Now Ayrshire Radio- Ayrshire Insights with Elliot Boyce

In this episode of Ayrshire Insights with Elliot Boyce, Elliot is joined by local legend Jade Mair, founder of Little Play Planet in Ayr. Jade shares the story behind creating the popular role-play centre, where children can explore, imagine, and learn through play in a unique mini-town setting. From turning an idea into a thriving business to creating memorable experiences for local families, Jade discusses the challenges, rewards, and inspiration behind her entrepreneurial journey. Recorded from the weekly business show on Now Ayrshire Radio, this is a warm and engaging conversation about business, creativity, community, and the importance of giving young minds the space to dream big and play freely—all with "That Local Feeling."

In this episode of Ayrshire Insights with Elliot Boyce, Elliot Boyce is joined by Charlie and Lyndsey Shaw from Ayrshire Chip N Logs, a family-run business based at Crofthead Farm in Sorn that has been supplying premium wood fuel products across Ayrshire and the west of Scotland since 2016. Charlie and Lyndsey share the story behind the business, from its agricultural roots to becoming a trusted supplier of kiln-dried logs, woodchip, and biomass fuel solutions for homes, businesses, schools, hotels, and rural enterprises. The conversation explores the importance of quality, sustainability, customer service, and how local forestry and renewable energy are helping shape the future of the industry. They also discuss the realities of running a family business, the challenges of growth, and why building strong relationships with customers has been central to their success. With a focus on reliability, innovation, and community, Charlie and Lyndsey offer a fascinating insight into a business that is helping keep Ayrshire warm while embracing a more sustainable future. Recorded from the weekly business show on Now Ayrshire Radio, this episode is packed with entrepreneurial insight, local business success, and the stories behind one of Ayrshire's growing family enterprises.

In this heartwarming episode of Ayrshire Insights with Elliot Boyce, Elliot Boyce is joined by Beth Browning and her daughter Emily from Beth Browning's Bakery. Together, they share the remarkable story behind one of Ayrshire's best-loved bakeries, reflecting on how the business began, the challenges they've overcome, and the journey that has seen them earn industry recognition and prestigious awards along the way. As a family-run business, Beth and Emily discuss the importance of hard work, community support, and maintaining the quality and values that have helped their bakery thrive. The conversation is packed with memorable moments, including a surprising tale involving a snake falling on Beth's head—a story that proves entrepreneurship can bring unexpected adventures as well as success! Recorded from the weekly business show on Now Ayrshire Radio, this episode is a celebration of family business, resilience, community spirit, and the passion that goes into creating something truly special. Whether you're interested in entrepreneurship, local success stories, or simply enjoy a great conversation, this episode delivers plenty of inspiration—with a few laughs along the way.

In this episode of Ayrshire Insights with Elliot Boyce, Elliot  is joined by Gregor Stewart from Stewart: Temperature Solutions to discuss the growth of one of Ayrshire’s leading climate control and renewable energy businesses. From air conditioning and refrigeration to heat pumps, solar energy, and sustainable heating solutions, Gregor shares the journey of building a family-run business that now supports homes and commercial projects across Scotland and beyond.  Recorded from the weekly business show on Now Ayrshire Radio, this episode delivers insight into innovation, sustainability, and what it takes to grow a modern Ayrshire business while keeping “That Local Feeling.”   Originally broadcast live on Now Ayrshire Radio, this edited episode brings you the very best bits — insightful, inspiring, and a true celebration of a Local Legend.

In this episode of Ayrshire Insights with Elliot Boyce, Elliot chats with David Stirrat from Creamy Cheesecake Company about building a successful local food brand, the passion behind the business, and why supporting local producers matters more than ever. From handcrafted cheesecakes to growing a loyal Ayrshire following, David shares the journey behind the business and the challenges of entrepreneurship in the food industry. The conversation also highlights the upcoming producers market at Auchincruive, bringing together local makers, food producers, and small businesses while helping raise money for charity and support important community causes across Ayrshire. It’s a celebration of local talent, collaboration, and community spirit — all with “That Local Feeling.” Originally broadcast live on Now Ayrshire Radio, this edited episode brings you the very best bits — insightful, inspiring, and a true celebration of a Local Legend.

In this episode, Elliot is joined by comedian and broadcaster Billy Kirkwood, who brings a unique perspective on building a career in the creative industries. From carving out his path in comedy to establishing himself in broadcasting, Billy shares the realities of turning passion into a profession.   Together, they dive into the highs, the hurdles, and the lessons learned along the way—offering honest insight into resilience, reinvention, and what it really takes to succeed. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, creative, or simply curious about the stories behind success, this episode delivers inspiration with a touch of humour.   Originally broadcast live on Now Ayrshire Radio, this edited episode brings you the very best bits — insightful, inspiring, and a true celebration of a Local Legend.

This week Elliot is joined by Lorraine Murdoch, the driving force behind the Ayr County Show — one of Ayrshire’s most iconic and long-standing community events. For over 21 years, Lorraine has played a central role in organising and managing the show, helping it grow into a much-loved annual highlight that brings together farmers, families, businesses, and the wider community. In this episode, she shares the story behind the scenes — from the early days to the scale and success the event enjoys today. We explore what it really takes to deliver an event of this size year after year, the challenges that come with it, and the moments that make it all worthwhile. Lorraine also reflects on the importance of tradition, community spirit, and keeping events like the Ayr County Show thriving for future generations. As always, expect plenty of personality along the way — from quick-fire questions and personal stories to her connection with Ayrshire and what keeps her motivated after more than two decades at the heart of it all. Originally broadcast live on Now Ayrshire Radio, this edited episode brings you the very best bits — insightful, inspiring, and a true celebration of a Local Legend.

This week Elliot is joined by John Gall of Brownings the Bakers — one of Ayrshire’s most recognisable and much-loved businesses. From humble beginnings to becoming a household name across the region, John shares the story behind the brand, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to build and sustain a local business with such a strong reputation. It’s a journey shaped by tradition, hard work, and a deep connection to the community. As always, we kick things off with some quick-fire icebreakers before diving into John’s early days, the evolution of Brownings, and the key moments that helped define its success. From big wins to the challenges along the way, this episode is packed with insight, honesty, and a genuine passion for Ayrshire. There’s plenty of personality too — including “5 Fast Ones,” reflections on community pride, and why supporting local businesses has never been more important. Originally broadcast live on Now Ayrshire Radio, this edited episode brings you the very best bits — a great story, a few laughs, and a celebration of a true Ayrshire institution.

A thriving outlet. A beloved café. A sudden fire that changed everything. In this powerful episode, Elliot Boyce of Ayrshire Insights speaks with James Broughton about the night the Cumnock Factory Outlet went up in flames — and the extraordinary comeback that followed. From the ashes rose not just a rebuilt business, but a renewed sense of community. This is a story of resilience, local pride, and the people of Ayrshire refusing to let a landmark fade away.

In this week’s Ayrshire Insights on Now Ayrshire Radio, Elliot Boyce is joined by Gayle Watson from Ayrshire Climbing Centre in Kilmarnock. Gayle shares the journey behind creating Ayrshire’s first indoor climbing centre, from early beginnings to building an inclusive space for all abilities. The conversation explores the challenges, proud moments, and the positive impact climbing has on confidence, wellbeing, and the local community. An inspiring and down-to-earth look at one of Ayrshire’s growing success stories.

This week on Local Legend Spotlight, Elliot Boyce is joined by award-winning business owner Katie Stephen, the driving force behind Dog & Hound Boutique in Stewarton. From her early beginnings to building a brand that’s now recognised for excellence, Katie shares the real story behind her journey — the leap into business, the challenges that tested her, and the moments that made it all worthwhile. As always, we kick things off with some quick-fire icebreakers before diving into the origins of Dog & Hound Boutique, exploring how a genuine passion for dogs grew into a thriving local business. Katie opens up about her biggest wins, the toughest days, and the lessons she’s learned along the way — including what it really takes to stand out and succeed. Originally broadcast live on Now Ayrshire Radio, this edited episode brings you the very best moments — honest, upbeat, and packed with insight. Whether you’re a dog lover, a small business owner, or just enjoy hearing how local success stories are built, this is one you won’t want to miss.

This week on Ayrshire Insights, Elliot Boyce sits down with Liam Gallagher from Senjokai Karate for an engaging and insightful conversation about discipline, dedication, and the power of martial arts in shaping both body and mind. Liam shares his journey into karate, the philosophy behind Senjokai, and how training goes far beyond physical fitness—building confidence, resilience, and respect in students of all ages. From grassroots beginnings to the impact on the local community, this episode explores what makes martial arts such a transformative experience. Whether you’re a seasoned martial artist, thinking about starting, or just curious about the mindset behind the discipline, this episode offers plenty of inspiration and practical insight. Tune in to hear how passion, perseverance, and purpose come together in one of Ayrshire’s most respected karate communities.

This episode puts the spotlight on Daniel McGuire — owner of RDS AutocAyr and one of the most trusted names in local motoring. We talk cars, community, challenges, big wins, and what it takes to run a garage where honesty, affordability and proper customer care come first. A brilliant conversation with one of Ayrshire’s true local legends.  

This week on Ayrshire Insights, we’re joined by Fiona McKenzie, founder of CentreStage in Kilmarnock. Fiona shares the remarkable journey that took her from a 20-year career as a secondary school Principal Teacher of Music to becoming one of Ayrshire’s most influential community leaders. She talks about the early challenges, the vision behind using the arts to transform lives, and how CentreStage has grown into a powerful hub for creativity, opportunity and community in Ayrshire.

In this episode, we sit down with Isobel and Andy from Studio16, the Ayr‑based high‑end detailing studio making waves across Scotland and beyond. Andy founded the business, and together he and Isobel have transformed Studio16 into one of the country’s most respected names in automotive and motorcycle detailing. In just 12 months, Isobel has become the UK’s only International Detailing Association Certified Female Detailer and one of only 11 people worldwide to earn specialist motorcycle detailing certification — achievements matched only by her recent international win in Orlando, where she was crowned Newcomer of the Year.  We dive into their journey: how they balance business and partnership, the challenges of entering a male‑dominated industry, the proudest moments of their rise, and the impact Studio16 has made on Ayrshire’s community. Plus: walk‑in tunes, quick‑fire questions, bargains of the week, and what’s next for this powerhouse duo.  

This week Elliot sits down with Colin Eggo of MKM Merchants Kilmarnock for an honest and inspiring conversation about life, leadership, and building a business from the ground up. Colin shares his journey growing up in Kilmarnock, the lessons that shaped his work ethic, and the pivotal moments that defined his career. From early challenges to establishing a respected name in the builders’ merchant industry, he opens up about the risks he’s taken, the setbacks he’s faced, and the mindset required to grow a successful operation in a competitive market. Colin talks about entrepreneurship, resilience, community impact, and what it really takes to build not just a business — but a reputation. Whether you’re a business owner, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply enjoy hearing real stories from local leaders, this is a conversation packed with insight and authenticity.  

This week on Ayrshire Insights, Elliot sits down with Jim Gemmell of Gemmell’s Van Sales — a man whose journey is as authentically Ayrshire as it gets. Jim shares how growing up in Onthank shaped his work ethic, his values, and his drive to build one of the region’s most successful vehicle businesses, now turning over millions each year.   Despite the scale of the operation, Jim’s commitment to community remains at the heart of everything he does. From supporting local causes to staying grounded in the place that made him, this conversation is a reminder that success doesn’t need to take you away from your roots.

Elliot sits down with Sir Tom Hunter to explore his journey from working in his dad’s grocery store to building Sports Division, buying Olympus Sport, and selling to JJB in one of the UK’s biggest retail deals. Sir Tom also reflects on his time at West Coast Capital, the impact of the 2008 crash, and how it shaped his approach to business and giving back. They dig into his philanthropic work through the Hunter Foundation, Scale‑up Scotland, and the leadership focus at Blair House. Plus, Sir Tom shares his candid views on Ayrshire’s future — including why he believes the region should have one council instead of three. A sharp, inspiring episode packed with insight, straight from one of Scotland’s most influential business leaders.

This week on Ayrshire Insights with Elliot Boyce, we went live from the relaunch of Revitalize Fitness & Spa in Kilmarnock. Elliot sat down with co-owners Kris Steven and Steven Freeburn, who shared the inspiring story behind their journey—transforming passion and perseverance into one of Ayrshire’s leading fitness and spa centres. From humble beginnings to building a thriving hub for health and wellbeing, Kris and Steven open up about the challenges, milestones, and vision that brought Revitalize to where it is today.

This week on Ayrshire Insights, host Elliot Boyce sits down with Claire Baird, CEO of the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce. Together they explore the evolving business landscape across Ayrshire, the Chamber’s role in supporting local enterprises, and Claire’s vision for fostering collaboration and innovation within the community. From championing small businesses to driving regional growth, this conversation offers a candid look at the challenges and opportunities shaping Ayrshire’s future.

In this inspiring episode of Ayrshire Insights, Elliot Boyce sits down with Wilma Milligan MBE, a Prestwick resident whose tireless dedication to helping others has transformed lives across Ayrshire. Recognised in the King’s New Year Honours List for her services to charity and food poverty, Wilma has spent more than a decade building and supporting food banks in Ayr and Maybole.   •  Impact: Over 11 years, these food banks have provided emergency supplies to around 40,000 people, including 10,000 children, ensuring families in crisis had somewhere to turn. •  Motivation: Wilma speaks candidly about her shock at receiving the MBE, her gratitude to the volunteers she calls “hidden heroes,” and the importance of community solidarity. •  Legacy: Beyond food banks, her work highlights the power of grassroots action in addressing poverty and inequality, showing how one person’s vision can ripple across an entire region.   Listeners will hear Wilma’s reflections on resilience, compassion, and the collective effort required to tackle hardship. This conversation is not just about recognition—it’s about the human stories behind the statistics and the enduring spirit of Ayrshire’s communities.

On this week’s Ayrshire Insights with Elliot Boyce, we welcome Ryan Leslie, founder of FuelFit, the Ayrshire‑based meal prep business now serving customers across the UK. Ryan shares the inspiring journey of building FuelFit from a local startup into a nationwide brand, and how winning the prestigious Scottish EDGE Award with £100,000 in funding has accelerated their growth. From the challenges of scaling a food business to the importance of making healthy eating simple and accessible, Ryan offers candid insights into entrepreneurship, resilience, and community. Whether you’re passionate about health, curious about startups, or love hearing success stories, this episode is packed with motivation and practical takeaways.

This week on Ayrshire Insights, Elliot Boyce is joined by Danny Anderson—renowned sound engineer, event creator, and the driving force behind Freckfest and Andersonic. From mixing live shows for legends like Simple Minds and Billy Ocean to launching Ayrshire’s celebrated airshow, Danny reflects on a career that bridges music, aviation, and community spirit. Hear how a childhood spent in army camps led to a career with the National Air Traffic Service, and eventually to working alongside some of the biggest names in music. Whether your passion is live sound, flying displays, or simply inspiring local stories, this episode delivers energy, insight, and plenty of Ayrshire pride.

This week on Ayrshire Insights, Elliot Boyce sits down with Jill Korn — acclaimed writer and director of audio drama for Sound Escape Theatre. Jill shares her creative journey, the magic of storytelling through sound, and how immersive audio can transport listeners into new worlds. From the craft of writing scripts to the challenges of directing performances designed purely for the ear, Jill offers a fascinating look behind the curtain of audio drama. Whether you’re a theatre lover, a budding writer, or simply curious about the power of sound, this episode promises inspiration and insight straight from one of Ayrshire’s most innovative voices.

This week on Ayrshire Insights with Elliot Boyce, we’re bringing you a special episode recorded during the Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce’s visit to NOW Ayrshire, where over 40 local businesses came together to connect and collaborate.   In this unique edition, Elliot sits down with five different guests to showcase the diversity and energy of Ayrshire’s business and community scene. You’ll hear insights from:   •  Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce – on the power of local business networks •  Ayrshire Independent Living Network – championing accessibility and inclusion •  Ayrshire Grooming Salon – sharing the journey of small business growth •  Doonfest – highlighting the role of arts and festivals in community life •  Digital Workspace Audio Visual Solutions – exploring innovation in workplace technology

In this episode of Ayrshire Insights, Elliot Boyce welcomes John Paton, the visionary behind MobiTyre & AutoCare Scotland, a double award-winning mobile tyre and auto service based in Crosshouse, Ayrshire. With over 35 years of experience in the fast-fit industry, John shares how he identified a gap in the market—recognising that busy customers needed a more flexible, time-saving solution for car maintenance.

On this powerful episode of Ayrshire Insights, host Elliot Boyce welcomes Derek Thomson — a tireless champion in the fight against cancer. For over 25 years, Derek has led fundraising efforts that have generated hundreds of thousands of pounds for Cancer Research UK, transforming lives across Ayrshire and beyond. With the unwavering support of local volunteers, businesses, and families, Derek’s work has become a beacon of hope in the region. He shares how grassroots efforts, community spirit, and personal resilience have fueled his journey — and why Ayrshire continues to be a driving force in the battle against cancer. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about purpose, perseverance, and the power of collective action.

This week, Elliot sits down with Craig and Julie Speirs, the dynamic duo behind one of Ayrshire’s most in-demand event companies: C&J Weddings & Party Hire. With over 250 weddings and 200 parties and events completed this year alone, their business is redefining celebration across the region.   From rustic barn weddings to lavish marquee setups, Craig and Julie share the secrets behind their success, the challenges of scaling a family-run business, and the trends shaping the future of event planning in Ayrshire. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or just love a good party, this episode is packed with inspiration, insight, and a touch of sparkle.

This week on Ayrshire Insights, Elliot sits down with Sandy Hillan and Doogie Ainslie, the dynamic duo behind Dash Claims, Ayrshire’s go-to accident management specialists. From no-fault accidents to no-nonsense solutions, they break down how Dash Claims is flipping the script on traditional insurance processes.

In this heartwarming and inspiring episode, we welcome mother-daughter duo Claire and Abbie McGill, the driving force behind A.C.E Supporting Services Ltd — a family-run care organisation based in Prestwick. Born from personal experience and deep compassion, A.C.E was founded in honour of Erin, Claire's daughter & Abbie’s youngest sister and a service user whose journey with Global Developmental Delay sparked a mission to create meaningful, inclusive support for others.

In this lively and laughter-filled special episode, we chat with newly elected independent councillor Willie Hogg — a man who went from putting up fences in back gardens to breaking down barriers in local politics.   Willie shares his journey from tradesman to town hall, including:   •  🛠️ How years of fencing work gave him a grounded perspective on community needs •  📱 His leap into social media and the unexpected buzz it created around his campaign •  😂 Plenty of laughs, local stories, and the kind of straight-talking charm that won voters over

This week, Ayrshire Insights takes you straight to the heart of San Antonio as we soak up the final rays of Ibiza’s legendary closing parties. But it’s not just about the beats—this episode dives deep into the business behind the bar. Broadcasting live from the iconic Highlander Bar, Elliot sits down with owner Seb and manager Calvin to talk about what it takes to run one of Ibiza’s most beloved nightlife spots. From building a brand that resonates with partygoers from around the world to navigating the challenges of seasonal tourism, they share the highs, the hustle, and the heart behind the Highlander.

This week, Elliot sits down with Lee Simpson — one half of the next-gen leadership at SimpsInns, a proudly family-owned hospitality group with deep Ayrshire roots. Alongside his brother, their parents and management team Lee helps steer a portfolio of hotels, restaurants, and leisure venues that blend local charm with modern ambition.   Expect candid insights into running a family business, adapting to shifting guest expectations, and building a brand that lasts.

This week, Elliot sits down with Alan Crookston and Jamie Stewart — the duo behind Elmwood Property Group — to unpack the business of property from the inside out. From estate agency and lettings to management and financial services, they reveal what it takes to thrive in Ayrshire’s ever-evolving housing market.

This week, Elliot sits down with Jamie Burns — the mind behind Ailsa Reliability Solutions — to decode how predictive maintenance is saving industries serious money. From oil rigs to wind farms, Jamie shares how his team spots equipment failures before they strike, and why Ayrshire is quietly becoming a hub for reliability tech.

This week on Ayrshire Insights, Elliot Boyce sits down with Ross Gilmour, the man behind Thistle Cabs in Ayrshire. From navigating council red tape to championing smarter recruitment in the taxi industry, Ross shares his candid views on what’s holding Ayrshire back—and what needs to change. We dive into the challenges of running a modern cab firm, the future of local transport, and why Ross believes the current licensing system is driving potential drivers away. 

This week, Elliot Boyce sits down with Anthony Cecchini, the second-generation owner of the beloved Cecchini’s Italian Restaurants in Ayr and Ardrossan. Anthony shares the rich history of his family’s journey from Barga in Tuscany to the west coast of Scotland, bringing with them generations of authentic recipes and a passion for hospitality. We explore how Cecchini’s has become a staple of Ayrshire dining since its founding in 1985, blending traditional Tuscan flavours with local Scottish charm. From the scenic views at Ardrossan Harbour to the vibrant atmosphere of Wellington Square in Ayr, Anthony reflects on the evolution of the business, the importance of family, and what it means to serve the community through food. Whether you're a foodie, a fan of local entrepreneurship, or just love a good story, this episode is a delicious slice of Ayrshire life.

This week, Elliot sits down with Morean Hamilton, a powerhouse in Ayrshire’s business and equestrian scenes. As her & her husband are the driving force behind Hamilton Tarmac, the Cobble Shop, and the iconic Thistle Pub in Hurlford, Morean has built more than just businesses—she’s built community. But beyond the boardroom and bar, Morean’s heart belongs to the equestrian world. A lifelong horsewoman, she’s not only produced and shown top-level horses, but also judged at elite events including the Royal International Horse Show and Horse of the Year Show.

In this episode of Ayrshire Insights, Elliot Boyce is joined by Gavin Wallace, Managing Director of EVT Scotland, to uncover what it takes to run one of the UK’s leading vehicle movement specialists. From transporting fire engines to coordinating high-end chauffeur services, Gavin shares the behind-the-scenes challenges of managing complex logistics across the country. It’s a deep dive into the fast-paced world of fleet coordination, operational strategy, and the human stories behind the vehicles that keep Britain moving.

Elliot chats with Tom Yorke about what really goes on behind the scenes in the insurance world. From protecting local businesses to building trust with clients, Tom shares how Blue Rock does things differently. It’s a relaxed, insightful convo with plenty of laughs—and a few surprises along the way. Perfect for business owners, curious minds, or anyone who’s ever wondered what an insurance broker actually does.

In this episode of Ayrshire Insights, Elliot Boyce sits down with Eddie Fraser, Chief Executive of East Ayrshire Council, for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, community priorities, and the future of the region. Eddie shares his personal journey to becoming Chief Executive, offering insights into the experiences and values that have shaped his approach to public service. Whether you're interested in local government, community development, or leadership in action, this episode provides a valuable look behind the scenes of East Ayrshire Council.

This week on Ayrshire Insights, Elliot Boyce sits down for a raw and powerful conversation with tattoo artist Niky Brown, owner of Hard Luck Tattoo—whose shop was tragically lost in the recent Kilmarnock fire. From the inked beginnings of his career to the ashes of heartbreak, Niky shares the emotional story of losing his business, and how the Ayrshire community rallied behind him, raising over £28,000.

In this episode, Elliot sits down with Alan Miller, the friendly face behind Budget Blinds Ayrshire, to chat about all things windows, business, and community. From humble beginnings to becoming a trusted name across Ayrshire, Alan shares his journey, the challenges of running a local business, and why great customer service never goes out of style. Whether you're a homeowner looking for inspiration or just love hearing from passionate local entrepreneurs, this episode is full of insight, laughs, and a few surprising stories from behind the blinds!

Get under the bonnet of Ayrshire’s automotive world as Elliot sits down with Andrew Dodds, founder of Andrew Dodds Autocare in Ayr. From a one-man operation to a trusted local business, Andrew shares the grit, passion, and precision that fuel his journey—and the engines he works on. 🚗 Whether you’re a car enthusiast or simply fascinated by the entrepreneurial heartbeat of Ayrshire, this episode explores the dedication behind diagnostics, customer service, and staying ahead in an ever-changing industry. 👨‍🔧 Expect honest chat, local pride, and a few surprising anecdotes from the garage floor. Tune in and discover why Andrew Dodds Autocare isn’t just about fixing cars—it’s about building trust, one vehicle at a time.

This week on Ayrshire Insights, Elliot Boyce chats with Shona Thorne of Thorne Travel about what it really takes to run a successful travel agency in today’s fast-changing world. Shona opens up about the behind-the-scenes of building a trusted brand, managing a team, adapting to global travel trends, and keeping customer service at the heart of everything they do. From booking dream holidays to navigating industry challenges, it’s a fascinating look at the business of travel—rooted right here in Ayrshire.

In this episode, Elliot Boyce sits down with Brandon Van Rensburg and Mark Blake, the creative duo behind Spudbuds—one of Ayrshire’s tastiest and most talked-about food spots. They chat about how the idea came to life, the journey of building a local food brand, and what it takes to stand out in the ever-growing street food scene. It’s a fun and flavourful conversation you won’t want to miss!

In this episode of Ayrshire Insights, Elliot Boyce sits down with Gordon Rennie, the visionary behind Gro Coffee, for a warm and wide-ranging conversation over a cup of something special. Recorded on location at the heart of Ayrshire’s café culture, this episode dives into Gordon’s journey from idea to institution, the role of local businesses in shaping community identity, and what it takes to create a space that’s more than just a coffee shop.

In this episode, Elliot Boyce catches up with Robert Honeyman from The McKinstry Company, one of South West Scotland’s leading law firms. They chat about Robert’s path into law, the firm’s strong local ties, and how McKinstry continues to support the community while adapting to the changing legal landscape. It’s a relaxed and insightful conversation with a focus on people, place, and purpose.

In this episode, Elliot Boyce takes the conversation beyond football with Billy Bowie, Director at Kilmarnock Football Club. They chat about more than just the game—touching on the club’s role in the community, Billy’s journey, and what it’s like behind the scenes at Killie.

In our very first episode, Elliot Boyce kicks things off with none other than Billy Bowie — the man behind tankers, hotels, and a whole lot of Kilmarnock pride. Billy shares his journey from growing up in Ayrshire to building Billy Bowie Special Projects, investing in local businesses, and of course, his deep connection with Kilmarnock FC.