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In this 1st Episode , Margaret talks to Shemaine Doyle of Brave Marketing on how to drive your Irish Food Brand through strong campaigns .  

Roots to Market Founder, Cara Murphy chats to me about her passion for people, food, and the importance of connection. She provided fantastic tips on building relationships with buyers in both the retail and foodservice industries.  

In this episode , Pat chats with me about the importance of understanding your food and drinks products stages and how to get the best commercial opportunities . He also talks to me about his work with Love Irish Food and the supports it gives to the Irish Food and...

In this episode, Fallon takes us on an insightful journey through Blas na hÉireann, revealing the meticulous efforts behind the scenes that make these awards the most prestigious food and drink accolades on the island of Ireland....

In this episode Valerie chats to me on the challenges that are currently within the Food industry from a talent perspective . She advices on ways to create retention in a time where we find ourselves in an employee's market....

In this episode I chat with Darren Harris ,a leading Research and Development expert and educator in Ireland’s only Level 8 Bakery and Pastry Arts program at Technological University Dublin. Darren shares invaluable insights on advancing the Irish food industry, from...

In this episode I chat with Teresa Phelan who served as North American Specialist Drinks for , and Global Marketing Manager for Mark Anthony Brands. Formally based in Chicago, New York and now Dublin she brings her knowledge of the global drinks industry and extensive...

🎄Tinsel & Taste Sensation - Join me for Festive culinary conversations with Gary Mc Dowell as we chat all about innovative food festivities 🎅 Gary's  journey in the culinary world both at home and overseas is marked by his dedication to innovation, quality and...

Joining me in this episode is none other than , founder of . Matt’s career journey is nothing short of inspiring, from award-winning chef to senior procurement roles at the Houses of Lords and Emirates Airlines, and now leading an innovative platform to connect Irish...

In this episode, I chat with , the inspiring founder of .🌱 From Passion to Plant-Based Success that started in Aisling’s childhood kitchen, inspired by her mum and granny, has grown into a thriving bakery pioneering plant-based treats in Ireland. At just 18, Aisling...

In this episode , I am joined by, founder of, for a conversation that’s as sweet as it is inspiring! 🍭 🍨 Claire is no stranger to the world of delicious innovation. In 2006, she launched Clairesquares, a beloved caramel shortbread cookie company in San Francisco - so...

In this episode, I chat with , founder of , to explore his journey from leading innovation at Kellogg to redefining healthy, flavourful food with his own brand.⚖️ With deep experience in FMCG, category management, and European food markets, Felix shares insights on...

In this episode , I am chatting with , founder of . SeeGap is an innovative consumer experience platform that creates a two-way connection between businesses and consumers. By leveraging this approach, SeeGap helps brands uncover key consumer insights, enhance brand...

This week I sat down with  from  to talk all things food, drink and regional excellence. With 12 fantastic exhibitors from the Midlands joining us at the Irish Food Trade Connect Forum on March 20th, Bernie shares insights into the thriving industry and what to expect...

This week I chatted with Niamh Dooley of Biasol . Niamh, a Food Science & Health graduate from UL (2016), co-founded BiaSol in 2020 alongside her brother . A project that started during the pandemic has now grown into a truly sustainable Food Business which is...

This week I chat to , the brilliant Chief Icebreaker behind the bold and playful brand Wavey Ice. Rachel’s career spans operations, brand building and scaling start-ups - and she does it all with a powerful mix of creativity, grit and soul. We chat about being...

This week I chat with Jason Kidd , Founder of Outcast Brands with about Blood Monkey Gin and Two Shores Rum .With a powerhouse background that includes Senior Marketing roles at  (DE),  (IE), Fosters CUB (AUS), and strategic work with leading advertising agencies,...

In this conversation, I chat with Barbara Walsh, the Trade Manager of the Irish Exporters Association, about her extensive background in international trade, her experiences living in various countries, and the growing accessibility of Irish food products abroad. We...

Did you know that whiskey is not actually whiskey until it is 3 years old ? A fascinating watch as I chat with , CEO & Director of The Foundry Vault Ltd .As the visionary behind the Ireland's first and largest maturation facility for Irish whiskey, Jacqui shares...

In this conversation, Carol Lopez chats to me about her journey from Mexico to Ireland and her passion for growing microgreens through her business, Dainty Greens. She discusses the challenges of starting a new life in a different country, the impact of COVID-19 on...

In this conversation Owen Drayne from Draynes Farm talks to me about his journey in dairy farming, discussing the importance of community, staff, and modernising the family business. He reflects on the challenges of transitioning leadership, the significance of...

In this episode I chat with Cyril McAree , Editor of the Hotel and Restaurant Times, about the significant changes in the hospitality industry due to COVID-19. We discuss the challenges faced by the sector, the changing perceptions of hospitality careers, the...

In this episode I reflect on my journey of balancing a career in the food industry with motherhood. I share personal anecdotes about the challenges faced by women in their 30s and 40s, particularly regarding career advancement and family planning. I talk about the...

In this conversation I chat with Abhi Tiwari, head chef at the Osprey Hotel, who shares his journey towards creating a zero-waste kitchen and emphasises the importance of nutrition and sustainability in the culinary industry. He discusses his educational background,...

Ever gone hunting for real Mexican salsa and just found… well, disappointment in a jar? Andrea has been there. Growing up in Mexico, she was used to salsa that’s super fresh and bursting with flavour—nothing crazy, just a handful of tomatoes, onion, garlic, and...

In this weeks conversation , I chat with Dave and Anna from Hytropics , where purpose-driven innovation takes centre stage! This company is creating waves in the wellness world with their clean, science-backed electrolyte drinks. Dave and Anna chat about the bold leap...

This week I chat with Aine Faughnan , Managing Director of Dromod Boxty who shares her journey of taking over the family business. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of running a second-generation family business, the importance of rebranding and modernisation,...

Power is a dynamic in negotiations, shaping how parties interact, make decisions, and achieve outcomes. Its presence influences everything from negotiators' strategies to the ultimate agreement terms. Latest geopolitical trade negotiations have seen power or perceived...

Over many years, the lack of corporate governance structures has caused business closures, economic turmoil, and public consternation. Governance is a huge part of doing business, ensuring that adequate controls are upheld in running your business. No matter what size...

Competition for supermarket shelf space is fiercer than ever, shaped by intense rivalry, evolving consumer preferences, and rapid market shifts. A few weeks ago, I shared some stories from my time in retail on That Great Business Show with Conall Ó Móráin . Although...

Attendance and exhibiting at trade shows are not just a line item in your marketing budget; they’re a dynamic investment in your company’s growth and market presence. For most food and beverage businesses, trade shows are a cornerstone of their marketing strategy,...

Irish food and drink SMEs operate in a sector marked by tight margins, high credit risk, and frequent economic disruptions. Trade credit monitoring and supports are pivotal for businesses risk management , maintaining cash flow, and supporting growth. Why are trade...

In a world where anyone with a phone can post, share, or review, Irish food and drink businesses face a unique challenge: scrolling, viral trends, and the free-for-all nature of TikTok and Instagram can make or break your reputation—sometimes overnight. From...

Burnout is a real phenomenon in the Food Industry, and I've experienced it firsthand. Having spent over two decades in food manufacturing, I’ve felt the relentless pressure to win new business, retain customers, manage staff, and keep finances healthy—a burden that...

In recent months, many Irish consumers have become increasingly concerned about persistent food inflation. Grocery prices have risen by 27% between 2021 and June 2025, a substantial increase – though still below the EU average rise of 35% ( CPCC) From 2001 to 2021,...

Attending the Irish Quality Food Awards 2025 as a judge and media sponsor was a true privilege and an energising experience, hosted in the historic Mansion House’s Round Room, and expertly MC’ed by Cork-born comedian Keith Farnan. The venue’s grandeur perfectly...

In this weeks episode I chat with Kian Louët-Feisser from Carlingford Oysters as we dive deep into the fascinating world of oyster farming. Over the past 50 years, this seafood tradition has evolved dramatically, but at its core remains a respect for heritage and for...

In this weeks conversation, I sit down with Sofia Kalfa from FZIN Coffee to explore her inspiring journey from the corporate world to launching a sustainable coffee brand in Ireland. We talk about how social media sparks meaningful connections, the real story behind...

This week I chat with Sylvia Kennedy who went from the corporate world to founding Treats by Sylvia, a thriving cheesecake business. She started baking as a hobby, grew during COVID-19, and now supplies dozens of outlets. Sylvia credits networking, awards, and strong...

This week I chat with Gordon Lucey, founder of 9 White Deer Brewery, who shares his transition from marine engineering to creating a thriving brewery in Cork. He highlights the importance of strategic partnerships, understanding customer preferences, and financial...

This week I chat with Catherine Good, who's journey from stay-at-home mom to founder of The Good Dairy Company is rooted in her family’s dairy farm in Kinsale. Inspired by a passion for quality and creativity, she began making fresh, natural ice cream using milk from...

This week I chat with Noele Mc Evoy, Founder of Supernature. After her daughter developed dietary restrictions, Noele created wholesome chocolate treats at home—sparking a journey that transformed into an award-winning brand. Supernature now crafts vegan, organic, and...

This week I step into the delicious world of Moran’s Mega Jams, where Kieron Moran transforms chef’s creativity into award-winning Irish jams. In this episode, Kieron takes us from humble farmers’ market beginnings to the spotlight of Dragons’ Den, sharing how bold...

This week , I chat with Samantha Forrest’s who's journey from a career in STEM to founding Fussy Food Plates is a testament to the power of personal experience and innovation. Confronted with her own children’s mealtime challenges, Samantha combined her expertise in...

This week , I chat with powerhouse Tara Beattie of Prepsheets . This woman knows the in's and outs of hospitality like no one else ! From running fine dining restaurants to building scalable kitchen solutions, Tara’s mission is all about solving real-world challenges...

Competition for supermarket shelf space is fiercer than ever, shaped by intense rivalry, evolving consumer preferences, and rapid market shifts. A few weeks ago, I shared some stories from my time in retail on That Great Business Show with Conall Ó Móráin . Although...

Beyond Borders: Can Conversation Truly Transform the Irish Food Sector? Lets have that conversation ! The Irish Food Trade Connect Conversations podcast stands as a dynamic platform dedicated to fostering dialogue, learning, and networking within the Irish food and...