AIBF Business Talk

Tourism may look effortless from the outside, but behind every successful destination is a huge amount of planning, coordination and local collaboration. In the latest episode of AIBF Business Talk, Elaine Carroll speaks with Richard Brennan of Visit Carlingford about building a tourism platform that helps visitors discover, book and experience one of Ireland’s most loved destinations. Visit Carlingford began in 2012 after Richard noticed visitors arriving in the town unsure of where to stay, what to do or who to contact. What started as a simple idea for an information website has grown into a platform connecting visitors with accommodation, activities and local experiences. For Richard, the strength of the business lies in working closely with local providers and keeping standards high across the entire visitor journey. “Working with the community, working with the businesses I find is very, very important.” The episode also explores the hidden side of tourism. From accommodation and activities to cleaning, maintenance and customer support, Richard explains that creating a great visitor experience depends on many moving parts working together. “There’s a lot of moving parts in the back,” he says. A key turning point for Visit Carlingford was digitalisation. By creating an online marketplace, customers can now book accommodation, activities and food options in one place, helping the business stay visible and accessible at all times. Looking ahead, Richard hopes to bring the Visit Carlingford model to other towns and villages across Ireland, giving smaller destinations a stronger platform to showcase what they have to offer. The full episode of AIBF Business Talk featuring Richard Brennan of Visit Carlingford is available now.

For many business owners, digital marketing is not the problem. Managing it effectively is. On this episode of AIBF Business Talk, Elaine Carroll speaks with Cormac O’Bruic, founder of eContent, about how Irish businesses can move beyond digital activity and start generating measurable growth. Cormac established eContent after spotting a clear gap in the market. Many SMEs knew marketing mattered, but lacked the time, resources or expertise to manage it properly. eContent was created to help businesses generate revenue through targeted advertising and structured lead generation. A central theme of the conversation is clarity. Not more platforms. Not more content. Not spend more. Better thinking. Cormac explains that every campaign should have a defined role in the customer journey. Without that structure, marketing can quickly become fragmented and inefficient. He also highlights a major opportunity many businesses overlook. “People still buy from people.” By documenting their journey and showing more of the people behind the business, companies can build stronger trust and connection online. The episode also explores the value of effective lead generation. Cormac explains why businesses need systems that not only attract interest, but also qualify and verify leads from the beginning. A key part of eContent’s work is in investor campaigns, particularly around the EIIS (Employment Investment Incentive Scheme). This is a government-backed initiative that allows individuals to invest in Irish businesses and receive up to 50% tax relief.  Cormac explains that instead of relying on traditional fundraising routes, businesses can build their own inbound investor pipelines. Through targeted campaigns and structured funnels, they generate interest, capture qualified leads, and crucially, own that audience.  It’s like building your own crowd instead of renting one.  Another key takeaway is ownership. Businesses that build their own audience through email lists and direct communication create a stronger foundation for long-term growth, rather than relying only on paid platforms. Cormac also reflects on one of the biggest lessons from his own journey. “Effort alone doesn’t guarantee results.” For eContent, growth came from focus. By specialising in advertising and staying clear on what the business does best, the company has built a stronger position in the market. The conversation ends with a practical reminder for business owners. Before investing in ads, the basics must be right. Your website, your business information and your digital first impression all need to build trust. This is a grounded and practical episode for any business owner who wants to approach online growth with more clarity, discipline and intent.

Some businesses spot problems. Others solve them. For Mary B. Teahan, co-founder of Irish Drain Services, that difference sits at the heart of lasting business trust. In this episode of AIBF Business Talk, Mary joins Elaine Carroll to discuss the steady growth of Irish Drain Services, the responsibility that comes with solving real client problems, and the mindset needed to build a business that stands the test of time. Founded in 2009, in the middle of a recession, Irish Drain Services was built from the ground up. One job at a time. One client at a time. “There’s no plan B when you’re self-employed,” Mary reflects. Those early years were not about overnight growth. They were about patience, persistence and proving the company’s value through consistent work. “It was about building the bricks. It took us 10 years to get to where we are now.” A key theme in the conversation is responsibility. For Mary, real value is not found in simply identifying an issue. It is found in taking ownership of it. “You can’t just point out the problem and move on.” That approach matters deeply to clients. When people call Irish Drain Services, they are often dealing with stress, disruption and uncertainty. What they need is not more pressure. They need the problem taken away. “They give you their headache and we take it away.” This problem-solving mindset has shaped how Irish Drain Services operates. It has also helped the company build long-term relationships across residential, commercial and industrial sectors. “If you get a good name for being a problem solver… they’ll stay loyal to you.” Mary also speaks about the need to keep learning, improving and adapting. In business, standing still can be dangerous. “If you stay the same, it’s copy, paste, rename. What makes you different?” This is a grounded conversation about resilience, reputation and doing the job properly. Every time. Because people do not remember who spotted the problem. They remember who solved it. Listen to the full episode of AIBF Business Talk now to hear Mary’s story and the lessons behind the growth of Irish Drain Services. If it resonates, share it with a founder, business owner or leader who would take value from it.

Events are often reduced to logistics. A venue booked. A schedule built. A speaker lineup confirmed. But the real value of an event is rarely found in the running order. It is found in the room itself. On this episode of AIBF Business Talk, Elaine Carroll sits down with Karen Thorpe, Founder of Kick Off Event Management, to explore what truly makes an event meaningful. With a background rooted in the sporting world and years spent building relationships across Ireland’s business and GAA communities, Karen brings a sharp and practical perspective to an industry that is often misunderstood. Since launching her business, she has worked across corporate, charitable and sporting sectors, designing events that prioritise connection, clarity and experience over noise. “I wasn’t ready at all… I just took the chance.” Karen speaks candidly about the leap into entrepreneurship. Not as a perfectly timed decision, but as a moment of action. A decision made despite uncertainty. It is a reminder that many businesses do not begin with certainty. They begin with movement. A central theme of the conversation is restraint. The idea that more does not mean better. That filling an agenda does not guarantee impact. Karen reflects on the shift from overproduced events to more intentional experiences, where the focus is placed on what people actually come for. Connection. “You can’t beat a face-to-face conversation.” In a world that has become increasingly digital, the value of being physically present has only strengthened. The conversations between sessions. The introductions that were not planned. The moments that cannot be replicated online. These are the parts of an event that carry weight. Karen also offers a clear view on the mindset required to build something of your own. The internal pressure. The fear of perception. The voice that questions whether you should step forward at all. “Don’t accept criticism from someone you wouldn’t seek advice from.” It is a simple line, but one that speaks directly to anyone building through uncertainty, finding their footing, or growing something of their own. Not every opinion deserves your attention. Not every voice should shape your direction. Throughout the episode, there is a consistent thread. Respect for people’s time. Clarity of purpose and an understanding that the smallest details often shape the overall experience. This is a considered and insightful conversation about building something that people want to be part of. About creating environments where relationships are formed and ideas move forward. Because in the end, the most valuable outcomes rarely happen on stage. They happen in the room. Catch the full episode and share it with someone who understands that the right room can change everything.

Branded merchandise can often be treated like an afterthought. A logo on a polo shirt. A few pens for an event. A quick order placed and forgotten about. But for Dan Cronin, the reality is very different. On this episode of AIBF Business Talk, Elaine Carroll sits down with Dan Cronin of Planet Embroidery to talk about the world behind branded apparel, promotional merchandise and what businesses often get wrong when it comes to putting their name on products. Based in Cork, Planet Embroidery has built a strong reputation by helping businesses, clubs and organisations find the right branded solutions for their needs. In this conversation, Dan shares what it takes to stand out in a crowded market, why listening properly to the client matters and how trust has shaped the company’s growth. “There are businesses out there who don't need 10 or 20 polo shirts. They might need two. They might need three. And that’s okay too.” One of the strongest takeaways from the episode is that good service is not about pushing volume. It is about understanding what the customer actually needs and guiding them towards the right solution. Dan makes the point that not every client needs a huge order, and the businesses that build lasting relationships are often the ones that take the time to get that right. He also reflects on the reality of running a small family business and what recognition means when you have worked hard to earn trust over time. For Dan, quality and consistency are not nice extras. They are the backbone of the business. “It builds trust. It builds credibility. It shows that we are a company that are customer centric and customer focused in the way we operate and in what we do.” The conversation is a reminder that branded merchandise is not just about products. It is about how a business presents itself, how it serves its customers and how it leaves a lasting impression. Dan brings a practical and grounded perspective to the episode, with honest insight into building a business that people come back to. This is a warm and straightforward conversation about service, reputation and the value of doing the simple things well. Catch the full episode on Wednesday April 15th and share it with a business owner who understands that the small details often say the most.

AI is everywhere right now. In headlines. In meetings. In strategy conversations. But for many SME owners, it still feels like something unclear, overwhelming or easy to put off until later. On this episode of AIBF Business Talk, Elaine Carroll sits down with Suzanne Hill, Founder of AI for SMEs, to talk about what artificial intelligence really means for Irish business leaders and why waiting too long to engage with it could be a serious mistake. With more than 20 years of experience working with SMEs, Suzanne brings both strategic insight and practical advice to a conversation that feels timely and necessary. Her message is simple. AI is not just another business trend. It is fast becoming part of how companies operate, compete and grow. “AI is going to be the entire operating system for business in the future and the longer you wait, the greater your risk becomes.” One of the strongest takeaways in the episode is that too many businesses are starting with the wrong question. Suzanne explains that leaders should not begin with the tool. They should begin with the problem they are trying to solve, the process they want to improve and the objective they want to reach. The AI tool is only the enabler. She also challenges the idea that AI is only for tech experts or younger people. In reality, Suzanne believes the businesses that will gain the most are the ones that combine strong domain knowledge with curiosity and a willingness to learn. The conversation also explores the importance of leadership. Suzanne makes the point that AI cannot simply be delegated. Leaders need to understand it well enough to make informed decisions, guide their teams and avoid falling behind. As she warns, every day a business spends sitting on the fence increases its risk. “You can’t lead something that you fundamentally don’t understand. This is a clear and practical conversation about change, competitiveness and the need for Irish SMEs to start building AI literacy now. Not perfectly. Not all at once. Just by getting started. Catch the full episode tomorrow and share it with a business owner who knows AI matters, but has not yet taken the first step. About the All-Ireland Business Foundation The All-Ireland Business Foundation (AIBF) is Ireland’s national body for recognising and supporting business excellence. We are the accrediting authority behind the Business All-Star marque — Ireland’s Symbol of Trust — awarded through a rigorous audit of reputation, performance and customer trust. Since 2014, we’ve impacted over 5,000 businesses, with 750 currently accredited. For more information please visit www.aibf.ie here.

Success can look polished from the outside. Inside, it can be a very different story. Stress. Exhaustion. Poor sleep. Skipped check-ups. The constant belief that you will deal with your health later. On this episode of AIBF Business Talk, Elaine Carroll sits down with Professor Dr. Robert Kelly, Founder of RK Cardiology and Consultant Cardiologist and lifestyle medicine physician at Beacon Hospital in Dublin, to talk about heart health, behaviour change and why so many busy professionals wait for a wake-up call before taking their wellbeing seriously. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Kelly brings both clinical expertise and practical advice to a conversation that every entrepreneur, leader and high performer needs to hear. His message is simple but powerful.  Your health is not a future problem. It is your responsibility now. He speaks openly about the patterns he sees every day in patients. Men often believe nothing will happen to them. Women are often so busy looking after everyone else that their own health slips further down the list. Different stories, same result. Health gets neglected until something goes wrong. One of the strongest lines in the episode lands early and stays with you.   “Your health is the first million euros you make in your business.”  It is a sharp reminder that success means very little if you are not well enough to enjoy it. The conversation also explores the power of small changes. Dr. Kelly explains that the habits people repeat in their 20s and 30s can shape their health for decades, but the good news is that small positive actions can compound, too. As he shares, even reducing blood pressure by a small amount can have a major impact on long-term health outcomes. Another key takeaway is that motivation alone is not enough. Dr. Kelly speaks about the importance of systems over willpower. Making healthier choices easier. Building simple routines. Creating triggers that support better habits rather than relying on discipline to carry everything. This is an honest and highly practical conversation about prevention, longevity and what sustainable success really looks like. It is not about fear. It is about waking up before your body is forced to do it for you. Catch the full episode now and share it with someone building a business, leading a team or putting everything else first while their own health slips down the list.

Growth can look polished from the outside. Inside the business, it is often a very different story. Pressure. Risk. Cash flow. Tough decisions. The constant push to keep moving. On this episode of AIBF Business Talk, Elaine Carroll sits down with Dermot Honan, CEO of Borrisoleigh Bottling Ltd, an Irish mineral water company based in County Tipperary, to talk about what it really takes to build and grow a business in a competitive market. Dermot shares an honest perspective on scaling, leadership, and the realities that come with building momentum the right way. As he puts it, “Sometimes being the underdog is not a bad thing.” That line captures one of the episode's strongest themes. For smaller businesses, growth often depends on resilience, belief and making the most of the opportunities that come your way. He reflects on how important it was when customers gave the business a chance in the early days, and why those moments matter so much when you are trying to get established.  “Sales is the bloodline of the business.” It is a simple line, but one that will ring true for any founder or business owner trying to balance growth with the everyday realities of running a company. The conversation also explores the leadership side of growth. Dermot speaks about the importance of focus, building the right team and not trying to do everything at once. One of the clearest takeaways from the episode is his belief in surrounding yourself with strong people and giving them the room to do what they do best. This is a grounded and insightful conversation about business growth, calculated risk and the mindset it takes to keep going when the road is not easy. Catch the full episode now and share it with someone building a business, leading a team or navigating growth one step at a time.

Energy is no longer just a running cost. For many businesses, it has become both a major pressure on the balance sheet and a significant opportunity for improvement. Rising prices, uncertainty and growing sustainability demands are forcing leaders to think differently. On this episode of AIBF Business Talk, Elaine Carroll sits down with Dylan Walsh, founder of Celtic Dynamics, to discuss energy efficiency, rising costs and how businesses can take practical steps towards stronger, smarter operations. Dylan brings a very practical view to the conversation. He explains that for SMEs, energy is not just a cost issue. It is a business strategy issue. As he puts it, “There’s no better time now to install something like solar,” especially as more businesses look for control and security around energy use. One of the clearest takeaways from the episode is that waste is often hiding in plain sight. Outdated systems, poor controls and small inefficiencies can quietly cost businesses thousands. Dylan also stresses the value of starting with an energy audit, calling it the step that gives businesses “the information you need to go forward.” This is a timely and practical conversation about reducing waste, improving resilience and making smarter long-term decisions. A strong listen for any business owner feeling the pressure of rising costs and looking for better ways to plan. Catch the full episode now and share it with a business owner or leader looking to build a more efficient and future-ready business.

Most people only hear about forensic engineering when something has already gone wrong. A structure fails. A component breaks. A business is left looking for answers. That is where Professor James Dwan of Dwan Forensic Engineering comes in. On this episode of AIBF Business Talk, Elaine Carroll sits down with James Dwan to explore the world of forensic engineering and the role it plays in helping businesses understand failure, reduce risk and protect what they have built. James describes forensic engineering in simple terms as the study of “things that break.” But as he explains, the real work goes much deeper than spotting damage. It is about finding the root cause. Or in his words, “It’s absolutely detective work and detail, fine detail.” That detective work matters. Across industries, failure can bring much more than physical damage. It can mean downtime, reputational damage, legal exposure and serious pressure on operations. As James points out, businesses often need answers urgently, especially when customers, regulators or internal teams are all asking the same question: what went wrong. What makes his approach stand out is the focus on going beyond the obvious. He explains that many reports stop too early. “It failed by fatigue” may describe the problem, but not the reason behind it - that’s the question that companies really need answered. The episode also highlights the value of independent thinking. In legal cases, James is clear that his role is not to defend one side, but to present the facts honestly and clearly. That objectivity is central to his work and to the trust placed in his expertise. This is a fascinating conversation about problem-solving, truth and the small details that often reveal the biggest answers.  Or as James puts it, “You’ve got to chase the small things.” Catch the full conversation now and share the episode with someone who loves insight, detail and real-world problem-solving.

For many organisations, sickness absence is logged, reported, and reviewed at quarter-end. A number on a dashboard. A line in a report.  But on AIBF Business Talk, Miriam McNulty, Co-Founder of Liffey Consultants, urges leaders to look beyond what is visible. Absence, she explains, is only half the story. The other half is quieter. Harder to measure. Often ignored. Founded in 2019 by Miriam and her husband Paul, Liffey Consultants supports Irish organisations in managing long-term sickness cases, reducing absence levels and improving productivity. Miriam leads the people workstream, focusing on early intervention, structured return-to-work strategies, and the growing issue of presenteeism. Presenteeism is when employees are physically at work but mentally or medically unwell. They show up. They log in. They sit at the desk. But their capacity is reduced. Productivity dips. Errors increase. Engagement fades. It is the hidden leak in the system. As Miriam notes, many leaders are comfortable counting who is not there. Fewer are asking who is there, but struggling. “Tracking absence is common, but managing it properly is actually the issue.” In the episode, she highlights how organisations often react only once someone has been absent for weeks. Yet once absence exceeds the two-week mark, the likelihood of a timely return drops sharply. What might have been resolved with an early conversation can quietly evolve into a long-term case. In the episode, she highlights how organisations often react only once someone has been absent for weeks. Yet once absence exceeds the two-week mark, the likelihood of a timely return drops sharply. What might have been resolved with an early conversation can quietly evolve into a long-term case. The same principle applies to presenteeism. When managers avoid difficult conversations, small health concerns become prolonged performance problems. A team member who feels unsupported may stay at their desk but disengage from their work. Over time, that silent strain can spread across teams. National figures cited in the discussion indicate weekly absence rates of up to 7.4% across workforces. The financial cost is significant. But the cultural cost is often greater. Low morale. Increased pressure on colleagues. Reduced quality of output. A workplace that feels reactive rather than supportive. Miriam’s message is direct. Early intervention is not intrusive. It is responsible leadership. A manager picking up the phone and asking “What happened? What can we do? How can we support you?” can change the trajectory entirely. Strong organisations do not just manage absence. They create environments where people feel safe to speak up before absence becomes inevitable. Because a healthy business is not measured only by who turns up. It is measured by how well they are when they do. If you lead a team, this episode is worth your time.  Because absence is visible, presenteeism is not, and what you cannot see can still cost you. Listen now to hear practical steps you can apply immediately. Share it with a manager who needs to hear it. Start the conversation before the numbers force you to.

On a recent episode of AIBF Business Talk, Elaine Carroll spoke with Keith Enright, CEO of ASD Ireland and charity partner of the All-Ireland Business Foundation. This was not a routine awareness conversation. It was an honest reflection on where Ireland stands on autism and why so many families still feel unsupported. ASD Ireland was founded in 2017 because Keith’s son had nowhere to go. No pathway. No structured support. Fourteen families came together out of necessity. Today, more than 350 families are supported nationwide, reflecting the depth of unmet need. Keith challenged the belief that autism is mainly a boys’ issue or that academic success means a child is coping. Many girls mask from a young age, carefully copying social cues. When secondary school intensifies pressure, that effort can collapse. What looks sudden is often years of hidden strain surfacing. Despite greater public conversation, Keith believes Ireland remains at the surface level. Awareness alone is not inclusion. Culture is. Through practical training, ASD Ireland works with businesses to build environments that genuinely support autistic individuals. Small changes, he said, can transform workplaces.  “If you change the culture, then the business changes and the business flourishes.” Meanwhile, diagnosis waiting lists stretch for years, and families are too often left without direction. As Keith described it, the experience can feel like being given a diagnosis and then being left to manage alone. That gap between diagnosis and support is where many struggle most. Early intervention changes outcomes. ASD Ireland’s mobile sensory unit, designed by autistic individuals, brings practical support directly into communities. The aim is simple: build a system where families do not have to fight to be heard. The message was clear. Awareness is the starting point. Inclusion is leadership. If this conversation moved you, take action. Support the work of ASD Ireland by donating at www.asdireland.ie. Every contribution helps fund training, social groups and vital services for autistic individuals and their families across Ireland. If you believe conversations like this matter, listen to the full episode of AIBF Business Talk and share it within your network. The more people who hear it, the stronger the ripple effect.

On the latest episode of AIBF Business Talk, host Elaine Carroll sits down with James of Priority Insurance & Finance Solutions. His path into financial advice was anything but linear. From mechanic to hospitality manager to banking, each chapter sharpened a different skill. Farming life instilled discipline and accountability. Hospitality built resilience and people skills under pressure. Banking taught structure and, importantly, the need to question it. That layered background now shapes how he advises business owners.  As James puts it, “Behind every financial decision there’s a real person… with fears and responsibilities and pressure.”  That human understanding sits at the core of his work. From there, the conversation turns to the side of business most owners avoid until it becomes urgent. Protection. It is not glamorous, but it is foundational. James sees a familiar pattern across SMEs. Risk is understood in theory, yet action is delayed. Renewals become routine. Policies are judged on price alone.  “If it were free, you’d absolutely have all elements of your finances safeguarded,” he notes. The challenge is rarely logical. It is prioritisation. At the centre of the discussion is income. Income funds the business, supports the family and drives long-term plans. Yet it is often the least protected asset. When asked what entrepreneurs postpone for too long, James answers without hesitation: “Income protection all day long.” If the owner cannot show up, what happens next? That question is not dramatic. It is strategic. The episode also explores how underused business protection remains in Ireland. Key person cover, shareholder protection and continuity planning are frequently overlooked. Many directors have never fully mapped out what would happen if a partner became ill or passed away. Ownership structures can quickly become vulnerable. Cash flow can stall overnight. These are uncomfortable conversations, but they are leadership conversations. Ignoring risk does not remove it. It simply leaves it unmanaged. Throughout the episode, James emphasises that strong financial advice is not about selling products. It is about building a plan. A plan that evolves. A plan that is reviewed. A plan that adapts as life and business change. Price alone is not the benchmark. Long-term thinking is. Financial planning becomes less about transactions and more about direction. He closes with a principle that has guided his career: “Are you doing it the best you can or the best it can be done?”  It is a subtle distinction, but a powerful one. Effort delivers progress. Standards deliver excellence.  For entrepreneurs, the message is clear. Growth without protection is fragile. Safeguarding what you have built is not pessimism. It is smart leadership. You can find more information about Priority Insurance & Finance Solutions from their website linked here, and you can connect with James Tinnelly on LinkedIn here.  If you found this article or episode valuable, tell us what stood out for you. Drop a comment below or share it with someone who needs to read it.

For much of his career, Niall Leyden, Founder of Atlantic Wealth Management, believed wealth meant more money, more success and more recognition. It was a familiar definition, shaped early and reinforced by years working alongside high-performing clients. But experience slowly challenged that view. In a recent episode of AIBF Business Talk, the founder of Atlantic Wealth Management reflected on how his understanding of wealth has evolved and why that shift matters for entrepreneurs today. “I thought wealth meant being rich.”  “But over time, I realised being rich and being wealthy are not the same thing.” That distinction frames the conversation. One of the most common financial blind spots Niall sees is not risk, but sequence. Too many people start with products, pensions, policies and investments before first understanding what those tools are meant to serve. Purpose, he argues, must come first. Only then can a plan provide direction. Only then does a portfolio make sense.  “A pilot would never take off without a flight plan,” he points out. “Yet a lot of business owners do exactly that with their finances.” For Niall, financial planning is not about prediction or perfect timing.  “Financial planning is bringing the future back into the present so we can do something about it now.” When done properly, it cuts through noise and replaces it with clarity, and clarity is what clients actually want.  Clients want three things - clarity, calm and confidence. At the core of this approach is a simple rule. “We have no right to talk to clients about their money until we understand them, financially and emotionally.” Put people first. Money follows. Today, his definition of wealth is stripped back and human. “Rich is about money,” he says. “Wealth is about freedom.” Money is the fuel. Freedom is the destination.

In this episode of AIBF Business Talk, Elaine Carol speaks with sales strategist and author of Steps to WIN, Cira Feely, about the quieter skills that shape long-term growth. Preparation. Curiosity. And the kind of trust that cannot be rushed. Ciara’s perspective was shaped long before she ever trained a sales team. Her early career took her from Ireland to New York, through advertising and into hospitality across the United States. Working in hotels teaches a simple truth very quickly. People rarely arrive with neatly defined needs. What they ask for is often not what they actually need. That understanding became foundational. “People don’t always tell you what’s really important to them straight away,” she notes. Learning to listen for what sits beneath the first answer became central to how she approaches sales today. When Ciara later founded FindAConferenceVenue.com, she gained a different vantage point. Sitting on the buying side, she began to notice patterns. Many businesses rushed to sell. Many talked about themselves too soon. Very few paused to understand the client’s world. From that experience came a belief that runs through the episode. “You have to earn the conversation.” For Ciara, the real competition is not another supplier. It is time. Decision-makers are busy, distracted and under pressure. Earning their attention means arriving prepared, informed and relevant. It means showing that the conversation will be worth their time. Once that conversation begins, the role of the salesperson changes. It is no longer about pitching. It is about leading. Leading with questions, not answers. One metaphor captures this clearly. Think like an onion. People start at the surface. The real issues sit underneath. Asking “why” and “tell me more” creates space for those deeper layers to emerge. Trust is what allows that to happen. That trust matters because buying decisions are rarely logical alone. “Our brains make decisions based on how someone makes us feel.” Price and facts play a role, but emotion carries greater weight. Trust and connection do the heavy lifting. The episode also challenges the idea that sales is something you either have or you don’t. Ciara is clear. Sales is learned. It is “100% trainable.” But not through short, intensive workshops that overwhelm teams and fade once everyone returns to their inbox. Real change, she argues, happens gradually. Small steps. Repeated practice. Ongoing support. Habits shift over time, not overnight. There is also a reflection on growth, particularly for women founders. Many are capable, busy and successful, yet hesitate to push further. Sometimes people “play small without realising it.” Progress often begins by thinking bigger, asking for help, and learning from those who have already walked the path. The conversation closes with a reflection on recognition and values. For Ciara, recent Business All-Star accreditation mattered because it reflected how she works, not just what she delivers. Trust was built quietly. Maintained consistently. Sales, the episode suggests, is not about pressure or persuasion. It is about presence. And the most valuable conversations are never forced. They are earned. Explore more from Ciara Feely Ciara has created a short positioning resource to help you see if you are set up to attract high-paying corporate clients, which you can access here Connect with Ciara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ciarafeely/

In this episode of AIBF Business Talk, AIBF Co-CEO Elaine Carroll sits down with Ursula Kelly, Managing Director of Cormac Tagging, for a grounded conversation on leadership, standards and trust in Irish agribusiness. Cormac Tagging is a family-owned Irish business supplying animal identification products across the livestock sector. Under Ursula’s leadership, the company entered and reshaped the cattle tag market, challenging a long-standing monopoly and introducing greater choice in a highly regulated environment. A central theme of the discussion is traceability. Ursula explains why Ireland’s ability to trace livestock from farm to fork is one of its strongest assets, particularly as consumers become more conscious of food origin and quality. Traceability, she notes, is not just compliance. It is proof. The episode also explores leadership in a traditionally male-dominated sector, the responsibility that comes with growth, and the importance of building teams aligned around clear values. Ursula speaks candidly about backing yourself when decisions feel risky, learning from costly mistakes, and why human connection still matters in an increasingly digital world. It is a practical, honest conversation about doing business where standards are tested daily and trust must be earned, not claimed. 🎧 Listen now on AIBF Business Talk

 “The standard you set is the standard you get.” - Bevin Mahon In this episode of AIBF Business Talk, AIBF Co-CEO Elaine Carroll sits down with Bevin Mahon, President of AIBF and CEO of Dental Tech Group. Bevin brings a rare dual perspective. Leading a growing business. And helping set the standards that recognise excellence across Irish enterprise. This is an honest conversation about leadership responsibility, consistency, and why independent standards matter more than ever. Especially when growth gets uncomfortable. Highlights: • Why independent accreditation builds trust faster than self-promotion. • What Business All-Star recognition really measures beneath the surface. • How the community creates unspoken accountability for leaders. • The hidden loneliness of leadership and why peers matter. • “What gets measured gets done” and why avoidance stalls growth. • The power of small improvements done consistently over time. • Why standards must rise as businesses scale. • How confidence, self-talk, and visibility shape leadership impact. If you lead a business and ever wonder, “Am I holding the right standards as we grow?” This one will land. 🎧 Listen now on AIBF Business Talk :

The first episode of 2026 on AIBF Business Talk sets a clear and intentional tone for the year ahead. Rather than adding to the usual January noise, this episode focuses on what genuinely sustains performance in business and leadership over time. Our guest, Gerry Duffy, brings a perspective shaped by endurance sport and high-performance coaching. His experience offers a grounded counterpoint to the idea that motivation is the primary driver of success. Instead, the conversation centres on commitment, discipline and the systems leaders rely on when motivation inevitably fades. Rethinking motivation at the start of the year January often encourages leaders to believe that change happens through enthusiasm and intention alone. New plans are made quickly, expectations rise and momentum is assumed. Gerry challenges this thinking by highlighting a simple reality: motivation is inconsistent, while commitment is dependable. Progress, he explains, is built through small, repeated actions that are maintained even when energy is low or conditions are imperfect. For business owners, this distinction matters. Motivation may initiate action, but commitment is what sustains it. Leadership in everyday conditions A recurring theme throughout the episode is leadership as it exists outside the spotlight. Not in moments of recognition or high visibility, but in routine decision-making and follow-through. Leadership, in this context, is demonstrated through consistency, reliability and the ability to act with clarity when distractions are at their highest. Gerry reflects on how discipline often replaces enthusiasm in moments that truly matter, and how leaders who perform well over time understand this trade-off. The emphasis is not on intensity, but on steadiness. Focus, structure and long-term performance The conversation also explores focus as a strategic advantage. In an environment where leaders are managing multiple demands, priorities can easily become diluted. Gerry emphasises the importance of reducing complexity, choosing fewer goals and protecting attention as a means of improving execution. Rather than viewing focus as a limitation, it is framed as direction. Like steering a business with intention rather than simply accelerating activity, clarity becomes the mechanism through which progress is sustained. Why this conversation is timely Many leaders begin the year carrying unresolved pressures from the previous one. This episode does not promise rapid transformation or dramatic resets. Instead, it offers perspective, structure and a reminder that long-term performance is built quietly, through consistent behaviour and deliberate choices. 🎧 Listen now on AIBF Business Talk About the All-Ireland Business Foundation The All-Ireland Business Foundation (AIBF) is an autonomous national accreditation body tasked with enterprise development and the promotion of best-in-class Irish businesses. As the accreditation body for the Business All-Star mark, the AIBF recognises companies that merit distinction through an independent audit of their performance, reputation and customer-centricity. Business All-Star Accreditation is the nation’s symbol of trust. Currently, over 750 companies hold AIBF accreditation. Since 2014, more than 5,000 businesses have participated in AIBF programmes. The Foundation also hosts the annual All-Ireland Entrepreneurs Summit and monthly gatherings to promote peer learning and collaboration across its community. For more information, visit www.aibf.ie.

“You bring yourself to work every day. You bring yourself to work as a leader.” – Nikki McGoohan In this episode of AIBF Business Talk, AIBF Co-CEO Elaine Carroll sits down with Nikki McGoohan, founder of Propel 2Gether and Business All-Star Master Practitioner Business Services 2025. Nikki is a mentor, coach, trainer, and emotional intelligence specialist. She supports micro and small business owners who are doing ten jobs at once. This is a practical, honest chat about leadership, culture, and why overwhelm is often a signal, not a flaw. Highlights: • How micro businesses get stuck “in the business” and lose time to think. • Why many owners feel embarrassed about accounts, and why they should not. • Emotional intelligence as a business tool, not a buzzword. • Self awareness and communication, and how “noise” shows up in every conversation. • Delegation and outsourcing, without guilt, and without chaos. • Humour at work, and why it builds trust faster than a fancy title. • Values in action, and why teams define “honesty” differently. • A calm way to get unstuck: breathe, name the fear, take one step. If you have ever thought, “I didn’t start my business to do everything else,” this one will land.

“It’s probably 70, 80% psychological.” In this episode of AIBF Business Talk, AIBF Co-CEO Elaine Carroll sits down with Christopher McCormack and Ronan Berry, the team behind The Unit Challenge. It’s built by former Irish Special Forces. And it’s designed to sharpen discipline, build resilience, and show how people really operate under pressure. You’ll hear how it grew from an individual “Scratch” concept into something teams kept asking for. Plus the moment nobody forgets. The bell. If you drop out, you ring it. “Nobody has yet.” Highlights What it is: a challenge inspired by military selection, adapted for real people and real teams. Three pathways: Individuals, Teams, and Juniors.   Scratch for individuals: built for people chasing “the next challenge” and looking for something beyond fitness. Team impact: it forces communication, planning, and “how do we respond when the chips are down?” The bell moment: adults avoid it. kids sprint to ring it. That contrast says a lot. Simple habit advice: start tiny. five minutes. build the discipline muscle daily. How to learn more: website details and direct contact are shared in the episode. 🎧 Listen now on AIBF Business Talk :

In this episode, Elaine chats with Shay Lynch, business architect and founder of Future State – the guy leaders call when their business is busy, noisy… and stuck. Shay went through the 2008 crash, big debts, hard calls and learned how to rebuild with better systems, better teams and a clearer head. Here’s what you’ll hear, in plain English: How a seven-figure business nearly collapsed overnight and what saved it. Why protecting your team is often the best “strategy” you’ll ever use. What a business architect actually does (no hard hat, lots of whiteboard). The danger of “we’ve always done it this way” for SMEs. Sales vs marketing: the truth about “rubbish leads” and how to fix it. Data that matters: stop tracking everything, start tracking the right five numbers. Firefighting vs leading: how to move from constant crisis to 90-day focus. How to build a culture where people help each other instead of hiding mistakes. Why your business should not depend on you for every decision. Simple mindset + breathing tricks Shay uses to calm the brain and make better calls. If you’re a business owner who feels like the whole thing would fall apart if you took a week off, this one is for you. 🎧 Listen now on AIBF Business Talk – just search “From Chaos to Clarity: How Shay Lynch Builds Businesses That Don’t Break Their Owners.”

“Start with listening. If you get that right, everything else falls into place.” – Elaine Hennessy In this episode, Elaine Carroll sits down with Elaine Hennessy, Founder & Creative Director of Little Blue Studio, a web design studio known for turning brand stories into meaningful digital experiences. Elaine shares how she launched the studio in the aftermath of the 2008 crash, why the name “Little Blue” reflects connection and warmth, and how her team grew into specialists trusted by tourism bodies, education partners and businesses across Ireland. She breaks down the essentials of strong branding: clarity, personality, values and simple language and explains why listening is the most underrated business skill. They also explore the next major shift for Irish SMEs: website accessibility and what the new EU standards mean for every business owner. If you’re building your brand, leading a team, or trying to blend creativity with strategy, this conversation is rich with practical insights you can use right away. Highlights: • The leap from employment to entrepreneurship after the 2008 crash. • Why “Little” and “Blue” capture the heart of their brand. • What brand personality really means and how to define yours. • The power of storytelling in building trust and connection. • Why simple language sells better than clever language. • The biggest branding mistake businesses make. • Boundaries, team culture and the art of choosing the right clients. • What’s next: website accessibility and the future of digital. A warm, inspiring look at creativity, clarity and leading with heart the Little Blue Studio way.

“There’s no business nowadays that isn’t technology-driven. None.” – Imelda O’Hanlon In this episode, AIBF CEO Elaine Carroll sits down with Imelda O’Hanlon, founder of Star Recruitment and Business All-Star Thought Leader in IT Recruitment, to explore the real state of tech hiring in Ireland, the good, the messy, and the wonderfully human. Imelda shares how she moved from selling IT systems to helping companies find the right people to run them. She talks openly about AI-written CVs, digital transformation pressure, the loneliness of being a solopreneur, and why she still believes recruitment is a “win–win” job at its core. She also breaks down what she discovered in her new report The Rise of Strategic IT Leadership in Ireland and why SMEs must rethink how they hire, retain, and support their tech talent. Highlights: • Why she built Star Recruitment: blending a love of people, tech and long-term relationships. • AI-enhanced CVs: why everyone looks perfect on paper and how to spot the truth. • Digital transformation that works: pilot first, communicate often, and lead from the top. • Every firm is a tech firm: from jam makers to construction to finance, digital is now everyone’s job. • Retaining top talent: autonomy, impact, and treating the IT function as strategic, not “the guy in the corner.” • Solopreneur life: routines, exercise, community and the family who listens to every mad idea. • Upskilling that matters: Skillnet courses, AI literacy, cyber basics and why 2026 will demand even more. • Building great teams: hire for communication, curiosity and business understanding not just technical depth. • The role of leadership: IT managers must be at the decision-making table, not brought in after the fact. • Growth vision: positioning Star Recruitment as the go-to partner for Irish businesses building tech capability. Tune in for a grounded, practical and very real conversation about the people behind Ireland’s digital future and why hiring well is now a leadership skill, not just a HR task.

“You can’t change everybody, but you can change one person.” – Jeanette Delahunty In this episode, AIBF CEO Elaine Carroll sits down with Jeanette Delahunty, founder of TSK Academy, a social enterprise on a mission to make neuro inclusion real in schools, workplaces and families. Jeanette shares her journey from early school leaver and late-diagnosed ADHD, to Masters in Psychology and six-in-a-row Business All-Star. She talks honestly about masking, burnout, bias, and what actually helps neurodivergent people feel like they belong, not just “fit in.” We also dive into her next big step: a Neurodiversity Summit and a long-term vision for a one-stop assessment and support centre. Highlights: Origin story: from “not good enough at school” to founding a neurodiversity-led social enterprise. Lived experience + letters after your name: why organisations still want both. The TSK model: corporate training funds low-cost and pro bono support for families and those most overlooked. Beyond awareness: moving from “we know autism exists” to real belonging, respect and support. Masking at work: the hidden cost of “peopling” all day and crashing at home. Psychological safety: how leaders can drop their guard, share their own struggles, and let others take off the mask. First steps for employers: unconscious bias with a wider lens, neurodiversity training, and fixing policy gaps that miss hidden disabilities. Leadership in practice: weekly check-ins, tailored tools, and asking “What do you need this week?” Growth turning point: why a Masters in Psychology shifted doors, confidence, and impact. The road ahead: therapy and consultancy under Inclusive Mind Therapy Services, and a future all-in-one assessment centre to cut years off waiting lists. Tune in for a grounded, honest conversation about inclusion that goes beyond slogans, with real stories, practical steps, and a founder whose mission is to change the world one person at a time.

“If you want something badly enough, you’ll find a way. The car has a reverse gear for a reason.” - Paul Gamartin, Founder & CEO, Store4U. In this episode, AIBF CEO Elaine Carroll chats with Paul Gamartin, the entrepreneur behind Store4U, Ireland’s fastest-growing storage network. From insulation and energy to storage and tech, Paul’s story is a masterclass in staying curious, building strong teams, and scaling what others overlook. We talk about funding challenges, customer-first innovation, and why slow, steady growth still wins in business. Highlights: Origin story: from insulation business to inspiration on the Airdrome. Scaling slow: patience, planning, and smart risk-taking. Funding reality: how to grow capital-heavy ventures when banks say no. People fit: why the wrong hire costs more than no hire. Customer-first model: design the business around what people actually need. Tech edge: make it easy for customers without losing the human touch. Leadership lens: stay grounded, walk the seafront, clear your head, then go again. Networking done right: why your phonebook is still your biggest business asset. Tune in for a grounded, no-frills look at Irish entrepreneurship, full of wit, wisdom, and lessons from a founder who’s built success one unit, one team, and one smart move at a time.

“Do it really well, take no shortcuts and price it so people can show up three times a week.” - Sarah McLachlann, Founder, Pilates Performance. In this episode, CEO Elaine Carroll talks with Sarah McLachlann about turning a personal recovery story into Pilates Performance. A studio and educator brand built on classical principles, customer care, and smart systems. We cover accessibility over exclusivity, planning for scale, and simple daily habits busy leaders can actually keep. Highlights: Origin: from chronic pain to a practice that heals and performs. Access > luxury: price for frequency to drive real results. Principles first: keep the classical Pilates foundation intact. Customer-first ops: pick up the phone; personalise over templates. Work on the business: plan staff, space, and systems before demand spikes. Founder stamina: pace yourself; movement as a non-negotiable. Desk survival kit: sit right, move often; 10-minute AM/PM routines that stick. For would-be owners: decide early-a job you love or a business that can scale? Tune in for practical, human advice on building a wellness brand that retains clients, protects the founder, and grows on purpose.

“Get sleep under control and everything else gets easier: energy, food, movement, life.” - Elaine Ellis, Co-Founder, Sentro Labs. In this episode, CEO Elaine Carroll talks with Elaine Ellis about launching Sentro Labs, an Irish, evidence-led supplement brand focused on sleep, stress, gut and hormonal health. We dig into why transparency (clear dosages, cited studies) and Irish manufacturing matter, how Sentro scaled from one SKU D2C to nationwide stockists, and what TikTok Shop changed about growth. Highlights: The origin problem: midlife overload, broken sleep, and building a product that tackles sleep and stress together. Transparency as strategy: published dosages, cited research, full traceability, Irish-made. Go-to-market: start D2C, prove demand, then add wholesale; why TikTok Shop became a real revenue engine. Category insight: the male hormonal health gap and Sentro’s traction there. Ops discipline: outsource logistics early to protect focus and cash flow. Founder sustainability: sleep first, strength training, batch cooking-burnout prevention in practice. What’s next: a weight-management line grounded in blood sugar & appetite control, not hype. 👉 Tune in for practical, evidence-driven tactics to build trust, ship better products, and scale smart.

In this episode of AIBF Business Talk, host Elaine Carroll, CEO of the All-Ireland Business Foundation, sits down with Adrian Godwin, Managing Director of Oaktree Financial Services - a name synonymous with trust, transparency, and community spirit. Adrian shares his journey of building a firm grounded in genuine care for clients and a culture of teamwork. From the importance of protecting your own financial wellbeing as a business owner to leading with empathy, Adrian’s insights remind us that real success is about more than profit - it’s about people. > “It’s not just about sell, sell, sell. It’s about listening to our clients.” “Never be afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s in business or life, that’s how we grow.” “If you don’t take your head out of the weeds and look over the field, you could miss what really matters.” Adrian also talks about his upcoming Charity Gala Ball supporting ARC Cancer Support House and the Eating Disorder Centre Cork - two causes close to his heart. > “We wanted to give back on a bigger scale this year. It’s about creating comfort and care for families going through difficult times.” 💫 Listen to the full conversation to hear how entrepreneurship, compassion, and community come together at Oaktree Financial Services. 🎧 Tune in now to AIBF Business Talk - where Ireland’s leading business minds share insights, ideas and inspiration. 👉 Want to support the cause?Get your tickets or raffle entries for the Gala Ball at www.oaktreefinancial.ie

“Keep your records in order. That’s the basis for every good decision and your best protection.” — Cathy Shivnan, Director of Insolvency Supervision, Corporate Enforcement Authority In this episode, Elaine Carroll talks with Cathy Shivnan about spotting financial red flags early, understanding your legal duties, and choosing the right rescue route. Highlights: ✨ The red flags you can’t ignore: sales slide, aged debt, supplier strain, rising costs, cash-flow squeezes. ✨ Monthly management accounts vs year-end: why “rear-view” finance puts you at risk. ✨ Directors’ duties in plain English, especially when insolvency risk appears. ✨ SCARP vs Examinership: which suits your size and the “reasonable prospect of survival” test. ✨ Restriction vs Disqualification: what they mean and how to avoid both. ✨ First steps when worried: pull the numbers, assess solvency, get specialist advice, act early. 👉 Tune in for practical, no-nonsense guidance to protect your business and yourself as a director.: 

“Your capacity isn’t fixed. If it were, world records wouldn’t be broken.” - Dr. Janine van Someren   In this episode, Elaine Carroll sits down with Dr. Janine van Someren, founder of The Wellbeing Advantage, to explore how wellbeing fuels business performance.   Dr. Janine brings insights from her background in high-performance sport, psychology and leadership to show why wellbeing isn’t a perk - it’s a performance strategy. From burnout prevention to building resilience and smarter recovery habits, this episode is packed with practical takeaways for leaders and teams alike.   Highlights: ✨ How insights from elite sport translate to business success. ✨ The data behind wellbeing: What gets measured gets managed. ✨ Early signs of burnout and how to intervene before it’s too late. ✨ Why presenteeism costs more than absenteeism. ✨ Building resilience through energy management and capacity tracking.   👉 Tune in now to discover how small wellbeing shifts can deliver big performance gains - for you and your team.

 “You can’t do it half and half. If you believe in it, go all in.” - Gavin Kelly In this episode, Elaine Carroll chats with Gavin Kelly, founder of Purple Panda - the 100% Irish-owned company delivering 20,000+ workplace products with next-day service and standout customer care. Gavin shares how he went from Viking to launching Purple Hippo, why a bold name helped break into a crowded market, and how Purple Panda grew into a trusted partner for businesses across Ireland. He talks about financing challenges, building a strong culture, and expanding into the UK while keeping customer service at the heart of everything. Highlights: The bold branding move that made people remember Purple Panda. Breaking into one of Ireland’s most crowded markets. How a culture of accountability drives team performance. Why customer service is the ultimate competitive edge. From financing hurdles to UK expansion - lessons in growth. 👉 Tune in now to hear Gavin’s story and discover how Purple Panda is reshaping office solutions in Ireland. >>  

From the very first recording to our 200th conversation, AIBF Business Talk has been about one thing: shining a light on Ireland’s entrepreneurs. In this special episode, host and CEO of AIBF, Elaine Carroll sits down with Kieran Ring, Deputy Chair of the AIBF Adjudication Board, to reflect on the journey of the All-Ireland Business Foundation and the businesses that have shaped its story. They talk about what it means to be recognised as a Business All-Star, why entrepreneurs thrive in community, and how passion and resilience keep Irish SMEs moving forward even in uncertain times. This episode is more than a milestone — it’s a thank you. To the hundreds of entrepreneurs who’ve shared their stories, to the AIBF community that keeps growing, and to everyone who believes in raising standards across Irish business. Join us as we look back, celebrate the present, and set our sights on the next 200 episodes. 👉 Press play and be part of the story.

Ronan Haslette grew up sweeping floors in his family’s Leitrim factory. Today, he’s leading Merenda, Ireland’s  only flexible wood veneer manufacturer, working with architects, designers and furniture makers across the world. On this episode of AIBF Business Talk, Ronan opens up about: The reality of stepping into a second-generation family business How Merenda balances tradition with innovation and design trends Winning — and sometimes walking away from — export markets Why explaining the “why” keeps teams motivated through change How veneer helps save timber resources (32x less used than solid wood) It’s the inside track on resilience, leadership, and building a business that lasts. 🎧 Tune in now on Spotify & Apple Podcasts — just search AIBF Business Talk. Click Here

💬  “Diversity isn’t just about difference - it’s about belonging.” – Sofi Musleh This week on AIBF Business Talk, Elaine Carroll chats with Sofi Musleh, Global Head of Diversity & Inclusion and proud AIBF Business All-Star Thought Leader 2025. Sofi doesn’t do buzzwords - she talks real. 👉 Why DEI isn’t a ‘nice extra’ but the backbone of healthy business 👉 What small companies can do today without big budgets 👉 The traps leaders fall into (and how to avoid them) 👉 How listening -  really listening - changes everything From hospital wards to global boardrooms, Sofi has seen one truth: inclusion isn’t paperwork, it’s people. 🎧 Tune in for a straight-talking, practical, and inspiring take on building workplaces that work for everyone. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify – just search AIBF Business Talk

👑 “The Brow Movement isn’t just about beauty - it’s about confidence, joy, and possibility.” – Munaza Gilmore Munaza Gilmore never set out to build a brow empire - but today, The Brow Movement is shaping confidence, creating products, and training the next generation of beauty pros. 💄 From her granny’s sitting room to Ireland’s Brow Queen, Munaza Gilmore turned resilience and a piece of thread into The Brow Movement, one of Ireland’s rising beauty brands. 💄✨ On this episode of AIBF Business Talk, Munaza shares: ✅ Starting a salon during Covid & finding joy in creativity ✅ The leap from social care worker to beauty entrepreneur ✅ Building confidence - for herself, her clients & her kids ✅ Creating products designed for every skin tone & community It’s raw, real, and proof that passion can reshape your future (and your brows). 🎧 Listen now on Spotify – just search AIBF Business Talk

“I’ve worked with people earning huge salaries… but still struggling to keep up with bills.” For David Devine, that wasn’t a question of discipline - it was about wiring. As the founder of Platinum Financial Planning & NeuroFinance™, David has spent years helping clients who think differently take control of their finances - without the shame, jargon or one-size-fits-all approach. In this episode of AIBF Business Talk, the Wired for Wealth author and AIBF Wicklow Financial Services Company of the Year winner shares: Why money struggles are often about compatibility, not capability How his NEURO Method creates financial plans that stick - even for non-linear thinkers The connection between self-worth, stress, and spending Real client stories that prove a different approach gets different results His mission to train a global network of neuro-aware advisors If you’ve ever felt “bad with money” - this might just change the way you see your finances. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify – just search AIBF Business Talk  

From a humble jaunting car in 1957 to the pinnacle of luxury travel today - Kerry Coaches is now proud to be crowned All-Ireland Champion Bus and Coach Company of the Year 2025.🥇 In this episode of AIBF Business Talk, Elaine Carroll chats with Mike Buckley, who shares how his family business grew from small beginnings to a fleet of over 100 luxury coaches. 💬 “People said I was mad spending £23,500 on a mini coach in 1982.” 💬 “We were one of the first to offer proper luxury travel for golf tours.” 💬 “The way Kerry plays football - with pride and passion - that’s how we run our business.” 🎧 In the episode, Mike talks about: Starting from scratch after losing his father The rise of golf tourism and VIP travel Why family values still drive the business The future of greener transport And what it takes to build something that lasts This is a story of pride, people and pure determination. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify – just search AIBF Business Talk  

"You don’t need to hustle harder, you need to think sharper." 💡 After 20 years running his first tech company, Dave Devery stepped away, took stock, and started again, this time on his own terms with Dave Devery Consulting. On this episode of AIBF Business Talk, he chats with Elaine Carroll about: Walking away from a business he built over two decades Starting fresh as a fractional CIO -and what that actually means Helping business leaders avoid tech debt and make smarter IT decisions Why strategy beats hustle when you’re building something sustainable Advice for anyone thinking about making a big change What it means to be named AIBF Tipperary Entrepreneur of the Year 2025 🥇 From Tipperary to tech boardrooms, Dave’s story is honest, sharp and full of useful insight. If you’re building, rebuilding or just rethinking things - this one’s for you. 🎙 Now streaming on Spotify | Search “AIBF Business Talk” 🔍

“After a year or two, we pivoted into lead generation - and that’s been our core focus for the past 10 years. Now, we’re evolving again.” In this episode of AIBF Business Talk, Elaine Carroll sits down with Edel Madden and David McCullough, co-founders of Xsell - proudly named All-Ireland Champion Digital Marketing & Lead Generation Agency of the Year. After decades in big tech, they left the boardroom behind to build something better - a results-driven agency with values at its core and zero room for fluff. In this episode, we explore: ✅ Why they walked away from corporate life ✅ How they’ve built a no-politics, high-performance team ✅ The “RACC” formula that’s helping clients win globally ✅ What makes their lead gen approach actually work ✅ Their take on AI, agility, and staying ahead of the game 🎧 This one’s for entrepreneurs who believe you can grow a business and do it your way. Listen now on Spotify - search AIBF Business Talk

"I was the everything. I was head of every department. You do everything. You look back now and wonder, how did I do it? But you do - you just do." In this week’s episode of AIBF Business Talk, host Elaine Carroll sits down with Aoife Caulfield of Caulfield Financial – a woman on a mission to simplify financial planning and help families take control of their financial future. Aoife shares the real story behind her business: 💬 Walking away from corporate comfort to build something of her own 💬 The unseen emotional load of being a solopreneur and a mum 💬 Building a dream business - from her home office 💬 Why she believes finance should never feel intimidating 💬 The power of planning, purpose, and plain speaking ✨ From surviving the early solopreneur grind to creating a business that fits her life - this is a story full of courage, candour, and clarity. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify | Search AIBF Business Talk

"I saw people struggling. I knew we could do better. So we did." When Neil Costello couldn’t find the right support for his loved ones, he didn’t just complain, he built the solution. On this episode of AIBF Business Talk, we dive into the powerful story behind Better Care, Ireland’s leading private mental health service. What started as one man’s mission during COVID is now a nationwide network offering everything from counselling and psychotherapy to ADHD assessments and psychiatry - all under one umbrella. 🔥 What you’ll hear: The “enough is enough” moment that sparked Better Care The growing pains of scaling care without compromising quality The reality of being a founder and a therapist Why doing it all yourself slows everything down The mindset shift that helped Neil move from burnout to breakthrough 💬 It’s raw, real, and incredibly relevant - especially for founders juggling purpose, pressure, and people. 🏆 A proud Business All-Star, Neil also reflects on the meaning of AIBF accreditation and the power of peer recognition. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify & all major platforms 🔗 Explore services: bettercare.ie

“We don’t do false. Not in beauty — and not in business.” In an industry crowded with filters, fillers and fast fixes, Totalcare is doing something refreshingly rare: telling the truth. This week on AIBF Business Talk, we sit down with powerhouse duo Dympna & Ben Fitzgerald, the mother-and-son team behind one of Ireland’s most trusted aesthetic and skincare clinics. From humble beginnings to becoming a multi-award-winning business, Totalcare now runs a full-service clinic, a high-level training académie, and a distribution arm supplying quality skincare and equipment across Ireland — all while staying true to one simple promise: natural, honest, total care. We cover: ✅ How Totalcare is building confidence — without the needles ✅ The secret to creating loyal clients (and students) for life ✅ What “no pressure selling” really means in practice ✅ Why their Académie is shaping the future of the industry ✅ Lessons in family business, leadership, and staying human in a clinical world If you're in beauty, wellness or service — this is a masterclass in integrity, empathy, and doing business your way.

In this AIBF Business Talk Summit Special, we spotlight the launch of Navigating Global Markets – a groundbreaking report by the All-Ireland Business Foundation in collaboration with the University of Limerick and sponsored by Mauve Group. Recorded live at Croke Park, this panel features Dr. Briga Hynes (Kemmy Business School, UL), Teresa Lewis (Mauve Group), and Stephen Arkins (KCC Group), who explore how Irish SMEs can compete and scale on the world stage. 🎯 In this episode: Key findings from Navigating Global Markets Barriers and enablers to international expansion Why agility, ambition and collaboration matter more than ever The overlooked potential of agri-businesses and regional firms What policymakers and business leaders must act on now 🎧 Insightful. Strategic. Timely. This is a front-row seat to the future of Irish enterprise on the global stage.

“There’s no point being afraid of losing. Set the goal, aim high and back yourself to get there.” – Annalise Murphy In this AIBF Business Talk Summit special, broadcaster Ivan Yates chairs a powerful panel with three of Ireland’s top athletes – each bringing raw insight into what it takes to perform, pivot and push past limits. Whether they’re chasing medals or mastering new arenas, Annalise Murphy, Amee-Leigh Costigan and Conor Niland open up about resilience, reinvention and staying driven when the stakes are high. 🎯 In this episode: How elite athletes deal with pressure, failure and big goals The power of mindset when stepping into something new Reinventing yourself beyond sport Lessons in grit, leadership and bouncing back Advice every business owner can borrow from the sporting world 🎧 Honest. Insightful. Seriously motivating. This episode is your front-row seat to the mindset behind high performance.  

“We’re more connected to the US economy than Mexico. That’s not an opinion - that’s data." – Dan O’Brien In this special episode of AIBF Business Talk, we take you inside the All-Ireland Entrepreneur Summit for an eye-opening session with Dan O’Brien, one of Ireland’s most trusted economic commentators, in conversation with Ivan Yates. This isn't your average economic forecast. Dan brings clarity (and a few surprises) on what’s really happening in global markets - and what Irish business leaders need to prepare for now. 📌 In this episode, you'll hear: Why geopolitics is back at the business table and what it means for Ireland How Trump’s trade threats could shake our biggest export market Why tech jobs in Europe are booming (quietly) What Irish businesses must know about China, defence spending, and the US election The AI moment and why it’s not just hype 🎙️ This is a front-row seat to a conversation full of takeaways and one you’ll want your team to hear.  

"Built by farmers for farmers" Whether you’re from a farm, a startup, or just love a good founder story - this one proves that great ideas grow from familiar soil. In this episode of AIBF Business Talk, we meet Darragh Scanlon, 27-year-old founder of HerdFinder - Ireland’s #1 dedicated cattle marketplace - and winner of the AIBF Young Innovator of the Year, proudly sponsored by Little Learners. Named one of Ireland’s Top 30 Under 30 by the Sunday Independent, Darragh shares how he spotted a gap in the agri-market and turned it into a fast-growing platform helping thousands of Irish farmers buy and sell livestock - without the noise, distractions, or hassle. We cover: ✅ Why farming needs digital tools that actually work on the ground ✅ The “lightbulb moment” that started it all ✅ Building a tech product from scratch - while working full-time in M&A ✅ The steep learning curves (and smart pivots) ✅ Why traction > perfection, and grit > glossy funding decks It’s a real-deal startup story — built in boots, not brogues. About the All-Ireland Business Foundation The All-Ireland Business Foundation (AIBF) is Ireland’s national body for recognising and supporting business excellence. We are the accrediting authority behind the Business All-Star marque — Ireland’s Symbol of Trust — awarded through a rigorous audit of reputation, performance and customer trust. Since 2014, we’ve impacted over 5,000 businesses, with 750 currently accredited. For more information please visit www.aibf.ie here.  

 “Going global doesn’t need to be overwhelming - not when you’ve got the right partner.” In this inspiring episode of AIBF Business Talk, CEO Elaine Carroll chats with Joanna Hart, Director at the Mauve Group, a company empowering Irish SMEs to expand internationally without the usual red tape. Joanna breaks down the real challenges facing Irish businesses - and shares practical, proven solutions that make international hiring, compliance, and scaling simpler than ever. 💬 “We’ve done it ourselves. We’ve walked the walk. That’s why we can help others do it smarter.” Here’s what you’ll learn: Why small companies have more global potential than they realise How HR tech is transforming international expansion The power of Employer of Record (EOR) models to reduce stress and cost Real-life stories of businesses who scaled fast - and smart The role of partnerships, automation and support in long-term success This episode is a masterclass in future-focused business strategy - with a speaker who’s not just advising companies but actively helping them grow. 👏 A big thank you to Mauve Group, the proud sponsor of AIBF’s Navigating Global Markets research, launching at the All-Ireland Entrepreneurs Summit in partnership with the University of Limerick. 🎧 Tune in now and discover how Irish businesses are stepping confidently onto the global stage.

What if a gift card could do more than say “thanks”? What if it could drive loyalty, boost morale, and keep money flowing in the Irish economy? In this episode of AIBF Business Talk, AIBF CEO Elaine Carroll chats with Terry Spence, B2B lead at One4All, the powerhouse behind Ireland’s favourite multi-store gift card. Terry pulls back the curtain on: 🟢 The surprising origins of One4All (hint: it started with one missed Christmas voucher) 🟢 Why €1,500 tax-free rewards are a no-brainer for Irish employers 🟢 How digital gifting is transforming recognition in a remote-first world 🟢 What companies can do today to boost retention without big salary jumps 🟢 The future of workplace rewards (and a big tech upgrade coming soon 👀) 🎙️ Terry doesn’t just talk rewards - he lives and breathes what great recognition looks like in modern business.  You can meet the One4All team in person at the All-Ireland Entrepreneurs Summit on May 30th at Croke Park - they’re joining us as a AIBF partner.

🧠 “Your Inner Voice Is Running the Show — Time to Take Back Control” What if the loudest critic in your life... was living in your own head? In this gripping episode of AIBF Business Talk, Shane Craddock joins Elaine Carroll to share the hard-earned wisdom behind his bestselling book The Inner CEO - and why true leadership starts between your ears. 💬 “Your inner voice isn’t you. But it runs your day. Until you learn to lead it.” Shane and Elaine Carroll dive into: ✅ Why “true success is an inside job” ✅ The power (and danger) of your inner voice ✅ How vulnerability and courage shape real leadership ✅ The surprising reason belief isn’t everything ✅ What Shane would tell his 20-year-old self (hint: think bigger) ✅ A preview of what he'll share live at the All-Ireland Entrepreneurs Summit Whether you're leading a company, a team or just trying to lead yourself better — this is an episode that hits home. 🎧 Listen now 📍 Catch Shane live at the All-Ireland Entrepreneurs Summit, May 30th at Croke Park.

"Every brand has a voice. But not every brand gets heard." 🔊 That’s where Jason Keely steps in. In this inspiring episode of AIBF Business Talk, Jason — founder of VS Direct and No Limit Branding — shares how he’s helping brands cut through the chaos with smarter, sharper marketing. 🔥 His approach? Not just louder ads. But real strategy. Real targeting. Real results. Inside the conversation:  ✅ How Jason grew two powerhouse brands by thinking differently ✅ Why triggered digital ads are changing how we reach customers ✅ How his team helps companies get measurable returns, not just promises ✅ What it really takes to build trust with big names like Marks & Spencer, Virgin Media, and Aramark ✅ The honest highs and lows of leading, innovating, and staying grounded Today, Jason isn’t just building businesses — he’s helping brands find their voice in a busy world. 🌍 🎧 If you’ve ever felt like your brand deserves more — more recognition, more connection, more impact — this is your episode.