Paul Philpott, Vice Chair of the Plymouth and Director of Devon Chamber of Commerce, talks to Professor Claire Taylor about her journey in education, from teaching at Primary level to management and governance, and what brought her to Plymouth. She shares Marjon’s exciting plans for the future, how the University is making a difference on a national & even international level, and why inclusion is such an important part of their student and learning community. Claire talks about the financia...
Mar 27, 2025•39 min•Season 5Ep. 3
We continue our fifth season with two special guests. Ava & Caitlin both joined Plymouth Argyle from Reading. They discuss having to start out by joining boys’ teams, their training and fitness regimes, dealing with injuries, playing abroad and who they look up to in the game. They also discuss their interests outside of the hectic world of professional sport. Also in this episode, the 60 Seconds Charity Pitch spotlight falls on the Primrose Foundation. With thanks to Westcotts . Brought to ...
Mar 07, 2025•35 min•Season 5Ep. 2
We kick off season 5 with a very special guest, Devon’s very own rock star, Chris Wood – AKA Woody from Bastille . He talks about his journey from being a Plymouth school boy to becoming the drummer of a globally successful rock band. He also discusses avoiding the pitfalls of fame, remaining grounded and his love of Plymouth Argyle. But is it too late for Stuart to also become a rock ‘n’ roll star…? Also in this episode, the 60 Seconds Charity Pitch spotlight falls on Plymouth Hub. Supported by...
Feb 21, 2025•33 min•Season 5Ep. 1
Kindly note: This episode contains references to violence, sexual assaults and drug abuse. Stuart meets Jenny Adjene, founder of Gifted Women and Raina Dunne, who came to Gifted Women following a series of harrowing events that resulted in her spending time in prison. They discuss how Gifted Women came about, its aims and what local businesses can do to help and hopefully change lives. Also in this episode, Shreya Kallingal from the Family Law Company by Hartnell & Chanot faces Stuart Elford...
Jan 17, 2025•37 min•Season 4Ep. 13
Shreya has a remarkable career history with law experience in India and in the UK. She outlines the differences and similarities practicing law in both countries. She also discusses everything from dancing to appearing on reality TV. Also in this episode, Hannah Shead of Trevi faces Stuart Elford’s Chamber of Secrets, whilst the 60 Seconds Charity Pitch spotlight falls on Hearts Together. Brought to you by Westcotts Produced by Fresh Air Studios , Podcast facilities in Devon...
Dec 23, 2024•43 min•Season 4Ep. 12
In this episode Stuart finds out all about women’s charity, Trevi, its important work in the City of Plymouth and why Hannah will be standing down as CEO. We also find out where making candles and dating a famous comedian come into Hannah’s varied life and career. Also in this episode, Lord Lieutenant, David Furston faces Stuart Elford’s Chamber of Secrets, whilst the 60 Seconds Charity Pitch spotlight falls on Food Plymouth. With thanks to Westcotts , and produced by Fresh Air Studios, TV and P...
Dec 06, 2024•36 min•Season 4Ep. 11
In this special episode, the Chamber’s Vice Chair & Director, Paul Philpott presents a conversation that looks into the recent merger of the Plymouth and the Exeter Chambers. Joining him are: Richard Stevens (Chair), Steve Gates (Vice Chair), Richard Marsh (Deputy CEO) and Stuart Elford (CEO). Together they discuss why the merger took place, how it happened and what the benefits of the merger are for both the Chamber and its members. Supported by Westcotts , and produced by Fresh Air Studios...
Nov 19, 2024•40 min•Season 4Ep. 10
In this special episode for Black History Month, Stuart catches up with CEO of the Diversity Business Incubator, Jabo Butera, as they discuss the importance of Black History Month and what it means for the region. The discussion also reflects on the recent riots which swept the UK recently, including sadly, the South West, and the impact this has had on all communities. Also in this episode, the Lord Lieutenant of Devon, David Fursdon faces Stuart Elford’s Chamber of Secrets, whilst the 60 Secon...
Oct 14, 2024•36 min•Season 4Ep. 9
In this episode Stuart discovers exactly what it means to be a Lord Lieutenant for the county. How do you become a Lord Lieutenant? What are the duties? And what are the responsibilities? David Fursdon has all the answers, as well as tales of some remarkable encounters with the late Queen Elizabeth II and Duke of Edinburgh. David also recalls his life before becoming Lord Lieutenant of Devon, from his time in the military to becoming a teacher. Also in this episode, Jim & Sam McNeill from Gl...
Oct 01, 2024•48 min•Season 4Ep. 8
In this episode Stuart takes a trip around the world, from the comfort of the studio. Firstly, he chats to husband-and-wife founders of Global Warrior, Jim & Sam McNeill who both have fascinating histories that take in everything from rugby to supplying equipment to blockbuster movies. They now explore some of the world’s most extreme environments from their Devon base. Stuart then meets Rebecca Day of Rebecca Day 360. Rebecca scours the globe sourcing ingredients and builds humanitarian pro...
Sep 11, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Season 4Ep. 7
Princess Yachts is a legendary Plymouth business that has a global reputation for manufacturing unique, high quality, luxurious yachts. In this special episode of In Conversation With… Stuart visited their Newport Street HQ in Plymouth and sat down with CEO, Will Green where they discussed the logistics and challenges of manufacturing such an amazing product. Will also talks about his life, his career and what living and working in Devon means to him. And as a boat owner himself, Stuart does his...
Aug 30, 2024•40 min•Season 4Ep. 6
Following Plymouth Argyle’s FA Cup win over Liverpool, revisit our interview with Simon Hallett, Argyle's Chair and Owner. This podcast also explores his hopes of what could have been – recorded in August '24 – just three months after Wayne Rooney became their then manager. - - - If you’re a Plymouth Argyle supporter, you’ll be green with envy as Stuart meets Simon Hallett. They discuss how Simon divides his time between the United States and Plymouth, his plans for Home Park, the arrival of Way...
Aug 13, 2024•51 min•Season 4Ep. 5
Elinor Eaton & Dawn Melville run Micronomy – an enterprise that looks into the micro-interactions of businesses, in order for them to focus on their bigger picture. Elinor and Dawn also talk about their past projects, health issues and even stand-up comedy! This episode also sees Plymouth comedy lagend Suzy Bennett face Stuart Elford’s Chamber of Secrets, whilst the 60 Seconds Charity Pitch spotlight falls on Jeremiah’s Journey. Supported by Westcotts Produced by Fresh Air Studios , Podcast ...
Jul 30, 2024•51 min•Season 4Ep. 4
Suzy is a legend on the Plymouth comedy circuit and talks about her time in London, working with the likes of Jimmy Carr and Russell Howard, her charity work and her rather bizarre obsession with Torvill & Dean. This episode also sees entrepreneur Angus Forbes face Stuart Elford’s Chamber of Secrets, whilst the 60 Seconds Charity Pitch spotlight falls on Hearts Together. Supported by Westcotts Produced by Fresh Air Studios, Podcast and In-Vision Studios in Plymouth...
Jul 10, 2024•37 min•Season 4Ep. 3
Angus is a businessman, entrepreneur and philanthropist who is originally from Australia and has now settled in Plymouth. In between all that, he travelled the world, invested in Mexican food, married Dame Darcey Bussell and has been campaigning for Plymouth to have a democratically elected mayor. Also in this episode, Food Plymouth is the subject of our latest 60 Seconds Charity Pitch … and we have a brand new feature – Stuart Elford & the Chamber of Secrets, where our first revelation come...
Jun 18, 2024•54 min•Season 4Ep. 2
Sir Gary Streeter will be stepping down as an MP at the next general election. After 32 years in the role, he reflects on his achievements in his constituency, his faith, his lighter moments and the remarkable characters he’s met in the UK and abroad. He also reveals what advice he’d give to any young people wanting a career in politics … and you might be surprised by the revelation of his favourite film of all time! Meanwhile, the Alice Cross Centre in Teignmouth is the focus of our very first ...
May 28, 2024•39 min•Season 4Ep. 1
There's something of an environmental theme going on in this episode. Stuart first speaks with Amanda about what it means to be Nature Positive not just Net Zero and how local businesses can get involved with Devon Environment Foundation… just like Coldplay! Then Professor Lindeque talks about how her amazing work has led directly to a ban on microbeads from some cosmetics and outlines the work there still is to do. She then reveals how she acquired some sheep and has renovated an old fire engin...
Dec 20, 2023•1 hr 12 min•Season 3Ep. 13
In this special episode, Stuart talks to Mark Ormrod, the Plymouth-based former Royal Marine Commando who lost three limbs after triggering an IUD in Afghanistan in 2007. Following his recovery, Mark went on to win eleven medals as an athlete competing in two Invictus Games and was given a Pride of Britain Award, as well as receiving an MBE for his services to the Marines and veteran community. Mark's story is told frankly - and he doesn't hold back on the graphic descriptions of his injuries an...
Nov 23, 2023•54 min•Season 3Ep. 12
The Devon Business Show podcast partner is Westcotts and Stuart is talking to Sean Bolter, their Business Services Director. Sean reveals why Westcotts is the Show's podcast partner (as well as sponsor of In Conversation With…) and hints at what we can expect from Westcotts on the day. He also tells us what the Devon Business Show means to Westcotts and the benefits of being an exhibitor last year. Sean also tells us about his love of food and fitness! The Devon Business Show is at Plymouth Pavi...
Oct 05, 2023•27 min•Season 3Ep. 11
Supported by Westcotts: Stuart is out on location in this special episode recorded on board the tall ship, Pelican of London. The ship is operated by Seas Your Future and gives young people the opportunity to learn the skills involved in sailing all over the world, as well as carrying out important maritime scientific research. Stuart meets Adrian, the CEO of Seas Your Future, who explains what businesses can do to help, then scientist and graphic designer, Hannah talks about the research and Wa...
Sep 27, 2023•44 min•Season 3Ep. 10
Supported by Westcotts: In this Charity Special, Stuart talks to Tanya, John and Dwain about their charities, the work they undertake, the importance of volunteers and the various challenges that charities face during a cost-of-living crisis. They also reveal how charities can support each other, rather than compete against each other. This episode also sees Emily Pearson, Apprenticeship Manager of Pennon Group face the Chamber Chief's Quickfire Questions.
Sep 18, 2023•47 min•Season 3Ep. 9
Supported by Westcotts: In this Business Show Special, Stuart meets the three Devon Business Show partners: People and Skills (City College Plymouth), Planet (YGS Landscapes) and Purpose (Wildanet). We find out why these amazing businesses are partnering the Show, what it means to them, what we can expect to see on the day and what advice they have for other businesses attending the Devon Business Show at Plymouth Pavilions on Wednesday 11th October.
Aug 28, 2023•34 min•Season 3Ep. 8
Supported by Westcotts: In this Emergency Services Special, Stuart is joined by three very special guests, in conversation together. Chief Superintendent Matt Longman is the Plymouth Police Commander, Gavin Ellis is Chief Fire Officer for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Services and Will Warrender is Chief Executive of the South-West Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust. They discuss everything from working through Covid to the G7 conference in Cornwall. This episode also sees interdiscipli...
Jul 11, 2023•52 min•Season 3Ep. 7
Supported by Westcotts: In this Research Special, Stuart is joined by two guests. In Part 1 it's Professor Oliver Hanemann, Lead at Brain Tumour Research. Then in Part 2 it's Professor Icarus Allen, Chief Executive of Plymouth Marine Laboratory. Both guests discuss their vital work, what brought them to Devon, their inspiration and their hopes for the future. This episode also sees John Batten of For Celebrations face the Chamber Chief's Quickfire Questions.
Jun 19, 2023•53 min•Season 3Ep. 6
Supported by Westcotts: Stuart uncovers the Brigadier's military history from when he joined the Royal Marines, through his tours of duty, right up to his new role running Devonport Dockyard. Stuart also finds out why being a larger chap prevented the Brigadier from joining the Royal Air Force! This episode also sees Gemma Harris from MLA College face the Chamber Chief's Quickfire Questions.
Jun 05, 2023•38 min•Season 3Ep. 5
Supported by Westcotts: Stuart is joined by Richard May, CEO of Plymouth and South Devon Free Port, Elaine Hayes, Interim CEO of the National Marine Park and Richard Allan, Harbour Master and CEO of Cattewater Harbour Commissioners. This episode is something of a marine special, as Stuart finds out how important the blue economy is to the region and how Plymouth's waterside businesses, ports and history have had an impact, not just on Devon but on the whole of the UK and beyond. This episode als...
May 02, 2023•46 min•Season 3Ep. 4
Supported by Westcotts: Stuart is joined by Felicity Cornelius-Mercer, wife of Plymouth Moor View MP, Johnny Mercer. Felicity has occasionally hit headlines due to her lightning quick wit on Twitter, where she has regularly dealt with trolls in her own unique way. This podcast reveals the woman behind the Tweets! We discover her early years growing up as part of a family that ran its own business, her years of travel, becoming the wife of a soldier and the ups and downs of bring up a young famil...
Apr 10, 2023•49 min•Season 3Ep. 3
Supported by Westcotts: Stuart is once again joined by two guests: local legend of many amazing restaurants in Plymouth and Exeter, Edmond Davari and Asmi Stanley who is a mortgage and protection advisor. Both Edmond and Asmi left their birth countries due to differing traumatic events. Edmond eventually ran the Theatre Royal Plymouth restaurant, before starting his own restaurant chain, which saw him employ hundreds of people in Plymouth and Exeter. Asmi began her journey of freedom working for...
Mar 27, 2023•42 min•Season 3Ep. 2
Supported by Westcotts: In this new format, Stuart is joined by two guests! Councillor Rebecca Smith talks about her work as a Councillor but also her amazing work campaigning against violence towards women and girls. She also touches on the highs and lows of interacting with social media armchair critics. Stuart is also joined by Matt Tiller. Matt discusses growing up on Plymouth Hoe when his parents ran a hotel there, his early journalism career at Plymouth Sound and how a chance meeting with ...
Mar 13, 2023•51 min•Season 3Ep. 1
In this bumper season finale of 2022 - Stuart chats with Peter Vosper. Peter has been running Vospers for decades. He talks about his father setting up the business, his early days in accountancy, taking over Vospers, his role in the business today and of course, he discusses his favourite cars! Stuart is then joined by Stephanie Marsh, Employment Lawyer at Wolferstans Solicitors. Stephanie talks about her journey through law, as well as the numerous sports that she not only follows, but also co...
Dec 07, 2022•1 hr 22 min•Season 2Ep. 28
