Island Influencers Sharon Sutton

In this latest episode of Island Influencers, I delve into Sarah Mercer, co-founder of Earthscope’s remarkable story.
Originally from Liverpool, Sarah moved to the Isle of Man at age two, shaping her childhood along the island's shores and landscapes. Her academic pursuits in Physical Geography at Durham University sparked a deep interest in environmental issues, leading her to co-found Footprint, an annual environmental summit.
Returning to the Isle of Man, Sarah immersed herself in projects like 'Island Utopias', a lockdown documentary capturing community spirit, and 'Manannan's Charms', an app blending folklore with nature. All while living off-grid, making the film entirely using solar power.
She collaborated with the Isle of Play to engage children with nature. She explored sustainable practices across Europe with AimHi Earth, presenting alongside notable figures and partnering with impactful organisations globally.
Sarah's dedication culminated in co-founding Earthscope, driving carbon literacy initiatives, and advocating for sustainable practices.
She is an advocate, nature lover, filmmaker, and sustainability facilitator. Her journey is one of passion, purpose, and a relentless dedication to creating a more sustainable and harmonious world for all.
Here is episode 110 with Sharon Sutton in conversation with Island Influencer Sarah Mercer, co-founder of Earthscope.

This week’s Island Influencer’s life story is nothing short of jaw-dropping. I am only scratching the surface with this introduction.
Boakesey Closs, the IXth Manx Bard, embodies resilience in every word she weaves. Born amidst unexpected circumstances in London during her mother's return from Nigeria, Boakesey's life path defies convention from the outset.
Raised in North Wales, she navigated a childhood marked by unique challenges. She exhibited remarkable intellect from a young age, mastering calculus and delving into Tolkien's epic tales in "Lord of the Rings" at a mere eight years old.
Throughout the conversation, Boakesey candidly shares her experiences navigating through various trials, including caring for her grandmother battling Alzheimer's while embracing single parenthood and pursuing a degree in biochemistry.
She speaks openly about her battles with mental and physical health, finding solace and healing through creative expression. A dedicated teacher, Boakesey finds joy in shaping young minds. She recounts personal stories of her students' successes and her own reading and watercolour painting pursuits.
Despite facing financial hardships, Boakesey remains undeterred. She eagerly anticipates new projects and ventures as a writer and facilitator and is steadfast in her mission to uplift and support others.
Join us in episode 109 of Island Influencers, where we celebrate the triumphs of the human spirit with Boakesey Closs. 

The wonderful Sinead O’Connor is my 108th Island Influencer, and she heads the Regulatory and Compliance Services team at DQ Advocates, based in the Isle of Man.


Sinead is a seasoned professional in the compliance sphere, with a career spanning back to the mid-1990s. However, her credentials are not the only thing that sets her apart. 


Born in Northern Ireland, she found her “freedom and sense of belonging” and home on the Isle of Man after two transformative summers spent on the island. Since then, Sinead has become integral to the regulatory landscape, serving as a beacon for best practices and compliance excellence.


Sinead's contributions extend beyond the boardroom. With a heart for community service, she has been an active member of the Samaritans leadership team for over 12 years.


And when she's not navigating the complexities of compliance or leading community initiatives, you might find her enjoying a leisurely walk with her cockapoo or diving into the pages of a compelling book.


Here is episode 108 with Island Influencer Sinead O’Connor. 
https://www.thorntonfs.com/island-influencer-sinead-oconnor


 

Welcome to episode 107 of Island Influencers!
Chatting with Fiona Fitzpatrick, an esteemed International Business Development Consultant, Coach, Facilitator, and Speaker is my absolute privilege.
With a wealth of experience, Fiona specialises in empowering food companies to achieve growth through strategic brand optimisation, people development, and innovative thinking.
In this episode, Fiona shares her life story, beginning with her childhood in Dublin, where she reflects on the profound impact of her early Montessori education and the guidance of mentors who shaped her path.
Delving into the transformative power of love, Fiona recounts how it brought her to the Isle of Man alongside her partner Juan. She candidly discusses her career trajectory, from her roles at Nestle and Premier Foods to her dynamic experience at Gü, where she played a pivotal role in business growth despite the challenges.
Throughout our conversation, Fiona opens up about the highs and lows of her career, including her courageous battle with breast cancer and the resilience she discovered in the face of adversity.
We also explore the unique challenges and opportunities present on the Isle of Man. Fiona looks ahead with optimism, eager to apply her extensive international expertise to foster growth and innovation locally.
Here is episode 107 with Island Influencer Fiona Fitzpatrick.
Useful links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fionafitz/
Website: https://www.fionafitzconsulting.com/
Instagram: @brandgrowthheroes
Podcast: https://www.brandgrowthheroes.com/
Brand Growth Heroes Accelerator Programme: Overview | LinkedIn
Book: All The Broken Places: The Sequel to The Boy In The Striped Pyjamas 
Brand Growth Heroes is proud to be launching the Brand Growth Heroes mini MBA powered by Alantra. Running from April 29th to July 5th 2024, the mini MBA is open to ambitious founders of scaling challenger brands of consumer packaged goods products. To find out more about the mini MBA and apply for your place please click here.
Please subscribe, and leave a rating and review, on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts to help others find the show.
Island Influencers is produced by Bear Content & Social KEWS
Sponsored by Thornton Chartered Financial Planners

Join me this week as I chat with Personal Trainer Juan Cheung. Juan's story is deeply rooted in the Isle of Man; he was born in Douglas.
Growing up, his parents ran a successful local Chinese takeaway, instilling a solid work ethic and a sense of achievement in him.
From his experiences in high school sports to navigating the financial industry, Juan's journey eventually led him to become a personal trainer, bodybuilder, and entrepreneur.
He finds immense joy in witnessing his clients achieve their fitness goals and embark on transformative journeys like his own. Having a personal trainer like Juan has been indispensable for me—it's a stress reliever that keeps me committed to the gym three times a week, which is crucial for my mental and physical well-being.
Juan underscores the importance of perseverance and facing challenges head-on, especially in the most difficult moments. Additionally, he offers insights into his upcoming endeavours, such as developing a fitness app, and shares his invaluable seven rules for life. I hope Episode 106 leaves you enriched and inspired.
Useful links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juan.cheung.37
Instagram: @abf_juan_cheung_pt
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juan-cheung-16b5b0254/
https://www.elitefitness.im/personal-trainers
James Clear - Atomic Habits
Matthew McConaughey - Greenlights
Mike Thurston Podcast, who's a fitness YouTuber influencer as well
Please subscribe, and leave a rating and review, on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts to help others find the show.
Island Influencers is produced by Bear Content & Social KEWS
Sponsored by Thornton Chartered Financial Planners

This week's Island Influencers conversation is rich with insight and a heartfelt warmth that is undoubtedly going to resonate. I welcome Andrea Chambers, Chief Executive Officer at Isle Listen and Minds Matter.

Andrea, a proud Manx native, shares her journey from nursing, including her time in the special care baby unit. We'll also explore her transition to full-time motherhood and the path that ultimately led to her pivotal role at Isle Listen, an organisation dedicated to supporting mental health.


She also discusses the impact of COVID-19 on mental health referrals and offers insights into her interests and inspirations.


Here is my conversation with Andrea Chambers in episode 105 of Island Influencers.


https://www.thorntonfs.com/island-influencer-andrea-chambers