Riviera Connect Podcast

In this episode of the Riviera Connect Podcast, we sit down with Jon-Paul Hedge, Interim Place Manager at Torbay Council and strategic lead behind the Torbay Story. From his roots in local journalism to his leadership roles in culture and communications, Jon-Paul brings a fresh perspective on how storytelling, civic pride and community engagement are helping shape Torbay’s future. We talk place-making, identity, leadership and the power of a 2,700-strong Champions Network.

What We Cover:

• How Jon-Paul’s career journey informs his place-based leadership

• The evolution of the Torbay Story as a tool for economic and cultural transformation

• The role of the Torbay Place Leadership Board

• How local businesses and communities can engage and thrive

• Insights from the 3,000-strong Champions Network

• “Coastal Compass”: A fun game exploring meaning across the region

• A real-life scenario: connecting small businesses to the bigger picture

• Jon-Paul’s lasting leadership advice and outlook on Torbay’s future

  
  

About Jon-Paul Hedge

Jon-Paul Hedge is Interim Place Manager at Torbay Council, helping lead the Torbay Story and championing the region's narrative locally and nationally. With a background spanning journalism, cultural programming and strategic communications, JP is passionate about helping people see their place with pride, purpose and potential.

Resources and Links:
👉 Learn more about the Torbay Story
👉 Download the Torbay Story Digital Toolkit
👉 Join the Torbay Champions Network

In this episode of the Riviera Connect Podcast, we sit down with Carolyn Custerson, Chief Executive of the English Riviera BID Company, and a leading figure in the transformation of Torbay’s tourism economy. Carolyn shares her leadership journey, the strategic vision behind year-round tourism, and the innovations driving the English Riviera’s £500 million visitor economy. We discuss the impact of strategic partnerships, the future of tourism marketing, and what it takes to build resilience in the face of major challenges.

What We Cover:

• Leadership lessons from navigating industry challenges

• The future of the Devon & Partners LVEP collaboration

• How tourism marketing must evolve to stay competitive

• Unlocking opportunities for year-round tourism in Torbay

• Carolyn’s personal leadership principles for success

• The English Riviera lightning round: local hidden gems and personal favourites

• Future opportunities and challenges for Torbay’s business community

About Carolyn Custerson:
Carolyn is the Chief Executive of the English Riviera BID Company, leading destination marketing strategies that deliver a £75:£1 return on investment. A champion for sustainable tourism growth and strategic collaboration, she is shaping the future of The English Riviera as a vibrant, year-round destination.

Learn More:
Explore our incredible attractions, events and business opportunities at www.englishriviera.co.uk

Get involved in the Southwest Visitor Economy Hub: https://swvehub.co.uk/

Read the Torbay Council Destination Management Plan here: https://www.torbay.gov.uk/council/policies/economic-regeneration/dmp/

Learn more about SUPHub here: https://suphub.co.uk/ and download the digital toolkit.

The Riviera Connect Podcast is a series of interviews with business leaders from across the English Riviera, running throughout the year in the lead-up to the Riviera Connect Expo on Thursday 16 October 2025. We explore the stories, insights and ambitions shaping business, tourism and hospitality in our region. Presented in collaboration with the English Riviera BID Company and the Torbay Business Forum, this podcast showcases the people and ideas driving growth, innovation and success across Torbay and beyond.

To book your expo booth or get yourself a ticket to attend, please visit https://riviera-connect.co.uk/

Sponsored by Konsileo Insurance and Treat Marketing.