The Cotswold Collective Podcast

Not everyone needs care - sometimes they just need company. This week on The Cotswold Collective Podcast, we’re joined by Vicky, founder of The Bespoke Life, a companionship service supporting adults across the Cotswolds with warmth, dignity and genuine friendship. Inspired by her own experience supporting her grandmother, Vicky created The Bespoke Life for people who value their independence but would benefit from a friendly face - whether that’s going for coffee, attending appointments, vis...

In this episode, we sit down with Gemma Machon and Michelle Stirling, co-founders of Inuti Interiors, to talk about their journey building a high-end residential interior design studio with a refreshingly thoughtful approach. From landing their very first project through a referral to expanding into project management and commercial work, Gemma and Michelle share how the business has evolved alongside the industry itself. They discuss their commitment to creating livable, family-friendly spac...

In this episode, we’re joined by Abbie, founder of Parsley & Twine, who shares the heartfelt story behind her luxury silk scarf brand. Inspired by a reflective walk through the Cotswolds on her 26th birthday, Abbie explains how that moment sparked the idea for a brand rooted in craftsmanship, meaning, and timeless design. Launched in September 2024, Parsley & Twine’s silk scarves are crafted in 18 momme silk, balancing elegance and durability for both urban and rural lifestyles. Abbie...

In this episode, Sarah sits down with Rebecca Williams, owner of Aura 10 Head Spa and Hair Treatments, to talk about her journey into holistic hair and scalp care. Rebecca shares how her own struggle with frizzy, unmanageable hair led her to discover keratin treatments and, ultimately, transform not just her hair but her career. What started as a personal solution evolved into a business focused on treating the scalp as the foundation of healthy hair. We explore how Aura 10 has grown to inclu...

In this episode, we sit down with James Petts, founder of Proud Phoenix Club, a powerful mental strength clothing movement born from his personal journey with Crohn’s disease. James shares how his own struggles with health, resilience and self-belief led him to create a brand that stands for courage, authenticity and community. From hoodies and beanies to purpose-driven product lines, each Proud Phoenix Club item represents a specific mindset and value designed to empower those who wear it. J...

Join us as Hannah Harrison, founder of Roam and Wonder, shares the story behind her luxury walking retreats and growing community walks in the Cotswolds. What began as a side project has become a thriving brand built around nature, connection, and wellbeing. Hannah talks about the retreats’ premium touches - from beautiful accommodation to private chefs - and the unique mix of people they attract. She also highlights the Roam and Wonder Foundation, which now runs free community walks to make ...

In this episode of The Cotswold Collective, we meet Thomas Jeffery, the founder of Cheltenham Chocolates, whose story proves that passion and persistence can shape true craftsmanship. Despite being colourblind and completely self-taught, Tom has built a business renowned for its beautifully balanced, hand-crafted chocolates. Inspired by patisseries, he began experimenting in his kitchen, creating unique flavours like galangal and honey whiskey, using sustainable ingredients such as Ruby choco...

In this episode, Jennifer Susan, founder of Halliesphere, shares the story behind her innovative flower arranging product that’s reshaping sustainable floristry. Drawing inspiration from Victorian design, the Halliesphere replaces traditional materials like foam and chicken wire with a simple, adaptable, and eco-friendly alternative made from 100% recycled acrylic. Jenny talks about her journey from handcrafting each piece to partnering with a local manufacturer, the growing interest from flo...

Episode 1 – From Greenhouses to Growth: The Roots & Seeds Story In the first episode of The Cotswold Collective Podcast, host Sarah O’Neill sits down with Toby and Sam from Roots & Seeds Kitchen Garden Café to explore how their story began with five greenhouses during lockdown in 2020 and grew into one of the Cotswolds’ most loved food destinations. They talk about their transition from The Scenic Supper to Roots & Seeds, the importance of community, local produce and sustainable ...