The Edge Within: Turning Culture into Competitive Advantage
In this episode of Smooth Scaling, we dive into what it really takes to engage and retain great people in a fast-scaling business. As the competition for talent intensifies, culture is no longer a nice-to-have; it’s a strategic differentiator. We explore how organisations of all sizes can foster purpose, drive connection, and create standout employee experiences from day one, turning culture into your greatest competitive edge.Marie is joined by David Mackey, Co-Founder of Mbryonics; Pamela Treacy, Head of Corporate Business Acquisition at VHI; and Paul Conneally, Co-Founder of Slick+, who offer practical, honest insights on everything from psychological safety and inclusive leadership to the power of purpose, and how technology is reshaping onboarding, mentoring, and the modern workplace.
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37:04
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37:04
Tried & Tested: Evelyn O'Toole on Science, Scale & Staying the Course
In this episode of Smooth Scaling, Marie sits down with Evelyn O’Toole, Founder and CEO of CLS (Complete Laboratory Solutions), to explore the remarkable journey of building one of Ireland’s leading scientific services companies. From humble beginnings in Connemara to becoming a national and international leader, Evelyn shares what gave her the courage to start, how she navigated key growth milestones, and the pivotal decisions that shaped CLS’s success.We dive into the complexities of scaling a business in a highly regulated sector, balancing expansion with quality and technical excellence. Evelyn opens up about how her leadership evolved, the weight of responsibility she’s carried, and the resilience required to keep going during the hardest moments. She reflects on the role of innovation and technology in CLS’s growth, the strategy behind their recent €10 million training investment, and what the future holds -including international ambitions and staying rooted in the West of Ireland.Honest, inspiring, and filled with practical wisdom, this episode is a masterclass in perseverance, purpose, and building something that lasts. Evelyn also shares what she’s most proud of, the advice she’d give to early-stage founders, and what the journey has taught her about herself.
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1:05:11
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1:05:11
Scaling to the UK: Market Experts Special
In this extended episode of Smooth Scaling, we dive deep into scaling your business into the UK market with insights from leading experts on the ground. Join us as we explore routes to market, funding supports, sector opportunities, and regional advantages across the UK.Guests include Patrick McMahon (Enterprise Ireland UK), La Tess Bartlett (West Midlands Growth Company), Joseph Beaden and Alex Jones Casey (MIDAS Manchester), John O'Loughlin (Welsh Government), and Mark John (Tramshed Tech).Whether you're eyeing expansion or already trading in the UK, this episode is packed with practical advice, regional insights, and real-world experience to help you succeed.
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59:51
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59:51
Valley Backing: Navigating US Expansion
In this episode of Smooth Scaling, we dive into the reality of securing US investment as an Irish business. To help us navigate the complexity of this journey, we're joined by the brilliant Máire P Walsh, Venture Partner at AiiM partners in Silicon Valley, a proud Mayo woman, and a true champion of Irish entrepreneurship.We explore the real hurdles Irish companies face when trying to raise US investment, whether you can secure investment from Ireland, what US investors are actually looking for in Irish and European startups, common mistakes Irish founders make when entering the US market, the current US investor mindset amid global volatility and how Irish companies can respond along with practical, no-nonsense advice to increase your chances of success.
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23:03
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23:03
Winning the Talent War: How Scaling Companies Compete for Top Talent
Over 85% of our scaling business called out ‘Talent Acquisition & Retention’ as a critical challenge and key hurdle to growth. Scaling companies find themselves competing with larger organisations and multinationals. So how can SMEs differentiate themselves and win the best people?In this episode of Smooth Scaling, we dive into practical strategies that scaling businesses can use to attract top talent. From company culture, career progression, and employer branding to flexibility, ESOPs, and what candidates are really looking for today, we break down the key ways businesses can differentiate themselves in a competitive hiring market.We’re joined by two fantastic guests:- Brian Keville – Founder & Managing Director of MKO, Ireland’s leading planning and environmental consultancy. An alumni of Platform94, Brian has scaled to over 220 employees sharing first-hand insights on how MKO has successfully grown its team to where it is today.- Michelle Murphy – Director at Collins McNicholas, one of Ireland’s top talent and recruitment firms. Michelle brings expert insights into shifting candidate behaviour, what today’s job seekers really want, and how SMEs can strengthen their hiring approach.If you’re leading a scaling business and looking for real-world hiring advice, this episode is packed with insights to help you win the talent war.
Join Marie Donnellan, CEO of Platform94, as she navigates the exciting but complex world of international business scaling. Featuring real-world stories, insights, and advice from entrepreneurs, experts, and industry leaders, Smooth Scaling delves into the highs, lows, and lessons of growing an international business.
Whether you’re scaling your own business, supporting others, or simply curious about the journey, this podcast is your go-to resource for inspiration and actionable strategies.
Tune in to explore the opportunities, challenges and innovations shaping the future of scaling.
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