Taking Care Of Business with Ronan Berry

Why do women make up just 11% of the workforce in one major industry—and what needs to change to close the gap? We’ll explore the barriers and opportunities for attracting more women into the sector. A Midlands social media expert shares practical advice to help businesses sharpen their online presence and get more from their content. Plus, we celebrate a Laois company marking an impressive 30 years in business.

New EU e-Evidence rules could leave Irish businesses with as little as eight hours to respond to demands for customer data. Maureen King of iTrust 6A explains what companies need to know and how they should prepare. Kevin Brady of Applied Concepts shares how Lean transformed the company’s Birr operation—and why businesses should look at getting more from what they already have before investing further. Plus, ISME CEO Neil McDonnell discusses Ireland’s reliance on a small number of companies for tax revenues and what Budget 2027 needs to deliver for indigenous businesses.

Could a new walking route create a wave of tourism opportunities across Offaly? Tony McCormack TD makes the business case for Camino De Uíbh Fháílí and the potential for B&Bs, cafés, bike hire and other local enterprises along the route. Jolene Minogue of Paddy Flynn’s shares the unlikely story behind an Offaly whiskey that has reached the finals of Blas na hÉireann. Ladonna McCartan of Nook & Cranny in Portlaoise discusses the enduring appeal of independent retail after being named among Ireland’s shops worth travelling for. Plus, Sarah La Cumbre and Chris Ball outline Athlone Tennis Club’s ambitious plans for three indoor courts—and the €400,000 fundraising challenge still ahead.

What helps people do their best work? Organisational psychologist Teresa Hand-Campbell joins Ronan to explore the role of trust, autonomy, learning and workplace culture in building high-performing teams. Rena Weld of Matrix Recruitment explains why smaller businesses can often outperform larger employers when it comes to flexibility, career development and creating meaningful work. Plus, Paula Fitzsimons introduces ACORNS 12, the award-winning programme helping rural female entrepreneurs grow their businesses—with the latest participants increasing combined turnover from €4.1 million to almost €6 million.

What does it take to leave one career behind and build a technology business from scratch? Athlone entrepreneur Gareth O'Sullivan shares the journey behind DockHive, discussing innovation, start-up life and the realities of growing an Irish tech company. Chef Anthony O'Connor explains how he's combining hospitality with community spirit through a new fundraiser for the Alzheimer Society of Ireland and the launch of the Terrace Truck at The Old Warehouse. Plus, Vodafone's Orla Nagle looks at how the mobile phone has evolved from a simple communication device into an essential business tool, powering everything from banking and AI to remote working.