Island Influencers

Our latest Island Influencer Amy Howse, grew up in Weston-super-Mare and started exploring the world on her own at 19. Her adventures and curiosity inspired her to pursue a career in Speech & Language Therapy (SLT) while also fueling her passion for yoga and sound therapy. Through Soundology, she uses sound therapy to encourage emotional healing and support mental health. Her approach now includes combining sound with nature, especially in her role as the Biosphere Artist in Residence with the Manx Wildlife Trust. In addition to sharing her story, Amy offers practical advice for new entrepreneurs. She also speaks about her love for the Isle of Man and its beauty and reveals how she finds balance in her life. Looking forward, Amy has big plans; enjoy this inspiring conversation with the incredibly talented Amy Howse in episode 120 of Island Influencers.

This week's Island Influencer is Chris Gregory, Chief Executive of Isle of Play, a charity dedicated to promoting, providing, and advocating for every child on the Isle of Man to fulfil their ‘Right to Play.’ Chris was born and raised in Newton-le-Willows, a small town situated between Wigan, Warrington, and St. Helens. Growing up in a hard-working, working-class family, he witnessed firsthand the challenges his parents faced in providing for the family. Their perseverance and dedication instilled in Chris a strong work ethic and values that have shaped his career and approach to life. In 2006, after meeting his partner at university, who is from the Isle of Man, Chris decided to make the move to the island—a pivotal moment that set the stage for his incredible work. In this episode, we discuss everything from his recent Wallaby attack to his impressive collection of Blue Peter badges and his time studying architectural glass. However, it’s through his role as the founder of Isle of Play that Chris truly found his calling. With the support of a dedicated team, Chris built an organisation that now provides play opportunities for over 1,000 children weekly through innovative programmes. He is passionate about giving children the freedom to play, a simple yet powerful concept that fosters creativity, community, and personal growth. His vision for a more child-friendly Isle of Man continues to inspire his efforts to enrich the lives of young people across the island. Here is episode 119 of Island Influencers, in which Chris Gregory shares his fascinating life story and the profound impact Isle of Play has had on the local community and its children.

My guest this week is Ben Barringer, a Chartered Financial Analyst, Global TMT Analyst, and Executive Director at Quilter Cheviot. This slightly different podcast interview is a taster of our upcoming Breakfast Seminar on September 26th at St John's Mill, Isle of Man, where Ben will be our guest speaker. He will be discussing everything you ever wanted to know about AI but were too afraid to ask. The Thornton team and I are eagerly looking forward to Ben’s presentation. There's so much we can explore in the realm of AI. Please send any questions in advance of the seminar. If you can’t make the seminar, Ben has kindly offered some time slots on September 25th and 26th for personalised sessions on technology and AI. This is a great opportunity to get answers to your important questions. In the meantime, have a listen to episode 118 and get in touch if you wish to attend on the 26th. For more information about the seminar visit thorntonfs.com/ai-breakfast-seminar/ or drop us an e-mail mail@thorntonfs.com

This week’s Island Influencer Gary Cobb, the Airport Director at Isle of Man Airport, joins me to share his life story from growing up in a small mining town, gaining a chemical engineering degree to aviation leadership, including roles at Gatwick Airport and Highlands and Islands Airport. Gary, along with his wife and cat, has been a resident of the Isle of Man since 2022. His passion for aviation and commitment to excellence are evident in every aspect of his work. In this episode, Gary opens up about his career path, the challenges and triumphs of airport management, and the pivotal moments that shaped his professional and personal life. When not overseeing operations at the Isle of Man Airport, Gary immerses himself in science fiction and fantasy literature and enjoys relaxing walks. He also shares a remarkable personal story about how he narrowly missed the devastating Boxing Day tsunami in Changi. As a member of the board of Visit Isle of Man, Gary is also dedicated to promoting the island’s unique selling points, including its diverse geology and rich history. Gary is an inspirational, enthusiastic, results-driven leader. His extensive experience and leadership in the industry make episode 117 of Island Influencers a must-listen. Thank you for joining us on this week's episode of Island Influencers. I hope you enjoyed hearing Gary Cobb's story and insights into the aviation industry. If you found this episode inspiring, please share it with your friends and leave us a review.

This week's Island Influencer is Gyp Buggane, a passionate musician and dedicated small business owner. The conversation revolves around music's profound impact on his upbringing, his pursuit of passions, and his navigation of the creative industries. Growing up on the Isle of Man, music is deeply rooted in Gyp's family's history. Gyp's love for music was nurtured from a young age, from his father's rock and roll performances in the 1960s tourist era to his grandfather's involvement in the Rushen Silver Band. He shares heartfelt stories of recording songs from the radio, participating in school band performances, and even building a basic recording studio with friends. Gyp's path led him to get into the world of work initially and then to Liverpool University, where he studied computer science and philosophy as a mature student. He then returned to the Isle of Man and worked in IT. However, feeling unfulfilled in his office job, Gyp boldly decided to leave and pursue his true passion for recording music. In this episode, Gyp discusses the challenges and rewards of running a small business, emphasising the importance of passion, support, and collaboration. He recounts his experiences recording local bands, navigating the financial aspects of his work, and the vital role of networking and community support in turning a hobby into a thriving business. Episode 116 is filled with a heartfelt appreciation for the vibrant and diverse music scene on the Isle of Man. Gyp's life story is a testament to the power of pursuing one's passions and finding balance in life. He shares valuable insights on the need for self-care, the joy of living in a supportive community, and practical advice on reframing challenges as opportunities for growth.

This week's Island Influencer is John Knight, the CEO of Hospice Isle of Man. He shares his life, from his early days and university days to his time living on the island, his departure, and his eventual return to lead one of the most essential services on the Isle of Man. John's path has been anything but conventional. Moving six times before age sixteen, he developed a fearless approach to new environments and challenges. We delve into John's insights on leadership development, career progression, and the importance of organisational values in the non-profit sector. He outlines his vision for hospice services and discusses the financial aspects of running a hospice, emphasising the efficiency and impact of donations. We also touch on the broader challenges facing charities today, including sustainable models, income diversification, and the need for collaboration. John's insights into these areas are invaluable for anyone interested in the voluntary sector. John's professional achievements are impressive, but his personal stories, achievements and values make him an expert Island Influencer. His emphasis on relationships and experiences over material possessions and his joy in travel and outdoor activities add a personal touch to his professional narrative. Here is John Knight in episode 115 of Island Influencers.

This week, I am thrilled to introduce Island Influencer Catherine (Cath) Robertshaw, Chief Operating Officer, Eyesea, a nonprofit organisation with a mission to map global pollution and maritime hazards. Born in Wales (yes, she's a big rugby fan!) Cath grew up in South Africa, where her love for the ocean and beaches blossomed. After returning to the UK for her studies and teacher training, she embarked on an incredible journey to Asia. There, she spent years working, teaching, and raising her three boys in the vibrant cities of Shanghai and Singapore. We delve into her personal experiences and emotions on returning to the Isle of Man (for the second time) after 15 years in Singapore. We explore Cath and her team's pioneering efforts with the Eyesea app, harnessing technology to monitor and reduce marine and land pollution. Listen to the end to hear all about Cath’s favourite trip ever story. Let’s just say she is a lifesaver in more ways than one! Here is Cath Robertshaw in episode 114 of Island Influencers.

This week's Island Influencer, Tanya Anderson, perfectly embodies the spirit of green living and sustainable gardening. American-born author, blogger, and YouTube personality based on the beautiful Isle of Man, Tanya has become a gardening guru for many, with over two hundred thousand subscribers on her YouTube channel and an ever-growing social media following. Her platform, Lovely Greens, is a treasure trove of information and inspiration. But Tanya doesn’t stop at gardening – she also transforms her homegrown plants into natural soap and skincare products. In our conversation, we delve into Tanya’s life story, from her early days in a farming community to becoming a prominent figure in the gardening world. We’ll also get some insights into her favourite gardening tips, learn about her experiences on the Isle of Man, and hear about her exciting new projects, including a new book in the pipeline. Here's Tanya Anderson, in episode 113 of Island Influencers.

Welcome to episode 112 of Island Influencers. I'm honoured to introduce this week's Island Influencer, Derry Kissack, BEM. Derry is known to thousands, especially as a key member/frontman of the world-famous Purple Helmets motorcycle display team. Many of you will recognise him as the energetic commentator who guides awe-struck spectators through their breathtaking performances. He is a favourite at the TT and shows worldwide. You'll immediately notice from his accent that Derry was born and raised here in the Isle of Man. In our conversation, Derry opens up about his life experiences, sharing his childhood memories, education, and profound passion for motorcycles. We also delve into the development of the Isle of Man TT's pit lane and discuss the crucial role of supporting local businesses and individuals who contribute to the island's vibrant tourism industry. Derry's journey hasn't been without hardship. He lost both his parents by the age of 24, and he reveals how a motorbike accident led him to write his first book! Despite his challenges, Derry's wonderful sense of humour, spirit and resilience shine through, especially in the fascinating story of how the Purple Helmets were formed (he proudly takes credit for getting them into show business!). He even shares some exclusive tales for you, our Island Influencers listeners. This episode is packed with great yarns and unforgettable moments I hadn't heard before. Here's episode 112 - the incredible life and adventures of Derry Kissack BEM.

In this latest episode, I'm excited to welcome Island Influencer Carol Ann Kinley-Smith, an extraordinary force in criminology, forensic science, and investigative security. Carol Ann is committed to leveraging her diverse experiences to enrich society. She brings a wealth of expertise from her extensive career, operating at the highest levels in both investigative and intelligence capacities. Originally from the Isle of Man, Carol Ann returned from the UK in 2021 after a distinguished career that included heading Corporate Security and Investigations at the BBC and leading the Royalty Protection Command Team within the Metropolitan Police Service. Her roles have ranged from safeguarding the British Royal Family to spearheading teams assessing threats to high-profile figures. Currently, Carol Ann shares her wealth of knowledge as a lecturer at University College, where she teaches Forensic Science and Criminology. Her dedication to empowering students with industry insights promises to inspire future generations of professionals. Carol Ann's academic achievements are remarkable, especially as she admits she wasn't academically inclined during her school years. She earned a Distinction in an MSc in Legal and Criminological Psychology from Cumbria University. Her dissertation, which has recently been published and focuses on the experiences of policewomen navigating menopause, underscores her strong advocacy for women's support and resilience in demanding professional settings. Here is episode 111 with Island Influencer with Carol Ann Kinley-Smith.

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

Welcome to Episode 104 of Island Influencers! Today, we delve into the captivating life story of Jeroen Wats, a remarkable Island Influencer and inventor whose lifelong passion for the sea has shaped his life. Learn about his pivotal moment in 2003, when his team won the transatlantic race from Cape Town to Rio de Janeiro, covering a staggering 4,000 nautical miles in 20 days and raising considerable money for the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund. Fuelled by a passion for sustainability, Jeroen has shifted gears, transitioning from boat production to pioneering recyclable materials for wind turbines. In this episode, we unravel his commitment to positive environmental impact. Despite living in six countries, Jeroen discovered an unexpected connection with the Isle of Man. What began as a single-day visit became a life-changing decision to call the island home. He seamlessly integrates into the community, bringing diverse experiences, knowledge and a passion for environmentalism. I hope you find our conversation as enjoyable and enriching as I did. Here is episode 104 with Jeroen Wats, Chief Innovation Officer at ExoTechnologies. Useful links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeroenwats/ https://exo-tech.com/ @JeroenWats 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

Welcome, and Happy New Year! To kick off season 5 of Island Influencers, I delve into Lianne Gregory's life story, a native of Laxey on the Isle of Man who has carved a unique path in health and fitness. Lianne is the sole instructor on the island to teach the original Joseph Pilates method, an approach renowned for its holistic benefits. Her story begins with a different passion - the equestrian world. Lianne's interests evolved in her late teens and early twenties when the intensity of competition and injury prompted her to explore Pilates. Her pursuit of expertise took her to London and then America, reflecting her remarkable commitment to learning and growth. In 2000, she established her own business, effectively dispelling the mystique surrounding Pilates. Lianne is a highly trained instructor, helping a diverse range of individuals rebalance their bodies, recover from injuries, alleviate aches and pains, and improve overall fitness. In episode 103, you'll have the opportunity to explore the world of Lianne Gregory Pilates and listen to her incredible life story. I hope you enjoy episode 103 of Island Influencers! 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

My Island Influencer this week, Catriona Mackie, boasts an extraordinary professional and personal life story so compelling that it spans four remarkable pages on her CV! Hailing from the south of Glasgow, Catriona is a passionate social historian interested in material culture and its reflection on the socio-cultural, economic, and political contexts in which it evolves. We delve into her story, from discovering and learning Scottish Gaelic to experiencing life on the Isle of Skye before moving to the Isle of Man in 2008. She shares insights into her role as a young academic responsible for establishing a master's degree in Manx studies and how she, as a confessed introvert, evolved into a lecturer! Catriona's unique blend of architectural fascination and language skills takes centre stage, as does her latest project—a collaboration with colleagues at Oxford Brooks University investigating women's experiences in Manx politics. Over the past decade, Catriona has been deeply involved with the Manx National Heritage and Culture of Vannin while currently teaching Heritage Studies, Celtic Studies, and Manx history and culture at UCM. Please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts to help others find the show. Join us in episode 102 for a captivating exploration of Catriona's extraordinary journey. Delve into the intricacies of her remarkable experiences and get a glimpse of what lies ahead as she continues to leave an indelible mark on the world.

Welcome to another episode of Island Influencers! This week, I’m delighted to feature Damian Molyneux, Director/Advocate at M&P Legal. Damian stands as a notable presence in the Isle of Man's legal sphere. Originating from Kirkham, a town near Blackpool, he grew up in a devout Catholic household, with a familial link to the priesthood adding to his unique background. His journey began in the field of electronics, where he earned a BTech at British Aerospace, before successfully transitioning into the realm of law through his determined pursuit of a law degree at university. Beyond financial law, Damian's practice encompasses complex insolvency work, regulatory enforcement, medical negligence defense, personal injury claims (with a focus on motorcyclists and cyclists), and overseeing general commercial and civil litigation matters. Damian is also a distinguished Income Tax Commissioner. Outside his day job, Damian talks of enjoying a fulfilling family life on the island. His interests are as diverse as they are intriguing, spanning from rewilding and DIY projects to mechanics and engineering. He explains he finds solace and his own meditation in “pottering” and has a penchant for indulging his inner child by crafting whimsical projects. Island Influencer Damian Molyneux's life story is a unique blend of legal knowledge, expertise, and island life. I hope you enjoy listening to episode 101 as much as I enjoyed our conversation. Useful links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damian-molyneux-47696218a https://www.linkedin.com/company/619250 https://www.mplegal.im/ https://www.facebook.com/mandplegal/ https://twitter.com/mandplegal Book: George Orwell's 1984