Edinburgh Business Stories

In this episode of Edinburgh Business Stories, Colin shares the journey behind the business: from scribbling ideas after a night out, to developing a brand that now partners with Hearts FC, and navigating the intense highs and lows of entrepreneurship along the way. This conversation covers everything from the real meaning behind the Stella Omada name, to launching a digital greeting card company...

In this episode of Edinburgh Business Stories, we sit down with Tommy Dale, co-founder of Forth Resource Management, for a wide-ranging conversation that’s equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and thought-provoking. From composting garden cuttings into premium topsoil, to pulling tonnes of marine waste off Scottish beaches, Tommy’s work straddles entrepreneurship, sustainability, and a deep love for...

In this episode of Edinburgh Business Stories, we’re joined by Josif Grace, Founder and CEO of Legado, a company reshaping how regulated industries communicate with their customers. With a background in investment management and time spent immersed in the Silicon Valley startup ecosystem, Josif brings a unique perspective on scaling tech businesses in traditionally slow-moving sectors. At Legado,...

In this episode, we speak with Sheryl Macaulay, Partner at EQ Accountants, about her journey from Accounts and Audit at Douglas Home and Co to specialising in Tax Planning. Sheryl shares how leaving university early and taking a summer placement led to her successful career, and how she overcame challenges as a young woman in a male-dominated industry. She also discusses the importance of stepping...

Since the age of 16, Richard Simpson had a clear ambition—to own and run a creative agency. After starting out in the fast-paced world of media sales and building experience at a global brand design consultancy, that vision became a reality. Today, he’s Joint Managing Director and Co-owner of Tayburn, now part of Limitless Innovations Group following its recent acquisition by LEWIS. Tayburn helps...

In this episode of Edinburgh Business Stories, we sit down with Nathalie Agnew, Managing Director of Muckle Media—an agency built on purpose, people, and bold ideas. As Managing Director of Muckle Media, Nathalie has led award-winning campaigns for private and public sector clients across the UK. With over 20 years of experience, she’s built a purpose-led agency with kindness, results, and impact...

Join us in this episode of Edinburgh Business Stories as we speak with Emma Macdonald, the visionary founder and CEO of TBCo, a B Corp-certified brand that’s making waves in the world of design-led accessories. Since founding the company in 2014, Emma has built TBCo into a leader in sustainable fashion and homeware, using natural and recycled fibres to create stylish, high-quality products that ma...

In this episode of Edinburgh Business Stories, we sit down with Sharon Fairley and Nicole Crane of High Flyers, a family-run childcare agency providing expert staff across Edinburgh and West Lothian. Since 2020, High Flyers has been dedicated to supplying high-calibre, experienced childcare professionals to nurseries, playschools, out-of-school clubs, and more. Sharon and Nicole share their insigh...

In this episode of Edinburgh Business Stories, we sit down with Adam Sinclair, Managing Director of Stirling Sinclair Removals & Storage. His journey to business wasn’t exactly traditional—after years of playing professional rugby in South Africa, France, and the UK, he spotted an opportunity in an industry he had plenty of personal experience with moving. What started with a single truck has...

In this episode of Edinburgh Business Stories, we’re joined by Slaine and Stuart Kerr, co-founders of The Row Dental, a luxury cosmetic dental clinic in the heart of Edinburgh. Together, they share their journey of building a standout clinic that combines cutting-edge treatments with a patient-first philosophy, all set in a beautifully designed space inspired by the elegance of Harley Street. From...

In this episode of Edinburgh Business Stories, we sit down with David Hunter, the founder and CEO of Shot Scope Technologies. David takes us through his journey of transforming Shot Scope from a start-up to a scale-up, delivering innovative GPS wearables, laser rangefinders, and performance-tracking solutions to golfers in over 160 countries worldwide. With a background in electronics design and e...

In this episode of Edinburgh Business Stories, we sit down with Jonathan Ward, Managing Director of Spring Solutions, a company specialising in supply chain solutions for industries like Aerospace, Defence, and Oil & Gas.  Jonathan takes us through his fascinating journey from the high-pressure environment of call centre sales to leading a business that partners with some of the world’s bigges...

Step inside the world of Margiotta, Edinburgh’s beloved family-run retailer, in this heartwarming and inspiring episode of Edinburgh Business Stories. Founded by Pierino and Eleonora Margiotta in the 1960s, Margiotta has grown from a single sweet shop on St. Mary’s Street to a household name across Edinburgh, known for its local charm, exceptional customer service, and quality products. In this ep...

In this episode of Edinburgh Business Stories, we sit down with Andy Whitmey, Director at Umega, Edinburgh's leading letting and estate agency. Andy shares the incredible journey of Umega—from its beginnings as a challenger in a traditional sector to becoming one of the highest-rated property agents in the UK. With a passion for people and property, Andy discusses the core values that have fueled...

In this episode of Edinburgh Business Stories, we sit down with Frank Dick OBE, one of the most respected and inspirational figures in the world of coaching and high performance. Frank has coached some of the most iconic athletes, including Olympic gold medallist Daley Thompson, tennis legend Boris Becker, and golfing star Justin Rose.  Beyond his work in athletics, Frank’s expertise has extended...

In this episode of Edinburgh Business Stories, we’re joined by Ricky Nicol, Co-Founder & Vice Chairman of Commsworld—one of the UK’s leading Next Generation Network Operators.  From humble beginnings to spearheading one of the fastest-growing telecom companies in the UK, Ricky’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and leadership. Over the years, Ricky has transformed Commsworld...

What happens when a former investment banker swaps Wall Street for the world of crazy golf? Meet Craig Neilson, co-founder of Fore Play Crazy Golf, a wildly popular competitive socialising experience in Scotland that combines mini-golf, cocktails, and street food—all tailored for adults. Craig shares his journey from 10 years at investment powerhouses Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley to building o...

Join us for an insightful episode of Edinburgh Business Stories with John Cox, Managing Director of Cox & Co, a top property investment specialist firm known as "stockbrokers for bricks & mortar." With over 40 years in the Scottish property market, Cox & Co offers a true turn-key service for all residential property needs, including mortgage advice, lettings and property management, es...

In this episode of Edinburgh Business Stories, Alan and Alex dives deep with Abhishek Bhatia, a seasoned engineering leader and the Managing Director of IDEA. Abhishek brings over a decade of experience in design, engineering, and project management across high-hazard industries, the energy sector, and chemical manufacturing. Leading a dynamic team of over 20 engineers and designers, Abhishek disc...

In this episode of Edinburgh Business Stories, we sit down with Andy Hadden, Founder and Managing Director of Lost Shore Surf Resort (formerly Wavegarden Scotland) and the Lighthouse Business Centre.  Discover how Andy turned his dream into reality with the creation of the Lost Shore Surf Resort, set to become a world leader in the inland surfing industry, and hear about the success of the Lightho...

In this episode of Edinburgh Business Stories, we sit down with Michael Rolland, Managing Director of The Paint Shed and fourth-generation leader in the paint and coatings industry.  Michael shares his journey from working in recruitment to leading a family business dating back to 1875. He dives into the rapid growth of The Paint Shed, the business' acquisition by Brewers Decorator Centres, and ho...

In this episode of Edinburgh Business Stories, we sit down with David Boyle, the Managing Director of iFire UK Ltd & Boyle Property Ltd, and Founder of The Bonnie Barista.  David shares his entrepreneurial journey from starting businesses at a young age to his current ventures, including helping homeowners in the Costa Del Sol with security solutions. His hands-on approach to business and pass...

In this episode of Edinburgh Business Stories, we sit down with Fraser Smeaton, the co-founder of MorphCostumes, the UK's leading direct-to-consumer fancy dress retailer.  Originally skyrocketing to fame with their iconic Morphsuits, MorphCostumes now offers over 1,000 costume designs for every occasion, from Halloween and Christmas to stag and hen dos. With major licensing deals with Marvel, Hasb...

In this episode of Edinburgh Business Stories, we're joined by Ben Martin, a leading figure in the ventilation and healthcare sectors. Ben is the co-founder of M&M Consultancy and Training Services Ltd (MMCTS) and has served as an Authorising Engineer for the NHS. With nearly a decade of experience as Managing Director at Duct Clean Services (DCS), Ben has been at the forefront of industry inn...

Get ready for a sweet and inspiring episode of Edinburgh Business Stories! This week, we're thrilled to welcome Michelle Phillips, owner of Mimi's Bakehouse, and her daughter Ashley Harley, event manager. Mimi's Bakehouse is a second-generation family business established in Edinburgh in 2010, when Michelle Phillips sold her family home to open a bakery café in Leith. Since then, Mimi's Bakehouse...