Shows
FUNDED: Brilliant Entrepreneurs and FoundersHow to Escape the High Interest Business Loan Trap with SME Champion Steve Waud"Absolute tosh!"Our very own Steve Waud doesn't hold back on trickle down economics, but is one of the most passionate advocates for the trickle up effect of growing and supporting small businesses.He covers launching BEF 21 years ago, initially as an 18-month project and his own journey from apprentice engineer to commercially-savvy business developer to CEO of BEF. "I knew what it was like to go to banks and ask for money," says Steve, who is characteristically forthright about the new breed of 'alternative' high-interest short-term loan firms which, he says, are "b...
2025-10-1341 min
FUNDED: Brilliant Entrepreneurs and FoundersAn Entrepreneur's Guide to Intellectual Property with Liz Ward, Virtuoso LegalIntellectual Property creates "invisible wealth" – but what are the biggest and most common mistakes when it comes to protecting it?Liz Ward is an intellectual property specialist. The former chemist retrained as a lawyer and has been running her firm, Virtuoso Legal, since 2007. She takes us through some critically important "need to knows" when it comes to protecting your intellectual property (IP) and what to do if you accidentally infringe somebody else's.How do you value your IP? What is one of the essential ingredients of a patent? How can you uncover the invisible wealth wit...
2025-06-1744 min
FUNDED: Brilliant Entrepreneurs and FoundersA Rocket Boost for Business Growth with the Human Touch: Michelle Atkinson, Apollo CloudApollo Cloud has experienced remarkable growth, tripling its turnover in two years and winning around 80 customers, including a multinational, multi-billion dollar turnover company.The technology business provides omnichannel telephony and comms services to customers who value the power of communication, including professional services, logistics and other firms, and educational organisations.Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer Michelle Atkinson reveals the power of putting the "special" back into being a specialist as she describes Apollo's philosophy, unique selling proposition, communication and customer service approach.Michelle and her co-founder's shared love of the NASA Apollo Space...
2025-06-0534 min
FUNDED: Brilliant Entrepreneurs and Founders"Kids Played Maths for Two Hours on Christmas Morning": The Mi-box Live Story with Chris Withers"I thought, right, I'm 43 and this is the thing that I need to do. This is my thing," says Chris Withers, inventor of the board game combining sports challenges with maths, Mi-box Live.The former teaching assistant has designed and created an innovative board game and app that transforms mathematics learning into a fun, interactive experience.Drawing on his background in education and his own experiences at school – "I was a good sportsman, but struggled to read and write at school. So I struggled to understand maths questions, even though I could do the maths," Ch...
2025-04-0145 min
FUNDED: Brilliant Entrepreneurs and FoundersCombating isolation and changing parenthood with Mamma Social founder Kayleigh LaverickToday's guest Kayleigh Laverick describes how she launched Mamma Social Co and, in just a few years, built it into national brand that is changing the landscape of parenthood.In 2021 Kayleigh found herself feeling increasingly isolated and struggling after the birth of her second child. She is frank about how this culminated in thoughts of suicide.She reached out to friends and met up with other mums, which swiftly confirmed that new mothers need more help. This and the knowledge of an 18-month waiting list for NHS support convinced Kayleigh to leave her job to...
2025-03-2540 min
FUNDED: Brilliant Entrepreneurs and FoundersHow to Get a Start Up Loan with Amber and HabibWhat can Start Up loans be used for? How do you apply for a Start Up loan? And what information do you need to provide to give yourself the best chance of a successful application?In the last few episodes we've heard from some of the entrepreneurs supported by BEF. There are many more to come.But today, BEF Investment Manager Habib Karimi and Associate Investment Manager Amber Kershaw give us the benefit of their experience as they spill the beans on what makes for a successful Start Up loan application.They also...
2025-02-2816 min
FUNDED: Brilliant Entrepreneurs and FoundersMaking metalwork, advertising on Etsy, and building diverse income streams with blacksmith Ellie BardenEllie Barden set up Grace Forge, her blacksmithing and metal fabrication business, six years ago.She creates unique metalwork in mild steel, beautiful copper jewellery, and runs workshops. In this inspiring conversation relevant to independent craftspeople, makers and anyone interested in the art and business of blacksmithing, Ellie:Describes her journey from an apprenticeship as a farrier to running her own blacksmithing businessGives invaluable tips about advertising on Etsy, a platform used by many independent makersCovers the importance of investment into a business (Ellie is a Business Enterprise Fund client, using a loan for new equipment...
2025-02-1235 min
FUNDED: Brilliant Entrepreneurs and FoundersHow to run brilliant fundraising events and grow a social enterprise with Rob Cairns, Fund A Fest"Rattle a tin in someone's face and you might get a pound, but if someone's having fun you might end up getting a lot more money for a good cause," says Rob Cairns, founder of Fund A Fest CIC. His business, a social enterprise, helps charities, community groups and social enterprises create fundraising events.Fund A Fest launched in 2019 after the "world had changed" when Rob was ill and subsequently diagnosed with Lyme disease. This pushed Rob to want to work for himself with charitable and community-focused organisations.He draws on a team of hundreds...
2024-12-1723 min
FUNDED: Brilliant Entrepreneurs and FoundersHyde Accessible Transport: from the pains of invoice finance to a lender that backed growth with Shaun DelaneyShaun's business transports around 900 children each day and currently holds around 150 contracts with local authorities and NHS Trusts.It provides vital transport to wheelchair users, disabled people and children, and vulnerable members of the public. It has grown from a first year turnover of £325,000 to reach a million pounds in its third year, then three million, with a projection for six million this year, and operates a growing fleet of vehicles – including EVs – all of which are fully accessible so the firm can satisfy a wide range of passenger and journey requirements.While demand and growt...
2024-12-0332 min
FUNDED: Brilliant Entrepreneurs and FoundersA Wizard who turned down a Dragon: Ben Fry, The Potions CauldronBen is Chief Enchantment Officer of The Potions Cauldron Group which incorporates The Hole In Wand mini golf courses in Blackpool, Chester, Seaham and York, The Potions Cauldron – magical "emporiums and experiences" in Edinburgh and York, and a website selling drinks across the world.He and business partner Phil Ponder turned down an amazing offer (and then an even MORE amazing one) on Dragon's Den. He tells the story, explores the pros and cons of equity and debt finance, and describes why they approached the Business Enterprise Fund.Ben, York's Town Crier, covers:• why h...
2024-12-0327 min
FUNDED: Brilliant Entrepreneurs and FoundersLyndsay Watterson: selling handmade walking sticks worldwide from YorkEvery box Lyndsay sends out to a customer changes someone's life. Few businesses could make such a claim, but this is what people tell her day in and out.Her business, Neo Walk, now employs ten and has customers in 35 countries. American actresses Selma Blair and Christina Applegate have both become big advocates for Lyndsay's handmade walking sticks.But it all started in her kitchen. After Lyndsay experienced a catastrophic MRSA infection, her left leg was amputated. "I knew that I needed a walking stick and I was just looking round at what there was...
2024-12-0332 min
On The CoalfaceEp11: The Road Ahead with Patrick VeitchPatrick Veitch studied mathematics at Cambridge University but soon find himself devoting more to the horses than the algorithms.He is widely regarded as one of the most successful gamblers. He made over 10 millions in profit from betting between 1999 and 2007. However, his success has not come without controversy, and his life had been marked by both triumph and tragedy.In his autobiography, titled "Enemy Number One: The Secrets of the UK's Most Professional Punter," Veitch details his journey to becoming one of the most successful punters of modern times. The autobiography also delves into the m...
2024-03-2151 min
The Hobcast Book Show127: Vitalising Purpose - with Jonathan Bland and Jamie VeitchThis week's Hobcast Book Show is a departure from our usual subject areas. We're joined by the co-authors of Vitalising Purpose, Jonathan Bland and Jamie Veitch. Drawing on their years of experience working in the UK's social enterprise sector, the book offers insights and suggestions for improving vital public services we all rely on, by introducing lessons learned from organisations and pioneers who've partnered with local authorities, government and public bodies to improve outcomes for the people who use those services. As Jonathan tells us, both he and Jamie hope the book will inspire new thinking and approaches to...
2023-06-261h 03
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursA Rant about (De)Regulation, New Funding and Events, and Air Quality Entrepreneur Kate BarnardAll this talk about "slashing red tape" and a sudden zeal for deregulation as a magic bullet for growth made me climb aboard my soapbox.This episode starts with a rant and a reminder: regulation per se is no barrier to inclusive growth, and careless deregulation risks encouraging a race to the bottom in business and life. Do we want crappy, rubbish businesses exploiting people and planet for ever-diminishing returns on investment? I don't. Glad I've got that off my chest (and let me know what you think).Then an interview with engineer-turned-air-quality entrepreneur, Kate...
2022-10-0741 min
Mom StrengthMoSt #31: Ditch the ‘Shoulds’ & Find Your Own Journey with Jamie StrakerSurabhi Veitch interviews fellow pregnancy and postpartum athleticism (P&PA) coach Jamie Straker, mom of 2, where we bust the “shoulds” and pressure we put on ourselves during pregnancy and postpartum. We discuss strategies to transition from postpartum into exercise, making life easier, and getting you stronger! This episode explores common fears and worries during postpartum, giving you ways to overcome them and thrive!.We discuss:Finding your own journey through postpartumProlapse/diastasis symptoms and treatment through exercisesDitching the ‘should’s’ of pregnancy & postpartumFears and worries du...
2022-05-161h 06
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursStopping Food Waste, Feeding Children with Rene Meijer, Food WorksFood Works collects, upcycles and shares surplus food, preventing 7-9 tonnes from being wasted every week. CEO Rene Meijer describes how it achieves this – and what this fantastic social enterprise has been doing this half-term to ensure no child in Sheffield should go hungry.Rene explains how Food Works operates (and has adapted), how it makes ingredients and meals accessible to people and how it earns its income.I also asked Rene how his interest in food and sustainability has been shaped – and pressed him for leadership and management tips. His are well worth reflecting on.
2020-10-2943 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursArt, Beauty, Books, Music, Meditation and Management with Jean-Michel Ledru, Merci Maman"In a world when a lot of things are hard and tough, art is leading the way to beauty and some of the best things that we can achieve in our humanity, I love art." Jean-Michel Ledru.Much is written and said about effective management. But sometimes actions don't follow words. So it was wonderful to hear from Jean-Michel Ledru, CEO of Merci Maman, a five million-turnover personalised jewellery company.Ledru's passion for people and mission as a manager and in business to contribute to their happiness and growth is clearly underpinned by actions.
2020-08-1337 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursBuilding an anti-fast-fashion business with Paul Clapham, UskeesThere's a lots of smoke and mirrors in online retail, especially when it comes to suppliers of PPC, SEO and other services necessary to build a successful ecommerce store.But Paul Clapham knows how to choose the right partners so his business, Uskees, gets the results it needs. There can be smoke and mirrors around the word 'sustainable' too, especially when it comes to fashion. The industry is notorious for the detrimental environmental and human impacts of fast fashion. Now, brands and labels are desperate to append the term 'sustainable' to their business, often with n...
2020-08-0643 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursMake your business more inclusive with Arit Eminue PLUS supercharge your sales with Paul DurrantThe media has become notorious for its barriers to social mobility. It’s easy for a young person to gain work experience and secure paid internships if they have a parent with connections; it can be impossible for people without access to a network to gain experience.Think that's not a problem? Even if you don't care about inequality of opportunity then the numbers should convince you: businesses which are more diverse and more inclusive perform better, according to multiple varied pieces of research.Many businesses want to become more inclusive. What do they need to...
2020-07-3047 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurs3 Crucial Steps to Outsourcing Effectively and 2 Books which Changed 2 BusinessesIt waits for no-one and if lost is never found again. Free yet priceless. We're talking of course about time: many business leaders wish they had more of it.Victoria Moffatt, the founder of LexRex, knows how to get more time. Her firm specialises in helping lawyers communicate. A former lawyer herself, Victoria read The Four Hour Work Week by Tim Ferriss soon after it was published. The book "blew her mind." She describes why in this interview.Soon after launching LexRex, Victoria needed to outsource. Effective outsourcing is a tenet of The Four Hour...
2020-07-2351 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursHow to avoid the energy sharks with Linda Spencer PLUS business and social enterprise fundingWhat's complicated and costly for many companies? The energy market. But in today's show, practical advice on how to navigate your energy costs from Linda Spencer of Professional Energy Purchasing Ltd.Energy companies seem to pass wholesale price rises on to customers immediately. Yet many businesses feel there's a big delay before their supplier passes on any drops in the wholesale price. Linda explains why. Her business helps customers reduce their overall energy usage too. She tells me how.Alongside these and other energy saving and purchasing tips Linda offers a healthy dose of Yorkshire...
2020-07-1646 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursAlpkit: the huge impact of small grants, share offer success and sustainabilityAn interview with David Hanney, CEO of outdoor equipment manufacturer and retailer Alpkit, plus business and social enterprise funding opportunities and two book recommendations.David covers Alpkit's Foundation, funded by the business and making small grants with huge impacts; Alpkit's astonishing share offer success this week; the firm's commitment to sustainability and its journey to accreditation as a B Corp.Alpkit launched in 2004 and designs, sources and sells outdoor equipment, clothing and bikes. Its Alpkit Foundation (a charity with nine trustees, funded by 1% of Alpkit sales) donates small grants to all sorts of...
2020-07-0343 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursA Library of Musical Instruments, a Super Social Enterprise – Jen O'Brien, Music BrothMusic Broth is a magnificent social enterprise in Glasgow, making musical instruments accessible to people across Scotland.Jen O'Brien, its co-founder, tells me how Music Broth's music instrument and equipment library works. Two and a half years ago it started with eight instruments – now there are over 1400 items available, from tin whistles to pianos, amps to drumkits, a clàrsach (harp), a double bass and more.Jen covers where the instruments have come from; how Music Broth generates income through memberships and other revenue streams; its hardship and access fund; how it has adapted during loc...
2020-06-2553 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursMusic: enterprise, education, excellence with Yasin El Ashrafi, HQ RecordingYasin El Ashrafi left school aged 15 and did a series of stopgap jobs before figuring out what he wanted to do.But when his son was born with a cord around his neck and diagnosed with cerebral palsy, Yasin lost his job because he wanted to look after him and attend his medical appointments.He decided he didn't want to go back to working for someone else – and would build his own business, allowing him to set his own hours – and based on his own passion.Yasin piloted his first music project, which led...
2020-06-1151 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursThe power of apprenticeships with Tricia Smith plus representation in the mediaTricia Smith is passionate about the power of apprenticeships, having started her own career journey through a work placement.Now the CEO of The Source Skills Academy, in this interview she discusses:her charity's range of courses covering vitally important technical and 'soft' skillswhy apprenticeships are crucialhow employers can engage with The Source and the benefits of doing so.This episode of the programme also includes reflections on equality and representation, diversity and inclusion in business and the media, and a campaign in support of inclusive independent publishers.Also in the episode: forthcoming...
2020-06-0441 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurs300th episode - Fay Selvan, Big Life group - supporting Big Issue North vendors and advice for social entrepreneursFay Selvan is Chief Executive of the Big Life group, which employs around 500 people and turns over £20m, and joins me in this, the 300th episode of the Business Live radio show.The Big Life Group is in the business of changing lives, creating opportunities for people who have the least. It runs schools, nurseries, children's centres and family support services.Big Issue North and The Big Issue North Trust are also part of The Big Life Group. The Trust, a registered charity, raises funds to provide a range of support for Big Issue North v...
2020-05-2942 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursPowerful tips to make online events and workshops better - Mihaela Gruia and Jill WhiteIf you run online workshops, meetings or events this episode is a must-listen: it's crammed with practical tips to ensure your events are interactive and effective from two brilliant guests.Mihaela Gruia is founder and chief executive of Research Retold. Her business works with researchers to help them communicate their findings in effective ways.One of Research Retold's activities is to run workshops with Universities. Mihaela has found the experience of moving her workshops online to be positive – mainly because she did a lot of planning to ensure they continued to be highly interactive....
2020-05-2149 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursHow to prepare for a radio interview and why it can propel your business [radio and podcast interview tips 1]Why give radio or podcast interviews about your business? And how can you prepare most effectively so you will give a fantastic interview?Many hugely accomplished business leaders and social entrepreneurs are nervous about doing radio interviews. But there are five powerful reasons why giving a radio interview can help propel you closer to your business goals, which we cover in this programme.And I run through the essentials about how to prepare for radio (or podcast) interviews.Follow these tips and you'll be more confident when you are interviewed, whether l...
2020-05-2039 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursSlash your overheads and generate funding - Wendy WardDon't try to help everyone – it's absolutely exhausting. When Wendy Ward came to this conclusion it gave her business, Let's Save Consultancy Services an instant boost.Wendy specialises in saving money for charities, third sector organisations and social enterprises by slashing utilities costs, phone bills and other fees. She helps them raise money too, through grant and funding applications.Many sharks swim in the same sea as charities, especially in the telecoms and utilities industries, she says. Wendy explains common ways organisations end up overpaying and how you can reduce your 'phone and utility bills.
2020-05-0853 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursBleeding edge tech, machine learning, and taking manufacturing geniuses digital - Jamie HintonWe often describe this as the show for 'curious entrepreneurs' a description which fits today's guest perfectly.Jamie Hinton is CEO and co-founder of Razor, which works with businesses from start-ups to FTSE100 firms. He's also a former young musician of the year finalist, a mountain biker and an incomparable enthusiast for the brilliant manufacturing geniuses of Sheffield.Razor - named because it works at 'the cutting edge, the bleeding edge' of new technology - is enabling more efficient manufacturing thanks to digital technology, as Jamie describes.He tells us about an exciting...
2020-04-3047 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursOscar winners to read stories by Yorkshire children - Deborah Bullivant, Grimm and CoRemember those stories you wrote as a child? Imagine the feeling if something you wrote was read or performed by an Oscar-winning film star. Or a famous author or familiar face from television.Grimm and Co is a writing charity for children and young people. It champions the writer in everyone. It's richly imaginative and a joyful hub for creative adventures. An 'apothecary to the magical.'Founding CEO Deborah Bullivant joined me for a radio interview today to unveil details of its virtual gala - an extravaganza of stories, poems, and songs - in...
2020-04-2444 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursHow the Virtual Ticket Bank is reducing isolation plus face-masks for the NHS with BlatchfordIn today’s show: a social enterprise which has totally overhauled its service, to improve people's mental wellbeing by allowing them access to online events and resources.Plus an interview with Sheffield prosthetics manufacturer, Blatchford, which has converted its facilities to make face masks to help protect frontline NHS staff.Serial social entrepreneur Steve Rimmer has been a regular guest on the programme, talking about the Abbeydale Picture House and initiatives such as Ticket Bank and Tickets for Good.A social enterprise and certified B-Corporation, Tickets for Good has been working with hundreds of...
2020-04-1657 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursHow 3 Businesses have Adapted and Innovated: Jiraffe, Twinkl and CC33It's a triple-filled radio show sandwich today featuring three different businesses – all doing great things.Holly Jenkins of Jiraffe is first up. Jiraffe provides postural care equipment and support to children and adults with special needs."The need of the children that we support is not going to go away because of the coronavirus," she says – so Jiraffe has launched two special initiatives to ensure some of the most vulnerable children and adults in society still have access to vital seating, standing, sleeping, and mobility support equipment.Lots too in the chat with Holly...
2020-04-1054 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursUsing data to describe impact and tell storiesNot one but two guests in this latest Business Live radio show.Tom French supports people to use data and evaluation better. He covers some examples of his work and how it helps to inform decisions, and has advice on what to think about when you're collecting or analysing data.Tom is also part of Sheffield Data for Good and tells me about a recent collective effort with powerful results.Also on the show: Daniel Stanbra of the Source Skills Academy. Would you like to boost your skills or help isolated staff boost...
2020-04-0254 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursResilience with Helen Williams, business and social enterprise support and a corker of a book reviewA comprehensive run-through of support available to businesses, social enterprises and the self-employed. Plus a great interview with Helen Williams and a super book review.“There is a huge spirit, particularly in Sheffield at this time. That will remain, particularly if we stick together,” says Helen Williams, a coach who helps business leaders with their mindset. In today’s challenging and terrifying times, how is she helping folk cope with anxiety and uncertainty? You can’t control what’s uncontrollable, but Helen has practical tips to apply right away.Also on the show: a big run th...
2020-03-2751 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursHow to use online platforms to teach music and livestream performances - David TaylorMusic teachers can use online platforms such as Zoom, FaceTime, Google Hangouts and Skype to deliver lessons, and this episode includes practical advice about how to do it. It's a must-listen for self-employed teachers and it also covers livestreaming performances and building online businesses.Today's guest is David Taylor, a former jobbing cellist who works with globally-known orchestras and arts organisations - and with individuals. David founded Yorkshire Young Sinfonia and is an expert in using digital technology to deliver arts and performance projects. He's been described as an arts innovator and featured in a Forbes magazine 30...
2020-03-1649 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursFlood risk management, rewilding and water positive developments - the business case, with Professor Ian RotherhamToday's guest is Professor Ian Rotherham of Sheffield Hallam University, an expert on a range of environmental issues, including urban wildlife, extreme weather, flooding and climate change.Recent floods had an enormous human and economic impact. I met Ian at a recent "Flood Risk Management" conference, which examined integrated and natural flood management approaches and caught up with him afterwards for this short but fascinating chat.Ian covers how his own interest in flooding and rewilding came about and how the "rules of engagement" with nature have changed.He describes how flooding and...
2020-03-1622 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursPeriod equality, menstrual health and social change: Emily Wilson and Calum Smith, IriseHow can we break the vicious cycle of period poverty and the shaming and stigma which so many people experience around menstruation? What’s the best way to advocate for social change and make a real impact? How do you measure what matters? And what makes an effective leader?In this episode of Business Live we’re joined by Emily Wilson, Co-founder and CEO of Irise International, and Calum Smith, the charity’s Head of Operations.Irise is a global leader in menstrual health programming, research, advocacy and policy development, transforming peoples’ lives through period equality...
2020-03-0655 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursLouis Speight: from zero-hours frustration to super social entrepreneurship for record-breaking athleteWhen Louis Speight was 15 he announced he wanted to become a wheelchair racer. Born with cerebral palsy and often told “you can’t do things” in his childhood, Louis had experienced bullying and an eating disorder."My own parents were sceptical, and rightly so," he says. "To look at me you'd have never said I would make an athlete." But Louis describes how his bloody-mindedness propelled him to become the men's European record holder in one of the most competitive of sports.Sport made a profound impact in his life. "I am healthy and I can't...
2020-03-0253 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursThe power of responsible journalism with Michelle RawlinsWhat springs to mind when you think of the media and journalists?The profession is dedicated to gathering, assessing, verifying, editing and presenting facts, data, news, information – and stories.It is, I believe, crucial to a democratic society. Journalists give voices to people and communities excluded from dialogue; hold power to account; expose miscarriages of justice; present information in the public interest. They inform, engage and entertain. Yet many people don't trust them.Sadly it's easy to find bad and ugly practices in journalism. But most journalists don't enter their profession to exploit or...
2020-02-2152 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursEthical and sustainable fashion and textiles with Nina and Adam of KalopsiaIn one of the worst-offending industries for landfill and modern slavery, Kalopsia proves you can make products more ethically and minimise environmental impact.A batch manufacturer of textiles, apparel and accessories, Kalopsia is a social enterprise which started as an artistic collective and morphed into a textile producing community interest company.It makes exciting products (including for brands you will have heard of), supports the textile industry and the people in it, minimises waste and environmental impact. And it demonstrates all of this is possible as a sustainable (in all ways) business.Adam R...
2020-02-2043 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursMike Garner - deep research and powerful copy to help your ideal client say yesMike Garner escaped a career as a translator when he got sick of translating clients' bad French.He and his business, Branding with Words, help people put together messages which resonate with their ideal customers. In this interview Mike explains:• why you shouldn't be trying to sell to everybody• how to build customer avatars and profiles (and why this means you can serve clients better and build a stronger business)• the pitfalls of building a profile "so perfect it doesn't exist"• where to start before you get to psychographics and demographics• the power o...
2020-02-1356 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursKen Dunn: saving and changing lives with Wonderbags, Trees and Africa's GiftSmoke inhalation from cooking causes millions of deaths. Stirring cooking pots for hours and hours, and collecting firewood to cook with steals lives - preventing many people from going to school or achieving their potential.But a simple invention, created in South Africa, is already changing this. The Wonderbag is an insulated drawstring container weighing about the same as a bag of sugar. Bring a pot of stew to the boil, pop it inside the Wonderbag and it finishes cooking all on its own. This drastically reduces the amount of wood (or kerosene!) needed to cook. Women...
2020-01-2756 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursFrom strength to strength for Claire's gymAnother welcome return visit to the radio studio this morning.Claire Moore is the founder of Believe and Achieve. Since her last appearance Claire's been featured in the Small Business 100, invited to the House of Lords, and accepted onto the Cambridge Social Innovation Incubator through which she is accessing 12 months of business support, mentoring and training.Claire describes:- her own return to fitness after a commute left her tired, unmotivated and unhealthy - and how Claire moved from teacher and civil servant to personal trainer and gym owner.- the Believe...
2020-01-1752 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursSneaky learning opportunities with stratospheric social entrepreneur, Kisha BradleyA generous dollop of inspiration and practical tips in today's Business Live radio show.Kisha Bradley was last on the programme in February 2018. So much has changed since then for her and for Bright Box Makerspace.Bright Box creates "sneaky learning opportunities" for everyone.Working in museums, libraries, schools, and with organisations such as Guides, Cubs, Scouts and many others, it creates playful spaces for people to explore technology, engineering and arts with the help of role models.Since 2018 Bright Box has scaled up, moved into dedicated premises (Exchange Street, Castlegate...
2020-01-1053 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursHedge-fund honcho and sustainable kitchen magnate prove businesses can make world betterTwo leaders of values-driven businesses joined me in the radio studio on Friday 13th December:Gareth Roberts of Regather, a cooperative launched in 2010 whose work building a more sustainable food system for Sheffield is creating numerous positive environmental, social and economic impacts. Regather has also started a hedge fund – with a difference. And Rob Cole's firm Sheffield Sustainable Kitchens designs and makes beautiful, bespoke kitchens with sustainability and ethics at their core.The episode demonstrates (again!) how businesses can make the world better, can be ethical and sustainable, with environmental and social responsibility at t...
2019-12-1453 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursGreat habits, great results: Carl Konadu, 2-3 DegreesCarl Konadu is the Co-founder and CEO of 2-3 Degrees, a personal development training company (and social enterprise) whose aim is to equip young people with practical skills for life beyond the classroom.In Carl's second year of University, he and 2-3 Degrees co-founder Azzees Minott "began to realise that we did not have the soft skills needed to forge successful lives." But small positive actions "can be what helps you improve."2-3 Degrees works with schools, colleges and Universities to support young people to make positive decisions through talks and workshops.Carl...
2019-12-0752 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursCinematic Video Storytelling for Sales: Joseph Palmer and Dan Bale, Open HouseJoseph Palmer and Dan Bale create cinematic and stylish promotional marketing videos and short films and joined me in the radio studio this week to discuss their business, Open House Pictures.Dan and Joe originally met on a performance course at Sheffield Hallam University and launched the business once they graduated when they realised there was a niche for creative video content production.Their work has included a "love letter" to the Abbeydale Picture House; a beautifully-shot story for Tramlines, Sheffield Royal Society for the Blind, and Ticket Bank; promotional videos for Bhayani Law and...
2019-12-0152 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursHow to become a software developer - Mike Jones, Sheaf DigitalMike Jones runs software consultancy Sheaf Digital. His new Sheffield Apprenticeships app looks set to help young people identify good quality apprenticeships. And twenty years ago, Mike made a big career switch, from schoolteacher to software developer. Mike tells me what Sheaf Digital does, why he launched the Sheffield Apprenticeships app as a "passion project" and how it works for users (and apprenticeship providers).And he explains his career progression, from teacher, to employee in a large tech firm, to running his own software development business, Sheaf Digital.This episode is packed with g...
2019-11-1851 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursKresse Wesling: business shouldn't be psychopathic, sustainable luxury and an open-source solar forgeElvis and Kresse is a remarkable business. Which is wonderful and sad at the same time.This social enterprise, a certified B-Corp, rescues materials which would otherwise go to landfill, transforms them into beautiful new goods and donates 50% of profits to charity.Since 2005 it has turned decommissioned and damaged firehouses into a range of luxury accessories: bags, belts, wallets, travel cases. I bought one as a prize for a listener earlier this year.And its values inform every single business decision. Kresse is outraged that company law usually compels directors to increase shareholder...
2019-11-0853 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursAndrea Chatten: emotional and behavioural psychologist and author"The whole point of emotions is to keep us alive" says Andrea Chatten. And if you try to ignore, for example, feeling worried, your brain has ways to escalate how you feel. Emotions you ignore or don't understand can manifest as series problems such as anxiety.Andrea is the MD and lead children's emotional and behavioural psychologist at Unravel, and the author of "The Blinks" series of novels supporting children's well-being.A former teacher, Andrea was particularly interested in helping children who were presenting with emotional and behavioural issues.She launched Unravel to...
2019-11-0351 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursHow to Podcast Brilliantly with James MarriottJames Marriott drinks beer, watches football and discusses both on his popular podcasts.He loves listening to other people's podcasts too.And all this is (part of) how he makes a living.With two decades' experience in media, including 15 in commercial radio and 4 in newspaper journalism, James now specialises in podcasting and mentors new and existing podcasters along their path to success.In this episode James gives exceptional advice about what you must think about if you want to launch your own podcast, how to do it, and how to avoid...
2019-10-2551 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursA horse and cart and a ReadyMart with Mazen Musaeed and Fran Ruiz PartidaMazen Musaeed and Fran Ruiz Partida of ReadyMart Ltd joined me in the radio studio to discuss their startup, ReadyMart Ltd.Their business aims to simplify the lives of independent supermarket owners, helping them bring their products online and provide pickup and delivery services to their customers.With the big four supermarket chains "dominating" the grocery sector, Mazen and Fran say they want to give power back to independent stores.Their emotive message is "when people buy from a local business, they are not helping a CEO buy a 3rd holiday home, they...
2019-10-2453 min
Behind The MicJamie Veitch – Jamie Veitch ConsultingJamie Veitch is a PR consultant based in Sheffield.
His range of skills go way beyond just PR, and in this episode we hear about the work he’s done, including his current weekly radio show on Sheffield Live.
Find out more about Jamie on his website: jamieveitch.co.uk
Behind The Mic is exploring the media world in the 21st century. Season 2 is focusing solely on the area of PR – and how it has changed alongside the media industry.
Check out all the episodes at jae.media and subscribe to get...
2019-10-1800 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursStudio Rife, Hallam Enterprise and Social Enterprise UKToday's radio show: four art and design students from Sheffield Hallam University realised they would be "stronger together" - and created Studio Rife. a collective which won the 2019 Hallam Enterprise Award.Plus fascinating and powerful new data from Social Enterprise UK, alongside their Buy Social campaign (you can make the world a better place by drinking beer and eating chocolate).Andrew Bainbridge and Callum Seymour of Studio Rife joined me in the studio with Rob King, Start-Up Advisor, Sheffield Hallam University.I was one of the judges in last week's Hallam Enterprise Awards...
2019-10-1349 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursHow to Write a Brilliant Business Book your Readers will Love with Vicky Fraser"Write a book" they say. "It'll boost your business!"You can't move these days for experts promising you of the untold business bounties which may flow your way if you write a business book.And, sadly, this means some folk are dashing out books without due care and attention. Or which are well-written, but make them look like an amateur thanks to some common mistakes.Other aspiring authors, who really want to write a book which gives value to their readers, don't know where to start, get stuck with "blank pages of doom"...
2019-10-0455 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursDame Julie Kenny: Saving Wentworth Woodhouse and an Astonishing Career in Business and Public ServiceSome people said it just couldn't be done.Wentworth Woodhouse, one of the UK's finest Georgian stately homes had fallen into such a state of disrepair many folk thought it would be impossible to restore.But "nothing's impossible" says Julie Kenny. The house, originally built between 1725 and 1750 and once grander than Chatsworth is undergoing a remarkable restoration set to bring it back to its former glory.It's going to be a catalyst for change for Rotherham and a cherished asset for everyone. Dame Julie Kenny CBE DL, Chair of Wentworth Woodhouse P...
2019-09-2751 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursShareholders' Agreements, Resilience, Influencer Marketing, Social Media and CyberbullyingWhat are shareholders' agreements and why do you need one? If you're setting up a business with people you trust, surely you won't fall out?Sadly, numerous examples prove the need for, and value of, shareholders' agreements as my guest Jo Dawson of Dawson Radford Solicitors explains. She also discussed equivalents to shareholder agreements for organisations with other legal structures. Brilliant and helpful advice here.Also in the show, brilliant and helpful advice from Harvey Morton, national "Freelancer of the Year" in the IPSE Awards. Harvey covers social media, working with "influencers," dealing with online...
2019-09-2354 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursHow Food Circle Supermarket increased revenue 10x in a year - new podcastIt was a hat-trick for Food Circle Supermarket, with James Barthorpe and Paul Simpson returning to the radio studio for their third interview.And what incredible progression in the year since Paul and James were last on the show, with turnover increasing by a factor of 10.If you run an ecommerce business you must listen to this episode, it's crammed with advice you can learn from and use to grow your own revenue.Food Circle Supermarket sells surplus food and drink online to the public. They buy stock (all within use-buy dates) directly...
2019-09-1652 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursWill Chew, Mak Tok - From Missing Mum's Cooking to Dragons' Den DelightIt's a wonderful story. Malaysian-born Will Chew came to Sheffield to study Music Psychology. He missed his mother's cooking so much he shipped some ingredients to the UK and experimented in his kitchen, creating the tasty chilli paste he grew up with and loved.Now Will's business, Mak Tok, sells four tasty flavours of delicious pastes to chilli-loving food aficionados directly, online and through supermarkets. And last week Will's unusual musical appearance on BBC's Dragons' Den resulted in a £50,000 investment from newest Dragon Sara Davies.Will joined me in the radio studio on Friday for t...
2019-09-1052 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursKnife for Life with Chef Karim MaouiKarim Maoui is a highly-acclaimed chef and founder of Knife Life, a community project formed to address rampant knife crime in England. Knife Life aims to inform young people about the positive uses of a knife as a kitchen tool rather than as a weapon.In this episode Karim explains the objectives of Knife Life and covers:● 5:38 From a flash of inspiration while driving home, the concept of Knife Life quickly gained the support of local businesses in Sheffield where, like many UK cities, knife crime has become somewhat of an epidemic.● 6:16 The long-term visi...
2019-08-3047 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursElixirs of Youth, Compostable Packaging and Family Business Without Fighting - Kathryn DanzeyKathryn Danzey has run Rejuvenated Ltd – a business selling shots of Collagen which the firm describes as "clinically formulated functional beauty drinks to naturally support firm, youthful skin," for 15 years.Rejuvenated has customers all over the world. It makes its products in the UK, has embarked on a journey to ensure all packaging is compostable and plastic-free, and is a family business in which Kathryn's husband, son and one of her daughters works.In this episode she covers:- her career in the beauty, nutrition and health industry and the personal motivation which le...
2019-08-1650 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursSchool Seeks Better Air Quality with Business Boost Plus Crucial Social Investment AdviceHere's the latest episode of the Business Live radio show featuring Tej Dhami, Rowan Hall and Carolynn McConnell.This show features a new project to improve air quality in a Sheffield school AND provide a "proof-of-concept" to other schools (policymakers too).Rowan and Carolynn cover greening-up the playground at Hunters Bar Infants School, a research partnership with The University of Sheffield – and how businesses are helping to make the project possible.And Tej, MD of social impact investment consultancy The Change Coefficient, has crucial advice about social investment and what should you think abo...
2019-07-2652 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursTeaching Coding, Tech Skills Gaps, Getting Investment and Favourite Apps: Ben Atha, The Developer AcademyBen Atha founded The Developer Academy after realising other routes to getting a role as a developer exclude some people.In today's radio show Ben covered:- What do we mean by "coding" and what work is open to coders who have learned CSS, Python, PHP, C# or other languages?- Why Ben learned to become a developer himself.- The crucial importance - and demand from the industry - of soft skills.- Why you don't have to get a computer science degree - or attend a £6000 bootcamp - to land a...
2019-07-1950 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursRuth Willis is looking for Sheffield's unsung heroesRuth Willis is the chief executive of charity, South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation (SYCF) and joined me in the radio studio for the latest episode of Business Live.SYCF and BBC Radio Sheffield are working together to look for Sheffield' unsung heroes.Their new Community Champions Awards celebrate the lives of "outstanding people or teams who go above and beyond to care about their community, or who consistently give up their time to help others – and they are now seeking nominations."In this episode Ruth also talks about SYCF's priorities and work – and gives her th...
2019-07-0947 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursFrom veteran to entrepreneur and employer plus the business benefits of working with Reservists and Veterans28-year-old Lee Harris-Hamer is the MD of White Horse Cleaning Services, a business he launched just 3 years ago. It now has 20 full time and 8 part time employees.Lee served for 8 years in the British Army before a medical discharge.A driven and successful entrepreneur, Lee says specific support he received when he launched and grew his business proved crucial.But the entrepreneurial talent of Britain’s military veterans isn’t being fully realised, according to a report from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).To mark Armed Forces Day Lee join...
2019-06-2946 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursHow to do business in Japan, build a global firm, get Government contracts and run an ethical business - Johnny PawlikIn today's radio show: Ikigai, culture, ethics and purpose; doing business with Japan and a book recommendation. The programme was broadcast on live radio and the podcast is here.Johnny Pawlik is global managing director of Mantra Media Ltd, "driven by ethics and guided by knowledge, operating across five continents delivering strategic communications."He also co-founded Atelier Japan, bringing beautifully crafted and made Japanese products from Kyoto, Japan, to the UK, the rest of Europe and the USA.0 - 2:55 introduction and updates, including reminders about the Social Enterprise UK Awards and the Sheffield Business...
2019-06-2152 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursHow to test creative business adventures with Highland Bagpipe teacher, James CarnegieJames Carnegie is a highland bagpipe teacher, a business consultant - and a thoughtful and fascinating guest in this latest radio show podcast.Many people in the corporate world yearn to run their own business or pursue a more stimulating and creative career. But the security of being an employee, fears of "failure" and concerns around status and working identity can be enormous barriers.James, now 50, made an intentional career shift a year ago. It's gone "far better than he expected."With the "job for life" a diminishing concept, James says we can...
2019-06-1755 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursWhat is Open Banking, how could it support your business and is your data safe?What is Open Banking? How could it support your business or social enterprise?Is your data safe?And is there a danger that Open Banking might facilitate discrimination against people who are already financially vulnerable?Faith Reynolds is the Open Banking Consumer Representative. She’s part of a steering group responsible for delivering the technology that underpins the Open Banking initiative.Faith describes how and why you might choose to share your data through Open Banking; how the technology works; controlling who has access to your data; how Open Banking could ad...
2019-06-1254 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursHow to be a compassionate leader and why "Fit in or F-off" leads to business failureChris Whitehead, 60, began his career as a design engineer and has worked on multi-billion pound construction projects all over Europe.Fascinated by the people dimension of business and how to apply neuroscience and psychology to effective, compassionate leadership, Chris says managers today have more of a healthy curiosity about what makes people tick.Chris' new book offers tools and techniques to adopt an authentic, enabling and effective leadership style, consistent with your values. He joined me in the radio studio for this latest episode of Business Live.Timings:0 - introduction and updates...
2019-06-0350 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursChanging Faces and Abbeydale Picture HouseMillions of people in the UK have a visible difference such as a mark, scar or condition that affects their appearance. Sadly many children and young people experience bullying or low confidence, and many adults are discriminated against, as a result of their visible difference.The Face Equality Day campaign, led by charity Changing Faces, calls for everyone to be treated fairly and equally whatever the appearance of their face or body. Sam Killick and Julie Carr of Changing Faces joined me in the Sheffield Live radio studio yesterday to discuss the charity's work.Also o...
2019-05-2548 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursHow to encourage a mentally healthy workplace with Jodie Hill, Thrive LawJodie Hill understands the impact mental health has on individuals and businesses.She’s open and frank about her own experiences: PTSD, anxiety and a breakdown. Last year she launched law firm Thrive Law and a campaign to make Mental Health Risk Assessments mandatory in the workplace.Jodie joined me for an interview on the latest Business Live radio show, broadcast at the end of Mental Health Awareness Week. It includes advice about how to encourage a mentally healthy workplace as well as how to look after your own wellbeing as a leader....
2019-05-2047 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursHow salon boss launched skincare range; succession planning and impact measurement tips from award winning "neo-liberal stormtrooper" of social enterpriseLouisa Ashforth has run a beauty salon for 17 years. She's seen her clients being bombarded by miraculous claims from the beauty industry. Four years ago she became so fed-up of the hype around skincare products, she decided to launch her own range. It's now stocked in the UK and internationally.Award-winning social enterprise consultant Adrian Ashton has been described as a "thorn in the side" of national organisations, a "neo-liberal stormtrooper" and a "social media whore." Listen to his advice about how to embed values in your start-up so they are locked-in, even if you leave; succession...
2019-05-1256 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursDrayton Bird: how to do better marketing and astonishing tales from a full lifeIt's been said Drayton Bird knows more about direct marketing than anyone in the world. His book on the subject has been a bestseller for decades. And he was my guest for a radio interview this morning.If you want to sell anything to anyone or persuade folk to support your cause listen to the podcast. One nugget alone can usually improve the result of your advertising by 50%.At 82 years of age Drayton has "lived long enough to make some ghastly mistakes." And he lives a full, rich and fascinating life.He's also...
2019-05-0350 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursNeil Ellis, Skateboard EnglandOver half a million people take part in skateboarding in England. The sport, whose participants are predominantly aged 11-24, is accessible, lively, vibrant and diverse according to Neil Ellis, Head of Digital Engagement at Stakeboard England.With skateboarding's inclusion for the first time in the Olympic Games in 2020 in Tokyo (it will also feature in the 2024 Olympics) its popularity is bound to increase.Neil joined me to describe his role at Skateboard England, the national governing body for skateboarding.His and Skateboard England's priorities include increasing participation in the sport; engaging with individual...
2019-04-2942 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursKarate and board games: Ruth Haigh, Treehouse Board Game Café and Steve Hegarty, Elite Karate CentresCombine board games with karate and what do you get? A solution to silly arguments about Monopoly? Nope.It's a brand new radio show featuring Ruth Haigh, co-owner of The Treehouse Board Game Café and Steve Hegarty of Elite Karate Centres.In this episode you'll learn:why and how Ruth and Steve each made their leaps from employees to running their own businesses,how Ruth market-tested Treehouse before leaving her job,the benefits of Karate to children, teenagers, adults - and business leaders,one critical success factor Ruth says made Treehouse work as a b...
2019-04-1253 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursMedia and social media responsibility, balance and trust - Sam Walby and Bird LoveGodRead the papers, watch the news, and weep. Clickbait, fake news and climate deniers given equal prominence as scientists. Turn to social media for a cat-fest-respite to find misinformation, election meddling through opaquely funded ads (allegedly), hate-filled videos and online bullying driving vulnerable young people to the brink.Should we care about the media's responsibility and balance? If we do, then in an age in which argument and polemic have become the norm, what positive steps can we take to support media we can trust?Today's Business Live radio show features guests Sam Walby and...
2019-04-0854 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursCash for impact, asking great questions and supporting social enterprise scholarshipIt's a triple-decker radio sandwich today. Guests Tamzin Byrne, Mike Garner and Rory Ridley-Duff serve up a stack of tasty insights (and a recipe to grow your business or social enterprise).Tamzin is Programme Manager at Cambridge Social Ventures (CSV), part of the Cambridge Centre for Social Innovation at the University of Cambridge Judge Business School. CSV helps social ventures to grow with business coaching, training, workspace.She covers the Cambridge Social Innovation Prize, a new Award of £10,000 + six months of business mentoring for up for up to four business leaders who can show they a...
2019-03-2948 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursMindfulness with Jane MitchellJane Mitchell is an accredited mindfulness practitioner and teacher and a registered Learning Disability Nurse.Jane helps people to "deepen their awareness of their own experience," and was my guest on today's radio show to describe her work and how mindfulness can help business leaders and social entrepreneurs."Mindfulness is the opposite of autopilot" she says and involves being attentive, present in the current moment, in a non-judgemental way. She describes its benefits in the interview and runs through a simple, short exercise you can do (which I did, in the studio, during the interview).
2019-03-2250 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursAugmented Realiity in Education Technology with Robin Williams, Twinkl (and much more too) Lots of people know Twinkl for its downloadable printed resources for schools. With its mandate "we help people to teach" the business is also a pioneer in digital innovation, augmented reality and apps. Twinkl is used by over 4 million people, in over 170 countries.This week’s radio show guest, Robin Williams is Twinkl’s Head of Digital. Stream or download the podcast below or in iTunes or Stitcher. Robin covered:Twinkl’s stratospheric growth - when Robin joined the business 6 or 7 months ago it had a team of 370, it now employs around 500 people (many ex-teachers); there are ove...
2019-03-1554 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursInside the Megatron with Gilly McArthur, Rhiannon Scutt, Ed Birch and Matt HeasonToday's Business Live covers International Women's Day: all over the world millions of women, and men, are celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.The programme also features new interviews recorded this week during a trip to The Megatron. Part of a network of underground river tunnels and Victorian storm drains beneath Sheffield City Centre, The Megatron is a cavernous structure and an engineering marvel.It's normally off-limits but I got the chance to visit on Monday, and special "urban caving" trips will be a feature of this year's Sheffield Adventure Film...
2019-03-0848 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursEssential business advice for musicians with James Fagan and for personal trainers with Chris MasonJames Fagan is a multi-instrumentalist, bouzouki, guitar and mandolin player, singer and doctor.James and partner in music and life Nancy Kerr have toured internationally as Kerr Fagan, have thousands of fans across the world, and twice been named Best Duo in the BBC Folk Awards.James has performed with other hugely-acclaimed artists including Eliza Carthy, Spiers & Boden, Bellowhead, Cara Dillon and Martin Simpson.And he has some of the most important business advice I've ever heard for musicians which you can hear – along with fascinating tales – in this latest episode of the Busi...
2019-03-0152 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursEconomic prosperity with Emily Moncuit, Ethiopia and finding your purpose with Peter LoadmanUnless you never engage with the news you'll have heard a lot from The CBI (The Confederation of British Industry) lately. The organisation has been outspoken about the impacts on business of "crippling uncertainty, the stark possibility of a no-deal Brexit, and failed politics," to quote from some of its recent tweets.So I was curious to invite The CBI's new Associate Regional Director for Yorkshire and The Humber, Emily Moncuit, onto my radio show.Emily discussed The CBI's purpose: "economic prosperity and helping business create a more prosperous society." The organisation has a...
2019-02-2249 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursHow to communicate your research more effectively with Mihaela GruiaMihaela is a data scientist and the founder and MD of Research Retold, an award-winning research communication agency.Her business helps researchers present their findings to stakeholders and the public in creative ways and make a positive impact in society.In this episode Mihaela covers:Why researchers need to communicate their work - and why should they try to do this more effectively. Several salient points here.Specific, clear guidance and advice about how to communicate complicated research findings – or complicated policy or business messages, more effectively.Some examples of Universities Research Retold has wo...
2019-02-1551 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursMindful selling with Northern Value Creators and Employment Law with Jay BhayaniThis episode of the Business Live radio show features Amanda and Simon Cookson of Northern Value Creators and Jay Bhayani of Bhayani HR and Employment Law.In the podcast you'll learn all about:Amanda, Simon and their business Northern Value Creators, "canny folk who develop people and grow relationships" – what they do, why and how.Tips and advice for anyone in a business partnership with their partner in life, too.What is "mindful selling"?Advice to help business leaders to feel happier, find their purpose and to develop flourishing teams.Many leaders understand the value of re...
2019-02-0853 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursIndependent food retail and social enterprise success: Lindsay Lonchar and Claire DoveHere's a brand new podcast of the Business Live radio show, first broadcast on Sheffield Live FM radio on Friday 1 February, with guests Lindsay Lonchar and Claire Dove.This episode covers:Mountain cabins, forest retreats and the food that goes with them: Lindsay Lonchar is co-owner of legendary Sheffield brunch spot, The Cabin, and has recently opened The Wildwood cafe and artisan gift shop, just three doors away.Lindsay and husband George wanted to re-create the authentic Canadian / North American cabin experience of super hospitality and lakes of maple syrup they had both loved...
2019-02-0651 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursLeaders’ wellbeing and the business of fitness with Claire MooreClaire Moore is a former schoolteacher and civil servant who moved from the classroom to the gym. Her business, Believe and Achieve, was named Best Ladies Gym in the UK at the recent National Fitness Awards.In this latest episode of my Business Live radio show, first broadcast on Sheffield Live FM radio on 25 Jan 2019, Claire describes her journey to fitness, how that led to a part time career in the industry then making the leap to running her thriving business.Claire also has some brilliant and realistic advice for business leaders who want to...
2019-01-2954 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursHow to deal with Imposter Syndrome, overcome fears, boost confidence and transform your businessLisa Walker runs White Apple Thinking, helping professional people to become more motivated and focused, clarify what they want, and improve results in their working and out-of-work lives.Lisa's been in business for 6 years after a background in HR. Her first 18 months of self-employment involved "staring at a computer waiting for people to find me."But then everything changed. Lisa realised her confidence was "at rock bottom," did something about it – and found her true calling to "help people to develop and become the best they can be."She works with professionals such as...
2019-01-1453 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursFoodhall and Tickets For GoodFoodhall is an award winning community centre, dining room and kitchen in Sheffield city centre with an aim to bring people together.An accessible public space where people can come along and share, Foodhall, which is open daily, has been running for three years. Anyone who comes along can get involved - everyone interacts with everyone else on an equal basis.Foodhall is open on Christmas Day for the third year running and Isaac Tendler told me what will be going on.He also went into detail about Foodhall's community, how and why...
2018-12-2242 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursRob Cole, Sheffield Sustainable Kitchens and Al Daw, Sidney and MatildaHere's a sustainable, ethical business, thriving and continuing to grow a decade after launching. It has environmental and social responsibility at its core and its leader shows how businesses can be agents for positive change.Here also is your invitation to an amazing party in a brand new gallery space in Sheffield where you can enjoy exceptional art with "an alternative take on the season of goodwill" – and a free drink.Yes, it's another double-header radio show for you. I was joined in the studio on Friday 14 December by Al Daw and Rob Cole for my...
2018-12-1749 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursChloe Watmore: managing change, exponential growth, knowledge sharing and succession in engineeringChloe Watmore is managing director of Thermotex Engineering, a business specialising in solving "thermal challenges," things at risk of getting too hot or too cold in industrial settings.During the show Chloe talked about:her journey with the business, having joined after her economics degree initially to help with business development on a temporary basischanging systems and processesher interest in maths, science, technology and languageshow she won people over to accept her "YABI"s (Yet Another Bright Idea)managing succession in a family businesstools and technologies for knowledge sharingexporting tips, advice on international business and being...
2018-12-1351 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursBuilding an e-commerce retail website with Nicola of Waxx plus business resiliencePractical advice on e-commerce and business resilience from two expert guests.Nicola Middleton-Groom runs Waxx, selling men's, women's and kids' underwear, swimwear and other apparel.Her business has the UK distribution rights to this French firm's funky, fresh and colourful products. Nicola's involvement started while she was at University in Manchester.Nicola discusses how she developed the brand in the UK – and built an e-commerce website from scratch to sell underwear directly to consumers. "Retail is where the fun is at for me," she says.Nicola researched WooCommerce, Magento and Shopify be...
2018-12-0350 min
Business Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursAllen Holland: One Sold, One Given jackets plus crowdfunding and manufacturing tipsAllen Holland on the Nessh Jacket, a high-tech jacket which smashed its crowdfunding target. For every jacket sold one is given to a person affected by homelessness. Plus manufacturing, product design, licensing and international business advice.Most folk running a crowdfunding campaign might be nervous with 18 days to go. Not Allen Holland.His Kickstarter campaign for "the warmest jacket in the world," smashed through its target within 24 hours.Backers love the product. They also love the company's One Sold, One Given promise.Allen explained how the business has worked with homeless...
2018-11-2454 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursAndrzej Kurpiel and Steve Manley - bees, social and youth enterprisePlenty of folk talk the talk when it comes to business advice and motivation. Advisors, consultants or people in high-faluting business roles may be free with their opinions but some have never actually grown an enterprise of any sort.But from teenage entrepreneur to the youngest ever President of the Sheffield Chamber of Commerce, Steve Manley has certainly “walked the walk.”And in his interview on my radio show this week he told a lovely story of walking miles to work in the snow – which turned out to be a formative moment in his career.A...
2018-11-1750 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursAshley Carson, Sheffield’s Assay Master - hallmarking, history and technologyThe hallmarks on gold, silver, platinum and palladium don't only prove the validity of precious metals. They tell a story.And the story of hallmarks themselves (the "marks of the hall") and of how Sheffield's Assay Office came to be after an act of Parliament is absolutely riveting.Sheffield's Assay Master, Ashley Carson joined me in the radio studio on Friday. There are only four Assay Offices in the UK (Sheffield, Birmingham, London and Edinburgh).Ashley has served as Assay Master for 25 years and was the youngest-ever to be appointed at the age...
2018-10-2951 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursJon Maiden, Panjango: beautiful games exploring the world of work"Young people are taught to be good at exams, but with very little context of how what they’ve learned will apply to real life," according to Jon Maiden, co-founder and CEO of Panjango.That means, he says, they don't have the skills they need for work and society, for the jobs of today, and the new jobs of the future.But serial social entrepreneur Jon has come up with a powerful, immersive and playful route for children to explore the sometimes mysterious world of work.Jon joined me in the Sheffield Live ra...
2018-10-1239 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursRob the cartoonist and the Food Circle SupermarketBy writing "Rob the cartoonist" I'm not imploring you to go and mug an illustrator.Please don't.But do listen to this new interview with Rob Middleton, a cartoonist, illustrator and teacher based in Japan, on my latest radio show.The programme also features studio guests James Barthorpe and Paul Simpson of Food Circle Supermarket.James and Paul cover:Food Circle Supermarket is an online retailer purchasing surplus food from manufacturers, which would otherwise go to waste, and selling it to consumers at a discount.The...
2018-10-0656 minBusiness Live: for curious entrepreneurs and social entrepreneursTranslation stations – interview with Sarah Silva the Chemical TranslatorPLUS new report reveals £60bn contribution made by social enterprises to the UK's economy and other facts and figures.It's International Translation Day this Sunday. What better time then for a radio interview with consultant translator Sarah Silva.Sarah is a chemist who translates science into sales for international clients and the author of "Small Island Big Business – The Insider's Guide to Success in the British Market."She joined me on my latest Business Live radio show, broadcast on Sheffield Live this morning (with the podcast available below), to discuss:her...
2018-09-2849 min
Notes in the MarginEP098: How To Seduce A Journalist with Jamie VeitchVicky interviews Jamie Veitch, the Owner of Jamie Veitch Consulting and a PR expert. Today, Jamie discusses ways you can approach a journalist and have them quote or feature you in one of their articles. Getting featured in publications not only helps you build credibility in the work you do, but it also helps you build relevant SEO links to your website! Want to know how to seduce a journalist? Then you don't want to miss out on this episode. Key Takeaways: [1:00] What does Jamie do? [1:40] How did Jamie get started i...
2017-10-2732 min
twintangiblesInterview with Jamie Veitch from the Shefield Live Crowdfunding campaignIn this episode we speak to Jamie Veitch who was an important participant in the Sheffield Live crowdfunding campaign. This project raised £165,000 through a Community Share issue which is specific and increasingly popular type of crowdfunding.
Jamie tells us why they chose this approach and some of the challenges and benefits with running this type of campaign.
The campaign was to raise funds for the existing community radio station to move into the TV realm.
You can find out more about Sheffield Live here and you can find out more about Jamie Veitch here.
The incidental music used in the p...
2015-02-1720 min