In this Behind the Walls season finale, Pete and Fergal are joined by special guest Mike Finnerty to wrap up an incredible year of homeowner education, retrofit insights, and myth-busting. Together, they break down what homeowners still need to know, why government clarity matters more than ever, and how Season 2 will raise the bar even higher.
The trio dive into the big questions facing the retrofit journey:
• Will grants change next year?
• Are government ministers truly committed?
• What information do homeowners need now to make confident decisions?
00:00 – 00:31:04
Opening & Why the Podcast Exists Pete and Fergal reflect on their mission to break down retrofit knowledge for everyday homeowners — joined today by guest Mike Finnerty.
31:04 – 32:24
Keeping It Simple: Breaking Down Technical Jargon How the team translates expert insights into clearer, “caveman-style” explanations.
32:24 – 33:48
Why a Government Minister Needs to Join Season Two Mike asks the big questions: Why is ministerial clarity essential, and what should they be pressed on?
33:48 – 36:18
The One Question Homeowners Need Answered Are the government genuinely committed to the retrofit journey — and will they fund it long-term?
36:18 – 37:43
Climate Reality & Ireland’s Environmental Challenges The team looks beyond grants to water quality, climate shifts, and long-term sustainability.
37:43 – 38:22
Season Break Banter Will the lads miss each other? A Starsky & Hutch moment (and Christmas jokes).
38:22 – 39:16
Upcoming One-Stop-Shop Live Event Mike and Fergal announce the next event: Silver Springs Clayton Hotel, Cork — December 4th.
39:16 – 40:03
Homeowners Are Asking Smarter Questions Why the public is more informed than ever — and why the “sticky” questions are the best ones.
40:03 – 41:11
Feedback & Season Two Improvements Pete, Fergal, and Mike chat about balance, structure, and what they’ll tweak in the next season.
41:11 – 42:03
Architects, Criticism at Home & Dream Guests A funny exchange about architects, Mike’s wife, and why Dermot Bannon is a must-have guest.
42:03 – 43:16
The Origin Story How the idea for the podcast was born in a Galway bar — and why none of them expected it to take off like this.
43:16 – 43:50
Final Thoughts & Looking to 2025 Thanking listeners, encouraging questions, and promising an even stronger season ahead.
43:50 – End
Closing Moments Laughs, bloopers, and the official sign-off.