Business Gateway Connections Podcast Business Gateway

Starting up and succeeding in business is an exciting and challenging journey that requires a combination of vision, dedication and practical skills. Join our host, Danny Gallagher, as he speaks with Andy Hadden of Lost Shore Surf to find out the challenges and triumphs of Andy’s own journey as he launches his unique business.

Andy shares valuable insights and advice on the value of thinking outside the box, exploring why innovation is important for all businesses.

In this episode, we speak to Kate Lewis, Co-founder of Wild Harris, offering guided wildlife walks and activities on the Isle of Harris.

 

Our host Danny Gallagher, Business Gateway Highland Manager, delves into the inspiration behind the business, sheds light on the year-round outdoor activities showcasing the awe-inspiring island for residents and visitors, and discuss the challenges of rural tourism.

In the wake of covid-19, the energy crisis, and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, there has never been more pressure on businesses. For small businesses, many of whom operate alone, the challenge is even greater as owners often play the role of business leader, HR, marketing, finance and more. So, it’s unsurprising that failure is front of mind.

We want to help to eradicate some of the fears around failure and encourage business owners to tackle the subject head on, and we’re delighted to be joined by start-up entrepreneur and successful business owner, Vicky Brock, to discuss why we struggle to speak about failure, how to spot challenges ahead, and how to bounce back.

Learn more about Scottish Apprenticeship Week, why it was first launched, and the benefits of shining a light on apprentices.
The discussion is angled towards SMEs, highlighting how digital skills learnt during apprenticeships can support the future growth of the business landscape. 
The podcast will also be used to discuss the new Digital Economy Skills Action Plan, which launches during SAW ’23. This plan recognises the need for digital skills cuts across all sectors, the DESAP will take a whole economy approach, examining commonality in the digital economy skills requirements across sectors.

In this episode, we speak to Liz Barclay from the Office of Small Business Commission (OSBC), an independent public body set up by the UK Government to tackle late payment and unfavourable payment practices in the private sector.



Liz is also a small business and consumer affairs broadcaster, producer and writer with an in-depth understanding of the issues facing small businesses.



Our host Danny Gallagher chats with Liz about the important topic of cashflow; discussing what it really means, how to create better financial practices, navigating the challenges surrounding cashflow from late payments to working with third parties, and tips for addressing issues head-on. Liz offers important advice on financial planning which leads to a more stable business model, making it possible to pay suppliers and other expenses on time.

In this episode, we speak to Mark Gallacher and Gordy Macdonald from Police Scotland’s cybercrime division.

Police Scotland is on a mission to help businesses improve their cyber security and reduce the risk of becoming victims of cyber incident which take place in many, sometimes unsuspecting, forms.

As part of CyberScotland Week, our host Danny Gallagher chats with Mark and Gordy, both experienced experts in the field, to explore the latest threats facing people operating online, discuss how businesses in Scotland can improve their online security, along with tips on the best practices to protect your business.