227. John Heron: 43 Years in the Gaeltacht
1 July 2026
About This Episode
As he approaches his 87th birthday, John Heron joins his son, Fender Jackson, for a deeply personal conversation about a lifetime of learning and his 42 consecutive years attending Oideas Gael in Gleann Cholm Cille, County Donegal.
John reflects on discovering the Irish language as an adult, the remarkable influence of Seán Gallagher, the vision of Liam Ó Cuinneagáin, dancing with Mary McAleese, meeting Daniel O'Donnell, and the friendships that have kept him returning to the Donegal Gaeltacht for more than four decades.
Best known to many as co-founder of Heron Bros, this conversation reveals the man behind the business: a lifelong learner whose love of language, music and community has shaped his life.
More than a conversation about learning Irish, this is a celebration of curiosity, belonging and the people who dedicate themselves to keeping Ireland's language and culture alive.
John Heron
John Heron is co-founder of Heron Bros, the award-winning construction and property development company established in Draperstown, which operates throughout the UK, Ireland and Europe. A lifelong learner and passionate advocate for the Irish language, he has attended Oideas Gael in Gleann Cholm Cille for 42 consecutive years.