Seasonal Discussions

Building Forma Designs Collective: Collaboration, Craft & Scaling From Home

Mon, 25 May 2026 08:00:00 +0100

This week, Chris is joined by George Brown, founder of Forma Designs Collective in Aberdeen.

We discuss how Forma evolved from a university project into a growing business, the realities of building a creative company from home, and how production has gradually taken over every spare bit of space, including industrial machines running almost constantly from a spare room/workshop.

George also talks about the importance of reusability in design, working with other creatives, and what’s coming next for the brand.

Follow Forma Designs Collective:

https://formadesignscollective.com/

https://www.instagram.com/forma.designs.collective/

https://www.tiktok.com/@forma.designs.collective

https://www.youtube.com/@Formadesignscollective/

From Piercer to Founder: Nathan’s Journey Building Utopia Body Arts in Aberdeen

Mon, 18 May 2026 08:00:00 +0100

How do you go from starting out in body piercing to building your own respected studio in Aberdeen? In this weeks episode of Seasonal Discussions, Nathan from Utopia Body Arts shares his full story, from discovering body piercing as a career, to opening his own business, moving to Scotland, and becoming part of Aberdeen’s creative community.

We also dive into:

• Entrepreneurship and taking risks

• The reality of running a studio

• Why Aberdeen still has massive potential

• Thoughts on the future of the city centre

• Life in Scotland and what makes it unique

Check out Utopia Body Arts for yourself:

https://utopiabodyarts.com

https://www.instagram.com/utopiabodyarts/

https://www.facebook.com/utopiabodyarts/

https://www.tiktok.com/@utopiabodyartsaberdeen

How Two Creatives Built Aberdeen’s Newest Creative Charity | KIN

Mon, 11 May 2026 08:00:00 +0100

In this episode, Chris sits down with Julie and Nicola from KIN, Aberdeen’s newest creative charity, to find out how it all got started. We talk about how the two first met, with Nicola teaching at university and Julie joining as one of her mature students, and how that relationship eventually grew into a shared vision for supporting Aberdeen’s creative community.

We also dive into:

• The inspiration behind KIN

• Creating opportunities for local creatives

• Future events and networking plans

• Building stronger creative connections in Aberdeen

• Giving back to the community through collaboration and support

🔗 Find out more about KIN:

https://kin-abz.org

https://www.linkedin.com/company/kin-abz/

Setting the Standard Young: How Katie Watson Built a Standout Career Early

Fri, 08 May 2026 11:13:01 +0100

In this episode, Chris sits down with Katie Watson, Relationship Manager at the Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce, UK Rising Star award winner, and board member of Aberdeen Young Professionals. Still in her early 20s, Katie has quickly become one of the most recognisable and fast-rising names in the Aberdeen business community. But her journey didn’t happen by accident.

We dive into how she built her career from the ground up, the mindset that helped her stand out early, and what young professionals often get wrong when trying to get ahead. If you’re looking to grow your network, build credibility, and create real opportunities in your 20s, this conversation is packed with practical insight.

In this episode, we cover:

• How Katie accelerated her career early

• The power of networking and relationship-building

• Lessons from winning a UK Rising Star award

• What it takes to stand out as a young professional

• Advice for anyone starting their career

Whether you’re a student, graduate, or young professional, this episode will challenge how you think about success and what’s possible early in your career.

From Skateboards To A Clothing Brand (Built AFTER his 9-5)

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0100

Gary works a full-time 9–5… but built this on the side.

From printing onto skateboards to creating an Aberdeen-based clothing brand, this is how Doric Studios started.

In this episode, we talk about how it all began, learning screen printing from scratch, and what it’s really like running your own business alongside a full time job.

Whether you’re thinking about starting something yourself or just curious how small ideas turn into real brands, this is a grounded look at building something after hours.

If you enjoyed the episode, consider subscribing for more conversations like this.

Follow/check out Doric Studios:

https://doric.studio

https://www.instagram.com/doric_studio/

www.linkedin.com/company/doric-studio/

What it REALLY takes to plan a Golf trip to Scotland!

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0100

What does it REALLY take to plan a golf trip to Scotland?

In this episode, Chris sits down with David Harris, founder of Bonnie Wee Golf, to break down the reality behind golf tourism in Scotland, from how far in advance you need to book (it’s longer than you think) to what actually goes into planning a world-class golf experience. With over 20 years in the industry and recent recognition as Golf Tour Operator of the Year at the Scottish Golf Tourism Awards, David shares insider knowledge on how these trips are built, what golfers get wrong, and how to make the most of your visit.

We also dive into:

• How far in advance you REALLY need to plan

• What goes into organising a golf tour

• What clients can expect from their experience

• The realities of demand for iconic Scottish courses

• Behind the scenes of the global golf tourism industry

If you’re thinking about planning a golf trip to Scotland, this is essential viewing.

Connect with Bonnie Wee Golf:

https://bonnieweegolf.co.uk

https://www.instagram.com/bonnieweegolf/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/bonnie-wee-golf/

https://x.com/bonnieweegolf

https://www.facebook.com/bonnieweegolf

https://www.youtube.com/user/BWGTV

A pigeon, a Crow & a Seagull walk into a brand meeting...

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0100

This week on Seasonal Discussions, things get…a little unhinged (in the best way).

I’m joined by Mark Thouless from Flux, a brand agency that doesn’t just talk about making brands happen, they actually give a sh*t about doing it properly. But don’t expect a neat, buttoned-up branding masterclass…that’s not how this conversation goes.

Instead, we get into the real stuff:

Why branding so often misses the mark, what it actually takes to make something resonate, and how creativity, honesty, and a bit of chaos all play a role.

Along the way, there are:

– questionable (but surprisingly accurate) analogies

– deep dives into geek culture and toxic fandoms

– a completely unnecessary (but unforgettable) stand-off between a pigeon, a crow, and a seagull

– and just enough insight to make you rethink how brands should show up in the world

It’s messy, it’s funny, and somewhere in the middle of it all…it makes a lot of sense.

If you’ve ever wondered what happens when serious brand thinking meets zero interest in taking itself too seriously, this one’s for you.

Check out Flux for yourself:

https://www.readytoflux.com

https://www.readytoflux.com/flog

https://www.instagram.com/readytoflux/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/readytoflux/

Built in Aberdeen: Family, Loss & Carrying On the Securastore Legacy

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0100

What happens when a family business faces loss and has to find a way forward?

In this episode, Chris sits down with Rachael Wright and Tanya MacDonald from Securastore in Aberdeen to talk about legacy, leadership, and stepping into new roles after the passing of Tanya’s brother & Rachael's husband, David.

We cover:

• Taking over a family business and what that really means

• Navigating grief while keeping things moving

• Rachael’s journey from Australia back to Aberdeen

• Tanya stepping up (and passing her forklift licence 👏)

• Football, fitness, networking, and the human side of business

• What the future could look like for Securastore.

This is a relaxed, honest conversation about resilience, community, and what comes next. If you’re part of a family business, based in Aberdeen, or just interested in real stories behind local companies, this one’s for you.

Subscribe for more conversations with people shaping business and community in the North East.

Find out more about Securastore:

https://securastore.co.uk

https://www.linkedin.com/company/securastore-ltd/

Big Energy & Brilliant Events | Jill Butler-Rennie: Event Hosting & Engineering Consultancy

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 09:31:53 +0100

This weeks Seasonal Discussions is sponsored by Stellar Blue Accounting Services.

https://www.stellar-blue.co.uk

https://www.linkedin.com/company/stellar-blue-accounting-services/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576312027266

In this episode, Chris sits down with Jill Butler-Rennie to explore her journey from marine biology into the world of event hosting.

Jill shares how she transitioned into a career in events, what it takes to create meaningful experiences, and why bringing people together is at the heart of everything she does. We also talk about her roots in South Shields, her love for Sunderland AFC, and the importance of finding where you truly belong, both personally and professionally.

🎙️ Topics in this episode:

• Career change: from marine biology to event planning

• Event hosting & creating memorable experiences

• Community, culture & belonging

• South Shields roots & Sunderland AFC

• Life and work in Aberdeen

👍 Like, comment & subscribe for more conversations with inspiring people.

Meet Sara & Ruby: The Story Behind a Book That’s Giving Back

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

In this weeks episode, Chris sits down with Ruby & Sara Smith from Stellar Blue Accounting to talk about her children’s book "Ruby the Loveable Labrador", the story behind it, and how it’s helping raise funds for a charity in Aberdeen.

Purchase YOUR copy of Ruby The Loveable Labrador:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ruby-Loveable-Labrador-Sara-Smith/dp/1837093164

Follow Stellar Blue Accounting:

https://www.stellar-blue.co.uk

https://www.linkedin.com/company/stellar-blue-accounting-services/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576312027266

Ross Milne Returns: Oldburgh, Film Festivals & The Reality of Indie Filmmaking

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, independent Aberdonian filmmaker Ross Milne returns to the podcast to talk about the upcoming release of his film Oldburgh, its success on the film festival circuit, and the early stages of his next project, Loch Hands.

We also discuss what really goes on behind the scenes of low-budget filmmaking, from working with a small crew to the challenges and rewards of bringing an independent film to life.

Check out Ross' work online:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ross-milne-369a43191/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/gi_filmmaker/

IMDb - https://www.imdb.com/name/nm11791464/?ref_=fn_t_1

How Iska Walter Turned Her Love of Animals Into a Photography Business

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

In this weeks episode of Seasonal Discussions, Chris is joined by Iska Walter, founder and creative mind behind Iska Birnie Photography.

Iska takes us on a journey through her initial forays into photography as a childhood hobby and how that developed into a fully fledged brand photography business.

Throughout it all, her love of animals (especially horses) has never waivered, bringing her horse Sam with her across borders for nearly 2 decades.

Keep up to date with Iska:

https://www.iskabirniephotography.co.uk

https://www.linkedin.com/in/iska-birnie/

https://www.facebook.com/iskabirniephotography

https://www.instagram.com/iskabirniephotography/

Beth Wallace, Off The Air

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Chris sits down with Beth Wallace, a radio presenter, DJ, and event organiser based in Aberdeen, for a relaxed and honest conversation about her journey into broadcasting. Beth shares how she transitioned from working in mental health into radio, and how that decision led to opportunities across multiple stations including Mearns FM, Original 106, and even appearances on BBC Radio 1.

We talk about the reality of building confidence behind the mic, finding your place in the industry, and learning to back yourself. We also discuss her role hosting The Big Scottish Football Show, launching her own event brand Just Beth Presents, and what’s next, including her upcoming appearance at Granite City Festival.

This is a calm, open conversation about creativity, career changes, and the person behind the microphone.

Follow Beth online:

https://www.instagram.com/justbeth_

https://soundcloud.com/beth-wallace-12

https://www.tiktok.com/@justbeth___

https://www.instagram.com/justbethpresents/

Listen to Beth on the airwaves!

https://www.instagram.com/bigfootballscot/

https://www.mearnsfm.org.uk

Five Men. One Ocean. Three Charities. | Taking on the World’s Toughest Row

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000

This year, five ordinary men are taking on one of the toughest endurance challenges on the planet: The World’s Toughest Row, a 3,000-mile journey across the Atlantic Ocean.

No support boats. No shortcuts. Just relentless waves, brutal sleep deprivation, and weeks in the middle of the open ocean. But this isn’t just about endurance.

They’re rowing for something bigger than themselves. In this episode, we sit down with Will and Stu of Team Remiges V to talk about why they signed up for a challenge that will push them to their physical and mental limits, and the three charities they’re determined to support along the way.

We talk about:

What it really takes to prepare for 40+ days at sea

The mental battles no one sees

The reality of rowing in two-hour shifts around the clock

Why their cause makes the suffering worth it

This is a conversation about pain, purpose, teamwork, and what happens when ordinary people decide to do something extraordinary.

If their story moves you, you can support their mission and the charities they’re rowing for via the links below: https://www.remigesv.com

www.linkedin.com/company/team-remiges-v/

https://x.com/remigesV

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560145704795

From Powerlifting Platforms to Coaching the Next Generation

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000

What does it really take to go from competitive powerlifting and strongman to becoming a successful strength coach and personal trainer? In this episode, Chris is joined by Bret Gillies, founder of Infinite Power Coaching, to break down his journey through strongman competitions, powerlifting platforms, and into coaching athletes across multiple sports, plus his mission to get the next generation stronger through the Fit Future project.

We talk about:

Getting started in powerlifting and strongman

Lessons learned from competing at a high level

The realities of becoming a personal trainer

Coaching athletes from different sports

Building strength that actually transfers to performance

Why kids need strength training and community sport now more than ever

This is a relaxed, honest conversation about strength training, mindset, coaching philosophy, and building something bigger than yourself in the fitness industry.

Life Between Scripts: A Conversation with Chris Watt

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Life Between Scripts is a laid-back conversation with Chris Watt, an independent screenwriter from Peterhead, Aberdeenshire. We talk about his journey into writing, working outside the traditional industry, and the realities of balancing creativity with everyday life. An honest chat about finding your own path, staying motivated, and making space for stories in between everything else.

Behind Pink Sphynx Media: Erin Walker on Risk, Vision, and Creating in Aberdeen

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Erin Walker, founder of Pink Sphynx Media, shares the real story behind starting her own production company in Aberdeen, from creative risk to building a sustainable future for the industry. In this conversation, we explore entrepreneurship, identity, and what the creative sector needs to move forward in Scotland.

See more from Pink Sphynx Media:

https://pinksphynxmedia.co.uk

https://www.instagram.com/pinksphynxmedia/

https://www.facebook.com/pinksphynxmedia

www.linkedin.com/company/pink-sphynx-media/

https://www.youtube.com/@UCDztvttGalqQ7UBqBCpSq5g

Suggest a future guest here:

Seasonal Discussions

Building Forma Designs Collective: Collaboration, Craft & Scaling From Home

From Piercer to Founder: Nathan’s Journey Building Utopia Body Arts in Aberdeen

How Two Creatives Built Aberdeen’s Newest Creative Charity | KIN

Setting the Standard Young: How Katie Watson Built a Standout Career Early

From Skateboards To A Clothing Brand (Built AFTER his 9-5)

What it REALLY takes to plan a Golf trip to Scotland!

A pigeon, a Crow & a Seagull walk into a brand meeting...

Built in Aberdeen: Family, Loss & Carrying On the Securastore Legacy

Big Energy & Brilliant Events | Jill Butler-Rennie: Event Hosting & Engineering Consultancy

Meet Sara & Ruby: The Story Behind a Book That’s Giving Back

Ross Milne Returns: Oldburgh, Film Festivals & The Reality of Indie Filmmaking

How Iska Walter Turned Her Love of Animals Into a Photography Business

Beth Wallace, Off The Air

Five Men. One Ocean. Three Charities. | Taking on the World’s Toughest Row

From Powerlifting Platforms to Coaching the Next Generation

Life Between Scripts: A Conversation with Chris Watt

Behind Pink Sphynx Media: Erin Walker on Risk, Vision, and Creating in Aberdeen

From Highs to Hard Truths: What Our First 8 Months Building a Company Really Looked Like

What’s Next for AEA? Shanna Logan Talks Big Dreams & Big Plans

From Courses to Conversations: Andrew Smith on Networking That Actually Works!

From Riga to Aberdeen: Tince Benmouhoub’s Journey in Fashion & Entrepreneurship

Aberdeen Animates Is Here: The Founders Reveal Everything!

Unlocking Your Team’s Hidden Strengths with Steve Thomson

Behind the Beats: Vagrant Real Estate Talks Upcoming Album & His Rise in Hip-Hop

Nicole D Opens Up About Music, London Trips & The "Next Wave" Movement

The Art (and Chaos) of Indie Filmmaking - Ross Milne Explains All

Honesty, colour and a passion for creativity - Hannah Adams

Darren shares his journey and the foundation of Arch 35 Marketing.

Author, entrepreneur, skydiver? Rosée Elliott has done it all!

HATCHES, MATCHES AND DISPATCHES - Isabel Lockhart

WHAT EXACTLY IS A HOUSING COOPERATIVE?

BREAKING B.A.D. AND THE SCIENCE OF NUTRITION WITH DR MONIKA GOSTIC

FROM LAW BOOKS TO SOMERVILLE BOOKS, CHRISTIE MURPHIE IS AWESOME!

AWARD WINNING INDEPENDENT FILMMAKER BAILEY MCKENZIE SHARES HIS STORY

SUSAN RENEE: COULD YOU JUGGLE TWO FULL TIME CAREERS?

WHAT MOTIVATED CERRI MCDONALD TO CREATE PROSEPCT 13?

THE TEENAGE BRAIN BEHIND ABERDEENS LATEST INDEPENDENT FILM

FINLAY HENDRY: THE CREATIVE FORCE BEHIND OUR UNION STREET

THE KEY TO BUILDING A SUCCESSFUL TCG STORE WITH STUART ROBB

FROM GERMANY TO ABERDEEN, ANNE MAGARIN IS A FUNDRAISING POWERHOUSE

ADAM JOJI: WHAT MOTIVATES ABERDEENS BIGGEST SPORT SOCK ENTREPRENEUR?