General Spec

Aidan Kearney is a British Psychological Society (BPS) Chartered Coaching Psychologist, a BPS RAPPS registered psychology practice supervisor and professional member of the Association for Contextual Behavioural Science. How did Aidan get into this? we speak about his time in the Gardai, and what skills he learned along the way. What his day looks like now and what well know sports people he has worked with. You can find out more about Aidan on www.malleablemind.co.uk

4 time football All Star Keith speaks about growing up in Ballyhaunis and the differing sports on offer at a young age. Keith lined out in both codes for Mayo (football and hurling) and we learn about his family history with strong connections to Galway. We speak about youth success and getting called into the senior setup. Juggling work, club and county. What aspects of his game came natural and what had to be worked on? what is it like to play an All Ireland final? We speak about this plus a whole lot more. Send this to a your GAA mad game. Enjoy!

Davy Holden is riding the crest of a wave with his social media account going great guns and this is all down to the hard work and research Davy puts in. Davy focuses on his passions which are Irish history and our language Hear him speak about his previous life as an accountant, giving up history in school, and his plans for moving to the US. Who would be his dream dinner party guests? we cover this and much more! Davy is a fantastically engaging person who's knowledge will educate and entertain those who watch/listen. Search Davy Holden anywhere on social media and give him a deserving follow.

Dr Tara speaks about her career as a clinical physiology and the path it took to get to it. Growing up in Kerry and the issues seen by different generations and the role of social media providing a different challenge. We speak on what issues are seen in Irish public healthcare to face and how Tara switches off. Subscribe and share to a friend!

Shauna is an Irish professional boxer who has a world title in her immediate vision. Listen to Shauna speak about the influence of her brothers when first picking up a pair of gloves and the battles against Katie Taylor. We speak about the difficulties and challenges that face pro boxers also. Shauna is very clear on your future goals and you can follow her on instagram : Shauna_okeeffe_boxer

Jason Hackett aka Prime Mutton has taken the internet by storm with his great content of finding good Guinness. Listen to how watching others try it during lockdown drove Jason to drink and the adventures he has had along the way. Jason is a person of many interests and we delve into those such as Man City and being a world class Bridge card player. Have a listen and to share to a friend!

Gary is a GAA coach and PT with over 28k Instagram followers. A former county minor who shares why he didn't make senior has built a strong online following with easy to follow instructions that any club player can apply both young snd old. We speak about his tough challenge against Dublin the underdogs tv series and the positive experiences which don't come on the pitch in that game! Share to a Gaelic football liking friend and give Gary a follow too @gaz_gaelic_guide.

Hear about the man behind the Long Acre and the reason for the name itself. Maurice has packed a lot into his 29 years, being adopted as a baby to retuning to his home county and setting up a farm and social media following behind it. Maurice is passionate about his interests and isn't afraid to say what he truly thinks which has garnished both good and bad feedback online. Hear Maurice speak about the issues of farming in Ireland and his hopes for the future. Maurice was a gentleman to deal with and has greatly supported this podcast since which is massively appreciated. Give the Long Acre a follow on instagram, you may not agree with everything but be willing to have your opinions challenged and Maurice is using his voice to do that.

Kerryman Tomás has recently returned home from a cycle across Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran and the UAE. This isn't the first such trip and nor will it be the last, take a listen to the fascinating stories of life on the open road and the massively positive experiences found by Tomás. It hasn't all been easy, we speak about the challenges and lessons learned along the way. Hear what Tomás is at now at home, and a possible return to Gaelic football and all. Genuinely one of the nicest pods to record. Take a listen, follow Tomás on socials (anbotharfada) and send to a friend.

Hamish who hails from Prestwick (near Glasgow) has recently moved to the other side of the world Australia and even more recently has started up a YouTube page called “Celtic AM” a Celtic FC related channel which can be found on YouTube, the content and style Hamish brings is excellent so give that a sub! Hamish has also released a book on Ange Postecoglou “Never Stop” which can be found of course on Amazon. We speak more than just Oz and Celtic, did you know about Elvis Presley's trip to Prestwick? If not this is surely worth a listen alone!

James Weir, recently retired from professional football at the young age of 28 talks us through growing up in Preston and the move from his hometown club to Man United at 13. James progressed through the youth ranks and made his Premier League debut against Arsenal at Old Trafford. James talks about the man who gave him that debut, Louis Van Gaal and what occurred after. James speaks about his transfers to Europe and the decision to call it a day and pursue a new career. James can be found on instagram as @jamesweirtravel, the handle should give you an idea about that new business! A proper gentleman and as a United fan this was a very proud moment for me!

Season 4 kicks off with comedian Rob Morgan (robbiemorgz). Rob is currently Stateside but talks us through his life in Essex the differing jobs he had including a postman and the reasons that didn't work out! Rob is a big West Ham fan but also of footballs from circa 2002 which plays a part in his “cheat code” comedy. A very funny man and as his bio says “some dry weird stuff”. Give Rob a follow on all social medias. Subscribe to the podcast too sure!

Listen to the story of a trip to the Czech Republic had a marked change on David's life. What is the reason behind #MakingBigBank and how he manages to keep all the plates spinning, day job, social media including podcast “The Wood From The Trees” alongside a young family. David is good and direct so he says exactly what he thinks and gives his opinion on the current main stream media and role of advertisers with people on social media. I have been chasing David for a while so I'm delighted he came on!

This one a bit special! Stephen “Cowboy” Kelly is an internet sensation, with almost 220k followers on Instagram alone. Hear about how a chance encounter with a hardy buck got him involved in the show back in the day. Hear him speak passionately about the live shows with the likes of Garron Noone and plans for the future. Of course we speak on Mayo football! It hasn't been all smooth sailing for the Mayo man, a heart attack at 28 is just one thing he has had to deal with. Stephen is a very busy man and I really appreciate him taking the time for this. Follow 3bucksleft, and listen to deadhedgehogs podcast but only after you subscribe and give 5 stars to General Spec! Enjoy and share to a friend.

I had the absolute pleasure of speaking to one of Manchester's hardest working men in media, Joe McGrath! I was delighted when he agreed to do the episode as you will hear all the different pies he is currently fingering at the moment, The Sloppy Joes podcast, The Wingmen YouTube channel, a show on BBC Radio Manchester and the location of this recording, The Red Lion Withington where Joe hosts a quiz each Wednesday. He speak about United, his Irish heritage, favourite takeaway in Manchester which tastes an unexpected and saucy turn! I hope you get a laugh as much as I did in recording. If you do share to a friend and subscribe!

Duncan McNamara, has written his first book about an adventure of walking the Camino De Santiago and how some covid spring cleaning nearly a decade later drove him to document his experience in his book “Walk This Way”. We also speak about his new sporting activities which are keeping him busy along with giving his two cents on the UK in general. The book can be found on Amazon “Walk This Way”.

Leigh is a long way from Tuam County Galway based in the UAE and the route he has taken to signing his first professional football contract at the age of 33. We speak about growing up, playing junior football in Galway. Dealing with setbacks and wanting to see more of the world which involved moving to London and then to Dubai. Leigh is a busy man, fitting in coaching, training, playing and working. He speaks about some of the Premier League footballers he has met who he know calls friends. Leigh talks about his hopes for the future and where he'd like to see himself.

“A wonderfully well crafted comedian with a great old school style of storytelling” is how Tommy Tiernan has described Bernard. But, did you know he has won two all Irelands? How soaking wet clothes didn't stop him making the first steps into something we never wants to leave. Bernard talks about his upbringing in Kerry, being in a school class of craic and playing football for his local club, Skellig Rangers. He is a comedian who has hundreds of millions of views, what inspires the idea of his characters and situations? Also, the teeth?! It was an absolute pleasure talking to Bernard, give him a follow on his socials as you will be guaranteed a laugh!

Singer, songwriter and Williamstown neighbour, Hubert Murray, joins the pod to talk about growing up in a house of music and mix tapes, and the influence of his family on his musical journey. A conversation with his father, led Hubert to fly the nest and follow his love for music. Hubert later moved to London for work and with that came a change in his music taste, being immersed into the blue grass and folk scene. Hear Hubert talk about how he found the move back to Ireland and the inspirations of his music and lyrics. Hubert works in healthcare and we speak about how he has managed to keep both plates spinning. Hubert is my oldest childhood friend so it was a great walk down memory lane! At the start and end of this episode you will hear Hubert's soon to be released new style song “Everything is Not as it Seems”. Hope you enjoy, and if you do why not check out Hubert's music on Spotify and YouTube, and while you are at it, give the podcast a follow and 5 stars!

I had the absolute pleasure of having Irish Times Sports Journalist Malachy Clerkin join the pod for episode 7. Malachy talks about how a mistake on his college CAO form led him to the job he loves. We talked about growing up in Monaghan Town during an era of influential sports stars like Maradona and McGuigan. Malachy also talks about his own time as right back for his local soccer club, the big move to Dublin for college and the competition win that got him into the Sunday Tribune. Malachy is one of Ireland's finest sports writers, and we get into how he learned to engage the reader telling stories from a different angle. We also discuss the books he has written, and chatting to his mates at Second Captains. Hope you enjoy it, please subscribe to the podcast and share about.

Malachy speaks about the European Rugby Cup Final, does it bode badly for the Irish team going into the World Cup? Thoughts on the new All Ireland football series, and why are so many not bothered? And finally who is Malachy tipping for Sam. The Full Episode with Malachy is out Thursday 1st June. Please share and subscribe to the pod!

Award winning journalist and good mate Liam joins the pod to talk about his career to date and hopes for the future. Liam speaks about how early family influences shaped him and his passion for social injustice. Listen to Liam speak passionately about tragic stories he has covered like Stephen Smith and the work done during covid and how they affected him. Liam speaks fondly of his Irish links, which grew when we lived together in “The Palace” of Chorlton. Liam tells the story of how he is known as the “midget vaccine guy” both in the UK and around the world. We get into how he approaches coming face to face with the leaders of the government and how this changed with experience. Liam is not only a talented journalist but a wonderful speaker, this was really fun to record and I hope you enjoy it. If you do please share it about!

Will from Generation Rent speaks about private renting in the UK and the common issues faced by renters. Making the news this week is the Renters Reform Bill, Will speaks about the benefits that this will bring. We get into what pressures can be put on the government, those who are forever renters and are happy to be. Find out if landlords are leaving the market and turning to Airbnb. Generation Rent (https://www.generationrent.org/) offer practical advice and are active on social media. #VentYourRent

Zach Sullivan, professional ice hockey player for almost a decade, who has played for his country and in 2020 became the first openly bisexual player in the sport. What spurred him to going public? the media frenzy which took hold alongside the reaction of own team mates. Zach speaks about importance of his family, why they put him into so many sports when young, what made him choose ice hockey and the experience of scoring past Petr Cech. The move to Glasgow and why it went ended on a sour note. Zach talks joining the Manchester Storm. We also touch upon the immediate plans, does he want to stay at the Storm next season? And what after the game? We also managed so football manager chat too! Enjoy and share.

Seán picks up the chat talking about his Dundee United debut. Seán went on to play a decade at Tannadice and that special cup win in 2010, the European nights and the derby games. Seán also spoke about what he is doing now at Montrose, what attributes have served him well to be playing coming up to 40. We also speak about the future, does he want to become a manager? and the current state of the League of Ireland and the national team. A absolute gent to speak with, please subscribe and share this pod.

Seán kicks off the second season of the pod, and it's a two part special! In this episode Seán talks about growing up in Dublin, the various experiences he has with being scouted before going to Aston Villa. Seán talks about moving home, striking up a life long friendship with fellow pod guest Graham Gartland, winning trophies at Longford Town and Shels, plus very entertaining stories of being involved with the Irish youth setup, with legendary manager Brian Kerr.

We have reached end of season 1, and how better to finish it then with a piece of in depth investigative podcasting. Callam aka Calpol, sharing his experience of doing Uber on the side. How his learnings can benefit aspiring drivers and customers. Callam has some great stories so stick around for this one and share to a friend.

Freelance football journalist, Alex Jonson who has worked for FIFA and UEFA, who has has media content published in serveral countries including Sweden, Spain and England is the feature of this pod. Alex speaks about growing up in Sweden, how her passion for football and Hendrik Larsson fuelled a desire to move to Spain to cover La Liga. Alex speaks about how her passion became her job. Alex has covered the biggest sports events from Olympics to World Cups but the people in the games are more interesting to cover than just xG. Alex became a Real Oviedo fan and shareholder. How the fans saved the club more than once has inspired Alex to write a book on it. Alex also has an extensive football jersey collection which can be seen when WFH on Twitter @AlexandraJonson. This conversation also covers some interesting information about Spanish fan culture and club ownership. Please subscribe and share this to a friend! Enjoy

My mate Greg joined me from Sydney to discuss his work and passion, volunteering. Greg speaks about how he first got involved by moving to Manchester. The well reported issues and how others can get involved and how rewarding it is. Greg speaks about his move to China, and onto Australia. Greg is a natural story teller, and speaks about our odd first meeting, plus his other passion in life, Everton. For anyone looking to get involved in volunteering in the UK click https://www.gov.uk/government/get-involved/take-part/volunteer.

A top notch talk with one of Ireland's finest comedy creators over the past decade or so, Martin Maloney. Get to hear from the man behind the Eddie Durkan character as Martin talks through his move from Merseyside to Mayo as a teenager, stories from the building site which you won't find in a safe pass course. How the Hardy bucks started up and the inspiration for the names and characters took it from a university project to RTE. Martin speaks about the doubts of others in the tv show and the experience of appearing in TV show Vikings. In the past few years many things have changed including in Martins life. He him speak about those changes and what life is like in Sweden which includes him interviewing for a role as a teacher. Martin is redoubling his efforts to make new content and has exciting plans for the year ahead. Give Martin a follow on Instagram @MartinMaloney, Twitter @EddieDurkan and the man is also on TikTok. Please share and enjoy!

Award winning journalist Ewan discusses growing up in Kildare a Rangers fan. Why he dropped out of college and how he got into print media. Ewan speaks about the books he enjoyed writing and the one he didn't and why. His experience of moving to Brazil, and seeing how Ireland and its media reacted to lockdowns. How his views on those topics have affected his career. Ewan speaks about plenty of other things in this most General Spec of pods done to date. Ewan can be found on Twitter @EwanMacKenna. Please sub and share this podcast.

Tadhg talks us through the well laid out path he followed to join Connacht Rugby, how injuries changed his course which brought him to Missouri via Italy, playing for USA Rugby before transiting to American Football and taking a kick in a 70,000 stadium. Tadhg tells us how what he is doing today to help Irish players attain scholarships in the US brings him joy and a passion to do more. Tadhg tells us how you can get involved with Leaderkicking. Follow Leaderkicking on instagram or checkout Leaderkicking.com for more information.

Graham talks about his return to Scotland, dealing with injuries after a bright start, becoming friends with Michael Duberry, and moving home to finish playing which involved working under Stephen Kenny. Making the move into coaching and dealing with leaving that role. Graham talks about his involvement with Shamrock Rovers today alongside his media work. Check out Graham's excellent “Clear The Head” interviews on YouTube.

In the first part of a 2 episode special, Graham talks through his upbringing in Tallaght, playing all sports but with soccer as the main focus. Juggling the Leaving Cert and signing a contract in the UK turned sour as a result of the ITV tv deal collapsing. The return home which kick started his career winning cups and a title with Drogheda United. Graham talks about how his experiences are helping in his academy role with Shamrock Rovers today. Graham also talks about his favourite moments, and a story about getting an senior Irish call up. Give it a listen and a share, subscribe to the podcast so not to miss out on part 2.

Shaun (Instagram: Kearneyfolk) talks through a diverse range of topics which include his band Whiskey Dancer, a thrilling ride in Florida to 99 ice cream cones, and answering, are they a county thing? He confesses his undying love of Niall Quinn and a ball of other things. Buckle up for this unfiltered discussion with Cloonfad's finest. Shaun (pictured) presented me a bottle of Black Donkey, “Sheep Stealer”, as Buff Egan would say “a mighty sound gesture”. Follow Shaun's account https://instagram.com/kearneyfolk?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Luke talks us through how teenage injuries has shaped his opinion and attitude towards physiotherapy and general healthcare. He talks about living with an All Black, a game of pool with Bundee Aki played a key role in him joining Connacht, working in the NHS during covid, use of social media as a power for good and why he wants to complete a decade in 3rd level education by becoming a Doctor. Take a listen and follow him on Instagram https://instagram.com/luke_irish_physio?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Mark and Aaron (Fitzy) speak candidly about the coffee scene in Manchester, why they started the page, the reasons behind the scoring, and which one is most important! The pair talk about the dream end goal, and a few interesting tails along the way which include a deceased family dog! Give the lads a follow on Instagram https://instagram.com/coffee_connoisseurs_manc?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Spoke to Colm Farrell of Stamp Out Suicide (SOS) in his new hometown of Warrington. Colm speaks about the history of SOS, how the relationship started with St Peter's GAA Manchester, along with discussing how he noticed differences in call volume during covid and providing important advice to all with regards to mental health. *SOS phone lines are open 16 hours a day 10am-2am on 07766-808-222. Website: www.stampoutsuicide.co.uk

Spoke to the Gaffa Jason Hursty Hurst and Chris McLaughlin after going down 2-12 to 1-6 by the men from Turn Moss

Caught up with Tristan, Donny, Cinny, KF Dan and Long John after St Peter's GAA Manchester played first game of 2022 v JM of Liverpool. The scousers running out deserved winners. Like share and sub for more! #HailHail