The Business Awards Show

Kate Cherry Athena Network Beds & Mid-Herts is an award-winning Regional Director of one of the UK's leading women's networking organisations.

After a 15-year career in the financial sector, Kate bought a franchise in the Athena network and has been running groups in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire for nearly a decade. She explains how she wanted more time with her children and so shifted her focus from a corporate career to her own business success.

She loves being a connector and introducer for like-minded businesswomen, and thrives on building confidence in others. This has been at the heart of her networking business.

Her approach led to winning a Gold Award for Best Networking Business at the BBWAs in 2024. Kate was unsuccessful when she entered in 2019 but with a bit of encouragement, she decided to try again last year. This time she came out on top and tells us how proud and totally astonished she was when her name was called.

We also discuss the advantages of online networking. Kate champions online groups as it allows the most flexibility and exposure for her members. It also saves a huge amount of time. Additionally, she provides invaluable tips on the dos and don'ts of networking. If you're using networking to broaden your business visibility, this podcast is for you.

This episode busts many of the myths surrounding the networking world, and provides practical advice that will help any entrepreneur network with confidence and increase their exposure.

{2:17} Why Kate chose to buy an Athena network franchise.

{10:10} What attracted Kate to becoming a franchisee.

{12:57} Common mistakes in networking.

{19:11} How to succeed in networking.

{22:42} The advantages of online networking.

{28:13} Kate's business tips.

{30:36} Entering awards you failed to win previously.

{34:21} Plans for the next twelve months.

Connect with Debbie at: https://thebusinessawardsshow.co.uk

Connect with Kate: https://theathenanetwork.com/katecherry/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AthenaBedsMidHerts

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/athena_beds_midherts

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katecherryrd/

Ceylan Boyce Founder Academy for Women Entrepreneurs, is a ball of endless energy. Steeped in business strategy, Ceylan's academy has helped hundreds of female entrepreneurs grow their companies.

Born in Turkey, Ceylan gained a Masters in Marketing & Communications in Paris before studying Executive Coaching at Cambridge. After a successful corporate career consulting in business strategy, she set up her own consultancy business in the healthcare and pharma sectors.

But this was still too corporate for this driven entrepreneur. While developing her yoga training, she was encouraged to take up coaching. Her time at Cambridge led her to a new business, The Academy for Women Entrepreneurs, which has grown consistently since 2019.

The Academy's mission is to empower businesswomen and reduce the gender inequality gap. She tells us, the answer is in planning and execution. Her methodology has allowed 78% of her members to increase their incomes.

Meanwhile, Ceylan has joined the panel of sponsors for this year's Best Businesswomen Awards. She tells us why she chose our awards to sponsor, and how awards must be used for recognition and business promotion.

She also has her own podcast 'She is AWEsome'. There is much inspiration in the discussions you'll find there. Ceylan explains it's purpose and why you must listen!

Also, discover Ceylan's passion for networking. She is adamant: networking is essential to drive your business. It is not easy, and as she tells us, as an introvert, it's even harder. But it is the lifeblood of any business, and as Ceylan states, 'you will find your tribe'.

If you're wondering why your business does not have the momentum you hoped for, this episode may give you the insights that will take you forward. If you don't get up off your backside and take action after this conversation, you may need to decide if running a business is right for you!

{1:51} What took Ceylan into the world of entrepreneurship.

{3:51} Moving from corporate to female entrepreneurship.

{7:50} How Ceylan helps businesswomen in 'under the radar' sectors.

{11:17} Success stories from the academy.

{12:56} Using awards for recognition and business promotion.

{15:47} Why you must network!

{18:47} How Ceylan's business network operates.

{21:44} She is AWEsome - the podcast.

{24:02} Tips for budding entrepreneurs.

{28:25} Stop the courses - follow through with what you need to do.

{29:41} Plan, plan, plan.

{33:20} Move on from your mistakes.

Connect with Debbie at: https://thebusinessawardsshow.co.uk

Connect with Ceylan: https://academyforwomenentrepreneurs.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWEntrepreneurs

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/academyforwomenentrepreneurs/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/academy-for-women-entrepreneurs/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@academyforwomenentrepreneurs/videos

She is Awesome Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/07EKoJ9GW9yX0fSGMqXJms

Cheryl Laidlaw, London Web Girl, is a multi-award-winning web designer who exudes positive energy. After four years doing web design in a creative agency, she decided to go it alone, launching Reyl Design Group in 2010. Many other brands have followed since.

Cheryl has become an expert in AI, helping clients to embrace its benefits, overcoming the myths that come with it. She helps clients set up AI assistants to underpin their business operations, boosting productivity and ensuring accuracy and prompt responses.

She is passionate about every business getting the best from their website. That means using expert practitioners to build them, ensuring maximum SEO optimisation. In her experience, she builds her clients' second website, after they've tried a do-it-yourself approach first! She tells us about her clients' website embarassment - exactly why she's needed.

She is a multi-award-winner, taking Gold at the Best Businesswomen Awards for the STEM category. A few months later, she won the Best Online Business at the London SME Awards. She explains how awards aid visibility and recognition for any business owner.

Networking has underpinned everything Cheryl has done, and she even runs her own group in London, Work the Room. She maintains, networking is essential to boost your business, and has won many clients by doing so.

She also tells us about a retreat she is planning to help entrepreneurs increase their visibility, with AI at the heart of the event.

If you're interested in AI, web design, or want to be inspired by an emtrepreneur with great energy, this is a perfect episode to dive into.

{1:47} Why Cheryl started her business and what it does.

{3:30} Navigating the AI minefield.

{4:38} Implementing an AI audit.

{5:56} Why you need a professional web designer.

{7:31} Website embarassment.

{8:17} Outsource what you're not skilled in.

{9:38} The importance of networking.

{10:48} Cheryl's Work the Room networking group.

{11:21} How winning a Rising Star award 5 years ago inspired Cheryl to go further.

{12:37} Winning the Gold Award for STEM at the 2024 BBWA.

{13:34} Another award win at the London SME Awards.

{15:05} Why solopreneurs must enter awards.

{15:57} Cheryl's plans for the next twelve months.

{17:25} Favourite AI platforms.

{18:18} Cheryl's tips for business success.

Connect with Debbie at: https://thebusinessawardsshow.co.uk

Connect with Cheryl: https://londonwebgirl.com/website-designer-for-small-businesses/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/londonwebgirl/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/londonwebgirl/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryllaidlaw/

X: https://x.com/londonwebgirl

Work the Room Events: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/worktheroom/1078788

Bina Briggs founder of Plain Talking HR, is a true inspiration. On 7th October 1972 she arrived with her mother and sister at a foggy Heathrow airport. The family had fled Idi Amin's murderous regime in Uganda, as his nationalistic dictatorship sought to purge all minorities from the country.

Carrying only a suitcase, without even a warm coat to keep out the autumn cold, Bina started a new life in a foreign country, with an alien culture. She soon found employment at Luton Airport rising to senior HR management in a career that spanned over 35 years.

When she was made redundant, whilst a huge blow, she knew she had to carry on. The only way in her mind to do that was to start her own business. Plain Talking HR was born.

Bina discusses the many challenges that employers face today, in an environment of ever-changing legislation. Having an expert to run HR operations has never been more essential, as she explains the risks of trying to do it yourself.

In 2021, Bina published her book, The Red Thread. A memoir of her mother's life but also offering insight into her own world, it is a moving and profound story with many life-lessons.

She is also a multi-award winner, and a long-time sponsor and supporter of awards. She explains why they mean so much to her and what they can do for your business.

Over the years, Bina has grown her business through the power of networking. Discover how this has powered her forward, and the many friendships she has developed as a result.

Bina is a very wise businesswoman with much to tell us about life, HR, and awards! Listen to this episode because you will definitely learn something!

{2:37} Arriving from Uganda carrying only a suitcase.

{12:19} How her experience formed Bina as a person.

{14:47} Bina's awards experiences.

{18:50} Bina's book - The Red Thread.

{22:41} Overcoming the challenges of the pandemic.

{23:59} Key challenges employers face in 2025.

{26:05} The risks of running your own HR.

{29:16} Manage franchisees like employees.

{30:21} Bina's tips for staying motivated in business.

{32:17} Networking: the foundation of any successful entrepreneur.

Connect with Debbie at: https://thebusinessawardsshow.co.uk

Connect with Bina: https://www.plaintalkinghr.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/plaintalkinghrltn/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/plaintalkinghr

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/plain-talking-hr-ltd/

The Red Thread: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Red-Thread-everlasting-invisible-connections-ebook/dp/B094DTY5FL

The Female Business Network and Awards with Janine Friston explores a great way for women to build their networks and gain recognition for their business achievements.

After twenty years working in customer service, Janine started her own business directory company. To help grow, she resorted to networking, but believed there were better approaches. As a result, she started The Female Business Network in 2018, and has grown online, across the Manchester region and even in Cornwall.

The network is introvert-friendly, and absolutely not about sales! Janine explains her passion for conversation, connections, and developing relationships in a super-friendly environment. Furthermore, she has sage advice for those fearful of attending a networking event.

Four years ago she took things further. She founded The Female Business Awards and The Female Business Festival. The awards celebrate the achievement, hard work and dedication female entrepreneurs all over the country put into their businesses. Discover how Janine manages the nomination process, the integrity of the judging process, and why she expects all finalists to attend the Gala Final.

Meanwhile, the Festival provides inspiration, ideas, support, and expert workshops to help businesswomen build their enterprises.

Janine is a champion of female entrepreneurs and her approach to networking and her awards demonstrate the very best in business. This is an episode to help anyone starting out wondering how to build contacts, gain recognition, and find new ideas and approaches that can help their business grow.

{1:26} Why Janine set up The Female Business Network.

{3:00} Setting up The Female Business Awards.

{4:36} Running a Festival alongside the awards.

{6:56} Janine's career background.

{9:36} Learning more about the FBN.

{11:24} Networking for introverts.

{16:18} Working with a partner.

{17:29} The timing and format of FBN events.

{20:10} Opening a group in Cornwall.

{21:22} Awards details and closing dates.

{22:33} The judging process.

{24:22} The Gala Final at the Victoria & Albert Marriott in Manchester.

{25:38} The Summer Summit 2025.

Connect with Debbie at: https://thebusinessawardsshow.co.uk

Connect with Janine: https://femalebusinessnetwork.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/femalebusinessnetwork/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FemaleBusinessNetwork

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janine-friston-connector-and-small-business-mentor/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@femalebusinessnetwork

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@femalebusinessnetwork

Female Business Festival: https://www.femalebusinessfestival.co.uk/

Julie Kaur, owner of Jules Convenience Store in Telford, is an inspirational retailer. In this week's episode, you will learn how she has become the centre of her community in Telford for over twenty five years.

Despite having three young children, Julie took over the running of the family convenience store. Over the years, she has helped many customers in times of need. To illustrate the point, she played a key role during COVID, ensuring families had enough of their essential supplies.

In addition, Julie has taken on numerous charity challenges to raise funds for local people and causes. That led her to be appointed as Chair of Age UK, Shropshire, Telford, and Wrekin. As if she wasn't busy enough, she took on a role as a local Labour representative in the same area. As a result, her commitment to getting what her local community needs comes across so clearly during our discussion.

Given her two roles, and being a local retailer, Julie has a unique insight into the issues facing her local area. Hear more through our conversation.

She is also a multi-award winner, having won the Gold Award for Best Consumer Business at the Best Businesswomen Awards 2024. Additionally, in the coming months she has been shortlisted for three awards at the Convenience Awards in Manchester, and for a Woman Who Award.

Julie outlines the challenges faced by small retailers but also how closely they work with global food companies to provide value and service to their customers. Furthermore, she talks about male domination in her industry, but how she believes there are ways to succeed nevertheless.

We also hear about Julie's ambitious plans to refit her shop and the goals she has set for her local community. This is a truly heartwarming conversation with an entrepreneur who is all about the people she serves. It's a great way to find out how your local store really operates and how important it is as a lifeline in the context of your local area.

{1:50} Why Julie first opened her convenience strore.

{6:44} Passing on her work ethic to her children.

{7:48} The Independent Retail Association.

{9:44} How awards have helped in the development of the business.

{11:04} Becoming a community hub and taking on charity challenges.

{15:20} Getting involved in local politics.

{17:25} Julie's plans with Age UK and in politics

{20:14} Growing the business through community support.

{22:01} How crime affects Julie and the retail industry.

{24:09} Dealing with shoplifting.

{26:51} How the Independent Retail Association supports best practice development.

{28:32} Other daily challenges.

{29:26} A shopkeeper for the community.

{32:59} Customer service - the lifeblood of the community.

{33:57} Being able to identify domestic issues.

{34:46} Julie's plans for the next 12 months.

{37:30} A finalist in the Convenience Awards in Manchester and the Woman Who Awards.

{39:16} Male domination in the retail sector.

{40:10} Working with corporations for the good of the community.

Connect with Debbie at: https://thebusinessawardsshow.co.uk

Connect with Julie: https://www.premier-stores.co.uk/our-stores/jules-convenience-store

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julesconvenience

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-kaur/

Reminiscence Learning with Fiona Mahoney is a moving insight into the essential work carried out by an amazing dementia charity. Having worked as an occupational therapist in the NHS, Fiona set up Reminiscence Learning in 2001, becoming a registered charity in 2003.

Since then, she has created the inspirational Archie Project to help children understand dementia more clearly. Furthermore, Fiona has helped train many healthcare professionals to better manage dementia patients. In addition, Reminiscence has set up carer support groups, and runs respite activity sessions, using memorabilia as a fundamental component of each session.

The charity has won multiple awards and continues to be a beacon of light for those with dementia and their carers. For example, The Archie Project was one of the first to take children into care homes creating a vital link between generations. It plays a vital role in helping young people understand the condition so much better.

To boost the visibility of the charity, Fiona enlisted national treasure Angela Rippon as its patron. What's more, Richard McCourt, one half of TV duo Dick and Dom, became an ambassador. Discover how she successfully recruited two such well-known celebrities.

Naturally, Fiona has to continually drive a comprehensive fund-raising strategy. This year, Reminiscence will be holding a 'Jailbreak' from Shepton Mallet prison. Ten 'convicts' are already lined up for this unique event in May, timed to coincide with Dementia Action Week. Our guest tells us why this event is going to have huge impact.

As a subject matter expert, Fiona has contributed to key research into dementia and was part of a group that wrote a Commonwealth Report showcasing successful models of dementia care. To demonstrate how successful The Archie Project has become, it was included among twenty projects idenitifed across the commonwealth as role-models for future programmes.

We are, of course, The Business Awards Show, and so Fiona explains why awards have been so vital to the development of Reminiscence Learning. Her Charity Champion award at the 2024 Best Businesswomen Awards was a real triumph, and as she explains, totally unexpected.

Our discussion highlights the case for optimism in dementia care, and how a small charity can have a massive impact. Fiona shares her learnings from her years running the charity, and for anyone seeking help with a dementia patient, or wanting to know more, this is the best possible entry point.

{2:52} Why Fiona started Reminiscence Learning.

{8:08} The Archie Project.

{15:30} Linking children with care homes.

{17:34} Reminiscence's celebrity patrons.

{20:26} The importance of awards to the charity.

{23:56} Creating unique fundraising events.

{27:04} Learnings from over twenty years of running a charity.

{29:18} Contributing to a commonwealth report on dementia.

Connect with Debbie at: https://thebusinessawardsshow.co.uk

Connect with Fiona: https://www.reminiscencelearning.co.uk/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ReminiscenceLearning/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reminiscence_learning/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/reminiscence-learning/

Jailbreak: https://www.reminiscencelearning.co.uk/events

The Archie Project: https://www.reminiscencelearning.co.uk/archie

Path to Wellbeing with Nicola Court is a fascinating insight into the world of women's health. Working as a photographer, Nicola grew bored and trained in massage. When she was made redundant, she used her new-found skill but soon found massaging for eight hours physically tiring.

In 2004, she decided to train in clinical acupuncture. With a growing knowledge of gynaecology, acupuncture and holistic medicine, Nicola set up Path to Wellbeing. She explains how an ever-growing demand led to her specialising in women's health issues with particular focus on fertility and the menopause.

Nicola enlightens us how acupuncture works on our bodies and the benefits it delivers. She has strong opinions about dealing with many of the pressures of modern life, for example, advocating breathing exercises over meditation and mindfulness as a way to cope with stress. Furthermore, she has much to say about menopause treatment, firmly believing that HRT is not always the best approach to finding relief.

Nicola demonstrates how vital resilience, customer-focus, and consistency are in maintaining a successful business for twenty-six years. She recounts how the pandemic proved a serious challenge, but one she navigated successfully.

She finally found the confidence to enter the Best Businesswomen Awards in 2024, where she won a silver award for Health & Beauty. The whole experience proved an eye-opener, mixing with other successful businesswomen, and being validated for her business success.

This episode is a must-listen for any woman dealing with fertility issues or the ravages of the menopause. Hopefully, it will give you some confidence that there is light at the end of the tunnel.

{1:55} Nicola's extensive range of services.

{2:40} The road to becoming a women's health specialist.

{4:38} Uses for acupuncture and its benefits.

{6:43} Why Nicola came to specialise in women's health.

{7:42} The rise in health issues.

{8:16} Where clients come from.

{8:57} Providing help online.

{10:29} How Nicola found support as a solopreneur.

{11:30} Joining networking groups.

{12:25} Memorable stories of parents she has helped.

{14:45} Helping women cope with the menopause.

{15:55} Alternatives to HRT for menopause treatment.

{17:07} Entering the BBWAs.

{18:45} Attending the awards final.

{20:28} Nicola's plans for 2025.

{22:37} How to manage stress.

{25:06} Battling through the pandemic.

Connect with Debbie at: https://thebusinessawardsshow.co.uk

Connect with Nicola: https://www.nicolacourt.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicolacourtacupuncture/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicolacourttca

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-court-path-to-wellbeing-ab2541286/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Pathtowellbeinguk/videos

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nicolacourtacupuncture

The Founder of Nice N' Spiky Comedy Clara Heimerdinger recounts her journey from working at the BBC as a Business and Production Manager to running her own comedy business.

Having been involved in running comedy nights as a side hustle while progressing her career at the BBC, Clara gave it all up to start Nice N' Spiky in 2019. A new business was born bringing together comedians, agents, clubs and venues. Over nearly six years, Clara has worked hard to grow her business, despite the best efforts of the pandemic to disrupt her progress. Discover how she pivoted, and came through it stronger.

Our discussion covers a wide range of issues, from how to monitor acts when you have four performing in different venues in one night. We explore the disparity between male and female comedians on the circuit, delving into the reasons why men still outnumber women three to one.

In celebration of her efforts, Clara entered the Best Businesswomen Awards in 2024 and won a Silver Award. She tells us why she got involved, and the joy of attending the gala final with her mother.

For anyone struggling to come to terms with running a business, this is a great episode to understand you're not alone. Clara explains how she learns on the job, outsourcing where she can afford to, doing it herself when necessary.

You'll also learn the charming reason why Clara named her business Nice N' Spiky. It may not be what you think!

This is a great episode for anyone interested in the comedy circuit, but also for those considering turning a side-hustle into a fully fledged business.

{2:08} Why Clara quit the BBC to start Nice N' Spiky.

{4:37} How the business generates revenue.

{6:17} Why Nice N' Spiky?

{7:15} The challenges Clara has faced along the way.

{10:41} Delivering live events while building a team.

{13:00} Choosing which comedians to work with.

{16:20} The disparity between male and female comdians.

{18:18} Do women experience nerves more than men?

{20:54} Why Clara entered the Best Businesswomen Awards.

{23:15} Why bringing your Mum to the gala final is so special.

{25:18} Making the leap from side hustle to full-time business.

{28:15} Learning to run the business.

{29:11} Clara's upcoming events.

Connect with Debbie at: https://thebusinessawardsshow.co.uk

Connect with Clara: https://nicenspiky.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicenspiky/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nice-n-spiky-comedy/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicenspikycomedy

Upcoming events: https://linktr.ee/nicenspiky

The 'Woman Who' Awards owner Sandra Garlick joins us for the latest episode of the Business Awards Show. Sandra shares her frustrating awards experiences, leading her to start her own!

The Woman Who Awards were born ten years ago to celebrate the accomplishments of women in various business sectors. The Woman Who Solopreneur Awards followed.

Sandra tells us why she called the awards 'Woman Who' and why her scheme has no categories.

In fact, she reveals a number of differences with other awards programmes. She recognises everyone shortlisted, gives entrants an opportunity to amend their entries if she thinks they can be improved, and even hands out 'One to Watch' awards for those who don't win the main awards. The number of awards given varies each year as the judges decide on those worthy of the accolade.

Debbie and Sandra discuss the awards industry in detail, bemoaning those who use them to build email lists, emphasising that any awards that require you to get votes is not an award with integrity.

She has over 30 years' experience in the legal industry, and now acts as a business and visibility strategist and a speaker & mentor. Her background makes her a uniquely supportive awards owner, helping entrants to hone their entries, providing free workshops, even allowing businesswomen to edit their entries if nominated by a third party.

She proves that business awards can have integrity, and add true value to any businesswoman's reputation and portfolio. This is a fascinating listen between two passionate awards owners who believe in the need for recognition for women in business.

{1:16} Why Sandra went into the world of awards.

{4:36} What the name 'Woman Who' stands for.

{5:22} An awards without categories.

{6:52} Starting the awards locally.

{7:43} Starting the Solopreneur Awards.

{8:48} Sandra's business network.

{9:49} Helping female entrepreneurs produce high-quality award entries.

{11:59} Getting entries in by the deadline.

{15:12} Conducting in-person interviews with shortlisted finalists.

{16:27} The Woman Who Live Event.

{17:32} How the number of awards presented is decided.

{20:18} Life as a solicitor.

{22:35} Keeping the awards industry honest.

{26:07} Why running awards is so difficult.

Connect with Debbie at: https://thebusinessawardsshow.co.uk

Connect with Sandra: https://womanwho.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/womanwhouk/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandragarlick/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WomanWhoUK/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjr-dlnMTvv5zUAgb-SHyVw

Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6IFzo263DFAzBBeUXqwNJm