The Stripped Back Podcast

In this episode, we sit down with Ian Brennan of Ian Brennan & The Echoes and Ronan Sherlock from Ian Brennan & The Echoes & Gather The Lost for a real, honest look at life in the Irish music scene.

We get into the lads’ early years, their first jobs, and how they each found their way into music. From there, the conversation opens up around the realities of being in a band, the dynamics, the creative process, and what it actually takes to keep things moving.

This one goes deep on the graft behind the scenes. The time, energy, and commitment required to write music, organise gigs, rehearse, and perform, all while navigating an industry where nothing is guaranteed.

We also chat about the current state of the music scene in Ireland and why having a genuine love for the craft is what keeps artists going.

If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to “keep the show on the road,” this episode gives you a proper insight.

Check out Ian Brennan & The Echoes and Gather The Lost for updates on upcoming gigs and album releases.

Our podcast is sponsored by Snickers Workwear Ireland and S9 is also in association with Hager Ireland and N2 Electrical Wholesalers.

This episode featuring Northern Irish Plumber Aaron Cunningham and Dublin Painter Julian Fraser from Fraser Painting, offers raw, honest conversations about health battles, the trades, childhood memories, and mental well-being, with a focus on personal resilience and community support. Join us for a real chat that highlights the importance of talking and staying connected during tough times.
Key Topics:
​Personal health journeys and battling illness, including cancer and recovery
​The impact of sports, childhood memories, and community on identity
​Insights into trades and apprenticeships in Dublin and the importance of perseverance
​Managing mental health and breaking barriers around men’s emotional expression
​The value of supporting friends and family through difficult times
​Reflections on childhood, school choices, and early careers
​How work ethic and attitude shape success in trades and life
​The significance of building relationships and mentorship in the trades
​Lessons learned from setbacks and the resilience needed to keep going
​Tips on job hunting, apprenticeships, and fostering a strong work culture.
Check out Aaron on Instagram at @ac_plumber83 and Julian at @fraserpainting.ie

This podcast is sponsored by Snickers Workwear Ireland and S9 is in association with Hager Ireland and N2 Electrical Wholesalers.

Join Stephen Buckley and Keith Delahan in this episode as they explore Ireland's current fuel protests, to innovative DIY education programs. Discover how grassroots movements and practical skills are shaping the future generations, community resilience, and economic fairness. Main insights from the episode include:
The ongoing energy crisis in Ireland and its social and economic impacts, emphasizing the importance of fair taxation on fuel for essential workers
Declan Buggy’s journey founding the Irish School of DIY, focusing on building confidence and independence through practical trade skills for all ages
The expanding scope of DIY education, from school-based programs to adult courses, encouraging self-sufficiency and community involvement
Gender dynamics in DIY participation, with higher engagement of women and the importance of inclusive skill-building initiatives
The potential scalability of DIY education nationwide, including plans for regional schools and workshops in schools and community centers
The role of social media and industry partnerships in promoting practical trades and dispelling myths around qualifications
How embracing a DIY mindset can empower individuals financially and socially, especially amid housing and supply chain challenges
This podcast is sponsored by Snickers Workwear Ireland and S9 is also in association with Hager Ireland and N2 Electrical Wholesalers

Join us as we explore the journey of a talented Irish craftsman who shares his experiences from rural Ireland to Australia and New Zealand, highlighting the importance of trades, craftsmanship, and social media in modern business. Discover insights on career development, overcoming challenges, and building a community around craft.
We chat about Niall's career journey from Ireland to Australia to New Zealand and back again.
The impact of social media on modern craftsmanship and the challenges faced during the economic downturn and personal tragedy.
This episode highlights the importance of mentorship and community within the trades.
This podcast is sponsored by Snickers Workwear Ireland and Season 9 is also in association with N2 Electrical Wholesalers and Hager Ireland.

In this episode, we sit down with Fergal Cantwell to break down the realities of retrofitting, energy management, and navigating grants in Ireland.

Fergal shares practical insights from the front line of the industry, cutting through the confusion around home energy upgrades and exposing some of the biggest misconceptions homeowners and tradespeople face today.

We dive into the importance of proper training in the trades, why knowledge gaps can leave both workers and clients at a disadvantage, and how getting the right advice from the right sources is crucial when it comes to grants and energy upgrades.

Fergal also co-hosts the podcast Behind the Walls alongside Peter Finn, where they explore everything from retrofitting and insulation to energy efficiency and grant schemes, making complex topics more accessible for both tradespeople and homeowners.

Whether you’re in the trade or planning upgrades to your home, this episode is packed with real, actionable advice.
Podcast is sponsored by Snickers Workwear Ireland and Season 9 is also in association with N2 Electrical and Hager Ireland