Leaders (The Podcast)

In this episode Micky Quinn tells his story from a surprise first gig in his hometown to playing Ibiza alongside Stormzy, building influential student nights, launching a podcast and creating a specialty coffee brand. He shares the hard work, loneliness and marketing savvy behind a DJ’s life, plus practical advice for anyone chasing a music career. Micky also discusses mental health in night...

In this episode, Ronan sits down with Jenna Hill — founder of FIA Investments and one of Northern Ireland’s most dynamic business buyers. Jenna reveals how she identifies, acquires, and scales small businesses, often through innovative, low-capital and no-money-down deals. She shares her bold transition from a career in HR to entrepreneurship, the rapid growth and exit of Chill Gas, an...

In this episode, Ciaran May opens up about his remarkable journey—from a working-class upbringing in West Belfast to representing Northern Ireland in powerlifting and founding Natural Resilience. He shares how discipline, consistency, and time shape true high performance—and why embracing vulnerability is one of the greatest strengths a leader can have. Ciaran explores how nature, comm...

In this episode of Leaders the Podcast, recorded in the newly acquired Training Solutions site in Antrim, we sit down with Jim Stewart CBE—the driving force behind Training Solutions. From global roles atGoodyear to building one of Northern Ireland’s most respected training providers, Jim shares a remarkable 20-year journey of resilience, growth, and vision. He reveals the leadership p...

From Futsal to Peak Performance – Jonny Pierce’s Playbook for Winning in Business & Life This week, Ronan sits down with Jonny Pierce, founder of Built for Better Business — a man who went from personal trainer to trusted advisor for high-performing leaders. Jonny’s story is anything but ordinary: from marrying the love of his life and representing Northern Ireland in f...

In this episode Oonagh O'Reilly shares her journey from selling calves and working in sales to becoming co-founder of MCO Performance, exploring how leadership, resilience and action turned setbacks into opportunities. She discusses practical lessons on building teams, moving from doer to leader, overcoming fear of failure, and the daily habits that sustain her energy and focus. Oonagh also outlin...

In this episode of Leaders of the Podcast, host Ronan is joined by Adam Smyth, a dedicated running coach with a passion for helping others. Adam shares his compelling journey from being a teacher and engineer to becoming a full-time self-employed running coach. His story begins with a health scare that served as a wake-up call, pushing him to pursue his dream and transition to a life centered arou...

Welcome to another engaging episode of Leaders the Podcast, where we explore the fascinating journey of Seilin and Michelle from The Finer Details. Join us as we dive into the origins of their unique business, the challenges they faced, and how they found their niche in the wedding market. Discover the determination and courage it took to merge their talents and create a supportive space for other...

Join us for an engaging conversation with Steven Burns, co-founder of Playr-Fit, as he shares the inspiring journey of transforming from a postman to a successful entrepreneur. In this episode of 'Leaders the Podcast,' Steven delves into the inception and growth of Playr-Fit, now recognized as Ireland's fastest-growing teamwear brand. Discover the challenges and triumphs of starting a business dur...

Welcome back to Leaders the Podcast! In this exciting episode, we sit down with Martin Harrison, a trailblazer in the clothing industry. Martin shares his journey from founding his own clothing brand at just 23 to venturing into branded merchandise. He candidly discusses the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, offering insights into the challenges faced and the lessons learned along the way. Marti...

In our premiere episode of the 2025 series, we are thrilled to feature Anne-Marie, a mother, a wife and educator whose influence extends far beyond the classroom. Known to many in the community at Wolf Tones, St. Patrick's Aghacommon, and Lismore Comprehensive School, Anne-Marie shares her inspiring journey from a humble volunteer to a pillar of strength in local education and community service. A...

Welcome to the latest episode of Leaders the Podcast, where we are joined by Johnny McCarron, a local legend in the fitness community. Johnny shares his inspirational journey from being a postman to founding Commit Lifestyle Coaching, a gym and coaching facility that extends his personal passion for fitness and well-being. In this candid conversation, Johnny discusses the challenges and triumphs h...

In this episode of "Leaders of the Podcast," host Ronan welcomes Louise Taylor, founder of Little Forget Me Not Trust and a funeral director at McAlinden and Murtagh. Louise shares her unique journey into the funeral business, a path influenced by personal grief and family legacy. Louise discusses the inception of the Little Forget Me Not Trust, a charity born out of her own experiences with loss...

Join us on this inspiring episode of Leaders the Podcast as we sit down with Chris Coleman, a software engineer turned content creator. Chris shares his unique journey from a career in technology to exploring his passion for fashion and style through content creation. Learn how a simple joke with his mates sparked the idea for his Instagram page, @styledbycjc, and how he navigates the challenges a...

✨ This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jill O'Reilly, founder of O'Reilly People Management— Executive Coach, HR Professional & People Management expert. ✨ Jill shared her inspiring journey, from her early career steps to the bold leap of starting her own company. We delved into the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, the challenges faced, and the resilience required to keep pushin...

Welcome to another inspiring episode of Leaders of Podcast, where host Ronan sits down with Paul Carvill, the founder of Healthy Kidz, a thriving community interest company dedicated to promoting physical activity, sports, health, and well-being among children and young adults. Join us as Paul shares his journey from humble beginnings to impacting the lives of 30,000 kids each week through his inn...

Welcome to the first episode of "Leaders the Podcast," hosted by Ronan Smith. Join Ronan as he embarks on a captivating journey to explore the essence of leadership and the stories behind individuals who have achieved success in their respective fields. In this episode, Ronan shares insights into his own background as a Learning and Development Manager and discusses the inspiration behind starting...