Get Better in Chelmsford

What if the best networking event you ever attended wasn't technically a networking event at all?In this episode, Richard speaks to Chris Budd from CBHC Accountants about the communities he's built - not around PowerPoint and name badges, but around running shoes, shared values, and a genuine belief that patience is the best business development strategy there is.Chris created the Runners Network - a lunchtime run open to anyone, starting and ending at Central Park Café - and the Golden Circle, a small, invitation-only group of business owners who share values and ambitions, and back each other up without the formality of BNI.They also talk about CBHC's new concierge service, which takes a bespoke, personal approach to working with business owners - not just their year-end accounts. And about why an accountancy firm running a running club and a curated Golden Circle says a lot about what CBHC really is.Fresh air. Good company. Free coffee. Leads that come when you stop chasing them.If you want to join the Runners Network, just look out for it on LinkedIn and turn up. No fancy footwear required.Recorded at:City Space:https://city-space.co.uk/@city_space_chelmsfordLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-budd-cemap-68307412/Website:​​https://www.cbhc.uk.com/Where to find Get Better in Chelmsford:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsfordCreated in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

He set a goal in 2012 to buy a football club. He didn't know how much it would cost. He didn't know how long it would take. He wrote it down anyway. Years later, he bought Chelmsford City FC.In this episode, Richard speaks to Spencer Gore - founder of EMJ (European Medical Journal), one of the UK's leading healthcare publishing businesses, and the man now trying to put Chelmsford on the map in a way that goes well beyond the birthplace of radio.They cover Spencer's values-based approach to hiring - including a 90-minute values interview that shapes every appointment - how his dyslexia informed his relentless drive, and what it's like to take over a community asset rather than just a business. There's a walking football team with prostate cancer awareness built in. There's a Foundation feeding kids in school holidays who'd otherwise go without. There are fan forums every month.This is the story of what happens when someone with big goals and strong values lands in the right place.Recorded at:City Space:https://city-space.co.uk/@city_space_chelmsfordInstagram:@chelmsfordcityfcWebsite:​​https://chelmsfordcityfc.com/Where to find Get Better in Chelmsford:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsfordCreated in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

She texted a few friends, put a poster up in a coffee shop, and hoped for the best. Twelve women showed up. Two years later, the WhatsApp group has 560 members.In this episode, Richard speaks to Megan, founder of Girls Run Chelmsford - the all-women running community that started as a Wednesday evening jog and has grown into something much bigger.Megan talks about why running alone as a woman is genuinely difficult - the safety concerns, the motivation, the isolation - and why doing it in a group changes everything. She shares how Girls Run Chelmsford has evolved from five-kilometre loops into Pilates sessions, reformer classes, bracelet-making nights, and brand partnerships, all while staying free, welcoming, and firmly rooted in Chelmsford.They also get into the friendships that form when people move alongside each other, the women who turn up solo and end up going on holiday together, and how Megan runs all of it while working full time in London.If you've been meaning to try it - the door is always open. Just DM Girls Run Chelmsford on Instagram and Megan (or her sister) will get back to you.Recorded at:City Space:https://city-space.co.uk/@city_space_chelmsfordInstagram:@girlsrunchelmsfordWhere to find Get Better in Chelmsford:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsfordCreated in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

Prevention, not cure. That's the message from Lucy at Tees Law - and it's one most business owners probably need to hear.In this episode, Richard speaks to Lucy from Tees Law, a firm with over a century of history and a commercial practice that works with businesses from first idea all the way through to exit.They get into the practical stuff - what micro businesses get wrong and why it matters, what buyers find when they do due diligence, and what happens when shares haven't been properly documented, liability hasn't been capped, or supply contracts are about to expire. Lucy explains how getting these things right isn't just about compliance - it's about building value.They also cover Tees' unique wealth practice, which sits alongside the legal offering to help business owners think about personal finances and tax planning as part of the same picture, and why talking to a lawyer doesn't have to wait for something to go wrong.There are 9,000 micro businesses in Essex. This one's for all of them.Recorded at:City Space:https://city-space.co.uk/@city_space_chelmsfordWebsite:https://teeslaw.com/offices/chelmsford/LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucy-folley-2b64b721/Where to find Get Better in Chelmsford:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsfordCreated in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

What does it mean to build a law firm in a city you genuinely believe in?In this episode, Richard speaks to Andrew from Ellison's - a regional law firm that arrived in the city in 2018 with two partners, four people, and a clear set of values. Today, they have seven partners, 40 desks, and a full commercial and private client offering.Andrew talks about why staying aligned to values - rather than chasing growth targets - has driven more sustainable growth than any spreadsheet could have. They cover the firm's academy for training and development, their approach to neurodiversity in the workplace, and why the firm's next generation of clients matter just as much as today's.There's also a fascinating conversation about Chelmsford's history - from a freed slave buried on New London Road to the radio signals sent from Lower Anchor Street as part of Operation Fortitude - and why civic pride matters when you're trying to build something that lasts decades, not just years.And yes, he really was on the first train from Beaulieu Park station. He has the LinkedIn post to prove it.Recorded at:City Space:https://city-space.co.uk/@city_space_chelmsfordWebsite:https://ellisons.com/LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-fernandes-807b8546/Where to find Get Better in Chelmsford:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsfordCreated in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

From celebrity photographer to beekeeper. And why that's not as strange as it sounds.In this episode, Richard speaks to Tony, founder of Plan Bee - the Essex-based beekeeping project that's part business, part conservation mission, and part last line of defence for the honeybee.Tony spent 30 years photographing the likes of Kate Moss, Ocean Colour Scene, and Bill Bailey before making the switch. Now he manages over 60 hives for around 20 clients across Essex and London, keeps bees on the roof of Chelmsford City Council, and is quietly working to breed a climate-change resistant strain of native Essex Black Bees.This year has seen the highest honeybee mortality on record. One in three mouthfuls of food depends on pollination. And without beekeepers like Tony, the species would be in serious trouble.They talk about what makes this a business, why businesses are getting involved, what a day with 50,000 bees actually looks like - and what you can do to support the project.If you want to plant trees, you could. Or you could support a beehive and get raw honey straight from the source.Recorded at:City Space:https://city-space.co.uk/@city_space_chelmsfordWebsite:https://www.tonybriggs.com/planbeeLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/tony-briggs-plan-bee/posts Where to find Get Better in Chelmsford:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsfordCreated in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

You've seen the lorries. But do you know the story?Woodland Group is one of Essex's biggest businesses - a global supply chain logistics company with around 900 people across the UK, USA, Ireland and Asia, with Chelmsford at its heart. In this episode, Richard speaks to Jason Shuttleworth, who's been with the company for 21 years, to explore the journey from a Basildon phone number to a global business that moves everything from books under NDA to vinyl records on release day.They cover what makes Chelmsford the right place to HQ a logistics company, why the culture hasn't shifted even as the headcount has grown to 900, and how Woodland's 15-year partnership with Essex Cricket and its work with the Panathlon charity reflect the values at the heart of the business.There's also talk of life in New York, Essex's surprising global reputation, and why once you've met Woodland Group, you can't stop spotting the trucks.Recorded at:City Space:https://city-space.co.uk/@city_space_chelmsfordWebsite:https://www.woodlandgroup.com/ukLinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonshuttleworth/Where to find Get Better in Chelmsford:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsfordCreated in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

What if the garden sold itself - you just had to get people through the gate?In this episode, Richard speaks to Sue from RHS Hyde Hall, one of just five RHS gardens in the country and firmly on Chelmsford's doorstep. From the sweeping hilltop views to the plot-to-plate vegetable garden, Sue shares what makes Hyde Hall so much more than its horticultural reputation suggests.They explore how Hyde Hall balances its national RHS identity with deeply local roots - with 80% of visitors coming from Chelmsford and Southend - and how the team is working to welcome new audiences through the pound-entry scheme, National Lottery access, school visits, and family events like the Great Garden Gameathon.Sue also opens up about wellbeing, the quiet power of being in nature, and why a garden that's constantly growing never really stays the same.With nearly 440,000 visitors a year - and a lavender walk on the horizon - the next milestone is half a million. Come and help them get there.Hyde Hall is open every day from 10am. No booking needed. Just turn up.Recorded at:City Spacehttps://city-space.co.uk/@city_space_chelmsfordWebsite:https://www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/hyde-hallInstagram:@rhshydehallWhere to find Get Better in Chelmsford:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsfordCreated in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

Gareth Barton, Creative Director at Spacio, is on a mission to create remarkable workplaces that go beyond desks and design — crafting environments that inspire purpose, connection, and culture.From post-conflict zones to boardrooms, Gareth’s career is anything but ordinary. Now Creative Director at Spacio, he channels 35+ years of experience in storytelling, strategy and design into building workplaces people actually want to be in.In this episode, Gareth shares why branding belongs to the people, how workspaces can shape culture, and what it means to uncover a company’s “irreducible truth.” It’s an inspiring conversation about change, purpose, and falling in love with Mondays again.🎬 Created in collaboration with:Better Agency: @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil🎤 Recorded atStudio 808: @studio808_Where to find Spacio🌐 Website: https://www.spacio.co.uk/🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spacio-design-&-buildWhere to find Get Better in Chelmsford 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsford Created in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

What if your next best customer was already in your data? In this episode, we dive into the world of business intelligence with James Neale, Co-Founder of Integra Data Solutions — the award-winning specialists who are changing how businesses find, understand, and reach their audiences.From GDPR-compliant strategies to data enrichment and razor-sharp customer segmentation, James shares how Integra turns complex datasets into powerful, ROI-driven marketing campaigns. If you want to market smarter, not harder, this one's for you.🎬 Created in collaboration with:Better Agency: @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil🎤 Recorded atStudio 808: @studio808_Where to find Integra Data Solutions🌐 Website: www.integradatasolutions.co.uk🔗 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/integra-data-solutions/Where to find Get Better in Chelmsford 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsford Created in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

How do you build prestige in a sport where history reigns supreme? Chelmsford City Racecourse may be the youngest in the UK, but it’s quickly making a name for itself — not just in horse racing, but as an all-star entertainment venue.In this episode, we chat with Justin Deeny, Head of Marketing at Chelmsford City Racecourse, about the challenge of carving out a legacy, attracting top-tier racing talent, and expanding beyond the track with major concerts, B2B events, and private functions. Tune in to hear how they’re shaking up the scene and building a brand that lasts.Where to find Chelmsford City Racecourse🌐 Website: www.chelmsfordcityracecourse.com 🔗 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/chelmsford-city-racecourse Where to find Get Better in Chelmsford 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsford Created in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

How do you protect 600 acres of heritage while keeping it relevant in the modern world? Join us as we sit down with Lorraine Thorne, Manager at Hylands House, to uncover how a near-derelict estate was transformed into one of Essex’s most sought-after venues.From grand weddings and festivals to artisan markets and corporate retreats, Hylands is more than just a historic house — it’s a living, breathing part of the community. Lorraine shares how her team balances history with innovation, taps into new markets, and builds strong partnerships to ensure Hylands thrives for generations to come.Where to find Hylands House 🌐 Website: www.hylandsestate.co.uk 🔗 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/hylandsestate/ 🔗 Facebook: www.facebook.com/HylandsEstate Where to find Get Better in Chelmsford 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsford Created in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

What if sport could do more than keep us fit — what if it could transform lives? In this episode, we sit down with Jake Turner from Sport for Confidence to explore how they’re tackling health inequalities and breaking down barriers for people with disabilities and long-term conditions. From placing occupational therapists in leisure centres to collaborating with local authorities and healthcare teams, Jake shares how they’re making sport and physical activity truly inclusive.We dive into the power of inclusive sport, the challenges of marketing a purpose-driven brand, and why Jake couldn’t love his job more.Where to find Sport for Confidence🌐 Website: www.sportforconfidence.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/sport-for-confidence-cic/ Where to find Get Better in Chelmsford 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsford Created in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

Great teams are built on talent, not labels. In this episode, we dive into how inclusive employment is changing lives and breaking down harmful prejudices against people with learning disabilities. Caroline Giess from ECL shares how they connect skilled candidates with the right employers, while Hollie Austin from Moto Pizza explains why hiring inclusively is a game-changer. Plus, hear from Beth Corrigan, who landed her dream role at Moto with ECL’s support.From challenging outdated stigmas to marketing inclusivity to both candidates and employers — this is a must-listen for anyone passionate about building stronger, more inclusive businesses and communities.Where to find ECL🌐 Website: https://www.ecl.org/ 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eclcarecompany/ Where to find Get Better in Chelmsford 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsford Created in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

In this episode, Lisa Bone, Strategic Tourism Manager at Visit Essex, shares how they're redefining Essex’s identity. From vibrant cities and cultural hotspots to unspoilt coastlines and rolling countryside, Lisa and her team are on a mission to inspire civic pride and showcase Essex as a must-visit destination.She also pulls back the curtain on the world of destination management — because tourism isn’t just about getting people through the door. It’s about shaping the infrastructure, managing the experience, and positioning Essex as a place people want to explore.Ready to see Essex in a whole new light? Listen now!Where to find Visit Essex:🌐 Website: www.visitessex.com 🔗 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/visitessex Where to find Get Better in Chelmsford 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsford Created in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

Meet Jen Stanley and Laura Davis, the founders of Stanley & Davis, a modern HR consultancy redefining workplace culture. They're tearing up the old HR rule book to create high-performing, people-first businesses.Forget the outdated, corporate view of HR — these two are all about humanising the workplace, aligning company culture with external branding, and building high-performing teams by balancing different skills and personalities. Want to build a business where people thrive? This episode is packed with insights on transforming HR into a powerhouse for growth. Listen now!🎬 Created in collaboration with:Better Agency: @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil🎤 Recorded atStudio 808: @studio808_Where to find Stanley & Davis🌐 Website: www.stanleyanddavis.co.uk/ 🔗 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/stanley-davis-ltd/ Where to find Get Better in Chelmsford 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsford Created in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

It’s the season finale – and we’re ending things on a high with Eve Calderbank, creator of Ambitious Women in Essex.Having experienced hostile working environments in the past, Eve was determined to be the change she needed for herself. And so she created the Ambitious Women in Essex community, a place where women can support women. And where networking is actually a whole lot of fun.Eve LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eve-calderbank AWiE LinkedIn: @ambitiouswomeninessexAWiE Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/ambitious-women-in-essex-networking-events-2054529?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=creatorshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=odclsxcollection&utm-source=cp&aff=escbGet Better in Chelmsford LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsford Get Better in Chelmsford Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/get-better-in-chelmsford-digital-marketing-2824269 Created in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

In this episode, we speak to Paul Wilkinson, owner of Studio 808 – which, funnily enough, is where we record this podcast! Starting as a DJ, Paul is now a producer with 25 years of expertise and has forged an inspiring space and creative community with access to first-class recording and editing equipment. Join us as we delve into his journey, from overcoming challenges to building a successful business as a one-man band.Studio 808: www.studio-808.comStudio 808 Instagram: @studio808_Get Better in Chelmsford LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsford Get Better in Chelmsford Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/get-better-in-chelmsford-digital-marketing-2824269 Created in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

In this episode, we welcome two wonderful guests to the podcast – Lauren Penney and Julie Chandler from Chandler Material Supplies Ltd, a family-owned and run business.Starting as a building company selling excess materials in the 1950s, Chandler Materials has become a successful building merchant and works closely with the local community. From overcoming marketing challenges to addressing the lack of women in the construction industry, join us as we uncover the inspiring story behind Chandler Material Supplies Ltd.Chandler Material Supplies: www.chandlermaterials.co.ukChandler Material Supplies socials: @chandlermaterialsuppliesGet Better in Chelmsford LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsford Get Better in Chelmsford Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/get-better-in-chelmsford-digital-marketing-2824269 Created in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

After working as an apprentice and building her social media presence, Sophie Waghorn decided to take things to the next level and start her very own studio: Thistle & Thorn Tattoo.In episode 5, we explore Sophie’s marketing journey – from making customers feel comfortable and confident, to creating art that people want to shout about.Sophie Waghorn Instagram: @swaghorntattooThistle & Thorn Tattoo Instagram: @thistlethorntattoo Get Better in Chelmsford LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsford Get Better in Chelmsford Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/get-better-in-chelmsford-digital-marketing-2824269 Created in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

In this episode, Steve Revill shares his journey as Managing Director at Rickard Luckin. From the enduring relevance of the four P's to the importance of workplace values, join us as we uncover the secret to crafting a culture of continuous improvement within a well-established brand.Rickard Luckin: www.rickardluckin.co.ukGet Better in Chelmsford LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsford Get Better in Chelmsford Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/get-better-in-chelmsford-digital-marketing-2824269 Created in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

With over 15 years of experience in the cocktail industry, inventing new and exciting drinks for large drink brands, Zane Chiswell-Rivas learnt a thing or two about spirits. And, during the height of COVID-19, he decided to try something new: creating a distillery out of his gran's one-car garage.In this episode, you’ll hear the inspiring story of Essex Spirits Company, from overcoming supply chain challenges and building brand values to turning an idea into a successful business.Essex Spirits Company: www.essexspiritsco.comEssex Spirits Company socials: @essexspiritscoGet Better in Chelmsford LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsford Get Better in Chelmsford Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/get-better-in-chelmsford-digital-marketing-2824269 Created in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

Operating from her family farm, Jo Pike’s main marketing weapon is word of mouth and, of course, offering truly great experiences. Join us as we explore Jo’s journey with Writtle Sunflowers. From a small family business to a successful haven that families flock to every summer – this little slice of countryside has a very interesting story to tell. Writtle Sunflowers: www.writtlesunflowers.co.ukWrittle Sunflowers social: @writtle_sunflowersGet Better in Chelmsford LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsford Get Better in Chelmsford Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/get-better-in-chelmsford-digital-marketing-2824269 Created in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil

In episode 1, we speak to Kevin Bennett, who has been a custodian of the Chelmsford Star Co-op brand for over a decade.From inherited loyalty and changing tastes to the rise of social media, Kevin offers a fascinating insight into building and maintaining awareness for a historic brand. Join us as we uncover the balance between staying relevant to the current generation, and staying true to a 155-year legacy.Chelmsford Star Co-op: www.chelmsfordstar.coopChelmsford Star Co-op socials: @cstarcoopGet Better in Chelmsford LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/get-better-in-chelmsfordGet Better in Chelmsford Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/get-better-in-chelmsford-digital-marketing-2824269 Created in collaboration with:Better Agency @betteragencyChelmsford City Council: @chelmscouncil