Business Unzipped Podcast

Gem is joined by career and parenthood coach Hayley Hubble for a powerful conversation about navigating the messy middle of work, identity and family life. Hayley’s career spans global finance, the Big Four and the gaming industry, but it was becoming a parent during the pandemic, and her experiences with infertility and pregnancy loss, that reshaped her purpose. Combining lived experience with professional coaching expertise, Hayley supports people through some of life’s biggest transitions. This episode explores the emotional, practical and cultural realities of balancing ambition, parenthood and wellbeing.Connect with Hayley: Hayley Hubble | Career & Parenthood Coaching UKConnect with Gem: Business Unzipped

In this episode, Gem sits down with Silvia Del Corso, founder of PinkSEO, to explore the real story behind building a specialist SEO agency from the ground up. From launching her first business in Tuscany to rebuilding her career in London, Silvia shares how data, curiosity and resilience shaped her journey. With a team of nine and five decades of combined SEO experience, PinkSEO is driven by one mission: creating ethical, effective SEO that genuinely helps businesses grow. This conversation unpacks the realities of entrepreneurship, reinvention and leading with integrity in a fast‑moving digital world.Connect with Silvia: Award-Winning SEO & Marketing London | PinkSEOConnect with Gem: Business Unzipped

In this episode communication specialist Gem Fletcher interviews medical science operations lead and transformational coach Aska Matsunaga to discuss all things business. Aska describes her unconventional career pathway and how she remains confident and credible in rooms where she may be underestimated! Listen to the full episode to find out more about Aska and her passion for helping others. Connect with Aska: Coach It ForwardConnect with Gem: Business Unzipped

In this powerful and deeply human episode, Gem Fletcher is joined by Lesley-Anne Lloyd to explore the realities of early onset dementia in the workplace. Together, they unpack the signs we often miss, the stigma that still surrounds cognitive decline, and the practical steps organisations can take to create truly inclusive environments. From policy to compassion, this conversation challenges us to rethink how we support colleagues navigating dementia, long before retirement age. Whether you're a leader, HR professional, or simply someone who cares, this episode offers insight, empathy, and action.

In this episode of Business Unzipped, I sit down with Teri Thomas, founder of Beyond & Co, whose mission is to help people uncover and elevate their personal brand with authenticity and impact. With a career shaped by powerhouse brands like J.P. Morgan and Experian, Teri brings a wealth of insight into the art of storytelling and brand strategy.We explore what it truly means to “go beyond the expected,” why personal branding is far more than just visuals and social media, and how overlooked elements, like mindset, consistency, and story, can make or break your brand presence. Teri shares how she helps leaders tap into their unique narratives, the biggest mindset shift needed to show up confidently, and one simple action anyone can take this week to start building a brand that feels true and powerful.Whether you're just starting out or refining your voice, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and fresh perspective.Connect with Teri: Instagram: @beyondandco.ukWebsite: Beyond & Co. | Personal Brand Builders — SecureConnect with Gem:Instagram: @businessunzippedWebsite: www.businessunzipped.co.uk

On this episode of Business Unzipped, communications professional Gem Fletcher is joined by Steve Neocleous. After three decades leading sales teams in the property industry, Steve Neocleous made a bold pivot... launching his own business and stepping into the world of local politics. In this episode, we explore what drove that transition, the realities of being a District and Parish Councillor, and how his experience in regeneration and strategic planning continues to shape both his entrepreneurial and political paths.Steve opens up about the lessons learned from twice making the Parliamentary Candidates list, his take on the current political climate, and what’s next as he eyes re-election in 2026. It’s a candid conversation about community, ambition, and the balancing act of building a business while serving the public.Connect with Steve: SMN Development Support | Stakeholder Engagement | South East, England, UKConnect with Gem: Business Unzipped

In this episode of Business Unzipped, Gem sits down with powerhouse entrepreneur and strategist Allison Bridges, a business consultant with a vibrant network of female founders and influencers.Allison has built and scaled 8+ startups, from scrappy $10K bootstraps to multimillion-dollar enterprises, generating $48.8M+ in revenue and closing $3.2M in franchise sales in a single year. She leads Experts Only, a strategy platform for founders who crave more than cookie-cutter advice, and she brings that same energy to our conversation.We dive into how to land your first client or sale, and why it’s often the biggest hurdle, common mistakes early-stage companies make (and how to avoid them) as well as some unconventional advice that might just change your approach (spoiler: it involves ditching traditional emails!)Allison is the embodiment of the modern entrepreneur, juggling multiple businesses, motherhood, higher education, and speaking engagements with grace and grit.Our host Gem Fletcher is a communications strategist, podcast host, and coach-in-training who blends neuroscience, storytelling, and systems thinking to spark meaningful change. she creates space for honest conversations about leadership, workplace culture, and personal growth—unpacking what it really takes to build thriving organisations.A finalist for Best Female Leader in the Best Business Women Awards 2025, Gem brings over a decade of experience in strategic content creation, pitch development, and organisational analysis. Her work is rooted in authenticity, measurable impact, and a deep belief in the power of reflection and connection.Whether she’s coaching leaders through transitions, crafting compelling narratives, or exploring the science of engagement, Gem is driven by one mission: to help people and businesses grow with intention.This episode is a must-listen for anyone building something bold and looking for real, actionable insight.

In this deeply insightful episode, communications specialist Gem Fletcher welcomes Sandra Crathern Accredited coach, and author of Know The Truth. With more than 40 years of experience as a Registered Nurse, Sandra brings a rich medical background into her coaching practice, offering a compassionate and holistic approach to personal transformation.Sandra shares how a simple yet powerful tool she developed helps people identify areas of life they wish to improve. Her journey into self-care; prioritising physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing, sparked profound changes not only within herself but in her relationships too.Together, Gem and Sandra unravel the real meaning of life coaching, explore Sandra’s inspiring path, and offer listeners practical insights to begin their own healing and growth journeys. If you're curious about what it truly means to support yourself from the inside out, this episode will leave you feeling empowered and ready to take that first step.Connect with Sandra: [email protected] with Gem: [email protected]

In this episode, I sit down with transformational coach Anastasiia Leiman to unpack the emotional, mental, and practical shifts that come with leaving employment to start your own venture.We explore how to prepare before taking the leap and what to expect in the first 6–12 months, the biggest myths about career change and what resilience really looks like when plans go sideways. Whether you're on the edge of a big decision or already mid-leap, this episode is your reminder that discomfort is part of the growth, and you're not alone in it.Connect with Ana: ⁠⁠⁠Ana Leiman | personal performance life coaching⁠⁠⁠Connect with Gem: ⁠⁠⁠Business Unzipped⁠

Style isn’t just about looking good, it’s a transformative tool that can help you navigate life’s biggest challenges. In this episode, I sit down with style coach Loulou Storey to explore how what you wear can support your confidence, growth, and even your ability to manifest the life you desire.Whether you’re facing a career shift, struggling with self-doubt, adjusting to changes in your body, or processing a difficult experience, style can be a powerful ally. It’s about more than clothes, it’s about stepping into the best version of yourself and aligning with your goals.Tune in to discover how style can work for you in ways you never expected!Connect with Loulou: website: www.louloustorey.comYouTube: @louloustoreyInstagram: @louloustorey_stylistEmail: [email protected] with Gem:website: www.businessunzipped.co.ukYouTube: @gemmafletcher984Instagram: @businessunzippedemail: [email protected]

In this episode of Business Unzipped, I sit down with Tim McCleary, founder and managing director of The Involvement Practice and a true expert in culture change activation. Tim shares insights drawn from his two-decade career with industry leaders like NBC, Warner Bros., and GE, combined with 18 years of hands-on experience in crafting high-trust, high-performance workplace cultures. We delve into what makes a workplace culture "positive," the critical role of trust, and how leadership styles shape organizational environments. Tim also offers practical strategies for transforming toxic workplace cultures and reveals innovative practices that drive employee engagement and measurable ROI. Packed with actionable advice, this episode is your ultimate guide to unlocking the full potential of people and businesses alike.Email: [email protected]: theinvolvementpractice.comBe Human: be-human.todayLinkedIn Personal: linkedin.com/in/timmcclearyLinkedIn Company: linkedin.com/company/the-involvement-practice-llcInsights: theinvolvementpractice.com/insightsSocial media: substack.com/@involvementpracticeinstagram.com/the_involvement_practicemedium.com/@involvement_practice

In this episode, I sit down with Kirk Ward, a qualified physiotherapist turned journalist, author, and now CEO of Clearview, a leading strategic communications consultancy. Kirk shares his journey from senior NHS communications roles to founding Clearview, and his passion for the transformative power of clear communication in driving positive, lasting change.We dive into the importance of aligning communications strategy with organisational goals, the value of a seat at the decision-making table, and how even crisis management can present unique opportunities for success. Kirk unpacks how transparency fosters trust, especially during turbulent times, and reveals tools and methods to measure the effectiveness of communication strategies.This episode offers actionable insights and inspiration.Connect with Gem - [email protected] with Kirk - [email protected]

In this enlightening episode of Business Unzipped, we’re joined by Chartered Accountant Nick Wilkins to uncover the building blocks of financial literacy and its role in shaping a thriving business. Together, we dive into questions like: Should schools teach us how to handle money? What are the financial must-dos for budding entrepreneurs? And how can accountants help businesses simplify the complex world of taxation and finances?Nick, a Chartered Certified Accountant with over a decade of experience in public practice, has worked with clients across diverse industries such as consultancy, property investment, hair & beauty, construction, spirit distilleries, hospitality, game development, and media production. Now based at Galloways Accounting—one of Sussex’s fastest-growing firms—he manages a wide portfolio of clients, assisting with accountancy and taxation needs while providing expert business advice with a friendly, contemporary approach.Whether you’re a business owner, aspiring entrepreneur, or just curious about mastering your finances, tune in for practical tips, expert insights, and a fresh perspective on creating financial clarity.

In the latest episode of our podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Melanie Whittaker, a seasoned PR professional from "You Are Your Marketing." We delve into the essence of public relations, discussing its pivotal role in business success. Melanie shares invaluable insights on the importance of being your own brand, the courage required to put yourself out there, and the power of vulnerability in marketing. With her expertise in self-promotion and personal branding, Melanie offers practical tips on how to effectively sell yourself and your business. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that could transform the way you approach PR and branding!Connect with Gememail: [email protected]: @businessunzippedYouTube: @gemmafletcher984Connect with MelWebsite: www.youareyourmarketing.comInstagram: @youareyourmarketing

Join me as I welcome change consultant Aurora Benton who focuses on sustainability and how to implement long lasting change. We discuss the challenges of implementing change and benefits to an organisation who embrace a more sustainable and efficient workplace. Connect with Aurora: https://www.astrapto.com

Join me and my guest Emily-Jane as we discuss changes of direction, rapid growth causing burnout, and creating a more sustainable growth in your business. Emily-Jane is an architecture masters dropout turned 6 figure business coach, with a specialization in creative branding and marketing.Connect with Gem:Instagram: @businessunzipped_podcastTikTok: @businessunzipped.podcastYouTube: @gemmafletcher984Connect with Em:Instagram: @empowerwithem⁠https://www.instagram.com/empowerwithem⁠Empower with Em Podcast: ⁠https://link.chtbl.com/empowerwithempodcast⁠Free Magnetic Marketing Masterclass:⁠https://empowerwithem.com/magnetic_marketing_masterclass⁠#businesswomangoals #businessgrowth #growyourbusiness #businesspodcast #businessadvice #womeninbusinesss #entrepreneur #entrepreneurship #businesstalk #marketing #businessmarketing

This week I am joined by Akua Opong to talk about women in engineering roles. Akua is a Chartered IT Professional within the Infrastructure & Cloud, Engineering Team at LSEG. As part of her role, she mentors new starters in the team, including interns and graduates, and provides technology guidance to colleagues across the Group.Outside of her main role, Akua is a keen diversity & inclusion advocate, LSEG WIN Engagement Community Team, WIN Tech Events Coordinator, UK Accessibility Lead, Mental Health Champion and UK Community Action Lead for the outreach programmes. She is passionate about raising the profile of Women in STEM, as a STEM ambassador. She was a UN Women UK Delegate for CSW68 during IWD 2024.Akua is a Neurodiversity advocate (self-identifies as Dyslexic and has ADHD), NED, charity ambassador, fundraiser and a keen sports volunteer for England Netball, UEFA Community and British Athletics.Tune in and listen to Akua's inspiring story and the goal of more girls getting into STEM!

I am joined by public speaker and promoter of disability awareness Adeshola Akanji to discuss what being part of an inclusive organisation really means. #inclusivebusiness #business #businessgrowth #businessdevelopment

This week I am joined by Miriam Pfeil, also known as the soulful nutritionist. Miriam is a naturopathic nutritionist and Usui Reiki Master and her purpose is to help people become the healthiest version of themselves and understand the root causes and treat physical and mental illnesses. Eating the right foods and removing toxic people from your life can have significant health benefits. Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining overall well-being, as it provides essential nutrients for optimal bodily functions. Consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can boost immunity, improve energy levels, and support mental clarity. On the other hand, toxic relationships can contribute to stress, anxiety, and negative emotions, which can impact physical health. By surrounding yourself with positive and supportive individuals, you can reduce stress levels, improve mental health, and enhance overall quality of life. Making these lifestyle changes can lead to a healthier and happier existence.Connect with Gem: Instagram: @businessunxipped_podcastTikTok: @businessunzipped.podcastYouTube: @gemmafletcher984Connect with Miriam:Instagram: @thesoulfulnutritionist Website: www.thesoulfulnutritionsit.com

This week I am joined by dance school founder and owner of Grace Dance, Fiona Ramasami. Participating in performing arts at a young age can greatly support the development of valuable business skills, such as presentation skills, that are essential in the workplace. Through activities like acting, dancing, or singing, individuals learn how to confidently express themselves in front of an audience, effectively communicate ideas, and engage with others. These experiences help build self-confidence, poise, and the ability to think on one's feet - all of which are crucial for delivering impactful presentations in a professional setting. By honing their presentation skills in performing arts, individuals can better articulate their thoughts, engage with colleagues and clients, and ultimately excel in various business environments.Understanding business is crucial for running a successful dance school as it involves managing finances, marketing strategies, and overall operations effectively. By having a solid grasp of business principles, dance school owners can make informed decisions regarding budgeting, pricing, and resource allocation. Additionally, understanding market trends and competition can help in developing unique offerings and attracting more students. Implementing sound business practices can also lead to sustainable growth and long-term success for the dance school. Overall, a strong understanding of business is essential for ensuring the viability and profitability of a dance school in today's competitive market.Connect with Fiona: Instagram: gracedanceworthingWebsite: www.gracedance.co.uk Connect with Gem:Instagram: @businessunzipped_podcastYouTube: @gemmafletcher984

Networking is a crucial aspect of business growth and success. By connecting with other professionals, entrepreneurs, and potential clients, businesses can expand their reach, gain valuable insights, and create new opportunities for collaboration and growth. Building a strong network can lead to increased visibility, credibility, and access to resources that can help businesses thrive in today's competitive market. In essence, networking is not just about making connections, but about fostering relationships that can drive business success.Connect with Gem:Instagram: @BusinessUnzipped_PodcastYouTube: @gemmafletcher984Connect with John:Instagram: @johnprice0505Instagram: @myuhsussex

Joining me this week is Jess Lee who was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult. We talk about how it felt to be diagnosed, how it impacts her life both at home and at work. Businesses have a responsibility to ensure they are making provisions for those who need it so they feel supported in the workplace and able to do their job efficiently.This is a hot topic right now and one that we should all be paying attention to! #business #businesspodcast #talkaboutmentalhealth #mentalhealthintheworkplace #businessdevelopment #smallbusiness #mindset #businessimprovement #businesssupport

Father of the House of Parliament and Worthing's own MP Sir Peter Bottomley joins me to discuss his passion for the community and his plans for Worthing West. We discuss housing, education, women's rights and the importance of working together with other political parties for the greater good. Connect with Gem: Instagram: @BusinessUnzipped_Podcast YouTube: @gemmafletcher984Connect with Peter:Facebook: @SirPeterBottomleyOfficialWebsite: www.sirpeterbottomley.comEmail: [email protected]

Joining me in the hot seat is Don Koulaouzos.Don has more than 35 years of international business and technology experience in the telecommunications and aerospace industries holding executive management and consultancy positions including Non-Executive Director on the Board of two global satellite companies.Don has played a key role in the strategic planning phases of two civil and two military multi-billion dollar satellite programmes.In addition to providing consulting services to large and medium sized enterprises, he also provides professional mentoring services to start-up and scale-up entrepreneurs throughout Europe.Don has an MBA from the University of Sydney and holds Australian and American commercial pilots’ licenses.We are going to be talking all about business planning, what goes into a business plan and what having a good business plan can do for your business.Don also puts me to the test with a live challenge! Watch to see how I get on.#podcast #britishpodcast #businesspodcast #businessunzipped #business #coach #mentor #businessplan #createabusinessplan #whatgoesintoabusinessplan #itsallintheplanning #learnConnect with Gem:Instagram: @Businessunzipped_podcast YouTube: @gemmafletcher984TikTok: @Businessunzipped.podcastConnect with Don:LinkedIn: Don KoulaouzosWebsite: www.Sky-Trek.com

I am joined by Communication Specialist Catherine Ross where we discuss what it really means to work in communications (yes it is more than just a pretty poster or email) and how it needs to be part of the strategic decision making to ensure change is effective.Connect with Gem:Instagram: @businessunzipped_podcast TikTok: @businessunzipped.podcastLinkedIn: Gemma FletcherConnect with Catherine:Instagram: @qcattqLinkedIn: Catherine Ross

Is it all glam being a hair and makeup artist for weddings? Tune in as I catch up with renowned makeup artist and hair stylist Gemma Souter who has helped hundreds of brides get ready for their big day. We discuss all the highs, the lows and the added extras required of an artist on a bride's special day. Connect with Gem:Instagram: @businessunzipped_podcast TikTok: @businessunzipped.podcast YouTube: @gemmafletcher984Connect with Gemma:Instagram: @gemma_souterWebsite: www.gemmasouter.co.uk

When it comes to the workplace are we still living in a man's world? Tune in to this week's episode to hear my reflections on my first series of recordings and what I have noticed in my corporate career. I hope that this episode inspires all women (and men) to think bigger and have the confidence to achieve their goals and ambitions. Thank you for listening. Connect with Gem:Instagram: @businessunzipped_podcast TikTok: @businessunzipped.podcast YouTube: @gemmafletcher984

What does a management consultant do and how can it improve your business? Find out more as I talk to my guest Mark Fletcher who has been in the business industry for more than 25 years and a management consultant for more than 15. Connect with Gem:Instagram: @businessunzipped_podcastTikTok: @businessunzipped.podcastYouTube: @gemmafletcher984

'Here's Jonny' If you have ever dreamed of owning your own restaurant this is the episode for you. I am joined by Jonny who owns three restaurants in Sussex. In this episode Jonny talks about the challenges he has faced along the way including the pandemic. Connect with Gem:Instagram: Businessunzipped_podcastTikTok: Businessunzipped.podcastConnect with Jonny:Instagram: jonnysrestaurants

From being a senior ophthalmic consultant surgeon to running your own business. Join me for this weeks episode where I talk to Mr Sal Rassam about his journey from the medical field into the world of business and the challenges he faced along the way. Connect with Gem:Instagram: @businessunzipped_podcastTikTok: @businessunzipped.podcastYouTube: @gemmafletcher984Connect with Sal:Instagram: @panaceamedicalcentrewebsite: www.panaceamc.co.uk

Five activities that have helped me over the years to increase productivity and improve my life in general. Connect with Gem:Instagram: @businessunzipped_podcastTikTok: @businessunzipped.podcastYouTube: @gemmafletcher984

Why do so many professional sports people go on to run successful businesses? Today I am joined by professional basketball player and coach Hafeez Abdul where we discuss his journey and what correlations there are between sports and business. Connect with Gem:Instagram: @businessunzipped_podcastTikTok: @businessunzipped.podcastYouTube: @gemmafletcher984Connect with Hafeez: Instagram: @hafeez_955YouTube: Hafeez Abdul Mid-season Highlights 23/24 || NBL Div. 1 (UK) #Lowkeyhoops (youtube.com)

When it comes to professional development, does mindset have a part to play in success? Join me and my special guest leadership coach and author of Be The Leader You Want To See, Susie Ramroop as we discuss the mindset required to succeed and how to create that fulfilment of stepping into a career with confidence. Connect with Gem:Instagram: @businessunzipped_podcastTikTok: @businessunzipped.podcastConnect with Susie:Instagram: @susieramroopWebsite: www.susieramroop.com

A quick introduction as to what you can expect from this brand new podcast! Hosted by communications professional Gem Fletcher, this podcast offers a wealth of knowledge, practical advice, and inspiring stories to help you navigate the ever-evolving business landscape. Through engaging interviews with seasoned professionals, thought-provoking discussions, and actionable tips, this podcast empowers you to make informed decisions, overcome challenges, and seize opportunities. Gain valuable insights from real-world experiences, learn from the successes and failures of others, and discover the strategies that can propel your career or business to new heights and help you be the best version of you. First episode out on Monday 1 April 2024 Connect with Gem: Instagram: @businessunzipped_podcast TikTok: @businessunzipped.podcast