The Big Chat: Recent Episodes
Nicole Piesse Turner
Welcome to The Big Chat a podcast that champions individuals and businesses at the heart of their communities.
It’s the last Friday of the month which can only mean one thing - our Big Chat Word Up Collab! Hannah and Dan welcome Naomi Hutchison into the studio to share her experience of spoken word and Word Up! Naomi first wrote poetry over lockdown and has even more recently begun taking to the stage to read aloud. We’re lucky enough to hear a couple of Naomi’s poems and learn more about what inspires her. Naomi loves the creativity that poetry brings to communication and how Word Up gives a platform for those that want to be heard.
Word Up! takes place on the first Wednesday of each month at The Forum. It costs just £5 entry and speaking slots are available on a first come first serve basis.
This episode of The Big Chat is proudly sponsored by the TW Soapbox Stars Kart Race.
The TW Soapbox Race, raises serious cash for local charities while bringing businesses and community groups together for a hilarious family fun day out in the heart of the town. The event has raised more than £84,000 for charities to date!
Buy your tickets for the big race at: https://www.twsoapboxrace.com/buytickets
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco speaks with Scott Walker - detective, kidnap negotiator and author! Scott was a detective at Scotland Yard for 16 years working counter-terrorism, homicide, domestic abuse, organised crime, and kidnappings. He left the police in 2015 to work as a kidnap negotiator in the commercial sector and ended up helping to resolve over 300 cases including other perils such as cyber-extortion and piracy.
Scott has now written a book, ORDER OUT OF CHAOS, which is out on 25th May 2023. The book takes everything he’s learnt about that world; how to communicate effectively, develop a resilient mindset, thrive in a crises, and how people can apply these tools and techniques to their personal and professional lives.
To purchase the book head to: https://amzn.eu/d/cIvJEO9
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco chats to Malachi, host of the growing podcast, Malavision. Malachi is a remarkable young man, who at the age of 15 has already been thrown so much in life - with having an inoperable brain tumour when he was only baby that caused him to be blind, to battling mental health issues, he wants to create a platform for others to learn from those that are willing to share their own struggles. Massive thanks to Polly from the Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre for introducing Coco and Malachi.
As Malachi himself says: anything is possible if you put your heart, soul and mind to it!
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco chats to Lynne Meek, owner of online shop The Meek Boutique. Lynne shares how she started the shop in the summer of 2018 and how it quickly grew beyond what she could have ever imagined! Originally only intending it to be a small add on to her personal styling business, Lynne and her husband have now put all their focus on the boutique, employing many others including their son. Lynne wants to ensure that women at whatever stage in their life can feel comfortable and confident in the clothes that they are wearing.
If you’d like to shop some of Lynne’s carefully curated clothing, head to https://themeekboutique.co.uk/
It’s the last Friday of the month which can only mean one thing - our Big Chat Word Up Collab! Coco and Hannah welcome David Smith into the studio, who has been regularly attending Word Up since day one. He’s seen poetry as a hobby since a child and loves taking inspiration from poets like Spike Milligan, making his poetry more often than not, incredibly fun! He’s also one of the brains behind the Tunbridge Wells musical, and we’re lucky enough to hear one of the brilliant extracts!
David also helps to create the Tunbridge Wells Poetry Festival, which runs from 1st - 18th June, including many incredible artists performing at a selection of wonderful venues. To find out more, head to: twpoetryfestival.com
This episode of The Big Chat is proudly sponsored by the TW Soapbox Stars Kart Race.
The TW Soapbox Race, raises serious cash for local charities while bringing businesses and community groups together for a hilarious family fun day out in the heart of the town. The event has raised more than £84,000 for charities to date!
Buy your tickets for the big race at: https://www.twsoapboxrace.com/buytickets
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco chats to Tim Laurence, the founder of the Hoffman Process in the UK. The Hoffman Process is a week long intensive retreat which enables you to let go of old baggage and create space for new opportunities in your life. Tim was the last person to be trained under Bob Hoffman who founded the process in the US in 1967 and then Tim bought it to the UK in 1995. Coco herself completed the process in 2019 under Tim and her and Tim reflect on how the retreat provides so much insight into so many areas of life. The Hoffman process helps you discover who you really are, freeing you to make conscious choices that will improve your relationships with the people around you.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco speaks with Divorce Doula Farhana. A Divorce doula is someone who provides hand-holding and information throughout the divorce process and can compliment the services of a solicitor. Farhana shares how she changed her career during the pandemic in order to not only transform her own life, but the lives of others too. She feels called to help those going through separation who are reaching for a life they desire but can’t quite seem to get there. Farhana believes in the power of healing your own generational trauma to not only improve your own life, but better the life of future generations too.
If you’d like to find out more about Farhana and the services she offers as a divorce doula, head to her Instagram @farhana_l_hussain
This episode of The Big Chat is proudly sponsored by Berry & Lamberts Solicitors.
Berry & Lamberts Solicitors has been serving the local West Kent community for over 270 years. With offices in Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks and Paddock Wood, they have a longstanding reputation for being personable, approachable and friendly.
The teams draw on a wealth of experience to provide dependable advice in a relaxed, professional environment. They work as a team with their clients on a full range of business and individual legal matters to help them achieve the results they seek in their professional and personal lives.
Get in touch with the Berry & Lamberts team at www.berryandlamberts.co.uk
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
It’s the last Friday of the month which can only mean one thing - our Big Chat Word Up Collab! Coco, Hannah and Dan welcome the lovely Lee into the studio today, a regular at the monthly spoken word event that takes place at The Forum. We learn a bit more about this amazing community event in our much loved town, with the aim of giving voices to people and ensuring they are heard. We are also lucky enough to hear some incredibly powerful poetry from Lee.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco shares her upcoming plans and the direction she sees the podcast going in. There are a lot of exciting opportunities for our local community to get involved in, as we see the need for this platform in our town continue to grow. The most important thing to us is to bring value to you all, and the recent direction of hearing the heroes journey has really resonated with you all.
Thank you so much to you, our listeners who make The Big Chat possible each week!
If you’d like to get involved with any of the opportunities Coco has shared, please do drop us an email at hello@chattyhatter.com
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco speaks with Matt Hillier who is better known as The Humble Bear. Matt shares his powerful journey from addiction to enlightenment and how he now has the tools to help others find their purpose. Matt’s own purpose is to support and empower people to find happiness, peace and joy in their life using whichever modality and process in his toolset that he has. Matt offers a range of services & events to help support the world on a mental, emotional and spiritual level.
If you’d like to find out more about The Humble Bear, you can find him on Instagram @the_humble_bear
or visit his website humblebear.co.uk
This episode of The Big Chat is proudly sponsored by the TW Soapbox Stars Kart Race.
The TW Soapbox Race, raises serious cash for local charities while bringing businesses and community groups together for a hilarious family fun day out in the heart of the town. The event has raised more than £84,000 for charities to date!
Buy your tickets for the big race at: https://www.twsoapboxrace.com/buytickets
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco speaks with celebrity chef Rosemary Shrager whose second novel “The Proof In The Pudding” was recently released. Coco and Rosemary also discuss her other new pursuits, such as creating sugar free chutneys and jams, her range of pies and more details about her novels.
Rosemary also works with charities such as Back Up Trust (backuptrust.org.uk) and Number One Community Trust (numberonecommunity.org), which is local to Tunbridge Wells.
Stay tuned for lots of fun and giggles as well as a short excerpt from The Proof In The Pudding, read by Rosemary herself!
A big thank you to the TW Soapbox Race and Edney & Edney for sponsoring this weeks episode of The Big Chat.
The TW Soapbox Race, raises serious cash for local charities while bringing businesses and community groups together for a hilarious family fun day out in the heart of the town. The event has raised more than £84,000 for charities to date!
Buy your tickets for the big race at: https://www.twsoapboxrace.com/buytickets
Edney & Edney are an opticians offering an unparalleled selection of world-class eyewear in Tunbridge Wells. Jamie and Ayshah Edney have a combined 30 years experience in the eyewear and eyecare industry. As a husband and wife team, they understand the importance of offering an exceptional bespoke service.
Pop in and see them at their glorious shop on Monson Road, or contact them by telephone on 01892 517986 or email on hello@edneyandedney.com. Visit https://www.edneyandedney.com/ to find out more.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This weeks episode of The Big Chat is the first of many collab episodes with Hannah Gee and Dan Culmer from Word Up! Each Friday at the end of the month, Hannah and Dan will be hosting The Big Chat and bringing in a variety of inspiring guests that have an important message to share. In this episode, we learn how Dan started Word Up 10 years ago after going to a similar slam poetry event in Brighton and seeing the potential it would have in Tunbridge Wells. Hannah and Dan have been friends for years and after encouragement from Dan, Hannah recently stepped back into the world of poetry and is passionate about spreading the message of Word Up.
Word Up takes place on the first Wednesday of every month and is £5 entry at The Forum. To coincide with International Women’s Day, this months will take place on 8th March.
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, the tables have turned, and Eileen, Editor of SO Magazine interviews Coco! Coco shares how she went from her 9-5 office job in London to founding and directing several companies in Tunbridge Wells. Doing PR in the local area gave her the platform to ensure the TW Soapbox Race is the success it is, but when the pandemic hit Coco had to find a new way to keep businesses connected, and so The Big Chat was born. With a growing audience on social media and all podcast platforms, The Big Chat enables the people from our town to share their stories to inspire others.
If you’d like to find out more about Chatty Hatter, The Big Chat or TW Soapbox Race, pick up a copy of the March edition of SO Magazine or email us at hello@chattyhatter.com
A big thank you to Edney & Edney for sponsoring this weeks episode of The Big Chat and their ongoing support for SO Magazine - just have a look at Coco's glasses!
Edney & Edney are an opticians offering an unparalleled selection of world-class eyewear in Tunbridge Wells. Jamie and Ayshah Edney have a combined 30 years experience in the eyewear and eyecare industry. As a husband and wife team, they understand the importance of offering an exceptional bespoke service.
Pop in and see them at their glorious shop on Monson Road, or contact them by telephone on 01892 517986 or email on hello@edneyandedney.com. Visit https://www.edneyandedney.com/ to find out more.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In todays episode of The Big Chat, Coco talks to Polly and Caroline from The Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre. Nearly a year and a half on since she was last in the studio with Coco, President Polly and her right-hand woman Caroline share exactly what’s been happening at the Centre since then and what they’ll be up to in 2023, including the TW Soapbox Race!
The Pickering Cancer drop-in Centre is a huge support for the Tunbridge Wells community, and believes in the importance of combining emotional care with traditional medicine in order to deal with the pain that cancer can bring to families.
If you or anyone you know needs support from the Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre, please do call them on 01892 511880 or visit them at the Centre on Monson Road, Tunbridge Wells.
A big thank you to Edney & Edney for sponsoring this weeks episode of The Big Chat - just have a look at Coco and Polly’s glasses!
Edney & Edney are an opticians offering an unparalleled selection of world-class eyewear in Tunbridge Wells. Jamie and Ayshah Edney have a combined 30 years experience in the eyewear and eyecare industry. As a husband and wife team, they understand the importance of offering an exceptional bespoke service.
Pop in and see them at their glorious shop on Monson Road, or contact them by telephone on 01892 517986 or email on hello@edneyandedney.com. Visit https://www.edneyandedney.com/ to find out more.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco talks to Alex Cornelius, the Head Teacher of Langton Green Primary School. The chat focusses around mental well-being and the increased need for mental health support post-pandemic. With two children of her own who have attended/are attending the school, Coco knows first hand the support that the Primary School offers pupils. Alex himself has a strong focus on community and is a part of Thrive Langton which aims to provide community intervention to help people with their well being. In this episode Coco and Alex discuss the impact of social media on children, taking the pressure off and the courageousness of children today.
If you want to find out more about Thrive Langton head to: http://thrivelangton.org/
A big thank you to the Right Tuition Company for sponsoring this weeks episode of The Big Chat.
The Right Tuition Company (RTC) is an award-winning, Kent-based tutoring company, that has its flagship tuition centre located in the heart of Tunbridge Wells town centre. Since opening in 2014, RTC has established a fervent reputation for being the leading, local provider of high-quality, premium small-group tuition to Primary and Secondary-aged children. At its core, RTC promotes a traditional, non-computer-based approach to tutoring. The success of its education provision is rooted in the expert-led teaching and the availability of an all-round education service that can be accessed at an affordable cost.
To book your free taster class and learn more about how they can help your child, please contact them, either, by telephone on 01892-800-492 or email at tunbridgewells@right-tuition.co.uk
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco talks to Poppy O’Neill, author of mental-wellbeing resources for children and parents. Back in December, The Big Chat sponsored Wicked Productions pantomime at the EM Forster Theatre and Poppy kindly donated 90 of her books for children receiving goodie bags. Poppy shares her inspiration for writing and why the topic of mental health is so important to her. Coco and Poppy discuss the generational changes surrounding mental health as we begin to open up more to one another.
Poppy’s next book Mother Power is out 9th February and is a reassuring parenting guide that’s always in your corner. There are also two new additions to the children's series publishing in March: I Like Being Me and When I Feel Angry.
Find all of Poppy’s books at https://summersdale.com/sd-author/poppy-oneill/
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco chats with Hugh Whitaker of Humor Street Art who specialises in spray-painted murals for businesses and homes. From a week’s notice for the Champion’s League final creation to heading to Steven Gerrard’s house to transform his son’s bedroom, a lot has changed for Hugh over the previous two years since he was last in the hot seat! Coco and Hugh also discuss their upcoming collaboration which gives back to the local community and brings Hugh full circle with his early work.
If you want to find out more about Humor you can find them on socials @humorstreetart or head to https://www.humorstreetart.co.uk/
Thank you to TW Soapbox Stars Kart Race for sponsoring this week’s episode of The Big Chat, you have until Monday 31st January to get your early bird tickets at https://www.twsoapboxrace.com/buytickets
Trigger warning - alcoholism, suicide, death
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco talks to Jen Williams, Fundraising & Marketing Manager and Ray Weston, Hub Manager at the Mental Health Resource Hub. The Hub is located on Grosvenor Park at the top end of Grosvenor Road in Tunbridge Wells which provides safe spaces and person-centred mental health support to help people improve their wellbeing. Mental Health Resource has been going since 1993 and has a variety of Reach Out Groups for both adults and young people in Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding areas. Touching on their personal experiences, Jen and Ray share how this inspires them to help others.
To find out more about Mental Health Resource head to their website:
www.mentalhealthresource.org.uk
If you’re looking for support you can also head to:
Mind: www.mind.org.uk/information-support
Give us a shout 85258
Samaritans www.samaritans.org 116123
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco talks to Rosemary Shrager, Ambassador and Peter Sanlon, Trustee, of the Number One Community Trust. Number One Community Trust is a community centre serving the residents of Showfields and Ramslye. Their aim is to enhance the quality of life of the residents through events, activities and community projects and Rosemary and Peter share more about this. Coco finds out more about the recent refurbishment of the Number One Cafe by Town and Country and also the other facilities available such as the library, pre-school and community hall. The Trust needs help from our amazing community to keep going - to find out more head to https://numberonecommunity.org/
Thank you to TW Soapbox Race for sponsoring this week’s episode of The Big Chat, buy your tickets now at https://www.twsoapboxrace.com/buytickets
Shout out to Edney and Edney for both Coco and Rosemary’s glasses!
The Big Chat is back for 2023 and what better way to kick off the new year than with a conversation between two friends! Coco chats with her close friend Antonia Blyth, an entertainment journalist who specialises in covering awards in Hollywood in the entertainment industry. Antonia conducts interviews and writes articles for an LA based magazine, and she discusses with Coco the podcast series that she hosts! Tune in for big chat on cultural confusion, weirdest job stories and some words of wisdom from Antonia as we go into the new year.
A huge shout out to One Warwick Park Hotel and Natural Fit for looking after Antonia whilst Coco was ill during recording.
The next of this week’s episodes of The Big Chat is a Beauty and the Beast pantomime Takeover special straight from the EM Forster Theatre! Coco chats to the wonderful Amanda Swift as Fairy Pots. Amanda tells Coco more about the character she plays and even shares her opening monologue with us. Amanda also helped edit the pantomime’s script after it was written by Tom Swift and Elinor Lawless - who is currently starring in Casualty!
Thank you to Edney and Edney for Coco’s glasses!
The final of this week’s episodes of The Big Chat is a Beauty and the Beast pantomime Takeover special straight from the EM Forster Theatre! Coco chats to the fantastic Darren Tough as the Beast. Darren shares how he started working with Wicked Productions and also how he gets into character. This is a super quick episode of The Big Chat as the cast and team prepare for the matinee performance of Beauty and the Beast!
Thank you to Edney and Edney for Coco’s glasses!
The first of this week’s episodes of The Big Chat is a Beauty and the Beast pantomime Takeover special straight from the EM Forster Theatre! Coco chats to legendary soapbox commentator Tom Swift as Phillippe Phloppe all about how Wicked Productions created this years pantomime. Tom shares the beautiful story behind this production of Beauty and the Beast and the core message of it’s what’s on the inside of a person that truly counts.
Thank you to Edney and Edney for Coco’s glasses!
The next of this week’s episodes of The Big Chat is a Beauty and the Beast pantomime Takeover special straight from the EM Forster Theatre! Coco chats to the fabulous Eilish Stout-Cairns as Belle. Eilish shares how she first came to work with Wicked Productions after Tom and Amanda saw her perform at an adult pantomime earlier this year! She also shares how she enjoys playing this fierce version of Belle who is a character that girls can really look up to and aspire to be like.
Thank you to Edney and Edney for Coco’s glasses!
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco talks to Stevie Rice, the Chief Executive of West Kent Mind. As some of you may know, The Big Chat have proudly donated the goodie bags for this year’s pantomime by Wicked Productions at the EM Forster Theatre, which have chosen West Kent Mind as their charity to support. Stevie shares how the cost of living crisis is exacerbating mental health issues for many people and how West Kent Mind are supporting our community through this.
If you, or anyone you know needs support with their mental health right now, please head to https://westkentmind.org.uk/
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco and Giles recap on all of the amazing guests we’ve had on the show in 2022. From Tunbridge Wells Soapbox Stars supporters, to some of the heroes of Local and Live, it’s been a jam packed year! Coco also shares what we can expect to hear over the next few months, with the important topic of mental health being one of the main themes that will be coming up.
We also have an extra special Christmas surprise, so make sure you check in with us next week for another episode of The Big Chat.
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco talks to Jaime Cooke, who is the founder of SPN and is also now known as DJ Cookie! Coco and Jaime last spoke on the Big Chat a year and a half ago so they reflect on what has changed since then. Jaime has learnt how to DJ so she can not only take her classes at SPN to the next level, but also offer retreats where others can learn to DJ and be immersed in an environment which will enhance their overall wellbeing.
To find out more about Jaime head to her Instagram page @jaimecookeloves
Thank you to Edney and Edney for Coco’s glasses and to Bod and Ted for her fabulous outfit.
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco chats with Ralph de Lisle, the founder of IKÓ Drinks for a recap after their first Big Chat episode back in April last year! IKÓ brings you the kick of coffee, the health benefits of tea and the mood lift of chocolate, all in one refreshing herbal drink. Ralph and Nicole discuss how the business has grown since last time they spoke and the positive impact that IKÓ has on the world.
To find out more about IKÓ Drinks, head to ikodrinks.com and follow them on socials @ikodrinks
Thank you to Edney and Edney for Coco’s glasses!
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco talks to Iaysha Salih, who is an angel and abstract artist in Tunbridge Wells. Iaysha shares how she first discovered her love of art and how she has now made it her career. Coco and Iaysha also touch on the topics of meditation and healing, and how Iaysha’s work enables her to practice both. We are lucky enough to also hear some of Iaysha’s insights into her paintings.
To find out more about Iaysha and her art, head over to her website iaysha-art.com and follow her on Instagram @iaysha_art
Thank you to Edney and Edney for Coco’s glasses and to Bod and Ted for her fabulous outfit.
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco talks to Sophie Bland, the founder of Bod and Ted, a much-loved shop along Tunbridge Wells high street. Sophie shares how the business began when she was just 21 with her and her Mum taking over the lease of a shop in Devon. Nicole and Sophie discuss everything from the rise in slow fashion to Mum guilt as a business owner.
To find out more about Sophie and Bod and Ted, head over to their website www.bodandted.co.uk and follow them on Instagram @bodandted
Thank you to Edney and Edney for Coco’s glasses and to Bod and Ted for her fabulous outfit.
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco talks to father and son team Paul and Billy from The Sticky Monkey! The Sticky Monkey is a Tunbridge Wells family run business specialising in print, graphics and signage. Paul and Billy share how the business both started and grew in lockdown and some of the projects they’ve been involved with, including the Tunbridge Wells Soapbox Race!
If you need printing, graphics, signage, merchandise or car related paraphernalia make sure to head to www.thestickymonkey.com
Thank you to Edney and Edney for Coco’s glasses and to Kitch Clothing for her fabulous coat.
This episode of The Big Chat is a bitesize special with Coco and Giles! In our local town of Tunbridge Wells, the 11+ is still very much in place and Coco and Giles discuss the impact of this on children. Coco also shares her own experience of being in both the grammar and comprehensive systems. Tune in for a Big Chat catch-up ahead of Friday’s episode!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco talks to Zac Carpenter, the youngest homoeopath in the UK. Zac shares how his journey in holistic energy medicine began and how he can help support your own journey in healing. Zac will help you get to your healing goal as quickly and safely as possible. In this episode, Coco and Zac share deeply about their life and own personal growth.
To find out more about Zac, head over to his website bodyworksandhealing.com and follow him on Instagram @healingwithzac
Thank you to Edney and Edney for Coco’s glasses and to Kitch Clothing for her fabulous coat.
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco talks to Dani and Nette, 2 of the founders of the Strong Female Lead. The Strong Female Lead movement both empowers and unites inspirational women with powerful skillsets. Coco, Dani and Nette discuss parenting after last week’s event was centered around family and how it’s important that people have a strong network around them with a balance of both masculine and feminine energy.
To find out more about The Strong Female Lead head over to their Instagram @officialstrongfemalelead
Thank you to Edney and Edney for Coco’s glasses and to Kitch Clothing for her fabulous coat.
This episode of The Big Chat is a bitesize special with Giles and Rachel, who are both members of the Chatty Hatter team. Rachel is a passionate vegan and Giles finds out how her journey with veganism began and why she’s stuck at it for almost 3 years.
If you’re inspired by this bitesize episode, why not try out a month of veganism in January? You can sign up here: www.veganuary.com and maybe the whole Chatty Hatter and Big Chat team will get involved too!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco talks to Sophie Green, artist and conservationist. From teacher to artist, Sophie has always been a painter with a focus on wildlife. Her latest exhibition, titled the Impermanance Collection, consists of 11 original artworks and 3 prints, with a focus on climate change and the wildlife that is affected. Sophie is proud to support a variety of projects from the sale of her pieces, more details of which can be found on her website – www.sophiegreenfineart.com.
If you would like to see the Impemanence exhibition for yourself, it will be available to view at the Oxo Tower Wharf in London, from 2nd – 13th Novemeber.
Shoutout to Edney and Edney for the glasses that Coco is wearing in this week’s episode!
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Coco talks to Lawrence Prestidge, children’s author and actor. Lawrence shares how he got started in the creative industries, with his first interview for acting at Disneyland Paris taking place at the age of just 17! More recently he has been writing children’s books and also has created a brand-new sitcom for Prime Video called “Keep Calm and Carry On”. Lawrence is also a podcaster himself and shares how this helped him when casting for roles in the sitcom.
Keep Calm and Carry On is out on 28th September and will be available to watch on Prime Video.
Shoutout to Edney and Edney for the Theo Glasses that Coco is wearing in this week’s episode!
This episode of The Big Chat is a bitesize special with Coco and Giles.
The Queue seems to be the topic of the moment and as a nation, Britain has a love-hate relationship with queuing - loving the system and despising those that try and skip it! Coco and Giles reflect on some of the more intense queues they’ve been apart of throughout their lives including the dreaded virtual queue - being on hold!
Tune in for a Big Chat catch up and find out what to expect from Friday’s episode…
“I expect nothing and I am grateful for everything”
This episode of The Big Chat is an extra special fundraising episode for Junior. Listen to Nette talk about her gorgeous son and the hurdles that he has to overcome. The fundraiser is now live and any money raised will enable Nette to continue to give June the life that he deserves. Please head to https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/thelifeofjune and donate what you are able to.
In this week’s episode, Coco, who is a brand ambassador for Edney and Edney is wearing Theo glasses. The new range of Theo glasses launched last weekend…check out Coco’s peepers in next week episode!
This episode of The Big Chat is a bitesize special with Coco and Giles!
The school year has now well and truly begun so they think back to the summer and talk about some of the incredible immersive experiences that are currently available. Coco and Giles also touch on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II and the monumental changes that are occurring in the UK right now.
Tune in for a Big Chat catch up and find out what to expect from Friday’s episode!
This episode of The Big Chat is the last in our takeover series from Local and Live! Coco and Giles chat to the brilliant photographers that help to bring this event to life. On the sofa are David, Sally-Anne, Nigel and Oliver who all share how they first got involved with Local and Live. Each of the photographers also shares how they best capture live performers. Special thanks to David Warren photography for the beautiful pictures we have used for our artwork in this series. Tune in to get some more behind the scenes information about Local and Live!
Thank you to Maxipay Accounting for being headline sponsors of Local and Live 2022.
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode of The Big Chat is the seventh in our takeover series from Local and Live! Coco and Giles chat with Paul Dunton, the awesome creator of Local Live. Paul bought his vision to life 17 years ago in Tunbridge Wells, with the event going from strength to strength each year. Paul shares with Coco and Giles some of the challenges he faces with bringing the event to the town, but with the amazing turn out year after year it is the perfect community event for people to be involved with. Tune in to find out more about the creator of Local and Live and how he puts this epic event together!
Thank you to Maxipay Accounting for being headline sponsors of Local and Live 2022.
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode of The Big Chat is the sixth in our takeover series from Local and Live! Coco chats with Dani, who has many strings to her bow. From heading up the Strong Female Lead, to providing tech solutions to children she is a part of the Tunbridge Wells community in a BIG way. She introduced Coco to Miss Brown Sugar, who created the beautiful backdrop for our Local and Live Takeover. Tune in to get a taste for what Dani is all about and how she has come to be a part of so much in Tunbridge Wells today!
Thank you to Maxipay Accounting for being headline sponsors of Local and Live 2022.
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode of The Big Chat is the fifth in our takeover series from Local and Live! Coco and Giles chat with Phil Mills, one of the event organisers of Local and Live. He has been part of this fantastic community event for the past 8 or 9 years and this year has taken on the special role of fully experiencing the festival and providing feedback to event organiser, Paul Dunton – almost like a mystery shopper! Phil discusses with Coco and Giles the variety of music events that Tunbridge Wells has to offer and how Local and Live brings so many of these together over the Bank Holiday weekend. Tune in to find out more about Phil’s experience and why he loves to be a part of Local and Live!
Thank you to Maxipay Accounting for being headline sponsors of Local and Live 2022.
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode of The Big Chat is the fourth in our takeover series from Local and Live! Coco and Giles chat with Matt Dunford, co-founder of Fine Grind. Five years ago, Paul Dunton asked Fine Grind to be a part of Local and Live, of course they jumped at the chance, despite Matt’s child being due to be born that very weekend! Local and Live has given Fine Grind the opportunity to branch out in their business and take their coffee to the festival scene. Matt is a big believer in taking the opportunities that are given to you and he is proof of the amazing things that can happen when you do just that. Tune in to find out more about Matt’s journey with Local and Live over the years!
Thank you to Maxipay Accounting for being headline sponsors of Local and Live 2022.
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode of The Big Chat is the third in our takeover series from Local and Live! Coco and Giles chat with Paul Dunn, a collaborative musician bringing sounds from around the world to Tunbridge Wells. He is a self-taught pianist who believes music is all about communication, which is why playing live is so important to him. If you want to hear the Paul Gunn Collective peform again, head down to the Grey Lady on the 11th November. Tune in to hear more about how Paul got started!
Thank you to Maxipay Accounting for being headline sponsors of Local and Live 2022.
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode of The Big Chat is the second in our takeover series from Local and Live! Coco and Giles chat with Anna, one of the fantastic people who give their time to volunteer at Local and Live and help make this amazing community event happen. Anna explains exactly what her role is during the festival and why she decided to get involved. She has attended Local and Live year after year and is now helping out and getting some first-hand industry experience. Tune in to find out why Anna loves Local and Live so much!
Thank you to Maxipay Accounting for being headline sponsors of Local and Live 2022.
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode of The Big Chat is the first in our takeover series from Local and Live! Coco and Giles chat with Mark and Léanie, the two amazing individuals who make up the band Karamelien. Karamelien are a groovy new music project that brings both Léanie and Mark together. Léanie Kaleido is an accomplished UK-based singer-songwriter, and Mark Foster is a longstanding music mate, who works on Léanie’s new material with a greater focus on low tempo hip-hop beats and basslines. Tune in to get all the backstage news and find out what music they’ve got coming out next!
Thank you to Maxipay Accounting for being headline sponsors of Local and Live 2022.
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this week's episode join Giles Paley-Phillips, Chatty Hatter podcast producer, as he chats to the people who make up this fantastic community event. Hear snippets of performances throughout the day, some live commentary, and some words from the amazing charities this event supports.
We are proud to announce that racers raised over £31,000 for our local charities this year! Thank you so much to everyone that donated and also to everyone that came and joined us on the day.
We hope you enjoy listening back to the day, make sure you’re following us on Instagram and Facebook @twsoapboxsrace so you don’t miss out on any upcoming news.
Listen here ——> https://youtu.be/H26zAQ2X088 and please do not forget to like and subscribe to our channel!
This week’s episode of The Big Chat is another Soapbox special! Nicole and Giles chat all about what to expect on the day and how the event came about in the first place. There are businesses and schools racing down Dunorlan Hill, food, drink, a mascot to hug, and Giles podcasting on the day!
Make sure you’re following us on socials @twsoapboxrace to keep up to date with the build-up and watch Insta lives on the day!
It’s not too late to buy your tickets online at www.twsoapboxrace.com/buytickets but tickets will now be available at the gate so no one misses out on the fun!!! We do advise that you get your tickets online before 10 am on race day, as ticket prices are subject to change after this point.
This week’s episode of The Big Chat is a Soapbox special! Nicole Piesse Turner and Tom Swift are joined by Angela Quigley, Head of Physics at Kent College and representative of the WKISSP.
Angela approached Nicole in 2019 as she wanted the local schools to be involved with the TW Soapbox, so year nines build their own soapboxes and race against each other as part of the day.
Thank you to The Right Tuition Company and Phoenix Design & Construction for sponsoring the school’s race and enabling this fantastic opportunity to happen.
The TW Soapbox Stars race is an exhilarating day out which involves businesses, charities, and schools from in and around Tunbridge Wells. Tickets are limited and will not be available at the gate so buy now while you can at: https://www.twsoapboxrace.com/buytickets
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This week’s episode of The Big Chat is a Soapbox special! Nicole Piesse Turner is joined by Aubrey from the Old Auction House, where we were lucky enough to have our Soapbox Stars launch. The venue opened in October 2021 as a mini bar and market, Aubrey took over in November and got the directors involved who enabled Aubrey’s vision to become a reality. From morning coffee to evening cocktails and a boogie with local DJs, no two weeks are the same at the Old Auction House. Make sure you follow them on socials and check out their website so you know what’s happening next!
The TW Soapbox Stars race is an exhilarating day out which involves businesses, charities, and schools from in and around Tunbridge Wells. Tickets are limited and will not be available on the gate so buy now while you can at: https://www.twsoapboxrace.com/buytickets
This week’s episode of The Big Chat is a Soapbox special! Nicole Piesse Turner and Tom Swift are joined by representatives of the three charities Chatty Hatter has chosen to support at the Soapbox race. These are Hospice in the Weald, Nourish Community Food Bank, and new for this year – the Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre. All three charities have struggled throughout the pandemic and lockdowns which makes events like the TW Soapbox Stars Race more important than ever in raising vital funds and awareness!
The TW Soapbox Stars race is an exhilarating day out which involves businesses, charities, and schools from in and around Tunbridge Wells. Tickets are limited and will not be available at the gate so buy now while you can at: https://www.twsoapboxrace.com/buytickets
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat Nicole talks to Garry Jeffery, Tunbridge Wells business owner. Garry started his first business at the age of 17 in his Mum’s garage and discusses with Nicole the business journey he has been on since then. From a printing business to hospitality to funeral directors - Garry has experience in many sectors and is a great source of knowledge and expertise for aspiring business owners. Nicole and Garry discuss his local funeral directors business ‘Henry Paul Funerals’ , named after his late Grandfather and late brother, he talks about how it is family run. He is also the original founder of the TW soapbox, approaching Nicole back in 2017 with the idea of the town's now much loved Soapbox Race, formerly Crazy Jeans Soapbox Race. The race was originally named after a bar and restaurant Garry ran and owned called Jeans, named after his late mother. Garry talks about his plans for the future and also offers some inspiration to others looking at starting their own business.
If you would like to find out more information about Henry Paul Funerals, please do head over to their website www.henrypaulfunerals.co.uk
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This week’s episode of The Big Chat is a Soapbox special! Nicole Piesse Turner and Tom Swift are joined by local TV Celebrity chef and Soapbox ambassador Rosemary Shrager. Rosemary shares why the TW Soapbox Stars race is such a wonderful family day out and how it is all about the community and doing good work for local people. Rosemary talks about her exciting new books, a new range of pies, and her passionate reasons for getting involved with the event.
The TW Soapbox Stars race is an exhilarating day out which involves businesses, charities, and schools from in and around Tunbridge Wells. Tickets are limited and will not be available at the gate so buy now while you can at: https://www.twsoapboxrace.com/buytickets
In this week's episode of The Big Chat Nicole talks to Matt and Richard, two of the five of team MUCKAS – the reigning champions of the Tunbridge Wells Soapbox Stars Race! Named after their friendship, the MUCKAS are a fantastic group of mates who are adrenaline junkies. From off-road biking to snowboarding in Spain, this group of lads know a thing or two when it comes to speed, which is quite possibly why they keep on winning! Their themes so far have been pirates and Back to the Future – you’ll have to listen out for this year's, but it will definitely involve Matt in a dress again!
Sit back and relax as you listen to this TW Soapbox Stars Big Chat special from the perspective of the winners.
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In this week’s episode of The Big Chat Nicole talks to Toby Boyle, Founder of Toby Boyle Music (TBM). Toby is a professional musician and musicpreneur, with TBM providing a personalised consultancy so you have the perfect music for your event. Toby chats about his Abba show Bjorn Again which has a history of 30 years and opened the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury! Toby and Nicole’s discussion doesn’t stop at music, as Toby speaks about fears and public speaking and how people handle stress. He shares how for him, improvisational guitar acts as meditation and that’s a way he handles stress. Toby is also a keen golfer and believes golf is a way to find out people’s personalities!
If you would like to find out more about TBM, please do head over to their website – www.tobyboylemusic.co.uk
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat Nicole talks to Matthew Forbes, Director of Forbes Financial who are financial advisors in Tunbridge Wells. Matthew discusses with Nicole how people can make the most of their financial assets, whoever they are. It’s best to start making plans and getting things in order as soon as possible as this will help you secure the financial future that you’re looking for. Matthew shares his thoughts on how he believes people are being more transparent about their finances, which allows families to start planning for their future. Matthew shares what the challenges of being a financial advisor are, and also explains how there are many different things that people are looking for in their financial future and how he can help work out what is best for their situation.
If you would like to find out more about Forbes Financial, please do head over to their website – www.forbesfinancial.co.uk
As always, thank you to our friends at Edney and Edney for Nicole’s super specs!
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In this week’s episode of The Big Chat Nicole talks to Peter Amor, Director of Amor Financial who are mortgage specialists in and around Tunbridge Wells. Peter chats through the last 6 years of Amor Financial as well as what the future holds, with the business now operating within the Finance Hub on the pantiles. Peter shares his thoughts on the housing market in Tunbridge Wells, the recent stamp duty holiday, and housing affordability. Peter discusses with Nicole exactly what someone can expect from the process of looking for a mortgage and how Amor Financial are able to bridge the gap between client and lender, making sure all information is presented in the best way possible when the lender sees it. Nicole also finds out what the most exciting project Peter has worked on has been!
If you would like to find out more about Amor Financial, please do head over to their website – www.amorfinancial.co.uk
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This episode of The Big Chat is proudly sponsored by Humor Street Art.
In this episode of The Big Chat Castlemas Takeover, Nicole talks to Scott and Jonathan from Frankie’s Guys before their soundcheck and performance here at Castlemas! Frankie’s Guys has been going since 2014 and the show is taken all around the country. All the boys have a musical theatre background and Nicole chats with Scott and Jonathan about what they did prior to Frankie’s Guys. Scott and Jonathan chat about how they are looking forward to an interactive show inside The Igloo theatre and Nicole shares her experience on the opening night.
Castlemas 2021 is a 10 day event at Tonbridge Castle running from 10th – 19th December. There’s Mistletoe Town where you can do some shopping, Santa’s Grotto, Jingle Bell Bar, Santa’s Workshop and of course the Igloo Theatre where you can watch live performances!
We would also like to thank Bod and Ted for Nicole’s gorgeous dress! Visit bodandted.co.uk
Hugh’s details:
Instagram and facebook: @humorstreetart
humorstreetart.co.uk
Frankie’s Guys details:
Instagram: @frankiesguys
Frankiesguys.com
This episode of The Big Chat is proudly sponsored by Humor Street Art.
In this episode of The Big Chat Castlemas Takeover, Nicole talks to Laura, founder of Freckles and The Inside café who is running workshops and a stall here at Castlemas! Laura is an epic lady who has a real passion for crafting and community. She prioritises making crafting accessible to everyone, bridging the gap between girls and boys crafting as in her own experience she has found craft much more geared towards girls than boys. The Inside Café is somewhere she can not only serve delicious food and yummy coffee but also a place where she can hold wonderful crafting workshops.
Castlemas 2021 is a 10-day event at Tonbridge Castle running from 10th – 19th December. There’s Mistletoe Town where you can do some shopping, Santa’s Grotto, Jingle Bell Bar, Santa’s Workshop and of course the Igloo Theatre where you can watch live performances!
We would also like to thank Bod and Ted for Nicole’s gorgeous dress! Visit bodandted.co.uk
Hugh’s details:
Instagram and facebook: @humorstreetart
humorstreetart.co.uk
Laura’s details:
Instagram: @freckles.on.the.inside @the.inside.tw
the-inside.co.uk
This episode of The Big Chat is proudly sponsored by Humor Street Art.
In this episode of The Big Chat Castlemas Takeover, Nicole talks to Beyond Repair Entertainment whilst they are in costume as the Lion King Tribute in between performances here at Castlemas! Jane, the founder of Beyond Repair Entertainment shares how the company was born and also how much of a joy it is to be back doing what everyone loves. Many of the amazing performers wear multiple hats within the company and are not just performers but for example, work doing the marketing as well! Nicole chats with the group about how long costumes, makeup and hair takes and you will not believe the time these fantastic looks can be achieved in!
Castlemas 2021 is a 10 day event at Tonbridge Castle running from 10th – 19th December. There’s Mistletoe Town where you can do some shopping, Santa’s Grotto, Jingle Bell Bar, Santa’s Workshop and of course the Igloo Theatre where you can watch live performances!
We would also like to thank Bod and Ted for Nicole’s gorgeous dress! Visit bodandted.co.uk
Hugh’s details:
Instagram and facebook: @humorstreetart
Website: humorstreetart.co.uk
Beyond Repair details:
Instagram @beyondrepairentertainment
beyondrepairentertainment.com
See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
In this episode of The Big Chat Castlemas Takeover, Nicole talks to Shahin, manager of the Jingle Bell Bar here at Castlemas! Shahin and Nicole chat about how he first got involved with Bravo and Productions as he was neighbours with Hannah and Ollie and thought they sounded like they were fun! Shahin moved to the UK from Australia and has always been in hospitality and it’s clear that he has a real passion for it. He also discusses with Nicole what else he has been up to, including his joint pizza project – Cantuccio’s in Tunbridge Wells. It’s clear that Shahin is absolutely loving running the Jingle Bell Bar, so be sure to pop down and see him whilst you can!
Castlemas 2021 is a 10-day event at Tonbridge Castle running from 10th – 19th December. There’s Mistletoe Town where you can do some shopping, Santa’s Grotto, Jingle Bell Bar, Santa’s Workshop and of course the Igloo Theatre where you can watch live performances!
We would also like to thank Bod and Ted for Nicole’s gorgeous dress! Visit bodandted.co.uk
See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
In this episode of The Big Chat Castlemas Takeover, Nicole talks to Hannah and Ollie from Bravo Productions and the amazing organisers of Castlemas! Hannah and Ollie have been on The Big Chat once before where they spoke about how ideas for the event came about. This time around Nicole chats to them one day into Castlemas and finds out how it’s all going! There is so much excitement around this event and it’s certainly going above and beyond our expectations as it is truly magical.
Castlemas 2021 is a 10-day event at Tonbridge Castle running from 10th – 19th December. There’s Mistletoe Town where you can do some shopping, Santa’s Grotto, Jingle Bell Bar, Santa’s Workshop and of course the Igloo Theatre where you can watch live performances!
We would also like to thank Bod and Ted for Nicole’s gorgeous dress! Visit bodandted.co.uk
In this episode of The Big Chat Castlemas Takeover, Nicole talks to Mark Daniels, Ultimate Michael Buble Tribute! Nicole manages a quick chat after Mark…sorry I mean Buble’s! soundcheck right before his performance. Mark shares how he first became known as a Michael Buble Tribute, and it was actually a very happy mistake! Mark was very impressed with the igloo theatre and has never performed in one before, but I mean can many people say they have!? Nicole was also lucky enough to watch his performance and it was amazing – really puts you in the festive mood. Mark has also been on ITV and BBC and has been named the leading Michael Buble tribute!
@ultimatebubleuk Instagram
Ultimatebuble.co.uk
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Nicole speaks to Steve Nobel from The Soul Matrix. Steve Nobel is best known for his Youtube meditation transmissions where he has over 137k subscribers. Steve and Nicole talk about how he first got into spiritualism whilst on a writing retreat which has now led Steve to write 6 of his own books. Steve talks about his latest book - The Spiritual Entrepreneur - which is written for businesses and entrepreneurs who either have an interest in or who value spiritualism. Steve shares that he believes most books written about spiritualism are either too yin or to yang, but believes that he has found the right balance. Nicole and Steve discuss the current spiritual awakening that people are going through, so whether you are a newbie in this world or a total spiritual junkie, sit back and listen as Steve shares his experiences.
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n this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Nicole speaks to Holly and Lottie, founders of the Zero Waste Company. Holly and Lottie opened the Zero Waste Company on the Pantiles just over 2 years ago. In what ended up being an extremely difficult time for all businesses, not just new ones, Nicole chats with them about how the company has not only survived but thrived! Holly and Lottie discuss when things got very difficult during the lockdown for the shop/cafe and how they thought they may even have to close. Fortunately, that clearly hasn’t been the case, and Nicole chats with them both about the success of The Big Reveal - a festive event where businesses along the Pantiles revealed their Christmas window displays. So enjoy listening to the success of two friends, Holly and Lottie, and how they’re helping Tunbridge Wells be more sustainable!
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In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Nicole speaks to Jess from Vanity Fair Beauty & School. Jess is our first guest to make a return a year on! This time last year, we were just about to head into yet another lockdown and Jess reflects on what this looked like for her. Jess speaks about overcoming a multitude of problems and how she used the time in lockdown to her advantage and put all of her energy into positive growth. This has meant that after 12 years of running Vanity Fair, she has upscaled by changing premises and increasing the size of the space available. This has enabled Jess to offer more beauty courses which in turn feeds her passion for helping others start their own businesses. So sit back, relax, and get inspired!
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In this week’s episode of The Big Chat, Nicole talks with Hannah and Ollie from Bravo Productions. Excitement is building for the upcoming Castlemas event at Tonbridge castle grounds and Hannah and Ollie share how it all began. The event runs from 10th – 19th December and will be a celebration of the local area which brings the whole community together. There will be festive entertainment in The Igloo Theatre, shopping in Mistletoe Town, workshops and more! We will be taking The Big Chat to Castlemas for an EPIC takeover – we’ll be sure to keep you updated with all the festive news. So sit back, relax and dare I say it, get excited about Christmas.
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In this week’s episode of The Big, Chat Nicole speaks to Jackson from Patch Marketing. Nicole and Jackson chatting together create such energy and buzz - their personalities are super-sized for sure! Expect lots of laughter with a chat about integrity in business and in life and the beauty of helping others with no agenda. Nicole asks Jackson what his dream job to work on would be and of course, it involves dogs! Jackson also reflects on what he enjoyed about lockdown in terms of his own community and his work. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy this EPIC chat!
Links
Website patch.marketing
Instagram patch.marketing
Linkedin Jackson Clark
Twitter @Patch_Marketing
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat Nicole speaks to Anna Wharton who is a writer and print and broadcast journalist with over 20 years of experience. Nicole and Anna of course chat a lot about writing, books and the importance of reading. They also delve into the importance of being heard and how reading can help us slow down and remember to listen. Anna has always wanted to be a writer and talks about what she was prepared to do in order to become one. She also talks about her plans for the new Writing Nook where she will host workshops designed for creativity. Nicole and Anna also reflect on lockdown and how that has changed each of them.
Links
Email anna@annawharton.com
twitter @whartonswords
Instagram @whartonswords
Subscribe to substack annawharton.substack.com
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat Nicole speaks to Ailsa and Alison, the directors of the Tunbridge Wells Puppetry Festival. The festival has been taking place all week and Nicole chatted to them about all of the amazing workshops, acts and performances which have been and will be taking place. The centrepiece of the festival is the Museum of The Moon which is being showcased this weekend in Calverley Grounds. The festival itself is a fantastic way to bring the local community together after the pandemic and Nicole, Ailsa and Alison dive into this deeper. They share with Nicole their passion for creating events like these and their enthusiasm is contagious in this episode!
Links
website: https://twpuppetryfestival.org/
Instagram: @twpuppetryfest
Facebook: @twpuppetryfestival
Twitter: @twpuppetryfest
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In this week’s episode of The Big Chat Nicole speaks to Hannah from Love Inc Ltd. Hannah and Nicole speak about how life always seems to present a master plan, the importance of failing and imposter syndrome amongst many other topics! Hannah talks about what led her to start Love Inc Ltd, what was holding her back and what ultimately drives her forwards. Hannah truly believes that putting a dream out into the world it has enabled her to do so many amazing things including being able to raise money for charity through her business. The message Hannah wants to spread is that it is the responsibility of everyone to put love out into the world which we LOVE! Enjoy this fast-paced and super chatty episode with a big smile.
Links
Website Loveincltd.co.uk
Facebook @LoveIncLtd
Twitter @loveincltd
Instagram @loveincltd
In this week’s episode of The Big Chat Nicole speaks to Polly from the Pickering Cancer drop-in Centre. Polly and Nicole have an inspiring discussion about the importance of love and laughter in the darkest of times. Polly talks about her personal experiences not just with cancer, but in all walks of life which led her to found the charity. Polly truly believes in the importance of combining emotional care with traditional medicine in order to deal with the pain that cancer can bring to families. The Pickering Cancer drop-in Centre is a huge support for the Tunbridge Wells community, and it is so inspiring to hear more from the person behind it all. So, grab a tissue and have a listen to this emotional episode and get to know more about the Pickering Cancer drop-in Centre with Polly.
You can find out more about Pickering Cancer Centre here:
Website Pickeringcancercentre.org.uk
Facebook @pickeringcancer
Twitter @PickeringCancer
Instagram @pickeringcancer
In this week's episode of The Big Chat Nicole speaks to Career Happiness Mentor Soma Ghosh. Soma speaks of her own personal experiences in the workplace and how they drove her to develop her business which helps people make the right career decisions, looking at how they can improve existing career options or embark on new adventures. Sharing her own story with us, it’s clear to see why Soma has such a successful podcast of her own and they talk about career breaks and how parents can also help their children look to make the right decision when looking at career paths. With many of our younger population going to university’s this weekend, this is the perfect time to grab a cuppa and listen to this caring kind approach to how we can all make our working lives happier, not just for our next generation but also ourselves.
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In episode 3 of the Big Chat local & live takeover, Nicole & Giles couldn’t help but fall in love talking to Code: Marla who make bass-heavy EDM with a hard rock edge. Combining electronic beats and synths with live guitars, bass and vocals, C:M bring a party to every stage they play. The C:M sound is ever-evolving and mashes up elements of dubstep, drum n bass, rock and metal into a hard-hitting but danceable beast of a sound. Giles was particularly in his element when this episode got really tech-savvy, exploring the ways old & new come together to make this truly explosive and unique sound create
a total way of its own
www.codemarla.com
www.instagram.com/codemarla
www.youtube.com/codemarla
Last up but by no means least to chat to Nicole & Giles for their Local & Live takeover is one of the festivals main artists & sponsors Jason How. Jason is the Chairman of Rotosound Music Strings as well as a Songwriter, vocals and guitar for Soda Prism
Based in Kent, his band encompass the ‘Canterbury Sound’ of Mellotron drenched pastoral harmonies, with acoustic guitars, melodic bass and tribal drums.
Surreal lyrical themes mixed with hard-hitting English indignation social commentary. We love talking about eclectic tastes & finding out more about where he draws inspiration from, far from the conventional routes that’s for sure. He also talks of tales of Rotasoumd strings music & why he chose to champion the Local & Live Festival by supporting Paul Dunton’s amazing initiative that brings local talent to our town, delivering this free four-day event to the masses.
Plastic Dreams and Lovers is his latest solo album from this year...you can find out more about Jason at www.Jasonhow.com
Instagram: saxomat
First of our four Local & Live Takeover episodes are ‘The Act’ The Act are a young, award-winning, Alt-rock band from Kent. Winners of the DV247 national songwriting competition, they wowed the guests at the TW Festival & even more so chatting to Nicole & Giles backstage. Having featured already on ITV news, Roger Daltrey (the legendary rock star, frontman of The Who) said The Act “will have a great career ahead of them” and that “they show real musical talent and amazing chemistry”.
The Act draws from the world of rock, punk, pop, country, hip hop, folk and many other influences to produce a unique sound. Born of natural chemistry their songs and performances belie their age….discovered by ‘How to be in a band’ Founder Jason West, we also got to talk to him personally about his reasons for setting up this inspirational school which helps create & showcase all over kent & beyond….with over 30 years experience in the industry he knows exactly how to help kids of all ages & abilities reach their highest potential & form bands as well as navigating the many obstacles that might throw some off course in our current day & age of music & industry.
Second up of our local & live takeover episodes,
Nicole & Giles were blown away talking to Anna after watching her set live straight beforehand. Anna Howie is a singer/ songwriter from London. Her last EP ‘ an idiots guide to love ‘ recorded in Nashville went to number 5 in the UK country chart - her new album ‘the Friday night club’ produced by Lukas Drinkwater at Polyphonic Studios is to be released in the new year. Anna is currently gigging with her band Andy Evans on guitar, Roger Nunn on drums and Harry Whitty on bass. She is wonderfully warm, charismatic &
Charming - with a wonderful sense of humour & the energy & rapport she has with her fellow band members transmutes through her music. We LOVED this chat. So much fun & the perfect way to roll into part two of our four-part episode day
Instagram: @annahowie
Facebook: Annahowiemusic
In this week's Big Chat Episode we speak to Business & Life Coach expert Nina Madden. She talks about her desire for adventure & how she first became interested in the world of NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) & the power of coaching. Big chat host Nicole was lucky enough to train with Nina during lockdown & they discuss different techniques, topics & insights. They also discuss the brand new spin-off show inspired by coaches like Nina that Nicole will be launching later on this year, titled ‘Coco Chats’
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In this weeks episode, Nicole chats to the formidable force that is Mrs Mombastic. Best known for her controversial blogs & opinion pieces, she is more importantly a mother of two who knows her mind. She shares her experiences & insights that have influenced many throughout lockdown & beyond. Her humour, honesty & integrity is refreshingly real, someone who has inspired Nicole with her ‘Keeping it real’ attitude....we hope you enjoy their chat as much as they did
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This week's episode of the Big Chat 💬 Nicole talks to not one but THREE amazing guests, who all featured at the phenomenal Fringe Festival that’s been running for the past two weeks in Tunbridge Wells. Cool, calm & collects Joe from epic band Faded Shades talks us through how he got to where he is and what keeps them all going...
Then we have a burst of electric energy with the amazing Mama G who sprinkles her fairy dust magically in the middle of this Fringe festival take-over Episode.
Last but not least is highly talented with a heart of pure gold Mollie from Biddle - she cuts deep into how she started out and the healing power of music & creativity.
What better way to celebrate the last two weeks that’s been full of the most creative dynamic acts the town has seen come to light since lockdown, we wish we could have chatted to them all!!!!
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This week's episode of the Big Chat, ended up turning our Bitezsize chat on its head….Giles Paley-Philips, Big Chat producer - chats to The Big Chat Host Nicole about what she’s been up to, where she is heading at the moment and a few of the new exciting things coming up for them both in the world of podcasts.
Nicole talks about her recent introduction to Life Coaching, what inspired her to train & Giles speaks about his own experience of taking part in some Life coaching sessions.
We love listening to these guys natter, always deeply insightful but light-hearted at the same time - we love a good old Big Chat catch up and that is exactly what we bring to you this week!
In this weeks episode, Nicole took to a Top Secret Operation when she spoke to the infamous TW Yarnbomber. Woollen delights have been popping up all over the town for the past months and years, from post boxes to bus stops, the yarnbomber tells us all about her adventures through her creations that she gifts the town with so generously, her inspiration behind the crusade to make the town a happier place and why it’s so important she remains anonymous.
For more ways to get involved in these yarnbombing plights, you can find her on Instagram at @tunbridgewellsyarnbomber
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This week Nicole talks with Dawn Stanford from Nourish Community Foodbank
Dawn is a 48 year old young mum to 4, serial volunteer and after years of believing she was worth little she is still shell shocked at receiving an award for doing something she’s loves doing
Dawn recieved an email a month ago and then a call from the cabinet office a week before it was announced that she had been awarded a British Empire Medal for services to the community particularly during covid!
Debbie King, best known for her amazing tribe of mini as well as young adult actors & actresses, singers & dancers & many more uplifting inspiring varieties of performances that her incredible school Talentz turn out - decided to really put TW back on the map after lockdown.
Frustrated by the number of creative restrictions we have all been put under, but non more than the theatrical industries - she only went & launched a fringe festival, especially for Tunbridge Wells.
She talks openly to Nicole, with many moments of humour, about how she got to where she is today & her plans for this phenomenal local event soon to be taking place.
Ed is, quite frankly - EPIC. Nicole chats to Ed freely about his impressive career and how it led him to be a now multiple business owner, with a passion for people, events and also his huge heart that helps so many needy causes and charities when and where he can. In this high energy fun conversation, they talk about how his businesses 73 Media, which was absolutely flying before the pandemic - got hugely but being outdoor event-driven. Where most might give up, instead he and his amazing team diversified and switched it up to become one of the best digital event providers throughout these tough times. With many more exciting projects on the go, he is a true entrepreneur with a great sense of humour that you can’t help but warm to, he is a joy to be around and you can tell that Nicole could have kept chatting for a lot longer than this episode allowed! She also had the pleasure of coaching this Creative, charismatic and very very smart individual - and has no doubts how successful all that he does will be in the future as he really puts the work in and cares about his people so much. Enjoy this episode as Nicole and Ed chat about business, life experiences and a whole lot more. If Insights and laughs are what you after, this ticks these boxes
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In today’s Episode Nicole speaks to Emily Harris all about her bespoke fashion coaching company ‘Excel in Fashion’ Nicole personally coached Emily during the lockdown, who impressively after many years working in some of the most impressive fashion sectors in the UK and beyond - decided to set up her own business.
Being personally hit by the pandemic and out of work after being made redundant, she took it upon herself to scoop up all the information she had learnt being an employee and offer a service to the sector that she knew was in demand and needed.
She now coaches and helps those wanting to start-up companies in fashion, whether it’s creating their own brand or promoting products - she talks openly with Nicole about the way she works with them from the very beginning on ALL the processes they need. A strategic woman with a soft heart and a real passion for people, she talks to Nicole about what she enjoys the most. Sharp-witted and incredibly talented, Excel in Fashion is a fantastic way for Emily to give back to a community she worked within for years but perhaps hasn’t had the support new businesses need in this industry.
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In today’s episode Nicole chats to Gemma Oliver of VPA...which is a virtual PA business helping support growing companies. Nicole had the pleasure of personally business life Coaching Gemma and found her to be one of the most energetic happy people she has come across. She was made redundant before lockdown but rather than be defeated, she used the opportunity to set up and start her very own virtual PA business. She talks about the ups and downs and how her family’s support has meant everything and why she is so passionate about offering the very elite PA service she has developed at VPA.
Her VPA community is already growing and we know you will absolutely love listening to Gemma chatting to Nicole on this very special podcast episode which really shows how positivity and determination can make anything possible.
Nicole chats to Tim about his executive travel service, how he ended up in this world of concierge chauffeuring and what drives him to deliver the most impeccable experience for all of his customers.
He tells us about his motivators, his family and his values that continue to drive him on to working with some amazing clients, celebrities and much more.
Tim is such a happy positive upbeat individual, wanting to bring his premium executive service to EVERYONE he meets...you can see why each and every one of his customers love him so very much.
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In this weeks episode, Nicole talks to local fitness fanatic Alison Abel. Alison not only runs hugely successful PT classes, both group sessions and one to ones - but has also launched her incredibly popular Fit in 20 coaching programme. As if that wasn’t enough, she also now coaches and runs a local girls football academy and helps hundreds of mums with their fitness goals and nutrition. A busy mum to two boys, she knows how important physical and mental health is to all of us and shares her own story of her own ups and downs and opens up about how she has ended up becoming the positive upbeat force that she is today. Family and fitness continue to be the key theme throughout this heartwarming chat
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Nicole speaks to Tom Burgess from Sweat-it in this weeks episode....he talks about their coach-lead sessions that are tailored and personalised towards each individual member and how his performance-focused programmes ensure the very highest standard of training. He speaks about his passion for community and his determination to deliver the very best experience to all of his clients, his passion for what he does, his amazing team and how they navigated the last 12 months of ups and downs. Tom is an extremely innovative individual and his strong work and life ethics come through on this thorough but frank chat
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Nicole chats to Jaime Cooke, Founder of SPN Studios in Tunbridge Wells & Sevenoaks about the extensive journey that brought her to where she is today.
She talks us through her life, her family & her experiences - which have all weaved together to create the SPN community offering we know and love so much today. She tells us how injuries led her to discover Pilates and then onto more health exploration, which has led her to want to share and help people in our everyday world.
A fiercely positive magnetic entrepreneur with a gentle heart, prepare to be inspired at every corner during this honest & open chat
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In this week's Big Chat Episode, Nicole is super excited to be talking to Anna Robertshaw about her exciting new plans to take her mixture of yoga, movement and spiritual mindset out into the world. With her brand new offering launching May 1st, she tells us all about her journey getting to where she is today - a mum of three boys, a yoga teacher, as well as a Reiki / Nada protocol and Melt instructor, to name just a few. Anna has such a gentle and warm way of explaining in depth why she loves what she does and we also get to be the first to hear about her exciting plans for the Summer and how we can all benefit from a bit more peace and harmony in our lives
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Nicole talks to Arthur Ponsenby from The Right Tuition Company about his background in education, what makes a great tutor and his insights and hopes for our education system.
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Nicole talks to Paul Dunton of Local and Live about his own musical journey and the Local and Live festival that has grown considerably over the last few years, which predominantly provides local singer songwriters and bands the chance to showcase original work.
Paul also talks about his passion for Golf an love of Tunbridge Wells
Nicole talks to Jess Gibson of The TN Card, who tells her all about the community scheme that is supporting local independent businesses in Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and Sevenoaks and also the upcoming Podcast The TN Catchup produced by The Big Chat
Nicole talks to Ralph De Lisle, founder of IKODrinks about the philosophy around the company and the origins of Yerba Mate, their natural energy drink.
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Nicole talks to Leigh Roberts who has been a colour specialist for over 30 years. They discuss Leigh's career journey and what it's been like running a business during the pandemic.
For more info on Leigh Roberts please go to: http://www.leighroberts.co.uk/
Nicole talks to Matt and James Dunford, owners of Fine Grind Coffee Bars. The brothers discuss their journey from travelling in Thailand where they discovered their love of coffee to investing all their time and money into starting up a business.
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Nicole talks to Lucie Merkl, founder of The Bloom Foundry, a beautiful florist and antique shop in Tunbridge Wells, about her lifelong love of flowers and breaking into the antique industry.
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After the news story about a candidate putting his CV into a box of doughnuts, we discuss how far would you go to get seen by a potential employer
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Nicole talks to Vicky Heath, who has recently shot to fame appearing on ITV's The Voice. Vicky discusses her lifelong love of singing, her experiences on the show, and that special moment on her blind audition when Will.i.am turned around.
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As we look to life after lockdown, Nicole and Giles discuss the brave new world we're entering into and what positives we can take from the past 18 months living through a global pandemic.
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Nicole talks to Tom Swift, owner of Cluecracker Games and Wicked Productions. Tom originally trained as an actor and has worked in that field for many years, he is also a theatre producer and is one of the masterminds behind Cluecracker Games, Tunbridge Wells award-winning Escape Rooms.
Tom talks about keeping busy and creative over the past year and how at three o'clock in the morning he came up with his latest venture 'The Game Show Live' the perfect antidote to lockdown.
For more information on The Game Show Live and how to book please visit: https://www.cluecrackergames.co.uk/game-show-live/4595200018
Nicole talks to well known Street Artist Hugh Whittaker about the highs and lows of his fast-tracked career - still an incredibly young age, Hugh's work is now getting more and more national & global recognition. We listen to his empowering & positive story, where he tells us how and why it all began.
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Recently Radox had consumers in a lather about his product ‘Radox For Men’ with people accusing it of being sexist. Bathers complained that it had labeled ‘For Men’ on its Muscles Therapy Bath Soak range. Radox are now removing the men bit - is it getting ridiculous - or actually do they have a point?
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Well known and much-loved Podcast host / Author / Musician Giles Paley-Phillips chats to Nicole in this exciting episode about the many adventures he has encountered in his life so far, the how's and why’s of where he is today, and the latest news about his brand new book ‘Blank' which speaks about all of his BLANK podcast guests and journey with the award-winning show. He is also The Big Chat amongst other Chatty Podcasts Producer so we are extremely excited to share this one to one chat finally with everyone, talking about all things Giles
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With most of us at home at the moment, Alexa is a tool that many of us are using on a daily basis but while it’s been hailed as a great asset to family life by playing music, answering questions and helping with homework, has this ‘home assistant’ gone bad? Kids have started treating it like a slave, adults rely on it for gaining information rather than seeking it for themselves and it sits there, a 24/7 servant, in your house, just quietly listening. What’s the good/the bad/the stories you’ve heard?
This week Nicole talks to psychologist, author and podcaster, Fiona Murden. Fiona has spent her career working with some of the worlds most successful business leaders, entrepreneurs, surgeons, athletes and prominent people from across different industries.
Fiona talks to Nicole about her podcast Dot to Dot, her latest book Mirror Thinking which explores the importance of role models in shaping our lives through the power of the brain’s mirror neutron and the ups and downs of social media.
For more information on Fiona and her work please visit: https://fionamurden.com/
In Episode 3 of The Big Chat, Nicole chats to Ken Mathieson of Mathieson Associates about the ups & downs of running any size business in the current climate. With ongoing financial, tax and accountancy needs, he speaks to Nicole about the challenges he has personally found in his accountancy firm, handling the extra advice that has been required by his clients over recent months. He speaks fondly of what sets Mathieson Associates apart from other organisations, which is truly his hands-on approach of speaking directly and dealing with clients, with a caring and nurturing attitude. The personal service they deliver, no matter what size your business may be, is integral in unlocking clients full potential.
http://mathiesonassociates.co.uk
In Episode 4 of The Big Chat, Nicole has an extra Christmassy chat to Jessica Butler, founder and owner of the Tunbridge Wells based Beauty Boutique 'Vanity Fair’ as well as her recently launched Vanity Fair School of Beauty. She chats to Jess about all things beautiful, the challenging past few months during lockdown, as well as all the positives to come out of it.
Jessica is a young ambitious entrepreneur and has great advice for anyone out there hoping to start a new venture....she also brings an extra special bit of glamour & sparkle for our last episode before Christmas!!
https://www.vanityfairbeauty.co.uk
In Episode 2 of The Big Chat, Nicole talks to Steve Gurney Founder & MD of IndexDigital, long-standing Tunbridge Wells media mogul, all about his journey from published media to digital, his views on what the town needs and how to get best seen with your new business.
With experience spanning over decades in this arena, Steve gives great insight into the best way to get noticed in this diverse and competitive market.
In this weeks episode of The Big Chat, we talk to Wendy Read, Founder & Managing Director of HR Revolution about all things HR. She talks about bringing and keeping positivity in the workplace and how HR can help navigate difficult times such as those we have been experiencing. Wendy’s calm, cool and clear perspective on what’s needed in the HR sector gives great insight into what help is out there for all size businesses.
For more information on HR Revolution: https://hrrevolution.co.uk/
For more information on The Big Chat Podcast, That Podcast Productions and Chatty Hatter:
https://chattyhatter.com/