From Intern to Managing Editor at Newstalk - Patricia Monahan's Radio Journey.

In the latest episode of RadioTalks, Patricia Monahan former Chairperson of Learning Waves and Managing Editor at Newstalk shared her radio journey in advance of commencing her new role as Director of Audio at RTÉ. Patricia was Chairperson of Learning Waves for the last two and half years and she has left an incredible mark on the sector. Her journey, which started with a journalism internship, has spanned more than two decades and is a testament to her resilience, leadership, and deep passion for broadcasting. 

Patricia always had an interest in journalism but didnt have the confidence to do it when she came straight out of school.  She did an Arts Degree in Trinity College, Dublin, and after that she still had the 'journalism bug' so she went and did the Masters in DCU.  Patricia needed a placement to complete the course and she met Mary Minihan who was Newstalk's first Political Correspondent, who told Patricia that Newstalk could do with all the help they could get having just set up in April 2002, this was May 2002.  Following that conversation Patricia walked into Newstalk as an intern in July 2002.  Reflecting on those early days, she spoke candidly about the initial uncertainty she felt. “At the time, I remember thinking, ‘Am I mad? This is a startup. Will it even be here in six months?’ But my tutor in DCU told me, ‘If you don’t learn to take a risk, you’ll never survive in this business.’ So, I took the leap, and the rest, as they say, is history.” 

From Intern to Managing Editor: A Career Built on Hard Work and Passion 

Patricia’s journey at Newstalk is a perfect example of what hard work and dedication can achieve. Starting as an intern, she quickly moved up the ranks, taking on roles as a researcher and producer, and eventually becoming the Managing Editor. Her first experience working with the station’s heavyweights was a defining moment. “I remember walking into the newsroom on my second day, and Damien Kiberd, who was presenting the lunchtime show, asked me for my opinion on something. I thought, ‘Is this how it works? I actually get to say something?’ That was the moment I realised I could have an impact on the on air content, and I loved that.” Patricia went from an intern to a researcher to producer of that show. 

Over the years, Patricia witnessed many changes at Newstalk and has so many memories of great moments in Newstalk.  The station was very new, everything was a first, from the first Outside Broadcast to the first Election, there were so many firsts.  Patricia recalls the enthusiasm of the team when covering the first election for the station, which was a Dublin local election, the team stayed on-air all night.  Applying for and winning a National Licence was huge for the station also.  One of the most significant moments was when Pat Kenny joined the station in 2013, a move she describes as “a massive coup.” As the producer who helped manage Pat Kenny’s transition to Newstalk, Patricia recalls it as one of her career highlights. “It was a privilege to work with Pat. He’s an absolute gentleman, and that period really pushed Newstalk forward in the minds of listeners.” Patricia then cites the opportunity she has been given to lead the organisation, which is now a significant player in Irelands media landscape, as her biggest highlight.

Leading Through Change: The Evolution of Radio 

In her time at Newstalk, Patricia saw radio evolve from traditional FM broadcasting to a multi-platform industry that competes with digital media. “Radio is not just audio anymore,” she explained. “It’s video, it’s social media, and we’re now competing with a much broader landscape. But I think radio has proven itself incredibly resilient. I was told within months of starting my career that radio was dying. Well, here we are, 22 years later, and it’s far from dying, it’s thriving.” 

Despite the changing nature of the industry, Patricia is optimistic about the future of radio and audio. She believes that radio’s ability to adapt is one of its greatest strengths. “The radio industry has had to adapt to changing technology and listener habits, but with that change comes opportunity. Today, we’re not just creating content for FM; we are building brands across multiple platforms. Radio has become a rounded brand that exists in many different places, and that’s exciting.” 

Learning Waves: A Decade of Involvement and Contribution 

As the outgoing Chairperson of Learning Waves, Patricia has been instrumental in guiding the organisation’s vision and driving its mission forward. “I’ve been involved with Learning Waves for over a decade, both as someone who benefitted from the training they provide and later as a member of the board. It’s been a massive part of my career, and I have seen first hand the impact it has on the industry.” 

One of her proudest accomplishments during her time with Learning Waves was helping develop certified training courses and programmes aimed at both new and experienced radio professionals. “Learning Waves introduced management courses that have been very popular, and I think that’s really important. The biggest challenge for the radio industry right now is the pipeline of young talent, and Learning Waves has been instrumental in addressing that through programmes like the Journalism Graduate Programme and TY Media Week.” 

Looking ahead, Patricia is confident that Learning Waves will continue to thrive. “There are so many opportunities for Learning Waves to expand and grow. We are already seeing more certified training and courses aimed at helping the industry tackle new challenges like misinformation and disinformation. I think Learning Waves is well-positioned to help the industry navigate the challenges the industry faces.” 

Advice for the Next Generation 

For those starting out in radio today, Patricia has some really good advice: “Put your head down, work hard, and be resilient. This industry can be tough, and you’ll face knocks along the way, but the key is to pick yourself up and keep going. Most importantly, trust yourself. Follow your instincts and do what feels right for you.” 

Patricia also encourages those considering a career in radio to get hands-on experience. “If you have even the slightest interest in radio, get your foot in the door, do an internship, get some work experience, and feel the buzz of being in a radio station. You will know very quickly if it’s right for you.” 

As Patricia Monahan steps into her new role as Director of Audio at RTÉ, her legacy at Newstalk and Learning Waves is one of innovation, leadership, and a deep commitment to the future of radio in Ireland.  

The future looks bright for both Patricia and Learning Waves. As radio continues to evolve, Patricia’s story serves as an inspiration to anyone looking to make their mark in the industry. 

The board and members of Learning Waves wish Patricia every success in her new role as Director of Audio in RTE.

Listen to the full episode by clicking here.