Dublin Dialogues

Dublin Dialogues

Welcome to Dublin Dialogues, Interviews and behind the scenes with extraordinary stories told by real Irish people. Here, you’ll find individual experiences shared one on one, filmed in Dublin, Ireland. If you have an interesting story and would like to be featured? Please reach out to us dublindialogues@gmail.com

  1. 21 May

    Modern Society’s Mental Health Crisis - An Irish Perspective - Nigel Mulligan

    Society’s mental health crisis is a systemic emergency fueled by digital isolation, economic pressures, and overwhelmed healthcare systems. With over 1 billion people affected globally—and nearly 40% of adults locally reporting at least one mental health disorder—it demands both cultural shifts and accessible, timely care - Maynooth UniversityIn this enlightening conversation, psychotherapist Nigel Mulligan dives deep into the complex intersections of mental health, societal pressure, and our modern digital reality. Drawing from his extensive background in psychoanalysis and social work, Nigel explains how the environments we live in—influenced by consumerism, technology, and algorithmic control—often mirror the symptoms he sees in his clinic. This video goes beyond typical clinical advice, exploring the 'why' behind rising anxiety and depression, the impact of neoliberalism on individual identity, and the critical importance of human connection. Viewers will gain a profound understanding of how to reclaim their mental autonomy, navigate the challenges of modern life, and why symptoms might actually be a necessary language for self-truth. Whether you're struggling with work-life balance, interested in the psychology of social media, or seeking a deeper meaning in a fast-paced world, this discussion offers actionable ways to view your own journey and the collective human experience.

    35 min
  2. 29 Apr

    From Judo Champ to MMA Coach - Andy Ryan

    Andy Ryan shares his journey from a childhood in Dublin to becoming a leader in the Irish martial arts community. This video serves as a masterclass in mindset, discipline, and the realities of running a successful fight gym.Whether you are an aspiring fighter, a BJJ practitioner, or simply looking for life advice on how to navigate success and failure, Andy’s story provides invaluable lessons. We dive deep into his development in judo, his transition into MMA coaching, and the high-stakes world of professional fighting, UFC and Cage Warriors. Andy offers a candid look at the sacrifices required to go 100% in your pursuits, the importance of maintaining a growth mindset, and why respect among competitors is the foundation of any great team. You’ll gain a behind-the-scenes look at the evolution of Team Ryano, the importance of fostering a supportive community, and the tough realities of training for high-level competition. Perfect for anyone interested in martial arts, personal development, and the dedication required to build a lasting legacy.Andy shares his incredible journey from winning Judo titles to serving in the army, and eventually becoming one of Ireland's most respected Jiu-Jitsu and MMA coaches. He opens up about the sacrifices, pivotal moments with figures like John Kavanagh, and the tough lessons learned from both winning and losing. This video is a must-watch for aspiring fighters, martial arts coaches, and anyone interested in the philosophy of commitment, resilience, and building a legacy. Discover the mindset required to navigate the highs and lows of a life dedicated to martial arts and learn the secrets behind coaching world class athletes like Neil Seery, Paul "Redser" Redmond, Solomon "The King" Simon and many more home grown Irish MMA Fighters.

    39 min
  3. 15 Apr

    High Stakes Poker Interview - Ben "Spraggy" Spragg in Dublin at the Irish Poker Open

    In this candid interview, we sit down with poker icon Ben 'Spraggy' Spragg to uncover the reality behind the professional poker lifestyle. From his early days as a university student discovering online poker to becoming a global ambassador and top-tier streamer, Ben shares the highs, the lows, and the psychological challenges of a career fueled by cards. Whether you're an aspiring poker player or just curious about professional gaming, this video explores the importance of passion over profit and the necessity of radical self-accountability in a high-variance environment. Ben delves into the surreal moments of playing against celebrities, the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance after becoming a father, and his honest struggle to stay competitive while scaling his content creation journey. This discussion provides a deep dive into risk management, the evolution of poker strategy, and how to define success in a world where the deck doesn't always play fair. Learn why the community and shared passion for the game remain the real winners in his journey.Filmed on location in Dublin, Ireland during the 2026 Irish Open.This is Dublin Dialogues — where we uncover the extraordinary stories hidden in Dublin's streets. One conversation at a time.🃏 What we cover:How Spraggy went from online grinder to professional poker playerThe reality behind the streams — what viewers don't seeHis experience at the 2026 Irish Open in DublinThe mental game: variance, tilt, and staying sharpWhat he'd tell his younger self about going pro📩 Want to be featured on Dublin Dialogues?Contact us: dublindialogues@gmail.com🔔 Subscribe for weekly conversations with the real people shaping Dublin's story.

    32 min

About

Welcome to Dublin Dialogues, Interviews and behind the scenes with extraordinary stories told by real Irish people. Here, you’ll find individual experiences shared one on one, filmed in Dublin, Ireland. If you have an interesting story and would like to be featured? Please reach out to us dublindialogues@gmail.com