Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Growth and Impact at The Communications Coach
As 2024 draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on a year filled with achievements, growth, and meaningful contributions. At The Communications Coach, it has been a privilege to support individuals and organisations in mastering the art of communication, helping them cut through the noise in an increasingly crowded landscape. This year stands out not just for professional milestones, but also for opportunities to advocate for important causes and embrace continuous learning.
Expanding Reach Through Cut Through the Noise
One of the highlights of 2024 has been the continued growth of my podcast, Cut Through the Noise with Aisling O’Rourke. Aimed at business professionals aged 35 and over, the show has gained momentum as a trusted resource for those looking to elevate their communication skills. From exploring personal branding and storytelling to managing crisis communication, the podcast has tackled topics that matter to professionals today.
A particularly exciting milestone this year was the podcast’s nomination for an Irish Pod Award. To be recognised alongside some of the best voices in the industry is both humbling and a testament to the impact the show has had on its listeners.
Speaking Engagements Across Networks
Throughout the year, I had the honour of speaking for a variety of networks and organisations across Ireland and the UK. From the Professional Speaking Association of Ireland and the UK to the Local Enterprise Office Dublin City, and from Network Ireland Wicklow to the Monaghan Women in Business Network, I had the privilege of sharing my expertise on impactful communication with diverse audiences.
These engagements have been a highlight of my year, offering opportunities to connect with professionals from all walks of life and provide practical, actionable insights that empower them to communicate with confidence and clarity.
Speaking Engagements in 2024
Speaking at The Professional Speaking Association Ireland
Supporting Public and Private Sector Teams
In 2024, I worked extensively with teams across the public and private sectors, delivering workshops and training programmes designed to enhance their communication skills. Whether helping leadership teams refine their presentation techniques or empowering professionals to communicate with clarity and impact, the results have been both rewarding and transformative.
This year has shown, more than ever, that effective communication is the backbone of success—whether you’re leading an organisation, supporting clients, or sharing your message with the public.
Announcing the Communications Mastermind
As I look ahead to 2025, I am excited to announce the upcoming launch of my Communications Mastermind. This programme is designed to offer focused, strategic support to professionals and business leaders who are ready to take their communication skills to the next level.
Whether you’re preparing to step into leadership, enhance your confidence as a speaker, or build a brand that stands out, the Communications Mastermind will provide tailored support, expert guidance, and a collaborative environment to help you achieve your goals.
In last week’s blog I launched this programme. If you’re interested in joining the pilot, which will be a select small group, please complete the form below.
Continuous Learning: AI and Carbon Literacy
I believe in the importance of continuous professional development, and this year I took meaningful steps to grow my expertise. I became Carbon Literacy Certified, reflecting my commitment to sustainability and ensuring I can support organisations in communicating their environmental efforts effectively.
In addition, I completed training with the AI Institute in AI for Marketing, gaining a deeper understanding of how artificial intelligence can be leveraged to enhance communication strategies. This knowledge allows me to offer clients cutting-edge insights and innovative approaches to their marketing and messaging.
Media Appearances
This year, I was also invited to contribute to national conversations on leading media platforms. I appeared on Newstalk, RTÉ Radio 1, and BBC Radio Ulster, sharing insights on communication, sustainability, and current affairs. These opportunities allowed me to bring key topics to broader audiences and showcase the role of effective communication in today’s world.
Advocacy and Public Speaking
While professional successes have been a key theme in 2024, this year also offered opportunities to use my voice for causes close to my heart. I spoke publicly about my experiences living with Type One Diabetes and shared the personal loss of my father to sepsis. By sharing these deeply personal stories, I hope to raise awareness, encourage conversations, and advocate for better understanding and support around these important issues.
Advocacy and Public Speaking
Speaking about losing my father at the National Sepsis Summit
Let’s Go Green 🌿
In addition to my work with The Communications Coach, I continued to host Let’s Go Green on Midlands 103. The show has remained a vital platform for raising awareness about sustainability and the role communication plays in building a greener future. Through interviews, insights, and practical advice, Let’s Go Green has connected listeners to key conversations about climate action and responsibility.
Aisling O'Rourke Let's Go Green
Empowering Women Through See Her Elected and Women for Election
In 2024, I also had the opportunity to collaborate with See Her Elected and Women for Election. These organisations are doing invaluable work to encourage and empower women to enter public life, ensuring their voices are heard at all levels of leadership. Through communications training and tailored support, I have been proud to play a role in equipping women with the tools they need to advocate effectively for themselves and their communities.
Election 2024:
Reporting from the Frontlines for Newstalk
A Team Effort at The Communications Coach
This year’s successes would not have been possible without the support of my team. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Amanda Fitzgerald, my podcast editor, whose expertise and attention to detail ensure Cut Through the Noise sounds professional and polished every time. I would also like to thank Lorraine Flood, my VA, whose behind-the-scenes support and organisation allow me to focus on delivering my best work for clients. Their contributions have been instrumental to the growth of The Communications Coach in 2024.
Merry Christmas from The Communications Coach Team
(Left to Right: Lorraine Flood, Founder of The Hummingbird Collective, my Virtual Assistant; me, Aisling O’Rourke; and Amanda Fitzgerald, my podcast editor. We attended the LEO Women In Business Christmas Event on December 10th in the Mansion House, Dublin)
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on the successes of 2024, I am grateful for the trust my clients, collaborators, and audiences have placed in me. From delivering workshops to sharing stories through media appearances, public speaking, and radio work, it has been a year of growth, purpose, and impact.
With the Communications Mastermind set to launch in 2025, and a continued focus on supporting individuals, teams, and organisations, I look forward to creating even more opportunities to help people elevate their communication strategies and build their confidence.
Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey. Here’s to another year of growth, learning, and helping you cut through the noise.
Warm regards,
Aisling O'Rourke
The Communications Coach
