RedCircle VERIFY_TOKEN_f9fbf611-8b45-4b0b-94c8-c1d31e4555d7 -- Rendered At Fri, 18 Sep 2026 19:28:03 +0000 About Basingstoke https://redcircle.com/shows/about-basingstoke en-US Communicast Ltd. Communicast Ltd About Basingstoke is the podcast network for Basingstoke, UK. On this channel we'll share our main shows on topics including Business, Community, Wellbeing, Home & Family, and Leisure. You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at aboutbasingstoke.com/live ( http://aboutbasingstoke.com/live ) or ask Alexa to "Launch About Basingstoke." *HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR* We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at *incuhive.co.uk* ( http://incuhive.co.uk/ ) and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke. *BE PART OF IT* We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact ( http://aboutbasingstoke.com/contact ) *MESSAGE US* *Send us a WhatsApp* ( http://aboutbasingstoke.com/whatsapp ) - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show! f9fbf611-8b45-4b0b-94c8-c1d31e4555d7 About Basingstoke is the podcast network for Basingstoke, UK. On this channel we'll share our main shows on topics including Business, Community, Wellbeing, Home & Family, and Leisure.

You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at aboutbasingstoke.com/live or ask Alexa to "Launch About Basingstoke."

HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.

BE PART OF IT

We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact

MESSAGE US

Send us a WhatsApp - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!

]]> episodic no Communicast Ltd podcast@aboutbasingstoke.com false full EXPERT NETWORK: Marketing Fundamentals & Local Connections with Lou Eddy EXPERT NETWORK: Marketing Fundamentals & Local Connections with Lou Eddy Communicast Ltd In this episode from Basingstoke’s Expert Network, Steve Randall speaks with Lou Eddy, Branch Director at Activ Marketing Basingstoke.

Lou shares insights from her 20+ years in the marketing industry, tracing her journey from recruitment to running her own local franchise. She breaks down why the fundamental rules of marketing haven't changed, how small businesses can cut through the noise of shiny new digital tools, and why local relationships remain your most powerful growth driver.

Key Topics Covered:

  • Lou's 20-Year Journey: Transitioning from recruitment and CIM training to managing global corporate campaigns, startups, and local marketing.
  • Marketing Fundamentals vs. Modern Tools: Why clear strategy, messaging, and knowing your audience matter more than chasing every new software or AI tool.
  • Overcoming Bandwidth Restrictions: Practical advice for small business owners juggling operations, finance, and marketing simultaneously.
  • The Power of Local Networking: Why focusing on local community relationships, referrals, and collaboration often beats targeting a global market.
  • Personal Brand to Rebrand: The strategy behind evolving her business identity into Activ Marketing Basingstoke.

 

Guest & Show Resources:

]]> <p>In this episode from Basingstoke’s Expert Network, Steve Randall speaks with Lou Eddy, Branch Director at Activ Marketing Basingstoke.</p><p>Lou shares insights from her 20+ years in the marketing industry, tracing her journey from recruitment to running her own local franchise. She breaks down why the fundamental rules of marketing haven&#39;t changed, how small businesses can cut through the noise of shiny new digital tools, and why local relationships remain your most powerful growth driver.</p><p><strong>Key Topics Covered:</strong></p><ul><li>Lou&#39;s 20-Year Journey: Transitioning from recruitment and CIM training to managing global corporate campaigns, startups, and local marketing.</li><li>Marketing Fundamentals vs. Modern Tools: Why clear strategy, messaging, and knowing your audience matter more than chasing every new software or AI tool.</li><li>Overcoming Bandwidth Restrictions: Practical advice for small business owners juggling operations, finance, and marketing simultaneously.</li><li>The Power of Local Networking: Why focusing on local community relationships, referrals, and collaboration often beats targeting a global market.</li><li>Personal Brand to Rebrand: The strategy behind evolving her business identity into Activ Marketing Basingstoke.</li></ul><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>Guest &amp; Show Resources:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Guest: Lou Eddy – Branch Director, Activ Marketing Basingstoke</strong></li><li><strong>Website: </strong><a href="https://www.activmarketingbasingstoke.co.uk/" rel="nofollow"><strong>Activ Marketing Basingstoke</strong></a></li></ul> 79d6131e-9a5b-493a-a442-8715495c46bb https://aboutbasingstoke.com/experts Thu, 10 Sep 2026 04:04:07 +0000 653 false full YOU ARE NOT ALONE - Doomscrolling and Comparison YOU ARE NOT ALONE - Doomscrolling and Comparison Communicast Ltd In this episode, host Marie explores the subtle ways daily digital habits, specifically doomscrolling and online comparison, impact our mental well-being.

Drawing insights from TJ Power’s The DOSE Effect, she breaks down the difference between cheap "fast dopamine" hits from our phones and the slower, more fulfilling activities that genuinely nurture us. The episode also highlights practical, local ways to disconnect, featuring an interview with Kirsty from the charity Sport in Mind, along with details on inclusive fitness classes in Basingstoke.

Key Takeaways

  • Comparison is an Unfair Game: Comparing our daily real life to someone else’s curated highlights online creates a moving finish line that steals our joy.
  • Fast vs. Slow Dopamine: Digital notifications provide instant, fleeting dopamine hits, whereas slower, effort-based pursuits (like reading or walking) leave us genuinely satisfied.
  • Attention is a Finite Resource: Just like money or time, our attention is limited; we need to decide whether to invest it in meaningful experiences or hand it over to algorithms.
  • Scrolling as Avoidance: We often reach for our devices to escape boredom, loneliness, or difficult emotions, only to end up feeling more drained.
  • Small Steps to Disconnect: Engaging in intentional "slow dopamine" hobbies for just 30 minutes can help reset our brain's reward system and restore presence.


Bulleted Outline

  • 00:00 – Introduction: Marie introduces the topic of digital habits and asks listeners to reflect on their daily screen time.
  • 01:10 – The Trap of Doomscrolling & Comparison: Exploring how morning news overload and highlight-reel comparisons impact mood.
  • 03:15 – The Science of Dopamine: Discussing TJ Power’s The DOSE Effect and the shift from effort-based rewards to quick digital fixes.
  • 05:00 – Reclaiming Attention: Why being present matters and how mindless scrolling disconnects us from life's simple joys.
  • 06:30 – Guest Segment (Sport in Mind): Kirsty shares how physical activity and community programs support mental health.
  • 09:10 – Local Spotlight: Information on Inclusive Champions fitness classes at Basingstoke Aquadrome.
  • 10:20 – Weekly Challenge: A practical 30-minute "slow dopamine" hobby challenge to replace screen time.
  • 12:00 – Outro: Final thoughts on setting boundaries and a preview of the next episode on movement and emotional regulation.


About Basingstoke is supported by IncuHive.

]]> <p>In this episode, host Marie explores the subtle ways daily digital habits, specifically doomscrolling and online comparison, impact our mental well-being.</p><p>Drawing insights from TJ Power’s <em>The DOSE Effect</em>, she breaks down the difference between cheap &#34;fast dopamine&#34; hits from our phones and the slower, more fulfilling activities that genuinely nurture us. The episode also highlights practical, local ways to disconnect, featuring an <strong>interview with Kirsty from the charity Sport in Mind</strong>, along with details on inclusive fitness classes in Basingstoke.</p><p><strong>Key Takeaways</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Comparison is an Unfair Game:</strong> Comparing our daily real life to someone else’s curated highlights online creates a moving finish line that steals our joy.</li><li><strong>Fast vs. Slow Dopamine:</strong> Digital notifications provide instant, fleeting dopamine hits, whereas slower, effort-based pursuits (like reading or walking) leave us genuinely satisfied.</li><li><strong>Attention is a Finite Resource:</strong> Just like money or time, our attention is limited; we need to decide whether to invest it in meaningful experiences or hand it over to algorithms.</li><li><strong>Scrolling as Avoidance:</strong> We often reach for our devices to escape boredom, loneliness, or difficult emotions, only to end up feeling more drained.</li><li><strong>Small Steps to Disconnect:</strong> Engaging in intentional &#34;slow dopamine&#34; hobbies for just 30 minutes can help reset our brain&#39;s reward system and restore presence.</li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong>Bulleted Outline</strong></p><ul><li><strong>00:00 – Introduction:</strong> Marie introduces the topic of digital habits and asks listeners to reflect on their daily screen time.</li><li><strong>01:10 – The Trap of Doomscrolling &amp; Comparison:</strong> Exploring how morning news overload and highlight-reel comparisons impact mood.</li><li><strong>03:15 – The Science of Dopamine:</strong> Discussing TJ Power’s <em>The DOSE Effect</em> and the shift from effort-based rewards to quick digital fixes.</li><li><strong>05:00 – Reclaiming Attention:</strong> Why being present matters and how mindless scrolling disconnects us from life&#39;s simple joys.</li><li><strong>06:30 – Guest Segment (Sport in Mind):</strong> Kirsty shares how physical activity and community programs support mental health.</li><li><strong>09:10 – Local Spotlight:</strong> Information on Inclusive Champions fitness classes at Basingstoke Aquadrome.</li><li><strong>10:20 – Weekly Challenge:</strong> A practical 30-minute &#34;slow dopamine&#34; hobby challenge to replace screen time.</li><li><strong>12:00 – Outro:</strong> Final thoughts on setting boundaries and a preview of the next episode on movement and emotional regulation.</li></ul><p><br></p><p><span>About Basingstoke is supported by </span><a href="https://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">IncuHive</a><span>.</span></p> 69fa1967-860c-40ee-b178-745666b5eab8 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Wed, 09 Sep 2026 08:05:04 +0000 1197 false full SPEAKING SPACES - What Self Employment Really Feels Like SPEAKING SPACES - What Self Employment Really Feels Like Communicast Ltd Host Louise Chandler-Rutt shares a short, insightful "Speaking Space" check-in tailored for small business owners, solopreneurs, and experts. She breaks down the common personal and mental hurdles of running your own business and offers actionable advice on how to navigate them.

Key Topics Discussed:

  • The Inability to Switch Off: Why being your own boss often leads to working weekends, late nights, and constantly thinking about business ideas—even during daily chores.
  • The Missing Safety Net: Navigating the lack of corporate perks like paid sick leave, annual leave, and employer pensions, plus the importance of setting up private pensions and dedicated time off.
  • Decision-Making Pressure: Dealing with the weight of being solely responsible for every choice, and why finding a mentor or trusted sounding board is vital to combat self-doubt.


Connect with Louise:


This podcast is produced by Soundbite Media.

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About Basingstoke is supported by IncuHive.

]]> <p>Host Louise Chandler-Rutt shares a short, insightful &#34;Speaking Space&#34; check-in tailored for small business owners, solopreneurs, and experts. She breaks down the common personal and mental hurdles of running your own business and offers actionable advice on how to navigate them.</p><p><strong>Key Topics Discussed:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>The Inability to Switch Off:</strong> Why being your own boss often leads to working weekends, late nights, and constantly thinking about business ideas—even during daily chores.</li><li><strong>The Missing Safety Net:</strong> Navigating the lack of corporate perks like paid sick leave, annual leave, and employer pensions, plus the importance of setting up private pensions and dedicated time off.</li><li><strong>Decision-Making Pressure:</strong> Dealing with the weight of being solely responsible for every choice, and why finding a mentor or trusted sounding board is vital to combat self-doubt.</li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong>Connect with Louise:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Website:</strong> <a href="https://soundbitemedia.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">soundbitemedia.co.uk</a></li></ul><p><br></p><p>This podcast is produced by Soundbite Media.</p><p>--</p><p>About Basingstoke is supported by<a href="https://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow"> IncuHive.</a></p> 5dd3b1f0-bfa4-4eab-86aa-19589a76dd21 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Thu, 27 Aug 2026 04:00:23 +0000 379 false full CLOKE COOKS - Feeding the "Pint-Sized Dictators" (aka kids!) CLOKE COOKS - Feeding the "Pint-Sized Dictators" (aka kids!) Communicast Ltd In this episode of Cloke Cooks, Chris Cloke is joined by guest Michelle Brewer to discuss the realities of feeding children, handling fussy eaters, and navigating modern food culture in Basingstoke.

Key Topics Discussed:

  • The Fussy Eater Phenomenon: Why children transition from eating fresh purees or baby-led weaning foods to demanding plain chicken nuggets and processed snacks.
  • Modern Food Culture vs. Nostalgia: How today's kids navigate fancy coffee shop drinks (like dragon fruit refreshers) compared to past generations drinking from garden hoses!
  • The Cost of Healthy Food: The rising expenses of fresh fruit, exotic fruit tracking spreadsheets, and the accessibility of cheap, ultra-processed options.
  • Connecting Kids to Food: The importance of teaching children where their food comes from through pick-your-own farms, local produce, and transparent conversations.


Cloke Cooks is produced by Chris Cloke and brought to you by ProClean Direct.

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About Basingstoke is Basingstoke's Podcast Network supported by IncuHive, now open at Houndmills.

]]> <p>In this episode of Cloke Cooks, Chris Cloke is joined by guest Michelle Brewer to discuss the realities of feeding children, handling fussy eaters, and navigating modern food culture in Basingstoke.</p><p><strong>Key Topics Discussed:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>The Fussy Eater Phenomenon:</strong> Why children transition from eating fresh purees or baby-led weaning foods to demanding plain chicken nuggets and processed snacks.</li><li><strong>Modern Food Culture vs. Nostalgia:</strong> How today&#39;s kids navigate fancy coffee shop drinks (like dragon fruit refreshers) compared to past generations drinking from garden hoses!</li><li><strong>The Cost of Healthy Food:</strong> The rising expenses of fresh fruit, exotic fruit tracking spreadsheets, and the accessibility of cheap, ultra-processed options.</li><li><strong>Connecting Kids to Food:</strong> The importance of teaching children where their food comes from through pick-your-own farms, local produce, and transparent conversations.</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Cloke Cooks is produced by Chris Cloke and brought to you by <a href="https://www.procleandirect.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">ProClean Direct.</a></p><p>--</p><p>About Basingstoke is Basingstoke&#39;s Podcast Network supported by <a href="https://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">IncuHive</a>, now open at Houndmills.</p> 89d13636-6926-4f6a-a359-a2c66a710ba3 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Sat, 22 Aug 2026 04:00:08 +0000 880 false full CLOKE COOKS - The George & Dragon, Wolverton CLOKE COOKS - The George & Dragon, Wolverton Communicast Ltd In this episode of Cloke Cooks, Chris Cloke is joined by Lauren and Sharona from The George & Dragon down in Wolverton near Tadley! They dive into the importance of supporting local British pub culture, their seasonal, locally sourced menu, and all the details on their upcoming bank holiday charity event: DragonFest.

Key Takeaways & Topics Covered:


  • DragonFest Details:
  • Date & Time: August 30th | 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
  • Cause: Charity music event raising funds for Brain Tumour Research.
  • Lineup: About 10 bands lined up across main stages throughout the day.
  • Outdoor Bar: Cold kegs on tap including Rattler Cider, Hawkstone, and Cruzcampo.
  • Food: On-site food vendors (vendor inquiries welcomed!).
  • Pub Spotlight — The George & Dragon:
  • Located about 8–10 minutes outside Basingstoke in Wolverton.
  • Known for their seasonal, locally sourced menu (local butchers, fishmongers, and homemade pies).
  • Glowing recommendation from The Great British Pub Crawl.
  • Dog-Friendly: Bring your four-legged friends along!


Find them on Facebook or their website.


Cloke Cooks is produced by Chris Cloke and brought to you by ProClean Direct.

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About Basingstoke is Basingstoke's Podcast Network supported by IncuHive, now open at Houndmills.

]]> <p>In this episode of <em>Cloke Cooks</em>, Chris Cloke is joined by Lauren and Sharona from <strong>The George &amp; Dragon</strong> down in Wolverton near Tadley! They dive into the importance of supporting local British pub culture, their seasonal, locally sourced menu, and all the details on their upcoming bank holiday charity event: <strong>DragonFest</strong>.</p><h3>Key Takeaways &amp; Topics Covered:</h3><p><br></p><ul><li><strong>DragonFest Details:</strong></li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>Date &amp; Time:</strong> August 30th | 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>Cause:</strong> Charity music event raising funds for <strong>Brain Tumour Research</strong>.</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>Lineup:</strong> About 10 bands lined up across main stages throughout the day.</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>Outdoor Bar:</strong> Cold kegs on tap including <strong>Rattler Cider</strong>, <strong>Hawkstone</strong>, and <strong>Cruzcampo</strong>.</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>Food:</strong> On-site food vendors (vendor inquiries welcomed!).</li><li><strong>Pub Spotlight — The George &amp; Dragon:</strong></li><li class="ql-indent-1">Located about 8–10 minutes outside Basingstoke in Wolverton.</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Known for their <strong>seasonal, locally sourced menu</strong> (local butchers, fishmongers, and homemade pies).</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Glowing recommendation from <em>The Great British Pub Crawl</em>.</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>Dog-Friendly:</strong> Bring your four-legged friends along!</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Find them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Georgeanddragonhotelwolverton/" rel="nofollow">Facebook </a>or their <a href="https://georgedragonpubhotel.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">website</a>.</p><p><br></p><p>Cloke Cooks is produced by Chris Cloke and brought to you by <a href="https://www.procleandirect.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">ProClean Direct.</a></p><p>--</p><p>About Basingstoke is Basingstoke&#39;s Podcast Network supported by <a href="https://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">IncuHive</a>, now open at Houndmills.</p> 008d814f-f0f9-4bd6-8533-99a7ae018857 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Sat, 15 Aug 2026 04:00:23 +0000 730 false full SPEAKING SPACES - Finding Freedom, Flexibility, and Boundaries as a Solopreneur SPEAKING SPACES - Finding Freedom, Flexibility, and Boundaries as a Solopreneur Communicast Ltd In this episode, Louise Chandler-Rutt, founder of Soundbite Media, discusses the reality of running your own business. Beyond sharing marketing tips and resources, Louise opens up about the highs and lows of the solopreneur journey and why protecting your time and setting firm boundaries are essential for long-term success without burnout.

Key Highlights:

  • Managing Your Own Workload: How running a business offers the freedom to boost productivity on your own schedule.
  • The Power of Saying "No": Why establishing clear client boundaries is a business strength, not a weakness.
  • A Real-Life Case Study: How being honest about workload capacity with a client led to a stronger, longer-lasting working relationship.
  • Protecting Your Time Fiercely: The importance of keeping personal time sacred (like never working on your birthday) to prevent burnout and resentment.

Connect with Louise:


This podcast is produced by Soundbite Media.

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About Basingstoke is supported by IncuHive.

]]> <p>In this episode, Louise Chandler-Rutt, founder of Soundbite Media, discusses the reality of running your own business. Beyond sharing marketing tips and resources, Louise opens up about the highs and lows of the solopreneur journey and why protecting your time and setting firm boundaries are essential for long-term success without burnout.</p><p><strong>Key Highlights:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Managing Your Own Workload:</strong> How running a business offers the freedom to boost productivity on your own schedule.</li><li><strong>The Power of Saying &#34;No&#34;:</strong> Why establishing clear client boundaries is a business strength, not a weakness.</li><li><strong>A Real-Life Case Study:</strong> How being honest about workload capacity with a client led to a stronger, longer-lasting working relationship.</li><li><strong>Protecting Your Time Fiercely:</strong> The importance of keeping personal time sacred (like never working on your birthday) to prevent burnout and resentment.</li></ul><p><strong>Connect with Louise:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Website:</strong> <a href="https://soundbitemedia.co.uk" rel="nofollow">soundbitemedia.co.uk</a></li></ul><p><br></p><p>This podcast is produced by Soundbite Media.</p><p>--</p><p>About Basingstoke is supported by<a href="https://incuhive.co.uk" rel="nofollow"> IncuHive.</a> </p> 480cc093-756a-4b10-859c-67567f2433de https://aboutbasingstoke.com Thu, 13 Aug 2026 04:00:33 +0000 364 false full YOU ARE NOT ALONE - The Pressure to Cope YOU ARE NOT ALONE - The Pressure to Cope Communicast Ltd In this episode, Marie explores the heavy, often unspoken expectations we face to "keep going" no matter what life throws at us.

Following up on previous discussions about overwhelm and high-functioning anxiety, this conversation dives into why so many of us feel compelled to wear an "I've got this" mask and how to reframe what "coping" really means.

Key Takeaways & Discussion Points

  • The "I've Got This" Mask: Why societal and personal expectations pressure us to hide our struggles, leading to exhaustion.
  • The Invisible Rucksack: A metaphor for the unseen burdens—work stress, relationship challenges, grief, and health concerns—that everyone carries quietly.
  • Understanding Coping: Why coping isn't a simple "yes or no" state, and how you can be successful or functional while still needing support.
  • Reframing "Being a Burden": Why asking for help isn't a sign of weakness or a burden, but an opportunity for connection and kindness.
  • Circles of Control exercise: A practical tool using three concentric circles to categorize life's stresses:
  1. Control: Your direct actions, choices, boundaries, and how you spend time.
  2. Influence: Relationships and workplace dynamics you can affect, but not entirely determine.
  3. Concern: Broader world events, the economy, or other people's decisions that lie outside your power.


Featured Community Organizations


  • Cruse Bereavement Support: UK-based charity offering free bereavement support, guidance, and a national helpline for adults and young people.
  • Website: www.cruse.org.uk
  • Helpline: 0808 808 1677

  • Natural Basingstoke: A local charity promoting mental well-being and community connection through local nature conservation.
  • Website: www.naturalbasingstoke.org.uk


Weekly Action Step

Take a piece of paper and draw three concentric circles labeled Control, Influence, and Concern. Pick one thing weighing on your mind today, place it in its respective circle, and assess:

  • If it's in Concern, can you stop expecting yourself to fix it?
  • If it's in Influence, what is one small action step?
  • If it's in Control, what is your very next step?

Support Resources


  • Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 (Free, 24/7)


Next Episode Preview: Putting Our Phones Down — Exploring digital disconnect and mental well-being.


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About Basingstoke is supported by IncuHive.

]]> <p>In this episode, Marie explores the heavy, often unspoken expectations we face to &#34;keep going&#34; no matter what life throws at us. </p><p>Following up on previous discussions about overwhelm and high-functioning anxiety, this conversation dives into why so many of us feel compelled to wear an &#34;I&#39;ve got this&#34; mask and how to reframe what &#34;coping&#34; really means.</p><h3>Key Takeaways &amp; Discussion Points</h3><ul><li><strong>The &#34;I&#39;ve Got This&#34; Mask:</strong> Why societal and personal expectations pressure us to hide our struggles, leading to exhaustion.</li><li><strong>The Invisible Rucksack:</strong> A metaphor for the unseen burdens—work stress, relationship challenges, grief, and health concerns—that everyone carries quietly.</li><li><strong>Understanding Coping:</strong> Why coping isn&#39;t a simple &#34;yes or no&#34; state, and how you can be successful or functional while still needing support.</li><li><strong>Reframing &#34;Being a Burden&#34;:</strong> Why asking for help isn&#39;t a sign of weakness or a burden, but an opportunity for connection and kindness.</li><li><strong>Circles of Control exercise:</strong> A practical tool using three concentric circles to categorize life&#39;s stresses:</li></ul><ol><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>Control:</strong> Your direct actions, choices, boundaries, and how you spend time.</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>Influence:</strong> Relationships and workplace dynamics you can affect, but not entirely determine.</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>Concern:</strong> Broader world events, the economy, or other people&#39;s decisions that lie outside your power.</li></ol><h3><br></h3><h3>Featured Community Organizations</h3><p><br></p><ul><li><strong>Cruse Bereavement Support:</strong> UK-based charity offering free bereavement support, guidance, and a national helpline for adults and young people.</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>Website:</strong> <a href="https://www.cruse.org.uk" rel="nofollow">www.cruse.org.uk</a></li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>Helpline:</strong> 0808 808 1677</li><li><br></li><li><strong>Natural Basingstoke:</strong> A local charity promoting mental well-being and community connection through local nature conservation.</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>Website:</strong> <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.naturalbasingstoke.org.uk" rel="nofollow">www.naturalbasingstoke.org.uk</a></li></ul><p><br></p><h3>Weekly Action Step</h3><p>Take a piece of paper and draw three concentric circles labeled <strong>Control</strong>, <strong>Influence</strong>, and <strong>Concern</strong>. Pick one thing weighing on your mind today, place it in its respective circle, and assess:</p><ul><li>If it&#39;s in <strong>Concern</strong>, can you stop expecting yourself to fix it?</li><li>If it&#39;s in <strong>Influence</strong>, what is one small action step?</li><li>If it&#39;s in <strong>Control</strong>, what is your very next step?</li></ul><h3>Support Resources</h3><p><br></p><ul><li><strong>Samaritans (UK):</strong> Call <strong>116 123</strong> (Free, 24/7)</li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong>Next Episode Preview:</strong> <em>Putting Our Phones Down</em> — Exploring digital disconnect and mental well-being.</p><p><br></p><p>--</p><p>About Basingstoke is supported by <a href="https://incuhive.co.uk" rel="nofollow">IncuHive</a>. </p> ac6c9bb3-91dc-43c9-aab8-d0fe2c1ecd81 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Wed, 12 Aug 2026 04:00:00 +0000 949 false full NATURAL BASINGSTOKE - Can Basingstoke balance new housing with nature recovery? NATURAL BASINGSTOKE - Can Basingstoke balance new housing with nature recovery? Communicast Ltd In this podcast, Natural Basingstoke's Jack is joined in his garden by Jill, leader of the charity, to discuss the key environmental challenges facing the borough of Basingstoke.

They dive into the threats posed by rapid housing development, water abstraction from local chalk aquifers, and habitat fragmentation. Jill outlines Natural Basingstoke’s vision for nature recovery, including establishing a local nature recovery forum, mapping green/blue corridors, and utilizing nature-based solutions.

Key Topics Covered:

  • Introduction to Natural Basingstoke: Overview of the local charity advocacy work in the borough.
  • Current Environmental Concerns: The impact of proposed thousand-home developments on water resources and local wildlife habitats.
  • Water Security & Chalk Streams: Threats facing local chalk aquifers from pollution and over-abstraction, and the need for stronger protections.
  • Building in Harmony with Nature: The importance of mapping green corridors and buffer zones around ancient woodlands and rivers.
  • Nature-Based Solutions: Using natural infrastructure (e.g., sustainable drainage and reed beds) to tackle flooding and pollution cost-effectively.
  • Action Plans & Proposals:
  • Establishing a Nature Recovery Forum with local stakeholders.
  • Creating a local Nature Recovery Network Map alongside development plans.
  • Issuing a "Call for Sites for Nature" to identify areas for restoration.
  • Recent Local Progress: Highlights from the local MP's green roundtable and recent council action on water security.
  • How to Get Involved: Engaging with local representatives, screening nature documentaries, and taking small actions at home.


Connect & Contact:


This podcast was produced by Natural Basingstoke.

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About Basingstoke is Basingstoke's Podcast Network supported by IncuHive, now open at Houndmills.

We support local people to become podcasters - find out more at aboutbasingstoke.com

]]> <p>In this podcast, Natural Basingstoke&#39;s Jack is joined in his garden by Jill, leader of the charity, to discuss the key environmental challenges facing the borough of Basingstoke.</p><p>They dive into the threats posed by rapid housing development, water abstraction from local chalk aquifers, and habitat fragmentation. Jill outlines Natural Basingstoke’s vision for nature recovery, including establishing a local nature recovery forum, mapping green/blue corridors, and utilizing nature-based solutions.</p><p><strong>Key Topics Covered:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Introduction to Natural Basingstoke:</strong> Overview of the local charity advocacy work in the borough.</li><li><strong>Current Environmental Concerns:</strong> The impact of proposed thousand-home developments on water resources and local wildlife habitats.</li><li><strong>Water Security &amp; Chalk Streams:</strong> Threats facing local chalk aquifers from pollution and over-abstraction, and the need for stronger protections.</li><li><strong>Building in Harmony with Nature:</strong> The importance of mapping green corridors and buffer zones around ancient woodlands and rivers.</li><li><strong>Nature-Based Solutions:</strong> Using natural infrastructure (e.g., sustainable drainage and reed beds) to tackle flooding and pollution cost-effectively.</li><li><strong>Action Plans &amp; Proposals:</strong></li><li class="ql-indent-1">Establishing a Nature Recovery Forum with local stakeholders.</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Creating a local Nature Recovery Network Map alongside development plans.</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Issuing a &#34;Call for Sites for Nature&#34; to identify areas for restoration.</li><li><strong>Recent Local Progress:</strong> Highlights from the local MP&#39;s green roundtable and recent council action on water security.</li><li><strong>How to Get Involved:</strong> Engaging with local representatives, screening nature documentaries, and taking small actions at home.</li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong>Connect &amp; Contact:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Facebook &amp; Instagram:</strong> @NaturalBasingstoke</li><li><strong>Email:</strong> <a href="mailto:admin@naturalbasingstoke.org.uk" rel="nofollow">admin@naturalbasingstoke.org.uk</a></li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong>This podcast was produced by Natural Basingstoke.</strong></p><p><strong>--</strong></p><p>About Basingstoke is Basingstoke&#39;s Podcast Network supported by <a href="https://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">IncuHive</a>, now open at Houndmills.</p><p>We support local people to become podcasters - find out more at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com</a></p> bc3570aa-e08f-47aa-806c-5dd042f0e09c https://aboutbasingstoke.com Mon, 10 Aug 2026 04:00:13 +0000 1906 false full CLOKE COOKS - Nostalgia, Nibbles & Growing Up in Basingstoke CLOKE COOKS - Nostalgia, Nibbles & Growing Up in Basingstoke Communicast Ltd In this episode, Chris is joined by good friend Michelle Brewer to take a delicious trip down memory lane.

Together, they reminisce about what food was like for them as kids growing up in Basingstoke from strict 80s dinner rules and exotic "sandwich spread" to memorable family trips to the Harvester. They discuss how food culture has changed from the days of Sunday trading laws and 10p sweet mixes to today’s era of 24/7 fast food delivery.

Key Topics Covered:

  • 80s Food Nostalgia: Strict dinner tables, microwave chips in a box, and the wild world of sandwich spread.
  • Dining Out as a Big Deal: Why family trips to the Harvester felt like a luxury, including memories of the iconic salad bar and bread baskets.
  • Old Basingstoke Spots: Local haunts like the Mardi Gras, the sweet kiosk by the bus station, and the town's original fishmongers and bakeries.
  • Then vs. Now: How food availability shifted from closed-on-Sunday supermarkets and local paper round pocket money to modern delivery apps and drive-thrus.
  • The Basingstoke Smell: Unlocking childhood memories through the classic blend of sports centre chlorine and local chip shops.


Cloke Cooks is produced by Chris Cloke and brought to you by ProClean Direct.

--

About Basingstoke is Basingstoke's Podcast Network supported by IncuHive, now open at Houndmills.

We support local people to become podcasters - find out more at aboutbasingstoke.com

]]> <p>In this episode, Chris is joined by good friend Michelle Brewer to take a delicious trip down memory lane.</p><p>Together, they reminisce about what food was like for them as kids growing up in Basingstoke from strict 80s dinner rules and exotic &#34;sandwich spread&#34; to memorable family trips to the Harvester. They discuss how food culture has changed from the days of Sunday trading laws and 10p sweet mixes to today’s era of 24/7 fast food delivery.</p><p><strong>Key Topics Covered:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>80s Food Nostalgia:</strong> Strict dinner tables, microwave chips in a box, and the wild world of sandwich spread.</li><li><strong>Dining Out as a Big Deal:</strong> Why family trips to the Harvester felt like a luxury, including memories of the iconic salad bar and bread baskets.</li><li><strong>Old Basingstoke Spots:</strong> Local haunts like the Mardi Gras, the sweet kiosk by the bus station, and the town&#39;s original fishmongers and bakeries.</li><li><strong>Then vs. Now:</strong> How food availability shifted from closed-on-Sunday supermarkets and local paper round pocket money to modern delivery apps and drive-thrus.</li><li><strong>The Basingstoke Smell:</strong> Unlocking childhood memories through the classic blend of sports centre chlorine and local chip shops.</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Cloke Cooks is produced by Chris Cloke and brought to you by <a href="https://www.procleandirect.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">ProClean Direct.</a></p><p>--</p><p>About Basingstoke is Basingstoke&#39;s Podcast Network supported by <a href="https://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">IncuHive</a>, now open at Houndmills.</p><p>We support local people to become podcasters - find out more at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com</a></p> 78cca950-d2b4-4f49-8ba6-c2ec16aec16b https://aboutbasingstoke.com Fri, 07 Aug 2026 22:07:50 +0000 797 false full LIVE WITH LUKE with Luke Murphy MP (Part 2 - Audience Q&A) LIVE WITH LUKE with Luke Murphy MP (Part 2 - Audience Q&A) Communicast Ltd In this second part of this special live event recorded by About Basingstoke, Basingstoke MP, Luke Murphy answers audience questions about key local issues affecting Basingstoke residents.

Don't forget to listen to Part 1 as Mark Jones, founder of the Stronger Together Forum, chats with Luke in an informative Mr Blue Sky Conversation.

Find out more about the Stronger Together Forum at mrblueskyconsultancy.co.uk

Luke Murphy's website: https://www.lukemurphy.org.uk/

====

HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.

BE PART OF IT

We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact

]]> <p>In this second part <span>of this special live event recorded by </span><em>About Basingstoke, Basingstoke</em><span> MP, Luke Murphy answers audience questions about key local issues affecting Basingstoke residents.</span></p><p><span>Don&#39;t forget to listen to Part 1 as Mark Jones, founder of the Stronger Together Forum, chats with Luke in an informative Mr Blue Sky Conversation. </span></p><p>Find out more about the Stronger Together Forum at <a href="http://mrblueskyconsultancy.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">mrblueskyconsultancy.co.uk</a></p><p>Luke Murphy&#39;s website: <a href="https://www.lukemurphy.org.uk/" rel="nofollow">https://www.lukemurphy.org.uk/</a></p><p>====</p><p><strong>HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR</strong></p><p>We&#39;re proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at <a href="http://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow"><strong>incuhive.co.uk</strong></a> and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.</p><p><strong>BE PART OF IT</strong></p><p>We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/contact" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/contact</a></p> fab26f8e-0356-4f8b-85d3-5dcf7cfe01d2 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Tue, 04 Aug 2026 04:00:14 +0000 2242 false full LIVE WITH LUKE: Mark Jones chats with Basingstoke's MP live at The Forge LIVE WITH LUKE: Mark Jones chats with Basingstoke's MP live at The Forge Communicast Ltd Host: Mark Jones (Mr Blue Sky Conversations / Stronger Together Forum)

Guest: Luke Murphy MP (Basingstoke MP)

Venue: The Forge at Anvil Arts, Basingstoke

Episode Overview:


In Part 1 of this special live event recorded by About Basingstoke, host Mark Jones sits down for a one-on-one conversation with Basingstoke MP, Luke Murphy. They cover a wide range of topics—from political changes in government and national security to key local issues affecting Basingstoke residents.

Part 2 - the audience Q&A will be released on Tuesday 4th August.

Key Discussion Points:

  • Political Landscape & Leadership: Reflected on recent political shifts, the transition from Keir Starmer to Andy Burnham, and maintaining loyalty while navigating national challenges.
  • National Security & Armed Forces: Insights from Luke’s experience on the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme (RAF) and Britain’s role in supporting Ukraine and NATO.
  • Local Healthcare & Education: Tackling access to GP appointments, dentistry, and advocating for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) reforms.
  • Cost of Living & Community: Discussing economic pressures on local families and celebrating Basingstoke’s vibrant volunteer network and small businesses.
  • Social & Parliamentary Issues: Views on the assisted dying debate, local flag displays, and promoting visible, accessible representation.


Find out more about the Stronger Together Forum at mrblueskyconsultancy.co.uk

Luke Murphy's website: https://www.lukemurphy.org.uk/

====

HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.

BE PART OF IT

We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact


]]> <p><strong>Host:</strong> Mark Jones (<em>Mr Blue Sky Conversations</em> / Stronger Together Forum)</p><p><strong>Guest:</strong> Luke Murphy MP (Basingstoke MP)</p><p><strong>Venue:</strong> The Forge at Anvil Arts, Basingstoke</p><h3><strong>Episode Overview:</strong></h3><p><br></p><p>In Part 1 of this special live event recorded by <em>About Basingstoke</em>, host Mark Jones sits down for a one-on-one conversation with Basingstoke MP, Luke Murphy. They cover a wide range of topics—from political changes in government and national security to key local issues affecting Basingstoke residents.</p><p>Part 2 - the audience Q&amp;A will be released on Tuesday 4th August.</p><h3><strong>Key Discussion Points:</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Political Landscape &amp; Leadership:</strong> Reflected on recent political shifts, the transition from Keir Starmer to Andy Burnham, and maintaining loyalty while navigating national challenges.</li><li><strong>National Security &amp; Armed Forces:</strong> Insights from Luke’s experience on the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme (RAF) and Britain’s role in supporting Ukraine and NATO.</li><li><strong>Local Healthcare &amp; Education:</strong> Tackling access to GP appointments, dentistry, and advocating for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) reforms.</li><li><strong>Cost of Living &amp; Community:</strong> Discussing economic pressures on local families and celebrating Basingstoke’s vibrant volunteer network and small businesses.</li><li><strong>Social &amp; Parliamentary Issues:</strong> Views on the assisted dying debate, local flag displays, and promoting visible, accessible representation.</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Find out more about the Stronger Together Forum at <a href="http://mrblueskyconsultancy.co.uk" rel="nofollow">mrblueskyconsultancy.co.uk</a></p><p>Luke Murphy&#39;s website: <a href="https://www.lukemurphy.org.uk/" rel="nofollow">https://www.lukemurphy.org.uk/</a></p><p>====</p><p><strong>HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR</strong></p><p>We&#39;re proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at <a href="http://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow"><strong>incuhive.co.uk</strong></a> and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.</p><p><strong>BE PART OF IT</strong></p><p>We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/contact" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/contact</a></p><p><br></p> b822ab7a-9f61-4dc9-b1c0-193e8f2453a9 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Mon, 03 Aug 2026 04:00:02 +0000 2320 false full YOU ARE NOT ALONE: High-Functioning Anxiety YOU ARE NOT ALONE: High-Functioning Anxiety Communicast Ltd In this episode, Marie dives into high-functioning anxiety—a experience where someone may look calm, organized, and successful on the outside while struggling internally with constant worry, self-doubt, and perfectionism. Marie discusses how to spot it, why it often goes unnoticed, and practical tools to build healthier mental boundaries.

Key Discussion Points

  • What is High-Functioning Anxiety? Although not a formal medical diagnosis, it describes individuals who appear to perform brilliantly externally while experiencing significant internal distress.
  • The Hidden Pressure: High-functioning anxiety is often praised because traits like being organized, reliable, and productive are valued by society, making the underlying stress easy to miss.
  • "Wellbeing Windows": Small, intentional breaks you can build into your day to interrupt overthinking without adding pressure:
  • 30 Seconds: Deep breathing, stretching, or looking out the window.
  • 3 Minutes: A quick walk outside, listening to a favorite song, or a physical body scan.
  • 30 Minutes: Engaging in hobbies like reading, gardening, or talking to a friend to reconnect with yourself.
  • Setting Boundaries with Thoughts: Managing rumination by acknowledging a worry, jotting it down, and scheduling a specific time to address it later rather than letting it dominate your whole day.

Featured Community Support

  • Basingstoke Voluntary Action (BVA): Connecting local people with voluntary groups, support networks, and community opportunities.
  • Website: www.bvaction.org.uk
  • Mindspace Foundation: Offering affordable, accessible community counselling services in Basingstoke for individuals, children, and couples.
  • Website: www.mindspacefoundation.co.uk
  • Phone: 01256 423 892

Urgent Support

If you need immediate emotional support, the Samaritans are available 24/7 at 116 123.

-------

About Basingstoke is supported by IncuHive.

]]> <p>In this episode, Marie dives into <strong>high-functioning anxiety</strong>—a experience where someone may look calm, organized, and successful on the outside while struggling internally with constant worry, self-doubt, and perfectionism. Marie discusses how to spot it, why it often goes unnoticed, and practical tools to build healthier mental boundaries.</p><h3>Key Discussion Points</h3><ul><li><strong>What is High-Functioning Anxiety?</strong> Although not a formal medical diagnosis, it describes individuals who appear to perform brilliantly externally while experiencing significant internal distress.</li><li><strong>The Hidden Pressure:</strong> High-functioning anxiety is often praised because traits like being organized, reliable, and productive are valued by society, making the underlying stress easy to miss.</li><li><strong>&#34;Wellbeing Windows&#34;:</strong> Small, intentional breaks you can build into your day to interrupt overthinking without adding pressure:</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>30 Seconds:</strong> Deep breathing, stretching, or looking out the window.</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>3 Minutes:</strong> A quick walk outside, listening to a favorite song, or a physical body scan.</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>30 Minutes:</strong> Engaging in hobbies like reading, gardening, or talking to a friend to reconnect with yourself.</li><li><strong>Setting Boundaries with Thoughts:</strong> Managing rumination by acknowledging a worry, jotting it down, and scheduling a specific time to address it later rather than letting it dominate your whole day.</li></ul><h3>Featured Community Support</h3><ul><li><strong>Basingstoke Voluntary Action (BVA):</strong> Connecting local people with voluntary groups, support networks, and community opportunities.</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><em>Website:</em> <a href="https://www.bvaction.org.uk" rel="nofollow">www.bvaction.org.uk</a></li><li><strong>Mindspace Foundation:</strong> Offering affordable, accessible community counselling services in Basingstoke for individuals, children, and couples.</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><em>Website:</em> <a href="https://www.mindspacefoundation.co.uk" rel="nofollow">www.mindspacefoundation.co.uk</a></li><li class="ql-indent-1"><em>Phone:</em> 01256 423 892</li></ul><h3>Urgent Support</h3><p>If you need immediate emotional support, the Samaritans are available 24/7 at <strong>116 123</strong>.</p><p>-------</p><p><span>About Basingstoke is supported by </span><a href="https://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">IncuHive.</a></p> f9a5bdef-13eb-45e0-87e6-3a8cf35ab255 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Thu, 30 Jul 2026 04:00:22 +0000 862 false full SPEAKING SPACES: How to Grow Your Business Without Losing Quality, Control, or Your Sanity SPEAKING SPACES: How to Grow Your Business Without Losing Quality, Control, or Your Sanity Communicast Ltd Is your business growing faster than expected? While growth is the ultimate goal, rapid expansion often comes with overwhelming workloads, mounting pressure, and the fear of diluting the quality that made your business successful in the first place.

In this episode of Speaking Spaces, Louise explores the common scaling pitfalls business owners face and shares practical strategies to help you grow sustainably without sacrificing your standards, your client relationships, or your peace of mind.

Key Takeaways

  • The Reality of Growth: Why sudden growth often leads to chaotic workloads, message overload, and increased stress.
  • Protecting Your Standards: How to scale without losing the personal touch and trust that built your brand.
  • Evaluating Your Systems: Why mapping out your current processes is the essential first step to identifying bottlenecks.
  • Smart Automation & Workflows: Streamlining administrative tasks to free up valuable hours.
  • Strategic Outsourcing: Learning to delegate and let go of control so you can focus on high-level business strategy.

Links & Resources


  • Connect with Louise: Reach out via the website to share where you are in your business journey and explore media and marketing support to help your business flourish.


--

About Basingstoke is Basingstoke's Podcast Network supported by IncuHive, now open at Houndmills.

We support local people to become podcasters - find out more at aboutbasingstoke.com

]]> <p>Is your business growing faster than expected? While growth is the ultimate goal, rapid expansion often comes with overwhelming workloads, mounting pressure, and the fear of diluting the quality that made your business successful in the first place.</p><p>In this episode of <em>Speaking Spaces</em>, Louise explores the common scaling pitfalls business owners face and shares practical strategies to help you grow sustainably without sacrificing your standards, your client relationships, or your peace of mind.</p><h3><strong>Key Takeaways</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>The Reality of Growth:</strong> Why sudden growth often leads to chaotic workloads, message overload, and increased stress.</li><li><strong>Protecting Your Standards:</strong> How to scale without losing the personal touch and trust that built your brand.</li><li><strong>Evaluating Your Systems:</strong> Why mapping out your current processes is the essential first step to identifying bottlenecks.</li><li><strong>Smart Automation &amp; Workflows:</strong> Streamlining administrative tasks to free up valuable hours.</li><li><strong>Strategic Outsourcing:</strong> Learning to delegate and let go of control so you can focus on high-level business strategy.</li></ul><h3><strong>Links &amp; Resources</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Website:</strong> <a href="https://www.soundbitemedia.co.uk" rel="nofollow">soundbitemedia.co.uk</a></li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li><strong>Connect with Louise:</strong> Reach out via the website to share where you are in your business journey and explore media and marketing support to help your business flourish.</li></ul><p><br></p><p>--</p><p>About Basingstoke is Basingstoke&#39;s Podcast Network supported by <a href="https://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">IncuHive</a>, now open at Houndmills.</p><p>We support local people to become podcasters - find out more at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com</a></p> 26110b1e-697f-4c94-849d-3b1f87181ed9 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Wed, 29 Jul 2026 04:00:39 +0000 322 false full CLOKE COOKS - 575 Miles for Tapas: Road Tripping Through Real Spain CLOKE COOKS - 575 Miles for Tapas: Road Tripping Through Real Spain Communicast Ltd Chris is joined by his wife Philippa to talk about their ultimate Spanish road trip!

Trading airports for the open road, Chris and Philippa traveled from Santander in northern Spain all the way down to La Cala de Mijas on the Costa del Sol.

Along their 575-mile journey, they ditched tourist traps like Benidorm to discover the authentic food, regional wines, and rich history of "real Spain."

From oven-roasted suckling lamb in historic towns to traditional garlic soup and hidden roadside service station gems, tune in for a relaxed, mouthwatering journey through Spain, told one plate at a time!

Key Highlights


  • Swapping Planes for Roads: Why driving through Spain beats flying every time.
  • Exploring El Escorial: Historic royal ties, Spanish street culture, and home-cooked regional dishes.
  • The Magic of the Menu del Día: How Spain’s famous value-packed "menu of the day" works.
  • Hidden Gems & Roadside Eats: Discovering incredible independent cafes and surprisingly gourmet service station food.
  • Biting into Burgos: Tasting unforgettable oven-roasted suckling lamb and traditional Spanish garlic soup (Caldo).
  • Ronda Food Discoveries: Slow-cooked rabbit confit with garlic sauce in the Spanish mountains.
  • Ferry Reflections: Wrapping up the journey aboard Brittany Ferries with a toast to Spanish food culture.


Cloke Cooks is produced by Chris Cloke and brought to you by ProClean Direct.

--

About Basingstoke is Basingstoke's Podcast Network supported by IncuHive, now open at Houndmills.

We support local people to become podcasters - find out more at aboutbasingstoke.com

]]> <p>Chris is joined by his wife Philippa to talk about their ultimate Spanish road trip!</p><p>Trading airports for the open road, Chris and Philippa traveled from Santander in northern Spain all the way down to La Cala de Mijas on the Costa del Sol.</p><p>Along their 575-mile journey, they ditched tourist traps like Benidorm to discover the authentic food, regional wines, and rich history of &#34;real Spain.&#34;</p><p>From oven-roasted suckling lamb in historic towns to traditional garlic soup and hidden roadside service station gems, tune in for a relaxed, mouthwatering journey through Spain, told one plate at a time!</p><h3><strong>Key Highlights</strong></h3><p><br></p><ul><li><strong>Swapping Planes for Roads:</strong> Why driving through Spain beats flying every time.</li><li><strong>Exploring El Escorial:</strong> Historic royal ties, Spanish street culture, and home-cooked regional dishes.</li><li><strong>The Magic of the <em>Menu del Día</em>:</strong> How Spain’s famous value-packed &#34;menu of the day&#34; works.</li><li><strong>Hidden Gems &amp; Roadside Eats:</strong> Discovering incredible independent cafes and surprisingly gourmet service station food.</li><li><strong>Biting into Burgos:</strong> Tasting unforgettable oven-roasted suckling lamb and traditional Spanish garlic soup (<em>Caldo</em>).</li><li><strong>Ronda Food Discoveries:</strong> Slow-cooked rabbit confit with garlic sauce in the Spanish mountains.</li><li><strong>Ferry Reflections:</strong> Wrapping up the journey aboard Brittany Ferries with a toast to Spanish food culture.</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Cloke Cooks is produced by Chris Cloke and brought to you by <a href="https://www.procleandirect.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">ProClean Direct.</a></p><p>--</p><p>About Basingstoke is Basingstoke&#39;s Podcast Network supported by <a href="https://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">IncuHive</a>, now open at Houndmills.</p><p>We support local people to become podcasters - find out more at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com</a></p> e7b75a62-138d-4b7b-a8dd-ecff7894b522 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Fri, 24 Jul 2026 04:00:58 +0000 731 false full *** NEW SHOW *** Speaking Spaces with Louise Chandler-Rutt; Elevator Pitches *** NEW SHOW *** Speaking Spaces with Louise Chandler-Rutt; Elevator Pitches Communicast Ltd Speaking Spaces is a new podcast for entrepreneurs, SMEs and thought leaders, brought to you by Louise Chandler-Rutt of local business Soundbite Media.

In this episode, Louise breaks down how to craft a simple, compelling, and effective elevator pitch. She shares a three-step formula to clearly communicate what you do, who you help, and the value you provide—wherever your conversations take place.

Key Takeaways

  • Rethink the 30-Second Rule: Attention spans are shorter than ever, so your pitch needs to be concise and grab attention quickly.
  • Use It Everywhere: Your elevator pitch isn't just for in-person networking; use it on LinkedIn, your website homepage, sales calls, and casual conversations.
  • Avoid Jargon: Plain English converts faster than industry buzzwords that confuse your audience.
  • Focus on Outcomes, Not Features: Talk about what your service does for people and how it makes them feel rather than just listing what you do.

The 3-Step Elevator Pitch Framework

To build or refine your pitch, structure it around these core elements:

  1. Who You Help: Identify your target audience clearly.
  2. What Problem You Solve: Address the specific pain point they face.
  3. The Outcome You Create: Highlight the tangible benefit or result they achieve.
Formula Template:
"I help [Audience] who struggle with [Problem] to achieve [Result] through [Method]."

Examples Mentioned

  • Wedding Cake Maker: "I help couples planning their wedding who struggle with finding a valuable, beautiful wedding cake to achieve a delicious cake delivered to their venue."
  • Louise’s Pitch: "I help small business owners simplify their marketing so they can attract consistent clients without burnout."
  • HR Consultancy Transformation:
  • Before: "I offer HR consultancy."
  • After: "I help small teams handle people problems confidently so they grow without legal stress."

Connect & Practice

Got a pitch you want to test out? Refine yours this week and share it with Louise!

  • Email: louise@soundbitemedia.co.uk


]]> <p>Speaking Spaces is a new podcast for entrepreneurs, SMEs and thought leaders, brought to you by Louise Chandler-Rutt of local business Soundbite Media.</p><p>In this episode, Louise breaks down how to craft a simple, compelling, and effective elevator pitch. She shares a three-step formula to clearly communicate what you do, who you help, and the value you provide—wherever your conversations take place.</p><h2><strong>Key Takeaways</strong></h2><ul><li><strong>Rethink the 30-Second Rule:</strong> Attention spans are shorter than ever, so your pitch needs to be concise and grab attention quickly.</li><li><strong>Use It Everywhere:</strong> Your elevator pitch isn&#39;t just for in-person networking; use it on LinkedIn, your website homepage, sales calls, and casual conversations.</li><li><strong>Avoid Jargon:</strong> Plain English converts faster than industry buzzwords that confuse your audience.</li><li><strong>Focus on Outcomes, Not Features:</strong> Talk about what your service does <em>for</em> people and how it makes them feel rather than just listing what you do.</li></ul><h2><strong>The 3-Step Elevator Pitch Framework</strong></h2><p>To build or refine your pitch, structure it around these core elements:</p><ol><li><strong>Who You Help:</strong> Identify your target audience clearly.</li><li><strong>What Problem You Solve:</strong> Address the specific pain point they face.</li><li><strong>The Outcome You Create:</strong> Highlight the tangible benefit or result they achieve.</li></ol><blockquote><strong>Formula Template:</strong></blockquote><blockquote><em>&#34;I help </em><strong><em>[Audience]</em></strong><em> who struggle with </em><strong><em>[Problem]</em></strong><em> to achieve </em><strong><em>[Result]</em></strong><em> through </em><strong><em>[Method]</em></strong><em>.&#34;</em></blockquote><h2><strong>Examples Mentioned</strong></h2><ul><li><strong>Wedding Cake Maker:</strong> <em>&#34;I help couples planning their wedding who struggle with finding a valuable, beautiful wedding cake to achieve a delicious cake delivered to their venue.&#34;</em></li><li><strong>Louise’s Pitch:</strong> <em>&#34;I help small business owners simplify their marketing so they can attract consistent clients without burnout.&#34;</em></li><li><strong>HR Consultancy Transformation:</strong></li><li class="ql-indent-1"><em>Before:</em> &#34;I offer HR consultancy.&#34;</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><em>After:</em> &#34;I help small teams handle people problems confidently so they grow without legal stress.&#34;</li></ul><h2><strong>Connect &amp; Practice</strong></h2><p>Got a pitch you want to test out? Refine yours this week and share it with Louise!</p><ul><li><strong>Email:</strong> louise@soundbitemedia.co.uk</li></ul><p><br></p> 8d94c896-326f-464f-b60a-3b95ce62b8e3 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Tue, 21 Jul 2026 04:00:19 +0000 447 false full CLOKE COOKS - with celebrity chef Steven Saunders CLOKE COOKS - with celebrity chef Steven Saunders Communicast Ltd What does it take to cook with true passion? In this episode of Cloke Cooks, Chris Cloke chats with celebrity chef Steven Saunders, owner of The Geranium restaurant, at his beautiful home cookery school at his private finca (farm) in Spain.

Steven shares the story of how his mother’s incredible home cooking (and her French heritage) inspired his career, how a school careers adviser set him on the path to catering college, and his rise through the ranks after training at the world-famous Savoy Hotel in London.

They also dive into the realities of the kitchen (the heat, the grueling hours) and why you simply cannot cook great food without putting your heart into it.

Key Takeaways from the Episode

  • The Spark: How Steven’s mother (and grandmother’s French roots) embedded a love for food, pastry, and entertaining into him from the age of five.
  • The Career Pivot: Why Steven chose catering college over his teenage dreams of becoming an actor or singer.
  • Kitchen Realities: The dedication, long hours, and intense heat of the kitchen environment.
  • The Finca Cookery School: How Steven hosts hands-on masterclasses at his private country home, utilizing on-site ingredients.
  • The Magic of Local & Seasonal: Why The Geranium is ranked in the top 25 in Spain—focusing on fresh, local, and in-season produce grown right at the finca (like papayas, mangoes, and a banana plantation) paired with fresh seafood from the Andalusian coast.
  • Demystifying Desserts: Why you should stop buying store-bought desserts and try making your own (including Steven's tips on a modernized, easy Baked Alaska and his seasonal chocolate mousse with fresh cherries).

Featured Dishes Discussed

  • Beef Wellington
  • Fresh Lobster
  • Modernized Baked Alaska (With Italian meringue and homemade ice cream)
  • Chocolate Mousse with Fresh Cherries


Cloke Cooks is produced by Chris Cloke and brought to you by ProClean Direct.

--

About Basingstoke is Basingstoke's Podcast Network supported by IncuHive, now open at Houndmills.

We support local people to become podcasters - find out more at aboutbasingstoke.com

]]> <p>What does it take to cook with true passion? In this episode of <em>Cloke Cooks</em>, Chris Cloke chats with celebrity chef Steven Saunders, owner of The Geranium restaurant, at his beautiful home cookery school at his private <em>finca</em> (farm) in Spain.</p><p>Steven shares the story of how his mother’s incredible home cooking (and her French heritage) inspired his career, how a school careers adviser set him on the path to catering college, and his rise through the ranks after training at the world-famous Savoy Hotel in London.</p><p>They also dive into the realities of the kitchen (the heat, the grueling hours) and why you simply cannot cook great food without putting your heart into it.</p><h3><strong>Key Takeaways from the Episode</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>The Spark:</strong> How Steven’s mother (and grandmother’s French roots) embedded a love for food, pastry, and entertaining into him from the age of five.</li><li><strong>The Career Pivot:</strong> Why Steven chose catering college over his teenage dreams of becoming an actor or singer.</li><li><strong>Kitchen Realities:</strong> The dedication, long hours, and intense heat of the kitchen environment.</li><li><strong>The Finca Cookery School:</strong> How Steven hosts hands-on masterclasses at his private country home, utilizing on-site ingredients.</li><li><strong>The Magic of Local &amp; Seasonal:</strong> Why <strong>The Geranium</strong> is ranked in the top 25 in Spain—focusing on fresh, local, and in-season produce grown right at the finca (like papayas, mangoes, and a banana plantation) paired with fresh seafood from the Andalusian coast.</li><li><strong>Demystifying Desserts:</strong> Why you should stop buying store-bought desserts and try making your own (including Steven&#39;s tips on a modernized, easy Baked Alaska and his seasonal chocolate mousse with fresh cherries).</li></ul><h3><strong>Featured Dishes Discussed</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Beef Wellington</strong></li><li><strong>Fresh Lobster</strong></li><li><strong>Modernized Baked Alaska</strong> (With Italian meringue and homemade ice cream)</li><li><strong>Chocolate Mousse with Fresh Cherries</strong></li></ul><p><br></p><p>Cloke Cooks is produced by Chris Cloke and brought to you by <a href="https://www.procleandirect.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">ProClean Direct.</a></p><p>--</p><p>About Basingstoke is Basingstoke&#39;s Podcast Network supported by <a href="https://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">IncuHive</a>, now open at Houndmills.</p><p>We support local people to become podcasters - find out more at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com</a></p> 8a9d6372-dd88-4cef-b0af-acc88874dff6 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Fri, 17 Jul 2026 04:00:37 +0000 713 false full YOU ARE NOT ALONE: Feeling overwhelmed or "too-muchness" YOU ARE NOT ALONE: Feeling overwhelmed or "too-muchness" Communicast Ltd In this episode of You Are Not Alone: Conversations for Mental Health & Wellbeing, we dive into a feeling that so many of us experience but rarely talk about openly: "too-muchness." It’s not necessarily a single crisis, but rather the slow, heavy accumulation of daily demands: work, family, life admin, unread messages, and endless notifications.

We explore what overwhelm actually looks like (hint: it’s often highly functional on the outside), why we feel guilty for struggling, and how we can practice realistic self-care by focusing on what is next rather than all.

Key Takeaways

  • The Mask of High-Functioning Overwhelm: Overwhelm doesn't always look like staying in bed; many overwhelmed people are still turning up, parenting, working, and supporting everyone else while drowning on the inside.
  • A Sign of Strength, Not Failure: Overwhelm is not a sign that you are failing; it is a sign that you have been carrying too much for too long.
  • Redefining Self-Care: Real self-care isn't about perfect morning routines or expensive spa days. It’s about small, simple acts that make you feel $1\%$ better—like stepping outside, drinking water, or saying "no."
  • The Power of Connection: We often carry our burdens quietly to avoid being a hassle, but opening up often reveals that we are not alone in our struggles.

Local Initiatives & Resources Mentioned


  • The Chatty Cafe at Proteus Creation Space
  • What: A warm, welcoming space to connect over a cup of tea, a book, or a craft project.
  • When: Mondays, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
  • Where: Proteus Creation Space, Council Road, Basingstoke.
  • Contact: info@proteustheatre.com | 01256 354541
  • Talk Club Basingstoke
  • What: A UK men’s mental health charity helping men improve their "mental fitness" in a safe, open space.
  • When: Fortnightly.
  • Where: Basingstoke Town Football Club (Committee Room).
  • Contact: talkclubbasingstoke@gmail.com

This Week's Invitation

Ask yourself: "What is the next thing, not all the things?"
When you feel the "too muchness" building up, pause. Focus only on the very next step—the next email, the next phone call, or just the next five minutes.


Support Services

If you are struggling and need to talk, please reach out. Support is always available:

  • Samaritans: Call 116 123 (Available 24/7)
  • If you or someone else is at immediate risk of harm, please contact emergency services or urgent mental health support straight away.

Next Episode: We will be exploring high-functioning anxiety—what it looks like, why people become experts at hiding it, and what can help.


--

About Basingstoke is supported by IncuHive.

]]> <p>In this episode of <strong>You Are Not Alone: Conversations for Mental Health &amp; Wellbeing</strong>, we dive into a feeling that so many of us experience but rarely talk about openly: <strong>&#34;too-muchness.&#34;</strong> It’s not necessarily a single crisis, but rather the slow, heavy accumulation of daily demands: work, family, life admin, unread messages, and endless notifications.</p><p>We explore what overwhelm actually looks like (hint: it’s often highly functional on the outside), why we feel guilty for struggling, and how we can practice realistic self-care by focusing on what is <strong>next</strong> rather than <strong>all</strong>.</p><h3>Key Takeaways</h3><ul><li><strong>The Mask of High-Functioning Overwhelm:</strong> Overwhelm doesn&#39;t always look like staying in bed; many overwhelmed people are still turning up, parenting, working, and supporting everyone else while drowning on the inside.</li><li><strong>A Sign of Strength, Not Failure:</strong> Overwhelm is not a sign that you are failing; it is a sign that you have been carrying too much for too long.</li><li><strong>Redefining Self-Care:</strong> Real self-care isn&#39;t about perfect morning routines or expensive spa days. It’s about small, simple acts that make you feel $1\%$ better—like stepping outside, drinking water, or saying &#34;no.&#34;</li><li><strong>The Power of Connection:</strong> We often carry our burdens quietly to avoid being a hassle, but opening up often reveals that we are not alone in our struggles.</li><li><br></li></ul><h3>Local Initiatives &amp; Resources Mentioned</h3><p><br></p><ul><li><strong>The Chatty Cafe at Proteus Creation Space</strong></li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>What:</strong> A warm, welcoming space to connect over a cup of tea, a book, or a craft project.</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>When:</strong> Mondays, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM.</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>Where:</strong> Proteus Creation Space, Council Road, Basingstoke.</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>Contact:</strong> info@proteustheatre.com | 01256 354541</li><li><strong>Talk Club Basingstoke</strong></li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>What:</strong> A UK men’s mental health charity helping men improve their &#34;mental fitness&#34; in a safe, open space.</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>When:</strong> Fortnightly.</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>Where:</strong> Basingstoke Town Football Club (Committee Room).</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>Contact:</strong> talkclubbasingstoke@gmail.com</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><br></li></ul><h3>This Week&#39;s Invitation</h3><blockquote><strong>Ask yourself: &#34;What is the <em>next</em> thing, not <em>all</em> the things?&#34;</strong></blockquote><blockquote>When you feel the &#34;too muchness&#34; building up, pause. Focus only on the very next step—the next email, the next phone call, or just the next five minutes.</blockquote><h3><br></h3><h3>Support Services</h3><p>If you are struggling and need to talk, please reach out. Support is always available:</p><ul><li><strong>Samaritans:</strong> Call <strong>116 123</strong> (Available 24/7)</li><li>If you or someone else is at immediate risk of harm, please contact emergency services or urgent mental health support straight away.</li><li><br></li></ul><p><strong>Next Episode:</strong> We will be exploring <strong>high-functioning anxiety</strong>—what it looks like, why people become experts at hiding it, and what can help.</p><p><br></p><p>--</p><p>About Basingstoke is supported by <a href="https://incuhive.co.uk" rel="nofollow">IncuHive. </a></p> 1de4f570-4341-4307-b8ce-d459a0f8fe64 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Thu, 16 Jul 2026 04:00:48 +0000 850 false full LEISURE: New music festival launches next month LEISURE: New music festival launches next month Communicast Ltd In this episode, we chat with Lou Eddy, a long-time Basingstoke marketing consultant who has turned festival organizer for a new event.

Lou shares her inspiring story of turning a 40th-birthday poolside joke in Ibiza into a full-blown reality for her 50th year: EddyFest!

Key Takeaways from This Episode:


  • From a Poolside Dream to Reality: How a casual chat with friends ten years ago evolved into a major local event.
  • The Behind-the-Scenes Grind: Lou discusses the complex logistics of setting up a festival—from noise control and water access to securing permits from the local council.
  • The Magic of Curation: Choosing the perfect blend of local artists, TikTok sensations, and classic covers to create the ultimate "Boho meets Disco" vibe.


Event & Ticket Details:


  • Where: Little Park Farm, Mortimer (a working farm complete with a rustic vibe and potentially a few roaming chickens!).
  • When: Friday, August 7th & Saturday, August 8th (Saturday is the main day, but two-day tickets are available for campers).
  • Accommodation Options: Campers are welcome! Standard camping spots, caravan parking, and pre-pitched luxury tents (via Sleepy Teepee) are available.
  • Tickets: Under-10s go free! Get your tickets and book parking/camping at https://eddyfest.co.uk/


=====

About Basingstoke is Basingstoke's Podcast Network supported by IncuHive, now open at Houndmills.

We support local people to become podcasters - find out more at aboutbasingstoke.com

]]> <p>In this episode, we chat with <strong>Lou Eddy</strong>, a long-time Basingstoke marketing consultant who has turned festival organizer for a new event.</p><p>Lou shares her inspiring story of turning a 40th-birthday poolside joke in Ibiza into a full-blown reality for her 50th year: <strong>EddyFest</strong>!</p><h3><strong>Key Takeaways from This Episode:</strong></h3><p><br></p><ul><li><strong>From a Poolside Dream to Reality:</strong> How a casual chat with friends ten years ago evolved into a major local event.</li><li><strong>The Behind-the-Scenes Grind:</strong> Lou discusses the complex logistics of setting up a festival—from noise control and water access to securing permits from the local council.</li><li><strong>The Magic of Curation:</strong> Choosing the perfect blend of local artists, TikTok sensations, and classic covers to create the ultimate &#34;Boho meets Disco&#34; vibe.</li></ul><p><br></p><h3><strong>Event &amp; Ticket Details:</strong></h3><p><br></p><ul><li><strong>Where:</strong> Little Park Farm, Mortimer (a working farm complete with a rustic vibe and potentially a few roaming chickens!).</li><li><strong>When:</strong> <strong>Friday, August 7th &amp; Saturday, August 8th</strong> (Saturday is the main day, but two-day tickets are available for campers).</li><li><strong>Accommodation Options:</strong> Campers are welcome! Standard camping spots, caravan parking, and pre-pitched luxury tents (via Sleepy Teepee) are available.</li><li><strong>Tickets:</strong> Under-10s go free! Get your tickets and book parking/camping at <a href="https://eddyfest.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">https://eddyfest.co.uk/ </a></li></ul><p><br></p><p>=====</p><p>About Basingstoke is Basingstoke&#39;s Podcast Network supported by <a href="https://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">IncuHive</a>, now open at Houndmills.</p><p>We support local people to become podcasters - find out more at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com</a></p> dbafd969-a4b1-4318-b5e6-7820c7b6a528 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Wed, 15 Jul 2026 04:00:03 +0000 687 false full CLOKE COOKS - Vilnis Baiks from VB Distillery CLOKE COOKS - Vilnis Baiks from VB Distillery Communicast Ltd In this episode of Cloke Cooks, Chris Cloke sits down with Vilnis Baiks from VB Distillery, a truly unique, small-scale producer operating right out of a local garage in Basingstoke.

Vilnis shares his lifelong connection to brewing, inspired by his grandparents' traditional beer and botanical recipes, and how a lockdown hobby transformed into an official craft distillery.

From high-quality vodka, gin, and rum to an eccentric mushroom-infused spirit, this episode explores the passion behind local, small-batch distilling and why keeping things independent is the secret to unforgettable flavor.

Cloke Cooks is produced by Chris Cloke and brought to you by ProClean Direct.

--

About Basingstoke is Basingstoke's Podcast Network supported by IncuHive, now open at Houndmills.

We support local people to become podcasters - find out more at aboutbasingstoke.com

]]> <p>In this episode of <em>Cloke Cooks</em>, Chris Cloke sits down with <strong>Vilnis Baiks</strong> from <a href="https://www.vbdistillery.net" rel="nofollow"><strong>VB Distillery</strong>,</a> a truly unique, small-scale producer operating right out of a local garage in Basingstoke.</p><p>Vilnis shares his lifelong connection to brewing, inspired by his grandparents&#39; traditional beer and botanical recipes, and how a lockdown hobby transformed into an official craft distillery.</p><p>From high-quality vodka, gin, and rum to an eccentric mushroom-infused spirit, this episode explores the passion behind local, small-batch distilling and why keeping things independent is the secret to unforgettable flavor.</p><p>Cloke Cooks is produced by Chris Cloke and brought to you by <a href="https://www.procleandirect.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">ProClean Direct.</a></p><p>--</p><p>About Basingstoke is Basingstoke&#39;s Podcast Network supported by <a href="https://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">IncuHive</a>, now open at Houndmills.</p><p>We support local people to become podcasters - find out more at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com</a></p> 27319814-8e05-411d-9afd-93fc2f180a1e https://aboutbasingstoke.com Fri, 10 Jul 2026 04:00:03 +0000 611 false full *** NEW SHOW *** You Are Not Alone: Conversations for Mental Health and Wellbeing *** NEW SHOW *** You Are Not Alone: Conversations for Mental Health and Wellbeing Communicast Ltd In this introductory episode, Marie Greenhalgh introduces herself and shares the vision behind You Are Not Alone: Conversations for Mental Health and Wellbeing

Inspired by her experience leading the Baton of Hope event in Basingstoke, Marie emphasizes the crucial power of open, honest conversations around mental health, neurodivergence, and wellbeing.

This podcast is designed to be a safe, down-to-earth space to talk about the things we all carry but often hide behind our busy schedules. It’s not about professional fixing or clinical lectures; it's about real, relatable talk to remind you that you don't have to go through life's challenges alone.

What to Expect in This Series

Each week, Marie will dive into topics that affect many of us but are rarely discussed openly, including:

  • The Feeling of "Too Muchness": Coping when everything feels like it's piling up.
  • Loneliness: Navigating the feeling of isolation, even when you aren't physically alone.
  • The Barrier to Talking: Exploring why it's so hard to speak up, even when we know it helps.
  • High-Functioning Anxiety: What it's like when everything looks perfect on the outside, but doesn't feel that way on the inside.
  • The Weight of Pressure: Understanding the heavy expectations we carry daily.


Additionally, the podcast will actively shine a light on local and national support systems, ensuring listeners know where to turn before hitting a crisis point.

This Week's Small Step

"When life feels heavy, small is good. Small is manageable."


Your Challenge: Find one tiny moment in your day that feels even slightly good or a little bit calmer than the rest. It could be a breath of fresh air, a nice chat, something blooming in the garden, or a great cup of coffee.

Optional: Jot it down in your phone's notes app or a notebook. Use it as a small anchor to come back to.

Connect & Support

  • Local & National Support: Options for professional care and community resources will be shared at the end of every upcoming episode.
  • Remember: If you can only manage to say, "I'm not sure I'm okay," that counts, and it matters.


Thank you for listening, and welcome to the conversation.


==

About Basingstoke is supported by IncuHive


]]> <p>In this introductory episode, Marie Greenhalgh introduces herself and shares the vision behind <em>You Are Not Alone: </em><em>Conversations for Mental Health and Wellbeing</em></p><p>Inspired by her experience leading the Baton of Hope event in Basingstoke, Marie emphasizes the crucial power of open, honest conversations around mental health, neurodivergence, and wellbeing. </p><p>This podcast is designed to be a safe, down-to-earth space to talk about the things we all carry but often hide behind our busy schedules. It’s not about professional fixing or clinical lectures; it&#39;s about real, relatable talk to remind you that you don&#39;t have to go through life&#39;s challenges alone.</p><h3><strong>What to Expect in This Series</strong></h3><p>Each week, Marie will dive into topics that affect many of us but are rarely discussed openly, including:</p><ul><li><strong>The Feeling of &#34;Too Muchness&#34;:</strong> Coping when everything feels like it&#39;s piling up.</li><li><strong>Loneliness:</strong> Navigating the feeling of isolation, even when you aren&#39;t physically alone.</li><li><strong>The Barrier to Talking:</strong> Exploring why it&#39;s so hard to speak up, even when we know it helps.</li><li><strong>High-Functioning Anxiety:</strong> What it&#39;s like when everything looks perfect on the outside, but doesn&#39;t feel that way on the inside.</li><li><strong>The Weight of Pressure:</strong> Understanding the heavy expectations we carry daily.</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Additionally, the podcast will actively <strong>shine a light on local and national support systems</strong>, ensuring listeners know where to turn before hitting a crisis point.</p><h3><strong>This Week&#39;s Small Step</strong></h3><blockquote>&#34;When life feels heavy, small is good. Small is manageable.&#34;</blockquote><p><br></p><p><strong>Your Challenge:</strong> Find one tiny moment in your day that feels even slightly good or a little bit calmer than the rest. It could be a breath of fresh air, a nice chat, something blooming in the garden, or a great cup of coffee.</p><p><strong>Optional:</strong> Jot it down in your phone&#39;s notes app or a notebook. Use it as a small anchor to come back to.</p><h3><strong>Connect &amp; Support</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Local &amp; National Support:</strong> Options for professional care and community resources will be shared at the end of every upcoming episode.</li><li><strong>Remember:</strong> If you can only manage to say, <em>&#34;I&#39;m not sure I&#39;m okay,&#34;</em> that counts, and it matters.</li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong>Thank you for listening, and welcome to the conversation.</strong></p><p><br></p><p><strong>==</strong></p><p><strong>About Basingstoke is supported by </strong><a href="https://incuhive.co.uk" rel="nofollow"><strong>IncuHive</strong></a></p><p><br></p> a9b7bdaa-c2bf-49bc-a1f1-b872bf61dee9 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Mon, 06 Jul 2026 04:00:07 +0000 447 false full CLOKE COOKS: Feeling chilli yet? Bruce from Hornet Chilli CLOKE COOKS: Feeling chilli yet? Bruce from Hornet Chilli Communicast Ltd In this episode of Cloke Cooks, host Chris Cloke sits down with Bruce from Hornet Chilli to explore how a backyard gardening hobby transformed into a booming Basingstoke business producing over 6,000 bottles a year. Bruce shares the secrets behind their signature fermented chilli sauces, explaining how a 30-day fermentation process with lactobacillus breaks down harsh, bitter enzymes to unlock a smoother, sweeter, and more complex heat. From renting an entire field in Bedfordshire to keep up with demand to being jokingly evicted to the garden shed by his wife, Bruce dives into the passion and logistics required to scale up an artisan sauce brand.

The conversation also highlights Hornet Chilli's "flavor first" philosophy and their unique product lineup, including their incredibly popular Blazing Chilli Crunch made with avocado oil, garlic, and fried onions. Bruce gives practical advice for anyone looking to start fermenting at home, revealing his ultimate 3% salt rule and why the Scotch Bonnet reigns supreme as his personal favorite pepper. Tune in to discover why local farm shops are ditching mass-produced supermarket brands for independent, small-batch flavor, and find out where you can catch Hornet Chilli at their next big local event.

Cloke Cooks is produced by Chris Cloke and brought to you by ProClean Direct.

--

About Basingstoke is Basingstoke's Podcast Network supported by IncuHive, now open at Houndmills.

We support local people to become podcasters - find out more at aboutbasingstoke.com

]]> <p>In this episode of <em>Cloke Cooks</em>, host Chris Cloke sits down with Bruce from Hornet Chilli to explore how a backyard gardening hobby transformed into a booming Basingstoke business producing over 6,000 bottles a year. Bruce shares the secrets behind their signature fermented chilli sauces, explaining how a 30-day fermentation process with lactobacillus breaks down harsh, bitter enzymes to unlock a smoother, sweeter, and more complex heat. From renting an entire field in Bedfordshire to keep up with demand to being jokingly evicted to the garden shed by his wife, Bruce dives into the passion and logistics required to scale up an artisan sauce brand.</p><p>The conversation also highlights Hornet Chilli&#39;s &#34;flavor first&#34; philosophy and their unique product lineup, including their incredibly popular Blazing Chilli Crunch made with avocado oil, garlic, and fried onions. Bruce gives practical advice for anyone looking to start fermenting at home, revealing his ultimate 3% salt rule and why the Scotch Bonnet reigns supreme as his personal favorite pepper. Tune in to discover why local farm shops are ditching mass-produced supermarket brands for independent, small-batch flavor, and find out where you can catch Hornet Chilli at their next big local event.</p><p>Cloke Cooks is produced by Chris Cloke and brought to you by <a href="https://www.procleandirect.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">ProClean Direct. </a></p><p>--</p><p>About Basingstoke is Basingstoke&#39;s Podcast Network supported by <a href="https://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">IncuHive</a>, now open at Houndmills.</p><p>We support local people to become podcasters - find out more at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com</a></p> c9c0fe97-4fc7-4cef-b0b2-379dfd7b72e8 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Fri, 03 Jul 2026 08:38:52 +0000 672 false full BASINGSTOKE BUSINESS: Kate Llewellyn from The Content Consultancy BASINGSTOKE BUSINESS: Kate Llewellyn from The Content Consultancy Communicast Ltd In this episode of BASINGSTOKE BUSINESS, Steve Randall is joined by content confidence coach and consultant Kate Llewellyn, owner of local business The Content Consultancy.

They talk about AI, search engines, social media and how to find your voice and confidence when creating content for your business.

--

You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at aboutbasingstoke.com/live or ask Alexa to "Launch About Basingstoke." Or get the podcast on your favourite podcast app or YouTube.

HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.

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Send us a WhatsApp - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!

]]> <p>In this episode of BASINGSTOKE BUSINESS, <a href="https://steverandall.com/" rel="nofollow">Steve Randall</a> is joined by content confidence coach and consultant Kate Llewellyn, owner of local business <a href="https://thecontentconsultancy.com/" rel="nofollow">The Content Consultancy. </a></p><p>They talk about AI, search engines, social media and how to find your voice and confidence when creating content for your business.</p><p>--</p><p>You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/live" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/live</a> or ask Alexa to &#34;Launch About Basingstoke.&#34; Or get the podcast on your favourite podcast app or YouTube.</p><p><strong>HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR</strong></p><p>We&#39;re proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at <a href="http://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow"><strong>incuhive.co.uk</strong></a> and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.</p><p><strong>BE PART OF IT</strong></p><p>We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/contact" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/contact</a></p><p><strong>MESSAGE US</strong></p><p><a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/whatsapp" rel="nofollow"><strong>Send us a WhatsApp</strong></a> - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!</p> 2a7da84d-66be-416e-9372-93c0db1a745d https://aboutbasingstoke.com Thu, 25 Jun 2026 04:00:14 +0000 1355 false full Introducing CLOKE COOKS - with Chris Cloke Introducing CLOKE COOKS - with Chris Cloke Communicast Ltd We're pleased to welcome one of our external content creators to About Basingstoke.

Chris Cloke loves food - maybe you saw him a few years back on Come Dine with Me - and he's bringing that passion to About Basingstoke.

Each week, Chris will be talking about food and chatting to the great chefs, cooks and food producers in the Basingstoke area.

--

You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at aboutbasingstoke.com/live or ask Alexa to "Launch About Basingstoke." Or get the podcast on your favourite podcast app or YouTube.

HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.

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We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact

MESSAGE US

Send us a WhatsApp - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!

]]> <p>We&#39;re pleased to welcome one of our external content creators to About Basingstoke.</p><p>Chris Cloke loves food - maybe you saw him a few years back on Come Dine with Me - and he&#39;s bringing that passion to About Basingstoke.</p><p>Each week, Chris will be talking about food and chatting to the great chefs, cooks and food producers in the Basingstoke area. </p><p>-- </p><p>You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/live" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/live</a> or ask Alexa to &#34;Launch About Basingstoke.&#34; Or get the podcast on your favourite podcast app or YouTube.</p><p><strong>HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR</strong></p><p>We&#39;re proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at <a href="http://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow"><strong>incuhive.co.uk</strong></a> and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.</p><p><strong>BE PART OF IT</strong></p><p>We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/contact" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/contact</a></p><p><strong>MESSAGE US</strong></p><p><a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/whatsapp" rel="nofollow"><strong>Send us a WhatsApp</strong></a> - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!</p> 821b02a4-be29-4b59-aed7-4cf148ee7945 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Fri, 05 Jun 2026 04:00:02 +0000 570 false full COMMUNITY - Basingstoke MP Luke Murphy answers your questions COMMUNITY - Basingstoke MP Luke Murphy answers your questions Communicast Ltd In this episode, Luke Murphy, MP for Basingstoke, joins host Steve Randall to discuss his transition from the charity sector to Parliament, the challenges of local infrastructure, and his vision for the town’s economic and social renewal.

Key Discussion Points

  • From Charity to Commons: Luke reflects on his background in climate and energy policy and the "steep learning curve" of parliamentary traditions—including being told off by the Speaker for breaking protocol.
  • The Unitary Shift: A look at the proposed North Hampshire Authority, which aims to bring local services like highways and social care under one roof to improve accountability and efficiency.
  • Housing vs. Infrastructure: Luke addresses the tension between the national need for homes and the local strain on sewage systems, schools, and GPs, emphasizing that "we must build places, not just houses."
  • Social Housing Standards: A firm stance on holding housing associations accountable for damp, mould, and delayed repairs, featuring stories of local advocacy from his casework team.
  • The Hospital Timeline: A candid update on the Basingstoke Hospital project; while land has been secured at Junction 7, Luke discusses the reality of a mid-2030s completion and the push for better care in the interim.
  • The Economic Mission: Discussing the National Insurance hike, the "Youth Guarantee" for employment, and why growth is the only way to pull public services "off the floor."
  • A Vision for Pride: Luke champions Basingstoke’s "Town of Culture" bid and his efforts to revitalize the High Street, arguing that the town is "one of the best places to live in the country."


Luke Murphy's website: https://www.lukemurphy.org.uk/

--

You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at aboutbasingstoke.com/live or ask Alexa to "Launch About Basingstoke." Or get the podcast on your favourite podcast app or YouTube.

HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.

BE PART OF IT

We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact

MESSAGE US

Send us a WhatsApp - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!

]]> <p>In this episode, <strong>Luke Murphy, MP for Basingstoke</strong>, joins host Steve Randall to discuss his transition from the charity sector to Parliament, the challenges of local infrastructure, and his vision for the town’s economic and social renewal.</p><h3>Key Discussion Points</h3><ul><li><strong>From Charity to Commons:</strong> Luke reflects on his background in climate and energy policy and the &#34;steep learning curve&#34; of parliamentary traditions—including being told off by the Speaker for breaking protocol.</li><li><strong>The Unitary Shift:</strong> A look at the proposed <strong>North Hampshire Authority</strong>, which aims to bring local services like highways and social care under one roof to improve accountability and efficiency.</li><li><strong>Housing vs. Infrastructure:</strong> Luke addresses the tension between the national need for homes and the local strain on sewage systems, schools, and GPs, emphasizing that &#34;we must build places, not just houses.&#34;</li><li><strong>Social Housing Standards:</strong> A firm stance on holding housing associations accountable for damp, mould, and delayed repairs, featuring stories of local advocacy from his casework team.</li><li><strong>The Hospital Timeline:</strong> A candid update on the <strong>Basingstoke Hospital</strong> project; while land has been secured at Junction 7, Luke discusses the reality of a mid-2030s completion and the push for better care in the interim.</li><li><strong>The Economic Mission:</strong> Discussing the National Insurance hike, the &#34;Youth Guarantee&#34; for employment, and why growth is the only way to pull public services &#34;off the floor.&#34;</li><li><strong>A Vision for Pride:</strong> Luke champions Basingstoke’s &#34;Town of Culture&#34; bid and his efforts to revitalize the High Street, arguing that the town is &#34;one of the best places to live in the country.&#34;</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Luke Murphy&#39;s website: <a href="https://www.lukemurphy.org.uk/" rel="nofollow">https://www.lukemurphy.org.uk/</a></p><p>--</p><p>You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/live" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/live</a> or ask Alexa to &#34;Launch About Basingstoke.&#34; Or get the podcast on your favourite podcast app or YouTube.</p><p><strong>HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR</strong></p><p>We&#39;re proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at <a href="http://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow"><strong>incuhive.co.uk</strong></a> and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.</p><p><strong>BE PART OF IT</strong></p><p>We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/contact" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/contact</a></p><p><strong>MESSAGE US</strong></p><p><a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/whatsapp" rel="nofollow"><strong>Send us a WhatsApp</strong></a> - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!</p> 3bb826ba-56e2-4c67-b511-a34c0343cf25 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Mon, 01 Jun 2026 12:11:19 +0000 2245 false full COMMUNITY - Being in nature with Natural Basingstoke COMMUNITY - Being in nature with Natural Basingstoke Communicast Ltd In this episode, Jack, a volunteer leader with Natural Basingstoke, joins host Steve Randall at the Crabtree Plantation to discuss the charity’s mission, the importance of local conservation, and how residents can get involved.

Key Discussion Points

  • The Origins of Natural Basingstoke: Formed in 2013 as a volunteer organization, it became a registered charity in June 2025. It acts as an umbrella organization for over 20 local conservation groups across the borough.
  • The Three Pillars of the Charity:
  1. Practical Conservation: Hands-on work on the ground (habitat management, planting, etc.).
  2. Community Engagement: Educational outreach with schools and scouts, and hosting events like Green Week.
  3. Nature Advocacy: Lobbying local MPs and engaging with the Local Plan to protect green spaces from fragmented development.
  • Mental Health & Nature: Jack shares his personal journey of how local volunteering helped him manage climate anxiety and improved his overall wellbeing by connecting him to his community.
  • The Wasp "Rebrand": A lighthearted look at why wasps are misunderstood heroes—they are prolific pollinators and vital for garden pest control.
  • Local Initiatives: Details on the Swift Campaign in Brookvale, where free swift boxes are being installed to help migratory birds returning from Sub-Saharan Africa.

--

You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at aboutbasingstoke.com/live or ask Alexa to "Launch About Basingstoke." Or get the podcast on your favourite podcast app or YouTube.

HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.

BE PART OF IT

We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact

MESSAGE US

Send us a WhatsApp - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!

]]> <p>In this episode, <strong>Jack</strong>, a volunteer leader with <a href="https://naturalbasingstoke.org.uk/" rel="nofollow"><strong>Natural Basingstoke</strong></a>, joins host <strong>Steve Randall</strong> at the Crabtree Plantation to discuss the charity’s mission, the importance of local conservation, and how residents can get involved.</p><h3><strong>Key Discussion Points</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>The Origins of Natural Basingstoke:</strong> Formed in 2013 as a volunteer organization, it became a registered charity in June 2025. It acts as an umbrella organization for over <strong>20 local conservation groups</strong> across the borough.</li><li><strong>The Three Pillars of the Charity:</strong></li></ul><ol><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>Practical Conservation:</strong> Hands-on work on the ground (habitat management, planting, etc.).</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>Community Engagement:</strong> Educational outreach with schools and scouts, and hosting events like <strong>Green Week</strong>.</li><li class="ql-indent-1"><strong>Nature Advocacy:</strong> Lobbying local MPs and engaging with the <strong>Local Plan</strong> to protect green spaces from fragmented development.</li></ol><ul><li><strong>Mental Health &amp; Nature:</strong> Jack shares his personal journey of how local volunteering helped him manage <strong>climate anxiety</strong> and improved his overall wellbeing by connecting him to his community.</li><li><strong>The Wasp &#34;Rebrand&#34;:</strong> A lighthearted look at why wasps are misunderstood heroes—they are prolific pollinators and vital for garden pest control.</li><li><strong>Local Initiatives:</strong> Details on the <strong>Swift Campaign</strong> in Brookvale, where free swift boxes are being installed to help migratory birds returning from Sub-Saharan Africa.</li></ul><p>--</p><p>You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/live" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/live</a> or ask Alexa to &#34;Launch About Basingstoke.&#34; Or get the podcast on your favourite podcast app or YouTube.</p><p><strong>HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR</strong></p><p>We&#39;re proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at <a href="http://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow"><strong>incuhive.co.uk</strong></a> and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.</p><p><strong>BE PART OF IT</strong></p><p>We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/contact" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/contact</a></p><p><strong>MESSAGE US</strong></p><p><a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/whatsapp" rel="nofollow"><strong>Send us a WhatsApp</strong></a> - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!</p> 65a25dd1-883c-4b81-807c-081ceaf4cd95 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Fri, 29 May 2026 04:00:14 +0000 1609 false full BUSINESS - George Scott-Welsh, CEO of IncuHive BUSINESS - George Scott-Welsh, CEO of IncuHive Communicast Ltd In this special BUSINESS episode, Mark Jones of Mr. Blue Sky Consultancy interviews George Scott-Welsh, CEO of IncuHive, at their new location in Houndmills, Basingstoke. George shares his journey as a "serial entrepreneur", the origins of IncuHive, and his unique philosophy on business, failure, and the future of the local business landscape.

Key Discussion Points:

  • George’s Entrepreneurial Journey: From working as an estate agent at Foxtons and Chestertons to launching the highly successful Kiss Gyms and even running a pub in Devon.
  • The IncuHive Story: How George partnered with "wacky" founder Steve Northam to grow IncuHive from a single site to a thriving network of co-working spaces.
  • Why Basingstoke?: George explains the move to the Basingstoke market, emphasizing the town’s shift from a corporate hub to a burgeoning startup community.
  • The Entrepreneurial Mindset: Insights into the "growth mindset", the necessity of risk-taking, and why persistence and hard work are more important than avoiding failure.
  • Defining Failure: A candid look at the "fear of shame" versus the reality of business failure, including George’s personal experiences losing a seven-figure sum during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • The Future of Work: Discussion on "holacracy" (self-governance), the rise of side hustles among Gen Z, and the integration of high-tech features like microchip implants for building access.


--

You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at aboutbasingstoke.com/live or ask Alexa to "Launch About Basingstoke." Or get the podcast on your favourite podcast app or YouTube.

HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.

BE PART OF IT

We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact

MESSAGE US

Send us a WhatsApp - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!

]]> <p>In this special BUSINESS episode, Mark Jones of Mr. Blue Sky Consultancy interviews George Scott-Welsh, CEO of <strong>IncuHive</strong>, at their new location in Houndmills, Basingstoke. George shares his journey as a &#34;serial entrepreneur&#34;, the origins of IncuHive, and his unique philosophy on business, failure, and the future of the local business landscape.</p><h3>Key Discussion Points:</h3><ul><li><strong>George’s Entrepreneurial Journey:</strong> From working as an estate agent at Foxtons and Chestertons to launching the highly successful Kiss Gyms and even running a pub in Devon.</li><li><strong>The IncuHive Story:</strong> How George partnered with &#34;wacky&#34; founder Steve Northam to grow IncuHive from a single site to a thriving network of co-working spaces.</li><li><strong>Why Basingstoke?:</strong> George explains the move to the Basingstoke market, emphasizing the town’s shift from a corporate hub to a burgeoning startup community.</li><li><strong>The Entrepreneurial Mindset:</strong> Insights into the &#34;growth mindset&#34;, the necessity of risk-taking, and why persistence and hard work are more important than avoiding failure.</li><li><strong>Defining Failure:</strong> A candid look at the &#34;fear of shame&#34; versus the reality of business failure, including George’s personal experiences losing a seven-figure sum during the COVID-19 pandemic.</li><li><strong>The Future of Work:</strong> Discussion on &#34;holacracy&#34; (self-governance), the rise of side hustles among Gen Z, and the integration of high-tech features like microchip implants for building access.</li></ul><p><br></p><p>--</p><p>You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/live" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/live</a> or ask Alexa to &#34;Launch About Basingstoke.&#34; Or get the podcast on your favourite podcast app or YouTube.</p><p><strong>HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR</strong></p><p>We&#39;re proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at <a href="http://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow"><strong>incuhive.co.uk</strong></a> and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.</p><p><strong>BE PART OF IT</strong></p><p>We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/contact" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/contact</a></p><p><strong>MESSAGE US</strong></p><p><a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/whatsapp" rel="nofollow"><strong>Send us a WhatsApp</strong></a> - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!</p> fad318b2-6832-4a3f-a1e2-ca7b9f99aca6 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Tue, 26 May 2026 04:00:19 +0000 2274 false full LEISURE - We're all going on a summer holiday - or are we?! LEISURE - We're all going on a summer holiday - or are we?! Communicast Ltd In this episode, we talk to travel expert Ally Toner from Designer Travel about the range of options for summer holidays this year - including cruises, flights, rail, driving and staycations.

Worried about flight disruption or viruses on your cruise - Ally's here to put your mind at rest.

Find her at https://designertravel.co.uk/allytoner and on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DesignertravelbyAlly/

--

You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at aboutbasingstoke.com/live or ask Alexa to "Launch About Basingstoke." Or get the podcast on your favourite podcast app or YouTube.

HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.

BE PART OF IT

We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact

MESSAGE US

Send us a WhatsApp - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!

]]> <p>In this episode, we talk to travel expert Ally Toner from Designer Travel about the range of options for summer holidays this year - including cruises, flights, rail, driving and staycations.</p><p>Worried about flight disruption or viruses on your cruise - Ally&#39;s here to put your mind at rest.</p><p>Find her at <a href="https://designertravel.co.uk/allytoner" rel="nofollow">https://designertravel.co.uk/allytoner</a> and on Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DesignertravelbyAlly/" rel="nofollow">https://www.facebook.com/DesignertravelbyAlly/</a></p><p>--</p><p>You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/live" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/live</a> or ask Alexa to &#34;Launch About Basingstoke.&#34; Or get the podcast on your favourite podcast app or YouTube.</p><p><strong>HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR</strong></p><p>We&#39;re proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at <a href="http://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow"><strong>incuhive.co.uk</strong></a> and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.</p><p><strong>BE PART OF IT</strong></p><p>We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/contact" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/contact</a></p><p><strong>MESSAGE US</strong></p><p><a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/whatsapp" rel="nofollow"><strong>Send us a WhatsApp</strong></a> - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!</p> cb4719a1-beaa-4ae7-9b93-e3bded3dcac5 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Fri, 22 May 2026 04:00:40 +0000 965 false full BUSINESS - Better leadership communication BUSINESS - Better leadership communication Communicast Ltd In this episode of our BUSINESS show, we talk to Felicity Dwyer who works with leaders, teams and individuals to help them think deeply, communicate effectively, and generate an environment of trust and psychological safety.

Find out more about her at https://felicitydwyer.com/

--

You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at aboutbasingstoke.com/live or ask Alexa to "Launch About Basingstoke." Or get the podcast on your favourite podcast app or YouTube.

HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.

BE PART OF IT

We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact

MESSAGE US

Send us a WhatsApp - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!

]]> <p>In this episode of our BUSINESS show, we talk to Felicity Dwyer who works with leaders, teams and individuals to help them think deeply, communicate effectively, and generate an environment of trust and psychological safety.</p><p>Find out more about her at <a href="https://felicitydwyer.com/" rel="nofollow">https://felicitydwyer.com/</a></p><p>--</p><p>You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/live" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/live</a> or ask Alexa to &#34;Launch About Basingstoke.&#34; Or get the podcast on your favourite podcast app or YouTube.</p><p><strong>HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR</strong></p><p>We&#39;re proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at <a href="http://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow"><strong>incuhive.co.uk</strong></a> and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.</p><p><strong>BE PART OF IT</strong></p><p>We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/contact" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/contact</a></p><p><strong>MESSAGE US</strong></p><p><a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/whatsapp" rel="nofollow"><strong>Send us a WhatsApp</strong></a> - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!</p> 7195645e-9241-4eaa-8647-a3de77709f65 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Tue, 19 May 2026 04:00:48 +0000 1002 false full COMMUNITY - Making Basingstoke a better place to be COMMUNITY - Making Basingstoke a better place to be Communicast Ltd In our COMMUNITY show this week, we're talking to Mark Jones, founder of the Stronger Together Forum and Mr Blue Sky Consultancy. Find out what STF is all about and how its four core values aim to make Basingstoke a better place to be.

--

You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at aboutbasingstoke.com/live or ask Alexa to "Launch About Basingstoke." Or get the podcast on your favourite podcast app or YouTube.

HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.

BE PART OF IT

We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact

MESSAGE US

Send us a WhatsApp - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!

]]> <p>In our COMMUNITY show this week, we&#39;re talking to Mark Jones, founder of the Stronger Together Forum and Mr Blue Sky Consultancy. Find out what STF is all about and how its four core values aim to make Basingstoke a better place to be. </p><p>--</p><p>You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/live" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/live</a> or ask Alexa to &#34;Launch About Basingstoke.&#34; Or get the podcast on your favourite podcast app or YouTube.</p><p><strong>HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR</strong></p><p>We&#39;re proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at <a href="http://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow"><strong>incuhive.co.uk</strong></a> and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.</p><p><strong>BE PART OF IT</strong></p><p>We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/contact" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/contact</a></p><p><strong>MESSAGE US</strong></p><p><a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/whatsapp" rel="nofollow"><strong>Send us a WhatsApp</strong></a> - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!</p> 0d289cdb-4262-4a4e-9e63-26d5f508a13d https://aboutbasingstoke.com Mon, 18 May 2026 04:00:46 +0000 1275 false full BUSINESS - The Hampshire Deli at Wolverton BUSINESS - The Hampshire Deli at Wolverton Communicast Ltd Our BUSINESS show this week focuses on food and drink and we're at the Hampshire Deli at Wolverton, just off the A339 between Basingstoke and Kingsclere.

Barry set up the deli in lockdown and now has a thriving business selling great produce, especially locally produced. Listen to find out more and check out the Hampshire Deli at https://hampshiredeli.co.uk/ or find them on Facebook!

--

You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at aboutbasingstoke.com/live or ask Alexa to "Launch About Basingstoke." Or get the podcast on your favourite podcast app or YouTube.

HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.

BE PART OF IT

We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact

MESSAGE US

Send us a WhatsApp - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!

]]> <p>Our BUSINESS show this week focuses on food and drink and we&#39;re at the Hampshire Deli at Wolverton, just off the A339 between Basingstoke and Kingsclere.</p><p>Barry set up the deli in lockdown and now has a thriving business selling great produce, especially locally produced. Listen to find out more and check out the Hampshire Deli at <a href="https://hampshiredeli.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">https://hampshiredeli.co.uk/</a> or find them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hampshiredeli/?locale=en_GB" rel="nofollow">Facebook</a>!</p><p>--</p><p>You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/live" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/live</a> or ask Alexa to &#34;Launch About Basingstoke.&#34; Or get the podcast on your favourite podcast app or YouTube.</p><p><strong>HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR</strong></p><p>We&#39;re proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at <a href="http://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow"><strong>incuhive.co.uk</strong></a> and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.</p><p><strong>BE PART OF IT</strong></p><p>We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/contact" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/contact</a></p><p><strong>MESSAGE US</strong></p><p><a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/whatsapp" rel="nofollow"><strong>Send us a WhatsApp</strong></a> - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!</p> 6420a9c1-c2ba-41c8-b4f8-c25e5458a639 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Fri, 15 May 2026 04:00:03 +0000 751 false full HOME & FAMILY - Meet Johnny, who's been a foster carer for 20 years! HOME & FAMILY - Meet Johnny, who's been a foster carer for 20 years! Communicast Ltd Have you ever thought about fostering? Our guest on the HOME & FAMILY show this week is Johnny, who's a foster carer for Hampshire County Council. If you thought you knew what fostering was all about, listen to Johnny because you might be surprised. He's been a foster carer for 20 years!

It's Foster Care Fortnight and this weekend there's a Hampshire County Council event down in Eastleigh where you can drop in and find out more. Details of the event are here.

You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at aboutbasingstoke.com/live or ask Alexa to "Launch About Basingstoke."

HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.

BE PART OF IT

We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact

MESSAGE US

Send us a WhatsApp - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!

]]> <p>Have you ever thought about fostering? Our guest on the HOME &amp; FAMILY show this week is Johnny, who&#39;s a foster carer for Hampshire County Council. If you thought you knew what fostering was all about, listen to Johnny because you might be surprised. He&#39;s been a foster carer for 20 years! </p><p>It&#39;s Foster Care Fortnight and this weekend there&#39;s a Hampshire County Council event down in Eastleigh where you can drop in and find out more. <a href="https://www.hants.gov.uk/News/20260508fosteringlive" rel="nofollow">Details of the event are here.</a></p><p>You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/live" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/live</a> or ask Alexa to &#34;Launch About Basingstoke.&#34;</p><p><strong>HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR</strong></p><p>We&#39;re proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at <a href="http://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow"><strong>incuhive.co.uk</strong></a> and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.</p><p><strong>BE PART OF IT</strong></p><p>We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/contact" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/contact</a></p><p><strong>MESSAGE US</strong></p><p><a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/whatsapp" rel="nofollow"><strong>Send us a WhatsApp</strong></a> - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!</p> 6a0e8549-b92c-4511-91b2-75b4bfd450cd https://aboutbasingstoke.com Thu, 14 May 2026 04:00:56 +0000 1231 false full WELLBEING - Mental Health Walks WELLBEING - Mental Health Walks Communicast Ltd It's our Wednesday WELLBEING show and we're talking to Dan about his Basingstoke Mental Health Walks. It’s #mentalhealthawarenessweek so please listen and share with anyone you think might benefit. https://www.mentalhealthbasingstoke.co.uk/

You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at aboutbasingstoke.com/live or ask Alexa to "Launch About Basingstoke."

HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.

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We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact

MESSAGE US

Send us a WhatsApp - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!

]]> <p>It&#39;s our Wednesday WELLBEING show and we&#39;re talking to Dan about his Basingstoke Mental Health Walks. It’s <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/mentalhealthawarenessweek?__cft__%5B0%5D=AZZP_4LijbJCnF3e4hkySoGqwthTsvmUnncbyL7wTzHwWZ80Z8AcUqEGRBjCOD0KMzAFJB2b2AC7-HcAz0VQgW2h6fu6oshD7PK4rCCbLjmw8_VZNAqgwGPzxKPhGkF2FS2l4de8mAlIWZQXaQIIjC9f&__tn__=%2ANK-R" rel="nofollow">#mentalhealthawarenessweek</a> so please listen and share with anyone you think might benefit. <a href="https://www.mentalhealthbasingstoke.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">https://www.mentalhealthbasingstoke.co.uk/</a></p><p>You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/live" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/live</a> or ask Alexa to &#34;Launch About Basingstoke.&#34;</p><p><strong>HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR</strong></p><p>We&#39;re proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at <a href="http://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow"><strong>incuhive.co.uk</strong></a> and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.</p><p><strong>BE PART OF IT</strong></p><p>We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/contact" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/contact</a></p><p><strong>MESSAGE US</strong></p><p><a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/whatsapp" rel="nofollow"><strong>Send us a WhatsApp</strong></a> - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!</p> 3436c8c9-ba45-411a-be5c-d0c0f3a3b674 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Wed, 13 May 2026 04:00:20 +0000 1292 false full BUSINESS - Turning a passion into a growing business BUSINESS - Turning a passion into a growing business Communicast Ltd In this episode of our BUSINESS show, we talk to Hayley from Hayley's Cookie Cupboard.

The business was started as a side hustle but as you'll hear, it's growing fast.

Got a business story to share? Get in touch!

You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at aboutbasingstoke.com/live or ask Alexa to "Launch About Basingstoke."

HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.

BE PART OF IT

We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact

MESSAGE US

Send us a WhatsApp - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!


]]> <p>In this episode of our BUSINESS show, we talk to Hayley from Hayley&#39;s Cookie Cupboard.</p><p>The business was started as a side hustle but as you&#39;ll hear, it&#39;s growing fast.</p><p>Got a business story to share? Get in touch!</p><p>You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/live" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/live</a> or ask Alexa to &#34;Launch About Basingstoke.&#34;</p><p><strong>HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR</strong></p><p>We&#39;re proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at <a href="http://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow"><strong>incuhive.co.uk</strong></a> and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.</p><p><strong>BE PART OF IT</strong></p><p>We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/contact" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/contact</a></p><p><strong>MESSAGE US</strong></p><p><a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/whatsapp" rel="nofollow"><strong>Send us a WhatsApp</strong></a> - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!</p><p><br></p> 66a49763-6894-42fc-b113-a309bd1124db https://aboutbasingstoke.com Tue, 12 May 2026 04:00:35 +0000 874 false full COMMUNITY - Could you be a good Samaritan? COMMUNITY - Could you be a good Samaritan? Communicast Ltd In this episode, we're talking to The Samaritans about the work they do here in Basingstoke and nationally. Paula is one of the team based in the town and she explains what the volunteers do and what makes a good Samaritan.

If you need their help you can call FREE even if you have no credit on your phone: 116 123

And if you think you could be a Samaritans volunteer, they need new people in their Basingstoke branch so find out more at https://www.samaritans.org/branches/basingstoke/

You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at aboutbasingstoke.com/live or ask Alexa to "Launch About Basingstoke."

HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.

BE PART OF IT

We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact

MESSAGE US

Send us a WhatsApp - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!

]]> <p>In this episode, we&#39;re talking to The Samaritans about the work they do here in Basingstoke and nationally. Paula is one of the team based in the town and she explains what the volunteers do and what makes a good Samaritan. </p><p>If you need their help you can call FREE even if you have no credit on your phone: 116 123</p><p>And if you think you could be a Samaritans volunteer, they need new people in their Basingstoke branch so find out more at <a href="https://www.samaritans.org/branches/basingstoke/" rel="nofollow">https://www.samaritans.org/branches/basingstoke/</a></p><p>You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/live" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/live</a> or ask Alexa to &#34;Launch About Basingstoke.&#34;</p><p><strong>HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR</strong></p><p>We&#39;re proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at <a href="http://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow"><strong>incuhive.co.uk</strong></a> and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.</p><p><strong>BE PART OF IT</strong></p><p>We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/contact" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/contact</a></p><p><strong>MESSAGE US</strong></p><p><a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/whatsapp" rel="nofollow"><strong>Send us a WhatsApp</strong></a> - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!</p> 8101d79a-bf61-4948-b64d-71bc33bb4b61 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Mon, 11 May 2026 04:00:29 +0000 1146 false full LEISURE - We Will Rock You & The Conscious Cafe LEISURE - We Will Rock You & The Conscious Cafe Communicast Ltd In this episode of our LEISURE show, we talk to Jade Barker from Basingstoke Amateur Theatrical Society (BATS) about their upcoming show at The Haymaket in Basingstoke. It's the West End smash hit We Will Rock You featuring 20 Queen hits and a futuristic storyline.https://www.bats.net/we-will-rock-you-may-2026

And if you like the idea of conversation in person, without judgement, then The Conscious Cafe might be for you. We talk to organiser of the Basingstoke group, Karen Blakeley. https://consciouscafe.org/group/basingstoke/

You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at aboutbasingstoke.com/live or ask Alexa to "Launch About Basingstoke."

HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.

BE PART OF IT

We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact

MESSAGE US

Send us a WhatsApp - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!

]]> <p>In this episode of our LEISURE show, we talk to Jade Barker from Basingstoke Amateur Theatrical Society (BATS) about their upcoming show at The Haymaket in Basingstoke. It&#39;s the West End smash hit We Will Rock You featuring 20 Queen hits and a futuristic storyline.<a href="https://www.bats.net/we-will-rock-you-may-2026" rel="nofollow">https://www.bats.net/we-will-rock-you-may-2026</a></p><p>And if you like the idea of conversation in person, without judgement, then The Conscious Cafe might be for you. We talk to organiser of the Basingstoke group, Karen Blakeley. <a href="https://consciouscafe.org/group/basingstoke/" rel="nofollow">https://consciouscafe.org/group/basingstoke/</a></p><p>You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/live" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/live</a> or ask Alexa to &#34;Launch About Basingstoke.&#34;</p><p><strong>HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR</strong></p><p>We&#39;re proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at <a href="http://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow"><strong>incuhive.co.uk</strong></a> and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.</p><p><strong>BE PART OF IT</strong></p><p>We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/contact" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/contact</a></p><p><strong>MESSAGE US</strong></p><p><a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/whatsapp" rel="nofollow"><strong>Send us a WhatsApp</strong></a> - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!</p> b9dc485d-8c22-47a8-83de-fac9ff2229c1 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Fri, 08 May 2026 04:00:31 +0000 1692 false full HOME & FAMILY - Dying Matters Week and Decluttering Your Home HOME & FAMILY - Dying Matters Week and Decluttering Your Home Communicast Ltd In this episode we talk to Basingstoke accountant Patricia Fox of figurefox.co.uk about Dying Matters Week and the importance of having the difficult conversations that can make things less difficult later on.

We also talk to Julie Heggie of Space and Time Reclaimed about decluttering and organising your home.

You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at aboutbasingstoke.com/live or ask Alexa to "Launch About Basingstoke."

HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.

BE PART OF IT

We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact

MESSAGE US

Send us a WhatsApp - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!

THE EXPERT NETWORK

Local business expert? Join the About Basingstoke Expert Network to get regular, professionally produced content for your business for just £79 per month.

]]> <p>In this episode we talk to Basingstoke accountant Patricia Fox of <a href="http://figurefox.co.uk" rel="nofollow">figurefox.co.uk</a> about Dying Matters Week and the importance of having the difficult conversations that can make things less difficult later on.</p><p>We also talk to Julie Heggie of<a href="http://spaceandtimereclaimed.com" rel="nofollow"> Space and Time Reclaimed</a> about decluttering and organising your home.</p><p>You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/live" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/live</a> or ask Alexa to &#34;Launch About Basingstoke.&#34;</p><p><strong>HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR</strong></p><p>We&#39;re proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at <a href="http://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow"><strong>incuhive.co.uk</strong></a> and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.</p><p><strong>BE PART OF IT</strong></p><p>We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/contact" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/contact</a></p><p><strong>MESSAGE US</strong></p><p><a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/whatsapp" rel="nofollow"><strong>Send us a WhatsApp</strong></a> - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!</p><p><strong>THE EXPERT NETWORK</strong></p><p>Local business expert? Join the<a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/expert" rel="nofollow"> About Basingstoke Expert Network</a> to get regular, professionally produced content for your business for just £79 per month.</p> c07d41fa-ed34-497f-ae57-6c33c0a1fcae https://aboutbasingstoke.com Thu, 07 May 2026 04:00:44 +0000 2018 false full WELLBEING - Keeping women & girls safe WELLBEING - Keeping women & girls safe Communicast Ltd In this episode of the About Basingstoke Wellbeing show we talk to Charlotte from Ignite Your Power CIC who are supporting women and girls in the Basingstoke area to feel safe. Charlotte and her team run FREE self-defence and personal safety workshops in Basingstoke and other local areas. They have also launched the Just Stay Safer initiative.

You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at aboutbasingstoke.com/live or ask Alexa to "Launch About Basingstoke."

HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.

BE PART OF IT

We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact

MESSAGE US

Send us a WhatsApp - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!

THE EXPERT NETWORK

Local business expert? Join the About Basingstoke Expert Network to get regular, professionally produced content for your business for just £79 per month.

]]> <p>In this episode of the About Basingstoke Wellbeing show we talk to Charlotte from <a href="https://www.igniteyourpowercic.com/" rel="nofollow">Ignite Your Power CIC</a> who are supporting women and girls in the Basingstoke area to feel safe. Charlotte and her team run FREE self-defence and personal safety workshops in Basingstoke and other local areas. They have also launched the <a href="https://www.igniteyourpowercic.com/juststaysafer-personal-safety-hub" rel="nofollow">Just Stay Safer</a> initiative.</p><p>You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/live" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/live</a> or ask Alexa to &#34;Launch About Basingstoke.&#34;</p><p><strong>HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR</strong></p><p>We&#39;re proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at <a href="http://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow"><strong>incuhive.co.uk</strong></a> and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.</p><p><strong>BE PART OF IT</strong></p><p>We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/contact" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/contact</a></p><p><strong>MESSAGE US</strong></p><p><a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/whatsapp" rel="nofollow"><strong>Send us a WhatsApp</strong></a> - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!</p><p><strong>THE EXPERT NETWORK</strong></p><p>Local business expert? Join the<a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/expert" rel="nofollow"> About Basingstoke Expert Network</a> to get regular, professionally produced content for your business for just £79 per month.</p> 7a183304-75fd-4ef4-8f07-818293f90f87 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Wed, 06 May 2026 04:00:19 +0000 1701 false full BUSINESS - Uncertainty, red tape, and a Hartley Wintney indie bookshop BUSINESS - Uncertainty, red tape, and a Hartley Wintney indie bookshop Communicast Ltd In our first ever About Basingstoke Business, host Steve Randall talks to Sylvia, owner of the Blue Bear Bookshop in Hartley Wintney about the joy of running an indie book shop; IncuHive CEO George Scott-Welsh shares his top 5 tips for business owners managing uncertainty; and we talk to Rachel Bennet about her new book on red tape!

You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at aboutbasingstoke.com/live or ask Alexa to "Launch About Basingstoke."

HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.

BE PART OF IT

We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact

MESSAGE US

Send us a WhatsApp - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!

THE EXPERT NETWORK

Local business expert? Join the About Basingstoke Expert Network to get regular, professionally produced content for your business for just £79 per month.

]]> <p>In our first ever About Basingstoke Business, host Steve Randall talks to Sylvia, owner of the Blue Bear Bookshop in Hartley Wintney about the joy of running an indie book shop; IncuHive CEO George Scott-Welsh shares his top 5 tips for business owners managing uncertainty; and we talk to Rachel Bennet about her new book on red tape!</p><p>You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/live" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/live</a> or ask Alexa to &#34;Launch About Basingstoke.&#34;</p><p><strong>HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR</strong></p><p>We&#39;re proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at <a href="http://incuhive.co.uk/" rel="nofollow"><strong>incuhive.co.uk</strong></a> and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.</p><p><strong>BE PART OF IT</strong></p><p>We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/contact" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/contact</a></p><p><strong>MESSAGE US</strong></p><p><a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/whatsapp" rel="nofollow"><strong>Send us a WhatsApp</strong></a> - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!</p><p><strong>THE EXPERT NETWORK</strong></p><p>Local business expert? Join the<a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/expert" rel="nofollow"> About Basingstoke Expert Network</a> to get regular, professionally produced content for your business for just £79 per month.</p> bc91723e-e6e4-4099-8d86-a9cfa416f194 https://aboutbasingstoke.com Tue, 05 May 2026 05:00:47 +0000 2215 false full May the 4th Be With You - Basingstoke's Own Star Wars Stuntman May the 4th Be With You - Basingstoke's Own Star Wars Stuntman 1 Communicast Ltd It's Day 1 of About Basingstoke and host Steve Randall is in the War Memorial Park to introduce the new podcast and radio platform for Basingstoke. He's also talking to a Basingstoke man with a cool connection to Star Wars - because we're launching on May the 4th (be with you)!

You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at aboutbasingstoke.com/live or ask Alexa to "Launch About Basingstoke."

HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

We're proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at incuhive.co.uk and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.

BE PART OF IT

We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via aboutbasingstoke.com/contact

MESSAGE US

Send us a WhatsApp - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!

THE EXPERT NETWORK

Local business expert? Join the About Basingstoke Expert Network to get regular, professionally produced content for your business for just £79 per month.



]]> <p>It&#39;s Day 1 of About Basingstoke and host Steve Randall is in the War Memorial Park to introduce the new podcast and radio platform for Basingstoke. He&#39;s also talking to a Basingstoke man with a cool connection to Star Wars - because we&#39;re launching on May the 4th (be with you)!</p><p>You can also listen to the live stream version of our new daily shows at <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/live" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/live</a> or ask Alexa to &#34;Launch About Basingstoke.&#34;</p><p><strong>HUGE THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR</strong></p><p>We&#39;re proud to be supported by IncuHive with their new location at Stephenson Road, Houndmills, Basingstoke offering dedicated offices, hot desks, and amazing business support. Find out more at <a href="http://incuhive.co.uk" rel="nofollow"><strong>incuhive.co.uk</strong></a> and tell them you heard about them at About Basingstoke.</p><p><strong>BE PART OF IT</strong></p><p>We would love to hear about you, your business, your organisation, your passion! Contact us via <a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/contact" rel="nofollow">aboutbasingstoke.com/contact</a></p><p><strong>MESSAGE US</strong></p><p><a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/whatsapp" rel="nofollow"><strong>Send us a WhatsApp</strong></a> - be brave and make it a voice message and your voice might be on the show!</p><p><strong>THE EXPERT NETWORK</strong></p><p>Local business expert? Join the<a href="http://aboutbasingstoke.com/expert" rel="nofollow"> About Basingstoke Expert Network</a> to get regular, professionally produced content for your business for just £79 per month. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p> c9188b80-98c9-4f00-8be0-3cf0da4d87cb https://aboutbasingstoke.com Mon, 04 May 2026 05:00:02 +0000 1509 false full Welcome to About Basingstoke Welcome to About Basingstoke Communicast Ltd About Basingstoke is coming - on 4th May 2026

]]> <p>About Basingstoke is coming - on 4th May 2026</p> 47baf6b5-8edd-468e-8e37-090c9d7e00ec https://aboutbasingstoke.com Thu, 02 Apr 2026 11:32:57 +0000 10 false