UMicast

#038 Alessandro Di Stefano on demystifying AI for SMEs

Digital transformation is rapidly evolving and for many SMEs, it can be difficult to Navigate. Alessandro Di Stefano, Senior Lecturer in Computer Science at Teesside University, breaks down the practical applications of AI and data-driven tools, giving insight into actionable strategies businesses can use to stay in the game.

#037 Charlotte Nichols on PRfect ways to find new customers

Nobody can do business with you if they don’t know you exist. Charlotte Nichols, Managing Director of Harvey & Hugo, explains practical public relations (PR) strategies that can enhance your visibility, establish trust and position your brand as the go-to-choice in your industry.

#036 Jessica Williams on the business journey of Just Williams

With a decade in business, Jessica Williams, Founder/Managing Director of Just Williams, has a firm grip on the wheel, being able to pursue a PhD and run 13 marathons on the side. But this sales and marketing B Corp wasn’t built overnight. Jessica reflects on her business journey and shares tips for other likeminded sales-people looking to grow.

#035 UMi speaks to Mo Abassi about sustainable workplace wins

Mo Abassi, Senior Sustainability Engineer at Decerna, discusses how individual behaviours can play a key part in creating a sustainable workplace. Whilst new technologies and policies can make a big difference, Mo believes their Sustainable Workplace Wins toolkit can encourage people to adopt small but significant new behaviours, sharing positive messaging, advice and practical activities.

#034 UMi speaks to Steve Erdal about growing an AI-enabled, human-led business

With a background in Corpus Linguistics and a keen interest in Scottish mythology, Steve Erdal found his niche in AI-enabled customer feedback analysis. The Co-Founder and Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) of Wordnerds shares how the company has navigated proof of concept, seed funding and scaling through one of the most challenging times in business history.

#033 UMi speaks to Richard Bearman about what support is available when starting a business.

Richard Bearman is the Managing Director of British Business Bank and overseer of the Start-Up Loans Programme which aims to help start-up businesses across the UK get access to funding and support. In this conversation he shares details of the funding and support available to new businesses, as well as the value of mentorship from industry experts.

#032 UMi speaks to Jim Holland about making social and environmental impact simple and affordable

Jim Holland is the CEO and Co-Founder of Carma, a business which partners with veterans and service leavers to plant trees in the UK. After serving in the Royal Navy for 13 years, followed by 16 years in large corporations, Jim was moved to create Carma to support fellow veterans while making a positive impact on the environment. In this conversation, Jim shares key lessons and personal insights from his journey to offering customers social impact from the palm of their hand. 

#031 UMi speaks to Steve Pugh about being an effective leader

Steve Pugh is a Chartered Mechanical Engineer and Management Consultant, author, GB basketball player, and Founder of social impact start-up Roadmap MBA. With more than 20 years’ learning and board-level experience leading organisations through stock market floatation, recession and the pandemic, Steve is passionate about making business education more accessible for all. In this conversation, he shares how authentic and transparent leadership can positively impact people’s lives, and the importance of drawing on support to accelerate your learning.    

#030 UMi speaks to Kat Sykes about how divergent thinking powers change

Kat Sykes has been described by clients as the Mary Poppins of Business Change. As the Founder of GameChanging Outcomes Ltd, Kat has drawn on her varied career as a primary school teacher, construction project manager and digital change manager to create a completely new type of service that encompasses the best of all worlds. In this conversation, she explains why it’s important to understand people’s ‘real KPIs’ in business, how play can encourage creativity and break down barriers to change in organisations, and the work she’s doing with Durham University on supporting entrepreneurs’ self-worth. 

#029 UMi speaks to Becca Brighty about neurodiversity and how to inspire confidence in your business.

Listen to this episode to learn how you can improve your self-awareness and understanding of yourself and colleagues, and ultimately create a more confident and resilient you/workforce.

#028 UMi speaks to Ian Kinnery about running a business without it becoming overwhelming

Ian Kinnery, a multi-accredited business coach, has made it his mission to help entrepreneurs experience what he calls ‘true entrepreneurial freedom’ through a mixture of industry techniques and personal experience. Listen to this episode to hear how you can achieve your goals, grow you business and become a great leader, all whilst maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

#027 UMi speaks to the Department for Business and Trade about exporting in the Northern Powerhouse

Amanda Rowan, International Trade Advisor and Caroline Wilson, Strategic Partnership Manager from the Department for Business and Trade delve deep into the exciting world of exporting within the Northern Powerhouse region. The Northern Powerhouse, renowned for its economic vibrancy, encompasses a network of dynamic cities and regions, boasting a diverse range of industries and resources. We shed light on the key aspects of exporting and how businesses can leverage the unique advantages offered by the Northern Powerhouse. Exploring the various trade opportunities available to entrepreneurs and established companies alike, showcasing success stories of businesses that have thrived through international expansion from this thriving economic hub.