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

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.

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