The sustainable business podcast by Novuna Business Finance

Awakening the Moon is a Sussex-based wellbeing practice offering holistic therapies and personalised support. For founder Natalie Williamson, sustainability isn't just about environmental responsibility - it's about creating a business that is sustainable on a personal level too. In this episode, Natalie discusses the role of boundaries, balance and self-awareness in running a solo business. She e...

Halman‑Thompson is an artisan metal fabricator based in the North East, creating bespoke products from distressed, aged and brushed brass and copper. Working with premium materials, precision engineering and demanding lead times means efficiency is always front of mind. In this episode, Managing Director Josh Thompson discusses why he believes sustainability starts with efficiency. He explains how...

Ostara London is a Surrey-based jewellery studio creating bespoke pieces from lab-grown diamonds and reworked heirloom materials. Sustainability is woven into their craft, from the materials they choose to the way they help customers breathe new life into cherished jewellery. In this episode, co-founders Rosie Verrill and San Low explain why they see sustainability through the lens of circularity,...

In this episode of the Novuna Sustainable Business Podcast, we’re joined by Omer Robbins, Managing Director of Robbins Construction - a bespoke contractor delivering high-end residential and commercial projects across London. Omer shares how a “one-build” focused approach is transforming project quality, reducing waste, and embedding sustainability into every stage of construction. From tackling t...

In this episode of the Novuna Sustainable Business Podcast, we’re joined by Tony Shepherd, Director of En Tout Cas — a company with over a century of heritage in building and maintaining tennis and padel courts. Tony shares how the business is evolving to meet growing demand in the booming padel market, while navigating the challenges of sustainability in construction. From extending the lifespan...

In this episode of the Novuna Sustainable Business Podcast , we speak with Sarah Hallman, Managing Director of BuyMetal Online. Sarah shares how she turned surplus steel offcuts from her family business into a thriving online venture, helping reduce waste and support sustainable practices. We discuss the growing importance of sustainability in construction, the rise of green steel, and how ByMetal...

In the North East, Derek Bennett explains why working with nature, composting waste, and using electric tools is more than good ethics — it’s good business.

Dave Hann shares how repairing and reusing bikes isn’t just eco-friendly - it’s a business model that customers love and the planet needs.

Discover how Sarah Sheikh and her team are transforming an industry known for chemicals into a model of sustainability — proving that green choices can boost quality and the bottom line.

Sustainability looks different for every business, but common themes emerge - listening to customers, embedding values into company culture, and influencing supply chains. Jo shares stories from Grey Flannel, Emerald Life, Sea Change, and OXIL to show how leadership, actively listening to your customers, and serving the community drive sustainable change. She also highlights the role of practical...

Chris explores how tailored finance empowers SMEs to invest in sustainability - from Libra Utility Services upgrading equipment to cut emissions, to Electric Classic Cars turning petrol vehicles electric. These real-world examples show how sustainability and growth can go hand in hand.

Sabrina Ahmed shares practical lessons from SMEs across sectors - from community farms to fashion and homeware showing how small changes, experimentation, and learning from mistakes drive sustainability. With examples like Iechyd Da, The Remnant Revolution, and Celtic Roots, she explores how businesses are making a difference despite challenges.

Ellie Baker’s early-years education company combines community-based lessons with low-carbon materials and digital tools, showing how small businesses in education are thinking creatively about sustainability and long-term impact. Ellie says, “We’re doing something small and local — but it connects to something bigger. We’re encouraging a love of languages. Helping families introduce their kids to...

Founder Chris Howard explains how his company is innovating in sustainable construction by focusing on energy-efficient design and restoring historic buildings with low-impact methods. Their work illustrates how the construction industry can be part of the solution to climate change. Chris notes: “You have to think about sustainability from the very beginning. Energy efficiency, durability, water...

Co-founder Simon Rolfe’s wine company is pioneering new packaging methods that reduce waste and promote ocean conservation. By creatively reusing materials and partnering with environmental groups, they’re setting an example for sustainable production in the food and drink sector. As Simon explains, “At the end of the day, it’s about people — growers, drinkers, charities — all coming together. It’...

Mark Robertshaw, co-founder of Oxford Information Labs talks about his beliefs on how sustainability goes beyond the environment—it’s about people, stability, and long-term impact. Since founding the company with Emily and Lucien Taylor, Mark has helped to grow the business from a small start-up to a trusted global partner by prioritising ethical leadership, talent retention, and financial resilie...

Pinky Laing, founder of The Remnant Revolution explains how you can run a successful and sustainable business using discarded luxury textiles and turning them into unique home fashion pieces. What began as an idea scribbled on a hospital bed has grown into a movement empowering refugee women with sewing skills to create beautiful, upcycled designs. By challenging fast fashion’s wasteful norms, The...

Philippine Mignot, Director of Tierra Viva, explains how her company is redefining olive oil production through regenerative farming. Faced with droughts in Jaén, Andalusia, she and her husband changed the way that they farmed their olive grove by focussing on restoring soil health and eliminating pesticides to prioritise quality over quantity. By overseeing every step from harvest to bottle, Tier...

Adrian Geach talks us through his unique approach to traditional signwriting, blending time-honoured craftsmanship with eco-friendly materials and methods. By embracing sustainable practices, Adrian proves that even industries rooted in history can adapt to modern-day sustainability needs, contributing to both environmental goals and the local economy.

This episode Richard Morgan, founder of Electric Classic Cars, talks about how he has successfully merged his lifelong passion for vintage vehicles with a commitment to sustainability. By converting classic cars into electric-powered models, the business is leading a movement to make automotive history greener. Whether it's a classic VW Beetle or a Ferrari, Electric Classic Cars is reshaping what...

Dean Loury-Jenkins shares his journey from running a funeral services business to creating Celtic Roots Farm, a regenerative farm focused on local food security and environmental stewardship. Through innovative farming practices and a focus on sustainability, Dean showcases how small-scale agriculture can thrive while having a positive impact on both the environment and the community.

In this episode of The Sustainable Business Podcast, we hear from Hannah Egerton, owner of Edgie Eats Bakery, Hannah demonstrates the impact of local sustainability efforts. By sourcing local produce and implementing eco-friendly practices, Edgie Eats Bakery invests in community resilience, viewing sustainability as integral to the future viability of the business.

Steve Wardlaw, CEO of Emerald Life, discusses the importance of making the insurance industry more inclusive and accessible for underrepresented groups, particularly the LGBTQ+ community and non-traditional families. He highlights the industry's legacy issues, like outdated policy wording and unfair pricing, and shares how businesses can work to address these challenges.

Alwen Marshall Lewis, founder of Iechyd Da, gives an insight into her practical approach to sustainability. She discusses the small, impactful changes like eliminating single-use plastics and prioritising local, ethical suppliers and how her shop not only promotes eco-friendly practices but also strengthens community connections.

In the first episode of series three, we hear from Peter Chan, owner of Herons Bonsai. Peter illustrates a balanced approach to sustainability. Through modest changes like reducing chemical usage and supporting local charities, Herons Bonsai proves that sustainability can be practical and cost-effective, strengthening community ties while positioning the business for long-term success.