Call us on: +44 (0) 28 8224 9494
Call us on: +44 (0) 28 8224 9494
Discover how Alan Hogshaw transitioned from 30 years of employment to launching his own marketing business, helping others grow with simple, practical tools.
In this episode of the 60 Second Challenge, hosted by Nick O’Shiel of Omagh Enterprise, we meet Alan Hogshaw, founder of MyOmagh and MyCookstown. After decades working for others, Alan took the leap into entrepreneurship and built a business around accessible, effective marketing.
He shares how working with local companies, embracing digital tools, and learning from others helped shape his success. His story is a reminder that it’s never too late to start, especially when you’re passionate about people, simplicity, and progress. Alan’s journey is a great watch for anyone using shared office space or starting out from a virtual office at Omagh Enterprise.
Alan’s story is a great example of how digital marketing and entrepreneurship can go hand in hand. For those looking to launch or expand their own marketing, tech, or service-based business, Omagh Enterprise offers a range of flexible workspace solutions — including private offices and co-working spaces that support focused growth in a connected environment.
Nick O’Shiel:
Hello and welcome to the 60 Second Challenge with Omagh Enterprise Company. I’m Nick O’Shiel, and I’m with Alan Hogshaw of MyOmagh.com, who’s agreed to take the challenge.
You’re very welcome.
Alan Hogshaw:
Thank you, Nick.
Nick O’Shiel:
You’ve joined me on a lovely Sunday morning. I think you know the challenge — to answer six questions about your business in 60 seconds?
Alan Hogshaw:
That’s correct.
Nick O’Shiel:
So if you’re ready, we’ll give it a go?
Alan Hogshaw:
Okay.
Nick O’Shiel:
Alright. First question — can you describe your business?
Alan Hogshaw:
Our business is a marketing business where we promote companies through websites, emails, leaflets, press — all kinds of channels.
Nick O’Shiel:
Why did you decide to start a business?
Alan Hogshaw:
I always wanted to work for myself. I’d worked for another company for 30 years and wanted to see what challenges would come with going out on my own.
Nick O’Shiel:
You must’ve started very young?
Alan Hogshaw:
Not really!
Nick O’Shiel:
What’s the best thing about running a business?
Alan Hogshaw:
Meeting new people, helping businesses grow, overcoming challenges — and keeping business simple. I love working for myself.
Nick O’Shiel:
What’s the biggest challenge looking ahead?
Alan Hogshaw:
Getting people to embrace modern marketing. Everyone uses phones and laptops — even our oldest customer is 94! Businesses need to keep up and learn.
Nick O’Shiel:
What advice would you give someone starting out?
Alan Hogshaw:
Go for it. Learn from others — even people like you. I came to Omagh Enterprise to learn. Even if it fails, you’ll have learned a lot. And talk to people.
Nick O’Shiel:
Final question — in three words or less, how would you describe your experience?
Alan Hogshaw:
Brilliant. Exciting. Motivational.
Nick O’Shiel:
We’ll stop the clock there — two minutes exactly. You’ve met the challenge! Congratulations.
Alan Hogshaw:
Thank you!
Let’s connect! Whether you’re looking for an office space or business support, we’d love to chat. Book a tour or contact us today—no obligation, just expert advice.
Monday-Friday, 09:00-17:00
Charity No: 101885. Company Registration No: N. Ireland 17785
