Meet The Owner

A fascinating, down-to-earth conversation with Martin Castleton, Managing Director of Aureum Insurance Brokers, as he joins Steven Dryden-Hall on Meet the Owner. From growing up in Milton Keynes and working on the market as a teenager, to building a successful career in insurance and eventually launching his own brokerage, Martin shares the real story behind the business. Hear how a chance opportunity led him into the industry, the lessons learned from leadership at a young age, and why stepping out to run his own company was both a risk and a turning point. Martin also explains what insurance brokers actually do, why personal service still matters, and how he’s building a business with long-term vision and national growth in mind. There’s plenty of humour, nostalgia, and honest insight along the way — including stories from school days, early jobs, and the realities of running a business today. Plus, practical advice for anyone thinking about starting their own venture. If you’re interested in entrepreneurship, business growth, or just enjoy hearing how real businesses are built from the ground up, this episode delivers. #Podcast #BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusinessUK #MiltonKeynes #Insurance #StartUpLife #BusinessGrowth #MeetTheOwner #Leadership #Networking #UKBusiness #SelfEmployed #BusinessTips #EntrepreneurLife

In this episode of Meet the Owner, host Steven Dryden Hall sits down with Jeff Hill, a former detective chief superintendent with over 30 years in policing, now co-founder of a specialist security consultancy working with high and ultra high net worth individuals. Jeff shares a fascinating journey from his early life in the East End of London to a long and varied career in the police, tackling serious and organised crime, leading major investigations, and ultimately overseeing regional counterterrorism and organised crime units. He opens up about the realities of policing in the 80s, the challenges of leadership, and the pressures of balancing career progression with family life. There are powerful insights into how criminals think, how policing has evolved, and what it really takes to succeed in high-pressure environments. The conversation then moves into business, as Jeff explains how he transitioned into entrepreneurship, building a consultancy that protects wealthy clients by thinking like the criminals targeting them. From networking strategies to positioning a unique service, he shares practical lessons on starting and growing a business without relying on traditional marketing. If you're interested in leadership, security, entrepreneurship, or real-life crime insights, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Key topics: - Life and career in policing - Leadership and career progression - Understanding criminal behaviour - Transitioning from employment to business - Building a high-end consultancy - Networking and client acquisition strategies - Business lessons and mindset #Podcast #Business #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #Police #TrueCrime #Security #Networking #StartUp #UKBusiness #Mindset #CareerJourney

A remarkable life story of determination, resilience and community leadership. In this episode of Meet the Owner, Steven Dryden Hall sits down with Milton Keynes legend Melanie Beck MBE to explore a journey that began with leaving school with no qualifications and grew into a career spanning marketing, major retail developments, international sport governance and community leadership. Melanie shares how a single comment from a former boss telling her she would never have a career became the spark that drove decades of success. Her career path took her from secretarial work and public relations to roles with major organisations including Capital Radio, Saatchi & Saatchi and property giants involved in landmark developments like Midsummer Place in Milton Keynes. Along the way she founded her own marketing consultancy, helped establish the Milton Keynes Business Improvement District, and became deeply involved in international diving through World Aquatics, helping shape the sport globally while supporting British athletes. The conversation also covers her experiences during the COVID pandemic, when she personally delivered food and essential supplies to vulnerable residents across Milton Keynes – work that ultimately led to her receiving an MBE for services to the community. Melanie speaks candidly about leadership, resilience, and the importance of believing in yourself even when others doubt you. She reflects on overcoming breast cancer, rebuilding her life with support from Willen Hospice, and finding renewed purpose in family, community work and mentoring others. This episode is packed with inspiring insights on business, leadership and life lessons from someone who proves that success doesn’t have to start with perfect qualifications — it starts with belief, determination and commitment. #MeetTheOwner #MelanieBeckMBE #MiltonKeynes #BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #WomenInBusiness #CommunityLeadership #InspiringStories #BusinessJourney #EntrepreneurMindset #UKBusiness #PodcastInterview

Steven Dryden Hall is back with another engaging edition of Meet the Owner, joined by entrepreneurs Samantha Paul and Rachel to talk about the fast-growing Solo Connects singles events business. From school struggles and unexpected career twists to building a thriving events brand from scratch, this conversation lifts the lid on what it really takes to create momentum in business. Samantha and Rachel share how a simple coffee meeting turned into a £75k first-year venture, why real-life connections still matter in the age of dating apps, and the practical realities of scaling into new regions. There’s honest chat about entrepreneurship, mindset, marketing, and the challenges of attracting the right audience — plus some entertaining behind-the-scenes stories along the way. If you’re interested in start-up growth, side hustles, community events, or the dating industry, this episode is packed with insights and personality. In this episode: The origin story of Solo Connects Turning organic marketing into real revenue Lessons from corporate careers and early jobs Why in-person dating events are booming Plans to scale across the UK The mindset behind successful founders Subscribe for more real business stories from real owners. #MeetTheOwner #SoloConnects #EntrepreneurLife #BusinessGrowth #StartUpUK #DatingEvents #WomenInBusiness #MarketingStrategy #SideHustle #PodcastUK

From telesales and BMW showrooms to smoking ribs in a gazebo, this episode charts the full journey of Harp Gill, founder of The Rub BBQ. He opens up about walking away from the corporate world, starting with a 3x3 tent and family help, selling out his very first event, and learning the hard lessons of growth, burnout and nearly quitting altogether. Harp shares how sales skills, self-development, and understanding people shaped his approach to business, why marketing and personal branding became a turning point, and how consistency beats quick wins. There’s honest talk about events that flop, handling complaints, the pressure of being responsible for everything, and the reality behind turnover versus profit. The conversation dives deep into the street food model — prepaid weddings and corporates versus risky public events — and how The Rub evolved from pop-ups to trucks, a rebrand, a production base, and now a national franchise model. Harp explains the systems, training, marketing support and mindset needed to scale without losing quality, plus why knowing your weaknesses and getting help is a superpower in business. A proper behind-the-scenes look at building a food brand from scratch, staying resilient, and turning passion into a scalable operation. #MeetTheOwner #StreetFoodBusiness #FoodEntrepreneur #UKBusiness #FranchiseLife #BBQBusiness #SmallBusinessJourney #HospitalityIndustry #StartupStory #BusinessPodcast

Meet the Owner returns with a wide-ranging and inspiring conversation as host Steven Dryden Hall sits down with Gemma, a multi-business founder operating at the heart of the UK beauty and media industries. From her early days managing a major nightclub to building a thriving salon, launching a self-tanning and haircare range, creating a national awards platform and founding a PR and mentorship business, Gemma shares the reality of juggling multiple companies and trusting inspired action. This episode explores her journey through education, confidence, personal branding and leadership, including how the UK Beauty Awards grew from a 300-person local event into a national ceremony heading for London’s West End. Gemma talks openly about money, delegation, seasonal business challenges, vision boards, wellness trends, digital products, TikTok commerce and why giving back has become central to her work. There’s also insight into female entrepreneurship, building authority through visibility, podcasting and PR, plus a look ahead to future projects including mentorship programmes, beauty innovation and live events. Honest, energetic and full of practical takeaways for business owners at any stage. #MeetTheOwner #Podcast #BusinessPodcast #EntrepreneurLife #FemaleFounders #BeautyIndustry #PRandMarketing #PersonalBranding #UKBusiness #StartupStories #Mentorship #AwardsCeremony #WellnessBusiness

In this episode of Meet the Owner, host Steven Dryden Hall sits down with Saira Lawlor, founder of The Strength Barn, to explore the remarkable personal and professional journey behind one of Milton Keynes’ newest female-only fitness spaces. Saira opens up about her early life, growing up with Irish and Fijian heritage, her school years, and the confidence struggles that quietly shaped her relationship with fitness. She speaks candidly about her time in recruitment, earning big at a young age, and the moment she realised money alone wasn’t enough. From walking out of a high-pressure career to retraining as a personal trainer during lockdown, Saira shares how discipline, consistency and self-belief helped her completely change direction. The conversation dives into body image, disordered eating, the importance of strength training for women, and why quick fixes and six-week challenges rarely work. Saira explains her coaching philosophy, why community and habit-building matter more than motivation, and how The Strength Barn was born from a desire to create a safe, empowering, female-only training environment in a peaceful rural setting. You’ll also hear practical fitness advice for real people, from preparing for charity walks and half marathons to balancing training with everyday life. Honest, funny and deeply relatable, this episode is a powerful listen for anyone considering a career change, starting a fitness journey, or building a values-led business from the ground up. #MeetTheOwner #SairaLawlor #TheStrengthBarn #WomenInBusiness #FemaleEntrepreneurs #PersonalTraining #FitnessJourney #MiltonKeynesBusiness #StrengthTraining #WomenSupportingWomen #BusinessPodcast #HealthAndWellbeing #EntrepreneurLife #GymLife

Steven Dryden-Hall takes a deep dive into Mario's life from his early years driving swanky sports cars and running nightclubs with all the hedonism and debauchary that come with it, to his current business, an award winning Italian restaurant Fratelli in Woburn. This conversation rolls through his journey from Luton school days to investment banking in London, the wild nightclub years, and the leap into running two hugely successful restaurants with his brothers. Expect stories of family, food, failure, resilience, bottomless brunch mayhem, Sicilian roots, big wins at the food awards, and the honest challenges of hospitality today. Mario opens up about branding, standards, staffing, location, and the mindset needed to survive in business. There are brilliant anecdotes about fast cars, high-pressure trading floors, the birth of Fatelli, the rollercoaster of the 2008 crash, and the unexpected opportunity that led to the restaurant opening. It’s warm, funny, insightful and packed with real-world advice for anyone who loves business, restaurants or a great story told well. #MeetTheOwner #Fatelli #Woburn #RestaurantLife #BusinessStories #HospitalityUK #ItalianFood #MiltonKeynes #Ampthill #EntrepreneurLife #SmallBusinessUK #StevenDrydenHall #PodcastUK #LocalBusiness #FoodAwards

Steven Dryden Hall sits down with long-time friend and personal trainer Jason Bone. Packed with hilarious stories, raw honesty, and inspirational moments, this conversation takes you from their wild early-20s adventures in Australia to Jason’s rise as a top London trainer working with celebrity clients. Jason opens up about moving out at 15, rebuilding his life after a near-fatal car accident, discovering a passion for fitness, and building a career across Virgin Active, boutique gyms, and now his brand-new venture: Lads and Dads Fitness. Expect nostalgia, banter, hard-won wisdom, and plenty of motivation as Jason lifts the lid on working in some of London’s most exclusive gyms, training high-profile clients, creating his own app, and the mindset needed to turn setbacks into comebacks. This is a brilliant mix of humour, hustle and heart – the kind of conversation that leaves you laughing, thinking, and feeling inspired to level up. Timestamps 00:00:00 - Intro 00:01:00 - Australia stories & how Steven and Jason met 00:10:00 - Spain, bartending and early life lessons 00:20:00 - The car accident that changed everything 00:30:00 - Becoming a PT and working at Virgin Active 00:45:00 - Celebrity clients, boutique gyms and London life 00:56:00 - Starting Lads and Dads Fitness 01:10:00 - Mindset, motivation and growing a brand 01:20:00 - Final thoughts Follow for more inspiring conversations with real people doing extraordinary things. www.ladsanddadsfitness.com www.instagram.com/Jasonbonept www.instagram.com/ladsanddadsfitness https://www.youtube.com/@ladsanddadsfitness https://www.tiktok.com/@jasonbonept

In Episode 15 of Boom 7 Meet The Owner, Steven Dryden-Hall catches up with Alvin Printwhistle — the comedy performer, singer, and all-round showman who went from selling firewood as a kid to driving an Aston Martin and starring as Elvis in the West End. Alvin shares stories from his early gigs and comedy shows to running a catering business and launching his own talent agency. Full of laughs, heart, and hustle, this episode proves that with personality, persistence, and a bit of Presley, anything is possible. #Boom7 #MeetTheOwner #AlvinPrintwhistle #ElvisTribute #ComedyPerformer #WestEndStar #MusicBusiness #TalentAgency #UKEntrepreneurs #EntertainmentIndustry #MiltonKeynesBusiness #JamesBondDreams #Inspiration #ShowbizLife #StevenDrydenHall

In this compelling episode of Boom 7: Meet the Owner, Steven Dryden Hall sits down with Ronnie, the unforgettable “Diamond Geezer.” From a high-flying career in the diamond trade—travelling with millions in precious gems, navigating the cutthroat world of Hatton Garden, and dealing with brutal heists—to hitting rock bottom and rebuilding his life, Ronnie shares an extraordinary tale of resilience and reinvention. Now a personal trainer at David Lloyd in Milton Keynes, he opens up about depression, weight loss, fatherhood, and why helping others has become his new mission. This is an unmissable journey from sparkle to strength. #Boom7Podcast #MeetTheOwner #DiamondGeezer #RonnieThePT #MiltonKeynes #DavidLloydMK #Resilience #FromRockBottom #WeightLossJourney #MentalHealthAwareness #HattonGarden #BusinessStories #Redemption

In Episode 13 of Boom 7 Meet The Owner, Steven Dryden-Hall sits down with DJ O'Neal — the ex-basketball-playing banker turned serial entrepreneur behind the UK’s leading kids’ hair salon chain Shortcuts and the bold new nacho brand Nacho’d. From building salons with Lamborghinis and PlayStations, to launching nachos from his garage and dreaming up a kids’ shoe brand mid-slushy delivery, DJ reveals how creativity, bold risk-taking, and zero fear of failure have driven his business journey. Honest, inspiring and seriously entertaining — this one’s got layers. #Boom7 #MeetTheOwner #DJO’Neal #NachoFood #ShortcutsSalon #KidsHaircut #NachoBusiness #MiltonKeynesBusiness #EntrepreneurJourney #BasketballToBusiness #CreativeEntrepreneur #StreetFoodUK #StartupStory #BusinessPodcastUK #StevenDrydenHall

In Episode 12 of Boom 7 Meet The Owner, Steven Dryden-Hall chats with Iain Row, the founder of Prominent Media and the mind behind Fintrano — a powerful app designed to revolutionise how tradespeople and customers connect. Iain shares how a burst pipe and a missing plumber sparked the idea, explains the app’s Uber-style tracking features, and delivers candid business insights including why success should never be defined by money alone. A must-listen for entrepreneurs, tech fans, and anyone passionate about great service. #Boom7 #MeetTheOwner #IainRow #Fintrano #TradesTech #ProminentMedia #BusinessJourney #EntrepreneurLife #SmallBusinessUK #CustomerExperience #MiltonKeynesBusiness #AppInnovation #StartupStories #TrustInTrades #StevenDrydenHall

In this captivating episode of Meet The Owner, Steven Dryden-Hall sits down with Vincent Macaulay, a man whose incredible journey has taken him from the streets of Liverpool to the heart of British basketball. From founding the Milton Keynes Lions to meeting icons like Princess Diana and Michael Jordan, Vincent’s story is one of ambition, resilience, and relentless passion. Hear how he transformed British basketball, secured a groundbreaking sponsorship with Nike, and even brought NBA legend Michael Jordan to Brixton! Plus, his unforgettable encounter with Princess Diana, coaching successes, and how he shaped the basketball scene in Milton Keynes and beyond. With a career spanning sport, business, and film, Vincent shares valuable lessons in leadership, perseverance, and seizing opportunities. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation! Like, comment, and subscribe for more incredible business stories. #MeetTheOwner #VincentMacaulay #StevenDrydenHall #Basketball #BritishBasketball #MichaelJordan #PrincessDiana #Nike #Entrepreneurship #BusinessSuccess #InspiringStories #SportsBusiness #Coaching #MiltonKeynes #Podcast #Leadership #SportsIndustry

In this episode of Meet The Owner, host Steven Dryden-Hall welcomes Suzanne Brown, the inspiring founder of Al’s Pals, a charity providing emotional support to cancer patients and their families. Suzanne shares her journey from various careers—including fitness, fundraising, and law—to founding a charity in memory of her father. She opens up about the challenges of running a non-profit, the importance of corporate support, and the impact Al’s Pals has on the community. With big plans ahead, including a charity ball and fundraising events, this is an episode full of inspiration, resilience, and giving back. 🎧 Tune in now to hear Suzanne’s incredible story! #MeetTheOwner #SuzanneBrown #AlsPals #CharityWork #CancerSupport #Fundraising #BusinessStories #InspiringWomen #NonProfit #CommunitySupport #EntrepreneurLife

In this episode of Meet The Owner, host Steven Dryden-Hall sits down with the multi-talented Dr Hazel Roberts to explore her fascinating journey through multiple businesses. From a successful sticker business to artisanal jams and chutneys, a Scottish holiday rental, and her involvement in MK Eats and local food events, Hazel shares the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. She opens up about her career shift from teaching to self-employment, the challenges of running diverse ventures, and her passion for creativity. Packed with inspiring insights, this episode is a must-watch for anyone looking to turn their passions into successful businesses. #MeetTheOwner #BusinessSuccess #EntrepreneurLife #DrHazelRoberts #SmallBusinessUK #StartupStories #JamMaker #StickerBusiness #HolidayLet #MKEats #FoodEntrepreneur #CreativeBusiness #SelfEmployment

In this episode of Boom 7: Meet The Owner, host Steven Dryden-Hall sits down with Peter Taylor, the visionary founder of the MK Breakers basketball team. Peter shares the incredible journey of building a successful basketball academy and teams in Milton Keynes, detailing the rapid rise of the club, the challenges he’s faced, and his ambitions for the future. From developing young talent to creating a thriving basketball community, Peter discusses the dedication and strategy behind the Breakers’ impressive achievements in such a short time. He also reveals the obstacles he’s overcome in establishing the team as a major force in the UK basketball scene and his plans to take the club even further. Whether you're a sports fan, an aspiring athlete, or just love a great success story, this episode is packed with inspiration, determination, and passion for the game! 🏀 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more amazing stories from local business and community leaders! #Boom7 #MeetTheOwner #MKBreakers #Basketball #MiltonKeynes #SportsAcademy #BasketballUK #GrassrootsBasketball #SuccessStory #CommunitySports #FutureChampions

In this heartfelt episode of Boom 7: Meet The Owner, host Steven Dryden-Hall is joined by Rachel Fielding from St Mark’s Meals, a Milton Keynes-based charity ensuring no child goes to bed hungry. Rachel discusses the charity’s mission, how meal boxes help families in need, and the challenges of addressing invisible poverty in a community that often masks it. Learn about their innovative meal boxes, which include recipes and long-life ingredients, designed to provide dignity and nourishment. Steven and Rachel explore the vital role of corporate support, fundraising campaigns, and community engagement to sustain the charity's efforts. From holiday support bags to upcoming fundraising ideas, discover how you can help make a difference. Whether you’re inspired to donate £7 to feed a family, organise a fundraising event, or simply spread the word, this episode is a reminder of the power of community and kindness. 📢 Get involved with St Mark’s Meals today – every little bit helps feed a hungry child! https://stmarksmk.com/meals/ #Boom7 #MeetTheOwner #StMarksMeals #MiltonKeynes #CharityWork #FeedingChildren #InvisiblePoverty #CommunitySupport #FundraisingIdeas #Podcast

In this episode of Boom 7: Meet The Owner, host Steven Dryden-Hall sits down with Andrei Lussmann, the visionary behind Lussmann’s Sustainable Kitchen, which has recently opened its doors in Woburn. Andrei shares his incredible journey in the hospitality industry, from his early days in boarding school, where he discovered a knack for food trading, to working with top brands like Pizza Express and TGI Fridays. He delves into the challenges and triumphs of running a fiercely independent restaurant group, the persistence required to secure his latest Woburn location, and the values that have shaped his business. We explore Andrei’s thoughts on sustainability, value-driven dining, and the importance of building long-term customer relationships. He reflects on the evolving restaurant scene in Milton Keynes, the challenges of the hospitality industry post-2010, and the resilience needed to succeed. Along the way, Andrei shares fascinating anecdotes, from his unexpected dinner with Raymond Blanc to his memories of running a contract catering business that was a little too generous with garlic! He also gives insights into how Lussmann’s maintains its award-winning reputation, his philosophy on customer service, and the balance between maintaining quality and expanding the brand. If you’re a foodie, entrepreneur, or just love a great business success story, this is a must-watch! 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring business stories! #Boom7 #MeetTheOwner #Lussmanns #Woburn #RestaurantIndustry #Hospitality #MiltonKeynes #BusinessSuccess #Entrepreneurship

In this episode of Meet The Owner, host Steven Dryden-Hall chats with Chris Walthew, the founder of Climb Quest, a dynamic climbing wall business. Chris delves into his entrepreneurial journey, sharing the highs and lows of building a unique, family-friendly venture. Discover the challenges he has faced, how he navigated them, and the invaluable lessons he’s learned along the way. Whether you’re an aspiring business owner or simply curious about the climbing industry, this episode is packed with inspiration and insight!

In this episode of Meet The Owner, host Steven Dryden Hall sits down with Ellis Potter, the visionary behind the popular Riverside Hub in Northamptonshire. Discover the story behind this incredible family entertainment center, often described as a “mini Disneyland,” complete with soft play, go-karts, mini-golf, climbing walls, sensory rooms, and more. Ellis shares his journey, from his initial reluctance to dive into the world of soft play to creating a beloved destination for families. Learn about the challenges of running a multifaceted business, the importance of reinvesting profits, and why Riverside Hub stands out for its customer focus and constant innovation. Ellis also discusses the impact of marketing, the value of personal connections with customers, and how his wife’s creative vision has been instrumental in shaping Riverside Hub into what it is today. Plus, hear about their dedication to keeping the center fresh with new features and Ellis's refreshing perspective on balancing fun, safety, and business growth. Tune in to this inspiring and entertaining conversation, packed with insights and anecdotes that will captivate business owners, parents, and anyone curious about what it takes to create a thriving family destination.

Our guest is local food entrepreneur Steve Reid from Friars Farm and the Northampton Cheese Company talking about his pop up shop in Midsummer Place in Milton Keynes and his business journey. https://www.friars-farm.com/about-us/ @northamptoncharcuterie @northamptoncheesecompany Music by BlacKeys

On this episode Steven talks, laughs and reminisces, with Hayley Procter; the owner of Scribble Consultancy. Hayley brings energy, change and results to businesses of all sizes, whether she is planning a large-scale event, meeting for an accountability call with the CEO or developing marketing campaigns with a difference and has a truly unwavering positive attitude and relentless enthusiasm for what can be achieved when people want to “make sh*t happen” 😎🤘✨ Hayley’s parents set an early example of how being brave in business brings results and legacy, and we reflect on how this experience translates to the present day at Scribble Consultancy. Hayley brings creative energy to projects, events and marketing in a way like no one else. It hasn’t been a smooth road to get here, but it has undoubtedly been a “hilarious adventure” To link with Hayley feel free to connect on her website (www.scribbleconsultancy.co.uk) or through her Instagram @mrshayleyprocter or @scribbleconsultancy Music by BlacKeys

In the Meet The Owner podcast series by Boom 7, Steven Dryden Hall interviews local business owners about their journeys. In the first episode, he talks to Chris Gregg, the MD of Revolution Radio. Chris shares insights into starting a radio station, the challenges of selling advertising for a new business, and the importance of trust in business relationships. They also discuss the impact of the pandemic on time management and business operations. The conversation covers various aspects of entrepreneurship, including adapting to new technologies, reinvesting in the business, and finding the right balance between personal and professional life. Music by BlacKeys #MeetTheOwner #BusinessJourney #PodcastSeries #LocalBusiness #Entrepreneurship #RadioStation #Advertising #TrustInBusiness #PandemicChallenges #TimeManagement #Adaptability #Reinvestment #BusinessBalance #EntrepreneurialInsights #BusinessPodcast #Boom7 #RevolutionRadio #SuccessStories