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AIBF Business Talk is an original podcast brought to you by the All-Ireland Business Foundation. In each episode we talk to innovators, entrepreneurs and leaders to bring you practical lessons and actionable insights that you can apply to your business and in your daily life.
Episodes
Friday Nov 03, 2023
Friday Nov 03, 2023
On this week's edition of AIBF Business Talk, we are joined by Ian Hunter, General Manager of Swords Pavilions Shopping Centre in Dublin, which has made a significant mark by integrating sustainability and partnership-building into the heart of their retail success story.
With over two decades in business and 101 tenants, including renowned retailers like SuperValu, Zara, TK Maxx, H&M, River Island, Next, and an 11-screen cinema, Swords Pavilions caters to around 10.5 million customers each year. Ian's primary focus is on providing an exceptional customer experience, fostering a sense of unity among his team, and nurturing partnerships.
🌿 Environmental sustainability is a core value for Ian and his team. They embarked on an innovative ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) journey by retrofitting the 500,000-square-foot building. They started with replacing 4,000 light fittings with LED lighting, resulting in a 35% reduction in energy consumption.
🌞 Building on this success, they initiated solar PV projects on the expansive roof, generating up to 45% of their power consumption from solar energy. Additionally, they decommissioned 23 gas-fired air handling units and adopted natural ventilation, eliminating the need for gas, making Swords Pavilions the first gas-free centre in their portfolio.
💨 The team's ambitious future plan involves constructing a wind farm on the roof, aiming to achieve a first-of-its-kind initiative in Ireland.
🤝 Ian emphasises the significance of partnerships with trusted companies, which ensures the success of their sustainability initiatives. He encourages businesses to make upfront investments in environmental projects, citing the long-term ROI and the responsibility to contribute to net-zero carbon goals.
🛒 In the world of retail, Ian's advice is to step back and view the customer journey objectively, stay informed about industry developments, and maintain a positive attitude while striving to make a continuous impact on the business.
🎧Tune in now to hear how Ian Hunter and his team at Swords Pavilions Shopping Centre are setting a remarkable example of integrating sustainability and partnership-building into the heart of their retail success story.
The AIBF accredits the Business All-Star mark to Best-In-Class Irish businesses based on an independent audit of their performance, reputation, and customer-centricity.
The AIBF is an independent national body that identifies and acknowledges the country’s most ambitious and visionary businesses.
Friday Oct 27, 2023
Friday Oct 27, 2023
Join us on this week's episode of AIBF Business Talk as we explore the exciting world of clean, green energy with Copper Coast Renewables Founder, Luke Deasy. 🌍
Copper Coast Renewables is an Energy Saving Net-Zero Partner, committed to providing world-class energy savings to your business while leading the transition away from fossil fuels. Their mission is crystal clear: save your business money while reducing its carbon footprint for a sustainable future.
Luke's renewable energy journey began over a decade ago with wind farms, and today, he's filling a vital gap in the market for commercial and industrial carbon reduction solutions. 🌟
With a mission to help businesses align with Irish and EU targets for 2030 and 2050, Copper Coast Renewables offers a full turnkey service, from the initial phone call to 20 years of maintenance and upgrades in between. Their SEAI registered energy auditors meticulously assess your processes, buildings, and vehicles to provide a comprehensive energy audit and budgetary plan for carbon reduction measures.
🌿💰 Luke shares valuable insights on financial supports available to businesses, including government incentives and grants, which make going green a no-brainer for your bottom line.
Learn about Copper Coast Renewables' recent projects, including a 50-acre solar farm and the electrification of Horse Island in West Cork, resulting in significant cost savings.
Tune in now to gain brilliant insights from Luke Deasy and find out how your business can embark on the path to net zero. 📻🌱
The AIBF accredits the Business All-Star mark to Best-In-Class Irish businesses based on an independent audit of their performance, reputation, and customer-centricity.
The AIBF is an independent national body that identifies and acknowledges the country’s most ambitious and visionary businesses.
Thursday Oct 19, 2023
Thursday Oct 19, 2023
On this week's episode of AIBF Business Talk, we dive into the compelling journey of Barry Wray, the mastermind behind Barelle Limited. 🎙️
This company specializes in sub-contract sheet metal fabrication and powder coating, dedicated to delivering top-quality, cost-effective products with an efficient and friendly touch. 👨🏭💼
Barry's story underscores the triumph of tenacity over academia. While school didn't quite fit the bill for him, his fervor for working alongside his father in the family business was unwavering. As a teenager, he was already honing his metal fabrication skills. 🔧
Following a rigorous four-year apprenticeship, Barry boldly assumed the role of floor manager, all while still in his late teens and early 20s. When his father's business closed, Barry seized the opportunity, armed with limited business knowledge but a remarkable talent for crafting things. 💪💼
The pivotal shift from steelwork to custom powder coating marked a turning point. Word of mouth and top-notch workmanship fueled his meteoric success. Over the years, he transformed a small operation into a thriving enterprise employing 19 individuals across two factories. 🚀🏭
Valuable lessons gleaned from his journey underscore the significance of comprehending every facet of your business and the indispensable role of a dedicated, skilled team. Barry underscores the importance of investing in the right personnel. 👥💼
Looking ahead, Barry envisions further expansion and streamlining. The business is evolving, and the future looks exceptionally promising.
Tune in for more from this inspiring journey! 👏
The AIBF accredits the Business All-Star mark to Best-In-Class Irish businesses based on an independent audit of their performance, reputation, and customer-centricity.
The AIBF is an independent national body that identifies and acknowledges the country’s most ambitious and visionary businesses.
Friday Oct 13, 2023
Friday Oct 13, 2023
In this week's AIBF Business Talk Podcast, we're joined by the remarkable coach Catriona Kirwan, a 2-in-a-row Business All-Star with a mission to empower ambitious individuals to excel professionally without compromising their personal lives. As a mother of four, Catriona knows the art of juggling multiple responsibilities all too well. 👩💼👨👧👦
Catriona offers corporate workshops that help organisations foster environments where their people can truly thrive. Her workshops include topics such as "Understanding Stress in the Workplace," "Stress and Energy Management," and "Improving Team Dynamics through Effective Communication." 📊🗣️
She believes in the three C's for success: Clarity, Control, and Confidence. These principles, when applied, can help individuals overcome challenges and navigate their career paths with poise. 🚀🌟
Catriona also addresses the stress levels in the workplace, particularly for women in leadership roles. She emphasises that being the only woman in the room can be challenging, but it doesn't define one's competence. She encourages women to focus on their abilities and inner belief, silencing the inner Gremlins that often speak louder in women. 👩💼👩💻
Managing energy levels is essential, and Catriona provides tips for staying balanced and recharging. Techniques like short meditations, deep breaths, and that all-important three-second pause can help you transition from work to home seamlessly. 🧘♀️🌅
Catriona highlights the importance of self-management and self-regulation in team dynamics. Leaders must be calm and grounded to inspire confidence in their teams. Self-awareness is also crucial for improving communication and enhancing team dynamics. 🤝🧘♂️
Her personal mantra is "Stay in my own lane," a reminder to avoid comparison and judgement in the age of social media. Catriona advises her younger self and all aspiring professionals to slow down, savour experiences, and stay present to achieve success. 🛣️🌼
Tune in now for some invaluable insights in today’s fast-paced world from Catriona Kirwan for those seeking a balanced and thriving professional life. 😊🌟
The AIBF accredits the Business All-Star mark to Best-In-Class Irish businesses based on an independent audit of their performance, reputation, and customer-centricity
The AIBF is an independent national body that identifies and acknowledges the country’s most ambitious and visionary businesses.
Thursday Oct 05, 2023
Thursday Oct 05, 2023
In this week's AIBF Business Talk Podcast, join us on Declan Maher's inspiring journey! From his days as a bank employee to establishing Declan Maher Financial Services. (DMFS) in Thurles, Co. Tipperary. 🚀
Led by Declan, DMFS is rapidly gaining recognition in the world of financial planning and advisory. Declan's path led him to see the need for a holistic approach to financial planning, where each client's unique circumstances and goals take centre stage.
Since 2015, DMFS has been on a mission to provide impartial advice and personalised solutions.
💪 Overcoming Hurdles and Achieving Goals 🎯
For Declan, the biggest hurdle in setting up his business was the operational aspect. He surrounded himself with good people and had a mentor to guide him. His background in GAA instilled the value of setting and achieving goals, which he now passionately applies to helping clients reach their financial objectives.
🔐 Tailored Financial Solutions for All 💼
DMFS understands that one size doesn't fit all in financial planning. Whether you earn €300 or €300,000, the principles remain the same. They prioritise protecting your income, setting clear goals, and providing tailored solutions.
🔍 Simplifying Financial Planning 📊
Financial planning can be complex, but Declan and his team excel at simplifying it for their clients. They listen, understand needs, and make the process straightforward.
🤝 Building Trusting Relationships 🤗
Operating off a blank canvas, DMFS believes in building strong client relationships and the importance of trust. They get to know you personally, ensuring the best advice tailored to your unique situation.
🚀 Future Growth and Local Excellence 📈
Looking ahead, DMFS plans to expand its team and continue growing locally, aiming to be the top choice for financial advice in the area.
🎙️ Tune in and join Declan Maher for some brilliant insights in Financial Services.
The AIBF accredits the Business All-Star mark to Best-In-Class Irish businesses based on an independent audit of their performance, reputation, and customer-centricity.
The AIBF is an independent national body that identifies and acknowledges the country’s most ambitious and visionary businesses.
Friday Sep 29, 2023
Friday Sep 29, 2023
In this week's AIBF Business Talk Podcast, we explore the captivating journey of Norah Ryan, the driving force behind Barrow Training & Consultancy. 🚀
Under Norah's visionary leadership, Barrow Training and Consultancy has reached unprecedented heights, driven by a profound commitment to fostering a positive workplace culture. 🌟
Barrow Training and Consultancy have redefined education in the digital age. Offering diverse delivery methods like distance learning, eLearning, and attendance learning, they've become a leading provider of QQI-accredited blended learning courses in Ireland. 📊
Their expertise spans healthcare, childcare, and health and safety consultancy, with a focus on guiding organisations to comply with legislation through thorough gap analyses. Barrow Training and Consultancy also provides QQI and ISO consultancy services. 💼
Norah's career trajectory is a tale of inspiration. Having spent 18 years in the bustling Dublin exhibitions industry, she took a daring leap in January 2015, finding her new calling with Barrow Training in her beloved Carlow.
The pivotal moment came in July 2021 when the opportunity to purchase Barrow Training arose. Norah seized it, taking ownership from founders Marian and Joe Manning, who had instilled a culture of workplace wellbeing that still thrives today.
For Norah, employee wellbeing is paramount. She firmly believes that well-paid, mentored, challenged, and empowered employees are the foundation of a flourishing organisation. 🌟
Norah's commitment to excellence extends beyond this and she is a staunch advocate of continuous learning. She and her team actively seek courses to enhance their expertise, ensuring they remain at the forefront of their field. 📚
The future shines brightly for Barrow Training and Consultancy. Negotiations are underway for them to become a higher education degree provider in collaboration with the University of Northampton in 2024. Additionally, new childcare programs are in the pipeline, reinforcing their commitment to educational excellence. 🎓
Norah's journey exemplifies that ambition knows no bounds. She encourages others to confront fear, seek assistance when necessary, and appreciate the transformative power of education. 🌠
Don't miss the opportunity to glean further insights from the remarkable Norah Ryan by tuning in to the AIBF Business Talk Podcast. 🎙️
The AIBF accredits the Business All-Star mark to Best-In-Class Irish businesses based on an independent audit of their performance, reputation, and customer-centricity.
The AIBF is an independent national body that identifies and acknowledges the country’s most ambitious and visionary businesses.
Friday Sep 22, 2023
Friday Sep 22, 2023
Radio advertising, often overlooked in today's digital era, holds remarkable potential. With over 91% of adults tuning in each week, it's a cost-effective way to boost your business. Siobhan Gavigan, founder of Ireland's only independent radio management company, The Radio Room, is on a mission to champion radio as a credible way to grow your brand. . With 25 years in the industry, her insights shine in this episode of the AIBF Business Talk podcast.
Know Your Audience
- Siobhan's secret to radio success? Know your audience. She advises creating detailed personas like "Tara, 38, dog lover, new homeowner, living with her partner." This fine-tuned approach ensures your message resonates.
- For instance, 35 to 54-year-old females are avid radio listeners. If this is your target, radio should undoubtedly be part of your marketing plan.
Creating a Campaign
Siobhan's recipe for a winning campaign:
- Budget: Define your budget clearly.
- Demographics: Know your audience intimately.
- Engagement: Craft entertaining and relevant ads that stand out from the clutter.
Advice for SMEs
SMEs, take note. Siobhan emphasises radio's trustworthiness. It anchors your brand’s credibility and offers solid ROI.
Timing Is Key
Timing matters. Analyse slots and demographics meticulously. Your message must hit the right audience at the right time. ️
Audience Reach and Frequency
- In radio, audience reach and frequency reign supreme. The best campaigns follow listeners throughout the day, rather than relying on one-time slots. Spread your ads strategically for maximum impact.
- In a world inundated with advertising noise, Siobhan Gavigan's insights remind us of the enduring power of radio. With its ability to build trust, offer a strong ROI, and strategically engage listeners, radio advertising remains a valuable tool for businesses looking to grow their brand.
- Tune in now to hear more of Siobhan's brilliant insights on radio advertising.
The AIBF accredits the Business All-Star mark to Best-In-Class Irish businesses based on an independent audit of their performance, reputation, and customer-centricity.
The AIBF is an independent national body that identifies and acknowledges the country’s most ambitious and visionary businesses.
Friday Sep 15, 2023
Friday Sep 15, 2023
"Succession Planning and Sustainability: Merenda's Visionary Outlook"
In this week's AIBF Business Talk podcast, Ronan Haslette, the MD of Merenda, shares valuable business insights, showcasing Merenda's journey of resilience, adaptation, and unwavering dedication to serving customers with excellence. 🎙️
Merenda, a family business in North Leitrim, has dedicated nearly four decades to crafting top-tier wood veneer components for global furniture manufacturers, serving customers in 12+ countries. 🌍
Their enduring success stems from a steadfast customer-centric approach, adaptability in a changing world, and impressive global reach. Importing 95% of raw materials while exporting 80% of finished products demonstrates their global impact. 🚢🌟
Efficiency and innovation are the bedrock of their accomplishments. They continually refine systems and embrace continuous improvement to serve clients better. Extracting unique customer value propositions through comprehensive interviews is a vital skill. 🚀🔍
Merenda's successful international journey began in the '90s, expanding from Ireland to the UK, US, Middle East, and Australasia. Their ability to truly grasp and cater to customer specifications has been a pivotal factor in their international growth 🌏💼
Challenges, including logistics, documentation, and language, became valuable learning experiences. Ronan emphasises the importance of clear communication, with only 30% of emails being genuinely understood. 📧
A pivotal moment was during a recession when Merenda realised inefficient processes were costing them. They embarked on a journey of continuous improvement, seeking lean solutions with the guidance of Enterprise Ireland. By setting a target of 1% continuous improvement, they've made over 200 internal changes, fostering a culture of improvement and alignment. 📈💡
Explaining the "why" to the team is crucial for shared understanding and a customer-centric mission.
Merenda's transition from one generation to the next has been managed meticulously, with Ronan Haslette earning a Master's degree in Business Administration and Business Management, focusing on family business governance and succession planning. 🧑🤝🧑📚
Looking ahead, Merenda aims to ascend the value chain, prioritising sustainability, and energy efficiency. They're on a mission to attain a five-star energy rating, promoting wood veneer as a sustainable resource for various projects. 🌳💡
Join Ronan Haslette for brilliant business insights on this podcast. 🎧 Don't miss this opportunity to learn from Merenda's remarkable journey. 🌟
The AIBF accredits the Business All-Star mark to Best-In-Class Irish businesses based on an independent audit of their performance, reputation, and customer-centricity.
The AIBF is an independent national body that identifies and acknowledges the country’s most ambitious and visionary businesses.
Friday Sep 08, 2023
Friday Sep 08, 2023
"Revamp Your Home for Wellness: Expert Tips from Interior Designer Emma Webb"
Did you know we spend over half our lives at home? 🏡
With that eye-opening fact in mind, why not dive into this week's AIBF Business Talk Podcast? 🎙️ Award-winning and 'WELL' certified Interior Designer, Emma Webb joins us. Emma is on a mission to infuse wellness into her designs, creating spaces that not only look good but also make you feel fantastic while supporting a healthy lifestyle. 🌿
Emma specialises in Wellness or 'biophilic' design, engaging all senses with perfect lighting, natural materials, soothing sounds, and aromas, encouraging healthier choices. 🌿✨
Considering we spend a significant chunk of our lives at home, nailing the environment is crucial. Emma's got some incredible hints and tips up her sleeve to help you transform your living space into a haven for health and well-being. 🏡🌟
Our living space impacts 70% of our health and longevity, as per WHO.
Emma reveals how your home design can bolster the Six Pillars of Lifestyle Medicine:
🥗 Diet,
💤 Sleep,
💪 Exercise,
🤗 Social connections,
🌿 Stress management,
🚭 Quitting alcohol and cigarettes.
Let's focus on sleep. Lack of it ages faster than time itself. Emma shares bedroom design tips for better sleep – blue might not be ideal! 🌛💤
Morning light in the kitchen is nature's espresso shot, enhancing your circadian rhythm. Emma explains circadian lighting, which mimics the sun's movements for better concentration and alertness. ☀️💡🌞🔍
Natural materials like timber and stone, indoor plants, soothing colours, and textures can also really transform your space. 🌳
Explore the wonders of a wellness kitchen, fostering social connection, and growing herbs for a fresh touch. Marble or timber worktops add natural elegance. Embrace 'nudge design,' placing healthy options at eye level. 🍏🍫🌿🍪
🎧 Tune in today for a treasure trove of insights that will transform your home into a wellness sanctuary.
The AIBF accredits the Business All-Star mark to Best-In-Class Irish businesses based on an independent audit of their performance, reputation, and customer-centricity.
The AIBF is an independent national body that identifies and acknowledges the country’s most ambitious and visionary businesses.
Friday Sep 01, 2023
Friday Sep 01, 2023
In this week's AIBF Business Talk podcast, Derek Gormley, Director in Charge at Interiors by Sisk, takes the spotlight. With three decades in the construction sector, Derek is an expert in corporate fit-out, specialising in workplace design trends. His expertise spans from smart offices to sustainability, making him a revered figure. Leading Interiors by Sisk with passion, Derek's journey reveals the evolution of modern workspaces.
🏗️ Interiors by Sisk: Crafting Premium Spaces 🏗️
Interiors by Sisk shines as a leader in Ireland's fit-out scene, merging innovation and creativity. Turnkey solutions match client visions, reflecting values in every design facet. As an arm of the long established and trusted Irish company SISK, Interiors by Sisk bridges construction and fit-out, infusing quality into every project.
🔮 Navigating the Office Evolution 🔮
The podcast delves into the metamorphosis of offices due to Covid-19. As companies rethink their workspaces, the dynamics of the office are undergoing a profound shift. Derek discusses remote work integration, flexible layouts, and collaborative hubs. Rows of desks are replaced by open zones and versatile meeting rooms, fostering employee well-being.
💡 Smart Technologies and Sustainable Solutions 💡
Smart technologies are playing a key role amid this change. Derek highlights the Internet of Things (IoT) driving energy-efficient buildings globally. Companies are reimagining energy management, optimising energy resources across floors. Sustainability has taken hold as corporations adopt eco-friendly practices.
🔄 Retrofit vs. New Build: The Sustainability Dilemma 🔄
Derek also delves into retrofitting's surging relevance. With growing emphasis on sustainability, refurbishing old buildings becomes a pivotal step. As Derek notes, this process can be complex due to legacy issues. Clients are mandated to modernise structures, driven by both environmental concerns and the quest for Grade A spaces that attract top companies and talent.
🎨 The Power of Transformation 🎨
Derek's journey underscores persistence and transformation. Interiors by Sisk's success lies in adapting to change, committing to quality. Challenges persist, building the brand into a household name.
🏁 A Vision for Tomorrow's Workspaces 🏁
Derek's insights point to the future of workspaces. Interiors by Sisk steers towards efficient, engaging, eco-conscious environments. The journey continues, carving a niche that champions premium spaces for generations.
🎧 Tune-in now for a deep dive into business spaces with Derek Gormley.
The AIBF accredits the Business All-Star mark to Best-In-Class Irish businesses based on an independent audit of their performance, reputation, and customer-centricity.
The AIBF is an independent national body that identifies and acknowledges the country’s most ambitious and visionary businesses.