The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast is brought to you by:

💬 True Tone Media – Business video without the cringe.
https://truetonemedia.carrd.co/

🧺 It’s A Wash Thing – A local laundry service helping Bishop’s Stortford families and nurseries save time, reduce stress, and keep on top of daily washing.
https://www.facebook.com/Itsawashthing

🧹 Time For You Cleaning – Bishop’s Stortford & Stansted – Reliable, flexible home cleaning services helping local families get their time back.
https://timeforyou.cleaning/uk/home-cleaning/bishops-stortford

Elle Pearson – Mindfulness Coach & Founder, The Inner Smile Project

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theinnersmileproject

Website: https://www.innersmileproject.co.uk/

Elle runs The Inner Smile Project, a calm, restorative wellness hub based on a farm near Bishop’s Stortford. She works with teenagers, adults, and families, supporting people who feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or emotionally stuck to reconnect with themselves and find balance again.

Her clients range from age 6 to 80, and her work blends mindfulness, meditation, breathwork, coaching, creativity, and gentle spiritual practice in a grounded, welcoming way.

“You’ve always been more than enough.”

A message especially for teenagers, who Elle sees carrying immense pressure around identity, comparison, and belonging. She says hearing this can be genuinely life-changing.

Nutritious Sounds – John Dullup https://www.instagram.com/nutritioussounds

John runs powerful sound baths using gongs, bowls, and vibration to help reset the nervous system and quiet the mind.
Elle describes him as generous, grounding, and deeply caring, someone she hopes never gets “too busy” because of how special his work is.

Bex Lund – Reiki Shine Yoga https://www.reikishineyoga.uk/

Based in Hatfield Heath, Bex is a Reiki practitioner and yoga teacher described by Elle as one of the purest, most hardworking people she knows.
She works with Elle at the hub and beyond, offering deeply knowledgeable, heart-led healing work.

Follow the Podcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BishopsStortfordCommunityPodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bscommunitypodcast

The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast is brought to you by:

💬 True Tone Testimonials – Your Clients. Their Words. Real trust.
https://truetonetestimonials.carrd.co

It’s A Wash Thing – A local laundry service helping Bishop’s Stortford families and nurseries save time, reduce stress, and keep on top of daily washing.
https://www.facebook.com/Itsawashthing

Raffaele Martinelli – Sommelier & Founder, Smile & Wines

Website: https://www.smileandwines.com

Smile & Wines is a hospitality consultancy helping restaurants and venues create better wine menus, better-trained teams, and more memorable guest experiences.

Raffaele also runs Social Blind Wine Tasting, a free community-led event designed to bring people together, support local venues, and make wine fun, social, and accessible.

Services

Hospitality consultancy (wine menus & staff training)
Guest experience and service design
Private wine tastings (homes, groups, celebrations)
Corporate and business wine events
Cellar consulting and wine planning
Social Blind Wine Tasting (free community events)

“Look after each other.”

A simple message about kindness, connection, and community, especially in a busy town where small gestures matter.

THE YEEROLOGIST at Eat 17 - https://www.eat17.co.uk/bishops-stortford-2/

Run by Emiliano, this Greek street food spot is Raffaele’s weekly go-to.
He highlights not just the food, but the warmth, smiles, and genuine hospitality that can instantly lift your day.

Social Blind Wine Tasting

Raffaele chose the project itself as a local legend in the making.

The events bring together 16–20 people who often don’t know each other, invite them to share wine and conversation, and leave with new connections and a stronger sense of community.

How Social Blind Wine Tasting Works

Book a free ticket
Bring a bottle linked to the night’s theme
Bottles are fully covered and tasted blind
No wine knowledge needed
Guess flavours, price, and origin
Chat, laugh, meet new people

Due to demand, events now run twice a month.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BishopsStortfordCommunityPodcast

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BishopsStortfordPodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bscommunitypodcast

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bscommunitypodcast

The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast is brought to you by:

True Tone Testimonials – Your Clients. Their Words. Real trust.
https://truetonetestimonials.carrd.co

It’s A Wash Thing – A local laundry service helping Bishop’s Stortford families and nurseries save time, reduce stress, and keep on top of daily washing.
https://www.facebook.com/Itsawashthing

Siobhán Nundram, Red Kite Support https://redkitesupport.org.uk/

Red Kite Support is a specialist charity supporting people affected by rape, sexual abuse, and sexual violence across Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire, and West Essex.

They provide a wraparound recovery service, supporting clients emotionally, practically, and therapeutically so they can focus on healing and rebuilding their lives.

How to Contact Red Kite Support https://redkitesupport.org.uk/

Helpline (open every day of the year):
01279 790 450

Email:
[email protected]

Volunteer recruitment:
[email protected]

Red Kite respond to all enquiries within 24 hours and do not operate waiting lists.

What Red Kite Support Provides

Recovery therapy with qualified, trauma-informed therapists
Helpline and peer support volunteers
Wraparound support (housing, finances, court support, debt, safeguarding)
Advocacy through the criminal justice system
Long-term open cases so clients can return when ready

They have supported nearly 900 clients in just five years.

“Stop raping women and children.”

A direct message for those who are minded to cause harm.

The Havers Estate cut-throughs and local walks.
Quiet, familiar routes close to home where Siobhán finds peace and notices the small changes in everyday life.

Local churches and community groups, including:

https://www.bsm-church.org.uk/ – Dementia Café and community groups
https://stortfordbaptist.org/ – Exchange system and food support
Night shelters and homelessness support services
Council homelessness teams

Siobhán highlights the quiet, unseen work happening every day to keep people fed, housed, and supported.

How the Community Can Help

Challenge misogyny when you see it
Support Friends of Red Kite at local events
Amplify Red Kite’s voice
Treat everyone with dignity, respect, and equality

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BishopsStortfordCommunityPodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bscommunitypodcast

Chris Holt – Bubbleworks Running Club (Beer Shop Run Club)

The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast is brought to you by:

True Tone Testimonials – First Video Testimonial FREE:
https://truetonetestimonials.carrd.co

It’s A Wash Thing – A local laundry service helping Bishop’s Stortford families and nurseries save time, reduce stress, and keep on top of daily washing.
https://www.facebook.com/Itsawashthing

Chris Holt – Community Organiser, Bubbleworks Running Club

Website: https://www.bubbleworksrunco.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bwrc_stortford/

Based out of The Beer Shop, Bishop’s Stortford, Bubbleworks Running Club is a friendly, inclusive running community combining movement, social connection, and a well-earned beer.

The club runs every second and fourth Thursday, offering a relaxed 5–5.4km run followed by a half-price beer at The Beer Shop.

The Beer Shop:
https://www.beershophq.uk/

What Bubbleworks Running Club Is About

Open to all abilities
5k runners from sub-20 minutes to 40+ minutes
No one runs alone
Head torches encouraged in winter
No paperwork, no pressure, no commitment
Turn up, run, chat, stay for a drink

The group has grown to around 20–25 regular runners, many of whom are new to Bishop’s Stortford and found community through running and social connection.

“Join us for a run at Beer Shop.”

A simple invitation for anyone new to town or looking for an easy way to meet people.

Uppers Coffee, Stansted
Chris’s go-to spot for a brown sugar iced coffee, friendly faces, and a quiet moment.

https://www.upperscoffee.co.uk/

Helping Herts
A charity of charities supporting multiple causes across Hertfordshire, helping funds reach a wide range of local good causes.

https://www.helpingherts.com/

How to Get Involved

Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bwrc_stortford/
Turn up at The Beer Shop
Runs start 7:00pm (arrive around 6:45pm)
No sign-up needed — just trainers and a willingness to give it a go

Follow the Podcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BishopsStortfordCommunityPodcast

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BishopsStortfordPodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bscommunitypodcast

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bscommunitypodcast

The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast is brought to you by:

True Tone Testimonials – First Video Testimonial FREE:
https://truetonetestimonials.carrd.co

It’s A Wash Thing – A local laundry service helping Bishop’s Stortford families and nurseries save time, reduce stress, and keep on top of daily washing.
https://www.facebook.com/Itsawashthing

Amelia Lawes – Gym Owner & Personal Trainer

Website: https://www.apexgym.uk

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apexgym.uk

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/apexgym.uk

Location: Millside Industrial Estate, just off South Mill Road, Bishop’s Stortford

Apex Strength & Wellness is a quiet, inclusive gym designed as a safe, welcoming community space for people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. The gym has no mirrors, optional music, a sensory room, and a strong focus on confidence, comfort, and belonging.

Services

Gym membership (quiet, non-intimidating environment)
Small Group Personal Training (max 6 people)
1:1 Personal Training
Inclusive fitness for SEN clients
Six Weeks to Reach Your Peak programme
Free gym visits and trial sessions
Physiotherapy onsite

“The fun and friendly gym in Bishop’s Stortford where everybody’s welcome.”

A message for anyone who’s ever felt intimidated, excluded, or overwhelmed by traditional gyms.

Prestige Garage – trusted local mechanic.
Amelia praises John for being honest, reliable, and always going the extra mile.
https://www.stortfordprestige.co.uk/

Alex Geddes – Specialist Neuro Physio
Works with Parkinson’s, MS, brain injuries, strokes, and spinal cord injuries.
Highly respected by Amelia for his expertise and impact on clients’ lives.

https://www.ajgtherapies.com/

Follow the Podcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BishopsStortfordCommunityPodcast

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BishopsStortfordPodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bscommunitypodcast

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bscommunitypodcast

Chrystal Barry – Art, Vision Boards & Creative Wellbeing

The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast is brought to you by:

True Tone Testimonials – First Video Testimonial FREE:
https://truetonetestimonials.carrd.co

It’s A Wash Thing – A local laundry service helping Bishop’s Stortford families and nurseries save time, reduce stress, and keep on top of daily washing.
https://www.facebook.com/Itsawashthing

Chrystal Barry – Artist & Workshop Facilitator

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/handstandsandharibo

Chrystal runs creative, therapeutic art workshops focused on vision boards, mood boards, and expressive art. Her sessions are designed to help teenagers and adults reduce anxiety, open up conversation, and reconnect with creativity in a pressure-free way.

She works with local organisations including:

Roots 2 Success (Stansted)
https://roots2success.org.uk/

ArtVibe Community
https://www.facebook.com/p/ArtVibe-Community-61574425010911/

Jackson Square
https://www.jacksonsquareshopping.co.uk/

“Be afraid, but do it anyway.”

A message born from Chrystal’s own journey and reinforced after selling artwork with this phrase to a woman undergoing breast cancer treatment. The words became a daily source of strength and connection.

• Grange Paddocks Leisure Centre – Chrystal’s second home for training, handstands, and community.
  https://www.everyoneactive.com/centre/grange-paddocks-leisure-centre/
• Fire Strength & Fitness – A smaller, community-focused gym space she loves for its supportive atmosphere.
  https://www.firestrengthandfitness.co.uk/

Kenny Ward – Local football referee and Stortford legend.

Ken is in his 70s and has refereed thousands of matches across decades, walking miles every week to support grassroots football. Loved by many, feared by some (red cards included), and known for his Elvis impersonations and DJ days, Ken is a true community character.
https://www.bishopsstortfordindependent.co.uk/sport/king-kenny-adding-on-plenty-of-extra-time-after-refereeing-4-9363837/

The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast is brought to you by:

• True Tone Testimonials – First Video Testimonial FREE: https://truetonetestimonials.carrd.co
• It’s A Wash Thing – A local laundry service helping Bishop’s Stortford families and nurseries save time, reduce stress, and keep on top of daily washing.
  https://www.facebook.com/Itsawashthing

• Website: https://www.thesobrietysociety.co.uk/
• Sober Strolls: https://www.thesobrietysociety.co.uk/sober-strolls
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesobrietysocietyuk
• Services:
  • 1:1 coaching
  • Free 30-min discovery calls
  • 30-Day online programme

“Feeling better in Dry January isn’t a fluke. It’s a window on how life can be.”
For everyone who felt great during Dry January… then slipped back.

Olyra Greek Bakery – traditional Greek treats in Riverside:
https://www.olyra.co.uk/
Sarah recommends the mini spanakopita, cheese pies, and orange cake.

The Rising Tide Collective – women in business supporting one another across Herts/Essex.
https://www.therisingtidecollective.co.uk/
Sarah credits them for helping her launch her business, build confidence, and find community.

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BishopsStortfordCommunityPodcast
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BishopsStortfordPodcast
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bscommunitypodcast
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bscommunitypodcast

The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast is brought to you by:

• True Tone Testimonials – First Video Testimonial FREE: https://truetonetestimonials.carrd.co
• All About You – Sue Tillett – Helping women in Bishop’s Stortford feel confident, beautiful, and seen for over 16 years. https://allaboutyou.uk.com

• Substack: https://substack.com/@honestlycharli
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Honestly-Charli/61582293659710/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/honestlycharliblogger
• Bishop’s Stortford Independent Column:
  https://www.bishopsstortfordindependent.co.uk/authors/charli-downes/
  

• “Support Local.”
• Support your high street, support local businesses, support the people who live here.
• “If we want the town to thrive, we all need to invest in it.”
  

• No. 14 Sushi – Charli’s absolute favourite restaurant.
  • “As good as anything in London.”
  • Amazing food, drinks, service, and presentation a treat every time.
  • https://no-14.com/
    

Charli chose two local legends... her mum and dad:

• Runs a Tuesday café at the Baptist Church.
• A welcoming space for anyone who feels lonely, vulnerable, or uncomfortable going into town.
• Offers tea, biscuits, warmth, and community.

• Chairman of the Bishop’s Stortford Town Band.
  • Website: http://bsband.org.uk/
• Band plays at Remembrance Parade and community events.
• Offering FREE brass lessons starting 20th January — ages 8 to 80.
• All instruments provided.
  

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BishopsStortfordCommunityPodcast
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BishopsStortfordPodcast
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bscommunitypodcast
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bscommunitypodcast

The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast is brought to you by:

• True Tone Testimonials – First Video Testimonial FREE: https://truetonetestimonials.carrd.co
• All About You – Sue Tillett – Helping women in Bishop’s Stortford feel confident, beautiful, and seen for over 16 years. https://allaboutyou.uk.com

• Website: https://bellesplaceholistic.co.uk/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bellesplaceuk
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bellesplaceholistic.co.uk/
• Location: The Dells, between Crew Clothing & Jackson Square, opposite Café Thyme
• Offering: Ethical gifts, crystals, aromatherapy, jewellery, clothing, ceramics, workshops, tarot, drum circles, energy therapy, holistic practitioners, menopause café
  

• “Use it or lose it.”
• Dave’s message to the town: buy local, support independents, or risk losing the soul of Bishop’s Stortford.
• Plus: “Put that phone away!”
  

• ECCO Charity Shop – Dave buys much of Belle’s Place furniture there; calls it a brilliant treasure trove.
  https://ecco.org.uk/
• Café Thyme – Especially Hannah’s homemade cakes.
  https://www.facebook.com/p/Cafe-Thyme-100063488953112/

• Apton Centre – A volunteer-led community hub supporting older residents with social groups, activities, and warmth.
  https://www.thenewaptoncentre.org/
  

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BishopsStortfordCommunityPodcast
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BishopsStortfordPodcast
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bscommunitypodcast
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bscommunitypodcast

The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast is brought to you by:

• True Tone Testimonials – First Video Testimonial FREE: https://truetonetestimonials.carrd.co
• All About You – Sue Tillet – Helping women in Bishop’s Stortford feel confident, beautiful, and seen for over 16 years. https://allaboutyou.uk.com

• Book Panto Tickets: https://southmillarts.co.uk
• South Mill Arts Instagram: @southmillarts
• Big Adventures Productions: @bigadventureproductions
• Cast perform until 2nd January tickets selling fast!
  

• Snow White & Dexter join us straight from the stage at South Mill Arts.
• They talk about:
  • Becoming a princess
  • Travelling “from a land far, far away”
  • How kind and welcoming the people of Bishop’s Stortford have been
  • What audiences can expect: songs, costumes, sword fights, comedy, surprises
• Their finale costumes make an appearance but not fully revealed!
• They absolutely love the local children’s energy and excitement at the shows.
  

Snow White: “If you just trust in yourself, you already have the answers.”
Dexter: “Be silly!”

• Crumbs – Near the train station. “The folk in there are beautiful, their coffee is fabulous.” https://crumbsbakery.co.uk/locations/bishops-stortford/
• Eat 17 – Loved for the variety: pizza one day, fish & chips the next. https://www.eat17.co.uk/bishops-stortford-2/
  

• Bishop’s Stortford Museum (upstairs at South Mill Arts) – “Beautiful, full of artifacts, learned so much.”
• Shadhona Indian Restaurant – For hosting an Elvis impersonator. https://www.shadhona.com/
• Dexter calls it “the coolest thing ever” and hasn’t stopped talking about Indian Elvis.

  Follow the Podcast

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BishopsStortfordCommunityPodcast
  • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BishopsStortfordPodcast
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bscommunitypodcast
  • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bscommunitypodcast