On this episode I speak to Nick Ahad, a writer, stand up comedian and radio presenter for Radio Leeds. He has also produced and directed short films and written scripts for the British soap Emmerdale. We talk about how he started working in radio and journalism, taking the step into stand up comedy and how race can have an effect on how you are perceived in the world.

For more information about Nick Ahad, visit his website at www.nickahad.com

On this episode I speak to Ben Goodwin aka ExP, an MC and Recording Engineer of DubWhy Studios in Leeds. Ben is a successful hip-hop recording artist who has gained recognition across the UK for his unique brand of songwriting and approach to a wide range of topical issues.  We talk about the birth of DubWhy Studios, creating a music label, the importance of doing the things you love, running a limited company, the highs and lows of self employment, how hip-hop music has changed over the years and lots of other things along the way. For more information about DubWhy Studios, visit their website at www.dubwhystudios.com

On this episode I talk to Tim Nelson, the International Development Director of Hope for Justice, a global charity fighting human trafficking and modern slavery. We talk about balancing a demanding role which takes him all over the world with family and personal time, running a business and a whole host of other topics.

For more information about Hope For Justice, visit their website.
www.hopeforjustice.org

On this episode I speak to Philip Charles, Co-Director of PiPeLine Productions Academies Ltd, an alternative education provision based in Bradford, West Yorkshire.

I’ve known Philip for 20 years and we worked together running music workshops for young people across the UK for several years. We talk about the growth of PiPeLine, how a hobby can turn into a business, and his love of salsa dancing and music.

For more information about Pipeline Productions, visit their website at www.pipelineproductions.co.uk

On this episode I speak to Mike Edwards, the Director of the Northern Affinity, a new networking initiative based in Leeds, West Yorkshire. We talk about starting a business in order to better your life, networking, why the Northern Affinity is important, and also touch on his football team Liverpool FC, a major rival of my own football team Manchester United! For more information about the Northern Affinity, visit the website at www.thenorthernaffinity.co.uk.

On this episode I talk to Melanie Kirk, the Director of Architect Hair Extension Academy and the Creator of Easiring about moving away from the corporate world and getting started in business, becoming an inventor and juggling family with business.

For more information about Architect Hair Extension Academy, visit the website below.
www.architecthairexacademy.co.uk

On this first episode, I introduce the podcast, provide a little bit of background about how and why I started my own business, and the importance of a work/life balance. I hope this introduction inspires you and encourages you to listen to future podcast episodes!