Island Influencers

In this episode of Island Influencers, we welcome Deborah Heather, CEO of Visit Isle of Man to share her story and ambitious plans for the island. Deborah’s early childhood was in Durham, and at nine, she moved to Hong Kong. Her experiences abroad and back in the UK shaped her perspective and led to a successful career in the hotel industry, ultimately guiding her to her current role. She discusses the ambitious target of attracting 500,000 visitors by 2032 and the innovative strategies her team is using to achieve this goal. From overcoming challenges like seasonality and connectivity to embracing digital solutions, Deborah offers valuable insights into leading a tourism organisation. Deborah also talks about her personal life, her love of cycling, and the unique charm of the Isle of Man. This episode is packed with inspiration and practical wisdom from a leader dedicated to positively impacting the island. So here is Deborah Heather in episode 127 of Island Influencers. https://www.thorntonfs.com/island-influencer-deborah-heather

This special International Women’s Day episode comes a little later than planned due to illness, but it’s worth the wait! Island Influencer Vicki Hotchkiss comes from a long line of inspirational women and continues to break barriers for future generations. As the Founder of Compass Strategy and a non-executive director for the Isle of Man Football Association, Vicki shares her personal and professional story—from growing up on the Isle of Man and travelling the world to building an extensive career in financial services, project management, and leadership. We explore her transition to entrepreneurship, what inspired her to launch Compass Strategy and the challenges and opportunities for women in business and sports. She also discusses her role in driving gender diversity in football governance. Vicki offers powerful insights on the impact of mentorship and female role models in shaping careers, while tackling the broader economic and workforce challenges facing the Isle of Man. She shares a fresh perspective on wealth, success, and work-life balance, providing valuable advice for those navigating career transitions and personal growth. Here is Vicki Hotchkiss in episode 126 of Island Influencers. https://www.thorntonfs.com/island-influencer-vicki-hotchkiss

In this episode of Island Influencers, I sit down with the incredible Jason Bissell, Global AI & Data Executive, Strategic Advisor, and Chair of the UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man Board. From a small village in Somerset to leading global AI, tech, and data companies, Jason's career path and life story are nothing short of inspiring. We talk about how his early experiences, including the influence of his stepfather, shaped his work ethic and drive. Jason shares insights from his pioneering work in AI, data analytics, and virtual reality, reflecting on the evolution of these industries and his transition from corporate leadership to strategic advising. Now based on the Isle of Man, Jason serves as Chair of the UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man Board. He reveals what drew him to the island, his first impressions, and his vision for balancing economic growth with environmental and community well-being. If you’re curious about career transitions, leadership, and sustainable innovation, this conversation is packed with inspiration. https://www.thorntonfs.com/island-influencer-jason-bissell

This week, Sharon records live from the vibrant and cosy setting of Wine Down, the Isle of Man’s cherished restaurant and wine shop, with Anne Harrison, its co-founder. Years before opening the doors to Wine Down, Anne thought of the name while out on a run—where she does all her best thinking—and dreamed of one day owning her own business. That vision became a reality when she partnered with the talented chef Roy Macfarlane, the other half of Wine Down, to create this unique hybrid concept. From her early start working in German vineyards (with her Dad) as a teenager to navigating the challenges of the hospitality industry during the pandemic, Anne brings a wealth of experiences and insights to the table. We’ll uncover the inspiring story behind Wine Down, discuss the importance of mentoring young talent, and dive into Anne’s personal philosophy on good wine, hard work, and good living. Anne will also reflect on what makes the Isle of Man a special place to call home. Whether you’re a local or simply a lover of good food, wine, and inspiring stories, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into one of the island’s top restaurants—and certainly one of the busiest we've come across. Here is the conversation with Anne Harrison in episode 124 of Island Influencers.

In this episode of Island Influencers, Sharon welcomes Sarah Hickey, the Peatland and Upland Carbon Officer for the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA). Sarah shares her passion for conservation, discusses her career path, and sheds light on her critical work and the significance of peatland restoration on the Isle of Man. We delve into Sarah's story, shaped by a love for the outdoors nurtured by inspiring teachers and outdoor education programmes. We also explore Sarah's bold decision to dedicate a day each week to volunteering with the Manx Wildlife Trust. Living on an island presents unique challenges, and Sarah offers insights into balancing accessibility to nature with the practicalities of island life. We'll also hear about her adventures and achievements, from scaling Aconcagua in South America to leading youth expeditions in Norway and Patagonia. These experiences highlight the profound impact of outdoor exploration on personal growth. Sarah's dedication to conservation leads the charge in restoring these vital habitats on the Isle of Man. Here is Sarah Hickey in episode 123 of Island Influencers. https://www.thorntonfs.com/island-influencer-sarah-hickey

This week’s Island Influencers podcast features John Webster, Chairman of Manx Technology Group. From his early days growing up near Liverpool and spending summers on the Isle of Man, to becoming an accomplished economist, entrepreneur, and leader in both public and private sectors. John has been a key figure in shaping the Isle of Man’s economic landscape. During the 1970s and 1980s, he played a crucial role in establishing the island’s finance sector, laying the groundwork for its modern-day success. Transitioning to the private sector, John co-founded prominent businesses, including Web Tech and the Manx Technology Group, while continuing to make significant contributions to the community through his involvement with the Island Games Association and the Chamber of Commerce. John’s philosophy and business insights bring a practical and motivational edge to this episode. He shares his perspectives on the Isle of Man’s future, how he stays grounded, and his vision for quality-driven progress. With a mix of wisdom, humour, and a deep love for the Isle of Man, John’s perspective is as thought-provoking as it is inspiring. Join us for episode 122 of Island Influencers as we delve into the life and career of John Webster.

In the inaugural episode of Island Influencers for 2025, Sharon chats with Dr. Karen Wilson, who shares her remarkable life story from growing up in Glasgow to settling on the Isle of Man and founding Mannin Doctors, the island's first private healthcare practice, while detailing the challenges she faced, the successes she achieved, and her vision for creating patient-centred, accessible healthcare. Karen has excelled in various roles, including GP, motorsports medic, and hospice doctor. She reflects on the influence of her pioneering mother, one of the few female doctors in post-war Scotland, and her education at St. Andrews and Manchester University. We explore Karen's efforts to introduce holistic care, such as acupuncture, to the Isle of Man’s healthcare system and her volunteering experience with Tibetan refugees in India, which enriched her patient care approach. We also explore Karen's insights on balancing life, business, and personal fulfilment. Dr Karen Wilson merges her passion for medicine with a commitment to community well-being, hear her story in episode 121 of 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