The Stripped Back Podcast

Stephen Buckley and Keith Delahan

The Stripped Back Podcast is where the conversation goes beyond the surface.

Hosted by cousins Stephen Buckley and Keith Delahan, two tradespeople from Dublin, Ireland. The Stripped Back Podcast looks beyond job titles to uncover the people behind the professions.

From the trades and business to sport, entertainment, the arts and beyond, we sit down with remarkable people to explore the journeys that shaped them, the setbacks they overcame, the lessons they’ve learned, and what continues to drive them forward.

Built on working-class values, authenticity and curiosity, these are honest conversations for anyone looking to grow in their career, business or personal life.

Whether you’re an apprentice, entrepreneur, creative, business owner or simply someone who enjoys hearing real stories from real people, there’s something here for you.

Join our growing community by following @thestrippedbackpodcast on Instagram.

Proudly sponsored by Snickers Workwear Ireland and recorded in our self-built studio at N2 Electrical Wholesalers in Ashbourne, Co. Meath.

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S11 · E3
Yesterday · 1 hr
S11 E3 - with Chris McCarthy Part 1
In Part 1 of this episode of The Stripped Back Podcast, Stephen Buckley and Keith Delahan sit down with Chris McCarthy from CMAC Electrical for a brutally honest conversation about the realities of running an electrical contracting business in Ireland. Chris is known for speaking his mind, and this conversation doesn’t disappoint. From the pressure of going out on your own to the reality of rising material costs, underpricing jobs and the growing influence of social media, we get into the conversations the industry needs to have. Chris opens up about the early days of building his business, the moment he realised that having plenty of work didn’t necessarily mean making money, and how understanding your numbers completely changed the way he operates. We also get into the problems with unrealistic pricing expectations, contractors undercutting each other, workmanship standards and the role of QSs and PC sums in creating difficulties for electrical contractors. But it’s not all about business. We discuss the next generation of electricians, motivating apprentices, the challenges young people face today, and whether the industry is doing enough to prepare tradespeople for life beyond their apprenticeship. In this episode, we discuss: The reality of going out on your own – Why a full diary, a fleet of vans and a busy team don’t automatically equal a successful business. Social media versus real life – The dangers of selling the dream of self-employment without showing the hard work, risks and financial realities behind it. Knowing your numbers – Why understanding your break-even point, hourly rate, overheads and job costs is essential. Working for nothing – The consequences of underpricing work and accepting jobs that leave you with little or no profit. The race to the bottom – How undercutting, cutting corners and inconsistent workmanship standards affect the trade. QSs, PC sums and unrealistic budgets – The frustration of being expected to deliver quality electrical installations against figures that don’t reflect the actual costs. Rising costs and the construction industry – The impact of materials, diesel and overheads on electrical contractors. Business education for electricians – Why financial and business management skills should be a bigger part of the journey from apprentice to contractor. Mental health and asking for help – The pressure of running a business and why tradespeople need to be more open about their struggles. The next generation – Motivating apprentices, the challenges facing young people and the importance of practical learning. Career progression and partnerships – Why supporting ambitious electricians to grow within a business could benefit both employers and employees. This is an honest look at the challenges facing electrical contractors today, with plenty of food for thought for anyone considering self-employment or already trying to make a business work. If you’re an electrician, an apprentice, a contractor or someone working in the wider construction industry, this is a conversation worth hearing. Listen to Part 1 now, and let us know your thoughts. Sponsored by Snickers Workwear www.snickersworkwear.ie Recorded from N2 Electrical Wholesalers www.n2electrical.ie
S11 · E2
October 11 · 1 hr 11 min
S11 E2 - Forged By Change with Pól Seoige
In this episode of The Stripped Back Podcast, Stephen and Keith sit down with Actor, Producer and Promotor, Pól Seoige for an honest conversation about life, career changes, and what happens when the future you had planned suddenly disappears. Pól takes us back to the collapse of the Celtic Tiger, a period that changed the direction of his career and forced him to rethink what came next. Rather than standing still after the initial shock, he chose to keep moving, travelling to America to visit friends, experience life, and open himself up to new opportunities. What started as a change in plans became the beginning of a different journey, a reminder that sometimes the biggest opportunities come when life takes you somewhere you never expected to go. In true Stripped Back style, we get into the realities of navigating uncertainty, adapting when circumstances change, and having the courage to take a different path. Whether you’re working in the trades, building a business, pursuing a creative career, or figuring out your next move, this conversation is a reminder that a change of plan doesn’t have to mean the end of the journey. Podcast is sponsored by Snickers Workwear. www.snickersworkwear.ie Podcast is recorded from N2 Electrical Wholesalers. www.n2electrical.ie
S11 · E1
October 4 · 46 min
S11 E1 - Finding Her Voice with Law Student Latisha McCrudden
A new season. A new theme tune. A new lineup of guests. And some conversations that go deeper than ever before. We kick off Season 11 of The Stripped Back Podcast with Latisha McCrudden — activist, law student, proud member of the Traveller community, and a powerful voice for a new generation. In this episode, we sit down with Latisha to talk openly about her life and the experiences that have shaped the woman she is today. Latisha shares what it was like growing up in a home shadowed by domestic abuse, the impact those experiences had on her, and how she has turned some incredibly difficult chapters of her life into a determination to speak up for others. We talk about her role as a voice for the next generation of Travellers, but also as a voice for girls who have experienced similar circumstances and may feel that they don’t have one of their own. We also get into Latisha’s academic journey and the achievements that have brought her to where she is today. Now studying law in college, she talks about her ambitions to pursue a career in family law and how her own experiences have helped shape the direction she wants to take. It’s a conversation about resilience, education, identity, breaking cycles, finding your voice and using your experiences to help others. Season 11 starts with a conversation that reminds us exactly why we created this podcast in the first place, to strip things back, have honest conversations and give people a platform to tell their story. Season 11. New theme, New guests, Same Stripped Back conversations. If you have been affected by the conversation on this episode, please seek advice and consultation from the following available aid; Women's Aid 24hr National Freephone Helpline 1800-341-900 Thank you for listening, this podcast is sponsored by Snickers Workwear Ireland. www.snickersworkwear.ie Recording from N2 Electrical Wholesalers www.n2electrical.ie
S10 · E12
September 30 · 1 hr 5 min
The Overload - Behind The Decks with Paul Webster
Episode Revisit - Between Season 10 and Season 11, we’re going back to one of the conversations that has stayed with us. This time, we’re bringing back our conversation with internationally renowned trance DJ Paul Webster, with enhanced audio and visuals giving the episode a fresh new feel. Paul’s story is one of ambition, music, family, career changes and staying true to yourself. Growing up in Balbriggan, Paul’s love for dance music started at a young age, eventually taking him from bedroom decks and pirate radio to producing music, playing alongside some of the biggest names in electronic music and performing on some of the world’s biggest stages. In this conversation, Paul opens up about the moments that changed his career, including the role Judge Jules played in his journey, his breakthrough in trance music, and the incredible experience of playing after Tiësto at Privilege in Ibiza. But there’s much more to Paul's story than music. We talk about Ibiza, the evolution of trance and Irish club culture, producing music, working independently without management, and the realities of balancing a career in music with family life. Paul also talks about stepping away from the traditional path of a touring DJ, his career and his unexpected journey into dentistry, proving that careers rarely follow a straight line. We revisit the story behind some of Paul's biggest productions, including his work surrounding “Rest of Our Lives”, and the journey that saw the track become one of the biggest releases of his career. This is a conversation about chasing a dream, adapting when life changes, and understanding what really matters when the lights go down and the music stops. So, before we open the door to Season 11, sit back and revisit the story of Paul Webster. Enhanced audio. Enhanced visuals. Same conversation. A fresh way to experience it. Main Sponsor: Snickers Workwear Recorded at N2 Electrical Wholesalers
September 23 · 13 min
The Overload: Still Showing Up
10 Seasons. Still Showing Up. Ten seasons in… and somehow, we’re still here. In this special solo episode, Stephen takes a step back from the usual guest conversations to reflect on Season 10 and everything that has happened behind the scenes to keep The Stripped Back Podcast on the road. 2026 has been one hell of a year. With Keith’s business, Energise Electrical, getting busier month by month, Stephen balancing life as a husband and dad of three, and taking on a promotion within Mitie that completely changed the structure of his working week, finding the time to keep the podcast moving hasn’t always been easy. But that’s the thing about life. You don’t always get more time. Sometimes you just have to find a way. Stephen talks about getting older, taking opportunities when they come along, balancing family and career with something you’re passionate about, and the importance of having the support of the people closest to you. He also reflects on just how far The Stripped Back Podcast has come since two tradesmen from Balbriggan decided to give an idea a shot back in 2024. Ten seasons later, the microphones are still on. And we’re not finished yet.
S10 · E11
September 13 · 1 hr 14 min
The Overload: From Rock Bottom To Redemption with Daniel Bradley (2025)
Originally recorded in 2025, Now Re-released with enhanced audio and production. Sometimes you have to lose your way before you find yourself. In this special enhanced audio Overload Episode of The Stripped Back Podcast, we revisit our 2025 conversation with Daniel Bradley, a raw and honest story about struggle, bad choices, feeling trapped, and believing there was no way out. Daniel opens up about what it was like to go down the wrong path, face adversity and reach a point where changing his life seemed almost impossible. But this isn’t a story about where you came from. It’s about what happens when you decide you’re not going to stay there. Through determination, resilience and a willingness to confront the things holding him back, Daniel began to break through the adversity and pave a completely new path for himself. From feeling like there was no way out… to building a life he could be proud of. This is a conversation about second chances, personal responsibility, resilience and the power of changing direction, no matter how far you’ve gone down the wrong road. The Overload Episode is a reminder that your past doesn’t have to define your future. Podcast Sponsored by Snickers Workwear www.snickersworkwear.ie Podcast recorded from N2 Electrical Wholesalers www.n2electrical.ie
S10 · E10
September 6 · 55 min
S10 E10: Price Jobs 10X Faster with Assemble Pro
Season 10 Finale | Stripped Back Podcast We’re closing out Season 10 with John Slattery and Keith Moore from Assemble Pro. We get into how technology is changing the way tradespeople run their businesses, from estimating and invoicing to managing projects, winning work and creating a more professional customer experience. We talk about the story behind Assemble Pro, why simplicity is so important when building technology for the trades, and how getting the numbers right from the start can make a huge difference to a project. We also look ahead at what’s coming next, including the potential impact of AI on the construction industry and how technology could change the way tradespeople work in the years ahead. A great conversation to finish off Season 10. Check out what Assemble Pro has to offer at www.assemblepro.com Thanks to everyone who has listened, watched, shared and supported the podcast throughout the season. That’s a wrap, See you soon on Season 11. Podcast Sponsor: Snickers Workwear www.snickersworkwear.ie Podcast Venue: N2 Electrical Wholesalers www.n2electrical.ie
S10 · E9
August 30 · 1 hr
S10 E9 - Dream It, Build It, Live It with Alan O'Connor
In this penultimate episode of Season 10, Stephen Buckley and Keith Delahan sit down with Alan O’Connor from ALS Tool Channel for a wide-ranging conversation about his career, his journey into social media, the trades industry, community, and the mindset behind building something that lasts. Alan shares his experiences of creating content around the tools and trade industry, discussing how an initial passion can develop into something much bigger. The conversation explores the importance of being authentic, finding your own voice, and creating content because you genuinely enjoy what you are doing rather than simply chasing views or followers. A major theme throughout the conversation is the power of community. Stephen, Keith and Alan discuss how shared interests can bring people together, create opportunities and build relationships that extend far beyond social media. They also look at how tradespeople and content creators can use their platforms to showcase their work, connect with others in the industry and leave something valuable behind for the next generation. The conversation also touches on professionalism and presentation, including how quality tools, equipment and workmanship can influence how customers perceive you and the level of trust they place in your business. Alan discusses the importance of taking pride in what you do and continually looking for ways to improve. Social media inevitably comes with negativity, criticism and people who don’t understand the work that goes on behind the scenes. Alan talks openly about dealing with that side of creating content and why resilience, staying focused and continuing to grow are essential when putting yourself out there. Ultimately, this is a conversation about much more than tools or social media. It is about having the confidence to pursue something you’re passionate about, putting in the work consistently, surrounding yourself with good people and creating something that can have a lasting impact. Alan’s journey provides plenty of insight for tradespeople, aspiring creators and anyone considering taking their own passion and turning it into something bigger. Check out Al on your favourite social media platform at ALS Tool Channel Podcast Sponsor: Snickers Workwear Ireland www.snickersworkwear.ie Recorded from: N2 Electrical Wholesalers www.N2Electrical.ie
S10 · E8
August 23 · 42 min
S10 E8 - ACL: The Road Back with Amy Gibbons (2025)
In this revisited and repurposed episode of The Stripped Back Podcast, we revisit our conversation we had in 2025 with GAA player and fitness instructor Amy Gibbons from Balbriggan. Amy shares her journey through GAA, fitness and the importance of having strong local sporting communities in towns like Balbriggan, particularly for the next generation coming through. We chat about what it really takes to be a female GAA player ,the commitment, discipline, training and sacrifices that come with competing, and how Amy has turned her own passion for fitness into both a personal love and a career. One of the biggest talking points of the conversation is Amy’s experience with an ACL injury and the huge setback it created, both physically and mentally. She opens up about the rehabilitation process, the challenges of dealing with injury, the resilience required to keep pushing forward and what it meant to finally make it back mentally and physically. This is a conversation about sport, community, fitness, setbacks, resilience and the determination to get back doing what you love. If you’re involved in GAA, fitness, coaching, or simply looking for a story about overcoming adversity, this is one worth revisiting. Sponsored by Snickers Workwear Ireland www.snickersworkwear.ie
S10 · E7
August 16 · 1 hr 7 min
S10 E7 - Proof Of Work: The Dinny Collins Story
In this episode of Insight: The Stripped Back Podcast, we sit down with Dinny Collins for a wide-ranging conversation about resilience, reinvention, business, Bitcoin, fitness and life. Dinny takes us back to the motorbike accident that changed the direction of his life and the journey of rebuilding himself from that point. We talk about how fitness became a huge part of his life, the creation of Dinny Collins Fitness, helping thousands of people and what completing five full-distance Ironman events taught him about discipline and mindset. We then move into Dinny’s entrepreneurial journey and the transition into the world of Bitcoin. We explore what first attracted him to Bitcoin, how his understanding of money changed and why he became passionate about educating others. We also talk about his latest chapter with fasting, what led him there and what he has learned along the way. Throughout the conversation, one theme keeps coming back: doing the work. From rebuilding his health to building businesses, pushing his physical limits and continually reinventing himself, Dinny’s story is ultimately one of proof of work. Sponsored By Snickers Workwear Ireland Recorded from N2 Electrical Wholesalers Ashbourne
S10 · E6
August 9 · 59 min
S10 E6 - The Brotherhood with Darren Reilly
In Season 10, Episode 6 of The Stripped Back Podcast, we sit down with Darren Reilly from The Brotherhood for an honest and powerful conversation about men’s mental health, accountability, personal growth and the importance of having the right people around you. Darren shares his perspective on why men need spaces where they can speak openly, be challenged, and support one another without judgement. We explore the importance of taking responsibility for your own wellbeing, surrounding yourself with people who will hold you accountable, and understanding that asking for support is not a weakness. We also discuss relationships and the importance of opening up to our partners, while recognising that one person shouldn’t have to carry the full emotional weight of another person’s struggles. Finding additional support outside of a relationship can help protect those foundations while giving men the space and support they need. This is a conversation about brotherhood, resilience, accountability and becoming better, not just for ourselves, but for the people around us. Podcast Sponsored by Snickers Workwear Ireland www.snickersworkwear.ie Podcast recorded from N2 Electrical Wholesalers www.N2electrical.ie
S10 · E5
August 2 · 1 hr 8 min
S10 E5 - From The Irish Defence Forces To Entrepreneur with Conor Foster
This week on The Stripped Back Podcast, we’re joined by Conor Foster, Managing Director of Clifden Recruitment, founder of Top Drawer Talent, and host of the 10Forty Podcast. After having us on the 10Forty Podcast in 2025, it was only right that we returned the favour and welcomed Conor into the studio to hear the story behind his own journey. From a short stint in plumbing to serving for a decade in the Irish Defence Forces, Conor opens up about the experiences that shaped him, the lessons he learned through military life, and how those experiences gave him the drive and resilience to build successful businesses in the recruitment industry. We also dive into the realities of transitioning from military service into civilian life, the challenges of entrepreneurship, what it takes to build a respected recruitment company, and the current state of the hiring market. Conor shares valuable insights into leadership, business growth, taking risks, and why putting yourself out there can completely change the direction of your career. We also chat about his own podcasting journey with the 10Forty Podcast, and how creating conversations has become another passion alongside running multiple successful businesses. Whether you’re in the trades, considering a career in the Defence Forces, thinking about starting your own business, or simply looking for inspiration to take that next step, this episode is packed with honest conversation, practical advice, and plenty of laughs along the way. A huge thank you to our sponsors, Snickers Workwear Ireland, for supporting this episode. Check out their latest range at www.snickersworkwear.ie. This episode was recorded from N2 Electrical, Ashbourne. Find out more at www.n2electrical.ie. If you enjoy the episode, don’t forget to follow the podcast, leave us a rating and review, and share it with your friends and colleagues. Your support helps us continue bringing you real conversations with inspiring people from across the trades, business, and beyond.
S10 · E4
July 26 · 1 hr 1 min
S10 E4 - One Of Our Own with Mikey Sheridan
This week on The Stripped Back Podcast, Stephen and Keith sit down with fellow Balbriggan ourlad Mikey Sheridan of Lighthouse Electrical for an honest and insightful conversation about life in the electrical industry, building a business from the ground up, and what it really takes to grow both professionally and personally. Mikey shares his journey through the trade, from his early days on the tools to becoming a business owner, discussing the challenges of scaling a company, managing teams, and staying technically competent in an industry that never stands still. The lads explore why continuous upskilling has become essential for electricians, the growing demand for specialist certifications, and the importance of creating clear career pathways for apprentices and experienced tradespeople alike. The conversation also dives into the realities of self-employment, leadership, and the balancing act of running a successful electrical contracting business while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Mikey offers valuable insights into building a reliable team, delegating responsibilities, and fostering a culture of mentorship that helps the next generation of electricians thrive. Social media and technology have transformed how tradespeople market themselves and grow their businesses, and Mikey explains how an authentic online presence can create opportunities, build trust with clients, and establish a strong reputation within the industry. From networking and referrals to niche marketing and business systems, the episode highlights the tools that modern tradespeople can use to stand out from the crowd. The lads also discuss the evolving landscape of the electrical industry, including renewables, new technologies, changing regulations, union support, quality control, and the importance of versatility as the trade continues to develop. Whether you’re an apprentice just starting out, an electrician looking to take the next step in your career, or a business owner navigating the challenges of growth, there’s something in this conversation for everyone. This episode is a reminder that success in the trades isn’t just about technical ability, it’s about continuous learning, building great relationships, backing yourself when opportunities arise, and helping to raise the standard of the industry for those coming up behind you. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with one of Balbriggan’s own as we strip back the realities of modern electrical contracting and the future of the trade. Podcast Sponsor - Snickers Workwear www.snickersworkwear.ie Recorded From - N2 Electrical Wholesalers www.n2electrical.ie
S10 · E3
July 19 · 1 hr
S10 E3 - Going Out On Your Own with Eric Grant
In this episode of The Stripped Back Podcast, Stephen Buckley and Keith Delahan are joined by Eric Grant of KGE Electrical for an honest and insightful conversation about self-employment within the electrical industry. Eric shares his journey into business ownership and explains how working on an RTC tax basis provided the gateway to becoming self-employed. The discussion explores the realities of running an electrical contracting business, the sacrifices and commitment required to succeed, and the importance of continually investing in your skills and knowledge. Eric also speaks about the challenges facing the industry, building a reputable business from the ground up, and offers valuable advice for anyone considering taking the leap into self-employment. Whether you’re an apprentice, an experienced electrician or someone looking to start your own venture, this episode provides an authentic look at what it really takes to make it in the trades. Podcast sponsored by Snickers Workwear Ireland www.snickersworkwear.ie Podcast recorded from N2 Electrical Wholesalers www.n2electrical.ie
S10 · E2
July 12 · 1 hr 14 min
S10 E2 - The Story Behind Bereavement with Cian Doyle
Season 10 Episode 2 features Director, Writer and Actor Cian Doyle for one of the most honest and thought-provoking conversations we've had. Cian opens up about his deeply personal journey through grief, addiction and ultimately transformation, sharing how some of life's darkest moments shaped both the person and filmmaker he has become today. He takes us behind the scenes of his powerful film Bereavement, explaining how storytelling became more than a creative outlet; it became a vital part of his healing process. Throughout the episode, we discuss the importance of vulnerability, why asking for help is one of the strongest things a person can do, and how creativity, purpose and the right support network can change the course of someone's life. Cian also shares practical advice on setting achievable goals and turning ambitions into reality, proving that even the biggest dreams begin with a single step. This is an inspiring conversation about resilience, hope and the power of sharing our stories to help others realise they are never alone. Podcast sponsored by Snickers Workwear www.snickersworkwear.ie Podcast recorded from N2 Electrical Wholesalers www.n2electrical.ie
S10 · E1
July 4 · 47 min
S10 E1 - From Darkness Into Light with Trevor Macken
We kick off Season 10 by sitting down with Trevor Macken from Ashbourne Paving, to explore his extraordinary journey from a troubled childhood and social anxiety to becoming a successful entrepreneur, recovery advocate, and business owner. Trevor opens up about the challenges that shaped his early life, his battle with addiction, and the long road to recovery. He shares how construction became a turning point, leading him into business and giving him a renewed sense of purpose. We also discuss the realities of social media, the pressures surrounding appearance and cosmetic procedures, and why honest conversations around mental health are more important than ever. Trevor reflects on the mentors who helped change his life, the importance of second chances, and his vision for the future as he continues to grow his wellness and beauty business. This is an inspiring conversation about resilience, self-belief, and proving that your past doesn’t have to define your future. Podcast Main Sponsor: Snickers Workwear www.snickersworkwear.ie Recording Venue: N2 Electrical Wholesalers www.n2electrical.ie
S5 · E5
June 25 · 39 min
A Stripped Back Christmas with Aoibhe Devlin
A Stripped Back Christmas with Aoibhe Devlin In this special Christmas episode of The Stripped Back Podcast, Stephen Buckley and Keith Delahan sit down with blogger, influencer and fellow Balbriggan native Aoibhe Devlin for a warm, honest and reflective conversation about life, family, community and everything in between. From growing up in Balbriggan and the experiences that shaped them, to building a career in the ever-changing world of social media, Aoibhe opens up about the reality behind the highlights, including motherhood, mental health, authenticity and the pressures that can come with having a public presence. The conversation also takes a festive turn as they talk about Christmas traditions, childhood memories, family and the magic of creating new memories with your own children. Aoibhe shares an insight into the balance between motherhood, work and brand partnerships, while also discussing how important it is to remain authentic in a world where so much of life is lived online. And with community at the heart of the conversation, they explore what makes coming home, growing up in the same place and staying connected to the people around you so meaningful, particularly at Christmas. A conversation about where we come from, where life takes us, and what really matters when we strip everything back.
S10 · E5
June 24 · 9 min
The Overload - Your Trade Is Not Your Limit
In this solo bonus episode, Stephen reflects on a career lesson that has shaped his journey both on and off the tools, the danger of limiting yourself. From starting out as an apprentice electrician to stepping into an Assistant Management role within a mobile maintenance division, Stephen shares how the skills learned in the trade can open doors far beyond what many people imagine. This isn't an episode about promotions or job titles. It's about mindset, growth and recognising that your current role doesn't define your future potential. Stephen discusses: The transferable skills tradespeople develop every day without realising it. Why problem-solving, communication and leadership begin on the tools. The challenge of moving from peer to manager and maintaining respect and trust. Learning new skills in areas such as client relations, billing, audits and business operations. The importance of staying curious and embracing opportunities outside your comfort zone. Why nobody else should be allowed to decide your ceiling. Whether you're an apprentice, a qualified tradesperson, a supervisor or someone considering your next career move, this episode is a reminder that growth starts when you stop putting limits on yourself. Your trade is not your limit. Your current position is not your final destination. The sky isn't the limit if you're willing to keep learning, keep growing and keep moving forward. Main Sponsor: Snickers Workwear www.snickersworkwear.ie Recording Venue: N2 Electrical Wholesalers www.n2electrical.ie
S10 · E5
June 19 · 11 min
The Overload - Navigating Your Apprenticeship
In this bonus episode of The Stripped Back Podcast, Stephen Buckley takes a practical look at navigating the Irish apprenticeship system, using the Electrical Apprenticeship as a real-world example. Stephen breaks down the seven-phase apprenticeship structure, explaining the balance between on-the-job and off-the-job learning, the types of assessments apprentices can expect throughout their training, and the importance of developing both technical knowledge and practical skills. Stephen also discusses the importance of adding new "tools to your toolbox" throughout your apprenticeship, not just physical tools, but the skills, habits and mindset that help build a successful career. Whether you're a first-year apprentice, approaching qualification, or considering a career in the trades, this episode provides encouragement, practical advice and a realistic perspective on the apprenticeship journey. Sponsored by Snickers Workwear www.snickersworkwear.ie Recording Venue: N2 Electrical www.n2electrical.ie
S10 · E4
June 18 · 8 min
The Overload - Safety At Work
In this bonus episode of The Stripped Back Podcast, Stephen Buckley discusses one of the most important topics in any workplace safety. From risk assessments and Safe Work Plans to Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) procedures and electrical safety, Stephen explores why safety is far more than a box-ticking exercise. It's about protecting people, preventing incidents, and ensuring everyone gets home safely at the end of the day. Drawing on his experience within the electrical and facilities management industries, Stephen shares practical insights into building a positive safety culture, recognising hazards, speaking up when something doesn't feel right, and the importance of looking after both physical and mental wellbeing in the workplace. "Most people won't remember the job that finished late, but families will always remember when someone doesn't come home." Whether you're an apprentice, tradesperson, supervisor, manager, or business owner, this episode serves as a reminder that safety isn't paperwork, it's personal. Main Sponsor: Snickers Workwear www.snickersworkwear.ie Recording Venue: N2 Electrical Wholesalers www.n2electrical.ie

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