My Local Marketer Podcast

In this episode, Maria Lloyd interviews Zoe Dudding, the founder of Mind Body Baby, a company specialising in hypnobirthing. The discussion initially covers what hypnobirthing is, which Zoe describes as a form of childbirth education that empowers the woman to be in control of their experience. The conversation then delves into Zoe's personal journey and background. She shares that her passion for...

In this episode Jamie Read, the partnership and inclusion manager at Berkshire Music Trust, gives an insight into the charity's activities and a look at what goes on behind the scenes. The discussion initially covers the trust's mission, its name evolution, and its diverse community work. The conversation then delves into the trust's various activities, which are divided into three areas: schools,...

In this episode, Richard Nicholson talks about the Maiden Erlegh Rotary Club; a group of like-minded people who want to do things in the community and have a friendship group. The discussion covers the club's history, its core missions, and the challenges it faces. The conversation delves into the club's charitable activities, which focus on feeding the community and supporting youth. Richard expl...

Damien Passmore, Marketing Officer and Web Editor for What's On Reading, shares his journey with the organisation and how it has become the "ultimate guide" for arts, culture, and heritage events in the Greater Reading area. The discussion covers the website's creation, its operational structure, and Damien's background. The conversation delves into the evolution of the business from its launch wi...

In this episode, Glen Dinning, the director of Blue Collar Group, shares his journey building a permanent street food venue in Reading. Glenn shares how he was inspired by London's vibrant street food scene to create something similar in Reading. The discussion covers the evolution of the business from organising street food festivals and markets starting in 2016 to the creation of Blue Collar Cor...

In this episode, Tony Cowling and Stuart Ward shine a light on the Reading Library of Things. The two founders discuss how the Library of Things adds value to the local area by providing an alternative to buying specialised tools, or other items you only use occasionally, like pressure washers, gazebos, or projectors. The discussion covers the library's role in promoting resource-sharing and susta...

In this episode, three directors from the Specsavers Reading branch discuss how they operate as a locally owned and operated business within a well-known brand. Hashin Hirani, Retail Director, shares how the Reading branch is one of the largest in the country and has a wide range of services, including an on-site lab for same-day services. Randeep Bal, Ophthalmic Director, highlights the importanc...

In this episode, Iryna Bakaliar, Head Librarian, and Peter Andrijeczko, Chair, of the Reading Ukrainian Community Centre. They discuss how the Reading Ukrainian Community Centre adds value to the local area by supporting the Ukrainian community, particularly the displaced Ukrainians who have arrived since the 2022 invasion. The discussion covers the centre's role in preserving Ukrainian culture th...

In this episode, Molli Cleaver, Community Engagement Manager at Reading University discusses how Reading University adds value to the local area by building partnerships with various stakeholders, including residents, the council, and local businesses. We discuss the community engagement team's three-year action plan, and core objectives. We also explore the challenges that Molli has faced and opp...

In this episode, I catch up with Louisa Guise who was the first guest on the My Local Marketer podcast, launched in 2024. This is the one-year anniversary of Louisa's book, which explores communication in the digital age, focusing on the benefits of using phones less and leaving unproductive group chats. Learn about Louisa's journey promoting her book, which included talks at bookshops and librari...

Terry Dixon, founder of "Terry's Reading Walkabouts," started his walking tours in 2016. He has since raised over £26,000 for more than 30 local charities. Terry offers 22 different themed walks. In this episode, we discuss how Terry got started with his walks, how he promotes them, and how his project management background has helped him. We also discuss why Reading is such a wonderful town and t...

This episode features Steve Bulley from Berkshire Growth Hub. Steve discusses his background, and Berkshire Growth Hub. He explains that Berkshire Growth Hub acts as a "GP for businesses," offering free, confidential support and resources to companies at every stage, from startups to expanding enterprises.   Learn about the diverse services provided by the Growth Hub, including monthly startup cou...

This episode features Pete Hefferan, co-founder of Shed Cafe. Pete shares the fascinating journey of how he brought Shed Cafe to life, from a casual job opportunity to taking over the business with his wife, Lydia. Find out about the ongoing dedication required to curate fresh, high-quality food daily and ensure seamless service in a small, efficient space. We also explore the challenges, benefits...

This episode features Dave Jenkins, the founder of Cryptic DJ. Discover how Dave transitioned from his e-commerce ventures to pursue a passion project that's now captivating a growing audience. Learn the strategic decisions behind Cryptic DJ's design, including how it draws inspiration from the viral success of games like Wordle to create a simple, universally engaging daily challenge accessible r...

In this episode, Mary Genis, Artistic Director and founder of Culture Mix Arts, discusses her journey into music and how her career has evolved. Mary highlights the importance of music accessibility and the benefits of steel pans as an orchestral instrument. She also explains how her experience working for Reading Borough Council and Arts Council England provided essential skills in project manage...

In this episode, Chris Mitchell, a composer, producer, and performer, discusses his journey into music and how his career has evolved. Chris highlights the importance of music education for brain development and social skills. He also explains the difference between music and sound in film and TV production, and how they work together to create an immersive experience. Amongst other things, we exp...

In this episode, Becky Nallon, Taproom Supervisor at Double Barrelled, discusses their role at the brewery, which they joined almost three years ago. Becky explains their responsibilities as taproom supervisor, including managing the team, running events, and ensuring smooth operations. They highlight the joy of introducing customers to new beer styles and broadening their horizons beyond their us...

In this episode, Cassie Greenman, Taproom Shift Manager and Brewery and Warehouse Assistant at Double-Barrelled Brewery, shares the fascinating journey of the brewery and her diverse roles within it. Cassie discusses how Double-Barrelled began as a unique wedding favour brewed by founders Mike and Lucy in 2015, evolving into a successful business that opened in November 2018. She highlights the br...

In this episode, Sarah Browning, a Kindness Cheerleader and Communications Consultant, discussing the importance of kindness in business and effective communication strategies.   The discussion covers Sarah's work in promoting kindness and its benefits for individuals and organisations, addressing its impact on productivity, happiness, and overall business culture.   The episode also highlights th...

In this episode, Lorraine Briffitt, CEO of Connect Reading, shares the story behind the organisation's mission to connect various sectors in Reading for mutual benefit. Lorraine discusses how Connect Reading has grown to facilitate collaboration between businesses, charities, the education sector, and public sector services, to foster a better local community, economy, and environment.   The episo...

In this episode, Ian Gough from Reduce Energy, discusses the Green Park wind turbine, an iconic feature of Reading. Ian shares the turbine's history, from its 2005 erection to its energy output and physical dimensions.   The discussion covers the turbine's role in renewable energy, addressing its efficiency, ROI, and environmental impact. As well as the practicalities of turbine maintenance and th...

In this episode, Tom Price, Chief Engagement Officer at Reading Pride, shares the story behind one of Reading's most vibrant community events. Tom discusses how Reading Pride has grown into a 15,000-person celebration of inclusivity and joy, powered by a small team and strong partnerships. The episode also highlights the charity's year-round work, including new community outreach initiatives and c...

In this episode, Jeroen Veheggen, Chair of Caversham AFC, shares how the club has grown into the largest grassroots football organisation in Reading, supporting over 800 players across all age groups. Jeroen talks about his journey from parent volunteer to Chair and the club's mission to provide inclusive, community-driven football. He highlights the challenges they face with outdated facilities a...

In this episode, Abbie Trussler, the Communications Officer at No. 5 Young People, discusses this local charity in Reading that provides free counselling and support services to young people. Abbie shares her personal journey with No. 5, starting as a 14-year-old using their counselling services, then volunteering, and eventually joining the staff team. She discusses the organization's history, it...

In this episode, Lynne Shipton, founder of the charity Chemogiftbags, shares her personal story of being diagnosed with breast cancer and how it led her to establish the charity. Chemogiftbags provides comfort and support to individuals undergoing chemotherapy, by providing them with a free giftbag full of with items to help them through their treatment and make them smile. Lynne also discusses th...