The Cotswold Collective Podcast

In this episode of the Cotswold Collective Podcast, we sit down with Richard Best, founder of Iconic Cycling Events, to explore how a passion for cycling grew into a series of successful community events across the UK. From the origins of Bike Bath during the London 2012 Olympic legacy to the launch of Bike Cotswold, Richard shares the story behind creating events that bring together cycling, comm...

This episode of the Cotswold Collective Podcast is proudly supported by The Bespoke Life. Welcome back to the Cotswold Collective, where we shine a spotlight on the brands, ideas, and people shaping the Cotswolds. In this episode, we’re in conversation with Kai Reeves, Managing Director of Gloucester Brewery. What starts as a chat about beer quickly opens up into a much bigger story about communit...

In this episode of the Cotswold Collective Podcast, we sit down with James Fielding, Director of Astra Lumos, also known as the “Posh Electrician” to explore how lighting goes far beyond simple functionality. From luxury homes and hidden tunnels to off-grid eco builds and fully integrated smart systems, James shares how thoughtful lighting design can completely transform the way we experience our...

In this episode, we sit down with Dani, founder of EcoAble, to talk about sustainability, storytelling, education and building a purpose-led brand. Dani shares how a simple conversation about reducing waste sparked the idea for EcoAble, and how she built a business rooted in honesty, accessibility and learning along the way. What started as small lifestyle changes has evolved into a platform suppo...

In this episode, we sit down with Louise Buttler , founder of el  be Pilates , to talk about fitness, wellness, motherhood and building a business with purpose. Louise shares the deeply personal story behind how her Pilates journey began after her mum was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer, and how supporting her through treatment sparked a passion that would eventually turn into a thriving b...

Not everyone needs care - sometimes they just need company. This week on The Cotswold Collective Podcast, we’re joined by Vicky, founder of The Bespoke Life, a companionship service supporting adults across the Cotswolds with warmth, dignity and genuine friendship. Inspired by her own experience supporting her grandmother, Vicky created The Bespoke Life for people who value their independence but...

In this episode, we sit down with Gemma Machon and Michelle Stirling, co-founders of Inuti Interiors, to talk about their journey building a high-end residential interior design studio with a refreshingly thoughtful approach. From landing their very first project through a referral to expanding into project management and commercial work, Gemma and Michelle share how the business has evolved along...

In this episode, we’re joined by Abbie, founder of Parsley & Twine, who shares the heartfelt story behind her luxury silk scarf brand. Inspired by a reflective walk through the Cotswolds on her 26th birthday, Abbie explains how that moment sparked the idea for a brand rooted in craftsmanship, meaning, and timeless design. Launched in September 2024, Parsley & Twine’s silk scarves are craft...

In this episode, Sarah sits down with Rebecca Williams, owner of Aura 10 Head Spa and Hair Treatments, to talk about her journey into holistic hair and scalp care. Rebecca shares how her own struggle with frizzy, unmanageable hair led her to discover keratin treatments and, ultimately, transform not just her hair but her career. What started as a personal solution evolved into a business focused o...

In this episode, we sit down with James Petts, founder of Proud Phoenix Club, a powerful mental strength clothing movement born from his personal journey with Crohn’s disease. James shares how his own struggles with health, resilience and self-belief led him to create a brand that stands for courage, authenticity and community. From hoodies and beanies to purpose-driven product lines, each Proud P...

Join us as Hannah Harrison, founder of Roam and Wonder, shares the story behind her luxury walking retreats and growing community walks in the Cotswolds. What began as a side project has become a thriving brand built around nature, connection, and wellbeing. Hannah talks about the retreats’ premium touches - from beautiful accommodation to private chefs - and the unique mix of people they attract....

In this episode of The Cotswold Collective, we meet Thomas Jeffery, the founder of Cheltenham Chocolates, whose story proves that passion and persistence can shape true craftsmanship. Despite being colourblind and completely self-taught, Tom has built a business renowned for its beautifully balanced, hand-crafted chocolates. Inspired by patisseries, he began experimenting in his kitchen, creating...

In this episode, Jennifer Susan, founder of Halliesphere, shares the story behind her innovative flower arranging product that’s reshaping sustainable floristry. Drawing inspiration from Victorian design, the Halliesphere replaces traditional materials like foam and chicken wire with a simple, adaptable, and eco-friendly alternative made from 100% recycled acrylic. Jenny talks about her journey fr...

Episode 1 – From Greenhouses to Growth: The Roots & Seeds Story In the first episode of The Cotswold Collective Podcast, host Sarah O’Neill sits down with Toby and Sam from Roots & Seeds Kitchen Garden Café to explore how their story began with five greenhouses during lockdown in 2020 and grew into one of the Cotswolds’ most loved food destinations. They talk about their transition from Th...