Advertise on podcast: The West Midlands Business Podcast

Neil Male, CEO of GMS Group, shares the remarkable growth of his national security business, from a £200,000 startup in 2000 to a £25 million enterprise employing nearly 600 people. Rooted in the Black Country, Neil reflects on the region’s industrial heritage, vibrant community, and the values that have shaped both him and his company. He highlights the role of mentorship, team investment, and culture in driving success, as well as his community-focused equestrian centre supporting vulnerable children. Neil’s journey is a powerful lesson in resilience, leadership, and the impact of investing in people.

Stewart Plant, Director at Zaun, reflects on the British manufacturer’s commitment to woven and welded mesh fencing systems and its deep roots in the Black Country. He shares his pride in sustaining local manufacturing, highlighting Zaun’s dedication to quality, innovation, and social value, with most of its workforce living just minutes from the factory. Stewart discusses the ingredients behind Zaun’s success - from strong teamwork and an innovative culture to the visionary legacy of founder Alastair Henman. He also addresses challenges facing UK manufacturers and emphasises open communication, empowerment, and calculated risk-taking as essential leadership principles. His passion for British industry serves as a compelling reminder of what’s possible when culture, community, and innovation align. Want to share your story? Get in touch via our website: https://info.blackcountry.actioncoach.co.uk/talktous

Dan Nash, Managing Director of Nash Glass, shares the story of his family-run commercial glazing business, thriving in the West Midlands for 43 years. From stepping into the family business with no pressure but plenty of curiosity, to carrying forward his parents’ legacy, Dan reflects on the values, culture, and people that have shaped the company’s success. He discusses the challenges of managing growth, maintaining staff morale, and creating a culture of continuous improvement. Dan also explores the power of mentorship, setting ambitious goals, and investing in support roles to streamline operations. Tune in to hear his insights on leadership, resilience, and the journey of building a business that balances both performance and people.

Steve Rose, founder of CitiStore, shares the inspiring story of launching his document storage business in 2020 during the height of the pandemic. Based in the West Midlands, Steve credits the region’s strong community spirit for shaping both his career and company culture.  Steve reflects on the challenges of growth, from acquiring and relocating a scanning company, to navigating uncertainty with resilience, and trusting his instincts. His insights on leadership, communication, and creating a positive culture offer valuable lessons for business owners building strong, people-centred organisations. Want to share your story? Get in touch via our website: https://info.blackcountry.actioncoach.co.uk/talktous

Haq Meharban, Director at Instinct Hardware, shares the remarkable story behind his West Midlands-based architectural ironmongery manufacturing business, which has grown from an 800-square-foot unit to a 68,000-square-foot facility employing 45 people. Deeply proud of the region’s industrial heritage and community spirit, he credits the West Midlands for shaping both his identity and his company’s values. Haq opens-up about the challenges of growth, from overcoming a devastating flood to adapting to sustainability and digitalisation. With projects like the rebuild of Wembley Stadium, Haq’s story is one of resilience, craftsmanship, and community pride. Want to share your story? Get in touch via our website: https://info.blackcountry.actioncoach.co.uk/talktous

Jules Mitchell, founder of The Mental Wealth Revolution, shares her journey from growing up in the Midlands to building a business that is reshaping how we view mental and emotional health. Her mission challenges the idea of “brokenness,” instead celebrating the brilliance of our brains and nervous systems.  Through her work, she empowers people to engage with their emotions rather than simply cope, helping them reclaim wholeness. Jules reflects on the challenges of scaling a business, the clarity that pressure can bring, and why honesty, vulnerability, and addressing root causes of stress are essential for lasting personal and professional growth.

Dee Kundi reveals the remarkable journey that led her from being a partner in law firms to founding Find Me a Solicitor, a pioneering legal tech platform helping people and businesses connect with the right solicitors, barristers, and professional experts.  A proud Black Country native, Dee shares how her bold leap into entrepreneurship quickly paid off, with 177 inquiries in just the first week. She opens up about the challenges of wearing multiple hats, the power of trust and clear communication, and her vision to revolutionise access to legal support through technology and innovation. Want to share your story? Get in touch via our website: https://info.blackcountry.actioncoach.co.uk/talktous

Jonathan Anglin, founder of J&C Home Services, has grown his heating and plumbing business into a thriving company in just four years, shaped by his Black Country roots and values of honesty and loyalty. Specialising in reactive repair work for insurance and facilities management clients, he credits success to strong relationships and his belief in reciprocity. His leadership style is an upside-down pyramid, focused on supporting his staff and engineers. By prioritising well-being, hiring for personality, and encouraging accountability, Jonathan has built a positive culture. Inspired by Atomic Habits, he advocates authenticity, risk-taking, and continuous improvement in business and leadership. Want to share your story? Get in touch via our website: https://info.blackcountry.actioncoach.co.uk/talktous

Mark Goode, founder of Inspired Recruitment, offers a refreshing perspective on recruitment built on over 20 years of experience in the optical industry. Deeply connected to the West Midlands, he shares how his people-first approach sets his business apart—treating candidates as individuals and building meaningful, long-term matches rather than quick placements. Mark explains how attitude, results-first thinking, and emotional intelligence have fuelled his company’s growth, especially in the post-COVID landscape where well-being now rivals salary in importance. From lessons learned during the pandemic to advice from influential mentors, he offers thoughtful, practical insights on leadership, resilience, and building strong teams. Want to share your story? Get in touch via our website: ⁠https://info.blackcountry.actioncoach.co.uk/talktous

Zaf Iqbal, founder of Pure Leasing, shares the inspiring story behind his West Midlands-based vehicle leasing company. Launched in the wake of COVID-19, Pure Leasing has grown through Zaf’s deep-rooted belief in people, community, and a strong brand built on integrity. With a team he’s worked with for over two decades, Zaf has cultivated a culture defined by shared values and trust. In this episode, he reflects on navigating industry challenges—from rising interest rates to the evolving EV market—while remaining committed to doing business the right way. His journey is one of resilience, vision, and principled leadership. Want to share your story? Get in touch via our website: https://info.blackcountry.actioncoach.co.uk/talktous

Alistair Hayward-Wright, CEO of Hayward Wright Accountancy and Advisory, shares the story of his evolving business journey and the people-first culture he’s built within his firm. With a strong focus on client relationships, staff development, and embracing new technologies, Alistair has shaped a modern, approachable accountancy practice rooted in the heart of the West Midlands. He reflects on key lessons from mentors, managing personal dynamics within his team, and why valuing your service matters. His story offers honest insight into leadership, resilience, and taking small steps toward lasting business growth. Want to share your story? Get in touch via our website: https://info.blackcountry.actioncoach.co.uk/talktous

Iain McCallister, founder of MAN Commercial Protection, has grown his Solihull-based security company into a national operation over 32 years. Iain’s breakthrough came in 1996 with a high-profile contract supporting pop group Ocean Colour Scene—an opportunity that opened doors to further work with major events and artists across the UK. Iain credits the company’s success to its dedicated team, many of whom rose from entry-level roles. Influenced by his background in security, his father’s policing career, and his experience in boxing, Iain values discipline, commitment, and continuous learning. He believes delivering on promises is essential to long-term business success, even through tough economic times. Want to share your story? Get in touch via our website: https://info.blackcountry.actioncoach.co.uk/talktous

Eman Al-Hillawi, CEO and business partner at Entec Si —a Birmingham-based business change consultancy—shares how the city’s rich culture and diversity have influenced her professional journey and helped shape the people-first values at the heart of Entec Si.   She reflects on navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, building a values-driven team, and the role of mentorship in her growth. With a focus on helping others, solving problems quickly, and staying true to their core strengths, Eman offers powerful insights into why relationships, trust, and authenticity are essential to lasting business success. Want to share your story? Get in touch via our website: https://info.blackcountry.actioncoach.co.uk/talktous

In this episode, we explore the inspiring journey of Stephen Timmins and Alex Footman, lifelong friends and founders of Stephen Alexander, a thriving consultancy based in Redditch. After 20 years in corporate roles, they launched their business to make a meaningful impact in their hometown, offering marketing, bid management, and business development services. Committed to social value, they mentor students and support community initiatives. Just nine months in, they won the West Midlands New Business/Start-Up of the Year award. They speak candidly about the rewards and challenges of scaling a business, the importance of patience and consistency, and the strength of a partnership built on trust and shared vision.

Chris Smith, founder of the Centre for the New Midlands, shares his journey from working in higher education to launching an independent think tank in 2020. Despite starting the organisation during the uncertainty of the pandemic, Chris has built a platform focused on improving housing, infrastructure, and skills across the West Midlands.    Chris credits the Centre’s success to a strong network, private sector support, and a values-driven approach that prioritises integrity and dialogue. He reflects on the lessons learned from mentors and the importance of listening, building trust, and staying true to a clear vision.  Want to share your story? Contact us at [email protected] Find out more on our website: https://blackcountry.actioncoach.co.uk