Jill O'Meara Photography

Krystle Foley Founder and Managing Director of Kola Digital

INTERVIEW AND Photography by Jill O’Meara

Can you tell us a little about yourself and your business? 

I am a proud working mamma to three wonderful boys—Oscar (11), Leon (9), and Aron (7), 

I love food and the outdoors especially hiking when I can. I am also the Founder and Managing Director of Kola Digital, a full-service marketing agency based in Naas. 

Our mission is simple: to help businesses "shine online." With over 20 years of experience in marketing, I launched my own business in 2016, combining my passion for creativity with my expertise in marketing across multiple industries. My role today is dynamic and hands-on. 

I lead projects across web design and development, branding, corporate identity, SEO, AdWords campaigns, social media marketing, and PPC campaigns. 

My focus is always on crafting impactful, customised strategies that empower businesses to succeed in the ever-evolving digital landscape. 

Over the past eight years I my business, I’ve had the privilege of nurturing, building, and steering numerous brands toward growth and success. I firmly believe that understanding the unique needs of each project and client is key to achieving great results.

I firmly believe that understanding the unique needs of each project and client is key to achieving great results. My strength lies in fostering strong relationships and building engagement with both clients and project teams, ensuring alignment, improvement, and success in every endeavour we undertake.

What inspired you to start your business or career in this field?

From a young age, I’ve been driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, always finding ways to build, create, and organise. Whether it was hosting jumble sales in my front garden at age 6, running a kids' club at 8, or arranging buses to Slane as a teenager, I was constantly exploring new ventures. 

This innate passion for innovation and coordination naturally guided me toward a career in marketing, which I eagerly pursued through my studies and professional journey. Also I thrive on bringing a client’s vision to life—whether it’s a new brand, a campaign, or a website. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing their excitement and happiness when their ideas become a reality. Their success is my success.

Do you have any favourite quotes or mantras that inspire you?

I live by the saying,

"If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life."

It couldn’t be more true for me. I never experience the Sunday blues because I genuinely love what I do. Even on long days, I’m never watching the clock or wishing the day away. I find joy in my work, and because of that, it never truly feels like work—it feels like a passion I get to pursue every day.

I often share this mindset with my boys, especially when they start thinking about school on a Sunday. When they say, "I wish we didn’t have school tomorrow," I remind them not to waste the day worrying about Monday. Instead, I encourage them to enjoy each moment, even the school days, because every day has something valuable to offer.

What motivates you to keep going during difficult times? 

My boys are my constant source of motivation, especially during the tough times. One of the greatest rewards of running my own business, particularly at this stage, is the flexibility it provides—a priceless gift. Now, eight years into my journey as a business owner, things look very different from when I started. 

In the beginning, it was relentless—working seven days a week, evenings, weekends—whatever it took to get the business off the ground. Today, I have the privilege of creating a better balance, like picking my boys up from school, which has become the absolute highlight of my day.

When you're not working, what are your favourite activities or hobbies? 

Weekends are all about quality time with my boys. During the weekdays, our schedule is packed with sports and activities, so I’m constantly on the go. Come the weekend, we slow things down and enjoy time together—whether it’s hiking, visiting a playground, or having a cozy Sunday morning with breakfast in bed and catching up. 

I’m also a foodie at heart, so I can never resist the chance to enjoy a nice dinner out. For my own downtime, I love to escape into a good book, and you’ll often find me with my head buried in one whenever I get the chance.

Who or what has been the biggest influence on your professional life?

My mum has been the greatest influence on my professional life and an unwavering source of support throughout my journey. From a young age, she encouraged me to pursue my ambitions. When I was 14 and expressed a desire to work, she handed me the Leinster Leader to browse job advertisements. There was only one job I felt I could do, and she urged me to call them. Nervously, I made the call, and she accompanied me to the interview, cheering me on every step of the way. The job was in Kildare town, which meant she had to drive me there and back every day. She did it without hesitation, fully supporting me. 

The business owner noticed her dedication and even offered to contribute to petrol costs. At the time, I appreciated her efforts, but as an adult, I now fully understand the depth of her commitment and love.

I laugh thinking back that I earned £20 per week which wasn’t the going rate at the time, but I loved to work hard and it isn’t always about the money. 

Since then, for every job interview, career milestone, event, or business opening, my mum has been my biggest champion, always by my side. She not only shaped my professional values but also taught me how to be a good parent. Her lessons and example guide me as I raise my own children. Earlier this year, I faced the devastating loss of my mum to cancer. 

Even though she’s no longer physically with me, her presence is felt every day. She continues to inspire me, and I carry her love, strength, and unwavering support in everything I do. 

 What’s the most rewarding part of your job? 

 The most rewarding part of my work is partnering with clients to truly understand their needs and challenges. I thrive on engaging with them, identifying their pain points, and crafting tailored solutions that make a real difference in their business. 

For many clients, these challenges may include a lack of internal marketing expertise to execute key initiatives, limited time to dedicate to critical marketing tasks, or frustration with current efforts that aren’t delivering the desired results. 

My approach is not about selling services—it’s about listening, understanding, and building a strategy that aligns with their goals. I take pride in guiding clients through every step of the process, from initial discovery to the successful implementation of a plan that drives meaningful results. 

Seeing their vision come to life and knowing that I’ve helped them overcome obstacles to achieve growth is what fuels my passion for what I do.

What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a businesswoman?

 I’ve learned the critical importance of setting boundaries in work and finding a balance in my personal life. It’s true—you can’t pour from an empty cup, so prioritising self-care is just as vital as taking care of your business. 

There was a time when I’d respond to emails at 11 p.m. or miss out on precious family moments because of work commitments. However, establishing clear boundaries has changed that. Now, I’m fully present in both my work and personal life, ensuring neither one compromises the other. 

You have experience a photoshoot with Jill , what was it like for you and do you see yourself different now ? 

What an incredible experience I had at Jill’s studio for a personal branding day! From start to finish, I was completely pampered and made to feel like a star. I arrived with a selection of outfits, was greeted with delicious coffee and pastries, and treated to professional hair and makeup. By the time I was ready for the photoshoot, I felt absolutely fabulous. 

Jill’s guidance during the shoot was amazing—she made me feel so at ease, even with the different poses. I quickly relaxed into the process, and we had so much fun along the way! When I received the final pictures, I was ecstatic—they were absolutely stunning. 

I’ve used them everywhere—from my website and social media profiles to my email signature—and they’ve truly elevated my personal brand. 

It was an unforgettable experience, and I couldn’t recommend it more!

Who is the perfect client for you? 

 While a client who pays their invoices is always appreciated (kidding—but not really!), what I truly value are clients who understand the importance of marketing and how it drives their business forward. When clients recognise the impact of strategic marketing, our relationships thrive and often evolve into long-term partnerships built on mutual growth and success. 

What’s next for you and your business or career? 

My goal is to continue growing the business by working hard, collaborating with my amazing clients, and building lasting relationships. I’m excited about meeting new clients and taking on fresh, innovative projects that challenge and inspire me every day.

How can people get in touch with you?

If you would like to discuss marketing for your business you can call me on 087-3966952, email Krystle@koladigital.ie or visit our website: www.koladigital.ie