Behind The Brush – Episode 8 with Jim Turner

In this episode, I sit down with Jim Turner from JT Decorators, based in Wexford. I had the pleasure of working alongside Jim back in 2022. We get into Jim’s journey behind the brush—the highs, the lows, and the lessons that shaped him into the decorator and business owner he is today. From building a name in the industry to dealing with the pressures that come with running a business.We also talk about what it really takes to stand out, the mindset needed to grow, and the reality of carrying the weight that comes with trying to level up.If you’re in the trade, running a business, or just trying to push yourself forward, there’s something in this one for you.

Behind The Brush - Episode 7Tonight we’re joined by Ashley Woodcock of A. Woodcock DecoratorsAshley’s journey is seriously inspiring… from working on TV projects to building a respected name in the industry, but what really stands out is the impact he’s making off the tools.Actively involved in charity work and giving backUsing his platform to make a real difference beyond decoratingWe dive into:His journey through the trade and into TV workThe pressures behind the scenes and how he’s handled themWhy mental health matters more than ever in this industryThe importance of using your voice and platform for goodThis isn’t just about painting and decorating, it’s about purpose, resilience, and real life behind the brush.

Episode 6 of Behind the Brush 🎙️Brian Dynes – originally from Co Tyrone, now over in Boston, MA 🇺🇸 building a serious name for himself with Brian Dynes Painting. From home roots to making it happen abroad, doing top-level work and becoming a certified Fine Paints of Europe contractor.We get into it properly… the journey, the graft, the risks, and what it really takes to build something in a different country. A real, raw and relatable conversation.If you’re in the trade, enjoy all things painting and decorating, Give it a listen and let me know what you think.

Behind the Brush, I (Gerard Donaghy) sit down with Andrew Mackey of Mackey Decorators from Dublin, for a real, raw, and relatable conversation about life in the painting and decorating industry.No filters. No nonsense.Just honest talk about:• The realities of running a decorating business• Lessons learned on the tools• The ups and downs of the trade• What it really takes to succeed in this industryBehind the Brush is all about real decorators, real stories, and real experiences — shining a light on the people behind the trade.Whether you’re a decorator, business owner, apprentice, or someone who simply loves the craft, this series is for you.🎙 Hosted by Gerard Donaghy – Paintworks NI / Paintworks NI Academy

Behind the Brush, Gerard Donaghy from Paintworks NI sits down with Gary Marsh from Sunderland for a real, raw, and relatable conversation about life in the painting and decorating industry.Real-Raw-RelatableJust honest talk about:• The realities of running a decorating business• Lessons learned on the tools• The ups and downs of the trade• What it really takes to succeed in this industryBehind the Brush is all about real decorators, real stories, and real experiences — shining a light on the people behind the trade.Whether you’re a decorator, business owner, apprentice, or someone who simply loves the craft, this series is for you.🎙 Hosted by Gerard Donaghy – Paintworks NI / Paintworks NI Academy

Behind the Brush – Episode 3 with Keith ButlerWelcome to another episode of Behind the Brush — the podcast where painters and decorators talk real, raw, and relatable about life in the trade. I’m joined by Keith Butler as we dive into the realities of the industry — the wins, the struggles, the lessons, and everything in between.No scripts.No filters.Just honest conversation from people living it every day.If you’re in the trade, thinking of joining it, or just want to hear the stories behind the work — you’re in the right place.🎙 Real talk. Real experiences. Real decorators.Let’s keep ‘er lit 🔥

Behind the Brush – Episode 2: Damien Grant

Damien Grant shares his journey from working in Australia to coming home and starting his own business. We dive into running a large team versus a smaller one, how his processes have changed, and the art of pricing jobs to make money—not just stay busy. He explains the “wee fire, big fire” philosophy, why perspective matters, and how the right approach keeps you growing without burning out. Raw, real, and relatable for every painter and business owner.

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Behind the Brush – Episode 1 with David Murphy

In this episode of Behind the Brush, I sit down with David Murphy from DM Decor.

We talk about the real side of the trade—slow months, daily challenges, family life, and what it actually takes to become the best version of yourself in this game.

Real, Raw, Relatable conversations from inside the painting and decorating industry.

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