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In this episode of Tales to Inspire, Krish Patel hosts a compelling live session featuring three distinguished ambassadors: Andy Hall, Hannah Cox, and Yatin Mistry. Each guest shares their unique journey and insights, highlighting themes of sustainability, inclusion, and mental health. Key Highlights: Andy Hall: Personal Struggles and Recovery Personal Struggles: Andy recounts his harrowing breakdown 14 years ago, including the impact of work pressure, financial troubles, and the loss of his parents. Recovery Journey: He details his path to healing, including therapy, hypnotherapy, physical activity, and volunteering. His involvement in suicide prevention groups and mentoring was pivotal in his recovery. Holistic Approach: Andy emphasises the importance of integrating physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being in achieving overall health. He advocates for finding purpose through helping others and spiritual exploration. Final Reflection: Andy encourages listeners to identify their purpose and take meaningful steps toward change, linking his personal story to broader societal issues like mental health and inclusion. Hannah Cox: From Personal Challenges to Advocacy Background and Challenges: Hannah shares her journey from facing cancer twice and the loss of her stepdad to seeking a purposeful life. Her early career in music and festival organisation shaped her path. Career and Discoveries: Her transition to running the betternotstop initiative was driven by her desire for positive change and sustainability. She highlights her work with B Corp certification and the Sustainable Development Goals. Better Not Stop: Named after her father's advice, the initiative focuses on creating impactful, sustainable businesses. Hannah's full-circle moment includes revisiting the music festival scene with a new perspective on sustainability. Community and Collaboration: Through the Better Business Network and Summit, she fosters collective action and support among businesses committed to making a difference. Yatin Mistry: Navigating Life as a Marginalised Community Member Personal Background: Yatin discusses his struggles with mental health, racism, homophobia, and the challenges of living as a gay man. He reflects on the impact of societal judgments and personal experiences. Buddhist Story: He shares a story about Lord Buddha's response to anger, which inspired him to not internalise others' judgments and opinions. Authenticity and Self-Acceptance: Yatin stresses the importance of embracing one's authentic self and not letting external opinions define self-worth. Privilege and Marginalisation: He highlights the ongoing struggles of marginalised communities and the concept of privilege, despite legal advancements. Encouraging Empathy: Yatin urges listeners to offer support and empathy to those from marginalised communities, emphasising the profound impact of inclusion. Thank you for listening to Tales to Inspire. We hope you enjoyed hearing from Andy Hall, Hannah Cox, and Yatin Mistry. Their stories of resilience and purpose are truly inspiring. Stay tuned for our next episode, and keep finding ways to make a positive impact. Until then, take care!
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In this live interview on the Tales to Inspire podcast, host Krish Patel speaks with James Timpson, CEO of Timpson Group. James shares his journey from a tumultuous childhood, influenced by his mother’s role as a foster carer, to leading a successful family business. He recounts his early entrepreneurial experiences, including running a shoe repair shop at boarding school and working within the family business. James discusses Timpson’s growth, which includes 17 businesses like Timpson, Max Spielman, and Johnsons Cleaners, and highlights the company’s commitment to strong culture, employee trust, and social responsibility. He emphasises efforts to hire ex-offenders, maintain a simple business model, and balance profitability with social good. The conversation also covers challenges in retail, the hybrid retail model, and the importance of practical solutions and work-life balance. Key Takeaways: Upside-Down Management: Timpson’s business model is founded on the principle of minimal rules and maximum employee autonomy. Staff are given the freedom to manage stock, set prices, and ensure shop cleanliness, which cultivates a motivated and flexible work environment. This approach encourages employees to take ownership of their roles and fosters a sense of trust and responsibility. Bonus Scheme: The company employs a weekly bonus system that rewards employees for exceeding sales targets. This performance-based incentive not only motivates staff to drive sales but also helps keep operational costs low. The scheme underscores the importance of aligning individual goals with company objectives to enhance overall performance. Business Acquisitions: Over the past two decades, Timpson has acquired 23 businesses. Successful integration of these new acquisitions is a lengthy process, often taking three years to see noticeable results. Key strategies for effective integration include refurbishing stores and upgrading facilities, which help build trust and align new businesses with Timpson’s culture. Leadership & Hiring: Timpson places a strong emphasis on employee satisfaction, using the Happy Index survey to gauge and improve workplace morale. Recruitment is handled with care to ensure new hires fit the company culture. Leaders who do not meet the company’s standards are promptly replaced, reinforcing the commitment to maintaining a positive and productive work environment. Social Good: Timpson is dedicated to making a positive social impact, particularly through its employment of ex-offenders. With 1 in 9 employees recruited from prison, the company supports reintegration into society by providing stable employment. Additionally, Timpson contributes to the green economy by recycling watch batteries and offering services that meet genuine needs. Future Goals: The company’s focus is on sustained growth and maintaining a healthy cash balance without imposing rigid targets. Timpson’s approach to acquisitions involves aligning with their core expertise and learning from past mistakes to avoid repeating them. James Timpson’s insights into leadership, employee management, and social responsibility provide a valuable perspective on running a successful and ethical business. His emphasis on simplicity, trust, and a people-first approach highlights the importance of creating a positive and supportive workplace culture. Thanks for listening! We hope you enjoyed the episode. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories. See you next time!
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In this Deep Dive episode, Kerry Tottingham shares her journey from childhood through her career and personal life, including her experiences with endometriosis. The discussion covers managing chronic health issues, the evolution of her charity, and its mission to tackle societal inequalities and promote healing-centred design. The conversation highlights the charity’s work in coaching, project development, and its trauma-informed project supporting community organisations. Future goals include embedding these principles within the charity and amplifying their impact. The episode concludes with quickfire questions on personal values, inspiring work, and the legacy one hopes to leave. Key Highlights Creative Beginnings: Kerry’s upbringing in a creative family sparked her interest in various art forms, shaping her career and allowing her to explore and express creativity. Career Evolution: Starting with freelance art projects and community work, Kerry transitioned to roles in writing and project management for charities, leveraging her creative background to support meaningful causes. Personal Challenges: Balancing career responsibilities with single parenthood significantly impacted Kerry’s career decisions and personal growth. Health Struggles: Kerry shared her experience with endometriosis, discussing how the condition affected her productivity and overall well-being. Managing chronic pain and finding effective coping strategies have been central to her personal and professional life. Nonprofit Founding: Kerry’s transition to founding "Brilliant Thing" emerged from a desire to overcome limitations and drive social change. The nonprofit focuses on addressing systemic inequalities and supporting impactful projects. Mission and Work: The organisation engages in coaching, project development, and trauma-informed initiatives, including a significant project to support community sector organisations. Future Vision: Kerry aims to model social change by integrating healing-centred design within her organisation and amplifying its impact. Personal Reflections: The conversation concludes with Kerry reflecting on her values, aspirations, and the legacy she hopes to leave, emphasising the importance of inspiring others and creating a lasting positive impact. Resources: Kerry Tottingham | LinkedIn: A Brilliant Thing | LinkedIn: A Brilliant Thing: Endometriosis UK: The Lighthouse - social change networking group run by A Brilliant Thing CIC:
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Today, our bite size episode features Kerry Tottingham, who will share her tale to inspire. We'll explore the meaning of inclusion, the dynamics of power, and the benefits of fostering a more inclusive environment. Kerry will also share insights on innovation through diversity and practical advice on finding empowerment in the workplace. Whether you're looking to change perspectives, empower yourself, or create a more inclusive community, this episode has something for everyone. Thank you for subscribing and joining us on this journey. Let's dive in! Key Points Discussed: Inclusion vs. Exclusion: True inclusion requires removing barriers and supporting people to access spaces they might otherwise be excluded from due to societal structures. Understanding Power: The conversation explores the concept of power, emphasizing the need to reflect on our feelings about it. Recognizing small areas of control in our lives can foster personal empowerment and societal change. Innovation through Diversity: The principle of "collide and align" is introduced, where blending diverse ideas fosters innovation and helps create unique solutions to societal issues. Empowerment in the Workplace: Practical advice is given on finding aspects of one's job that can be controlled to improve the overall experience, leading to greater personal happiness and a positive ripple effect on others. Genuine Inclusion Efforts: The need for organizations to go beyond box-ticking and embed inclusive practices within their structures is discussed. Drawing parallels with successful anti-smoking campaigns, a comprehensive approach combining messaging, accountability, and cultural shifts is advocated. Thank you for tuning in! Join us next week for Kerry's Deep Dive episode. You won't want to miss it! Until then, keep inspiring change. See you next time! Resources: Kerry Tottingham | LinkedIn: A Brilliant Thing | LinkedIn: A Brilliant Thing: Endometriosis UK: The Lighthouse - social change networking group run by A Brilliant Thing CIC:
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In this Deep Dive episode of Tales to Inspire Podcast, Krish sits down with a very special guest, his partner, Melissa Fielding. We delve into Mel's journey from a supportive upbringing in Bolton to pursuing a law degree and then transitioning into the corporate world. Despite her success, Mel felt a growing disconnect between her career and her true passions, leading her to a pivotal decision to leave the corporate life behind. Mel shares her childhood love for the outdoors, nurtured by countless family trips to the Lake District. This passion reignited during the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting her to explore more adventurous pursuits like cold water dipping and paddleboarding. She reflects on the importance of balancing career aspirations with personal fulfillment and the role of nature in maintaining mental well-being. Mel's journey serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of following one's passions and the bravery required to embrace significant life changes. From her days of dreaming about diverse careers to embracing a life of outdoor adventures and meaningful connections, Mel inspires listeners to pursue what truly ignites their spirits. Key Topics Discussed: Mel's background and supportive family Her journey through academia and the corporate world The pivotal decision to leave her corporate job The significance of the outdoors in her life The balance between career and personal fulfillment Mel's vision for a future filled with varied experiences and adventures Be inspired by Mel's journey and start embracing your own passions today. Tune in to uncover her strategies for integrating passion into everyday life. Resources: Make More Magic: Mel Fielding:
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In this episode of the Tales to Inspire podcast, we welcome Melissa Fielding, a passionate advocate for women's communities and outdoor adventures. Melissa shares her journey of connecting with like-minded women who inspire and support each other in various aspects of life. Key Highlights: Finding Like-minded People: Melissa shares how she has naturally found and bonded with women who share her interests and ambitions, both in her personal life and professional circles. Supporting Women: Melissa discusses the importance of supporting women, especially in male-dominated fields, and the role of male allies in achieving equality. Value of Community: Reflecting on her own experiences, Melissa talks about how being part of an inclusive and supportive community helps individuals be their true selves and grow. Finding and Creating Communities: Melissa offers advice on finding and building communities through hobbies and shared interests. Join us to hear Melissa's inspiring story and her thoughts on women's empowerment and the power of community. Resources: Make More Magic: Mel Fielding:
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Amna Akhtar's journey began in Birmingham with childhood dreams of sports and creativity, overcoming cultural barriers to establish GirlDreamer, a platform empowering women of color. She embraced self-discovery over traditional education, valuing empathy, community, and action. Her experiences, including receiving the Obama Scholarship, reinforced her commitment to lifelong learning. In this conversation, Amna reflects on her deep admiration for the US's community and kindness. She passionately embraces immersive experiences, aiming to compress a decade's worth of life into a single year, driven by a quest for personal growth and fulfillment. Amna's perspective underscores her appreciation for the US's opportunities, shaping her ambitious life outlook and her dedication to seizing every moment. Key Takeaways: Resilience and Pursuit of Passion: Despite facing familial and societal pressures, Amna pursued her passions fervently, whether in sports or self-directed learning. Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: Through her experiences, Amna learned the importance of empathy and emotional intelligence, which became foundational in her personal and professional growth. Navigating Challenges: She navigated challenges such as parental expectations and personal setbacks, turning them into opportunities for self-discovery and empowerment. Self-Acceptance and Empowerment: Amna highlights the significance of self-acceptance and nurturing personal strengths, including sensitivity. Educational Pursuits: Amna's pursuit of education and continuous learning showcases her dedication to personal development and intellectual curiosity. Career Evolution: From her early career in sports to her current role in psychology and coaching, Amna's professional journey reflects adaptability and a commitment to helping others. Cultural Influence: Her cultural background has influenced her perspectives and approach, highlighting the intersection of identity, resilience, and personal growth. Advocacy and Mentorship: Amna's advocacy for mental health awareness and mentorship underscores her commitment to empowering others and fostering community support. Future Aspirations: Amna aims to expand her impact through coaching and educational initiatives, driven by her experiences and passion for helping others achieve their potential. Building Communities: She's passionate about creating supportive networks, especially for young women of color, through GirlDreamer. Impact through Action: Her work with GirlDreamer and beyond underscores her commitment to empowering others and making a tangible difference. Resources: Girldreamer: Amna Akhtar:
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In this bite size episode of the Tales Inspired Podcast, we delve into the topic of inclusion and its significance both personally and professionally. Our guest, Amna Akhtar shares her background as a Pakistani woman, highlighting early experiences of exclusion within the family due to cultural and patriarchal norms. This sparked a lifelong commitment to fostering inclusivity in various spheres. Key Highlights: Personal Background and Inclusion: Growing up in a patriarchal household and experiencing exclusion firsthand. Her focus on promoting inclusivity and community-building. Family and Cultural Dynamics: Discussion on how traditional family norms can perpetuate exclusion. The impact of social media and exposure to diverse cultures in promoting inclusivity within families. Inclusion in the Workplace: Importance of psychologically safe environments. Need for autonomy and flexibility to boost productivity and mental health. Critique of tokenism, advocating for genuine inclusion based on kindness and respect. Challenges in Community and Cultural Expectations: Navigating judgment and expectations about unconventional careers. The struggle for recognition and understanding from family and community. Personal Resilience and Independence: The journey towards embracing independence and self-acceptance. Prioritising personal happiness and fulfillment over societal approval. Thank you for tuning in to this episode. Get ready to dive deeper with us next week! Stay tuned for more insightful conversations on inclusion and empowerment. Resources: Girldreamer: Amna Akhtar:
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In today's Deep Dive episode, Amit Ghose shares his personal experiences overcoming challenges related to disability representation, cultural obstacles in interracial relationships, and self-doubt. This conversation highlights the importance of mentors, self-acceptance, and purpose-driven actions in navigating these challenges. Highlights Amit's Journey and Disability Advocacy Amit's journey encompasses significant transitions and personal growth. Moving from a career in sales and marketing to disability advocacy was ignited by a profound message from a girl sharing his condition, neurofibromatosis. His journey is driven by pride in his visible difference, motivating him to positively impact lives and inspire others along the way. Childhood Struggles and Family Support In his childhood, Amit faced loneliness and insecurity, which transformed when he discovered cricket, finding a sense of identity through the sport. Despite these challenges, his father provided unwavering support, treating him normally despite his visible disability. However, the loss of his father was emotionally profound, shaping his resilience and approach to life's obstacles. Resilience, Relationships, and Cultural Acceptance Amit emphasizes the importance of support networks and taking challenges one day at a time. He finds solace in music and walks as coping mechanisms, though he admits to struggling with self-doubt and the pursuit of meaningful relationships. Despite initial family opposition fueled by societal pressures, his marriage eventually led to gradual acceptance and understanding within both families, bridging cultural gaps and fostering deeper connections. Advocacy for Inclusion and Empathy Reflecting on societal stigma and the cultural shift towards inclusion, Amit advocates passionately for empathy and inclusivity towards people with disabilities. He believes in addressing systemic issues behind individual actions, drawing from personal experiences to promote a more compassionate society. Living with Neurofibromatosis and Inspiring Others Living with neurofibromatosis, Amit navigates medical and religious questions regarding family planning with his wife. They lean on positive energy and spirituality to cope with their condition, finding hope and purpose in inspiring others despite the challenges they face. Resources: Amit Ghose: Childhood Tumour Trust: The Brain Charity:
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Our guest today, Amit Ghose shares his journey of adaptation and resilience, highlighting the importance of understanding, empathy, and the power of conversations in driving societal change. Key Discussion Points Adaptation and Visibility: The importance of making oneself seen and heard despite a visible condition. Embracing one's personality to shine beyond physical appearances. Navigating Community Expectations: Challenges faced within the Asian community, especially regarding marriage and societal roles. Anecdotes highlighting insensitive comments and the pressure of traditional expectations. The Role of Family and Community: Supportive family dynamics versus judgmental community attitudes. The impact of visible disabilities on participation in activities like cricket. Understanding and Empathy: The need for education and empathy within communities to foster acceptance. The influence of media and societal standards of perfection. School Experiences and Bullying: The tough realities of growing up with a visible condition in school environments. A poignant story of bullying and its lasting impact, emphasizing mindful communication. Tune in to hear more inspiring stories and discussions on Tales to Inspire. Resources: Amit Ghose: Childhood Tumour Trust: The Brain Charity:
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In this Deep Dive episode, Kate shares her personal experiences with overcoming adversity and mental health struggles, highlighting the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and empathy. She talks about her struggles with lupus, childhood trauma, and juggling employment and illness, highlighting the importance of understanding and support. To advance both personally and professionally, Kate also emphasizes the importance of taking chances, learning from failures, and embracing change. Overcoming Adversity Kate Appleby's journey through adversity began with limited family support and financial resources, influenced by her parents' mental health challenges. Despite these obstacles, Kate's resilience has been crucial in helping her navigate and overcome adversities like childhood trauma and managing lupus, an autoimmune disease that impairs immunity and causes joint pain. Childhood Trauma and Abuse Kate's early life was marked by significant abuse and neglect, impacting her mental health profoundly, especially during her university years. Recognizing the toxicity of her situation early on, she sought to break free, though the lasting effects of childhood trauma continue to shape her life. Living with Lupus Managing lupus has posed significant challenges for Kate, requiring ongoing medical care and inner strength to deal with symptoms like joint pain and photosensitivity. Her battle with the illness has served as evidence of her strength and determination. Mental Health and Support Kate's search for effective support groups for her mental health during university left her feeling isolated. Balancing her challenges with mental illness alongside her studies and personal life was a continuous struggle. Balancing Work and Illness Despite these challenges, Kate has pursued a fulfilling career path as a management consultant, adapting her work schedule to accommodate her illness while prioritizing mental well-being and personal growth. Personal Growth and Career Evolution Kate, who led the COVID-19 test and trace operations after leaving NHS project management, highlights the value of professional and personal development. Through her consulting business, she now incorporates innovation from the private sector into public sector projects. Vulnerability, Authenticity, and Dealing with Online Trolling Navigating vulnerability and authenticity in her career, Kate has faced challenges like online trolling, learning to manage these issues while focusing on personal growth and professional integrity. Advocacy and Inclusivity in the Outdoor Industry Kate's advocacy work in the outdoor industry, fueled by her experiences with lupus, aims to promote inclusivity. By giving people access to outdoor activities through her organization, Zapped Adventures, she promotes positive development in spite of personal challenges. Trauma, Healing, and the Power of Outdoor Spaces When Kate thinks back on tragedy and recovery, she finds comfort and healing in nature. She is a proponent of self-care and values strong friendships formed through shared outdoor experiences. Life Goals, Illness, and Legacy Looking forward, Kate seeks to create safety, travel, and increase joy in her life through acceptance and forgiveness. She hopes to be remembered for leaving a meaningful legacy that inspires others to follow their paths and make positive contributions to the world. Thank you for tuning in to this deep dive into Kate Appleby's inspiring story. Her resilience and determination serve as a powerful reminders of overcoming adversity. Take care, and stay tuned for more empowering episodes. Resources: Kate Appleby: Lupus UK: Lupus Trust: NAPAC:
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In this bite size episode with Kate Appleby, we dive into the concept of adapting to circumstances and explore what it means to thrive versus merely survive. Our guest shares personal experiences, mental strategies, and practical tools to navigate life's challenges. Key Points: Adapting to Circumstances: Discussion on the importance of adapting to daily challenges. The motto "Thrive or Survive" as a guiding principle. Human Nature: Evolution and the natural human tendency to adapt. The challenges and pains associated with adaptation. Community: The balance between surviving and thriving in communities. Barriers that prevent people from moving from survival to thriving. Personal Strategies: The "Traffic Light System" (Red, Amber, Green) for managing tasks based on physical and mental capacity. The role of mental resilience and pragmatic planning in adaptation. The importance of remembering one's capabilities and pushing oneself to thrive Inspiration and Comparison: The potential dangers of comparing oneself to others and the importance of self-awareness. The importance of personal growth through lived experiences, not just inspiration from others. Emphasizing progress as non-linear and personal. Concluding Thoughts: Encouragement to build a personal toolkit for adaptation. Reflection on life's non-linear success patterns. Final thoughts on finding inspiration and motivation in personal growth and resilience. Call to Action: Reflect on your daily challenges and how you adapt to them. Consider implementing the "Traffic Light" approach to manage your tasks and mental well-being. Join us next week for a deep dive into another engaging topic. Thank you for tuning in! Resources: Kate Appleby: Lupus UK: Lupus Trust: NAPAC:
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“When you stop using the word can’t and start using the word can, you’ll soon realise that the person you thought you were is no match for the one that you really are.” In this episode of Tales to Inspire, Steve Hill shares his incredible journey from teaching to tackling some of the world's toughest challenges. Born and raised in Oldham, Steve has spent 28 years teaching, believing it to be the greatest privilege to inspire young minds. Steve’s path changed after an unsatisfying stint as a quantity surveyor. His mother’s advice to take action led him to try teaching, where he discovered his passion for guiding students through growth and teamwork. A moment of introspection 15 years ago led Steve to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, showing his students that he lived by the inspirational quotes in his classroom. This adventure was the first of many, including Mount Blanc, the Sahara Desert, the Arctic, and the Amazon jungle ultra-marathon. Each year, his students followed his journeys, learning about resilience and determination. Steve’s challenges also supported various charities, nominated by his students. A memorable experience in Uganda, where a young boy shared his ice cream with Steve during a marathon, inspired him to establish the Team Hill Charitable Trust. The charity supports schools and clinics in Uganda and children and families in northwest England. During the lockdown, Steve wrote a book about his adventures, which captivated his students and further solidified his role as an inspirational figure. As he transitions from teaching, Steve aims to inspire thousands more through his charity, showing children that with hard work and big dreams, they can overcome any obstacle. Tune in to hear Steve Hill’s journey, filled with adventure and the belief that when you start using the word “can,” you’ll discover a new version of yourself. Key Topics: Steve Hill’s career shift to teaching Importance of sports and teamwork in education Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and subsequent adventures Establishment of Team Hill Charitable Trust Steve’s inspirational book and its impact The future of Steve’s mission to inspire through his charity Resources: Steve Hill: https://www.stevehillmbe.com/
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In this episode bite size episode of, we delve into the remarkable journey of Steve Hill, a passionate and dedicated teacher whose story exemplifies the power of adaptability. Steve shares his insights and experiences on how being flexible and adaptable can transform not only the classroom but also our approach to life's myriad challenges. Episode Highlights: Adapting to Changing Circumstances: Steve emphasizes the importance of being adaptable, especially in the face of unforeseen challenges. He talks about the necessity of dealing with issues as they arise and maintaining a flexible mindset to navigate the complexities of daily life. Human Nature and Adaptability: Reflecting on human nature, Steve explores whether adaptability is an innate quality. He discusses how individuals can cultivate adaptability to better respond to the ever-changing world around them. The Role of Charisma and Inspiration in Teaching: As an educator, Steve highlights the need for teachers to embody charisma and inspiration. He believes that these qualities are essential for motivating students and creating a dynamic learning environment. Supporting Ourselves and Others: Steve offers practical tips on how we can support ourselves to become more adaptable. He shares his personal strategies for coping with changing circumstances, emphasizing the importance of self-care and community support. Adapting During the Covid-19 Pandemic: Steve recounts the challenges posed by the Covid-19 lockdown and how his community adapted to support each other. He shares inspiring stories of how they focused on charity work, including organizing food shops to help those in need, and how these efforts brought the community closer together. Resources: Steve Hill: Team Hill Charitable trust: https://www.facebook.com/TeamHill7/
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Introduction to Adam Bastock: Adam Bastock has made sustainability a core part of his life and work. He believes that sustainability is not just about being ethical or environmentally friendly, but also about ensuring financial stability for small businesses. His mission is to help businesses not just survive, but thrive for the next 5, 10, or 15 years by addressing immediate pressures and setting up long-term strategies for sustainable growth. Early Life and Entrepreneurial Beginnings: Growing up in Rugby, a quiet town in the Midlands, Adam’s upbringing was stable and laid a solid foundation for his future endeavors. He has two older sisters who provided a window into adulthood. Unlike them, Adam chose a different path, pursuing a flexible Open University degree while working part-time at Sainsbury’s. His entrepreneurial spirit emerged in his late teens when he launched an Etsy store selling handmade cufflinks and laser-cut jewelry. Moving to Brighton and Professional Growth: In 2010, Adam moved to Brighton to be with his boyfriend. The vibrant and diverse community there broadened his horizons. In 2014, he took a leap of faith by quitting his job at Sainsbury’s to work for a small business in Brighton, where he gained invaluable experience in web development and e-commerce. Building Expertise in Digital Marketing: Adam’s journey continued with roles at an industrial shelving company and an art gallery, where he honed his skills in Google advertising, SEO, and e-commerce platforms. By the time he went freelance, Adam had a comprehensive skill set to offer small businesses practical, actionable advice in digital marketing. Networking and Community Engagement: Networking played a crucial role in Adam's freelance success. Active co-working spaces in Brighton provided ample opportunities to connect with potential clients. One of his biggest clients resulted from a casual conversation over coffee. Advocating for Sustainability: Adam’s passion for sustainability extends beyond business. He emphasises the interconnectedness of our actions and their environmental impact. He highlights the often-overlooked origins of everyday products and stresses the importance of making informed, eco-friendly choices. Conclusion and Vision for the Future: Adam’s journey towards sustainability is ongoing and multifaceted. He aims to inspire others to see the value of sustainable practices, emphasising that sustainability is not just an environmental necessity but a viable and profitable business strategy. Together, we can create a sustainable future that benefits everyone. Join us in this insightful episode as Adam Bastock shares his story, experiences, and vision for a sustainable future. Don’t miss it! Resources: https://thebetterbusiness.network/ https://small99.co.uk/
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In this bite size episode with Adam Bastock, we dive into the concept of sustainability in business. Adam shares insights on what sustainability means to him and how it encompasses more than just environmental concerns. It’s about ensuring businesses thrive financially, operationally, and environmentally over the long term. Key Discussion Points: Defining Sustainability: Sustainability is not just about environmental impact but also financial stability. It’s crucial for businesses to operate in a way that ensures their existence in the next 5, 10, or 15 years. Immediate and Long-term Actions: Addressing short-term pressures with quick actions is vital. Setting and achieving marketing goals that ensure profitability and success over the next year and beyond. Public Understanding and Education: Many people are still unclear about terms like “plastic” and the benefits of reducing single-use plastics. Effective storytelling can drive better understanding and adoption of sustainable practices. Making Sustainability Relatable: Relating sustainability to daily life and individual benefits can increase engagement. Marketing missions should highlight the personal benefits of sustainable practices. Challenges in Education: Traditional climate change education methods may not be engaging enough. Inspirational and practical education, like highlighting the impacts of sustainable choices, can be more effective. Responsibility and Action: Individuals and businesses both have a role to play in sustainability. Understanding the scale of the issue is crucial, but action is equally important. Supply Chain Transparency: Visibility into the supply chain can help consumers and businesses make informed decisions. Case study examples, such as a Norwegian supermarket reducing emissions by adjusting their receipts, demonstrate the impact of transparency. Economic Considerations: Economic factors, such as the ability to provide for one’s family, play a significant role in how sustainability is approached. Solutions need to be practical and economically viable for individuals and businesses alike. Call to Action: Reflect on what sustainability means to you and your business. Consider immediate actions you can take to address sustainability challenges. Explore ways to make sustainability relatable and beneficial to your daily life and business operations. Resources: https://thebetterbusiness.network/ https://small99.co.uk/
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Welcome back Hannah Cox from the Better Business Network for her second episode on Tales to Inspire. Listen to or read about Hannah’s first episode here. Episode Highlights: Early Passion for Sustainability: Hannah’s eco-conscious journey began in childhood, fundraising for animal rights and continued through university. Transformative Experience: A trip to Bhutan deepened her commitment to making a positive impact on the world. Business Sustainability: Hannah explains that true sustainability goes beyond environmental concerns, encompassing employee well-being and societal impact. Misconceptions Addressed: Sustainability is not just a checklist; it must be integrated into the core of a business. It's about more than just environmental efforts. Critique of Capitalism: Highlights the flaws in assuming infinite growth on a finite planet and points out significant issues like food waste and air pollution. Better Not Stop: Inspired by a conversation with her dying father, Hannah started her business in a spare room and grew it through the kickstart scheme. B Corp Certification: Helps companies achieve this rigorous certification, ensuring they operate for the benefit of all stakeholders. Better Business Network: Originated from an accountability group, now a nationwide community driving significant change in sustainability. Join Us: Help fix the broken system. The Better Business Network offers support for businesses focused on social and environmental impact. Together, we can make a difference. https://betternotstop.com/
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In this bite size episode with Tales to Inspire we reconnect with past ambassador Hannah Cox who shares snippets of her journey from a conventional job to a purpose-driven career focused on sustainability. After transformative travels in 2018-2019, Hannah became passionate about making a difference in the world. She discusses the misconceptions about sustainability and how businesses of all sizes can integrate sustainable practices into their operations. Episode Highlights: Journey to Purpose: Hannah's shift from a traditional job to sustainability advocacy. The travel experiences that sparked her commitment to making a difference. Misconceptions About Sustainability: Challenging the idea that sustainability is a separate department in business. Emphasising sustainability as a core element in all business operations. Beyond Environmental Impact: Redefining sustainability to include employee well-being and ethical practices. The importance of treating staff well for a truly sustainable business. Business Approaches to Sustainability: How small, medium, and large companies can implement sustainable practices. Assessing current business knowledge and practices regarding sustainability. Empowering Communities: The intersection of sustainability and economic challenges in communities. Encouraging individuals to contribute to sustainability within their means. Resources:
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Introduction: Join us as we delve into the remarkable tale of Bea Thackeray, a visionary artist and sustainability advocate whose journey is as inspiring as her creations. From her humble beginnings as a child with a passion for art to her role as the founder of Keep this Cracker, Bea's story is a testament to the power of creativity and sustainability. Childhood Dreams and Artistic Awakening: Explore Bea's early years spent immersed in art and creativity. Learn how her passion for art paved the way for her future endeavors. Discover the pivotal moments that shaped her artistic identity, from her time at the Harrow School of Art to her career with The Body Shop. The Birth of Keep this Cracker: Uncover the inspiration behind Bea's innovative creation, Keep this Cracker. Hear about Bea's journey from concept to reality, including the design process and the challenges she faced along the way. Learn about the sustainable principles that guide Keep this Cracker and how Bea's commitment to the environment drives her business decisions. Empowering Change Through Creativity: Gain insight into Bea's philosophy of using creativity as a force for good. Discover how Bea's passion for sustainability extends beyond her business and influences her personal life. Be inspired to make a positive impact on the world through creativity and sustainable living, just like Bea. Bea Thackeray's story is a testament to the transformative power of art, creativity, and sustainability. As we conclude our journey through her remarkable tale, we're reminded that each of us has the potential to make a difference in the world, one creative endeavour at a time. Resources: Keep This Cracker: https://keepthiscracker.com/ Better Business Network: https://thebetterbusiness.network/ Tales to Inspire Newsletter: https://talestoinspire.us4.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=447519f0c1de5902c25e6d3bc&id=5e99053e86
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Join us for an enlightening bite size episode on sustainability and design as we delve into the fascinating world of eco-conscious innovation with Bea Thackeray, a passionate advocate for sustainable practices and purpose-driven design. Why Sustainability Matters: Bea shares her personal journey and deep-rooted commitment to sustainability. For her, it's not just about her background; it's a profound sense of responsibility towards the products we create and their impact on the planet. From the materials we use to the end-of-life disposal, Bea emphasises the importance of mindful design and resource utilisation. Embracing Change: With governments increasingly banning single-use plastics and a growing public consciousness, Bea sees a shifting tide towards sustainability. She highlights the need for a mindset change, advocating for products that are not only durable but also repairable—a stark contrast to our throwaway culture. The Quest for Purpose: As a designer, Bea constantly seeks opportunities to innovate and improve. She believes in the power of design thinking to address complex challenges and drive positive change. From problem-solving in design training to fostering collaboration within the industry, Bea explores the role of micro-businesses and individuals in driving sustainable solutions. Building Collaborative Communities: Bea underscores the importance of collaboration and partnership in advancing sustainability goals. She argues that micro-businesses have a unique advantage in adapting and experimenting with new ideas, paving the way for innovative solutions and meaningful impact. Towards a Sustainable Future: In closing, Bea encourages us to embrace optimism and seize the opportunity for change. By aligning our values and purpose, she believes we can collectively build a better, more sustainable future for generations to come. Resources: Keep this Cracker: https://keepthiscracker.com/ Better Business Network: https://thebetterbusiness.network/
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