Taking Care Of Business with Ronan Berry

From escape rooms to leadership workshops — the Midlands may be Ireland’s next corporate event hotspot. Alison O’Kelly and Willie Hyland explain why their new venture Ignite Event Management is designed to turn ordinary corporate gatherings into memorable experiences. Ireland's largest inflatable water-park, Baysports in Athlone, is adding electric boats and even more kayaks ahead of the new season. And they have a huge number of part-time roles available now - Richie O'Hara Jnr has all the details you need. Geopolitical conflict rarely stays confined to the battlefield. Former Army Ranger and security expert Cathal Berry joins the programme to examine the evolving conflict in the Middle East, its potential impact on global energy markets, and what the situation could mean for businesses, travel and international stability. If you’ve ever been asked to “circle back”, “touch base” or “drill down”, you’ll appreciate this. Australian duo James Schloeffel and Charles Firth of Wankernomics will explain how corporate jargon became the inspiration for a global comedy show — and why the corporate world may never escape it.

With tensions rising in the Middle East, Paul Mahon of Watt Footprint explains how regional instability could ripple into Irish business costs—particularly if oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz are disrupted. Katie Cochrane of Creators31 reflects on her journey from New York and LA fashion to launching a creative studio in Ireland, helping brands bring bold product launches and experiential campaigns to life. And Kevin O’Loughlin of Nostra warns that cybercrime is shifting focus—from servers to people—highlighting why businesses must now protect staff as much as their systems.

Orla Martin of LEO Offaly joins Ronan to preview Local Enterprise Week 2026, outlining a programme focused on leadership, resilience, fraud awareness, mentoring and digital growth for Midlands SMEs. Colin Kennedy of DPD Ireland explains how a €5 million investment in a nationwide locker network is reshaping last-mile delivery and giving customers more flexibility than ever. Allyson English of Mody shares her entrepreneurial journey and how lean and digital transformation are helping business owners build confidence and capability. And Lucy Jo McHugh of RBK talks resilience, cold-water challenges and the Freezebury fundraiser supporting Esker House and the Little Blue Heroes Foundation.

Alpha Drives in Portlaoise is powering into its next phase, with a multi-million euro expansion and ambitious hiring plans. Managing Director John Dwan joins Ronan to discuss automation, engineering careers, and why advanced manufacturing is thriving in the Midlands. Louise McSharry of Make & Share outlines bold plans for a new Midlands Creative Cluster designed to connect designers, makers, and studios at scale. Kevin Scully of The Merry Mill shares the story behind Ireland’s only certified organic flour mill—just in time for Pancake Tuesday. Plus, we preview National Enterprise Week 2026 and the packed schedule from the LEOs across Westmeath, Laois, and Offaly.

In a world full of distractions, productivity expert Dr Aine O’Dea explains why attention—not time—is the real currency of high performance, especially in technical and engineering roles. Dr Diane Cooper of Edufit joins Ronan to discuss the rise of weight-loss drugs as a corporate wellbeing trend, and why employers should focus on sustainable, evidence-based health strategies instead. Peter Rigney of Rigney Forge explores the evolving role of design in branding, customer experience, and business success in the age of AI. Plus, we spotlight Big Red Cloud’s Community Roadshow, coming to Athlone Springs Hotel tomorrow.

Starting a business is one thing — sustaining it for 15 years is another. Catherine Kiveney joins Ronan to reflect on a journey that began with no roadmap and evolved into multiple businesses, changing client expectations and a growing role in Ireland’s tourism and events economy. Thousands of people leave Laois every day for work — but where do they go, and what skills go with them? Ronan speaks with Angela McEvoy of Laois County Council about a new commuter survey designed to shape local jobs, investment and economic strategy. Getting noticed is one of the biggest challenges facing Irish SMEs. Jo Gilfoy of Vodafone Business introduces the See Your Business Pitchside initiative — and why ambitious Midlands businesses should seize the opportunity to put their brand in front of millions at the 2026 Six Nations. After 45 years in business, Eamonn Brackens Menswear in Portarlington is closing its doors. Ronan will talk to Bernie Bracken about the story behind the store, its place in the community, and what comes next.

Global politics is hitting Irish businesses where it hurts—John Finn of Treasury Solutions breaks down what EU–India trade talks, Mercosur tensions and tariffs could mean for Irish SMEs in 2026. Gillian Peters of Pragmatica introduces a new LOETB-backed programme turning sustainability into practical, profit-smart action for small businesses. HR expert Caroline Reidy shares why AI is reshaping graduate hiring and what it means for career starters and employers alike. And Mullingar’s Noel McIntyre of Motion Picture reflects on winning national acclaim—and how great photography can power great storytelling.

With trade wars looming and EU countermeasures on the table, David Savage of Deloitte joins Ronan Berry to discuss how global shifts could impact Irish businesses in 2026. Jack Pilkington of Agri Data Analytics shares how Irish ag-tech is gaining ground in Europe, following a key trade mission to Brussels. Tony Delaney of SYS Financial reflects on the expansion of GTL Life and Pensions—and why growth doesn’t have to mean losing the values of a family-run business. Plus, James Burke of Mullingar Chamber pays tribute to the late John Connaughton, a true Midlands hospitality pioneer.

If credit dries up, growth stalls—David Broderick of the Small Firms Association joins Ronan to discuss the real financing challenges facing small businesses and why better access to capital is central to the SFA’s new three-year strategy. Breda Dooley of Matrix Recruitment outlines salary trends for 2026, highlighting the sectors most affected by skills shortages and what it means for Midlands employers and jobseekers. And Michelle O’Keefe of Platform55 talks about the roots of bad workplace behaviour, holding leaders accountable, and why real outcomes—not optics—must define company culture in 2026.

A new year brings new questions—and opportunities—for Midlands businesses. Lorraine McLaughlin of Dovida Midlands explains why home care careers are drawing talent from retail and hospitality, and how flexible, supported roles are transforming community care. Jack Murray of MediaHQ shares how to cut through the noise in 2026 with smarter PR, better stories, and the right mix of AI and authenticity. Insolvency expert John McCann tackles the real impact of auto-enrolment on small employers. And Tony McCormack TD outlines infrastructure progress, SME challenges, and key policy changes for Offaly in 2026.

As part of our end-of-year Taking Care of Business special, Ronan Berry speaks with industry and political leaders about the highs, challenges, and opportunities shaping the Midlands economy. John Condron of Condron Concrete shares insights on infrastructure delivery, what 2026 could bring for construction—and rising motorsport star Alex Dunne. Denise Buckley of Sugar Plum Sweetery reflects on a whirlwind year of viral growth and sweet retail success. Minister Peter Burke TD talks enterprise supports, competitiveness and tourism, while Tony McCormack TD highlights key Offaly infrastructure projects and the SME outlook for 2026.

Conor of Typo Coffee shares how his Westmeath-based brand is growing from the ground up—thanks to wholesale strategy and support from the Local Enterprise Office. Tullamore Credit Union CEO Paul Shaw reveals a strong financial year, the return of millions to the local economy, and new social housing loan initiatives. Conor O’Leary of Purple House Cancer Support introduces a workplace training programme to help managers better support staff facing cancer. And Sharon Davern of Ramble & Roast Coffee talks festive food fame, viral sandwiches, and the power of great local ingredients.

Tony Woods joins Ronan to unpack the Government’s Accelerating Infrastructure Report and how Modern Methods of Construction could speed up housing and infrastructure delivery across Ireland. Richie O’Hara Jnr shares the story behind Luain Clothing—a Midlands-born fashion brand inspired by the River Shannon. Orla Dollard reflects on how Philip Doogue Mechanical Services in Abbeyleix earned a national Employer of the Year Award by prioritising mentorship and apprenticeships. Plus, Caroline Collins unveils Tullamore Chamber’s new Business After Hours events, 2026 Business Awards nominations, and the return of QUIDS vouchers for local shopping.

Portarlington’s Stuart McCaul, founder and CEO of Ishikawa Technologies, shares how he built a global software acquisition company—and why he proudly calls himself a “socialist capitalist.” Deirdre Fox introduces the Offaly Volunteer Centre’s new Professional Exchange Programme, connecting skilled locals with voluntary groups for high-impact advice. And Mullingar’s Mark Brady of Bravo Contracts reflects on their rapid rise, a recent Chamber Award win, and a powerful act of Christmas generosity in Westmeath.

How will Ireland’s new automatic pension enrolment scheme affect your business? Colin Donnery of FRS Co-op breaks down what employers need to know now, from cost implications to long-term planning. Jackie Carroll of Laois Chamber gives us a sneak peek at the upcoming President’s Lunch with Pat McDonagh and reveals how the Chamber’s Christmas campaign aims to boost local trade. And Athlone’s Michael Ganly shares the remarkable story behind Ganly’s—how a DIY boom, army customers, and relentless drive built a Midlands institution.

Freshly crowned Chef of the Year, Anthony O’Connor of The Old Warehouse, joins Ronan to share his culinary journey, passion for local produce, and the real story behind the kitchen doors. Sinead Cooper of Serene Beauty & Wellness reveals how the ACORNS programme helped her turn a dream into a booming business—and why she wants more Midlands women to follow suit. Chris Hewitt of Biddy O’Dowds explains how a traditional Irish pub became a national digital innovator. And LOETB’s new ‘Back in Gear’ initiative offers real hope for former Fastway workers left in limbo.

Professor Felicity Kelliher of SETU has just been honoured internationally for championing Ireland’s micro-enterprises—and she’s calling for policies that reflect the real behaviour of small businesses. Chamber Ireland President Margaret Considine speaks to Ronan after addressing the European Parliament of Enterprises, highlighting the urgent reforms needed to restore European competitiveness. Cllr Eddie Fitzpatrick shares the latest on the Fastway collapse, including what’s next for affected drivers and Midlands businesses. And we bring you the highlights, emotions, and celebrations from the 2025 Midlands 103 Hospitality Awards.

Why do so many SME projects stall after funding? Shannon Kearney of SquaredMap shares how Lean, digital tools, and AI can actually drive lasting change in your business. The team behind Playtown Tullamore celebrates a national award and reveals what’s next for their magical family experience. AwakenAngels CEO Clare McGee talks women-led investing, a £4M milestone, and how Midlands women can join the movement as founders or funders. Plus, Dr Alan Hore previews the upcoming MMC Accelerate event in Laois—and how modern construction methods could transform Ireland’s housing sector.

Midlands MEP Ciarán Mullooly warns that businesses and communities risk losing Just Transition funding if they don’t act fast and outlines what groups in Offaly, Longford, Westmeath and Laois must do now to protect their grants and local jobs. Brian Egan, founder of Midlands based Reactable AI and DeepPurple AI reveals how AI is levelling the digital playing field for Ireland’s SMEs. Benedicta Durcan of BnM and Paul Mahon of Watt Footprint join Ronan to discuss Accelerate Green, the programme scaling real sustainability businesses, creating high-skilled jobs, and putting Ireland at the forefront of climate solutions.

Neil Skeffington of Novelplast warns that Ireland’s soaring energy costs could drive manufacturing overseas, while Germany invests billions to protect its industries. But there’s hope—Paul Mahon of Watt Footprint explains how Irish businesses are cutting energy bills by up to 30% through smarter strategies. Liam Tutty of Dead Centre Brewing shares how his craft soda spin-off just struck Gold at Blas na hÉireann, and Breda Colgan of Salutem Advisory talks real-site safety, why culture matters, and how the CIF’s ‘Back to Basics’ campaign aims to save lives in construction.