The Legacy bench

Why is Britain's construction industry struggling - and what needs to change?Rising building costs, a shortage of skilled tradespeople, concerns over new-build quality, increasing regulation and rapid advances in artificial intelligence are putting pressure on one of the UK's most important industries.In Episode 14 of Legacy Bench, host Princely Samuel Okere brings together four experienced professionals from architecture, interior design, construction, property development and facilities management to discuss what's really happening inside Britain's construction industry.The panel explores the problems facing the sector today, where the industry may be heading next, and whether traditional construction careers could become even more valuable in the years ahead.Guests on this episodeGrant Erskine - RIBA Chartered Architect and Founder of Grant Erskine Architects Ltd, with more than 15 years of experience across architecture, property development and investment.Austin Tang - Founder and Creative Director of Austin Tang Interiors, specialising in luxury residential and commercial interior design.Rick Green - Founder and Managing Director of Lecale Homes, bringing extensive hands-on experience across construction, housing and property development.Stuart Waterworth - Technical Director and Co-Owner of Art of Maintenance Ltd, with decades of experience across facilities management, M&E and building maintenance.In this conversationWhat's really happening in Britain's construction industryWhy building and property development costs are risingBritain's shortage of skilled tradespeopleUniversity versus apprenticeshipsWhy traditional trades could become more valuableShould builders and tradespeople be licensed?Britain's new-build quality problemArchitecture, interior design and construction working togetherProperty development and HMOsAI in architecture and constructionCould AI replace architects, designers or other construction roles?Can technology and AI reduce construction costs?Smart buildings and the future of propertyThe future of careers in constructionThe panel also tackles a major question for the next generation - would you recommend a career in construction to someone starting out today?Whether you're a builder, architect, interior designer, property developer, investor, tradesperson, apprentice, construction professional or simply interested in Britain's housing and construction industry, this episode offers perspectives from professionals working directly inside the sector.Hosted by Princely Samuel Okere.Legacy Bench is the podcast where professionals, founders, entrepreneurs, creators and industry leaders come together to share real ideas, real experiences and practical advice about business, careers, technology and the industries shaping our future.Follow Legacy Bench on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts for more conversations with professionals and industry leaders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is artificial intelligence transforming the creative industry for the better - or putting creative careers at risk?In this special Legacy Bench Debate, host Molly Ann Kennedy brings together founders, filmmakers, branding experts, business development specialists, and AI entrepreneurs to tackle one of the biggest questions facing creative professionals today.As AI tools become increasingly capable, what happens to designers, filmmakers, writers, marketers, and artists? Can businesses embrace automation without losing authenticity? And will human creativity become even more valuable in an AI-driven world?This episode features honest opinions, respectful debate, and practical insights from professionals building businesses at the intersection of creativity, technology, and innovation.Guests on this episodeChris Marsh - Founder of Agents Of and Business Development Specialist, sharing his perspective on business growth, networking, and creating long-term value in an AI-powered economy.James Kalu - Independent filmmaker, writer, and director discussing the future of filmmaking, storytelling, and the role of human creativity in an increasingly automated industry.Katy Ennis-Hargreaves - Founder and Creative Director of BOLDISM®, exploring branding, creative strategy, and why strong brands continue to matter in a world shaped by artificial intelligence.Ese Bobori - Founder and CEO of Audibound AI, offering insights into AI innovation, publishing, audiobooks, and how technology is creating new opportunities for creators and businesses.In this conversationWill AI replace creative professionals?Human creativity versus artificial intelligenceThe future of branding and designAI's impact on filmmaking and storytellingWhy networking still matters in businessSales versus branding - which drives growth?Video versus graphic design in the AI eraAuthenticity and trust in modern marketingEntrepreneurship and innovation in a rapidly changing worldHow creatives can adapt to the future of workWhether you're a founder, entrepreneur, marketer, designer, filmmaker, content creator, or simply fascinated by the future of artificial intelligence, this episode offers thought-provoking perspectives on where creativity and technology are heading next.Hosted by Molly Ann Kennedy.Produced by Legacy Bench.Legacy Bench is the podcast where entrepreneurs, founders, creators, professionals, and industry leaders come together to share real stories, practical advice, and honest conversations about business, leadership, technology, creativity, and personal growth.Follow Legacy Bench on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts, and join the conversation with new episodes every week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is artificial intelligence living up to the hype, or are we overlooking what really drives successful businesses?In this episode of Legacy Bench, host Princely Samuel Okere brings together founders, business leaders, a software engineer, and a communication expert for an honest discussion about AI, entrepreneurship, leadership, and the future of business.From startup failures and public speaking to marketing, technology, and human connection, this conversation explores how AI is reshaping industries while highlighting the skills that remain uniquely human.Guests on this episodeDarren Ratcliffe - Founder of Courageous, an award-winning ecommerce agency with more than 20 years of experience. Darren shares how AI is transforming agency life, why resilience is essential for business owners, and the challenges of growing a company through change.Faith Sodipe - Software Engineer, speaker, mentor, and community builder. Faith reflects on the lessons learned from building a failed startup, discusses the limitations of AI, and explains why solving real human problems should always come before chasing technology.Aliya Rajah - Executive Presence and Public Speaking Coach, helping professionals build confidence, improve communication, increase visibility, and become more influential leaders.Carl Phillips - Managing Director of The PMC, a full-service marketing agency. Carl shares his perspective on marketing, business strategy, client relationships, AI, and maintaining value in an increasingly automated world.In this conversationAI hype versus realityHow artificial intelligence is changing business and marketingWhy human relationships still matterLessons learned from startup failureLeadership, confidence and public speakingBuilding a business without losing your purposePersonal branding in the age of AIEntrepreneurship and the future of workThe skills AI cannot replaceWhether you're an entrepreneur, founder, marketer, software developer, student, or simply curious about the future of artificial intelligence, this episode offers practical insights from professionals working at the intersection of technology, business, and leadership.Hosted by Princely Samuel Okere.Legacy Bench is the podcast where entrepreneurs, founders, creators, professionals, and industry leaders come together to share real stories, practical advice, and honest conversations about business, leadership, technology, innovation, and personal growth.Follow Legacy Bench on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts, and never miss a new episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you turn passion into purpose and purpose into real impact?In this episode of Legacy Bench, host Princely Samuel Okere is joined by three inspiring guests who are making a difference through community work, music, creativity, and leadership. Together, they explore how supporting others, creating opportunities, and building strong communities can transform lives.From tackling homelessness and promoting trauma-informed support to empowering women in the music industry and helping independent artists gain recognition, this episode is full of honest stories, practical insights, and inspiring conversations.Guests on this episodeAdnan Jouzaa - Accommodation Support Worker at Manchester City Council, sharing his work supporting people experiencing homelessness, his passion for trauma-informed early intervention, and his mission to help young people build confidence, resilience, and stronger communities.Heidi Noble - Music technician, musician, and creative advocate discussing the barriers women continue to face in technical roles within the music industry, while championing greater inclusion through education, mentoring, and opportunity.Ash Anderson - Founder of Merro Events and host of White Room Sessions, sharing his journey of building a platform that supports independent musicians, creates opportunities for emerging artists, and grows a thriving creative community.In this conversationSupporting people experiencing homelessnessTrauma-informed care and early interventionMental health, confidence, and resilienceWomen in music and technical careersSupporting independent artists and creatorsBuilding communities instead of chasing numbersEntrepreneurship driven by passion and purposeLeadership, networking, and creating opportunitiesTurning ideas into meaningful projectsWhether you're passionate about community work, music, entrepreneurship, or creating positive change, this episode offers valuable lessons from people who are making a real difference in the lives of others.Hosted by Princely Samuel Okere.Legacy Bench is the podcast where entrepreneurs, founders, creators, professionals, and community leaders come together to share real stories, practical advice, and honest conversations about business, leadership, creativity, wellbeing, and making a positive impact.Follow Legacy Bench on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts, and never miss a new episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What can over 100 years of combined experience teach us about business, leadership, resilience, and building a meaningful life?In this episode of Legacy Bench, host Princely Samuel Okere welcomes four inspiring guests whose combined experience spans entrepreneurship, business strategy, HR, wellbeing, fitness, community leadership, and personal development.Together, they share honest stories, practical advice, and life lessons on overcoming adversity, building successful careers, finding purpose, and creating opportunities for others.Guests on this episodePerry Offer – Founder of Time to Simplify, business strategist, speaker, and advisor with decades of experience helping organisations simplify operations, overcome challenges, and achieve sustainable growth.Grace Trippitt – HR professional, writer, personal trainer, and content creator using storytelling, wellbeing, and honest conversations to help people feel less alone while inspiring positive change.Thomas Holroyd – Founder of The Interpreter Initiative, entrepreneur, self-employed British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter, and trustee, sharing his journey from humble beginnings to building businesses that create opportunities for others.Shamime Jan – Founder of Bollyfit Active CIC, community leader and wellbeing advocate empowering women through fitness, confidence, belonging, and personal development.In this conversationBuilding confidence and discovering your purposeBusiness growth, leadership and entrepreneurshipDeveloping resilience through life's challengesHealth, fitness and mental wellbeingTurning setbacks into opportunitiesCreating stronger communities and lasting impactMindset, motivation and lifelong learningAdvice for aspiring entrepreneurs and professionalsWhether you're building a business, developing your career, or looking for inspiration to navigate life's challenges, this episode offers practical insights and meaningful conversations from people who have lived them.Hosted by Princely Samuel Okere.Legacy Bench is the podcast where entrepreneurs, founders, creators, professionals, and industry leaders come together to share real stories, practical advice, and honest conversations about business, leadership, innovation, wellbeing, and personal growth.Follow Legacy Bench on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts, and never miss a new episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What makes people trust a brand?In this episode of Legacy Bench, host Princely Samuel Okere is joined by four experienced professionals from the worlds of public relations, marketing, media, events, and entrepreneurship to discuss what it really takes to build a successful business in today's competitive landscape.From creating memorable brands and producing engaging content to building relationships and leading businesses, this episode is packed with practical insights for entrepreneurs, business owners, marketers, and anyone looking to grow their professional impact.Guests on this episodeCharlotte Nichols - Founder and Managing Director of Harvey & Hugo, an award-winning PR and marketing agency. Charlotte shares her journey from overcoming self-doubt to building one of the UK's most respected communications agencies.Simon Howard - Director of Introducing Events, professional presenter, MC, and event host with more than 20 years of experience helping organisations create engaging corporate events and meaningful experiences.George Howson - Co-Founder and Head of Content at Pear Tree Media, discussing content creation, storytelling, entrepreneurship, and building a modern media company.Rebecca Houston - Managing Director of Smash Marketing, sharing insights into marketing strategy, leadership, customer engagement, and developing businesses through trust and strong relationships.In this conversationBuilding a successful and trusted brandMarketing strategies that create long-term growthPublic relations and effective communicationLeadership and business developmentContent creation and the future of mediaNetworking and building meaningful relationshipsEntrepreneurship and lessons from growing a businessAdapting to change in today's business environmentWhether you're launching a startup, growing an established business, building a personal brand, or working in marketing, this episode offers valuable advice from professionals who have spent years helping organisations succeed.Hosted by Princely Samuel Okere.Legacy Bench is the podcast where entrepreneurs, founders, creators, professionals, and industry leaders come together to share real stories, practical advice, and honest conversations about business, leadership, innovation, marketing, and personal growth.Follow Legacy Bench on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts, and never miss a new episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it really take to rebuild your life when things don't go according to plan?In this episode of Legacy Bench, host Princely Samuel Okere brings together four guests with completely different life experiences to explore resilience, purpose, entrepreneurship, creativity, wellbeing, and personal growth.From navigating epilepsy while building a career in journalism, to tackling food poverty, building a freelance creative career, and helping people heal through wellness, this conversation offers honest insights into the challenges many people face today and how they continue moving forward.Guests on this episodeAlex Kamara – Graphic designer and creative exploring freelancing, personal development, and starting a new chapter abroad.Christine Bill – Co-Founder of Food Nest UK, discussing food poverty, the rising cost of living, and supporting vulnerable families across the UK.Grace Eccles – Music journalist and creator behind Grace Talks Music, sharing her journey through media, personal branding, ambition, and living with epilepsy.Tristan Belvins – Nutritionist, Reiki practitioner, and wellness coach helping people improve both their physical and mental wellbeing.In this conversationRebuilding confidence after setbacksMental health and emotional resilienceEntrepreneurship and finding purposeCreativity, freelancing and personal brandingLiving with epilepsy while pursuing your ambitionsFood poverty and the cost of living crisisWellness, healing and holistic healthSocial media, visibility and self-confidenceBuilding a meaningful career in today's worldWhether you're an entrepreneur, creator, student, professional, or simply navigating life's next chapter, this episode is packed with practical advice, personal stories, and thought-provoking conversations.Hosted by Princely Samuel Okere.Legacy Bench is the podcast where entrepreneurs, professionals, founders, creators, and industry experts come together for honest conversations about business, life, leadership, personal growth, and the challenges shaping today's world.Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow Legacy Bench for new episodes every week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 7 of Legacy Bench brings together powerful stories from people navigating creativity, identity, business, technology, and rebuilding after major setbacks.At the bench:Amy — a British-born Chinese actress and model — speaks openly about representation in the UK creative industry and the lack of visibility for British-born Chinese actors in film and television.Joe shares the reality of trying to build a career in photography and filmmaking, opening up about confidence, uncertainty, creativity, and finding direction in competitive industries.Amanda discusses late-identified autism, bullying, neurodivergence, and why she started creating content and podcasting to build a safer and more supportive space for others.Mccauley, founder of Sustainable Compute Network, reveals the shocking story of how his previous startup lost around £1 million through betrayal, poor control, and business risk — and how he is now rebuilding with a new mission focused on sustainable AI and technology.This episode explores:Startup failure and rebuilding after lossRepresentation in film and mediaAutism awareness and neurodivergenceCreative industry strugglesAI, sustainability, and the future of technologyTrust, investment, and business mistakesPersonal growth through adversityWhy some people keep building no matter what happensThese are not polished success stories.These are real conversations from people trying to build meaningful lives and careers in the real world.Hosted by Princely Samuel Okere.🎙️ Legacy Bench is where professionals, founders, and creators come together to share real ideas, real experiences, and real advice.📌 Subscribe, share, and join the journey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 6 of Legacy Bench brings together founders, filmmakers, creatives, and entrepreneurs for an honest conversation about ambition, pressure, opportunity, and the reality behind success.Johnny Hurst, ambassador for Help Bank, shares the importance of community, helping others, and why founders should not be afraid to ask for support.Katie, an award-winning film graduate, opens up about the harsh reality young filmmakers face trying to break into the industry.Jane D shares powerful insight into acting, publishing, branding, business, and the sacrifices required to survive in creative industries long-term.Together, the bench explores what it really takes to build a career in competitive industries where success is uncertain, opportunities are limited, and social media creates pressure to “make it” overnight.In this episode:The truth about unpaid work and gaining experienceWhy personal branding matters more than everHow storytelling creates opportunityCreative burnout and industry pressureAI and the future of creative workThe difference between motivation and disciplineWhy success often takes years, not monthsBuilding a career, a brand, and a legacyThis is not fake motivation or surface-level advice. It is a real conversation between people actively building their own path.Hosted by Princely Samuel Okere.🎙️ Legacy Bench is where professionals, founders, and creators come together to share real ideas, real experiences, and real advice.💬 Comment below for a chance to win $500. 📌 Subscribe and join the journey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 5 of Legacy Bench brings together four people at very different stages of rebuilding their lives - through recovery, creativity, business, reinvention, and personal growth.Oliver opens up about overcoming cannabis addiction and how fitness, discipline, and mental strength helped him rebuild his life and find a new purpose helping others.Teni shares the pressure of feeling stuck, wanting to leave sales behind, travel, explore creativity, and search for a more meaningful direction.Nicola returns to discuss the growth of her sustainability-focused ornament business and the challenges of turning a creative idea into a scalable brand.Dave reflects on decades of experience as a cameraman, creative, and retired veteran — sharing lessons on visibility, reinvention, and why even experienced professionals must continue evolving.This episode explores addiction, healing, self-improvement, entrepreneurship, purpose, burnout, business growth, creativity, and what it truly means to start again.No fake motivation. No polished success stories. Just honest conversations from people trying to figure life out in real time.Hosted by Princely Samuel Okere.🎙️ Legacy Bench is where professionals, founders, and creators come together to share real ideas, real experiences, and real advice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 4 of Legacy Bench brings together founders, creators, and professionals at different stages of their journey — from building and scaling a business, to finding direction, to creating impact through purpose.In this conversation, Danielle Vassell shares her work as a motivational speaker, coach, and purpose-driven founder. Jane Dillon discusses building in the stag and hen industry while navigating growth, scaling, and expansion into new markets. Favour shares the reality of exploring his next steps as a creative, while business host Tom Scholey offers practical insight on structure, strategy, and growth.This episode explores the reality of scaling versus doing everything alone, building with limited resources, turning personal experience into purpose-driven work, and the importance of environment, network, and consistency.Legacy Bench is a conversation-led series where founders, creators, and professionals share real experiences, honest insight, and practical advice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ideas are everywhere — but turning them into something real is where most people struggle.In this episode of Legacy Bench, founders, creators, and entrepreneurs come together for an honest conversation about what it truly takes to build something from the ground up.The discussion explores the gap between having an idea and executing it, why visibility and marketing matter, and how creators and founders balance time, money, passion, and consistency while growing their work.Topics include organic growth, social media strategy, entrepreneurship across different industries, and honest reflections on AI and the future of creative work.Legacy Bench is a conversation-led series where founders, creators, and professionals share real experiences, honest insight, and practical advice.Episode format: Founder Roundtable Conversation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 2 of Legacy Bench brings together three founders with bold ideas and very different journeys — all navigating growth, clarity, and real-world challenges.In this episode:Harry shares his vision for an online platform helping trades generate instant quotes and simplify customer connectionsRoss Minton opens up about creativity, entrepreneurship, and building as a disabled founderCar Zhang explores creating a multi-network platform designed for creators, influencers, and Asian communities worldwideThe conversation explores ambition, setbacks, identity, and what it truly takes to build something meaningful in today’s world.Legacy Bench is a conversation-led series where founders, creators, and professionals share real experiences, honest insight, and practical advice.Episode format: Founder Roundtable Conversation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Waswa Kempadoo-Millar joins Legacy Bench for a focused one-to-one conversation about discipline, direction, and the power of simplifying your goals.In this episode, the discussion explores how reducing distractions, creating structure, and making intentional choices can lead to greater clarity in both personal growth and professional life.The conversation highlights the importance of focus, self-awareness, and building a path that aligns with long-term purpose rather than constant pressure to do everything at once.Legacy Bench is a conversation-led series where founders, creators, and professionals share real experiences, honest insight, and practical advice.Episode format: 1-to-1 Deep Dive Conversation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alanah Mills joins Legacy Bench for an in-depth one-to-one conversation about creativity, disability, and building accessible spaces within the creative industry.In this episode, Alanah shares her personal journey of resilience, navigating identity, overcoming challenges, and transforming lived experience into meaningful impact through photography and creative work.The discussion explores accessibility, representation, personal growth, and what it means to build a creative path that reflects both authenticity and purpose.Legacy Bench is a conversation-led series where founders, creators, and professionals share real experiences, honest insight, and practical advice.Episode format: 1-to-1 Deep Dive Conversation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lilly-Mae Roberts joins Legacy Bench for an in-depth one-to-one conversation about building intentional, inclusive businesses that align with personal values and long-term vision.In this episode, the discussion explores authentic marketing, clarity of purpose, and how designing systems around who you are can create sustainable growth without losing identity.The conversation highlights the realities of entrepreneurship, building with intention, and creating a business model that works for both the founder and the audience.Legacy Bench is a conversation-led series where founders, creators, and professionals share real experiences, honest insight, and practical advice.Episode format: 1-to-1 Deep Dive Conversation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jordan Gaffney joins Legacy Bench for a focused one-to-one conversation about building and growing a radio brand in today’s media landscape.In this episode, Jordan shares the journey behind The Indie Rock Show, discussing the realities of consistency, audience growth, outsourcing, proving a concept, and turning passion into something sustainable.The conversation explores the pressures creators face when building independently, balancing creativity with business, and learning how to scale without burning out.Legacy Bench is a conversation-led series where founders, creators, and professionals share real experiences, practical advice, and honest insight.Episode format: 1-to-1 Deep Dive Conversation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Founders, creators, and professionals come together at one table to speak honestly about work, identity, creativity, discipline, and purpose.In this first episode of Legacy Bench, voices from photography, media, education, marketing, martial arts, dance, and entrepreneurship share real experiences — not performances.The conversation explores fear and visibility, building confidence, choosing purpose over perfection, and what it takes to grow something meaningful in today’s world.Legacy Bench is a conversation-led series designed to create space for depth, perspective, and connection — where real people share real struggles, real ideas, and real advice.Guests featured in this episode include:A fashion photographer challenging representation and accessA martial artist and educator navigating discipline and purposeA marketing founder building accessible, neurodivergent-friendly spacesA radio presenter amplifying emerging voices in music and mediaEpisode 1 released: 3 February 2026. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.