BU supported podcast helps local business owners develop their skills

A podcast featuring BU academics, students and local companies has been helping Dorset business owners develop their skills and improve their growth plans.

The Dorset Growth Hub Podcast, supported by Bournemouth University, is hosted by Nick Gregory, Rich Burn and Mary Lloyd, and features conversations with local professionals about a range of topics to help listeners accelerate their careers.

Mark Painter, Business Development Manager at BU, said: “We have a long-standing relationship with The Dorset Growth Hub built upon finding ways to support local business, support activities and student enterprise.

“During a catch-up conversation at the beginning of this year, they mentioned their plans for a podcast campaign and we agreed that it was a great opportunity for BU to support a number of the podcasts.”

Now in its second series, the podcast has covered topics such as marketing, strategy, planning, finance and culture. Their guests have included the Head of Procurement at ITV television and the Head of Marketing at a global visual effects company.

A number of episodes have featured BU alumni and academics, including Senior Lecturer in Entrepreneurship, Dr Sukanya Ayatakshi, and BU alumni and co-owner of Aetha Design, Sophie Parsons. The podcast has also included questions recorded by the BU Business Society.

Mark continued: “I have been particularly struck by the success stories and achievements of the speakers from our alumni community and also the examples of the impact of work undertaken with businesses by our academics.”

The Dorset Growth Hub is funded by the European Regional Development Fund and offers professional guidance and grants to small and emerging businesses in Dorset looking to expand. The podcast is released twice a month and events are held to coincide with episodes. You can find more information on their website.