The Stripped Back Podcast

In this bonus episode of The Stripped Back Podcast, Stephen takes a step back and reflects on the notes, thoughts, and lessons he has gathered over the last few years since launching the Insight page on Instagram and eventually turning it into a podcast alongside co-host Keith.
From building a community and creating meaningful industry connections to opening doors that never seemed possible, Stephen shares the many positives that come from putting yourself out there and documenting your journey. He also speaks honestly about the challenges, criticism, self-doubt, and hurdles that can come with stepping into the public eye.
Whether you’re thinking about sharing your work on social media, starting a podcast, speaking at events, or simply pushing yourself outside your comfort zone, this episode is a reminder that growth rarely happens without taking that first step.
The opportunities, confidence, friendships, and experiences gained along the way have made the journey worthwhile.
So if you’ve been sitting on an idea, waiting for the right time, maybe this is your sign.
What are you waiting for?

Main Sponsor: Snickers Workwear
Venue: N2 Electrical Wholesalers

In this special short bonus episode of The Stripped Back Podcast, Stephen reflects on the evolution of the electrical industry since beginning his career in 2006. From traditional installation methods and simpler electrical systems to the rise of solar PV, electric vehicle charging, smart homes, energy management systems and connected technologies, the trade has transformed dramatically over the last two decades.

Stephen shares his thoughts on the challenges, opportunities and lessons learned along the way, while exploring why today’s electrician must continually adapt, upskill and embrace innovation to remain relevant in an ever-changing industry.

A personal reflection on where the trade has come from, where it is today, and what the future may hold for the next generation of electricians.

Main Sponsor - Snickers Workwear
www.snickersworkwear.ie
Recording Venue - N2 Electrical Wholesalers
www.n2electrical.ie

Join one half of The Stripped Back Podcast, Co-Host Stephen Buckley as he reflects on the origins and evolution of the podcast. From starting with just an idea, a phone and honesty, the podcast has grown into a platform connecting tradespeople. Discover how authentic content helped build trust and community, the role of social media in its growth, and the importance of supporting apprentices. Stephen shares lessons learned from recording in makeshift locations while staying true to the podcast's roots. This is his personal take on the journey so far and the potential for the road yet to travel.

This week we are joined by electrical apprentice Aaron Murray for a special summer break bonus episode filled with honest conversation, motivation and real life perspective.

Aaron speaks openly about his experience in school and why the traditional classroom environment was not a place where he felt he could truly thrive. We discuss the pressure surrounding the Leaving Cert and why exam results should never define someone’s future or limit their career opportunities.

We also talk about how Aaron landed his apprenticeship through connections built within his local community thanks to a friend’s father and local football coach, highlighting the importance of relationships, networking and backing yourself when opportunities arise.

The conversation also explores the huge role health and fitness has played in Aaron’s life both physically and mentally. From amateur boxing to maintaining discipline and confidence, Aaron explains how staying active helped shape his mindset and resilience.

We also discuss sponsorships, building relationships with brands and why creating genuine partnerships can open doors and create mutual support along the way.

A brilliant conversation with plenty of value for apprentices, young people finding their path and anyone who has ever felt school was not the right fit for them.

Big thanks to our sponsors Snickers Workwear Ireland and our Season 9 partners N2 Electrical Wholesalers and Hager Ireland for their continued support throughout the season.

We look forward to being back in your ears and on your screens later this summer for Season 10 of The Stripped Back Podcast.

Season 9 comes to a powerful and emotional close as we sit down with paramedic and frontline worker John Gaughan for one of the most honest conversations we’ve ever had on The Stripped Back Podcast.

In this season finale, John opens up about life on the frontline, the unseen mental toll of dealing with trauma on a daily basis, and the harsh realities facing emergency services in Ireland today. We discuss the pressures within the healthcare system, the challenges paramedics face behind the scenes, and why meaningful change is desperately needed.

But this episode goes far deeper than the job title.

John speaks openly about the pressures men face in modern life — trying to be providers, partners, fathers, friends, and strong for everyone around them while often suffering in silence themselves. In an incredibly raw and courageous conversation, he shares his own battle with suicidal thoughts and actions, how close he came to the edge, and what ultimately brought him back.

Now, through both his work and his social media platform, John is using his experiences to help others who may be struggling in silence and to remind people that there is always hope, even in the darkest moments.

This episode is real, emotional, powerful, and deeply important.

If this conversation helps even one person feel less alone, then it was worth having.

Podcast sponsored by Snickers Workwear Ireland.
Season 9 has also been in association with Hager Ireland and N2 Electrical Wholesalers Ashbourne