3 JUL 2024 · Join us for an inspiring episode featuring Josh Littlejohn, a leading social entrepreneur and founder of Social Bite—a pioneering social enterprise on a mission to eradicate homelessness in Scotland.  At just 35 years old, Josh has raised over £25 million for charity and homelessness causes, earning prestigious accolades including an MBE from the Queen and recognition on the Debrett’s list of 500 most influential people in the UK.  In this episode, discover the origins of social bite, finding a rewarding career and procuring some unbelievable guests for his various events. Don't miss this episode filled with brilliant and inspiring stories.

19 JUN 2024 · Join us for an engaging episode of Edinburgh Business Stories with Gordon Beaton, Director at 56three.  Gordon, who joined the practice in 2005, brings over 20 years of professional experience working in various sectors throughout the UK and Ireland. Known for his strong design skills and exceptional leadership, Gordon has a wealth of insights to share. In this episode, Gordon discusses The Importance of Real-World Experience, The Origin of 56three, Harmless Mischief in the Office and Making Some Mistakes. Gordon's journey and insights offer valuable lessons on customer engagement, brand identity, workplace culture, and learning from mistakes. Don't miss this episode filled with practical wisdom and entertaining stories.

5 JUN 2024 · Join us for an enlightening conversation with Malcolm McPherson, Chairman of Hibernian FC and Consultant at Addleshaw Goddard, on the latest episode of Edinburgh Business Stories! Malcolm McPherson's remarkable journey in the legal and business world offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and professionals alike. Qualified as a solicitor in 1977, Malcolm's rapid rise to partner by 1979 showcases his exceptional potential and dedication. Discover how Malcolm's early contributions to building a successful conveyancing practice positioned him for leadership at just 28 years old. In this episode, Malcolm shares captivating stories and insights, including: His early career advancements, the importance of building strong relationships and networking and reflect on the legacy of Stephen Dunn, a great friend of Malcolm's, whose genuine and kind leadership left a lasting impact on Hibernian FC.

22 MAY 2024 · On this episode of Edinburgh Business Stories hosts, Alex Richards and Alan Smith, sit down with Chris Tiso, CEO of the Tiso Group, for a brilliant chat! With a distinguished career spanning over three decades, Chris Tiso has been at the helm of Tiso Group since 1992, overseeing retail operations, shaping strategic direction, and driving growth. Under his leadership, Tiso Group has seen remarkable expansion and strategic acquisitions, including Alpine Bikes in 2006, George Fisher in 2007, and Blues Ski in 2011. In this episode, Chris shares invaluable insights gleaned from his extensive journey in business, offering wisdom on strategy, growth, and leadership. Join us as we delve into the entrepreneurial mind of Chris Tiso and uncover the secrets to his success.

8 MAY 2024 · Join us for an insightful conversation with Daniel Hill, Owner and Game Designer at Escape and Noughts & Coffees, on the latest episode of Edinburgh Business Stories! With over a decade of experience in the industry, Daniel is the mastermind behind Escape. Under his leadership, Escape has grown to become the largest operator in the UK and Ireland, boasting 76 escape rooms worldwide.  In this episode, Daniel shares insights into the importance of laying a solid foundation for success, managing stress effectively, and fostering collaboration within the industry. Dive into discussions about innovative business models and the integration of Board Game Cafes into Escape's portfolio.

24 APR 2024 · Join us for an insightful conversation with Colin McAndrew, Managing Director of Medusa Hairdressing, on the latest episode of Edinburgh Business Stories! With over 30 years of experience in the hairdressing industry, Colin brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the table. From owning and managing six exceptional salons in Edinburgh to serving as a distinguished Wella Creative Artist and board member at the Fellowship of British Hairdressing, Colin's journey is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode, Colin shares his insights on the importance of laying the right foundation for success, managing stress effectively, and fostering collaboration within the salon industry. He introduces the innovative 'Brandchise' model, emphasising mutual growth and support among salon owners.

10 APR 2024 · Kirsty Allan, Director of City Access Scaffolding, joins Alex and Alan on this week's episode of Edinburgh Business Stories! Kirsty has helped City Access Scaffolding grow by over 1000% from year one to year four and continues to execute her growth strategy as we arrive in our 9th year of trading. Kirsty takes pride in thinking outside the box and has the confidence to execute a growth strategy in a new industry. Kirsty shares her journey through the entrepreneurial spark, navigating a male-dominated industry, embracing her chaotic personality, and learning from competitors. Join us as Kirsty's experiences shed light on the triumphs and challenges of entrepreneurship. Don't miss out—subscribe now for more inspiring episodes!

27 MAR 2024 · Steven Smith-Hay, co-founder of Vault City Brewing, joins Alex and Alan on this week's episode of Edinburgh Business Stories! In 2018, Smith-Hay started on a journey to create remarkable sour beers using simple ingredients and the magic of fermentation in his very own kitchen. As a result of his passion and dedication, he proudly became one of the select few to have an HMRC-registered excise warehouse right in the spare bedroom of his tiny two-bedroom flat! Now Steven has his beer on offer in the biggest UK supermarkets.  In this insightful episode, Steven shares stories about the start of his brewing operations, the issues they faced, how sour beer propelled their business and even how they got beer onto the shelves at a major UK supermarket! 

13 MAR 2024 · David Wither, Chairman of the Montpeliers group, joins Alex and Alan on this week's episode of Edinburgh Business Stories! Montpeliers Limited was created in 1992 and is a bar and restaurant group in Scotland. It is known for providing high-quality service throughout the UK. Montpeliers has eight bars located in Edinburgh's city centre, where they serve premium food and drinks. The group has won numerous awards over the years for its excellent service, quality, and operational expertise within the industry. During the episode, David shares stories about the success of the Montpelier group, the values and standards that have led to their success and even some of the celebrities he has had the pleasure of meeting.

28 FEB 2024 · Ian Stirling, the Founder and Co-CEO of Muckle Brig Ltd, is featuring in this week's episode of Edinburgh Business Stories alongside Alex and Alan. Ian established Muckle Brig, a Scottish spirits and wine producer, in 2014. The company has three significant brands, namely The Leith Distillery, Lind & Lime Gin, and The Leith export company. During the episode, Ian shares stories about how he came up with the idea for the company, the inspiration behind some of Muckle Brig's brands, and the workings of the drinks industry.