In this episode, I sit down with Terri, the creative force behind The Make and Mend, a bespoke home furnishings business. Terri's expertise lies in transforming living spaces with custom-made curtains, blinds, cushions, and more. Whether you're redecorating a single room or furnishing an entire home, Terri's personalised approach ensures that every piece is perfectly tailored to your style and needs.
Terri shares her journey into the world of home furnishings, discussing how she turned her passion for fabric and design into a thriving business. She explains the process of creating custom furnishings from scratch, from selecting the perfect fabrics to matching colors and patterns to achieve a cohesive look. Terri emphasises the importance of quality materials and craftsmanship, particularly in garden furniture, where she replaces cheap foam with high-quality, durable alternatives that enhance both comfort and aesthetics.
Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or someone looking for professional help to elevate your home's interior, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice. Tune in to learn how Terri from Make and Mend can help you create a vibrant, coordinated, and inviting space that truly feels like home.
In this enlightening episode, I sit down with James Homer, a seasoned mortgage broker from Forest Hall Financial Solutions. James brings a wealth of experience and a comprehensive approach to the table, ensuring his clients always secure the best possible deals by surveying the entire market.
Key Topics Discussed:
Future of the Bank of England Base Rate: James shares his insights on the potential movements of the Bank of England's base rate for the coming year. We delve into the factors that might influence rate changes and how these shifts can impact both new buyers and those looking to remortgage.
Common Mistakes in the Mortgage Process: Avoiding costly errors is crucial when navigating the mortgage landscape. James highlights frequent mistakes that buyers make when working with mortgage brokers. These missteps can end up costing thousands of pounds, and James provides practical advice on how to steer clear of these pitfalls.
The Importance of Early Engagement with a Mortgage Broker: Timing is everything in the world of mortgages. James emphasises why it's critical to engage a mortgage broker as soon as you decide to buy or remortgage. Early involvement can streamline the process, enhance your negotiating power, and ultimately secure you the best possible deal.
In this episode, I sit down with Cathy Hunt from Niche Design Architects to explore her innovative approach to architectural design. Cathy is not your everyday architect; she distinguishes herself through her use of cutting-edge technology, creating detailed 3D designs that enable clients to virtually walk through their proposed spaces before any construction begins.
This immersive experience allows clients to visualise their future homes in a way that traditional blueprints cannot offer.
Cathy specialises in renovating older period properties, bringing a deep understanding of the unique challenges these projects present. She discusses the importance of thoughtful renovation practices, such as ensuring that walls can breathe to prevent long-term damage—a common issue in historic homes. Her expertise highlights the delicate balance required to modernise these properties while preserving their historical integrity.
Additionally, Cathy delves into the concept of retrofitting, providing a clear explanation of what it entails and why it is crucial in today's world. She shares insights into common mistakes people make when planning home extensions, offering practical advice to avoid these pitfalls. Tune in to gain valuable knowledge from an expert who seamlessly blends advanced technology with traditional architectural wisdom, ensuring every project is both innovative and respectful of its historical context.
In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Libby Steggles-Ginn, the founder of The Emoji Coach, to explore her transformative work in mending family relationships.
Libby specialises in helping parents and children reconnect, often after they've grown apart due to misunderstandings or conflicts.
She sheds light on the common issue of teenagers going through tumultuous stages and parents reacting in ways that may inadvertently push them away. Libby explains how factors such as depression, anxiety, strict upbringing, rigid parenting methods, or simply a lack of understanding about what the teenager is experiencing can contribute to these rifts.
Through her coaching, Libby guides families to better communication and empathy, helping both parents and children navigate their emotions and rebuild their bond. Her approach is not limited to teenagers; she also works with families with children in primary school, addressing issues early on to prevent larger conflicts later.
Libby's passion extends beyond individual family units—she is on a mission to revolutionise the school system. She shares her ambitious plans to establish a school based on her unique curriculum, designed to foster emotional intelligence and understanding from a young age.
With a team of eager educators ready to join her, Libby is currently focused on finding the right location and funding to bring her visionary school to life.
In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Rachel, the dynamic force behind North Leeds and Wetherby Mumbler. Mumbler is the ultimate resource for anyone with kids or those expecting a new addition to their family.
Rachel shares how Mumbler collaborates with both local and larger businesses to curate a comprehensive list of after-school clubs, holiday clubs, and baby classes. These resources are invaluable for parents looking to keep their children engaged and entertained during after-school hours and holidays.
Rachel delves into the community-driven aspect of Mumbler, highlighting the prestigious Mumbler Awards. These awards allow residents of North Leeds and Wetherby to vote for their favourite restaurants and businesses, recognising and celebrating those that excel in serving the community.
Excitement is in the air as Rachel announces the upcoming Mumbler Fest in November. This family-friendly festival promises a day packed with activities and entertainment for all ages, offering a perfect opportunity for families to come together and enjoy a fun-filled day.
Tune in to hear Rachel's insights on the importance of community support, the benefits of local partnerships, and the joy of creating memorable experiences for families through Mumbler.
In this episode, we sit down with Leah, co-founder of My Law solicitors, a company dedicated to assisting SMEs with employment law matters. Leah shares her expertise on distinguishing between her role and that of a HR consultant, emphasising her holistic approach to analysing businesses to foster employee retention and achieve desired outcomes.
Leah sheds light on common pitfalls SME employers face, often unaware of changes in their employees' job statuses that can lead to unforeseen compensation liabilities. Through real-life scenarios, she highlights the importance of staying informed and proactive in navigating employment law intricacies.
Join us as Leah provides invaluable insights and practical advice for SMEs looking to safeguard their interests and foster positive employer-employee relationships.
In this episode, we sit down with Molly from Molly Scarlett Therapy, a seasoned mental well-being coach with a diverse clientele spanning from those tackling fear and anxiety to individuals transitioning from prison, and even young minds in primary schools.
Together, we delve into the essence of mental resilience and its pivotal role in navigating life's challenges. From understanding its significance to practical strategies for cultivating it, our conversation offers insights applicable to anyone seeking to understand and control their mind.
Moreover, we explore the transformative power of visualisation, shedding light on how envisioning the person we aspire to become can serve as a potent tool in our journey towards growth and self-realisation.
In this episode of Showcasing North Leeds, we delve into the critical role of HR support for small businesses with Anna Roberts, the visionary behind Nomify, a HR company revolutionising the way small businesses manage their human resources.
Anna shares invaluable insights on the optimal timing for engaging HR specialists. She emphasises the proactive approach, highlighting that waiting until HR issues arise can be costly and detrimental to a company's success. Instead, Anna advocates for businesses to invest in HR support early on, allowing for preemptive measures to be implemented, ultimately safeguarding the company's well-being.
Anna illustrates the repercussions of neglecting HR support. She tells a story of a business that overlooked the importance of HR practices, leading to financial losses and irreparable damage to their reputation. This real-life example serves as a stark reminder of the significant impact HR decisions can have on a company's bottom line and brand integrity.
Furthermore, Anna introduces Nomify's innovative approach, offering customisable packages that allow businesses to access HR expertise as needed, without the burden of huge costs. This flexible solution empowers small businesses to navigate HR challenges effectively, ensuring compliance, fostering a positive workplace culture, and mitigating risks.
Join us as Anna Roberts sheds light on the transformative power of strategic HR support and the pivotal role it plays in shaping the trajectory of small businesses. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just embarking on your entrepreneurial journey, this episode offers invaluable insights to help you navigate the complex landscape of human resources with confidence and success.
In this episode we explore the art of kitchen transformation with Matt from Colourhaus. Colourhaus specialises in spray painting kitchens, breathing new life into tired spaces and fulfilling clients' desires for bespoke colour schemes.
Matt and his team excel in a variety of scenarios. Whether it's enhancing the look of a brand-new kitchen with a custom colour that the original supplier can't provide, or revamping an older kitchen to give it a fresh, modern aesthetic, Colourhaus delivers outstanding results.
But Colourhaus doesn't stop at kitchens. They also offer services to refresh other aspects of interior spaces. From spraying tiles to updating worktops, Colourhaus provides comprehensive solutions to elevate the look and feel of any room.
What sets Colourhaus apart is their attention to detail and commitment to excellence. They understand that sometimes a kitchen makeover requires more than just a fresh coat of paint. If a kitchen is in less-than-perfect condition, Matt and his team may recommend replacing doors or fixing other features to ensure a flawless finish.
Moreover, Colourhaus goes beyond kitchens, offering expertise in restoring and enhancing features in period homes. From picture rails to cornicing, Matt and his team have the skills and experience to preserve the character of these cherished spaces while giving them a modern twist.
In this episode, we dive into the world of jewellery consultation with the esteemed Jessica Steele. Jessica's expertise lies in helping individuals discover the ideal piece of jewellery, particularly when it comes to selecting engagement rings. She's deeply involved in the process from the very start, believing that the earlier you engage her, the better the experience will be.
With a keen eye for detail and a wealth of education in the jewellery industry, Jessica guides her clients through a personalised journey to find the perfect piece. She starts by understanding the individual and their partner, drawing insights from simple cues like photos shared with her. Together, they collaborate to create a bespoke piece of jewellery that reflects the unique bond shared by the couple.
What sets Jessica apart is not only her expertise but also her network of suppliers. With her connections, she ensures her clients receive top-quality diamonds at a fraction of the cost they would pay at a high street jeweller. But beyond the savings, it's the personal touch that truly makes the difference.
In this episode, we'll hear firsthand stories of how Jessica has transformed the experience of finding the perfect piece of jewellery. From engagement rings to other meaningful gifts, Jessica's personalised service has left a lasting impact on her clients' lives, including myself.
Tune in to discover how Jessica Steele's expertise and personal touch can elevate your jewellery shopping experience to new heights.
In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Jo Sheridan-Hawley, the dynamic owner of a Pilates, barre, and sports massage studio. With a background in law, Jo's path took a transformative turn when she discovered the profound impact Pilates could have on people's lives. Transitioning from a legal career to a wellness entrepreneur, Jo found her true calling in helping others through movement and therapy.
One pivotal moment in Jo's journey was when she encountered a woman undergoing oncology treatment who struggled to find inclusive fitness classes. Recognising the immense joy and benefit her classes brought to this individual, Jo was motivated to become qualified to support oncology patients, ensuring they have access to safe and supportive exercise environments.
Aside from Pilates, Jo's expertise in sports massage became an integral part of her practice. Drawing from her experiences as a mother to three sporty sons, Jo developed a keen eye for spotting and treating injuries. Her compassionate approach and deep understanding of the body have enabled her to help numerous individuals overcome injuries and achieve optimal physical well-being.
Join us as we explore Jo's journey from law to Pilates, highlighting her dedication to empowering others through movement, therapy, and unwavering support.
In this episode, I'm joined by Natalie, the passionate owner of Woof, a beloved dog shop nestled in Oakwood, North Leeds.
Natalie's journey into the world of dog ownership and entrepreneurship is as heartening as it is inspiring. It all began with a moment when she stumbled upon an available shop space and told her husband, "We are opening a dog shop!" After that statement they soon turned that vision into reality, securing the keys to what would become Woof.
Having experienced firsthand the disappointment of wasting money on items that didn't quite meet her dogs' needs, she was inspired to create a different kind of shopping experience—one that prioritises quality, practicality and a hiring service that allows you to hire items rather than buy them for growing puppies.
But Woof is more than just a retail space; it's a vibrant hub of community engagement and support. Natalie is committed to fostering strong relationships with fellow dog owners, local businesses, and canine professionals alike. Through collaborations with dog groomers, trainers, and other enterprises, Woof aims to provide comprehensive support and resources to the community, ensuring that every dog and their human companions thrive.
One of the most touching aspects of Natalie's story is the profound influence her son, Toby, has had on the creation of Woof. Toby, who is autistic, shares a special bond with the family's two dogs, finding comfort and companionship in their presence, especially during challenging moments. Natalie envisions Woof not only as a thriving business but also as a legacy for Toby—one that he can eventually take over and continue to nurture with love and dedication.
Whether you're a seasoned dog owner or a newcomer to the world of canine companionship, this episode promises insights and anecdotes that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the joys of dog ownership.
Sally approaches bra fitting with a unique perspective – she views bras not just as garments, but as essential medical support for women. Her commitment to her clients goes beyond providing mere underwear; it's about ensuring each woman finds the perfect fit that offers both comfort and health benefits. In this enlightening episode, Sally shares her wealth of knowledge on bras, addressing common questions and misconceptions. Ever wondered how many bras you should have in your wardrobe? Or how often you should replace them? Sally breaks down these essential considerations, offering practical advice backed by years of expertise. But perhaps the most crucial aspect Sally emphasises is the importance of getting fitted properly each time you shop for a bra. She reveals the intricacies of bra fitting, debunking myths and highlighting the transformative impact of a well-fitted bra on both posture and confidence. What sets Sally apart is her personalised approach to service. Her loyal clientele, spanning across cities and even countries, is a testament to her dedication to ensuring every woman walks out of Fit to Bust feeling empowered and supported – quite literally. Join us as we explore the science and art behind bra fitting with Sally, and discover why investing in the right bra is not just a fashion choice, but a fundamental aspect of women's well-being. Whether you're a seasoned bra aficionado or a newcomer to the world of lingerie, this episode promises insights that will revolutionise the way you think about your undergarments.
In this episode of our podcast, we delve into the heartwarming story of Lisa, co-founder of The Biskery, a remarkable company that's not just about selling biscuits, but about spreading joy, empowering women, and redefining the traditional work-life balance.
The Biskery is not your average business. Founded by Lisa and Saskia, it's a place where women (and men, too) work during school hours, ensuring a perfect balance between work and home life. This unique approach has garnered attention and praise, not just for its progressive mindset, but also for its delicious offerings.
At the core of The Biskery's success is its award-winning jam biscuit, a testament to the team's dedication to quality and innovation. While their primary focus is on supplying biscuits to businesses for corporate gifts, they also cater to individual consumers, offering the perfect gift for any occasion, whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or baby shower.
But what truly sets The Biskery apart is its commitment to spreading joy and kindness. Through initiatives like Gratituesday, customers can gift a free biscuit to someone special, sending a message of upliftment and positivity. It's a small gesture that has a big impact, embodying the ethos of Lisa and Saskia from the very beginning.
In this episode, we explore Lisa's journey, from the inception of The Biskery to its current success. We delve into the challenges she's faced, the lessons she's learned, and the moments of triumph that have defined her entrepreneurial journey. Through it all, Lisa's unwavering determination and passion shine through, serving as an inspiration to us all.
Join us as we celebrate the brilliance of The Biskery, a business that's not just about selling biscuits, but about spreading love, joy, and positivity in every bite.
In this episode of "Home Harmony," we delve into the world of interior design with the remarkable Allison Lewis from Haus Creative.
At Haus Creative, Allison's expertise goes beyond simply beautifying spaces. She is deeply involved in the interior design journey, engaging with clients to understand their vision, preferences, and lifestyle needs. Through thoughtful discussions and meticulous planning, she crafts personalised design solutions that breathe new life into every room.
One of Allison's specialties is Venetian painting and artwork, a traditional technique that adds a touch of luxury and elegance to any space. With her skilled hands and artistic flair, she transforms walls into works of art, creating mesmerising textures and patterns that captivate the eye.
What truly sets Allison apart is her unwavering commitment to her clients' satisfaction. From the initial consultation to the final reveal, she is there every step of the way, offering support, guidance, and reassurance. Her personalised approach ensures that each client feels heard, understood, and well taken care of throughout the entire design process.
In summary, Allison Lewis from Haus Creative is a true visionary in the world of interior design. With her passion for artistry, her expertise in Venetian painting, and her innate sense of color, she transforms houses into homes that reflect the unique personalities and lifestyles of her clients. From start to finish, she is dedicated to creating spaces that inspire, delight, and truly resonate with the soul.
Join us on this insightful episode of Showcasing North Leeds, where we delve into the intricacies of conveyancing with Leasa, the conveyancing manager and partner at Winston Solicitors. Leasa brings her wealth of experience and expertise to the table, offering valuable insights into the often complex process of property transactions.
In this episode, Leasa sheds light on the role of conveyancers and why selecting the right one is crucial for a seamless property transaction. Drawing from her extensive background, she discusses the various stages involved in conveyancing and provides tips on how to identify a reliable and efficient conveyancer.
As we explore the importance of choosing a great conveyancer, Leasa addresses common concerns and misconceptions that people have about the process. From legal requirements to practical considerations, she offers clarity on key aspects of conveyancing, empowering listeners to make informed decisions when navigating property transactions.
Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned property investor, this episode promises to equip you with essential knowledge and practical advice to streamline your conveyancing journey.
In this episode, I sit down with Alexis Nicolaidis, an interior design specialist from VA Heritage, renowned for her passion for older properties brimming with character. Alexis' love for heritage homes goes beyond aesthetics; it's about preserving their unique stories and crafting spaces that truly reflect her clients' lifestyles.
Throughout the discussion, Alexis shares her distinctive approach to design, rather than chasing after the latest colors and designs, Alexis emphasises the importance of creating spaces that stand the test of time.
A key aspect of Alexis' philosophy is her commitment to making spaces functional and tailored to her clients' lifestyles. She understands that every home is a reflection of its inhabitants and works closely with them to create environments that not only look beautiful but also work seamlessly for their day-to-day lives.
Whether you're a homeowner with a penchant for historic properties or a design enthusiast seeking inspiration, this episode is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the art of interior design. Join us as we explore the world of heritage homes and discover the transformative power of thoughtful, personalised design with Alexis Nicolaidis.
In this episode, we sit down with the esteemed President of the Rotary Club of Roundhay, Jacqui, to uncover the secrets behind their remarkable fundraising efforts and impactful projects.
Discover how this dynamic group of individuals raises over £10,000 annually, dedicated to supporting charitable causes, volunteering, and making a tangible difference in their local community.
Prepare to have your misconceptions shattered as we tackle some common myths surrounding Rotary clubs. Jacqui addresses prevalent misconceptions and sheds light on the true essence of Rotary's mission, values, and impact.
Tune in as we celebrate the unwavering dedication of the Rotary Club of Roundhay, where passion meets purpose, and together, they create positive change that resonates far beyond their local borders.
Whether you're a seasoned philanthropist or simply curious about the power of collective action, this episode offers invaluable insights and inspiration for anyone eager to make a difference in the world.
In this episode, we dive into the world of property staging and interior design with the talented Louise Wynne, founder of Wild Kind Interiors. Louise shares her insights and experiences in helping developers achieve better prices and faster sales through her staging techniques.
Louise discusses the importance of creating spaces that resonate with potential buyers on an emotional level.
Throughout the episode, Louise shares valuable tips and tricks for developers to elevate their properties and shares an interesting fact about the colour grey.
In this episode I have a great chat with Zoe from Roundhay swim and dive into the world of aquatic education.
Zoe is dedicated to nurturing water confidence and proficiency in children from infancy to primary school age.
In this episode we chat about how teaching children as young as two months old the fundamentals of water safety and swimming can help them when they become older.
Knowing firsthand how great Zoe and the team are this episode is a great listen for anyone with children wanting to know why it is important to get them started young and the difference between Roundhay swim and other swim schools.