Blog the Builder

In this episode of Blog the Builder Podcast, we explore the story behind what keeps someone showing up for over 20 years.

I’m joined by Norman Bristow, a long-standing member of Rotary International, who shares his personal journey of connection, community, and purpose through his time in Rotary.

This is not about having all the answers. It’s about real experiences, meaningful moments, and the kind of impact that comes from being part of something bigger than yourself.

We talk about the friendships built along the way, the moments that truly matter, and why opportunities still exist today for more people—especially those looking for connection, purpose, or a way to give back—to get involved.

If you’ve ever wondered what Rotary is really about, or whether it might be something for you, this conversation offers a genuine and welcoming insight.

And if something resonates, sharing this episode could be the first step in helping someone else discover a new path, a new connection, or a new opportunity.

To learn more about Rotary and find a local club near you, visit:
 https://www.rotary.org

Have a story to tell or insights to share? We want to hear from you! If you're passionate about your business and eager to have your voice heard on our podcast, reach out to us. Send your business details to [email protected] with the subject heading Podcast, and let's connect on Facebook / Linkedin . Your experiences and expertise could be just what our listeners need! Join us and make your mark today.  

“With World Suicide Prevention Day now ended, this episode explores how coaching, storytelling, and culture change can transform the way we approach mental health, inclusion, and inequality.

My guest, Layo Obembe, is an award-winning Change and Organisation Development Specialist and executive coach, known for leading the CLEAR Pathways programme at the UK Parliament — a pioneering initiative that has achieved remarkable impact for underrepresented talent.

Together, we talk about:

How coaching and storytelling can shift whole systems, not just individuals

• The links between inequality, workplace culture, and mental health
• Why creating safe, inclusive spaces is vital for preventing isolation and despair
• The lessons Layo has learned from driving culture change at scale
• What small steps we can each take to build communities of hope and resilience

It’s a conversation that’s both inspiring and practical, showing how change begins with people — and how leadership, inclusion, and courage can save lives.”

If you’re struggling with your mental health or having thoughts of suicide, please know you are not alone. Support is available:

• Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 free, 24/7 – samaritans.org
  
  
• Shout (UK): Text SHOUT to 85258 for free 24/7 crisis support – giveusashout.org
  
  
• Mind: Advice and support for anyone experiencing a mental health problem – mind.org.uk
  
  
• Papyrus HOPELINE247: Support for under-35s experiencing thoughts of suicide – Call 0800 068 4141 – papyrus-uk.org
  
  
• Befrienders Worldwide: Find crisis helplines globally – findahelpline.com

Have a story to tell or insights to share? We want to hear from you! If you're passionate about your business and eager to have your voice heard on our podcast, reach out to us. Send your business details to [email protected] with the subject heading Podcast, and let's connect on Facebook / Linkedin . Your experiences and expertise could be just what our listeners need! Join us and make your mark today.  

What does real culture change look like when it’s driven by people, not just policies?

In this episode of The Human Side of Culture Change, I sit down with Gary Jones — an award-winning change leader who has been working in Parliament since 2012 and co-created the CLEAR Pathways programme.

Gary’s story is one of resilience: growing up in Bradford in a large Caribbean family, leaving school without GCSEs, discovering his neurodiversity later in life, and turning challenges into strengths that led him to complete an MBA and lead nationally recognised cultural change initiatives.

Together, we explore how CLEAR Pathways achieved a 75% progression rate for underrepresented talent, why it has won multiple awards, and what lessons leaders can take to embed inclusion in their own workplaces.

This conversation is about resilience, innovation, and hope — and why inclusion benefits not just individuals, but society as a whole.

Have a story to tell or insights to share? We want to hear from you! If you're passionate about your business and eager to have your voice heard on our podcast, reach out to us. Send your business details to [email protected] with the subject heading Podcast, and let's connect on Facebook / Linkedin . Your experiences and expertise could be just what our listeners need! Join us and make your mark today.  

What does reliability really mean in business — and why is it more valuable than ever?

In this solo episode, I reflect on a frustrating experience: being let down, again, by a guest. But instead of scrapping the episode, I chose to use the moment as a deeper conversation about something that feels increasingly rare — reliability.

Because reliability isn’t just about turning up.
 It’s about standards.
 It’s about intention.
 And it’s about the reputation you build in moments when no one is watching.

In this episode, we explore:

• Why showing up and following through has become a true competitive edge
 • The quiet but powerful difference between manipulation and genuine intention
 • Why responsibility and trust still matter in a world chasing shortcuts
 • The kind of reputation you’re building — even when you’re not in the room

Whether you’re a business owner, freelancer, creative, or leader, this is a reminder that success built on integrity lasts longer than any quick win.

Trends fade.
 Principles endure.
 And how you show up still matters.

Have a story to tell or insights to share? We want to hear from you! If you're passionate about your business and eager to have your voice heard on our podcast, reach out to us. Send your business details to [email protected] with the subject heading Podcast, and let's connect on Facebook / Linkedin . Your experiences and expertise could be just what our listeners need! Join us and make your mark today.  

In this episode, I’m joined by Leigh Renshaw — Chartered Fellow of the CIOB, Chair of CIOB Manchester Hub, and an unwavering advocate for inclusive leadership in construction. With over 25 years of experience, Leigh has built a reputation for creating high-performing teams, championing underrepresented voices, and pushing the boundaries of what good leadership looks like in our sector.

We talk about what it takes to lead with purpose, the real meaning of diversity in construction, and why mentoring and neurodivergent inclusion are vital for the future of our workforce. Whether you're an industry veteran or just getting started, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

Have a story to tell or insights to share? We want to hear from you! If you're passionate about your business and eager to have your voice heard on our podcast, reach out to us. Send your business details to [email protected] with the subject heading Podcast, and let's connect on Facebook / Linkedin . Your experiences and expertise could be just what our listeners need! Join us and make your mark today.  

The construction industry is evolving fast—but is it ready for the future? In this insightful episode, we sit down with Danny Clarke, CITB UK Engagement Director, to discuss the biggest challenges and opportunities in construction today. From closing critical skills gaps to making the industry more diverse and inclusive, Danny shares expert insights on attracting talent, supporting neurodivergent workers, and tackling mental health in the sector. Whether you're in construction or just curious about the future of the industry, this episode is packed with thought-provoking ideas and solutions. Tune in now!

Have a story to tell or insights to share? We want to hear from you! If you're passionate about your business and eager to have your voice heard on our podcast, reach out to us. Send your business details to [email protected] with the subject heading Podcast, and let's connect on Facebook / Linkedin . Your experiences and expertise could be just what our listeners need! Join us and make your mark today.  

Can we imagine a future without packaging waste? What does it take to make the world of packaging more sustainable? Robbie Staniforth shares his vision for a circular economy, the role of innovation, and how new policies are driving us toward a greener tomorrow. A must-listen for anyone curious about sustainability.

Have a story to tell or insights to share? We want to hear from you! If you're passionate about your business and eager to have your voice heard on our podcast, reach out to us. Send your business details to [email protected] with the subject heading Podcast, and let's connect on Facebook / Linkedin . Your experiences and expertise could be just what our listeners need! Join us and make your mark today.  

 “Join us as we sit down with David Longbottom, director of Construction Automation Ltd, to explore the cutting-edge technology behind the UK’s first-ever robot-built house. Discover how the Automated Bricklaying Robot (ABLR) is set to revolutionize the housebuilding industry, speeding up construction, improving accuracy, and transforming site safety. We’ll delve into the future of human resources in the construction industry, the challenges of integrating robotics, and the balance between automation and jobs. It’s a conversation about innovation, disruption, and the future of building homes.”

Have a story to tell or insights to share? We want to hear from you! If you're passionate about your business and eager to have your voice heard on our podcast, reach out to us. Send your business details to [email protected] with the subject heading Podcast, and let's connect on Facebook / Linkedin . Your experiences and expertise could be just what our listeners need! Join us and make your mark today.  

Is digital really greener than paper? Does paper production destroy forests? Andrew tackles these myths head-on with hard facts and expert insights. Challenge what you think you know about this essential material. Andrew also uncovers the industry's green transformation, from plastic-replacing packaging to pioneering carbon sequestration. Learn how your daily paper choices can make a world of difference.

Have a story to tell or insights to share? We want to hear from you! If you're passionate about your business and eager to have your voice heard on our podcast, reach out to us. Send your business details to [email protected] with the subject heading Podcast, and let's connect on Facebook / Linkedin . Your experiences and expertise could be just what our listeners need! Join us and make your mark today.  

Sometimes, life's path leads us through unexpected waters. In this heartfelt episode, I invite you to walk with me through a rainy day that turned into a profound life lesson. We'll explore a touching story from my construction days that illustrates how our expectations can sometimes lead us astray. Together, we'll discover the warmth of self-compassion as we learn to navigate life's obstacles, adjust our course with grace, and find our way back to what truly matters. Join me for a comforting conversation about resilience, clarity, and the journey home to ourselves. 

Have a story to tell or insights to share? We want to hear from you! If you're passionate about your business and eager to have your voice heard on our podcast, reach out to us. Send your business details to [email protected] with the subject heading Podcast, and let's connect on Facebook / Linkedin . Your experiences and expertise could be just what our listeners need! Join us and make your mark today.