- 18
- Episodes
- Weekly
- Cadence
- 2026
- First episode
About On Your Own Time Podcast
hosted by declan Toland, On your own time podcast real stories, Real people, Real conversations . podcast shines a light on journeys, experiences, and passions of people from all walks of life. from sports and community involvement to business, military service, personal challenges and inspiring achievements, every guest brings a unique story worth sharing our aim is simple : to have honest conversations that inform, inspire and entertain. whether your looking for motivation, insight, a good laugh, or fresh perspective, you'll find it here. new episodes released regularly.
- Publisher
- Declan Toland
- Category
- education · sports
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 10 Jun 2026
- Latest episode
- 22 Oct 2026
Latest episodes
18 episodes in the feed.
22 Oct 2026
The Greatest Escape| Ireland| Banter| Episode 1
The conversation on the On Your Own Time Podcast features hosts Deckie Toland and Ray, along with guest Malcolm, discussing their experiences in football, amateur dramatics, and the importance of community in the arts. They share humorous anecdotes, insights into their past, and the value of encouraging children to engage in drama and sports. The conversation delves into the experiences of performing arts, the evolution of societal perceptions towards male participation in theater, and the importance of community and personal connections in shaping lives. It also touches on the challenges of balancing work, family, and personal aspirations while navigating through life's complexities. Takeaways Importance of community in arts Humorous anecdotes from past experiences Embrace performing arts opportunities Community support enhances personal growth Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 03:07 Football Memories and Anecdotes 06:05 Refereeing and Respect in Sports 08:56 The Joy of Amateur Dramatics 11:47 Encouraging Kids in Drama 15:06 Memorable Stage Experiences 17:58 The Importance of Support in Performance 21:14 Personal Reflections and Mistakes on Stage 25:36 Theatrical Memories and Brotherhood 29:11 Changing Perceptions of Performing Arts 32:20 The Role of Community in Arts 35:13 Nostalgia for Nightlife and Socializing 40:43 Life Challenges and Personal Growth 46:00 Balancing Work, Family, and Aspirations 49:14 Understanding Childhood Influences
15 Oct 2026
The Garda Who Built DockHive| Change of Career| Irish Police |Entrepreneurship
In this conversation, Garrett shares his journey from being a guard to becoming an entrepreneur with his power bank rental business, Doc Hive. He discusses his experiences growing up, his time in the guards, and the challenges he faced while transitioning to running his own business. In this conversation, Garrett shares insights on the importance of being present in personal relationships, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the innovative aspects of his power bank business, DockHive. He emphasizes the significance of networking, personal growth, and the unique features of his products while reflecting on his journey and future aspirations. Takeaways Embrace change and challenges Value relationships over money Be present in relationships Embrace challenges in entrepreneurship Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Garrett's Journey 02:11 Growing Up and Early Influences 05:22 Career in the Guards: Insights and Experiences 09:55 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship 16:20 The Birth of Doc Hive 23:13 Challenges and Lessons in Business 28:32 The Importance of Presence 32:37 Navigating Personal and Professional Challenges 35:56 The Journey of Entrepreneurship 41:21 Innovations in Power Bank Technology 48:52 Reflections on Business and Life Lessons
8 Oct 2026
Irish Air Corps Flight Sergeant | Why i gave up Alcohol & found faith and purpose | Noel Paynyon
The conversation explores Noel Paynton's journey through life, touching on his experiences with addiction, personal growth, and the importance of enthusiasm and purpose. It highlights his reflections on his past, the impact of his upbringing, and the transformative power of faith and community support. The conversation delves into the complexities of living with alcoholism, the importance of self-care for those affected, and the transformative power of the military in shaping one's life. It also touches on personal experiences in sports and leadership, emphasizing the significance of community and support in overcoming challenges. Takeaways Importance of enthusiasm Value of personal growth Self-care is crucial Community support matters Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:49 The Power of Enthusiasm 06:06 Growing Up in Delvin 08:55 Teenage Years and Early Challenges 12:07 The Impact of Alcoholism 15:02 Turning Points and Life Lessons 17:54 Faith and Spirituality 21:08 Advice for Overcoming Addiction 37:48 Facing Alcoholism: A Personal Journey 38:47 Support Systems: Al-Anon and Detachment 41:15 The Impact of Alcoholism on Families 42:15 Westmeath: A Community of Pride 49:01 Leadership Lessons from Sports 55:41 Fundraising for Team Success 01:00:02 The Military: A Life-Changing Experience 01:05:15 Family Dynamics and Personal Growth 01:12:35 On Your Own Time: Living with Purpose
6 Oct 2026
Running Through Chaos | ED Nurse | Marathons| Mum
In this conversation, Laura Fleming shares her experiences as an emergency nurse and marathon runner, discussing the challenges of balancing her professional and personal life. She emphasizes the importance of appreciating life, coping with stress, and the unique dynamics of working in emergency care and at events. In this conversation, Laur shares her personal experiences with the fragility of life and the importance of time, reflecting on various life challenges and how they shaped her perspective. The discussion also delves into the therapeutic aspects of running and the significance of support systems in navigating life's difficulties. In this conversation, Laur shares her experiences of climbing Kilimanjaro, navigating a difficult separation, and the importance of mental health. She emphasizes resilience, the pressure to appear strong, and the small joys in life that matter most. Takeaways Life is precious and unpredictable Running helps clear the mind Time is precious Running aids mental health Resilience through adversity Importance of mental health Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Laura's Life 02:31 The Challenges of Sleep 03:42 Journey into Nursing 06:44 Life Lessons from Emergency Nursing 10:40 Perspective on Personal Problems 12:18 Coping Mechanisms in Nursing 15:13 Decompressing After a Shift 19:19 The Impact of COVID-19 on Healthcare 20:27 Medical Care at Festivals and Races 28:02 The Value of Time 32:01 Facing Life's Challenges 36:22 The Importance of Support 39:06 Reaching Out for Help 45:15 Unique Marathon Experiences 51:41 Mental Resilience in Running 56:11 Climbing Kilimanjaro: A Personal Journey 58:02 Navigating Separation and Divorce 01:01:01 Advice for Those in Difficult Relationships 01:03:01 The Pressure to Appear Strong 01:05:03 Finding Inspiration in Adversity 01:10:41 Pride in Overcoming Challenges 01:12:41 Future Aspirations in Running 01:13:56 What Matters Most Now 01:17:52 Defining 'Your Own Time'
1 Oct 2026
Running Through Choas | ED Nurse| Runner|Man| Mental Health
Laura Fleming, an emergency nurse, shares her experiences and insights into her multifaceted life, from her work in the emergency department to her involvement in medical tents at festivals and races. She discusses the impact of her job on her life and how she copes with work and personal challenges. The conversation delves into the preciousness of time, life-altering incidents, facing health challenges, the impact of trauma and recovery, running as a coping mechanism, the importance of support, mental health and seeking help, the power of sharing and active listening, running through chaos, hiking for peace, and reflecting on marathons and mental toughness. Laura shares her incredible journey of conquering Kilimanjaro, the impact of separation and divorce, finding inner strength, seeking support, coping, pressure on mothers, resilience, prioritizing family and self-care, running and personal goals, and the importance of personal time. Takeaways Life as an emergency nurse is unpredictable and teaches the value of appreciating every day. Coping with the emotional toll of the job requires compartmentalization and decompression strategies. Time is precious Running and hiking serve as coping mechanisms Inner strength through adversity Importance of seeking support and self-care Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Laura Fleming 03:35 Life as an Emergency Nurse 06:08 The Impact of the Job on Life 10:40 Coping with Work and Personal Challenges 20:27 Medical Tents at Festivals and Races 28:02 The Preciousness of Time 28:53 Life-Altering Incidents 29:53 Facing Health Challenges 30:51 The Impact of Trauma and Recovery 32:31 Running as a Coping Mechanism 36:30 The Importance of Support 39:06 Mental Health and Seeking Help 41:02 The Power of Sharing and Active Listening 45:24 Running Through Chaos, Hiking for Peace 53:01 Reflecting on Marathons and Mental Toughness 56:11 Conquering Kilimanjaro 58:17 Impact of Separation and Divorce 01:00:06 Finding Inner Strength 01:01:35 Seeking Support and Coping 01:03:01 Pressure on Mothers and Mental Health 01:06:22 Resilience and Overcoming Adversity 01:10:26 Prioritizing Family and Self-Care 01:12:30 Running and Personal Goals 01:16:43 One Word to Describe Laura 01:17:42 Importance of Personal Time
24 Sept 2026
Why Your Past still affects you || Even when you think you're fine
Sylwia Kuchenna shares her inspiring journey from early motherhood and career changes to becoming a psychotherapist, exploring trauma, mental health, and personal growth. This episode offers deep insights into understanding ourselves, overcoming childhood wounds, and embracing authenticity. Keywords trauma, mental health, childhood, therapy, personal growth, career change, emotional well-being, relationships, self-awareness Key Topics Sylwia's early motherhood and overcoming societal judgments The impact of childhood trauma on adult behavior The importance of understanding and processing emotions The role of therapy in healing and self-awareness Breaking stereotypes around mental health and masculinity The significance of trust, loyalty, and support in relationships The influence of generational trauma and family patterns The concept of inner child and emotional suppression The importance of self-forgiveness and embracing vulnerability Practical advice for those facing life changes and challenges Chapters 00:00Introduction to Sylwia Kuchenna's Journey 02:00Overcoming Societal Judgments as a Young Mother 04:10Understanding Childhood Trauma and Its Effects 06:02From Law to Psychotherapy: A Career Change 08:55The Role of Therapy in Personal Development 12:02Why People Stay in Unhappy Situations 15:55The Impact of Childhood Experiences on Adult Life 20:08The Inner Child and Emotional Suppression 23:53Men's Mental Health and Emotional Expression 28:05Understanding and Managing Triggers and Memories 31:54The Significance of Trust and Vulnerability in Relationships 35:52Breaking the Stigma Around Men and Mental Health 39:54The Power of Self-Discovery and Personal Growth 43:50Dealing with Mistakes, Overthinking, and Self-Forgiveness 47:52Exercise as a Reflection of Inner State 52:07The Role of Loyalty, Support, and Trust in Relationships
17 Sept 2026
building my life at 40|| Irish Man in Lanzarote
The conversation delves into Barry's journey of addiction, recovery, and rebuilding. It explores the influence of childhood trauma, the transition from enjoyment to recognizing the problem, and the impact of environment and social support on the recovery journey. Barry's day-to-day journey of recovery and the importance of finding peace and support are also highlighted. The conversation covers various aspects of recovery, including finances, lifestyle, emotional breadwork, men's mental health, challenges of living sober, misconceptions about recovery, and personal reflections on the recovery journey. It emphasizes the importance of asking for help and highlights recovery as a lifelong journey. Takeaways Childhood trauma and exposure to addiction can influence early substance abuse. The transition from enjoying drinking and drugs to recognizing the problem and seeking recovery. The impact of environment and social support on the recovery journey. Recovery is a lifelong journey The importance of asking for help Chapters 00:00 Early Exposure to Addiction 01:59 The Influence of Childhood Trauma 02:59 The Escapism of Drinking and Drugs 05:03 The Shift from Enjoyment to Problem 06:56 Recognizing the Problem 09:02 The Impact of Environment and Social Support 11:01 Rebuilding and Finding Peace 13:10 The Day-to-Day Journey of Recovery 36:17 Finances and Lifestyle in Recovery 38:16 The Pressure of Age and Expectations 40:28 Emotional Breadwork and Recovery Retreats 48:33 Men's Mental Health and Sobriety 54:33 Challenges of Living Sober 56:03 Misconceptions About Recovery 01:04:08 Personal Reflections and Recovery Journey
10 Sept 2026
in started From Zero | Mike Rosney on Leaving an Garda Siochana & Starting Again
Mike Rosney, an online coach and former guard, shares his journey from guard life to coaching, the impact of fitness on his life, and the challenges of shift work and mental health in the force. Declan Toland shares his journey of overcoming mental health challenges, finding stability, and pursuing a career in fitness coaching. His wife, Callia, played a pivotal role in supporting him through his lowest points and encouraging him to pursue his passion for fitness. Declan's transition from a stable job to full-time coaching was marked by financial struggles and resilience. He emphasizes the importance of delayed gratification and the value of hard work in achieving success. Takeaways Transition from guard life to coaching Impact of fitness on mental health Mental health struggles can be overcome with the support of loved ones. Transitioning to a new career path requires resilience and determination. Delayed gratification and hard work are essential for long-term success. Chapters 00:00 Transition from Guard Life to Coaching 02:25 The Impact of Fitness on Mental Health 22:18 Challenges of Shift Work and Mental Health in the Force 30:31 Overcoming Mental Health Challenges 31:30 Support and Stability from Callia 32:27 Financial Struggles and Resilience 36:11 Pursuing a Passion for Fitness Coaching 48:07 The Value of Delayed Gratification 49:59 Transition to Full-Time Coaching 55:46 The Importance of Resilience and Hard Work
3 Sept 2026
ADHD is My Super Power
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and guest background 01:50 Growing up in Athlone and living abroad 03:57 Journey into firefighting and applying in Vancouver 07:03 Living in Vancouver and its challenges 10:13 Tony’s early sports and rugby career 15:00 Dealing with injuries and fitness challenges 20:05 The importance of proper training and nutrition 24:55 Understanding supplements and diet strategies 30:07 The impact of injuries and concussions in rugby 34:52 Discovering ADHD later in life 40:03 Managing ADHD and hyperfocus as a strength 44:53 Training, discipline, and mental resilience 49:52 Firefighting career, training, and experiences 54:49 Work-life balance and family support 59:56 Advice for newcomers to fitness and firefighting
30 Aug 2026
My Story | From Podcast Host to Guest | Athlone Ireland
My Story — Deckie Toland Usually, I’m the host. This time, I’m the guest. In this very personal episode, Deckie Toland sits down to tell his own story — from his early days as a referee, to becoming the youngest chairman in the country, his time in the Irish Defence Forces, and the experiences that shaped him along the way. I openly about the people who helped him, the challenges he faced, the lessons he learned, and the moments that changed his direction in life. But beyond the titles and achievements, this is the story of a father, a referee, a soldier, and a man who has been fortunate to have good people around him, Made Mistakes (Loads) This episode is about the journey behind the person — the highs, the lows, the people who made a difference, and the story that doesn’t always get told. My Story.
9 Aug 2026
Career of Aaron Craig: Westmeath Hurling & Life Off the Pitch
Aaron Craig, a retired hurling senior footballer, shares his journey from playing for Westmeath senior hurlers to his current role in the defense forces. He discusses the challenges of balancing sports and work, the impact of injuries, and his future plans. Takeaways Balancing sports and work Impact of injuries Future plans Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:43 Transition from Inter-County to Career 02:32 Hurling and Football Journey 03:55 Achievements and Challenges with Plunkets 10:28 Playing for the Army and Sports Achievements 11:21 Training and Balancing Work 27:14 Retirement and Coaching 36:25 Injuries and Music in the Dressing Room
16 Jul 2026
The Mighty Joe Ward
The conversation covers Joe Ward's journey in boxing, his return to the sport, the importance of opportunity, the impact of boxing on youth, the future of Athlone Boxing Club, sacrifices and success, the mindset of a fighter, and the love of boxing. Joe Ward shares insights into his boxing career, discussing the mental battle of injuries, his achievements, the Olympic journey, his boxing career, Irish boxing success, and reflections on his career. He also provides advice for young boxers and discusses the impact of social media on the sport. Takeaways Opportunity is crucial for success in boxing The love of boxing drives dedication and commitment Mental resilience in the face of injuries The impact of role modeling and achievements The challenges and triumphs of the Olympic journey The significance of Irish boxing success Reflections and advice for young boxers Chapters 00:00 The Journey to the Ring 01:27 The Return to Boxing 03:06 The Importance of Opportunity 06:00 The Love of Boxing 08:11 The Impact of Boxing on Youth 14:23 Athlone Boxing Club's Future 21:10 Sacrifices and Success 29:11 The Mindset of a Fighter 33:17 The Mental Battle of Injuries 35:26 Achievements and Role Modeling 38:16 The Olympic Journey 41:15 Boxing Career and Madison Square Garden 45:25 Irish Boxing Success and Future 59:46 Reflections and Advice
8 Jul 2026
John Connaughton | Combat Medic • Hybrid Athlete • Former Bodybuilder
John Connaughton | Combat Medic • Hybrid Athlete • Former Bodybuilder What does it take to build a life around discipline, resilience, and constantly pushing your limits? This week on On Your Own Time, I sit down with John Connaughton—an Irish Defence Forces Combat Medic, personal trainer, former competitive bodybuilder, and hybrid athlete. We dive into: His journey through the Defence Forces The highs and lows of competitive bodybuilding Why he made the move into hybrid training The mindset needed to overcome setbacks and stay consistent Nutrition, coaching, and helping others become the best version of themselves John shares honest stories, valuable lessons, and practical advice that anyone can take away—whether you’re in the military, into fitness, or simply looking for motivation to keep moving forward. If you enjoy real conversations with real people, this episode is for you. Please follow the podcast, leave a rating, and share this episode. Every follow, listen, and share helps us reach more people and continue bringing you inspiring stories each week. Technical Note Unfortunately, we experienced unexpected technical issues during this recording, which affected parts of the video and audio quality. Rather than lose such a great conversation, we decided to release the episode as it was. Thank you for your patience and understanding—we’re already working to make sure future episodes are back to the quality you expect.
2 Jul 2026
Episode 5 Brian Kennady
Episode 5 | Brian Kennady | On Your Own Time This week on On Your Own Time, I’m joined by Brian Kennady for an honest conversation about the people, experiences, and values that have shaped his journey. We talk about the mentors who inspired him throughout his career, the places he’s travelled, the opponents he’s faced, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Brian also shares his thoughts on helping others, staying true to your values, dealing with setbacks, overcoming injuries, coping with loss, and finding a way forward when life gets tough. It’s a conversation about resilience, perspective, and the importance of never giving up—packed with honest stories, practical advice, and a few laughs along the way. Available this Thursday on YouTube, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If you’ve ever faced a setback, needed a bit of motivation, or simply enjoy hearing real conversations with inspiring people, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Like, follow, comment, and share. On Your Own Time – Real people. Real stories. No script
25 Jun 2026
From Devlin to Flight Sargent\ A story of service, sobriety & leadership
in episode 4, we sit down with proud Westmeath man to hear his remarkable Journey. Growing up in Delvin, Joining the Defence Forces in 2006, Rising through the ranks, and making the life changing decision to become sober in 2009, this is conversation about resilience discipline and staying true to your values. Whether you're interested in military life, leadership, or simply enjoy hearing genuine irish stories, theres something here for everyone. If You Enjoyed this episode, dont forget to like, Subscribe, and turn on Notifications so you never miss a future episode
18 Jun 2026
Kierian Mc keown Running Coach
This week we chat to a former athlete, Former Uefa & Elite League of Ireland Fitness Coach We talk about his journey though fitness and his experiences, and the importances of consistency in training, and lessons he learned from yers of coaching runners of all abilities. we also explore his work as a personal trainer and pilates instructor. we talked about how someone looking to take up running and what they may do. this is not to be missed dont forget to commet, like and share
16 Jun 2026
Ryan Bradshaw
Ryan Bradshaw | Defence Forces Soldier Sober. Disciplined. Driven Endurance Athlete| Hyrox Competitor| Sharing His journey of life, his challenges| Military Life| Training resilience, and becoming stronger every day
10 Jun 2026
The Final Whistle wasn't Blown - Ray Conlon Episode 1
On your own Time - Episode 1 Footballer, Referee, Father, Cancer Survivor
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