CMETB The Journey

Explore the pathways in Further Education through the stories of current and past learners. Sometimes when we hear someone else’s story about their experiences we can relate and take inspiration from their journey. The Journey podcast is aimed at giving the full picture from our guests. The different barriers they have encountered along the way, highs and lows and the fears they had at the beginning to where they are now.

Listen on:

  • Apple Podcasts
  • Podbean App
  • Spotify
  • Amazon Music
  • iHeartRadio
  • PlayerFM
  • Listen Notes
  • Podchaser
  • BoomPlay

Episodes

Tuesday Apr 08, 2025

Alanna Duffy from Ballyconnell calls in for a chat on a visit home from Abu Dhabi where she has been working as a teacher for the last 6 years. Having qualified with a degree in Early Childhood Education in Ireland, Alanna explains how she completed her teaching qualification while working in Abu Dhabi. A very interesting insight into what it is like to work in the Middle East.

Tuesday Apr 08, 2025

This week the lads are joined by the brilliant Martin Maughan, a young traveler from Cavan town.
Having had a negative experience in school, Martin explains how taking the Youthreach route changed his perspective on education and prepared him for a Level 5 course (Psychology & Social Studies) in Cavan Institute and from there to TUS Athlone where he is currently in his final year of his Degree in Social Studies & Social Care.

Monday Dec 09, 2024

Gary Ferncombe from Cavan town explains his journey to becoming a Radiographer. From staying in school just to participate in sport to heading to England to complete his degree’s, this fascinating story shows what can be achieved by continuing to move forward and staying focused.    

Monday Nov 25, 2024

Conan Meehan from Ulster University called in to discuss all things UCAS and the opportunities available at Ulster University. In this episode Conan goes through the UCAS application and explains how finance works for students thinking of studying in the UK especially in Northern Ireland. As with all our guests Conan gives an insight into his own educational journey.

Monday Nov 04, 2024

Michael Duffy calls into the lads to chat about his journey in education. At the age of 56 Michael decides to confront the fact that he cannot read and decides to do something about it. With a great sense of humour, Michael discusses the many challenges and obstacles not being able to read has had on his life and how his life has changed completely since learning to read.  

Monday Oct 14, 2024

This week Simon Pierce joins the lads to tell his story from drug addiction at a very young age to currently completing his degree in Health & Social Studies at university. This fascinating story shows the damage addiction can do and the power of recovery.

Monday Oct 07, 2024

Season 2 begins with a short introductory episode with the lads explaining what a guidance interview looks like and what is involved in the process.

Monday Jul 08, 2024

This week Mary Clarke from Mountnugent joins the lads for an insightful discussion on how external influences from an early age can have a negative or positive impact on one's educational journey.
Having not been given the opportunity to pursue her educational gaols after her Leaving Certificate, Mary eventually returns to fulfil her dream at the age of 56.

CMETB: The Journey - Paul Donohoe

Wednesday Jun 12, 2024

Wednesday Jun 12, 2024

In this episode, Paul Donohoe kindly gave up his time to give us a fascinating insight into his educational journey. Paul, who was home on holidays, currently works in Bermuda as an accountant, but 12 years ago, things were very different. Although Paul secured his first choice course on his CAO back in 2007 the recession changed everything and Paul was forced to explore different options. He explains how he overcame barriers both personally and academically, that have led him to secure a dream job and new life in Bermuda.

Monday May 13, 2024

This week the lads are joined by former Cavan footballer Martin Reilly who details his journey starting out with Burnley FC at 16, to an apprenticeship on his return to Ireland and finally heading off to university to become an Engineer.

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