From Family Values to Mortgage Maestro: A Niche Success - with Joe Stallard
Today, we delve into the unique world of holiday home mortgages with Joe Stallard, the growth mind behind House and Holiday Home Mortgages.
Joe's narrative is not just about financing properties; it's about realising dreams and creating lifetime memories for families. Specialising in the UK holiday property market, Joe's firm stands out in an arena with limited lenders, offering tailored expertise to clients investing in second homes. This strategic focus on a niche market has propelled his firm to become a go-to source for those seeking stress-free mortgage solutions for their holiday havens.
The Parker Formula: Merging Technology, Outsourcing, and Personalised Financial Solutions - with Ben Parker
Today on ScaleUp Radio, we journey into the dynamic realm of financial advising with none other than Ben Parker. Ben, along with his siblings John and Rob, are the driving force behind Parker Financial Advice, a budding enterprise that has uniquely married the concepts of financial expertise and efficient business outsourcing.
In the rapidly evolving landscape of financial advising, Ben's story stands out. Just three years since inception, Parker Financial Advice has pioneered a business model built on outsourcing and technology.
A Tale of Passion, Perseverance, Quality and Perfect Creams - with Laura Evans
Today's episode of ScaleUp Radio features a delectable tale of pancakes, passion, and persistence, all stirred up by the dynamic Laura Evans of Sisu Pancakes. Laura, a former aviation professional, traded her sky-bound aspirations for the allure of the oven, creating a dessert haven that's taken the market by storm.
Have you ever longed for that perfect slice of dessert, only to be disappointed by mundane store options? Laura did too. And it’s this childhood craving that sowed the seeds for Sisu Pancakes. Laura's commitment to offering a select range of top-tier products filled a yawning market gap, turning her humble home-based venture into a sensation that now boasts an impressive portfolio: wholesale, retail, deliveries, and customized cake orders.
Revolutionizing Business Operations: Unpacking A Strategy for Building Effective Teams and Businesses - with Paul Harris
Today on ScaleUp Radio, we're diving into the universe of business systems and company culture with Paul Harris, the innovative founder of Coacto. The company specializes in implementing Salesforce systems as a core hub to drive efficiency for various businesses, a game-changing approach that you definitely want to hear more about.
Paul’s journey in the Salesforce space is a masterclass in smart growth and strategic decision-making. Starting Coacto in 2016, now with 15 team members, Paul has successfully worked with a wide range of small-to-medium enterprises.
The Art of Relationship Building: A Deep Dive into Modern Marketing - with Ben Kinnaird
Today on ScaleUp Radio, we're diving deep into the fascinating world of marketing and business relationships with Ben Kinnaird, the founder of Rather Inventive. What started in 2009 as a web development company has evolved into a hub for innovative marketing strategies.
Ben isn't just your run-of-the-mill marketing expert; he is a thought leader in the field. His emphasis is on building sustainable businesses, not merely chasing profits. He advocates for the significance of forming true relationships with clients, a strategy that has seen him navigate various industries successfully. Through Rather Inventive, Ben and his team offer not just marketing solutions but ongoing support to overcome business hurdles and achieve long-lasting success.
Turning Hotels into Havens: Navigating Success in a Changing World of Hospitality - with Hari Fell
In this episode, we are in for an exceptional treat as we pull back the curtains of the hospitality industry with a seasoned pro—Hari Fell, owner of the Tudor Farmhouse Hotel in Clearwell in the Forest of Dean. Hari and her husband have not only stood the test of time with their 20-years ownership of the establishment, but they've also been game changers, offering unique experiences like foraging and wildlife safaris to their guests.
Sustainable Measures: Unravelling Sustainability Metrics - with Will Norell
Today, we unfold an intriguing narrative, anchored in the pillars of sustainability, technology, and unwavering ambition. Journey with us as we explore the determined mind of Will Norrell, joint owner of Triplo ESG—a beacon for SMEs navigating the complex realms of sustainability.
As businesses pivot to adapt to our planet's burgeoning demands, the urgency to measure and improve sustainability metrics is indisputable. Enter Triplo ESG—an online platform that not only quantifies sustainability but guides companies along the way.
Amplifying Brands with Authenticity - with Kaylie Bloxham
Today, we pull back the curtains to reveal the dynamic world of public relations with the insightful Kaylie Bloxham, the driving force behind Bloxham PR, a renowned PR agency stationed in the heart of Gloucestershire.
With a team 12-strong, Kaylie's agency has solidified its expertise over a span of nine years, servicing domains from fashion and travel to the eclectic tastes of country lifestyle, food, and drink. Bloxham PR's growth, powered by commendable word-of-mouth and effective social media reach, is a testament to their relentless commitment to authenticity and excellence.
The Numbers Never Lie: Unpacking The Analytics-Driven Success navigating Growth & Risks - with Lee Duffy
Today, we're delving deep into the world of data analytics and customer engagement with the visionary, Lee Duffy, Owner & MD of Trueology. In an age driven by digital marketing, understanding customer preferences and enhancing engagement is more vital than ever. And that's precisely where Tureology’s expertise shines.
Lee's foray into the business landscape that began as a humble freelance strategy and planning consultancy, metamorphosing over time into a powerhouse that harnesses data science to drive impeccable results.
Leading the Pack by understanding your Ideal Customer - with Grantley Rogers
In today's episode, we embark on a unique journey into the realm of dog accessories with Grant Rogers, the dynamo behind 3P Enterprise, the home or should I say kennel, of the much-acclaimed brand, Henry Wag. Nestled in the heart of Coleford within the Forest of Dean, this venture showcases a medley of carefully designed products for dog owners that speak volumes of dedication and innovation.
Digital Momentum: A Journey from Abandoned Building to Tech Transformation - with Rupert Maspero
Today, we are diving deep into the world of technology and innovation with Rupert Maspero, the co-founder and director of mmtm, a pioneering digital agency based in Cheltenham.
Derived from an F1 obsession and the art of texting, the unique name "mmtm" stands as a symbol of their creative journey. What began as an idea to craft an app for YouTubers soon blossomed into a fully-fledged business in 2016, dedicated to transforming outdated processes into efficient web and mobile applications.
A Taste of Family with Handcrafted Passion - with Clara Cardillo
Today, we're embarking on a savory journey into the heart of Italian cooking with Clara Cardillo, the passionate force behind Non Solo Pasta, a thriving ready-made meals business in Stroud.
Clara's journey began as a fun project with her husband, but quickly blossomed into a vibrant culinary adventure that turned their passion into a full-time endeavour. Their business, which started in 2018 and expanded into a full-time pursuit by 2020, now boasts 10 full-time and 5 part-time employees, all sharing a love for Italian cooking, authenticity, and family values.
From Rejection to Stardom: The Roll Me Up Ice Cream Adventure - with Jason Hanratty
Today, we're going on a delightful journey into the world of luxurious ice cream with Jason Hanratty, the visionary owner of Roll Me Up, a boutique ice cream company that's taken the UK by storm.
In our conversation, Jason unfolds his beautiful and inspiring journey, from small family business origins in Cirencester to a nationwide sensation, catering from 40 to 50 events across the UK each year. His signature roll-up ice cream, created by meticulously pouring liquid ice cream onto a frozen pan and then adding flavours like Oreo and Nutella, is an art form that has enchanted thousands, from weddings to high-profile film sets like Mission Impossible and Star Wars.
Mastering the Art of Scaling Up - with Michael Horne
Today, I bring you an invigorating discussion with a leader who has mastered the art of expansion, Michael Horne from Kidwells Group. Michael's journey is a testament to the power of strategic growth, robust planning, and a passionate team.
The Kidwells Group, under Michael's leadership, has grown exponentially and diversified into different sectors, including legal, accounting, loans, and even land banking. Michael gives us an insider's look into the company's operations and shares his story of managing growth in the face of challenging circumstances, including the recent pandemic. His innovative approach to using social media and the company's resilience shines through their responses.
Build your brand from your core identity by understanding who you are - with Marksteen Adamson
This time on ScaleUp Radio I speak with Marksteen Adamson, the Founding Partner, Chief Creative Officer & Director of Strategy of Asha & Co.
Asha & Co is a Branding business based in Cheltenham. They are just celebrating 20 years in business and have weathered all the recessions thrown at them by sticking to the core values that set up the business.
Asha & Co focuses on helping Corporations and even Countries understand their truth / core identity. From there, they develop an agreed understanding of the challenges to be overcome and a key set of actions to take.
Building Local Champions: Shelley Harrison's Journey of Transforming Lives Through Gymnastics
Today, we have a guest whose journey transcends business, penetrating the heart of the community and making a powerful impact in the lives of many.
Shelley Harrison, founder and CEO of the UK Academies of Gymnastics, joins us in this episode. Her journey is as exhilarating as a well-executed gymnastic routine. From a passionate gymnastics coach to an entrepreneur who identified opportunities in a niche market, Shelley has successfully blended her love for gymnastics with the thrills of entrepreneurship, culminating in the creation of the UK Academies of Gymnastics.
From horse to PR, Handling the PR Landscape in a Digital Age - with Andrea Bristol
Today, we're in for an exclusive treat as we sit down with an accomplished professional who has mastered the art of riding the winds of change and navigating the evolving landscape of public relations, Andrea Bristol.
Andrea, the tour de force behind Admire PR, started her own venture just before the pandemic. Over the past four and a half years, she has skilfully assembled a diverse team of remote professionals. Her team forms the backbone of a flourishing business that aids clients with press coverage, award entries, crisis management, and social media strategy. Andrea's extensive experience and unique perspective on the PR industry, honed from her initial days as a professional athlete in equine championships to her present leadership role, make this conversation a must-listen.
Transforming E-Commerce Through a Culture of Innovation - with Andy Thorne
Hello, listeners! I'm Granger Forson, your navigator through the sea of entrepreneurial tales on ScaleUp Radio.
On today's episode, we'll delve into the intriguing world of digital marketing with a special focus on e-commerce. Our guest is Andy Thorne, the innovative mind behind Factory Pattern, a successful digital experience agency that is transforming how e-commerce and lead generation clients interact with the digital world.
Unwrapping Success: The Thoughtful Journey of 'Don't Buy Her Flowers' - with Steph Douglas
Welcome to another enthralling episode of ScaleUp Radio, where we reveal the secrets behind scaling businesses.
Today we have an episode that’s bound to touch your hearts as much as it will ignite your entrepreneurial spirits. Our special guest is none other than the compassionate and visionary, Steph Douglas. She is a doting mother of three and the brain behind the beautifully conceived company, 'Don't Buy Her Flowers'.
Redefining African Safaris: Family-Focused Adventures - with Mike Kelly
Today on ScaleUp Radio, we embark on a fascinating journey from out of Africa with our distinguished guest, Mike Kelly, the CEO and co-founder of Coral Tree Travel.
With an exceptional offering of tailor-made safaris for families, Mike's business has seen rapid growth since its inception in January 2021. What's more, their unique insight into the needs of family adventurers has set them apart in a growing market. We'll be diving deep into the nitty-gritty of creating memorable safari experiences, emphasizing trust, safety, and quality.
Unleashing the Power of People: HR Strategies for Growth - with Kelly Tucker
Today we are delving into the fascinating world of HR consultancy with Kelly Tucker, the vibrant owner of HR Star. Providing support to businesses in the UK Kelly's knack for strategy and people engagement has made her a formidable force in the industry.
Sailing Towards Excellence: Inspiring Hospitality through Selective Recruitment and Empowering Training
Hello, adventurers and explorers, and welcome to this engaging episode of ScaleUp Radio!
Today I'm speaking with Jay Clements, the seasoned Managing Director of English Holiday Cruises, a company specializing in unique river cruise experiences. Jay's charismatic Edward Elgar, a live-aboard hotel boat, has been the enchanting setting for many a memorable voyage.
Revolutionizing Small Businesses processes - with Mark Hutchinson
Today, we will embark on an electrifying journey through the land of process automation and data optimisation with Mark Hutchinson, founder of Accellier. A business that has been a beacon of change for the past 10 ½ years, Accellier is armed with a treasure chest of advisory services and technology, empowering business owners to extract the very essence of value from their data.
Financial Lifelines: Unveiling the World of Insolvency - with Michael Durkan
Welcome to the this new episode of ScaleUp Radio.
Today, we’re venturing into the riveting domain of insolvency with Michael Durkan. He’s a veteran in the field and has been casting safety nets for businesses and individuals in financial turmoil for over 15 years with his business Durkan Cahill.
Unleashing Creativity: Scaling the Heights of Video Innovation - with Craig Hellen
In this brand-new episode I am thrilled to introduce you to an incredibly talented individual, Craig Helen, the owner of Bexmedia.
Since 2007, Bexmedia has been pushing the boundaries in video production, motion graphics, and 3D animation, and today we dive deep into their remarkable journey.
Values are so important, they are in the name of our business - with Jamie Sleigh
This time on ScaleUp radio, I speak with Jamie Sleigh, joint owner and CEO of Indeloy IT Solutions.
Indeloy is an IT services business based in Gloucestershire. It was started only three years ago and has already grown into a team of 10 staff with more in the pipeline.
Scale your business using your knowledge to leverage new markets - with Dan Ashendorf
This time on ScaleUp Radio I speak with Dan Ashendorf the owner of Jungle Juice.
Jungle Juice is a company that has a software platform that allows its members to find; purchase; and sell products through Amazon. They’ve been going for a number of years and have 7 staff and 70 members.
Scaling your business by jumping at the opportunities as they appear - with Angharad Wrigley
This time on ScaleUp Radio I speak with Angharad Wrigley the owner of Hot Tubs Rock.
Hot Tubs Rock is a business based in Lydney that rents and sells hot tubs and all the services you would need for one, along with all the garden furniture you would need to make it exceptional. They started in 2015 and now have nine employees. It has recently expanded into Worcestershire as well.
A business built on your passion to help others like you - with Bay Burdett
This time on Scale Up Radio, I speak with Bay Burdett, the founder and CEO of Bays Kitchen.
Bays Kitchen is a business that designs and sells food products for people with IBS, or needing the FODMAP diet. They are based in Cheltenham and have been going for five years. The team is four members strong and already has four investors who support them on the advisory board.
Building a healthy business ready to Scale - with Ryan Anthoney
This time on ScaleUp Radio I speak with Ryan Anthoney owner and CEO of Recharge Fitness Ltd.
Recharge Fitness is a business that sells gym equipment to the home enthusiast, personal trainers, the sports industry and gyms. They have been operating for just over three years based in Gloucestershire.
Learn from failure to build an empowering business - with James Wilkes
This time on ScaleUp Radio, I speak with James Wilkes, the founder and CEO of Wilxite Limited.
Wilxite is a software development company based in Stroud with a 27 strong team who are based around the world. James started the business 12 years ago, built on the ashes of a previous business, he created.
A community focus to business development - with Matt Rudman
This time on ScaleUp radio, I speak with Matt Rudman, the owner of Cheltenham Martial Arts.
Cheltenham Martial Arts is a karate and fitness center, based in Cheltenham, helping the community to empower themselves both physically and mentally. Matt has over 17 years’ experience in the industry and bought out the business in 2013 from his sensei.
A passion for learning will aid to build multiple business - with Phil Kiernan
This time on ScaleUp Radio I speak with Phil Kiernan, the owner of the award-winning Farmer Boys Inn & 3 other businesses.
Phil is a serial entrepreneur and started with the Farmer Boys Inn in 2000 and built it to an award-winning standard. In 2006 he then created Mad About Pies to make his teams famous pies and sell them to everyone. He then built a property business and now has created a property development business.
Finding amazing people for your clients starts with growing amazing people in your business - with Ben Craig
This time on ScaleUp Radio I speak with Ben Craig, the MD of Infosec People.
Infosec People is a recruitment business that specializes in aiding companies in the UK, Europe and USA in finding key talent for cyber security and data privacy from CE levels to developers. They started 15 years ago and are based in Cheltenham. They currently have 20 staff and plan to grow by 5 more by end of 2023.
Distilling the art of a successful Gin business with your Siblings - with Cicely Elliot-Berry
This time on ScaleUp Radio I speak with Cicely Elliot-Berry, one of the owners of Sibling Gin.
Sibling Gin is a full distillery that makes craft gin for the luxury market and they are based in Cheltenham. They started 9 years ago and they’ve already grown into a tight little team of 10 passionate people.
Master the Conversation for Marketing to be Successful - with Al Tepper
This time on ScaleUp Radio I speak with Al Tepper, the owner of Tepfu.
TepFu is a marketing strategy & coaching business that is based near Hemel Hempstead. Al started 7 years ago, with in intension not to employ staff or have premises, and he has kept to his plan while building a 6-figure turnover.
Building a business from a generational long-term point of view
This time on ScaleUp Radio I speak with Benjamin Janes, the founder of The Trust Partnership.
The Trust Partnership is a business that manages charitable trusts, foundations and almshouse charities with its unique shared resources, helping them to be more effective and efficient. Some of these Almshouse charities go back to the 9th & 10 century. The Trust Partnership is not that old, it was started in 2005, but is does has a very long viewpoint of its future.
SMEs can reduce their Carbon emissions with the right help - with Eoin McQuone
This time on ScaleUp Radio I speak with Eoin McQuone, the owner of Go Carbon Positive.
Go Carbon Positive is a business that helps SMEs to reduce their carbon impact by calculating and then reducing their carbon footprint. They are based in Gloucestershire and started in 2020 just before the pandemic. Since then, they have grown and now there are 4 members on the team.
Build Your Business By Owning Your Marketing
This time on ScaleUp Radio I speak with David Holland, the owner of Exela.
Exela is a Marketing business that is based in Cheltenham. David started it 22 years ago and helps gritty entrepreneurs develop their marketing to bring in the leads for their sales process through using different tools.
What is interesting in David’s discussion about marketing is while Exela uses technology to aid their clients, the key is always in the skill of ‘driving interaction’, which is at the heart of all human connection since time began.
Building a Business for the long term around your ethics
This time on ScaleUp Radio I speak with Neil Cullen, the owner of Energise Technology.
Energise Technology focuses on helping the not for profit, charity & education markets with a number of pillars including Technical Consultancy / Software development / Tech advice & Tech skill training. They are based in Tetbury, but as you will hear their staff can be located anywhere in the world. Neil started the business in 2017 with the aim to grow organically and develop the business around his ethics.
The benefits of joining an SME to help it grow through valuing customers
This time on ScaleUp Radio I speak with Carlo Colucci, the Client Director at County Employee Benefits.
County Employee Benefits is a business that is based in Gloucester and help their clients understand and define the best employee benefits they would need to recruit and retain their ideal staff. They started a few years ago, but they’ve already grown by taking on Carlo and have plans with more growth to come.
A business designed for delivering outcomes, not contracts
Hello I’m Granger Forson. This time on ScaleUp Radio I speak with Adam Jacobs the owner of Bloom Procurement Services.
Bloom is an innovative business that links the public sector and it’s needs for services with suppliers based on output needs not procurement contracts. They started just over 10 years ago, have 100 staff and celebrated their 10 year anniversary in the Houses of Parliament.
Building a business with you family & passion
Hello I’m Granger Forson. This time on ScaleUp Radio I speak with Jeanette Philips, the founder of Flexicare UK.
Flexicare is a healthcare provider that are based in Gloucestershire. She started the business in 1997 while a Nurse to provide health care directly in people’s homes. They now have 160 employees and 4 generation of the family involved with the business.
Building a business to change the carbon footprint of the internet
Hello I’m Granger Forson. This time on ScaleUp Radio I speak with Bethan Unsworth, one of the owners of Reforest Group.
Reforest Group are two businesses, one does Web site design and build, the other Host your sites, all ensuring you that green energy and tree planting are used to reduce your carbon footprint to zero. They started a few years ago and they have already grown to 6 members of the team.
Networking Clubs are great business learning environments
Hello I’m Granger Forson. This time on ScaleUp Radio I speak with Paul James, the owner of CAP business clubs.
CAP is a Networking business that are based in around Coleford, but is nationwide. Paul started CAP in 2011, when doing some marketing far a new venue, and had the idea that the fantastic room was ideal for a networking meeting. He has grown it to 5 groups now even through the Pandemic moving onto zoom.
You can build a successful business using referrals
Hello I’m Granger Forson. This time on ScaleUp Radio I speak with Andy Platts, the owner of Jireh Solutions ltd.
Jireh Solutions is a IT managed solutions business that are based in Tetbury. They started in 2006 as a business with the goal to bring excellence in the IT managed solutions market by moving away for Break Fix.
It was so interesting hearing Andy’s story about how he has developed the business growth, include the investment in it, all from referrals & networking.
You can build a strong business using a network
Hello I’m Granger Forson. This time on ScaleUp Radio I speak with Naomi Summers, the owner of Go Get Organized.
Go Get Organized is a VA one stop shop business that are based in Bristol bath area. It started 10 years ago as Naomi wanted to use her co-ordination skills developed working in the BBC (listen out for this) but wanted to work for home. She has grown it into a strong 30 people network of experienced people aiding Go get organized customers.
Building a Human focused Accounting business through honesty
Hello I’m Granger Forson. This time on ScaleUp Radio I speak with Ian Morgan, the owner of MBS Accountants.
MBS Accountants is a very different type of accounting business that are based in Cheltenham. It was started by Ian’s wife in 2005, and Ian joined in 2010. As you will hear in 2015 they made a paradigm shift that has made the highly focused accounts firm they’re today, that has a waiting list of business that wish to join them.
The Team In Your Business Need To Feel Like Your Family
Hello I’m Granger Forson and on this episode of ScaleUp Radio I speak with Toni Griffiths, the owner of The Good Surveyor.
The Good Surveyor is a surveying and valuing company that are based in Gloucester. They started only a few years ago, but they’ve already grown into a tight little team already - with more growth in the pipeline.
Put The Staff First - And The Rest Of The Business Will Follow
Hello. I’m Granger Forson and on this episode of ScaleUp Radio I’m talking to Andre Smague from A & B Fencing.
A & B Fencing do pretty much what they say on the tin; but they are a little bit more. They are bespoke timber builders, meaning that they can help with the construction of anything from a fence, right through to a man cave.
You Are Stronger & Better In Business Than You Think
Welcome to this episode of ScaleUp Radio. I’m Granger Forson and this week I’m speaking to Jen Le Marinel who is the founder of Wildfire Walks.
Wildfire Walks is a corporate training and coaching company that helps busy women leaders learn more about themselves as business owners and managers, through the medium of spending time in nature.
SMART Presentation
On this week’s episode we have a brand new presentation centred around being SMART.
SMART is an acronym that we use within BizSmart, which stands for Specific, Measurable, Accountable, Realistic and Timebound and is a process by which you set goals and objectives for you, your team and your business.
Running A Business Needs More Integrity, Rather Than Chasing Profit
Hello. I’m Granger Forson and on this week’s episode of ScaleUp Radio I’m speaking to Terry Malloy and Phil Joseph from The Human Business.
The Human Business are unlike any other organisation we’ve ever had on ScaleUp Radio.
Overcoming The ‘Valleys of Death’ When Scaling Up Your Business
On this week's episode of ScaleUp Radio, I'm speaking to Pia Cato, the founder and owner of the Vanilla Pod bakery in Cheltenham.
Make The Best Of Your Time During The Day. See The Chance To Work On The Business
On this week’s episode of ScaleUp Radio I’m speaking to the founder and owner of Alice Violet Creative, a company that is a content marketing agency, along with being a strategic marketing consultancy.
Grab The Business Opportunities That Present Themselves - Don’t Be Afraid Of Failure!
This week I’m speaking to John Fisher from Westway IT, who specialises in looking after the IT needs for micro and small businesses.
Your Business Is So Much Bigger When You Go Into The Virtual Space
In this week’s episode of ScaleUp Radio, I’m chatting with Clare-Louise Freeman from Zig's Exercise. Clare has got a lot of experience of being a business owner after starting on her scale up journey just over 25 years ago.
Nurturing Staff To Develop The Team
On ScaleUp Radio this week, I'm talking to Steve Ackroyd from The Job Guru. A recruitment firm based in Gloucester, where they have been helping various companies recruit staff to cope with the new challenges of a growing business.
I’m Not Motivated By Money - I Just Want To Serve My Customers In A World Class Way!
In this week’s episode of ScaleUp Radio, I’m talking to Tom Hughes from Lumen Electronic's.
Sales Is Hard Work - And Hard Work Leads To More Luck In Your Business
On ScaleUp Radio this week, I'm talking to Jonathan Viney about his business; improving profits through Sales Training, Sales Coaching and Sales Consultancy
Amazing People Do Amazing Things.
In this week’s episode of ScaleUp Radio I’m speaking with Julie Kent MBE who works with the charity The Pied Piper Appeal that helps raise money for for sick and disabled children in Gloucestershire.
You Can Be A Local Business, Backed By A National Company
In this week’s episode of ScaleUp Radio I’m speaking with Richard Hubble from it’seeze Web Design Gloucestershire.