Really Good Conversations

In this episode, we explore the exceptional story of Teals, a unique Farm Shop in Somerset that's not just about selling local produce. It's a mission-driven experience focusing on sustainability, community, and protecting the planet.

Join us as we speak with co-founder Nick Sinfield about:

• Teals' Commitment: Leading the way in sustainability, food systems, and providing an unmatched customer experience in Somerset.
• The Triple Win Philosophy: Unpacking the idea that doing good is not only good for business but also benefits the community and the planet.
• Balancing Act: How Teals manages to stay true to its brand values while still maintaining a profitable business.
• Beyond Profits: The view of business as more than just money, including community building, sustainability, and planet protection.
• On the Road Experience: How we stumbled across Teals, a hub for local produce, wellness classes, and more, on a drive back from Devon.

We dive deep into the backstory of setting up Teals, their status as a BCorp, the importance of balancing purpose and profit, their sustainable building practices, their commitment to quality food produce, and much more.

Tune in to learn how one Farm Shop is putting Somerset produce on the map and making a difference, one ethical and sustainable choice at a time.

Visit the Teals Website

Teals Instagram

Brace yourselves, Alex is back to give us the behind the scenes story on our recent successful Kickstarter campaign. If you didn't see at the time, in May 2023 we launched a crowdfunding campaign for our latest product, a business strategy deck called "Really Good Conversations for Businesses" and we were delighted that it reached the target.

This was a fantastic result and the product launch went ahead, but it was not without its challenges to say the least. In this episode, I have an informal chat with Alex about his experience riding the Kickstarter rollercoaster and what he learnt through the process.

The conversation covers:

• Why did we decide to launch on Kickstarter?
• What's the story behind the product?
• What surprised us?
• Was it worth it?
• 3 pieces of advice for anyone considering doing the same

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or aiming to expand your product business, this episode has you covered.

Get Really Good Conversations for Businesses here: https://reallygoodconversations.store/products/really-good-conversations-for-businesses

Today, we're catching up with Caitlin Derer and Joseph Lattime, the creative power couple behind Collectable Cities. Listen in as we unpack their journey from a love of travel and storytelling to creating these unique sought-after collectable art toys.

We delve into the challenges faced during their transition from app creation to product development, Kickstarter fundraising experiences, and the unexpected hurdles of European postage. Listen in to gain insights on the licensing complexities when creating characters of popular figures and how working with your spouse can be a delightful rollercoaster ride.

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or aiming to expand your product business, this episode has you covered.

Connect with Collectable Cities:

• Website
• Instagram
• TikTok
• Twitter
• Facebook
• Fancy Lamp Studio

Get ready for a treasure trove of insider tips in this week's episode. We've got the brilliant Therese Oertenblad from Small Business Collaborative joining us.

Therese works magic with product-based business owners, helping them to boost their wholesale and carve out a robust, regular income for their enterprises.

We first crossed paths while gearing up for the Top Drawer Exhibition in January 2023 and believe us, Therese knows her onions when it comes to wholesale. From product strategy and correct pricing for retailers, to navigating your first trade show, she's got the lowdown. Plus, we'll delve into her personal backstory and, of course, draw a few cards from our "Really Good Conversations" game.

Sit back, tune in, and let's get chatting.

Connect with Therese:

• Website: Small Business Collaborative
• Instagram: @small_business_collaborative
• Podcast: Let's Talk Shop
• Facebook group: Let's Talk Wholesale
• Newsletter: Sign-up for weekly inspiration to sell

In this episode, we're delighted to host the intrepid Gill Smith, owner of Bramble & LuLu, a gem nestled in Great Ayton, North Yorkshire. She was amongst the first to believe in us and stock our cards back in November 2022.

We'll discuss:

• Why Gill decided to open a shop in the middle of a pandemic aged 53
• Learn about her criteria when choosing products
• Understand how her shop evolved from her original plan
• Plus, we'll discover her connection to the famous explorer James Cook

We also share a laugh with three questions from our Really Good Conversations 1st Edition game.

Whether you're planning to launch a product, start a business, or expand your wholesale operation, this conversation is sure to provide valuable insights.

Connect with Bramble & LuLu:

• Website: Bramble & LuLu
• Instagram: @brambleandlulu
• Address: 57-59 High St, Great Ayton, Middlesbrough TS9 6NH

In this episode we delve into the minds of the dynamic duo behind Candlemeleon, Lewis Davis and Rodrick Silvia. We met at the Top Drawer Exhibition in January 2023 and they're simply brilliant, brimming with banter and contagious enthusiasm.

In our chat, we'll explore:

• Their exciting journey & lessons in launching the first-ever Heat Reactive Scented Candle in the market
• What tips they have for trade shows and getting into wholesale
• And reveal their secret to a happy life

If your ambitions include launching a product, starting a business, or growing your wholesale operations, this conversation is just the ticket. Tune in for a wealth of insights!

Connect with Candlemeleon:

• Website: Candlemeleon
• Instagram: @candlemeleon
• Candlemeleon now available at Debenhams Online

In this episode, we're taking a deep dive into the world of fashion and retail with the remarkable Elizabeth Stiles. A seasoned fashion and textiles brand consultant, Elizabeth brings 15 years of retail industry experience to the table, having worked with big names like Next, New Look, River Island, and Urban Outfitters.

Elizabeth is devoted to helping creatives amp up their earnings through online training centred on selling and visibility. We'll explore:

• Her journey from working with mammoth fashion companies to launching her own business
• Her zest for sales & her backstory
• And even play a few rounds of Really Good Conversations for Kids.

If you've got dreams of launching a product or business, or expanding your wholesale operations, then you're bang on target. Get ready for a cracker of a conversation!

Find more about Elizabeth:

• Website: Elizabeth Stiles
• Instagram: @elizabethstilesuk

Join me & my husband Alex for this in person chat.

Alex Marshall, Co-Founder & Head of Creative at Really Good Conversations Brand Strategist at StartsWithA

Alex shares:

• The idea behind Really Good Conversations
• Why it's a card game
• How consumer feedback has helped the product range evolve

You'll also get to learn more about us as we pick a few impromptu questions from Really Good Conversations 1st Edition.

Really Good Conversations is the game that gets people talking.

If your ambitions include launching a product, starting a business, or growing your wholesale operations, this conversation is just the ticket. Tune in for a wealth of insights!

Connect with Alex on LinkedIn

To find out more and purchase Really Good Conversations:

www.reallygoodconversations.co

Follow us on Instagram: @reallgoodconversations

Amy & Alex also run brand strategy consultancy StartsWithA - helping increase the value of established businesses by upgrading their brand.

Hello, I'm Amy Faulkner, Co-Founder & Chief Conversation Starter at Really Good Conversations.

In this introduction episode I introduce myself, what this podcast is about and why we have started it.

Really Good Conversations is the game that gets people talking.

Designed and manufactured in the UK, my husband Alex and I launched in September 2022 on a mission to get friends and families having more meaningful conversations, learn about each other and ultimately not leave it too late to ask the generations above for their wisdom and experiences.

If your ambitions include launching a product, starting a business, or growing your wholesale operations, this conversation is just the ticket. Tune in for a wealth of insights!

To find out more and purchase Really Good Conversations: www.reallygoodconversations.co

Email me HERE

Follow us on Instagram: @reallygoodconversations

Amy & Alex also run brand strategy consultancy StartsWithA - helping increase the value of established businesses by upgrading their brand.