Irish cultural traditions such as wakes. They discuss their creative partnership, the emotional power of film music, and share insights into the technical and artistic challenges of scoring for film. Personal anecdotes, reflections on community, and stories about industry legends highlight the interplay between culture, creativity, and the enduring impact of music in cinema.   - 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. The Power of Film Music (00:00:00) Eímear recalls Spielberg and John Williams demonstrating how music transforms film scenes, setting the tone for the episode. Introduction of Guests and Their Achievements (00:00:17) Garry introduces Eímear Noone and Craig Stuart Garfinkle, highlighting their careers and awards in film and game music. Creative Partnership and Global Influence (00:01:14) Discussion of Eímear and Craig’s creative partnership, their international work, and their impact on Irish talent. Current Trends in Film Scoring (00:01:31) Craig comments on the current state of film scoring, noting a trend toward less noticeable music. Directors and the Use of Music (00:01:43) Eímear discusses how great directors use music to serve the scene effectively. Podcast Sponsorship and Network (00:01:51) Acknowledgment of podcast sponsors and the GK Media Studios Creators Network. Reunion and Life Between Ireland and California (00:02:15) Garry welcomes Eímear and Craig, reminiscing about past meetings and their bi-continental lifestyle. Malibu Wildfires Experience (00:03:29) Craig and Eímear recount their harrowing experiences with California wildfires and the impact on their community. Resilience and Recovery After Fires (00:05:30) Reflections on community recovery, resilience, and the emotional toll of natural disasters. Evacuation During the Woolsey Fire (00:09:34) Craig and Eímear describe being evacuated during the Woolsey Fire and the challenges of balancing touring and family. Paris Riots and Touring While Pregnant (00:10:06) Eímear shares stories of traveling for concerts, encountering riots in Paris, and the unpredictability of life on tour. Returning Home and Sense of Belonging (00:13:58) Garry and Eímear discuss feelings about returning home after travel and what makes a place feel like home. East Galway as Home and Cultural Identity (00:14:31) Eímear and Craig reflect on their deep connection to East Galway, its traditions, and the importance of community. Irish Traditions Around Death and Community (00:17:01) Eímear describes unique Irish customs around funerals, wakes, and the value of honouring the deceased. Preserving Local Customs and Grieving (00:19:26) Discussion on the importance of preserving local traditions and the cathartic nature of Irish grieving practices. Personal Stories from an Irish Wake (00:20:35) Eímear shares moving stories from her father’s wake, highlighting the impact of community support and storytelling. Comparing Big City and Rural Life (00:23:32) Eímear contrasts the sense of community in East Galway with the anonymity of big city life. Authenticity in Different Places (00:24:25) Eímear discusses being her true self in both Ireland and California, emphasizing authenticity in all settings. Craig’s Upbringing in Chicago (00:25:20) Craig talks about growing up in Chicago, attending famous high schools, and early influences from film and music. High School and College Music Experiences (00:26:26) Craig details his extensive music education, involvement in big bands, and early composition experiences. Big Band vs. Orchestra and Influential Teachers (00:27:31) Explanation of big band vs. orchestra, and the influence of mentors like Alf Clausen and David Baker. Path to Hollywood and UCLA (00:29:03) Craig recounts his journey from Indiana University to UCLA, guided by mentors and a passion for film music. Learning from Hollywood Legends (00:30:07) Craig describes studying under David Raksin, who worked with Charlie Chaplin and was part of Hollywood’s golden age. Composing and Collaborating as a Couple (00:32:07) Eímear and Craig discuss their collaborative process, balancing composing, conducting, and producing across genres. The Emotional Power of Film Scores (00:33:19) Garry and the guests reflect on how music shapes the emotional impact and memory of films. Critique of Modern Film Scoring Trends (00:33:53) Craig critiques the current trend of subdued film scores and the importance of music serving the story. BBC Sound of Cinema and Score Selection (00:34:44) Eímear describes her recent BBC radio feature, selecting and analyzing iconic film scores. The Canterville Ghost and Recording Process (00:35:25) Discussion of their work on The Canterville Ghost, including recording locations and live performances. The Matrix Score and Don Davis (00:35:58) Eímear analyses Don Davis’s score for The Matrix, its orchestral innovation, and her personal connection to the composer. Pushing Orchestras to the Edge (00:39:06) Explanation of what it means to push musicians to their technical and expressive limits in film scoring. Community of Composers in Los Angeles (00:40:04) Craig describes the supportive yet competitive community of film composers in LA. David Raksin’s Score for Laura (00:41:15) Eímear discusses the creation and emotional depth of David Raksin’s Oscar-nominated score for Laura. Hollywood’s Musical Lineage and Influence (00:43:58) Stories about Raksin’s connections to Schoenberg, Stravinsky, and Copland, and their influence on film music. E.T. and the Transformative Power of Music (00:45:02) Eímear breaks down the iconic E.T. bike scene, illustrating how John Williams’s score elevates the film. Technical Challenges of Scoring E.T. (00:49:56) Discussion of the technical difficulties in synchronizing music to film before modern technology, and Spielberg’s creative solutions. Episode Wrap-Up and Teaser for Next Week (00:51:44) Garry closes the episode, previewing topics for the next instalment, including film scoring insights and upcoming projects.  

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• #161 Wellth Talks - Understanding Auto-Enrolment

  In this episode of "Wellth Talks" from GK Media Studios, hosts Garry Kelly and Niall Leyden welcome Aaron Gaynor, President of the Irish Institute of the Pensions Management Institute, to discuss Ireland’s upcoming auto-enrolment pension scheme launching January 1, 2026. They explore the scheme’s details, eligibility, employer responsibilities, and practical challenges, offering clear guidance for business owners and employees. The conversation highlights the benefits for retirement security, the need for early preparation, and the importance of professional advice, aiming to demystify pensions and support listeners through this significant change.   For more information on Irish Institute of Pensions Management please visit: www.iipm.ie Interested in a short course on auto-enrolment? Join the mailing list here: https://iipm.ie/courses/ Auto-enrolment FAQs: https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-social-protection/publications/auto-enrolment-your-questions-answered/#   Please visit: GK Media https://www.gkmedia.ie 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, hosts, and episode context. Auto-Enrolment Overview & Importance (00:00:17) Introduction to auto-enrolment, its significance, and guest Aaron Gaynor’s credentials. Why Auto-Enrolment is Being Introduced (00:01:20) Discussion on Ireland’s pension landscape, state pension pressures, and the need for auto-enrolment. Business Owner Concerns & Implementation Timeline (00:03:10) Rising business costs, employer concerns, and how/when auto-enrolment will be implemented. Government Communication & Employer Portal (00:03:49) Details on government information campaigns, the employer registration portal, and challenges for small businesses. Portal Launch & Eligibility Lookback (00:06:16) Portal registration in December, lookback period for eligibility, and criteria for auto-enrolment. Contribution Rates & Timeline (00:08:45) Explanation of employer/employee/government contributions, incremental increases, and long-term cost impact. Tax Relief & Pension Scheme Comparisons (00:09:48) Comparison of auto-enrolment with existing pension schemes and tax relief differences. Auto-Enrolment as a Starting Point (00:11:17) Auto-enrolment as a minimum standard, recommendations for higher savings, and its role in financial literacy. Scheme Limitations & Flexibility (00:12:22) Limitations of auto-enrolment: inflexibility, lack of advice, and restricted access to benefits. National Impact & Employer Perspectives (00:14:05) National scale, cost implications, and employer discussions on the pros and cons of auto-enrolment. Listener Q&A: Payroll Contributions & Lookback (00:16:03) When to submit pension contributions to avoid auto-enrolment and how the lookback period works. Listener Q&A: Who is Excluded? (00:17:39) Explanation of who is excluded from auto-enrolment (self-employed, directors, public sector, etc.). Listener Q&A: Personal Pensions & Auto-Enrolment (00:18:36) What happens if you have your own pension; maintaining both personal and auto-enrolment pensions. Listener Q&A: Opt In/Out & Employer Refunds (00:20:42) How opt in/opt out works, re-enrolment, and employer contribution refunds for high staff turnover. Alternatives to Auto-Enrolment (00:23:14) Discussion on alternative pension arrangements, advice for employers, and scheme eligibility rules. First Steps for Employers (00:25:24) Advice on who to consult (provider, broker, advisor) and how to prepare for auto-enrolment. Final Advice & Closing Remarks (00:27:04) Emphasis on seeking advice, tailored solutions, and encouragement to act promptly. Podcast Wrap-Up & Resources (00:28:22) Summary, thanks to guest, and information on further resources and support. Episode Outro (00:31:09) Podcast closing and final credits.  

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• #160 Wellth Talks - Public Speaking

  In this episode of "Wellth Talks," hosts Garry Kelly, Niall Leyden and Pádraic Ó Máille, explore the challenges and importance of public speaking. They share personal stories, practical tips, and advice on overcoming nerves, building confidence, and connecting with audiences. The discussion highlights the value of preparation, authenticity, and storytelling, emphasising that public speaking is a vital skill for personal and professional growth. Listeners are encouraged to embrace opportunities to speak, refine their stories, and develop their unique voice, making public speaking accessible and empowering for everyone.   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.   Introduction and Setting the Topic (00:00:17) The hosts introduce themselves and announce the episode’s focus on public speaking and storytelling. Garry’s Best Man Speech Story (00:00:34) Garry shares a humorous and humbling story about his first public speaking experience as a best man. Lessons from Public Speaking Mistakes (00:02:27) Discussion on learning from public speaking errors and the importance of not letting ego take over. Building Audience Connection (00:02:54) Garry explains how he connects with audiences, using personal anecdotes and humour to engage listeners. Preparation Styles and “Prepared Impromptu” (00:04:09) Pádraic discusses different preparation styles and the concept of the “prepared impromptu” speech. Bill Clinton’s Speech Example (00:05:35) A story about Bill Clinton’s impactful speech, highlighting the power of a strong beginning and ending. Importance of Preparation for Key Speeches (00:07:53) Emphasis on preparing for significant speeches like weddings and eulogies, and the need for accuracy. Managing Nerves and Audience Perception (00:08:53) Advice on handling nerves, as nervousness can transfer to the audience and affect the presentation. Public Speaking as a Superpower (00:10:31) Niall describes public speaking as a superpower, valuable in all areas of life, not just on stage. Fear of Public Speaking and Imposter Syndrome (00:10:43) Niall discusses the roots of public speaking anxiety and the prevalence of imposter syndrome. The Value of Storytelling and Presentation Skills (00:12:01) The group reflects on the importance of storytelling, referencing Michelle Obama and Warren Buffett. Warren Buffett and Dale Carnegie’s Influence (00:14:33) Discussion about Warren Buffett valuing his public speaking certificate above all others. Building Confidence Through Practice (00:16:28) Pádraic shares how public speaking practice boosts confidence, using examples from Junior Chamber. Pádraic’s School Debating Story (00:17:25) A personal story about how debating in school transformed Pádraic’s confidence and academic path. Presentation Skills Trumping Ideas (00:21:50) Emphasis that the ability to present well often outweighs having the best idea or product. Articulation and Leadership in Business (00:22:11) The importance of articulation and confidence for leaders and business professionals. Preparation and the BRME Acronym (00:22:56) Pádraic introduces the BRME acronym for effective presentations: Beginning, Repetition, Emphasis, Maximize involvement, Ending. Starting with a Story or Question (00:25:07) Tips on opening presentations with a story or question to engage the audience. Encouragement to Practice Public Speaking (00:26:18) Encouragement for listeners to challenge themselves and practice articulating their own stories. Conclusion and Call to Action (00:27:35) The hosts wrap up, encouraging feedback and sharing, and preview the next episode.  

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• #159 Alan Duggan & Gar O'Brien-Collins - Garry Talks: Film

  In this episode of "Garry Talks Film", Gar O’Brien-Collins, Executive of the WRAP Fund, and Alan Duggan, CEO of Ardán, discuss the evolving screen industry in the West of Ireland, focusing on talent development, regional funding, and the challenges of sustaining local Film, TV, Animation and Gaming production. They explore the impact of initiatives like the WRAP Fund and Screen West, the importance of mentorship, and the need for improved infrastructure. The conversation highlights the resilience of regional creatives, the value of local stories with global appeal, and ongoing efforts to decentralise the industry beyond Dublin and Wicklow.   - 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. Introduction & Focus on Talent Development (00:00:00) Overview of the episode’s focus on talent development in the West of Ireland’s screen industry. Podcast Introduction & Guest Backgrounds (00:00:16) Host introduces guests Gar O’Brien-Collins and Alan Duggan, and outlines the episode’s themes. Local Films, Global Audience (00:00:40) Discussion on the importance of local films with international appeal. Podcast Sponsorships & Network (00:00:51) Acknowledgement of podcast supporters and the GK Media Studios Creators Network. Alan Duggan’s Entry into Galway Film Centre (00:01:39) Alan’s background, joining Galway Film Centre in 2018, and the industry’s evolution. Shift in Funding Sources (00:02:25) Transition from Arts Council to Screen Ireland as main funder, and challenges faced. Gaming Industry in Galway (00:03:45) Early recognition of gaming as part of the creative sector and its growth in Galway. Challenges in Games Funding (00:04:26) Lack of funding for games, cultural perceptions, and recent changes in industry support. Music & Games Industry Crossover (00:05:28) Discussion on composers working in games and the cinematic quality of game scores. Alan’s Path in Galway Film Scene (00:06:02) Alan’s journey from volunteering at Galway Film Fleadh to programming and industry insights. Growth of Irish Film & TV (00:07:42) Exponential growth in Irish film, international reach, and key turning points. Success Factors for Producers (00:09:37) Hard work, risk, and support as keys to producers’ survival and success. Producer Resilience & Funding Challenges (00:10:29) The unseen work of producers, high rejection rates, and the need for resilience. Discretionary Funding & Rejection (00:11:53) The discretionary nature of funding, comparison to actors’ rejection, and the need for thick skin. Time Investment & Producer Attrition (00:13:03) Importance of quick feedback for producers and the high attrition rate in project development. Creative Masochism & Motivation (00:14:12) Why creatives persist despite challenges—love for the work and “creative masochism.” Producer Creativity & Career Choices (00:15:39) Producers as creatives, career pivots, and the drive to do meaningful work. Ardán’s Expansion & Talent Development (00:16:54) Growth of Ardán, focus on talent development, and new initiatives like the National Talent Academy. Financial Sustainability & Pathways (00:18:22) Challenges in funding organisational operations and creating clear pathways for filmmakers. Scheme Structure & Administration (00:20:17) Efforts to include administration fees in schemes to support organisational sustainability. Collaborative Industry Culture (00:20:53) The collaborative nature of the industry and Ardán’s approach to supporting others. EDI & Regional Inclusion (00:21:33) Efforts to support equality, diversity, and inclusion, especially for underrepresented communities. Regional Definition & Funding Specifics (00:22:30) Clarification of what counts as “regional” and the specifics of WRAP funding. Summits & Industry Events (00:23:05) Growth and impact of TV and games summits, and their role in networking and knowledge sharing. Networking & Industry Relationships (00:24:13) Importance of summits for peer networking and building industry relationships. Safe Spaces & Industry Openness (00:27:17) Creating safe spaces for open discussion and the national significance of the TV summit. From Pitch to Production: Obituary Case Study (00:28:16) How a project evolved from a pitch to an international co-production, illustrating industry pathways. City of Film & Ground-Level Impact (00:30:15) UNESCO City of Film designation and its benefits for local filmmakers. EDI in Practice & Accessibility (00:30:52) Practical steps taken to make events inclusive and accessible for all. Privilege, Empathy & Role Models (00:31:11) Recognising privilege, the importance of empathy, and the need for visible role models. Language, Criteria & Inclusion (00:33:49) How language in calls and criteria can impact inclusivity and participation. Iterative Process & Accessibility Costs (00:34:49) Continuous improvement in accessibility and the high costs of inclusion measures. Global Trends & Regional Funding (00:35:20) Contrasts between global trends in diversity and Ireland’s approach; importance of US funding. WRAP Fund & Commission Structure (00:36:27) Explanation of the WRAP Fund and Commission, their origins, and regional focus. Regional Production Challenges (00:37:44) Barriers to regional production, including travel costs and crew availability. Economic Impact of Regional Production (00:39:23) Economic challenges for regional crew and the impact of production on local economies. Regional Uplift & Funding Incentives (00:39:54) The effect of regional tax incentives on production spend and activity. WRAP’s Impact & Return on Investment (00:41:39) WRAP’s achievements, return on investment, and the importance of ongoing activity. Crew Retention & Ongoing Activity (00:44:09) Need for continuous production to retain crew and build regional capacity. Breaking Industry Inertia (00:47:13) Challenges of industry centralisation in Dublin/Wicklow and the need for intentional regional support. Studio Infrastructure & Production Types (00:49:24) Limitations in studio space and the types of productions suited to regions. Local Economic Benefits & Community Impact (00:51:15) How productions support local businesses and communities, with Donegal as an example. Persistence & Industry Evolution (00:52:27) The need for persistence in industry support and the ongoing nature of regional challenges. Western AV Forum & Lobbying (00:53:39) Role of the Western AV Forum in lobbying for regional funding and industry support. Regional Uplift vs. Discretionary Funding (00:55:00) Why automatic, agnostic funding (regional uplift) is crucial compared to limited discretionary funds. Forum Membership & Industry Voices (00:57:07) Diversity of voices in the Western AV Forum and the importance of collective advocacy. Policy, Legislation & State Aid (00:59:03) Complexities of changing policy, legislation, and state aid for regional incentives. Learning & Adapting Advocacy (01:00:36) Continuous learning in advocacy, adapting to new state aid maps and policy changes. Collaboration with Industry Bodies (01:02:11) Working with industry groups and producers to strengthen regional advocacy. Industry Complexity & Communication (01:18:12) The complexity of the industry and the need for clear communication with stakeholders. Screen West & Crew/Location Database (01:11:22) Development of Screen West as a crew and location database to support regional production. Mentorship & Peer Support (01:13:02) Mentorship programs and peer-to-peer learning to support emerging filmmakers. Market Access & Practical Support (01:15:43) Support for attending markets and practical help for filmmakers to access industry opportunities. Super Scout & Location Management (01:16:29) Introduction of Super Scout for improved location management and database usability. Maintaining Relationships & Industry Jigsaw (01:17:49) Importance of maintaining relationships and managing the many moving parts of the regional industry. Upcoming Productions & Infrastructure (01:19:29) Discussion of potential upcoming productions and the impact of new studio infrastructure. Returnable Series & Regional Sustainability (01:20:50) The importance of returnable series for sustaining regional industry and community. Scrappers & Success Stories (01:21:26) Celebrating the resilience of filmmakers who succeed against the odds. Conclusion & Acknowledgements (01:22:18) Closing remarks, gratitude for industry support, and encouragement to engage with regional initiatives.  

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