Chester Centurions Podcast

In this episode of the Chester Centurion podcast, I’m joined by Ian Hazeldine, founder of Yellow Circle, a web design and software development agency that’s been innovating since 2007. We dive into the real journey of entrepreneurship—starting with an inheritance-fuelled leap of faith and landing in a full-service digital agency that’s helping businesses transform. Ian opens up about:Why offering work for free is a fast track to burnoutHow to actually get work-life balance back (spoiler: close your inbox)Why “mates rates” should mean full price and paid on timeThe future of websites in an AI-driven world—and why humans still matterHis 3 biggest pieces of advice for anyone starting a business This is a masterclass in self-respect, business boundaries, and making tech work for you—not the other way around. If you’ve ever struggled with undervaluing your work or being “always on,” this episode will hit home.

From Electrician to Tech Trailblazer: Stephen Johansen on Building Indigo & Following Your GutWhat do Madonna, Prince, Formula One, and outdoor Wi-Fi have in common? Believe it or not—Stephen Johansen.In this episode of the Chester Centurions podcast, Alan sits down with the founder of Indigo, a North West-based IT company that’s quietly powering everything from schools and offices to stadiums and music festivals. Stephen shares the wild story of Indigo’s accidental pivot into global event tech—including an ambitious project in the UAE that involved Formula One hospitality setups and open-air networking at scale. But the real gold lies in the quiet wisdom he’s gained over 23 years in business:Why year two of a startup is the hardest (and what to expect)The moment he decided to leap from employee to entrepreneurHow values shape team culture and client loyaltyWhy “fixing problems” beats “selling solutions”His personal philosophy for switching off from work and showing up fully at home This is a grounded, thoughtful, and inspiring conversation with a founder who proves you don’t need a flashy brand to build an exceptional business.

In this episode of the Chester Centurions Podcast, Alan sits down with Monique, a powerhouse entrepreneur from North Wales who swapped a secure salary for the uncertain road of business ownership — with a mortgage, three kids, and zero safety net. She shares:Why she walked out of her job overnightThe emotional rollercoaster of starting a recruitment agency from scratchHow she balances being a mum, a business owner, and a university studentThe myths people believe about self-employmentWhy feedback, mentors, and gym sessions are her secret weaponsHer plans to scale the business across Wales and into the Northwest This is a must-listen for anyone contemplating the leap into entrepreneurship — or already in the deep end wondering if they’re doing it right.

What do a Canadian cattle farm, a failed marriage, and a barn in North Wales have in common? Bradley J Miller. In this week’s episode of The Chester Centurions Podcast, we dive into the incredible journey of a man who helped take indoor play from rural roots to global domination—serving everyone from Warner Brothers to Ferrari World. Brad shares:How indoor play was actually invented in a Welsh barnWhy business is a living organism (and how to keep it healthy)What he learned from choosing the wrong business partnerHow a life-threatening illness shaped his leadershipAnd why he believes most entrepreneurs are kidding themselves about “balance” This isn’t your typical business success story—it’s packed with hard-won lessons, surprising history, and a refreshingly honest take on what it really takes to grow something that lasts. 

In this episode of the Chester Centurions Podcast, Alan Bark chats with Steve Jackson, founder of Jackson Fire & Security—a business that’s been protecting people and property for over 35 years. Steve shares the journey from starting out in 1991 with just a few fire extinguishers to building a nationwide franchise network of 12 (and growing) branches, employing 80+ people across the UK. Steve reflects on the early days: how a casual favour for a friend turned into a career pivot, how he and his business partner bootstrapped their way through the ups and downs, and how the company has grown by staying laser-focused on compliance-led services like fire alarms, CCTV, intruder alarms, and more. He also explains why franchising became a game changer—restoring local service quality while scaling nationally. The conversation covers key business lessons, including why keeping overheads low in the early days is critical, how building the right team is non-negotiable, and the power of keeping things simple (including the classic wisdom: make sure more money comes in than goes out). Steve also dives into the challenges of staying innovative in a highly regulated industry, the importance of investing in the right tech and systems, and how his business thrived through COVID by focusing on essentials. Looking ahead, Steve talks about ambitious plans to grow their franchise footprint to 20-30 locations, enhancing their ability to serve major national contracts while keeping the personal touch that sets them apart. He’s also brutally honest about the mindset required to succeed: resilience, pragmatism, and a willingness to hire people better than you at the stuff that bores you. For aspiring entrepreneurs, Steve offers gold-standard advice—choose an industry with real demand and longevity, obsess over your numbers, and surround yourself with a rock-solid team. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in service industries, franchising, or simply looking for battle-tested business wisdom from someone who’s built it all from the ground up.

From Pandemic Start-Up to Boutique PR Powerhouse | Moda PR on Chester Centurion Podcast What happens when two women fed up with the 9-to-5 meet over a Caesar salad and decide to rewrite the script? In this inspiring and refreshingly honest episode, Alan sits down with Jennifer and Ashley, the founders of Moda PR, a boutique agency born in lockdown and now shaping the personal brands of lifestyle and entertainment clients across the UK and US. They talk:• The real truth behind entrepreneurship (spoiler: it’s not all glass doors and beanbags)• The evolution of PR and why personal branding is no longer optional• Building a business around work-life blend (not balance)• Staying motivated, managing burnout, and the myth of the 5am miracle routine• The top three lessons they wish they knew from day one (including the now-famous “Let Them” theory) Whether you’re starting your business or scaling it, this one’s full of gold. Watch now and don’t forget to subscribe for more real business stories.

In this episode of the Chester Centurions Podcast, Alan Bark interviews Jonathan Fell, owner and managing director of Cheshire’s iconic Ice Cream Farm. Jonathan shares the fascinating story of how his family transformed a traditional dairy farm into a nationally recognised visitor attraction, starting back in 1986 when milk quotas forced farmers to diversify. What began as a small-scale operation with secondhand freezers has grown into a unique destination, combining artisan ice cream with imaginative play zones and drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Jonathan talks candidly about the highs and lows of the journey—how a major supermarket contract shaped the business’s direction, why controlling your own marketplace is key to sustainability, and how brand strategy became central to their success. He also opens up about the tough calls they’ve had to make, from charging entry fees post-COVID to managing community perceptions about growth and profitability. Jonathan gives insight into balancing rapid business expansion with personal life, why trusting his team has been transformational, and how his children are now part of his unofficial R&D department. He also lifts the lid on exciting future developments, including the launch of Ice Cream Fields, their biggest new play area since 2015, and hints at plans for innovative accommodation options. For entrepreneurs and business owners, Jonathan offers three standout pieces of advice: know every aspect of your business hands-on, think creatively and challenge the status quo, and stay laser-focused on your brand identity to guide every decision. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in business growth, innovation, and the realities behind building a standout brand from scratch—all served up with a scoop of honesty and entrepreneurial grit.

In this episode, Alan Bark sits down with Vaughn, a seasoned entrepreneur who started his business at 57 after decades in the photocopier industry. Vaughn shares how he transitioned from a career managing corporate sales teams into launching his own copier company — despite limited savings, a young family, and plenty of doubt from those around him.He talks candidly about the challenges of going solo later in life, the fear that comes with walking away from financial security, and the misconception that business ownership brings instant freedom. Vaughn also offers a grounded take on partnerships, warning that unequal effort can quickly become a source of tension and risk.What makes Vaughn’s story unique is the way he’s diversified the business. Starting in photocopiers, he spotted an opportunity during COVID when trying to buy an EV charger for his office — and it spiralled into a full-blown renewables business. Within a year, they’d sold 500 chargers. That arm has now expanded into solar panels, air source heat pumps, and commercial electrical installations, currently employing a 12-person team and turning over more than the original copier business.Vaughn shares his philosophy on growth: adapt or shrink. Whether it’s staying up to date with emerging technologies, entering new markets, or keeping overheads lean, he believes success lies in staying agile and reinvesting profits wisely. Future plans include regional expansion, product diversification, and strengthening their foothold in the renewable energy space.To wrap up, Vaughn offers three powerful pieces of advice for entrepreneurs: 1. Know your numbers. Understand both the best- and worst-case scenarios before you leap. 2. Keep overheads lean. Especially in the early days, stay agile and cash-conscious. 3. Know your market. Deep understanding beats a good idea every time.A brilliant episode for anyone thinking of starting a business, making a career pivot, or wondering if it’s “too late” to go it alone.

In this episode of the Chester Centurions Podcast, Alan Bark speaks with Dave Goodfellow, founder of Ikonic Property, about his remarkable transition from the corporate world to building a thriving property and hospitality business. Dave shares how he went from working as an operations director at Everest to getting fired in 2019 — and how that moment of crisis pushed him to go all-in on property entrepreneurship.Dave explains the early days of flipping houses and running buy-to-lets before pivoting into the serviced accommodation market, offering short-term rentals and holiday lets. He candidly discusses the reality of running a business, busting the myths of “passive income” and “easy money” often sold online, and highlights the importance of long-term thinking, relentless work ethic, and discipline.He shares how he adapted during COVID-19, securing contracts with the NHS and key workers, not just surviving but quadrupling the size of his business while others pulled back. Dave talks about his approach to maintaining work-life balance by scheduling family time as deliberately as business meetings and the importance of being structured and intentional with time.Looking ahead, Dave reveals his next moves: continuing to grow his serviced accommodation business, moving into social housing projects, and developing battery storage sites to tap into the renewable energy sector.Finally, Dave shares his three top tips for anyone starting out or struggling in business: surround yourself with like-minded, high-performing people, always be the one learning in the room, and most importantly, make sure you enjoy the journey — because if you love it, it won’t feel like work.A real masterclass in resilience, adaptability, and smart business building.

In this episode of the Chester Centurions Podcast, Alan sits down with Peter Bradshawe, Managing Director at Speeds Healthcare, a business that’s quietly transformed from a small pharmacy-based operation to a national healthcare supplier supporting clinics and hospitals across the UK.Peter shares his leap from the safety of the NHS to the chaos and clarity of entrepreneurship — and what it really takes to scale a healthcare business in today’s market. From doubling the team to navigating the pressure of leadership, Peter offers golden nuggets on growth, culture, work-life balance, and why looking up once a week might just be the smartest strategy in your diary.If you’re building a business, leading a team, or debating a big career move, this one’s worth your time.

Chris Fox: The Truth About AI, Startups & What’s Coming NextIn this episode of The Chester Centurions Podcast, Alan Bark sits down with AI consultant and entrepreneur Chris Fox to unpack the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence and what it means for SMEs today.Chris shares his journey from innovation and R&D into launching his own AI consultancy, helping businesses implement frameworks and governance for AI adoption. They explore: • How AI is transforming business processes • The moment Chris realised AI’s potential • Where SMEs sit on the AI adoption curve • Common misconceptions around running a business • Risks of unmanaged AI use (including real-world law firm case studies) • Automation, data governance, and the future of sovereign AI • The power of work-life rituals and staying grounded • Apprenticeships, talent development, and how startups are outpacing tech giants • What’s next in the world of AI infrastructure, energy, and language-based modelsWhether you’re curious about how AI can give you a competitive edge, or you’re navigating the ups and downs of running a business, this episode is packed with valuable insights.Subscribe for more conversations with business leaders who are shaping the future.#AI #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #ChesterCenturions #Innovation #Automation #WorkLifeBalance #Leadership #AIConsulting

DON’T MISS THIS WEEK’S EPISODEFrom Police Work to Peak Performance – Building a Life-Work Balance in the MountainsIn this week’s Chester Centurions Podcast, I speak with Ross Worthington, co-founder of RAW Adventures, a thriving outdoor adventure business based at the foot of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). What started as a side hustle with his wife Kate became a full-time mission to help people experience the power of the outdoors—through mountain adventures, leadership training, and Duke of Edinburgh expeditions.🎙️ Key takeaways:✅ Why necessity and passion were the catalysts behind RAW Adventures✅ The truth about being your own boss—and the hidden challenges no one tells you✅ The power of flipping “work-life balance” to life-work balance✅ How RAW is shaking up the adventure space by removing barriers for small charities✅ Why saying “no” can be as powerful as “yes” in business growth✅ Practical tips for staying adaptable, even when the terrain gets roughRoss shares candid insights from his journey—from detective work in the southeast to leading people up mountains in North Wales—offering inspiration and wisdom for anyone looking to build a business around what they love.Subscribe now and catch a new episode every Wednesday.#ChesterCenturions #BusinessPodcast #OutdoorAdventure #Entrepreneurship #LifeWorkBalance #DoWhatYouLove #LearnFromFailure

In this episode of the Chester Centurions Podcast, I sit down with John Farrell, Partner at Ellis & Co Chartered Accountants, to discuss the realities of running a business, financial planning, and the key strategies business owners need to stay ahead.We cover:🔹 The growth of Ellis & Co from a small firm in 1989 to a thriving accountancy practice with offices in Chester and Wrexham🔹 The common misconceptions about running a business, including why it’s not always as easy or profitable as it looks from the outside🔹 Why understanding your numbers is critical for business success and the biggest financial mistakes business owners make🔹 The importance of financial forecasting, budgeting, and cash flow management🔹 How to stay adaptable in a changing economic landscape, from tax changes to digital accounting requirements🔹 The biggest pitfalls for startups and how to avoid them, from unrealistic financial projections to taking on unnecessary costsJohn also shares his top three pieces of advice for business owners, including:The importance of realistic financial planningWhy keeping overheads low is crucial in the early daysHow to handle business partnerships and shareholder agreements the right wayThis episode is packed with practical financial advice for business owners and entrepreneurs who want to grow sustainably while avoiding common financial traps.Tune in to gain valuable insights and learn why knowing your numbers is the foundation of business success.Watch now and subscribe to the Chester Centurions Podcast for more expert business insights!#BusinessFinance #Entrepreneurship #KnowYourNumbers #ChesterCenturions #AccountingTips

In this episode of the Chester Centurions Podcast, I sit down with Robbie Davison, founder of Can Cook, a social food business dedicated to ensuring that everyone, regardless of income, has access to fresh, healthy meals. Robbie shares the story behind his mission, the staggering statistics on food poverty in the UK, and how his business is tackling the challenges of affordability and nutrition.We discuss:🔹 The shocking reality that 54% of the UK cannot afford fresh food🔹 The connection between poor diet and rising health issues like obesity and diabetes🔹 What inspired Robbie to launch his business—starting with a powerful moment in a community café🔹 The biggest misconceptions about running a business and why market research is key🔹 How Robbie stays motivated, adaptable, and focused in a constantly evolving industry🔹 The innovative solutions Can Cook is bringing to schools, hospitals, and workplacesRobbie also shares his top three pieces of advice for entrepreneurs, including why hard work, luck, and resilience are critical for success.Tune in to hear Robbie’s inspiring journey and why he believes that food should never be a privilege.Watch now and subscribe to the Chester Centurions Podcast for more inspiring business stories!#FoodForAll #Entrepreneurship #BusinessPodcast #SocialImpact #ChesterCenturions

Building a Greener Future: The Truth About Energy-Efficient HomesIn this episode of the Chester Centurion Podcast, I sit down with Tim from EcoVert Solutions, a business dedicated to reducing energy consumption in domestic and commercial buildings. For the past 14 years, Tim has been at the forefront of sustainable construction, helping homeowners and businesses build low-carbon, high-efficiency properties.In this episode, we discuss:The reality of starting and running a sustainable construction businessThe true cost of building a Passive House (Hint: It’s not as expensive as you think!)Why traditional building methods need to change—and fastHow solar panels and heat pumps are reshaping the industryThe biggest misconceptions about running a businessWhy cash flow is king and how to survive in a volatile industryIf you’re interested in sustainable housing, green technology, or just learning from a business leader who’s making a difference, this episode is packed with insights and real-world lessons.Drop a comment below: What do you think about Passive Houses? Would you ever build one?Don’t forget to LIKE & SUBSCRIBE for more entrepreneurial insights!

In this episode of the Chester Centurions Podcast I’m joined by Phil, the founder of RibRide UK  one of North Wales’ top adventure tourism businesses. What started with one boat in Caernarfon has grown into a fleet of 11, carrying over 20,000 passengers a year along the stunning Anglesey coastline.But Phil’s journey to success wasn’t straightforward. From working as a yacht skipper in the Caribbean to sitting on his first boat wondering why customers weren’t showing up—his story is one of persistence, adaptability, and entrepreneurial grit.In this episode, we dive into:The reality of starting a business—why customers don’t just show upHow to recognise the real growth opportunity (it might not be what you expect!)Why balancing work, family, and personal passions is the key to long-term successHow to challenge yourself to innovate and keep your business freshThe future of RibRide and why corporate team-building on the water is a game-changerIf you’re an entrepreneur, outdoor enthusiast, or someone who loves hearing about bold business moves, this episode is packed with real-world lessons.Like & Subscribe for more business insights from top business owners.

Welcome to The Chester Centurions Podcast. Today, I’m thrilled to sit down with Jason Wittenbrink, a local Chester entrepreneur who’s making waves in the electrical infrastructure industry.In this episode, Jason shares his journey with B&S Group—a company specialising in switchgear, substations, and other critical infrastructure products for major players like Scottish Power, UK Power Networks, and Schneider. From his roots in the local community to his role in driving green energy projects and innovative industrial applications, Jason offers invaluable insights into leadership, team-building, and what it really takes to stay agile in a rapidly evolving market.• Building a high-performing team• Navigating legacy and change in a 30-year-old business• Balancing customer expectations, stakeholder accountability, and personal well-being• Embracing continuous learning and innovationJason dives deep into his entrepreneurial journey—from joining a legacy business as its next-generation leader to expanding its capabilities with cutting-edge projects in green energy. He explains how his team’s performance, effective communication, and a relentless drive to innovate have helped B &S Group grow and stay ahead in a competitive market.“…if you surround yourself with high-performing, agile people, your business isn’t just about what you do—it’s about what your team achieves together.”If you’re an entrepreneur, a business leader, or simply passionate about innovation and sustainable energy solutions, this episode is a must-watch. Make sure to hit that like button, subscribe for more real-world business insights.

Welcome to the Chester Centurions Podcast! In this episode, I sit down with Peter Goddard, co-owner of Daulby Read Insurance Brokers, a Chester-based firm with a rich history dating back to 1975. Peter shares how the business has evolved, especially during the challenges of COVID-19, growing from £3 million to £14 million in GWP.We dive into his entrepreneurial journey, the mindset shifts that fueled their success, and the importance of strong habits over fleeting inspiration. Peter also discusses how he balances business growth with maintaining high-quality service in an industry increasingly dominated by private equity.If you're a business owner looking for insights on scaling, leadership, and staying adaptable in a changing world—this one's for you!Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more conversations with inspiring entrepreneurs.

Chester Centurions Podcast – Excel TM Group: Taking the Leap into EntrepreneurshipIn this episode of the Chester Centurions Podcast, Alan Bark sits down with Mike and Sian from Excel TM Group to discuss their journey into entrepreneurship. They share how they identified a gap in the construction and built environment sector, the challenges of starting a business with no safety net, and the mindset shifts that helped them push past fear and uncertainty.Mike and Sian open up about the realities of running a business—dealing with late payments, overcoming setbacks, and the misconceptions people have about entrepreneurship. They highlight the importance of resilience, trust, and learning from failure, as well as the dynamics of working together as a couple in business.Tune in for an honest conversation about what it really takes to build a results-driven business and how Excel TM Group is making an impact in the industry.Subscribe now to catch this and future episodes of the Chester Centurions Podcast!

Welcome to The Chester Centurions Podcast!Today’s episode is packed with hard-earned insights, business lessons, and real talk about entrepreneurship. My guest is Jack Mitchell, founder of Staff 86, a recruitment agency specialising in temporary and permanent staffing for the hospitality, events, sales, and marketing industries.Jack’s journey is one of resilience, strategic growth, and building a business from the ground up—twice. From running his first staffing business at just 21 years old to selling it and eventually launching Staff 86, Jack has learned what it really takes to scale a company in a fast-moving industry.In this episode, Jack shares:The truth about starting a business (and why it’s not all freedom and flexibility)Lessons from selling his first company and what he did differently the second timeWhy listening to clients and industry trends is the key to staying aheadHow to build a team that drives growth while maintaining work-life balanceHis top three pieces of advice for aspiring entrepreneursIf you’re thinking of launching your own business, struggling with scaling, or just want to hear from someone who’s walked the path and built a thriving company, this episode is for you.Drop a comment below with your biggest takeaway from Jack’s insights!Like & Subscribe for more real conversations with successful entrepreneurs.Now, let’s dive in!

Chester Centurions Podcast | Spitting Feathers’ Bold New VentureIn this special episode of the Chester Centurions Podcast, Alan Bark welcomes Tom from Spitting Feathers Brewery to discuss an exciting new project—The Chester Station Tap!Spitting Feathers, known for its historic venues and award-winning beers, is restoring the West Wing of Chester Station into a vibrant new taproom. Tom shares the inspiration behind this ambitious project, the challenges of restoring a historic building, and how it will enhance Chester’s business and social scene.Plus, we dive into Spitting Feathers’ latest award-winning beers, including their gold-medal hazy beer Mouth Pans Hops, and how the community can support the project through their crowdfunding campaign. With incredible rewards like discounted pints and exclusive Founder’s perks, now’s the time to get involved!Support the Campaign & Grab Exclusive Deals: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/chester-station-tap-room#:Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay updated on Chester’s business and hospitality scene!