Advertise on podcast: In Conversation With... from the Devon Chamber of Commerce. Supported by Westcotts.

In something of a Christmas special, we close this season of In Conversation with… in a unique way.  As, not only is our guest the new CEO of Devon Chamber, but she will also be taking over the role of hosting this very podcast from the next season!  Paul takes Helen through her career from leaving university with plans to be an archaeologist to tackling tech roles in telecommunications and broadband.  But what are Helen’s plans for Devon Chamber?  What are her hopes for Devon’s businesses?  And how will she approach the very important role of hosting this podcast?  Find out here!  And yes, this must be a Christmas special, because there is a mention of donkeys… Supported by Westcotts - Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors Produced by Fresh Air Studios, Video Podcast Studios in Plymouth

In 2024, Rachel Gilmour became the Lib Dem MP for Tiverton and Minehead.  Rachel discusses the hopes she has and the challenges she faces with regards to her constituency, the people, the local businesses and in particular the farmers.  She also tells us about her fascinating link to a rugby team and to Margaret Thatcher. From the Devon Chamber of Commerce, kindly supported by Westcotts Chartered Accountant and Business Advisors Produced by Fresh Air Studios, Podcast Studios in Devon

In 2024, Fred Thomas became the Labour MP for Plymouth Moor View.  He discusses his transition from Royal Marine to politician, his hopes for the region’s businesses, skills development and how he’s already making a difference at Derriford Hospital.  We also discover how Fred ended up learning to speak Arabic and why he thinks the on-boarding of new MPs needs rethinking. In association with Westcotts, chartered accountants and business advisors. Produced by Fresh Air Studios, Podcast and ADR Studios in Devon

In 2024, Steve Darling became the Liberal Democrat MP for Torbay, following 30 years in local politics as a councillor, then council leader. He discusses his hopes and goals for Torbay and the wider region, with regards to business, hospitality, tourism, education and much more. He also talks about the challenges he faces with the genetic eye condition – Stargardt’s – how his guide dog, Jennie, is more popular than him and his love of kayaking and swimming in Torbay’s waters. In association with Westcotts, chartered accountants and business advisors. Produced by Fresh Air Studios, Podcast Production in Devon.

In 2024, Caroline Voaden made history by becoming South Devon’s first Lib Dem MP, following a century of Conservative representation. In this interview, Caroline talks to Paul about a wide range of subjects, including what her hopes are for local businesses across South Devon and the wider county, as well as her experience of being widowed at a young age and how she ended up interviewing a global rock music icon in Sarajevo. Supported by Westcotts, chartered accountants and business advisers. Produced by Fresh Air Studios, voiceover studios serving Devon and Cornwall.

Four years ago, when he first appeared on In Conversation with… Luke Pollard MP was in opposition. Now, his party is in government, and he is Armed Forces Minister. Luke discusses how this role has affected his life, as well as what his hopes are for businesses and communities in Plymouth and how Devon’s MPs can work together for the good of the County. Supported by Westcotts - Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers Produced by Fresh Air Studios, Podcast studios for Devon & Cornwall 

Westbank helps tens of thousands of people, carers and their communities all over the South-West of the UK.  Sarah tells us the challenges of running a charity that works alongside NHS services, what they do to support communities and her past experiences of working with Deborah Meaden.  We also discover how her love of country music ruined her plan to speak fluent Spanish. In association with Westcotts, from the Devon Chamber of Commerce. Produced by Fresh Air Studios, Podcast Studios in the South West

In this special episode, the Chair of British Chambers of Commerce, Sarah Howard MBE tells Paul Philpott about her unique journey from her first job, through to setting up her own business and joining the Chamber, which eventually took her to where she is now. Along the way there are personal and professional experiences that have shaped her approach to work and to life. But why didn’t she pursue her ambition to become an opera singer? Paul finds out… Kindly supported by Westcotts Produced by Fresh Air Studios, Seven podcast and video studios in Devon.

Paul Philpott, Vice Chair of the Plymouth and Director of Devon Chamber of Commerce, talks to Professor Claire Taylor about her journey in education, from teaching at Primary level to management and governance, and what brought her to Plymouth. She shares Marjon’s exciting plans for the future, how the University is making a difference on a national & even international level, and why inclusion is such an important part of their student and learning community. Claire talks about the financial impact Plymouth’s three universities have on the city and the importance of working more with businesses and organisations to ensure students have the skills they need for employment now and in the future. Also in this episode, the 60 Seconds Charity Pitch spotlight falls on YMCA Plymouth. In association with Westcotts. Produced by Fresh Air Studios, podcast production consultancy.

We continue our fifth season with two special guests.  Ava & Caitlin both joined Plymouth Argyle from Reading.  They discuss having to start out by joining boys’ teams, their training and fitness regimes, dealing with injuries, playing abroad and who they look up to in the game.  They also discuss their interests outside of the hectic world of professional sport.  Also in this episode, the 60 Seconds Charity Pitch spotlight falls on the Primrose Foundation. With thanks to Westcotts. Brought to you by the Devon Chamber of Commerce, podcast production and studios at Fresh Air Studios in Devon.

We kick off season 5 with a very special guest, Devon’s very own rock star, Chris Wood – AKA Woody from Bastille.  He talks about his journey from being a Plymouth school boy to becoming the drummer of a globally successful rock band.  He also discusses avoiding the pitfalls of fame, remaining grounded and his love of Plymouth Argyle.  But is it too late for Stuart to also become a rock ‘n’ roll star…?  Also in this episode, the 60 Seconds Charity Pitch spotlight falls on Plymouth Hub. Supported by Westcotts. Produced by Fresh Air Studios, podcast studios in Devon with full podcast production services.

Kindly note: This episode contains references to violence, sexual assaults and drug abuse. Stuart meets Jenny Adjene, founder of Gifted Women and Raina Dunne, who came to Gifted Women following a series of harrowing events that resulted in her spending time in prison.  They discuss how Gifted Women came about, its aims and what local businesses can do to help and hopefully change lives.  Also in this episode, Shreya Kallingal from the Family Law Company by Hartnell & Chanot faces Stuart Elford’s Chamber of Secrets, whilst the 60 Seconds Charity Pitch spotlight falls on Jeremiah’s Journey. Produced by Fresh Air Studios, Video and Audio studios. Supported by Westcotts.

Shreya has a remarkable career history with law experience in India and in the UK.  She outlines the differences and similarities practicing law in both countries.  She also discusses everything from dancing to appearing on reality TV.  Also in this episode, Hannah Shead of Trevi faces Stuart Elford’s Chamber of Secrets, whilst the 60 Seconds Charity Pitch spotlight falls on Hearts Together. Brought to you by Westcotts Produced by Fresh Air Studios, Podcast facilities in Devon

In this episode Stuart finds out all about women’s charity, Trevi, its important work in the City of Plymouth and why Hannah will be standing down as CEO.  We also find out where making candles and dating a famous comedian come into Hannah’s varied life and career.  Also in this episode, Lord Lieutenant, David Furston faces Stuart Elford’s Chamber of Secrets, whilst the 60 Seconds Charity Pitch spotlight falls on Food Plymouth. With thanks to Westcotts, and produced by Fresh Air Studios, TV and Podcast Studios in the South West

In this special episode, the Chamber’s Vice Chair & Director, Paul Philpott presents a conversation that looks into the recent merger of the Plymouth and the Exeter Chambers.  Joining him are: Richard Stevens (Chair), Steve Gates (Vice Chair), Richard Marsh (Deputy CEO) and Stuart Elford (CEO).  Together they discuss why the merger took place, how it happened and what the benefits of the merger are for both the Chamber and its members. Supported by Westcotts, and produced by Fresh Air Studios, Devon podcast studios.