Best Of Belfast: Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast on Steno.fm

Best Of Belfast: Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast

Northern Ireland has a better story to tell — one that goes beyond bombs, bullets and a sunken ship. You are part of this story. With 300+ conversations featuring some of the incredible people who call this place home, our weekly show gives you the chance to get away from the clickbait and connect with the amazing things happening in Belfast. Previous guests include NASA Scientists, Billion-Dollar CEOs, 91-year-old park-runners, Oscar-winning directors, Olympic Gold medalists, Bitcoin Auctioneers, Tim Burton's puppet-maker and a guy who built an aeroplane in his garage. Well-known voices include Snow Patrol, Foy Vance, Julian Simmons, May McFettridge, Zoe Sa...

Sun, August 18, 2024
How ‘Rory’s Travel Club’ Got 100k Customers
Rory King is the owner of Rory’s Travel Club. In this episode, we talk about: Leaving Northern Ireland to work in Fiji Starting his travel club in an Indian restaurant in Brooklyn Scaling to 100,000 customers Running a business where “everyone wins” And his plan to grow to 1 million customers Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/rory-king-rorys-travel-club Join Rory’s Travel Club Here: https://rorystravelclub.com/
Mon, August 12, 2024
Collecting Adventures with Lucy Briggs
Lucy Briggs is a world traveller whose career spans across Government, Academia and Royalty. In this episode, we talk about: Her love of collecting things Where she got her desire to travel from Why Gen-Z's career path will look different than their parents How a StudyUSA experience ended up taking her around the world Landing a job with the Royal Family And advice she'd give to her 18-year-old self. Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/lucy-briggs
Mon, August 05, 2024
This coach helped me stop being a workaholic | Caroline McKenna
Caroline McKenna is an Executive Coach who works with some of the most successful people in Northern Ireland. In this episode, we talk about: Why hard work doesn't always work Working on the business vs in the business Why self-care if one of the highest leverage activities you can engage in How to take time off without thinking about work And a live coaching session with Matt Check it out.https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/caroline-mckenna-coach P.S. Work with Caroline: www.leadself.co.uk
Mon, May 27, 2024
Ciaran May on the Sins of our Fathers, Suicide & the Path to Resilience
Ciaran May is the founder of Natural Resilience, a lover of nature and a proud father. In this episode, we talk about: The baggage Northern Irish men are unpacking from their dads/grandas Joining the police as a young lad from West Belfast Taking “the armour off” for the first time The rock bottom moment that changed his life forever And breaking limiting beliefs around business/money Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/ciaran-may-natural-resilience Ciaran’s Skool: https://www.skool.com/natural-resilience-6996/about
Mon, May 20, 2024
“Just do” — Tom Griffiths
Tom Griffiths is a Sunday Times Top 100 Entrepreneur & Disruptor who is currently launching a revolution with https://www.nightlenses.com In this episode, we talk about: Getting Richard Branson naked Digitally selling fish in buckets before they come to shore Breaking the “crabs in a barrel” mentality 10-second courage The power of taking action And advice he’d give to an 18-year-old self Check it out! https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/tom-griffiths-night-lenses
Mon, May 13, 2024
Bethel’s Kitchen’s Willetta Gabriel on Bagels, Pickles & the Future of Dromore
Willetta Gabriel is the founder of Bethel’s Kitchen: an artisan bagel and pickle business in Dromore, County Down. In this episode, we talk about: Launching an extremely niche product in a rural town Why every single bagel tastes different (Depending on who rolled it) How one social media post saved her whole business And her experience living in Northern Ireland for the last 20+ years. Check it out! https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/willetta-gabriel-bethels-kitchen Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethelskitchen?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9PnmQraZ3Gg9zTFr7
Mon, May 06, 2024
Mark Marais on Nostalgia, Africa & Building a Business Around Your Passion
Mark Marais is an entrepreneur from Zimbabwe with deep roots in Belfast. He’s the founder of the luxury travel business Africa Golf Safari and co-founder of the Sport Changes Life Foundation. In this episode, we talk about: Growing up on an idyllic African farm during the war How sport helped with racial integration in his school What Donald Draper can teach us about nostalgia The difference between space and place Starting his business even though it didn’t make any sense Combining passion with entrepreneurship His experience in and passion for Northern Ireland And advice he’d give to his 19-year-old self. Check it out! https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/mark-marais-africa-golf-safari P.S. Mad Men nostalgia video: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=suRDUFpsHus
Mon, April 29, 2024
“American Uncle” Tony Novosel on Study USA & the Transformational Power of Travel
Tony Novosel MBE is a former motor mechanic, steelworker, and semi-retired academic from Pittsburgh who has dedicated his life to serving Northern Ireland. In this episode, we talk about: How the collapse of the steel industry was the best thing that ever happened to him Why he first decided to visit Northern Ireland 50 years ago (And why he's been 85+ times since!) Acting as "the American uncle” for NI students on the Study USA programme, (which is is managed by British Council Northern Ireland on behalf of the Department for the Economy) The transformation power travel has had on his own life and the lives of his students Why we tend to oversimplify narratives The grassroots movements that led to a hugely successful academic book about NI Being awarded an MBE And advice he'd give to any student interested in studying overseas! Check it out.
Mon, April 22, 2024
Graham Robinson on Virtual Production & The Future of Storytelling
Graham Robinson is an Artist and Director with over 15 years of experience working with household names like Netflix, Universal Music Group, Ed Sheeran, Coldplay, Dua Lipa and the BBC. In this episode, we talk about: How the creative journey is made up of incremental steps rather than huge Hollywood moments Discovering his art form at a young age The role of the artist in society Balancing virtual worlds with the "real-world" Being led by intuition/calling rather than logic/reason What he learned from his time working in London and LA How Belfast is positioned to carve its own path in the new era of story-telling Why he thinks the big-budget feature film model is about to be disrupted The deep heritage/history of Northern Ireland as a place of creativity and impact And his vision for the future of the screen industry in NI Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/graham-robinson-virtual-artist-and-director
Mon, April 15, 2024
Changing the world one beer at a time | Alan Mahon, Brewgooder
Alan Mahon is the Belfast-born Founder and CEO of Brewgooder, an impact beer brand, B Corp, and the fastest-growing independent UK beer brand of 2023. In this episode, we talk about: Meeting George Clooney & Leonardo Dicaprio Leaving his "three mums” behind to move to Scotland The tension between doing good and making money How getting a parasite in Nepal led to him starting his business The power of pub culture and its impact on relationships Using business as a vehicle to change the world Not compromising on quality just because you're "doing good” Why he moved back to Northern Ireland after so many years And advice he'd give to an 18-year-old version of himself Check it out! https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/alan-mahon-brewgooder
Mon, April 08, 2024
Marty Neill on Tiny Rooms, Video Games & “Figuring It Out”
Marty Neill is the founder of AirPOS. He’s also an ex-music journalist and avid retro gamer. In this episode, we talk about: Leaving school illegally at 15-years-old Building and selling video games as a kid on his Spectrum + 2 How all the best things in his life have come from “tiny rooms” Why you should never fall in love with your business Ideas being the “real currency” How COVID both destroyed and transformed his business Why your business will never love you back The huge opportunities that exist in Belfast And the new Retro Arcade opening in Belfast later this year Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/marty-neill-airpos
Mon, April 01, 2024
Máirtín Ó Muilleoir on Blackbirds, Boyhood & The Future of Media
Máirtín Ó Muilleoir is the publisher of the Andersonstown News in Belfast and the Irish Echo in New York. In this episode, we talk about: Why he has a blackbird on his business card How he was able to buy a business with no money The future of the newspaper industry Growing up in Andytown during the sixties Challenges facing the media sector The symbiotic relationship between Ireland/America Life lessons from a Buddhist Chaplain And dealing with the chaos of modern life Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/mairtin-o-muilleoir-andersonstown-news
Mon, March 25, 2024
Patrick Treacy on Pioneering Aesthetic Medicine, Treating Michael Jackson & Witnessing History
Patrick Treacy is a pioneer in Aesthetic Medicine. Throughout his incredible career, he’s won countless awards, trained thousands of doctors and trail-blazed new protocols used around the world today. In this episode, we talk about: Smuggling cars across the German border to pay for med school Being arrested in Iraq under suspected espionage How being from Ireland quite literally saved his life His phone call with Nelson Mandela Treating Michael Jackson and the subsequent friendship that ensued How he wants to spend the next few decades And advice he’d give to his 18-year-old self Check it out! https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/patrick-treacy-aesthetic-medicine
Mon, March 18, 2024
Meat Merchant Peter Hannan on Quality, Attention To Detail & “Chance Encounters”
Peter Hannan is a Meat Merchant who supplies 400+ restaurants throughout Ireland, the UK and Europe, including some of the biggest names in the industry. In this episode, we talk about: How he started out in the meat business (Aka, butchering lambs for his mum's mate's freezer as a boy) Moving to America at 19-years-old to learn from the masters of his industry Becoming the highest-paid executive in Ireland by the age of 22 Setting up his own business The decision to focus on quality rather than quantity Why attention to detail is the most crucial thing in business Buying 5 tonnes of salt from Pakistan How one smoke break changed his business forever And advice he'd give to his 18-year-old self Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/peter-hannan-meat-merchant Hannan Meats: https://www.hannanmeats.com/
Mon, March 11, 2024
Iain Percy on Olympic Success, Electric Ferries & Maritime Decarbonisation
Iain Percy is the founder of Artemis Technologies and a two-time Olympic Gold Medalist. In this episode, we talk about: How he fell in love with the water His work with professional sailing teams around the world Building the world's first electric workboat and electric passenger ferry The pros/cons of bringing an Olympic mindset to business Limiting time vs limiting the scope of projects Why he decided to base the business in Belfast The necessity for green technology to make sense financially His vision for maritime decarbonisation And his dream of opening up a commuter ferry service to Belfast Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/iain-percy-artemis-technologies
Mon, March 04, 2024
Unlocking Toyota's Winning Formula | Alan Weir | Belfast Roots to Global Success
Alan Weir is a top leader at Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK. In today's episode, we talk about: His first job in Belfast Zoo Amusement park as a kid Working in a seatbelt factory Leaving home Managing a team of 40 English men in his early-twenties (And the leadership lessons he learned as a result) The powerful culture Toyota have created Experiencing Japan for the first time How a car comes of the line every 86 seconds at his factory (And the business principles that make that possible!) Ways he switches off from work And advice he'd give to an 18-year-old version of himself. Check it out! https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/alan-weir-toyota-uk
Mon, February 26, 2024
Ross Lazaroo-Hood on Taking Risks, Letting Go of Limiting Beliefs & Living Forever
Ross Lazaroo-Hood is the CEO of Clearer Water: “a social-impact company” based in Larne. He's also the founder of Landmark Insurance Group and cofounder of the RUSA Foundation Charity. In today's episode, we talk about: Where his name comes from Growing up in an estate in Larne Getting the freedom of the city award in London How his start-up didn't make any money for 18 months Merging his business and personal identities together Why entrepreneurship is an amazing tool for improving society Dealing with haters/trolls Falling back in love with Northern Ireland And advice he'd give to a younger version of himself. Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/ross-lazaroo-hood-clearer-water
Mon, February 19, 2024
Snow Leopards, Snakes & Community Farms | Wildlife Conservationist Jonny Hanson
Jonny Hanson is a conservationist, agriculturalist, and entrepreneur. In this episode, we discuss: Spending his summer holidays working with wild animals. Pursuing a PhD in Snow Leopard Conservation. The shift in the conservation industry from a "Western" to a "local" approach. Living in both Malawi and Monaghan during his childhood. The impact this had on his personal identity. Establishing Northern Ireland's first community-owned farm. His forthcoming book and documentary. What he would ask St. Patrick over a pint. Check it out! https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/jonny-hanson-conservationist Links for Jonny: TEDxTalk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2FCUumWaTBo&pp=ygURdGVkeCBqb25ueSBoYW5zb24= NI Science Festival Event with Teaser Premiere: https://nisciencefestival.com/events/snow-leopard-trail-taster-tape-premier
Mon, February 12, 2024
Beyond the Love Story with Relationship Coach Lisa McFarland
Lisa McFarland is Northern Ireland’s leading relationship coach. In today’s episode, we talk about: Why there’s a taboo about getting help with your relationship (Versus hiring a PT, mechanic etc) The importance of talking to your male partner shoulder-to-shoulder Why 96% of her followers on Instagram are women A simple framework for checking in with your partner each week How our childhoods impact the way we give and receive love Co-dependency: what it is and how to break free from it Rapid fire issues such as: dealing with a sexless relationship, preparing for the arrival of a new baby and moving out of the friend-zone. Check it out! https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/lisa-mcfarland Links: Lisa’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relationship.coaching.ni/?hl=en Take Lisa’s Online Course: https://relationshipcoachni.com/revive-online-course Book some time with Lisa: https://relationshipcoachni.com/coaching-sessions
Mon, February 05, 2024
Education Reimagined: Behind-The-Scenes At Holywood Steiner Private School | Peter Chambers
Peter Chambers is the Headteacher at Holywood Steiner School, an alternative to mainstream education that’s making a powerful impact on the lives of pupils and teachers alike. In today's episode, we talk about: How the school has doubled in budget, size and staff since 2020 Why most people aren't aware of alternative education in Northern Ireland The power of delaying "sitting at a desk” until 6-years-old Teaching kids how to cook three-course meals, woodworking and a second language Why having smaller class sizes makes a big difference Creating an environment where teachers can actually teach instead of constantly managing poor behaviour Why his pupils call teachers by their first names and don't wear a school uniform His countercultural policies on screens in the classroom And the importance of creating an environment that encourages (and celebrates) failure. Check it out! https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/peter-chambers Website: https://www.holywood-steiner.co.uk/contact
Thu, February 01, 2024
CONSUMER to CREATOR ft. Seth Godin
Seth Godin is the author of 21 best-selling books, including: The Dip, Linchpin, Purple Cow, Tribes, This Is Marketing and most recently, Song of Significance. In this episode, we talk about: How to shift from a consumer to a creator One decision you can make to free up 100+ hours each month Two magical questions that will unlock your business Why 1000 true fans is all you need (And why 5 might even be enough) "Shunning the non-believers" His experience running some of the most successful online communities to ever exist And the power of "shipping your work" daily. Check it out!
Mon, January 29, 2024
Adam Chambers on Supreme Confidence, Investing In Yourself & Building A Legacy
Adam Chambers is the founder and president of Nurse Recruitment Experts, an online business that has sourced and hired 10,000s of Nurses for health systems across the United States and Canada. In today’s episode, we talk about: Learning to salsa dance How playing Fifa led to his first entrepreneurial venture Starting a business from scratch with no funding or network Becoming a digital nomad An accidental taxi ride with a billion-dollar CEO The power of investing in yourself His mum walking in on an important sales call (In her dressing gown) The importance of being supremely confident Why he plans on moving back to Northern Ireland (And what he wants to do when he comes back) And advice he’d give to a younger version of himself. Check it out: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/adam-chambers
Mon, January 22, 2024
The Ache For Distant Places w/ Andrea Haughian
Andrea Haughian is Executive Vice President and Head of Americas at Invest NI, Northern Ireland’s Economic Development Agency. In today’s episode, we talk about: Why she’s proud of Lurgan Showing up to the “wrong interview” (and how it changed her life) The opportunities “being keen” opened up for her Aching for distant places How she ended up moving to San Francisco in the 90s The power of wanting something (and seeing it come about) Where she goes in NYC to get her Northern Irish fix Advice she’d give to her 22-year-old self And the radical transformation she’s seen take place in NI Check it out! https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/andrea-haughian
Mon, January 15, 2024
Aaron Dugan: Cocktail Bar Manager, The Merchant Hotel
Aaron Dugan is the Bar Manager of The Cocktail Bar at The Merchant Hotel. In today’s episode, we talk about: His time working as a sake sommelier in Dubai Why our tastebuds have become more refined after COVID The world’s most expensive cocktail Stories behind The Merchant’s 17-drink cocktail menu The difference between a five-star bar experience and your local pub And why he loves working in hospitality. Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/aaron-dugan-cocktail-bar-merchant-hotel
Mon, January 08, 2024
Andrew Irvine: City Centre Chaplaincy
Andrew Irvine in a former life led the redevelopment of Belfast St. George's Market, then spent 9 years as the Belfast City Centre Manager. In 2015 Andrew's career took change of direction when he was accepted for training as a Methodist Minister. Now ordained for 3 years, Andrew leads Belfast City Centre Chaplaincy, In this episode we talk about: The power of being available for people Getting lectured by a homeless man Why we should treat others like ourselves His vision for having 100 chaplains on the streets of Belfast And the importance of treating people with dignity and respect Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/andrew-irvine
Mon, January 01, 2024
Baroness May Blood: Integrated Education Fund
[Rebroadcast: this episode first aired October 16th 2020] Baroness May Blood grew up in a working-class area of Belfast. In today’s episode, we talk all about what it was like growing up in Belfast in the ’40s, her time in the House Of Lords and why Integrated Education is essential to overcoming the pain of our past. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to May (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/baroness-may-blood-ief Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, December 25, 2023
Terry George: The Oscar-Winning Director From Belfast
[Rebroadcast: this episode first aired on August 19th 2019] Terry George is an Oscar-winning film director from Belfast, Northern Ireland, known for movies like Hotel Rwanda, The Shore, In The Name Of The Father and much, much more. In this rare conversation, we talk about why he creates the films he does, what genocide has taught him about forgiveness and the best piece of directing advice he’s ever been given. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Terry (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/terry-george-director Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, December 18, 2023
The Small Steps To Success w/ Ryan Donnelly
Ryan Donnelly is the co-founder of Enzai, a start-up who’s mission is to enable a future where AI is harnessed to address humanity's most significant challenges In today’s episode, we talk about: An incredible four-year journey from being in a career he hated to running a start-up he loves The small, seemingly insignificant steps that have led to where he is today “Getting smacked in the face” by challenges early on in the entrepreneurial journey Why Belfast is the perfect place to launch a company And advice he’d give to anyone who is considering starting a business Check it out! https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/ryan-donnelly-enzai
Tue, December 12, 2023
“EVERYTHING You Know About Networking is WRONG!” — Kingsley Aikins
Kingsley Aikins is one of the world’s leading experts on networking, relationship-building and diaspora engagement. In this episode, we caught up with Kingsley in his home for a rare conversation about: How the old way of networking is dead (And why it probably never worked in the first place) A surprising hack to turn cold calls into hot coffees Incredible tips and tricks to “wow” new relationships in the digital age Building a network from scratch in Australia when he knew no one How the Ireland Funds raised $700+ million His experience with billionaire Chuck Feeney And meeting Nelson Mandela Check it out! https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/kingsley-aikins-networking-institute Links: Networking Course: https://thenetworkinginstitute.com/networking/ Connect with Kingsley on LinkedIn: https://ie.linkedin.com/in/kingsleyaikins Diaspora Engagement Course: https://www.thenetworkinginstituteonline.com/courses/dm-diaspora-engagement-training-programme
Mon, December 04, 2023
Headmaster Kyle McCallan on Leadership, “The 3 B’s” & Following Better Things
Kyle McCallan is the Headmaster of Lurgan College. He’s also a former Irish International Cricketer with 2 World Cups and 226 caps. In today’s episode, we talk about: The difference between a manager and a leader “The 3B’s” that make up the ethos of his school What held him back as a professional athlete The role school plays in society “Following better things” His vision for the future of Lurgan And the kindest thing someone’s ever done for him Check it out! https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/kyle-mccallan
Mon, November 27, 2023
Gemma Austin: A Peculiar Tea
Gemma Austin is the Owner of A Peculiar Tea in Belfast and a Great British Menu contestant who has represented Northern Ireland three times. In today's episode we talk about: How “losing everything” set her on the path to success Battling anxiety and depression The ONE conversation that led to her becoming a chef Creating a value-based business that makes the world a better place Transforming the hospitality industry into one where people want to work again And the power of family and community Check it out! https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/gemma-austin
Mon, November 20, 2023
Martina Tierney on Seating Matters, Family Business & “The Stairway of My Life”
Martina Tierney is the founder of Seating Matters and author of “The Stairway of My Life.” In today’s episode, we talk about: Why the stairs in her house are so special Growing up as one of fourteen siblings How a farming background prepared her for entrepreneurship Becoming an Occupational Therapist Why regular 9-5 hours didn’t suit her The courage provided by her husband to “do her own thing” How a garden shed turned into an international business And the kindest thing someone’s ever done for her Check it out! https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/martina-tierney Links: Martina’s book: https://amzn.to/45hgIzp Seating Matters Website: https://seatingmatters.com/
Mon, November 13, 2023
The Tierney Brothers on Cutting Turf, Family Legacy & Meeting Bob Proctor
Jonathan, Ryan and Martin Tierney are brothers with heads for business, hearts for people and souls that long to the leave the world better than they found it. They're all directors at Seating Matters, a family business started by their mum that employs 60+ people and manufactures life-changing medical chairs for patients around the world. In this episode we talk about: Why they rarely sit at the same table Seeing Santa’s sleigh while laying concrete Cutting turf for pocket money The series of mad events that led to them meeting Bob Proctor Dropping out of school and quitting their jobs to work at Seating Matters The family values that set them up for success Losing their father at a young age The unique superpower of each brother Bringing head, heart & soul into business How they protect their brotherhood And advice they'd give to 18-year-old versions of themselves Check it out! https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/-jonathan-ryan-martin-tierney
Mon, November 06, 2023
Colin Gibson on Military Contracting, PTSD & The Power of Being Yourself
Colin Gibson is an ex-soldier, military contractor, scuba-diver, and owner of Talon: a security training company based in Northern Ireland. He’s served in Iraq and Afghanistan, lived in Belize for 6+ years and has been on a rollercoaster journey of dealing with combat-induced PTSD and childhood trauma. In part one of this epic four-part special we talk about: The effects of growing up with an abusive father How violence dominated his early years Getting in trouble with the police The moment his life changed and all the anger disappeared Walking through fields barefoot in the rain The one positive male influence on his life Moving to Belize Scuba diving stories: manta-rays, blackness and pica-pica jellyfish Finding happiness for the first time And a few teasers to what you’ll hear in part two. In this part two we talk about: Getting his feet washed by an Iraqi driver Being challenged to a fist-fight by his girlfriend’s dad Getting thrown into a Belize prison cell with 20+ other people What led him away from Belize Why he ended up joining the military And a few stories from his deployment… In part three we talk about: The specific combat-event that “sent him down the rabbit-hole” Dealing with survivors guilt And battling with suicide. In part four we talk about: How his experiences affect his life today Why he’s thrown himself into serving others through his new teaching business (Talon Security Training) What he’s focused on Why he started opening up about his experiences And advice he’d give to an 18-year-old version of himself Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/colin-gibson-talon-security
Mon, October 30, 2023
“Don’t Hug The Shore!” — Kevin Roland, MD of Teneo (Recorded September 2023)
(Recorded September 2023). Kevin Roland is a Managing Director in New York-based global CEO advisory firm Teneo . He was a member of the Foreign Service of the U.S. State Department, serving in front-line diplomatic roles in Northern Ireland (from 2009-2012), as well as Iraq, Egypt, Tunisia, South Africa, Jordan, and the Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs in Washington, D.C. Despite working around the world, Kevin and his family reside at their home in New Quay, County Clare, Ireland. In today’s episode we talk about: Why his family decided to call Ireland home Watching his dad loading planes as a kid Colin Powell racing around in a supercar with the King of Jordan Being mentored by the current head of the CIA Playing basketball in the Middle East Becoming fluent in arabic How he got into the private sector (and why it matters) And his advice to 18-year-olds…. “don’t hug the shore!” Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/kevin-roland-teneo
Mon, October 23, 2023
Brendan McGurgan on Scaling, Personal Transformation & Keeping Score of the Things That Matter
Brendan McGurgan is the co-founder of Simple Scaling: an organisation that helps ambitious business leaders to 10x their business through accelerator programs, best-selling books, acclaimed podcasts, and the upcoming ScaleX Summit. He’s also a certified Wim Hof Instructor and self-confessed sauna-junkie. In today's episode we talk about: - His first job picking apples as a boy in Armagh - Why he quit his retail gig over a coke - (And got hired elsewhere an hour later) - What led him to go from feeling “bulletproof” to being humbled - The number one thing that holds business owners back from scaling - How parenting prepares you for entrepreneurship - Why scaling could be Northern Ireland’s superpower - His personal scorecard for life - And how “simple” and “easy” are not the same thing Check it out! https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/brendan-mcgurgan P.S. Click here to get tickets for the ScaleX Summit: https://www.scalexsummit.com/event-details/scalex-summit-2023
Mon, October 16, 2023
Joseph Kennedy III on Famous Last Names, Figuring Stuff Out & Northern Ireland
Joseph Kennedy III currently serves as the Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs. In today's episode we talk about: - Growing up in a family known for public service - How the assassination of his uncle (JFK) and granda (Bobby Kennedy) impacted his family - Moving to the Dominican Republic as a young man - Dealing with the expectations people have of him because of his last name - President Biden calling to offer him a job - His love and admiration for C.S. Lewis - The “one thing” he wishes he could give to every person in Northern Ireland - And advice he’d give to an 18-year-old version of himself Check it out! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/joseph-kennedy-special-envoy // Full bio: Over four terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, Mr. Kennedy built an impressive legislative record around economic policy, health care, and civil rights. Representing a district that spanned from the suburbs of Boston to the proud post-industrial communities along Massachusetts’ South Coast, Mr. Kennedy sat on the House Energy & Commerce committee and spearheaded bipartisan efforts to extend mental health coverage, support the domestic manufacturing industry, and defend access to legal assistance for struggling families. In addition to his work as Special Envoy, Kennedy also serves as President of Citizens Energy, a non-profit energy company founded to help low-income families meet their basic energy needs. Through innovative programming, Citizens has donated hundreds of millions of dollars to benefit millions of families across the United States. He is also the founder of Groundwork Project, an advocacy organization dedicated to supporting local community organizing efforts in under-resourced and historically disenfranchised communities. He is married to Lauren Birchfield Kennedy and they have two young children, Eleanor and James, and a rescue dog, Banjo.
Mon, October 09, 2023
Celebrity Defamation Lawyer Paul Tweed on AI, Supreme Confidence & Using Good Judgement
Paul Tweed is a media lawyer described as “the most powerful man in Hollywood.” He’s represented A-list celebrities like Justin Timberlake, Harrison Ford, Britney Spears, Liam Neeson and countless others — all while being based in Belfast. In today’s episode we talk about: How his working class background is a superpower in court The two most important traits a successful lawyer must have What defamation is (and why it’s different to being rude to someone) How artificial intelligience is forever changing the media landscape (And the subsequent legal cases trailing behind it) Why social media companies should be held responsible for content on their platforms The power of surpreme confidence And the most challenging moment of his professional career so far Check it out! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/paul-tweed //
Mon, October 02, 2023
Diplomat Colin Leeman on Foreign Service, Travelling the World & Coming Out
Colin Leeman is the British Consul General in Cape Town. Over the last twenty years in the British Foreign Service, he’s had postings to Iraq, Ethiopia, Afghanistan, the UAE, New Zealand — and now South Africa. In today’s episode we talk about: What a Consul General actually does/the perks of being a Foreign Diplomat Rescuing Emma Little-Pengelly MLA from a kidnapping Going from wanting to be a presbyterian minister to working for the British Government Coming out as gay (and what it meant to him both personally & professionally) His time in Iraq during the aftermath of the war Helping thousands of British tourists escape New Zealand during the COVID lockdowns Why he didn’t go to a barber for 19-years How he’s seen Northern Ireland change over the years Building community and relationships with people around the world And advice he’d give to an 18-year-old version of himself Check it out! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/colin-leeman //
Mon, September 25, 2023
George McGowan: Professional Parkour Athlete
George McGowan, is a professional parkour athlete from Northern Ireland who’s widely known as the “springiest guy in the sport.” In today's episode we talk about: How he became a real-life Spiderman (Without killing himself in the process) Making it to the semi-finals of Britains Got Talent The weirdest thing he’s ever done for money Working for Warners Brothers to model video game characters And how we as humans can end up doing impossible things with our bodies Check it out! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/george-mcgowan //
Mon, September 18, 2023
Polymath Laurence Beattie on Grandparenting, Growing Up & Seeing Ghosts
Laurence Beattie is a recently retired jack-of-all-trades, including lab technician, forensic scientist, quality engineer, quality manager, plant manager, production manager, executive, business owner/managing director, mixologist, and full-time grandpa. He worked for 47 years after leaving school following his A-levels. He also enjoys motor racing, shooting, and angling when he gets the chance. In today's episode, we talk about: Things his WWII navy dad taught him The one question he didn't answer for his son Why becoming a grandparent makes you want to live forever Killing and eating a goat as part of a scouting trip The two times he's seen ghosts Advice he'd give to an 18-year-old Check it out! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/laurence-beattie //
Mon, September 11, 2023
Gospel Singer Roberta Clements on Alcoholism, Miracles & The Master’s Plan
Roberta Clements is a gospel singer from Belfast who has performed on thousands of stages around the world, including local pubs/clubs, high-security prisons, and U.S. military bases during the Vietnam War. She is also a recovering alcoholic. In today's episode, we discuss: The spiritual experiences that happened while she was still in the womb Singing on top of wooden school desks at four years old How she got into showbiz Discovering alcohol at 16 years old Surviving multiple suicide attempts The unbelievable events that led to her getting sober Why people call her "the spiritual tin-opener" And how she discovered "the master's plan" for her life. Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/roberta-clements //
Mon, September 04, 2023
Leon McCarron on Adventure, Iraq & The Garden of Eden
Leon McCarron is an award-winning writer, broadcaster, and explorer from Northern Ireland. He is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and the Geographical Society of Philadelphia's Explorer of the Year. He is known for his long-distance expeditions and immersive multimedia storytelling. In the past decade, he has traveled over 50,000 km by human power and is currently based in Iraq. In today's episode, we talk about: Growing up on the North Coast How he ended up setting off on the adventure of a lifetime Cycling across America in his early twenties Why he moved to Iraq The transition from "selfish adventures" to "purpose-driven adventures" Stories from the rivers around where the Garden of Eden is thought to be And the kindest thing someone has ever done for him Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/leon-mccarron //
Mon, August 28, 2023
The Priests: Fastest-Selling Classical Music Act of All Time (While also being full-time priests!)
[Rebroadcast: this episode first aired on 13th November 2019] The Priests are the fastest-selling classical group of all time. They’re also full-time clergymen… In this week’s episode, we chat about what it was like to grow up together, what it’s like to juggle the priesthood alongside being world-famous musicians and how to keep our ego in check. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to The Priests (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/the-priests-singers Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, August 21, 2023
Hotbox Sea Sauna, Benone Beach (My Favourite Place in Northern Ireland)
[Rebroadcast: this episode first aired on 17th May 2021] Anna and Carl Isaksson are the founders of Hotbox: Northern Ireland’s first ever beach sauna experience. The idea is simple yet utterly genius: what if after a cold plunge in the sea you could cosy into a sauna to sweat it out with your nearest and dearest? In today's episode we talk about: Working for and kissing kings How a gal from NI ended up marrying a Swedish guy Why they set-up a mobile sauna business And the biggest successes/challenges they've faced along the way. Check it out! // HotBox is an authentic Finnish wood-burning sauna located primarily at Benone Beach on the Causeway Coast and you can book your own hot slot over at their website hotboxseasauna.com // Webpage for this episode: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/hotbox-sea-sauna-northern-ireland
Mon, August 14, 2023
Nadine Patterson: Stop-Motion Puppet-Maker for Tim Burton & Wes Anderson
[Rebroadcast: this episode was first aired on 7th November 2019] Nadine Patterson is a puppet-maker from Northern Ireland. From making models as a child to working in the puppet hospital on a Tim Burton movie set, Nadine has one of the most interesting stories we’ve ever featured on the podcast. In this rare conversation, you’ll discover what goes on inside a puppet hospital, how difficult it is to work with such small objects and why she loves what she does for a living. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Nadine (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/nadine-patterson-puppet-maker Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, August 07, 2023
Otto Jaffe & The History of the Jewish Community in Northern Ireland
[Rebroadcast: This episode first aired 2nd November 2020] Sir Otto Jaffe was one of the leading entrepreneurs responsible for the boom of the Linen Industry here in Belfast in the 1800s. Through a lot of hard work and determination, the young German-born entrepreneur rose through the ranks of the family business and went on to become the Lord Mayor of Belfast. Twice. Yet by the end of his life, Sir Otto was forced out of Northern Ireland. Forever. But that’s not all. In the 100 years after Otto left Belfast, the Jewish community in Northern Ireland has fallen from 1500+ members to just under 80 men and women today. In today’s episode, myself and producer Owen set off on another journey through the streets of Belfast and the pages of local history with one goal. To find out why. Check it out. // This episode is part of The Streets Where They Lived : a new documentary collaboration between Successful Belfast, Belfast Buildings Trust, and Best of Belfast. The Streets Where They Lived will feature the stories of six incredible but sometimes overlooked men and women from Belfast and some of the buildings and places in the City with which they’re connected. The project is a collaboration with Successful Belfast, a project of
Mon, July 31, 2023
Private Investigator Ian D. Withers on Murder Charges, Child Recovery & Telling The Truth
Ian D Withers is a retired Private Investigator and author. In today’s episode we talk about: Growing up in the aftermath of WW2 The role private investigators play in society Falling through the ceiling while trying to catch someone in the act of adultery How he got into PI work Building his own private investigator business from scratch Working for the Seychelle Government for eight years Why the MET hates him And how he ended up being the number one suspect in an international murder case Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/ian-d-withers //
Mon, July 24, 2023
Hospitality Legends: Ryan Jenkins, Owner of ROAM Restaurant
Ryan Jenkins is a 30-year-old self-taught chef from West Belfast and the owner of ROAM: an award-winning restaurant in Belfast city centre. In today's episode we talk about: Stumbling into hospitality at 19-years-old How he went from peeling vegetables to owning an award-winning restaurant Where the name ROAM comes from Why he chose (and loves) his Callendar Street location What it was like to watch his dad winning an Oscar And advice he would give to himself if he was doing it all over again. Check it out! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/ryan-jenkins //
Mon, July 17, 2023
Joan Burney Keatings on Outrageous Serendipity, Leading With Your Gut & The Purpose Driven Life
Joan Burney Keatings is the Chief Executive of Cinemagic: an award-winning charity that provides young people around the world with opportunities to break into the film-industry. In today’s episode we talk about: How her parent’s entrepreneurial flair is being passed onto her kids Producing films in the Middle-East Bringing the muppets to Northern Ireland The outrageous events that led to her meeting Liam Neeson Times she listened to her gut rather than her head Working with major film studios in places like LA The number one trait she sees in people who succeed in the industry And advice to her younger self. Check it out! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/joan-burney-keatings-cinemagic //
Mon, July 10, 2023
John Christie: Hot Rod Racing World Champion
John Christie is a Hot Rod Racing World Champion. In today's episode, we discuss: What Hot Rod is and what sets it apart from other motorsports Qualifying for the world championship with a broken arm Running a mechanic workshop while racing around the world Growing up learning from his dad, Ormond Christie (Who was also a world champion and mechanic) The rivalry between his dad and Davy Evans that shaped the sport Drawing the line between success and striving for more Check it out! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/john-christie-hot-rod //
Mon, July 03, 2023
Hospitality Legends: Michael Cosgrove, The Crown Bar
Michael Cosgrove is a bartender in The Crown Bar. In today’s episode we talk about: How he became a celebrity bartender The ghost that lives The Crown The cultural shift he’s noticed since COVID Why he’s stayed in the same job in the same pub for 36+ years And some of the chance encounters he’s had with punters Check it out! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/michael-cosgrove-bartender //
Mon, June 26, 2023
Abigail Parkinson on TikTok, Dealing With Rejection & The Power of Favour
Welcome to Pub Chats & A Pint, a podcast series sponsored by Harp where we sit down with interesting local people in a Belfast pub. Today we are in The Orpheus Bar in the Cathedral Quarter and are joined by comedian, actor and social media star Abbie Parkinson. In this episode we talk about: The mad TikTok journey that led to her stardom Dreaming of becoming a world-famous actor from a young age Moving from Fermanagh to Chicago Dealing with the rejection involved in pursuing acting The shadow side of social media Going to Country To Country with her ma to see Luke Combs Cycling across Cuba under the Cuban curse And how her faith keeps her rooted Check it out! Links: Abigail on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/piguyni/?hl=en Abigail on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@abigailparkinson_?lang=en The Orpheus Bar Website: https://dukeofyorkbelfast.com/venues/the-new-orpheus/ Harp on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harplagerni/
Mon, June 19, 2023
Hospitality Legends: James McGinn, MD of Hastings Hotels
James McGinn is the Managing Director of Hastings Hotels. Over the last 27 years, he has been involved in presidential visits, hosting celebrities, starring in 31 episodes of reality TV, and working with charities like Belfast Homeless Shelter, Flax Trust, and Aware NI. In today's episode, we talk about: Growing up as one of 11 children in Killyclogher How he got into hospitality Being held up at gunpoint The importance of building a good team culture Hosting the MTV Awards Locking up a colleague in the bathroom with a lady of the night Why hospitality is an incredible industry to work in Advice for younger people starting out Enjoy! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/james-mcginn //
Mon, June 12, 2023
Pi Guy Marty Duggan on Broken Bones, Cuban Raves & Legendary Pizza
Welcome to Pub Chats & A Pint a podcast series sponsored by Harp where we sit down with interesting local people in a Belfast pub. Today we are in The Errigle Inn on the Ormeau Road and are joined by legendary pizza maker Marty Duggan who runs Pi Guy out of Trademarket in the City Centre. In today's episode we talk about: Broken bones Cuban raves Interning under legendary pizza makers His new bespoke, unbelievably expensive oven And why the dinner table is so important Check it out! // Links: Pi Guy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/piguyni/?hl=en Errigle Inn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/errigleinn/ Harp on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harplagerni/
Mon, June 05, 2023
Chris Lynch on Suicide, Identity Crisis In Sport & Whole Athlete Wellbeing
Chris Lynch is the Head Wellbeing Manager of Australia's National Football Team. He has also worked in Olympic Cycling and Malaysian Rugby. In today's episode, we talk about: The early years of sports data (collecting sticker books and cards!) How the local GA players were like the Greek gods of his world when he was growing up Becoming a successful athlete on an inter-county level His own battles with depression and suicide How he learned to "stop bottling everything up" Why so many athletes experience an identity crisis (and what to do about it) Whole athlete wellbeing The career stepping stones that led to where he is today And what becoming a father has taught him about performance Check it out! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/chris-lynch-wellbeing //
Mon, May 29, 2023
William Thompson on Spy Kids, Cerebral Palsy and Meeting Louis C.K.
Welcome to Pub Chats & A Pint, a podcast series sponsored by Harp Lager where we sit down in a local pub with someone interesting from Northern Ireland. Today we're in The Harp Bar in Cathedral Quarter and are joined by rising-star Comedian William Thompson. In this episode we talk about: Why his mum kept his cerebral palsy a secret from him How he landed his first comedy gig The philosophical undertones of Spy Kids Balancing local humour with an international audience High School Musical Mania Favourite comedians And his upcoming Ulster Hall Show Check it out! // William’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/william_thompson_comedy/?hl=en Harp Lager Instagram: Harp Lager (@harplagerni) | Instagram Harp Bar’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harpbarbelfast/
Mon, May 22, 2023
Olympic Rower Philip Doyle on Ego, Modelling & Dead Plants
Welcome to Sport Inspires: a podcast recorded in collaboration with The Mary Peter’s Trust and made possible by the Coca-Cola Thank You Fund. Today’s episode is with Olympic Rower and Medical Doctor Philip Doyle. In today’s episode we talk about: Being headhunted to work for Abercrombie Harsh, ego-checking advice from his teacher “Helen” How he got into rowing Eating 8000 calories per day What makes a good rowing partner And why you shouldn’t water dead plants Check it out! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/philip-doyle-olympic-rower //
Mon, May 15, 2023
Bernadette Hagans on Modelling, Call of Duty & Losing Her Leg
Welcome to Pub Chats & A Pint, a podcast series sponsored by Harp Lager where we sit down in a local pub with someone interesting from Northern Ireland. Today we're in Southside Social on Botanic Avenue and are joined by Bernadette Hagans: a presenter, amputee model, gamer, streamer, charity ambassador, content creator, Call of Duty competitor and local inspiration. In this episode we talk about: What it was like to receive a rare cancer diagnosis and keep it a secret Maintaining a positive outlook on life after losing a leg “Being the energy you want to attract” Playing Call Of Duty competitively Meeting Terry Bradley Her modelling career How she’s used her pain to gives back to others The kindest thing someone’s ever done for her And everything you’ve wanted to ask an amputee but were too afraid to ask Check it out! Bernadette’s Instagram: Bernadette Hagans (@bernadettehagans) | Instagram Harp Lager Instagram: Harp Lager (@harplagerni) | Instagram Southside Social’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/southside.social/
Mon, May 08, 2023
Claire Taggart on Boccia, Dystonia, Travel and Tortoises
Welcome to Sport Inspires: a podcast recorded in collaboration with The Mary Peter’s Trust and made possible by the Coca-Cola Thank You Fund. Today’s episode is with Claire Taggart, the 2022 Boccia World Champion and the first person from Northern Ireland to ever compete at the Paralympics in the sport. In today’s episode we talk about: What boccia is (and why it’s “way better than bowls!”) Being diagnosed with a neurological condition at the age of 18 How Claire got into the sport The logistics of travelling with an eletric wheelchair Why boccia is a “nail-biting sport” The opportunties being a professional athlete has brought into Claire’s life And advice she would give to her 18-year-old self. Check it out! Claire’s Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/NiftyNotebooksUK The 200 Club: https://marypeterstrust.org/club200/ // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/claire-taggart //
Mon, May 01, 2023
Paul Kennedy on Surviving Car Crash, Building His Business & Travelling The World
Paul Kennedy is a young, driven entrepreneur who has squeezed a lot into his first 29-years here on earth. (Including survivng a car accident, building a creative marketing agency, travelling to 38 different countries, making content for Floyd Mayweather and meeting the likes of Andrew Tate, KSI and Jake Paul). In today’s episode we talked about: Why the car accident was a turning point in his life How he went from selling sweets in school to charging his teachers for pirated mp3s Travelling the world with no budget The transition between doing the work yourself and managing other people to do it His incredible backstory to how he met and started working with Tyson Fury What you need to do to keep clients forever And his advice to any 18-year-old starting out in life Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/paul-kennedy //
Mon, April 24, 2023
Noel & Roy Spence: The Filmmaking Twins Born in 1944
Roy and Noel Spence are twin brothers born in 1944 who’ve dedicated their lives to making films. In today’s episode we talk about: Their first trip to the cinema in 1952 Roy’s theory that cave-men were film-makers Experience of using old-school tech to make movies Hilarious moments of when things went wrong on shoot The dangers of an “instant-society” How to do special effects with “no budget” Their experience running private cinemas like Tudor and Excelsior History of some of the 65 cinema’s in Belfast And advice they would give to aspiring film-makers Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/roy-noel-spence //
Mon, April 17, 2023
“LEAN Manufacturing CHANGED My Life Forever" — Ryan Tierney
Ryan Tierney is a director and co-founder of Seating Matters : a medical chair manufacturer based in Limavady. “Eight years ago I went home from work really frustrated, the business wasn’t running the way I wanted it to run, we had lots of production issues, lots of defects and it was a very stressful environment to work in. I said to myself “there has to be a better way” I started researching and came across Lean on YouTube. Being exposed to this new way of thinking was a light bulb moment for me. I went into work the next day after discovering ‘2 Second Lean’ and I announced to our entire team that we were going to start practicing this transformative business philosophy. Now my business stands as an example of world class Lean Manufacturing. Lean principles can be implemented into any organisation and in any industry. The results will amaze you!” — Ryan In today’s episode we talk about: How lean changed his life Why he doesn’t use email The organisation-wide morning routine that leads to EVERYONE in his organisation makes a 2 second improvement EVERYDAY How his business uses a device designed for video game streamers to save hundreds of hours every month Why hundreds of people from around the world are coming to his Limavady factory in September (including the former VP of Lexus in Japan) And how he ended up having coffee with the richest man in Ireland. Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/ryan-tierney //
Mon, April 10, 2023
EVERY COUNTRY IN THE WORLD ft. Johnny Ward
Johnny Ward is the first person from Ireland to visit every country in the world. He’s also has made $3m from his blog , started a non-profit and now has his sights set on being the first person in history to visit north pole, south pole, every country and climb the seven summits, with his everest expedition starting next month. In today’s episode we chat about: The weirdest country he’s taken his mum to Growing up in Kilkeel in a single-parent home on benefits How he started travelling Starting a blog in the early 2010s (the wild west years!) The depression that came after fulfilling his dream Getting arrested twice in the one day in Liberia Smuggling himself into Yemen “Social media is for your ego, websites are for your bank account” The one thing you can only get in Northern Ireland And why suffering is the essential ingredient for success Check it out! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/johnny-ward-every-country-in-the-world //
Mon, April 03, 2023
“The Face Of Guinness” with Terry Loughins
Terry Loughins has had a lot of jobs including: salesman, milkman, barman and DJ. But his favourite job was his 25-years working for Guinness NI, a role which led to him being involved in oyster festivals, U2 Concerts, golfing tournaments and farmer matchmaking events… In today’s episode, Matt and Jawbox Gerry sit down with Terry to talk about: The best pint of Guinness he’s ever had Playing Ice Hockey in the 60s How hospitality prepared him to take on the world Growing up in “the countryside” of Stockmans Lane, East Belfast Old pubs around Belfast The “Miracle Escape” that saved his life And the double decker bus hanging off the end of a magnet up the top of a massive crane (no really…) We had an absolute blast with Terry, Gerry, Producer Rosca… and know you will too. Enjoy! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/terry-loughins-guinness //
Mon, March 27, 2023
MORELLI’S ICE CREAM ft. Damian & Ellen Morelli
For over 100 years, the Morelli family has been serving award-winning Italian Ice Cream in Portstewart. In today’s episode we sat down with Damian and Ellen Morelli to talk about: The incredible story of how the Morelli family ended up in NI Hardship during the second world war A chance encounter that saved a life Surviving COVID as a hospitality business Their favourite flavour of ice cream Cold water swimming, black belts, motorbikes Singing on broadway And advice from 34 years of marriage Check it out! P.S. Big thanks to Producer Mark for co-hosting today’s episode and making everything look/sound so great. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/morellis-ice-cream //
Mon, March 20, 2023
UNLOCK YOUR BRAIN with Dr. John Kelly
If no two brains are the same why do our schools, universities and work places treat everyone “equal?” That’s the question Dr. John Kelly has spent his 73-years on earth answering. In today’s conversation we chat about: How he transitioned from being a medical doctor to the world of learning The eight types of “smartness” each brain has (And how most don’t match up with the education system) Losing his wife suddenly in 1997 Starting a hospital in Uganda His ground-breaking research into the brains of entrepreneurs The dangers of living in a left-brain society And how you and I can unlock our brains by honing in on our unique, biological learning style. Check it out. P.S. You can buy John’s book here // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/dr-john-kelly-fingerprint-learning //
Mon, March 13, 2023
MARRIED YOUNG with Mike & Caragh Hamilton
Mike and Caragh Hamilton are a power couple. In this episode we talk about: Going into business together while dating Whether or not they believe in “the one” What to look for in a potential partner And why it’s important to cheer each other on We also talk about playing football for Northern Ireland, food-rage, crashing cars in Iceland and Mike’s dream of becoming an internationally successful dart player. There’s also a quiz. Big thanks to previous guest Louis Pearson for co-hosting! Check it out. P.S. Check out the Born and Bred podcast. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/mike-caragh-hamilton //
Mon, March 06, 2023
BECOME THE MAN YOU NEEDED ft. John Eldredge
John Eldredge is a husband, father and therapist who has sold millions of books on the topic of masculinity, adventure and becoming the man you needed when you were younger. In today’s episode we talk about: The role of his grandfather throughout childhood Dealing with the shadow cast by an absent, alcoholic father Why masculinity can only be bestowed by other men How life’s challenges are actually opportunities for initiation The core questions every man has (And how they inevitably get answered in the wrong ways) Why young men are attracted to personalities like Andrew Tate and Liver King How to seek out older men as mentors Slaying dragons And the power of creating a band of brothers to journey through life together Check it out! P.S. If you enjoyed this episode, we highly recommend picking up a copy of John’s book Wild At Heart. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/john-eldredge-wild-at-heart //
Mon, February 27, 2023
JELVIS PELVIS: The KING of Belfast’s Busking Scene
Jelvis Pelvis (Jordan Devine) is a full-time Elvis street performer. In today’s episode we talk about: The cut-throat nature of being a busker on the streets of Belfast Being born with a life-threatening heart condition Where he gets his energy from Getting robbed The kindness of strangers Why confidence is his superpower Dealing with fame His thoughts on the Elvis movie Coming from Strabane How going on X-Factor traumatised him And how he’s gathered a cult-like following on TikTok Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/jelvis-pelvis //
Mon, February 20, 2023
#299 THE BAR CZAR ft. Michael Stewart & Jawbox Gerry
Michael Stewart is a hospitality legend with over 36-years of experience under his belt. In today’s episode we talk about: Opening up bars during The Troubles Drinking Grey Goose with Matthew McConaughey in the back of a taxi Growing up on the Shankill Road What makes a bar succeed… or flop And why failing doesn’t make you a failure. Special thanks to Gerry White (aka Jawbox Gerry) for joining us as co-host for this interview. Check it out! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/michael-stewart-bar-czar //
Mon, February 13, 2023
#298 Peter Quinn: Silly Videos, Snoop Dogg & Thumb-Stopping Content
Peter Quinn is a multi-disciplined creative who’s recently stumbled on success making weird VFX videos for celebrities around Los Angeles like Will Smith, Snoop Dogg, Weezer and Michael Bublé. In today’s episode we talk about: Pitching an idea in Will Smith’s living room His “Stranger Things” childhood in Carryduff How TikTok, Marvel and YouTube have forever changed our attention spans A formula for creating thumb-stopping content “Spectacle” versus “Story” And advice for young creators. Check it out! P.S. You gotta see Pete’s Insta. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/peter-quinn-instagram //
Mon, February 06, 2023
#297 Cameron Hunter: Comic Books, Big Tech & Working For Netflix
Cameron Hunter is a senior software engineer that has spent the last 15 years working in tech for companies like Amazon, Twitter, and Netflix. (If you’ve ever sent a DM on Twitter or watched Netflix on a TV you have Cam to thank). Originally from Belfast, he now lives in Silicon Valley where away from the glowing screens, he enjoys climbing rocks, woodwork, and reading comic books. In today’s conversation we talk about: Singing on-stage with Bill Clinton Why Batman beats Superman His professional superpower Why Twitter will fail Amazon door desks The shelf-life of big tech Life and death rock climbing Imposter syndrome Daddy’s crisps And his favourite Netflix show Check it out! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/cameron-hunter-netflix //
Mon, January 30, 2023
#296 Tim Clifford: Curator of Ireland’s Largest Vinyl Record Collection
Tim Clifford is the curator of Ireland’s largest vinyl record collection. His life’s mission is to collect all the singles that have made it into the top 100 charts between 1952 and 2003. He’s also co-owner of the historic mansion Abbeydene House which has hosted guests like President Eisenhower, Daniel O’Donnell and international music acts from around the world. In this episode we talk about: Why we love the music of our youth His passion for music, collecting and history Dong dong the trampoliner Jelvis Pelvis Blue plaques How he’s a weapon on the dance floor And the advice he would give to his 18-year old self. Check it out. P.S. This episode was Producer Rosca’s first time with us, so be sure to show him some love! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/tim-clifford-record-collector //
Mon, January 23, 2023
#295 Dog Trainer Neil Powell on Rescue Missions, Plane Crashes and Malaysian Pirates
Dr. Neil Powell is an internationally renowned dog trainer whose been involved in global search and rescue missions, crime prevention efforts and natural disaster relief. His dogs have been awarded the gold medal for valour, murdered by Malaysian pirates and saved countless lives — while recovering the bodies of many more. In today’s episode we talk about: The age old connection between man and dog Why he left seminary and the navy Training Ireland’s first search and rescue dog Struggling with PTSD after the Lockerbee Air Disaster Using dogs to prevent the multi-million pound sale of illegal CDs The moment he became a man Supernatural experiences And why dogs can detect and predict epileptic seizures Check it out. P.S. You can buy Neil’s book here. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/neil-powell-dog-trainer //
Mon, January 16, 2023
#294 Philosopher Peter Rollins on Liver King, Irish Mammies & the Tyranny of Happiness
Peter Rollins is a freelance philosopher and psychoanalytic theorist who helps people find freedom from the tyranny of happiness. In today’s conversation we talk about: Why people post on Instagram How desire works Irish mammies Amusing Ourselves To Death The weird, cult-like nature of LA Liver King The Psychology of JD and Elliott in Scrubs Why he’s moving back to Belfast And how to escape the pleasure trap Check it out! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/pete-rollins-philosopher //
Mon, January 09, 2023
#293 Seán Napier: Soccer, Start-Ups & Undercover FBI Agents
Seán Napier is a football coach and entrepreneur who works as the MLS Next Academy Director for the Boston Bolts . He’s also the co-founder of Evolve Academy ; an online learning start-up that helps young athletes develop resilience, confidence and the self-reflective skills they need to thrive on and off the pitch. In today’s episode we talk about: Growing up playing football in Belfast Moving to America Differences between the US and EU sports “industry” The weakest part of Irish player’s game How his start-ups helps mums and dads become better parents Steve the undercover FBI agent Working as a “penguinologist” And why coming from Belfast is a superpower Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/sean-napier-boston-bolts //
Mon, January 02, 2023
#292 Prison Officer Bill Allen on Physical Courage, Violent Men and Giving Up Drink
Bill Allen (William Frank Allen) is an ex-prison officer who worked in the Crumlin Road Jail and Maze Prison at the height of the troubles. In today’s episode, we talk about: Growing up in London after WW2 Mars Bars coming off the ration How he got into prison work Physical courage War hero and friend Ken Lewis The Shankill Butchers Why rough men keep the world safe How a dog foiled a prison escape His dislike of certainty And 50-years of sobriety This conversation is part of our Wild Wisdom mini-series in partnership with Sai Kelly where we talk with older men about what masculinity means to them, the experiences that shaped them and the hard-earned lessons they’ve picked up along the way. Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/bill-allen-prison-officer //
Mon, December 26, 2022
The Future of Best Of Belfast
Episode 300 is approaching... and we have some weird news to share.
Mon, December 19, 2022
#291 The Masculine Journey w/ Sai Kelly
Sai Kelly is a husband, father and filmmaker. In today’s episode we talk about: What it means to be a man How having a daughter forces you to level-up Why you should always talk to the scariest person in the room And the new wild wisdom mini-series dropping on Best Of Belfast in 2023. This is episode is also the first one in our brand new video podcast studio set-up by Sai himself, so be sure to check out the show on YouTube for some fancy multi-cam action. — Matt // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/sai-kelly //
Mon, December 12, 2022
#290 BIG BREAD with Round House Bakery
Hannah and Shane are the artistic duo behind Spontaneous Deuce : a big breaded baking sensation that has been taking the NI Artisan markets by storm. After studying art in London and travelling around the world on a food pilgrimage, the couple have just opened a bakery in Hillsborough called Round House Bakery . In today’s episode we talk about: - Growing up on a Christmas tree farm - Wanting to leave Northern Ireland - Adventures around London, France and Norway - What brought them home again - Starting their baking business with an ordinary oven and cast iron skillet - Why big bread is so awesome - Cider - And their new artisan bakery (we went to the opening last Saturday and it was absolutely incredible). Check it out. Full webpage: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/round-house-bakery
Mon, December 05, 2022
#289 Conan Bradley: Itchy Feet, Cookstown Bingo Halls & Assistive Robotics
Conan Bradley is the co-founder of Bioliberty : a start-up whose mission is to empower every human to live a longer independent life through assistive and rehabilitative robotics. In this episode, we chat about: Part-time pizza jobs Cookstown Bingo Halls Itchy feet The difference between soft and hard robotics How assistive robotics can help stroke victims Why UK start-ups end up selling in the US market first The importance of managing risk and enjoying the process And the greatest challenges/successes along the way. Check it out! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/conan-bradley-bioliberty //
Mon, November 28, 2022
#288 PD Savage: Ireland’s Fittest Man
PD Savage is a CrossFit Games Athlete and the fittest man in Ireland. In today’s conversation we chat about: Growing up doing manual labour on a farm How playing GA set him up as a competitor Why he got into CrossFit Highs and lows of competing on such a high-level Balancing income generating work with sport The role loss has played in his journey One thing he wished he started doing earlier in his sporting career And turkey bacon Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/irelands-fittest-man //
Mon, November 21, 2022
#287 Maddie Hamill: Fortune 500 Growth Strategist
Maddie Hamill started out her career as a research scientist in the Department of Agriculture in Northern Ireland. Her plan was to work for a few years before getting married, having kids and living in a wee house near her mum on the Cave Hill Road. What ended up happening was a rollercoaster journey that included moving to Wales to work for a Tobacco company, becoming the Vice President of Global Strategy at Coca-Cola and leading growth at Fortune 500 companies like Apple and Nestle — as well as high-potential companies like Dollar Shave Club, Fairlife Milk and most recently, EggLife Wraps. Recently, her career has come full circle as she is using her science background to advise companies in the medical marijuana space. In today’s episode, we caught up with Maddie to talk about: Growing up on the Cave Hill Road Moving to Wales to work for a Tobacco company Rising through the ranks at Coca-Cola Launching Kylie Minogue’s music career Starting her own business Scaling companies like Fairlife, Dollar Shave Club and Egglife Getting into the medical marijuana industry The highs and lows of her incredible career And why she loves supporting the Irish Rugby team Check it out! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/maddie-hamill-growth-strategist /./
Mon, November 14, 2022
#286 Jane Shaw: Elmfield Estate & Artisan Market
Jane Shaw lives at and manages Elmfield Estate : a family-run wellness centre, retreat facility, educational institute and home of a monthly artisan market . After living and working in London for almost 20-years, Jane moved back to Northern Ireland to help transform her childhood home — and breathtaking grounds — into a destination where individuals and businesses can come to explore the path to wellbeing. In today’s conversation we talk about: Growing up surrounded by the wildness of nature The incredible history of her family home and estate Moving to the big city Leaving the corporate world behind to pursue wellbeing Trauma, Jungian Psychology and craniosacral therapy Coming “home” again And why everyone should experience a day at Elmfield ( especially the upcoming Christmas markets ). Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/elmfield-estate-jane-shaw //
Mon, November 07, 2022
#285 Louis Pearson: Crossfit, Competition, Addiction
Bio: Louis Pearsons is an entrepreneur, athlete and competitor. In this episode we talk about: Competing at a high level from a young age Pursuing goals vs being content Qualifying for the Crossfit Games Leaning into our flaws Polaroids And dealing with addiction // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/louis-pearson //
Mon, October 31, 2022
#284 Sloan’s Gym: Family, Fitness & Mental Health
Bio: In this episode we caught up with Granda John, Johnny-son and Grandson Curtis from Sloan’s Gym to chat about running an intergenerational family business and: The boxing legacy of their building How they build community among members The connection between Mental health and exercise Why we don’t talk to strangers anymore The power of breaking bread together (in their on-site cafe) And their plans to build Ireland’s first rooftop training facility Check it out! About Sloan’s Gym: Sloan's Gym is a family run fitness facility located in Belfast City Centre offering state of the art gym equipment, a wide variety of classes, personal training, and an onsite healthy café. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/sloans-gym //
Thu, October 27, 2022
#283 Hater Management w/ Ged Armstrong & Matthew Morgan
Ged Armstrong & Matthew Morgan have a combined 300 million video views on TikTok and Instagram. In this episode we talk about: - Why we don't rap in our accents - Our first YouTube videos (Runescape, COD, FIFA) - Balancing creativity with making money - Dealing with haters - The trauma involved with going viral - Short-term vs legacy - And managing mental health as creators. Check it out. // P.S. First Livestream Ever: check out the vid.
Mon, October 24, 2022
#282 Ilse van Staden: Prop, Butcher, Biltong Maker
Ilse van Staden is a rugby player, butcher, chef, language teacher and biltong maker from South Africa. Since moving to Northern Ireland in 2011 she has played for Ulster Rugby, and represented Ireland in the Six Nations as prop. Along with her partner Alannah, Ilse also set up Ke Nako : an award-winning artisan food business that specialises in South African cuisine. Fast-forward a few years later and their high-protein biltong has earned them a cult-like following across the UK — and is without a shadow of a doubt one of the tastiest things we have ever tried. In today’s episode we chat about: The art of butchery How meat can be sustainable Managing playing professional rugby while running a business Thinking in two languages Moving from South Africa to Northern Ireland And the greatest highs/lows experienced along the way Check it out! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/ilse-van-staden-biltong //
Mon, October 17, 2022
#281 Jonathan Black: Blockception — Building a Business on Minecraft
Jonathan Black is an experienced company director who has co-founded several companies, ranging from gaming to commercial real estate. For over a decade, he has been actively involved in the Games Industry, originally specialising in 3D Modelling and Level Design while using Minecraft as a platform for distribution. In 2015, along with his business partner, Alex Bellavita, he co-founded Blockception , a company specialising in the creation of consumer content within Minecraft. They’ve worked with clients such as Microsoft, Lacoste, Puma and Cartoon Network to develop products, achieving over 40 million downloads to date. In 2021, Blockception started its second subsidiary company, Black & Bellavita Properties Ltd. focusing on commercial property investment. In today’s episode we chat about: Being born 15 weeks premature Recreating a replica of the Titanic in Minecraft Ending up on the news in China Partnering with Microsoft Selling virtual products on Minecraft Being a digital builder Running a remote company The goal of financial freedom And the greatest highs/lows experienced along the way Check it out! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/jonathan-black-blockception //
Mon, October 10, 2022
#280 Rich Wade on Photography, WWE & Doing Many Things
Rich Wade is a photographer from Belfast based in New York. He has shot for the likes of WWE, Rolling Stone, Vogue, NPR, Van Morrison and The Washington post— and his work has been exhibited in the United States, Europe, Russia, Asia and Australia. In this episode we chat about: Getting into wrestling at a young age Moving to NYC Shooting for WWE What it means to be a “working photographer” “Shiny jobs” versus the “bread and butter” type of work And the greatest highs/lows he’s experienced along the way. Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/rich-wade-photographer //
Mon, October 03, 2022
#279 Joe Barr: World-Champion Ultra-Endurance Cyclist
Joe Barr is a 63-year old ultra-endurance cyclist who has been racing bikes his whole life. He is a 1986 Commonwealth Games medalist and has amassed hundreds of medals and trophies in different cycling disciplines throughout his 45+ year career. In 2004 Joe retired from professional cycling but after his young son, Ross beat cancer in 2008 he returned to the bike to fund-raise for a respite centre in Ireland focused on providing care for families going through the cancer journey. Since then, Joe has become a multiple World Record holder and Guinness World Record holder. He was the World Ultra-Cycling Association Champion over 500-miles (2017, overall) and an age category winner in the toughest race of them all, Race Across America. His ability to endure on 2-wheels through day and night, to constantly find a way forward despite severe obstacles is unparalleled. His challenge, like so many others however, is to take that experience and translate it effectively to life on 2-feet. In this episode we caught up with Joe to talk about: What he eats for breakfast How he outsources his brain to his team on long-races Incredible encounters with wildlife, nature and strangers while cycling across America The “why” that fuels him when things get tough Stepping out of the fish-bowl of mainstream sport Why his “second-career” has been exponentially better than his first How endurance racing transformed him as a man And what he’s got his sights on for the next chapter of his journey. Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/team-joe-barr-endurance-cyclist //
Mon, September 26, 2022
#278 Isabel Woods: The 93-Year-Old Record-Breaking Cyclist
Isabel Woods is a 93-year-old who set long distance cycling records back in the 1950s. In this episode we talk about: Street-games she played as a young girl on the streets of Belfast Saving up to buy her first bicycle while working in a factory Cycling through rain, wind and snow to make her club proud Giving a donkey a bath in her cottage Set dancing over Zoom during the pandemic And the greatest highs/lows she’s experienced along the way Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/ isabel-woods-cyclist //
Mon, September 19, 2022
#277 Matt Gillespie on BMXing, Saving Lives & Setting Up Skateparks
Matt Gillespie is a die hard BMX fanatic who has dedicated his adult life to the pursuit of seeing Skateparks built across Northern Ireland. He’s built three indoor Skateparks , runs a dare devil stunt team and fronts an organisation who seek to teach every child in the land how to safely ride a bmx, stunt scooter or skateboard. In the last 5 years Matt has added father and husband to the CV and now has 2 of his own adrenaline junkies to enjoy the action sports lifestyle with him. In today’s conversation we chat about: The E Myth How he got into BMXing at 9-years-old Why he gave 20-years of his life to the sport Starting his own skateparks Working with Rihanna Saving someones life And the impact COVID has had on childhoods across our nation Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/matt-gillespie-thunder-park-bangor //
Mon, September 05, 2022
#275 Into the Metaverse with Ryan Scollan
Ryan Scollan is a sports scientist, esports performance coach and entrepreneur who’s deeply passionate about using technology to address the health and well-being challenges of professional gamers. In pursuit of this passion, he founded Gscience, an esports and performance coaching company, which he led from inception to its recent acquisition by Adamas. In this episode we talk about: What the metaverse actually is How we’re already living in it The dangers of the virtual world becoming more real than “reality” Esports stars being the footballers of the future Cognitive athletes And why it’s essential we build the metaverse with human flourishing in-mind Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/ryan-scollan-metaverse //
Mon, August 29, 2022
#274 Robert Jamison: Architect
Robert Jamison is an architect, known his boundary-pushing work through his own practice and involvement in the BBC/Netflix show Your Home Made Perfect . In his early days, Robert studied architecture at Queen’s and became a lecturer there before moving to London to work on a wide-range of projects. After the 2008 crash, he booked a one-way plane ticket to India, a trip that continues to impact and influence his work today. In this conversation we chat about: Discovering his love for architecture at a young age Almost becoming a fighter pilot in the 80s The importance of integrating different practices into our work And the greatest highs/lows experienced along the way. Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/robert-jamison-architect //
Mon, August 22, 2022
#273 Conor Gallagher: AllotMe
Conor Gallagher is the North Belfast-born founder of AllotMe : an online platform that connects empty outdoor space with would-be vegetable growers, often described as the Airbnb for gardens. He gave up his career as an architect to work on AllotMe, in response to increasing demand for allotment spaces across the UK and Ireland during multiple lockdowns in the summer of 2020 In today’s episode, we chat about: Working for street corner fruit vendors in NYC The joy of growing your own vegetables Getting into the start-up world And the highs/lows he’s experienced along the way Check it out // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/conor-gallagher-allotme //
Mon, August 15, 2022
#272 Richard Kirk: Workplus
Richard Kirk is the co-founder of Workplus : an online platform that makes it easier for people to find apprenticeships that’s based out of Ormeau Baths . In today’s episode we talk about: A day in the life of a tech-founder Why apprenticeships are unrated for both employer and employee How to serve people through systems And the importance of not losing your soul while pursuing the entrepreneurial dream Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/richard-kirk-workplus //
Mon, August 08, 2022
#271 Brendan Digney: Machine Eye
Brendan Digney is the founder of Machine Eye : a tech start-up from Belfast that uses AI and Computer Vision to make heavy machinery autonomous and safer. (AKA: “he turns big diggers and cranes into Teslas”) Having grown up surrounded by farms, fields, and machinery, Brendan has an intimate knowledge of the industry which he is now using to save lives (and costs) on construction/agricultural sites around the world. Outside of Machine Eye, he can be found enjoying his other passions including: photography (he runs his own agency), microlight aircraft (he’s an experienced pilot), writing (for a monthly aircraft magazine) and sports (cycling, triathlon and GAA). In today’s show we talk about: Our shared love for the Centra/Go Garage on the A1 Why hardware is hard The future of autonomous vehicles How his company gives diggers eyes and a brains (And why that matters) How he got into flying What the heck “flamping” is Why he enjoys doing so many different types of things And the greatest highs/lows of his journey so far Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/brendan-digney-machine-eye //
Mon, August 01, 2022
#270 Tōnē Flōrēal on Growing Up, Protecting Your Inner-Child & Becoming a “Keeper of the Flame”
Tōnē Flōrēal is an International Man of Mystery, a real-life cross between Austin Powers and Forrest Gump. He has traveled the world learning from the all-stars of healing and human performance. His company, FlowReal, shares this collective knowledge and wisdom through his Magic Flow Bus Events and Podcast . In today’s episode, we ended up scrapping our plan to talk about Tōnē’s business ventures and how he got to Northern Ireland instead covering the fertile ground of: The deeper meaning behind Batman Learning to stand up for ourselves Protecting our inner-child Getting out of toxic relationships/environments The dark side of the flow-state And learning to embrace the reality of life rather than constantly chasing the next high Talking with Tōnē is like playing improvised Jazz with a musical prodigy and I’m so exciting to share this jam-packed, raw audio adventure with you today. Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/tone-floreal
Mon, July 25, 2022
#269 Esoteric Ramblings: The Yo-Yo Principle™ (ft. Tone Floreal)
Our greatest esoteric adventure yet — live from Scott’s sofa. Join the yo-yo bros and fellow traveller Tone Floreal as we dive deep into the world of true community, the ebb and flow nature of life and moving away from shortcuts/tactics/elite biohacks to address the core of what’s holding us back from true lifestyle change. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/the-yo-yo-principle
Mon, July 18, 2022
#268 Dr. Eileen Murphy on Egyptian Mummies, Famine Roads & Skeletons with Leprosy
Eileen Murphy is a Professor of Archaeology at Queen’s University Belfast and a leading expert in ancient human remains/burial practices. Her passion is for telling the stories of ordinary people whose voices have been largely written out of history. Dr Murphy is the author/editor of 12 books, including a book all about Takabuti: the Belfast mummy currently living in the Ulster Museum — who as you’ll hear inspired her to get into archaeology as a child. In today’s episode we talk about about: Growing up with a sense of awe and adventure about the world around her Some of the weird and wonderful things found right here on our doorstep What the past can teach us about the present The rights of the living versus the rights of the dead Why a sense of place is an essential part of wellbeing Lessons learned from studying 1000+ human skeletons Discovering the first case of leprosy in Ireland (in a skeletons foot) And the greatest highs/lows of her journey so far Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/eileen-murphy-takabuti
Mon, July 11, 2022
#267 Hayley Milthorpe: The Cultured Food Company
Hayley Milthorpe is the creator of The Cultured Food Company . She’s also a mother, nutritionist and passionate advocate for the health benefits of fermented foods. Described as a trend setter, her company has been leading the way in Ireland for the last 8 years by producing a range of organic fermented vegetable from sauerkraut to kimchi — making probiotic rich foods accessible for all. In today’s episode we talk about: Why eating “bacteria” is good for you How Hayley got into the weird and wonderful world of fermented food Simple dietary changes you can make to improve your mental health Why our ancestors ate fermented food (And the idea that fermented foods are now a missing food group) Why probiotic foods are strangely addictive And how she went from selling jars of sauerkraut at the local farmers market to getting her products on the shelf of Lidl Check it out! // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/hayley-milthorpe-cultured-food-company
Mon, July 04, 2022
#266 James & Matt on Dopamine, Domino-Decisions and Compassionate Confrontation
People come and go in our lives — “friend’s for a season” — folks who we journey with for a while and then part ways. But every now and then a connection is made that you know will last a lifetime. For me, podcaster James O’Connell from Dublin is one of those connections. After strangely being introduced by previous podcast guest and current Mental Health co-host Stephen Ilardi , I first met James when he moved to Belfast last year and now he’s moving on, we decided to mark the occasion with a conversation that captures some of what we’ve wrestled with over the course of our friendship so far. The result is a long-form conversation about dopamine, mental health, commitment, relationships, confr
Mon, June 27, 2022
#265 Gemma Gallagher: Design & Dine, Dubai
Gemma Gallagher is an award-winning Visual Artist and the Founder of Design & Dine , a Creative Workshop company based in the UAE and Northern Ireland. The aim was to create an event where guests could discover their creative abilities and learn to make art in a fun, sociable environment. What started as a small workshop has now grown to become the UAE’s largest interactive, creative experience with consistent sell-out events and over 7000 guests having attended so far. After founding Design & Dine in 2015, she has built the company up to operate across multiple cities with a team of Artists from around the world working with her to make Art fun and accessible to everyone. Her vision is to grow Design & Dine to be a global brand, allowing anyone to have fun and connect through the joy of creativity. In today’s episode we talk about: Growing up on the Antrim Road in the 90s Working on a banana farm in Australia What brought her to Abu Dhabi in 2014 Her experience working as a teacher in the Middle East Where she got the idea to start her business How she scaled her events from 15, to 25, to 50, to 100 people The secret to incredible in-person events What she misses most about home And her greatest highs/lows of the journey so far. Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/gemma-gallagher-design-and-dine
Mon, June 20, 2022
#264 Dr. Lindsay Broadbent on Viruses, Vampires & The History of Pandemics
Dr Lindsay Broadbent is a virologist at Queen's University Belfast who has made over a thousand media appearances during the pandemic. In this conversation we talk about: What a virus actually is How viruses jump from animals to humans The potential scientific truth behind vampire lore Human responses to pandemics throughout history The importance of transparency and nuance in public discourse And what we could have done differently around COVID-19 Check it out! https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/lindsay-broadbent-virologist
Mon, June 13, 2022
#263 Esoteric Ramblings: Working The Land on Biruck’s Organic Farm
Grab a pair of headphones, a shovel and get to work. The boys are out of town and this time we’re volunteering at Hahu Organics to try and find the meaning of life amongst the worms and dirt. Along the way we chat about how disconnected we’ve become from our food, the change of perspective working the land can give us and whether or not our great-granda’s could beat us in a fight. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/esoteric-farming
Mon, June 06, 2022
#262 Biruk Sahle: Hahu Organics, Helens Bay Walled Garden
Biruk Sahle is the no-dig gardener behind Hahu Organics : an initiative that feeds 40+ families from a small plot of land in Helens Bay Walled Garden. By flipping modern agriculture on its head, Biruk and his family have been able to create a sustainable and profitable business growing vegetables in the 21st Century without pesticides, subsidies, heavy machinery or debt — all while regenerating the land he farms and restoring biodiversity back to the area. In today’s episode we talk about: His back to the future approach to farming What the heck a ‘no-dig’ philosophy is Going deep instead of going wide Finding customers before developing a product Permaculture and why it matters And the power of embracing each moment as it comes. Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/biruk-sahle-hahu-organics
Mon, May 30, 2022
#261 Amilra De Silva on Serendipity & the Chemistry of Everything
Dr Amilra De Silva (more commonly known as AP) is a Professor in the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering who during his 40-year career with Queen’s University developed a blood analyser that has sold 10’s of millions of units and saved countless lives around the world. In today’s episode we talk about: Growing up in Sri Lanka The role his grandparents played throughout his life Moving to Belfast in the 70s Why he was working on a molecular sodium sensor How it got picked up by Big Pharma The Lion King And the wisdom of surrounding yourself by curators, mentors, and other people going deep into an area of expertise Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/amilra-d
Mon, May 23, 2022
#260 John from Shines Seafood on the Sustainability & Health Benefits of Irish Caught Fish
Shines Seafood are a family business based in Killybegs, Co.Donegal that sell Ireland’s only Irish Tuna, Irish Sardines & Mackerel to both the retail & food services sectors. It’s is their aim to make the best quality Irish Seafood in the world more affordable and available to the nation. Having been involved in the fishing industry for a combined 50 years they are passionate about the consumption of seafood and the overall sustainability of the industry. In today’s episode, we caught up with John while he was up in Belfast receiving an award to chat about: Why we eat fish on Fridays The difference between wild and farmed fish Some of the controversy around sustainability and fishing Common fish myths (mercury poisoning, extinction, preservation process) How “sardines” don’t actually exist <span class= " author-d-1gg9uz65z1iz85zgdz68zmqkz84zo2qovvlb3z85zz88zdqsiz85zz77zjz90z4z74zqmz73zz73znz67zh2hz79
Mon, May 16, 2022
#259 Rory O’Connor on Why People Die by Suicide and What We Can Do To Prevent
Rory O’Connor, a native of Derry, is Professor of Health Psychology at the University of Glasgow where he directs the Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory, one of the leading suicide research groups internationally. He is a world leader on suicide research and prevention and has been working in the field for 25 years, beginning with his PhD on suicide and self-harm at Queen’s University of Belfast. Rory is the current President of the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and past President of the International Academy of Suicide Research – the only person from the UK and the 2nd person globally to hold both offices. He has published extensively in the field of suicide and self-harm and has advised on and contributed to six BBC documentaries on suicide, including the BAFTA-nominated Life After Suicide with Angela Samata, Suicide and Me with the rapper Professor Green and Our Silent Emergency with the DJ Roman Kemp. He published the award winning book When It Is Darkest: Why People Die by Suicide and What We Can Do To Prevent It in 2021. Check it out. <a class="dynamiclink" href= "https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/rory-oconnor-suicide-pre
Mon, May 09, 2022
#258 Yassin Brunger: Racism, Conflict & Justice
Dr Yassin Brunger is a Lecturer in Human Rights Law and Co-Director of the Gender Justice and Society Research Network at Queen’s University Belfast. Originally from the Gambian , Yassin spent 20 years living in the Middle East and is rooted in transnational understandings of justice and human rights. As a long-term feminist and scholar-activist, her academic work remains informed by the lived experiences of post-conflict, justice and peace of marginalised communities in the ‘Global South’ — amplifying struggles for justice within and beyond legal frameworks and academia. Closer to home, Yassin is a dedicated champion of gender and racial justice in Northern Ireland. She has received national recognition for her contribution to the first 'Black History Month campaign' in Northern Ireland and formerly served as one of the inaugural Co-Chairs of IRise, the University's Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic and Internat
Mon, May 09, 2022
#276 The "Post-Social World" with Matthew Scott from Play Human
Matthew Scott is a Digital Media Entrepreneur working hard to change Media Entertainment, Digital Storytelling and Digital Democracy. Over the last 20-years he has worked as a creator, producer, marketer and innovator with the likes of SKY, BBC, Discovery Networks, Nike, Coca-Cola, Ford, Lego, Intel, Sony Pictures and countless more. His new company Play Human focuses on helping creators/brands engage with their audiences in the post-social world. In today’s episode we talk about: Growing up on Bangor His early days as a storyteller What got him into tech How he ended up working with some of the biggest brands on the planet What the post-social world will look like And the biggest lessons he’s learned along the way. Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories /matthew-scott-play-human //
Mon, May 02, 2022
#257 Colly Graham: A Conversation With A 78-Year-Old About Contentment
Colly Graham is a 78-year-old international businessman, sales training expert and great-grandfather. He's also a former alcoholic, rough-sleeper, petrol-bomber, prisoner and member of the RAF. In today's episode we talk about: - The secret to a happy marriage - Old drinking dens in Belfast - Sobriety - Spiritual experiences - What most young people get wrong about life - And balancing contentment with ambition Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/colly-graham-sales-xcellence //
Mon, April 25, 2022
#256 Mark Rabo on Appreciating Beauty, Becoming a Polymath and Carving Out Community in the Digital Age
Dear friends! Excited to share with you today a very special conversation with someone I've only met once who left a big impression on me. The short story is that I got more from a two-hour chat with Rabo (Polish-Canadian Engineer, Writer and Product Manager) at the launch of Mark Dowd's new business in December than frankly, I have in most relationships outside of my inner-circle. Today's podcast is my attempt to recreate some of that magic and dive deeper into a wide-range of rabbit holes we left unexplored including: Practical ways to slow down and appreciate beauty Why community is so broken in the 21st Century How Rabo's simple, yet powerful app can help The value of intergenerational relationships Navigating the tension between wanting to show up with the desire to escape His path into becoming a polymath and why the advice to "find your passion" never worked for him Some of the strange jobs he's had along the way (from documentary-making to sewer-diving) How different experiences change the way we view the world Why some of us are naturally attracted to entrepreneurship And the kindest thing someone has ever done for him. It's rare to meet someone with as much depth and experience as this dude right here and I hope you enjoy this brief, dipping of the toe into the wonderful world of Rabo. Enjoy. — Matt // - Favourite quote: “Art must be exaggerated. Bend until your spine cracks.” ~ Szukalski (Polish Artist) // Show notes: - Definition of sonder - Revere App - Rabo's writings Webpage for this episode: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/mark-rabo-beauty-and-community
Mon, April 18, 2022
#255 John Barry on “Climate Change” and Meaningful Environmental Action
Professor John Barry is the C0-Director of the Centre for Sustainability, Equality and Climate Action at Queen's University Belfast, and C0-Chair of the Belfast Climate Commission. He’s also a recovering politician, public servant, electric-car driving, foldable bicycle riding activist himself, as well as a lover of The Lorax by Dr Seuss — but I’ll let John tell you more about that himself. In today’s episode we talk about: His origin story as a climate-activist Why we have the wrong end of the stick when it comes to “climate change” What the economy is actually for The wisdom of Dr Seuss, Lord Of The Rings, The Matrix and more And most importantly, what you and I can do to take meaningful action. Check it out! https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/john-barry-climate-activist
Mon, April 11, 2022
#254 Esoteric Ramblings: The Sauna Episode (ft. Hotbox & Ryan Scollan).
Sea-swimming, sauna-sweating and aufgussing (wait, what?!). Join myself, Scott and special guest Ryan Scollan on another esoteric adventure — this time up the North Coast on Benone Beach in our favourite sauna in the world: Hotbox! Medical Disclaimer: please do not do anything mentioned, discussed or actually done in this episode. Enjoy! // Notes: - Check out our interview with Anna & Carl - Book your own Hot-Slot Sauna Session here - Scott's website - Ryan's website - Matt's website // Today's episode webpage: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/esoteric-sauna
Mon, April 04, 2022
#253 Ryan Milligan: Lorry Driving, Astrophysics & Space Truckers
Dr. Ryan Milligan is a lecturer in the Astrophysics Research Center at Queen’s University Belfast. His research focuses on the study of the sun and how it can impact our planet. After graduating from Queen’s University in 2007 he spent several years at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center outside Washington, DC, and two years at the University of Glasgow, before returning home in 2019. Before embarking on his astrophysics career, Ryan was a full-time truck driver, and can still be seen behind the wheel from time to time. He is also an avid solar eclipse chaser. In today’s show we talk about: Growing up working in fish factories in Ardglass The life-changing moment of experiencing his first total solar eclipse How he went from truck-driving to studying Astrophysics Landing jobs at NASA, University of Glasgow and Queen’s University His incredible TV Show Space Truckers that was picked up by the BBC Why studying solar flares matters His plans to launch a rocket in 2024 And the most challenging/successful moment of the journey so far. </u
Mon, March 28, 2022
#252 Caoimhe Rooney: NASA, Exoplanet Atmospheres & Making Maths Fun
Dr Caoimhe Rooney is a mathematician at NASA that searches for life throughout the universe by studying distant planets, known as exoplanets. Following an undergraduate degree in mathematics at Trinity College Dublin, with a scholarship year at UCLA, Caoimhe achieved a PhD in Industrially Focused Mathematical Modeling at the University of Oxford. In pursuit of her dream to apply her transferrable mathematical skills within the space sector, Caoimhe was awarded the NASA Postdoctoral Program fellowship to model the formation and distribution of clouds in exoplanet atmospheres at NASA Ames Research Center, California. She continues to work at NASA Ames as a Research Scientist. Motivated by the under-representation of women in maths, Caoimhe also co-founded Mathematigals , an educational outreach initiative with the aim to encourage young girls to pursue mathematics by making it fun and accessible while showcasing its many applications. In today’s show we talk about: Why GCSE maths is a terrible representation of what the field of mathematics is really like <span class= " author-d-1gg9uz65z1iz85zgdz68zmqkz84zo2qovvlb3z85zz88zdqsiz85zz77
Mon, March 21, 2022
#251 Addiction 101: The Final Episode In The Series
What a ride the last few weeks have been! Highly recommend you going back and listening through the six different episodes we've released as part of this Addiction Series. Today's episode is a final recap conversation and overview with my dear friend Professor Steve Ilardi from our new Mental Health podcast. If you would like to hear other episodes in this series (including ADHD 101, Depression 101 and Anxiety 101) please check out https://mentalhealth.fm/ Other than that thanks so much to everyone who made this series possible and I really hope it's a useful tool for you and the people you care about. — Matt
Mon, March 14, 2022
#250 The State of Addiction in Northern Ireland (ft. Prof Kathryn Higgins & Dr Anne Campbell from Queen’s University Belfast)
Today’s episode features a conversation about the state of addiction in Northern Ireland with Dr Anne Campbell and Professor Kathryn Higgins from Queen’s University Belfast who have both dedicated their professional careers to researching and implementing solutions around this issue. In today’s episode we talk about: What personally got each them into the field of addiction Key insights from longitudinal studies and individual stories Which substances are causing the greatest harm locally Unique strengths and weaknesses NI faces with addiction The impact of COVID on the sector Some of the incredible research they have been involved in over the years And first steps you and I can take to get help or help others Check it out! https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/state-of-addiction-northern-ireland
Mon, March 07, 2022
#249 Vivian McKinnon: Former-Addict Turned Floatation & Trauma Expert
Floatation and trauma expert Vivian McKinnon set up Hydro-ease : Northern Irelands only dedicated floatation centre in September 2015. She established the business in response to her own traumatic experiences and a passion for helping people move away from pain and towards a life of fulfilment. Qualified and experienced in many therapeutic approaches and currently studying with Dr Gabor Mate, Vivian has crafted her own exclusive and eclectic approach to recovery, RAFT (Reconnection and Floatation Therapy) to assist others by guiding and inspiring them to use the skills and tools in the life they have to create the life they desire. Vivian’s experience as a unique and dynamic therapist spans over three decades. It’s her core belief ‘there is magic within us all’. Through her own process of post-traumatic growth, Vivian is thriving and living out her mission of ‘healing the world, one float at a time.’ <span class= " author-d-1gg9uz
Mon, February 28, 2022
#248 Theo Fleury: The Hockey Superstar Who Got Sober In Belfast
Theo Fleury is a former NHL All-Star, Stanley Cup winner and Olympic Gold Medalist. He’s also the two-time best-selling author of Playing with Fire and Conversations With a Rattlesnake. While Theo enjoys his hockey memories and accolades, he feels his true life’s purpose is what he does today: creating healing through conversation, particularly in the areas of addiction, sexual abuse and childhood trauma. In this episode we talk about: Why he moved to Belfast to play for The Giants How his time in Northern Ireland turned his life around His journey to sobriety And the daily practices that helped him overcome trauma, depression and addiction. Check it out. </
Mon, February 21, 2022
#247 Willy G: World-Famous Tattoo Artist, Former Cocaine Addict
Willy G is a world-famous tattoo artist from Whitehead, Northern Ireland. He’s also a husband, proud father of three, painter and former cocaine addict. In today’s episode we talk about: The intimacy involved in tattooing How Willy got into art Working towards dreams/goals Managing success at a young age The years that led him to rock bottom And what got him sober Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/willy-g-tattoo-artist
Mon, February 14, 2022
#246 Alan: Alcoholics Anonymous
Today’s very special episode features an in-depth conversation with an individual in his 70s who has been sober for 40+ years through the Alcoholics Anonymous, 12-Step Program. In this episode, “Alan” shares: Why anonymity is a key pillar of AA The origins of this organisation that has helped millions of people get sober Why alcoholics are “allergic to alcohol” The rock-bottom moment that led to him seeking help What AA meetings actually look like And most importantly, why the 12-step program actually works. This is a very relaxed conversation with plenty of laughs along the way, making it the perfect way to ‘dip your toe in the water’ and find out more about AA. <span class= " author-d-1gg9uz65z1iz85zgdz68zmqkz84zo2qovvlb3z85zz88zdqsiz85zz77zjz90z4z74zqmz73zz73zn
Mon, February 07, 2022
#245 Dr. Anna Lembke: Dopamine, Addiction & Freedom
Kicking off our addiction series is Dr. Anna Lembke : a professor of psychiatry at Stanford University and one of the world's leading experts on dopamine. Over the last few years, Anna has appeared in Netflix documentaries like The Social Dilemma and podcasts like The Rich Roll Podcast, The Huberman Lab and The Joe Rogan Experience. Her new book, Dopamine Nation: Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence was an instant New York Times bestseller and explores how to moderate compulsive overconsumption in a dopamine-overloaded world. In this conversation we cover: - What dopamine actually is - How it governs our lives - Why the pursuit of pleasure is actually the pursuit of pain - How a dopamine fast can help reset our brains - And practical tools for overcoming addiction This conversation is probably the most important episode I've shared in my podcasting journey so far (and is probably the one where you will hear me fangirling the most!) Anna's work has made a profound impact on my life in recent months and I'm both incredibly honoured and excited to share some of it with you today. — Matt https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/anna-lembke-dopamine-nation
Wed, February 02, 2022
Addiction Mini-Series [Trailer]
Hopping on to give a head-up about probably the most important thing we will ever share on this podcast. Over the next six weeks, we're diving deep into the topic of addiction, including some incredible stories from recovered addicts and the research from some of the world's leading experts on the topic. Really hope you enjoy it and find it beneficial for you and the people you care about. – Matt
Mon, January 31, 2022
#244 Mental Health: The Link Between COVID & Depression
Pilot episode for our new podcast! // Over the last two years, there’s been a lot of discussion about the short and long-term side-effects of COVID-19. But something I’d never heard anyone talk about was the proven link between depression and the virus itself… That was until I got COVID myself and hopped on the phone with my dear friend Steve Ilardi (who just so happens to be a Clinical Researcher and one of the world’s leading experts on depression). The rest, as they say, is history. In today’s first-ever, special pilot, episode myself and Steve catch up to chat about: Why the risk of depression doubles after a COVID infection How COVID affects the brain (including why we lose our sense of taste/smell) And what we can do to protect ourselves and the people we love from this rarely talked about side-effect. Thanks so much for being here and we really hope you enjoy! // Subscribe to the new show here: https://mentalhealth.fm/episodes/link-between-covid-and-depression
Mon, January 24, 2022
#243 Esoteric Ramblings: The Sensory Deprivation Tank Episode (ft. Hydro-Ease)
This week, the Dunk Brothers headed to Hydro-Ease (the first float centre on the Island of Ireland) in East Belfast for Scott's 7th time esoteric float and Matt's 1st ever. In our pre-and-post-float chat we talk about: Why would someone even want to do this? Expectations versus reality of the float tank experience Our reactions to our time in the tank "Deep time" and intergenerational mindfulness The link between capitalism/communism and crops Losing connection with the village/tribe in modern life The Label-Free Diet (TM pending) And how the things that hold you back in your journey are often the whole point of the journey in the first place. Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/sensory-deprivation-tank
Mon, January 10, 2022
#241 Kit Adams: Antarctica's Post-Man
Kit Adams is an adventurer from Newcastle, County Down who is currently working as a post-man in Antarctica. After growing up at the bottom of the Mourne Mountains, Kit has dedicated his life to learning about and exploring the natural world. Just before the pandemic hit he spent a season living and working at “ The Penguin Post Office ” where he and his colleagues manually processed over 60,000 postcards and welcomed visitors from all over the world. In today’s episode we talk about: How on earth you land a job as a postman in Antarctica What remote/wild parts of the planet can teach us The value in disconnecting from technology And why doing hard things is both fulfilling and worthwhile Check it out. <
Mon, January 03, 2022
#240 Clive Corry: Loss, Grief & Intergenerational Trauma
Clive Corry is the founder of Action Trauma , Ltd. A not for profit organisation whose vision is to see a world where people stop hurting themselves and others because of undealt-with negative experiences (trauma). His journey started in 2016, after the death of his wife through illness, where he believes trauma/stress/anxiety may have compromised her immune system. Since then he’s read 100+ books on the topic, founded the not-for-profit and run several world-class conferences right here in Belfast that have attracted 1000’s of international visitors and global trauma experts like Gabor Maté , Janina Fisher, Stephen Porges, and Bessel van der Kolk. Along with many others. In today’s episode we talk about: Working in the family timber business (JP Corry) during the troubles What trauma actually is and how it’s stored in our body The role trauma plays in addiction Why intergenerational trauma affects nearly all of us in Northern Ireland And most importantly, what we can do to start dealing with and healing our own trauma. This is a fascinating conversation with an incredibly passionate, empathetic individual with a huge heart for seeing our nation experience healing on a big-picture and individual level. I hope that you get as much out of it as I did. — Matt P.S. Clive asks us to note that Action Trauma provides information for everyone working with or experiencing psychological trauma through its conferences and events. Regrettably, it is not able to provide therapy, advice or treatment directly. However, via the website , it can signpost to where help may be found. P.P.S. Here’s three books Clive recommended as a starting point (Amazon Affiliate links): Gabor Maté: When The Body Says No Bessel van der Kolk: The Body Keeps The Score Peter Levine: Waking The Tiger // https:/
Mon, December 27, 2021
[Rebroadcast] Norman Surplus: The First Man To Circumnavigate The Planet In An Autogyro
This conversation first aired three years ago and is one of our most popular episodes. Merry Christmas and enjoy!
Mon, December 20, 2021
[Rebroadcast] Foy Vance: A Once In A Lifetime Conversation
This conversation first aired three years ago and is one of our most popular episodes. The long pauses, stretches of silence and absolute golden moments have been kept in the way they happened on the day. Merry Christmas and enjoy!
Wed, December 15, 2021
Taking A Break...
See You Next Year!
Mon, December 13, 2021
#236 Eimir McSwiggan: Champion Ice Climber
Eimir McSwiggan is a World Champion Ice Climber from Northern Ireland who’s been living and working in South Korea since 2010. With 6 World Cup medals under her belt, Eimir is passionate about sharing her love for climbing and dreams of bringing competitive Ice Climbing back to Northern Ireland someday in the near future… In this episode we chat about: Growing up on a farm in Gortin, County Tyrone. How she got into the sport at an age when most people consider retiring Life lessons climbing competitively has taught her And some of her war stories from along the way (including a brutal yet beautiful 20-hour climb up Asia’s tallest frozen waterfall) All this and more in a very heartfelt and honest conversation with one of Northern Ireland’s best-kept secrets. Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/eimir-mcswiggan-ice-climber
Mon, December 06, 2021
#235 Martin Mullholland: Head Concierge Of The Europa Hotel Belfast
Martin Mullholland is the Head Concierge of the Europa Hotel and has worked there for 38-years — making him the longest-serving staff member of the iconic Belfast landmark. He’s also the current President of Les Clefs d'Or, UICH Ireland — a prestigious network of Head Concierges from around the world. In this episode we talk about: Walking through the door of the hotel for the first time at 18-years old. Working in Belfast City Centre during the troubles Meeting President Bill Clinton The most unusual request a guest has ever made And the art of connecting with other people… This conversation took place as part of the Europa’s 50th Anniversary to celebrate and commemorate its place in local history and the role it’s played in the Belfast story. Check it out! <a href= "https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/martin-mullholland-head-concierge-europ
Mon, November 29, 2021
#234 Esoteric Ramblings: The Prince Of Egypt
Scott has never seen The Prince Of Egypt. Matt grew up watching it. In this episode, the lads take an esoteric adventure through the trippy, complicated, star-studded, Oscar-winning 1998 animated cult-classic "kids-movie" musical all about Meek Moses leading the people of Israel through the Red Sea. Check it out. https://bestofbelfast/stories/prince-of-egypt
Mon, November 22, 2021
#233 Nadia Sayers: Miss Universe, Comic Books & Mental Health
Nadia Sayers is a professional model and Miss Universe Ireland 2020. She's also a passionate mental health advocate, speaker and educator with a Masters in Psychology. After facing her own battles with depression and anxiety, Nadia went on to work in suicide prevention for six years before taking on her current role as Youth Development Manager at Hope 4 Life NI . Her day job now involves going into schools across Northern Ireland with the Uberheroes Programme : an initiative that uses comic books to empower young people with the tools they need to take control of their mental health. (P.S. These comics are based on real-life stories of kids from NI and are co-created with Marvel and DC illustrators!) In today's episode we talk about: Reconnecting with your inner-child The difference between anxiety and depression Nadia's own encounter with suicide Her unexpected beauty pageant journey And the incredible results Uberheroes comic books have had on the lives of kids right here on our doorstep. Check it out! P.S. Here's a pageant podcast Nadia recommends :) // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/nadia-sayers-uberheroes
Mon, November 15, 2021
#232 Francesca Morelli: Ice Cream, Influencers & Forging Your Own Path
Francesca Morelli is the Enterprise Development Officer at QUBSU and Co-Founder of VAVA Influence : Northern Ireland’s first dedicated Influencer Marketing Agency. After growing up as part of the Morelli Ice Cream family, Fran began forging her own path in the world of tech start-ups by spending a year working in Paris before moving back home to start her own business. In today’s conversation we talk about: The incredible history of the Morelli family How living abroad isn’t always as glamorous as it looks Why influencer marketing is the future And the challenges/successes Fran’s faced on the journey so far. Check it out! <a class="dynamiclink" href= "https://bestofbelfast.org/francesca-morelli-vava-influ
Mon, November 08, 2021
#231 Roger Woodend: Amazon, MBA’s & 75+ Countries
Roger Woodend is the Director of Strategic Sales at Amazon Web Services (AWS). He was born in Belfast in 1975 and was raised in a council-estate in Coleraine before eventually leaving NI to study Politics in Glasgow. Since then he’s lived and worked all over the world for telecom titans, tech-startups and even found the time to do an MBA before taking up his current role with Amazon today. In today’s episode we talk about: Losing his dad at a young age How visiting Hong Kong changed his life Why he set up the New York City Northern Ireland Football Supporters Club Having dinner with the Australian Prime Minister And why the Harbour Bar in Portrush is his favourite place in the world. Check it out. https:/
Mon, November 01, 2021
#230 Esoteric Ramblings: Matt & Scott's Winter Survival Guide
***Experimental Episode*** So as you know we've been playing around with some different formats over the last year that differ from our typical 'life story' styled interviews — and today's episode is probably our weirdest and wonderful-est one yet. The idea was to catch up with Wim Hof Instructor, Health & Wellness expert, recent podcaster and now three-time Best Of Belfaster Scott Riley to talk about the things we do to keep ourselves physically and mentally well during winter. What ended up happening was a two-hour conversation about the self, Moses and the burning bush, wisdom teeth, hygge, inner soul jars and healthy forms of suffering. Without a doubt, this episode isn't for everything, but if you enjoy listening to two mates grapple with the impossible parts of life together then this one might be exactly what the doctor ordered. Thanks so much as always and I look forward to catching you again on Monday for our regularly scheduled program. — Matt
Mon, October 25, 2021
#229 Kerri McCrea: Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary
Kerri McCrea studied zoology at Queen's before moving to Thailand in 2013. Since then, she and her Thai-Karen husband Sombat have set up their own elephant project called Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary which works with local communities to bring elephants home to the forest and away from a life of work in the tourism industry. In today’s episode we talk about: Kerri’s love for animals from a young age The career path of a Zoologist Why she moved to Thailand to set up an elephant sanctuary What it like living in a hill-tribe village The impact COVID has had on the ‘elephant industry’ And the greatest challenges/successes she’s faced along the way Check it out! <span class= "attrlink url author-d-1gg9uz65z1iz85
Mon, October 18, 2021
#228 Chris Suitor on Donegal, Coffee & Trance Music
Chris Suitor is a tailor, entrepreneur, DJ, Speaker, Father, Husband and — most recently, barista — from Belfast, Northern Ireland. In today’s show we talk about: Buying a cottage in Donegal How he took a family business to new heights Starting a coffee truck How he plans on opening 10 cafes in 2 years Managing screen time And being an egotistical utilitarian (???) Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/chris-suitor-bros
Mon, October 11, 2021
#227 NI’s Three Olympic Gold Medals (Jimmy Kirkwood, Mary Peters & Stephen Martin)
Welcome to Sport Inspires, a podcast recorded with the Mary Peters Trust and made possible by the Coca-cola Thank you Fund. Today’s episode is with Olympic hockey stars Stephen Martin and Jimmy Kirkwood who both won gold medals with Team GB in the 1988 Summer Games. In this conversation myself and Lady Mary Peters talk with them about: Their once in a lifetime experiences in Korea The strangest doors their medals have opened for them And why they think no one from Northern Ireland has won gold in the summer games ever since. Thanks so much for being here and we really hope you enjoy. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/olympic-gold-medals-northern-ireland
Mon, October 04, 2021
#226 Bill Neely: NBC’s Chief Global Correspondent
Bill Neely is a three-time BAFTA and Emmy award-winning broadcast journalist with over 40 years of experience, most recently as NBC’s Chief Global Correspondent. He’s also a triathlon runner and the recent recipient of the highly esteemed Queens University Graduate Of The Year Award. In today’s conversation we chat about: How he got into journalism The craziest moments he’s experienced while reporting around the world (Including getting arrested in a US Presidential Campaign, carrying a national beauty queen to safety in Eastern Europe and narrowly escaping death in Afghanistan). And why telling the truth is so important when dealing with real-life stories Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/bill-neely-broadcast-journalist
Mon, September 27, 2021
#225 Emma Mcilroy: Wildfang
Emma Mcilroy is the Co-founder and CEO of Wildfang: a clothing brand based in Portland Oregon whose mission is to rethink gender norms and how they show up in fashion. (She’s also proudly Norn Irish). In today’s episode we talk about: Finding a pre-historic fossil as a kid Landing dream jobs with the Premier League and Nike The big problems she noticed in the fashion industry (why she started Wildfang) And the ridiculous entrepreneurial rollercoaster she’s been on over the last few years Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/emma-mcilroy-wildfang
Mon, September 20, 2021
#224 Marissa Callaghan: Northern Ireland Women's Football Captain
Welcome to Sport Inspires, a podcast recorded with the Mary Peters Trust and made possible by the Coca-cola Thank You Fund. Today’s episode is with Northern Ireland Women’s Football Captain Marissa Callaghan , who led the team to their first-ever major tournament qualifier last year in a historic match against Ukraine. The conversation you’re about to hear was very kindly hosted by Nicola McCarthy and touches on Where Marissa’s love for the game came from The journey that's led to women’s football being put on the map in such a historic way And how Marissa and the team are preparing for the biggest tournament of their lives in 2022. Thanks so much for being here and we really hope you enjoy. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/marissa-callaghan-northern-ireland-football
Mon, September 13, 2021
#223 Joe Magowan: Irish Whiskey Expert
Joe Magowan is an Irish Whiskey Expert from Belfast who spends his days educating people all over the world about "the water of life." In this episode we talk about: Growing up working in The Vineyard How he became Brand Ambassador for Powers The history of Irish Whiskey What "the angel share" is And his most significant memories throughout his life We also sample some Powers during the show (including one of the best Irish coffees I've ever had) to draw out some of the key tasting notes and stories connected to the brand. Check it out. [P.S. For the full information about the Irish Coffee Competition, please click here]. // https://bestofbelfast.org/joe-magowan-powers-whiskey
Mon, September 06, 2021
#222 Ciaran Gillen: Machinery Partner
[Please note that some of the financial figures have been censored from this episode] This time last year, Ciaran Gillen was working on a laptop in Ormeau Baths trying to get his new start-up "tinder-for-tractors" off the ground. Today, Machinery Partner is an industry-changing business that's raised a record-breaking $4.5 million of investment. It works by connecting small business owners with the exact machines they need to increase profits and get the job done. In today's episode, we talk to Ciaran about: Having beers with Johnny Depp Opening for motorhead Working as a bouncer in London Starting Machinery Partner The decision to take investment How he plans on creating Northern Ireland's first unicorn Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/ciaran-gillen-machinery-partner
Mon, August 30, 2021
#221 Michael McKillop: Gold Medals, World Records & Cerebral Palsy
Michael McKillop is a four-time Paralympic Gold-Medalist who currently holds the world record for the 800m and 1500m races. In today’s episode, Matthew Thompson and Lady Mary Peters talk with Michael about: What it was like being coached by his father at a young age His current journey to the Tokyo 2020 Games And how he’s dealt with cerebral palsy and mental health challenges along the way. Thanks so much for being here and we really hope you enjoy. // Webpage: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/michael-mckillop-paralympic-gold-medalist
Mon, August 23, 2021
#220 Neville Isdell: Global CEO of Coca-Cola
Neville Isdell is the former global CEO and Chairman of The Coca-Cola Company. Originally born in Downpatrick, Neville has lived and worked in over 11 countries around the world, “taking on jobs nobody else wanted to take” and “cleaning up messes no one else wanted to own.” He spent his life battling Pepsi, leading through empathy and rising up the company ranks before retiring to Barbados at 60, only to receive a phone call a few months later asking him to return to the company as CEO and chair… a challenge that he said yes to. In today’s conversation we talk about: Why his family moved to Africa when he was a boy Lessons learned from a lifetime of leadership What's he's setting his sight on as 80 approaches And how a lad from Northern Ireland ended up in the driver's seat of one of the largest companies on the planet. Check it out. <a class="dynamiclink" href= "https://besto
Mon, August 16, 2021
#219 Photographer Nick Patterson From Sync Imaging
Nick Patterson is a freelance photographer based in Ormeau Baths. Over the course of his career, he's shot celebrities, worked with some of the biggest businesses on the planet and seen an entire industry transform. (From developing photos in lightrooms, to handling the first digital camera in Northern Ireland, to taking the world's first 8K portrait time-lapse). In today's episode we talk about: Skateboarding around Bangor as a teen Setting up his own business Saving lives through photography And the greatest challenges/successes he's faced along the way. Check it out. // Webpage: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/nick-patterson-freelance-photographer
Mon, August 09, 2021
#218 Tony McGaharan: People Playbook
Tony McGaharan is a People Development Expert who has experience working with some of the biggest businesses on the planet. (While also being a fully qualified Coach — both on and off the basketball court). Last year — at the height of the pandemic — he founded People Playbook, a learning consultancy focused on wellbeing that helps organisations achieve their goals through learning, leadership and team development. In this episode we talk about: Growing up in The Holylands Taking a bullet to the leg Coaching professional basketball in Sweden Working with Google Running a virtual pub quiz for 60 weeks straight How practice doesn't make perfect And why he branched out on his own to start People Playbook at the best/worst time imaginable. Check it out! // Webpage: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/tony-mcgaharan-people-playbook
Mon, August 02, 2021
#217 Napoleon Coffee: Rachel & Matt on their First Year Of Business
Napoleon is an independent speciality coffee shop in Ormeau Baths that opened in August 2020 at the height of the pandemic. Since then it has become a leading cafe in Northern Ireland’s burgeoning speciality scene with their “front-and-centre” approach to coffee attracting a loyal team of regulars from across the nation. Founded by superstar Barista-Manager extraordinaire Rachel Snowden and Data Scientist Matthew Mcauley, Napoleon is the realisation of a lifelong dream of owning their own cafe and the result of seven years of scheming, planning and drinking lots of coffee! In this today’s episode we talk about: <span class= " author-d-1gg9uz65z1iz85zgdz68zmqkz84zo2qovvlb3z85zz88zdqsiz85zz77zjz90z4z74zqmz73zz73znz67zh2hz79zqz65z9z77
Mon, July 26, 2021
#216 Adrian Balfour: Founder Of The Seattle Seawolves Rugby Team
Adrian Balfour is the founder of Envorso, a US consulting firm based in Seattle that has worked with the likes of Ford and Microsoft. He’s also an organic sheep farmer, Angel Investor, co-founder of the Major League Rugby and founder of the Seattle Seawolves , a US rugby team coached by Allen Clarke and Rory Best. Previously he created Pcubed, a project management consultancy he grew to 1000+ consultants before selling it in 2013. In today’s show we talk about: Growing up in Fermanagh Moving to Detroit to start a business Bringing Rugby culture to the states And the greatest challenges/successes along the way Check it out. // Webpage for this episode: <span class= "attrlink url author-d-1gg9uz65z1iz85zgdz68zmqkz84zo2qovvlb3z85zz88zdqsiz85zz77zjz90
Mon, July 19, 2021
#215 Carl Frampton: Two-Weight Boxing World Champion
Welcome to Sport Inspires, a podcast recorded with the Mary Peters Trust and made possible by the Coca-cola Thank you Fund. Today’s episode is with legendary two-weight world champion boxer Carl Frampton who’s recently retired from the sport just a few months ago. Along the way Thomas Kane and Gold Medalist Lady Mary Peters ask Carl about : How retirement has been treating him What he plans on doing next And some of the lessons he’s learned from the highs and lows of an incredible career <span class= " author-d-1gg9uz65z1iz85zgdz68zmqkz84zo2qovvlb3z85zz88zdqsiz85
Mon, July 12, 2021
#214 Nico van der Horst: Pride & Pinion
Nico van der Horst is the founder of Pride & Pinion : Ireland’s only dedicated luxury watch boutique. Over the last four years, Nico and the team have sourced and sold countless luxury watches for celebrities, collectors, investors and everyday people alike. During lockdown, he and the team started posting videos under the name Nico Leonard — which in just one year has become the largest watch social media presence on the planet with 100’s of millions of hits across YouTube , TikTok and BiliBili (China’s YouTube). In today’s episode we cover: Nico’s origin story <span class= " auth
Mon, July 05, 2021
Three Beers, Three Books (ft. James Leckey & Greg Bradley)
Hiya folks. Got another experimental episode for you today — a new segment called 'Three Beers, Three Books' where we bring back two previous guests to chat about their favourite books while trying out a few local beers. To get the ball rolling we asked back James Leckey from Leckey Design and Greg Bradley from BLK BOX. Throw in a few Heaney Craft Beers and the result is a far-reaching conversation about business, psychology, cooking and cold plunges. Enjoy! // Books featured in this episode: 1. Traction 2. The Drama Triangle 3. Jamie Oliver's 5 Ingredients , The Alchemist and The Hard Thing About Hard Things // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/three-beers-three-books-james-leckey-greg-bradley
Mon, June 28, 2021
#212 Mícheál O'Rourke: Psychotherapist
Mícheál O'Rourke is a Psychotherapist from Newry who moved out to Canada with his partner Leah in 2014. He currently works for the University Health Network in Toronto, serving on the leadership team for their mental health programs. In his free time he’s also heavily involved in the Irish Canadian Immigration Centre. In today’s episode we cover: What brought Mícheál out to Canada The importance of “keystone habits” for good mental health And the greatest challenges/successes he’s faced along the way Check it out https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/micheal-orourke-psychotherapist
Mon, June 21, 2021
#211 Connie Hunter-Jamison: StudioStereo
Connie Hunter-Jamison is a partner at StudioStereo , a multi-disciplinary design firm based in East Belfast which she co-founded with her late husband Craig in 2008. Some of her clients include: Madlug Van Morrision Belfast Whiskey Club And many, many more… From hot chocolate start-ups to multi-million-pound tech companies, Connie’s day-to-day is spent helping people communicate more effectively what it is they do well. Her approach to branding is informed by her background as a photographer but draws equally on her broad artistic palate and principled approach to visual communication. In today’s conversation we chat about: Starting a business during the 2008 recession Dealing with grief and loss at such a young age <span class= " author-d-1gg9uz65z1iz85zgdz68zmqkz84zo2qovvlb3z85zz88zdqsiz85
Mon, June 14, 2021
#210 Katie Mullan: Captain Of Ireland's Olympic Hockey Team
Welcome to Sport Inspires, a podcast recorded with the Mary Peters Trust and made possible by the Coca-cola Thank you Fund. Today’s episode is with Irish Hockey Captain Katie Mullan, the Coleraine player leading the team to their first-ever Olympic Games. Along the way myself and Gold Medalist Lady Mary Peters ask about : The role team spirit has played in their success What it was like to win a silver medal in the world cup while being ranked 15th And how they’ve been training through lockdown to become the first women’s team in history to take home an Olympic medal in just a few weeks times. Thanks so much for being here and we really hope you enjoy. // Webpage for this episode: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/katie-mullan-ireland-hockey
Mon, June 07, 2021
#209 Brookvale Farm: The Milk Vending Machine Taking NI By Storm
Pamela and Richard Lilburn are the owners of Brookvale Farm , a 100-year old family farm that has been taking County Down by storm after they installed a milk vending machine just a few months ago. It’s where I get my milk, it’s the best milk I’ve ever tasted in Northern Ireland if you like a bit of nostalgia, it even comes in a reusable glass bottle, which you can come back to the farm and fill-up yourself with either creamy whole milk or a wide-range of Brookvale milkshakes from their vending machine. The most fun part about their farm is that they’ve opened it up to the general public, so you can go and visit the cows, calves and Mr T the horse with your friends and family while you fill-up. In today’s episode we talk about: How an accountant ended up marrying a dairy farmer Why store-bought milk "isn't really milk" And what happens when 1000’s of people start queuing outside your house for milk! Check it out. // Webpage for this episode: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/brookvale-farm-milk-vending-machine
Fri, June 04, 2021
#208 Northern Ireland & Climate Change (A Panel Discussion)
How is Northern Ireland tackling the climate challenge? What are some of the things we can do to help? And why should we even care in the first place? In today’s episode, we catch up with our panel of experts to discuss the role businesses should play in tackling climate change and how you and I can prepare for the economy of the future. The voices featured in this discussion include: Belfast City Council’s Sustainable Development Lead Clare McKeown Queens University’s Professor of Green Political Economy John Barry Ulster Bank’s Regional Director Of Entrepreneurship Lynsey Cunningham Along the way, we chat about where each of our panellist's individual passion for the environment came from, what Northern Ireland is doing well, and how we could do even better. </di
Thu, June 03, 2021
#207 Christine Boyle: The World’s First Nanocomposite Solar Panels
Christine Boyle is the CEO of Senergy , a Belfast-based business bringing the world’s first nanocomposite solar thermal panels to market later this year. Not only is their technology is 50% cheaper and 3-4 times more efficient than other solar options, but they’ve also raised £1.7 million of investment while still retaining 96% ownership (!) In today’s episode we talk about: Christine’s early education working in her dad’s roofing business The challenges and limitations of traditional solar panels And how she’s handled the highs and lows of start-up life Check it out. // Webpage for this episode: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/christine-boyle-senergy <span class= " author-d-1gg9uz65z1iz85zgdz68zmqkz84zo2qovvlb3z85zz88zdqsiz85zz77zjz90z
Wed, June 02, 2021
#206 Dr Lucy Tallents: Wildlife Conservationist
Dr Lucy Tallents is a wildlife conservationist who spent 10 years teaching at Oxford University before launching her environmental e-learning start-up VerdantLearn . After spending many years in the field herself, Lucy’s next adventure is to empower wildlife conservation professionals around the world through VerdantLearn’s collaborative online learning platform. In today’s episode we talk about: Her time spent living up the Ethiopian mountains to study wolves What the biodiversity crisis is and why it matters And what it was like transitioning from the academic world to the entrepreneurial rollercoaster! Check it out. // Webpage for this episode: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/lucy-tallents-verdantlearn <span class= " author-d-1gg9uz65z1iz85zgdz68zmqkz8
Tue, June 01, 2021
#205 Stephen Dunn: What Is Carbon & Why Does It Matter?
Stephen Dunn describes himself as “just an ordinary guy” — despite cycling the entire length of Ireland, running marathons and becoming the first environmental consultant in Northern Ireland. After the success of his first business SDS Energy , Stephen and his co-founder Brian have created a new start-up called CarbonFIT : whose sole purpose is to help businesses reduce their Carbon Footprint. (Which is more important than ever now that the government is introducing a Carbon Tax!) In today’s episode we talk about: How he went from washing pots to becoming a CEO ‘Green bling’ versus ‘actually making a change’ <spa
Mon, May 31, 2021
#204 Lane44: Eco-Friendly Shaving Company
Blayne Shaw is an entrepreneur who worked in his family’s fashion business. Toyah Warnock is a Chemistry PhD who worked in a lab. Now they’re co-founders of Lane44 : an eco-friendly shaving company who are on a mission to end the 1 billion plastic razors sent to landfill sites each year. In today’s episode we talk about: How the humble yet might safety razor is better for your skin and planet The mad whirlwind of e-commerce and influencer marketing during COVID And why your bathroom is the least environmentally friendly room in your house. Check it out! // Webpage for this episode: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/lane44-eco-friendly-razor /
Wed, May 26, 2021
Climate Of Change
Hey folks. Hope you’re doing well. Just hopping on to give you a quick heads up about an exciting new mini-series we’re rolling out next week… ‘Climate Of Change’ is a five-part podcast series presented in partnership with Ulster Bank featuring Northern Irish start-ups who are tackling the climate challenge. Each episode is an opportunity to discover the incredible individuals on our doorstep doing their bit for planet earth and building great businesses along the way. Dropping a short 30-minute (ish!) episode every day next week Monday-Friday and wrapping the week up with a panel discussion featuring local experts for World Environment Day. Stay tuned to hear from Animal Conservationists, renewable energy entrepreneurs, solar panel start-ups and even an eco-friendly shaving company… Thanks so much as always and really hope you enjoy! — Matt
Mon, May 24, 2021
#203 Chris Gunning: The James Bond Accountant
Chris Gunning is the Finance Transformation Service lead at Heineken in Amsterdam where he has been living with his family over the last 20 years. Starting off back in Belfast with an Accountancy Degree from Queens, he’s since lived and worked all over the world on every continent — except Antarctica — for Global Tech Companies, Automotive businesses and now one of the biggest beer brands in the world. Chris is also: A self-confessed metal-head An avid-kayaker And the most James Bond-like accountant, I’ve ever met in my life. In today’s show, we hear stories about growing up in Belfast in the ’70s, working under the supervision of armed guards in Pakistan and being whisked out of an unnamed South American country after he and his team discovered something they shouldn’t have… Check it out. // Webpage for this episode: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/chris-gunning-heineken
Mon, May 17, 2021
#202 Hotbox Sea Sauna: NI’s First Beach Sauna Experience
Anna and Carl Isaksson are the founders of Hotbox: Northern Ireland’s first ever beach sauna experience. The idea is simple yet utterly genius: what if after a cold plunge in the sea you could cosy into a sauna to sweat it out with your nearest and dearest? In today's episode we talk about: Working for and kissing kings How a gal from NI ended up marrying a Swedish guy Why they set-up a mobile sauna business And the biggest successes/challenges they've faced along the way. Check it out! // HotBox is an authentic Finnish wood-burning sauna located primarily at Benone Beach on the Causeway Coast and you can book your own hot slot over at their website hotboxseasauna.com // Webpage for this episode: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/hotbox-sea-sauna-northern-ireland
Mon, May 10, 2021
#201 Mary Peters & Rhys McClenaghan On Olympics, Mental Health & Life After Sport
Hello and welcome to the Sport Inspires Podcast — a new series in collaboration with The Mary Peters Trust and the Coca-Cola Thank You Fund . Each episode will give you the chance to listen in on conversations with Northern Ireland’s incredible sports men and women on the topics of performance, mental health and life after sport. Our first episode is a double-whammy, featuring a conversation with Gold-Medalist Lady Mary Peters and an interview with 21-year-old Gymnast Rhys McClenaghan who is competing in his first Olympic Games this summer. Really hope you enjoy! // New episodes in this series will go out every 2nd Monday on the Best Of Belfast platform and will feature the wide range of talent and personalities competing at the highest level of their given sport. Special thanks to Stephen Watson who kindly hosted the Rhys interview featured in this episode. // Webpage for this episode: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/mary-peter-rhys-mcclenaghan
Mon, May 03, 2021
#200 Ian Browne: Ignite Accelerator Program
Ian Browne is an entrepreneur, fellow-Ormeau Baths resident and COO of the Ignite Accelerator Program . He’s spent time in San Francisco, helped launch hundreds of start-ups and has experience building and selling his own. In this week’s episode we talk about: Riding a horse across Cuba Quitting a job to start his own business The start-up ecosystem in Northern Ireland And the greatest challenges/successes along the way Check it out. // https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/ian-browne-ignite-accelerator
Mon, April 26, 2021
#199 Jaz Mooney: Belfast's Pubs During The Troubles
Jaz Mooney is a publican from Northern Ireland who built-up an insane portfolio of pubs during the Troubles like The Fly bar, Madison’s Hotel, McHugh’s, The Nothern Whig, Ryan’s Bar and Grill, The Kings Head, The Globe Bar, Apartment Bar, The Rotterdam Bar and of course The Botanic Inn (aka The Bot!) After being trained at what became the University of Ulster, Jaz went travelling to Australia where he met his future wife and discovered many fresh ideas/concepts which he then brought back home with him to the local hospitality scene. Fast forward a few decades and Jaz has sold-up his businesses at home and moved out to Australia where he's lived since 2006 with his wife and five kids. These days he runs Pelathon an organisation that manages and serves hospitality businesses all over Australia In today's episode we talk about: His early memories of working in hospitality Operating some of the only pubs open during The Troubles Crazy stories from back in the day How COVID has affected the hospitality industry And the greatest challenges/successes he's faced along the way. Check it out. // Webpage: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/jaz-mooney-publican Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, April 19, 2021
#198 My Favourite Episodes (ft. Rob Cantle)
Hello! Today is a bit of an experimental episode where I catch up with Rob Cantle from the Producer's Club to talk through his favourite Best Of Belfast podcast episodes! The idea is simple: what if every quarter or so, we hop on a pod with a listener to swap notes and stories about some episodes from deep within the archive or the show’s recent past. In theory, it could be a chance to reflect on some of the things discussed in previous episodes, connect with other listeners and maybe act as a bit of a teaser for some of the episodes you've missed or haven't got round to yet… Check it out and let me know what you think as always. Hope all is well. — Matt P.S. After 4 months stuck in Germany we’re finally back home! // Episodes mentioned in this conversation Tim Brundle & Philip Hamil Dr Mano Jonny Quinn & Gary Lightbody Claire McClaughlin Anna McKeever John Elliott Bernadette Collins The Priests
Mon, April 12, 2021
#197 A Slow-Cooked Conversation With Simon Worthington
Hey friends — bringing something a little different to you today — a slow-cooked conversation with good friend and fellow creative Simon Worthington . We cover a lot of random things in this chat from our Queen's Gambit-inspired chess obsession, skateboarding, writing and early mornings, but the real meat and potatoes of the conversation (starting at 21 mins) is about Simon's recent decision to stop Turf & Grain — an independent magazine he's poured his life into over the last few years. I wanted to do this for a few reasons: I love Simon and am always interested in what he has to say Nothing lasts forever and I think we need to start more about how to maturely end things/wrap up Selfishly I wanted to pick his brain and learn from the wild/crazy/incredible journey he's been on over the last few years with running one of the most impactful creative projects NI has ever seen. So please enjoy this episode in all of it's raw, unedited glory and as always let me know what you think at matthew@bestofbelfast.org Cheers! // Webpage for this episode: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/simon-worthington-part-two Link to part one: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/simon-worthington-turf-and-grain
Mon, April 05, 2021
[Documentary] Samuel Davidson: "The Inventor Who Brought Tea To Northern Ireland"
Samuel Davidson (1846 – 1921) was an engineer from Belfast who invented the air conditioning fan, brought tea to Northern Ireland and founded Sirocco Works — a manufacturer of machines that employed over 1000 people. He was also a self-taught musician, photographer and world-traveller in a time when ‘a business trip to India’ meant a 66-day journey! Yet few people in Northern Ireland have ever heard about Samuel Davidson — or the legacy he's left for our city today. In this week's episode we catch up with great-grandchildren, former employees and local historians to try to figure out how a young lad who never finished school was able to become one of the great industrial titans of his time. Check it out. // This episode is part of The Streets Where They Lived : a new documentary collaboration between Successful Belfast, Belfast Buildings Trust, and Best of Belfast. The Streets Where They Lived will feature the stories of six incredible but sometimes overlooked men and women from Belfast and some of the buildings and places in the City with which they’re connected. The project is a collaboration with Successful Belfast, a project of Belfast Buildings Trust. It is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Belfast Buildings Trust is a charity founded in 1996 to regenerate Belfast’s landmark buildings. The Trust works to ensure that the City’s authentic heritage is made relevant for people today. One of its projects is Successful Belfast, which champions new and creative ways of involving people in Belfast’s future development. // Website link: https://bestofbelfast.org/ stories/samuel-davidson-sirocco-works
Thu, April 01, 2021
The Balloon Joke
One of the most talked-about moments on the show. Found it on the hard drive the other day and couldn't resist sharing it. Hope it gives you a laugh. Full episode with Emer here: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/emer-maguire-comedian
Mon, March 29, 2021
#195 Sheree Atcheson: Monzo, Forbes, Women Who Code & More
Sheree Atcheson is a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Expert from Sri Lanka/County Tyrone currently living in London! Listed as one of the UK's Most Influential Women in Tech, Sheree ( @nirushika ) worked for the likes of Deloitte and Monzo before becoming the Global Director Of Diversity and Inclusion at Peakon . Alongside being a regular contributor at publications like Forbes, Fast Company and Business Insider, she's also an Advisory Board Member of Women Who Code (an organisation she helped bring to the UK). Her book Demanding More comes out in April and is about Why Diversity and Inclusion Don't Happen and What We Can Do About It . (Click here to pre-order). In today's episode we talk about: Adoption + growing up as a person of colour in Tyrone How Sheree got into tech The obstacles that hold organisations back from diversity <li data-pm-slice= "1 1 [
Fri, March 26, 2021
#194 Local Box: The Start-Up Bringing NI Food To Your Doorstep
Ever since she was little, Lydia Hodgins has dreamed of working with food (even though the teachers wanted her to study Latin instead). During the lockdown, this dream became a reality when she and her partner Justin launched Local Box — a digital ‘corner shop’ that delivers high-quality NI food to your door. In this episode we caught up with Lydia to hear why more people are shopping local, what it was like doing thousands of deliveries during lockdown and how local food can change the world. Check it out. // This interview is part of our Tough Times, Tougher City mini-series presented in partnership with Belfast City Council featuring five businesses who have started, scaled or pivoted during the pandemic. To find out more about how the Council can help you and your business, <span class= "attrlink url author-d-1gg9uz65z1iz8
Thu, March 25, 2021
#193 Circle: Belfast’s First Bicycle Delivery Company
Ian Richardson has come a long way from cleaning glasses in his parent’s pub. As a Landscape Architect and the founder of multiple start-ups he now spends his days reinventing the way cities work. Being deeply passionate about the environment, he believes entrepreneurship is the solution to global problems like climate change and his current ventures — StreetDock and Circle — exist to make urban deliveries green in an age of e-commerce and endless Amazon deliveries. In today’s episode hear what it was like starting businesses in the 2008 recession and 2020 pandemic, why “the last-mile” of delivery causes so many issues and how returning to the humble bicycle could save the day. Check it out. // This interview is part of our Tough Times, Tougher City mini-series presented in partnership with Belfast City Council featuring five businesses who have started, scaled or pivoted during the pandemic. To find out more about how the Council can help you and your business, <span class= "attrlink url author-d-1gg9uz65z1iz85zgdz68zmqkz84zo2qovvlb3z85zz88zdqsiz85zz77zjz90z4z74zqmz73zz73znz67zh2hz79z
Wed, March 24, 2021
#192 Hearty Growers: The Urban Farmers Growing Mushrooms In Belfast
10-years ago, Terry from Mumbai proposed to Judy from Budapest at the foot of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. From there they travelled all over the world, launched a business and moved to Belfast to start a family. But when the pandemic hit — causing Terry to lose his job — the couple were put in a tricky situation… especially since Judy had just had baby #2. In today’s episode, we discover the twist of events that led to them turning their garden into a farm, growing mushrooms in the city and launching their hugely successful business Hearty Growers. Check it out. // This interview is part of our Tough Times, Tougher City mini-series presented in partnership with Belfast City Council featuring five businesses who have started, scaled or pivoted during the pandemic. To find out more about how the Council can help you and your business, <a class="attrlink" href= "http://To%20find%20out%20more%20about%20how%20Belfast%20City%20Council%20can%20help%20you%20start,%20scale%20or%20pivot%20your%20business,%20please%20click%20here." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer nofollow noopener" data-target-href="http://To find out more about how Belfast City Council can help you start, scale or pivot your business, please click he
Tue, March 23, 2021
#191 Aura Digital: The Student Start-Up Shaking Up The Animation Industry
When Eva, Josh and Donal signed up to go university, they would have laughed if you told them that a few years later they’d be directors in their own Animation Studio. But when COVID wiped out all of their placement opportunities, they decided to go out and create their own — launching Aura Digital in the process. In today’s episode, hear how three students found a gap in the market, built a fully digital business and provided employment for other creatives during the pandemic Check it out. // This interview is part of our Tough Times, Tougher City mini-series presented in partnership with Belfast City Council featuring five businesses who have started, scaled or pivoted during the pandemic. To find out more about how the Council can help you and your business,
Mon, March 22, 2021
#190 Murphy & Bailey: The Pet Boutique That Launched During The Pandemic
Murphy & Bailey is a luxury pet boutique on the Belmont Road in East Belfast that launched during lockdown. It’s founded by Jude and Karen — two dog-loving, high-flying corporates who met while walking their dogs Murphy and Bailey at the local park. In today’s episode, hear why they traded established careers for the start-up life, what it was like starting a business during the pandemic and the role pets have played in getting our city through these tough times. Check it out. // This interview is part of our Tough Times, Tougher City mini-series presented in partnership with Belfast City Council featuring five businesses who have started, scaled or pivoted during the pandemic. To find out more about how the Council can help you and your business, please click here. <span class=
Wed, March 17, 2021
Tough Times, Tougher City.
Just hopping on to give a quick heads up about an exciting new mini-series we're launching next week in collaboration with Belfast City Council. Also give a quick life update from the mother-in-law's basement...
Mon, March 15, 2021
#189 Professor Paul Moore: Future Screens NI
Paul Moore is the Director of Future Screens NI and the Professor of Creative Technologies at Ulster University. He's also a TEDxSpeaker , fellow Ormeau Baths resident, lifelong Deadhead and has even spent a few years riding with the Hells Angels for part of his PhD. In today's episode we talk about: What it was like growing up in the 50s/60s in Belfast The future (and past) of NI's creative industry Some of the amazing things happening on our doorstep (And why we need to make them more visible) Plus his greatest challenges/successes along the way Check it out. // Webpage: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/paul-moore-future-screens-ni Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, March 08, 2021
[Documentary] Helen Lewis: "The Dancing Holocaust Survivor"
Helen Lewis (1916-2009) was a dancer, choreographer and Holocaust Survivor who moved to Belfast after WW2. Growing up in Czechoslovakia, she witnessed attitudes towards her Jewish friends and family change with the rise of Nazis Germany. When the war broke out, she, her husband and her parents were moved to the Jewish ghetto Terezín before being imprisoned in separate concentration camps — where only she survived. In this week's episode, we caught up with friends, family members and former students of Helen to find out more about her remarkable life and why it's more important than ever to keep telling her story today. Check it out. // This episode is part of The Streets Where They Lived : a new documentary collaboration between Successful Belfast, Belfast Buildings Trust, and Best of Belfast. The Streets Where They Lived will feature the stories of six incredible but sometimes overlooked men and women from Belfast and some of the buildings and places in the City with which they’re connected. The project is a collaboration with Successful Belfast, a project of Belfast Buildings Trust. It is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Belfast Buildings Trust is a charity founded in 1996 to regenerate Belfast’s landmark buildings. The Trust works to ensure that the City’s authentic heritage is made relevant for people today. One of its projects is Successful Belfast, which champions new and creative ways of involving people in Belfast’s future development. // Website link: https://bestofbelfast.org/ stories/helen-lewis-holocaust-survivor Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, March 01, 2021
#187 Anna McKeever: Painting & The Role Of Art In Society
Anna McKeever is an Irish Artist based on the Ormeau Road in Belfast. Predominantly a palette knife painter, she is inspired by both urban and rural Ireland; and her work is a celebration of the spirit and warmth of the Irish landscape and its people. She is also influenced by Celtic Mythology. When she's not painting Anna works as a medical doctor specialising Public Health Medicine, particularly lifestyle intervention and preventative strategies. In today's episode we talk about: Anna's earliest memories Juggling the medical side of life with the artistic Moving away from NI for 10 years (and coming home again!) The role art plays in society And the greatest challenges/successes she's experienced along the way Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Anna (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/anna-mckeever-irish-artist Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 180+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, February 22, 2021
#186 Donna Dooher & Kevin Gallagher: The Restauranteurs Who Brought Brunch To Toronto
Donna Dooher and Kevin Gallagher are second and third generation Northern-Irish-Canadians who first burst onto the hospitality scene by introducing the phenomena of brunch to Toronto through their restaurant Mildred Pierce before publishing the award-winning cookbook Out To Brunch . Driven by her passion for food, Donna went on to star in the popular Food Network show The Cookworks with Donna Dooher which has been watched by foodie fans all over the world. Alongside working in the business, Kevin has also served on the Board of Directors for the Ireland Fund of Canada and was instrumental in securing funds for building Ireland Park Canada and fundraising efforts for the Celtic Studies program at St. Michael’s College. Their latest venture, Mildred’s Temple Kitchen in the heart of Toronto’s Liberty Village, reflects their passion for 'the return to the table' and locally sourced ingredients, simply and sumptuously prepared. Throughout the pandemic, Kevin has also written Diary Of A Restaurant which his musings and learnings of years spent in the hospitality industry. In today's episode we talk about: Their early memories & experiences How they scaled a brunch community from 15 people on a Sunday to 500+ per week The cultish following around their Blueberry pancakes And the greatest challenges/successes they've experienced along the way Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Kevin and Donna (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/donna-doher-kevin-gallagher Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 180+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, February 15, 2021
#185 Martin Lynch, Playwright [Live Podcast]
Martin Lynch is a playwright from Belfast, Northern Ireland who started out in Community Theatre at Turf Lodge before being appointed Resident Playwright at the Lyric. A 35-year career has seen Martin's work produced in many parts of the world including the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Brighton Festival, the USA, Romania, Russia, Canada and Australia. He's also written many plays for BBC Radio 3 and 4 and co-wrote the screenplay for the Sam Goldwyn film, A Prayer For The Dying starring Mickey Rourke, Bob Hoskins and Liam Neeson. Martin was recently elected to the Irish association of artists Aosdána whose previous members include Samuel Beckett, Seamus Heaney and Brian Friel. In today's episode we talk about: Growing up in a one-up-one-down house of 12 Martin's first jobs (cloth-cutter and dock worker) Articulating the working-class voice And pet lions. This episode was recorded live over Zoom as part of the Cathedral Quarter Out To Lunch Festival. Big thanks to them for giving us the opportunity and making today's show possible. Check it out. // Webpage for episode: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/martin-lynch-playwright Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 180+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org / Cheers! — Matt
Mon, February 08, 2021
#184 Steve Strange: Agent Of Eminem, Coldplay & Snow Patrol
Steve Strange is an agent from Carrickfergus who started his career in the music industry as a drummer for Northern Irish rock band No Hot Ashes. Since then he worked with some of the biggest names in the world including Eminem, Coldplay, Snow Patrol , Queens of the Stone Age, Jimmy Eat World, Foy Vance , Ash, Ryan McMullan, Alice in Chains and many, many more. In today's show, Rigsy sits down with Steve to talk about: His first memories and early experiences Some of the urban legends surrounding his career The importance of building bands organically And the greatest challenges/successes he's experienced along the way. Check it out. // Webpage for this episode: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/steve-strange-x-ray-touring Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, February 01, 2021
[Documentary] Sir John Lavery: "The Belfast Orphan Who Painted History"
Sir John Lavery is a painter from Northern Ireland best known for his portraits of Michael Collins, Churchhill and Queen Victoria. But besides being the most famous painter of his day, the Belfast-born boy came from humble-beginnings. Baptised in St. Patricks Church, the Cathedral Quarter native was orphaned at a young age when his mother died in childbirth and his father died at sea — after which lived in Moira with his extended family before moving across the pond to work as a photographer's apprentice. It was there that John developed his passion and talent for art — one that would take him on an extraordinary journey all over the world, and back again to Belfast. In today's episode, we discover the amazing life and legacy of one of Belfast's most famous individuals while diving deep into the history of the streets he once called home. Along the way, we meet historians, priests, art curators, modern-day painters and even a publican to try and understand why his story is important for us today. Check it out. // This episode is part of The Streets Where They Lived : a new documentary collaboration between Successful Belfast, Belfast Buildings Trust, and Best of Belfast. The Streets Where They Lived will feature the stories of six incredible but sometimes overlooked men and women from Belfast and some of the buildings and places in the City with which they’re connected. The project is a collaboration with Successful Belfast, a project of Belfast Buildings Trust. It is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Belfast Buildings Trust is a charity founded in 1996 to regenerate Belfast’s landmark buildings. The Trust works to ensure that the City’s authentic heritage is made relevant for people today. One of its projects is Successful Belfast, which champions new and creative ways of involving people in Belfast’s future development. // Website link: https://bestofbelfast.org/ stories/sir-john-lavery-painter Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, January 25, 2021
#182 Neil Walsh, United Nations: Surviving Trauma & Fighting Crime
Neil Walsh is Chief of the Cybercrime, Counter-Terrorist Finance and Anti-Money Laundering Department at the United Nations where he and his team advise the UN Senior Leadership on conflict prevention in cyberspace. Prior to joining the UN, Neil served for over 15 years within the UK National Crime Agency countering international organised crime and terrorism — including long-term postings The Hague and Malta. Outside of work he's married with four kids and is an avid advocate for bowel cancer, brain haemorrhage, liver failure, osteoporosis and pulmonary embolism awareness (having survived all of these conditions himself). In today's episode we talk about: Surviving a terrorist attack at age 13 Working for the National Crime Agency Beating cancer (twice) What we can do to keep our kids safe online And the greatest challenges/successes he's experienced along the way Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Neil (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/neil-walsh-united-nations Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, January 18, 2021
#181 National Museums NI: Hannah Crowdy
Hannah Crowdy is the Head Of Curatorial for National Museums NI. In 2009 she relocated from Brighton to Belfast and e leven years later, she is very happy to call this place home. As a museum professional for eighteen years, Hannah has worked in museums of all shapes and sizes. At National Museums NI she has taken a leading role in such major projects as the Titanica exhibition at the Ulster Transport Museum and the recent Troubles and Beyond exhibition at the Ulster Museum. In today’s episode we talk about: Her first heritage-related memories How she ‘got into' museums (and why!) The role museums play in our culture And the greatest successes/challenges she’s faced along the way <span class= " author-d-1gg9uz65z1iz85zgdz68zmqkz84zo2qovvlb3z85zz88zdqsiz85zz77zjz90z4z74zqmz73zz73znz67zh2hz79zqz65z9z77
Mon, January 11, 2021
#180 Dr. Steve Ilardi: The Depression Cure
Steve Ilardi is a professor of psychology and a clinical researcher specialising in the treatment of mental illness. He's worked with several hundred patients suffering from clinical depression and other serious disorders and has authored over 50 scholarly articles and papers on mental illness. Over the last two decades, Dr. Ilardi and his research team have developed and refined a promising treatment program for depression called Therapeutic Lifestyle Change (TLC). This innovative approach is grounded in the reality that we as humans were never designed for the indoor, socially isolated, sleep-deprived, fast-food-laden, screen-addicted, frenetic pace of 21st-century life. His TEDx Talk " Depression Is a Disease of Civilization ", has been viewed over 2 million times and his book "The Depression Cure" has been translated into 11 languages. In today's show we talk about: How light is a 'drug' that can treat depression The importance of Vitamin D & Omega 3 for your brain Why depression hates activity And the greatest lessons Steve's learned along the way Check it out! P.S. For more about Matt's story and link to supplements mentioned in today's episode check out this blog post. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Steve (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/steve-ilardi-the-depression-cure Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, January 04, 2021
#179 East Antrim Counselling: Noel McKee
Noel McKee was a firefighter in North Belfast for 32 years before training as a counsellor and launching his own practice in 2004. Since then he has logged over 6,500 supervised counselling hours of one-to-one therapy and has become a registered member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists. His company East Antrim Counselling serves the Northern Trust, local Health centres and actively engages within the community through talks in schools, public lectures, and charity events. In today’s episode we talk about: What being a firefighter taught Noel about trauma and loss The role generational trauma plays in Northern Ireland How we can take care of our own mental health And the greatest insights he’s discovered along the way Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Noel (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/east-antrim-counselling-noel-mckee Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1
Mon, December 28, 2020
#178 Leah McCourt MMA: The First Female To Headline A Fight In Europe
Leah McCourt is an MMA Fighter from Belfast Northern Ireland. Alongside being a blackbelt in Judo and brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Leah was also the first female in Europe to Headline a Mixed-Martial Arts Fight. In today’s episode we talk about: The challenges of training The importance of visualisation How to manage a personal life alongside a professional one And the greatest challenges/successes she’s experienced along the way Check it out. // Webpage for this episode: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/leah-mccourt-mma Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, December 21, 2020
#177 BLK BOX Fitness: Greg Bradley
Greg Bradley is the founder and CEO of BLK BOX Fitness: a company that specialises in the design, manufacture and delivery of fitness equipment. Since 2012, the Belfast-based team have worked with some of the leading sports clubs in the world, including Irish Rugby, Arsenal, Google, LinkedIn, The Royals in Dubai and many more. BLK BOX operates from the Titanic Quarter, right beside the Harland and Wolff cranes and currently employs 70 people. In today’s episode we talk about: Greg’s early experiences/memories Some of the leaps of faiths he’s taken along his business journey The important books he’s read and lessons he’s learned along the way And the greatest challenges/successes Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Greg (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/blk-box-fitness-greg-bradley Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, December 14, 2020
#176 John Elliott: Founder Of Clements Coffee
John Elliott is a serial-entrepreneur from Larne, Northern Ireland. He’s best known for starting Clements Coffee, a chain of over 10 cafes launched in 1999 that has paved the way for Belfast’s now thriving coffee scene. (Though Clements is still the only café in NI to have held the highly acclaimed UK Barista Champion title!) Alongside his other three businesses, John also served as the General Manager of the Belfast Giant’s Ice Hockey Team after they almost went bankrupt in 2003. Across a four-year period, John put in place a strategic plan to enable the team to survive and he used all of his business experience to convince sponsors and fans alike that the Giants were a real positive thing for this wonderful city we call home. In today’s episode we talk about: His first memories and early experiences How and why he pivoted from sport into business What made him launch his first business The Clements Coffee Origin Story And the greatest challenges/successes he’s experienced along the way Check it out! // To see a 'treasure trove' of al
Mon, December 07, 2020
#175 Frank Morris: The Man Who Built An Airplane In His Garage
Frank Morris is a tinkerer, builder and inventor from Northern Ireland. After growing up on a "farm" and being inspired by the handiness of his grandas, he always messing about with stuff at a young age including radios, field cars and household appliances. While touring in a band, he also got into building his own speakers and amplifiers before going to work full-time for BT. Alongside his day job, Frank worked on many projects at home in his garage ranging from big to small: but none were as big as when he decided to build airplane. (And learn how to fly it!) In today's episode we talk about: - Frank's early memories - What it was like raking about as a youngster - How he built an airplane in his garage - And some of the highs/lows he experienced along the way. Check it out! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Frank (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/frank-morris-airplane Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, November 30, 2020
[Documentary] Lilian Bland: "The First Woman To Design, Build & Fly Her Own Airplane"
Lillian Bland was the first women in the world to design, build and fly her own airplane. She was also a sports journalist, photographer, investor, gambler, smoker, mechanic, hunter, markswomen, the owner of Belfast’s first Ford Dealership and the first woman in Northern Ireland to apply for a jockey’s license. Living at Tobercorran House in Carnmoney near Glengormley, her curious, defiant free-spirit shattered the societal norms of women living in Presbyterian Ulster during the 1900s. But despite all her achievements and quirks, very few people in Northern Ireland today even knows the name Lillian Bland, never mind the inspiring details of her story. In today’s episode, we set out on another journey through the pages of local history to find out more about this incredible woman, and the streets she once called home. Check it out. // This episode is part of The Streets Where They Lived : a new documentary collaboration between Successful Belfast, Belfast Buildings Trust, and Best of Belfast. The Streets Where They Lived will feature the stories of six incredible but sometimes overlooked men and women from Belfast and some of the buildings and places in the City with which they’re connected. The project is a collaboration with Successful Belfast, a project of Belfast Buildings Trust. It is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Belfast Buildings Trust is a charity founded in 1996 to regenerate Belfast’s landmark buildings. The Trust works to ensure that the City’s authentic heritage is made relevant for people today. One of its projects is Successful Belfast, which champions new and creative ways of involving people in Belfast’s future development. <div
Mon, November 23, 2020
#173 Julie Andrews: Linenhall Library
Julie Andrews is the current Director of the Linen Hall Library: Belfast's oldest and last-standing private Libary. Located just opposite City Hall, the old Linen Warehouse has some of the most interesting and important historic collections in Northern Ireland. In today's episode we chat with Julie to discover: The history of the Linenhall Library What is was like for her switching from the corporate to the charitable sector Why LHL is undergoing a huge digitisation project The most interesting items in their collection And the greatest successes/challenges they've faced along the way Check it out.
Mon, November 16, 2020
#172 Dennis Coppel: Medic, Father, President
Dennis Coppel is an 85-year-old former Anesthetist and the current President of the Belfast Jewish Community. Some of his early memories include growing up in North Belfast, exploring Cave Hill and seeing the Antrim Road on fire after the WW2 bombings. After juggling Hebrew School in the evenings with his ‘full-time’ education as a boy, Dennis later went on to become a medic. This career led him all around the world, including a stint in Israel and later Texas where he was trained in the hospital JFK was taken after his assassination. These experiences proved critical during The Troubles when Dennis and his team were responsible for responding to the many explosive, gunshot and burn wounds that came through their ICU doors during those dark days. In this episode we talk about: The things Dennis has learned in his 85-years What it was like growing up in a tight-knit Jewish community The importance of loving your work <span class= " author-d-1gg9uz
Mon, November 09, 2020
#171 Virtual Tour Of The Belfast Jewish Synagogue
As part of our documentary on Otto Jaffe and the history of the Jewish Community in Northern Ireland, we paid a visit to the Belfast Hebrew Congregation on the Somerton Road. The North Belfast synagogue is the third synagogue built in Belfast, the first one being built by Daniel Jaffe on Great Victoria Street and the second by his son Otto Jaffe on Annesley Street near Carlisle Circus. While there, we were given a tour by Michael Black: the current chairman of the Northern Irish Jewish community and someone with a lot of knowledge about the history of the building. We had such a great time with Michael and were so interested in what he had to share that we've decided to release our full rough-cut with you so that you can enjoy a virtual tour of one of Belfast's best-kept secrets. Enjoy!
Mon, November 02, 2020
[Documentary] Sir Otto Jaffe: "The Linen Entrepreneur Who Changed A City"
Sir Otto Jaffe was one of the leading entrepreneurs responsible for the boom of the Linen Industry here in Belfast in the 1800s. Through a lot of hard work and determination, the young German-born entrepreneur rose through the ranks of the family business and went on to become the Lord Mayor of Belfast. Twice. Yet by the end of his life, Sir Otto was forced out of Northern Ireland. Forever. But that’s not all. In the 100 years after Otto left Belfast, the Jewish community in Northern Ireland has fallen from 1500+ members to just under 80 men and women today. In today’s episode, myself and producer Owen set off on another journey through the streets of Belfast and the pages of local history with one goal. To find out why. Check it out. // This episode is part of The Streets Where They Lived : a new documentary collaboration between Successful Belfast, Belfast Buildings Trust, and Best of Belfast. The Streets Where They Lived will feature the stories of six incredible but sometimes overlooked men and women from Belfast and some of the buildings and places in the City with which they’re connected. The project is a collaboration with Successful Belfast, a project of Belfast Buildings Trust. It is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fu
Mon, October 26, 2020
#169 Mark Goldstone: Pharmacist, Copywriter, Investor
Mark Goldstone has worked for more than 25 years in the healthcare/life sciences industry. He has a passion for technology, new “stuff” and all things creative. Currently based in New York City, Mark spends his days working as the General Partner of Forepont Capital: a performance-focused venture capital firm that invests in early-stage life science companies. Mark began his career as a pharmacist with the UK retail giant Boots before his love for writing led him to a new career in advertising as a copywriter — which has unexpectedly led him to where he is today. In today's conversation we talk about: The value of learning how to write well Why "Big-Pharma" isn't all bad How to deal exponential change in a fast-paced world And the successes/challenges faced along the way Check it out! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Mark (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/mark-goldstone-forepont-capital <span style= "font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Can
Mon, October 19, 2020
#168 Leonard Nugent: Construction Worker, Adventurer, Author
Leonard Nugent is a businessman and author from Belfast with an incredible story to tell. Despite experiencing homelessness at a young age and receiving no formal education, Leonard went on to start a one-man construction business that has now become a multi-million-pound company. He’s also walked the Camino and is in the middle of a 2500km walk from Malin Head to Cork. Both his adventures and latest memoir Keep Er Lit have been driven by the desire to inspire young people just starting out in the world and to raise money for the Open House Homeless Charity. In today’s story we talk about: What it was like growing up in Belfast 60 years ago How he grew his business from himself and a wheelbarrow to a major success The process of writing his memoir And the greatest challenges/successes he’s faced along the way. Enjoy! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Lyn (including a photo) please visit <a href= "https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/
Mon, October 12, 2020
#167 Rita Harkin & The Red Bricks Of Belfast
Quick bonus episode with Rita Harkin from the Architectural Heritage Trust who we interviewed as part of our Danny Blanchflower documentary released last week. I had such a good time with Rita and learned so much that we decided to share the full unedited version with you! In today's episode we cover: The history of red bricks in Belfast How Rita 'got into' Heritage And why it's important we protect old buildings Enjoy! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Rita (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/rita-harkin-red-brick-belfast Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, October 05, 2020
[Documentary] Danny Blanchflower: "The Greatest Footballer Who Ever Lived"
Danny Blanchflower was a footballer from Belfast who’s most well-known for captaining the Tottenham Hotspurs team that won the double in 1961 and 1962. (The first team to win the FA Cup twice in the 20th Century). He also led the Northern Irish team to the World Cup twice as team captain in 1958 and in his role as manager in 1976. Off the pitch, he was highly respected as one of the greatest football writers in the world, a true scholar of the game and someone with incredibly witty intellect. But to many people’s surprise, I had never heard of Danny Blanchflower, despite growing up in Northern Ireland and even visiting Blanchflower Park as a teen. When I discovered more about his story and the incredible legacy he left behind, I decided to set out on a journey to find out more about the man, the myth and the legend — but more importantly, to uncover why Northern Ireland is running the risk of forgetting about one of our greatest players. Today’s episode documents that journey and features interviews with former team-mates like legendary goalkeeper Pat Jennings, representatives from Tottenham Hotspurs like Club Historian John Fennelly and Danny’s only son Richard Blanchflower. We also do a deep-dive into Danny’s childhood neighbourhood on Grace Avenue in East Belfast to find out more about why red bricks and old buildings have such an important role to play for the people of Belfast today. Check it out. // To see photos of all the voices featured in this episode please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/danny-blanchflower-footballer This episode is part of The Streets Where They Lived : a new documentary collaboration between Successful Belfast, Belfast Buildings Trust, and Best of Belfast. The Streets Where They Lived will feature the stories of six incredible but sometimes overlooked men and women from Belfast and some of the buildings and places in the City with which they’re connected. The project is a collaboration with Successful Belfast, a project of Belfast Buildings Trust. It is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Belfast Buildings Trust is a charity founded in 1996 to regenerate Belfast’s
Mon, September 28, 2020
#165 Maud Hamill: Blue Plaques & Ulster History Circle
Today marks the beginning of a very exciting new series we’re rolling out next week called The Streets Where They Lived : a six-part history documentary that will share the story of six incredible Belfast men and women from the pages of history — and the buildings they once called home. We’ve been putting a tonne of work into this behind the scenes and have partnered up with some really great people and organisations to make it happen including Belfast Buildings Trust, the National Heritage Lottery and BBC Producer Owen McFadden who very kindly has come on board to produce and edit the series! Our first episode rolls out next Monday and is all about legendary footballer Danny Blanchflower and the story of the red bricks of Belfast. BUT, before that, we’ve got a very special bonus interview to wet your appetite for all things history with the wonderful Maud Hamil from The Ulster History Circle. Now the Ulster History Circle is a non-profit organisation that places blue commemorative plaques on buildings all over the country to celebrate men and women who’ve contributed to our history. You’ve probably seen them all over the place, they’re really really cool and are a great way to learn about interesting people who lived in the same place we do, but perhaps have been forgotten. The conversation you’re about to hear took place in Abbeydene House where we were hosted by the wonderful Tim Cliford as we talk about all things blue plaques, history and Belfast. <span class= " author-d-1gg9uz65z1iz85zgdz68zm
Mon, September 21, 2020
#164 Joshua Burnside: Singer, Songwriter, Storyteller
Joshua Burnside is a singer, songwriter and storyteller from Northern Ireland. His award-winning, genre-defying music draws from the rich, complex history of home — and has found music-lovers from all over the world. You can listen to his latest album here. In this exclusive interview ( hosted by Mark Todd ), we talk to Josh about: His first memories Sources of inspiration for his music The importance of authenticity in songwriting And the greatest challenges/successes he's experienced along the way This is a fascinating insight into one of Northern Ireland's rising stars, and we're so excited to share it with you today. Enjoy! // Webpage for this episode: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/joshua-burnside-singer-songerwriter Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 150+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, September 14, 2020
#163 Alice Wilkinson & Susan Rollins-McEwen: Yoga Quarter & Refill Quarter
Alice Wilkinson and Susan Rollins-McEwen are the dynamic duo behind Yoga Quarter and Refill Quarter in East Belfast. They met while completing their yoga teacher training in 2016. One year later they launched Yoga Quarter in Ballyhackamore. Being both community-driven and environmentally-conscious, the pair were also inspired by the zero-waste shops popping up in towns and cities across Europe. So two years later they created Refill Quarter: Belfast's first zero-waste shop, located on the Belmont Road. Both the shop and the studio have been positively embraced by the people of East Belfast and have become an integral part of the community. In today’s episode we talk all about: Copying with style Driving motorbikes and training to becoming a lay-preacher The importance of community How yoga changed their life And the greatest challenges/successes they’ve experienced along the way Enjoy! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Alice & Susan (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/alice-susan-yoga-quarter-refill-quarter Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's
Mon, September 07, 2020
#162 David O'Reilly (Rigsy): DJ, Broadcaster, Author, Father.
David O’Reilly (Rigsy) is is a broadcaster, DJ and author from Belfast, Northern Ireland. As an independent producer, he hosts two radio programmes for the BBC and has made a number of incredibly popular shows for the likes of Gary Lightbody and Hannah Peel. David has also been writing all his adult life and has contributed to everyone from the NME to The Times . His debut novel ' Lottie the Raven ' launching in October is inspired by his own incident-packed teenage years and the woman's football team he formed in 2017. In today's episode we talk about: Balancing multiple passions and pursuits in life Why Rigsy started The Belfa
Mon, August 31, 2020
#161 Cormac Quinn: The Tech Entrepreneur Behind loyalBe
Cormac Quinn is the founder of loyalBe: a bank-connected rewards app aimed at helping independent retailers to attract and retain customers. The most impressive part is that before their recent investment, the Ormeau Baths based tech startup was built from the ground up by Cormac himself. Before loyalBe he was a Software Engineer at Kainos, where he worked as part of a small team to build the UK MOT Reminders website - which is now being used by more than 1m people. Along the way, he’s also had the opportunity to work for American Express, Infosys and MSA Security. In today’s show, we talk about the loyalBe origin story, what it means to be loyal and how Cormac used his time at university to springboard into success. All this and more, coming up in this week’s conversation. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Andi (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/ cormac-quinn-loyalbe Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, August 24, 2020
#160 Andi Jarvis: Marketing & Black Lives Matter
Andi Jarvis is the Founder and Strategy Director of Eximo Marketing , a marketing strategy consultancy based in Bangor and Liverpool. Originally from Bradford, Andi has worked with local and global brands to take the "guesswork" out of marketing and implement cost-effective campaigns that work. He's also a guest lecturer at Liverpool John Moores University and is a regular speaking at conferences on all things marketing. In today's episode we chat about: Why soda bread isn't all it's cracked up to be (shock) What it was like moving to Northern Ireland as a young, short-haired athletic-looking black man with an English accent in the 90s (!) How marketing principles can help us think about and address issues like sectarianism and racism And the greatest challenges/successes he's experienced along the way I found this unedited, deep-dive conversation with Andi to be incredibly insightful and I know for a fact you will too. Enjoy! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Andi (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/andi-jarvis-eximo-marketing Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, August 17, 2020
#159 Sinead O'Sullivan: Aerospace Engineer, NASA, Harvard & Beyond
Sinead O’Sullivan is an Aerospace Engineer from Northern Ireland who has worked with NASA to design human spaceflight missions to the planet Mars and asteroids. Now a Research Fellow at MIT, Sinead is taking the methodologies she created at NASA and applying them to the social sciences to better understand global challenges, such as the interaction between democracy and technology. In today's episode we talk about: Growing up in Armagh Going to NASA's Space Camp at 16-years-old How life is full of complex trade-offs The importance of a multi-disciplinary approach to learning And the greatest challenges/successes along the way Check it out! // Webpage link: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/sinead-osullivan-aerospace-engineer Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, August 10, 2020
#158 Mike Kerr: beIN Sports
Mike is the Managing Director, of beIN ASIA PACIFIC: a global leader in the production and distribution of sports content like The Premier League, Rugby World Cup, FA Cup and much much more. After moving to Singapore on a 6-month placement, Mike has ended up living and working in Asia for over 26-years. He's also a keen golfer, lover of pastie baps and former professional rugby player for Hong Kong! In today's conversation we talk about: The 45-minute bus commute to school from Jordanstown How he ended up in Asia (and why he stayed) What local media can learn from Singapore Surviving the Bali bombing And the lessons he's learned along the way Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Mike (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/mike-kerr-beIN-asia-pacific Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, August 03, 2020
#157 Terry Kane: Facebook
Terry Kane is a senior executive at Facebook living in Dubai where he heads up the marketing strategy for the Middle East, Africa and Turkey regions for all Facebook's platforms and services. As if his 20-years experience in tech wasn't enough, he's also an avid participant of various sports including Gaelic Games, Surfing, Snowboarding and has completed dozens of marathons, ultra-marathons and multi-day ultra-marathons like the Marathon Des Sables, the world’s toughest footrace... twice. In today's episode we talk about: What he learned working in a kettle factory The role extreme sports plays in his work How to use tactical empathy to understand reality What it was like moving to Dubai And the greatest successes/challenges he's learned along the way Had really good craic doing this one and learned a lot of really valuable nuggets along the way. I know you will too. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Lyn (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/terry-kane-facebook Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, July 27, 2020
#156 Bernadette Collins: Formula One
Bernadette Collins is a senior Formula One strategy engineer from Northern Ireland working with the Racing Point F1 Team. Alongside being responsible for the race strategy for both drivers, she also travels to every event in the championship — often making decisions on a lap by lap basis to win as many points for her team as possible. In today's episode we talk about: How she got interested in engineering The steps that led to her working in F1 What lessons Formula One can teach us And the greatest challenges/successes she's experienced along the way This is a great story of Bernie's journey from Fermanagh to Formula One and one with plenty of interesting stops along the way. Enjoy! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Bernadette (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/bernadette-collins-formula-one Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, July 20, 2020
#155 Professor Philip Hamill: Abu Dhabi University
Philip Hamill is the Associate Provost, and currently the Interim provost, at Abu Dhabi University. After watching a movie about Wall Street when he was a boy, Philip decided to move to Belfast from Portadown to study economics. The rest, as they say, is history. One Bachelor's, Masters, PhD and MBA later, Philip is now an accomplished academic with a successful track record of publishing in international peer-reviewed journals, books and professional publications on the topic of finance and its interface with computer science. In today's episode we talk about: What it was like growing up in a rural environment How he ended up in Abu Dhabi The role creativity plays in education And the greatest challenges/successes he's experienced along the way. Enjoy! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Philip (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/philip-hamill-abu-dhabi-university Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, July 13, 2020
#154 Sheridan Tongue: Composer
Sheridan Tongue is a BAFTA-nominated composer from Belfast known his global, award-winning work on drama series and documentaries alike. From scoring the mind of Stephen Hawkings, soundtracking 12 seasons of Silent Witness, to releasing music under the pseudonym IN-IS; Sheridan's creative work has taken him all over the world and back home again — most recently with BBC NI's series Spotlight On The Troubles: A Secret History. (Not bad for a guy who started busking with his saxophone outside BHS in Belfast as a teenager!) In today's episode we chat about: How his early-experiences in NI shapes his work The role experimentation plays in composing music How he balances the commercial with the creative And the greatest challenges/successes he's experienced along the way This is a fascinating insight into one of Northern Ireland's most creative minds and a real encouragement to anyone who's thinking about starting off on their own creative journey. Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Lyn (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/sheridan-tongue-composer Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Thu, July 09, 2020
#153 Connecting The Northern Irish Diaspora (With Anne Beggs from NI Connections)
Incredibly excited to announce a new mini-series we're launching in collaboration with Northern Irish Connections where we’ll be sharing the story of six extraordinary people from NI doing exceptional things overseas. In this quick intro episode, we caught up with Invest NI's Anne Beggs to chat about: How many Northern Irish people are living outside of NI? Why it's so important to connect them? What we can learn from them? And some of the amazing things these people have been able to achieve. Northern Irish Connections is Invest NI's Diaspora Outreach Program. Find out information about moving back home, and discover amazing diaspora stories by signing up to their free monthly newsletter at https://www.niconnections.com/ // Webpage for this episode: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/anne-beggs-ni-connections Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, July 06, 2020
#152 Brian John Spencer: Artist (Featuring 7-year-old son Henry)
Brian John Spencer is an artist from Belfast, Northern Ireland. After going down the grammar-school track of studying law, Brian decided to take the leap in a brand new direction at 25-years-old to pursue his dream of becoming an artist. A dream that already is paying off. From sketching thousands of caricatures, painting landscapes to designing wine labels for Michael Deane, Brian's work has been displayed and paid-for in Brooklyn, Belfast and beyond. In this very special episode we took the microphones to "Picasso's studio" in Ross's Auctions in the city centre to catch up with him and his 7-year-old son Henry (the youngest guest we've ever had on the show) to chat about: How Brian "all of a sudden transformed into an artist" His mentors, inspirations and artistic north stars The balance between creativity and commerce What Henry has learned hanging around his dad And the greatest challenges/successes they've experienced along the way Awesome chat with two hard-working guys that bring "the work-ethic of a builder" to the creative process. Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Brian (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/brian-john-spencer-artist Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, June 29, 2020
#151 Joan Henderson: The Power Of Outdoor Play
Joan Henderson is an Educational Mentor focusing on helping schools across Ireland tap into the developmental power of outdoor play in young children. Being a former early-year teacher and school-inspector herself, Joan has spent a lifetime observing the impact being outside has on children — and the problems that can arise when they don't get out enough. In this fascinating, exclusive episode we talk to Joan about: What her work across 500+ schools can teach us about ourselves How we as adults can benefit from being outside more The impact screens are having on younger generations And the success/challenges she's experienced along the way This very special, far-reaching conversation was appropriately recorded in my back garden — complete with birdsong and all! I was absolutely riveted by everything Joan had to say and think it's more relevant than ever as we are entering into a post-lockdown world. Can't wait for you to listen to find out why. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Joan (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/joan-henderson-outdoor-play Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Wed, June 24, 2020
#150 The Power Of Celebrating Local
BONUS EPISODE. I was interviewed recently for another podcast and ended up talking about Northern Ireland the whole time. Thought there was some interesting bits in here about WHY we do the podcast and how loving where you live really has the potential to change the way we live our lives. Enjoy!
Mon, June 22, 2020
#149 Conor & Tom McLaughlin: Red Bay Boats
Red Bay Boats is a family business in Cushendall that has built over 1000 boats and 'shipped' to 30+ different countries around the world. After reading a book on boat building Tom McLaughlin dropped out of school to restore an old rotten rowboat. Since then, Red Bay have made boats used by the royal family, anti-pirate authorities, ferries, tour-guides and fishermen. His son Conor — now a master-boat builder himself — works full-time in the family business and is responsible for building and delivering their bespoke vessels as far as Svalbard; an island 500 miles north of Norway. In today's episode we caught up with Tom and Conor on their boat for this Father's day special to talk about: The fascinating link between the North Coast and Scotland (which is closer to Cushendall than Ballymena) What it's like to work so closely with family How they "make memories" for their customers The camaraderie of the local sailing community And the challenges/successes they've experienced along the way. This fascinating episode — set to the soundtrack of the North Coast waves — shares the story on an incredible family carrying on Northern Ireland's shipbuilding legacy and having a lot of fun along the way. You'd be daft to miss it! // Link to webpage for this episode: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/red-bay-boats Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, June 15, 2020
#148 Daniel Crawford: Axial3D, The Human Body 3D Printing Start-Up
Daniel Crawford is the Founder & Chief Strategy Officer of Axial3D; a 3D printing company that creates medical models of a patient's organs, bones and other anatomical structures based on their 2D scan results. The reason why this is is such a gamechanger (asides from being unbelievably cool) is because it gives clinicians — like surgeons — the chance to analyse, strategise and develop a precise gameplan: Before cutting a patient open. The Northern Irish start-up (which was created while Daniel was still at university) has gone on to raise over $5 million dollars, create 20+ jobs and most importantly, save lives. In today's episode, we caught up with Daniel to talk about: How his university experience helped him start the company The opportunities COVID-19 have opened up for them Why you shouldn't try to "boil the ocean" And the challenges/successes he's experienced along the way Really enjoyed this awesome chat with one of our nation's rising stars and the opportunity to learn from what is set to be one of the most successful NI start-ups in the last decade. Enjoy! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Daniel (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/daniel-crawford-axial3d Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, June 08, 2020
#147 Claire McLaughlin: Junior Doctor & Rugby Player
Claire McLaughlin is a 28-year-old junior doctor from Bushmills and a professional rugby player. After admittedly not being any good at sports as a girl (except the monkey crawl), Claire went on to excel both academically and athletically in her teens. This ultimately led her both playing for Ireland in the Rugby World Cup AND going through medical school. In today's episode we chat about: The role disciple has played in Claire's life Techniques she uses to balance her multiple passions How to avoid burnout and deal with disappointment And the greatest challenges/successes she's faced along the way (Including being a doctor during a global pandemic). Enjoy! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Claire (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/claire-mclaughlin-doctor-rugby Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, June 01, 2020
#146 Jon Bradford: “The Godfather Of European Accelerators”
Jon Bradford is “doer of many things (badly)” — at least that’s what he sent through when we asked him for a short bio. However, a quick Google search will tell you that Jon is a highly experienced early-stage investor, MD of Techstars London, co-founder of Ormeau Baths, Ignite, FS6, tech.eu and has been described as “the godfather of European accelerators.” When I asked a few people close to Jon to describe him they said things like: "He is one of the smartest investors I know and has learned the art of asking the hard questions." "Jon is like a sneaky ninja working behind the scenes to make magic happen." And that "he’s a man of few words - who likes brevity and getting to the point." So with that said, let’s get straight to the point. Delighted to have Jon here in the studio with us, and am looking forward to finding out more including things like but not necessarily, Jon’s origin story, lessons he’s learned along the way, why he likes to run naked and his favourite quote from Yoda. Enjoy! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Jon (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/jon-bradford-investor Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Thu, May 28, 2020
#145 Hugh McGauran: The 75-Year-Old Wheatgrass Salesman
Hugh McGauran is a stroke-surviving, set-dancing, wheatgrass and ionized water salesman from Northern Ireland. He claims that homegrown wheatgrass and ionized water has allowed him to feel the healthiest he's been in over 20 years. (Which is impressive, considering at the time of recording he's 75!) In today's episode we talk about: What is was like growing up in Fermanagh in the '40s His early entrepreneurial endeavours How he and his wife got into set-dancing later in life Why having a stroke changed his life And the successes/failures he's experienced along the way Check it out! // You can contact Hugh via hughiemcgauran@aol.com // Website page for this episode https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/hugh-mcgauran-wheatgrass-salesman
Mon, May 25, 2020
#144 Janine Kane: The Publican Behind The Spaniard, Muriels, The Jeggy Nettle & More!
Janine Kane is the publican behind bars some of Belfast’s most beloved bars, including The Spaniard, Muriels, Pablos, Panama, The Jeggy Nettle and most recently, The Chester. After originally training and working a nurse, Janine later fell into hospitality as a bartender before working her way up through the ranks in the local bar scene. In today’s show, we talk about her transition into entrepreneurship, what it was like being mentored by Bill Wolsey and the origin story behind her hugely successful pubs. Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/ janine-kane-publican
Thu, May 21, 2020
#143 Terry Doherty: Post-Man, Music-Lover, Storyteller
Terry Doherty is a postal worker, music-lover and storyteller from Larne, Northern Ireland. In this easy-listening episode, he shares a treasure trove of stories he's been collecting across his life, career and hobbies. Some of these stories include: Witnessing armed robberies in the post office Hanging out with bands in rural Ireland Sneaking into Icelandic Museums And walking his daughter through Leukemia. With insights into how the post-industry has changed over the years, the importance of responsibility and what 'real success' looks like, this is a very special episode with plenty of gems to walk away with. I personally found this episode incredibly moving and have already listened back to it a second time — something that in 130+ episodes, I rarely do. Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Terry (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/terry-doherty-post-man Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, May 18, 2020
#142 The Power Of Creating Daily with Dillon Osborne
The King of Instagram Stories returns! (You can check out our first interview with Dillon here to get the backstory). In today's episode, we chat about: The power of creating something every day Creative burnout The future of online content And balancing business with play Check it out. https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/the-power-of-creating-daily
Sat, May 16, 2020
#141 James McClurg: Sky's Startup Investment & Partnerships Team (VC)
Jame McClurg leads Sky’s Startup Investment and Partnerships team. Since joining the team when it started in 2013 he has been investing in and partnering with companies from the US, UK/Europe and Israel including Roku (Now TV) and the Drone Racing League. Previously, James was an Investment Manager of a London-based venture capital fund and a Strategy and M&A consultant at Deloitte (London). He grew up in Belfast and returns regularly to see family and friends, now living in London with his wife and daughters. In today's episode we chat about: His early memories How he got into the world of VC What advice he would give to start-ups thinking about approaching big corporations How COVID-19 is/isn't affecting the world of VC And the highs/lows he's experienced along the way Please note: this episode was done in collaboration with Ormeau Baths as part of their "Founder Firesides Mini-Series" and is geared towards early-stage start-ups/entrepreneurs. Enjoy! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to James (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/james-mcclurg-sky-ventures Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Thu, May 14, 2020
#140 Aidan Larkin: The World’s First Bitcoin Auctioneer
Aidan Larkin is the former Asset Recovery Director at Wilsons Auctions. (In other words, he sells the stuff seized by the police from criminals). This position has led to earning the title of the World’s First Bitcoin Auctioneer and making an appearance on several TV documentaries about the auctioneering profession. Aidan also an Ex Criminal Tax Inspector, budding social entrepreneur, husband and father to two boys. In today’s episode, we talk about some of the weird and wonderful things Aidan has auctioned off, how a traditional family business can thrive in a disruptive economy and the path he’s walked to get to the success he’s experienced today. All this and more, coming up on today’s show. Photos, links and treasure trove for Aidan Larkin: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/ aidan-larkin-wilsons-auctions Join The Producer’s Club Today at: https://bestofbelfast.org/producers-club
Mon, May 11, 2020
#139 Colin Davidson: Artist & Painter
Colin Davidson is an artist from Belfast, Northern Ireland. Since 2010, Colin's focus has been on painting scale portraits which have received widespread recognition and many international awards. His critically acclaimed exhibition ‘Silent Testimony’ reveals the stories of eighteen people connected by their individual experiences of loss through the Troubles and has been displayed in Belfast, Paris, Dublin and NYC. Some of his other portrait sitters include the likes of President Bill Clinton, HM The Queen, Ed Sheeran and many local legends like Gary Lightbody, Seamus Heaney, Oliver Jeffers, Dame Mary Peters and Liam Neeson. Colin was commissioned by TIME Magazine in 2015 to paint the German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, for the cover of its ‘Person of the Year’ issue. In today's episode we talk about: His first memories Teaching Brad Pitt how to paint Why he paints his subjects looking away from the viewer The business side of art And the greatest challenges/successes he's faced along the way This conversation also includes voice questions from The Producer's Club as well as people Colin has painted like Gary Lightbody, Mary Peters and Oliver Jeffers. Thanks so much to everyone who submitted ideas and insights to make this episode possible. I am so incredibly excited to share it with you today. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Colin (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/colin-davidson-artist Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Sat, May 09, 2020
#138 Jawbox Gerry Returns!
Joined today again by Belfast's favourite barman: the one and only Gerry White. Founder of Jawbox Gin, ex-manager of The John Hewitt and all-round Belfast legend, Gerry has stories coming out of his ears when it comes to the city we love and know so well. In today's episode, we chat about bars that are no longer around, the new Jawbox flavours and why the hospitality industry is so important to our communities. You can check out our full interview with Gerry here — which was three years and 130 episodes ago! Webpage for this episode: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/jawbox-gerry
Thu, May 07, 2020
#137 Alison Clarke: ACA Models & Miss NI
Alison Clarke is the founder of ACA Models: Northern Ireland's longest-running modelling and promotion agency. After growing up on a farm in County Tyrone, Alison gave up her University offers to study Maths and instead took a job with Ulster Bank. Alongside working full-time at the Waring Street Bank (now The Merchant Hotel) she entered and won Miss Northern Ireland in 1982 and was a runner-up in the Miss UK competition. Ultimately, this experience was the catalyst that led to working in PR & Marketing for eight years before opening up her own agency in 1990. Alison has been her own boss ever since. In today's episode we talk about: Life in Strabane as a child What working in a bank was like before computers How it takes time to build a business Why Miss NI is important for Northern Ireland And the greatest challenges/successes she's experienced along the way Enjoy! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Alison (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/alison-clarke-aca-models Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, May 04, 2020
#136 In The Green Room With Zoe Salmon
Zoe Salmon is back — and this time we’re kicking back in the digital green room with a light-hearted catch-up. (With a bit of seriousness sprinkled in there for good measure). We caught up the TV Presenting legend to see how lockdown is treating her, find out her Espresso Martini recipe and chat about how only boring people are boring. This is a super-chilled out, easy-listening episode to unwind to and take your mind off all that is going on. Enjoy! P.S. Check out our 'proper' episode with Zoe here. // Webpage for this episode: https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/zoe-salmon-green-room-catch-up
Sat, May 02, 2020
#135 Tony Carson: Entrepreneur & Investor
Tony Carson is an entrepreneur and investor from Belfast, Northern Ireland. He's one of those guys who not only has a fascinating career, but also a remarkable personal story. Growing up in the New Lodge area of North Belfast, Tony watched his father — the late, great comedian Frank Carson — rise to fame and success. This meant that from a young age, Tony had the opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes glance of how the hospitality business works — and the chance to roll his sleeves up and work! Later in life, he has gone on to start, manage and own a whole range of his own businesses before turning to the world of investment. In today's episode we talk about: Tony's early memories The art of negotiation How to balance creativity with business And the greatest challenges/successes he's experienced along the way This conversation was done in collaboration with Ormeau Baths as part of their Founder Fireside Mini-Series and is a fascinating listen. Check it out! // To see a photo of Tony please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/tony-carson-entrepreneur Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Thu, April 30, 2020
#134 Brenda McMullan: Halifax Foundation For Northern Ireland
Brenda McMullan is Grant-Maker from West Belfast, Northern Ireland. After originally starting her career off in IT, Brenda is now the Executive Director of the Halifax Foundation NI — a funding body that grants over £1 million a year to local charities right here in Northern Ireland. The foundation has responded rapidly to the COVID-19 Crisis by making funding decisions on a bi-weekly basis — rather than quarterly — so that grassroots organisations on the frontline can receive the support they need to respond during these uncertain times. In today's episode, we talk about: How she went from cleaning-toilets to handling funds for a major bank! Some of the ways the Foundation is responding to the global pandemic Her pride for West Belfast The challenges parents of autistic children face And her brief stint in elocution classes Brenda is a real 'salt-of-the-earth' kinda woman with a huge passion for what she does and loads of great insights/stories to share along the way. Check it out! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Brenda (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/brenda-mcmullan-halifax-foundation-ni Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, April 27, 2020
#133 Gary Lightbody: Snow Patrol
Gary Lightbody is a singer-songwriter from Bangor, Northern Ireland and the lead singer of Snow Patrol. Across their 25-year journey, Snow Patrol have sold over 17 million albums, picked up over 1 billion global streams and played on almost every stage known to man. Their recent Reworked Album and Tour gave fans from all over the world the opportunity to experience new renditions of some of the bands greatest hits (and a few new absolute bangers too). But it also gave long-time listeners the chance to pause and reflect on just how much has changed over the years. (Yes, Chasing Cars is almost 15-years-old — and fun fact — was recently voted the most played song of the 21st century on UK radio). So, in today's conversation with Gary, we do just that: pause and reflect on the years that have gone before, and what they can maybe tell us about the future. We cover topics like: Gary's first memories Snow Patrol's 10-year grind to success The importance of being specific while writing songs How to keep our heads right during Quarantine And Gary's greatest successes/challenges along the way This will without a doubt be one of the fastest hours of your life and is full of so much genuine joy and stories worth sharing. Check it out. // To see a photo of today's guest please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/gary-lightbody-snow-patrol Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Thu, April 23, 2020
#132 Rebecca McKinney: Radio Presenter & Fashion Stylist
Rebecca McKinney is a Radio Presenter and Fashion Stylist from Belfast, Northern Ireland. After originally studying law, Rebecca pivoted into PR & Marketing before becoming the Resident Stylist for Victoria Square. This ultimately led to Rebecca landing her dream job as one of the presenters of the Cool FM Breakfast Show — the biggest show in the country! In today's episode we talk about: - Growing up on the grounds of Hogwarts (Campbell College) - How she got into radio - The role self-confidence has played in her journey - And a recent near-death experience with sepsis (!) This is a super insightful yet fun conversation — and I know you'll not only really enjoy it, but also get a lot out of it. Check it out! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Rebecca (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/rebecca-mckinney-cool-fm Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Tue, April 21, 2020
#131 Lockdown Extension Update
Thanks for an awesome month of monthly episodes! Switching to two episodes a week (Monday & Thursday) going forward. Say hello: +447873636003 matthew@bestofbelfast.org
Mon, April 20, 2020
#130 Gerry Flynn: Footballer Turned Entrepreneur (Live From Murcia, Spain)
Gerry Flynn is a footballer and entrepreneur from Belfast, Northern Ireland. Prior to moving to Spain 10 years ago, Gerry played professional football for Hull City before returning to the Irish League to play for Cliftonville & Coleraine where he won the Irish Cup. He now runs a series of businesses with his wife Debbie including: Dream Spanish Homes, DSH Invest, The Celt Irish Bar, The Shamrock Lounge and Mar Menor Car Hire. In today's episode we talk about: Growing up in The New Lodge His recent social media success with "Football Stories" How he's handling the crisis from a business point of view And much much more. Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Gerry (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/gerry-flynn-murcia-spain Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Fri, April 17, 2020
#129 Sam Halliday: Two Door Cinema Club
Sam Halliday is a musician from Bangor, Northern Ireland (and a part-time footballer for his local team). After starting a band with some friends from school, Sam and his mates went on to form the international award-winning music sensation that is Two Door Cinema Club. Named after a local cinema back home, the band has sold millions of albums worldwide and performed on some of the biggest stages on the planet. In today's show, we chat to Sam about: The band's origin story Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles What their early gigs were like His favourite takeaway in NI Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Sam (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/sam-halliday-two-door-cinema-club Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Thu, April 16, 2020
#128 Adam Cree: Former Belfast Giants Star Turned Entrepreneur
Adam Cree is the Chief Revenue Officer of 3EN Cloud Ltd, located in Holywood, Co. Down. Having spent the first part of his working life in professional sports, he made the transition to the business world despite having no qualifications or degrees. From there, Adam has worked his way up to the leadership team of 3EN, helping them double their growth of staff and revenue in his first full year in the role. In today's show, we chat to Adam about: His early childhood experience How someone 'becomes' a Belfast Giant What led to him getting into business And the greatest successes/failures he's experienced along the way Check it out! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Adam (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/adam-cree-3en-cloud Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producer's Club' please visit httpbestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Wed, April 15, 2020
#127 Paddy Raff: Comedian
Paddy Raff is a comedian from Belfast, Northern Ireland. After working in a call-centre before joining a wedding band, Paddy has exploded onto the comedy-scene much later in life than most — despite having all the responsibilities that come with being "an adult." As more and more people started sharing his SnapChat sketches via WhatsApp and social media, it became clear that there was an audience out there for his material. In just a couple of years, Paddy has gone from performing his first stand-up gig at an open mic night to selling out shows in the SSE Arena and performing in front of thousands of people. Today's episode we chat about: Paddy's early memories How he got into comedy Why starting late has paid-off And the highs/lows he's experienced along the way. Check it out! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Paddy (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/paddy-raff-comedian Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Tue, April 14, 2020
#126 Patrick Quinn: International School Principal (Live From Changshu China)
Patrick Quinn is a 37-year-old International School Principal from Belfast currently living in Changshu, China. After initially working in fashion and management, Patrick pivoted into a career in teaching because of his love for people. In 2017 he took the massive step to move to China for a year and he's been there ever since. In today's episode we talk about: Taking risks Trying new things How to build confidence And the highs/lows Patrick has experienced along the way Enjoy! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Patrick (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/patrick-quinn-changshu-china Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, April 13, 2020
#125 Claire Moore: Sports, Marketing & Brain-Surgery (Live From Hong Kong)
Claire Moore hails from Jordanstown, Co. Antrim and is currently based in Hong Kong after an eight-year stint in Dublin. She works in sports marketing and has been involved in planning major events around the globe such as The Irish Open, The World Rugby Sevens Series and The Tokyo 2020 Olympics. But shortly after moving to Hong Kong, Claire began to experience some unusual symptoms. 10-days later she was on the operating table for full-blown brain surgery — an event that she claims has changed her life forever. This is her story. In today's episode we talk about: Why she's so proud to come from Jordanstown What led her to moving away from home How Hong Kong is reacting to COVID-19 And the ways her life has changed post-surgery Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Claire (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/claire-moore-hong-kong Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Fri, April 10, 2020
#124 Oliver Jeffers: Artist & Author
Quarantine Phone Call. Oliver Jeffers is a visual artist and author from Belfast, Northern Ireland. His critically acclaimed picture books have been translated into over forty-five languages and sold 12+ million copies worldwide. After leaving Northern Ireland in his twenties, Oliver moved to NYC where he lived/worked for 15 years before travelling the world wife his wife and two young kids. In today's episode we talk about: Oliver's early childhood experiences Where his inspiration comes from The impact having kids has had on his work And the greatest challenges/successes he's experienced along the way. This is an absolutely fascinating conversation with one of the most creative minds on the planet, and a chance to get to know the man behind the international success. Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Oliver (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/oliver-jeffers-artist Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Thu, April 09, 2020
#123 Noel Allen: Noisy Snacks
Noel Allen is the founder and CEO of NI based food start-up Noisy Snacks. Noisy Snacks is the award-winning innovative snacks company behind tasty, nutritional snacks that require all FIVE Senses to eat. They claim their secret ingredient is noise and encourage all snackers out there to "shake to awake the taste." In today's episode we caught with Noel inbetween deliveries to chat about: How he came up with the idea Why noise is so important How they make chickpeas taste good The future of personalised snacking And the greatest challenges/successes he's experienced along the way Really enjoyed this super fun conversation with Noel Allen and know you will too. Check it out! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Noel (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/noel-allen-noisy-snacks Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Wed, April 08, 2020
#122 Emer Maguire: Science Communicator, Comedian, Broadcaster, Musician & Speech Therapist
Emer Maguire is a multi-talented comedic, musical, public-speaking, broadcasting, science communicating legend from Strabane, Northern Ireland. She's given multiple TEDx Talks, won countless awards for her work in radio and has just come back from a sell-out run at the Edinborough Fringe festival. Oh yeah, and she's also a fully qualified speech therapist #sidehustle In today's episode we talk all about: How she overcame her fear of public speaking Why she grew to love science later in life The business-side of creativity And her favourite joke (omg plz listen to this bit) Our conversation with Emer is super-fun and light-hearted yet jam-packed full of entrepreneurial wisdom. (And plenty of Strabane-infused craic along the way). Enjoy! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Lyn (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/emer-maguire-comedian Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Tue, April 07, 2020
#121 Rabbit-Hole Conversations with Mark Todd
Had the absolute pleasure of chatting to friend and previous guest Mark Todd... an insanely good conversationalist, storyteller and talented architect (yet somehow we never really end up talking about buildings). In today's show, we discuss a whole range of random topics including: The Borrowers Old Windmills Donaghadee And of course, leprechauns If that doesn't make any sense to you, don't worry, it didn't to us either but we certainly had a blast along the way. So check it out and enjoy following us down the rabbit-hole... // Click here for our full 'proper' interview with Mark check out: To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Mark (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/mark-todd-rabbit-hole-conversations Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, April 06, 2020
#120 Ian McLernon: Remy Cointreau — Manhattan, NYC
Ian McLernon is the CEO of Remy Cointreau Americas, a family-owned spirit business that dates back to 1724 best known for their cognacs Rémy Martin and Louis XIII. Originally from Ballymoney, Ian has lived in Singapore, Hong Kong, London and now NYC with his family. Throughout his international career, Ian has worked with some of the biggest brands in the world including Coors, Moet Hennessey and Dior. In today's episode we talk about: How Ian got into the luxury good business The role price plays in marketing Successes/challenges he's faced along the way And how crisis can be an opportunity Really privileged to have the chance to find out more about Ian's story and the chance to unpack some of his key insights. Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Ian (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/ian-mclernon-remy-cointreau Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Fri, April 03, 2020
#119 Conor Houston: Solicitor, Connected Citizens, The Irish Times & Much, Much More
Conor Houston is a... Well, he's a lot of things. Director at Houston Solutions Ltd, a bespoke leadership advisory company. Founder of Connected Citizens, a civic initiative which promotes active citizenship and creates space for citizens to co-design solutions for our society.   Governor of The Irish Times Trust Director of ShoutOut (an LQBTQ+ youth charity) Chairman of the Board of Governors of Fleming Fulton Special School. Former Solicitor who has defended clients in the Supreme Court both in the UK and Ireland Head of Engagement for Digital DNA - the largest tech & digital conference in Northern Ireland. Fellow of the US State Department Rule of Law Programme Fellow of the British Council Hammamet Conference Inaugural Chair of The Ireland Funds Belfast. Guest lecturer at Harvard University, Loyola Marymount University LA, Trinity College Dublin and Ulster University. Not one to be put in a box, Conor has had a vast career that is built around one thing: bringing about change. A massive advocate for celebrating the island of Ireland on the world's stage, he has both founded, assembled and led various "tribes" over the years to make the "visions and values laid out in the Good Friday Agreement a reality" for the people who call this place home. In today's episode we talk all about: Conor's origin story Why he got into (and out of) law How he balances passion with burnout Experiences that have shaped his perspective And of course the greatest challenges/successes he's endured along the way This is a wide-sweeping conversation with one of our Ireland's most interesting minds and I know you'll really enjoy — and get a lot out of — today's show. Check it out! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Conor (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/conor-houston-connected-citizens Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Thu, April 02, 2020
#118 Leanne Ross, Live From The Lockdown In New Zealand
Leanne Ross is a marketing director, author, trainer, lecturer and former Belfast blogger who emigrated to Dunedin, New Zealand in 2016 (homeland of her retired Ulster Rugby playing Kiwi-Irish husband). Born and bred in Poleglass (yeooo), Leanne knew from a young age that she wanted to be a marketer after being a big fan of ads, articles and other forms of storytelling. In today's episode we talk all about: Why she moved away What it was like to start from scratch in a new country How New Zealand is tackling COVID-19 What marketers can do during this time And of course, what she misses most from home Really chuffed with how open and generous Leanne was when it came to sharing the highs/lows she's experienced along the way and what we can learn from her journey. Plus, thanks to The Producer's Club, we were able to play some voice messages from home and connect with Leanne even though she's a million miles away. Check it out! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Leanne (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/leanne-ross-new-zealand Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Wed, April 01, 2020
#117 Peter Dickson: The Voice Of X-Factor, Britains Got Talent & 30,000 Commercials
Peter Dickson is the legendary voiceover artist behind The X-Factor, Britain's Got Talent, the London 2012 Olympics and 30,000 TV/Radio commercials and a hugely successful career spanning over 42-years. (And yes, he's from Northern Ireland). After landing a gig with the BBC at age 17, Peter went on to become their youngest-ever TV News Presenter. This kick-started a journey that has taken him all over the world and led to him working with some of the biggest brands on the planet. But how do you become a voiceover artist? What does it take to make the leap from local gigs to global recognition? How do you perfect your craft? In today's episode we talk about: Peter's origin story Why audio is such an intimate medium How to talk to an audience The world's #1 voiceover training school And the greatest challenges/successes he's faced along the way I personally learned so much from this episode and was so busy taking notes that I could barely get the next question out! Absolutely fascinated to find out more about the man behind the voice and to discover some of the key insights and lessons he's learned along the way. I know you'll feel the same. // Peter's website The Voiceover Training School Twitter // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Peter (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/peter-dickson-voiceover-artist Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Tue, March 31, 2020
#116 Sly Guy Dave Elliott: Comedian & Podcaster
Dave Elliott is a comedian and podcaster from Bangor, Northern Ireland. He hosts two weekly podcasts: Sly Guy and Boy Town . In today's episode we talk about: - How he got into comedy - Golden pineapples - His greatest challenges/success along the way - And of course, his love of gardening/polytunnels. This is a super chilled-out episode with plenty of good craic thrown in for good measure. Really enjoyed hearing Dave's origin story as well as some of the key lessons he's learned along the way. I know you will too. Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Dave (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/dave-elliott-comedian Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, March 30, 2020
#115 Pete Snodden: Cool FM, Broadcaster, Speaker & Event Host
Pete Snodden is a broadcaster, speaker and event host from Bangor, Northern Ireland. He's the voice of one of the nation's most popular radio spots: The Cool FM Breakfast Show which he hosts alongside Paulo Ross and Rebecca McKinney After being inspired by "the connection radio can provide" while homesick on a P7 trip, Pete knew from a young age that being a broadcaster was what he wanted to do. But like most things in life, the journey to his current success was one full of challenges and obstacles along the way. In today's episode, we chat with Pete about: His first gig with DJ Errol at his parent's friend's 40th birthday party. How he got his "foot in the door" with radio And the key lessons he's learned along the way. Was really impressed with insight and wisdom Pete generously shared our conversation and I know you'll enjoy hearing more about the man behind the voice. Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Pete (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/pete-snodden-cool-fm Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Sun, March 29, 2020
#114 Julian Simmons: The Legendary UTV Continuity Presenter
Julian Simmons is the legendary UTV Continuity Presenter known for his sharp-tongued transitions between TV shows like Coronation Street and Emmerdale. Being fascinated with planes and aircraft as a child, Julian became a travel agent before landing his dream job with Air Canada, a position that has taken him all over the world and back again. After being "discovered by a guy in Holywood... County Down that is" during a play he was acting in, doors began to open up for him to work in television. During a slow Christmas period while working for UTV, he decided to start introducing programs "his way" and the rest is history... In today's episode, we had the opportunity to chat with Julian Simmons about: His first memories Some funny airline stories How he comes up with his transitions What he's up to now And the greatest challenge he's faced along the way Julian is one of the most recognisable and loved face/voices in Northern Ireland and is one of our most requested guests so we were really chuffed to have the chance to find out more about his story and share this fun, light-hearted conversation during these uncertain times. Really hope you enjoy! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Julian (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/julian-simmons-utv Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Sat, March 28, 2020
#113 Andrew Agnew: EUROSPAR, Henderson Group, Burnout, Running + Much Much More
Had the absolute privilege of interviewing a guy today I grew up with who has gone on to live a very interesting life at a young age. Andrew Agnew is the fifth generation of one of Northern Ireland’s biggest businesses — The Henderson Group — a business that is projected to turnover a billion by the end of 2020. But growing up under such an incredible legacy isn’t as straightforward as it may seem from the outside. In this interview, Andy shares the opportunities AND challenges this has led to — especially when it comes to his identity and proving himself. We also chat about: The food situation during COVID-19 What the future of the corner shop looks like Burnout and trying to slow down How running saved his life And his new exciting start-up… Andy was extremely open in the conversation you are about to hear, and I highly recommend listening to it the whole way through. Check It out! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Andrew (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/andrew-agnew-henderson-group-spar Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Fri, March 27, 2020
#112 The May McFettridge/John Linehan Origin Story
May McFettridge is one of Northern Ireland’s most recognisable and loved faces. But what about the man behind the character? John Linehan is the hugely successful comedian (and avid golfer) behind the Queen of pantomime and a regular in The Grand Opera House for 30 consecutive years. In 2006, John was award an MBE for his charitable services and in 2014 he was awarded a bronze bust of May McFettridge outside The Grand Opera House to honour his many years of bringing smiles to adults and children alike. Today’s episode gives you the chance to peek behind the curtain at John’s life including: His first memories and jobs How he came up with the character of May And his greatest successes and challenges along the way We had a super fun, light-hearted conversation with John filled with lots of great nuggets of wisdom and laughs a long the way. Check it out! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to May (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/may-mcfettridge-john-linehan Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Thu, March 26, 2020
#111 Geraldine Hughes, Live From The Lockdown In New York
We hopped on the phone with legendary West Belfast actor Geraldine Hughes (Rocky Balboa, Gran Torino, Harry Potter on Broadway) to catch up and see how she is surviving (and thriving) during these uncertain times. In today's episode, we talk about her amazing play Belfast Blues, moving into new seasons and her recent engagement. Check out our full 'proper' interview with Geraldine here. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Geraldine (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/geraldine-hughes-new-york Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Wed, March 25, 2020
#110 How ESTHER Is Getting Financial Support To Those In Need During COVID-19
If you would like to donate directly to someone in need in Belfast you can do so at https://app.esther.org.uk/ ESTHER is a pocket-to-pocket giving app that allows donors to directly fund people in need. The Belfast tech startup is leading the way in peer-to-peer donations with their revolutionary app that puts transparency at the core. 100% of the money you donate goes directly to the person who needs it via a prepaid card (one that prevents spending on things like gambling and alcohol). Plus with monthly updates from the person receiving funds, you’ll be a part of their transformational journey every step of the way. In today’s show, we caught up with Newry born and bred cofounder Carol Rossborough to chat about how their startup is supporting the most vulnerable members of our community during the COVID-19 Crisis. She also slips in some absolute nuggets of wisdom including: How to recover from burnout Why investing in your marriage is essential And finding our identity outside of work All this and more in today’s episode. Check it out! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to ESTHER (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/esther-donation-startup Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Tue, March 24, 2020
#109 The Nonsense Show With Sarah McBride
An episode where we don’t talk about the C-19-word. Stick the headphones on and get lost in a series of ramblings about living in NYC, social media conspiracy theories, Denny sausages, BIG MILK, the best ice-cream in Northern Ireland and of course… Dog Vance. Enjoy! // Sarah’s Twitter Denny’s Ad “Proper” interview with Sarah // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Sarah (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/sarah-mcbride-podcast Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, March 23, 2020
#108 Andrew Trimble Interviews Matthew Thompson (Live From The Bunker)
You guys asked for it. Here's what was suppose to be "episode 101" where Andrew Trimble turns the tables and gets me on the other side of the mic. We chat about selling Tayto crisps to Norn Irish people living abroad, starting up t-shirt businesses at 16, leaving Northern Ireland "forever" and coming back home to start Best Of Belfast. (As well as dreams, short stories, mental health, burn out and tape cassettes). Enjoy! // P.S. I'll be doing a follow-up Q+A podcast with The Producer's Club online over the next few weeks where we'll get to questions submitted by you. Watch this space. In the meantime, we're putting out a podcast every single day during the COVID Crisis. "Quarantine Phone Calls" are an opportunity to take a break from screens and get outside while listening to me chat the ear of to someone interesting from this part of the world. Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Andrew (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/matthew-thompson-belfast Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Sun, March 22, 2020
#107 Live From The Lockdown In Italy With Cordelia McKinley
In today’s Quarantine Phone Call we hopped on WhatsApp to talk to Cordelia McKinley, a Northern Irish writer/English teacher currently living in Italy. With Italy being two weeks ahead of us in terms of the spread of the virus, we caught up with Cordelia for some advice on how we can do our bit to contain the impact of COVID-19 here at home. (Based on her Coronavirus Diary entries ). We also talk about top tips for surviving isolation, what brought her to Italy in the first place and whether or not it’s okay to have pineapple on pizza… // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Corcelia (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/cordelia-mckinley-italy Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Sat, March 21, 2020
#106 Shane Todd Returns (With Listener Questions)
Would you swap your Twitter Blue Tick for a Nandos Black Card? Do you take red sauce or brown sauce in a sausage bap? What is Jeeves from Ask Jeeves up to now? These are some of the important questions we cover in today's show. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Shanr (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/shane-todd-podcast-northern-ireland Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Fri, March 20, 2020
#105 Nurturing Our Inner-Child with Kevin Young
Hopped on a phone call with one of the most insightful people I know when it comes to our emotional and spiritual well-being. Kevin is a Results-Coach, Musician and lifelong student of the human condition. In this episode we chat about our making decisions, learning to spot patterns of behaviour and our inner-child. Enjoy! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Kevin (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/sarah-mcanallen-design Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Thu, March 19, 2020
#104 Building Our Immune System with Scott Riley
How can we take care of our physical and mental wellbeing during the lockdown? Out of everyone I know and have interviewed, Scott Riley is the one guy I trust the most for advice — and what he had to say certainly didn't disappoint. From cold-water immersion to switching the news off, hear how you can not only survive the current crisis... but also thrive. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Scott (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/scott-riley-small-steps-giant-living Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Wed, March 18, 2020
#103 Mash Direct's Plan To FEED THE NATION
Worried about food during the lockdown? Don't be. In this bonus episode, I caught up with the legendary Jack Hamilton from Mash Direct for a quick phonecall about what his family business is doing to help keep us fed during the COVID Crisis. Check it out and please share it with your friends/family. (For our full, original interview with Jack, click here). // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Jack (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/mash-direct-feed-the-nation Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Tue, March 17, 2020
#102 DADcast with Colin Geddis
Welcome to first and only episode of DADcast with local comedian Colin Geddis where I let slip I haven't listened to his podcast for six months... Turns out I missed a lot... Like a lot-a lot. (Also a surprise personal announcement from yours truly). // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Colin (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/colin-geddis-podcast Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, March 16, 2020
#101 COVID-19 Update (Live From My Garden Shed)
Just because we isolated doesn't mean we are alone. matthew@bestofbelfast.org +447873636003
Sun, March 15, 2020
#100 David Harbinson: Firefighter, Station Commander, Cancer-Survivor
David Harbinson is a Station Commander for the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service in Belfast. After joining the service at a young age, David has worked his way through the ranks and has a story or two to tell from his experiences along the way. In today’s show, we talk about what drives someone to become a firefighter, what it was like to lose and regain his health as well as some personal accounts of the great work the NIFRS do here in Belfast and beyond. Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to David (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/david-harbinson-nifrs Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, March 09, 2020
#99 Andrew Cuthbert aka “Rocketman”: Innovation Maven, Polymath, Father
Andrew Cuthbert is a polymath from Northern Ireland. So far he’s been involved in research trips to Madagascar, human rights campaigns, setting up social enterprises, publishing books, writing patents and developing strategies for businesses in sectors like proton therapy, microbiology and satellite technology. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Andrew (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/andrew-cuthbert-the-change Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, March 02, 2020
#98 Clodagh Dunlop: Locked-In Syndrome Survivor (ft. Partner + Carer Adrian Simpson)
Clodagh Dunlop is a detective for the Police Service of Northern Ireland. In April 2015, her life was turned upside down after suffering a brainstem stroke, which left her with locked-in syndrome. There is no cure for locked-in syndrome and she was expected to be a prisoner in her own body forever. However, against all odds, Clodagh astonished her doctors, family and colleagues with her recovery and the courage she displayed when faced with such a life-changing condition. Along the way she has documented her recovery on social media, gaining a supportive following across the world and winning numerous awards. Now alongside working full time, Clodagh provides motivational lectures to business and health professionals and has lobbied government ministers in Westminster to reshape legislation for stroke services. We’re joined here in the studio today with Clodagh’s partner Adrian Simpson who has stood by her every step of the way and in today’s show, we will discover how this remarkable incident has shaped them both in very different ways and what lessons they have learned that we can apply to our every day lives. Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Clodagh (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/clodagh-dunlop-locked-in-syndrome-survivor Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, February 24, 2020
#97 Dr Mano Shanmuganathan: Neurosurgeon + Bear Grylls ‘Treasure Island’ Survivor
Dr Mano Shanmuganathan is one of the only pediatric neurosurgeons in Northern Ireland. He also survived being stranded on a desert island for 30 days as part of ‘Treasure Island,’ a TV show hosted by Bear Grylls. This life-changing event has given him a completely new perspective on work, life, faith health and wellbeing — including losing over three stone — which he shares with us in today’s episode. Along the way, we also cover surgical innovations developed in Northern Ireland because of the troubles , Mano’s Sri Lankan heritage and how to prioritise self-care. Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Dr Mano (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/dr-mano Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Thu, February 20, 2020
Liam Neeson Update, Episode 100 and Q&A Episode
Quick wee update for you guys as we approach episode 100 and an invitation for you to be a part of it.
Mon, February 17, 2020
#96 Claire Dowds: Ormeau Baths, Community-Building, & Treasure-Seeking
Claire Dowds is the General Manager of Ormeau Baths, a coworking space right here in the heart of the city centre where she spends her time building an environment where people and businesses can thrive. As a lot of you know Best Of Belfast has been based out of Ormeau Baths for the last two years which means that I’ve had the privilege of getting to know and see Claire in action and I can tell you that she is the real deal. Her life story — which we will hear a slice of today — has taken her all over the world and into more roles than I can possibly mention, but the thread that ties it all together is her love for people. One of the things I’ve heard Claire say on many occasions is that her purpose in life is to draw out the treasure in others and I am so excited to dive deeper into that, mic up and record one of our many conversations about what it means to be human and build community in a distracted and often lonely digital age. All this and more coming up on today’s show. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Claire (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/claire-dowds-ormeau-baths Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, February 10, 2020
#95 Colin Anderson: The Godfather Of Advertising In Northern Ireland
This week’s interview is the fifth episode in ‘The Disruptors’, a mini-series presented in collaboration with Fleet Financial where we sit down with some of Northern Ireland’s most disruptive industry leaders. Today’s guest is no exception. Colin Anderson is the serial entrepreneur behind hugely successful businesses like ASG & Partners, TIBUS, B-Secur, Webrecruit Ireland, Activitybreaks.com and has held several senior positions over the years for organisations like the NI Chamber of Commerce, NI Screen and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board. Colin is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing and is also a member of the Institute of Directors, and The Royal Television Society. He’s been a sailing instructor, a visiting professor and in 1997 the recipient of an OBE. But what about the man behind the bio? What about the challenges endured behind his many successes? What were the tactics and strategies deployed to make all of this happen? In today’s episode, we dive deep into Colin’s early childhood experiences, how he dealt with personal loss as a young man, where he got his start in advertising, what it was like to set up his first business, essential marketing and communication principles, the highs and lows experienced along the way and questions of legacy. All this and more on today’s show. Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Colin (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/colin-anderson-asg-partners Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, February 03, 2020
#94 Reuben Skinner: Videographer at Canva, Sydney, Australia
Reuben Skinner is a Belfast born and bred videographer currently living in Sydney Australia with his wife Estelle and three kids to Dora-Rose, Toban and Zeke. Having initially studied Education with Art and Design, Reuben moved to Japan in 2010 to teach English, they were caught up in the devastating 2011 earthquake. Upon his return to Belfast, Rebeun set up a small video production company, working initially in weddings and events before transitioning to commercial and brand video content. After 8 years of working with brands from NI, the UK and the US, Reuben now works for tech unicorn Canva in Sydney. Since then Reuben has been carving out the roadmap for how the multi-billion-dollar design company offers video as a tool for making Canva into a household name. In this episode, we talk all about relocation, how to get hired by a unicorn and how to do creative work that moves the needle. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Reuben (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/reuben-skinner-videographer-canva Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, January 27, 2020
#93 Carmel McKinney: Northern Ireland Fire And Rescue Service (NIFRS)
Carmel McKinney is the Chairperson of the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS). After studying English and French at university, Carmel went on to become a teacher and one of Northern Ireland’s leading experts in the area of Dyslexia. This journey eventually resulted in her becoming the principal of a school and receiving an OBE for her work in education. Later in life, Carmel pivoted into a career into the public sector, sitting on and advising many boards — some which where she was the only woman out of 35 people — before becoming the chairperson of the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service. The impact of her work has been recognised through a number of highly prestigious awards including the Institute of Directors Non-Executive Director of the Year Award and the Guardian Public Services Diversity and Inclusion Award. Carmel is also an acclaimed Irish-dancer and has taken part in competitions all over the world. Her claim to fame in that department of her life was dancing for the US President on St. Patricks day. In today’s episode, we talk about the importance of ‘giving it a go’ and trying new things, the role Carmel’s family has played in her success and how to really change the world. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Carmel (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/carmel-mckinney-nifrs Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Tue, January 21, 2020
#92 Nick Whelan: Dale Farm
Ok, so when I think of Dale Farm I think of milk, cheese, eating Joker ice lollies in the car. Tasty delicious, love it. But I always assumed it was just another Northern Irish food company like the rest of them. But, as you will hear today, I only knew a small slice of the incredible Dale Farm story and in this episode, you’ll have the chance to hear it for yourself, from a man who is equally as interesting. Nick Whelan is Group Chief Executive of Dale Farm, the UK’s largest owned dairy cooperative. Unlike traditional companies, Dale Farm is owned by the 1300 farmers that that make its products and that all profits get pumped back into the local farming industry. Nick grew up on a dairy farm in County Wexford before heading off to the University of Cork. After his working way up through the dairy industry with big players like Glanbia and Kerry Group, Nick had the unexpected opportunity of relocating with his family to Northern Ireland to take his current role. Despite being a self-confessed ‘blow-in’ Nick is one of the most passionate people about Northern Ireland that I’ve ever met and his drive/ambition for this part of the world is really inspiring, as is his own personal story. So in this episode, we talk about how Nick got to where he is today, the importance of casting a vision that other people can follow and why Northern Ireland is truly incredible. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Nick (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/nick-whelan-dale-farm Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, January 13, 2020
#91 James Leckey: Founder & CEO of Leckey Design
James Leckey is the founder & CEO of Leckey: a company focused on designing life-enhancing products for physically challenged children. After starting out small in a garden shed, the Northern Ireland-based company now employs almost 200 people. Today, Leckey is a globally recognized pioneer in the research, design and development of pediatric postural supports that are clinically focused and based on the developmental needs of children, including their social and emotional needs. In this week’s episode, we talk about what Jame’s humble beginnings taught him, the importance of designing products that improve the lives of the people that use them and how to balance being an inventor with being a businessman. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to James (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/james-leckey-design Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, December 30, 2019
#89 Ciaran Sheehan: Clarendon Executive, Young Enterprise & Corcreggan Mill Holidays
I first met today’s guest when I was 16 while doing Young Enterprise at school and since then I’ve also known him to be incredibly passionate and supportive of entrepreneurship for people at every age and stage of the journey. Ciaran Sheehan is an entrepreneur himself, probably best known as a leading Executive Recruiter and Board advisor to many companies in NI. But he also has business interests in Care Homes and most recently a very exciting venture in tourism in North Donegal on the Wild Atlantic Way – an authentic holiday, glamping, camping experience that is really taking off! In today’s episode, we talk about the importance of serving customers, how he ended up buying a holiday park in Donegal and the legacy of entrepreneurship in Northern Ireland. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Ciaran (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/ciaran-sheehan-clarendon-executive Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, December 23, 2019
#88 Jonny Quinn: Snow Patrol (Drummer)
Jonny Quinn is the drummer of Snow Patrol, an alternative rock band from Northern Ireland that has released six albums so far and sold over 13 million copies worldwide. Their latest album ‘Reworked’ features reimagined versions of their career highlights, including all-time classics like Chasing Cars, Open Your Eyes and Run. Hailing from Bangor via San Jose, Jonny has been nominated for both Grammy and Brit awards, won a prestigious Ivor Novello Accolade and has been responsible for several era-defining singles. Alongside Gary and Nathan from the band, Jonny set up Polar Patrol Publishing, a company that that takes a hands-on approach to nurturing new songwriting talent and artist development. In today’s episode, we talk about what it’s been like to revisit songs from early on in the band’s journey, why he’s only recently started taking drum lessons and the advice he would give to someone trying to get into music today. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Jonny (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/jonny-quinn-snow-patrol-drummer Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, December 16, 2019
#87 Sarah McAnallen: Student Entrepreneur Behind The Award-Winning McAnallen Design
When Sarah was six-years-old her mum had a stroke — making everyday tasks difficult. It was out of this personal experience that McAnallen was born. Find out what it was like to start a business while at university, how she developed the confidence to speak in front of large crowds and what’s next... // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Sarah (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/sarah-mcanallen-design Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, December 09, 2019
#86 Zoe Salmon: TV Presenter & Lawyer, Blue Peter
Zoe Salmon is an award-winning television presenter from Bangor, Northern Ireland. In today’s episode, we talk about how she overcame childhood shyness, her unusual Blue Peter audition and the highs/lows she’s faced along the way. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Zoe (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/zoe-salmon-blue-peter Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, December 02, 2019
#85 Philip Bain: Entrepreneur, Author, Philanthropist
Philip Bain is the co-founder of ShredBank and the author of two business books: Start to Grow and Start to Lead. We talk about his exposure to entrepreneurship at a young age (his dad brought Pizza Hut to NI), how to make a difference while making money and advice on how to stay authentic in our work. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Philip (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/philip-bain-shredbank Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Wed, November 27, 2019
#84 Lady Mary Peters: Olympian, Author, Legend
Lady Mary Peters, LG CH DBE RNR OLY — or Mary P as her friends call her — is an Olympic Gold Medalist, member of the Order Of The Garter and author of her new book Passing The Torch . In this episode, we chat about moving to NI at a young age, her experience competing in the Olympics and the challenges she’s faced along the way. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Lady Mary (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/lady-mary-peters Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, November 25, 2019
#83 Cowfield Design: Exporting NI Landmarks To The World
Cowfield Design is a father and son, creative design crafts business setup by Conor and Sean Kelly. After starting as a hobby they now sell a whole host of products that celebrate Northern Ireland including beautifully crafted models of the Harland and Wolff Cranes, Belfast Sink, Titanic and Wild Atlantic Way. Best Of Belfast is a crowdfunded show featuring incredible people from Northern Ireland. To support our journey to 100 interviews please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/support // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Conor and Sean (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/cowfield-design Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Wed, November 20, 2019
#82 Tim Brundle: Ulster University
Tim Brundle is the Director of Research & Impact at Ulster University (and much, MUCH more). In today’s episode, we cover Tim’s early career, including helping out in his mum’s art shop as a boy, interviewing the top 100 CEOs in Northern Ireland as a student and working for the Ministry of Defence. We also discover what it takes for a startup to succeed and how to keep the main thing the main thing with a busy, demanding schedule. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Tim (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/tim-brundle-ulster-university Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, November 18, 2019
#81 Eleanor McEvoy: Energy Entrepreneur, CEO, Dragoness
Eleanor McEvoy is Northern Ireland's Ambassador for Entrepreneurship, RTE Dragons Den Star and the CEO of Next-Gen Power. In today’s episode, we talk about tackling climate change, what Eleanor’s goals are for her ‘final’ business and how entrepreneurs are the leader of the future. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Eleanor (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/eleanor-mcevoy-next-gen-power Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Wed, November 13, 2019
#80 The Priests: Singers, World-Record Holders, Priests
The Priests are the fastest-selling classical group of all time. They’re also full-time clergymen… In this week’s episode, we chat about what it was like to grow up together, what it’s like to juggle the priesthood alongside being world-famous musicians and how to keep our ego in check. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to The Priests (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/the-priests-singers Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, November 11, 2019
#79 Mark Todd: Architect, Artist, Conversationalist
Today’s conversation is my attempt of bottling the magic, curiosity and deep sense of calm I experience while talking to Mark and it’s unlike any episode we’ve shared before. It’s the type of slow-paced, relaxing conversation you’d expect to have over a cup of tea, around a fire on a cold, winters night. Enjoy. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Matt (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/mark-todd-architect Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, November 04, 2019
#78 Peter Dixon: The Man Who Brought Natural Gas To Northern Ireland
After leaving school at 16 without any professional qualifications, Peter Dixon worked as a gas fitter, a plumber and a welder. Against all the odds, he landed a huge opportunity with British Gas and ended up spearheading the colossal task of bringing natural gas to Northern Ireland for the first time in the 90s. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Peter (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/peter-dixon-natural-gas-northern-ireland Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, October 28, 2019
#77 Claire Leese: Fashion Stylist, Game Of Thrones, Archive 12
After working in the music industry with artists like The Darkness and Lilly Allen, Claire returned to NI just in time to work on the pilot of Game Of Thrones. Almost a decade later she decided to take a step back from the film industry and start her own business — Archive 12. In today’s episode, we talk about working on Thrones, how much Belfast has changed over the years and probably my favourite definition of success I’ve ever heard. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Claire (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/claire-leese-archive-12 Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, October 21, 2019
#76 Max Mackin: Polio-Survivor, Entrepreneur, Movie-Buff.
As probably the last person in the UK to contact Polio, Max had a very short-lived school career. But at 18-years-old he moved to London to make his fortune. After stumbling into a career in recruitment, he painstakingly worked his way up through the company and left as the Head of UK Operations. In this episode, we talk about Max’s early childhood, what it was like growing up with polio and the importance of seizing opportunities. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Max (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/max-mackin-blackfox-solutions Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, October 14, 2019
#75 Norman Surplus, First Man to Circumnavigate the World in an Autogyro
Video game designer, wind-farmer, lifeboat captain, cancer survivor and most recently the first man in the world to circumnavigate the world in an autogyro. Also known as a gyrocraft or gyrocopter, these nifty flying machines are a cross between a helicopter and a motorbike. In 2010, Norman set out from his hometown Larne on a journey that would take him all around the world — and in a bizarre turn of events — nine years. This is his story. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Norman (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/norman-surplus-gyro-circumnavigation Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, October 07, 2019
#74 Nadine Patterson, Puppet-Maker
Nadine Patterson is a puppet-maker from Northern Ireland. From making models as a child to working in the puppet hospital on a Tim Burton movie set, Nadine has one of the most interesting stories we’ve ever featured on the podcast. In this rare conversation, you’ll discover what goes on inside a puppet hospital, how difficult it is to work with such small objects and why she loves what she does for a living. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Nadine (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/nadine-patterson-puppet-maker Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, September 30, 2019
#73 Colin Williams, Sixteen South
Colin Williams is the BAFTA-winning children’s television creator, showrunner and writer behind Sixteen South — a production company that has produced 450+ episodes for networks like Disney Junior, CBeebies, Nick Jr and much, much more. In today’s show, we talk about how Colin set up a production company in Northern Ireland, how to write about death for kids TV and a personal mantra that’s kept him going through the challenging times. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Colin (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/colin-williams-sixteen-south Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, September 23, 2019
#72 Living With Arthritis At 18-Years-Old — Katrina Cairns
Katrina Cairns is one of the youngest people we’ve ever had on the podcast. She’s also the first person I’ve ever met with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). In today’s show, Katrina teaches me what arthritis actually is, shares how she was able to deal with such a difficult diagnosis at a young age and the importance of pacing ourselves as we chase our biggest goals, dreams and desires. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Katrina (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/katrina-cairns-juvenile-arthritis Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, September 16, 2019
#71 Podcast With Entrepreneur Pete Boyle: Argento & Let’s Go Hyrdo
In this week’s show we have the absolute privilege of sitting down with one of Northern Ireland’s most experienced and successful entrepreneurs: Pete Boyle. Pete Boyle started Argento in 1997 after selling jewellery on the streets of Belfast. In today’s episode we discover Pete’s origin story, how retail is changing in the age of the internet and the essential business lessons he’s learned along the way. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Pete (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/pete-boyle-argento Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, September 09, 2019
#70 Sarah Friar: Building Community In The Digital Age
Sarah Friar is from Sion Mills, Northern Ireland. She’s also the CEO of Nextdoor, a free private social network whose goal is to get you connected to your neighbours. In this episode, we discuss how Sarah got to where she is today, the epidemic of loneliness and how we can become community builders in a digital age. Check it out! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Sarah (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/karishma-kusurkar-karishmas-world Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, September 02, 2019
#69 Live Podcast With Andrew Trimble
Andrew Trimble is a “retired egg chaser, entrepreneur and podcaster.” The former Ulster and Ireland rugby star played over 250 professional games before retiring in 2018 to pursue business. In today’s conversation we talk about the transition from sport into tech, what life’s like after rugby and where the nickname Dopey Sheep comes from. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Andrew (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/andrew-trimble-kairos Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, August 26, 2019
#68 Artificial Intelligence & T-Shirts: Sarah Mcbride From Cross & Freckle
Despite only being 23 years old, Ballymena born & bred Sarah Mcbride has already worked with Google, Nokia, Betaworks, a VC firm in NYC — and launched a t-shirt company that doesn’t exist… In today’s show, we chat about early influences on her involvement in tech, what life is like in NYC and how artificial intelligence is disrupting the world of fashion. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Saraha (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/sarah-mcbride-cross-and-freckle Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, August 12, 2019
#66 Jack & Sean From The Dead Rabbit: The Best Bar In The World
Jack McGarry is the youngest-ever International Bartender of the Year. Sean Muldoon is admired/feared throughout the bar world for his vision, drive and insane attention to detail. In this episode, we hear how two lads from West Belfast went on to open the Best Bar In The World, publish multiple books about their industry and find time for future projects in the pipeline that range from comic books, to feature films. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Jack and Sean (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/the-dead-rabbit Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, August 05, 2019
#65 Geraldine Hughes: West Belfast To The West End, To Broadway & Beyond
Geraldine Hughes is an actor from West Belfast, Northern Ireland known for her performances in Rocky Balboa, Gran Torino, Harry Potter & The Cursed Child and much, much more. In this very raw and honest conversation, Geraldine opens up about her journey to stardom, what it’s like to work with directors like Clint Eastwood and the most challenging experience she’s ever faced. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Geraldine (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/geraldine-hughes-actor Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Fri, August 02, 2019
#64 Slay The Dragon: Share The Treasure
‘The Heroes Journey’ is an age-old step by step model used to describe the process a person has to go through to experience success. In this five-part mini-series, Matthew Thompson teams up with serial entrepreneur Gavan Wall to show how you can use the heroes journey to break out of a rut, take the next step and slay the dragon guarding the treasure in your life. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Slay The Dragon (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/slay-the-dragon Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Thu, August 01, 2019
#63 Slay The Dragon: Enter The Cave
‘The Heroes Journey’ is an age-old step by step model used to describe the process a person has to go through to experience success. In this five-part mini-series, Matthew Thompson teams up with serial entrepreneur Gavan Wall to show how you can use the heroes journey to break out of a rut, take the next step and slay the dragon guarding the treasure in your life. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Slay The Dragon (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/slay-the-dragon Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Wed, July 31, 2019
#62 Slay The Dragon: Meet The Mentor
Woops... Sorry about that. I scheduled the wrong one this morning. Here's the correct episode! The Heroes Journey’ is an age-old step by step model used to describe the process a person has to go through to experience success. In this five-part mini-series, Matthew Thompson teams up with serial entrepreneur Gavan Wall to show how you can use the heroes journey to break out of a rut, take the next step and slay the dragon guarding the treasure in your life. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Slay The Dragon (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/slay-the-dragon Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Tue, July 30, 2019
#61 Slay The Dragon: The Call To Adventure
‘The Heroes Journey’ is an age-old step by step model used to describe the process a person has to go through to experience success. In this five-part mini-series, Matthew Thompson teams up with serial entrepreneur Gavan Wall to show how you can use the heroes journey to break out of a rut, take the next step and slay the dragon guarding the treasure in your life. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Slay The Dragon (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/slay-the-dragon Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, July 29, 2019
#60 Slay The Dragon: The Heroes Journey
‘The Heroes Journey’ is an age-old step by step model used to describe the process a person has to go through to experience success. In this five-part mini-series, Matthew Thompson teams up with serial entrepreneur Gavan Wall to show how you can use the heroes journey to break out of a rut, take the next step and slay the dragon guarding the treasure in your life. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Slay The Dragon (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/slay-the-dragon Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, July 22, 2019
#59 The Making Of A Chief Executive: Suzanne Wylie, Belfast City Council
Suzanne Wylie has been Chief Executive of Belfast City Council for 5 years. Having worked for the council for over 30 years, Suzanne progressed from working as an Environmental Health Officer to the top leadership position. In her time as CX, she has been responsible for negotiating an £850 million city deal with the UK government to deliver on an ambitious set of projects spanning across Life & Health Sciences, Creative Industries, Advanced Manufacturing, digital development, smart districts, tourism regeneration and much much more. In this conversation, Suzanne shares how local government can be an exciting sector to work in, how she rose through the ranks of her organisation, and why reading is essential despite a busy schedule. Suzanne is a born and bred Belfaster with a deep love for our city and a real drive to see it thrive. Her passion and energy is infectious, and I know you’re going to love this sit-down chat with one of Belfast’s best. Here we go. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Suzanne (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/suzanne-wylie-belfast-city-council Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, July 15, 2019
#58 Meet Grace Chambers: The 91-Year-Old Parkrunner
// To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Grace (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/grace-chambers-belfast-parkrun Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, July 08, 2019
#57 Virtual Reality & Decision-Making with Cathy Craig from Incisiv
Cathy Craig is a Professor of Experimental Psychology at Ulster University, but she’s also the CEO of INCISIV: a sports technology company that helps players make more match winning decisions. In today’s conversation we explore Cathy’s widly successful academic career, how VR can be used to make our lives better and how we can make better decisions. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Cathy (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/cathy-craig-incisiv Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, July 01, 2019
#56 A Once In A Lifetime Conversation With Foy Vance
Foy Vance is a legendary singer-songwriter from Bangor, Northern Ireland. In this very raw conversation we talk about what it means to wake-up, the importance of play when it comes to making music and why it is essential to stop and listen. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Foy (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/foy-vance-musician Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, June 24, 2019
#55 Shane Todd — Comedian
Shane Todd is a comedian from Holywood, Northern Ireland. In this week’s show, we had the chance to find out more about the man behind the sold-out stand-up gigs, podcasts and legendary characters like Mike McGoldrick and wee Dean Davidson. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Shane (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/shane-todd-comedian Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, June 17, 2019
#54 Northern Ireland’s 2019 Young Enterprise Champions: RagDogs From Bloomfield Collegiate
RagDogs is a new start-up founded by 6 young women from Bloomfield Collegiate School that sell eco-friendly dog toys made from recycled materials. We had the absolute honour to sit down with them to discover what they’ve learned along the way, how they feel about the big final in London and what it’s been like to juggle starting a business with your A-Levels. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to RagDogs (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/young-enterprise-northern-ireland-ragdogs Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, June 10, 2019
#53 Jenna Stevenson: Made In Mourne.
In 2017, Kilkeel born and bred Jenna Stevenson set up Made In Mourne, a non-profit organisation whose goal is to connect and support over 500 entrepreneurs in the region. I was really impressed with just how much grit and determination Jenna lives her life with and I know you will too. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Jenna (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/jenna-stevenson-made-in-mourne Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, June 03, 2019
#52 Ryan Crown: Creative Director Of Crown Creative NYC.
In 2018, Ryan set up his own full-service agency in Brooklyn which specializes in branding, web design, content creation & digital marketing. In today’s show we’re gonna find out the dominos that led to Ryan’s success, including working in a pizza restaurant in Manhattan, graduating from Queens with a Masters in Drama and setting up an agency in one of the most competitive places on the planet. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Ryan (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/ryan-crown-creative-nyc Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, May 27, 2019
#51 Norman Houston: Northern Ireland’s Man In Washington D.C
Norman Houston is the longest serving British Diplomat in Washington D.C. and is our Northern Irish representative for all of America. We had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Norman in the Fitzpatrick Hotel in Manhattan to reflect on his career, what he’s learned along the way and what’s next. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Norman (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/norman-houston-ni-bureau Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, May 20, 2019
#50 From Newry To New York With Pauline Turley From the Irish Arts Center
After winning the green card lottery in 1997, Pauline Turley left friends and family in Newry behind to move to NYC. Since then she’s has been on a rollercoaster journey that’s included developing the Irish Arts Center into what is it today. Pauline is an absolute powerhouse and I had an absolute blast sitting down to hear her story and I know you will to. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Pauline (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/pauline-turley-irish-arts-center Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, May 13, 2019
#49 Nostalgia, Entrepreneurship and Art with Aaron Flanagan from Comic Book Guys
In 2014, Aaron Flanagan and his brother quit their ‘proper jobs’ to open Comic Book Guys, Northern Ireland's largest independent comic book store. In this week’s conversation, we chat all about serving a small market, the impact superhero movies have had on the industry, what it’s like to set up your own business and why a vintage medium like comic books are still thriving today. Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Aaron (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/aaron-flanagan-comic-book-guys Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, May 06, 2019
#48 A Conversation With Coworking Space King Steve Pette
After working in hospitality since he was 13 years old, Steve Pette has spent his life creating experiences for people. In today’s conversation with Steve, we talk about the dominos that led to him opening the UK’s first coworking space in 2010, how he met his wife in a job interview and how we can build a better future together. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Steve (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/steve-pette-coworking-space-king Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, April 29, 2019
#47 “Small Steps To Giant Living” With Scott Riley From Causeway Living
In June 2014, Scott Riley was 100 lb overweight, suffering from Rheumatoid Arthritis and on a cocktail of pharmaceutical drugs. But not any more. After some big leaps of faith like being treated by the tribes in the Peruvian Amazon, going 60 days without solid food, and climbing frozen mountains half naked in the snow, Scott coaches others to “take small steps to giant living” when it comes to their health, fitness and wellbeing. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Scott (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/scott-riley-causeway-living Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, April 22, 2019
#46 Rachael Campbell-Palmer From Black Box: “A Space For Things Don’t Have One”
With over 600 events every year including live music, discos, art exhibits, comedy sketches, open mic storytelling nights and much much more, The Black Box is without a doubt the creative heartbeat of our city. We sat down with co-director Rachael Campbell-Palmer to talk about the importance of art, how to break through creative blocks and how she went from pulling pints in The Black Box to the co-director’s position. Check it out! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Rachel (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/the-black-box-rachael-campbell-palmer Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, April 15, 2019
#45 Brains & Beauty With Miss Northern Ireland Katharine Walker
“So Miss Northern Ireland actually has brains?” That’s the question children’s ICU nurse Katharine Walker has been asked on more than one occasion. Smashing stereotypes and trying to change the narrative around beauty pageants, Katharine decided to pursue the Miss N.I title while studying to become a nurse at uni. Now with only a few weeks left with the crown on her head, we chat about what she’s achieved this year, and how she fights the fear of missing out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Katharine (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/katharine-walker-miss-northern-ireland Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, April 08, 2019
#44 The Hero’s Journey With Mark Dowds
You may know Mark Dowds as an early investor in Uber, the Chief Operating Officer of Trov, and one the of key people behind the Ormeau Baths coworking space in Belfast. But he describes himself as “just a guy from Northern Ireland,” a dedicated husband, father, ultra-marathoner, keen cyclist and “possibly the worst pupil the all-boys school Inst has ever seen.” In today’s show, we talk about what we can learn from Mark’s hero's journey. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Mark (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/mark-dowds-trov-ormeau-baths Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, April 01, 2019
#43 Talking Craft With Musicians Johnny James & Rebekah Fitch
Today we’re joined by two incredibly talented young musicians - Johnny James and Rebekah Fitch. After meeting on Instagram the two have gone on to perform and record together, with their latest single dropping last week. In this unfiltered conversation, we chat about how they got into music, the challenges of the creative process and their new song Hiding . Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Johnny and Rebekah (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/johnny-james-rebekah-fitch Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, March 25, 2019
#42 Three Men In A Tub: A Conversation With Brendan And Shane From Successful Belfast
Brendan is a photographer, Shane works for Belfast Buildings Trust - both are passionate about people, history and telling stories that matter. Successful Belfast is their challenge to our city to encourage us to think about it in a different way and become more proud of where we live. On today’s show, we chat about identity, heritage, civic pride, mental health and what a Successful Belfast looks like. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Brendan and Shane (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/successful-belfast-shane-quinn-brendan-gallagher Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, March 18, 2019
#41 Storytime With Willie Jack - The King Of The Cathedral Quarter
Willie Jack describes himself as a barman, street cleaner and bouncer - but he’s also the owner of The Harp Bar, The Dark Horse, The Duke Of York, The New Orpheus and whiskey museum The Friend At Hand. His passion for artwork and live music has transformed his slice of the Cathedral Quarter into the most Instagrammed part of Belfast and the heart of nightlife in our city. In today’s show, Willie shares a few stories with us. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Willie (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/willie-jack-duke-of-york Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, March 11, 2019
#40 Designing Your World With Karishma Kusurkar From Karishma’s World
Karishma Kusurkar left India when she was 6 years old to live in Belfast. It was 1996, she had the army as neighbours and the building wobbled on a windy day… The rest is her story to tell. In today’s episode, we chat about what it looks like for a creative to ‘do’ business in 2019, the importance of following your curiosity and how we can design better, more richer lives for us and the people around us. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Karishma (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/karishma-kusurkar-karishmas-world Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, March 04, 2019
#39 The Power Of Genuine Relationships With Gareth Quinn From Kairos + Digital DNA
Gareth Quinn may be the co-founder of Digital DNA and Kairos - two very successful tech businesses from Northern Ireland - but he claims his road to success was unplanned and somewhat unexpected. In this episode, we track his incredible story from childhood to the present day and hear how developing genuine relationships were the keys to unlocking the doors to success. Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Gareth (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/gareth-quinn-kairos-digital-dna Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, February 25, 2019
#38 Creating Spaces That Matter With Barbara & JP Whearty From Cafe Cuan
W hat happens when an unstoppable force meets an immovable object? The answer is Barbara and JP Whearty, the couple behind Cafe Cuan, a new experimental space on Cromac street that’s redefining local cafe culture. In this episode, we chat about their story, what it’s like to juggle such a massive project while being 8 months pregnant and why creating spaces that matter is so important for the future of our city. Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Barbara and JP (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/barbara-jp-whearty-cafe-cuan Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, February 18, 2019
#37 ‘Being Yourself’ With Andrew McCracken And Jason Harvey From GoFyt
In the start-up world, there’s a lot of pressure to act like you’ve got it all together, but in today’s episode, Andrew and Jason from GoFyt peel back the layers and reveal how authenticity and being yourself in business can actually be a secret weapon. They got very real and honest in our chat, sharing some absolute gold along the way and I know you’re going to really get a lot from today’s conversation. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Andrew and Jason (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/gofyt-andrew-mccracken-jason-harvey Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, February 11, 2019
#36 The Art Of ‘Diving In’ With Street Artist Danni Simpson
After quitting her marketing job in Australia, Danni Simpson bought a one-way ticket to Europe to pursue a career as an artist. Working on a number of murals in the city while living above the Harp Bar led Danni to move to Northern Ireland full-time. In this episode we chat all about the importance of backing yourself, diving into the deep end of what you’re passionate about and the importance of making art that makes money. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Danni (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/danni-simpson-art Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, February 04, 2019
#35 A Conversation With Belfast Polymath + Storyteller John McGregor
John McGregor grew up in Short Strand in Belfast during the 1950s and was kicked out of school at age 14. Through a series of twist and turns, this event led John to a widely successful career in almost every industry imaginable. In this episode, we handed the mic over to John and just let him talk about his life, how Belfast has changed across a lifetime and what advice he would give to anyone just starting out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to John (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/john-mcgregor-polymath-storyteller Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, January 28, 2019
#34 Talking Potatoes With Jack Hamilton From Mash Direct
Jack Hamilton is a 6th generational farmer with a twist. After the family farm faced financial difficulties, the Hamilton Family took the potato industry by surprise and founded Mash Direct. What started as a mash-potato delivery service via van has grown into one of Northern Ireland’s most well-loved companies and one that sells a pack of vegetables every second. Mash Direct may be a family run business from Comber, but they move and act like a disruptive tech startup, utilise the digital age to talk about and celebrate their favourite thing: good local food. We caught up with Jack to talk all things potatoes, what the future of food will look like and even danced around the topic of food porn… All this and more in today’s episode. Check it out! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Jack (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/jack-hamilton-mash-direct Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, January 21, 2019
#33 Chatting Cafe Culture With Specialty Coffee Pro Rachel Snowden
Rachel Snowden is a speciality coffee pro who has been working in Cafes around Northern Ireland since she was 17. After getting a degree in psychology and working in the corporate world, Rachel decided to return to her roots and her passion: making coffee. Since then she has entered into several coffee competitions, managed several cafes and has even found the time to dream and scheme about opening her own someday. I met Rachel while she was managing Root and Branch in Ormeau Baths and have always wanted to share her story with you guys and now felt like the right time to do it! So without further ado, please welcome to your ears… Rachel Snowden! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Rachel (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/rachel-snowden-specialty-coffee Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, January 14, 2019
#32 How To Get A ‘Six-Pack Mind’ - Australian Endurance Athlete Tofe Evans
Absolute wildcard episode for you all today. In a bizarre twist of events we had the chance to sit down with Tofe Evans, an endurance athlete, public speaker and author from Australia. My friend (and accountant) Martin Gilchrist got in touch with Tofe during a Facebook Live session, found out he was in Scotland and invited Tofe to come and see Northern Ireland while he was ‘in the neighborhood’. The result was this event, recorded with a live audience and a podcast episode for you! Tofe is a really interesting character with a lot of great insights to share when it comes to battling addiction, pursuing your goals and transformation. Great one to share for the New Year and I know you’ll really enjoy it. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Tofe (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/tofe-evans-endurance-athlete Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, January 07, 2019
#31 Become The Best Version Of Yourself With Results Coach Kevin Young
Kevin Young spends his days peeling back the false beliefs and limiting mindsets each of us have. Whether it’s something from our past, pain we experience in the present or a national negativity etched into our psyche, Kevin is extremely interested - and talented - at challenging the voices in our heads with reason and truth. Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Kevin (including a photo) please visit Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, December 17, 2018
#30 What Do You Want For Christmas?
We asked the people of Belfast.
Tue, December 11, 2018
#29 Turn The Volume Up With Ross Moffett From Pop Up Original
Not all superheroes wear capes, in fact, some wear a suit and tie… Ross Moffett may sell cars by day, but at night he’s busy promoting and managing local bands to drive the local Northern Irish music scene through his venture Pop Up Original. After seeing the shortcomings in the local music industry, Ross set out on a mission to help musicians from Northern Ireland make it, make money and get their art out to the world. In this week’s show, we chat about the fear of failure, why most musicians don’t make it and what it means to ‘do what you gotta, so you can do what you wanna’. Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Ross (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/ross-moffett-pop-up-original Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, December 03, 2018
#28 The Wonderful World Of Scent With Michael Morris From The Bearded Candle Makers
Fuelled by a passion for the outdoors and a genuine fascination with scent, Michael Morris went on to start The Bearded Candle Makers, a business that sells hand-crafted candles with exceptional scents. In this week’s show, we caught up with Michael to chat about the wonderful world of scent, how smell is closely connected to our memory and why more and more fellas are buying candles. This interview has been a real highlight of the year and I loved learning all about flow-state, how to balance business with art, what life is like as a maker and how a dog can sell candles. Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Michael (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/michael-morris-bearded-candle-makers Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Tue, November 27, 2018
#27 Derry Fashionista Aoife Doherty From Sass & Halo
A few years ago Aoife Doherty ditched a career in law to pursue her dream of working in fashion. After studying and working abroad for a few years she came home to Derry and founded her own company Sass & Halo. Sass & Halo creates incredible decorative headwear for festivals, weddings and much more. From their workshop in Derry Craft Village, Aoife and her team have been able to create bespoke products for a global audience and even have a range stocked in TopShop. In this episode we hone in on how to turn a passion into a business, the Derry fashion scene and the lessons learnt along the way from an incredible young enterpreneur. Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Aoife (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/aoife-doherty-sass-and-halo Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, November 19, 2018
#26 Talking Balance With Rebekah + Jon Johanson From Lines And Current Jewelry
// To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Rebekah and Jon (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/rebekah-johanson-lines-and-current Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, November 12, 2018
#25 Tea Master Oscar Woolley From Suki Tea
What began as a St. Georges Market Start-Up has brewed into a global brand that serves award-winning tea in over 12 different countries. Discover the history of tea in Belfast, what Suki means in ancient Japanese and the final decision on whether you put your milk in first, or last... // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Oscar (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/oscar-woolley-suki-tea Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, November 05, 2018
#24 Pursuing Your Dream with Jude Henderson from OutsideIn
Meet Jude Henderson…The woman from Comber who packed in her Corporate job to pursue her dream and passion. Jude now works for OutsideIn , a street-wear brand that bridges the gap between society and homelessness through their unique wear on share one model. In this interview, we caught up with Jude to chat about the transition from a comfy steady job to start-up life, how to keep moving slowly towards your goals and why the big picture matters. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Jude (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/jude-henderson-outsidein Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, October 29, 2018
#23 Creative Entrepreneur Linzi Rooney - Born And Bred + Studio Souk
…The photographer who became a silversmith before founding a creative charity and opening a shop in George Best City Airport. Our interview with Linzi Rooney was as diverse as her experience and passions. Tune in for a fun, energetic conversation about creativity, making money as an artist, life in the departures lounge and the importance of supporting quality, local goods. Linzi's Insta: https://www.instagram.com/studio_souk/ Linzi's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/linzi-rooney-4a37b1b2 // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Linzi (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/linzi-rooney-born-and-bred Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, October 22, 2018
#22 Bill Wolsey - Owner of The Merchant Hotel, Bullitt, Little Wings, Dirty Onion and Much More
Meet Bill Wolsey, the Belfast-born man who has built a hospitality empire with some of the most noteworthy and memorable establishments in the UK. In this honest, casual conversation, Bill shares the lessons he’s learnt along the way, how Beannchor balances creativity with profitability and how he juggles a large portfolio while prioritising family. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Bill (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/bill-wolsey-owner-merchant-hotel Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, October 15, 2018
#21 Nancy Brown - Business Coach
Q: What do you get when you cross a New Yorker, creativity, entrepreneurship and resilience? A: Nancy Brown. Really enjoyed this chat with a personal mentor and friend of mine. We dive deep into the importance of work-life balance, how to bounce back after a freak accident and how getting better quality sleep could take your business to the next level. Nancy's LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/nancyabrown Enjoy! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Nancy (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/nancy-brown-business-coach Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, October 01, 2018
#20 Simon Worthington, Editor Of Turf & Grain Magazine
Meet the EY accountant with the coolest hobby ever: founding, running and editing the beautiful Turf & Grain magazine. Turf & Grain is a super-high-quality, slow-cooked magazine that features in-depth interviews with noteworthy individuals across the whole island of Ireland. The magazine is a work of art and often feels more like a published book rather than a magazine… That’s all down to Simon’s absolute obsession with quality, and desire to create something beautiful. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Simon (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/simon-worthington-turf-and-grain Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Sat, September 01, 2018
#19 Aly Harte - Artist, Painter, Podcaster + Educator
Aly Harte is a local artist most well-known for her bright, colourful oil-based paintings. But Aly also dedicates her time writing about important issues like grief, producing a podcast about how to build a thriving small business all while using her social media to document/coach people along the way on her own incredible journey. In this episode, we slow things down a bit and get chatting about how to manage the busyness of life, how career changes can happen to anyone and how to balance creating art while showcasing it on social media. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Aly (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/aly-harte-artist Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Tue, August 28, 2018
It's Time For Change
B.O.B is one year old. We've had a great year, but it's time to switch things up.
Tue, August 14, 2018
#18 David Kenny - Soarscape (Drones Drones Drones)
We hike up Cave Hill with former EY Accountant turned self-employed Drone Operator David Kenny. Hear what it's like to quit the day job and follow your passion, how Drones can be used for good and whether or not they will ever replace your post-man. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to David (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/david-kenny-soarscape-drone Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Wed, August 01, 2018
#17 Colin Geddis - Comedian + Podcaster
// To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Colin (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/colin-geddis-comedian Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Sun, July 01, 2018
#16 Naomh McElhatton - Queen of Digital at Smart Global
// To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Lyn (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/naomh-mcelhatton-smart-global Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, June 11, 2018
#15 Gavan Wall: King Of LinkedIn + Founder Of The Wall Group
Gavan Wall is the founder of The Wall Group, a company that owns a series of Spars, Subways and a YoggieBerrie in North Belfast. But he's probably most well known for his charisma, speed-mentoring and being the Northern Irish King of LinkedIn. In this episode, we get to chat about all thing from The Greatest Showman why Gavan kicked booze out his life for good and why he didn't go to the hairdressers for 7 years... This Episode Was Commissioned By The Knowledge Network Hosted By Fleet Financial Knowledge Network, a series of mini-conferences featuring the most interesting and influential business people in Northern Ireland. Gavan Wall first spoke at the Knowledge Network where he told his story publicly for the first time. The kind folks at KN asked us to follow up with Gavan to dive deeper into his story and follow up on some of the points he made in his speech. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Gavan (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/gavan-wall-king-linkedin-wall-group Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Fri, June 01, 2018
#14 Dillon Osborne - King Of Instagram Stories @diltakesphotos + Freelance Creative Jack Of All Trades
In this month's show, we sat with Dillon Osborne in front of a live audience at the Bullitt Hotel. Dillon Osborne is most well-known for his daily vlog on Instagram stories @diltakesphotos and has just recently made the transition from working for an agency to working for himself. Hear how Dillon got into photography, videography, what it's been like to go freelance and how you can improve your online digital storytelling. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Dillon (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/dillon-osborne-diltakesphotos Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Thu, May 10, 2018
Invite to our 1st LIVE podcast in the Bullitt Hotel
Alright guys?! Very excited to announce that our next meetup is going to be a LIVE podcast interview with the digital 'jack of all trades' Dillon Osborne. Dillon is the mastermind behind @diltakesphotos and works freelance to create incredible digital storytelling content from photos, graphics to videos and beyond. Come along to hear his incredible story, ask your own questions and connect with the local creative community. The podcast will last around 40 mins leaving plenty of time to hang around afterwards for some drinks + chats. We're meeting in Baltic again (big thanks to the Bullitt Hotel for partnering up with us!) Just head towards reception and turn right towards the signs for Baltic. If you've got any questions, please feel free to ask them. See you soon! - Matthew https://bestofbelfast.org/live
Tue, May 01, 2018
#13 Headshot Photographer - Jess Lowe - Why your website is the new 'shop-window'
In this month's show, we sat down with Jess Lowe, a local headshot photographer with a passion for capturing the portraits of local entrepreneurs, creatives and business owners. Jess is one of our city's best headshot photographers, and we've been so blown away by her work over the past few months and the process of her craft that we had to get her on the show so we could find out more. In this episode, you'll hear Jess Lowe discuss her journey to self-employment, how she got into photography, who her clients are and how websites/social media pages have become the new shop window. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Lyn (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/jess-lowe-headshot-photographer Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Sun, April 01, 2018
#12 Micheal Deane, Chef + Restaurateur of Deanes Belfast, Northern Ireland
Michael Deane is the godfather of fine dining in Northern Ireland and the chef/restaurateur behind the 'Deanes Belfast Empire.' With 7 establishments in the city and a Michelin star, Michael Deane's career as a chef is unarguably a huge success. But we caught up Michael to hear about some of the challenges he faced along the way in this incredible journey, how he's seen the city change during his career and where he likes to eat in Belfast for under fiver! // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Micheal (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/chef-michael-deane-deanes-belfast Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Thu, March 01, 2018
#11 Young Enterprise Northern Ireland CEO, Carol Fitzsimons MBE
We caught up with Carol Fitzsimons, CEO of Young Enterprise Northern Ireland to chat about this amazing, empowering entrepreneurial charity for young folk in Belfast/our wee country, what a CEO actually does and what it takes to get an MBE. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Carol (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/carol-fitzsimons-young-enterprise-northern-ireland Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Thu, February 01, 2018
#10 Madlug: Make A Difference Luggage Social Enterprise founder David Linton, Belfast, Northern Ireland
Hear how a one-for-one luggage company is making a difference to the lives of kids in care. In this episode, we chat with founder David Linton about what it was like to set up a social enterprise, have brunch with Richard Branson and why you should find your 'black bin bag story' // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to David (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/david-linton-madlug Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Mon, January 01, 2018
#9 Jawbox Gin Founder + Ex-Bar Man: Gerry White, Belfast, Northern Ireland (#009)
Last year Belfast went absolutely gin-sane for the old drink that has undoubtedly made a modern comeback. Hear: how he founded Jawbox Gin, where the name comes from, why 'gin is in,' his favourite street in Belfast and much much more. Gerry is incredibly passionate about our city and his story will get your fired up for the new year and all you want to achieve in it (I know it did for me!) // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Gerry (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/gerry-white-jawbox-gin Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Fri, December 01, 2017
#8 Kurrito: Pakistani Burrito Shop founder, Samina Kauser, Belfast, Northern Ireland
Belfast has gone absolute burrito-crazy over the last few years... On this week's show, we sat down with Samina Kauser to hear how Kurrito – a Mexican Pakistani restaurant on Botanic Avenue - is spicing up the local Burrito industry. Samina is a highly passionate, driven and entrepreneurial woman with a love of cooking, food and making the customer experience the best it can be. We caught up with her to hear her story of how she went from working at a strategic level in Chrysler to opening up Kurrito on Botanic Avenue. Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Samina (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/samina-kauser-kurrito-botanic-avenue Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Wed, November 01, 2017
#7 OutsideIn: Street Wear Social Enterprise founder David Johnston, Belfast, Northern Ireland
Hear the founder's story of OutsideIn, a street wear brand that wants to rewrite the story of homelessness here in Belfast and around the world through their unique 'wear on share one' model. After co-running HumansOfEdinburgh, David Johnston was blown away at the incredible stories from the homeless community and far from the truth public perception really is towards these individuals. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to David (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/david-johnston-outsidein Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Sun, October 01, 2017
#6 Bia Rebel Ramen Food Truck, Northern Ireland. Brian Donnelly + Jenny Holland
On this week's show, we caught up with Brian Donnelly and Jenny Holland - the dynamic duo behind Bia Rebel - a food truck located outside The Big Fish that dishes out the best Ramen food in Belfast. Brian (from Tyrone) has a background as a Michelin chef and has worked for some of the biggest names in the industry such as Gordon Ramsey. He enjoys Ramen, running ultra marathons and breaking rules. Jenny is an Italian-New Yorker born in Belfast and has a background in journalism with the New York Times, speechwriting for the FDNY and writing as an independent food blogger. After meeting in the Crown Bar here in Belfast, they have joined forces to take Belfast's street food scene by storm with a hyper-local approach that is obsessed with quality and taste, all at an affordable price for their customers. Check it out. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Brian and Jenny (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/brian-donnelly-jenny-holland-bia-rebel-ramen Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Fri, September 01, 2017
#5 International House Belfast, Paul McMullan, TEFL/CELTA Expert
We sat down with language teaching legend Paul McMullan who traveled the world before opening a language school in the 'Holylands' in Belfast, Northern Ireland. In this episode we chat about leaving home/coming back, why Belfast is the perfect place to learn English and some revolutionary new ideas IH Belfast is experimenting with such as VR. This is a great insight for anyone who is interested in pursuing a career in teaching English overseas or indeed going to learn one. _ TEFL/ESOL/CELTA/UK // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Paul (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/paul-mcmullan-international-house-belfast Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Tue, August 01, 2017
#4 Visual Waste - Street/Graffiti artist Dean Kane, Northern Ireland
Thousands of tourists come to Belfast each year to see and learn the history behind the various political murals scattered throughout the city. But in recent times there has been a dramatic shift away from the traditional political pieces to a new era of urban art. One of the folks at the forefront of this movement is Dean Kane, the street artist known as Visual Waste. We caught up with Dean hear his story and talk about everything from memes, Jon Snow, Game Of Thrones, starting a side hustle and trying to create 'viral art.' // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Dean (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/visual-waste-dean-kane Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Tue, August 01, 2017
#3 Flax Fox/Danielle Morgan - Northern Irish Artist
Meet Danielle Morgan aka Flax Fox. Danielle is an artist, entrepreneur, mother of '2.5' and a regular at St Georges Market. Her work is some of the most iconic in Northern Ireland and so is her story. Danielle has also kindly offered 10% her online store by using the promo code: 'bestofbelfast' at the checkout. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Danielle (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/danielle-morgan-flax-fox Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Tue, August 01, 2017
#2 Gareth Patterson: Belfast Coffee Map
We caught up with Gareth Patterson, founder of the Belfast Coffee Map, a paper publication that features the best cafes and coffee shops. This episode of Best Of Belfast we discuss the coffee culture/scene in Belfast, what it's like to run a small business alongside a full-time job and how coffee, creativity and culture are all connected. You can find a written version of this article along with photos, links, social media sites and upcoming events over at www.BestOfBelfast.Org // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Gareth (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/belfast-coffee-map-gareth-patterson Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Tue, August 01, 2017
#1 Lyn Magill: Cancer Survivor
For our first story on the Best Of Belfast podcast we caught up with Lyn Magill to hear her incredible story and what it means to be a 'lover of life.' We first met Lyn after seeing a photo on Instagram of her climbing to the to of Divis Mountain despite going through chemotherapy. Lyn claims that "cancer changes you in a lot of ways" and in today's episode we learn how it has changed her. // To see a 'treasure trove' of all things related to Lyn (including a photo) please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/stories/lyn-magill-lover-of-life Best Of Belfast is Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast. We've shared 100+ hour-long conversations with incredible people from Northern Ireland. To find out more, or join 'The Producers Club' please visit https://bestofbelfast.org/ Cheers! — Matt
Tue, August 01, 2017
Episode Zero
A quick intro to the podcast. Hear from Matthew about the story behind the Best Of Belfast Podcast, what you can expect and how you can get involved. For written stories, links, photos, social media info and upcoming events check out www.BestOfBelfast.org // For photos/contact information of today's guest, access to our archive of 100+ interviews, or to join the Producer's Club today please visit https://bestofbelfast.org

Best Of Belfast: Northern Ireland's #1 Interview Podcast

How ‘Rory’s Travel Club’ Got 100k Customers

Collecting Adventures with Lucy Briggs

This coach helped me stop being a workaholic | Caroline McKenna

Ciaran May on the Sins of our Fathers, Suicide & the Path to Resilience

“Just do” — Tom Griffiths

Bethel’s Kitchen’s Willetta Gabriel on Bagels, Pickles & the Future of Dromore

Mark Marais on Nostalgia, Africa & Building a Business Around Your Passion

“American Uncle” Tony Novosel on Study USA & the Transformational Power of Travel

Graham Robinson on Virtual Production & The Future of Storytelling

Changing the world one beer at a time | Alan Mahon, Brewgooder

Marty Neill on Tiny Rooms, Video Games & “Figuring It Out”

Máirtín Ó Muilleoir on Blackbirds, Boyhood & The Future of Media

Patrick Treacy on Pioneering Aesthetic Medicine, Treating Michael Jackson & Witnessing History

Meat Merchant Peter Hannan on Quality, Attention To Detail & “Chance Encounters”

Iain Percy on Olympic Success, Electric Ferries & Maritime Decarbonisation

Unlocking Toyota's Winning Formula | Alan Weir | Belfast Roots to Global Success

Ross Lazaroo-Hood on Taking Risks, Letting Go of Limiting Beliefs & Living Forever

Snow Leopards, Snakes & Community Farms | Wildlife Conservationist Jonny Hanson

Beyond the Love Story with Relationship Coach Lisa McFarland

Education Reimagined: Behind-The-Scenes At Holywood Steiner Private School | Peter Chambers

CONSUMER to CREATOR ft. Seth Godin

Adam Chambers on Supreme Confidence, Investing In Yourself & Building A Legacy

The Ache For Distant Places w/ Andrea Haughian

Aaron Dugan: Cocktail Bar Manager, The Merchant Hotel

Andrew Irvine: City Centre Chaplaincy

Baroness May Blood: Integrated Education Fund

Terry George: The Oscar-Winning Director From Belfast

The Small Steps To Success w/ Ryan Donnelly

“EVERYTHING You Know About Networking is WRONG!” — Kingsley Aikins

Headmaster Kyle McCallan on Leadership, “The 3 B’s” & Following Better Things

Gemma Austin: A Peculiar Tea

Martina Tierney on Seating Matters, Family Business & “The Stairway of My Life”

The Tierney Brothers on Cutting Turf, Family Legacy & Meeting Bob Proctor

Colin Gibson on Military Contracting, PTSD & The Power of Being Yourself

“Don’t Hug The Shore!” — Kevin Roland, MD of Teneo (Recorded September 2023)

Brendan McGurgan on Scaling, Personal Transformation & Keeping Score of the Things That Matter

Joseph Kennedy III on Famous Last Names, Figuring Stuff Out & Northern Ireland

Celebrity Defamation Lawyer Paul Tweed on AI, Supreme Confidence & Using Good Judgement

Diplomat Colin Leeman on Foreign Service, Travelling the World & Coming Out

George McGowan: Professional Parkour Athlete

Polymath Laurence Beattie on Grandparenting, Growing Up & Seeing Ghosts

Gospel Singer Roberta Clements on Alcoholism, Miracles & The Master’s Plan

Leon McCarron on Adventure, Iraq & The Garden of Eden

The Priests: Fastest-Selling Classical Music Act of All Time (While also being full-time priests!)

Hotbox Sea Sauna, Benone Beach (My Favourite Place in Northern Ireland)

Nadine Patterson: Stop-Motion Puppet-Maker for Tim Burton & Wes Anderson

Otto Jaffe & The History of the Jewish Community in Northern Ireland

Private Investigator Ian D. Withers on Murder Charges, Child Recovery & Telling The Truth

Hospitality Legends: Ryan Jenkins, Owner of ROAM Restaurant

Joan Burney Keatings on Outrageous Serendipity, Leading With Your Gut & The Purpose Driven Life

John Christie: Hot Rod Racing World Champion

Hospitality Legends: Michael Cosgrove, The Crown Bar

Abigail Parkinson on TikTok, Dealing With Rejection & The Power of Favour

Hospitality Legends: James McGinn, MD of Hastings Hotels

Pi Guy Marty Duggan on Broken Bones, Cuban Raves & Legendary Pizza

Chris Lynch on Suicide, Identity Crisis In Sport & Whole Athlete Wellbeing

William Thompson on Spy Kids, Cerebral Palsy and Meeting Louis C.K.

Olympic Rower Philip Doyle on Ego, Modelling & Dead Plants

Bernadette Hagans on Modelling, Call of Duty & Losing Her Leg

Claire Taggart on Boccia, Dystonia, Travel and Tortoises

Paul Kennedy on Surviving Car Crash, Building His Business & Travelling The World

Noel & Roy Spence: The Filmmaking Twins Born in 1944

“LEAN Manufacturing CHANGED My Life Forever" — Ryan Tierney

EVERY COUNTRY IN THE WORLD ft. Johnny Ward

“The Face Of Guinness” with Terry Loughins

MORELLI’S ICE CREAM ft. Damian & Ellen Morelli

UNLOCK YOUR BRAIN with Dr. John Kelly

MARRIED YOUNG with Mike & Caragh Hamilton

BECOME THE MAN YOU NEEDED ft. John Eldredge

JELVIS PELVIS: The KING of Belfast’s Busking Scene

#299 THE BAR CZAR ft. Michael Stewart & Jawbox Gerry

#298 Peter Quinn: Silly Videos, Snoop Dogg & Thumb-Stopping Content

#297 Cameron Hunter: Comic Books, Big Tech & Working For Netflix

#296 Tim Clifford: Curator of Ireland’s Largest Vinyl Record Collection

#295 Dog Trainer Neil Powell on Rescue Missions, Plane Crashes and Malaysian Pirates

#294 Philosopher Peter Rollins on Liver King, Irish Mammies & the Tyranny of Happiness

#293 Seán Napier: Soccer, Start-Ups & Undercover FBI Agents

#292 Prison Officer Bill Allen on Physical Courage, Violent Men and Giving Up Drink

The Future of Best Of Belfast