In this special episode for Black History Month, Stuart catches up with CEO of the Diversity Business Incubator, Jabo Butera, as they discuss the importance of Black History Month and what it means for the region.  The discussion also reflects on the recent riots which swept the UK recently, including sadly, the South West, and the impact this has had on all communities.

Also in this episode, the Lord Lieutenant of Devon, David Fursdon faces Stuart Elford’s Chamber of Secrets, whilst the 60 Seconds Charity Pitch spotlight falls on the Alice Cross Centre.

Produced by Fresh Air Studios, Podcast Production Company
Supported by Westcotts 

In this episode Stuart discovers exactly what it means to be a Lord Lieutenant for the county.  How do you become a Lord Lieutenant?  What are the duties?  And what are the responsibilities?  David Fursdon has all the answers, as well as tales of some remarkable encounters with the late Queen Elizabeth II and Duke of Edinburgh.  David also recalls his life before becoming Lord Lieutenant of Devon, from his time in the military to becoming a teacher. 

Also in this episode, Jim & Sam McNeill from Global Warriors face Stuart Elford’s Chamber of Secrets, whilst the 60 Seconds Charity Pitch spotlight falls on YMCA Plymouth.

Recording at Fresh Air Studios, Podcast Studios and Production

In this special episode, Stuart talks to Mark Ormrod, the Plymouth-based former Royal Marine Commando who lost three limbs after triggering an IUD in Afghanistan in 2007. Following his recovery, Mark went on to win eleven medals as an athlete competing in two Invictus Games and was given a Pride of Britain Award, as well as receiving an MBE for his services to the Marines and veteran community. Mark's story is told frankly - and he doesn't hold back on the graphic descriptions of his injuries and the suicidal thoughts he had during his recovery. But Mark's amazing humour and determination win through... and he reveals his unique ways of scaring the neighbourhood children at Halloween!

The Devon Business Show podcast partner is Westcotts and Stuart is talking to Sean Bolter, their Business Services Director. Sean reveals why Westcotts is the Show's podcast partner (as well as sponsor of In Conversation With…) and hints at what we can expect from Westcotts on the day. He also tells us what the Devon Business Show means to Westcotts and the benefits of being an exhibitor last year. Sean also tells us about his love of food and fitness! The Devon Business Show is at Plymouth Pavilions on Wednesday 11th October.

Supported by Westcotts: Stuart is out on location in this special episode recorded on board the tall ship, Pelican of London. The ship is operated by Seas Your Future and gives young people the opportunity to learn the skills involved in sailing all over the world, as well as carrying out important maritime scientific research. Stuart meets Adrian, the CEO of Seas Your Future, who explains what businesses can do to help, then scientist and graphic designer, Hannah talks about the research and Watch Leader, Mara discusses what Pelican of London means to young people. Stuart then meets First Mate, Tasmin and the ship's Captain, Ben who discuss the responsibilities involved in the remarkable voyages. Finally, Stuart meets Harry who has benefitted immensely from being on board and has been dog-sitting the Chamber's Wellbeing Officer, Charlie, while Stuart has been exploring the decks.

Supported by Westcotts: In this Charity Special, Stuart talks to Tanya, John and Dwain about their charities, the work they undertake, the importance of volunteers and the various challenges that charities face during a cost-of-living crisis. They also reveal how charities can support each other, rather than compete against each other. This episode also sees Emily Pearson, Apprenticeship Manager of Pennon Group face the Chamber Chief's Quickfire Questions.

Supported by Westcotts: In this Business Show Special, Stuart meets the three Devon Business Show partners: People and Skills (City College Plymouth), Planet (YGS Landscapes) and Purpose (Wildanet). We find out why these amazing businesses are partnering the Show, what it means to them, what we can expect to see on the day and what advice they have for other businesses attending the Devon Business Show at Plymouth Pavilions on Wednesday 11th October.

Supported by Westcotts: In this Emergency Services Special, Stuart is joined by three very special guests, in conversation together. Chief Superintendent Matt Longman is the Plymouth Police Commander, Gavin Ellis is Chief Fire Officer for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Services and Will Warrender is Chief Executive of the South-West Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust. They discuss everything from working through Covid to the G7 conference in Cornwall. This episode also sees interdisciplinary artist Azza Gasim face the Chamber Chief's Quickfire Questions.

Supported by Westcotts: In this Research Special, Stuart is joined by two guests. In Part 1 it's Professor Oliver Hanemann, Lead at Brain Tumour Research. Then in Part 2 it's Professor Icarus Allen, Chief Executive of Plymouth Marine Laboratory. Both guests discuss their vital work, what brought them to Devon, their inspiration and their hopes for the future. This episode also sees John Batten of For Celebrations face the Chamber Chief's Quickfire Questions.

Supported by Westcotts: Stuart uncovers the Brigadier's military history from when he joined the Royal Marines, through his tours of duty, right up to his new role running Devonport Dockyard. Stuart also finds out why being a larger chap prevented the Brigadier from joining the Royal Air Force! This episode also sees Gemma Harris from MLA College face the Chamber Chief's Quickfire Questions.

Supported by Westcotts: Stuart is joined by Richard May, CEO of Plymouth and South Devon Free Port, Elaine Hayes, Interim CEO of the National Marine Park and Richard Allan, Harbour Master and CEO of Cattewater Harbour Commissioners. This episode is something of a marine special, as Stuart finds out how important the blue economy is to the region and how Plymouth's waterside businesses, ports and history have had an impact, not just on Devon but on the whole of the UK and beyond. This episode also sees Tasha Vigille of Black Wall Street London in Barnstaple face the Chamber Chief's Quickfire Questions.

Supported by Westcotts: Stuart is joined by Felicity Cornelius-Mercer, wife of Plymouth Moor View MP, Johnny Mercer. Felicity has occasionally hit headlines due to her lightning quick wit on Twitter, where she has regularly dealt with trolls in her own unique way. This podcast reveals the woman behind the Tweets! We discover her early years growing up as part of a family that ran its own business, her years of travel, becoming the wife of a soldier and the ups and downs of bring up a young family, whilst supporting a partner who is a front bench minister. And listen out for a mystery guest that makes a flying visit midway through the interview! This episode also sees Sam Armondi from Thought Quarter face the Chamber Chief's Quickfire Questions.

In this episode Stuart takes a trip around the world, from the comfort of the studio.
Firstly, he chats to husband-and-wife founders of Global Warrior, Jim & Sam McNeill who both have fascinating histories that take in everything from rugby to supplying equipment to blockbuster movies. They now explore some of the world’s most extreme environments from their Devon base.
Stuart then meets Rebecca Day of Rebecca Day 360.  Rebecca scours the globe sourcing ingredients and builds humanitarian projects.  We learn about some of her extraordinary journeys, the communities and individuals she’s helped and how she has experienced the world’s most notorious airport runway!
This episode also sees Simon Hallett, Chair and Owner of Plymouth Argyle Football Club face Stuart Elford’s Chamber of Secrets, whilst the 60 Seconds Charity Pitch spotlight falls on the Primrose Foundation.

Supported by Westcotts: Stuart is once again joined by two guests: local legend of many amazing restaurants in Plymouth and Exeter, Edmond Davari and Asmi Stanley who is a mortgage and protection advisor. Both Edmond and Asmi left their birth countries due to differing traumatic events. Edmond eventually ran the Theatre Royal Plymouth restaurant, before starting his own restaurant chain, which saw him employ hundreds of people in Plymouth and Exeter. Asmi began her journey of freedom working for Disney before she entered the financial world. Following management roles for banks, she became self-employed, helping people find their dream homes. Plus, we welcome Sally Cope of Paignton and District Chamber of Commerce to face the Chamber Chief's Quickfire Questions!

Supported by Westcotts: In this new format, Stuart is joined by two guests! Councillor Rebecca Smith talks about her work as a Councillor but also her amazing work campaigning against violence towards women and girls. She also touches on the highs and lows of interacting with social media armchair critics. Stuart is also joined by Matt Tiller. Matt discusses growing up on Plymouth Hoe when his parents ran a hotel there, his early journalism career at Plymouth Sound and how a chance meeting with a fellow Argyle fan saw him help set up the Jack Leslie Campaign, resulting in the stunning statue you can now see at Home Park. This episode also sees Lindsay Brown of Access 4 Lofts become the first willing victim of the Chamber Chief's Quickfire Questions!

In this bumper season finale of 2022 - Stuart chats with Peter Vosper. Peter has been running Vospers for decades. He talks about his father setting up the business, his early days in accountancy, taking over Vospers, his role in the business today and of course, he discusses his favourite cars! Stuart is then joined by Stephanie Marsh, Employment Lawyer at Wolferstans Solicitors. Stephanie talks about her journey through law, as well as the numerous sports that she not only follows, but also competes in. Finally, Stuart is joined by a third guest: Dan Silver who set up the charity, Dash of Silver, with family and friends, following Dan's cancer diagnosis. He outlines the purpose of the charity, who they're helping and where he sees the charity going in the future.

It's been a great day at the show and members of the Devon and Plymouth Chamber share some of their highlights, what we can expect from the Chamber in the future and some great news for the region from the BCC Awards. Podcast sponsored by Westcotts.

Talking to Sarah Brown, Client Marketing Director at Bigwave Marketing, and Anna Peachey, Inclusive Economy Team Manager at The Plymouth Charter. Podcast sponsored by Westcotts.

Talking to Stuart Pedlar, Digital Lead at our podcast sponsors Westcotts about some of the digital solutions they can offer to businesses.

The art of networking and communication with Steve Bolt, Business Development Director at BCR Associates and Tom Moore, Business Development Director at Acronyms. Podcast sponsored by Westcotts.

Talking with David Massey, Educational Lead and Apprenticeship Manager, and Shaun Thompson, Security Operations Manager from Bluescreen IT. Podcast sponsored by Westcotts.

Talking about marine, manufacturing, construction and all things digital with Tony Watkins, Sales Team Leader at Airband and John Lawler, Director at Waterways Drainage. Podcast supported by Westcotts.

Talking about sustainability, environment and business support with Louise Manico, Communications and PR Manager at Plymouth CityBus and Melissa Irace, Project Manager at Made in Devon and Buy with Confidence. Podcast supported by Westcotts.

Princess Yachts is a legendary Plymouth business that has a global reputation for manufacturing unique, high quality, luxurious yachts.  In this special episode of In Conversation With… Stuart visited their Newport Street HQ in Plymouth and sat down with CEO, Will Green where they discussed the logistics and challenges of manufacturing such an amazing product.

Will also talks about his life, his career and what living and working in Devon means to him.  And as a boat owner himself, Stuart does his best to talk Will into lending him a Princess Yacht.  But will he succeed…?

Supported by Westcotts
Produced by Fresh Air Studios Podcast Production in Plymouth

Talking to Kim Downer, Sales Manager at Duke of Cornwall Hotel, and Jo Butler, Manager at Conference Plymouth. Podcasts sponsored by Westcotts

We talk to Lindsey Hall from Real Ideas Organisation...our Purpose sponsor. Podcasts sponsored by Westcotts

We talk to founder Steve Warren-Brown of YGS Landscapes...our Planet sponsor. Podcasts sponsored by Westcotts

We talk to Mike Jones, Employer Solutions Manager at City College Plymouth...our People sponsor.

As we count down to the Devon Business Show at Plymouth Pavilions on Wednesday 28th September, Stuart Elford is talking to the main sponsors. Westcotts Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers are the podcast partner for these preview episodes as well as our 'Live at the Show' podcasts. Managing Partner at Westcotts, Shona Godefroy, has been talking to Stuart for this special edition of 'In Conversation With' about the challenges of their recent rebrand and what help and advice they have for businesses of all shapes and sizes.

As we count down to the Devon Business Show at Plymouth Pavilions on Wednesday 28th September, Stuart Elford is talking to the main sponsors. The show's themes are People, Planet and Purpose. City College Plymouth is sponsoring the People element, so Tanya Head, Director of Adult Skills & Business Growth, and Emma Lindsay, Curriculum Lead & Development Officer for Business, English & ESOL, joined Stuart for this special edition of 'In Conversation With' to discuss how the college is working with people in the local area and looking to meet the needs of the business community.

Ahead of the Devon Business Show at Plymouth Pavilions on Wednesday 28th September, Stuart Elford is talking to the main sponsors. The show's themes are People, Planet and Purpose. YGS Landscapes is sponsoring the Planet element, so Steve Warren-Brown from YGS is on this special edition of In Conversation With... to discusses his story, his business, why they're sponsoring the Devon Business Show and what the theme of Planet means to Steve, his business and his customers.

Stuart chats with Ben Mee of Dartmoor Zoo. Ben's remarkable story saw him go from personal tragedy to buying Dartmoor Zoo, face financial struggle, write the book, We Bought a Zoo and then saw his story end up on the big screen, where he was played by Matt Damon. Stuart is then joined by Dr Jasmine Kelland from University of Plymouth. Jasmine's book: Caregiving Fathers in the Workplace - Organisational Responses and the Fatherhood Forfeit, challenges the stereotypes and attitudes around the role of working fathers.

Stuart chats with Toby Gorniak MBE of Street Factory. Toby takes us through his incredible story, from fleeing racism in Poland to settling in Plymouth; and getting an MBE for the work he's done to help so many people in the city. Stuart is then joined by Kathryn Askew Smith from City Fibre. Kathryn reveals how City Fibre is helping to keep businesses connected throughout Devon and beyond. She also has a valuable insight on how to make the perfect curry!

Stuart chats with Dr Alan Butler of Pride in Plymouth. Alan discusses Plymouth's Pride Event weekend which takes place at Plymouth Albion's rugby ground on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th August. He also talks through his own experience of coming out, his work as with the Box and why Pride events all over the world are still important and still relevant for so many people and their communities.

Following Plymouth Argyle’s FA Cup win over Liverpool, revisit our interview with Simon Hallett, Argyle's Chair and Owner. This podcast also explores his hopes of what could have been – recorded in August '24 – just three months after Wayne Rooney became their then manager.
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If you’re a Plymouth Argyle supporter, you’ll be green with envy as Stuart meets Simon Hallett.  They discuss how Simon divides his time between the United States and Plymouth, his plans for Home Park, the arrival of Wayne Rooney and how the fans are always his priority.

We also discover what Simon’s wife thinks about his playing skills … on the ukelele!

This episode also sees Dawn Melville & Elinor Eaton of Micronomy face Stuart Elford’s Chamber of Secrets, whilst the 60 Seconds Charity Pitch spotlight falls on Plymouth Hub

Produced by Fresh Air Studios, the podcast production company in Plymouth, with seven podcast studios for Devon and the South West.

Supported by Westcotts

Stuart chats with Nick Hutton of SailGP. Nick discusses the significance of the Great Britain Sail Grand Prix coming to Plymouth on 30th and 31st July 2022; and what it means for Britain's Ocean City. He also talks through his childhood in Devon, the early days of sailing and his greatest achievements. The interview also touches on what items of clothing it's best not to forget, when undertaking a long sailing voyage!

Stuart chats with James Mackenzie-Blackman, CEO of Theatre Royal Plymouth. James talks about his extensive experience in travel, theatre and the arts - a journey that led him back to his hometown of Plymouth and to his dream job. Stuart is then joined by Dave Meadows from Pushed. Dave discusses his time at ITV, how he ended up setting up his own business and the fascinating clients and projects he's worked with along the way, from James Martin to Gus Honeybun.

Stuart chats with William Telford, Business Editor for Plymouth Live. William outlines his career in journalism, the fascinating characters he's met, what types of businesses have caught his journalistic eye over the years and reveals his street-dancing alter ego. Stuart is then joined by Mark Trewin, Chief Transformation Officer at City College Plymouth and Jamie Fernell-Smith, Executive Chair of C-Learning and Director of Delling Cloud. Mark and Jamie talk about City College Plymouth becoming a Google Reference College. They outline what this means for the College, its staff and students, as well as detailing how Google's technology can be utilised by businesses of all types and sizes.

Stuart Elford chats with the Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon and Cornwall, Alison Hernandez. Alison outlines the importance of her role for the region, the important issues she's committed to tackling locally and discusses her journey from growing up in Devon to where she is now. Stuart is then joined by Rich Adams, the University of Plymouth's Business Engagement Manager. Rich talks about what his role entails and how SME's can get involved with the University in ways that benefit the students, the University and local businesses.

Stuart Elford chats with the British Chambers of Commerce's Director General, Shevaun Haviland. Shevaun shares her fascinating personal history with Stuart, from working in the Disney organisation to working at the heart of the UK Government. She also shares her inspirations and her ideas on the future of business in the UK. Stuart is then joined by inventor and children's author, Rob Holmes. Rob's amazing journey began with a remarkable chance meeting and a bizarre coincidence, which has led to him being able to invent items and create stories that have helped countless children and families across the world.

Stuart Elford chats with Simon Jupp MP about his journey to becoming an MP - including his extensive career as a radio presenter. Simon then outlines his work as an MP and how sometimes negative national headlines can have an impact on positive work being carried out at local levels. Stuart is then joined by Stella Smith of Pirkx. Pirkx is a national employee benefit package. Stella explains how it all got started and why. She also discusses the important work she does for charities, including the Robert Kennedy Human Rights Organisation.

Stuart chats with former BBC Spotlight presenter, Justin Leigh about his extensive broadcasting career with the BBC - his early days getting into journalism, his most interesting encounters and his fascinating new role, training the next generation of journalists. Stuart is then joined by Steve Ricketts of Sherford to discuss skills and training at Sherford, the pressures, challenges and sheer joy of creating a new town, as well as the opportunities it brings to individuals and communities throughout the area.

Stuart Elford chats with former CEO Theatre Royal Plymouth, Adrian Vinken about his fascinating time running one of the UK's leading theatres - the initial challenges during his early days, the triumphant productions and the fascinating characters he's met along the way. Stuart is then joined by Jeremy Hayward of Lloyds Bank. Jeremy is Lloyds Banking Group's Ambassador for the South West of England. Jeremy discusses how the Bank is assisting businesses in the region during these busy times, as well as other issues such as the environment and diversity. This interview took place at the height of lockdown during late Summer 2021.

Stuart Elford chats with local NFU Director, Melanie Squires about the challenges facing our region's farmers, why she would recommend farming as a career, modern farming technology and how farmers and local businesses can support each other. Stuart is then joined by Jabo Butera for the Chamber Made section. Jabo shares his personal story about his family's experiences with genocide in Rwanda, levelling-up, his work with Diversity Business Incubator and the reason why a huge part of his life is something close to most of our hearts, coffee!

Chief Executive Stuart Elford chats with Plymouth City Council Leader, Nick Kelly about his thoughts on Plymouth's potential, successes and future. Stuart is then joined by Steve Warren-Brown - Steve's deeply personal story involves the unique history of his family's business and the reasons why he publicly highlights issues with men's mental health issues. On a lighter note, he discusses his alternative career as a children's author.

Elinor Eaton & Dawn Melville run Micronomy – an enterprise that looks into the micro-interactions of businesses, in order for them to focus on their bigger picture.  Elinor and Dawn also talk about their past projects, health issues and even stand-up comedy!

This episode also sees Plymouth comedy lagend Suzy Bennett face Stuart Elford’s Chamber of Secrets, whilst the 60 Seconds Charity Pitch spotlight falls on Jeremiah’s Journey.

Supported by Westcotts
Produced by Fresh Air Studios, Podcast Production in Devon

Alison Edgar is a well-known, constantly upbeat, writer, business mentor and entrepreneur. But what makes her tick? How did she get to where she is today, and what have been the highs and lows of her career? Stuart also talks to Shannon Oxenham about the return of the Matron in healthcare, the role the private health sector played during the pandemic and her own career path and inspirations.

In this episode, Stuart chats with Lindsey Hall, CEO of Real Ideas about her early years, her time at university and the Real Ideas vision for investment in Plymouth. Stuart is then joined by Suzanne Sparrow for the 'Chamber Made' section. Suzanne has run her language school in Plymouth since the 1970s. She discusses her childhood in Plymouth's Blitz, how her bank manager tried to stop her from starting her own business and her spell as Chair of the Chamber.

Richard Stevens talks about his love of all things transport and business - what it's like to steer Plymouth CityBus through a pandemic, his impressive list of board positions, the importance of good relationships, his longest ever bus journey and about being Deputy Lieutenant. Alexis Bowater is well-known for her work on regional television, but her career didn't start with TV. She talks openly about her experience of being stalked, and about her various campaigning activities around equality. Alexis also shares some amusing tales of bloopers, media in the 80s and where she had to hide Boris Johnson.

Hannah talks about being the CEO for Plymouth Culture: the driving force behind cultural strategy and engagement in the City of Plymouth, what it's like being a young CEO, the challenges and shares some personal experiences. Sue Packer is COO of building supplies brand CMO Stores: She talks about her career path, the importance and benefits of having a diverse team, and how CMO Stores has grown through being a 'market disruptor'.