In this episode, I take you inside the moments that perfectly capture what we’re buildingOn the surface, it looks unusual. But behind it is a story about education, resilience, and a new way of doing business. One where income from training programmes fuels opportunities for disadvantaged young people. One where business and purpose work hand in hand.Join me as I share what our programmes all about, how our unique 'ecosystem' works, and why it feels like a dream come true to see it all unfold.This is about rethinking how businesses can create impact that lasts.
This episode shines a spotlight on the power of sport to build youth leadership, resilience, and community impact.This summer, five inspiring young people completed our sports leadership programme, giving almost 400 hours of service back to their community. Some are in care, some were disengaged with school, and others needed that extra bit of support. But each of them discovered the confidence to step into leadership. Continuing their education, gaining academic credits, and proving that learning doesn’t just happen in classrooms.And this is only the beginning. Thanks to new funding, 20 more young people will soon join the pathway through our Leadership Hub—a space designed to create the next generation of sports coaches, mentors, and community leaders.Join us as we explore their journey, the role of sport in transforming lives, and how investing in youth leadership creates ripple effects across schools, clubs, and neighbourhoods.This isn’t just about sport. It’s about preparing young people for life.If you’re passionate about youth development, coaching, and social change through sport, this episode is for you.
In this episode, I share how I’ve learned that stepping away from my business isn’t slacking off, it’s essential. From camping trips with family to simple daily pauses, I’ve discovered the power of “clarity breaks” and how they help me show up better in work and life. If you’ve ever struggled to switch off from something you love, this one’s for you.
In this episode of 'Life of a Social Entrepreneur', I dig into a powerful idea: 'we should be aiming to free people from the need for traditional charity.' What does that really mean? And are social enterprises today solving the root problems, or just sustaining cycles of need? Drawing on my work at Training Cave, where we prepare young people for life through boxing, mentorship, and education, I explore the difference between providing relief and creating lasting change. I also share why I believe true social entrepreneurship should empower people to become self-sufficient, positive members of society who pass their knowledge on to future generations.
In this episode of The Life of a Social Entrepreneur podcast,, I share the story of Archie, from stepping into the gym as a 12-year-old to becoming a 20-year old coach, role model, and leader in our education and outreach work. It’s about trust, growth, and what happens when you’ve been in someone’s corner, in boxing and in life.
Running a social enterprise means wearing all the hats. Until you can’t anymore. That’s when delegation becomes essential. In this episode, I explore: - Why you can’t (and shouldn’t) do everything yourself as a social entrepreneur- The role of Tasha, our Integrator — from bid writing and data to board comms and big decisions - The role of Rich, our Operations Lead — from leading the boxing team to mentoring young coaches and even interviewing new staff- How frameworks like 'Traction' (Gino Wickman) and the 'Greiner Growth Model' help make sense of growth stages- The opportunities and challenges of moving into the Delegation PhaseThis is the reality of growth: scary, messy, but full of possibility. If you’re running a social enterprise and feeling stretched too thin, this episode is for you.
In this episode of The Life of a Social Entrepreneur podcast, I share the story of Maja. Who joined Training Cave at 14 and is now stepping into a new role in marketing alongside her coaching.Her journey shows what it really means to prepare young people for life, not just sport. I also open up about the challenges of growth: what I’ve learned from 'Traction' and the 'Greiner Growth Model', the marketing gap we’re facing, and why delegation might just be our next big step.
In this episode of Life of a Social Entrepreneur, I share the key lessons I’ve taken from four powerful books and how they’ve shaped Training Cave.From finding clarity with 'Traction', to building systems with 'Run Like Clockwork', to uniting the team with 'All In', and finally mastering finances with 'Profit First'These books have changed how we work, grow, and create impact.Whether you’re leading a social enterprise or starting a business, these takeaways can help you build something that lasts.
This isn’t just the story of a gym, it’s the story of a mission.As a social entrepreneur, I’ve always believed sport changes lives.Now, that belief is shaping our future as we evolve into a full-time education setting. Join me as I share the highs, the challenges, and the vision behind this shift.And why I believe this is just the beginning of something much bigger.
Life of a Social Entrepreneur is back. After 11 episodes, I hit pause, and in this return episode, I share why.Running a social enterprise isn’t a straight path. My business was struggling. I was juggling two young children, dealing with negativity in the gym, losing long-term members, and fighting self-doubt. At one point, I even applied for a job, convinced I’d failed as a social entrepreneur.But the break gave me clarity. I learned to manage money better (thanks to my chair and Profit First by Mike Michalowicz).I had turning-point conversations with sponsors about valuing our work and pricing it properly. And I realised that not every opportunity is the right one. Even if it looks huge on paper.This episode is raw, honest, and all about resilience. It’s about what happens when you nearly walk away, and how stepping back can sometimes be the thing that moves you forward.If you’ve ever doubted yourself, this one’s for you.
Jack talks with Ellie from EdShift CICThe social impact mission at EdShift is rooted in creating a space of safety, belonging, and community for young people affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence. Through the transformative power of the arts, they aim to empower young people with the skills they need to challenge personal and systemic power dynamics.Ellie talks about her own journey into social entrepreneurship, the challenges of running a CIC and what her wildest dreams are for EdShift.
Jack talks with Cat from Seagulls paintCats social enterprise has a huge impact on the environment whilst helping people into employment. They discuss the struggles of running a social enterprise. How you don't need to be good at everything to run a small business, admitting this and getting the right people to help!How Cats job comes with a purpose. She's tackling climate crisis and social injustice whilst using humour and creativity on a daily basis.They both agree that they are running organisations that feels like they're 'cash poor, but social impact millionaires'
Everything happens for a reason! (How I started volunteering)From a random phone call in a special place.Jack talks about how he got into training amateur boxers. Good experiences and bad! And why he chose the path he chose with his work.Training Cave is an amateur boxing club, that is affiliated to England boxing. But Jacks journey started at another gym, which remains close to his heart.
A guest episode!Jack talks with Paula Appleton from Evergreen Active CIC.Paula has a brilliant story. She's has her own personal struggles and has grown an amazing programme that came from her advertising on Facebook for a running partner! So she could feel safe whilst exercising outdoors. She is an inspiration. Please take a listen!
In episode Jack gives an insight into a recent marketing session that he ran with his team. Being open and honest about money and what needs to be done to keep the business going and make sure everyone can continue to be paid to do a job that they love. In a small social enterprise with little resources, the whole team is the marketing team and everyone has to play their part. From direct marketing, to brand and personal brand. This is something that Jack has a big interest in and understands how important it is to run a business.
This is a recording from an event where Jack was asked to speak about how sport and exercise changes lives.Jack talks about his own experiences in sport and exercise. Stories of the young people he works with. He believes that sport and exercise doesn't just change lives, it lays the foundation. Everyone should be doing some form of physical activity every single day.
In this podcast Jack talks about his experiences of taking on staff. Some funny, and difficult stories... and situations along the way! but its all part of running a small organisation. In this episode you will hear little bits about the people that work at Training Cave and how much they all care. Taking on staff has been one of Jacks biggest teachers. He'd had to learn to manage, trust and recruit. But believes that investing in other people is one of the most important things you can do.
First guest podcast! Jack talks to Maddie from Blossom Training and Development CICBlossoms social impact mission is to reduce violence in the community. They talk about power of voice and the struggles of getting funding and being sustainable. Enjoy!
In this episode Jack talks about why his organisation, Training Cave became a not for profit. And why that decision turned out to be the best thing for everyone involved. Enjoy!
From electrician to gym owner! In this episode Jack shares a shortened story of how he completely changed his career. He wasn't happy with the way his life was going! So made the transition from electrical to gym owner...