In this episode of "Garry Talks," Garry interviews Alan Kerins, former All-Ireland winner and founder of Warriors for Humanity. Alan discusses his journey from elite sport to social entrepreneurship, sharing insights on leadership, community, and resilience. He reflects on his sporting achievements, charity work in Africa, and personal challenges, including his son’s illness. Alan emphasises the power of relationships and the importance of creating opportunities for people to make a positive impact, both locally and globally. The conversation highlights the value of community, humility, and purposeful leadership in today’s world.
To support Alan's charity work, please visit https://www.mckeeverteamwear.com/collections/self-help-africa-10303
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Introduction and Setting the Scene (00:00:00) Alan recounts a tense moment with his son's surgery; Garry introduces Alan and outlines the episode’s themes.
Early Sporting Success and Hurling vs. Football (00:00:41) Alan discusses being named to the team, winning All-Ireland, and the skills of hurling versus football.
Podcast and Network Introduction (00:00:52) GK Media podcast and Creators Network are introduced.
Alan’s Background and Self-Reflection (00:01:09) Alan reflects on his varied career, love of variety, and journey from sports to charity and business.
Importance of Relationships and Leadership (00:03:00) Alan emphasises the value of relationships in leadership and personal success.
Growing Up in Cambridgeshire and Family Work Ethic (00:04:00) Alan describes his childhood, family B&B, work ethic, and exposure to music and famous guests.
Jack Charlton and Irish Self-Belief (00:05:04) Stories about Jack Charlton, his influence on Irish confidence, and the 1990 World Cup.
Maureen O’Hara and Staying Grounded (00:07:39) Alan shares impressions of Maureen O’Hara, humility, and the importance of staying grounded despite achievements.
Irish Generosity and Collective Impact (00:10:03) Alan discusses raising €20 million, the collective effort, and the generosity of the Irish people.
Childhood Sporting Aspirations and School Influence (00:12:08) Alan talks about his early focus on hurling, family influence, and the role of primary school in skill development.
Transition to Football and College Years (00:13:50) Alan explains taking up football at Trinity, joining Salthill, and rapid progression to All-Ireland success.
Club vs. County Success and Community Impact (00:17:01) Alan compares the significance of club and county wins, and the uplifting effect on local communities.
Sources of Drive and Holistic Education (00:18:12) Alan credits his energy, curiosity, and supportive home and school environments for his drive.
Music, Charity Roots, and Early Fundraising (00:20:33) Alan recalls school music, being a collector, and how early fundraising influenced his charity work.
Son’s Illness and Family Resilience (00:21:15) Alan details his son Ruan’s serious illness, medical journey, and the emotional impact on the family.
Support Networks and Irish Kindness (00:25:23) Alan describes the support from friends, clients, and the wider community during his son’s illness.
Career Shifts and Loyalty in Work (00:29:23) Alan discusses leaving physiotherapy, merging with South Africa charity, and the importance of loyalty in teams.
Influential Leaders and Mentors (00:30:14) Alan names key leaders who inspired him, including John O’Mahony and Francois Pienaar.
Journey to Africa and Charity Genesis (00:31:43) Alan explains taking a career break, volunteering in Africa, and the formative experiences that led to charity work.
Transformative Experiences in Africa (00:35:34) Alan shares impactful moments in Africa, the influence of nuns, and the realities of poverty and resilience.
Overcoming Fear and Lessons from Africa (00:39:29) Alan discusses lessons on fear, self-expression, and the importance of enjoying life despite challenges.
Founding and Structuring the Charity (00:40:53) Alan describes the organic growth of his charity, formalising it, and assembling a skilled board.
Adapting to Economic Downturns (00:43:20) Alan explains how the charity adapted after the Celtic Tiger, focusing on emotional connections and experiences.
Corporate Partnerships and Leadership Development (00:45:19) Alan details creating win-win experiences for corporate donors, leading to leadership development work.
Current Charitable Projects and Warriors for Humanity (00:46:41) Alan outlines his main projects, including War
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