In this episode to mark International Literacy Day, Martin is joined by Ceinwen Fergus, Regional Literacy Coordinator. He chats to Sinead Cahill and Michael Duffy about what it's like to return to learning. And he meets Laura Carey from Cavan Libraries, and Karen McCague from Monaghan Libraries, to find out how they support adults with unmet literacy needs. 

As part of Aontas Adult Learners’ Festival 2025, The Journey Podcast took to the road to meet some very interesting learners hosted in Monaghan Institute. From Samantha who was sending in assignments from the labour ward to Hugo from France who came as an exchange student two years ago and still here, and many more very interesting stories. 

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.

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.

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.    

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.

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.  

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.

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.

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.