Episode 126

Episode 126

What if your next tourism experience involved a hot tub on the River Shannon? Shane McCormack shares the story behind one of Athlone’s most talked-about attractions and how it’s helping draw more visitors to the Midlands. Maryrose Lyons explains how SMEs can embrace AI without breaking the bank, and what a new Google and Bank of Ireland scholarship programme could mean for Irish businesses. Plus, John Finn of The Treasury Hub connects the dots between Middle East conflict, rising oil prices, AI in banking and Budget 2027—revealing why global events matter more than ever to businesses across the Midlands.

Episode 125

What if the biggest challenge facing the tech sector isn't AI—it's access? Portarlington's Jac Dunne joins Ronan to explain why Dimply has launched Belong SRL and why businesses have a crucial role in developing the next generation of talent. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jac-dunne-mba-38a50b1a/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jac-dunne-mba-38a50b1a/]  https://www.linkedin.com/company/dimply/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/dimply/] Can regional Ireland compete for investment? Angela McEvoy from Laois County Council will discuss the new Invest Laois campaign, the county's economic ambitions and why so many commuters want to work closer to home. https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelamcevoy/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelamcevoy/]   https://www.linkedin.com/company/laois-county-council/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/laois-county-council/]  That bargain from overseas may not be quite the bargain you expected. Let's unpack the new customs rules and what they mean for your next online purchase with e-commerce expert Ronan O'Brien from Portlaoise. https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronanob/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronanob/]

Episode 124

Will lower VAT really mean cheaper coffees? Nicky O'Callaghan of SiP Coffee Garden explains why the answer isn't as straightforward as it seems, and what the latest VAT changes mean for cafés and hospitality businesses. Regina Bushell joins Ronan to discuss Grovelands Childcare's latest expansion in Athlone, creating more childcare places, new jobs and confidence in the Midlands economy. Bernie Everard explains why local food producers should seize the opportunity to showcase their products at this year's National Ploughing Championships. And Ger Hyland, President of the Road Haulage Association, unpacks the Government's extension of temporary fuel excise reductions and what it means for transport businesses, costs and the wider economy.

Episode 123

How does a Midlands start-up grow into a €4.3 million business and a national award winner in just a few years? Denise Buckley of Sugar Plum Sweetery shares the innovation, ambition and hard work behind one of the region’s standout success stories. Dean Kelly of Photo Experience explains how his company is transforming visitor attractions worldwide, helping guests instantly receive and share their memories—from theme parks to museums and zoos. Darren Buckley of SunArc outlines plans for a €20 million investment, 50 new jobs, and why solar energy is becoming a much more viable option for Irish businesses. Plus, Shane Tobin of True Wealth explains why a 5% inflation rate could quietly erode wages, savings and retirement plans—and what business owners should do about it.

Episode 122

Most people slow down at 75. Neil McDermott chose to start something new. He joins Ronan to reflect on a lifetime in business, from farm machinery in Tullamore to investing millions in an ambitious Ayurveda venture in the Slieve Blooms. Jonathan McDade of the Small Firms Association discusses mounting cost pressures, falling confidence, and what small businesses need from policymakers to remain competitive. Nostra CEO Kevin O’Loughlin explains why cyber security is now a leadership issue, not just an IT concern, and how businesses can better manage risk. Plus, Steven Linehan of Beans & Leaves shares the story behind Athlone’s award-winning dog-friendly café and what the 9% VAT rate means in practice for hospitality businesses.