This Place, Our Voices

"It's about becoming the best version of yourself..." In this episode we’re joined by Andrea Lawton of Nantwich Functional Fitness, a gym built around making fitness more welcoming, accessible and inclusive for everyone. Andrea shares her own journey into health and fitness, how Nantwich Functional Fitness came about, and why creating a community has always been at the heart of what...

"The support I've had, I've just been incredibly, incredibly lucky, but I haven't raised the money. People have raised it for me." In this episode we’re joined by Gary Fear, an estate agent branch manager in Nantwich who has made regular journeys to Ukraine since the war began, delivering food and essential supplies to people living through the conflict. Gary has travelled...

"The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members." In this episode we’re shining a light on The Owen Project , a community-driven initiative founded by Jess and Luke Owen . Born from a desire to combat isolation and foster inclusivity, The Owen Project has been making a real difference—creating safe spaces, building connections, and su...

"The purpose of coaching is to close the gap between potential and performance." In this episode, we sit down with Anna Bates , founder of Room 11 Coaching , to explore the power of self-belief, resilience, and personal growth. Anna specialises in coaching individuals and teams to unlock their full potential, whether through her Telesales Masterclass, her Maternity Coaching Programme, or...

"It’s important that we don’t underestimate the play of children because it can produce a much more satisfyingly creative adult.” This episode features Helen Wilson from Fun Fest Holiday Club , a dynamic holiday programme that gives children the freedom to choose their own adventures. From creative activities to action-packed fun, Fun Fest is all about making school breaks unforgettable. Hele...

"Education isn’t just about textbooks and classrooms—it’s about growth, confidence, and unlocking potential." In this episode Emma Shepherd of Inspired Learning Ltd , a company dedicated to helping individuals thrive through innovative learning strategies and personal development, shares her journey, the philosophy behind Inspired Learning Ltd, and how she works to create meaningful lear...

"Coaching works because it’s centred on you. When you clarify your goals and take action, transformation happens." We sit down with Steph Scholes from Inspiration Coaching & Support , an organisation dedicated to helping individuals unlock their potential and navigate life’s challenges. Steph shares insights into the power of coaching, the importance of mindset shifts, and how tailor...

"The outdoors is not just a place—it’s a mindset. Every step into nature is a step towards clarity, resilience, and rediscovering what truly matters." In this episode, Julia Hartley introduces us to Guided Outdoor Adventures , a booking platform that connects guides with clients, making outdoor adventures more accessible and helping people find the right expertise to explore safely and c...

"Quality is never an accident. It is always the result of an intelligent effort." In this episode, we sit down with Harro Dorsch , owner of The Hive at 52 , a charming B&B in the heart of Weaverham, Cheshire, creating unforgettable guest experiences with his extensive background in hospitality. We explore the inspiration behind transforming his and wife Lucy's Victorian home int...

“Feeling beautiful has nothing to do with what you look like.” In this episode, we explore the inspiring journey of Kelley 'Tigerheart' Phillips , founder of Tigerheart Burlesque . Kelley shares her personal mission to overcome imposter syndrome and her successful path to championing body confidence. Based in Cheshire East, she blends her background in psychology with a passion for burle...

“Martial arts is not about fighting; it’s about building character.” We sit down with Mark Watson of Budo Shin Ryu , a mixed martial arts academy with classes all over South Cheshire and Staffordshire. Mark opens up about his history with mixed martial arts, the many benefits for both adults and children and how martial arts supports his charity work aimed at supporting dog charities in the area....

"Life is about change. Sometimes it's painful. Sometimes it's beautiful. But most of the time, it's both." We’re joined by Jess Wikins-Cooke , founder of Tap Into Transformation , to explore how Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) can unlock a world of emotional healing and self-discovery. Jess shares her expertise on tapping, explaining its role in managing stress, overcom...

"A mother is never defined by the number of children you can see, but by the love she holds in her heart." Join us as we meet Anna Smithers , the founder of Orange Lotus Yoga , a fully qualified British Wheel of Yoga teacher based in Crewe, and the award-winning author behind the beloved Yogi Superhero children’s book series. In this heartfelt conversation, Anna reflects on her transform...

"Dogs do speak, but only to those who know how to listen" Please note that at the time of recording, Wag Wagatha Christie was named Va Va Groom but was renamed in 2025. In this episode, we sit down with Vanessa Barber , the visionary behind Wag Wagatha Christie Holistic Dog Grooming , a holistic dog grooming salon nestled in the heart of Nantwich. Vanessa shares her inspiring journey to...

“The young American pilot’s fate has become interwoven with the town’s history.” In this episode of we speak with Brown Owl Karen Lynch and the 4th Nantwich Brownies about the incredible story of 1st Lieutenant Arthur Brown , a 23-year-old American airman whose heroic actions during the Second World War left an enduring legacy in Nantwich.  On Friday, 14th January 1944, Arthur's Thunderbolt p...

"Lost time is never found again." We speak with Rachel Calter from Pink Spaghetti PA Services Nantwich & Crewe , a virtual assistant service supporting small businesses. We explore how their tailored services—ranging from diary management and inbox organisation to social media and marketing support—are designed to free up time for business owners, helping them focus on growth and ach...

"Photography has no rules, it is not a sport." In this episode, we’re joined by Kacey of Kacey Louise Photography , a talented young photographer from the Crewe & Nantwich area. Kacey shares her passion for capturing moments through her lens and opens up about the challenges and triumphs of starting a new business. Tune in to hear her story, her creative vision, and how our community...

"It's not who you are that holds you back, it's who you think you're not." In this episode, we chat with Megan Chadwick , the founder of Evergreen Life Coaching , to explore the transformative power of coaching. Megan shares her personal journey into life coaching, offering insights into what inspired her to help others navigate life’s challenges. We delve into her coachin...

"Kindness can transform someone's dark moment with a blaze of light. You'll never know how much your caring matters." In this episode we chat with Zoë Robson from Maintain Independence to explore how tailored approaches in rehabilitation, wellness, and nutrition are empowering individuals to lead healthier, more independent lives. From preventing falls to sports therapy, Zoë sh...

“You can't buy happiness, but you can buy local and that's kind of the same.” Nestled in the picturesque village of Swettenham, Cheshire, Country Rustics is a family-run business proudly led by Helen and Alan Gregory . This remarkable couple continues the legacy of crafting high-quality, durable, and sustainable outdoor furniture that stands the test of time. In this episode of This Plac...

"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." Join us for as we speak with Liz 'Bizzy Lizzie' Parkin , founder of Nantwich Buddies and Nantwich. INFO . Listen as Liz recounts the story of Nantwich Buddies during those first throws of COVID-19 back in 2020 and how the initiative is still making a difference now. Liz also explains how her new directory website can help...

"You don't have to control your thoughts. You just have to stop letting them control you." In this episode, we are joined by Sarah Jones of Empowered Trauma Therapy as she discusses her approach to therapy and dispels many of the common misconceptions. To find out more about Sarah and her business, visit www.empoweredtraumatherapy.com , and to find out more about 'Panic to Peac...

“Healing comes in waves, just like the vibrations in a sound bath.” Welcome to This Place, Our Voices. Our opening episode features Holly , founder of The Higher Frequency Healing Coach; a company which helps people with their wellbeing and holistic health through sound, meditation, energy and music." Connect with Holly, The Higher Frequency Healing Coach, via the following social media links...

In this introductory episode, we unveil what “This Place, Our Voices” is all about.  Get a sneak peek into the stories, people, and local wonders that make our community special. From small businesses to local charities, inspiring community groups to exciting events, our podcast will explore the hidden gems on your doorstep.  Whether you’re curious about your town’s history, interested in the peop...