In this episode of the podcast, Rich and Meri engage with Bill and Christy, the owners of the Bredgar & Wormshill Light Railway.They discuss the journey of transforming a childhood dream into a thriving community project, the importance of volunteers, and the passion for engineering and education. The conversation highlights the entrepreneurial spirit, the significance of community involvement, and the life lessons learned through their experiences.Key takeaways from this inspiring conversation:💫 The railway started as a family passion and grew into a community project.💫Volunteers play a crucial role in maintaining and operating the railway.💫Engineering is fundamental to many aspects of life and should be encouraged in youth.💫It's important to inspire children to explore their interests and passions.💫Community events help foster a sense of belonging and engagement.💫Entrepreneurship can stem from personal passions and experiences.💫It's never too late to pursue your dreams and make a change.💫The railway serves as a platform for education and hands-on learning.💫Life lessons can be learned from both successes and failures in business.💫Creating a supportive community is essential for sustaining projects like the railwayContact Bredgar & Wormshill Light Railway👇Website - https://bwlr.co.uk🙌 Many thanks to our sponsors:https://www.hempsteadhouse.co.uk/https://whatsoninkent.com/https://theitrustapp.com/Special thanks to Charlie Smith for the help with editing 🙌 https://www.dr-ant.co.uk - for the book giftshttps://www.tropicskincare.com/meridonikyankoleva - for the Tropic skincare gifts✊ If you like what we are doing and would like to support us 👉https://buymeacoffee.com/MeetYourInspirationLeave your feedback to us ⤵️https://www.beyondourdreams.co.uk/s/Beyond-Our-Dreams-QR-Code.jpgChapters00:00 Introduction to the Guests and Their Passion for Railways01:37 The History of the Bredegart and Wormshill Light Railway03:43 Collecting and Restoring Engineering Heritage06:19 Unique Projects: Fire Engines and Railway Bridges10:51 Funding and Support for Heritage Projects14:19 Volunteer Involvement and Community Building20:05 Educational Opportunities and Inspiring Youth27:11 Upcoming Events and How to Visit33:46 The Importance of Engineering in Modern Life40:54 Personal Journeys and Entrepreneurial Spirit47:15 The Future of the Railway and Heritage Preservation

... Pursue What Truly MattersWhat does it take to completely reinvent yourself?For Patrick it wasn't one moment, it was a lifetime of experiences that shaped who he is today.From a career in automotive to the world of entrepreneurship. Owning a pub. Navigating personal loss. Discovering ADHD and finally understanding himself on a deeper level.In our latest podcast episode, Patrick shares openly about:🌍 The role of cultural awareness and language in his growth🧠 Learning about ADHD and what it unlocked for him🍺 The unexpected lessons from owning a pub and building community💬 How counselling helped him unpack years of emotion and find real purpose🏅 The power of sport, connection and mentorship in shaping a meaningful lifeHis story isn't just inspiring, it's a reminder that life's challenges don't define you, they develop you.No matter where you are on your journey, Patrick's message is clear:Everything is possible when you embrace change and pursue what truly matters.Key takeaways from this inspiring conversation:💫 Life is a journey filled with ups and downs.💫 Cultural influences shape our perspectives and opportunities.💫 Mental health awareness is crucial in personal and professional life.💫 Community engagement can provide support during tough times.💫 Embracing change can lead to new beginnings and opportunities.💫 Language skills open doors to diverse experiences.💫 Personal tragedies can lead to profound growth and understanding.💫 Finding purpose in life can come from helping others.💫 Networking and building connections are essential for success.💫 Self-discovery is a continuous process that evolves over time.💫 "Life is a journey filled with ups and downs."💫 "Language skills open doors to diverse experiences."💫 "Finding purpose in life can come from helping others."Contact Patrick 👇LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-tordeur-04820712/Penstock training - http://penstocktraining.comThe Non League Network - https://thenon-leaguenetwork.co.uk/🙌 Many thanks to our sponsors:https://www.hempsteadhouse.co.uk/https://whatsoninkent.com/https://theitrustapp.com/https://www.dr-ant.co.uk - for the book giftshttps://www.tropicskincare.com/meridonikyankoleva - for the Tropic skincare gifts✊ If you like what we are doing and would like to support us 👉https://buymeacoffee.com/MeetYourInspirationLeave your feedback to us ⤵️https://www.beyondourdreams.co.uk/s/Beyond-Our-Dreams-QR-Code.jpgChapters00:00 Introduction and Background03:50 Career Journey and Life Lessons10:27 Cultural Insights and Language Skills30:00 Personal Challenges and Transformation36:16 Transition to Pub Ownership and Community Engagement43:38 Returning to Roots: A Journey of Self-Discovery48:28 Navigating Life's Challenges: The Impact of ADHD53:21 Emotional Unpacking: The Role of Counseling58:35 Finding Purpose: The Intersection of Work and Well-Being01:00:54 Building a Legacy: Mentorship and Community Engagement01:05:46 Rediscovering Joy: The Power of New Experiences01:09:45 The Importance of Connection: Community in Sports01:15:06 Embracing Change: The Journey of Personal Growth01:19:49 Inspiration and Impact: Sharing Life Lessons

In this episode of Meet Your Inspiration podcast, hosts Meri and Rich explore the fascinating journey of Chris, a former academic turned full-time photographer. Discover how his diverse experiences in politics, philosophy, and Japan have shaped his unique approach to photography and business success.Key topics✅ Career transition from academia to photography✅ The role of mindset and emotional connection in portrait photography✅ Practical tips for phone photography and framing✅ Building a business as a self-employed photographer✅ The importance of networking and mentorship in creative careersContact Chris 👇Website - https://chrishenryphotography.comLinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/chrishenryInstagram - https://instagram.com/chrishenryphotography🙌 Many thanks to our sponsors:https://www.hempsteadhouse.co.uk/https://whatsoninkent.com/https://theitrustapp.com/✊ If you like what we are doing and would like to support us, you can buy us a coffee:https://buymeacoffee.com/MeetYourInspirationLeave your feedback to us ⤵️https://www.beyondourdreams.co.uk/s/Beyond-Our-Dreams-QR-Code.jpgChapters00:00 Introduction to Chris Henry: A Photographer's Journey06:04 Experiences in Japan: Capturing Beauty Through Photography21:14 The Disconnect Between Education and Industry38:48 The Art of Photography: Capturing Mindset and Moments47:38 Networking: Building Connections in the Photography World01:04:01 Conclusion: Reflections on the Journey and Future Aspirations

SummaryIn this episode of the Meet Your Inspiration podcast, hosts Meri and Rich welcome back Kathy Hayman, who shares her journey of launching her new business, Better Minds, Better Business. Kathy discusses the importance of mental health in the workplace, particularly for small businesses, and the need for effective workplace stress policies. She highlights the impact of stress on productivity and employee wellbeing, and how her new venture aims to provide resources and support for business owners and their staff. The conversation emphasises the value of creating a supportive business culture and the potential return on investment for prioritising employee wellbeing.Key Points- Kathy Hayman shares her journey of launching Better Minds, Better Business.- Workplace stress significantly impacts productivity and employee wellbeing.- 75% of small businesses lack workplace stress policies.- Mental health issues account for 50% of working days lost in the UK.- Investing in employee wellbeing can yield a 500% return.- Creating a supportive business culture is essential for success.- Networking and support are crucial for small business owners.- Kathy's new business offers resources for both owners and employees.- The pilot program aims to help businesses implement wellbeing strategies.- Small businesses are the backbone of the economy, contributing significantly to income. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Inspiration and Empowerment01:22 Kathy Hayman's Journey and New Business05:04 Understanding Workplace Stress and Its Impact09:18 The Importance of Mental Health in Small Businesses13:45 Navigating Business Challenges and Finding Support18:38 The Launch of Better Minds, Better Business23:31 Creating a Supportive Business Culture28:17 The Value of Employee Wellbeing33:16 Pilot Program and Future AspirationsCheck out Kathy's new Business!https://bettermindsbetterbusiness.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathyhayman/ Our sponsors:https://www.hempsteadhouse.co.uk/https://whatsoninkent.com/https://theitrustapp.com/If you like what we are doing and would like to support us, you can buy us a coffee:https://buymeacoffee.com/MeetYourInspiration

n this episode of the Meet Your Inspiration Podcast, Rich and Meri sit down with Sara Ottley, founder of Camper Van Retreats UK, who shares her extraordinary journey from adventurous bartender in Crete to pioneering firefighter to wellness entrepreneur. Sara's story begins with a one-way ticket to Greece at 19, where what was meant to be one summer turned into a decade of running a successful themed bar. Her return to the UK led her to break barriers as one of only 22 women among over 1000 men in the Liverpool Fire Brigade, an experience that forged her resilience and determination.The conversation explores Sara's transition from public service to entrepreneurship; building Burn It Fitness in London while juggling motherhood and eventually making the brave decision to prioritise family and wellbeing. Her lifelong love of campervans sparked her latest venture - creating unique women-only retreats that combine yoga, sound baths, and community in beautiful private locations across the UK. Sara opens up about her recent breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, sharing how the support of the Stronger Together charity helped save her business and how the experience transformed her perspective on life's precious everyday moments.• Sara's spontaneous move to Crete at 19 led to 10 years of entrepreneurial success abroad• Breaking gender barriers in the fire service taught invaluable lessons in resilience and adaptation• The decision to sell half her fitness business freed her to pursue balance and family• Camper Van Retreats arose from recognising an unmet need for safe, women-only adventure spaces• Private venues and intimate groups create transformative experiences for diverse women• Cancer diagnosis reframed priorities and highlighted the lack of support for self-employed people• The power of community and charity support enabled business survival during treatment• Creating wellness retreats specifically for women navigating recovery and trauma• The importance of routine health checks regardless of genetic markers• Finding beauty in authenticity and strength through vulnerabilityTo contact Sara:https://www.campervanretreats.co.uk/Campervan Retreats are hosted in unique locations around the UK and include a wide variety of activities to nurture the body, mind and soul. ​​All Women are welcome from solo travellers, mums seeking a break, professionals in need of a recharge or retirees with a sense of adventure and wonder lust. You can come along on your own or with a friend and share new experiences, find space to breathe, learn new skills and let go of any stresses or worries. ​​To book:https://www.campervanretreats.co.uk/retreatsOur podcast sponsors:https://www.hempsteadhouse.co.uk/https://whatsoninkent.com/https://theitrustapp.com/Big shout out to https://www.strongertogetherthroughcancer.org/our-angels for all their inredible work and help!If you like what we are doing and would like to support us please buy us a coffee:https://buymeacoffee.com/MeetYourInspirationIf you would like to sponsor an episode or a season please contact us!And very important reminder - Please check your breast!#CamperVanRetreats, #WomenEmpowerment, #VanLifeAdventures, #WellnessJourney, #BreastCancerWarrior, #EntrepreneurialSpirit, #YogaRetreat, #WomenSupportingWomen, #ResilienceInBusiness, #InspirationalWomen

In this episode of Meet Your Inspiration, hosts Rich and Meri sit down with Karen Stanley, who transformed her journey from hairdresser to teacher to becoming a successful author and founder of Mabel Stanley Publishing. Karen shares her remarkable path through life's unexpected turns, including becoming a single mother at 23, retraining at university, and spending 20 years in education before discovering her passion for writing at age 40.The conversation explores Karen's accidental entry into writing, sparked by a casual comment from her husband, and her challenging navigation through the murky waters of the publishing industry. From falling prey to vanity presses to experiencing the limitations of traditional publishing, Karen learned valuable lessons that ultimately led her to create her own hybrid publishing house. She candidly discusses the realities of the publishing world, debunking common myths about bookstore placement and overnight success while offering practical insights for aspiring authors.Karen emphasises the importance of finding your tribe, whether in writing or business, and shares how mentorship transformed her entrepreneurial journey. The discussion delves into the creative process, the role of AI in modern writing, and the critical balance between maintaining authenticity while leveraging technology. With 14 published books across multiple genres and a thriving mentorship practice, Karen demonstrates how setbacks can become stepping stones to success.• Writing can begin at any age - Karen started her first novel at 40 while teaching• The publishing industry has three main paths: self-publishing, traditional, and hybrid models• Vanity presses exploit new authors with high fees and poor quality services• Marketing should begin while writing the book, not after publication• Success in publishing requires patience, strategy, and continuous effort• AI can assist with editing but cannot replace human creativity and voice• Building a supportive community is essential for creative and business success• Every setback provides valuable lessons for future growth• Authenticity attracts the right readers and clients• Financial freedom comes from doing work you genuinely loveContact Karen:https://www.mabelandstanleypublishing.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenstanleywriterOur sponsors:https://www.hempsteadhouse.co.uk/https://whatsoninkent.com/https://theitrustapp.com/Video edit 👉  @provisionstudio1  If you like what we are doing and would like to support us, please buy us a coffee:https://buymeacoffee.com/MeetYourInspiration#MeetYourInspiration, #KarenStanley, #AuthorJourney, #PublishingTips, #WritingCommunity, #HybridPublishing, #NeverTooLateToStart, #WritersLife, #AuthorMentorship, #CreativeEntrepreneur

In this episode of the Meet Your Inspiration Podcast, hosts Rich and Meri deliver their annual review, reflecting on an extraordinary year of growth, connection, and transformation. From starting with 16 episodes to recording over 40, they share the remarkable journey of building a community around ordinary people doing extraordinary things.The conversation celebrates the diverse tapestry of guests who've graced their studio, from young racing prodigies like 10-year-old go-karting star Ronnie Smart and British Superbikes racer Tom Ward, to established entrepreneurs like Nick Inge of iTrust and serial business owner Paul Andrews. They highlight the powerful stories of reinvention, including Natalie Kent's brave transition from police force to calligraphy artist, and Laura Taylor's cocktail business pivot during COVID-19.Meri and Rich highlighted how saying "yes" to this podcasting adventure has transformed their own lives, teaching them that growth happens outside comfort zones.Key points:✅ The podcast doubled its output from 16 to over 40 episodes in one year✅ Young achievers like Thomas Turner (author of three books at age 12) inspire across generations✅ Entrepreneurs showcase resilience through pivots and reinvention✅ Community support and collaboration trump competition✅ Personal growth emerges from stepping beyond comfort zones✅ Networking creates unexpected opportunities and lasting friendships✅ Giving back and creating legacy drives many successful guests✅ Ordinary people achieve extraordinary outcomes through courage and persistence✅ The power of saying "yes" opens doors to transformation✅ Authentic connections and lifting others creates meaningful impactMany thanks to our sponsors:https://www.hempsteadhouse.co.uk/https://theitrustapp.com/https://whatsoninkent.com/Video edit 👉 @provisionstudio1 Support the podcast, so we can carry on bringing quality content to you and become part of our inspiring network 👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/meetyourinspirationFor advertising and sponsorship 👉 [email protected]

In this episode of the Meet Your Inspiration Podcast, Rich and Meri sit down with Dr. Ant, a serial entrepreneur turned motivational speaker who shares his remarkable journey from multimillionaire business success to near-suicide and back to purpose-driven fulfilment. Dr. Ant opens up about building multiple successful ventures including becoming the UK's top mortgage broker, launching one of the first online mortgage brokerages, and creating Cho-Yung Tea, a Weight Loss Tea, which became Holland & Barrett's bestselling product.The conversation takes a profound turn as Dr. Ant reveals how despite achieving everything society deems successful wealth, luxury cars, and a beautiful farmhouse. He found himself deeply unhappy, living in what he calls "deferred happiness." He candidly shares his mental health crisis in 2015, including the pivotal "Robin Moment" that saved his life and sparked his transformation from chasing external success to discovering internal fulfilment.Dr. Ant explores the science behind our thoughts and beliefs, drawing from Bruce Lipton's Biology of Belief and his own PhD research. He explains how 95% of our lives are lived unconsciously through programming from our "tribes" and culture and shares practical techniques like the "Full Stop" method to break negative thought patterns. The discussion delves into the physiology of stress, the power of awareness, and why putting yourself first isn't selfish but necessary for helping others.• Success without fulfilment leads to emptiness and mental health challenges• Our beliefs and thoughts directly impact our physical health at the cellular level• 95% of our behaviour comes from unconscious programming we can change• True happiness exists only in the present moment, not in future achievements• You must be your own "knight in shining armour"—no one else will save you• Surrounding yourself with positive people literally changes your outcomes• Self-care isn't selfish—it's essential for supporting others effectivelyTo connect with Dr. Ant:https://dr-ant.co.uk Get his book "Quick, Wake Up the Pilot!" on Amazonhttps://amzn.eu/d/3sr7bckOur incredible sponsors:Hempstead House Hotel - https://www.hempsteadhouse.co.uk/ What's On in Kent - https://whatsoninkent.com/iTrust - https://theitrustapp.com/ If you would like to support us then please we would be delighted if you buy us a coffee at https://buymeacoffee.com/meetyourinspiration #mentalhealth #entrepreneurship #mindset

In this episode of the Meet Your Inspiration podcast, Rich and Meri sit down with John Rafferty, co-founder of the exclusive estate agency Rafferty & Pickard, who shares his remarkable journey from aspiring paratrooper to pioneering luxury property entrepreneur. The conversation explores how John transformed a childhood military ambition into business resilience, navigating the 2008 financial crisis to build two successful estate agencies while later fulfilling his army dreams at age 30.John reveals the innovative approach behind Rafferty & Pickard's success, using cutting-edge video marketing and lifestyle storytelling to revolutionise UK property sales. He discusses the art of valuing unique homes, the psychology of luxury buyers, and how emotional marketing creates premium results. The discussion delves into market dynamics, from pandemic-driven coastal migrations to government policy impacts, offering insider perspectives on navigating property investment.Throughout the episode, John emphasises the importance of continuous learning, sharing how he accumulated multiple professional qualifications and encourages his team to do the same. He offers practical advice for aspiring property professionals and investors, stressing the value of resilience, education, and calculated risk-taking. The conversation culminates in John's philosophy of true success: maintaining balance between a thriving business, family life, and personal wellbeing.• John's journey from army aspirations to estate agency demonstrates how setbacks can redirect us to unexpected success• Building resilience through challenges outside your comfort zone makes everyday obstacles easier to navigate• Successful property marketing sells dreams and lifestyles, not just bricks and mortar• Continuous professional development and leading by example creates exceptional teams• Property investment offers tangible security compared to volatile alternatives• True entrepreneurial success requires careful risk assessment followed by full commitment• Business partnerships with complementary skills enable sustainable growth• Balancing work, family, and health is the ultimate measure of achievement• Innovation in traditional industries creates competitive advantages• Personal growth comes from embracing discomfort and learning from every experienceOur sponsors:https://www.hempsteadhouse.co.uk/https://theitrustapp.com/https://whatsoninkent.com/Video edit 👉  @provisionstudio1  Support us 👉 https://buymeacoffee.com/meetyourinspirationFor advertising and sponsorship 👉 [email protected]:00 - Pushing Your Comfort Zone00:59 - Redefining Success01:35 - Taking Calculated Risks03:00 - Introducing John Rafferty07:40 - Aiming for the Army09:36 - Estate Agency By Chance11:03 - Career Shift After Army13:27 - Property Career Foundations16:09 - Starting a Business Amid Crisis19:31 - Overcoming Near-Failure22:14 - Leadership and Team Culture24:18 - Launching Rafferty & Pickard27:23 - Valuing High-End Property28:38 - Selling the Dream30:24 - Selling Luxury Lifestyle32:31 - Challenging Property Market35:01 - Post-Pandemic Market37:06 - Government Policies & Housing38:54 - Kent's Coastal Towns41:45 - Business Expansion Plans44:56 - International Property Collaboration47:13 - Skills for Real Estate Success50:51 - Advice for First-Time Buyers54:43 - Strategic Property Investment58:06 - Continuous Learning & Marketing59:18 - Balancing Ambition and Well-being01:01:03 - Work-Life Balance Through Running01:02:10 - Preventing Burnout & Equilibrium01:03:03 - Learning from Role Models01:04:41 - Defining Success Beyond Wealth01:05:23 - Navigating Risks & Decisions01:06:51 - The Value of Partnerships01:09:08 - Book Recommendation: Richard Branson01:10:53 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts#MeetYourInspiration, #PropertyEntrepreneur, #LuxuryRealEstate, #ResilienceInBusiness, #WorkLifeBalance, #ContinuousLearning, #EntrepreneurialJourney

In this episode of the Meet Your Inspiration Podcast, hosts Rich and Meri sit down with Matthew J Bridger, a 25-year-old dynamo who defied traditional education to become a serial entrepreneur, political leader, and community champion. Matthew shares his extraordinary journey from leaving school at 16 to founding successful businesses, becoming one of the UK's youngest parish councillors, and working alongside MPs and senior politicians in Westminster.

The conversation explores Matthew's relentless drive to create positive change, from launching the nine-year-running Homeless Shoebox Appeal to establishing The Eagle Stone Agency with a commitment to donate 10% of profits to charity. His rapid-response COVID relief efforts outpaced local government, while his political career saw him rise from campaign manager to senior parliamentary adviser, even contributing to national child safety reforms.Matthew passionately advocates for apprenticeships over university education, emphasising practical experience and self-belief as keys to success. His story exemplifies how persistence, networking, and a willingness to say "yes" to opportunities can transform a struggling student into a Freeman of the City of London and founder of multiple ventures spanning marketing, events, and charitable work.• Self-belief is fundamental - if you don't believe in yourself, you won't achieve your goals• Traditional education isn't the only path to success; practical experience often trumps theoretical learning• Everyone is one pay slip away from homelessness - compassion and community support are vital• Young entrepreneurs face systemic barriers like banking restrictions that need addressing• Combining business with social purpose creates sustainable positive impact• Working in politics reveals the human side of MPs and the importance of constituent service00:00 - The Power of Believing in Yourself00:33 - Inspiring the Next Generation Through Apprenticeships01:35 - Introduction to a Young Entrepreneur02:33 - A Glimpse into a Busy Entrepreneur's Lifestyle03:54 - Early Entrepreneurial Journey: Skipping School for Business06:20 - First Business Venture and Banking Challenges07:44 - Moving Out at 16 and Launching a CIC09:49 - The Homeless Shoebox Appeal Initiative11:49 - Understanding the Reality of Homelessness15:19 - Commitment to Charity and Future Fundraising16:40 - The Impact of Small Donations and Community Support19:57 - Expanding Charity Work and Responding to COVID-1922:28 - Youth Opportunities Through the Erasmus Program24:49 - Entering the World of Politics at 1827:04 - Advancing a Career in Political Campaigning29:01 - From Campaign Manager to Parliamentary Role30:45 - The Impactful Button Battery Campaign34:07 - Behind the Scenes of an MP's Office37:48 - The Impact of a Snap General Election39:51 - Climbing the Political Ladder44:22 - A New Vision for the Local Party46:24 - The Entrepreneurial Journey49:42 - Giving Back Through Community Roles52:46 - Building a Multi-Faceted Business Agency58:50 - How to Recharge a Busy Life59:51 - Advice for Young People: Believe in Yourself01:01:18 - The Power of Networking in Business01:01:57 - Future Plans and the Value of Apprenticeships01:03:34 - Receiving the Freedom of the City of London01:05:45 - University vs. Apprenticeships: A Business Perspective01:07:28 - The Reality of a Social Media Career01:08:46 - Charity Work and Launching a Foundation01:10:29 - The Impact of Small Donations01:11:47 - Integrating Social Purpose into Business01:13:55 - Conclusion: An Extraordinary GuestTo Help Matthew with his fundraising efforts:To support Great https://www.justgiving.com/page/matthewjbridgerTo Help Make Christmas Brighter for the Homelesshttps://eaglestonefoundation.comTo contact Matthew:https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewjbridger/Our sponsors:https://www.hempsteadhouse.co.uk/https://theitrustapp.com/https://whatsoninkent.com/