Elaine Ryan, founder of Elaine Ryan & Associates Ltd, reflects on her journey, the role of faith and mentorship in her career, and how she has built a business dedicated to transformation and
excellence over the last 18 years. The following captures a conversation where she shares insights about her experience, work, challenges, and the lessons she has learned along the way.
Describe your business.
I am an HR and Business consultant, crafting people strategies and business models for business success and progress. While we ensure businesses are legally protected, we go beyond that by working on people management, training, performance management, team building and restructuring. We help businesses establish their vision, mission, and values while fostering a coaching culture. As a qualified executive business life coach and neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) practitioner, I bring an experiential approach to every organization we work with.
What makes your business unique?
Accessibility. We are not typical nine-to-five consultants, we become an extension of our clients’ teams. Over the years, we’ve built long-term relationships; some clients have been with us for 18 years. Even when they step away for a while, they often return because of the trust we have built.
If you had to describe your business in three words, what would they be?
Integrity, honesty, and passion.
What do you love most about owning a business?
The privilege of working with so many different businesses across industries. Being part of their journey, helping them grow, and watching them transform is incredibly rewarding.
What inspired you to start your business?
My background was in HR and operations, overseeing three businesses, but I had no work-life balance. I sought out a business coach in Dublin, and as someone whose faith is central to my life, I felt that God was telling me to pause and reevaluate through that process. That led me to an executive business life coaching diploma offered at University of Limerick. I was about 37 when I started this journey, and I set a goal to have my own business by 40. I launched Elaine Ryan & Associates in February, and by May, I turned 40 and I’ve never looked back.
Who has been your biggest role model or mentor?
My mother and my uncle. My uncle was a true visionary, he reinvented his life in his 40s to become a Pastor. He always told me, “You can be whoever you want, whenever you want.”
That message stayed with me. My mom continues to be a huge inspiration as well.
What motivates you every day?
Passion. If I can inspire even one person a day, I consider that a privilege. Seeing businesses and individuals thrive, watching people go from a caterpillar to a butterfly, that’s my soul food.
What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in business? Employment legislation in Ireland is tough, and the cost of doing business is high. I see clients struggling, sometimes even unable to pay themselves. This year alone, we have seen minimum wage increases and compulsory pensions coming down the track that add financial pressure. My challenge is to help businesses create people strategies that allow them to stay afloat and succeed despite any hurdles.
What’s your biggest fear?
Honestly, I don’t operate in fear. My faith grounds me. The Bible says “Do not fear” 365 times, and I truly believe that. When I started my business, I prayed over it and trusted that it was the right path. My only concern would be not to lose the joy in anything that I do.
What advice would you give to someone starting a business?
Use the resources available to you, like the Enterprise Board. And get a talented accountant! Mentoring is crucial, and having a solid plan in place is non-negotiable. Know your passion and your why, because on the tough days, that’s what will keep you going. Also, choose your tribe wisely. Surround yourself with people who will uplift you.
What are your top tips for networking?
Networking is about connection, not just business. When I started out, my financial advisor introduced me to BNI (Business Network International), and joining the Clare chapter was one of the best decisions I ever made. It built the foundation of my business.
The Chambers of Commerce in Shannon and Ennis and the Clare Business Network are also fantastic. Networking isn’t just about gaining clients, it’s about meeting people who share your challenges, your wins, and your knowledge. It is invaluable.
How do you maintain work-life balance?
I design my life intentionally. I am excellent at time management, and I value even the smallest moments of downtime. My diary is my lifeline, I manage it 24/7. I also have an amazing support system. My husband is my unofficial life coach, and as an NLP practitioner, I practice self-care and listen to my body.
What place inspires you the most, and why?
The sea. Standing by the water at Lahinch or Kilkee grounds me. But a recent trip to India was probably the most transformative experience I have had in years. Waking up in Valparai, surrounded by tea plantations and wild elephants, was breathtaking. Being in nature and just being, that’s where inspiration comes from.
Your favourite book?
The Bible. It’s 66 books in one, full of wisdom, encouragement and guidance. Outside of that, I love Joyce Meyer’s writing and Pat Divilly’s work.
What are your future plans?
I turn 58 in May, so I’m designing how I want to show up for myself by 60. My faith guides me in honouring the time I have. I love my ministry work as a deacon, and I plan to continue growing in that space.
Business-wise, we’re expanding internationally. Last month, I worked in India and Dubai, it was a new step, and I want to continue growing global.
What gets you through tough days?
My faith, first and foremost. Every morning, I sit in my car and pray for grace and wisdom. My family and my passion for what I do keep me going. And the people I surround myself with, my tribe – they lift me up when I need it.
Elaine Ryan’s journey is a testament to determination, faith, and an unwavering commitment to transformation. As she continues to grow her business and inspire those around her, one thing is clear, her passion for people and excellence remains as strong as ever.
