Épisodes

  • Homelessness Isn’t What You Think: Lived Experience, Leadership, and Real Change | CEO Sleepout
    Dec 18 2025

    How can lived experience and business leadership come together to tackle homelessness?In this episode of Fear Less, Do More, host Gill Hunter sits down with Bianca Robinson, CEO of CEO Sleepout, and Kerri Douglas, their lived experience ambassador, to unpack the realities of homelessness and the powerful role empathy, leadership, and storytelling play in driving change.Whether you’re seeking insights into homelessness, social impact leadership, lived experience advocacy, corporate responsibility, or community-driven change, this episode offers a compelling look at how individual actions and systemic reform can work hand in hand to create a more compassionate future.Key Topics CoveredThe realities and misconceptions of homelessness, especially for womenCEO Sleepout’s mission and experiential approach to raising awareness and fundsWhy lived experience is essential to understanding homelessnessThe role of empathy and personal storytelling in driving changeHow businesses and SMEs can make a tangible social impactIntegrity, transparency, and trust in the charity sectorThe emotional toll of advocacy and the importance of self-careHumanising homelessness through connection and compassionThe need for systemic policy changeHow everyday kindness can make a real differenceChapters00:00 Introduction to CEO Sleep Out and Its Mission01:29 Understanding Homelessness: Myths and Realities04:13 Kerri's Journey: From Homelessness to Advocacy08:50 The Impact of Lived Experience on Perceptions of Homelessness12:23 The CEO Sleepout Experience: A Night Under the Stars15:56 Creating Compassion: The Ripple Effect of Awareness19:50 Advocacy and Policy Change: A Call to Action21:35 Empowering Voices: The Role of Lived Experience in Policy Making22:25 From Marketing to Charity: A Journey of Purpose29:05 Building a Community: The Impact of CEO Sleepout31:41 Creating Change: The Power of SMEs in Society33:51 Kerri's Advice to Rough Sleepers36:34 How Do Kerri & Bianca 'Switch Off'?38:13 A Call to Action: Engaging Business Leaders for Social Good38:27 Every Act Counts: Personal Responsibility in Supporting the HomelessHelpful Links & ResourcesCentrepoint - UK's leading youth homelessness charityhttps://centrepoint.org.uk/node/1Depaul UK - a youth homeless charity providing emergency accommodation and shelter for young people facing homelessness across the UK.https://www.depaul.org.uk/Childline - Childline counsellors are here to take calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from children and young people under 19.0800 1111https://www.childline.org.uk/Visit the CEO Sleepout Websitehttps://ceosleepout.co.uk/Read Kerri’s Book - Gutter to Glory: ‘Pavements to Parliament’https://www.amazon.co.uk/Gutter-Glory-Parliament-Kerri-Douglas/dp/B08W3RNXXH?ref_=ast_author_mpbConnect with Kerri Douglas on Linkedinhttps://uk.linkedin.com/in/kerri-douglas-5595b8176Connect with Bianca Robinson on Linkedinhttps://uk.linkedin.com/in/birobinsonFind out more about your host Gill Hunterhttps://squareonelaw.com/people/gill-...Find out more about Square One Lawhttps://squareonelaw.com/Find out more about ‘Fear Less, Do More’https://squareonelaw.com/insights/fear-less-do-more/If you liked this episode, you may also enjoy this onehttps://youtu.be/00ptDAeFsnk?si=6BqQvVT_xSwWdxYIThis podcast was produced and recorded at Flamingo Heights Podcast Studio🦩https://www.flamingoheights.co.uk/For any enquiries or feedback regarding this podcast, email us at ⁠marketing@squareonelaw.com⁠ with the subject 'PODCAST’.

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    42 min
  • The Distillery Bringing Anglo-Saxon History Back to Life | Chris Ferguson
    Dec 11 2025

    How does a whisky distillery bring 1,400 years of Anglo-Saxon history back to life?In this episode of Fear Less, Do More, host Gill Hunter sits down with Dr. Chris Ferguson, Museum & Experience Director at Ad Gefrin — a groundbreaking cultural destination in Northumberland that blends an Anglo-Saxon museum, world-class whisky distillery, and community-led storytelling hub.Discover how Ad Gefrin is reshaping what we know about Northumbrian history, uncovering the hidden role of women in Anglo-Saxon society, and revitalising a region through architecture inspired by ancient traditions, deep-rooted cultural heritage, and a passionate family business.Whether you’re searching for insights on Anglo-Saxon history, whisky making, Northumberland tourism, heritage storytelling, or community engagement, this episode offers a powerful look at how the past can inspire a bold, creative future.Key Topics CoveredAd Gefrin: the fusion of Anglo-Saxon history and modern whisky distillingThe overlooked stories of women in early medieval historyHow a family brought a cultural landmark to lifeArchitecture inspired by Northumbrian heritageWhy storytelling is essential to uncovering hidden historiesCommunity engagement & seasonal traditionsSustainability and long-term impact in a family-run businessChapters00:00 Introduction to Ad Gefrin and Its Significance 07:09 Uncovering the Role of Women in Anglo-Saxon History 12:00 The Journey of Building Ad Gefrin 18:02 Creating a Community and Cultural Hub 18:31 Proudest Moment So Far 21:44 What Is Whisky? 23:28 About Corenkyn & Corengyst 27:48 The Christmas Goats 30:09 Future Aspirations and Hidden HistoriesVisit the Ad Gefrin Websitehttps://adgefrin.co.uk/Connect with Chris Ferguson on LinkedInhttps://uk.linkedin.com/in/fergusonchristopherFind out more about your host Gill Hunterhttps://squareonelaw.com/people/gill-...Find out more about Square One Lawhttps://squareonelaw.com/Find out more about ‘Fear Less, Do More’https://squareonelaw.com/insights/fear-less-do-more/If you liked this episode, you may also enjoy this onehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fDSPZMM7Ag0&list=PLb5yiYFkUPu1BW7m6iKlz7wbwzvvCYDXz&index=18This podcast was produced and recorded at Flamingo Heights Podcast Studio🦩https://www.flamingoheights.co.uk/For any enquiries or feedback regarding this podcast, email us at ⁠marketing@squareonelaw.com⁠ with the subject 'PODCAST’.

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    39 min
  • The Next Fight for LGBTQ+ Equality: What You Need to Know | Peter Darrant
    Dec 4 2025
    The fight for LGBTQ+ equality has come a long way - but the next chapter will demand more unity, visibility, and allyship than ever before.In this episode of Fear Less, Do More, Peter Darrant, long-time LGBTQ+ activist and broadcaster, reveals how the community’s past battles - from Section 28 to modern media representation - are shaping the future of equality in the UK.Key Topics Covered:What it was really like growing up and coming out under Section 28How LGBTQ+ rights have evolved — and the new challenges aheadWhy allies are essential to progress (and how to keep them engaged)The changing face of LGBTQ+ representation in mediaWhy community spaces matter and how they protect identity & wellbeingThe power of self-reflection and personal growth in activismOvercoming fear of failure to build better movementsHow history shapes today’s LGBTQ+ culture and politicsStrengthening unity to push back against division and discriminationWhat the LGBTQ+ community must prepare for in the coming decadeWhether you're part of the LGBTQ+ community, an ally, or someone passionate about representation and equality - this is a powerful and important conversation about the future of LGBTQ+ rights in the UK.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Peter Darrant and Pride World Media00:44 Reflections on Community and Allies01:34 The Evolution of Queer Activism03:26 Historical Context of LGBTQ+ Rights05:47 Concerns for the Future of the Queer Community07:51 The Impact of Social Media on Activism10:58 The Role of Allies in the LGBTQ+ Movement12:33 The Importance of Local Government Support13:25 Peter's Journey in Media and Performance17:59 Bridging the Gap Between Education and Real-World Experience21:34 The Art of Conversation22:52 Building Pride: A Journey of Growth28:38 Creating Safe Spaces: The Pride Media Center30:01 Outnorth East: Expanding Community Engagement33:16 Embracing Change: The Power of Serendipity36:19 Fearlessness and Self-Reflection39:48 The Legacy of Activism and Community43:24 Reflections on Youth and Future AspirationsVisit the Pride World Media Websitehttps://www.prideworldmedia.com/Visit the Pride Media Centre Websitehttps://www.pridemediacentre.co.uk/Visit the Out North East Websitehttps://www.outnortheast.org.uk/Visit the Safer to Be Me Websitehttps://www.reportout.org/safertobemeTune in to Pride Radio Newcastlehttps://prideradio.co.uk/new_radio_player/console/Connect with Peter Darrant on LinkedInhttps://uk.linkedin.com/in/peter-darrant-09bbb5162Find out more about your host Gill Hunterhttps://squareonelaw.com/people/gill-...Find out more about Square One Lawhttps://squareonelaw.com/Find out more about ‘Fear Less, Do More’https://squareonelaw.com/insights/fear-less-do-more/If you liked this episode, you may also enjoy this onehttps://youtu.be/lgIv5QoFU2A?si=o-3Sk0jB6EalHrk8This podcast was produced and recorded at Flamingo Heights Podcast Studio🦩https://www.flamingoheights.co.uk/For any enquiries or feedback regarding this podcast, email us at ⁠marketing@squareonelaw.com⁠ with the subject 'PODCAST’.
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    45 min
  • Why Heat Pumps Will Replace Gas Boilers in the UK | Amy Mooney, Mutha Cuva
    Nov 27 2025

    Heat pumps are coming faster than the UK is prepared for — and most homeowners don’t know why.In this episode of Fear Less, Do More, Amy Mooney, founder of Mutha Cuva, reveals how clean home heating will replace gas boilers — and the massive skills gap slowing down the UK’s net-zero goals.Key Topics Covered:Gas boiler ban timelines & misconceptionsHow heat pumps actually work (and why they’re more efficient)Smart tech improving home energyBuilding a purpose-led company in a male-dominated industryThe urgent need for diversity in the heating workforceWhether you’re a homeowner, climate-tech innovator, or future-focused leader — this is a conversation about the future of energy in UK homes.


    Key Takeaways

    Climate change concerns sparked Amy’s journey into the clean-heat sector.


    Mutha Cuva provides essential aftercare and support for heat pump owners.


    Transitioning from gas to renewable home energy is vital for future UK homes.


    Heat pumps can outperform traditional gas boilers in efficiency and sustainability.


    The UK heating industry faces a major skills gap slowing energy transition progress.


    A more diverse and inclusive workforce is key to innovation and resilience.


    Amy’s personal experiences drive her commitment to clean energy and customer care.


    Fear can fuel entrepreneurial risk-taking and positive change.


    Technology is improving service delivery and heat-pump reliability.


    Raising finance requires strategic planning, clarity, and strong networks.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Mutha Cuva and Climate Concerns

    02:57 The Birth of Mutha Cuva: Addressing Clean Heat Transition

    06:00 The Journey of a Marketer to Entrepreneur

    08:50 Understanding Heat Pumps and the Gas Boiler Ban

    12:11 The Future of Heating: Benefits of Heat Pumps

    14:26 The Benefits of a Heat Pump Over a Gas Boiler

    16:26 Navigating the Challenges of a Male-Dominated Industry

    17:45 The Role of Technology in Heating Solutions

    19:08 Balancing Family and Business

    22:29 Embracing Fear and Taking Risks

    26:59 Raising Finance and Building a Business

    29:21 Diversity in the Sector

    32:32 Favourite Areas of the Job

    34:14 Conclusion and Future Aspirations


    Connect with Amy Mooney on Linkedin

    https://uk.linkedin.com/in/amymooney1


    Visit the Mutha Cuva Website

    https://www.muthacuva.co.uk/


    Find out more about your host Gill Hunter

    https://squareonelaw.com/people/gill-...


    Find out more about Square One Law

    https://squareonelaw.com/


    Find out more about ‘Fear Less, Do More’

    https://squareonelaw.com/insights/fear-less-do-more/


    If you liked this episode, you may also enjoy this one

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GT63pXeU1vw&list=PLb5yiYFkUPu1BW7m6iKlz7wbwzvvCYDXz&index=47


    This podcast was produced and recorded at Flamingo Heights Podcast Studio🦩


    https://www.flamingoheights.co.uk/


    For any enquiries or feedback regarding this podcast, email us at ⁠marketing@squareonelaw.com⁠ with the subject 'PODCAST’.

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    42 min
  • Fast Fashion Is Broken — This Designer Is Fighting Back | Corey Dixon, Somebody Else’s Guy
    Nov 20 2025

    Welcome to a brand new season of Fear Less, Do More.In this episode host Gill Hunter sits down with fashion designer Corey Dixon, the creative mind behind Somebody Else’s Guy - a bold, upcycled, gender-neutral fashion label rooted in authenticity and North East identity.

    From navigating profound personal loss to building a brand that challenges the wastefulness of fast fashion, Corey shares the pivotal moments that shaped her journey.

    She reveals how her background in theatre influences her design aesthetic, why she refuses to compromise on sustainability, and how unexpected celebrity collaborations have helped propel her work into the spotlight.

    Corey also opens up about what fearlessness means to her, how she stays grounded in the North East, and her ambition to stage a major catwalk event that showcases the region’s creative talent.


    Key Takeaways:

    • Personal loss sparked Corey’s determination to build Somebody Else’s Guy.
    • The brand champions upcycled, gender-neutral, sustainable fashion.
    • Theatre training influences her dramatic and character-driven designs.
    • Fearlessness comes from understanding how brief life can be.
    • Celebrity collaborations have accelerated brand recognition.
    • Sourcing vintage materials is challenging but central to her ethos.
    • Corey is committed to challenging the fast fashion industry.
    • The North East remains a vital part of her creative identity.
    • Authenticity is what connects her most deeply with her audience.
    • Future goals include launching a large-scale North East catwalk event.


    Connect with Corey Dixon on Linkedin

    linkedin.com/in/corey-dixon-21aaaa166?originalSubdomain=uk

    Connect with Somebody Else’s Guy

    Website

    https://somebodyelsesguy.co.uk/?srsltid=AfmBOopYHnLUOnWxNw28ibUXV6dIJF-kZ-6JgM--ZT1eix7yE8a37j5X

    Instagram

    https://www.instagram.com/somebodyelsesguy/?hl=en

    Find out more about your host Gill Hunter

    https://squareonelaw.com/people/gill-...

    Find out more about Square One Law

    https://squareonelaw.com/

    Find out more about ‘Fear Less, Do More’

    https://squareonelaw.com/insights/fear-less-do-more/

    If you liked this episode, you may also enjoy this onehttps://open.spotify.com/episode/6CIhsOdmHyKexISP35KsXC?si=CIXqbUSNSLuTkhRqrAWatg

    This podcast was produced and recorded at Flamingo Heights Podcast Studio🦩

    https://www.flamingoheights.co.uk/

    For any enquiries or feedback regarding this podcast, email us at ⁠marketing@squareonelaw.com⁠ with the subject 'PODCAST’.

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    34 min
  • How Catrina McHugh MBE is Changing Lives with Theatre (S5:E12)
    Jul 17 2025

    In Season 5’s final episode of ‘Fear Less, Do More’, host Gill Hunter has an uplifting and inspiring conversation with Catrina McHugh MBE, Co-Founder of Open Clasp Theatre Company, a feminist theatre company based in Newcastle upon Tyne.


    Catrina shares her story from activism to theatre, and highlights the transformative power of art for social change. She also emphasises the importance of collaboration, storytelling and empathy in creating change, while also reflecting on the challenges and hopes for the future of social justice and prison reform.


    Highlights include:

    • Catrina’s background and her journey into theatre and activism.

    • A look back at her time spent at Greenham Common and her involvement in the miners strike.

    • The work of Open Clasp Theatre Company, a feminist theatre company focused on the power and value of arts for social change.

    • How Open Clasp Theatre gives voices to marginalised communities, including women in prison.

    • Catrina’s perspective on the role of the arts and theatre in addressing social issues and driving change.

    • Her work on government advisory panels and the importance of having a seat at the table as an advocate for change.

    • Catrina’s involvement in her band, ‘The Camp Vamps’, and how she uses this as a source of joy.


    Connect with Catrina McHugh MBE on LinkedIn

    https://uk.linkedin.com/in/catrina-mchugh-mbe-0962831a


    Find out more about Open Clasp Theatre Company

    https://www.openclasp.org.uk/


    Find out more about your host Gill Hunter

    https://squareonelaw.com/people/gill-hunter/


    Find out more about Square One Law

    https://squareonelaw.com/


    Find out more about ‘Fear Less, Do More’

    https://squareonelaw.com/insights/fear-less-do-more/


    If you liked this episode, you may also enjoy this one

    https://open.spotify.com/episode/6V3alWkPneVYKcn9q8SVGH?si=J9rvgXyPRzOhPWfZJpRFkw


    This podcast was produced and recorded at Flamingo Heights Podcast Studio🦩

    https://www.flamingoheights.co.uk/


    For any enquiries or feedback regarding this podcast, email us at ⁠marketing@squareonelaw.com⁠ with the subject 'PODCAST’.

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    1 h et 1 min
  • From Tram Parts to AI: Toby Bridges on The Future of Supply Chains (S5:E11)
    Jul 10 2025

    In this episode of ‘Fear Less, Do More’, host Gill Hunter has a future-focused conversation with Toby Bridges, CEO of NBT Group - a North East family business with a remarkable 117 year legacy.


    From humble beginnings as a tram parts supplier to a cutting edge provider of supply chain management and AI driven solutions, Toby shares the journey and evolution of NBT, and why he aims to create a world where technology reduces inefficiency, giving people time back.


    Highlights include:

    • How NBT has evolved over the last century, from tram parts to AI powered supply chain solutions.

    • The role of women in NBT’s legacy and why Toby sees them as early innovators.

    • Why poor data is to blame for waste, not people, and how AI can be a force for good.

    • Toby’s vision for the North East; to be a digital exemplar through devolution and collaboration.

    • How fearlessness and adaptability has helped Toby to run a legacy business.

    • How curiosity, networking and ‘just getting on with it’ are key traits for the next generation of workers.


    Connect with Toby Bridges on Linkedin

    https://uk.linkedin.com/in/tobybridges


    Find out more about your host Gill Hunter

    https://squareonelaw.com/people/gill-hunter/


    Find out more about Square One Law

    https://squareonelaw.com/


    Find out more about ‘Fear Less, Do More’

    https://squareonelaw.com/insights/fear-less-do-more/


    If you liked this episode, you may also enjoy this one

    https://open.spotify.com/episode/7DisGBXbUewxkH4o2mA0g6?si=GvjMU7bdR4SltDbv7JZyOA


    This podcast was produced and recorded at Flamingo Heights Podcast Studio🦩


    ⁠⁠https://www.flamingoheights.co.uk/⁠⁠


    For any enquiries or feedback regarding this podcast, email us at ⁠marketing@squareonelaw.com⁠ with the subject 'PODCAST’.


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    58 min
  • Kate Rose: Seeing the Beauty in Everything with TUTTI&CO (S5:E10)
    Jul 3 2025

    In this episode of ‘Fear Less, Do More’, host Gill Hunter sits down with Kate Rose, Founder and Creative Director of TUTTI&CO - a thriving North East-based fashion and accessories brand that has been going strong for 20 years. With seasonal collections of jewellery and accessories, TUTTI&CO is stocked by major retailers like John Lewis and Fenwicks, and draws inspiration from Kate’s travels around the world.

    Despite facing many challenges, Kate's resilience and creativity have driven the business forward. She shares insights on the power of authenticity, learning from setbacks and making fearless decisions in business.

    Highlights include:

    • How a trip to Milan and the Italian culture inspired Kate to launch TUTTI&CO

    • Kate’s creative process and how she draws inspiration from travel and experiences

    • The challenges of expanding into homeware, and the lessons that came with it

    • How TUTTI&CO adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    • Kate’s exciting plans to open a new retail concept store, and the story behind how this came to be.

    • Kate’s reflections on her proudest moments after 20 years of TUTTI&CO, including selling products in John Lewis, Oxford Street.

    Connect with Kate Rose on Linkedin

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-rose-63b16549/?originalSubdomain=uk

    Find out more about your host Gill Hunter

    https://squareonelaw.com/people/gill-hunter/

    Find out more about Square One Law

    https://squareonelaw.com/

    Find out more about ‘Fear Less, Do More’

    https://squareonelaw.com/insights/fear-less-do-more/

    This podcast was produced and recorded at Flamingo Heights Podcast Studio🦩

    https://www.flamingoheights.co.uk/

    If you liked this episode, you may also enjoy this one

    https://open.spotify.com/episode/30iMXEa6GNPSAOOSDMuHIy?si=0c2-dMPhQQSXrrYyM2qUjQ


    For any enquiries or feedback regarding this podcast, email us at ⁠marketing@squareonelaw.com⁠ with the subject 'PODCAST’.

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    44 min