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. 3d ago

    Bishop’s Stortford’s Musical Theatre Choir - Emma Cremnitz

    This episode is brought to you by: Stort AI: https://stortai.carrd.co/ StortBox: https://stortbox.co.uk/ Bishop's Stortford Community Newsletter: https://bishops-stortford-community-newsletter.beehiiv.com/ Emma Kremnitz is a former actor, singing teacher and choir leader based in Bishop’s Stortford. She runs the Sing Space Musical Theatre Choir. In this episode, Emma talks about why singing matters, especially for adults who may have been told they could not sing or who have lost touch with creative hobbies as life has become busier. She explains how the choir works, why musical theatre is such a rich genre to teach, and how singing can support confidence, connection and wellbeing. Emma also shares what the choir is currently working on, including songs from Footloose, Sister Act 2, Phantom of the Opera and Songs for a New World. She also talks about upcoming performances, including a July concert and a larger choir performance at Ely Cathedral. Links Sing Space Musical Theatre Choir: https://www.singspacechoir.com/bishops-stortford/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095009980147 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stortfordmusicaltheatrechoir/ Emma Cremnitz: https://www.instagram.com/emmacremnitz_vocalcoach/ Stortford Spotlight Billboard in Jackson Square “You do not have to be confident to begin, begin anyway, and let confidence catch up with you.” Emma chose this because she believes people should not wait until they feel ready before starting something new. Secret Spot South Mill Arts - https://www.instagram.com/southmillarts/ Emma gave a shout out to South Mill Arts for the wide range of theatre, cinema, ballet, youth groups and local performances it brings to the town. The Roxy Cinema - https://www.instagram.com/roxymoviesbishopsstortford/ Emma also mentioned The Roxy Cinema and encouraged more people to support it. Bishop’s Stortford Sinfonia - https://www.instagram.com/bishopsstortfordsinfonia?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D Emma highlighted Bishop’s Stortford Sinfonia and said she would like to see more people attending their concerts. Local Legends Water Lane Hall - https://www.instagram.com/friendsofwaterlanehall/ Emma gave a shout out to the group working to save and develop Water Lane Hall into a community arts hub. She described the plans as exciting and said more people should know about the project.

    16 min

  2. 4d ago

    The Local Tennis Coach Reaching 300 People A Week - Ollie Clark

    This episode is brought to you by: Takeley Chiropractic Ltd: https://www.takeleychiropractic.co.uk/ StortBox: https://stortbox.co.uk/ Bishop's Stortford Community Newsletter: https://bishops-stortford-community-newsletter.beehiiv.com/ Ollie Clark is a local tennis coach with strong connections to Bishop’s Stortford. He went to the Boys’ High School, has been coaching for around 20 years, and now runs Ollie Clark Tennis. In this episode, Ollie talks about building a tennis programme that reaches hundreds of people each week, from young children through to adults. His work includes individual lessons, small group adult lessons, after-school clubs, junior coaching, adult coaching, and occasional charity tournaments. Ollie also discusses why tennis can become a lifelong sport, the value of getting children started early, and his interest in making sport more open through schools, wider community links, disability tennis and cross-sport collaboration. Links Ollie Clark Tennis: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561923394147 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ollieclarktennis/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@octennis22 Stortford Spotlight Billboard in Jackson Square “Everyone can achieve anything.” Ollie chose this as a message for children and adults, encouraging people to believe they can improve and achieve more through effort. Secret Spot Number 14 - https://www.instagram.com/no.14bs/ Ollie picked Number 14 after visiting for a friend’s 40th birthday. He described it as a lovely restaurant and a place he would not want to become too busy. Local Legends Bishop’s Stortford Padel Club - https://www.instagram.com/bishopstortfordpadelclub/ Ollie gave a shout out to the new padel venue near the football club, describing it as social, welcoming and good for getting more people active. Steve Fisk - https://www.facebook.com/steve.f.ruben Ollie also mentioned Steve Fisk for the work he does supporting people who may have had difficult times and need a helping hand. 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

  3. 5d ago

    Babble and Bliss: More Than A Baby Class - Skye & Hannah

    This episode is brought to you by: Takeley Chiropractic Ltd: https://www.takeleychiropractic.co.uk/ StortBox: https://stortbox.co.uk/ Bishop's Stortford Community Newsletter: https://bishops-stortford-community-newsletter.beehiiv.com/ Skye and Hannah are the founders of Babble and Bliss Baby Spa, a baby spa and baby group company offering calming, supportive sessions for babies, parents and carers. In this episode, they talk about how they met through the school run and built a baby group with a difference. Their sessions include baby baths, oat baths, bubble baths, sensory elements, and baby massage, with each week teaching a different part of a full top-to-toe massage. They also discuss the importance of creating a safe, welcoming space for parents, especially new mums who may feel anxious, isolated or unsure about getting out of the house with a baby. Alongside the baby spa sessions, they share how the business has grown into birthday parties, pamper parties and fitness collaborations. Links Babble and Bliss Baby Spa Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/babbleandblissbabyspa/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577386387024 Stortford Spotlight Billboard in Jackson Square “Connect” Hannah chose this because she believes motherhood was never meant to be done alone, and that parents need friendship, conversation and support around them. “Disconnect to Reconnect” Skye chose this as a reminder for people to put their phones down, be more present, and reconnect with the people around them. Who they never want to be too busy... Sean O'Brien - https://www.instagram.com/seanobrien.coach Skye and Hannah gave a shout out to their PT, Sean O’Brien, who runs small fitness sessions around Bishop’s Stortford and the surrounding areas. They also mentioned their Babble Bliss and Fitness collaboration, where parents can do a PT session while babies are looked after or involved, then move into the baby spa session. Nell Bar at Hockerill Lights - https://www.instagram.com/thenailbar.88 They also mentioned Annie and Long at the Nell Bar at Hot Pod Lights, describing them as friendly, welcoming and supportive. Local Legends Beth - Boo Baby Scan - https://www.instagram.com/boobabyscanstortford Hannah gave a personal shout out to Beth at Boo Baby for the support she gave during a difficult pregnancy. She described Beth as someone who went above and beyond, offering reassurance and support throughout a stressful time. Support the Podcast You can support The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast through The Giving Lottery. Support here: https://www.givinglottery.org.uk/support/bishops-stortford-community-podcast-cic

    22 min

  4. Jun 4

    The Stortford Travel Expert Helping Families Get It Right - Gary Lewis

    This episode is brought to you by: Takeley Chiropractic Ltd: https://www.takeleychiropractic.co.uk/ StortBox: https://stortbox.carrd.co/ Bishop's Stortford Community Newsletter: https://bishops-stortford-community-newsletter.beehiiv.com/ Gary Lewis runs The Family Luxe Travel Company in Bishop’s Stortford, a franchise under the Travel Counsellors umbrella. The business specialises in luxury family travel, while also helping people plan a wide range of trips. In this episode, Gary talks about why holidays matter, especially for families, and why travel is often about more than simply finding a good deal online. He explains how he works with clients, from the first conversation through to the small details that can shape the whole trip. Gary also shares why families of five can face particular challenges when booking hotels, how human advice can make a difference, and why memories from holidays often last far longer than the things we buy. Links Family Luxe Travel Company: https://www.instagram.com/familytravelcounsellor Stortford Spotlight Billboard in Jackson Square “Ask your children what they got for Christmas last year, and then ask them what they'd done for holiday last year.” Gary chose this because he believes family experiences and holiday memories stay with people far longer than physical presents. Secret Spot The Little Arts Workshop - https://www.instagram.com/thelittleartsworkshop/ Gary picked The Little Arts Workshop as a relaxed place where families can spend time together through pottery painting, clay making and creative activities. Local Legends Ria Dongworth - Diverse Performing Arts - https://www.instagram.com/diverseperformingartsherts/ Gary gave a shout out to Ria Dongworth, who runs Diverse Performing Arts. His children attend the classes, and he spoke about the confidence it has helped build in them. 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

  5. Jun 3

    Bishbash Is Back In Bishop’s Stortford - Nella Michaelis

    This episode is brought to you by: Takeley Chiropractic Ltd: https://www.takeleychiropractic.co.uk/ StortBox: https://stortbox.carrd.co/ Bishop's Stortford Community Newsletter: https://bishops-stortford-community-newsletter.beehiiv.com/ Nella is the social media person behind Bishbash Festival and works locally as a marketing manager for Hancock’s Drainage and Building Supplies in Bishop’s Stortford. In this episode, she joins James to talk about the return of Bishbash, a non-profit community festival based in Bishop’s Stortford. The event is built around local music, local businesses, charities, volunteers and the wider community coming together in Castle Park. Nella explains what people can expect across the weekend, including live music, open mic, food, bars, a kids area and accessibility support. She also shares why supporting local musicians matters, and gives a shout out to one of the people helping keep the town’s music scene alive. Links Bishbash: https://bishbash.uk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bishbashfestival/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stortfest Sponsor Bishbash: sponsorship@stortfordmusicfestival.org.uk Stortford Spotlight Billboard in Jackson Square “Support local music.” Nella chose this because she believes more people need to get behind local bands, smaller artists and upcoming musicians in the area. Secret Spot Cafe Mocha Bishop’s Stortford: https://www.instagram.com/mocha_bishopstortford/ Nella picked Cafe Mocha for its traditional English breakfast and the chance to sit upstairs, get a laptop out and enjoy a quieter space. Local Legends James Felton Nella gave a shout out to James Felton for bringing local musicians and bands together, organising gigs at the Rose and Crown, running Vernfest and encouraging local talent to perform. 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

    16 min

  6. Jun 2

    Bishop’s Stortford Hockey Club Is Bigger Than You Think - Richard Temple

    The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast is brought to you by: Takeley Chiropractic - https://www.takeleychiropractic.co.uk/ Getting to the cause of your pain, not just the symptoms. StortBox - https://stortbox.carrd.co/ Reusable moving boxes for a simpler, less stressful move. Bishop’s Stortford Community Newsletter - https://bishops-stortford-community-newsletter.beehiiv.com/ Local stories, events and updates from around the town. Richard Temple, also known to many as DT, is a vice president of Bishop’s Stortford Hockey Club and has been part of the club for more than 20 years as a player, coach, umpire and volunteer. It is a role that gives him a strong view of one of the town’s biggest participation sports and one of its longest-running club communities. In this conversation, Richard explains just how much is going on behind the scenes at the club. With large adult sections, a huge junior programme, summer hockey, back-to-hockey sessions and a strong volunteer base, the club is far more than a few Saturday teams. It is a large, active sporting community that caters for all ages and standards, from children just starting out to players still going strong decades later. LinksWebsite https://www.stortfordhockey.co.uk Email info@stortfordhockey.co.uk Facebook https://www.facebook.com/stortfordhockey Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stortfordhockey/ Stortford SpotlightBillboard in Jackson Square“Stop the cynicism, appreciate Stortford” Richard’s message is for the whole town. His view is that Bishop’s Stortford has a huge amount going for it, and that people are sometimes too quick to focus on what is wrong instead of what is already strong. Secret SpotBailey Hills Estates - https://baileyhills.co.uk/ The C**k Inn Hockerill - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063763142035# Richard gives a warm mention to The C**k, but his stronger shoutout is for Bailey Hills Estates, which he describes as something genuinely special on the town’s doorstep and well worth supporting. Local LegendsPaul Winspear Richard highlights Paul Winspear from the Stortford Indy for the role he plays in keeping people informed, giving proper scrutiny where needed, and continuing to shine a light on the town in a meaningful way. Support the PodcastYou 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

  7. May 28

    Bishop’s Stortford Business Bringing Curiosity Through The Letterbox - James Diggory

    The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast is brought to you by: Takeley Chiropractic – Helping local families move better, feel better, and live pain-free through expert chiropractic care. https://www.takeleychiropractic.co.uk/ James Diggory is the co-founder of Curiosity Letters, a family business based in Bishop’s Stortford that sends children educational letters through the post. Created with his wife Louise, the idea is simple but unusual: use the excitement of real mail to spark learning, imagination and curiosity in a way that feels personal and screen-light. In this conversation, James explains how the business grew out of family life and a much bigger decision. After leaving mainstream teaching and beginning to home educate their twin boys, he and Louise started experimenting with ways to make learning feel more engaging and meaningful. One of those ideas was to write letters from characters linked to different subjects and let those letters open the door to wider discovery. What comes through clearly is that Curiosity Letters is not just about homeschooling. It is about helping children connect with ideas in a way that feels active and human, whether that is through history, science, music, maths or language. With different characters, themed packs and travel activity books, the whole project is built around making learning feel like something to look forward to. LinksWebsite https://www.curiosityletters.co.uk Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583089006059&sk=about Instagram https://www.instagram.com/curiosityletters/ Stortford SpotlightBillboard in Jackson Square“Put down your phone, see the world with your own eyes and be curious about it with someone you love.” James says this is a message for everyone. For him, it captures the heart of what Curiosity Letters is trying to encourage: less passive screen time, more shared discovery. Secret SpotNostimo - https://www.instagram.com/nostimodelicatessen/ The Belgian Brewer - https://www.instagram.com/thebelgianbrewer/ James gives two answers here. Nostimo is a family favourite, known in their house as “the Greek cafe”, while The Belgian Brewer is his own go-to for a quieter moment and a bit of thinking space. Local LegendsThirst Youth Café - https://www.instagram.com/thirstyouthcafe/ James gives a strong shoutout to Jake, Ben and the team at Thirst for creating a safe and welcoming place for young people in town. He speaks warmly about the value of trusted adults and good spaces for teenagers to just be themselves. Support the PodcastYou 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

  8. May 26

    The Rally School Near Bishop’s Stortford You Didn’t Know Existed - Laura Hagger

    The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast is brought to you by: Takeley Chiropractic – Helping local families move better, feel better, and live pain-free through expert chiropractic care. https://www.takeleychiropractic.co.uk/ Laura Hagger is part of the family behind Langley Park Rally School, a long-running driving experience business based just outside Bishop’s Stortford. Set in the countryside with space to do something most people never get the chance to try, the school offers rally driving, junior driving experiences, corporate events, parties and more. In this conversation, Laura explains how the business grew from a farming family and a rally-driving hobby into something much bigger. What started with Simon Hagger using part of the family land for a rally track has gradually developed over more than 20 years into a well-established operation, now run across generations of the same family. The episode also highlights how wide the appeal really is. This is not just for petrolheads or experienced drivers. Langley Park works with adults who want to try something new, children learning real car control from a young age, and people with additional needs who benefit from a safe and supportive environment. What comes through strongly is that this is as much about confidence, skill and experience as it is about speed. LinksWebsite https://langleyparkrallyschool.co.uk/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rallydrivinglangleypark/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/LPRSEurope/?locale=en_GB TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@rallydrivinglangleypark Stortford SpotlightBillboard in Jackson Square“Adrenaline-fuelled rallying, junior driving experiences, learning real-life skills, staying safe and joining the Langley Park community.” Laura’s message is for anyone looking to try something different. Her point is that rally driving is not just exciting, but also a chance to build real driving skills and confidence. Secret SpotGrange Paddocks - https://www.instagram.com/everyoneactive_grange_paddocks/ Laura highlights Grange Paddocks as a real local gem, especially for families. She mentions the playgrounds, café, space for picnics and the under-fives swimming sessions as part of what makes it such a useful place. Local Legendsthisisbs.cm23 - https://www.instagram.com/thisisbs.cm23/ Laura gives a shoutout to thisisbs.cm23 for consistently helping shine a light on local events and businesses. For her, it is one of the go-to places to find out what is happening locally and discover things she might otherwise miss. Support the PodcastYou 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: https://www.givinglottery.org.uk/support/bishops-stortford-community-podcast-cic

    17 min
See All (109)

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