Unlocking Boardroom Success: Insights from Ralph Ward
Alan O’Neill speaks with Ralph Ward about the changing role of boards, the dynamics between CEOs and chairmen, and why diversity and skills are crucial for effective governance. From the value of non-executive directors to the future of hands-on boards, this episode explores what really makes boards work.
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1:00:33
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1:00:33
Jean McCabe CEO Retail Excellence Ireland...on the Future of Irish Retail
Alan O’Neill talks with Jean McCabe, Managing Director of Retail Excellence Ireland, about the state of retail in 2025. They discuss phygital shopping, AI’s role in cutting costs, creating magical customer experiences, and why retail skills are future-proof. Essential listening for leaders in retail and beyond.
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1:09:13
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1:09:13
Proposition: The Forgotten Leg of the Stool
Product. People. Place. Your customers judge you on all three. In this episode of Boardroom Insights, Alan O’Neill explores the often-overlooked power of place in shaping your proposition. From Paco Underhill’s Why We Buy to real-world stories of hotels, websites, and supply chains, you’ll walk away with a practical checklist to differentiate your business.
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18:57
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18:57
Proposition Part 3: Why People Are Your Real USP
In Part 3 of our August series on Proposition, Alan O’Neill explores why people are the most powerful leg of your 3-legged stool (Product, People, Place).Discover:The story of “Johnny the Bagger” — and why customers queued just to see him.How empathy and consistency keep customers loyal, even when competitors are closer or cheaper.The 3 Cs framework for customer interactions: Connect, Consult, Conclude.Four leadership levers: Recruitment, Training, Communication, Wellbeing.Because products can be copied. People cannot.Listen now and re-think how people shape your USP.
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17:18
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17:18
Proposition Part 2: Your Product Might Be Costing You More Than You Think
In this solo summer episode, Alan O’Neill dives deep into the “Product” leg of the 3-Legged Stool — part of Step 6 of the 7 Steps to Profit.He shares hard-earned lessons on product strategy, including category design, pricing architecture, flagships, and innovation.A must-listen for any business that’s looking to clean up its offer, differentiate with intent, and drive higher margin.
💼 Boardroom Insights is your exclusive pass into the minds of top business leaders, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers shaping the corporate world. Hosted by industry expert Alan O’Neill, this podcast uncovers the strategies, leadership tactics, and market insights that drive success at the highest level.
Each episode, we go behind the boardroom doors to explore:
✔️ Winning business strategies & corporate growth tactics
✔️ Leadership lessons from top executives
✔️ Navigating change, innovation, and economic shifts
✔️ Real-world case studies & success stories
Ireland