What really happens when an organisation has to change?

Whether it's restructuring, new technology, a crisis or changing employee expectations, successful change isn't just about having the right strategy. It's about understanding the people affected by it.

In this episode of The Human Side of Business Podcast, Louisa Meehan is joined by Brian Bowden, an experienced C-suite HR leader, advisor and Non-Executive Director, to explore the human side of organisational change and employee relations.

Brian shares lessons from more than 30 years in senior HR roles with Aer Lingus and Trinity College Dublin, including his experience navigating major periods of change, crisis and transformation.

Louisa and Brian explore why people resist change, what might really sit behind that resistance, and why understanding the underlying concern can help leaders find a better way forward.

They also discuss communicating change, managing cultural shifts, the impact of technology and AI, recruitment and retention, and why the people who remain after organisational change can face some of the biggest challenges.

The conversation also explores employee relations, investigations, disciplinary processes and the growing impact of social media and WhatsApp on workplace relationships.

From managing uncertainty to making difficult decisions, Brian shares why success isn't simply about delivering results, but about asking whether you did the right thing for the right reasons.

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Brian Bowden is an experienced C-suite HR leader and advisor, and a Non-Executive Director.

He spent over 30 years in senior HR roles with Aer Lingus and Trinity College Dublin, most recently serving as Chief People Officer at Aer Lingus from 2015 to 2023, where he led a 35-person HR team and advised the CEO, Board and Executive Team through periods of growth and crisis.

Brian's expertise spans HR strategy, organisational restructuring, change management, employee engagement, industrial relations, performance and reward, pensions, dispute resolution including mediation, and governance and risk.

He also holds a number of board roles, including Bus Éireann, where he chairs the Remuneration and People Committee and sits on the Audit and Risk Committee.

He is a Chartered Director, holds an MBS in Human Resources Strategy, is a Fellow of the CIPD and an accredited mediator with CEDR.

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www.woodviewhrm.com www.thehumansideofbusiness.com

Guest: Brian BowdenHost: Louisa Meehan | Woodview HRM

What does it really take to lead people well?

Whether you're managing employees, working with volunteers or leading a board, the fundamentals of good leadership remain the same: empathy, integrity, clear boundaries and a genuine understanding of the people around you.

In this episode of The Human Side of Business Podcast, Louisa Meehan is joined by Karen Ronan, CEO of Galway Chamber and President of Network Ireland, to explore the human side of leadership and what it takes to bring people together around a shared purpose.

Karen shares why managing volunteers requires a different approach to managing paid employees, why empathy is one of the most underrated leadership qualities, and how giving people ownership and recognition can create a stronger sense of connection.

Louisa and Karen also explore networking, confidence, imposter syndrome, the importance of peer networks, and why every skill can be learned if you're willing to practise.

They discuss the growing role of AI in business and why technology should remain a tool rather than replacing the human connection that makes organisations work.

From supporting people through difficult moments to building stronger boards, managing risk and preparing for an uncertain future, this conversation is a reminder that the human side of business is often the most important side.

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Guest: Karen Ronan

Karen Ronan is a dynamic and highly regarded leader with a proven track record in business and sports tourism, stakeholder engagement and economic development.

As CEO of Galway Chamber and President of Network Ireland, she plays a key role in shaping business networks and supporting enterprise growth.

She has been instrumental in driving national and regional strategies, with a strong focus on ESG and sustainable work practices. Her extensive background in project management and governance has helped foster valuable connections at local, national and international levels.

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Host: Louisa Meehan | Woodview HRM

www.woodviewhrm.com

www.thehumansideofbusiness.com

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Redundancy is often seen as the end of a career. But what if it could become the beginning of something even greater?

In this episode of The Human Side of Business Podcast, Louisa Meehan is joined by Lorraine Bowen, CEO of The Entrepreneurs Academy, to explore how entrepreneurship can empower people to navigate career transitions, create new opportunities and build lasting impact.

Drawing on more than 30 years' experience as an entrepreneur and business leader, Lorraine explains why entrepreneurial thinking is valuable for everyone—not just business owners. Together, Louisa and Lorraine discuss the support available to aspiring entrepreneurs, the importance of lifelong learning, and how organisations can help employees navigate periods of change with confidence.

They also explore the Academy's award-winning workforce transition programmes, including New Beginnings, which helped employees facing collective redundancy gain new skills, start businesses and create employment within their own communities.

Whether you're considering self-employment, supporting employees through organisational change, or simply looking to develop a more entrepreneurial mindset, this conversation is packed with practical advice, inspiring stories and valuable insights for leaders, HR professionals and anyone facing career transition.

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Guest: Lorraine Bowen – CEO, The Entrepreneurs Academy

Lorraine Bowen is the CEO of The Entrepreneurs Academy and a former creative-sector entrepreneur with more than 30 years of experience.

Over the past 13 years at the Academy, she has served as Head of Business Development and Head of Innovation and Impact before stepping into the CEO role four years ago.

Collaborative and deeply engaged across Ireland's business and education ecosystem, Lorraine is committed to advancing equitable entrepreneurship that creates meaningful opportunities for people while delivering national economic impact.

She has been an elected member of the Dublin Chamber Policy Council since 2022 and serves on its Labour Market Taskforce.

The Entrepreneurs Academy is a national leader in entrepreneurship, enterprise and human skills education, delivering high-impact Start Your Own Business programmes, workforce transition programmes for employees facing redundancy, and specialised training in digital skills, customer experience, creativity and innovation. Working alongside SMEs, corporate partners and government agencies, the Academy has supported more than 120,000 learners nationwide through practical programmes that drive measurable business and employment outcomes.

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Host: Louisa Meehan – Woodview HRM

www.woodviewhrm.com

www.thehumansideofbusiness.com

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Domestic abuse doesn't end when someone walks into work.

In this episode of The Human Side of Business Podcast, Louisa Meehan sits down with Hayley Murphy, Outreach Co-ordinator with Bray Women's Refuge Outreach Services, to explore the often-hidden impact of domestic abuse and coercive control in the workplace.

Hayley shares her experience supporting women and men through domestic abuse, navigating the court system, and rebuilding their lives after leaving abusive relationships. Together, Louisa and Hayley discuss the warning signs employers may notice, why post-separation abuse is often misunderstood, and how organisations can create workplaces where employees feel safe enough to ask for help.

This conversation offers practical guidance for employers, managers and HR professionals on recognising abuse, responding with empathy, and creating workplace cultures built on trust, understanding and psychological safety.

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Guest: Hayley Murphy – Bray Women's Refuge Outreach Services

Hayley Murphy is an Outreach Co-ordinator with ANU Wicklow Domestic Violence Supports and Bray Women's Refuge, where she provides specialist guidance, advocacy and practical support to people seeking safety and justice.

With more than 10 years' experience working within the legal system, Hayley has extensive knowledge of family law and the real-world impact these processes can have on victims and survivors of domestic abuse. Her work focuses on empowering individuals to access support, improve safety and navigate the justice system with confidence.

Hayley is currently undertaking further studies in psychotherapy, strengthening her trauma-informed approach to supporting individuals experiencing domestic abuse and coercive control.

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Host: Louisa Meehan – Woodview HRM

www.woodviewhrm.com | www.thehumansideofbusiness.com

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What does it really mean to create an inclusive workplace?

In this episode of The Human Side of Business Podcast, Louisa Meehan speaks with Dr Lisa Cuthbert, CEO of Mental Health Ireland, about the role employment plays in identity, wellbeing, recovery, and connection.

Drawing from decades of experience across mental health, addiction, homelessness, and the criminal justice sector, Lisa explores how organisations can create safer workplaces where people are seen beyond their challenges or past experiences.

Together, Louisa and Lisa discuss stigma, disclosure, leadership, recovery, and why creating opportunities for people to participate fully in society benefits everyone.

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Guest: Dr Lisa Cuthbert - Mental Health Ireland

Dr Lisa Cuthbert is CEO of Mental Health Ireland, the country’s oldest national mental health charity. She has extensive leadership experience across the not-for-profit sector, focusing on person-centred and strengths-based approaches.

Lisa’s work has focused on improving access to support for people experiencing mental health challenges, addiction, homelessness, and involvement with the justice system. She is also an experienced board member, public speaker, and advocate for creating more inclusive communities and workplaces.

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Host: Louisa Meehan - Woodview HRM

www.woodviewhrm.com | www.thehumansideofbusiness.com

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#TheHumanSideOfBusinessPodcast #WoodviewHRM #WorkplaceRealities #HRInsights #MentalHealth #InclusiveWorkplaces #Leadership #EmployeeWellbeing #FutureOfWork

What happens when your career takes unexpected turns?

In this episode of The Human Side of Business Podcast, Louisa Meehan sits down with Miriam O'Hara, Talent Acquisition Lead with Mace Consult Ireland, to explore a career journey that spans teaching, genetics, recruitment, and infrastructure megaprojects.

Miriam shares how resilience, curiosity, and a willingness to pivot helped shape her career during the recession, why Ireland's infrastructure sector needs thousands of new workers by 2040, and what organizations can do to build workplaces where people genuinely thrive.

This conversation explores talent, leadership, career development, workplace happiness, and the importance of helping others succeed along the way.

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Guest: Miriam O'Hara - Mace Consult Ireland

Miriam O'Hara is a Talent Acquisition Lead with Mace Consult Ireland and a passionate advocate for equality, diversity, and STEM careers. Her unique career path includes teaching, genetics, and recruitment, giving her a broad perspective on people, careers, and workplace development. She works closely with major infrastructure projects across Ireland while championing inclusive workplaces and professional growth.

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Host: Louisa Meehan - Woodview HRM

www.woodviewhrm.com | www.thehumansideofbusiness.com

In this episode, Louisa Meehan is joined by Sharon Farrell, founding and managing director of Face Credit, to talk about leadership, flexibility, trust and why even the “hard” parts of business can be handled with humanity.

Sharon shares how she built a credit management business around clear communication, ethical conversations and a team culture that supports brilliant women to do great work while having real flexibility in their lives.

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Guest: Sharon Farrell - Face Credit

Sharon Farrell is the founding and managing director of Face Credit, an award-winning Kildare-based credit management consultancy operating across Ireland and the UK. With more than 25 years in the credit industry, Sharon works closely with business owners to improve cashflow, strengthen credit processes and protect customer relationships. Known for her practical, ethical and straight-talking approach, Sharon is passionate about helping SMEs build sustainable, profitable businesses while supporting strong teams and long-term growth.

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Host: Louisa Meehan - Woodview HRM
www.woodviewhrm.com | www.thehumansideofbusiness.com

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In this episode of The Human Side of Business Podcast, Louisa Meehan speaks with Becci Harrison about the reality of leading people in retail and hospitality, where culture, flexibility and trust often matter just as much as pay.Becci shares honest insights from running a boutique department store and previously operating a café alongside it. The conversation explores staff retention, flexible working in customer-facing businesses, managing rosters, dealing with last-minute absences, balancing fairness with accommodation, and the emotional pressure that comes with stepping in to solve problems as a business owner.They also discuss the growing issue of abuse faced by retail workers and the very real impact this has on employees, business owners and workplace culture.This is a grounded, practical conversation about the human side of managing people when resources are tight, expectations are high and leadership happens in real time.============Guest: Becci Harrison - Fishers Newtownmountkennedy & RBM DigitalBecci Harrison is an experienced retailer and entrepreneur based in County Wicklow. She runs a boutique department store and wellness hub, alongside RBM Digital, a small marketing consultancy.Becci is passionate about championing small businesses, women in business, family businesses and networking. She is a Trinity College Business School master’s graduate, a director of Network Ireland, and a former National President of the organisation. She is also involved with the Small Firms Association, Skillnet Ireland and the MentorsWork programme.============Host: Louisa Meehan - Woodview HRMwww.woodviewhrm.com | www.thehumansideofbusiness.com===============🔔 Subscribe for more honest conversations from the trenches of people management.===============#TheHumanSideOfBusinessPodcast #WoodviewHRM #WorkplaceRealities#HRInsights #ManagingPeople #RetailIreland #SmallBusinessIreland #LeadershipInPractice

In this episode, Louisa Meehan is joined by Rosanne Edger, senior HR professional and founder of Rosanne Edger HR Consulting.

Louisa and Rosanne discuss the reality of grievances, disciplinaries, difficult conversations, and why policies only matter if they actually work in practice.

They talk about what happens when performance issues turn into complaints, why managers need support before things escalate, and the importance of staying open-minded when there are always two sides to a story.

This is a practical conversation about the messy, human side of HR: difficult employees, stretched managers, process mistakes, open-plan office complaints, and the moments where experience really matters.

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Edger HR Consulting

Rosanne is a senior HR professional with over 20 years of experience across a wide range of sectors, including professional services, retail, manufacturing, technology, life sciences, sales and charities.

Having operated at an HR director level, Rosanne has a strong track record in HR leadership, strategy setting, support, guidance, and project delivery.

Having helped both startups and established businesses strengthen their people strategies and mitigate risk, she has an excellent commercial understanding with the ability to marry the HR and business agenda.

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Host: Louisa Meehan

Woodview HRM

www.woodviewhrm.com

www.thehumansideofbusiness.com

===============🔔 Subscribe for more honest conversations from the trenches of people management

===============#TheHumanSideOfBusinessPodcast #WoodviewHRM #WorkplaceRealities#HRInsights #ManagingPeople

In this episode of The Human Side of Business, Louisa Meehan (Woodview HRM) is joined by Deirdre Murray, Founder and Director of People Resources and a Master Executive Coach, to talk about career transitions, confidence, and what leadership growth really looks like in the modern workplace.Most careers are no longer a straight line. People plateau, lose confidence, or feel stuck - and with AI changing how we work, many professionals are asking “what next?” Deirdre shares practical, grounded advice on career coaching, identifying strengths, understanding values, and making a transition without “falling off a cliff”.They also explore why psychological safety and empathy matter more than ever, how leaders can give feedback in a way that supports growth, and how small, consistent learning can open new opportunities at any stage of your career.In this episode, we cover:👉 What career coaching is (and when it helps most)👉 How to identify strengths, values, and what you truly enjoy👉 Making a career change without sacrificing financial stability👉 The role of education, upskilling, and lifelong learning👉 Transitional skills and how to communicate your value in interviews👉 Why empathy and psychological safety are essential leadership qualities👉 How to give feedback that helps people improve (without defensiveness)

===============Guest: Deirdre MurrayFounder and Director, People Resources

Deirdre is the Founder and Director of People Resources and a Master Executive Coach with over 25 years’ experience working with senior leaders and teams across global companies, SMEs, and public sector bodies. She specialises in leadership development, team coaching, and change programmes, drawing on deep expertise in neuroscience, resilience, and positive psychology. Deirdre is also a former Adjunct Faculty member at UCD Smurfit Business School, a regular speaker, and co-author of “Emotional Intelligence - A Leadership Imperative!” as well as “Communicate with Impact!”. Her work focuses on helping leaders and teams perform at their very best.===============Host: Louisa MeehanWoodview HRMwww.woodviewhrm.comwww.thehumansideofbusiness.com🔔 Subscribe for more honest conversations from the trenches of people management.#TheHumanSideOfBusiness #CareerTransitions #CareerCoaching #LeadershipDevelopment #EmotionalIntelligence #PsychologicalSafety #PeopleManagement #WoodviewHRM