S9 E10 - With Frontline Paramedic John Gaughan

Season 9 comes to a powerful and emotional close as we sit down with paramedic and frontline worker John Gaughan for one of the most honest conversations we’ve ever had on The Stripped Back Podcast.

In this season finale, John opens up about life on the frontline, the unseen mental toll of dealing with trauma on a daily basis, and the harsh realities facing emergency services in Ireland today. We discuss the pressures within the healthcare system, the challenges paramedics face behind the scenes, and why meaningful change is desperately needed.

But this episode goes far deeper than the job title.

John speaks openly about the pressures men face in modern life — trying to be providers, partners, fathers, friends, and strong for everyone around them while often suffering in silence themselves. In an incredibly raw and courageous conversation, he shares his own battle with suicidal thoughts and actions, how close he came to the edge, and what ultimately brought him back.

Now, through both his work and his social media platform, John is using his experiences to help others who may be struggling in silence and to remind people that there is always hope, even in the darkest moments.

This episode is real, emotional, powerful, and deeply important.

If this conversation helps even one person feel less alone, then it was worth having.

Podcast sponsored by Snickers Workwear Ireland.

Season 9 has also been in association with Hager Ireland and N2 Electrical Wholesalers Ashbourne