Welcome to the home of the We are Wakefield Podcast, hosted by We Are Wakefield Managing Director, Claire Sutherley.
The purpose of the podcast is to showcase businesses that are part of the WAW community as well as communicating business support and useful information. The We Are Wakefield Podcast is produced in partnership with Podmatic
You can also access the Rhubarb Radio We Are Wakefield Showcase where Dave Adams speaks to Claire and special guests about WAW members, collaborations and events.
We Are Wakefield Podcast | Episode 8: Wakefield Business Awards Special 🎉
In this special episode, we’re gearing up for the 2025 Wakefield Business Awards on 13 November by celebrating the stories behind the success.
Join host Claire Sutherley, MD of We Are Wakefield, as she chats with two of our inspiring 2024 winners:
- Karen Starkey from Conservatory Outlet, who shares her commitment to ethical business and improving lives.
- Berni O’Brien from St George’s, whose work focuses on empowering local people and supporting their aspirations.
We’re also joined by Dixie from BBC Radio Leeds, host of the Awards for the second year, who captures the electric atmosphere of the event.
Expect behind-the-scenes insights, heartfelt reflections, and even a few seating plan secrets!
🎟️ Tickets for the 2025 Awards are on sale now — closing date: 26 October
🎧 Tune in and get inspired
🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring conversations from the heart of Wakefield’s business scene.
🎙️ We Are Wakefield Podcast | Episode 7: Wakefield Business Awards Special 🎉
In this celebratory episode, We Are Wakefield MD Claire Sutherley sits down with the powerhouse sponsors behind the upcoming Wakefield Business Awards 2025—and it’s all about community, recognition, and a little bit of cheeky anticipation for the big night!
✨ Meet the guests:
- Sylvie Giangolini, MD of Head Sponsors Hako, shares why supporting Wakefield businesses is close to her heart (and jokes that the awards night might get a bit messy!)
- Kelly Smith of Juice Personnel, returning as Supporting Sponsors for the 4th year, reflects on the value of consistency and connection.
- Stella Bowdell of Huddersfield Business School, joining as Supporting Sponsors for the first time, brings fresh energy and insight into why this event is unlike any other.
🏆 Together, they explore:
- Why awards matter more than ever in today’s business landscape
- What makes the Wakefield Business Awards uniquely supportive
- How We Are Wakefield is more than a network—it’s a thriving business community every local company should be part of
📅 Save the date: The awards night takes place at the stunning Tileyard North on 13th November 2025—and if Sylvie’s prediction is anything to go by, it’s going to be unforgettable!
🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring conversations from the heart of Wakefield’s business scene.
🎙️ WAW Podcast Episode 6: Wakefield Business Awards Special – Behind the Judging Curtain In this special edition of the WAW Podcast, Managing Director Claire Sutherley lifts the lid on the judging process behind the 2025 Wakefield Business Awards. Joined by Head Judge Louise Turner of Awards Writers and first-time Judge Sarah Beaumont of Widd Signs, we dive into what really goes on when the entries land—and why this year’s shortlist is something to be proud of. 💬 Expect honest reflections, expert insights, and a few surprises as Louise and Sarah share what impressed them, what challenged them, and why Wakefield’s approach to awards is refreshingly different. 🏆 We talk about:
- The rigorous, transparent judging process
- Why scepticism around awards is valid—and how we’re tackling it
- What makes a standout entry
- The joy (and responsibility) of celebrating local excellence
📅 Shortlist revealed: 18 August 2025 🎉 Awards Ceremony: 13 November 2025 Whether you entered, judged, or are just curious—this episode is your backstage pass to the heart of Wakefield’s business celebration. 🔔 Subscribe, share, and get inspired. Wakefield’s finest are ready to shine.
Episode 5 2025:
🎧 We Are Wakefield Podcast | Episode 5: School Takeover Special!
This summer, the students are in charge! 🌞🎙️
In this heartwarming and inspiring episode, four brilliant Year 6 pupils—Lynn, Phoebe, Tom, and Lottie—from Orchard Head Junior, Infant & Nursery School, part of Pontefract Academies Trust, step into the spotlight to host their own podcast takeover.
With the confidence of seasoned broadcasters and the curiosity only children can bring, they interview Claire Sutherley, MD of We Are Wakefield. Expect thought-provoking questions, genuine giggles, and a few surprises as they explore Claire’s career journey, what fuels her passion for community, and her most memorable WAW moment.
👩🏫 A celebration of young voices, regional pride, and summer creativity—this is one you won’t want to miss.
Episode 4 2025:
🎙️Welcome to the 2025 WAW Podcast!🎙️
In this special edition of the We Are Wakefield Podcast, WAW Managing Director Claire Sutherley sits down with the MP for Wakefield and Rothwell for a candid and wide-ranging conversation. From navigating local business challenges to celebrating regional wins, Claire brings your voices to the table—sharing member insights and championing the power of collaboration across West Yorkshire.
🌟 Expect real talk on topics raised by We Are Wakefield members, thought-provoking perspectives from Westminster, and Claire’s signature blend of humour, diplomacy, and passion for community impact. It’s a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of business in our region.
🎧 Tune in, be inspired, and hear how local voices are making waves in national conversations.
Episode 3 2025:
🎙️Welcome to the 2025 WAW Podcast!🎙️
We Are Wakefield Podcast – Episode 3: Snapping, Sunshine & Surprise Meetings! Lights, camera… deep conversations? WAW Managing Director Claire Sutherley is joined by Wakefield’s dynamic duo of photography: Antony de Csernatony (Kraft Media) and Chris Whittam (Chris Whittam Photography). Together, they unravel the mysteries of self-employment—how a love for control and a fear of commitment may have played a sneaky role. From ADHD and mental health battles to why trust trumps competition, this episode is packed with heart, humour, and honesty. But it’s not all serious talk—expect legendary packed lunches, run-ins with Alisha Dixon, adventures with boxing giants Tyson Fury and Derek Chisora, and a truly unexpected Herbal Life pants moment that led to an unforgettable meeting. Tune in to hear how these two talented photographers have turned their lenses on life, proving that collaboration is stronger than competition. Get ready for a snapshot of laughter, wisdom, and a few stories you won’t believe! Hit play, and let’s get snapping!
Episode 2 2025:
🎙️Welcome to the 2025 WAW Podcast!🎙️
Join our MD Claire Sutherley for an inspiring conversation with three incredible business minds: Nigel Greenwood, founder of BuBul, Martin Weaver-Parker, also known as the Yorkshire Broker, and Cathy Burns from What’s Your Story. In this episode, they reflect on where their journeys began, the lessons they’ve learned, and the turning points that shaped their paths. They also discuss how Bubul can help new business owners! Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or just love a good story, this one’s for you.
Episode 1 2025:
🎙️Welcome to the 2025 WAW Podcast!🎙️
This episode features an insightful and lively conversation with our host, Managing Director Claire Sutherley, as she dives deep into the art of collaboration with two exceptional guests: Sue Maxwell from McManus Consulting and Chris Lord, The Virtual IT Director.
Together, they’ll uncover the secrets behind overcoming workplace challenges and share some cringe-worthy networking stories that you won’t want to miss!
Tune in and get ready for an episode packed with valuable tips, candid discussions, and a few laughs. 🎧
The We Are Wakefield Showcase with Rhubarb Radio
Dave Adams chats to the WAW team and WAW members in the We Are Wakefield Showcase – catch up here:
Tuesday Mar 04, 2025
Listen to this special edition of the We Are Wakefield Showcase podcast with Dave Adams welcoming Councillor Darren Byford, Mayor of Wakefield along with Claire Sutherley, MD of We Are Wakefield, to talk about Wakefield’s great businesses, large and small, and discuss the forthcoming superb Wakefield Expo, the perfect place to collaborate with like minded business people.