Inspirational, informative and entertaining interview podcast show featuring well-known personalities, entrepreneurs, influencers, business leaders, artists and creatives from Suffolk, UK.
Survival, revival and pushing boundaries in regional theatre - Douglas Rintoul, Chief Executive/Artistic Director of The New Wolsey Theatre talks to us.
Since taking the helm in May 2022, Doug has made a lasting impact on Ipswich and Suffolk’s cultural scene - championing bold, diverse theatre and launching powerful community initiatives with his team. Douglas shares insights into his creative vision, his beliefs and drive, as well as the importance of collaboration.
Using the phrase 'working at the speed of trust', Doug talks about the significance and critical importance of building relationships within the community - how it takes time to gain those relationships and make them last.
As a cultural leader of our region, Doug talks about the We Are Ipswich initiative, a partnership between leading arts organisations, who collectively drive and promote the cultural scene in Ipswich - positioning Ipswich as the cultural hub for Suffolk and East Anglia.
Doug also talks about his role as an artistic director, and explains how theatre is about 'asking those important questions' and resonating with audiences. He talks about this in depth - exposing people to more contemporary work to challenge and to question - as well as the big musicals and shows.
Finally, Doug took part in the Felixstowe Triathlon in July 2025 - raising money for the theatre. If you'd like to donate or become a member please visit the NWT website right here.
Tickets for all shows including Don't Look Now (this autumn's big show) and Beauty and the Beast (the infamous New Wolsey Theatre Rock 'n' Roll Panto) are available here.
Support the show
The Suffolk Pod Show showcases the most brilliant entrepreneurs, creatives and business leaders, connecting Suffolk’s business and cultural community in one space.
Join us for entertaining and thought-provoking conversations, fascinating insights and meaningful connections as we highlight the thriving, aspirational culture of Suffolk - proving that great business and great living can go hand in hand.
If you're interested in being a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please just get in touch with us podtalkuk@gmail.com or call:
Marc +44 7909 174289
Zanna +44 7915 294164.
The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk
#podcast #suffolk #business #suffolkbusiness #suffolkpodcast
Whether you’re a collector, want to sell a treasure, or simply curious about what it takes to run an auction house, this episode brings you record-breaking sales, The Beatlesand what's hot on the market right now!
Ed Crichton, Managing Partner of Lacy Scott & Knight, theleading auction centre in Suffolk, talks about the history of the business which was established 1869 in the heart of Bury St Edmunds. From its early days focused on livestock markets to becoming a respected multi-disciplinary firm of Chartered Surveyors, Property Experts, and Auctioneers – Lacy Scott & Knight has grown into a leading player in both regional and international markets.
Episode highlights include:
Thanks to Ed for being such a brilliant guest!
Visit: https://www.lskauctioneers.co.uk for auction dates and times.
Follow Lacy Scott & Knight on social media for auction previews and updates.
Support the show
The Suffolk Pod Show showcases the most brilliant entrepreneurs, creatives and business leaders, connecting Suffolk’s business and cultural community in one space.
Join us for entertaining and thought-provoking conversations, fascinating insights and meaningful connections as we highlight the thriving, aspirational culture of Suffolk - proving that great business and great living can go hand in hand.
If you're interested in being a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please just get in touch with us podtalkuk@gmail.com or call:
Marc +44 7909 174289
Zanna +44 7915 294164.
The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk
#podcast #suffolk #business #suffolkbusiness #suffolkpodcast
If you have any savings, a pension (or several pensions from previous employers) or just need direction with planning your finances for you and your family - then this episode is definitely for you!
Zanna Hornby talks with qualified financial planner Iain Clayton, based in Bury St Edmunds, and founder of FinPlanPro.com, about helping busy professionals to take control of their pensions and financial futures—without jargon, pressure, or hidden commissions.
Originally from Wales and now based in Suffolk, Iain shares his personal and professional journey, including what inspired him to build FinPlanPro, a remote-first, digital-friendly financial planning service built around clarity, flexibility, and real-life goals.
As a proud father of two children born deaf, Iain also opens up about how family life has shaped his values, his advocacy for the National Deaf Children’s Society and the West Suffolk Deaf Children’s Society, and the joy of travel and adventure with his loved ones.
This is a refreshing conversation about money that feels both personal and practical—perfect for anyone looking to get to grips with pensions, financial planning, or simply make smarter money choices without the sales pitch.
In this episode:
Support the show
The Suffolk Pod Show showcases the most brilliant entrepreneurs, creatives and business leaders, connecting Suffolk’s business and cultural community in one space.
Join us for entertaining and thought-provoking conversations, fascinating insights and meaningful connections as we highlight the thriving, aspirational culture of Suffolk - proving that great business and great living can go hand in hand.
If you're interested in being a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please just get in touch with us podtalkuk@gmail.com or call:
Marc +44 7909 174289
Zanna +44 7915 294164.
The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk
#podcast #suffolk #business #suffolkbusiness #suffolkpodcast
From tough beginnings and panicked late-night baking sessions to supplying top retailers and winning multiple awards, this is a heartfelt and frequently hilarious episode of true entrepreneurial grit, creativity, and really great brownies.
Zanna sits down with Charlotte and Luke, the dynamic duo behind the award-winning Suffolk business, Brownie and the Bean.
You’ll hear about:
If you love a great small business story with plenty of laughs, real talk, and chocolate – this one's for you.
Thank you Charlotte and Luke for being brilliant guests.
Guest(s): Charlotte and Luke Giddings from Brownie and the Bean
Host: Zanna Hornby
Title: From Kitchen Table to Award-Winning Bakery – The Brownie and the Bean Story
Useful Links
#SuffolkPodShow #BrownieAndTheBean #SuffolkBusiness #SmallBusinessStory #Entrepreneurship #AwardWinning #GreatTasteAwards #FoodBusiness #ZannaHornby #TheSuffolkPodShow #PodcastUK #BritishBakers #ArtisanBrownies
Support the show
The Suffolk Pod Show showcases the most brilliant entrepreneurs, creatives and business leaders, connecting Suffolk’s business and cultural community in one space.
Join us for entertaining and thought-provoking conversations, fascinating insights and meaningful connections as we highlight the thriving, aspirational culture of Suffolk - proving that great business and great living can go hand in hand.
If you're interested in being a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please just get in touch with us podtalkuk@gmail.com or call:
Marc +44 7909 174289
Zanna +44 7915 294164.
The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk
#podcast #suffolk #business #suffolkbusiness #suffolkpodcast
If you're thinking about writing a will, setting up a trust fund or getting on the career ladder within a successful law firm - this podcast episode is definitely for you!
Nicola Weldon - Partner, Solicitor and Head of Private Client and Chitra Watson Head of HR, talk about their personal experiences of working at Ellisons Solicitors, and how approachable and engaging the company is with their clients.
Thank you to you both for giving us a really in depth chat about yourselves and what makes it great to work at Ellisons!
The content of this episode for is for entertainment purposes only, any legal advice should be taken directly from Ellisons.
To speak to Nicola or Chitra, or to find out more about Ellisons click here.
Support the show
The Suffolk Pod Show showcases the most brilliant entrepreneurs, creatives and business leaders, connecting Suffolk’s business and cultural community in one space.
Join us for entertaining and thought-provoking conversations, fascinating insights and meaningful connections as we highlight the thriving, aspirational culture of Suffolk - proving that great business and great living can go hand in hand.
If you're interested in being a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please just get in touch with us podtalkuk@gmail.com or call:
Marc +44 7909 174289
Zanna +44 7915 294164.
The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk
#podcast #suffolk #business #suffolkbusiness #suffolkpodcast
Cathy Frost is a force of nature – her boundless passion, infectious optimism, and love for life, business and Ipswich, shine through in everything she does.
Cathy - a retail business owner and entrepreneur talks to us about life (past and present), ambition and passion - how she has become one of Ipswich’s most successful businesswomen and her extremely busy and fulfilling life!
Cathy owns Loveone– an independent interiors and gift shop based in St Peters Street in the heart of old Ipswich town. Now in its 18th year of trading, Cathy looks back to its inception and the influences and circumstances that led her to opening the doors to her dream business.
Cathy talks about her love for Ipswich, she is a huge advocate for the town and holds a mix of integral roles within the community – including being a Labour Councillor, Trustee Board Member of the New Wolsey Theatre and Associate Partner of The Saints – Ipswich’s street market events.
In her latest initiative, Cathy has joined forces with some of Ipswich’s leading businesses to launch The Ipswich Book Festival which takes place 3 – 5 October. Find out more in this episode on who is involved and what visitors can expect.
Thank you Cathy for an very inspiring chat!
Useful links
https://www.loveone.co.uk/
https://thesaintsipswich.com/
https://www.wolseytheatre.co.uk/
Support the show
The Suffolk Pod Show showcases the most brilliant entrepreneurs, creatives and business leaders, connecting Suffolk’s business and cultural community in one space.
Join us for entertaining and thought-provoking conversations, fascinating insights and meaningful connections as we highlight the thriving, aspirational culture of Suffolk - proving that great business and great living can go hand in hand.
If you're interested in being a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please just get in touch with us podtalkuk@gmail.com or call:
Marc +44 7909 174289
Zanna +44 7915 294164.
The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk
#podcast #suffolk #business #suffolkbusiness #suffolkpodcast
Owen talks about the past 4 and a half years since he began his role at Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds - touching on some of the theatre’s highlights and ground-breaking shows for the region including A Christmas Carol which was staged outdoors in the deep of a pandemic winter and the enchanting The Christmas Cabin, a play for under 7's performed in the middle of a shopping centre, as well as telling us about his new bold and brilliant show coming up in August 2025 – Steve & Steff For Ever, written by Ian Jarvis (Death in Paradise and Beyond Paradise).
Owen talks about the depth of the theatre’s work within the Bury St Edmunds and West Suffolk community, with a particular focus made in engaging young people through the Youth Theatre and in-school performances. He also talks about the eternal drive in attracting new audiences and why members and sponsors are so integral in supporting the work the theatre does.
We talk about casting, young and emerging talent and a support network set up for creatives to interact across Norfolk and Suffolk.
Currently in the middle of their Bloom Festival which attracts more than 600 people through the theatre doors to get involved with workshops and activities, the summer programme is packed full of great shows; from comedy with Harry Hill and Julian Clary to fabulous family shows and a brilliantly contemporary version of The Sword and the Stone, as well as their big show of the season Steve & Steff For Ever – which runs from 1 August to 31 August 2025 .
Steve and Steff For Ever is an immersive and intoxicating love story that takes place in and around the streets and businesses of Bury St Edmunds, and takes on the style of a 'promenade show' - listen to this episode to hear more about this fabulous production. All of these shows and many more are available online to book www.theatreroyal.org
Thank you to Owen, and to Julie and Becca from the marketing team, for making us feel so welcome!
Futher info:
Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds is a presenting and producing theatre and one of the UK’s last surviving, and the only working Regency playhouse. Theatre Royal produces three major productions throughout the year with further smaller and community projects throughout its seasons.
Support the show
The Suffolk Pod Show showcases the most brilliant entrepreneurs, creatives and business leaders, connecting Suffolk’s business and cultural community in one space.
Join us for entertaining and thought-provoking conversations, fascinating insights and meaningful connections as we highlight the thriving, aspirational culture of Suffolk - proving that great business and great living can go hand in hand.
If you're interested in being a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please just get in touch with us podtalkuk@gmail.com or call:
Marc +44 7909 174289
Zanna +44 7915 294164.
The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk
#podcast #suffolk #business #suffolkbusiness #suffolkpodcast
If you've ever felt like you could write novels, poetry, comedy and more - then this podcast episode will inspire you to get your pen to paper!
Wolsey Writers is an independent creative writing group which meets at the
New Wolsey Theatrein Ipswich on the first Saturday morning of the month. Their community includes novelists, scriptwriters, poets, storytellers, children’s literature, comedy, and nonfiction. They welcome writing in any genre, writers from diverse backgrounds and all levels of experience and aspirations – from haiku to blockbuster trilogy.
The monthly meeting takes place in the stunning New Wolsey Theatre Café & Bar where the group make the most of the locally ground coffee and delicious snacks – sometimes in noisy discussion, sometimes in mutual silence while they work.
Guest speakers:
Wolsey Writers meets on the first Saturday of the month, 10:30am-12pm, at New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich. Led by Katie Ward, an award-winning author from Suffolk, every session includes tips to improve your creative practice, focused writing time, peer support and inspiration.
Suitable for writers age 18+. Tickets are ‘pay what you feel’ from the Box Office. Check the website what's on page - wolseytheatre.co.uk
Find updates on Instagram & Twitter/X @wolseywriters; or Facebook @katiewardwriter.
Thank you to the New Wolsey Theatre for sharing this episode.
Thank you for listening to The Suffolk Pod Show Podcast.You're all welcome to get involved and if you'd like to be a guest or like to ask a question to The Suffolk Pod Show team, please just get in touch.
Email: podtalkuk@gmail.com (Marc Podcast Producer, Editor and sometimes Host!)
All show Wolsey Theatre tickets are on sale HERE.Visit the New Wolsey Theatre website HERE.
Thanks to our good friends at podtalk.co.uk for managing and producing our podcast.
The New Wolsey Theatre is supported by Arts Council England, Suffolk County Council and
Support the show
The Suffolk Pod Show showcases the most brilliant entrepreneurs, creatives and business leaders, connecting Suffolk’s business and cultural community in one space.
Join us for entertaining and thought-provoking conversations, fascinating insights and meaningful connections as we highlight the thriving, aspirational culture of Suffolk - proving that great business and great living can go hand in hand.
If you're interested in being a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please just get in touch with us podtalkuk@gmail.com or call:
Marc +44 7909 174289
Zanna +44 7915 294164.
The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk
#podcast #suffolk #business #suffolkbusiness #suffolkpodcast
Event: West Suffolk Business Festival 2024
Location: X Labs, Bury St Edmunds
Speaker: Zanna Hornby, Co-owner of Podtalk (podtalk.co.uk)
Topic: The Power of Podcasts: Building Brands and Promoting Talent
Summary:
Zanna Hornby, co-owner of Podtalk, delivered an engaging talk at the West Suffolk Business Festival in September 2024, focusing on the benefits of podcasts in building brands and promoting talent. Drawing on her experience in the podcasting industry, she highlighted the strategic value of podcasts as a tool for businesses to strengthen their brand presence and showcase their expertise.
Key Points Discussed:
Audience Interaction:
Zanna’s presentation was well received, with a dynamic Q&A session following her talk. The audience asked thoughtful questions about launching their own podcasts, tips for creating engaging content, and the best ways to measure podcast success. Zanna provided practical advice and insights, leaving attendees with a clear understanding of how to get started in podcasting.
Conclusion:
The session wrapped up with Zanna encouraging businesses to explore podcasting as a way to amplify their brand’s voice and to highlight the talents within their teams. Her talk inspired many to consider how they could leverage the power of podcasts to grow their influence and reach in the marketplace.
Support the show
The Suffolk Pod Show showcases the most brilliant entrepreneurs, creatives and business leaders, connecting Suffolk’s business and cultural community in one space.
Join us for entertaining and thought-provoking conversations, fascinating insights and meaningful connections as we highlight the thriving, aspirational culture of Suffolk - proving that great business and great living can go hand in hand.
If you're interested in being a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please just get in touch with us podtalkuk@gmail.com or call:
Marc +44 7909 174289
Zanna +44 7915 294164.
The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk
#podcast #suffolk #business #suffolkbusiness #suffolkpodcast
Now you can own one of these beautiful Labrador Sculptures forever, as PAWS-itivity draws to a close - the Suffolk Libraries' annual campaign to raise money for the huge amount of work they do in the community. Auction is on Thu 12 October 2023 at 7:00 pm.
In this episode we speak to Bruce Leeke Chief Executive of Suffolk Libraries, Alex Downing PAWS-itivity Fundraising Campaign Manager, and Marie Taylor Events Manager at the Food Museum
PAWS-itivity brought together the community as a whole from local businesses, organisations, community groups, schools, artists and library users in a celebration of all that’s great about Suffolk.
Over 40 Labrador dog sculptures and other artworks have been individually created by local artists to showcase the best of Suffolk.
Bidding with Clarke & Simpson is now live for the auction of the PAWS-itivity art sculptures. All funds raised will support the work Suffolk Libraries do as a charity at the heart of the community, nurturing literacy, improving health and wellbeing.
You can buy your favourite labrador at the online auction at The Sale Room - just register on this link https://www.the-saleroom.com/en-gb
There are also limited tickets for the in-person fundraiser at Trinity Park on 12 October. Book now for this spectacular event or email fundraising@suffolklibraries.co.uk for more information.
YOu can say a final farewell to all the Library Labradors at the Food Museum in Stowmarket from 4 to 8 October 2023 and see which dogs you'd like to bid for in the upcoming auction.
Keep up to date by following PAWS-itivity Tails on Facebook and on Instagram.
The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk
First up to the mic we talk to Heidi Franklin, entrepreneur and Co-Founder of Wild Play Ltd. Heidi talks about the writing and making of her wonderful new children’s book ‘Gordon’s Favourite Place’. The story is one of discovery and adventure and is based around Gordon, a young ‘being’ and their best friend Herbert (a hedgehog) as they make new friends around their much -loved woodland. These woods are the very same that Heidi curates her WildPlay adventures for real humans! Heidi reveals more about the story– the first in a planned series to follow. The book is beautifully illustrated by Jade Bartolf. Listen to the episode to find out where you can buy this brilliant book.
Next to the mic is Sue Thompson, who moved to Suffolk a few years ago – a place where she and her husband used to holiday – but now are proud to call their home. Sue is a writer and a poet as well as a musician and loves life to the full. ‘Spending a Penny in Southwold’ is Sue’s collection of hilarious anecdotal pieces about some of the well-known tourist destinations in Suffolk as well as some humourous short stories of how she coped in a locked-down world. Sue also talks about her love for music and her cherished role as a band member in the Desperados (local Suffolk folk band). Sue tells us where you can her book.
Thank you to both Heidi and Sue for being our guests.This podcast is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk
If you'd like to be a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please email us at podtalkuk@gmail.com
THANKS FOR LISTENING!!
You’ll love this podcast episode if you like rock music, electronica and a great story or two! In the 1980s the rock band Twisted Sister had a hit record called ‘We’re Not Gonna Take It’ and at the age of 13, Dax was ‘that kid’ in the video - and to this day Dax is still great friends with lead singer Dee Snider – he says Dee has been an inspiration for his work since then.
We play a couple of clips of Super Jelly's songs from their New Album, launching soon
Dax Callner and his wife Amanda moved from New York to Bury St Edmund's to initially house-sit in late 2018. They both fell in love with the town and decided to make it their permanent home. He tells us about their happy move but also talks about few pitfalls of plugging in his instruments that were set on US voltage not the UK!
Super Jelly formed in early 2019. Five musicians make up this original band and they produce soulful, vibrant music touching several genres including classic rock, punk and jazz rhythms. They play and perform their own original songs with the occasional cover. You can listen to a few clips in this episode.
Dax has his own electronica / cinematic produced music - ‘Daxc’ and with influences from LCD Sound System and Peter Gabriel a clip of the track ‘The Backend’ is played in this podcast episode.
Dax’s second passion in life is his position working with ‘Smile’ an event marketing company. Their philosophy is ‘Doing Well by Doing Good’ and champion responsible marketing.
Dax also shares some funny comparisons between living in the UK to the US!
The Super Jelly new album comes out very soon so follow Dax and Super Jelly on their Facebook page: @wearesuperjelly
www.wearesuperjelly.com
This podcast is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk
If you'd like to be a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please email us at podtalkuk@gmail.com
THANKS FOR LISTENING!!
In this podcast we meet Aaron, Abbie and Mark, members of the ten-strong improvised comedy group [Insert Laughter Here] from Suffolk.
This lovely group of very funny people have been improvising together for just over 3 years, listen to them chat about how comedy influenced their lives, which comedians they take inspiration from, how they met each other and how they perform together.
Aaron talks about the format of their show - a series of hilarious games and then the improv begins with the interaction of their audiences.
The fun continues as we all attempt to do some live improv in this podcast episode - with some success - you be the judge!!
You have to go and see them live - they are hilarious and you will feel elated after a few minutes in their company!
Next Show: 8.00 pm - Wednesday 23 March 2022 - at The Fisher Theatre in Bungay.
(Doors open at 7.30 pm and tickets are £6 in advance or £8 on the door
Get your tickets here: https://fishertheatre.org/FisherTheatre.dll/WhatsOn?Film=379932
See you all there!
Follow [Insert Laughter Here] on Instagram on Twitter and on Facebook
This podcast is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk
If you'd like to be a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please email us at podtalkuk@gmail.com
THANKS FOR LISTENING!!
In this episode we talk to Mark Murphy MBE, double award Sony Gold winner and presenter of The Mark Murphy Breakfast Show on BBC Radio Suffolk.
Mark talks about growing up in Suffolk, his home and school life, and his first moves into the DJ world, as well as his first gig in Ipswich as a teenager.
Mark tells us about his first 'proper' job as a motor dealer, his early days and amusing stories as a Hospital radio presenter, and how he eventually got his foot through the door at the BBC. Mark worked for free to begin with and his persistence and drive paid off - as today he is the much loved lead presenter on BBC Radio Suffolk. He tells the story!
Mark talks about how he met his wife, Lesley Dolphin, also is also a presenter on BBC Radio Suffolk, and the competitive start to their relationship right through to a wedding in Las Vegas!
Mark is a well known and much loved public figure and a true advocate for Suffolk. He has led numerous successful campaigns across the region including 'Don't be a Tosser', 'Bin a Blade' (which resulted in 20,000 knives being handed in) and more recently he has increased the popularity of Suffolk's biggest coastline produce - Herring. Mark also talks about his painful childhood as he witnessed violence at home, and is now the patron of Lighthouse - a charity which supports women, young people and children who are victims of domestic abuse. www.lighthousewa.org.uk
Mark talks about his love of football and his home team Ipswich Town Football Club. Pre-pandemic he ran a Saturday show 'Life's s Pitch' and he tells us about meeting and working with some of his childhood heroes.
Listen to The Mark Murphy Breakfast Show from 6 am til 10 am every weekday.
If you'd like to be a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please just get in touch with us podtalkuk@gmail.com or call us +44 7465 942580.
The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk
In this podcast episode Charlotte Giddings, co-founder of Brownie and the Bean, brings us laughter, adventures, hilarious stories and mouth-watering brownies to taste!
Charlotte starts off by telling us about her successful career in London, working for the BBC and eventually for ITV as their senior continuity producer. She talks about it being a tough and an unforgiving environment, and the massive responsibilities she took on at a very young age.
Charlotte met Luke, her husband now, at a festival in London and tells a hilarious story about that chance meeting and Luke's friend's first impression of her.
Charlotte and Luke made the decision to move to Suffolk a few years ago, so they moved, with their very young baby into a house they had never seen before - that's another story - with a very happy ending! You may have seen Charlotte and Luke on Escape to the Country?
Charlotte is an entrepreneur through and through - and together with Luke, they amassed their skills and created Brownie and the Bean - a business they started from their own kitchen in the heart of Suffolk.
Brownie and the Bean is now a hugely successful business - listen to how Charlotte and Luke started with nothing and where they are today.
Brownie and the Bean is a now a 'boutique brownie gifting company' which offers fabulous luxury brownies and other beautiful gifts to a range of clients. You can buy direct, online, via wholesale and there is also a corporate gifting option too.
Find them here brownieandthebean.com and keep up with them on social media! There's never a dull moment!!
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If you'd like to feature your business on The Suffolk Pod Show - please just get in touch with us podtalkuk@gmail.com or call us +44 7465 942580.
The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk
Prepare yourself for some of the best behind-the-scenes chat, a peak into the lives of this talented team and plenty of grown-up laughter! It's the full cast, choreographer and director of Jack and the Beanstalk.
Kate Golledge (Director) and Darragh O’Leary (Choreographer) start this episode by sharing some of their stories and insights into this year’s Rock ‘n’ Roll pantomime. They reveal some of their techniques, what to expect from the show, and how they work together. Find out the secret of their partnership and their favourite cracker jokes!
Steve Simmonds (Actor/Musician), who plays Dame Dolly Durden, and Daniel Carter-Hope (Actor/Musician), who plays Squire Snuffbox, talk about their hilarious antics in rehearsals, their roles on stage, music, laughter and they deliver their favourite cracker jokes in style.
Natasha Magigi (Actor/Musician) plays Fairy Aubergine and Gemima, the Giant’s Wife, and Joe Butcher (Actor/Musician) plays the very scary and extremely tall Giant Blunderbore. Natasha and Joe tell us about their ‘giant’ roles and Natasha tells us a little bit about the magic of filming while Joe describes what it’s actually like being inside a 12ft puppet! Cracker jokes included!
Nic Bryan (Actor/Musician), who plays Fleshcreep, and James Haggie (Actor/Musician), who plays Billy, talk about rehearsals and what it means to be back on the stage again at the New Wolsey Theatre. James talks about his reputation for being a bit of prankster and Nic tells us about the mischievous role of playing the Giant’s assistant. Just wait for their cracker jokes!
Daniella Piper (Actor/Musician) plays Jill and Neil Urquhart (Actor/Musician) plays Jack. Dani talks about her ‘Jill,’ and her role as being much more of an integral part of the show rather than the traditional pantomime princess. Neil talks about Jack’s many talents and they both reveal how they manage to keep up their strength and enthusiasm show after show.
Thank you to all of our guests for joining us and a special thank you to Katharine Allerton (New Wolsey Theatre Marketing team) for co-hosting this episode.
Jack and the Beanstalk runs at the New Wolsey, Ipswich from 25 Nov– 8 Jan 2022 – watch in theatre or at home! Captioning, Audio Description, BSL, Relaxed Performances options are all available.
Auditorium tickets HERE
Livestream tickets HERE
Rob Jarvis, star of Luther, Hustle and Emmerdale, talks to us in this podcast episode about how life began as an actor; his early years, predominantly in musical theatre, and then how he transitioned into a successful TV and voice-over career. He takes us through memories of working at the Liverpool Everyman Theatre, The New Wolsey, The Bush in Shepherd’s Bush (where his TV career launched from) and working at the London Bubble.
Rob talks about the villainous character he played in Luther (Series 1:Episode 4) – serial murderer ‘Graham Shand’, as well as finally meeting Idris Elba, and working with his great friend and director Sam Miller. Rob also tells us a story about meeting a man on a train who was terrified of him (his character, not actually him) and having played a joke on him as they got off the train.
Rob goes onto to talk about playing the brilliant, and long-suffering fall guy, Eddie in Hustle. He tells us about working with the actors and the dynamics between them, the sadness they all felt when they finished their 8-season run and the slight hint of another series – although, as he says, ‘you always hear these things, and nothing really ever happens’. Rob chats about individual cast members in particularly how incredibly funny Matt Di Angelo is, and his admiration of working with the great Robert Glenister.
Rob recounts several TV appearances including a small part on Dr Who, Christmas Special 2013, accompanied with some very funny tales.
Playing shady character Russell Posner in Emmerdale has been one of Rob’s latest roles. Rob talks about his fantastic experience of working with the Emmerdale team and particularly, again admiration for actress Susan Cookson who plays Wendy Posner. Listen to see if his character may return!
Rob talks about some of his voiceover work including include lots of trailer films – for Sky, BBC, Channel 5 etc, and a documentary he does Emergency Helicopter Medics.
Rob is an accomplished guitarist and plays regularly in Woodbridge Suffolk – check out the amazing Doghouse Blues Band follow them on Facebook to see their next gig – it’s in November!
The Ink Festival, taking place in Suffolk in November, is something Rob is very passionate about – and looking forward to being a part of.
Thank you, Rob, for your generosity in time and spirit for this episode!
Follow Rob on twitter here
Early morning presenter on Virgin Radio – Sam Pinkham joins us on podcast episode 43!
Sam is a massive fan of Suffolk and visits every year with this family and stays in Southwold as well as various other locations around the county – and he loves going to Latitude – who doesn’t?!
Sam began his career as a salesperson – selling houses, hoovers, cars and in his words ‘He’d sell his Gran!’. Listen to Sam’s first moment when he realised he wanted to be a radio presenter – the ultimate epiphany for him. He talks about his first job as an ‘eye in the sky’ traffic reporter and his incredible sickness from flying in permanent circles!
Sam loves his current job as the early morning show presenter on Virgin Radio and talks a great deal about working with Chris Evans – again in his words ‘He’s a great cuddler’! Sam talks about his incredible experiences of working with Chris and how much he loves it, and Chris, and how he admires his incredible professionalism. Sam recounts a recent story when Chris rang him at 7pm and asked him to do his show – and then added ‘and by the way – Noel Gallagher’s on!’. Listen to Sam talk about that interview with Noel.
We ask Sam about what happens when things go wrong live on air – he talks about filling dead air recently when the desk went down – and not knowing how long it would be out of action – for him, the panic set him, for his co-presenter Gabby Roslyn – as she said ‘I love to talk’. Sam also talks about how much he loves working with Gabby. You can also listen to his story about a nightmare interview with Michael Parkinson.
Sam is a passionate, fun and driven person and his enthusiasm for life is addictive – he talks more about his love of cars, boats, property and his children. Find out what his dream car is and what he drives every day! Sam loves to sail around the Suffolk Coast and last year he hired a 9m 300hp rib in which he squeezed 15 kids! Sam and his family also spend time in Woodbridge and Orford. Sam also mentions that he is looking at co-hosting a TV show in Suffolk with Chris Evans.
Sam is the brother of Natalie Pinkham, TV Presenter and Formula One pit lane reporter for Sky Sports F1. Sam talks about his close relationship with Natalie and several capers including stepping onto a huge yacht in Monaco uninvited – the party started the moment they got to the main deck!
We highly recommend you listen to this episode – but be prepared to be thoroughly entertained!
You can hear Sam on Virgin Radio every weekday morning from 4am - 6.30am and you can follow him on Instagram and Twitter.
In this podcast episode we talk to sensational cast members Sarah Whittuck, Peter Peverley and Olivia Foster-Browne as well as Pete Rowe Artistic Director of the New Wolsey Theatre and writer and director, of the smash hit show ‘Never Lost at Home’.
Pete Rowe tells the story behind the making of ‘Never Lost at Home’, a live stage show wrapped around Ipswich Town Football club’s UEFA Cup winning season in 1980/81. The story (created from a collection of real stories from fans and Ipswich Town Football club from that time) focuses on a fictitious family, The Coombes, and their friends, all obsessive Town fans, as they make a pact to watch every away-game in Europe. The story also recounts the 80/81 season through the eyes of Bobby Robson, then manager of Ipswich Town team, and his players. Pete also tells us about the mix of comedy and drama in the show.
Pete gives us an insight to the making of the show as well as the use of film, how he chose that sensational soundtrack (including Everybody Wants to Rule the World, Tainted Love and Can you Feel it), the talented singers and musicians, the youth theatre community group’s involvement recreating the action on the pitch without a ball!
Sarah Whittuck, actor, musician and singer, plays Sheila Coombes, mother and anchor of the family. Sarah loves the New Wolsey theatre and is over the moon to be back there on stage ‘it’s what dreams are made of’ she says. She talks about the show and her role within the fictitious Coombes family. She also talks to us about perfecting her Suffolk accent, with famous voice coach Charlie Haylock. Sarah talks about her career, her life and how she manages to remain in perfect health throughout long performance runs.
Peter Peverley is highly revered for his performances as Bobby Robson and he talks about getting into the character of Bobby, including the training and study he puts into the role. Peter was born and raised close to Bobby Robson’s home village which, as he says, gives him a great head start in recreating Bobby’s pitch, timbre and inflection. Peter is a musician and singer as well as an actor, he talks about his passion for playing live gigs in working men’s clubs and other venues around his hometown – he adds he may throw a bit of Bobby into his live gigs! Peter gives us a few lines from the show!
Olivia Foster-Browne, professional actor singer and dancer, plays ‘Ange’ – best friends with the Coombes family and wife of 'Smudger' played by Keanu Adolphus Johnson. Olivia talks about ‘Ange’ as a strong, layered and witty woman and chats about some of the similarities between Ange and her real self. Olivia also chats about on-stage chemistry with Keanu and her love of singing ‘that big song’ at the end, come on it’s ‘Tina Turner’!
Never Lost at Home runs at the New Wolsey Theatre until Saturday 9th October 2021.
To book AUDITORIUM tickets (including relaxed performance, BSL, AD, Captioned performances and dementia friendly performances)
https://www.wolseytheatre.co.uk/shows/never-lost-at-home/
To book LIVESTREAM tickets (AD and Captioned)
https://www.wolseytheatre.co.uk/shows/never-lost-at-home-livestream/
Imagery created by The Suffolk Pod Show, original Photo credits: Mike Kwasniak
Jimmy Doherty talk to us about the latest news from Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park including the birth of Suffolk’s first-born Tapir – named Tobias.
Jimmy tells us about the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, founded by Adam Henson’s father, who played a major part in keeping the Gloucester Old Spot from becoming extinct. The trust was set up to protect Britain's native rare breeds – from chickens to horses. Jimmy talks more about protecting rare breeds and how important their genetic value is to protect the future of all livestock, as Jimmy says ‘to lose them is like losing a part of our food heritage’.
Jimmy also spends some time talking about Suffolk’s native horses – The Suffolk Punch, and the importance of preserving these beautiful animals. Jimmy has been president of the trust for 5 years and talks about a recent phone call with HRH Prince of Wales.
Jimmy talks about his lifelong fascination of the natural world and recounts several hilarious stories about his first job washing cars to save up to buy his first aquarium, as well as budgies escaping into trees and reptiles living in his father’s garage.
Jimmy, as he says himself, was obsessed with two things in his early years – the natural world and the military. After 5 years in the TA his draw to nature was too strong for him so he read Zoology and did a PhD in Entomology. He talks about a resolving moment in his life following Sept 11th and decided to live his dream, do what he’s always wanted to do – ‘get his hands back into the soil’ instead of spending life behind a microscope. Renting land was affordable in those days and Jimmy took to his first hands-on farming with pigs – ‘it suited me’ he says as they didn’t need prime grazing land. Jimmy talks about his first years in business, meeting his wife and taking her on her first date to the London Aquarium.
Jimmy tells us all about his new TV Show – ‘Builds on Wheels’ – available on Discovery Plus and Quest from 28 September. He talks about his co-presenter Jimmy De Ville and his engineering expertise and the extraordinary journey they both go on meeting eight couples around the UK who have built their own unique homes on wheels. Jimmy mentions his own recent build on wheels too – a Green Goddess Fire Engine conversion.
Back to the Wildlife Park now, and Jimmy talks with so much love about all his animals, from livestock to exotic. He talks about Basil the Anteater, as well as his rescue monkeys from Spain – and the antics these fabulous, and slightly naughty creatures get up to on the Farm. Jimmy also talks about butterflies and the stunning tropical butterfly house which will reopen on the Farm in Spring. He chats about being captivated by butterflies from an early age and butterflies, he points out, are an ‘indicator species’ – ‘if they are doing badly, then our environment is doing badly’.
Jimmy’s Farm and Wildlife Park offer all sorts of events and special experiences – and don’t miss the opportunity of going to one of his infamous Big Beef Nights!
www.jimmysfarm.com
Pannington Hall Lane, Ipswich, Suffolk IP9 2AR.
Phone: 01473 604206
In this exhilarating podcast episode Ray Travasso, gives us an extraordinary interview and talks about the magic that can happen when using music as therapy.
Ray and his team of music therapy professionals elevate and mend lives every day. They work with adults and children of all ages and Ray tells us the story of ‘Margaret’ who has no speech or movement on one side of her body and yet music changes all of that for her – listen to the clip and hear what happens.
Suffolk Music Therapy Services works across East Anglia from Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire to Essex and Norfolk.
https://www.suffolkmusictherapyservices.co.uk/
https://www.facebook.com/suffolkmusictherapyservices
Thank you to Stonham Barns Park for the introduction and interview.
Sue and Annie are a dynamic duo who are changing the lives of adults and children for the better. Listen to this enlightening podcast episode for tips and advice on managing stress and anxiety in the workplace, menopause in the workplace and the importance of teaching sexual harassment awareness in schools and they tell us how we, as parents, play an important part in educating our children on the subject.
AND THERE'S MORE!! - Sue and Annie are offering a FREE 10 minute ‘Wellness in the Workplace’ webinar following on from this podcast episode. Details will be available on their social media channels soon!
Both Sue and Annie are nurses and set up OM Health and Wellbeing Consultancy after years of practicing (and they still do work with schools). They work with a variety of clients; businesses of all sizes, schools as well as private individuals and offer a wide-ranging scope of advice, training, coaching and tips through workshops and one to one sessions.
Thank you for listening! We'd love it if you could subscribe to our podcast - it helps us enormously! Also we welcome any feedback - please just send us an email podtalkuk@gmail.com
If you’d like to be a guest on the Suffolk Pod Show please email us at podtalkuk@gmail.com
Website: www.podtalk.co.uk/podcast
This podcast is produced and managed by podtalk.co.uk
Richard Grainger has recently returned to his Suffolk roots after his illustrious global banking career. Richard tells his story, about his own life and his work, with openness and integrity. He talks about his earlier years, a happy childhood, his life at Cambridge University and his first tender years as he stepped out into the world of banking.
New York, London and then Hong Kong; Richard started his career at Credit Suisse and then moved to Barclays Bank, which took him to Hong Kong in 2003.
Richard talks about arriving in Hong Kong with his family only to be hit with the news on their first day “Man dies in Kowloon from mystery virus”. SARS had just broken out and it was a terrifying first few months as they tried to settle in.
Based in Hong Kong, Richard travelled on business to Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines and occasionally to Australia, India and Sri Lanka. Life was good, his career flying but his absence from home and family life eventually took its toll. Richard talks candidly about his immeasurable sadness as his marriage fell apart.
Richard was burned out; the pressures of working life in those days were ‘brutal’, he explains, and he needed a change of lifestyle. He moved on to a very successful career at The British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong where they ran an excellent angel investment program. As Richard tells us “It was a bit like the Dragons Den TV show…My role was to screen applicants and mentor them through the whole process”. Richard had a fulfilling career in Hong Kong, remarried, and eventually moved his family back to Suffolk, via the Philippines, to bring up his younger children.
Richard talks about all four of his children and how proud he is of them all. In January 2020, as the pandemic broke across the world, he managed to get his family home just in time for the birth of his 4th child. Settled back in the UK, it was the moment that Richard turned his long-term plans into a reality and he created his own business – Clear Idea Finance.
Richard talks about what Clear Idea Finance does: ‘We help businesses raise money. Our clients are business owners, entrepreneurs, property developers and investors. We advise them on their options for commercial finance, and we help them to find the finance they need to grow their business or finance their next project.’
‘A major focus for us is to build and nurture a network of what we call Introducers. These are usually professional services firms, such as accountants, solicitors, financial advisors, business brokers, auction houses. Basically, any firm (or anyone) who might have clients or contacts that from time to time might need commercial finance.’
In recent years Richard has become a huge advocate for running – he started only 7 years ago and talks about the incredible impact on his mental health and positive state of mind. Richard has taken part in half marathons, full marathons and even an ultra-marathon in the Philippines.
You can get in touch with Richard by visiting his website Clearideafinance.com, or by email at richard@clearideafinance.com, or you can find him through his LinkedIn page Clear Idea Finance.
#clearideafinance #businessfinance #finance #commercialfinance #businessloans #podcast #richardgrainger #thesuffolkpodshow #suffolk #uk
If you’d like to be a part of the Suffolk Pod Show please email us at podtalkuk@gmail.com
Website: www.podtalk.co.uk/podcast
This podcast is produced and managed by
Pam is fun, vibrant, strong, passionate and a real expert in fashion and style!
Born and bred in Ipswich Pam started modelling in her late teens and went on to become a superstar in her industry.
Listen to Pam talk about how she launched her fashion styling business, her modelling career and how she's developed Suffolk's biggest fashion show 'Suffolk Fashion'.
Pam believes in empowering her clients through style and talks about how she works with her customers and changes their lives.
Pam also talks about working as a fashion model on ITV This Morning and gives us a little insight to what it's like to work with Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby. Pam also talks about her work for Trinny London.
To get in touch with Pam visit her website fashion.candy.style or find her on social media under fashion candy style.
The Suffolk Pod Show is an inspirational, informative and entertaining interview podcast show featuring well-known personalities, entrepreneurs, influencers, business leaders, sports people, artists and creatives from Suffolk, UK.
www.podtalk.co.uk/podcast
If you’d like to be a part of the Suffolk Pod Show please email us at podtalkuk@gmal.com
This podcast is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk
Extraordinary talent best describes our guests on this podcast episode. Listen to all five Suffolk business owners talk about how they changed their lives and set up their successful companies.
Cassie Bendall and Rich Wood – Founders of Cheddar Creative
Cass and Rich, both from the creative agency world, saw a huge gap in the market for a ‘human-centred’ design agency, an agency which revolves around design-thinking. They formed Cheddar Creative with a firm vision to help companies build sustainable brands and develop user experience (UX). Today they are in the Future50 2021 which celebrates the region’s most innovative and high-potential companies as well as ranked #1 brand strategy agency in the world in leading industry magazine Creativepool. Listen to them talk about what they do, and how they do it!
www.cheddarcreative.co.uk
Milo Williams – Founder of Rubix M&E
Milo set up Rubix from his dining room table 5 years ago at the age of 22. Rubix M and E is a recruitment agency which places skilled gas engineers, electricians and plumbers into contract and permanent work across the UK. From starting with one client to 100’s today, Milo's company turnovers more than £2million per year. Milo talks about how he invests in his own staff – and has built an incredible team around him - ‘The Rubix Family’. Milo is also developing a bespoke app for his clients and launched Chainbox Global during the pandemic which connects PPE to end-users.
www.rubixmande.com
Kristian Day – Co-Founder of Insight Energy
Kristian and his brother Adam set up Insight Energy last year, in the height of the pandemic with a very clear mission in mind. As parents they have a huge interest in the future for their children and our world, so together they’ve teamed up to help people make the transition to using sustainable energy systems. Kristian talks about how solar panels, air and ground source heat pumps and EV charging systems can save us money as well as help us all to work towards fighting climate change. Insight Energy designs and installs sustainable energy systems into homes and businesses.
www.insightenergy.uk
Melody Easey – Founder of Lodge Sports and Remedial Massage
Melody used to ride out racehorses in Newmarket and was a keen Marshall Arts enthusiasts, so is well accustomed to injuries and pain! Following her dream to work in forensic mental health, Melody became an occupational therapist and eventually transitioned in to sports massage, commonly referred to today as Soft Tissue Therapy. Melody works with the Red Lodge Rugby team as well as triathletes and endurance runners, she also has plenty of private clients who are manual and office workers. Melody is a Level 5 Soft Tissue Therapist (the highest qualification available) and talks to us about the massage industry being a minefield for customers – as there is no regulating body.
www.lsrmassage.co.uk
Thank you all our guests for joining us on the show - you're a true inspiration to us!
The Suffolk Pod Show is an inspirational, informative and entertaining interview podcast show featuring well-known personalities, entrepreneurs, influencers, business leaders, sports personalities, artists and creatives from Suffolk, UK.
www.podtalk.co.uk/podcast
If you’d like to be a part of the Suffolk Pod Show please email us at podtalkuk@gmal.com
This podcast is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk
Being ‘you’ in business is tough! Being ‘you’ and being a huge success in business is a phenomenal achievement and that’s exactly how Bridget McIntyre worked her way up to being the former CEO of Sun Alliance. Bridget has just completed her term as The High Sheriff of Suffolk and now runs her own interconnected companies – Dream-On, Blossom Charity and Alitus.
In this podcast episode Bridget talks about her very unremarkable school life, being asked to mime playing her instrument in the school concert, and how, once she left school and took to the real world, she turned from an average student into a straight A student. She talks about how she discovered her own learning style, and how that led her to embrace the business world – the Bridget way!
Bridget is full of energy and passion and is one of those people who seem to be magnetic when you meet her. She reveals some of her learning styles to us, as well as her ingenious memory methods that help her, even today, to be the very best that she can be.
Listen to the full episode as Bridget takes you on her fascinating journey in life, gives us top tips and advice on leadership and business practice, as well as tell us how her three current businesses are growing as social enterprises.
Finally, Bridget talks to us about her brilliant book ‘The Pink Recorder’, which is a page-turner for people who want to be inspired and want to get the very best out of life.
Bridget’s businesses:
www.dream-on.co.uk
www.theblossomcharity.co.uk
www.alitus.co.uk
Thank you Bridget!
The Suffolk Pod Show is an inspirational, informative and entertaining interview podcast show featuring well-known personalities, entrepreneurs, influencers, business leaders, artists and creatives from Suffolk, UK.
www.podtalk.co.uk/podcast
If you’d like to be a part of the Suffolk Pod Show please email us at podtalkuk@gmal.com
This podcast is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk
This lively podcast episode will fill you with inspiration and admiration as we interview five special guests who talk about their lives and their flourishing Suffolk businesses.
Clair Bryant – Founder of The Handy Marketing Company and winner of Best SME Marketing Company for East Anglia 2021.
Clair shares her world with us – she’s vibrant, fun and an all-round marketing expert. Listen to Clair talk about how she works with many clients with different marketing needs, and how she can adapt to many marketing challenges. She is a social media buff and a consummate copy writer. Clair spreads her ‘joy of marketing’ across Suffolk!
www.thehandymarketingcompany.com
Tony Murdock – Founder of TR Global Events
Tony’s story is one of inspiration; he followed his dream. Life in hospitality started in a small Inn called the Pheasant, near Belfast, and from small beginnings he rose to become Director and General Manager of the Quy Mill Hotel in Cambridge for 7 years . Now Tony runs his own company, TR Global Events which is an award-winning thriving corporate and private event company.
www.tr-globalevents.com
Lorna Rayner – Founder of Nesh Home Staging + Interiors
Lorna is bringing professional home staging to Suffolk – with her years of experience in show homes and a real-life experience of living in an fully state-of-the-art eco home. Lorna talks about Nesh, her passion for re-creating rooms and whole houses into a highly desirable and liveable spaces. Lorna prepares houses for sale and rent too – saving people hundreds of pounds and helps to get them the very best price for their homes.
www.neshinteriors.co.uk
James Scott – Founder of Ninedeli - Southwold
James tells us about his difficult start in life as an adult, and despite adversity, and overcoming many difficulties, he has now put his heart and soul in the hugely popular Ninedeli in Southwold. James’ delicatessen has a wonderful vibe to it – a truly positive aura – expect to try one of James’ bespoke blended coffees and homemade cakes. You can also pre-order fabulous Cromer Crab dishes or Seafood platters for beach hut take-aways on Southwold Beach! Brilliant!
www.ninedeli.co.uk
Harriet Lawton – Manager of Suffolk Plant Centre
Harriet made a snap decision to enquire about a job as she drove past the Suffolk Plant Centre as it was being built. On just a whim, Harriet today is the manager of Suffolk Plant Centre, as she puts it ‘a garden centre for serious gardeners’, and she tells us about the incredible range of plants available – many of them home grown in their nurseries. Harriet also tells us about latest gardening trends, specialist gardens and their Christmas trees which are grown on their land in Scotland.
www.suffolkplantcentre.co.uk
Thank you to all of our guests for being part of this special April episode, and we wish you all much success.
If you’d like to be a guest on one of our multi-guest shows – please get in touch with us through www.podtalk.co.uk or call us on 07465 942580.
The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk
Graham Ellis played rugby for Scotland and is now the Principal of leading independent school - Brookes UK.
In this podcast episode Graham talks about his love of rugby from a young boy. He attended one of Scotland’s most prestigious independent schools, Hawick, where he jokes that you were given two choices on arrival – horses or rugby! He took rugby! He was taught by the late great Bill McClaren, one’s of Scotland’s finest international rugby commentators, and Graham tell us about Bill’s huge influence on his life – which he carried through with him to playing for Scotland himself, and as a PE teacher right to this day.
Graham talks about playing with some of Scotland’s most famous rugby players, including Scott Hastings, Gary Armstrong and the formidable Brewster Brothers. Graham describes himself as a reasonable player – but claims his success was due to hard work and dedication to the game. It paid off! He played in all matches for Scotland during the 1997 Five Nations. Graham talks about what it was like to play for his country in some of those very well known stadiums.
Graham moved from Scotland when he married and lives in Suffolk with his family.
Graham is now the Principal of independent school, Brookes UK – a highly regarded school locally here in Suffolk and across the world. Brookes UK has an incredible ethos and breaks the mould of prestigious 'long driveway' independent schools by shining a needful light on an alternative approach to day schooling and boarding.
Graham is evidently, and genuinely, passionate about the school and every student within it. From 2 years to sixth form, small classes with a maximum of 15 students, he believes Brookes offers a secure, happy and positive learning environment for children of all backgrounds and abilities. There is no exam to pass to get into Brookes, children are welcomed on the basis of their ability to a degree, but also their character and what they can bring to the school – and importantly, what they will get out of an education at Brookes.
Graham talks about the flexi-boarding – with some students from across the globe as well as local students who may be weekly boarders or occasional borders – “it’s helpful for their parents to be able to put their children in for a night now and again – or a weekend” he says. The borders are looked after by a young live-in family – and they very much all live as a family. Graham and his team have perfected a strong and positive cultural balance - which they believe is critical for children to take on into their adult life.
Brookes UK offers an all-round education, academically, as well as in sports, arts, drama and music.
Students return to Brookes for the Summer term and Graham is bringing in some extra Teaching Assistants to support children through this critically important term following pandemic restrictions. Graham thanks his wonderful team of staff, the children and the parents for their relentless support through this last and difficult year.
To find about more about Brookes UK or to get in touch with Graham please contact him or any member of staff through their website: uk.brookes.org. You can also follow the school on Instagram.
Fascinating episode with Nick, who talks about the phenomenal work that the National Trust do up and down the Suffolk coastline, as well revealing some hugely interesting facts about the filming of ‘The Dig’, at Sutton Hoo and what really happened on discovering the Anglo Saxo burial grounds. He also talks about the incredible experience of visiting the site today.
He also shines a clearer light on the mysteries of Orford Ness. It is an internationally important site for nature conservation, breeding and migrating birds, specialised plants and other wildlife, but also was used for experimental weaponry testing during the war, and later in the cold war.
This episode will take you on a really interesting journey across the numerous National Trust sites in Suffolk – as well as give us all a greater understanding of the important and outstanding work that the National Trust does in protecting and conserving our heritage, across the UK.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Georgia Watson was pulling books off a shelf from the moment she could stand!
Georgia has an extraordinary work ethic and such a positive outlook on life - this episode will uplift you and put a skip into your step!
Georgia grew up on the family farm in Suffolk, and talks about her earlier life, her aspirations as a young girl, and also the influence her grandmother had on her, who as a fashion designer had been accepted into St Martins College, London, which was sadly thwarted by the outbreak of World War II. Georgia talks about her wonderful memories.
Georgia talks about life at university in Southampton and how so few people knew about Suffolk, her county which she is so proud to be from. With this in mind she launched See Suffolk blog when she was still at university as part of her degree course.
Later on in life, after successfully being made editor at a young age, Georgia decided to run her own business - so she launched Bloom Content Creation. In 2020, during the pandemic, Georgia launched See Suffolk Magazine through crowd-funding. Georgia talks about See Suffolk Magazine and gives us a little insight into the next edition for Summer.
Georgia recommends some her favourite places to visit in Suffolk.
To find out more about See Suffolk and Georiga visit www.seesuffolk.com
West Indies International Cricketer, John Maynard, talks about his cricketing career, playing for the West Indies and the Leeward Islands, alongside cricketing legends - Curtly Ambrose, Richie Richardson and Sir Viv Richards.
Growing up on the beautiful Caribbean Island of Nevis, part of the Leeward Islands, John talks about his earlier years playing cricket in the 80s and early 90s – and how different it was in those days to today’s training and game. Cricket was, and still is, a way of life on Nevis and played in every school. It brings family and friends together – as one big cricket community.
John tells us some incredible stories of his journey to becoming an international cricketer, the highs and the lows, the determination and the demolition of some of greatest batsmens' averages!
John has played cricket in England for years and has played for numerous clubs up and down the country. More lately he has become a prolific coach and works with several clubs across the country.
The Newmarket Cricket Club opened to members last year and John talks about wanting the club to be part of the community, a place for people to get together, enjoy cricket and having a good deal of fun – for everyone. From top county players to non-players, girls, boys, men and women – he is inviting everyone to join in and get involved. John will be setting up a junior team and hopes the club will be ready to enter a league by 2022. John is also well-know for talent spotting and he is well-connected with the Suffolk County Cricket Club – and looks forward to taking on exceptional players to the top.
The Newmarket Cricket Club is open to players, non-players, spectators, volunteers and anyone who wants to join in the cricketing fun and community. Later in the year you can join John and the NCC team on Friday nights for a little cricket and a barbecue! Go find him and have a chat!
Find out more here www.newmarketcricketclub.co.uk and follow them on social media!
Maison Bleue, in Bury St Edmunds, is one of Britain’s top French fine dining restaurants. It’s skillfully and lovingly run by husband and wife team – Pascal and Karine Canevet.
In this podcast episode we talk to Karine, who has just won the Michelin Guide Award for Sommelier of the Year 2021. Karine tells us how Pascal and she first met, fell in love, and chased the dream. Now, as owners of Maison Bleue, Karin reflects on the journey that brought them both such extraordinary success.
Karine talks about venturing to the UK from Brittany, ditching her studies, and learning her trade on her feet in restaurants, quite literally! Karine and Pascal initially managed the Maison Bleue, eventually became partners with the previous owner, and then bought out the old partners to fully own the restaurant themselves.
Karine talks about the magic formula of Maison Bleue – what makes it so special, how she creates such a welcoming, relaxed yet chic and glamorous atmosphere, and how Pascal designs and cooks an exquisite menu. Karine’s staff all work closely together, they have a strong bond and a desire to give each and every customer the most wonderful and memorable experience when they visit Maison Bleue.
Maison Bleue is a celebration of French modern food with all the flair you’d expect from an awarding winning chef and his team. Karine talks us through their wine menu, which is unique in itself, as well as their infamous cheese trolley; 30 French cheeses on offer – it’s a one of a kind! Karine and Pascal source most of their food locally, and Karine talks about the local farmers and producers who she works with.
The Restaurant will be reopening on Tuesday 18 May and they are already taking bookings – so our advice is to book now to avoid disappointment!
Thank Karine for such a candid insight into one of our most special restaurants in Suffolk.
www.maisonbleue.co.uk
30-31 Churchgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP33 1RG
Sophie Weller and Bethany Wright are sisters, international ballet stars, intrepid entrepreneurs and have recently founded their latest enterprise together –N&S Lifestyle.
Sophie and Bethany grew up in the world of ballet and musical theatre. Sophie attended world-renowned Elmhurst Ballet School and Bethany attended The Hammond, where they both successfully completed their ballet and contemporary dance training, as well as a studied for a general education. Their stories are riveting, their work ethic incredible, and their extraordinary can-do attitudes, even from a young age, have quite rightly brought them many successes throughout their lives.
Sophie and Bethany talk about life as dancers, the highs and the lows in a unpredictable world. Sophie talks about some of her stand-out memories and tells us about touring the globe with Basement Jaxx. Bethany’s first experience, after stepping out of training, was in St Tropez, a dream job, at just 19, with a well-known cabaret company. Their careers quite simply blossomed when they left school. Both sisters were fully aware of the ups and downs of working freelance and so they set up businesses to complement and support their, and others, dancing careers. Sophie founded The London Ballet Company almost 10 years ago and Bethany runs a talent agency for children as well as an agency to support and prepare adult dancers after they leave their training stages.
N&S Lifestyle started when Sophie moved, with her husband, to Ipswich and during lockdown found she had more time to explore social media. Sophie tells us about discovering a mass of incredibly talented and creative local people with small businesses and wanted to develop a connection, a network, for them whilst helping to promote what they do locally and further afield. Listen to Sophie and Bethany talk about the incredible success of N&S (Norfolk and Suffolk) Lifestyle and they welcome you to get in touch with them www.nandslifestyle.co.uk
Follow them on Instagram @suffolklifestyle @norfolk_lifestyle
Sam Hanks grew up in a family of ecologists and has always been at one with nature. As a current Farmland Wildlife Adviser for The Suffolk Wildlife Trust – Sam’s work is critical for the eco-balance of wildlife.
Sam talks about The Wildlife Trust and the many layers to the trust today, compared to its small beginnings back in the early 60’s when a group of volunteers got together with the understanding of how important it is to protect our wildlife. He talks about how, as a country, we need to join up our wildlife conservation programmes, and build a compatible network across the country-side – with everyone working towards the same goal. The goal is a tall order – with the hope that 30% of the country will given back to wildlife – to rebuild the damage that in part is irreversible.
Sam is a prolific wildlife expert – his extraordinary knowledge of plant and animal life is obvious and he talks about pollination and how critical it is to the plant and animal kingdoms.
Sam, as a Farmland Adviser, works hard with farmers in Suffolk. He talks about the varying attitudes towards donating small parts of farmland back to wildlife. Sam talks about putting ponds into rural areas with some shrubland around, and within a short time how this generates a complete wild eco-system from algae to water birds. Sam tells us of his success with cluster farms and independent farms and his mission to develop more wildlife spaces across the county.
Suffolk wildlife, is in parts, doing well – Sam tells us about the success they have had with birds of prey in particularly with Buzzards, Red Kites and Barn Owls. He also talks about wild deer, and the need for sensitive conservation of large roaming herds. Sam mentions that wildlife needs to sustain its own food chain and that brings challenges with some species.
The Suffolk Wildlife Trust is dependent on its membership to continue and develop its important work. All membership funds go directly into the Trust and straight on to its staff and projects.
To find out more or become a member please visit: www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org
Six inspiring stories from six great guests talking about life, change and recent business success!
Georgina Little – Suffolk Brand PhotographerGeorgina talks about her lifelong love for photography and how, whilst living in Kenya, she began to take it more seriously. When the pandemic hit in March 2020, Georgina took a long hard look at what she did, and quite literally ‘pivoted’ her business to working with like-minded creatives and small businesses producing high-end imagery for their brands. Now as ‘Suffolk Brand Photographer’ Georgina is loving her work and has developed an incredibly unique and sought-after service. Georgina talks about her work in depth and unveils some of the secrets to her success.
www.georginalittlephotography.co.uk ,Instagram: **@suffolk_brand_photographer
Ann-marie Doggett – Miami Fox ApparelAnn-marie just loves the 80s! She talks to us about her passion for 80’s music and Florida and how she has merged these two loves into her new business – Miami Fox Apparel. Before the pandemic Ann-marie ran her own Marketing, Events and PR company in Lowestoft – she talks about her fabulously unique parties and bespoke events – none of which she can do at the moment. Quick thinking and some thorough research, along with her husband, they developed a fabulous logo and very exciting fashion brand Miami Fox Apparel. This brand is fresh and exciting and has spread its success both locally and internationally
www.miamifoxapparel.co.uk
Facebook and Instagram: @miamifoxapparel Kate Byrne – Co Director of Asgard Fitness Ltd, NewmarketKate, along with her fiancée Dan Jones and friend Paul Turner noticed a gap in the market in Newmarket for an independent gym – they wanted a gym that cared about its members personally and created a mini-community of members and staff. ‘Asgardians’ (members and staff) are involved with some of the decision-making at Asgard, including thoughts on new equipment and other facilities which gives the club a great sense of unity and belonging.
Follow Asgard Fitness on Facebook and Instagram @asgardfitness**
Sasha Peggs – Langham ClinicSasha had dreamt of being a beauty therapist she was just 12 years old – and she tells the brilliant story of her determination to get into the College of Fashion – she got in! Eventually! Sasha opened Langham Clinic in 2016 and is proud to have a carbon charter accreditation – a fully eco business.
www.langhamclinic.co.uk
Janene Hawkins Bush – Heavenly Hair, Sir Barbers and Quay Street CollectiveJanene has been in the hairdressing business for 30 years, is part of the Fellowship of British Hairdressers and part of the 2019 Project X team. Janene saw a massive opportunity to bring a London-class salon to the Suffolk coast area and now runs three salons: Heavenly Hair in Saxmundham. Sir Barbers in Aldeburgh and Quay Street Collective in Woodbridge
www.heavenlyhairstyling.co.uk www.sirbarbers.com www.quaystreetcollective.com
Hannah Powell – Communications and HR Director for Perrywood SudburyPerrywood garden centre has been a family business for 70 years and Hannah grew up living and breathing the outdoor life. Her passion and interests have always been in the garden and following a degree in Horticulture and 10 years in London as a PR and Marketing professional, she returned to the fold to help run the family business. Hannah tells us why Perrywood is such a special place – ‘full of people who love plants she says’.
www.perrywoodsudbury.co.uk
Rugby fans and experts worldwide – this podcast episode is for you! We talk to Nick Wakley – Former Welsh International and currently Head Coach at the Bury St Edmunds Rugby Club. Nick talks about his life and career and gives a very lively account of playing with (and against) some of the best rugby players in the world.
Nick played for Wales in both the Sevens and Fifteens and shares his thoughts on many parts of the game including Women’s rugby and children getting into rugby for the first time. Nick also gives us a mini analysis on the current Six Nations 2021 tournament currently in progress, and gives his predictions on the tournament – as he says ‘my two predictions are from my head and my heart’!
The Bury St Edmunds Rugby Club is almost 100 years old and is the highest placed club in Norfolk and Suffolk, and considered one of the best clubs in the country. With state-of-the-art pitches, gyms, excellent club facilities, training, coaching and regular matches, The Club has a burgeoning membership, and also plays a vital role in the community by bringing together players, spectators, sponsors, volunteers and all-round lovers of the sport. The club has a large spread of teams from its 1st XV (Nationals 2 League) to the ‘Minis’ – and as they say ‘everyone is welcome’.
www.bserufc.co.uk
Follow on social media: @bserufc
You’ll love this podcast episode if you like rock music and electronica, and going to see bands play live, as well as great music videos of the 80s and 90s with bands like The Cult, Cranberries, Guns and Roses, Aerosmith, Twisted Sister and many more. Welcome Dax – lead singer and guitarist of Suffolk band Super Jelly.
Dax Callner and his wife moved from New York to live in Bury St Edmunds in late 2018 - and they now call Suffolk, home.
Dax tells us his story – growing up with his showbiz parents. His mother was a singer in a band and his father a music video director. He travelled the length and breadth of the United States with his family and he tells us some extraordinary tales about meeting and working with The Cult, the Cranberries, Whitesnake, Aerosmith, Twisted Sister and, later on in life when he formed his own band, supporting A Flock of Seagulls.
Dax has some very funny stories including sitting on a plane next to Meg Ryan for 3 hours.
Dax talks about his love for music and song-writing as well as forming a relatively new band in Bury St Edmunds – Super Jelly.
Dax talks about his passion of playing in the band and the talented individuals within Super Jelly – he takes us through their story to date. At the moment they are concentrating on writing and as soon as lockdown eases, getting back together in person and playing as ‘one’.
Super Jelly write their own songs in the main, but they have recently covered Absolute Beginners (David Bowie) and you can listen to their brilliant version at the end of this podcast episode.
Follow Dax and Super Jelly on their Facebook page: @wearesuperjelly
Or visit their website: www.wearesuperjelly.com
#wearesuperjelly #superjelly #band #suffolk #rock #livebands #gig #daxcallner #loverock #rockmusic #electronica #aerosmith #whitesnake #thecult #cranberries #megryan #twistedsister #flockofseagulls #80smusic #90smusic #musicvideo #podcast #thesuffolkpodshow #suffolklife #suffolkpeople #lovesuffolk #supportlocalbusiness #absolutebeginners #davidbowie #coolpodcast
Inspiration and motivation starts right here! Please note that you may want to pick up a pair trainers and run after listening to this episode.
Kelly talks to us about the amazing sport of Ultra Trail Running - running races across trails and tracks of 30 miles upwards - and in some cases up to 100 miles!
Kelly grow up in the country with her family and spent most of her time outdoors with her brothers, climbing trees and having fun. She ran everywhere as a child - it was naturally her! Kelly showed big talent at school as a runner, however her asthma kept her back.
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Kelly, was a single mum very early on in her life; she had two children by the age of 20 and was determined to be strong and successful - she single-handedly brought her children up through to their teenage years. She worked as a hairdresser but also taught herself to build websites - she survived! Kelly talks about the mental and physical challenges and the affect it had on her.
Kelly met Mike, her husband, and everything changed. Mike supported Kelly which helped her get back into running and it was from this moment that Kelly's life took a different route. Kelly talks about stress and the impact on her body, and how running helps her manage stress in a major way.
Kelly tells us about her first marathon in Stockholm - and how challenging it was, as she and her brother were not properly prepared for the race - she talks about the pain and how she hated it. Needless to say she then ran another marathon the following year with her other brother and then the love for running sent in. Kelly talks about her latest race in October where she was the second woman to finish in a national trail race.
Kelly talks about her love of the countryside and she runs once a week with her father (on his bike) across beautiful trails across the UK.
Kelly also talks about being healthy, especially training and nutrition which is vital to her fitness and recovery times, she talks about core and mobility training.
Kelly wants to promotes trail running to everyone, especially women and children. Running has changed Kelly's life and she wants to share her experiences.
Kelly is off on a 100 miles mountain race across The Pyrenees later this year - we wish her all the luck. Bring back a medal Kelly - for you and for Suffolk!
Kelly is incredibly inspirational and will make you want to pick up your trainers and run across the countryside!
Follow Kelly on Instagram @she_runs_trails
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Mike grew up by the sea through the late 60s and 70s, and as he puts it, has salt water in his blood. He talks about life in Felixstowe Ferry, a fishing village just north of Felixstowe, as boy and present day.
Mike spent his earlier career in farm management and eventually stepped back with enthusiasm to his roots and is now a fisherman, consultant, supplier, seafood chef and runs a blog ‘A Passion for Seafood’.
Mike tells us about inshore fishing around Suffolk and the coast of Britain. He talks about the abundance of fish in our local shorelines, as well as sustainability and security. He also talks about which fish we should be eating, and when, and best of all how to make some simple, but delicious fish dishes. Mike also talks about Keith Floyd and Rick Stein and the importance of their roles as high-profile seafood chefs – and how their cooking brought fish back into fashion, and onto the restaurant menus.
It’s important to Mike and our Suffolk fishing community that we support each other and as consumers, how we can help them by buying local fish. Mike talks about Herring, a super-food, and the extraordinary health benefits from this bountiful fish. As a nation we export most of our Herring, but as Mike explains, this fish is a delicious, versatile and super-health giving – and highly recommends us to get back into eating more of it.
Mike talks to us about how important it is to sustain the heritage of fishing, how new generations are not following in their forefathers’ footsteps and the very real risk of losing our fishing communities in Suffolk and around the UK. It’s clear that if we eat and promote more local fish that the industry would offer more opportunity to the future of fishing. Mike also talks about the effects of Brexit on the fishing industry.
Mike travels the British coastlines and delivers fresh fish straight into Suffolk to our fishmongers, restaurants, as well as to many London wholesalers. You can buy directly from Mike at his Grange Farm Shop just outside Woodbridge.
Fish is seasonal he tells us, and in January we have come to an end of the Wild Bass season however spring brings us the infamous Cromer Crabs and a host of other delights.
Mike imparts a couple of his favourite ways to cook Herring and another local favourite - Skate Wing.
Mike welcomes you to get in touch with him – visit www.apassionforseafood.com
Reconnecting with Normality after the pandemic
Piers talks about how difficult it is for some of us to 'reconnect with normality' during the final phases of lockdown. He talks about the importance of balancing life back to where it was pre-pandemic and gives us advice on how to mentally tackle the next few months.
Piers talks about the vaccine and phobias of being injected as well as leaving the house. He also talks about talking to people, breathing, walking, smiling, tiredness and offers suggestions to combat our fears and lows with a positive twist and outlook.
Piers works with the NHS - and has just completed his 230th hour of voluntary consultations with our Suffolk Hospital front-liners. Listen to his stories and his work on 'courage'.
Listen to this podcast episode to give you inspiration, courage, a positive feeling, a mental lift or simply if you'd like to smile.
http://www.suffolkhypnotherapy.co.uk/
Jason opens up the fascinating world of the racing industry and tells all sorts of interesting stories about Tattersalls - From Charles II keeping his horses at Tattersalls, right through to the importance of being the world's oldest race horse auctioneers.
Show notes:
Jason Singh has been with Tattersalls for 20 years. Originally from Australia, Jason moved to England and found himself glancing through the Racing Post when he spotted a job at Tattersalls. Having got the job, Jason moved up to Newmarket and began an exciting career in the hub of the global racing fraternity
Jason talks about the history of Tattersall’s, which dates back to 1766, and takes us on a mini-tour around the old Tattersalls locations in London before it moved to Newmarket after the War. Tattersalls was the first business of its kind and remains the second largest auction house in the world.
Jason tells us about the life of a thoroughbred racehorse, the importance of its lineage, and the work and expertise that goes into preparing a horse for racing. He also explains the variation in price and the industry behind racing.
Tattersalls has seen some big winners pass through its sales ring over the years – Jason talks about a few of the ‘greats’ that he remembers himself – including Sir Percy, the Derby winner in 2006.
Although the pandemic has affected the racing industry, they were lucky to have only been closed for a short while, as Jason explains race courses reopened in June, albeit without the spectators.
Tattersalls have their mid-winter sale at the beginning of February and are prepared for any situation, including running the sale virtually and by phone – as the world will be watching and of course buying.
This podcast episode is for anyone who loves racing and indeed horses, and for aspiring racehorse owners – just be sure you have a pocket full of Guineas and a very good eye!
www.tattersalls.com
Errol McKellar (MBE) is one of the most inspiring men you’ll ever meet – so prepare yourself for some great stories, some hard facts and some very open conversation.
Errol was a budding footballer with dreams of playing for England, and although he didn’t become an international football player himself – he coached dozens of kids who did, including David Beckham, Sol Campbell and Ashley Cole. Errol, by trade, is a car mechanic and used to run his garage and MoT centre in Brent whilst coaching and enjoying family life.
Suddenly, life changed dramatically for Errol.
Errol first discovered he had prostate cancer quite by accident – he went to the doctor for a relatively mundane symptom and picked up an NHS leaflet about Prostate Cancer – and decided to get tested.
Errol talks about how quick and easy it is to get an initial PSA test – it’s just a blood test, at your local GP. Of course, for Errol, he then went onto to have further investigative treatment and his prostrate removed - and his journey of recovery and personal bravery unfolds from that moment. Errol tells us an emotional story about his turning point - the moment his path changed from flight to fight.
Errol is now an ambassador for Prostate Cancer UK, is involved in many super-high profile awareness campaigns including; 'Stronger Knowing Campaign' with Linford Christie and Go Dad Run with Colin Jackson. Errol was selected as a flag bearer for Team GB for The Olympics 2012, has won The Points of Light Award (awarded by the British Prime Minister), an NHS Hero Award in 2018 and most recently an MBE for excellence in his field of work.
Errol, Sharon (his wife), and team have set up The Errol McKellar Foundation – its prime directive is to raise awareness of Prostate Cancer, and in turn inspire men to get tested. Errol has dedicated his life to saving lives – and he tells us some incredible stories.
Errol has since saved thousands of lives, and as he says – “if you catch prostate cancer early enough – you have a 98% chance of survival rate”,
Errol works closely with the Stonham Barns Park team (Suffolk), in particularly Mr Alan Forward (Owner). Together they are raising awareness and support to run mobile testing units across the UK.
Errol welcomes anyone to get in touch – whether you'd like direct or indirect support, you’d like to know more about testing, or if you have any great ideas to help raise the awareness of prostate cancer.
www.theerrolmckellarfoundation
Email: temf2018@gmal.com
Episode 18: JUSTIN SHARP, Founder and Chef of Pea Porridge Bistro in Bury St Edmunds. Justin is one of Suffolk’s top chefs, a champion of quality local food and wine production, and an advocate of the ‘nose to tail’ dining experience.
Pea Porridge in Bury St Edmunds opened in 2008 and is owned and run by Justin and his wife, Jurga. Justin starts this episode talking about their journey to arriving in Bury St Edmunds and finding the perfect premises to house their bistro.
Justin talks about the history of their beautiful building in Cannon St, and how it blends so perfectly with the ethos and experience of Pea Porridge. Three beautiful dining rooms, with a working fireplace and an ancient bread oven make up part of the idyllic ambience of this very special eatery.
Justin describes Suffolk as the ‘Bounty County’ of the UK with its abundance of local produce – in his opinion the best, with a plethora of expert traditional farmers as well as a thriving fishing coastline.
Justin talks about his style of cooking and his menu; including his robust, unfussy and exciting dishes. As he says, they serve modern traditional dishes of meat, fish and vegetarian fare, but also, they are well known for their stand-out cooking of the more unusual cuts which he says, if cooked properly, are stunning to eat. Justin and Jurga source their food and wine from small independent producers, most of whom are local to Suffolk.
Justin introduces us to his super-oven ‘Bertha’; a versatile charcoal mega oven which is similar to an enclosed barbecue. Justin cooks a great deal of the restaurant dishes in Bertha as she flavours food with a delicious smoky essence, one of the restaurant’s trademarks. Justin also talks about Grizzley – a second, and much smaller charcoal oven, that also plays an important part in his kitchen.
When the pandemic hit Justin and Jurga had to close, alongside every restaurant across Great Britain, but it gave them time to reflect, reset and pour more energy into Pea Porridge when they reopened. To keep themselves busy during lockdown Justin launched a local online ‘Ready, Steady, Cook’ – which was hugely popular and gained a large following on social media. Justin also found time to write a poem – ‘Ode to a thriving bistro’ – listen to Justin reading it live.
‘Get My Goat’, another brainchild from Justin, was his second lockdown campaign. Justin talks about the story behind his clever delivery box with four types of Moorish-style prepared goat. Justin has sold over 500 delivery boxes over the past month – the campaign was a complete success.
Wine is an important part of the whole eating-experience for Justin, and he talks about how careful he and Jurga are at selecting the purest wines from fastidious suppliers who source wines from traditionally owned vineyards locally, and across Europe.
To book a table, please call Justin and Jurga on: 01284 700200
For more information about Pea Porridge visit: www.peaporridge.co.uk
Welcome to The Christmas Suffolk Pod Show Part Five.
This special episode is dedicated to the Stonham Barns Park Christmas Craft Market and Live Music Event on 5 and 6 December 2020.
Guest stars in order of appearance:
David Sandpearl – Event Organiser for Stonham Barns Park Christmas Craft Market and Live Music event. David tells us all the latest information for the weekend as well as the special events with live music from local breakthrough music acts including the talented Breeze Redwine who is about to hit the global music scene by storm. Visit www.stonhambarns.co.uk for full event details.
Matt Easdown co-runs Roughstuff Oak with his partner Matt (another Matt!). Matt tells us about his amazing range of oak furniture and accessories, from chopping boards to butcher’s blocks and coffee tables. Matt talks about the beautiful and carefully sourced oak they use – a lot of it recycled and reclaimed. ‘Find them at the Christmas Craft Market or online at www.roughstuffoak.co.uk
Sarah Curtis from the English Spirit Distillery joins us to talk about this unique, local and ingenious distillery . Listen to her talk about their techniques and how everything they produce is made from scratch. Look out for their latest festive addition - a Caramel Rum Liqueur! Cheers – and give them a visit or find them at www.englishspirit.uk
Vicki Adams is a veterinary surgeon and epidemiologist who also runs The Animal Cancer Trust. Vicki tells us about her extraordinary work and how she helps pet owners deal with all cancer in all types of animals. www.animalcancertrust.org (launching soon).
Kate is the founder of ‘ByKatyMac’ – she is an art eco-designer and creates slow fashion. Kate is a truly inspirational woman – listen to her talk about the clothes she makes and how she creates stunning masterpieces from vintage cloth including household fabrics.
Mark Gillam owns well-know Suffolk company ‘Carters of Suffolk’. Mark talks to us about his wonderful range of novelty teapots and the history of this now 40 years old traditional crafting business. Carters of Suffolk are permanently based at Stonham Barns Park – so if you can’t make this weekend – they’ll always be there to welcome you. www.cartersofsuffolk.com
James owns Sunnyside Cottage Boards – he makes beautiful hand-crafted hardwood chopping boards and platters. Listen to what he has to say and find him at the Christmas market or online at www.sunnysidecottageboards.co.uk
Karen co-owns The Coffee Caddy with her daughter Megan – she talks to us about her business and what they’ll be serving weekend at the Craft Fair. Go and say hi and grab yourself a barista drink. Look them up on Facebook or Instagram to get in touch.
Bev’s Pantry will be at the Christmas Market – including Bev herself! She’s got a wide selection of delicious jams, pickles, preserves and chutneys all homemade from her very busy kitchen. Bev will have individual jars for sale as well as gift packs and hampers. Find Bev online too at www.bevspantry.co.uk
Henri is the co-owner of the magical Diss Emporium, and she has just taken a permanent outlet at Stonham Barns Park. Henri has hundreds of wonderful antique, vintage and retro gifts and other interesting pieces in her shop – perfect for Christmas gifts. Go and see her and say Hi – she’s very good at finding just that perfect thing for you! www.dissemporium.co.uk
PETE ROWE introduces us to The Snow Queen - this year's Rock n' Roll Pantomime at the New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich, Suffolk. The Pantomime will be performed live in the auditorium (as it has always before) and now available live to stream into homes around the globe. A truly international show!
Listen to Pete talking about the story of The Snow Queen, the characters, how you can watch the pantomime, how you can get involved watching from home and most importantly how we can buy tickets!
The Snow Queen runs from 17 December 2020 - 24 December 2020.
Get ready for one of the best pantomimes on the planet this Christmas!
TICKETS:
Book online: www.wolseytheatre.co.uk
Box Office Tel: 01473 295900
Welcome to The Christmas Suffolk Pod Show – Part 4 Special Guests include Little White Box, Thurston Butchers, Posy, Busy Bees Cosmetics and Rising High Balloons
Show Notes:
In order of appearance:
Rebecca is an award-wining interior designer and owns Little White Box – a stunning home shop in Lavenham. Rebecca talks about some of the amazing work she has done around the world as well as her beautiful in-store collections including her Nordic Christmas decor. For more information www.little-white-box.com
Alistair Angus is the owner of the traditional, but very different, Thurston Butchers. Alistair has a real flair for good business and sells only the best quality high-welfare local produce. He, along with his young team, have developed an ever-evolving, creative and friendly shop experience for clients old and new. For more information www.thurstonbutchers.co.uk
Next it’s Lienne, owner of Posy, a gift store and studio in Lavenham. Lienne is an established artist and is well known for her wildlife canvasses as well as her watercolour and ink sketches and paintings. Posy is a beautiful shop full of Christmas décor, original gifts and of course - Lienne’s art on postcards and prints. For more information www.posy.online
Julie is the founder of Busy Bees Cosmetics and she tells us about her innovative and natural products which are all made from Bees Wax from her husbands Apiaries around Suffolk. Apart from selling some of the finest honey in the county, Julie tells us about her Christmas gift-boxes made up of beeswax goods. For more information www.busybeescosmetics.co.uk
Last up it’s Claire Potter, Founder of Rising High Balloons. Claire has balloons for every day of the week and every event of the year. From vast event or store installations to a perfect personalised single balloon – Claire is wrapping up Christmas and welcoming in the New Year for us all with quite a bang! For more information www.risinghighballoons.co.uk
Thanks for joining us on The Christmas Suffolk Pod Show we hope you’ve enjoyed listening – and don’t forget to look out for all our Christmas podcasts!
If you’d like to be involved in any of our shows, or you’re interested in setting up your own podcast series – please get in touch – we offer a wide range of podcast services. www.podtalk.co.uk
Disclaimer: Our podcasts are made for entertainment purposes only. Content, views and opinions are either our own, or our guests’.
Welcome to The Christmas Suffolk Pod Show – Part 3, special guests include: From Suffolk With Love, Timothy Paul Cars, Stonham Barns Park, Hedgehog Plants and Wild Play Ltd.
Vicki Harris owns From Suffolk With Love and has created a truly planet-loving gift box experience for her customers – hear about her Winter Bliss Box and The Cosy Box – perfect for a little Christmas indulgence with a conscience! More information: www.fromsuffolkwithlove.co.uk
Tim, co-founder of Timothy Paul Cars introduces us to his recently launched family car business and tells us about his passion for great cars and how he has channelled his years of car knowledge into creating a quality and personal experience for car-buyers – Who wants a car for Christmas? For more information www.timothypaulcars.com
David Sandpearl from Stonham Barns Park talks about the history and now, the incredible wide-ranging facilities at Stonham Barns Park. David tells us that Stonham Barns is the ultimate Christmas experience and destination for families and friends – and there’s good news about the much anticipated Christmas Craft Market. For more information www.stonhambarns.co.uk
Jay McWilliams co-owner of Hedgehog Plants gives us some advice on the most beautiful and colourful plants for indoors and outdoors during the festive season, as well as her plant gift recommendations and when her Christmas Tree range will be on sale. www.theinterestingplantnursery.co.uk
Heidi Franklin, co-founder of WildPlay Ltd. Heidi is always promoting the great outdoors and invites families and friends to take a breath of fresh air this Christmas - and she has set up a really clever online make-your-own Christmas Wreath this year for her customers – listen in to get creative with her. For more information www.wildplayltd.co.uk
Thanks for joining us on The Christmas Suffolk Pod Show we hope you’ve enjoyed listening – and don’t forget to look out for all our Christmas podcasts!
If you’d like to be involved in any of our shows, or you’re interested in setting up your own podcast series – please get in touch – we offer a wide range of podcast services. www.podtalk.co.uk
Disclaimer: We will not be held responsible for any omissions or errors. Our podcasts are made for entertainment purposes only. Content, views and opinions are either our own, or our guests’. #christmas #suffolk #supportlocalbusiness #podcast #thesuffolkpodshow #lovesuffolk #suffolknews #fromsuffolkwithlove #gift #christmaspresent '#environmentallyfriendly #giftbox #timothypaulcars #mini #carsales #buyacar #qualitycar #stonhamparksbarn #stonhampark #dayout #christmasmarket #craftfair #familydayout #hedgehogplants #plants #shadelovers #christmastrees #wildplay #forestschool #greatoutdoors #healthyliving #winterwalks #christmaswreaths
**Welcome to The Christmas Suffolk Pod Show.
Part 2 Special Guests include The House in Town, Ollie Rush Golf, SUP Den, East Coast Hampers and The Flower Hut Florist**
John Manning owns and manages ‘The House in Town’ – a unique and contemporary décor shop based in Ipswich. John tells us about his passion for colour and wall art, especially his bespoke printed frames and stand-out wall clocks – super gifts for Christmas. For more information www.thehouseintown.co.uk
Ollie Rush is a golf pro and heads up the Haverhill Golf Club. Ollie talks to us about his love of golf, and the fun of learning the game at any age. Ollie also talks about the exciting new Swing Studio project. Ollie is a coach and runs all sort of programmes for different levels of players. For more information: www.ollierushgolf.co.uk
Jen is the co-founder of SUP Den – possibly one of the most original Christmas gift ideas this season – Jen invites us all to get on board with her and Kenny, and their amazing paddleboards and tempts us with exciting sea and river adventures for adults and kids. For more information: www.supden.co.uk
Neil Horsman, co-founder of East Coast Hampers talks about his luxury Christmas Eve Hamper as an ideal Christmas gift for friends and families who you might not be able to join this year. Neil also talks about how important it is to source all of his hamper products locally. For more information www.eastcoasthampers.co.uk
Terri Edwards is the owner of The Flower Hut Florist on Angel Hill in Bury St Edmunds. Terri tell us about her stunning Christmas wreaths and table-centre pieces, her Christmas Tree delivery services and her selection of locally handmade decorations and fabulous seasonal bouquets in-store. For more information www.theflowerhutflorist.co.uk
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Thanks for joining us on The Christmas Suffolk Pod Show we hope you’ve enjoyed listening – and don’t forget to look out for all our Christmas podcasts!
If you’d like to be involved in any of our shows, or you’re interested in setting up your own podcast series – please get in touch – we offer a wide range of podcast services. www.podtalk.co.uk
Disclaimer: Our podcasts are made for entertainment purposes only. Content, views and opinions are either our own, or our guests’.#christmas #suffolk #supportlocalbusiness #podcast #thesuffolkpodshow #podshow #thehouseintown #ipswich #homeware #decor #clocks #prints #golf #playgolf #learngolf #haverhill #golfclub #ollierushgolf #eastcoasthampers #hampers #christmashampers #Supden #paddleboards #watersports #familyfun #theflowerhutflorist #christmaswreathes #flowers #christmastrees #gifts #christmasgifts #suffolk #lovesuffolk #suffolkpodcast #buylocalbuysuffolk #christmaspresent #christmasshopping #coolgifts
**Welcome to The Christmas Suffolk Pod Show.
Part 1 Special Guests include Wyken Vineyards, The Woolpatch, The Suffolk Hamper Company, The Master Herbalist and Turnbull Turkeys.**
Show Notes:
In order of appearance:
Sam Carlisle who runs Wyken Vineyards with his family talks to us about their extraordinary award winning wines they grow and sell, as well as their new eatery and take-away – The Moonshine Café. More information on www.wykenvineyards.co.uk
Stuart Race, founder of The Woolpatch Shop in Long Melford, once drama teacher, and now a Wool and Patchwork Maestro – Stuart has some fabulous and very original gift ideas for us this Christmas. More information on www.thewoolpatch.com
Jo Coleman-Bown, Co-Founder of The Suffolk Hamper Company tantalises our tastebuds as she’s talks about her delicious luxury Christmas Hamper. Jo's producers and suppliers are some of the very best in Suffolk. More information on www.thesuffolkhampercompany.com
Toby Leeming, talks about his family business The Master Herbalist. This unique and boutique company sells exquisite (scented and unscented) drawer liners, wardrobe fresheners and herbal moth repellent balls. More information on www.simplydrawerliners.com
Alistair Turnbull who runs Turnbull Turkeys; a family-owned, hand-reared Turkey Farm in the heart of Suffolk. Alistair tell us about the history of their farm and the incredible quality of their work. More information on www.turnbullturkeys.co.uk
Thanks for joining us on The Christmas Suffolk Pod Show we hope you’ve enjoyed listening – and don’t forget to look out for all our Christmas podcasts!
If you’d like to be involved in any of our shows, or you’re interested in setting up your own podcast series – please get in touch – we offer a wide range of podcast services. www.podtalk.co.uk
Disclaimer: Podtalk.co.uk will not be held responsible for any errors or omissions.
Our podcasts are made for purely entertainment purposes
Content, views and opinions are either our own, or our guests’.
Piers Day, is a therapist, international life coach and mentor. Piers is a registered clinical hypnotherapist as well as a Neuro Linguistic specialist and helps people through all sorts of problems including depression, anxiety, addiction and fear. Piers joins us to lift the lid off hypnotherapy and to talk about how he works with adults and children.
http://www.suffolkhypnotherapy.co.uk/
Show Notes
Piers Day is a clinical hypnotherapist, a life coach and a mentor based in Suffolk and London.
Piers talks about the reality of hypnotherapy and how his technique focuses on the trigger points that cause anxiety, depression, fear, phobias, panic and unhealthy habits, rather than the actual cause.
Listen to Piers talking about how we only use 7% of conscious mind which leaves 93% of unconscious mind – the part of our brain which stores and files information, holds memories good and bad and can steer our lives unknowingly.
Piers talks about how he works with clients with depression and anxiety as well as people who have been successful in weight loss and lowering their alcohol intake.
Piers cares deeply about his clients and it’s no surprise that most of them stay in touch, telling him about how happy they are now, free of their problem. Piers talks about a client writing to him after treatment for severe depression – an incredible story.
Piers works frequently with children and teenagers and tells us about a young child who suffered from severe panic attacks – the child is now healthy, happy and performing well at school – something his parents thought just couldn’t be possible.
During the first Covid-19 Lockdown, Piers offered his services on a complimentary basis to all the front line NHS staff in Suffolk – he took on 137 staff, doctors, consultants, nurses and porters, all of whom were dealing with panic and fear of catching the virus when caring for covid patients. He now receives calls from some of them asking for his services for a relation or friend.
Piers is available to talk to any time - visit his site here: www.suffolkhypnotherapy.co.uk
Enjoy his episode!
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It’s the brilliant and majorly talented Afrika Green, professional drummer and author who currently works with the Pet Shop Boys, Becky Hill, Drum and Bass DJ High Contrast.
Afrika has toured and worked with some of the biggest names in the music business and is about to tell all in her much-anticipated book ‘Bright Lights Breakdown’.
'Afrika is an outstanding young drummer who can turn her hand to any style of music with natural ease” GUY CHAMBERS
'Big praise, but she has such rare contrast in her playing, one minute perfect economy, the next opening up like a sonic whirlwind! The hottest new drummer of her generation.” CERYS MATTHEWS (SINGER)
'Love Affy, great service on the top line drums, highly recommend her work” GOLDIE
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www.afrikagreen.com
Show notes:
Affy talks about working with the Pet Shop Boys as well as going through a tough audition and plans for 2021’s Greatest Hits Tour
Affy began playing drums at the age of 14 – she talks about the release and relationship she developed with drumming and her journey through early life as an up and coming professional drummer. Affy reflects on how tough it was at the beginning of her career being a woman drummer amongst a predominately male profession – and how she dealt with it.
Affy talks about working with Becky Hill and with High Contrast, the latter she has closely followed all her life and was an inspiration to her.
Affy was selected with a group of 12 students leaving university by Guy Chambers, Goldie and Ms Dynamite among other global stars, to take part in a group project.
Affy is a leading voice for the ‘Bury St Edmunds 4 Black Lives’ (BSE4BL) group and talks about the incredible positive response from the town as well as her recent role of writing a column for the Bury Free Press. To get involved with BSE4BL visit their Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/BSE4BL
Affy is writing her book Bright Lights Breakdown which reflects on her career including all the highs and the lows and feels it’s a duty of care to write about her journey to show how she managed to be where she is today, including all the struggles, and to encourage others too.
We asked Affy 3 quick questions to finish with:
Who’s the best drummer in the world?
What’s the best live music performance she’s played in?
And
You’ll just to have to listen to the episode to hear her brilliant answers!
Thanks for listening – get in touch with Affy right here:
www.afrikagreen.com
Tim, who has directed, acted and even written for many productions, including the WestEnd and Broadway, as well as national tours of Blood Brothers, Evita, and Cabaret, is now Artistic Director of Three Pin Productions in Bury St Edmunds.
Lynn is a theatre actor and musician, and also appeared in well loved TV shows including Emmerdale Farm, East Enders and the brilliant Dinner Ladies. Lynn is now a professional story-teller and singer, and works closely with drama and singing groups across Suffolk.
Lynn and Tim, although having very different career paths, have found themselves working together again – and here they are to tell us more……
Useful links:
www.threepinproductions.com/tim-welton/
https://naturalvoice.net/practitioner/lynnwhitehead
www.theatreroyal.org
Show notes:
Lynn and Tim talk about when they first met and got together
Lynn and Tim talk about their most important works they have achieved in life so far. Lynn tells a very funny story about Victoria Wood.
Lynn is currently working on zoom with drama groups from across Suffolk, connected to the Theatre Royal Bury and Tim is writing, recording and doing some audio work as well as working on a new joint venture with Lynn.
Owen is internationally renowned as a visionary producer and director. He has an extraordinary talent for uniting theatre companies with communities and taking theatre into new dimensions by pushing boundaries on the traditional.
www.theatreroyal.org
Show Notes: Owen was born and grew in Birmingham. His family didn’t work in the theatre but took him regularly as a child. In Owen’s earliest days he became passionate about the stage and acting and joined a youth theatre. Owen reminisces about big musical productions every summer at his school. At the age of 17 his drama teacher took a year out from the school and nominated Owen and Ian to direct the annual school production – A Little Shop of Horrrors. Owen talks about the experience and the opportunity.
Following the success of his first co-production as a director Owen knew he wanted to become a Theatre Director so he followed his dream and ambition and went to Bristol University. During his degree course he met (then an external theatre practitioner) Rod Dixon who is now Artistic Director of the Red Ladder Theatre in Leeds. Owen tells a very funny story about him meeting Rod and following his advice – quite literally.
Owen’s own production of Demolition Party, performed at the Oval House was a very special and unique in a production itself but also in theatre history. The Oval House was steeped in cultural history and Owen wanted to create a final production that reflected and celebrated the 55 years of such a progressive theatre. Demolition Party was a collaborative piece of incredible theatre work with artists literally demolishing the theatre alongside structural engineers, engineers and demolition experts. ‘We Dig’ included digging a 2m hole right through the stage and into the foundations. Every night artists would break through onto the stage from the dressing rooms wielding sledge hammers and performances included live demolition with well known actress Emma Franklin and her team of artists – drilling through the walls.
Owen talks about the amazing immersive Walking Stories which are available online, to download, through the Theatre website. He describes them as ‘beautiful things’ . Owen and his team worked with local writers and created eight mesmerising stories that everyone can listen to. Walking Stories tell the a story around a real space in Bury St Edmunds, Hesset, Newmarket, Thurston and Lavenham. Owen reflects on the beginning of his Walking Stories from 2012 where he and his team created an original version whilst working with the Punch Drunk Company,
Owen talks about how the Theatre Royal plays such an important and active role in the immediate and wider community. He sees this role as critical. He talks about the many youth theatres set up, as well as starting classes for disabled children and the Over 55 club ‘Act Your Age’. Owen also talks about how the Theatre works with Women’s Refuge.
There are several ways to get involved with the Theatre Royal by becoming:
A Participant – You can participate now, through the many active groups, and Owen mentions that new projects will soon be launched so he advises to register an interest.
An Audience member – which entitles you to the latest news as well as 5% discount off A and B band tickets (please note discount is not applicable to Children’s Shows, Fundraising and Community Events & Pantomime). Owen says the best way to support your local theatre is to buy tickets.
As Patrons and donors – Owen talks about the magnitude of help the theatre receives from patrons and donors and how important they are to the theatre’s life.
Visit www.theatreroyal.org for tickets, Walking Stories, membership and news.
Heidi is mega advocate for the 'Great Outdoors' and promotes physical and mental wellness for everyone. From little babies to corporate moguls, Wild Play and Wild Connections can work for us all! Release your inner wild side, let nature be your inspiration and, as Heidi might say, you don’t have to think outside of the box – just think 'outside'! Here she is to tell us more ....
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www.wildplayltd.co.uk
Show Notes:
Wild Play is all about energising and revitalising your soul and system – and is for everybody and anybody who wants to stay or remain in touch with their inner positivity, creativity and of course well being.
Heidi talks about the importance of fresh air, light and being amongst nature as a critical part of our health and wellness. She talks about the influx of Vitamin D into the body and the important role it plays as well as the positive effects.
Wild Play offers sessions and events for little ones (toddlers) right through to company experience days. Heidi is currently organising an outdoor Christmas Wreath making event – for families, groups of friends or even individuals who just want to get creative and feel the benefits of being outdoors and with others.
Wild Play has been recognised nationally with a special award from Theo Paphitis as an SBS winner in 2018, and locally by the Bury Free Press with the prestigious ‘Best New Start Up 2019’ award.
Wild Play has also been selected for the NAT WEST Entrepreneur Accelerator Programme; Heidi explains that this is an exciting initiative and means they can expand and to ‘watch this space’!
Talking to Pete Rowe, Artistic Director of the New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich. Pete has brought some of the biggest touring productions to the stage including Sweeny Todd, Perfect Days, A Family Affair and The Little Shop of Horrors. He joins us today to talk about the up and coming production of ‘What a Carve Up’ with a stellar cast including Stephen Fry, Griff Rhys Jones, Sir Derek Jacobi and Sharon D Clarke. We’re delighted to have him with us on The Suffolk Pod Show!
www.wolseytheatre.co.uk
SHOW NOTES:
Pete talks about his start in life as member of a youth theatre touring schools and colleges which was a semi-pro organisation. When Pete attended university he tried his hand at directing and soon moved from acting into directing. From University Pete then directed for the ‘Almost Free’ theatre company, which performed for the cost of what someone could afford. After further work with various theatres around the UK, including The Solent Theatre in Southampton, Pete directed The London Bubble (touring cabaret/musical theatre around boroughs of London). It was whilst he was working in Liverpool that he, and his partner Sue, applied for the a joint role at the New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich in 2000.
The New Wolsey Theatre had been closed for a few years and Pete and Sue’s task were to revive the theatre to its former glory and beyond. Pete also writes and directs independently and freelances on separate projects.
When asked what his favourite performance has been at the New Wolsey, Pete mentioned Sweeny Todd’, partly because it was his first production at the theatre after they reopened and he had previously worked on the show before – but it was a landmark for him, as it shaped what was to follow. Pete also mentioned the world premier of ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ and his co-written production Mid Summer Songs. Pete has a love for all rock and roll pantomimes too.
Pete and the team have won many awards, particularly for the Christmas Show productions which the New Wolsey are famous for. He mentions the theatre’s imitative Ramp on the Moon, which enables less abled individuals to get involved with theatre life, he actively supports and promotes the initiative.
2020 has been a tough year for every theatre, however the New Wolsey have been active with a complete revamp as well as running socially distanced theatre workshops on the stage. In the autumn the New Wolsey will restart their Youth Programme as well as producing and showing (online) ‘What a Carve Up’ a co-production with the Lawrence Batley and The Barne theatres.
What a Carve Up will star some of the biggest actors on the globe including Stepen Fry, Griff Rhys Jones, Sharon D Clarke, Tamzin Outhwaite, Sir Derek Jacobi and Rebecca Front. The show is a mix of digital animation, narration and film and will be streamed (with a live production every performance) from 31st October to the 29th November. There are two types of tickets available – basic ticket is £12 or GOODY BAG TICKET £16 – which includes a proper show programme and a special recipe from Asma Khan (Founder and star chef of Darjeeling Express) posted to your home.
What a Carve Up is a murder, mystery suspense novel adapted for the stage, and is centred around a very wealthy, cutthroat and influential family in the 1980’s. The story unravels as a writer is invited to tell the story of the family and he becomes aware of the consequences of the family’s dealings nd how they have negatively affected his own family members. It’s a whodunnit with many twists and turns and plenty of murders!
To buy tickets for What a Carve Up visit www.wolseytheatre.co.uk
#newwolseytheatre #theatre #suffolk #ipswich #peterowe #whatacarveup #pantomime #stephenfry #podcast #suffolkpodshow #griffrhysjones
*Talking to Nina Grand – Founder of Grand Organisers – a Suffolk based company which literally declutters our lives. Nina is a champion of all that makes our personal and working spaces less muddled and jumbled and she’s here to talk to us about what she does and how she can help! She’s an inspiration and a blessing to her clients; introducing Nina Grand.
www.grandorganisers.com
Natalie is here to tell her incredible story of how she, and her husband Steve, fell in love with Suffolk from just one visit back in 2007, and how they threw all of their time and passion into renovating an historic derelict windmill transforming it into award-winning, state of the art, exclusive boutique accommodation. Here to tell us more about their remarkable experiences and what to expect from your stay at The Windmill, Suffolk is Natalie Roberts AKA Mrs Windmill!
www.thewindmillsuffolk.com
SHOW NOTES
Natalie talks about visiting Bury St Edmunds back in 2007, with her husband Steve, for the popular Christmas Market and whilst in their hotel room browsing through a local newspaper and admiring the Windmill and its surrounding property, but they felt it was too far off the commuter route for them to continue working in London. It was just 2 months later, and quite by coincidence, that her mother called her and told her she had found an ideal property for them all to move to – it was the very same property! The Windmill, Suffolk.
They moved in 8 weeks later and dreamed about running luxury guesthouse from The Windmill. After six years of living at the property they were able to pursue the dream in full, and threw themselves into restoring and renovating the Windmill.
The build and final renovations took two years in full and they finally opened The Windmill, Suffolk to guests. The project was so successful that Steve is now looking for more Windmills in the area to renovate and is permanently ‘on the look out’.
Following the success of the project came many unexpected awards – notably from The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors and the Royal Institute of British Architects for the extraordinary build. The Windmill as a luxury accommodation has also been recognised by the East Anglia Daily Times and Eastern Daily Press as it was listed in the nominations as finalists in the highly acclaimed Norfolk and Suffolk Tourism Awards for several years running.
Natalie says herself ‘from two people with no experience in hospitality or the building trade– we’re very proud, it doesn’t feel real that we own a windmill in luxruy holiday accommodation market – it’s our dream.’
Natalie also tells us about their guests being a mix of very local people to across the world including Australia and Alaska.
Natalie talks about the guest experience – first of all with surrounding attractions Lavenham, restaurants in Bury St Edmunds, beautiful villages such as Cavendish, Long Melford and Clare, as well as close by Bury St Edmunds and Newmarket, to Cambridge, which is just a 45 minutes drive. Suffolk is a beautiful English County with sleepy villages and vibrant town and rich culture and heritage and not forgetting its long stretching coastline from Felixstowe to Southwold. Guests are different everytime – sometimes people come on their own, just to get away and recharge, and couples who don’t wish to leave the accommodation, to adventurers who pack their days with a diverse range of activities – even hot air ballooning and parachuting!
The Windmill offers luxury self-catering accommodation for up to 4 people with two double bedrooms. The kitchen contains all modern appliances including a hob, oven and microwave as well as private bathrooms and a top floor sitting room with views through the stunning large window across the Suffolk countryside. Natalie has created a host of welcome packages for people; including a celebration box and a local food platter box.
Natalie and Steve are lovingly called by friends and guests - Mr and Mrs Windmill
To stay at the Windmill Suffolk ( minimum two nights) visit www.thewindmillsuffolk.com
**Alex is passionate about life, lives it to the full and his energy is wholly infectious, so it’s no surprise why he is so successful at nurturing and developing business across East Anglia. Alex is a professional coach, trainer, networker, facilitator, as well as being a very proud dad – Suffolk is lucky to have him as a pivotal business leader and we’re lucky to have pinned him down for the next 20 minutes, – its Alex Till.
www.menta.org.uk
Alex talks about his earlier life and how he came to live in Suffolk after working in Felixstowe for a year, having previously been based on the Isle of Wight.
Alex talks about people who have influenced and inspired him during his career – in particularly John Kenyon, a well-know trainer and coach, who taught him to be himself and to use his own personal style to succeed. Alex talks about being child-like and definitely not childish, he makes a point that energy, enthusiasm and passion is all mixed into this winning approach.
Alex also recounts the Gerald Ratner story, how he got to know him, and how influential he is a successful business leader to him.
Alex talks about MENTA and range of support they can give new and existing businesses – and the broad range of business funding available for the next year.
Alex finishes his interview with a look ahead, despite his immediate prediction of a slightly unstable few months, business is healthy and growing in Suffolk.
www.menta.org.uk
Nic is highly acclaimed and award-winning radio presenter and news correspondent with BBC Radio 4, BBC Suffolk and host of local and international radio stations.
Nic is also an actor and a globally renowned voice over artist, having been cast in a long list of TV dramas, blockbuster films and stage roles.
Nic is passionate about media, he’s a content expert and dedicates a great deal of his time, to nurturing small and mediums sized businesses and start-ups in Suffolk through MENTA.
Show Notes:
Nic starts by talking about his dream to be an actor and perform on stage as a very young boy, and he talks about his supportive parent who made many sacrifices for him to follow his dream.
Nic talks about attending the very well-known Corona Stage School (Academy) in London, famed for launching careers of many greats including Richard O Sullivan, Nicholas Lyndhurst.
Nic takes us back to his child-acting days where he took part in some major TV dramas including Grange Hill, Good Bye Mr Chips and To Serve Them All My Days. He also talks about starring on stage in the West End, in the great Alan Bennett play ‘Forty Years On’ and clear memories of Stephen Fry and his stage capers getting them into troublewith the stage manager.
Nic tells us how he moved on from acting into radio and talks about life as a radio presenter, initially reporting weekly on theatre productions, to presenting the early breakfast show including all the work behind the scenes of delivering a radio show pre-digital times . In his own words – ‘that’s the real Alan Partridge territory here’ he laughs.
From radio comes voice over work – Nic tells us of his first and current work and laughs about his first part as a voice over artist as a cherry tomato in a small animation film. In his words he is now proud to be a ‘well-known cleaning product under the kitchen sink’.
Nic also talks about working in recording studios in London, including Berwick St Studios and the infamous Abbey Road Studios. He reflects on how inspirational it is stand, or sit, where the ‘greats’ have gone before.
Recent work, and soon to be launched, is Nic’s programme on BBC Radio 4 – Marking the 40th anniversary of the UFO landing in Rendlesham Forrest he gets close up with the conspiracy theories and asks did aliens visit us or not? The show airs on Radio 4 between Christmas and New Year (2020/21).
Nic tells us how the radio station he worked for eventually shut down so he turned his focus to MENTA where he now helps SMEs target their audiences with good content. He talks about choosing the right marketing platforms for the right stories – and how publishing has changed so dramatically over the last few years.
On the subject of spotting real talent - Nic moves on to talk about Ben Coomber – who is now the iTunes UK #1 podcast for health and nutrition. Nic recalls spotting Ben as a real talent and inviting him onto his radio show where they developed a humorous chalk and cheese partnership. Nic says there’s talent everywhere in Suffolk and mentions young entrepreneur Alexander Baxter and AJ, a musician who has just been signed by Sony in Sweden.
Nic is currently the UK Correspondent for Radio New Zealand – reporting about the Royal Family, Brexit and also the pandemic.
Get in touch with Nic – www.nicholaspandolfi.co.uk or find him on Twitter @nicpandolfi
Phil talks about his life and work with some of the biggest names in the pop industry, including The Clash, Rick Astley, Kylie Minogue, Pet Shop Boys, Jackson 5, Depeche Mode, ABC, East 17 and Boyzone to name a but a few. Now, living in Suffolk and teaching across the UK as a leading educator on Music Production, Phil has just published his second book ‘Pop Music Production’.
Show notes:
Phil takes us back to his first days in the music business, learning the ropes under legendary music producer Gus Dudgeon, in London, who produced David Bowie and Rod Stewart as well as many huge pop stars of the 70’s.
After working with The Clash, Killing Joke and Toyah it was then in the mid 80’s Phil produced for the phenomena Stock Aitken and Waterman, producing new acts such as Dead or Alive, Mel and Kim, Kylie Minogue and Rick Astley.
Phil then talks about the birth of the ‘boy band’ and some of his biggest hits with both East 17 (‘Stay Another Day’ and ‘Everybody in the House of Love’), and Boyzone as they reached their first number one with his Bee Gees remix of ‘Words’.
Phil also talks about his second book ‘Pop Music Production’, recently published. ‘The book is a mix of memoirs from the 90’s boy band era, experiences, advice, tutoring and practical guides to mixing and producing for students, lecturers and enthusiasts’.
Phil is still producing music on a global level with his latest team of talented producers (PJS) and has recently worked on a project with the well known 90’s dance artist Rozella working on a remix of the famous Motown producer Lemont Dozier of Holland-Dozier-Holland (renown for producing The Supremes, Martha and the Vandellas, The Four Tops and many more).
www.philhardingmusic.com