#152 Richie Conroy - Garry Talks: Film

In this episode of "Garry Talks Film," host Garry interviews acclaimed Irish writer Richie Conroy, known for works like "Fran the Man", "Crá" and "Two by Two". Richie discusses his creative journey, influences, and the challenges of working in Ireland’s Film and TV industry. The conversation covers his disciplined writing habits, the importance of authentic Irish storytelling, collaboration with directors, and advice for aspiring writers. Richie also shares insights into his upcoming projects and emphasises the value of daily writing, honest feedback, and building strong creative partnerships.   - Support this podcast by joining our tribe today at www.GarryTalks.com - Please follow Garry Talks on Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.  Please follow GKMedia.ie on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and TikTok.  Most importantly – please subscribe to this Podcast. Early Inspiration: Father Ted and Irish Comedy (00:00:00) Richie discusses seeing Irish people being funny on TV for the first time and its impact on his career ambitions. Episode Introduction & Guest Background (00:00:06) Podcast host introduces Richie Conroy, his works, and the episode’s main discussion points. The Importance of Character in Writing (00:00:34) Richie emphasises focusing on character development as the foundation of any story. Podcast Sponsorship and Network Promo (00:00:52) Mentions of podcast sponsors and the GK Media Studios Creators Network. Personal Connection: Meeting in an Airport (00:01:11) Garry and Richie recall how they first met and their families’ brief connection. Richie’s Early Life and Family Influence (00:01:49) Discussion about Richie’s childhood, his father’s writing career, and early inspirations. Discovering Irish Language and Identity (00:06:03) Richie talks about learning Irish, changing his name, and forming his own identity apart from his father. Gaeltacht Experience and Learning Irish (00:07:11) Richie shares his transformative experience in the Gaeltacht and how it shaped his language skills and friendships. Family History and Inherited Interests (00:08:22) Richie discusses his grandfather’s background, family ties to the Irish language, and a story about a stolen family heirloom. Education and Early Career Steps (00:11:16) Richie outlines his studies in media, early ambitions, and first industry opportunities. First Industry Jobs: Magma Films and Animation (00:12:02) Richie describes his work at Magma Films, writing for international animation series, and the Irish TV landscape. Irish Comedy and TV Industry Challenges (00:13:18) Discussion about the evolution of Irish TV comedy, industry limitations, and exporting talent. Industry Growth, Challenges, and Screen Ireland (00:14:56) Richie reflects on industry improvements, ongoing challenges, and the importance of supporting talent development. Project Development and Talent Retention (00:18:17) Talk about the need to support proven writers and the differences in development systems between Ireland and Germany. Collaboration and Navigating Rejection (00:20:16) Richie shares experiences with project rejection, adjudicating for the Arts Council, and the subjectivity of creative decisions. Too Many Cooks: Feedback and Creative Control (00:21:44) Discussion on the challenges of receiving feedback from multiple sources and learning to assert creative boundaries. From TV Series to Feature Film: Fran the Man (00:23:33) Richie explains the process of adapting Fran the Man from a short TV series to a feature film, focusing on character. Comedy Influences and Writing Process (00:24:05) Richie discusses the importance of character-driven stories and comedic influences from his football experiences. Collaboration with Directors and Creative Trust (00:29:17) Richie talks about working with director Stephen Bradley, learning to assert himself, and the importance of trust. Evolving Role: From Writer to Executive Producer (00:32:39) Richie describes negotiating for more creative input and the growing trend of showrunners in Ireland. On-Set Involvement and Editing (00:34:39) Richie details his involvement in directing football scenes and participating in the editing process. Balancing Collaboration and Finding Your Voice (00:35:40) Discussion about transitioning from eager newcomer to established writer with a clear voice and boundaries. Daily Writing Routine and Craft (00:36:34) Richie shares his disciplined writing schedule, workspace preferences, and the importance of consistency. Managing Multiple Projects and Avoiding Burnout (00:40:31) Richie explains how he juggles several writing projects and avoids creative burnout. Creativity, Sobriety, and Writer’s Block (00:41:52) Richie discusses writing habits, avoiding the “drunk artist” stereotype, and his approach to overcoming creative blocks. The Power of Walking and Collaborative Brainstorming (00:44:18) Richie advocates for walking as a tool for creativity and shares experiences from writers’ rooms. Evolving as a Writer: Comedy and New Genres (00:45:49) Richie reflects on how his interests and voice have changed over time, and his desire to explore new genres. Adapting Leonard and Hungry Paul with Julia Roberts (00:49:34) Richie discusses adapting the novel, using narration, and securing Julia Roberts as the narrator. Writing Partnerships: Pros, Cons, and Creative Alignment (00:52:39) Richie talks about collaborating with other writers, the importance of creative alignment, and handling conflicts. CRÁ Two: Relocation and Rewriting (00:56:26) Richie describes the process of moving the setting of CRÁ Two, the challenges of rewriting, and the show’s themes. Advice for Aspiring Writers (01:00:01) Richie offers practical advice: write daily, start with short forms, seek experience in soap operas and animation. Networking and Industry Immersion (01:02:28) Garry and Richie discuss the importance of networking, attending festivals, and ongoing learning for writers. Advice for Collaborating with Writers (01:07:05) Richie emphasises honesty, trust, and creating a safe, egoless space for creative collaboration. Episode Wrap-Up and Closing Remarks (01:10:34) Final thanks, acknowledgments, and sponsor mentions as the episode concludes.  

In this episode of "Wellth Talks" from the GK Media Studios Creators Network, hosts Garry Kelly, Pádraic Ó Máille, and Niall Leyden explore the importance of being truly present in both personal and professional life. They share listener stories, discuss mindfulness strategies like “win the moment,” and highlight lessons from children, animals, and community events. The hosts encourage embracing the present, valuing quality time with loved ones, and invite listeners to share feedback and ideas for future episodes. The episode emphasises that living in the moment is key to well-being and success.   Please visit: GK Media https://www.gkmedia.ie Atlantic Wealth Management https://atlanticwm.ie Pádraic Ó Máille Smácht https://omaille.ie Disclaimer: Niall Leyden is the Founder of Atlantic Wealth Management Limited, a firm that is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland to advise on and arrange a range of financial products. Please note that Niall’s comments in this podcast are made in a personal capacity and are not recommendations or financial advice and do not form part of Atlantic Wealth Management Limited’s regulated activity.   Podcast Introduction (00:00:00) GK Media Studios and Wellth Talks podcast introduction, hosts and network information. Listener Feedback & The Importance of Presence (00:00:17) Hosts discuss listener feedback, including a story about a marriage affected by lack of presence at home. Living in the Present & Mindfulness (00:01:21) Emphasis on being present, mindfulness, and the impact of focusing on the current moment. Choosing Your Attitude & Daily Focus (00:02:18) Discussion on making conscious choices about attitude, actions, and focusing on the day ahead. "Win the Moment" Mantra & Rugby Analogy (00:02:49) Reference to Joe Schmidt’s rugby strategy: focus on winning the present moment, not past or future. The Schmucks Community & Event Explanation (00:04:13) Explanation of the Schmucks community, its events, and the value of shared learning and presence. "Be Where You Are" Lesson from Schmucks Event (00:04:52) Anecdote about Denis Sheridan’s mantra: "Be where you are right now," and its business/life value. Being Present with Family & Cherishing Moments (00:06:29) Personal story about being present with children, valuing quality time, and the lasting impact of presence. Learning from Children and Animals (00:08:09) Reflection on how children and animals naturally live in the present, and quoting Deepak Chopra on presence. Closing Remarks & Call for Feedback (00:09:05) Encouragement to be present, request for listener feedback, and preview of future episode engagement.  

In this debut episode of "Garry Talks: Film," host Garry interviews Emmy-winning producer Siobhán Ní Ghadhra of Danú Media. Siobhán shares her journey from early days in Irish language media to international Emmy success, and discusses the evolution of Ireland’s film industry, especially in the west. She offers insights on balancing creative work with business, the challenges of regional production, and the importance of resilience, networking, and problem-solving. The episode highlights Siobhán’s passion for storytelling, her advocacy for regional development, and practical advice for aspiring producers in today’s competitive media landscape.   - Support this podcast by joining our tribe today at www.GarryTalks.com - Please follow Garry Talks on Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.  Please follow GKMedia.ie on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and TikTok.  Most importantly – please subscribe to this Podcast. Podcast Introduction (00:00:07) Garry introduces Siobhán, her achievements, and the episode’s main topics. Winning the Emmy (00:00:33) Siobhán describes attending and winning at the Emmy Awards, including her surreal experiences. Podcast Sponsorship and Network Info (00:00:51) Mentions of podcast sponsors and the GK Media Studios Creators Network. Siobhán’s Emmy Night Stories (00:01:30) Siobhán recounts the events and celebrations around winning the Emmy, including the flight home. Early Career and Irish Language Background (00:06:15) Siobhán discusses her upbringing, education, and early influences in Irish language media. First Steps in the Industry (00:07:45) Siobhán talks about her first jobs, applying for entry-level positions, and learning on the job. Concorde Studios Experience (00:12:28) Her time at Concorde Studios, learning industry basics, and the importance of hands-on experience. Industry Growth in the West (00:15:44) Discussion on changes in the Irish media industry, especially in the West, and the evolving workforce. Transition to Telegael (00:19:12) Siobhán’s move to Telegael, her roles, and the growth of international co-productions. Work-Life Balance and Organization (00:21:34) Siobhán shares how she manages a busy family and work life, and her need for organisation. Starting Danú Media (00:25:31) The decision to start Danú Media with her husband, motivations, and early challenges. Taking Over Ros na Rún (00:26:19) How Siobhán was approached to take over Ros na Rún, the transition, and the legacy of Máire Ní Thuathail. Lessons from Máire Ní Thuathail (00:29:23) What Siobhan learned from Máire about leadership, confidence, and empathy. Family-Friendly Work and Ros na Rún’s Impact (00:31:58) The importance of work-life balance in the industry and Ros na Rún’s unique role. Working with Her Husband (00:33:16) Insights into working with her husband, their dynamic, and how they manage creative differences. COVID-19 and Company Direction (00:35:20) How the pandemic changed their work patterns and led to a focus on developing their own projects. Buying Out the Production Company (00:37:42) The financial and logistical process of buying out the company and securing Ros na Rún. Ros na Rún’s National Importance (00:38:54) The significance of Ros na Rún as a rural drama and its impact on Irish media. Celebrity Cameos and Audience Engagement (00:39:54) Stories about celebrity guests like Conan O’Brien and the importance of audience connection. Danú Media’s Successes and Board Roles (00:43:45) Siobhán’s involvement in successful projects and her roles on various industry boards. Regional Development in Irish Media (00:46:29) Challenges and opportunities for media production in the West of Ireland. Incentives and Infrastructure for Regional Production (00:48:23) Discussion on tax credits, infrastructure, and the need for more regional production. Sustaining Regional Industry Growth (00:53:39) The importance of long-running series and large-scale productions for regional industry development. Barriers and Solutions for Regional Studios (00:54:17) Obstacles to building studios and attracting productions to the regions. Visionaries and Industry Pioneers (00:56:58) The need for big-picture thinking and historical context of industry development. Current and Upcoming Projects (00:57:42) Danú Media’s current projects, festival runs, and upcoming releases. English and Irish Language Slate (00:58:53) Danú Media’s development of both English and Irish language projects and international collaborations. International Co-Productions and Funding (01:00:22) The necessity of international partnerships and the challenges of funding. Networking and Industry Relationships (01:02:00) How to build relationships in the industry through networking and attending markets. Advice for Aspiring Producers (01:04:10) Siobhán’s advice on learning, networking, and taking opportunities in production. Advice for Working with Producers (01:05:51) Tips for collaborating with producers, focusing on solutions and a proactive attitude. Podcast Closing (01:06:55) Wrap-up and acknowledgments of podcast sponsors.  

In this episode of "Garry Talks," Garry welcomes back Korina Duffy, founder of Eco Fitness. Korina shares her inspiring journey from overcoming homelessness and addiction to growing her inclusive fitness business. She discusses securing a true home, expanding adaptive fitness classes for people with disabilities, and launching impactful community and environmental projects, such as tree planting on Irish islands. The conversation highlights Korina’s commitment to health, sustainability, and fostering connection, as well as her vision for lasting, community-led change through initiatives like Adapter Fit and Club Soda. Her story exemplifies resilience, purpose, and social impact.   - Support this podcast by joining our tribe today at www.GarryTalks.com - Please follow Garry Talks on Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.  Please follow GKMedia.ie on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and TikTok.  Most importantly – please subscribe to this Podcast.     Podcast Network Introduction (00:00:47) Brief intro to the GK Media Studios Creators Network and its mission. Korina’s Return & Last Year’s Episode Recap (00:01:04) Korina’s previous appearance, her story of homelessness, addiction, and inspiration. Securing a New Home (00:02:54) Korina discusses finally having a home that isn’t also a workspace. Eco Fitness Business Growth & Restructuring (00:03:58) Updates on Eco Fitness: team expansion, new locations, and recent business reassessment. Managing Expansion & Team Dynamics (00:06:04) Korina reflects on scaling back, financial decisions, and reconnecting with her business’s core. Community Focus & The “Parish” Vision (00:10:15) Korina’s commitment to building community and focusing Eco Fitness on its local “parish.” Adaptive Fitness Classes for People with Disabilities (00:12:42) Launching and growing adaptive fitness classes, working with councils, and making fitness inclusive. Sustainability & Tree Planting Initiatives (00:21:11) For every member, a tree is planted; Korina’s involvement with Cran and community tree projects. Aran Islands Tree Project (00:27:27) Organising tree planting on the Aran Islands, involving local children and community. Vision Boards & Achieving Personal Goals (00:41:09) How vision boards and intention-setting have shaped Korina’s achievements. Arctic Circle & International Projects (00:42:59) Korina’s fundraising trek to the Arctic Circle and planting trees in Paraguay. Club Soda: Singles Events & Social Initiatives (00:44:35) Creating Club Soda, organising singles walks and events to foster real-life connections. Future Plans & Defining Success (00:51:13) Korina’s big goals: property, expanding adaptive fitness, and leaving a lasting community impact.  

In this episode of "Wellth Talks Women’s Health" from the GK Media Studios Creators Network, hosts Garry Kelly, Niall Leyden and Pádraic Ó Máille discuss the transformative impact of slowing down and prioritising health. They share personal experiences with intermittent fasting, cold water therapy, and mindful routines for improved energy, mental clarity, and longevity. Pádraic introduces the Metta Prayer, a loving kindness meditation, as a tool for stress management and positivity. The episode emphasises small, consistent habits and the power of positive feedback to recharge physically and mentally in today’s demanding world.   Please visit: GK Media https://www.gkmedia.ie Atlantic Wealth Management https://atlanticwm.ie Pádraic Ó Máille Smácht https://omaille.ie Disclaimer: Niall Leyden is the Founder of Atlantic Wealth Management Limited, a firm that is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland to advise on and arrange a range of financial products. Please note that Niall’s comments in this podcast are made in a personal capacity and are not recommendations or financial advice and do not form part of Atlantic Wealth Management Limited’s regulated activity.   Podcast Introduction (00:00:00) GK Media Studios and podcast network introduction, inviting listeners to become storytellers. Episode Welcome & Garry’s Health Journey (00:00:17) Garry Kelly introduces the episode, shares his health scare, and discusses starting healthier habits. Building Consistency in Health Habits (00:01:08) Garry describes shifting to consistent, small exercise routines and sea swims for mental clarity. The Mental Benefits of Sea Swims (00:02:18) Discussion on how sea swims clear the mind and improve mental well-being. Niall’s Perspective: Slowing Down & Health Priorities (00:03:16) Niall Leyden reflects on societal pressures, slowing down, and prioritising health over work. Morning Routines & Ice Baths (00:05:20) Niall shares his morning routine, including ice baths and grounding, to start the day positively. Energy, Fasting, and the “Limitless” Program (00:06:45) Niall discusses energy, intermittent fasting, and inspiration from the “Limitless” TV program. 72-Hour Fast Experience (00:08:21) Niall details his first 72-hour fast, its challenges, and the mental and physical benefits. Fasting Science & Longevity (00:10:04) Explains the science behind fasting, ketosis, and its impact on longevity and health. Practical Fasting Tips & Mindset (00:12:24) Advice on staying busy during fasting, maintaining mindset, and the importance of mental preparation. The “Fully Charged” Program & Recharging (00:12:49) Pádraic introduces the “Fully Charged” concept, emphasising physical fitness, diet, and positive influences. Psychological Recharge & Mindfulness (00:14:21) Importance of psychological well-being, meditation, and mindfulness for stress management. The Metta Prayer Practice (00:15:33) Pádraic shares the Metta (loving-kindness) meditation, its steps, and how to apply it in daily life. Listener Engagement & Podcast Impact (00:19:11) Hosts encourage sharing the podcast, express gratitude for listener feedback, and discuss its positive impact. The Power of Compliments & Positive Feedback (00:20:16) Closing thoughts on the value of compliments, positive feedback, and uplifting others’ energy.  

In this episode of "Wellth Talks," hosts Garry Kelly, Niall Leyden, and Pádraic Ó' Máille explore the concept of "winning the month" by setting and reviewing clear, actionable goals across personal, business, and physical areas. They discuss the importance of writing down goals, regular reviews, and the power of accountability partnerships. The hosts share practical strategies, personal experiences, and research-backed insights, emphasising the need for both supportive and challenging accountability partners. Listeners are encouraged to plan intentionally, use technology, and build the right support system to boost productivity and achieve meaningful progress each month.   Please visit: GK Media https://www.gkmedia.ie Atlantic Wealth Management https://atlanticwm.ie Pádraic Ó Máille Smácht https://omaille.ie Disclaimer: Niall Leyden is the Founder of Atlantic Wealth Management Limited, a firm that is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland to advise on and arrange a range of financial products. Please note that Niall’s comments in this podcast are made in a personal capacity and are not recommendations or financial advice and do not form part of Atlantic Wealth Management Limited’s regulated activity.   Introduction and Episode Theme (00:00:17) Hosts introduce the episode and outline the focus on "winning the month" through monthly planning and goal-setting. Winning the Month: The Technique (00:00:54) Pádraic explains the "winning the month" exercise, its origins, and how to set monthly goals in action-oriented language. Monthly Planning and Review Process (00:02:20) Details on writing down goals, reviewing them at month’s end, and the impact of this practice on productivity. Using Technology for Goal Tracking (00:03:29) Pádraic shares how he uses ChatGPT and digital tools to keep goals visible and reviewed daily. Mindset: Exceeding Your Goals (00:05:11) Discussion on aiming beyond set targets, the importance of clarity, and challenges after achieving major goals like retirement. Purpose, Planning, and Feedback in Business (00:06:22) Niall discusses the importance of purpose, planning, and seeking feedback to build momentum and fulfilment in business. Writing Down Goals and Accountability (00:09:18) Pádraic references Dr. Gail Matthews’ study on goal achievement, emphasising writing, sharing, and reporting progress. The Power of Writing and Clarity (00:11:34) Garry explains how writing down goals aids retention and belief, and stresses the need for clarity and accountability. Embracing Failure and Weekly Planning (00:12:42) Niall reflects on learning from failure, the value of weekly planning, and the role of accountability partners. The Role of Accountability Partners (00:14:29) Pádraic gives an example of two entrepreneurs who met weekly for accountability, highlighting the importance of chemistry. Finding the Right Accountability Chemistry (00:16:59) Discussion on matching personality types for effective accountability partnerships and the impact of different approaches. Coaching Styles: Tough Love vs. Encouragement (00:17:34) Anecdote about Brian O’Driscoll’s two coaches, illustrating the need for both accountability and positive reinforcement. Conclusion and Key Takeaways (00:18:46) Summary of the episode: set personal, business, and physical goals, write them down, share, and get an accountability partner.  

In this episode of "Wellth Talks" from the GK Media Studios Creators Network, Garry Kelly, Pádraic Ó' Máille and Niall Leyden explore the theme of “reset” as September arrives. They discuss the return of routines with kids back at school, the importance of setting new goals, and balancing work, family, and self-care. The hosts share stories about the benefits of breaks, the power of anticipation, and practical tips for finishing the year strong. Listeners are encouraged to reflect, plan, and embrace this season as an opportunity for personal and professional renewal.   Please visit: GK Media www.gkmedia.ie Atlantic Wealth Management www.atlanticwm.ie Pádraic Ó Máille Smácht www.omaille.ie Disclaimer: Niall Leyden is the Founder of Atlantic Wealth Management Limited, a firm that is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland to advise on and arrange a range of financial products. Please note that Niall’s comments in this podcast are made in a personal capacity and are not recommendations or financial advice and do not form part of Atlantic Wealth Management Limited’s regulated activity.   Podcast Introduction (00:00:00) GK Media podcast and Creators Network introduction; invitation to become a storyteller. Wake Up Story & September Reset (00:00:17) Pádraic shares the "headmaster" wake up story; September as a time for reawakening and personal responsibility. Reflecting on Summer & Transition to Routine (00:02:30) Hosts discuss summer activities, guilt, and the return to routine with kids back to school. September as Opportunity for Reset (00:03:26) Emphasising September as a chance to reset, refocus, and set new personal or business goals. Business Timing: Launches & Routines (00:05:10) Best times for business launches; importance of routine for productivity and engagement. Planning for the Last Quarter (00:06:04) Encouragement to use the last quarter of the year to finish strong and prepare for January. The Value of Breaks & Anticipation (00:06:44) Pádraic discusses the psychological benefits of anticipating, experiencing, and remembering holidays. Integrating Breaks into Routine (00:08:50) Hosts talk about planning holidays, new routines like sea swimming, and writing down goals for the next months. Anticipation & Guilt Around Holidays (00:10:07) Exploring the science of holiday anticipation, balancing work and breaks, and addressing guilt. Short Breaks & Mental Health (00:12:13) Advice on booking the next holiday, value of frequent short breaks, and planning mini-getaways. Self-Care, Stress, and Resetting (00:13:55) Importance of self-care, taking breaks, and planning for a balanced, less stressful year-end.  

In this episode of "Garry Talks," Garry interviews Alan Kerins, former All-Ireland winner and founder of Warriors for Humanity. Alan discusses his journey from elite sport to social entrepreneurship, sharing insights on leadership, community, and resilience. He reflects on his sporting achievements, charity work in Africa, and personal challenges, including his son’s illness. Alan emphasises the power of relationships and the importance of creating opportunities for people to make a positive impact, both locally and globally. The conversation highlights the value of community, humility, and purposeful leadership in today’s world. To support Alan's charity work, please visit  https://www.mckeeverteamwear.com/collections/self-help-africa-10303   - Support this podcast by joining our tribe today at www.GarryTalks.com - Please follow Garry Talks on Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.  Please follow GKMedia.ie on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and TikTok.  Most importantly – please subscribe to this Podcast.   Introduction and Setting the Scene (00:00:00) Alan recounts a tense moment with his son's surgery; Garry introduces Alan and outlines the episode’s themes. Early Sporting Success and Hurling vs. Football (00:00:41) Alan discusses being named to the team, winning All-Ireland, and the skills of hurling versus football. Podcast and Network Introduction (00:00:52) GK Media podcast and Creators Network are introduced. Alan’s Background and Self-Reflection (00:01:09) Alan reflects on his varied career, love of variety, and journey from sports to charity and business. Importance of Relationships and Leadership (00:03:00) Alan emphasises the value of relationships in leadership and personal success. Growing Up in Cambridgeshire and Family Work Ethic (00:04:00) Alan describes his childhood, family B&B, work ethic, and exposure to music and famous guests. Jack Charlton and Irish Self-Belief (00:05:04) Stories about Jack Charlton, his influence on Irish confidence, and the 1990 World Cup. Maureen O’Hara and Staying Grounded (00:07:39) Alan shares impressions of Maureen O’Hara, humility, and the importance of staying grounded despite achievements. Irish Generosity and Collective Impact (00:10:03) Alan discusses raising €20 million, the collective effort, and the generosity of the Irish people. Childhood Sporting Aspirations and School Influence (00:12:08) Alan talks about his early focus on hurling, family influence, and the role of primary school in skill development. Transition to Football and College Years (00:13:50) Alan explains taking up football at Trinity, joining Salthill, and rapid progression to All-Ireland success. Club vs. County Success and Community Impact (00:17:01) Alan compares the significance of club and county wins, and the uplifting effect on local communities. Sources of Drive and Holistic Education (00:18:12) Alan credits his energy, curiosity, and supportive home and school environments for his drive. Music, Charity Roots, and Early Fundraising (00:20:33) Alan recalls school music, being a collector, and how early fundraising influenced his charity work. Son’s Illness and Family Resilience (00:21:15) Alan details his son Ruan’s serious illness, medical journey, and the emotional impact on the family. Support Networks and Irish Kindness (00:25:23) Alan describes the support from friends, clients, and the wider community during his son’s illness. Career Shifts and Loyalty in Work (00:29:23) Alan discusses leaving physiotherapy, merging with South Africa charity, and the importance of loyalty in teams. Influential Leaders and Mentors (00:30:14) Alan names key leaders who inspired him, including John O’Mahony and Francois Pienaar. Journey to Africa and Charity Genesis (00:31:43) Alan explains taking a career break, volunteering in Africa, and the formative experiences that led to charity work. Transformative Experiences in Africa (00:35:34) Alan shares impactful moments in Africa, the influence of nuns, and the realities of poverty and resilience. Overcoming Fear and Lessons from Africa (00:39:29) Alan discusses lessons on fear, self-expression, and the importance of enjoying life despite challenges. Founding and Structuring the Charity (00:40:53) Alan describes the organic growth of his charity, formalising it, and assembling a skilled board. Adapting to Economic Downturns (00:43:20) Alan explains how the charity adapted after the Celtic Tiger, focusing on emotional connections and experiences. Corporate Partnerships and Leadership Development (00:45:19) Alan details creating win-win experiences for corporate donors, leading to leadership development work. Current Charitable Projects and Warriors for Humanity (00:46:41) Alan outlines his main projects, including Warriors for Humanity, Plant the Planet Games, and local community initiatives. Community Collaboration and Local Impact (00:48:09) Alan discusses uniting local clubs for fundraising, community building, and the importance of shared experiences. Future Vision and Global Ambitions (00:52:25) Alan shares his vision for expanding Warriors for Humanity globally and creating more opportunities for positive impact. Episode Closing (00:54:17) Garry thanks Alan, and the episode concludes with closing credits.  

In this episode of Wellth Talks, host Garry Kelly speaks with financial planner Niall Leyden and Pádraic Ó Máille about the true meaning of wealth. They explore how real wealth is about freedom from financial worry, peace of mind, and strong family connections—not just high income or material possessions. The conversation highlights the importance of financial discipline, delayed gratification, and knowing what is “enough” for a fulfilling life, emphasising that health and relationships are the ultimate forms of wealth.   Please visit: GK Media www.gkmedia.ie Atlantic Wealth Management atlanticwm.ie Pádraic Ó Máille Smácht omaille.ie Disclaimer: Niall Leyden is the Founder of Atlantic Wealth Management Limited, a firm that is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland to advise on and arrange a range of financial products. Please note that Niall’s comments in this podcast are made in a personal capacity and are not recommendations or financial advice and do not form part of Atlantic Wealth Management Limited’s regulated activity.   Podcast Introduction (00:00:00) GK Media podcast and network introduction, setting the stage for the episode. Introducing the Topic: Rich vs. Wealthy (00:00:17) Host introduces guests and frames the discussion on the difference between being rich and being truly wealthy. Defining True Wealth (00:00:57) Niall Leyden shares his perspective on true wealth as freedom from financial worry and peace of mind. High Earners and Financial Stress (00:01:37) Discussion on how high income does not guarantee financial security or happiness; many high earners live paycheck to paycheck. Cultural Attitudes Toward Wealth (00:02:13) Exploring how wealth is perceived in Ireland and the importance of peace of mind and presence. Lessons from Warren Buffett (00:02:41) Insights from Warren Buffett and the value of simplicity and balance in wealth management. Simplicity in Investing (00:03:25) The importance of simple, disciplined investment strategies and the philosophy of "simplicity is the ultimate sophistication." Delayed Gratification and Modesty (00:04:37) How successful business leaders practice delayed gratification and lead modest, disciplined lives. Needing Less, Not Earning More (00:05:32) The idea that true wealth is about needing less rather than constantly striving to earn more. Warren Buffett’s Patience (00:05:39) Anecdote about Warren Buffett’s patience and preparation before making his first investment. Power of Compounding (00:06:24) Explanation of compounding as a key principle in financial planning and wealth building. Teaching Financial Literacy (00:06:47) Discussion on the importance of teaching compounding and financial literacy to children. The Marshmallow Test and Delayed Gratification (00:06:54) Reference to the marshmallow test as a lesson in delayed gratification and its impact on future success. Knowing What Is Enough (00:07:30) The concept of "enough" and the importance of defining personal financial sufficiency. Health vs. Wealth (00:08:28) Reflection on the value of health over wealth, and the idea that a sick person has only one wish. The Importance of Family (00:12:24) Emphasising family as the most important aspect of life, above business or financial success. Reflections on Legacy and Regret (00:13:48) Stories about Steve Jobs and Denzel Washington highlighting the importance of relationships and living with intention. Closing Remarks and Call to Action (00:15:02) Host wraps up the episode, encourages listener engagement, and promotes the next episode.  

In this episode of "Wellth Talks," hosts Garry Kelly, Niall Leyden, and Pádraic Ó Máille discuss the transformative power of mastermind groups, focusing on Smácht. They explore how regular peer-to-peer support, positive reinforcement, and accountability help members overcome challenges and achieve personal and professional growth. Niall shares his own journey of improvement thanks to the group’s encouragement and structure. The hosts highlight the importance of surrounding oneself with a motivated, supportive community and encourage listeners to seek out mastermind groups for inspiration, connection, and sustained success.   Please visit: GK Media https://www.gkmedia.ie Atlantic Wealth Management https://atlanticwm.ie Pádraic Ó Máille Smácht https://omaille.ie Disclaimer: Niall Leyden is the Founder of Atlantic Wealth Management Limited, a firm that is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland to advise on and arrange a range of financial products. Please note that Niall’s comments in this podcast are made in a personal capacity and are not recommendations or financial advice and do not form part of Atlantic Wealth Management Limited’s regulated activity.   Podcast Introduction (00:00:00) GK Media Studios Creators Network introduction and hosts welcome listeners to the episode. Introducing SMÁCHT Mastermind Group (00:00:17) Hosts introduce the topic of peer-to-peer support and the Smácht mastermind group. Origin Story of SMÁCHT (00:01:09) Pádraic shares the founding story of Smácht during the 2011 recession. Meaning and Importance of 'SMÁCHT' (00:02:15) Discussion on the Irish word 'Smácht' and its deeper meaning beyond discipline. Early Success and Longevity of SMÁCHT (00:03:11) How the group’s simple disciplines led to long-term business survival and success. Mastermind Groups in History (00:04:18) Historical context of mastermind groups, referencing Napoleon Hill and famous figures. Personal Value of SMÁCHT: Motivation (00:06:10) Niall Leyden shares the motivational benefits and peer accountability in Smácht. Personal Value of SMÁCHT: Education (00:08:12) Hosts discuss the real-life business education and learning from peers’ experiences. Personal Value of SMÁCHT: Accountability (00:09:10) The role of accountability, confidence, and behavioural change within the group. Personal Value of SMÁCHT: Big Thinking (00:09:49) How being surrounded by high achievers encourages bigger goals and ambitions. Power of Group and Offline Connections (00:11:12) The importance of group energy, quarterly meetings, and offline support. Safe Space and Vulnerability (00:13:06) SMÁCHT as a confidential, supportive environment for sharing business challenges. Joey the Clown Story: The Facade of Business (00:14:11) Pádraic shares the Joey the Clown story, highlighting the need for safe spaces. Therapy and Peer Support (00:15:49) Group therapy benefits and the value of sharing problems with peers. Positivity and Affirmation in SMÁCHT (00:16:34) The importance of starting meetings with positives and fostering affirmation. Transformation Through SMÁCHT (00:17:46) Niall describes how SMÁCHT has transformed his life and business. Episode Wrap-Up and Call to Action (00:18:13) Hosts thank listeners and encourage joining a mastermind group for support.