Welcome to episode 112 of Island Influencers. I'm honoured to introduce this week's Island Influencer, Derry Kissack, BEM.

Derry is known to thousands, especially as a key member/frontman of the world-famous Purple Helmets motorcycle display team. Many of you will recognise him as the energetic commentator who guides awe-struck spectators through their breathtaking performances. He is a favourite at the TT and shows worldwide.

You'll immediately notice from his accent that Derry was born and raised here in the Isle of Man. In our conversation, Derry opens up about his life experiences, sharing his childhood memories, education, and profound passion for motorcycles. We also delve into the development of the Isle of Man TT's pit lane and discuss the crucial role of supporting local businesses and individuals who contribute to the island's vibrant tourism industry.

Derry's journey hasn't been without hardship. He lost both his parents by the age of 24, and he reveals how a motorbike accident led him to write his first book!

Despite his challenges, Derry's wonderful sense of humour, spirit and resilience shine through, especially in the fascinating story of how the Purple Helmets were formed (he proudly takes credit for getting them into show business!). He even shares some exclusive tales for you, our Island Influencers listeners.

This episode is packed with great yarns and unforgettable moments I hadn't heard before.

Here's episode 112 - the incredible life and adventures of Derry Kissack BEM.

My guests this week need little introduction. They are husband and wife team Pippa and Miles Pettit of Noa Bakehouse.

Noa Bakehouse is the sourdough baking, pastry shaping, doughnut filling, flat white slinging, coffee roasting, pizza stretching, local living, community loving bakers based in an old furniture warehouse in the centre of Douglas.

I hope you enjoy listening to how they've come to set up their fabulous bakery business and hear all about their path to fulfilment of a great work-life balance.

My guest this week is Chris Callow.

Chris is a former Isle of Man advocate, but a change of tack to include the running of a French ski chalet and volunteering for Manx National Heritage and the Leonard Cheshire Disability Centre are just some of the things he's done on his journey towards his pathway to running and owning Island Heritage Tours.

Chris is a qualified Blue-Badge Tourist Guide with a first class honours degree in history and heritage, offering bespoke tours of his beloved Isle of Man.

Welcome to Island Influencers, where my guest this week is Dawn Jones.

Dawn has been one of the most high-profile lawyers on the island, involved in many headline-making cases over her 30-year career as an Isle of Man advocate.

I hope you enjoy hearing her story, including what she is up to now and her hopes for the future.

Here's my conversation with Dawn Jones in episode 22 of Island Influencers.

Welcome to the latest episode of Island Influencers, where my guest today is Jane Prescott.

Jane is a Chartered Landscape Architect and she's worked on various projects in the public and private sector over the years, including involvement with the Chelsea Flower Show Medal-Winning Gardens in 1984 and 1986.

She's the first person I've ever heard of outside of Warner Bros Studios to have a herbology diploma, so I hope you enjoy hearing her story.

Here's my conversation with Jane Prescott in episode 21 of Island Influencers.

Welcome to the new episode of Island Influencers, where my guest is Dr Breesha Maddrell, the Director of Culture Vannin.

Breesha works closely with the IOM Government agencies and members of the public to develop strategies and policies for the advancement of Manx culture and heritage.

Before Breesha joined Culture Vannin in 2008, she worked for six years as a lecturer at the University of Liverpool’s Centre for Manx Studies.

An active musician, singer and composer, Breesha has a BA in Music and Germanic Studies from the University of Sheffield, an MLitt in 20th Century German Literature and Society from the University of St Andrews and a PhD in sociolinguistics and Manx Studies from the University of Liverpool; her thesis looking at aspects of cultural revival in the Isle of Man.

She started playing traditional music at school, learning Manx Gaelic on her return to the Island in 1996. Breesha is an authority on key figures in Manx cultural revival such as Sophia Morrison and Mona Douglas.

Breesha plays flute and whistles and sings with groups including Caarjyn Cooidjagh and Clash Vooar.

She has served on the IOM Arts Council for eight years and has helped organise various festivals and events nationally and internationally.

Here’s my conversation with Dr Breesha Maddrell in episode 20 of Island Influencers.

Welcome to episode 19 of Island Influencers, where my guest is David Roberts.

David was born and raised in Guildford, Surrey. 

The son of a policeman and school teacher, David started his career by working as part of the marketing team for BP and Shell.

He progressed for 30 years where he was involved on the marketing side in a whole variety of different activities.

When the price of electricity was sky high on the Isle of Man because Shell was overcharging and over profiteering, David saw an opportunity to compete with Shell by approaching Total to become a fuel supplier on the Isle of Man. 

This led to a £2 million reduction in cost for fuel to the Isle of Man within one year. What a contribution to our Island's economy! 

David is currently retired and involved with many charities including Scripture Union, Care in Mann, Junior Achiever and the Isle of Man Beekeepers Federation. 

Here’s my conversation with David Roberts in episode 19 of Island Influencers.

Welcome to this week's episode of Island Influencers.

My guests on the podcast today are Northern Irishmen Mark Noble and Chris Suitor, who between them after what started as a bit of a joke about their combined names and occupations, formed The Noble Suitor now based at Tynwald Mills in the Isle of Man.

I hope you enjoy listening to their story.

Mark, a university-educated biology teacher, having followed his wife to the Isle of Man, found his way into tailoring bespoke suits with Chris Suitor of the Belfast based award-winning Suitor Brothers.

Let's meet Chris and Mark, in episode 18 of Island Influencers.

Welcome to this week’s episode of Island Influencers.

My guest this week is an entrepreneur and multiple business owner professional and also a community leader.

I refer to, of course, Dave McLean, who was one of the key people behind the Peel Centenary Centre’s restoration and behind the successful Our Island: Our World festival held in 2019.

But sadly not this year due to current circumstances, or is it?

Make sure you listen to the end to hear what Dave’s current thinking is about the festival and also to learn all about him and to hear his story.

So let’s meet Dave McLean, in episode 17 of Island Influencers.

My guest this week on Island Influencers is a local osteopath and business owner Sarah Gartland of Follan Natural Health Centre.

Sarah attended the British School of Osteopathy in London, and she was the first Manx woman ever to qualify, returning to the Isle of Man to open her first clinic in North Quay until 2006, before working from home with her two children.

Through her encouragement, a second - and then a third local woman followed in her footsteps.

They came back to the island to help her open and run the Follan Natural Health Centre in 2016.

The centre is the first of a new type of multi-disciplinary health practice, based on the Tromode Industrial Estate, helping bridge the gap from private health care into the private sector.

So let's meet Sarah Gartland, in episode 16 of Island Influencers.

This week on Island Influencers, my guest is Mike Boulton, who many Isle of Man born and bred Northerners like me will no doubt know and remember fondly from the time they spent at Albert Road School in Ramsey. 

Mike started his career teaching at Albert Road School in 1968 and didn't retire until 1998. 

During that time, he taught and influenced so many of us whether it was in the classroom learning maths, or if you were being trained to be a Commonwealth Games swimming competitor. 

He was one of the founders of the Northern Athletics Club, and he was also a musician and founder of one of the many folk music ensembles he put together. 

Mike's had a huge impact on the revival of Manx culture, particularly in music. 

Mike also taught star pupil Mera Royle who won the Young Folk Musician of the Year award in 2018. 

I hope you enjoy listening to my podcast and will be impressed, like me, by how incredibly humble Mike is.  

His skills and qualities make him such an inspiration for so many primary school children during the formative years of their lives. 

Here’s my conversation with Mike Boulton in episode 15 of Island Influencers.

In this latest episode, I'm excited to welcome Island Influencer Carol Ann Kinley-Smith, an extraordinary force in criminology, forensic science, and investigative security.

Carol Ann is committed to leveraging her diverse experiences to enrich society. She brings a wealth of expertise from her extensive career, operating at the highest levels in both investigative and intelligence capacities.

Originally from the Isle of Man, Carol Ann returned from the UK in 2021 after a distinguished career that included heading Corporate Security and Investigations at the BBC and leading the Royalty Protection Command Team within the Metropolitan Police Service. Her roles have ranged from safeguarding the British Royal Family to spearheading teams assessing threats to high-profile figures.

Currently, Carol Ann shares her wealth of knowledge as a lecturer at University College, where she teaches Forensic Science and Criminology. Her dedication to empowering students with industry insights promises to inspire future generations of professionals.

Carol Ann's academic achievements are remarkable, especially as she admits she wasn't academically inclined during her school years. She earned a Distinction in an MSc in Legal and Criminological Psychology from Cumbria University. Her dissertation, which has recently been published and focuses on the experiences of policewomen navigating menopause, underscores her strong advocacy for women's support and resilience in demanding professional settings.

Here is episode 111 with Island Influencer with Carol Ann Kinley-Smith.

My guest on the podcast today is Adam Owen, Curriculum and Training Director at NextGen Planners in the UK.

Adam is currently President of the Personal Finance Society, the largest professional body for retail financial advisers in the UK with more than 40,000 members and the largest issuer of Statements of Professional Standing for financial advisers.

Adam joined the profession in the mid-1990s, and he held advisory roles within direct sales and the IFA sector providing technical compliance support to both directly authorised firms and networks.

He was a founding Director of the support provider EQI Consultancy and held a variety of senior compliance and supervision positions.

More recently, he's focused on developing career pathways throughout the profession, becoming a Chartered Insurance Institute and Personal Finance Society accredited trainer.

And indeed, this year he is the President of the Personal Finance Society, where his leadership is training up the next succession of leaders within the profession.

Here’s my conversation with Adam Owen in episode 14 of Island Influencers.

Welcome to Island Influencers, where we share stories of successful business owners, experienced professionals, entrepreneurs and community leaders based or with influence in the Isle of Man.

This podcast is brought to you by Thornton Chartered Financial Planners because great financial planning has the power to change your life.

My guest on the podcast today is Leigh Morris.

Leigh is the recently appointed CEO of the Manx Wildlife Trust, and I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to have him tell you his story so far.

It's a distinguished career in the pursuit of his true vocation; I hope you enjoy listening as much as I did, hearing about the lightbulb moments in his life and the pivotal part of his career which has brought him here to the Isle of Man.

Here's my conversation with Leigh Morris in episode 13 of the Island Influencers podcast.

My guest on the Island Influencers podcast this week is Andy Cooper.

Andy is originally from the North East of England and moved to the Isle of Man having been a General Brand Manager for Whitbread.

Sometime later, he found himself in the role as General Secretary of the Manx National Farmers' Union, which may seem a strange step.

But do listen to his story to hear how this impassioned individual is making a positive change within the farming community in the Isle of Man.

Here's my conversation with Andy Cooper in episode 12 of Island Influencers.

Welcome to this episode of Island Influencers, where my guest today is Martin Hall.

Martin is one of the voices behind The M Word Podcast, the Manx Sports Podcast, offering listeners insights into the lives of the island's elite sportsmen and sportswomen.

Having been an elite cyclist, Martin draws on his personal training experience to emphasis with his guests about their physical and mental wellbeing.

He also draws on his business experience to help interviewees with the challenges they face in their professional careers.

Here’s my conversation with Martin Hall in episode 11 of Island Influencers.

Welcome to this episode of Island Influencers, where my guest today is Colin Partington.

Colin is the owner and founder of Laxey Dental Surgery.

Originally from Orpington in Kent, Colin and his family have made the Isle of Man their home since moving here in 1996.

I hope you enjoy listening to Colin's powerful story, in which the words 'tenacity' and 'determination' come to mind as he pursues his life's purpose.

This is an episode packed full of actionable ideas for any aspiring business owner, entrepreneur, or organisational leader.

Here's my conversation with Colin Partington in episode 10 of Island Influencers.

My guest today on Island Influencers is Jen Kneale.

Jen is a highly experienced dinghy and keelboat racer, with a proven track record as a GBR Laser sailor and now as a Race Coach.

She holds an honours degree in Maritime Leisure Management and has over 20 years of experience as an RYA Instructor.

In 2017, Jen crossed the Atlantic, teaching herself celestial navigation along the way.

After sitting an exam in Antigua, Jen gained the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean qualification. She is also a Powerboat Instructor and Yachtmaster Instructor (sail) and the first Manx female coxswain with the RNLI spending 15 years with Port St Mary Lifeboat.

Presently working as Activities Manager at Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands during this winter season, her normal day job is as entrepreneur and business owner of the very successful 7th Wave sailing school in Port Erin.

Here's my conversation with Jen Kneale in episode 9 of Island Influencers.

My guest today on the Island Influencers podcast is Paul Hotchkiss.

Paul is managing director of Hotchkiss Associates and is one of the founders of the Manx Solidarity Fund.

Born of Manx parents, Paul is a Chartered Accountant, Chartered Tax Adviser, Chartered Director, and also a Trust and Estates Practitioner.

Throughout this episode, there are valuable lessons and stories that you can apply to many aspects of your life or business, as good practice generally, but especially as we now live in lockdown.

And don't forget to listen to the end where Paul shares his perspective of the main challenges the Isle of Man faces, but crucially the opportunities.

Welcome to the latest episode of Island Influencers, where experienced professionals, entrepreneurs and community leaders based on the Isle of Man are invited to share their stories with us.

I'm joined today by Dr Fenella Bazin.

Fenella has pioneered academic research into Manx music as director of postgraduate studies at the Centre for Manx Studies.

Her doctoral thesis on Manx music up to 1896 opened up areas of research for other students and helped put Manx music on the map. Without her work,  we would know little about the development of traditional music, West Gallery music, or even the National Anthem.

Fenella's expertise in the spirit of max music is internationally recognized.

She's contributed articles, papers, and chapters to leading publications, spoken at numerous conferences and led workshops. Her research has consistently promoted the Isle of Man and it's culture.

Fenella's accomplishments outside of academia are wide-ranging. She succeeded in making Manx music accessible to a wide range of people of all ages and has worked hard for festivals such as the Manx Music Festival and Yn Chruinnaght, which is now known as The Celtic Gathering.

She's also well known as an excellent musician; a fiddle player, a singer, and a pianist, as well as an arranger and composer and published author.

Fenella works hard for a local community of Ballaugh and she leads the church choir. She's a member of Ballaugh Heritage Trust and has acted as a governor for Ballaugh School.

And what's unique about Fenella is how she draws from all these achievements to be a major draw on prestigious heritage cruise ships throughout the world, particularly now into the Baltic and further North, promoting the story of the Isle of Man.

Here's my conversation with Dr Fenella Bazin in episode seven of Island Influencers.

Today I'm joined by Dr Richard Arning, Vice President of Business Development, and Director of Satellite Leasing Limited, part of SES, which is one of the world's leading satellite owners and operators.

I was curious to learn what brings a rocket scientist to the Isle of Man, but also to find out more about Richard's various roles here.

Richard works as a business angel, is co-founder of IsleofMedia, and a non-executive director of the Digital Isle of Man Executive Agency, part of the Isle of Man Department for Enterprise.

Here's my conversation with Richard Arning in episode six of Island Influencers.

My guest on Island Influencers today is Martin Sewell.

Martin is a Henley Management College and Templeton College, Oxford graduate. He's also a Freeman of the City of London.

He's a proven high achiever at all levels, having worked across the public, private and third sectors.

Martin has completed a number of worldwide assignments, visiting more than 30 countries in 15 years.

He's a former marketing consultant to blue-chip businesses such as Sainsbury's, M&S, Tesco, IBM, Cathay Pacific and British Airways, and even the Scottish Prison Service.

On the Isle of Man, Martin has put his effort into fundraising for Sailing for the Disabled, and Manx Carriage Driving 4 Disabled.

He's been a regular and generous contributor over the years, sharing his ideas, free advice and good practice with many local businesses, governments and Manx charities.

Here's my conversation with Martin Sewell in episode five of Island Influencers.

In this latest episode of Island Influencers, I delve into Sarah Mercer, co-founder of Earthscope’s remarkable story.

Originally from Liverpool, Sarah moved to the Isle of Man at age two, shaping her childhood along the island's shores and landscapes. Her academic pursuits in Physical Geography at Durham University sparked a deep interest in environmental issues, leading her to co-found Footprint, an annual environmental summit.

Returning to the Isle of Man, Sarah immersed herself in projects like 'Island Utopias', a lockdown documentary capturing community spirit, and 'Manannan's Charms', an app blending folklore with nature. All while living off-grid, making the film entirely using solar power.

She collaborated with the Isle of Play to engage children with nature. She explored sustainable practices across Europe with AimHi Earth, presenting alongside notable figures and partnering with impactful organisations globally.

Sarah's dedication culminated in co-founding Earthscope, driving carbon literacy initiatives, and advocating for sustainable practices.

She is an advocate, nature lover, filmmaker, and sustainability facilitator. Her journey is one of passion, purpose, and a relentless dedication to creating a more sustainable and harmonious world for all.

Here is episode 110 with Sharon Sutton in conversation with Island Influencer Sarah Mercer, co-founder of Earthscope.

In episode four of Island Influencers, I speak to Ravina Talbot.

Ravina came to the Island in 1975, initially for two years, but ended up staying for 45 years (and counting!).

She's well-known in the online community and has worked in the private, public, and third sector; tourism, hospitality, management, charities, churches, you name it!

In 2012, Ravina founded the Island's branch of the University of the Third Age (U3A), and in 2018 formed the U3A ukulele group.

Ravina's main work these days is for the Open University where she tutors students in the health and social care faculty. This specialism makes it particularly great to have Ravina as a guest for this episode, as we face the coronavirus pandemic, with the Isle of Man on lockdown.

Here's my conversation with Ravina Talbot in episode four of Island Influencers.

In episode three of Island Influencers, I talk to Rebecca George, Chief Executive Officer of the Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce.

Rebecca has been a beacon of light for many island business owners during this recent Coronavirus Pandemic by providing outstanding leadership and communication throughout.

Becks is a born and bred Londoner. After a year of travelling the world with her husband, they decided that going back to London life wasn't for them.

Lucky for us, by then she'd visited the Island on a few occasions and had already fallen in love with the place. You know its beauty and pace of life, so it didn't take much persuading for her to come and live here. 

So they came to the Isle of Man for six months, assuming that it wouldn't suit them and they'd rush back to the city life in a heartbeat. But they are still here 15 years later. 

Her husband runs a successful international shipping company in the Isle of Man, another of our niches, and by her own admission, Becks has had amazing roles and opportunities which have led her to where she is now. 

She doesn't know if she'd had such a good quality of life if they'd stayed in London, but they do know that they don't spend hours of their day sitting in trains or in traffic.

They've got a house by the beach, their careers have flourished, and the children can safely walk to school. How many people living in the UK can say that? 

So let's listen to what Rebecca has to tell us as an Island Influencer, in episode four.

I'm delighted to introduce as my guest on episode two of Island Influencers, Beach Buddies Isle of Man hero, Bill Dale.

Is there anything this guy can't do?

If there's anyone who epitomizes where success comes from, it's Bill, who started Beach Buddies alone for years before the real scaling effect got traction.

From one individual, and of course his dogs, in 2007, to now having over 20% of the population of the Isle of Man involved so far.

Beach Buddies objective is to provide a longterm, effective, efficient, and sustainable operation using teams of volunteers to keep beaches and foreshores of the Isle of Man free from litter.

Beach Buddies survives entirely on donations and is sponsored by numerous companies, societies, organizations, and individuals.

Bill's vision has had such an impact that, in 2016, the Isle of Man was given the prestigious honour of UNESCO Biosphere Reserve; we're the only nation in the entire world to achieve this distinction.

Beach Buddies was highlighted during the award ceremony as its excellent example of beach cleaning methodology in 2019, and he was subsequently invited to become a member of the Isle of Man government's biosphere committee, which promotes worldwide the Isle of Man special award.

It runs approximately 200 beach cleaning events each year and collects around 200 tons of rubbish from beaches - or did do before having to scale down operations to follow Government Social Distancing Rules!

Bill was awarded the British Empire Medal for services to the Manx Marine environment in 2017.

Here's my conversation with Bill Dale with episode two of Island Influencers, recorded before the recent Coronavirus Pandemic had us all self-isolating.

Tune in for Bill’s uplifting story as an Island Influencer.

I’m delighted to launch our new audio podcast series, Island Influencers, with a conversation with my first guest, Bob Jeavons.

Bob is a well-known businessman on the Isle of Man.

Until recently, the owner and chairman of Tynwald Mills, Bob joins me for this episode to discuss his vast experience and the great work he is doing as a leading light of the Island’s business community.

Bob is founding director and current chairman of Manx BirdLife, with extensive experience serving in the commercial, public and not for profit sectors.

He’s trustee of several Isle of Man charities, including St John’s Mill, where our office is located, and where Bob brings his expertise in fundraising, recruiting and volunteer relations.

Bob is keen to point out that, because St John’s Mill is a conference centre, the coronavirus crisis has resulted in a loss of bookings. They are hoping to offer catering and food collection for anyone who would care to order, with more details to follow as they formulate a plan.

Here’s my conversation with Bob Jeavons in episode one of Island Influencers.

Welcome to Island Influencers, our brand new audio podcast from Thornton Chartered Financial Planners. This podcast is all about telling the stories of successful business owners, experienced professionals, entrepreneurs and community leaders based or with influence in the Isle of Man.

Our aim with this show is to highlight these people and their businesses and what good they’re doing in our community. By sharing their stories, we're hopefully bringing you an awareness of what they’re doing and why they’re doing it.

This week’s Island Influencer’s life story is nothing short of jaw-dropping. I am only scratching the surface with this introduction.

Boakesey Closs, the IXth Manx Bard, embodies resilience in every word she weaves. Born amidst unexpected circumstances in London during her mother's return from Nigeria, Boakesey's life path defies convention from the outset.

Raised in North Wales, she navigated a childhood marked by unique challenges. She exhibited remarkable intellect from a young age, mastering calculus and delving into Tolkien's epic tales in "Lord of the Rings" at a mere eight years old.

Throughout the conversation, Boakesey candidly shares her experiences navigating through various trials, including caring for her grandmother battling Alzheimer's while embracing single parenthood and pursuing a degree in biochemistry.

She speaks openly about her battles with mental and physical health, finding solace and healing through creative expression. A dedicated teacher, Boakesey finds joy in shaping young minds. She recounts personal stories of her students' successes and her own reading and watercolour painting pursuits.

Despite facing financial hardships, Boakesey remains undeterred. She eagerly anticipates new projects and ventures as a writer and facilitator and is steadfast in her mission to uplift and support others.

Join us in episode 109 of Island Influencers, where we celebrate the triumphs of the human spirit with Boakesey Closs. 

Welcome to episode 107 of Island Influencers!

Chatting with Fiona Fitzpatrick, an esteemed International Business Development Consultant, Coach, Facilitator, and Speaker is my absolute privilege.

With a wealth of experience, Fiona specialises in empowering food companies to achieve growth through strategic brand optimisation, people development, and innovative thinking.

In this episode, Fiona shares her life story, beginning with her childhood in Dublin, where she reflects on the profound impact of her early Montessori education and the guidance of mentors who shaped her path.

Delving into the transformative power of love, Fiona recounts how it brought her to the Isle of Man alongside her partner Juan. She candidly discusses her career trajectory, from her roles at Nestle and Premier Foods to her dynamic experience at Gü, where she played a pivotal role in business growth despite the challenges.

Throughout our conversation, Fiona opens up about the highs and lows of her career, including her courageous battle with breast cancer and the resilience she discovered in the face of adversity.

We also explore the unique challenges and opportunities present on the Isle of Man. Fiona looks ahead with optimism, eager to apply her extensive international expertise to foster growth and innovation locally.

Here is episode 107 with Island Influencer Fiona Fitzpatrick.

Useful links:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fionafitz/

Website: https://www.fionafitzconsulting.com/

Instagram: @brandgrowthheroes

Podcast: https://www.brandgrowthheroes.com/

Brand Growth Heroes Accelerator Programme: Overview | LinkedIn

Book: All The Broken Places: The Sequel to The Boy In The Striped Pyjamas 

Brand Growth Heroes is proud to be launching the Brand Growth Heroes mini MBA powered by Alantra. Running from April 29th to July 5th 2024, the mini MBA is open to ambitious founders of scaling challenger brands of consumer packaged goods products. To find out more about the mini MBA and apply for your place please click here.

Please subscribe, and leave a rating and review, on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts to help others find the show.

Island Influencers is produced by Bear Content & Social KEWS

Sponsored by Thornton Chartered Financial Planners

Join me this week as I chat with Personal Trainer Juan Cheung. Juan's story is deeply rooted in the Isle of Man; he was born in Douglas.

Growing up, his parents ran a successful local Chinese takeaway, instilling a solid work ethic and a sense of achievement in him.

From his experiences in high school sports to navigating the financial industry, Juan's journey eventually led him to become a personal trainer, bodybuilder, and entrepreneur.

He finds immense joy in witnessing his clients achieve their fitness goals and embark on transformative journeys like his own. Having a personal trainer like Juan has been indispensable for me—it's a stress reliever that keeps me committed to the gym three times a week, which is crucial for my mental and physical well-being.

Juan underscores the importance of perseverance and facing challenges head-on, especially in the most difficult moments. Additionally, he offers insights into his upcoming endeavours, such as developing a fitness app, and shares his invaluable seven rules for life. I hope Episode 106 leaves you enriched and inspired.

Useful links:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juan.cheung.37

Instagram: @abf_juan_cheung_pt

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juan-cheung-16b5b0254/

https://www.elitefitness.im/personal-trainers

James Clear - Atomic Habits

Matthew McConaughey - Greenlights

Mike Thurston Podcast, who's a fitness YouTuber influencer as well

Please subscribe, and leave a rating and review, on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts to help others find the show.

Island Influencers is produced by Bear Content & Social KEWS

Sponsored by Thornton Chartered Financial Planners

Welcome to Episode 104 of Island Influencers! 

Today, we delve into the captivating life story of Jeroen Wats, a remarkable Island Influencer and inventor whose lifelong passion for the sea has shaped his life. 

Learn about his pivotal moment in 2003, when his team won the transatlantic race from Cape Town to Rio de Janeiro, covering a staggering 4,000 nautical miles in 20 days and raising considerable money for the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund.

Fuelled by a passion for sustainability, Jeroen has shifted gears, transitioning from boat production to pioneering recyclable materials for wind turbines. In this episode, we unravel his commitment to positive environmental impact. 

Despite living in six countries, Jeroen discovered an unexpected connection with the Isle of Man. What began as a single-day visit became a life-changing decision to call the island home. 

He seamlessly integrates into the community, bringing diverse experiences, knowledge and a passion for environmentalism. 

I hope you find our conversation as enjoyable and enriching as I did. Here is episode 104 with Jeroen Wats, Chief Innovation Officer at ExoTechnologies. 

Useful links: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeroenwats/

https://exo-tech.com/

@JeroenWats

Please subscribe, and leave a rating and review, on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts to help others find the show.

Island Influencers is produced by Bear Content & Social KEWS

Sponsored by Thornton Chartered Financial Planners

Welcome, and Happy New Year!

To kick off season 5 of Island Influencers, I delve into Lianne Gregory's life story, a native of Laxey on the Isle of Man who has carved a unique path in health and fitness.

Lianne is the sole instructor on the island to teach the original Joseph Pilates method, an approach renowned for its holistic benefits. Her story begins with a different passion - the equestrian world. Lianne's interests evolved in her late teens and early twenties when the intensity of competition and injury prompted her to explore Pilates.

Her pursuit of expertise took her to London and then America, reflecting her remarkable commitment to learning and growth. In 2000, she established her own business, effectively dispelling the mystique surrounding Pilates. Lianne is a highly trained instructor, helping a diverse range of individuals rebalance their bodies, recover from injuries, alleviate aches and pains, and improve overall fitness.

In episode 103, you'll have the opportunity to explore the world of Lianne Gregory Pilates and listen to her incredible life story. I hope you enjoy episode 103 of Island Influencers!

Please subscribe, and leave a rating and review, on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts to help others find the show.

Island Influencers is produced by Bear Content & Social KEWS
Sponsored by Thornton Chartered Financial Planners

Our latest Island Influencer Amy Howse, grew up in Weston-super-Mare and started exploring the world on her own at 19.

Her adventures and curiosity inspired her to pursue a career in Speech & Language Therapy (SLT) while also fueling her passion for yoga and sound therapy.

Through Soundology, she uses sound therapy to encourage emotional healing and support mental health.

Her approach now includes combining sound with nature, especially in her role as the Biosphere Artist in Residence with the Manx Wildlife Trust.

In addition to sharing her story, Amy offers practical advice for new entrepreneurs.

She also speaks about her love for the Isle of Man and its beauty and reveals how she finds balance in her life.

Looking forward, Amy has big plans; enjoy this inspiring conversation with the incredibly talented Amy Howse in episode 120 of Island Influencers.

My Island Influencer this week, Catriona Mackie, boasts an extraordinary professional and personal life story so compelling that it spans four remarkable pages on her CV!

Hailing from the south of Glasgow, Catriona is a passionate social historian interested in material culture and its reflection on the socio-cultural, economic, and political contexts in which it evolves.

We delve into her story, from discovering and learning Scottish Gaelic to experiencing life on the Isle of Skye before moving to the Isle of Man in 2008. She shares insights into her role as a young academic responsible for establishing a master's degree in Manx studies and how she, as a confessed introvert, evolved into a lecturer!

Catriona's unique blend of architectural fascination and language skills takes centre stage, as does her latest project—a collaboration with colleagues at Oxford Brooks University investigating women's experiences in Manx politics.

Over the past decade, Catriona has been deeply involved with the Manx National Heritage and Culture of Vannin while currently teaching Heritage Studies, Celtic Studies, and Manx history and culture at UCM.

Please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts to help others find the show.

Join us in episode 102 for a captivating exploration of Catriona's extraordinary journey. Delve into the intricacies of her remarkable experiences and get a glimpse of what lies ahead as she continues to leave an indelible mark on the world.

Welcome to another episode of Island Influencers! This week, I’m delighted to feature Damian Molyneux, Director/Advocate at M&P Legal.

Damian stands as a notable presence in the Isle of Man's legal sphere.

Originating from Kirkham, a town near Blackpool, he grew up in a devout Catholic household, with a familial link to the priesthood adding to his unique background. His journey began in the field of electronics, where he earned a BTech at British Aerospace, before successfully transitioning into the realm of law through his determined pursuit of a law degree at university.

Beyond financial law, Damian's practice encompasses complex insolvency work, regulatory enforcement, medical negligence defense, personal injury claims (with a focus on motorcyclists and cyclists), and overseeing general commercial and civil litigation matters. Damian is also a distinguished Income Tax Commissioner.

Outside his day job, Damian talks of enjoying a fulfilling family life on the island. His interests are as diverse as they are intriguing, spanning from rewilding and DIY projects to mechanics and engineering. He explains he finds solace and his own meditation in “pottering” and has a penchant for indulging his inner child by crafting whimsical projects.

Island Influencer Damian Molyneux's life story is a unique blend of legal knowledge, expertise, and island life. I hope you enjoy listening to episode 101 as much as I enjoyed our conversation.

Useful links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/damian-molyneux-47696218a
https://www.linkedin.com/company/619250
https://www.mplegal.im/
https://www.facebook.com/mandplegal/
https://twitter.com/mandplegal
Book: George Orwell's 1984

Welcome to a special edition of Island Influencers! We've hit the incredible milestone of our 100th episode! 

From its humble beginnings, born during the challenging times of the pandemic, the  Island Influencers podcast has grown and flourished, and it's all thanks to the unwavering support of our remarkable island influencers and the fantastic Isle of Man community. 

A heartfelt thank you to each of you who has been a part of this project.

As we celebrate this milestone, I'm stepping out of my usual role as the host. I am the interviewee, the Island Influencer of the week! 

I'm a proud Manx native, and in this episode, I delve into my my childhood memories, relationships, my love for sports and music, which have all been a significant part of my journey. 

From navigating a career in a male-dominated world to taking leaps of faith, I share the highs and lows that have shaped me into who I am today. 

It's a candid exploration of my life not forgetting the people who have helped me all the way. Most of all my family and my business family at Thornton Chartered Financial Planners.
 
But this episode isn't just about me. It's about the incredible stories we've shared on this podcast from athletes to entrepreneurs. 

Episodes are brimming with not just knowledge and inspiration, but genuine stories that will have you laughing one minute and perhaps shedding a tear the next. 

It's been a privilege for me to hear these stories and an absolute honour to share them with you. 

Looking ahead, I've got exciting plans for the future, not just involving bagpipes and greenhouses! 

But I do have an overarching deep passion for helping people. So here's to the next 100 episodes, filled with more knowledge, inspiration and fun. 

Welcome to episode 99 of the Island Influencers podcast!

My featured guest today is Kurt Roosen, a key figure in the realm of digital innovation on the Isle of Man.

Kurt's life began unconventionally being born above a transport café in Birmingham, where he honed his communication skills through interactions with customers from a young age. His path took a unique turn when he decided to break the mould and pursue a university degree in Computer Science. This decision set the stage for his remarkable career.

With 35 years of experience in the field of Information Technology, Kurt's current role as the Head of Innovation for Digital Isle of Man is a testament to his unwavering commitment to championing digital innovation and driving positive change.

As we delve into Kurt's story, he not only shares his passion for digital innovation but also highlights two local treasures, the Family Library and the bibliotherapy service, both deserving of recognition and support. He also drops in that he is writing a book!

So if you're eager to gain valuable insights from a true digital visionary who has made it his mission to make a difference in the world of technology and on the Isle of Man itself. Listen today to episode 99 of Island Influencers featuring Kurt Roosen.

Welcome to episode 98 of Island Influencers!

This week we have Island Influencer Lyle Krause, a man with a fascinating journey from South Africa to the Isle of Man.

Lyle arrived on our shores back in 2018 and he and his wife have really thrown themselves into our island community.

Lyle, a devoted father of two, is also an accomplished account and relationship manager. His unwavering drive, motivation, and ambition for whatever he puts his mind to is evident.

During the conversation, you'll hear Lyle's optimism for the boundless opportunities that await young professionals and families here on the island. We'll also explore a shining example of Lyle's natural entrepreneurial spirit and innovative thinking - the KLEvR Desk, he really does think outside of the box!

Lyle is an outdoor enthusiast. From rugby and water polo, where he once represented South Africa in his youth, to golf and mountain biking. Who knew saunas on the beach are the latest trend?

So, join us for a captivating conversation with Lyle Krause, Global Relations Manager at Atla Fiduciaries Limited. He's an authentic Island Influencer who's leaving a lasting impact right here on the Isle of Man.

Useful Links

Instagram – @lylekrause
X - @lylekrause
LinkedIn
Facebook
Carl Sagan's Pale Blue Dot
Books: The Creative Act by Rick Rubin
Podcasts: The Tim Ferriss Show, The Four Hour Body, The Four Hour Workweek, The Four Hour Shift and The Daily Stoic.

In this week’s episode, I’m joined by Island Influencer Greg Ellison, the founder of AI Strategy Ninja.

With an illustrious 25-year career in the financial services sector, including the last 15 years at the helm as CEO, Greg is now channeling his expertise towards helping businesses harness the exciting opportunities of AI.

A lifelong advocate of continuous learning, Greg embarked on his educational journey with a Business Studies degree from Swansea University, followed by an MBA from Henley Business School.

He's a distinguished Chartered Director and has enriched his knowledge with courses at Oxford Said Business School. Most notably, he recently completed the 'AI and Business Strategy' program at MIT in America.

Greg's professional life brought him (and his wife and children) to the Isle of Man in 2006 when he assumed the role of Head of Banking at Barclays Wealth, overseeing operations in Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man.

In 2021, he launched the island's inaugural digital bank, Capital International Bank, while achieving an impressive threefold growth in the Group's profits.

I hope you enjoy our conversation as Greg delves into his entrepreneurial aspirations, shares his career's pinnacle moments, his most significant sources of inspiration, and his visionary plans for AI Ninja—ultimately, “embedding AI into the heartbeat of IT systems.”

Just hit that play button to hear Island Influencer Greg Ellison's valuable insights in episode 97.

Useful links:

Website: https://www.aistrategyninja.com/
LinkedIn personal page is: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregellison/
Company LinkedIn page is: https://www.linkedin.com/company/98147338
YouTube is: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCTw_daLdOxLKlQ_Th1Ouag
https://www.facebook.com/AIStrategyNinja

Podcasts: The Good, the Bad and the rugby, which is James Haskell and Mike Tindall
AI podcasts: McKinsey & MIT
Book recommended: Never Finished by David Goggins

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My Island Influencer this week is Bettina Roth, Chief Executive, Isle of Man Financial Services Authority.

Bettina has an extensive background in the financial services industry, boasting a wealth of international experience gained from her impressive career in both the regulatory and private sectors. With a strong track record of professional achievement, Bettina has held senior positions in various jurisdictions, including the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority, Abu Dhabi Global Market, and the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions.

With such an impressive background and an array of accolades, Bettina Roth is undoubtedly a leader in the field of financial services. Her appointment as CEO of the Isle of Man Financial Services Authority came at a pivotal stage in its development, as the organisation strives to protect consumers, combat financial crime, and maintain confidence in the financial services sector through robust prudential supervision.

During our conversation, we delve into Bettina's insights and gain a deeper understanding of her vast experience. We explore her remarkable journey, discuss her vision for the future, and uncover valuable insights into the world of financial services regulation. Additionally, Bettina aims to inspire other women to pursue senior roles and continue spearheading innovation within the Isle of Man's regulatory landscape.

So, here is my conversation with Bettina Roth in episode 93 of Island Influencers

This week's Island Influencer is Chris Gregory, Chief Executive of Isle of Play, a charity dedicated to promoting, providing, and advocating for every child on the Isle of Man to fulfil their ‘Right to Play.’

Chris was born and raised in Newton-le-Willows, a small town situated between Wigan, Warrington, and St. Helens. Growing up in a hard-working, working-class family, he witnessed firsthand the challenges his parents faced in providing for the family. Their perseverance and dedication instilled in Chris a strong work ethic and values that have shaped his career and approach to life.

In 2006, after meeting his partner at university, who is from the Isle of Man, Chris decided to make the move to the island—a pivotal moment that set the stage for his incredible work. In this episode, we discuss everything from his recent Wallaby attack to his impressive collection of Blue Peter badges and his time studying architectural glass. However, it’s through his role as the founder of Isle of Play that Chris truly found his calling.

With the support of a dedicated team, Chris built an organisation that now provides play opportunities for over 1,000 children weekly through innovative programmes. He is passionate about giving children the freedom to play, a simple yet powerful concept that fosters creativity, community, and personal growth. His vision for a more child-friendly Isle of Man continues to inspire his efforts to enrich the lives of young people across the island.

Here is episode 119 of Island Influencers, in which Chris Gregory shares his fascinating life story and the profound impact Isle of Play has had on the local community and its children.

This week, my Island Influencer is a true pioneer in nutrition and menopause, Joanne Posey. Hailing from the Isle of Man, Joanne is an expert in her field, dedicated to helping individuals and groups navigate the challenges of menopause and find relief from their symptoms.

But Joanne's influence doesn't stop there. She also works with organisations, empowering them to support their staff during this transformative phase of life, equipping line managers with the tools they need to provide understanding and assistance.

Coming from a lineage of entrepreneurs, Joanne has always been ahead of her time. Her passion for researching, investigating, and understanding well-being, wellness, diet, and lifestyle has positioned her at the forefront of her industry. And now, the rest of the world is catching up to her invaluable insights.

In this episode, you'll get the chance to listen and learn from my conversation with Joanne Posey. Her deep understanding of the menopause journey and compassionate approach make her a trusted source of support and guidance. Joanne just "gets" what is going on, and you won't want to miss the wisdom she shares.

So get ready to be inspired by episode 92 of Island Influencers with the incredible Joanne Posey.