This podcast aims to shine a light on the successes, key learnings and insights from Reading’s people and businesses. In the present and the past. We explore their recipes for success, the mistakes they’ve made and how you can avoid them, as well as inspirational stories that will give you a feel-good boost.
In this episode, Iryna Bakaliar, Head Librarian, and Peter Andrijeczko, Chair, of the Reading Ukrainian Community Centre. They discuss how the Reading Ukrainian Community Centre adds value to the local area by supporting the Ukrainian community, particularly the displaced Ukrainians who have arrived since the 2022 invasion.
The discussion covers the centre's role in preserving Ukrainian cul...
In this episode, Molli Cleaver, Community Engagement Manager at Reading University discusses how Reading University adds value to the local area by building partnerships with various stakeholders, including residents, the council, and local businesses.
We discuss the community engagement team's three-year action plan, and core objectives. We also explore the challenges that Molli has faced ...
In this episode, I catch up with Louisa Guise who was the first guest on the My Local Marketer podcast, launched in 2024. This is the one-year anniversary of Louisa’s book, which explores communication in the digital age, focusing on the benefits of using phones less and leaving unproductive group chats.
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Terry Dixon, founder of "Terry's Reading Walkabouts," started his walking tours in 2016. He has since raised over £26,000 for more than 30 local charities. Terry offers 22 different themed walks. In this episode, we discuss how Terry got started with his walks, how he promotes them, and how his project management background has helped him. We also discuss why Reading is such a wonderful town and the importance ...
This episode features Steve Bulley from Berkshire Growth Hub. Steve discusses his background, and Berkshire Growth Hub. He explains that Berkshire Growth Hub acts as a "GP for businesses," offering free, confidential support and resources to companies at every stage, from startups to expanding enterprises.
Learn about the diverse services provided by the Growth Hub, i...
This episode features Pete Hefferan, co-founder of Shed Cafe. Pete shares the fascinating journey of how he brought Shed Cafe to life, from a casual job opportunity to taking over the business with his wife, Lydia. Find out about the ongoing dedication required to curate fresh, high-quality food daily and ensure seamless service in a small, efficient space. We also explore the challenges, benefits, and highligh...
This episode features Dave Jenkins, the founder of Cryptic DJ. Discover how Dave transitioned from his e-commerce ventures to pursue a passion project that's now captivating a growing audience. Learn the strategic decisions behind Cryptic DJ's design, including how it draws inspiration from the viral success of games like Wordle to create a simple, universally engaging daily challenge accessible right in your b...
In this episode, Mary Genis, Artistic Director and founder of Culture Mix Arts, discusses her journey into music and how her career has evolved. Mary highlights the importance of music accessibility and the benefits of steel pans as an orchestral instrument. She also explains how her experience working for Reading Borough Council and Arts Council England provided essential skills in project management, budget m...
In this episode, Chris Mitchell, a composer, producer, and performer, discusses his journey into music and how his career has evolved. Chris highlights the importance of music education for brain development and social skills. He also explains the difference between music and sound in film and TV production, and how they work together to create an immersive experience.
Amongst other things,...
In this episode, Becky Nallon, Taproom Supervisor at Double Barrelled, discusses their role at the brewery, which they joined almost three years ago.
Becky explains their responsibilities as taproom supervisor, including managing the team, running events, and ensuring smooth operations. They highlight the joy of introducing customers to new beer styles and broadening their horizons beyond t...
In this episode, Cassie Greenman, Taproom Shift Manager and Brewery and Warehouse Assistant at Double-Barrelled Brewery, shares the fascinating journey of the brewery and her diverse roles within it.
Cassie discusses how Double-Barrelled began as a unique wedding favour brewed by founders Mike and Lucy in 2015, evolving into a successful business that opened in November 2018. She highlights...
In this episode, Sarah Browning, a Kindness Cheerleader and Communications Consultant, discussing the importance of kindness in business and effective communication strategies.
The discussion covers Sarah’s work in promoting kindness and its benefits for individuals and organisations, addressing its impact on productivity, happiness, and overall business culture.
Th...
In this episode, Lorraine Briffitt, CEO of Connect Reading, shares the story behind the organisation's mission to connect various sectors in Reading for mutual benefit.
Lorraine discusses how Connect Reading has grown to facilitate collaboration between businesses, charities, the education sector, and public sector services, to foster a better local community, economy, and environment.
In this episode, Ian Gough from Reduce Energy, discusses the Green Park wind turbine, an iconic feature of Reading. Ian shares the turbine's history, from its 2005 erection to its energy output and physical dimensions.
The discussion covers the turbine's role in renewable energy, addressing its efficiency, ROI, and environmental impact. As well as the practicalities of turbine maintenance...
In this episode, Tom Price, Chief Engagement Officer at Reading Pride, shares the story behind one of Reading’s most vibrant community events.
Tom discusses how Reading Pride has grown into a 15,000-person celebration of inclusivity and joy, powered by a small team and strong partnerships.
The episode also highlights the charity’s year-round work, including new communit...
In this episode, Jeroen Veheggen, Chair of Caversham AFC, shares how the club has grown into the largest grassroots football organisation in Reading, supporting over 800 players across all age groups.
Jeroen talks about his journey from parent volunteer to Chair and the club’s mission to provide inclusive, community-driven football. He highlights the challenges they face with outdated facil...
In this episode, Abbie Trussler, the Communications Officer at No. 5 Young People, discusses this local charity in Reading that provides free counselling and support services to young people.
Abbie shares her personal journey with No. 5, starting as a 14-year-old using their counselling services, then volunteering, and eventually joining the staff team.
She discusses th...
In this episode, Lynne Shipton, founder of the charity Chemogiftbags, shares her personal story of being diagnosed with breast cancer and how it led her to establish the charity.
Chemogiftbags provides comfort and support to individuals undergoing chemotherapy, by providing them with a free giftbag full of with items to help them through their treatment and make them smile.
Neil discusses his role at the Purple Turtle, which includes managing event bookings, promotion, and social media marketing. He provides insights into how he structures his day and handles the diverse responsibilities of his position.
The conversation explores the unique characteristics of the Purple Turtle, emphasising its significance as a Reading fixture and its diverse offerings, incl...
In this episode, Simon Morris, speaks about his experience organising the Reading Geek and Science in Reading groups, and offers advice that can be applied to businesses.
He discusses the differences between the Reading Geek Night and Science in Reading groups, explaining how Reading Geek Night is a more informal event covering a wide range of geeky topics, while Science in Reading is a d...
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I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
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