What's Your Stori?

In this riveting episode of the What's Your Stori?, James converses with Dr. Wyn Thomas who is a historian, author, and musician from Wales. They delve deep into the history of Cwm Tryweryn and the tragic flooding that displaced a Welsh community, while exploring its profound impact on Welsh political landscape and cultural identity. Dr. Thomas also shares insights from his personal journey, including his extensive work in mental health and his passion for music and storytelling. Discover the lessons from history that shape today's Wales and the importance of preserving these stories for future generations.

Timestamps

00:00 Welcome

00:55 Introducing Wyn Thomas

02:36 A Family Holiday in North Wales

04:38 The Story of Capel Celyn

08:58 Political and Cultural Impact

12:53 Liverpool's Justification and Controversy

16:55 Protests and Artistic Expression

20:58 The Rise of Welsh Nationalism

29:53 Militant Actions and Media Attention

31:26 Overview of the Trilogy

31:32 Hands Off Wales: A Historical Perspective

32:45 John Jenkins and the Bombing Campaign

33:10 A New Dawn: Post-Industrial Wales

33:25 Welsh Natural Resources and Governance

34:43 Children's Books and Historical Education

35:06 The Joy of Writing and Music

37:21 Christian Values and Historical Lessons

38:25 The Complex Relationship Between Wales and England

41:32 Creative Inspirations and Collaborations

44:11 Defining Success and Personal Fulfilment

45:50 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

47:59 Teaching, Lecturing, and Public Engagement

In this delightful episode of What's Your Stori? podcast, we sat with Lucy Hughes, fourth-generation senior director of Joe’s Ice Cream, a century-old brand based in Swansea, Wales. Lucy shares the inspiring history of Joe's Ice Cream, from its founding by Giuseppe Cascarini in 1922 to becoming a staple in South Wales. They discuss the challenges and successes of maintaining a family business, the importance of customer experience, and exciting future plans for expansion. Tune in to hear about the unique recipe that has kept generations coming back for more and learn about Lucy’s personal journey in continuing the family legacy.

Timestamps

00:00 Welcome

00:49 Introducing Lucy and Joe's Ice Cream

01:36 The Legacy of Joe's Ice Cream03:16 A Century of Ice Cream Excellence

05:42 The Family Behind the Business

10:34 Lucy's Journey and Return to the Family Business

14:12 The Importance of Customer Satisfaction

17:40 Valuing Employees and Family Culture

19:53 The Irreplaceable Passion of Our Team

21:05 The Secret Behind Joe's Vanilla Ice Cream

23:32 Expanding Joe's Ice Cream Parlours

27:26 The Importance of Branding

34:47 Inspiration and Legacy

In this episode of What's Your Stori?, James sits down with Kathryn Devonald-Davies, a renowned solicitor and entrepreneur, who shares her inspiring journey of running DPA Law Firm. Kathryn discusses the varied nature of her day-to-day work, the importance of offering world-class legal advice, and how personal experiences have shaped her career. She also delves into lessons learned in leadership, the power of authenticity, and the value of seeing crises as opportunities. Full of practical advice for business owners, this episode is essential listening for anyone navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship.TimeStamps00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:37 Meet Kathryn Devonald-Davies: The Best Solicitor Ever01:25 A Day in the Life of a Solicitor02:09 The Importance of Welsh Language in Law04:40 Kathryn's Journey: From Accusation to Aspiration06:25 Balancing Academia and Practice11:43 Resilience and Overcoming Challenges19:00 The Power of Clothes and Support Systems21:05 Navigating the Entrepreneurial Journey21:22 Creating a Networking Hub for Entrepreneurs23:12 Building and Leading an Effective Team27:03 Empowering Young Entrepreneurs34:17 The Importance of Legal Advice for Startups36:12 Personal Reflections and Final Thoughts

In this episode of What’s Your Stori?, James sits down with Lisa Fearn, founder of Y Sied Coffee and the original Pumpkin Patch Cookery School. Lisa shares her inspiring journey from working in financial services, to raising five children, to becoming a food educator, author, TV and radio guest, and coffee shop owner in Carmarthen.We dive into the realities of running a coffee and food business in Wales, from navigating VAT challenges to supporting local suppliers, and the passion behind teaching kids (and adults!) vital cooking skills. Lisa also talks about the importance of food education, community, family traditions, and sustainability, values that drive the Y Sied brand today.If you love entrepreneurship, food, coffee culture, or inspiring business stories, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome & introduction to Lisa Fearn01:00 – Lisa’s day-to-day running Y Sied02:20 – From The Pumpkin Patch to Y Sied Cookery School04:30 – Lisa’s career shift: finance to food & family06:55 – Early entrepreneurial spirit at 1808:50 – Starting a cookery school from her own kitchen10:40 – Why pumpkins? Branding lessons learned12:25 – Teaching kids (and parents) the importance of food14:40 – Growing the business beyond the kitchen16:20 – Building credibility through books, media & festivals17:25 – Challenges of running coffee shops today19:00 – VAT struggles & thin margins in hospitality21:00 – Coffee shop vs food business – which is harder?23:10 – The importance of local sourcing & supporting suppliers26:00 – Future plans for Y Sied & new projects28:50 – Why food education will always be at the core30:00 – Family meals, connection & mental health benefits34:00 – Who inspires Lisa & whose story she’d love to hear35:40 – Where to find Lisa & Y Sied Coffee

In this episode of What's Your Stori, James sits down with Duke Al Durham, a talented spoken word poet based in South Wales. They discuss the transformative power of poetry, particularly spoken word, and its ability to provide self-therapy and expression. Duke shares his journey with OCD and Type 1 diabetes, explaining how these experiences have shaped his work and life. They also delve into the differences between page poetry and spoken word poetry, and the creative intricacies involved in Duke's writing process. Tune in to hear about Duke's work with young people, his inspirations, and his imaginative book 'Imagine We Trade Bodies with Sheep.'Timestamps00:00 Introduction00:36 Meet the Guest: Duke Al Durham01:39 Understanding Spoken Word Poetry04:01 The Art of Page vs. Stage Poetry07:20 Creative Techniques in Poetry12:44 Influences and Inspirations17:39 Musical Collaborations and Projects19:10 Balancing Passion and Profession23:31 Personal Journey and Overcoming Challenges24:59 Understanding OCD: Intrusive Thoughts and Compulsions26:44 Personal Challenges: Living with Type 1 Diabetes27:09 Using Poetry to Cope and Connect28:29 The Power of Suffering and Perseverance29:53 Raising Awareness and Breaking Stigmas34:54 Creativity as a Therapeutic Outlet38:25 Advice for Young People: Finding Passion and Expression40:09 A Conversation on Influences and Inspirations42:55 Publishing and Promoting: The Journey of a Poet45:32 Final Thoughts and Future Collaborations

In this compelling episode of What's Your Stori?, James sits down with Mari Arthur, award-winning business owner and sustainability expert. Mari shares her journey of creating Tetrim Tea Company, a Community Interest Company aimed at revitalising her hometown of Trimsaran, Wales. Delving into the development of their unique health teas, including the Rhubarb Root Tea and Lion's Mane Mushroom blends, Mari discusses the importance of local sourcing, community involvement, and sustainability. This episode offers invaluable insights into how one small business can drive significant community impact and promote local economic resilience.Timestamps00:00 Welcome 01:13 Introducing Mari Arthur and Her Business02:10 The Journey of Starting a Tea Company06:12 Community Impact and Future Plans08:36 Innovations in Tea and Mushroom Products19:09 Exploring Mushroom Drying Processes19:58 Partnering with Local Farmers21:04 Challenges in Welsh Agriculture21:44 Collaborations with Simon Wright23:37 The Importance of Local Economies25:55 Renewable Energy and Community Benefits29:27 The Future of Community Energy Projects32:20 The Significance of Buying Local36:08 Welsh Language and Technology36:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the What's Your Stori podcast, host James sits down with Cameron, a young serial entrepreneur from Wales who is building a boutique plant business, The Secret Plant House. Cameron shares his journey, starting from his first business at 16, Bug Box, selling insects, to an ambitious plant venture offering rare and exotic houseplants. They discuss the challenges of importing plants post-Brexit, the transition from hobby to profitable business, and the future expansion plans, including potential locations in Swansea and Paddington Station. Cameron also gives advice to budding entrepreneurs and emphasises the importance of buying local.Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome00:35 Introducing Cameron: The Serial Entrepreneur01:18 The Secret Plant House: A Boutique Plant Shop02:14 Cameron's First Venture: Bug Box04:50 Challenges and Successes of Bug Box08:22 A Foray into Skincare10:48 The Birth of The Secret Plant House15:47 Discussing Plant Orders and Business Updates16:13 Lessons Learned from Running Multiple Businesses17:33 Authenticity in Business19:06 Advice for Young Entrepreneurs20:01 Future Goals for Secret Plant House23:05 Expanding to New Locations23:54 Commission Work and High-Profile Clients24:45 The Origin of the Secret Plant House Name27:40 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

In this engaging episode, we sit down with Nicola Anderson, a professional makeup artist with over two decades of experience. From her training at the renowned Shep Studios and Pinewood Studios in London to setting up her own makeup studio in Carmarthen, Nicola shares her inspiring story and passion for makeup. She discusses the transformative power of makeup, her dedication to skincare education, especially for young people, and the importance of supporting local businesses. Nicola also offers insights into her daily routine, her love for educating clients, and her unique studio setup that reflects her vibrant personality.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Today's Guest: Nicola Anderson

00:50 A Day in the Life of a Makeup Artist

01:53 The Passion Behind Makeup

05:25 From London to Retail: Nicola's Journey

11:26 Creating a Haven in Carmarthen

13:23 The Importance of Skincare Education

16:50 Age-Appropriate Skincare Tips

19:00 Asian Skincare Trends

19:32 Age-Appropriate Skincare for Children

20:51 Self-Care Sundays

21:57 Skincare Tips for Kids

27:02 Nicola's Professional Journey

28:33 Supporting Local Businesses

29:55 Nicola's Inspirations and Idols

33:45 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode of What’s Your Stori?, we chat with Sarah Martin, co-founder and CEO of Hapola Sportswear, a brand designed to keep girls and women engaged in sports. Their mission is clear: to break down barriers and ensure girls and women feel comfortable and confident while playing sports. Sarah shares her journey from being a passionate hockey player to identifying a gap in the market for period protection sportswear. She discusses the challenges of starting a business from scratch, the importance of empowering women in sports, and the significance of having supportive teammates. Tune in to hear how Hapola aims to make a significant impact on women's sportswear and mental health.TimeStamps00:00 Welcome to What's Your Stori Podcast

00:47 Introducing Sarah Martin: Empowering Women in Sports

01:31 The Mission Behind Hapola Sports

02:38 Challenges Faced by Young Female Athletes

06:34 Creating Period Protection Sportswear

08:33 Launching the Business: From Idea to Reality

15:01 Future Plans and Expanding the Brand

15:59 Future Aspirations for the Brand

17:07 Lessons Learned in Business

17:25 The Importance of Research and Development

22:20 Personal Stories and Challenges

23:44 The Role of Mental Health in Sports

26:42 Inspirations and Future Goals

28:25 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

In this captivating episode of What's Your Stori?, James sits down with Dawn Lyle, a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of iCreate and 4TheRegion. Dawn shares her inspirational journey from setting up a computer graphics business in Swansea during her university days to launching a social enterprise aimed at fostering business and community collaboration in Southwest Wales. Discover how Dawn navigated challenges like the 2008 financial crisis, the power of visualisation in architecture, and the ambitious vision for a thriving and inclusive region. Timestamps00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:36 Meet the Guest: Don Lyle01:28 Don's Business Ventures: iCreate and 4TheRegion03:56 The Power of Visualisation in Business06:10 Balancing Business and Personal Life09:20 Challenges and Resilience in Business11:48 The Birth of 4TheRegion13:19 Championing Southwest Wales15:35 Challenges for Small Businesses with Local Authorities16:36 The Concept of Co-Creation18:10 Local Authorities and Placemaking Plans20:11 The Role of For the Region24:18 Lessons from Running a Business26:37 The Power of Visualisation30:03 Inspiration and Storytelling32:24 Conclusion and Call to Action