In this episode of the 10Forty Podcast, we sit down with David Judge, founder of standout bakery Baked to Death and finalist in the 2025 Irish Food Awards — a business that’s shaking up the food scene with attitude, creativity, and unapologetically authentic cheese and chocolate biscuit cakes.
David shares his journey and the path that led to Baked to Death: from a bold lockdown idea and a refusal to play by the rules, to building a cult following and carving out a unique space in the Irish food world. Drawing on lessons from his market stall beginnings and a typical Dublin upbringing, David brings raw honesty about the grit it takes to run a modern food business.
This episode dives deep into brand building, resilience, and what it really takes to stand out in a crowded market.
Whether you’re a founder, foodie, or just looking for inspiration to do things your own way — this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.
Contact David
https://www.instagram.com/baked_to_death/?hl=en
https://www.tiktok.com/@baked_to_death?lang=en
Drop In
353 Ballyfermot Rd, Cherry Orchard, Dublin 10, D10 WN70
This episode is brought to you by Top Drawer Talent — the Supply Chain & Procurement Specialists.
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Are you interested in sharing your career journey on the podcast? Whether you're keen to talk about your path or promote a specific job or career route, we'd love to hear from you.
Drop us a line at info@10forty.com — we’ll get the coffees in! ☕
Sponsorships: Want to partner? Reach out to us at info@10forty.com
Ep 74 - The Reinvention of Reverend Dave: Banker, Big Four Taxi Driver & Celebrant
In this week's episode, we sit down with Reverend Dave for a conversation about reinvention, purpose and carving out a meaningful second act. Dave began his career in the banking industry, moved into one of the Big Four professional services firms, then once again shifted — driving a taxi and ultimately discovering his calling as a celebrant, officiating weddings and helping people mark the major moments in life.
In this episode, we explore:
• The catalyst that made Dave realise banking and big professional services weren’t for him — and how he took the leap into something totally new.
• Why he chose to drive a taxi as a transitional chapter: what he learned about people, purpose and listening.
• His journey from taxi-driver to celebrant: how he discovered the world of officiating and decided to “marry people for a living.”
• An insider’s look into the growing profession of celebrancy: how more people are choosing this path, what training and certification look like (including insights from organisations like FuturFaith), and what it takes to build a thriving celebrant business.
• The lessons Dave has taken from his corporate days, the taxi dash and now in his celebrant practice — and how listeners can apply them, whether they’re thinking of a career switch or seeking deeper meaning in what they do.
Whether you’re at the start of your career, contemplating a change, or simply curious about the unexplored world of celebrancy, this conversation offers real-life insight, practical take-aways and a dose of boldness to help you reimagine what work can be.
Contact Dave
https://www.futurfaith.com/apply
Moderncelebrancy.ie
https://www.linkedin.com/in/reverend-david-cummins-b2671431/
https://www.instagram.com/moderncelebrancy?igsh=djFqbGtmZXV0YXg=
This episode is brought to you by Top Drawer Talent — the Supply Chain & Procurement Specialists.
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Are you interested in sharing your career journey on the podcast? Whether you're keen to talk about your path or promote a specific job or career route, we'd love to hear from you.
Drop us a line at info@10forty.com — we’ll get the coffees in! ☕
Sponsorships: Want to partner? Reach out to us at info@10forty.com
In this episode of the 10forty Podcast, I sit down with Yvonne Tchrakian — a corporate lawyer, entrepreneur and podcast host whose journey is a powerful mix of ambition, belief, and self-discovery.
From growing up in Los Angeles to returning home to Kerry, Yvonne shares how her early experiences shaped her drive to become a solicitor. We talk about her path through law school, completing her master’s, passing the New York Bar and finding her place in Mergers and Acquisitions.
Yvonne opens up about pivotal career moments — including an unforgettable boardroom encounter with a high-profile CEO — and what ultimately led her to step away from private practice to explore new opportunities in the industry.
We also dive into the story behind her business Pause.Penny, the evolution of her podcast, and how manifestation has become a central theme in both her career and personal life.
It’s an inspiring, honest conversation about trusting your path, creating balance, and manifesting the life you want — even when it means taking bold steps into the unknown.
Connect with Yvonne
• LinkedIn: Yvonne Tchrakian — Lawyer | Founder of Pause.Penny Boxes LinkedIn Ireland - https://www.linkedin.com/in/yvonne-tchrakian-64257619/
• Instagram: @yvonnetchrakian_manifest Instagram+2Linktree+2 - https://www.instagram.com/yvonnetchrakian_manifest/?hl=en&utm_source=chatgpt.com
• Linktree (aggregator of her profiles & links): Yvonne Tchrakian (Linktree) Linktree - https://linktr.ee/yvonnetchrakian_manifest?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Pause.Penny — Business / Brand
• Instagram / brand profile via linktree: Pause.Penny on Linktree (Shop, podcast, Instagram, etc.) Linktree+1 - https://linktr.ee/pause.penny?utm_source=chatgpt.com
• Podcast page on Pause.Penny’s website: Pause.Penny — Podcast Pause.Penny - https://pausepenny.com/podcast/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
This episode is brought to you by Top Drawer Talent — the Supply Chain & Procurement Specialists.
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Are you interested in sharing your career journey on the podcast? Whether you're keen to talk about your path or promote a specific job or career route, we'd love to hear from you.
Drop us a line at info@10forty.com — we’ll get the coffees in! ☕
Sponsorships: Want to partner? Reach out to us at info@10forty.com
In this week’s episode, we sit down with Steven Quinlan, a PGA Professional with over 11 years’ experience, an accomplished pro golfer, and a dedicated PGA coach. Steven teaches at Newlands Golf Club and Celbridge Golf Range, with an impressive record of 4 Irish Region Wins and 51 PGA Top Tens in Ireland.
Steven’s journey is one of true passion and perseverance. From picking up a golf club at 16 and joining a local pub golf society—just for the chance to get out of school once a month—to becoming one of the youngest players on his team and earning early wins, his love for the game never faded.
After the financial crash in 2009 left him without a job, Steven took a new direction—completing a course in sales, service, and motor mechanics while delivering car parts and working behind a trade counter. But watching friends play golf multiple times a week reignited his drive to make golf his career.
That determination led him to study Professional Golf Studies, securing an assistant pro role at Lucan Golf Club. There, he learned the business of golf—sales, fitting, coaching—and was mentored by experienced professionals, honing his skills both as a player and a coach.
Today, Steven combines experience, technology, and a deep understanding of the game to help golfers of all levels improve their swing, strategy, and confidence.
📍 Connect with Steven Quinlan:
🔗 LinkedIn: Steven Quinlan - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-quinlan-9b608b86/
📘 Facebook: Steven Quinlan Golf - https://www.facebook.com/Stevenquinlangolf?rdid=sVwYjZrdN27WuwnJ&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F1DHxe9oikq%2F#
📸 Instagram: @stevenquinlangolf - https://www.instagram.com/stevenquinlangolf?igsh=NnR2MWFubmQ3YzJ6
⛳ Book a Lesson: https://stevenquinlan.proagenda.com/agenda
🌐 Website: www.sqgolf.ie
This episode is brought to you by Top Drawer Talent — the Supply Chain & Procurement Specialists.
HERE WE GO!
Are you interested in sharing your career journey on the podcast? Whether you're keen to talk about your path or promote a specific job or career route, we'd love to hear from you.
Drop us a line at info@10forty.com — we’ll get the coffees in! ☕
Sponsorships: Want to partner? Reach out to us at info@10forty.com
In this episode, we sit down with Caitriona Byrne, the CEO of Bypress.
She takes us through the story of founding Bypress and reflects on her career in the gaming industry—a journey that’s taken her from Gibraltar to India, Israel and the Netherlands. In the end, the pull of home brought her back to Ireland, where she now lives just five minutes from where she grew up.
Having worked with Caitriona and her team, I can say firsthand that the solutions Bypress delivers are truly transformative. Their commitment is second to none—they treat every client’s business as if it were their own, and the results speak for themselves.
Bypress is currently hiring for positions in Sales and Office Administration. If you’re looking to join a company that champions innovation, integrity, and heart, reach out to Caitriona and send over your CV.
Connect with Byress
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bypress_solutions?igsh=MWlldGJzMndoMmU3bw==
https://www.linkedin.com/in/catrionabyrne
Website: https://www.bypress.ie/
This episode is brought to you by Top Drawer Talent — the Supply Chain & Procurement Specialists.
HERE WE GO!
I Interested in sharing your career journey on the podcast? Whether you're keen to talk about your path or promote a specific job or career route, we'd love to hear from you.
Drop us a line at info@10forty.com — we’ll get the coffees in! ☕
Sponsorships: Want to partner? Reach out to us at info@10forty.com
On this episode of the 10forty Podcast, I sit down with Richy Thrower, the founder of Motion Focus Media. With a background that spans from racing bikes and capturing trackside action to producing professional highlight videos. His first one reached over 20,000 views and raised £5,000 for a local club, Richy has carved out a unique path in media and entrepreneurship.
But his story starts much earlier. Expelled from school by Year 9, Richy was escorted back only to sit his GCSEs. Always finding himself in trouble, he was encouraged by his dad to join the army at 16 — a decision that set him on a life-changing journey. We talk about his first day, the lessons learned the hard way and his time serving in the British Army, including being deployed to a war zone at just 18.
After five years of service and a medical discharge, Richy faced some of the toughest moments of his life — from hitting the self-destruct button to nearly becoming homeless. We explore the challenges of transitioning out of the army, struggling to find work despite retraining, and the resilience required to rebuild.
Richy went on to climb the ranks in security, eventually becoming Operations Director, managing clients, contracts, and staff — all while building his side hustle into Motion Focus Media. Today, he’s creating standout content for businesses, offering insights into outsourcing, marketing and the realities of growing a creative company.
We finish with a look at his next big project — a short film designed to help people avoid real-world situations they may encounter, blending his security experience with his creative vision.
This is an honest, raw and inspiring conversation about resilience, risk-taking, and reinventing yourself.
Contact info
https://motionfocusmedia.co.uk/
https://peakpotential.world/
https://www.instagram.com/motionfocusmedia?igsh=MXNtc3gwb3pieGY3eg==
https://www.instagram.com/richythrower?igsh=d3FqYzE1b2Y2YXR6
https://www.tiktok.com/@richythrower?_t=ZN-8zzUyu9RGju&_r=1
https://www.tiktok.com/@motionfocusmedia?_t=ZN-8zzV17MSVkM&_r=1
This episode is brought to you by Top Drawer Talent — the Supply Chain & Procurement Specialists
HERE WE GO!
Interested in sharing your career journey on the podcast? Whether you're keen to talk about your path or promote a specific job or career route, we'd love to hear from you Drop us a line at info@10forty.com — we’ll get the coffees in! ☕
Sponsorships: Want to partner? Reach out to us at info@10forty.com.
From teaching English in South Korea, to touring with a band that supported the Foo Fighters, to appearing on reality TV – Neil Smith has lived a life full of twists and turns before finding his calling in medicine. Despite not excelling in his Leaving Cert and briefly studying engineering, he decided to began studying medicine abroad in Bulgaria.
In this episode Neil shares his unconventional journey in full. We talk about the realities of studying medicine in Europe, the entry requirements and why everything is focused around the entrance exam. He also breaks down the cost of living in Varna, the price of an academic year and the fees for the service he provides to guide Irish students through the process.
Today, through his page Irish Medic in Bulgaria, Neil not only documents his own story but also helps aspiring doctors from Ireland who are considering studying abroad. His journey is a reminder that success rarely follows a straight line — and that with resilience and resourcefulness, it’s possible to carve out a career path that works for you.
Connect with Neil
Social
This episode is brought to you by Top Drawer Talent — the Supply Chain & Procurement Specialists
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Interested in sharing your career journey on the podcast? Whether you're keen to talk about your path or promote a specific job or career route, we'd love to hear from you.
Drop us a line at info@10forty.com — we’ll get the coffees in! ☕
Sponsorships: Want to partner? Reach out to us at info@10forty.com.
Lost in the Graft: More Than Driveways with Trevor Macken from Ashbourne Paving.
From upside down to right way up, Trevor’s story is one of resilience, grit, and rebuilding.
In this episode, Trevor from Ashbourne Paving opens up about a life that’s been anything but straightforward—showing up to just two Leaving Cert exams, becoming the only person in his school to fail art, and feeling like he wasted two years at school before finding his way onto a factory floor.
He talks about losing eight friends, four before the age of 21, getting into trouble on construction sites and even ending up in prison—only to be bailed out by his boss (with the bail money taken out of his wages). By 25, Trevor decided to go out on his own, starting small with just two lads and growing his crew through sheer work ethic, persistence, and lessons learned the hard way.
We get into the highs and lows: scaling from 2 to 36 men, losing everything, then fighting his way back. He shares how mistakes—even sending his team to the wrong site—helped push his business forward, and why it takes 10 years to truly learn a trade or trust a crew.
But Trevor’s story isn’t just about paving. It’s about mental health, addiction, and change. He speaks candidly about hitting rock bottom, going through treatment in Thailand and Wexford, and setting up his own mental health group and Cocaine Anonymous meetings to help others every week.
We also dive into:
• Building a paving business in the age of social media (and dealing with the hate).
• Firing staff, second chances, and setting boundaries.
• Why doesn’t he travel more than an hour for work and take bookings months in advance?
• Trial and error with suppliers, business ventures outside paving, and his love of nice things.
• Whether he should start his own paving school.
Trevor’s journey is raw, real, and full of lessons—about graft, setbacks, redemption, and becoming a man when it’s easier to stay a child.
• Website: Ashbourne Paving | Paving, Porcelain Tiles & Artificial Grass – Their main site showcases services, project galleries, and contact info. https://ashbournepaving.ie/
• Instagram: @ashbournepavingltd – Active account with reels and posts featuring paving projects, behind-the-scenes footage, and family-run business highlights. https://www.instagram.com/ashbournepavingltd/?hl=en&utm_source=chatgpt.com
• Facebook: Ashbourne Paving Ltd – Company page with project showcases, customer feedback, and video posts from Trevor and the team.
https://www.facebook.com/ashbourne.paving/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
This episode is brought to you by Top Drawer Talent — the Supply Chain & Procurement Specialists.
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Interested in sharing your career journey on the podcast? Whether you're keen to talk about your path or promote a specific job or career route, we'd love to hear from you.
Drop us a line at info@10forty.com — we’ll get the coffees in! ☕
Sponsorships: Want to partner? Reach out to us at info@10forty.com.
This week on the 10forty Podcast, we’re joined by Max Shannon, founder of Rylax and software engineer turned entrepreneur.
This conversation is raw, honest, and at times technical, as Max takes us through his journey from growing up “acting the goat” in school to later being diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia, scoring just 220 points in the Leaving Cert, and eventually carving his own path into tech and entrepreneurship.
From a young age, Max was fascinated by how things work, building his work ethic on farms and construction sites with his dad. He shares his story of dropping out of college, bouncing between jobs, then returning to study at Waterford Institute of Technology—an experience that led him to a four-month scholarship in Austria. Alongside that, he opens up about the life-changing moment of learning he was going to be a dad, and how that pushed him to finish his degree.
We talk about his first job in tech, why he left to chase bigger opportunities, and how keeping strong relationships with mentors and old bosses has supported him as he ventured out on his own.
Max is now building Rylax, a proptech platform designed to transform how property is bought, built, and sold. Originally aimed at helping new home buyers, Max shares why he pivoted to a B2B model serving developers, estate agents, and buyers alike. From AI-driven snag reporting and real-time valuations to tools that identify costly inefficiencies on building sites, Rylax is shaping the future of Ireland’s property industry.
We also chat about:
• Turning a passion for PC gaming (and even a bit of cheating in games) into a tech career
• The realities of taking on a business partner
• The resilience it takes to pivot, grow, and keep moving forward
Max’s story is one of grit, curiosity, and innovation—and he’s only getting started.
👉 Connect with Max on LinkedIn and check out Rylax at rylax.ie.
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/max-shannon-9a725a155/
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/rylax.ie?igsh=MXEzYWJxaHpmazJzNg==
This episode is brought to you by Top Drawer Talent — the Supply Chain & Procurement Specialists.
HERE WE GO!
Interested in sharing your career journey on the podcast? Whether you're keen to talk about your path or promote a specific job or career route, we'd love to hear from you.
Drop us a line at info@10forty.com — we’ll get the coffees in! ☕
Sponsorships: Want to partner? Reach out to us at info@10forty.com.
In this episode, we sit down with Niall O’Carroll, a former Garda detective who made the transition to becoming a sports psychologist and performance coach, working with 27 Olympic champions across Canada, the UK, and Japan.
Niall shares insights from both sides of his career—what policing taught him about resilience, communication, and emotional intelligence, and how those lessons shaped his approach to coaching elite athletes and business leaders.
We discuss:
The fine margins between winning and losing at the highest level.
How techniques like visualisation and goal-setting can unlock peak performance.
Why he left the Garda and the philosophy he brought to policing.
His current mission to transform leadership and workplace culture through emotional intelligence and human-centered coaching.
It’s an inspiring conversation that blends discipline, psychology, and high-performance coaching with real-life experience.
Connect with Niall O’Carroll
LinkedIn: View his professional profile and connect with him here:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/niall-o-carroll-18065732/
Personal Website: Discover his background, journey from the Garda to sports psychology, leadership philosophy, program offerings, and more at his site:
nialloc.ie
This episode is brought to you by Top Drawer Talent — the Supply Chain & Procurement Specialists.
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Interested in sharing your career journey on the podcast? Whether you're keen to talk about your path or promote a specific job or career route, we'd love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@10forty.com — we’ll get the coffees in! ☕
Sponsorships: Want to partner? Reach out to us at info@10forty.com.
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This week on the 10forty Podcast we’re joined by DJ John Gibbons.
We explore John’s journey from starting out as a rock star to becoming one of Ireland’s most recognisable DJs. His path was far from traditional—he’s never worked a conventional job, instead throwing himself fully into music from a young age. From his first gigs at 15 to club bookings at 16, John shares what it really takes to make it as a DJ and how instinct, patience, and resilience have shaped his career.
John talks us through his unique DJ style, one that thrives on spontaneity. He never pre-plans his sets, instead feeding off the crowd’s energy, building that powerful connection on the dancefloor, and mastering the art of warming up a room. We dive into the politics of the club scene, the highs and lows of his career, and whether the Irish club scene is dead or making a comeback.
Education also plays a big role in his story. John reflects on school, how Transition Year sparked his creativity, and what he would change about the education system. He also opens up about his college years at UCD—where he admits he went through the motions to earn a degree while DJing seven nights a week and running a DJ agency. He shares how his parents reacted to him avoiding the “safe” career route, and the sacrifices he’s made to build and rebuild his career.
We discuss how COVID impacted his business, how he pivoted and his views on the industry today—from whether DJs need a label, to the differences between agents, labels, and managers, and the questions every up-and-coming artist should be asking. John also shares advice on how to get started as a DJ, the low barrier to entry that now exists, and the resources available for those ready to make their mark.
Looking ahead, John reveals his top five venues, his upcoming gigs—including shows in Carlow on the 22nd Augest, New Year’s Eve performances, the Irish and UK college circuit, and summer residencies in Spain—and what’s next for him creatively. We also touch on the rise of AI and what it could mean for the future of the music industry.
This episode is full of insights, whether you’re curious about the life of a DJ, interested in the Irish club scene, or thinking about starting your own journey in music.
Connect with John
This episode is brought to you by Top Drawer Talent — the Supply Chain & Procurement Specialists.
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Interested in sharing your career journey on the podcast? Whether you're keen to talk about your path or promote a specific job or career route, we'd love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@10forty.com — we’ll get the coffees in! ☕
Sponsorships: Want to partner? Reach out to us at info@10forty.com.
Don’t forget to subscribe to the 10forty Podcast
In this week’s episode, we sit down with Emma-Louise Stephenson to dive into her incredible journey — from growing up in Ireland to building a thriving business in Dubai.
Emma shares what drove her to relocate, explaining how she felt she had reached her potential in Ireland and was ready for a new challenge. She’s now on a mission to empower entrepreneurs and investors with the knowledge they need to buy property in Dubai.
We rewind to her school days, where she had to work hard to pass her exams as she wasn’t naturally academic — but she always knew she wanted to be an entrepreneur. From studying in college to completing her PTI course while working in a restaurant, her strong work ethic shines through. She went on to open her own personal training space, and when COVID hit, she pivoted her career path completely.
Emma takes us through what the journey looks like for someone looking to invest in Dubai, including:
• Dubai’s growth plans, the new airport, and the massive opportunities in the Middle East.
• How the property market works — from financial options to developer regulations.
• The protections in place, including strict DLD rules, escrow systems, and why Dubai offers such security for investors.
• How surprisingly simple the buying process can be in the UAE.
We also discuss her Global Influence Podcast, her company Global Influence Real Estate, and the mindset it takes to succeed in such a competitive market.
Where to find Emma-Louise:
🌐 Website: https://global-influence.com/
📸 Instagram: @emma_louise_stephenson
💼 LinkedIn: Emma-Louise Stephenson
🎧 Podcast: Global Influence Podcast
This week on the 10forty Podcast, we sit down with Sean, the founder of Goosey Goo, to hear his raw and powerful story — one that’s filled with grit, honesty, heartbreak, and hope.
Sean takes us on a journey from his school days and early career choices, through dropping out of college, landing his first job, and chasing a better position with more money and a coveted half-day Friday — only to be hit with unexpected health issues and life-changing news: a baby on the way.
From there, things got even tougher.
We talk about his experience moving into emergency accommodation, the realities of homelessness, and the emotional toll it took on him & his partner. Sean opens up about the social restrictions and dangers of life in that environment — and how it pushed him to take a risk and start something of his own.
With just €50 saved each week, a box of blanks, a DIY iron-on logo and the determination to change his circumstances, Goosey Goo was born. Sean shares how he managed to sell 150 units, found a supplier with no minimum order quantity and even secured unexpected support through a cold LinkedIn message.
We explore how he's using his journey as a superpower, documenting every step, and building a PR engine to drive awareness and impact. He also shares what’s next — including a showroom opening in Fashion City this September — and his bold ambition to become the next Mothercare.
This episode is a masterclass in resilience, resourcefulness, and redemption. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or someone navigating a tough chapter, Sean’s story will stay with you.
👶 What is Goosey Goo?
🛠 Lessons from the grind
💬 Advice for those struggling
❤ Regrets, growth, and a new beginning
Hit play and have a goo
Follow Sean
Insta:: https://instagram.com/gooseygoo.ie
TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@homeless2entrepreneur
Website; https://gooseygoo.ie/
This episode is brought to you by Top Drawer Talent — the Supply Chain & Procurement Specialists.
HERE WE GO!
Interested in sharing your career journey on the podcast? Whether you're keen to talk about your path or promote a specific job or career route, we'd love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@10forty.com — we’ll get the coffees in! ☕
Sponsorships: Want to partner? Reach out to us at info@10forty.com.
Don’t forget to subscribe to the 10forty Podcast
This week on the 10forty podcast, we sit down with Donnchadh O Mahony – a man of many hats: schoolteacher, guidance counsellor, EdTech entrepreneur, podcast host, social media educator, media contributor, and columnist. He’s also the voice behind the hugely popular Leaving Cert Guidance podcast.
Donnchadh brings his motto “Think it. Choose it. Live it.” into every conversation – and this one is no different.
With over a decade of experience in education – first in an all-boys school, then in an all-girls school – we explore:
• Why he became a schoolteacher and his love for history
• The path that led him into guidance counselling
• What exactly does a guidance counsellor do
• How many hours do students actually get with one
• The structure and depth of these conversations
• Whether the Leaving Cert is a worthwhile exercise
• If going to college is the only option he promotes
• Should there be alternative routes out of school?
We also ask:
• How does he help students pick the right college course?
• Are classrooms too big?
• Is college changing – and what would he change about himself?
• What makes a great guidance counsellor?
• Whether he would still recommend teaching as a profession today
💡 Plus, we chat about his innovative EdTech business FindMyCollegeCourse.ie – what it is, who it’s for, how it helps students, and whether it should be rolled out in schools nationwide
Packed with honest insights, some surprising facts, and plenty of practical wisdom, this episode is a must-listen for students, parents, and educators alike
Connect with Donnchadh
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leavingcertguidance?_t=ZN-8yQdcxaNgPu&_r=1
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leavingcertguidance?igsh=ZTc4cXAyc3BvbXdz
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnchadh-o-mahony-395852169/
Listen to his podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5eUTaKHFwnmKY9SQoiAMKM?si=Q27aJXHhRGWDFYJvrgKt6w
This episode is brought to you by Top Drawer Talent — the Supply Chain & Procurement Specialists.
HERE WE GO!
Interested in sharing your career journey on the podcast? Whether you're keen to talk about your path or promote a specific job or career route, we'd love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@10forty.com — we’ll get the coffees in! ☕
Sponsorships: Want to partner?
Reach out to us at info@10forty.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to the 10forty Podcast
In this week’s episode of 10forty, we caught up with former professional footballer Mark O’Brien over Teams to talk through his incredible career journey — from grassroots football in Dublin to the highs and lows of life as a pro in the UK, and the remarkable resilience it took to return to the pitch after undergoing not one, but two open heart surgeries.
We dive into:
• Mark’s early love for the game, from kicking a ball as a kid to his first session with Cherry Orchard.
• Being scouted at a young age and the conversations that happen between clubs, parents, and players.
• Traveling back and forth to the UK for trials, and the life-changing decision to leave school to pursue a career in football.
• Choosing Derby County over Blackburn Rovers after extensive training with both clubs, and what shaped that call.
• The emotional toll of homesickness, the difference between staying with a host family vs. staying in digs, and adapting to life in an academy.
• The structure of an academy week — diet, training, and how contracts work for young players.
• His journey through two life-altering open heart surgeries, and the physical and mental climb back to playing first-team football.
• Relationships on and off the pitch, and the work Mark is now doing beyond football.
We also chat about his book, A Game of Two Hearts — a powerful story of courage, recovery, and the love of the game.
👊 Massive congratulations to Mark on his new role as Newport County’s official Club Ambassador!
📚 Grab a copy of his book:
A Game of Two Hearts – Mark O'Brien
Connect with his
Linkiedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-o%E2%80%99brien-3167a4229?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/mobrien1992?igsh=MXY2cTJzM2FxNnA4
This episode is brought to you by Top Drawer Talent — the Supply Chain & Procurement Specialists.
HERE WE GO!
Interested in sharing your career journey on the podcast? Whether you're keen to talk about your path or promote a specific job or career route, we'd love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@10forty.com — we’ll get the coffees in! ☕
Sponsorships: Want to partner? Reach out to us at info@10forty.com
Don’t forget to subscribe to the 10forty Podcast
In this weeks eposide, we are joined by former footballer Mark Obrien to hear how he went from
This Week on the 10forty Podcast: A Deep Dive into the World of Retail with Melissa Moore
In this week’s episode, we sit down with Melissa Moore at D2 Podcast Studio to chat all things retail — from career journeys and industry insights to the power of podcasting.
Melissa is the host of the award-winning Retail Tea Break Podcast, a retail consultant, and a lecturer in sales and retail apprenticeships. Her career began with a summer job at Laura Ashley, and took her from studying Theatre Arts Management to working behind the scenes in London’s West End. After landing a role with a theatre producer, life brought her back to Ireland, where she launched her retail journey with Dunnes Stores before joining IKEA for its Irish debut.
We cover:
💼 Connect with Melissa on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/mooremelissa1/?originalSubdomain=ie
🎧 Listen to The Retail Tea Break Podcast on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1Yp4nkYObK5ANBN9iC2WHx?si=eba3dbfad3664f17, YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@theretailadvisor5698, and follow her on Instagram @theretailteabreakpodcast https://www.instagram.com/theretailteabreakpodcast/
Thanks to the guys in D2 Podcast Studio for putting the edit together.
This episode is brought to you by Top Drawer Talent — the Supply Chain & Procurement Specialists.
HERE WE GO!
Interested in sharing your career journey on the podcast? Whether you're keen to talk about your path or promote a specific job or career route, we'd love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@10forty.com — we’ll get the coffees in! ☕
Sponsorships: Want to partner? Reach out to us at info@10forty.com
Don’t forget to subscribe to the 10forty Podcast
In this week’s episode, we sit down with the one and only Kerry Hanaphy, founder of one of Ireland’s best-known aesthetics clinics. A powerhouse in the industry and a multi-award-winning entrepreneur, Kerry is a true inspiration.
We dive into her incredible journey—from her humble beginnings, getting into school and moving to the UK to train as a nurse, where hands-on experience was part of the job from day one.
We explore:
• Her early career and the personal challenges she overcame
• The global company that allowed her to work in multiple countries
• The turning point: returning to do a training course that opened the door to a side hustle—starting with house calls and a chair in a hair salon in Tallaght, eventually building a network of over 50 salons
• The pivotal decision to go full-time as an aesthetic practitioner—one that hinged entirely on securing finance for a new car (!)
We also chat about everything from Botox and “Brotox” to cutting-edge procedures like Morpheus8, lip fillers, and anti-wrinkle injections.
Plus, Kerry shares:
• What she looks for when hiring new team members
• The exciting expansion of her brand with a brand-new clinic opening in Cork
Kerry is a legend in her space—authentic, driven, and deeply passionate about what she does.
👉 Learn more at kerryhanaphy.com
Follow Kerry on Instagram (Link)
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-hanaphy-26611023/
Thanks to the guys in D2 Podcast Studio for putting the edit together.
This episode is brought to you by Top Drawer Talent — the Supply Chain & Procurement Specialists.
HERE WE GO!
Interested in sharing your career journey on the podcast? Whether you're keen to talk about your path or promote a specific job or career route, we'd love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@10forty.com — we’ll get the coffees in! ☕
Sponsorships: Want to partner? Reach out to us at info@10forty.com.
This Week on the 10forty Podcast: Keith & Stephen from Insights – The Stripped Back Podcast
In this week's episode, we sit down with Keith and Stephen — electricians by day and podcasters by night — and the creators of Insights: The Stripped Back Podcast. With over nine seasons recorded and several sponsors already backing them, the lads are making waves in the world of trades-based content.
We dive into their journeys into the electrical trade, how their experiences in school shaped them, and what led them to launch their podcast. Keith and Stephen have very different learning styles and professional paths: Keith could cram and pass exams quickly, while Stephen had to take more time for things to click — both proving there's no one-size-fits-all path to success.
Keith also shares what inspired him to start his own business, Energise Electrical Contractors Ltd, while Stephen explains why he prefers life as an employee, now working as a Facilities Technician for Mitie. Together, they shed light on the importance of gaining broad site experience across domestic and commercial work, and the sometimes harsh culture that still exists on building sites — particularly for apprentices starting out.
We talk about what they look for when hiring, advice for apprentices to keep their heads down and learn as much as they can, and why training your own team to your standards is crucial for business owners.
=If you’re in need of a trusted electrical partner for your home, business, or renewable project — reach out to Keith at Energise Electrical Contractors Ltd:
🌐 tradehq.com/EnergiseElectricalContractors
📧 info@energiseelectrical.ie
Listen to insights the stripback podcast where ever you get your podcast
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2SyP17XraZTXHVdjcXKtFa?si=TgLZlndFRd-WeCME2R717w
Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@InsightTheStrippedBackPodcast
Apple
For larger commercial facilities work, Stephen and the team at Mitie are a solid choice.
This episode is brought to you by Top Drawer Talent — the Supply Chain & Procurement Specialists.
Special thanks to the Guys at D2 Studio for the edit and putting the podcast together.
HERE WE GO!
Interested in sharing your career journey on the podcast? Whether you're keen to talk about your path or promote a specific job or career route, we'd love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@10forty.com — we’ll get the coffees in! ☕
Sponsorships: Want to partner? Reach out to us at info@10forty.com.
This week on the 10forty podcast we’re joined by Joey Boland, former Dublin senior hurler and CEO of Sports Physio Ireland, for a wide-ranging and inspiring conversation.
Joey shares his journey through second-level education, including the decision to resit his Leaving Certificate after breaking his leg — a major setback that ultimately shaped his resilience and drive. He talks about the early days of his sporting life, from being dropped off at trial games alone to travelling the country with his team, often staying in teammates’ houses, playing matches, and going out for dinner together afterward. These experiences not only built character but also laid the foundation for strong, lasting relationships off the pitch — something Joey believes is crucial for success in both sport and life.
We dive into:
• What it really takes to become a county player – the commitment, gym work, and video analysis behind the scenes
• His transition from athlete to physiotherapist – and ultimately to entrepreneur, stepping off the tools to focus on scaling his business
• What Joey looks for when hiring new team members – what they’ll be doing from day one, and the emphasis he places on building a strong, positive company culture
• Why health and wellbeing are more than just buzzwords – and why Joey regularly speaks on this at events across the country
Finally, we touch on Joey’s passion for health and wellbeing, and how he now speaks at events to share his knowledge and promote the importance of looking after both body and mind.
👉 Connect with Joey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joey-boland/
👉 Learn more about Sports Physio Ireland: sportsphysioireland.com
This episode is brought to you by Top Drawer Talent — the Supply Chain & Procurement Specialists.
HERE WE GO!
Interested in sharing your career journey on the podcast? Whether you're keen to talk about your path or promote a specific job or career route, we'd love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@10forty.com — we’ll get the coffees in! ☕
Sponsorships:
Want to partner? Reach out to us at info@10forty.com.
This week on the 10forty Podcast, we're joined by Fran Massey, better known as Fran the Jeweller from The Cut Price Jewellers.
In this episode, Fran takes us on a journey through his life and career—from collecting scrap metal as a kid, to studying subjects he wasn’t too fond of in school, to getting his first break in the jewellery trade. We hear about his early days selling antiques in the Iveagh Markets, the tight-knit Liberties community, and how those formative years shaped the businessman he is today.
Fran opens up about the critical role his family has played in the success of his business. While many shy away from employing family, Fran believes it’s the "secret sauce" behind The Cut Price Jewellers’ enduring success. We talk about his decision to go out on his own, the backing he got from his parents, and the mentors who’ve guided him along the way—both in jewellery and other ventures.
We also dive into practical advice for anyone thinking about buying an engagement ring, the realities of the luxury watch trade, and the growing conversation around lab-grown versus natural diamonds.
It’s an honest, insightful, and inspiring conversation with one of Dublin’s most recognisable names in jewellery.
Find out more here https://thecutpricejewellers.com/
Follow Fran - https://www.instagram.com/fran.thejeweller?igsh=MWI1dTd3anZtYW8wbg==
The Cut Price Jewellers - https://www.instagram.com/thecutpricejewellers?igsh=emdqa2JkdzloM2Z6
This episode is brought to you by Top Drawer Talent — the Supply Chain & Procurement Specialists.
HERE WE GO!
Interested in sharing your career journey on the podcast? Whether you're keen to talk about your path or promote a specific job or career route, we'd love to hear from you. Drop us a line at info@10forty.com — we’ll get the coffees in!
Sponsorships: Want to partner? Reach out to us at info@10forty.com
