Have you ever avoided a conversation you knew you needed to have?

You are not alone… Research from Harvard Business Review says that 80% of people avoid at least one workplace conversation. At a recent conference where I delivered a keynote, I tested this theory by asking the group to vote on the topic that was most on their mind right now…. You guessed it 76% of the audience said it was navigating a difficult conversation they know they need to have.  ...

University Centre Quayside step in to Skills Bootcamps

University Centre Quayside have been successful in tendering for the new programmes in the North East called Skills Bootcamps. Skills Bootcamps are flexible courses lasting 2 to 16 weeks, giving people the opportunity to build up sector-specific skills and fast-track to a guaranteed interview with a local employer. Skills Bootcamps are delivered in partnership with employers, further...

The nicest man in cinema?

For Dan Ellis, his underdog story to take on the likes of Odeon and Cineworld to build a community cinema in his hometown – aged just 22 - could be straight from the silver screen. Here, he talks to Alison Cowie about his award-winning journey. At 16, Dan Ellis was intimidated by the hulking 35mm projector at the Playhouse theatre in his home town of Whitley Bay which, at the time, operated as...

Family values driving forward a thriving business

For six decades, Blueline Group has built a stellar reputation with its fleet of hundreds of taxis. Operations director, Ben Bell, reveals more about the growth, the challenges the company has faced and how its longstanding investment in technology sets it apart in an increasingly tech-led marketplace. Sixty-six years after being created by Colin and Audrey Shanks, using their one Austin Morris...

Sea, sand, sauna and soul searching with Steam and Salt

Maggie Guneyogullari used sea swimming to heal after suffering devastating family bereavements. And when she discovered that the combination of heat and cold therapy could boost her physical and mental well-being further, she decided to start her own beachside sauna to help others. She talks to Alison Cowie… Maggie Guneyogullari worked in social research for North Tyneside local authority...