Bishop's Stortford Community Podcast

James O'Donnell
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Documentary

The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast shares inspiring local stories from the people, businesses, and community groups that make Bishop’s Stortford thrive. Hosted by local resident James O’Donnell, each episode spotlights independent shops, charities, entrepreneurs, and everyday heroes shaping life in our town.

  1. 18h ago

    Who Keeps The River Stort Clean? With Simon Baker

    This episode is brought to you by: StortAI: https://stortai.com/ StortBox: https://stortbox.co.uk/ Bishop's Stortford Community Newsletter: https://bishops-stortford-community-newsletter.beehiiv.com/ Simon Baker is a local musician, community organiser and the person behind Save Our Stort, a monthly volunteer effort cleaning the River Stort and its towpath through Bishop’s Stortford. After moving onto a boat and seeing how much rubbish was hidden beneath the riverbanks, Simon contacted the Canal and River Trust and decided to organise a local clean-up himself. A small core group now meets every month to remove bottles, cans, shopping trolleys and other waste from the river and surrounding towpath. In this episode, Simon explains why Bishop’s Stortford is a particularly important place to catch rubbish before it travels further down the navigation, the risks abandoned trolleys create for boats, and why Save Our Stort urgently needs more volunteers, especially people with canoes, kayaks, dinghies or paddleboards. Links Save Our Stort: https://www.facebook.com/groups/saveourstort Email: simon@unclefunk.co.uk Volunteer Third Sunday of every month 11:30am Meet on the towpath near the Rose and Crown pub and the Station Road bridge. Volunteers with canoes, kayaks, dinghies or paddleboards are particularly needed to help clear rubbish from the river. Stortford Spotlight Billboard in Jackson Square “Stop throwing litter.” Simon chose this as a direct message to anyone dropping rubbish around the town or into the River Stort. Secret Spot Bluebell Woods and the nature reserve Simon chose the nature reserve and Bluebell Woods as peaceful local places that he hopes never become overcrowded. Local Legends Bishbash - https://bishbash.uk/ Simon highlighted Twig and the Bishbash team for bringing the Stortford Music Festival back and encouraged the town to support it. HooDoo Radio - https://hoodooradio.co.uk/ Simon also gave a shout out to Dan and Faye at HooDoo Radio for creating a fun, grassroots local radio station. Support the Podcast You can support The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast through The Giving Lottery. Every ticket helps fund equipment, recording time, and the ongoing work of telling local stories while also supporting good causes. Support here: https://www.givinglottery.org.uk/support/bishops-stortford-community-podcast-cic

    18 min

  2. 2d ago

    The Local Roaster Behind Some Of Stortford’s Best Coffee Shops - Neil Clark

    This episode is brought to you by: StortAI: https://stortai.com/ StortBox: https://stortbox.co.uk/ Bishop's Stortford Community Newsletter: https://bishops-stortford-community-newsletter.beehiiv.com/ Neil Clark is one of the owners of Hessian Coffee Company, a Bishop’s Stortford-based coffee roaster supplying cafés, restaurants, hotels, offices and customers at home. In this episode, Neil talks about how the business began after meeting his business partner through the rugby club, the gamble involved in leaving secure jobs, and how Hessian Coffee grew from a small subscription idea into a full coffee business. He also explains how coffee is grown, blended and roasted, the difference between bean-to-cup and traditional machines, and why supporting independent cafés and local roasters matters to the future of Bishop’s Stortford’s high street. Links Hessian Coffee Company: https://www.hessiancoffee.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/HessianCoffee/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hessiancoffee/ Stortford Spotlight Billboard in Jackson Square “Be better.” Neil chose this as a reminder to be kinder, more considerate and more thoughtful in everyday life. Secret Spot The River Walk Neil chose the river walk towards Sawbridgeworth and Spellbrook as a place to get some peace, clear his head and enjoy a quiet route close to town. Local Legends Local Volunteers Neil gave a wider shout out to the volunteers who support Bishop’s Stortford through local clubs, charities and community organisations. He particularly highlighted the food bank and Bishop’s Stortford Rugby Club, including the volunteers who coach children, organise events and help fund mental health support. Support the Podcast You can support The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast through The Giving Lottery. Every ticket helps fund equipment, recording time, and the ongoing work of telling local stories while also supporting good causes. Support here: https://www.givinglottery.org.uk/support/bishops-stortford-community-podcast-cic

    19 min

  3. Jul 6

    The HR Mistakes Stortford Employers Can’t Afford - Natalie Slade

    This episode is brought to you by: StortAI: https://stortai.com/ StortBox: https://stortbox.co.uk/ Bishop's Stortford Community Newsletter: https://bishops-stortford-community-newsletter.beehiiv.com/ Natalie Slade is an HR consultant and the founder of HR 2 Go Consultancy Ltd. She supports small businesses across Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire, Essex and London, particularly those without an in-house HR function. In this episode, Natalie talks about moving from an established HR career into running her own consultancy. She explains when growing businesses should seek HR support, why contracts and policies matter, and how problems often appear when informal working arrangements are allowed to continue for too long. Natalie also discusses upcoming employment law changes, the importance of stronger probation and onboarding processes, and the risks of relying on AI-generated contracts, grievances and legal information without professional review. Links HR 2 Go Consultancy Ltd: https://www.hr2goconsultancy.co.uk/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-slade-b65a3162/ Stortford Spotlight Billboard in Jackson Square “Life is for living, so live it to the full and don’t worry what other people think.” Natalie chose this as a message for tweens and teenagers who may feel pressure from social media and other people’s expectations. Secret Spot Red, White and Blue Country Park https://www.parksherts.co.uk/parks/red-white-and-blue/ Natalie chose the fields beyond Grange Paddocks and along the railway line. She enjoys walking there with her dog and the friendly conversations with other local dog walkers. Local Legends Mina at Grove Cottage https://mencapgrovecottage.org/ Natalie gave a shout out to Mina for her energy, passion and fundraising work for Grove Cottage, supporting people with learning disabilities in the local community. Support the Podcast You can support The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast through The Giving Lottery. Every ticket helps fund equipment, recording time, and the ongoing work of telling local stories while also supporting good causes. Support here: https://www.givinglottery.org.uk/support/bishops-stortford-community-podcast-cic

    17 min

  4. Jul 3

    Inside Bishop’s Stortford Gospel Choir - David Clapham

    This episode is brought to you by: StortAI: https://stortai.com/ StortBox: https://stortbox.co.uk/ Bishop's Stortford Community Newsletter: https://bishops-stortford-community-newsletter.beehiiv.com/ David Clapham is a retired pharmacist, community volunteer and member of Bishop’s Stortford Gospel Choir. In this episode, David explains how the choir works, why members learn songs by listening rather than reading music, and why people do not need to audition or consider themselves strong singers before joining. He also talks about the friendships, concerts and shared enjoyment that come from singing together, along with the benefits singing can have for confidence, concentration, breathing and mental wellbeing. Links See the Choir Live: Sunday 5 July 2026 6:00pm to 8:00pm Charis Centre Tickets: £10 / £7 All proceeds go to Bishop’s Stortford Food Bank. Book tickets: https://ccbs.churchsuite.com/events/aqj844m7 Bishop’s Stortford Gospel Choir: https://sites.google.com/view/bsgospelchoir/ Facebook: Bishop’s Stortford Gospel Choir Rehearsals: Sundays 6:00pm to 8:00pm Charis Centre, Bishop’s Stortford Stortford Spotlight Billboard in Jackson Square “If you think you need help, ask for it soon.” David chose this because problems often become harder to deal with when they are ignored. He particularly encouraged men to see asking for help as a strength rather than a weakness. Secret Spot Nostimo - https://www.facebook.com/DelicatessenUK/?locale=en_GB David chose Nostimo on Bridge Street for its friendly atmosphere and welcoming family behind the business. Local Legends Bishop’s Stortford Street Pastors - https://streetpastors.org/locations/bishopsstortfordsawbridgeworth/ David highlighted the Street Pastors for supporting vulnerable people in the town centre without judgement, particularly during evenings and nights. Support the Podcast You can support The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast through The Giving Lottery. Every ticket helps fund equipment, recording time, and the ongoing work of telling local stories while also supporting good causes. Support here: https://www.givinglottery.org.uk/support/bishops-stortford-community-podcast-cic

    15 min

  5. Jul 1

    Why Bishop’s Stortford Needed A Menopause Café - Heidi Barden

    This episode is brought to you by: StortAI: https://stortai.com/ StortBox: https://stortbox.co.uk/ Bishop's Stortford Community Newsletter: https://bishops-stortford-community-newsletter.beehiiv.com/ Heidi Barden is a local volunteer who supports the Royal British Legion and helps organise its annual Poppy Appeal. More recently, she founded the Bishop’s Stortford Menopause Café. The café was created to give women a relaxed, face-to-face place to connect during perimenopause and menopause. Some sessions include guest speakers covering wellbeing, clothing, reflexology and local support groups, while others are simply informal opportunities to talk over coffee or breakfast. Heidi also discusses the pressures many women face at this stage of life, including work, children, ageing parents and their own health. She explains how the café has grown through collaboration with Belle’s Place, Café Thyme and other local community figures. Links The next Menopause Café is: Tuesday 7 July 20265:00pm to 7:00pmCafé Thyme, Bishop’s StortfordIt is an early evening session so women who cannot attend the usual Wednesday morning meetups can come along. Belle’s Place - https://bellesplaceholistic.co.uk/ Café Thyme - https://www.facebook.com/p/Cafe-Thyme-100063488953112/?locale=en_GB Stortford Spotlight Billboard in Jackson Square “Find your place, find your charity or whatever it is and get involved.” Heidi chose this because small acts of community involvement can make a significant difference to other people. Secret Spot Belle’s Place Heidi chose Belle’s Place because it has become a welcoming local community hub for events, workshops and informal connection. Local Legends Bishop’s Stortford Royal British Legion - https://branches.britishlegion.org.uk/branches/bishops-stortford Heidi highlighted the local committee and secretary Terrie Archer for the work they do throughout the year, not only during the Poppy Appeal. Support the Podcast You can support The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast through The Giving Lottery. Every ticket helps fund equipment, recording time, and the ongoing work of telling local stories while also supporting good causes. Support here: https://www.givinglottery.org.uk/support/bishops-stortford-community-podcast-cic

    15 min

  6. Jun 29

    Stortford Nutritionist Explains Your Gut - Nuala Mcbride

    This episode is brought to you by: StortAI: https://stortai.com/ StortBox: https://stortbox.co.uk/ Bishop's Stortford Community Newsletter: https://bishops-stortford-community-newsletter.beehiiv.com/ Nuala McBride is a degree-qualified nutritionist specialising in gut health and digestive discomfort. Her work focuses on helping people understand their gut microbiome and make practical changes through food, testing and personalised support. In this episode, Nuala talks about her own diagnosis of coeliac disease, her move from marketing into nutrition, and the people she now supports, particularly those who have been diagnosed with IBS but still feel unsure about what to do next. She also explains how gut microbiome testing works, why probiotics are not always meant to be taken forever, and the role of probiotics, prebiotics and dietary diversity in supporting gut health. Links The Nutritious Way: https://thenutritiousway.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_nutritious_way/ Stortford Spotlight Billboard in Jackson Square “Prioritise your gut health.” Nuala chose this because gut health affects people of all ages and can influence digestion, immunity and wider health. Secret Spot Bishop’s Stortford Parkrun - https://www.parkrun.org.uk/castlepark/ Nuala chose the local Parkrun after attending the New Year’s Day event. She highlighted its welcoming atmosphere and strong sense of community. Local Legends Jo Higgs Networking Event - https://joannehiggs.co.uk/ Nuala gave a shout out to Jo Higgs and her free monthly networking event for local business owners. She also highlighted that children are welcome, making it more accessible to parents. Support the Podcast You can support The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast through The Giving Lottery. Every ticket helps fund equipment, recording time, and the ongoing work of telling local stories while also supporting good causes. Support here: https://www.givinglottery.org.uk/support/bishops-stortford-community-podcast-cic

    18 min

  7. Jun 26

    108 Mile Walk For Holy Trinity Night Shelter - Ollie Wyllie

    This episode is brought to you by: StortAI: https://stortai.com/ StortBox: https://stortbox.co.uk/ Bishop's Stortford Community Newsletter: https://bishops-stortford-community-newsletter.beehiiv.com/ Ollie Wyllie is the deputy manager of Holy Trinity Night Shelter, an independent charity supporting people experiencing homelessness in Bishop’s Stortford. The shelter provides overnight accommodation during the winter and runs drop-in sessions throughout the year. Guests can receive food, shower, wash their clothes and access support for issues including housing, addiction and mental health. In this episode, Ollie talks about completing a 108-mile walk around North Norfolk to raise money for a new shower facility at the shelter. He also reflects on recovering from a serious motorcycle accident, the physical challenges of the walk, and the volunteers who keep the shelter operating. Links Holy Trinity Night Shelter: https://www.htwinternightshelter.org/ GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/ad92cc0f3 Stortford Spotlight Billboard in Jackson Square “It could be you.” Ollie chose this to encourage more people to volunteer, but also to remind people that one life-changing event can unexpectedly leave someone needing help from the shelter. Secret Spot Bluebell Wood Ollie chose Bluebell Wood near Twyford Lock as a peaceful place to walk and decompress after a stressful shift. Local Legends Holy Trinity Night Shelter Volunteers Ollie highlighted the volunteers who serve meals, wash clothes, organise donations, prepare the shelter and stay overnight with guests during the winter. Support the Podcast You can support The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast through The Giving Lottery. Every ticket helps fund equipment, recording time, and the ongoing work of telling local stories while also supporting good causes. Support here: https://www.givinglottery.org.uk/support/bishops-stortford-community-podcast-cic

    19 min

  8. Jun 24

    Save Our Villages: The Fight Is Not Over - Lynn Maddison & Lauren Channing

    This episode is brought to you by: StortAI: https://stortai.com/ StortBox: https://stortbox.co.uk/ Bishop's Stortford Community Newsletter: https://bishops-stortford-community-newsletter.beehiiv.com/ Lynn Madison and Lauren Channing are members of Save Our Villages, a community campaign formed in response to plans for around 1,100 homes on Green Belt land near Stansted and Birchanger. In this episode, they explain how the campaign began, why residents believe the proposed developments would place too much pressure on roads and local infrastructure, and how hundreds of objections helped influence the planning process. They also discuss the latest stage of the campaign, the support received from volunteers and neighbouring communities, and why residents must continue using their voices when large developments are proposed. Links Save Our Villages: https://saveourvillages.co.uk/ Facebook: Birchanger and Stansted Greenbelt Preservation - https://www.facebook.com/groups/2568902686636114/ Stortford Spotlight Billboard in Jackson Square “Don't be afraid to use your voice.” Lauren chose this as a reminder that people can make a difference by speaking up and getting involved. “Enjoy the open space.” Lynn highlighted the value of the Green Belt and the positive effect that open spaces can have on physical and mental health. Secret Spot Birchanger Woods - https://www.facebook.com/BirchangerWood Lynn and Lauren chose Birchanger Woods as a peaceful local place for walking, nature and quiet time. Local Legends Grow Green Spaces Stortford - https://www.facebook.com/p/Grow-Green-Spaces-Stortford-100083119920113/ Lynn and Lauren highlighted Grow Green Spaces Stortford for its work regenerating the towpath and creating more space for wildflowers and wildlife. Save Our Villages Volunteers They also praised the volunteers who have given their time, expertise and money to support the campaign, produce materials and build the website. Support the Podcast You can support The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast through The Giving Lottery. Every ticket helps fund equipment, recording time, and the ongoing work of telling local stories while also supporting good causes. Support here: https://www.givinglottery.org.uk/support/bishops-stortford-community-podcast-cic

    19 min
See All (120)

Trailer

About

The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast shares inspiring local stories from the people, businesses, and community groups that make Bishop’s Stortford thrive. Hosted by local resident James O’Donnell, each episode spotlights independent shops, charities, entrepreneurs, and everyday heroes shaping life in our town.

Information

You Might Also Like