EE 319 - Knowledge is Power - The Unstoppable Rise of an Industry Titan - Jacqueline O'Donovan

The Entrepreneur Experiment

Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn a family business into a multi-million-pound empire? Jacqueline O'Donovan, a pioneer in waste disposal, did just that at 19, steering her company through decades of growth and innovation.

Jacqueline is the MD of O'Donovan Waste Disposal in the UK and her father, Joe, originally hails from Cork.

Jacqui built the business from £175,000 turnover to £18 million before selling in 2022.

She was awarded an OBE in December 2023 for her services to business in the UK.

Today's episode peels back the curtain on how she navigated the emotional landscape of selling her business, maintained excellence over 37 yeears, and what fuels her current and future ventures.

Venture into the world of entrepreneurship with Jacqueline, as she recounts the early days of stepping into leadership and the profound influence of her family's immigrant roots and work ethic. Her personal narrative intertwines with astute business insights, highlighting the significance of communication, consistency, and the challenges of scaling a business. As we delve into her meticulous design of an environmentally conscious facility, Jacqueline's experience shines a light on combating gender inequality with knowledge and confidence, proving that these are the ultimate tools for success in a male-dominated industry.

As we close, Jacqueline's transition from waste management to the realms of PR, marketing, and storytelling unfolds, revealing the breadth of her expertise. Her candid discussion on mentorship, the fallacy of needing to fail in entrepreneurship, and juggling personal life with professional commitments offers a treasure trove of wisdom.

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