The Good Eggs Podcast

The conversation covers the experiences of joining the Navy at a young age, the challenges of basic training, the role of religion and football in military life, finding meaning and purpose, first deployment experiences, and the drinking culture in the military. It also explores the impact of military life on behavior and mindset. The conversation delves into the impact of military culture on individuals, highlighting the challenges faced by veterans transitioning into civilian life. It also explores the decision to start a new path, pursue education, and set an example for the next generation. The importance of leadership and setting an example is emphasized, showcasing the impact of personal actions on others. The conversation delves into the themes of leadership, authenticity, and diversifying revenue streams. Mark Walsh shares insights on inspiring others and being authentic in leadership, as well as the importance of diversifying revenue streams for business sustainability. The journey of leadership and the strategic approach to revenue diversification are the key focus areas of the conversation.TakeawaysMilitary culture and experiencesImpact of military life on behavior and mindset Impact of Military CultureTransitioning to Civilian Life Inspiration and authenticity in leadershipDiversifying revenue streams for business sustainabilityChapters00:00 Drinking Culture in the Military22:20 Military Culture and Its Impact30:14 Transitioning to Civilian Life41:29 Starting a New Path46:34 The Journey of Leadership and Authenticity

Fiona Donaldson shares her journey from growing up in Edinburgh to finding her passion in cooking and connecting with people through spirituality and faith. She discusses the challenges of mental health, societal expectations, and the value of soft skills in the workplace. Fiona Donaldson shares her journey as a social entrepreneur, emphasising the value of human connection and the impact of basic human interactions. She reflects on the challenges and successes of her social enterprise, as well as the need for better support for social entrepreneurs. Fiona also discusses her current involvement in inclusive sports and her plans to establish a collective of experienced individuals to support social entrepreneurs.TakeawaysSocial enterprise backgroundEdinburgh upbringing and love for the cityChallenges of mental health and societal expectationsValue of soft skills in the workplace Human connection is at the heart of social entrepreneurshipSupport for social entrepreneurs is essential for successFiona's journey highlights the need for better infrastructure and support for social entrepreneursChapters00:00 Challenges and Reflections on Faith and Spirituality33:45 The Value of Human Connection in Social Entrepreneurship57:06 Challenges and Burnout in Social Entrepreneurship01:12:11 Current Involvement in Inclusive Sports and Future Plans

The conversation covers topics related to work-life balance, career transitions, and personal challenges. It begins with an introduction and background, followed by discussions on growing up and career beginnings. The transition to the North East is explored, leading to a career in HR and recruitment. The conversation then delves into self-employment and business transition, concluding with a segment on breast cancer diagnosis and recovery. The conversation covers the journey of facing a cancer diagnosis, navigating treatment and recovery, the impact of COVID-19, rebranding and business mentoring, and the golden advice of continuous learning. The key takeaways include resilience and the importance of continuous learning for personal and professional growth.TakeawaysWork-life balanceCareer transitions ResilienceContinuous LearningChapters00:00 Introduction and Background07:59 Transition to the North East15:58 Self-Employment and Business Transition21:41 Facing the Diagnosis32:10 Rebranding and Business Mentoring

The conversation covers Izzy Howell's journey from her early years to her career in the film industry and the impact of short form video content on marketing. It also delves into the changing landscape of content creation and the importance of authenticity and value in marketing. The conversation concludes with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Howell Media. The conversation covers the impact of the pandemic on business, the pivot to virtual events, the development of Howell Studios, and the importance of having fun in life and business.TakeawaysShort form video content has revolutionized the marketing landscape.Authenticity and value are essential in content creation and marketing.The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on live events and the business landscape. Pandemic impact on businessPivot to virtual eventsDevelopment of Howell StudiosImportance of having fun in life and businessChapters00:00 Introduction and Inspiration06:07 Interest in Film and Storytelling13:19 Evolution of Content Creation and Marketing19:04 The Marketing Mix and Frequency of Advertising24:18 Transition to Howell Media and Impact of COVID-1945:42 Importance of Having Fun

Dr. Michelle Booth shares her journey from a mining village to becoming a social entrepreneur and founder of Side by Side Arts. She discusses the evolution of social enterprise, the challenges, and the importance of sustainable business models. The conversation covers the challenges and opportunities for social enterprises in the Northeast region, the importance of collaboration, and the need for belief and financial viability in entrepreneurship. Michelle shares her experiences and insights, emphasizing the value of making money to do good and the significance of self-belief in pursuing entrepreneurial endeavors.TakeawaysSocial enterprise evolutionImposter syndrome Collaboration in the social enterprise sectorThe importance of financial viability and self-belief in entrepreneurshipChapters00:00 Journey to Social Enterprise08:10 Transition to Social Enterprise17:07 Founding Side by Side Arts24:24 Challenges and Opportunities for Social Enterprises in the Northeast Region29:51 The Value of Making Money to Do Good36:00 The Significance of Self-Belief in Entrepreneurship

The conversation covers Emmanuel's journey from childhood in Nigeria to his business ventures and challenges in the North East. It explores his interest in technology, the impact of AI, and the resilience and adaptability required to overcome setbacks. Emmanuel emphasizes the importance of community support and the transformative impact of his work, highlighting the significance of routine and discipline in maintaining focus and resilience. The conversation covers the impact of the digital revolution, adaptability and flexibility in business, partnership and business growth, loyalty and trust in business relationships, community and people in business, TV appearance and business impact, business survival and adaptation, transition to social entrepreneurship, scrambled egg moment and business resilience, and golden egg moment and business advice.TakeawaysAdaptabilityCommunity support Tech and digital revolution impactAdaptability and flexibility in businessChapters00:00 Importance of Routine and Discipline21:24 Loyalty and Trust in Business Relationships27:49 Transition to Social Entrepreneurship

In this episode we’re joined by Nicola Vallely, entrepreneur and founder of Vallelys, as well as the driving force behind Revive and Survive CIC.Nicola shares her journey into business — the challenges she faced along the way, what motivated her to keep pushing forward, and how those experiences shaped the work she does today.We talk about her passion for supporting people starting their own businesses, particularly girls and young women who may not always see entrepreneurship as a path open to them. Nicola explains why confidence, encouragement and the right support networks can make all the difference.We also dive into her exciting new venture, Vallelys Bar, and what inspired her to take on a brand new challenge.This is a brilliant conversation about backing yourself, supporting others to succeed, and building something that creates real opportunities for the next generation.Enjoy!

In this episode we’re joined by Shane Knox, founder of Not a Statistic North East CIC.Shane shares his powerful and honest story — from the challenges he faced growing up, to his battles with mental health, and his time serving in the Royal Navy. Through it all, Shane talks openly about resilience, the turning points that shaped his life, and the experiences that led him to create Not a Statistic North East.We dive into the mission behind the organisation and how Shane is now using his own journey to support others — particularly young people and those facing difficult circumstances — showing them that their past does not define their future.This conversation is about resilience, second chances, and the impact one person can have when they decide to turn their struggles into support for others.Enjoy!

In this episode we’re joined by Alfie Joey — former BBC Radio Newcastle breakfast presenter, comedian, writer and artist, now known as The SpeakEasy Guy.Alfie shares the fascinating journey that’s taken him from life in a religious order, to stand-up comedy, broadcasting to thousands across the North East, and now helping people and organisations communicate with confidence and impact. We dive into the power of storytelling, what makes someone truly memorable when they speak, and why communication is one of the most underrated skills in business, leadership and life.This conversation touches on creativity, reinvention, and the courage it takes to change lanes — proving that it’s never too late to follow a different path and find your voice.Enjoy!

In this episode we’re joined by Zoe Chandler, founder of Weights & Cakes CIC based in Sunderland. Zoe shares her inspiring story of how she created a welcoming, inclusive space for fitness and community — recognising that traditional gym environments weren’t always accessible or comfortable for everyone. We dive into how Weights & Cakes offers not just strength training and movement, but a true community hub: supporting neurodivergent people, the LGBTQ+ community, older adults, and those recovering from mental health struggles or eating disorders. This conversation touches on empowerment, belonging, and the difference one person’s vision can make when they centre people’s experiences and break down barriers.Enjoy!

In this episode of The Good Eggs Podcast, we’re joined by Joanne Youngson, founder of SAFC Heaven Branch CIC. Joanne shares her deep love for Sunderland AFC and how that passion became the heart of a unique community dedicated to supporting those who have lost loved ones.Through her own experiences, Joanne opens up about the challenges she’s faced as a neurodivergent individual, and how these have shaped her empathy, drive, and the inclusive approach she brings to her work.It’s a heartfelt and powerful conversation about football, friendship, and finding connection through shared experiences of grief, hope, and belonging.Tune in and enjoy! ❤️🤍

In this episode we welcome Dan Makaveli, the founder of Media Savvy CIC and its newer venture, Diego’s Joint CIC. Dan walks us through his journey as a social entrepreneur, explaining how Media Savvy has been delivering creative training and employability support for marginalised groups since 2010.He also shares how Diego’s Joint—a community-cafe-bar-events space launched in Sunniside, Sunderland—gives people opportunities to gain skills, employment and confidence through creative and social enterprise activities. Join us for a fascinating conversation about creativity, enterprise with a purpose and how one person’s vision can open doors for many.Find out more at diegosjoint.co.ukTune in and enjoy!

In this episode of The Good Eggs Podcast, we’re joined by Holly James, founder of Atlas Theatre Company CIC. Holly shares her passion for making the arts accessible to everyone and talks about the incredible opportunities her company creates for people to develop their confidence, creativity, and careers in the performing arts.From community projects to professional productions, Holly’s work is all about opening doors and empowering others through theatre.It’s an inspiring conversation about creativity, inclusion, and the power of the arts to change lives.Tune in and enjoy!

Welcome back to The Good Eggs Podcast — and hello to Series 2!We’re starting the new season with an incredible guest: James Fildes - founder of Space NE. In this episode, James shares his journey through mental health challenges and how those experiences inspired him to create a space that supports others in their own wellbeing journeys.It’s a powerful conversation about perseverance, purpose and the impact of turning personal struggles into something that helps others.Tune in and enjoy!

Welcome to Episode 7 of The Good Eggs Podcast.This week, we meet Emma and Richard - the energetic duo behind The Sugar Bowl CIC—a community arts initiative in County Durham that's all about dancing, bopping and bringing people together through movement and music.Richar, as a member of The Revolutionaires brings the Rythym. With influences ranging from Louis Jordan to Stevie Ray Vaughan, The Revolutionaires have made their mark across the UK and Europe with their hard-hitting sound. Emma complements this musical energy with her background in business support and project management, creating a harmonious blend of talents that energise their initiatives.​Together, they discuss the joys and challenges of launching a CIC, the importance of community engagement and their vision for a more connected, expressive future.​Learn more about their work on Facebook at The Sugar Bowl Northeast CIC and catch Richard's band at The Revolutionaires Official Facebook Page.​Enjoy!

Welcome to episode 6 of The Good Eggs Podcast.This week, we sit down with David Barnes—actor, creative, and the driving force behind Watling Spaces CIC and the revival of The Roxy Theatre in Leadgate, County Durham. After 14 years on the London stage, David returned to his roots to transform a derelict 1930s cinema into a vibrant, inclusive arts hub. He opens up about his family's hands-on support, his artistic journey and the passion fueling this ambitious community project. From upcycled projectors to state-of-the-art studios, it's a story of grit, vision and heart.​Learn more about Watling Spaces and The Roxy at watlingspaces.co.uk and follow their journey on Facebook: Watling Spaces – The Roxy.

Welcome to episode 5 of The Good Eggs PodcastThis time, we meet couple Andrew and Bronia, who are just cracking into the world of social entrepreneurship. From unexpected career pivots to passion-fueled purpose, they share what sparked their journey, the challenges they’ve face and the bold steps they’re taking to build something meaningful. Tune in for a raw, honest convo about risk, resilience and redefining success on your own terms.

Welcome back to The Good Eggs pod!This time we meet the inspirational Heidi Smith who shares her life story, the challenges along the way and how Learning Abilities CIC came to be.Let us know in the comments what you think of this 'good egg'!

This episode we meet Sarah and Colin. What a lovely pair!!!!They share their life stories, how life blossomed and how their joined focus on supporting good people became The Wiggly Path CIC ..... enjoy!

Welcome to Episode 2! This time we meet Armed Forces Veteran and County Durhams 'man of the people'- it's Chris Scadden!

Welcome to episode one of our little podcast! In this episode we meet Dr Hannah Barraclough of Clear Mind Collective CIC as she shares her life story and what enticed her into the world of social enterprise.