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  • From a musician urged by his father to get a "real job" to the founder of a tech platform that's revolutionising the live entertainment industry.

    Amy chats to the multi-talented Ned Walker, founder of Hot Giggity, a live entertainment booking & promotion platform.

    Discover Ned's transition from musician to marketer to tech entrepreneur, as he shares insights into his journey from pursuing his passion to revolutionising the live entertainment industry for artists, agents, venues and music fans.

    Ned shares insights into:

    His musical roots

    The trials of transforming passion into a tech startup

    The highs and lows of creating a SaaS product

    Relentless pursuit of innovation

    This episode is a must-listen for aspiring innovators and music lovers alike!

    Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a music enthusiast, or simply curious about the intersection of passion and innovation, Ned's story offers valuable insights and motivation from someone who is living and breathing his own brand.

    Links:

    Hot Giggity Website: www.hotgiggity.com

    Ned Walker LinkedIn

    Ned Walker Spotify



    Check out Ned’s original music and upcoming gigs on his own Ned Walker Hot Giggity Profile

    Fun Fact: Ned was a member of TripleJ Unearthed winning band Shifter and has supported artists and bands such as Blondie, Spider Bait, The Living End, Eskimo Joe, Grinspoon and Sneaky Sound System. In his gigs, Ned plays a mix of covers and originals. Playing guitar and piano, he covers tunes from all decades and genres, from easy listening to crowd-pleasing bangers!
  • Discover how a simple family walk sparked a mission to combat single-use plastic waste and led to the creation of a sustainable, convenient plastic straw alternative.

    We dive into the eco-conscious world of business with Charlotte Walsh, the engineer turned eco-preneur and the innovative mind behind the UK's Silicone Straw Company.

    Join Amy as she explores Charlotte's journey:

    From concept to manufacturing Navigating the challenges of producing a food-safe product in the UK Going slow Her commitment to quality over cost Launching a business with 3 young children ‘The Year of Being Rejected’

    If you're passionate about environmental change and curious about the ins and outs of starting a product-based business, this episode is a must-listen!

    Links:

    https://www.thesiliconestrawcompany.co.uk/

    https://www.instagram.com/thesiliconestrawcompany/

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  • Dive into the world of mead, the ancient drink that's making a modern comeback with Tim Engelbrecht, founder of Greedy Bear, Sydney's pioneering meadery.

    In this episode of Really Good Conversations, we explore the fascinating history of mead, its accidental discovery, and how Tim's adventurous spirit led him from wedding photography to reviving the world's oldest alcohol.

    Amy chats to Tim about:

    The environmental benefits of mead Greedy Bear's branding challenges Crowdfunding - Round 1 and the upcoming campaign

    Whether you're a business enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for a good story, this episode is a treasure trove of insights and inspiration.

    Look out for Greedy Bears Crowdfunding campaign launching 15th April

    Connect with Tim and Greedy Bear:

    Website Instagram Making Ends Mead Podcast Tim's Wedding Photography
  • This week, Amy, co-founder of Really Good Conversations, puts herself in the hot seat and answers your burning questions!

    Amy shares insights, lessons, and sanity-saving strategies from her collaborative journey with husband Alex.

    Tune in to discover:

    Amy's background pre-‘Really Good Conversations’

    The venture's spark

    Product launch dynamics

    Key learnings so far

    Invaluable tips for budding businesses.

    Share your thoughts and questions with us – Let us know your favourite takeaways via instagram DM or email

    Connect with Amy on LinkedIn

  • Bethany Burns Bowman, is an award-winning PA renowned for her invaluable support to top executives. For the past nine years, she's been the trusted First Mate to Captain James Watt at BrewDog, Scotland's leading brewery and bar chain.

    Join us as Bethany shares her journey, offering a rare glimpse into the world of supporting creative visionaries within a global billion-dollar enterprise.

    The calm mindset of high-performing entrepreneurs

    Embarking on the endless journey of entrepreneurship

    Unveiling the strategic prowess of a PA / EA

    Building trust and mastering the art of letting go

    Tips for onboarding a PA / EA into your business

    Managing the media: your ally and enemy

    Digital communication and the demise of real interactions

    The fear of complacency

    Whether you're seeking inspiration, entrepreneurial insights, or considering a career as a personal/executive assistant, this episode is packed with valuable nuggets of wisdom.

    Connect with Bethany:

    LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethany-burns-bowman-17893444/ Instagram: @breezy_bethanyburnsbowman

    Bethany’s book recommendations:

    A Beautiful Constraint (Adam Morgan & Mark Barden) Make Your Bed (Admiral William H McRaven) The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People (Stephen R Covey) Atomic Habits (James Clear) Business for Punks (James Watt)
  • Dive into the world of wine, entrepreneurship, lessons learned and the art of staying sane as a founder with Lucy Hitchcock of Partner in Wine.

    In this episode of Really Good Conversations, Lucy spills the secrets of her journey from a wine novice who felt embarrassed ordering wine in a restaurant to a relatable and educated wine influencer with a successful product range that enhances your wine drinking experience on the go.

    Tune in to hear how Lucy turned a warm glass of Rosé wine into a cool business idea.

    In this chat we cover:

    The catalyst for starting her own business

    What an ‘Overnight success’ actually looks like

    Transition from working in digital to product development

    The intricacies of manufacturing

    Tips for finding a manufacturing supplier

    Embracing life as a solo entrepreneur

    Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur, a wine enthusiast, or someone looking for a dose of inspiration, this episode is for you.

    You can connect with Lucy below:

    Sassy Digital: https://www.sassydigital.co.uk/

    Partner In Wine: https://www.partnerinwine.co.uk/

  • In this episode of Really Good Conversations, Amy chats with Dr. Delia McCabe, a Cognitive Resilience Consultant, Neuroscientist, Keynote Speaker, and Author.

    Delia, with her expertise in clinical psychology and nutrition, sheds light on the intriguing relationship between conversation and brain health.

    Topics discussed include:

    Optimal nutrition for peak brain performance

    The science behind interrupting during conversations

    Essential skills for meaningful dialogues

    The fascinating connection between the gut and our "second brain"

    Join us for a captivating exploration of how conversation impacts our brain function and discover actionable insights to enhance your cognitive resilience.

    Tune in now!

    Connect with Delia via:

    LinkedIn Instagram Facebook

    Website: Lighter Brighter You!

    Download Delia's '7-Point checklist to Feel Light and Bright'

    Courses: 'Start Your Year Off Light, Bright and Right'

    Books: Feed Your Brain

    20% Discount code: BRIGHT when purchased via Exisle Publishing Feed Your Brain: 7 Steps to a Lighter, Brighter You! https://exislepublishing.com/product/feed-brain-cookbook/ Feed Your Brain: The Cookbook https://exislepublishing.com/product/feed-brain-cookbook/
  • How can a product-based business become a multi-million-pound organisation with its products stocked in retailers worldwide?

    In this episode of Really Good Conversations, Amy chats to Mark Hackwell, the Managing Director of UK skincare brand 7th Heaven to find out.

    With over 17 years of experience in sales and retail for multi-million pound companies, Mark shares invaluable insights on what it takes to transform a product-based business into a global multi-million pound brand.

    Tune in to discover:

    The secret recipe for creating a multi-million pound company

    Unpacking the magic of brand equity

    Navigating the key factors for global sales success

    How the people within an organisation are its lifeblood

    Get ready to be inspired by Mark's journey and the wisdom he brings to the table.

    Don't miss out on this engaging and informative episode!

    Links:

    Website: https://my7thheaven.com/

    LinkedIn: Mark Hackwell

  • What conversations are you avoiding at the moment?

    In this insightful episode Amy sits down with Michaela Reaney, the co-founder of Opportunity Global and organiser of TedxWomenTeeside.

    They discuss the pivotal role of communication in the workplace, and why 80% of people dodge at least one conversation at their job, according to Harvard Business School.

    Michaela highlights why 'soft skills' is a term due for retirement

    Unlocking the potential of the people in your team

    The hidden cost of unspoken words on productivity

    Practical steps to approach those daunting dialogues

    Tune in for an episode that could transform your workplace one conversation at a time.

    Opportunity Global: https://theopportunity.global/

    TEDxTeessideWomen: https://www.tedxteessidewomen.com/

    Michaela Reaney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelareaney/

  • Ever felt that tinge of discomfort while browsing or buying sexual wellness products? You're not alone.

    Roam, launched in 2021 to eradicate that unease, with the goal of championing a sex-positive world and rewriting the narrative around sexual wellness.

    In today's episode, Amy reconnects with an old university friend, Ben Taylor, the co-founder of Roam. Hear how a lad from Yorkshire and his mate Alex dared to challenge the mammoth brand, Durex, and embark on a journey to build a brand that empowers individuals to confidently embrace their sexual wellbeing.

    Since its inception, Roam's accomplishments are nothing short of remarkable:

    Secured significant investment Flourished as a direct-to-consumer entity Stocked in over 600 UK stores, including - Superdrug, Boots, and Sainsburys

    Tune in as Ben delves into:

    Roam's origin story The candid (and amusing) reaction of his mum to his unconventional business choice The intricate balance of product innovation Roam's transition from e-commerce to retail Insights on securing capital Ben's personal tips on mental well-being & adventure

    For more on Roam's mission and products, visit: https://www.exploreroam.com/

    Follow Roam on Instagram

    Connect with Ben on LinkedIn

  • In this fresh brew of Really Good Conversations, we chat with Peter Grainger, the disruptive mind taking on big coffee, through his business: CafePod.

    Twelve years ago, Peter left his job and embarked on a mission to provide barista-style coffee to people at home by going head to head with Nespresso, launching his own Nespresso-compatible coffee pods.

    With no background in coffee, product, sales, marketing or branding, Peter and two friends delved into the world of capital-raising, coffee pod manufacturing and brand-building, and have since revolutionised our at home cuppa.

    Join us as Peter spills the beans on:

    The twist and turns of CafePod's journey and its strategic pivots. The power of consumer insights and the art of active listening. Growing through adversity – including a memorable product recall from supermarket aisles. His robust endorsement of the work-from-home ethos, its benefits for CafePod, and why it may not be everyone's cup of tea. A gripping tale of the closest he's ever been to meeting his maker.

    Craving more? Visit CafePod to get your caffeine fix.

  • Neurodiversity is a big topic of conversation at the moment, but what impact does being neurodiverse have on becoming an entrepreneur?

    In this episode Amy chats to social impact entrepreneur, neurodiversity specialist therapist and coach Sara-Louise Ackrill from Wired Differently. There are common misconceptions and cliches that arise when talking about people with autism or ADHD; we were keen to explore this topic further and understand how it relates to communication and conversation.

    Sara launched Wired Differently to support neurodiversity in the workplace; employability, entrepreneurship and self-employment.

    Being autistic and ADHD herself, Sara is passionate about making solutions that work for everyone - not just those who are neurodiverse or neurotypical.

    This is a really insightful chat that covers:

    How entrepreneurs redefine what work is

    The fascinating correlation between entrepreneurs and prisoners

    Rejection Sensitivity

    Why the concept of ‘social skills’ is outdated

    Why thinking differently can benefit everyone

    Neurodivergent communication cliches

    Links:

    Website: https://www.wireddifferently.co.uk/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-louise-ackrill-frsa-9490871b3/

  • In today's episode, Amy sits down with globally acclaimed communication expert, Judy Apps. Judy is a TEDx Speaker, an international coach specialising in voice, public speaking, and NLP, as well as an author of multiple best selling books.

    Judy's books are nothing short of a treasure trove for anyone keen on mastering the art of conversation. They include titles such as 'The Art of Communication', 'The Art of Conversation', 'Voice and Speaking Skills For Dummies', 'Butterflies and Sweaty Palms', and 'Voice of Influence'. If there ever was a guest that's made for 'The Really Good Conversations Podcast', it's Judy Apps.

    What We Cover:

    The Relaxed Road to Rapport: Why keeping it chill is essential. The Beauty in the Blunders: How being ok with things being a disaster can actually be liberating. The Art of the Ask: Why good conversation is often about asking the right questions. Conversational Depth: From widget talk to soulful exchanges, exploring the different layers of a conversation. The secret to a happy life? Letting go and catching moments as they pass. Strategies to circumnavigate little criticisms that can deflate a conversation.

    Essential Links:

    Judy Apps' Official Website: http://judyapps.co.uk/web/

    Judy Apps' TED Talk - How Your Voice Touches Others: The true meaning of what you say

    Prepare to be captivated as Judy takes us on a voyage through the intricate, yet enchanting, world of conversational mastery.

  • We are very excited this week to have Rosie Davies-Smith, the brilliant mind behind PR Dispatch, sharing her unique business journey from closing her successful PR agency after 8 years to now empowering over 450 eCommerce businesses to do their PR themselves.

    Join us as we explore Rosie's transition from “high rise to high seas” as she waved goodbye to London to make her new home in the serenity of Devon. We dive deep into why PR Dispatch was founded, how product-driven businesses can champion their own PR, and Rosie's invaluable advice for those mulling over the prospect of closing their business.

    To finish, we discuss what learnings we can take from Beyoncé on keeping children grounded.

    Links:

    PR Dispatch Website Instagram LinkedIn 6th Birthday Post

    Tune in for a journey through modern PR's challenges and innovations with Rosie.

  • In this episode, we explore the exceptional story of Teals, a unique Farm Shop in Somerset that's not just about selling local produce. It's a mission-driven experience focusing on sustainability, community, and protecting the planet.

    Join us as we speak with co-founder Nick Sinfield about:

    Teals' Commitment: Leading the way in sustainability, food systems, and providing an unmatched customer experience in Somerset. The Triple Win Philosophy: Unpacking the idea that doing good is not only good for business but also benefits the community and the planet. Balancing Act: How Teals manages to stay true to its brand values while still maintaining a profitable business. Beyond Profits: The view of business as more than just money, including community building, sustainability, and planet protection. On the Road Experience: How we stumbled across Teals, a hub for local produce, wellness classes, and more, on a drive back from Devon.

    We dive deep into the backstory of setting up Teals, their status as a BCorp, the importance of balancing purpose and profit, their sustainable building practices, their commitment to quality food produce, and much more.

    Tune in to learn how one Farm Shop is putting Somerset produce on the map and making a difference, one ethical and sustainable choice at a time.

    Visit the Teals Website

    Teals Instagram

  • Brace yourselves, Alex is back to give us the behind the scenes story on our recent successful Kickstarter campaign. If you didn’t see at the time, in May 2023 we launched a crowdfunding campaign for our latest product, a business strategy deck called “Really Good Conversations for Businesses” and we were delighted that it reached the target.

    This was a fantastic result and the product launch went ahead, but it was not without its challenges to say the least. In this episode, I have an informal chat with Alex about his experience riding the Kickstarter rollercoaster and what he learnt through the process.

    The conversation covers:

    Why did we decide to launch on Kickstarter? What's the story behind the product? What surprised us? Was it worth it? 3 pieces of advice for anyone considering doing the same

    Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or aiming to expand your product business, this episode has you covered.

    Get Really Good Conversations for Businesses here: https://reallygoodconversations.store/products/really-good-conversations-for-businesses

  • Today, we're catching up with Caitlin Derer and Joseph Lattime, the creative power couple behind Collectable Cities. Listen in as we unpack their journey from a love of travel and storytelling to creating these unique sought-after collectable art toys.

    We delve into the challenges faced during their transition from app creation to product development, Kickstarter fundraising experiences, and the unexpected hurdles of European postage. Listen in to gain insights on the licensing complexities when creating characters of popular figures and how working with your spouse can be a delightful rollercoaster ride.

    Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or aiming to expand your product business, this episode has you covered.

    Connect with Collectable Cities:

    Website Instagram TikTok Twitter Facebook Fancy Lamp Studio
  • Get ready for a treasure trove of insider tips in this week's episode. We've got the brilliant Therese Oertenblad from Small Business Collaborative joining us.

    Therese works magic with product-based business owners, helping them to boost their wholesale and carve out a robust, regular income for their enterprises.

    We first crossed paths while gearing up for the Top Drawer Exhibition in January 2023 and believe us, Therese knows her onions when it comes to wholesale. From product strategy and correct pricing for retailers, to navigating your first trade show, she's got the lowdown. Plus, we'll delve into her personal backstory and, of course, draw a few cards from our "Really Good Conversations" game.

    Sit back, tune in, and let's get chatting.

    Connect with Therese:

    Website: Small Business Collaborative Instagram: @small_business_collaborative Podcast: Let’s Talk Shop Facebook group: Let's Talk Wholesale Newsletter: Sign-up for weekly inspiration to sell
  • In this episode, we're delighted to host the intrepid Gill Smith, owner of Bramble & LuLu, a gem nestled in Great Ayton, North Yorkshire. She was amongst the first to believe in us and stock our cards back in November 2022.

    We'll discuss:

    Why Gill decided to open a shop in the middle of a pandemic aged 53 Learn about her criteria when choosing products Understand how her shop evolved from her original plan Plus, we'll discover her connection to the famous explorer James Cook

    We also share a laugh with three questions from our Really Good Conversations 1st Edition game.

    Whether you're planning to launch a product, start a business, or expand your wholesale operation, this conversation is sure to provide valuable insights.

    Connect with Bramble & LuLu:

    Website: Bramble & LuLu Instagram: @brambleandlulu Address: 57-59 High St, Great Ayton, Middlesbrough TS9 6NH
  • In this episode we delve into the minds of the dynamic duo behind Candlemeleon, Lewis Davis and Rodrick Silvia. We met at the Top Drawer Exhibition in January 2023 and they're simply brilliant, brimming with banter and contagious enthusiasm.

    In our chat, we'll explore:

    Their exciting journey & lessons in launching the first-ever Heat Reactive Scented Candle in the market What tips they have for trade shows and getting into wholesale And reveal their secret to a happy life

    If your ambitions include launching a product, starting a business, or growing your wholesale operations, this conversation is just the ticket. Tune in for a wealth of insights!

    Connect with Candlemeleon:

    Website: Candlemeleon Instagram: @candlemeleon Candlemeleon now available at Debenhams Online