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.

  1. Aug 30

    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

  2. Aug 2

    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.

  3. Jul 26

    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

About

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.