Mark Goode, founder of Inspired Recruitment, offers a refreshing perspective on recruitment built on over 20 years of experience in the optical industry. Deeply connected to the West Midlands, he shares how his people-first approach sets his business apart—treating candidates as individuals and building meaningful, long-term matches rather than quick placements.

Mark explains how attitude, results-first thinking, and emotional intelligence have fuelled his company’s growth, especially in the post-COVID landscape where well-being now rivals salary in importance. From lessons learned during the pandemic to advice from influential mentors, he offers thoughtful, practical insights on leadership, resilience, and building strong teams.

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Zaf Iqbal, founder of Pure Leasing, shares the inspiring story behind his West Midlands-based vehicle leasing company. Launched in the wake of COVID-19, Pure Leasing has grown through Zaf’s deep-rooted belief in people, community, and a strong brand built on integrity. With a team he’s worked with for over two decades, Zaf has cultivated a culture defined by shared values and trust.

In this episode, he reflects on navigating industry challenges—from rising interest rates to the evolving EV market—while remaining committed to doing business the right way. His journey is one of resilience, vision, and principled leadership.

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Alistair Hayward-Wright, CEO of Hayward Wright Accountancy and Advisory, shares the story of his evolving business journey and the people-first culture he’s built within his firm. With a strong focus on client relationships, staff development, and embracing new technologies, Alistair has shaped a modern, approachable accountancy practice rooted in the heart of the West Midlands.

He reflects on key lessons from mentors, managing personal dynamics within his team, and why valuing your service matters. His story offers honest insight into leadership, resilience, and taking small steps toward lasting business growth.

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Iain McCallister, founder of MAN Commercial Protection, has grown his Solihull-based security company into a national operation over 32 years. Iain’s breakthrough came in 1996 with a high-profile contract supporting pop group Ocean Colour Scene—an opportunity that opened doors to further work with major events and artists across the UK.

Iain credits the company’s success to its dedicated team, many of whom rose from entry-level roles. Influenced by his background in security, his father’s policing career, and his experience in boxing, Iain values discipline, commitment, and continuous learning. He believes delivering on promises is essential to long-term business success, even through tough economic times.

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Eman Al-Hillawi, CEO and business partner at Entec Si —a Birmingham-based business change consultancy—shares how the city’s rich culture and diversity have influenced her professional journey and helped shape the people-first values at the heart of Entec Si.

She reflects on navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, building a values-driven team, and the role of mentorship in her growth. With a focus on helping others, solving problems quickly, and staying true to their core strengths, Eman offers powerful insights into why relationships, trust, and authenticity are essential to lasting business success.

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In this episode, we explore the inspiring journey of Stephen Timmins and Alex Footman, lifelong friends and founders of Stephen Alexander, a thriving consultancy based in Redditch. After 20 years in corporate roles, they launched their business to make a meaningful impact in their hometown, offering marketing, bid management, and business development services.

Committed to social value, they mentor students and support community initiatives. Just nine months in, they won the West Midlands New Business/Start-Up of the Year award. They speak candidly about the rewards and challenges of scaling a business, the importance of patience and consistency, and the strength of a partnership built on trust and shared vision.

Chris Smith, founder of the Centre for the New Midlands, shares his journey from working in higher education to launching an independent think tank in 2020. Despite starting the organisation during the uncertainty of the pandemic, Chris has built a platform focused on improving housing, infrastructure, and skills across the West Midlands. 

Chris credits the Centre’s success to a strong network, private sector support, and a values-driven approach that prioritises integrity and dialogue. He reflects on the lessons learned from mentors and the importance of listening, building trust, and staying true to a clear vision. 

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Dan Boardman-Weston, the Chief Executive of BRI Wealth Management plc, shares his journey from an unexpected start in wealth management to leading a thriving financial planning firm in the West Midlands.  

After gaining experience at his father’s firm, he pursued an MBA before returning to BRI, where he became CEO in 2022. His leadership has driven internal transformation, strengthening the firm’s client impact and future growth.

Dan emphasises the power of a strong team, open communication, and industry alignment in business success. He reflects on overcoming challenges and highlights the importance of mentorship and peer support in leadership.

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Mel Hall, an area fundraiser for Acorns Children's Hospice, shares her inspiring journey with the organisation, which provides vital support to life-limited children and their families across the West Midlands. She highlights the hospice’s uplifting environment, focused on making memories and celebrating life.

Reflecting on challenges such as the pandemic’s impact on fundraising, Mel emphasises the importance of community support. Drawing from her own experience, she highlights the profound impact of Acorns’ work and encourages greater awareness of its essential services.

If you'd like to help support Acorns Children's Hospice by donating, you can do so here - https://www.acorns.org.uk/donate/

If you'd like to be a guest on The West Midlands Business Podcast, drop us an email at  [email protected]

Visit our website to discover more about us and access free resources for business owners: blackcountry.actioncoach.co.uk

Samantha Cerrone, the founder of Cerrone Estates, shares her inspiring journey of launching a self-employed estate agency during the pandemic in 2020. With 15 years of industry experience, she took the leap into entrepreneurship after years of running businesses for others. 

Emphasising the importance of building strong client relationships through empathy and support, her business culture prioritises people over transactions, building trust and long-term referrals.  

Samantha reflects on the challenges of balancing work and family life while managing client expectations and explains how leveraging social media has helped her stand out in a highly competitive market.

Want to share your story?

Contact us at [email protected]

Find out more on our website: blackcountry.actioncoach.co.uk