Really Good Conversations

What if you could ask anyone, dead or alive, one question? At the end of each podcast episode, we ask our guests: "If you could ask any person, dead or alive, a question, who would it be, and what would you ask them?" In 2024, we welcomed so many inspiring and interesting people to Really Good Conversations. For this special episode, we’ve compiled the fascinating answers from every guest this year. From historical icons to modern-day legends, discover who they’d choose and the burning questions they’d ask. This episode offers a thought-provoking reflection on curiosity, inspiration, and the power of great questions. Who would you choose? Thank you for listening throughout 2024 – we look forward to bringing you more amazing guests in 2025!   2024 Guests include:  Dr Delia McCabe Lucy Hitchcock Bethany Burns Bowman  Tim Engelbrecht Charlotte Walsh Ned Walker Hermione Olivia  Jem Fuller Lisa Hollinshead Tashi Dorjee Shannah Kennedy Rebecca Saunders Peter Anthony Melissa Browne Stacey McNeil Michele Ferron Georgie Davies Sue Atkins Hannah Springham Sarah Ward Genevieve Sweeney

Join Amy in this inspiring episode of the Really Good Conversations as she chats with British knitwear designer Genevieve Sweeney. Genevieve shares how her passion for knitting began at age five, her mission to preserve UK manufacturing, and the challenges of balancing a family and growing business. Learn about her commitment to craftsmanship, creating ethical collections, and the lessons she's learned from grassroots growth to building a thriving brand. We discuss:  Genevieve's passion for knitting and interest in preserving a dying craftmanship  How her experiences working with global fashion brands inspired her to do things differently  Staying true to her own values; even when it means going against industry norms  Why sustainability and ethical production are central to Genevieve’s business model Balancing a young family whilst building a business  The future of knitwear production and how she strives to make a positive impact   A must-listen for anyone passionate about sustainability, creativity, and small business innovation.   Visit Genevieve Sweeney - https://www.genevievesweeney.com/

Join Amy as she chats with Sarah Ward, CEO of the Giftware Association and a powerhouse in the gift and home industry. Sarah shares her inspiring journey, from her early retail roles as a schoolgirl to leading the UK's largest trade body.  Together, they delve into the vital role of the Giftware Association in supporting businesses, the often-underrated skills gained in retail, and how small businesses can prepare for international trade with confidence. Sarah also reveals why empowering women in business has become important for her and shares invaluable advice for small businesses, highlighting the magic of collaboration and her enduring passion for people and products. Whether you're in business, have a product, or are simply curious about the world of trade, this episode is packed with actionable insights.   Key topics of discussed: Sarah’s personal journey in retail and leadership  The role of the Giftware Association  Valuing retail and industry skills: building successful careers and businesses Preparing for International Trade Empowering women in business  The magics of collaboration and building strong business relationships     Giftware Association - www.giftwareassociation.org Sarah Ward LinkedIn

When Covid-19 hit, the hospitality industry had to pivot, with many adopting at-home dining options. Award-winning Norwich restaurant Farmyard took on this challenge, determined to ensure their dishes tasted as good at home as in their Michelin-listed restaurant. They transformed their best offerings into high-quality frozen meals for home enjoyment. Fast forward to 2024: Husband and wife duo Hannah and Andrew made the tough decision to close their restaurant of 7 years fully and focus on Farmyard Frozen. In this episode of Really Good Conversations, Hannah shares their journey of redefining frozen food with restaurant-quality meals, navigating challenges, the creative dynamics of working with her husband, and Farmyard’s exciting future plans.   Pivoting in a Pandemic: How Farmyard shifted from fine dining to frozen meals. Quality Standards: The challenges of ensuring restaurant-quality food at home. Creative Dynamics: Insights into running a business as a husband-wife team. Lessons Learned: Overcoming misconceptions about frozen food. Future Plans: Farmyard’s vision to make fine dining frozen a household name.   Tune in for an inspiring journey of food innovation and making tough decisions in business.    Check out Farmyard Frozen at:  https://farmyardfrozen.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farmyard_frozen/