Survival, revival and pushing boundaries in regional theatre - Douglas Rintoul, Chief Executive/Artistic Director of The New Wolsey Theatre talks to us.

Since taking the helm in May 2022, Doug has made a lasting impact on Ipswich and Suffolk’s cultural scene - championing bold, diverse theatre and launching powerful community initiatives with his team. Douglas shares insights into his creative vision, his beliefs and drive, as well as the importance of collaboration.

Using the phrase 'working at the speed of trust', Doug talks about the significance and critical importance of building relationships within the community - how it takes time to gain those relationships and make them last. 

As a cultural leader of our region, Doug talks about the We Are Ipswich initiative, a partnership between leading arts organisations, who collectively drive and promote the cultural scene in Ipswich - positioning Ipswich as the cultural hub for Suffolk and East Anglia.

Doug also talks about his role as an artistic director, and explains how theatre is about 'asking those important questions' and resonating with audiences. He talks about this in depth -  exposing people to more contemporary work to challenge and to question - as well as the big musicals and shows.

Finally, Doug took part in the Felixstowe Triathlon in July 2025 - raising money for the theatre. If you'd like to donate or become a member please visit the NWT website right here.

Tickets for all shows including Don't Look Now (this autumn's big show) and Beauty and the Beast (the infamous New Wolsey Theatre Rock 'n' Roll Panto) are available here.

Support the show

The Suffolk Pod Show showcases the most brilliant entrepreneurs, creatives and business leaders, connecting Suffolk’s business and cultural community in one space.

Join us for entertaining and thought-provoking conversations, fascinating insights and meaningful connections as we highlight the thriving, aspirational culture of Suffolk - proving that great business and great living can go hand in hand.

If you're interested in being a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please just get in touch with us [email protected] or call:

Marc +44 7909 174289
Zanna +44 7915 294164.

The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk

#podcast #suffolk #business #suffolkbusiness #suffolkpodcast

Whether you’re a collector, want to sell a treasure, or simply curious about what it takes to run an auction house, this episode brings you record-breaking sales, The Beatles and what's hot on the market right now!

Ed Crichton, Managing Partner of Lacy Scott & Knight, the leading auction centre in Suffolk, talks about the history of the business which was established 1869 in the heart of Bury St Edmunds. From its early days focused on livestock markets to becoming a respected multi-disciplinary firm of Chartered Surveyors, Property Experts, and Auctioneers – Lacy Scott & Knight has grown into a leading player in both regional and international markets. 

Episode highlights include:

•  The history and evolution of the business – 150+ years of Suffolk roots
•  Ed’s own journey into auctioneering and how he became Managing Partner
•  The wide range of items that go through their saleroom – from antique toys and militaria to fine art, watches and classic cars.
•  The transition from rural livestock markets to modern auction houses
•  The incredible story behind their record-breaking sale on the BBC’s Antiques Road Trip, where a rare sub-miniature camera originally bought for £60 sold at Lacy Scott & Knight for a staggering £20,000, setting a new show record.

Thanks to Ed for being such a brilliant guest!

Visit: https://www.lskauctioneers.co.uk for auction dates and times.

Follow Lacy Scott & Knight on social media for auction previews and updates.

Support the show

The Suffolk Pod Show showcases the most brilliant entrepreneurs, creatives and business leaders, connecting Suffolk’s business and cultural community in one space.

Join us for entertaining and thought-provoking conversations, fascinating insights and meaningful connections as we highlight the thriving, aspirational culture of Suffolk - proving that great business and great living can go hand in hand.

If you're interested in being a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please just get in touch with us [email protected] or call:

Marc +44 7909 174289
Zanna +44 7915 294164.

The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk

#podcast #suffolk #business #suffolkbusiness #suffolkpodcast

If you have any savings, a pension (or several pensions from previous employers) or just need direction with planning your finances for you and your family - then this episode is definitely for you!

Zanna Hornby talks with qualified financial planner Iain Clayton, based in Bury St Edmunds, and founder of FinPlanPro.com, about helping busy professionals to take control of their pensions and financial futures—without jargon, pressure, or hidden commissions.

Originally from Wales and now based in Suffolk, Iain shares his personal and professional journey, including what inspired him to build FinPlanPro, a remote-first, digital-friendly financial planning service built around clarity, flexibility, and real-life goals.

As a proud father of two children born deaf, Iain also opens up about how family life has shaped his values, his advocacy for the National Deaf Children’s Society and the West Suffolk Deaf Children’s Society, and the joy of travel and adventure with his loved ones.

This is a refreshing conversation about money that feels both personal and practical—perfect for anyone looking to get to grips with pensions, financial planning, or simply make smarter money choices without the sales pitch.

 In this episode:

• Why Iain created The Pension Pathway and his digital programme
• An email list based around 31 Tips in 31 Days to improve and simplify your pensions, the link is: https://pension.iainclayton.com/31tips
• How to track, consolidate, and manage your pensions with ease
• The financial challenges facing busy professionals with young families
• Iain’s family story and the charities close to his heart
• Living a meaningful life with purpose, balance, and  Mentioned in the show:
   FinPlanPro.com
  Email: [email protected]
  Free newsletter + checklist: www.iainclayton.com 
• National Deaf Children’s Society West Suffolk Deaf Children’s 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iain.financialplanner/
  Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@Iain_FinPlan
  Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iain_financialplanner
• Who this episode is for:
• Professionals looking to sort out their pensions
• Parents juggling high outgoings and big dreams
• Anyone wanting clear, human financial advice without the fluff

Support the show

The Suffolk Pod Show showcases the most brilliant entrepreneurs, creatives and business leaders, connecting Suffolk’s business and cultural community in one space.

Join us for entertaining and thought-provoking conversations, fascinating insights and meaningful connections as we highlight the thriving, aspirational culture of Suffolk - proving that great business and great living can go hand in hand.

If you're interested in being a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please just get in touch with us [email protected] or call:

Marc +44 7909 174289
Zanna +44 7915 294164.

The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk

#podcast #suffolk #business #suffolkbusiness #suffolkpodcast

From tough beginnings and panicked late-night baking sessions to supplying top retailers and winning multiple awards, this is a heartfelt and frequently hilarious episode of true entrepreneurial grit, creativity, and really great brownies. 

Zanna sits down with Charlotte and Luke, the dynamic duo behind the award-winning Suffolk business, Brownie and the Bean.

You’ll hear about:

• How they turned a small idea into a thriving business
• The early challenges (and funny moments) of starting out
• How they developed their incredible brownie range
• That fateful award-winning day and industry recognition
• What’s next for Brownie and the Bean

If you love a great small business story with plenty of laughs, real talk, and chocolate – this one's for you.

Thank you Charlotte and Luke for being brilliant guests.

Guest(s): Charlotte and Luke Giddings from Brownie and the Bean
Host: Zanna Hornby
Title: From Kitchen Table to Award-Winning Bakery – The Brownie and the Bean Story

Useful Links

• Brownie and the Bean website: https://www.brownieandthebean.com
• Follow on Instagram: @brownieandthebean
• The Suffolk Pod Show on Instagram: @suffolkpodshow
• The Suffolk Pod Show Website: www.thesuffolkpodshow.co.uk

 #SuffolkPodShow #BrownieAndTheBean #SuffolkBusiness #SmallBusinessStory #Entrepreneurship #AwardWinning #GreatTasteAwards #FoodBusiness #ZannaHornby #TheSuffolkPodShow #PodcastUK #BritishBakers #ArtisanBrownies 

Support the show

The Suffolk Pod Show showcases the most brilliant entrepreneurs, creatives and business leaders, connecting Suffolk’s business and cultural community in one space.

Join us for entertaining and thought-provoking conversations, fascinating insights and meaningful connections as we highlight the thriving, aspirational culture of Suffolk - proving that great business and great living can go hand in hand.

If you're interested in being a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please just get in touch with us [email protected] or call:

Marc +44 7909 174289
Zanna +44 7915 294164.

The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk

#podcast #suffolk #business #suffolkbusiness #suffolkpodcast

If you're thinking about writing a will, setting up a trust fund or getting on the career ladder within a successful law firm - this podcast episode is definitely for you!

Nicola Weldon - Partner, Solicitor and Head of Private Client and Chitra Watson Head of HR, talk about their personal experiences of working at Ellisons Solicitors, and how approachable and engaging the company is with their clients.

Thank you to you both for giving us a really in depth chat about yourselves and what makes it great to work at Ellisons!

The content of this episode for is for entertainment purposes only, any legal advice should be taken directly from Ellisons.

To speak to Nicola or Chitra, or to find out more about Ellisons click here.

#podcast #law #legal #ellisons #thesuffolkpodshow #suffolk

Support the show

The Suffolk Pod Show showcases the most brilliant entrepreneurs, creatives and business leaders, connecting Suffolk’s business and cultural community in one space.

Join us for entertaining and thought-provoking conversations, fascinating insights and meaningful connections as we highlight the thriving, aspirational culture of Suffolk - proving that great business and great living can go hand in hand.

If you're interested in being a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please just get in touch with us [email protected] or call:

Marc +44 7909 174289
Zanna +44 7915 294164.

The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk

#podcast #suffolk #business #suffolkbusiness #suffolkpodcast

Cathy Frost is a force of nature – her boundless passion, infectious optimism, and love for life, business and Ipswich, shine through in everything she does.  

Cathy - a retail business owner and entrepreneur talks to us about life (past and present), ambition and passion - how she has become one of Ipswich’s most successful businesswomen and her extremely busy and fulfilling life!  

Cathy owns Loveone– an independent interiors and gift shop based in St Peters Street in the heart of old Ipswich town. Now in its 18th year of trading, Cathy looks back to its inception and the influences and circumstances that led her to opening the doors to her dream business.

Cathy talks about her love for Ipswich, she is a huge advocate for the town and holds a mix of integral roles within the community – including being a Labour Councillor, Trustee Board Member of the New Wolsey Theatre and Associate Partner of The Saints – Ipswich’s street market events.

In her latest initiative, Cathy has joined forces with some of Ipswich’s leading businesses to launch The Ipswich Book Festival which takes place 3 – 5 October. Find out more in this episode on who is involved and what visitors can expect.

Thank you Cathy for an very inspiring chat!

Useful links 

https://www.loveone.co.uk/

https://thesaintsipswich.com/

https://www.wolseytheatre.co.uk/

Support the show

The Suffolk Pod Show showcases the most brilliant entrepreneurs, creatives and business leaders, connecting Suffolk’s business and cultural community in one space.

Join us for entertaining and thought-provoking conversations, fascinating insights and meaningful connections as we highlight the thriving, aspirational culture of Suffolk - proving that great business and great living can go hand in hand.

If you're interested in being a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please just get in touch with us [email protected] or call:

Marc +44 7909 174289
Zanna +44 7915 294164.

The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk

#podcast #suffolk #business #suffolkbusiness #suffolkpodcast

Owen talks about the past 4 and a half years since he began his role at Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds - touching on some of the theatre’s highlights and ground-breaking shows for the region including A Christmas Carol which was staged outdoors in the deep of a pandemic winter and the enchanting The Christmas Cabin, a play for under 7's performed in the middle of a shopping centre, as well as telling us about his new bold and brilliant show coming up in August 2025 – Steve & Steff For Ever, written by Ian Jarvis (Death in Paradise and Beyond Paradise). 

Owen talks about the depth of the theatre’s work within the Bury St Edmunds and West Suffolk community, with a particular focus made in engaging young people through the Youth Theatre and in-school performances. He also talks about the eternal drive in attracting new audiences and why members and sponsors are so integral in supporting the work the theatre does.

We talk about casting, young and emerging talent and a support network set up for creatives to interact across Norfolk and Suffolk.

Currently in the middle of their Bloom Festival which attracts more than 600 people through the theatre doors to get involved with workshops and activities, the summer programme is packed full of great shows; from comedy with Harry Hill and Julian Clary to fabulous family shows and a brilliantly contemporary version of The Sword and the Stone, as well as their big show of the season Steve & Steff For Ever – which runs from 1 August to 31 August 2025 . 

Steve and Steff For Ever is an immersive and intoxicating love story that takes place in and around the streets and businesses of Bury St Edmunds, and takes on the style of a 'promenade show' - listen to this episode to hear more about this fabulous production. All of these shows and many more are available online to book www.theatreroyal.org 

Thank you to Owen, and to Julie and Becca from the marketing team, for making us feel so welcome!

Futher info:

Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds is a presenting and producing theatre and one of the UK’s last surviving, and the only working Regency playhouse. Theatre Royal produces three major productions throughout the year with further smaller and community projects throughout its seasons.

Support the show

The Suffolk Pod Show showcases the most brilliant entrepreneurs, creatives and business leaders, connecting Suffolk’s business and cultural community in one space.

Join us for entertaining and thought-provoking conversations, fascinating insights and meaningful connections as we highlight the thriving, aspirational culture of Suffolk - proving that great business and great living can go hand in hand.

If you're interested in being a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please just get in touch with us [email protected] or call:

Marc +44 7909 174289
Zanna +44 7915 294164.

The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk

#podcast #suffolk #business #suffolkbusiness #suffolkpodcast

If you've ever felt like you could write novels, poetry, comedy and more - then this podcast episode will inspire you to get your pen to paper!

Wolsey Writers is an independent creative writing group which meets at the
New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich on the first Saturday morning of the month. Their community includes novelists, scriptwriters, poets, storytellers, children’s literature, comedy, and nonfiction. They welcome writing in any genre, writers from diverse backgrounds and all levels of experience and aspirations – from haiku to blockbuster trilogy. 

The monthly meeting takes place in the stunning New Wolsey Theatre Café & Bar where the group make the most of the locally ground coffee and delicious snacks – sometimes in noisy discussion, sometimes in mutual silence while they work.

Guest speakers:

• Katie Ward -  Leader and author of Pathways  
• Susannah Brindle - has a contemporary novel in progress.
• Helen Wright - stand-up comedy, doing open mics in the region.
• Roy Haddock - mature MA creative writing student and playwright.

Wolsey Writers meets on the first Saturday of the month, 10:30am-12pm, at New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich. Led by Katie Ward, an award-winning author from Suffolk, every session includes tips to improve your creative practice, focused writing time, peer support and inspiration.

Suitable for writers age 18+. Tickets are ‘pay what you feel’ from the Box Office. Check the website what's on page - wolseytheatre.co.uk

Find updates on Instagram & Twitter/X @wolseywriters; or Facebook @katiewardwriter.

Thank you to the New Wolsey Theatre for sharing this episode.

Thank you for listening to The Suffolk Pod Show Podcast.

You're all welcome to get involved and if you'd like to be a guest or like to ask a question to The Suffolk Pod Show team, please just get in touch.

Email: p[email protected] (Marc Podcast Producer, Editor and sometimes Host!)

All show Wolsey Theatre tickets are on sale HERE.

Visit the New Wolsey Theatre website HERE.

Thanks to our good friends at podtalk.co.uk for managing and producing our podcast.

The New Wolsey Theatre is supported by Arts Council England, Suffolk County Council and

Support the show

The Suffolk Pod Show showcases the most brilliant entrepreneurs, creatives and business leaders, connecting Suffolk’s business and cultural community in one space.

Join us for entertaining and thought-provoking conversations, fascinating insights and meaningful connections as we highlight the thriving, aspirational culture of Suffolk - proving that great business and great living can go hand in hand.

If you're interested in being a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please just get in touch with us [email protected] or call:

Marc +44 7909 174289
Zanna +44 7915 294164.

The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk

#podcast #suffolk #business #suffolkbusiness #suffolkpodcast

Event: West Suffolk Business Festival 2024
Location: X Labs, Bury St Edmunds
Speaker: Zanna Hornby, Co-owner of Podtalk (podtalk.co.uk)
Topic: The Power of Podcasts: Building Brands and Promoting Talent

Summary:
Zanna Hornby, co-owner of Podtalk, delivered an engaging talk at the West Suffolk Business Festival in September 2024, focusing on the benefits of podcasts in building brands and promoting talent. Drawing on her experience in the podcasting industry, she highlighted the strategic value of podcasts as a tool for businesses to strengthen their brand presence and showcase their expertise.

Key Points Discussed:

• Building Brand Identity: Zanna emphasised that podcasts are a powerful way for businesses to develop a unique voice and connect with their audiences on a deeper level. She explained how a well-crafted podcast can reflect a brand’s personality and values, fostering a more personal relationship with listeners.
• Promoting Talent: Podcasts also serve as a platform for individuals to highlight their skills and knowledge. Zanna discussed how talent can leverage podcasts to share their stories, insights, and ideas, helping them stand out in their fields.
• Audience Engagement: One of the key benefits of podcasts is their ability to engage audiences consistently. Zanna shared how regular podcast episodes can create a loyal following and strengthen the connection between brands and their communities.
• Cost-Effective Marketing: Zanna pointed out that podcasting is an accessible and cost-effective medium, suitable for businesses of all sizes to amplify their reach without a large budget.
• Versatility: She talked about the versatility of podcasts, noting their potential to be consumed anytime, anywhere, making them ideal for today’s busy audiences.

Audience Interaction:
Zanna’s presentation was well received, with a dynamic Q&A session following her talk. The audience asked thoughtful questions about launching their own podcasts, tips for creating engaging content, and the best ways to measure podcast success. Zanna provided practical advice and insights, leaving attendees with a clear understanding of how to get started in podcasting.

Conclusion:
The session wrapped up with Zanna encouraging businesses to explore podcasting as a way to amplify their brand’s voice and to highlight the talents within their teams. Her talk inspired many to consider how they could leverage the power of podcasts to grow their influence and reach in the marketplace.

Support the show

The Suffolk Pod Show showcases the most brilliant entrepreneurs, creatives and business leaders, connecting Suffolk’s business and cultural community in one space.

Join us for entertaining and thought-provoking conversations, fascinating insights and meaningful connections as we highlight the thriving, aspirational culture of Suffolk - proving that great business and great living can go hand in hand.

If you're interested in being a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please just get in touch with us [email protected] or call:

Marc +44 7909 174289
Zanna +44 7915 294164.

The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk

#podcast #suffolk #business #suffolkbusiness #suffolkpodcast

Now you can own one of these beautiful Labrador Sculptures forever,  as PAWS-itivity draws to a close - the Suffolk Libraries' annual campaign to raise money for the huge amount of work they do in the community. Auction is on Thu 12 October 2023 at 7:00 pm.

In this episode we speak to  Bruce Leeke Chief Executive of Suffolk Libraries,  Alex Downing PAWS-itivity Fundraising Campaign Manager, and Marie Taylor Events Manager at the Food Museum

PAWS-itivity brought together the community as a whole from local businesses, organisations, community groups, schools, artists and library users in a celebration of all that’s great about Suffolk.

Over 40 Labrador dog sculptures and other artworks have been individually created by local artists to showcase the best of Suffolk.

Bidding with Clarke & Simpson is now live for the auction of the PAWS-itivity art sculptures.  All funds raised will support the work Suffolk Libraries do as a charity at the heart of the community, nurturing literacy, improving health and wellbeing.

You can buy your favourite labrador at the online auction at The Sale Room - just register on this link https://www.the-saleroom.com/en-gb

There are also limited tickets for the in-person fundraiser at Trinity Park on 12 October. Book now for this spectacular event or email [email protected] for more information.

YOu can say a final farewell to all the Library Labradors at the Food Museum in Stowmarket from 4 to 8 October 2023 and see which dogs you'd like to bid for in the upcoming auction.

Keep up to date by following PAWS-itivity Tails on Facebook and on Instagram.

The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk

Support the show

The Suffolk Pod Show showcases the most brilliant entrepreneurs, creatives and business leaders, connecting Suffolk’s business and cultural community in one space.

Join us for entertaining and thought-provoking conversations, fascinating insights and meaningful connections as we highlight the thriving, aspirational culture of Suffolk - proving that great business and great living can go hand in hand.

If you're interested in being a guest on The Suffolk Pod Show - please just get in touch with us [email protected] or call:

Marc +44 7909 174289
Zanna +44 7915 294164.

The Suffolk Pod Show is produced and managed by Podtalk.co.uk

#podcast #suffolk #business #suffolkbusiness #suffolkpodcast