The Amazingstoke Podcast

In the latest episode of the Amazingstoke Podcast we’re at BCoT with Gary Livingstone, managing director of LG Motion and MiniTec. Gary shares his journey from a young boy in Basingstoke to leading two successful engineering firms. Discover his insights on embracing change, the importance of community, and his adventurous spirit that led him to cycle from John O'Groats to Land's End. Dive...

In this episode, Mark is joined by Marie Greenhalgh, the Innovation and Development Director at Inclusion Education. In this inspiring conversation Marie talks about her work in supporting young people with mental health needs and neurodiversity. Discover the impact of their school and college programmes and the importance of inclusivity and diversity in the workforce. Marie shares her personal jo...

Join us in this captivating episode of the Destination Basingstoke Ambassador Community Podcast as we sit down with Mark Chapman at the prestigious Basingstoke offices of Clarke & Son. Discover the rich history of this esteemed family law firm, delve into the world of family law, and explore the innovative 'One Couple, One Lawyer' initiative. Mark shares his fascinating journey from te...

In this episode of the Destination Basingstoke Ambassador community podcast, we engage in a lively conversation with Chris Berry, a Basingstoke native and the founder of Tic Creative. Chris shares his journey from the print industry to establishing his own design agency amidst personal challenges. Discover how his experiences have shaped his outlook on life, his passion for community and charity,...

In this episode of the Destination Basingstoke Ambassador Community Podcast, we sit down with Matthew Ripton of Ripton Windows and Conservatories. Matthew shares his journey from sweeping floors to becoming the Managing Director and largest shareholder of his family business. Discover the evolution of Ripton Windows from a small garage operation to a major player in home improvements, and learn ab...

In this episode, Mark Jones is joined by Tony Curtis, chair of trustees at Basingstoke Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB). They chat outside at the Honesty Café at Dummer Down Farm. Tony shares his journey from being the chief executive of Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council to his current role, highlighting the importance of raising the profile of Citizens Advice in the business community. We delve...

In this episode of the Destination Basingstoke Ambassador Community podcast, we chat with Keith Wilson, director of Income and Engagement at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance. Recorded at the picturesque Andwell Brewery, Keith shares the remarkable work of the air ambulance service, including their life-saving missions, the challenges of fundraising, and their innovative approach to donor...

In this episode of the Destination Basingstoke Ambassador Community podcast, Mark Jones sits down with Martin Neale, CEO of ICS AI to delve into the transformative world of the fifth industrial revolution. Discover how artificial intelligence is reshaping public sector organisations, particularly in areas like social care and education. Martin shares insights on the impact of AI, dispels common fe...

Welcome to the latest episode of the Destination Basingstoke Ambassador Community podcast! Join us as we dive into the world of massage therapy with Louisa Andrews from Target Therapies. Discover how they’ve been helping people manage chronic pain and improve their quality of life since 2016. Louisa shares her personal journey from a life-changing car accident to becoming a passionate massage ther...

In this episode, Mark is at the Ark Centre with Merv Rees, a distinguished consultant surgeon specialising in liver surgery, to discuss his remarkable journey and contributions to the Basingstoke community. From his decision to settle in Basingstoke over New Orleans to his efforts in establishing the Ark Medical Education Centre and the Ark Cancer Charity, Merv shares insights into his career and...

Joining Mark Jones this time is Sarah Shearman, the Head of Fundraising at St. Michael's Hospice in Basingstoke. Discover the incredible work being done at the hospice, the challenges they face with funding, and the inspiring stories that make this place so special. Listen to learn about the vital services they provide, the importance of community support, and Sarah's personal journey in t...

In this episode of the Amazingstoke podcast, Mark sits down with Dan, the interim Chief Executive of Basingstoke Voluntary Action (BVA), in the beautiful setting of The Orchard. They discuss the significant role that BVA plays in supporting the voluntary, charity, and social enterprise (VCSE) sector in Basingstoke and Deane. Dan shares insights into the various services BVA offers, including gover...

In this episode, we take you on a journey to Laverstoke Park Farm, the home of CarFest. Join us as we chat with Anjna Raheja, the festival director, about the history, evolution, and impact of this unique festival. Discover how CarFest, founded by Chris Evans in 2012, has grown into a multifaceted event that raises millions for children's charities. From music and cars to food and adventure, l...

"On your marks" because in this episode, host Mark Jones is joined by Mark Dolby from Beaufort Financial, who shares his inspiring journey as a runner and financial planner. Mark discusses how running has transformed his life, his charitable endeavours, and his vision for the future of Basingstoke. Tune in for a conversation about community, ambition, and making a difference.

In this episode, we're joined by Kaia Vincent, the 'Green Queen' of Basingstoke, and founder of Brevity Marketing, a B Corporation dedicated to sustainability and good business practices. Listen in as Kaia shares her journey from Basingstoke native to sustainability advocate, the importance of community, and how businesses can thrive by focusing on people and the planet. Grab a pepperm...

In this episode of the podcast, Mark Jones is in the office of the Mayor of Basingstoke & Deane for a chat with David Leeks who has just completed his term in the role. With 29 years of dedicated service to both town and borough, David reflects on his tenure, the evolution of the community, and the importance of volunteering. From the transformation of local parks to advocating for accessibili...

Join the Amazingstoke podcast as Mark Jones sits down with Basingstoke's own Craig Killick, who is taking on the monumental task of cycling solo to Benidorm for a cause close to his heart, The Pink Place cancer support charity. Craig shares his insights on the changing face of employment, the integration of AI in business, and his deep-rooted connection to his hometown of Basingstoke. Which pa...

Dive into the vibrant heart of Basingstoke with Andy Jackson, a true local property expert, managing director of Landmark Development Consultants and Jackson Wright Property, in conversation with Mark Jones. Andy shares his innovative approach to real estate with a 'property menu' concept that challenges traditional models and strives for fairness in the market. Also discover Andy's jo...

In this episode, Mark chats with Zoe McLaren, Local Community Manager at Tomato Energy, which is based at Belvedere House at Basing View. She's lived in Basingstoke for 15 years and has previously served 7 Basingstoke & Deane mayors. She is also a keen runner and is currently training for the London Marathon to raise money for Mencap. This episode was recorded outside in the spring sunshin...

In this episode of The Amazingstoke Podcast, Mark Jones talks to Steve Randall, former presenter at The Breeze Basingstoke and founder of podcast production company Communication Generation. They talk about podcasting and how it can help establish a business brand, radio and the decline in local stations, Steve's experimental radio station in Basingstoke, and much more. Recorded at Barton'...

In the first episode of The Amazingstoke Podcast, Mark Jones speaks with Kevin White who runs financial advisory business Fortem Financial Management, based at Rankine Road, Basingstoke. Kevin is a previous chairman of Basingstoke Town FC. In their conversation, recorded at Vermillion restaurant at the Chineham Shopping Centre, they talk about how Basingstoke has changed over the years, why it&#39...